The Top 10 Cars of The Fast & The Furious

Now that the clock has finally run out and just hours away from the first showing of Fast Five - the fifth installment of the Fast and Furious franchise - we felt like it’s the right time to give proper respect to the characters that have made this movie franchise as fun as it has been since the first movie came out in 2001.

And if you think that we’re talking about resident leading men, Vin Diesel and Paul Walker, guess again. This list has very little to do with them, or their other co-stars for that matter, but more so about what they were driving during the first four movies. Yes, dear friends. This is a list to honor the Top 10 cars of the Fast and Furious franchise!

Do take note that we compiled this list based on our opinions so if you have any sort of reaction on the cars we chose and the number we gave them, you have the floor in the comments section to let us hear about it.

Hit the jump to check out our list.

10. 1994 Acura Integra

This isn’t so much about the car than it is about the one driving it. Sure, a tricked out Integra is a pretty special piece of ride, but if you’ve got a hottie like Mia Torretto (Jordana Brewster) busting its chops, then consider the car as part of the overall package. Jump back to the scene where Mia and Brian O’Connor (Paul Walker) go after Dominic Toretto (Vin Diesel) in their latest hijack attempt, and tell us that you wouldn’t want to sit shotgun next to the smoking hot Brewster.

9. 1995 Mitsubishi Eclipse

Brian O’Connor’s very first street race car in the entire franchise met an unceremonious end in the first movie, but the green-and-blue Eclipse became one of the most iconic cars in the franchise, not so much because it gave Dominic Toretto a run for his money - he later quipped the now-famous line "it don’t matter if you win by an inch or a mile; winning’s winning". Anytime you get Vin Diesel to spew a nugget of wisdom like that, you have to give props to the car that made his bald head sweat.

8. 1997 Mazda RX-7

Han’s 1997 RX-7 actually was shown at the 2005 Tokyo Auto Show as a Veilside-tuned Japanese sportster. Turns out, Universal liked it so much that they decided to buy the car as is and worked on changing the car’s body color from the red/burgundy and black finish to a more audience-capturing bright orange and black finish. As for the Veilside Fortune body kit that it originally came with? Universal decided to keep it to make the car stand out in the movie. Good call, Universal.

7. 1995 Volkswagen Jetta

The car responsible for turning the phrase "pink slip" into a part of everyday lexicon is Jesse’s 1995 Volkswagen Jetta. As one of the few European cars to make it to the movie, the Jetta became a big part of the first movie’s storyline after Jesse raced it against bad guy Johnny Tran and his Honda S2000. After losing the race and his Jetta, Jesse runs away with his car and sets of a chain reaction of events that eventually led to the movie’s climactic end.

6. 2006 Nissan 350Z Tokyo Drift

The 2006 Nissan 350Z Tokyo Drift may have been the antagonist’s car - the all black finish pretty much says it all - but on its own, this Japanese sports car already exudes a certain level of bad-assery that made all those cars in Tokyo tremble in fear. On top of the intimidating finish, the 350Z Tokyo Drift also came with a 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine with an APS twin-turbo system that produces somewhere around 450 horsepower. The only thing more menacing than this piece of hot metal was the man sitting behind its wheel, the Yakuza-backed Drift King.

5.1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R

Brian O’Connor’s main ride for the sequel was a 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34, a car that wasn’t actually sold in the US. For the purposes of the high-octane nature of the movie, this Skyline GT-R was given a C-West body kit and finished with a platinum pearl scheme courtesy of House of Kolor. Rounding out the changes were a set of 19" HRE 446 polished wheels inside Toyo Proxes T1-S tires. O’Connor’s fascination for Skylines underscores the model’s reputation in the street racing world as one of the most sought after models on the market.

4. 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

Roman Pearce (played by Tyrese) first made headway in the second installment of the franchise, "2 Fast 2 Furious". Together with Brian O’Connor, the two long time buddies aid in the successful capture of a local drug exporter. In the movie, Pearce drove a 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder Convertible dressed in some resplendent metallic silver and purple ’webbed’ design that Tyrese actually picked out for the car. On top of that, the Eclipse Spyder was also given a Shine Street wide body kit, rear wing, and a set of Lowenhart BR-5 alloy wheels.

3. 1995 Honda Civic

It’s no coincidence that the three most memorable cars in the entire Fast and Furious franchise can be found in the first movie. The 1995 Honda Civics were not the fastest cars in the movie. Heck, they weren’t even used for racing purposes, but for the gang’s, shall we say, "night job". Remember all those scenes where Toretto and the gang were trying to hijack those trucks full of entertainment systems and were weaving their cars in and under a semi? Those were the Civics, baby.

2. 1995 Toyota Supra Turbo

On its own accord, a Toyota Supra has no business spitting out a Ferrari in a friendly drag race along the beach. But in the world of the Fast and Furious, tricked out Japanese renegades ruled over snobby Prancing Horses. That is, unless, you line up the former against an all-American muscle. Brian O’Conner’s orange wave of power was the ideal foil to the car on the top of this list. In one of the climactic scenes of the first movie, a despondent Toretto is met by O’Connor on a small slab of road for one final drag race. It was Spillner’s Japanese kamikaze versus Toretto’s American mauler. In the end, the latter met its doom - not the car’s fault - while the Supra Turbo lived to drive another day, ironically, in the hands of the man who laid waste to his car.

1. 1970 Dodge Charger R/T

You can’t have a list of the Top 10 cars of the Fast and Furious franchise without having this menacing muscle in the top spot. As his father’s once-prized steed, Dominic Toretto took great lengths in taking care of this blown 1970 Dodge Charger R/T, even admitting to Brian O’Connor that this is the one car that even he was scared to drive. The Charger with the supercharged Chrysler 426 HEMI V8 engine extending out on the bonnet with a blower became the iconic vehicle of the movie franchise, having been a part of not just one, but two - the other one being the fourth movie - Fast and Furious movies.

2012 Toyota FT-86

It’s been more than a year since Toyota unveiled the concept version of the FT-86 Coupe at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show. During that year, we’ve heard so many reports, rumors, and whispers about the car, that we’re beginning to think that this could very well be the second-coming of Toyota’s iconic Celica line.

We already know that the Toyota FT-86 will come with a Subaru version as a direct result of the collaboration between the two Japanese brands. We’ve also received reports that the FT-86 will come with it’s own factory modified G Sports version. Then there were reports that the Toyota version of the FT-86 will be badged as a Scion.

All these reports have generated major buzz on the sports coupe and we haven’t even talked about it’s release date yet - it’s expected to come out in November of 2011, setting the stage for what promises to be a very busy holiday season for both Toyota and Subaru.

Now, the production version of the FT-86 has yet to be revealed, but the many people that fell in love with the design of the concept version, will be happy to know that, according to Toyota, the production version of the FT-86 will look a whole lot like the concept version with only a few minor modifications to its aerodynamic package.

2013 BMW Z2 Roadster

Rumors about a BMW Z2 Roadster started a very long time ago, but as the time passed, nothing concrete ever materialized on this particular model, leaving us with little to work with in terms of providing good information. Thankfully, that time is over as we have received actual information on the future model.

The BMW Z2 Roadster will be a roadster version of the 1-Series model and will be placed under the Z4, in both performance and price. This new model will target models like the Mazda MX-5 Miata.

The BMW Z2 will be built on the same platform as the next generation 1-Series and will weigh less than 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs). It will be offered with a range of four-cylinders, with the top version going up to 250 HP. There are rumors about a hybrid version, but an electric version is also being taken under consideration.

The first prototypes have already been caught testing on public roads in California, so expect an official debut in late 2013. However, a concept version has already been rumored for a debut in 2012, most likely at the Paris Auto Show. Prices will start at around $30,000.

UPDATE 04/29/2011: Autobild.de has revealed new details on the future Z2. According to the German magazine, the Z2 will be a totally new model placed below the Z4. It will be built on an all-wheel-drive platform, with a RWD one to follow later in 2016. The Z2 won’t debut until early 2014 and it will be offered with a two-liter four-cylinder engine with an output ranging from 163 to 272 HP (model line-up will include: 16i, 20i and 28i). The Z2 will be considerably cheaper than the Z4.

2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS by Baldwin Motion

American tuner, Baldwin Motion, has announced one of the most impressive tuning upgrades for the new Chevrolet Camaro SS we have seen. It is appropriately called "Fantastic Five" and consists of five different upgrade levels with power ranging from 525 to 800 HP.

The Fantastic Five include engine updates that range from 525 HP to a monstrous 800 HP. Aesthetic modifications were also made to differentiate the line from standard Camaros, but they don’t include anything to write home about.

Aside from the amazing engine updates provided for the muscle car, MOTION also went to a great deal to ensure that the project’s specifications are fully customizable and private. Each vehicle will be built based on the customer’s wishes and will be sanctioned, serialized, and signed by Joel Rosen, creator of the Baldwin-Motion 427 & 454 Camaros and the owner of the MOTION Camaro Phase III 427-SC that was showcased at the Super Chevy Show at the Palm Beach Florida International Raceway.

Peugeot EX1 Concept claims the title for the fastest electric car at Nurburgring

For the first time in its history, Peugeot has managed to establish a world record at the Nurburgring race track. Stéphane Caillet, technical director at Peugeot Citroen, whipped around the 20.832 km circuit driving an EX1 concept car and ended up breaking the speed record for electric cars by over 50 seconds.

The Peugeot EX1 lapped the circuit in 9:01.338 seconds with an average speed of 138.324 km/h (85.95 mph), and managed to do so even with the severe weather conditions plaguing the area. The previous speed record for this electric circuit was 9:51.45 seconds by the Mini E Race in 2010. The new speed record was confirmed by WIGE Performance, the official timing of the circuit of the Nordschleife. Back in September 2010, the EX1 broke five records in a series of runs made at the Chengdu military airport in the province of Sichuan in China.

As a reminder, the EX1 is a two-seater roadster that combines the “floating” front grille and flowing contours from the SR1 concept, with polished aluminum components adorn the door surrounds from the RCZ and BB1. It is powered by two electric motors, one on each axle, each with a peak output of 167 HP and a maximum torque of 177 lbs-ft at the front and rear.

Lamborghini Aventador sold out for the next 18 months

Shortly after the Lamborghini Aventador’s official debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, Lamborghini was pleased to announce that the super car had been sold out for the 2011 model year. Now, the company can puff out its chest that much more since the Aventador is now sold out for the next 18 months!

Lamborghini planned to build 600 Aventador units per year and they have already sold 1,000 units, illustrating the super car’s rising popularity in spite of its $379,700 price tag. We imagine that the production of the Spyder version will end up creating some sort of balance in sales. Thankfully, it will be launched sometime next year giving more fans the ability to ride around in Lamborghini’s newest creation.

The Aventador is powered by a new 6.5-liter V12 engine with an AWD layout that produces 700 HP at 8,250 rpm and 509 lb-ft at 5,500 rpm. This engine will be able to get from 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds while blasting off a top speed of 217 mph.

1969 Aston Martin DB6 Volante Royal Wedding Ride

As Royal wedding fever was about to wear off, the Prince had one last surprise in store. For many years his Father has been the owner of an Aston Martin DB6 Mark II that was converted to run on biofuel. The car was decorated in traditional wedding fashion complete with ribbons, balloons, and a trick license plate reading Ju5t Wed. The dark blue Volante convertible was driven by the Prince through the crowds in front of Buckingham Palace on his way to a reception party. The car traveled down the procession route with top down and minimal security. A lone Range Rover followed the Aston and a RAF Rescue helicopter, much like the ones flown by the Prince, flew above with a flag waving below.

The Royals clearly have access to many things including the various Rolls Royce models and Carriages used today, but an Aston Martine DB6 Volante is rare even for them. This legendary car was the longest running production model that Aston Martin ever produced, but only 140 Volante versions were built. Furthermore, this may be the only one in the world running off biofuel made from excess British wine product.

Originally made famous by the James Bond films, these Aston Martin models have been coveted by collectors for years. Very rarely do they come up for sale or auction and the Prince’s will most likely never leave the Royal collection. The DB6 was a major improvement over the previous DB5 model and turned the car into a proper Grand Touring model. Performance for these models was increased through the Vantage edition which raised output to 325hp, but there is no word on the specific power output from the biofuel model.

Mercedes models blast off with the Brabus PowerXtra CGI Performance Kits

Filed under: Brabus Mercedes | sedan | Mercedes CL-Class | Mercedes S-Class | sports cars | car tuning

German tuner, Brabus, has been tuning Mercedes models for quite awhile, so getting a slew of performance kits to slap onto different versions of the luxury brand is neither surprising nor unexpected. Their new PowerXtra CGI kits can be applied to the S550, the CL550, the S 63, and the CL 63 . Depending on the model, this new package can increase the total output for the Mercedes up to between 490 HP and 620 HP. The top speed has also been pumped up to an impressive 200 mph.

For the S550 and CL550, the new performance kit increases the V8’s output from a total of 435 HP to an impressive 490 HP and the peak torque gets raised to 575 lb-ft. The S63 and CL63 models will receive the same kit, but will also get a water-to-air intercooler powered by an electric auxiliary pump. This will increase the total output to 620 HP and the peak torque to 737 lb-ft. As a result, the sprint from 0 to 60 mph will be made in 4.3 seconds, while top speed has been increased to 200 mph.

The kit also includes a special sport exhaust system with exhaust flap that will control the sounds of your engine. Aerodynamics will get boosted with a new front spoiler, carbon-fiber moldings for the gills in the sides of the front bumper, aluminum sport fenders, a carbon-fiber diffuser with integrated reflector, and a carbon-fiber rear spoiler.

2011 Mercedes C63 AMG Safety Car

While taking a trip as a medical car for the 2011 Formula One season in Estate form, the Mercedes C63 AMG is welcoming a new job as the Safety Car for the 2011 DTM season. The snazzy Mercedes will make its first appearance on May 1, 2011 at the opening race of the German Touring Car Masters season at the Hockenheimring in Baden-Württemberg with racing driver, Jürgen Kastenholz, behind the wheel.

The C63 AMG Safety Car comes equipped with the AMG Performance Package that will ensure the 6.3-liter V8 engine delivers a total of 687 HP. The engine will be mated to an AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, which incorporates a wet start-up clutch and four transmission modes as well as double-declutching and RACE START functions for optimum driving dynamics.

The Safety Car will also feature enlarged openings and side air outlets, an AMG carbon-fiber spoiler lip on the boot lid that reduces lift at high track speeds, and multi-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels painted in matte black with a high-sheen rim flange. The Mercedes will be further distinguished by DTM Safety Car logos, an LED light bar on the roof, and the stroboscopic flashing LED lights at the front and rear, plus a number plate illuminated with LEDs and the words "Safety Car" on the boot lid.

Jaguar XF and XJ will be offered with new V6 engine

The 2011 New York Auto Show provided the perfect setting for Jaguar’s release of the facelift version of the XF sedan, but Jaguar seemed to already be back at work even before that reveal. New rumors are circulating that suggest the company is planning to build a new plant in the UK for the construction of a brand-new six-cylinder engine that will be used in the XF, and possibly in the XJ as well. This new engine will even be offered on the US market.

So far, the Jaguar XF is offered with a 5.0 liter V8 engine in the U.S. market, while the European market can also take advantage of a 2.2 liter diesel four-engine, a 3.0 liter diesel six-cylinder, and a 3.0 liter V6. The new engine will replace the current V6 and may be able to deliver around 300 Hp, up from the current 240 HP, with the use of an eight-speed automatic. This seems to be the final step before jumping on the hybrid wagon with everyone else. Gas prices aren’t slowing down on their consistent northward climb, so a more efficient engine is definitely a move on the right direction.

The new V6 should appear in the XF or XJ sometime in early 2013 or 2014.

2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 "Kowalski Edition"

A lot of us may be too young to remember the glory days of auto movies in the 70s, but for those old enough to remember a movie called Vanishing Point starring Barry Newman, this little tuning project may be if interest. In the movie, Newman plays the role of Kowalski, man who makes some sort of bet that he could take a white 1970 Dodge Challenger and drive it all the way the from Colorado to San Francisco in just 15 hours. Apparently, Vanishing Point was one of the most iconic car movies of the era, having enjoyed cult status to its fans, including one Bob Frederick.

As the dealer of New Wilmington Dodge and a long-time fan of the movie, Frederick decided to do something really cool to pay homage to one of his favorite flicks by unveiling a special edition model of the 392 Inaugural Edition Dodge Challenger SRT8 and calling it the “Kowalski Edition”.

Failed Brakes + Runaway Boss 302 Mustang = Soiled Pants

Test driving cars may seem like a lot of fun, but it serves a purpose as well. Driving supercars to their limit on a runway or taking a Land Rover through the world’s worst terrain can showcase a vehicle’s abilities, but what happens when standard systems fail?

Most automotive magazines run new cars through a gauntlet of tests in order to determine where they stack up against the competition. These include 0-60mph times, ¼ mile times, slalom, vibration & harshness, and braking. Most of these tests occur with little to no problem and the data is compiled to determine winners and losers. Most of the vehicles being tested are also essentially brand new. The manufacturer sends several models out to a proving site straight from the factory so that the media may drive them, take photographs, and compare them to the competition. Rarely does such a vital system like the brakes completely fail during one of these controlled test drives, but that is exactly what happened to Motor Trend’s crew while testing a Mustang Boss 302.

The brake failure was immediately taking under investigation by Ford and the vehicle was sent back to the factory to be taken apart and inspected. Ford has found no other discrepancies in their manufacturing line and no recall has been issued to the general public.

2011 Zagato TZ3 Stradale

The XII Villa D’Este Concours d’Elegance which took place in April 2010 gave way for Andrea Zagato to present the first step of his "Project TZ" with the 2010 Alfa Romeo TZ3 Corsa. This project was set in motion to honor 100 years of production and the long tradition of race Alfas with Zagato bodies. Fast forward to this year’s Pebble Beach Concours and Zagato is back with the second step of the "TZ Project", the Zagato TZ3 Stradale. The Stradale will be based on a 2010 Dodge Viper by utilizing its rolling chassis, engine, gearbox, suspension, etc. It is completely road legal, but will never get to see the production block.

The original TZ3 Corsa was originally built for German Alfa Romeo Zagato collector Martin Kapp while he was attending the Zandvoort Tribute. The Stradale is in no way related to the Corsa, except for the fact that they are both part of the "TZ Project." The TZ3 Stradale features a carbon fiber body with the same dimensions and weight of the Dodge Viper. It will be powered by a 4.2 liter V8 engine.

Before the car’s official debut at the Villa D’Este, Zagato has revealed the first details on the TZ3 Stradale, a vehicle that will be limited to only 9 units worldwide.

2011 Icona Fuselage

The Shanghai Auto Show came and went with one star-studded concept slipping under the radar from a little unknown company called Icona Shanghai. Icona is a design studio based out of China and focusing on projects in China and Asia. Their latest project comes to us in the form of the Icona Fuselage, a concept that incorporates a design that is on a completely different level than many concepts we’ve seen in awhile.

The Fuselage owns the futuristic look with a unique body structure that starts with that sleek and defined front end. The front of the car paves the way for the rest of the body’s look which takes the shape of rippling waves going down the side and ending at a slightly upturned back end. The look is completed with polycarbonate alloy wheels and those sick gullwing doors.

The interior of the Fuselage seat four and gets a clean look with controls that remind us of the buttons found on a massage chair. No specific details were given on the goodies provided, but they say a picture is worth a thousand words and clearly, this interior is speaking volumes.

Considering this is a car for the future, no engine could possibly fill the space that only a motor can provide. The electric motors are placed next to the wheels and are powered by a 79 lb battery pack placed in the center. The Fuselage is said to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and will hit a top speed of 124 mph.

2011 Bentley Continental GTO by Onyx

In the past, Onyx Cars has typically stayed glued to the SUV lineup of a number of brands, but last year, something funny happened; the luxury tuner revealed a tuning package for the Bentley Continental. Now back to prove that that package was not a mere fluke, Onyx Cars has developed yet another tuning package for the luxury coupe, working off of the previous package they created. The new package includes exterior and interior updates, as well as a 20 HP boost over the original.

The exterior was spruced up with a modified front bumper with carbon fiber inserts and a lower front splitter. Brightening up the front of the car are new LED daytime running lights. Moving to the side of the Bentley, Onyx added some new side skirts and then widened the wheel arches a bit. The back of the car received a revised bumper, a rear carbon diffuser, and a carbon fiber boot lid spoiler. Finishing off the package is a new set of 22-inch black forged wheels.

The interior wasn’t exactly the focus of the tuning firm so all they added was their typical bespoke buffalo leather and carbon fiber paneling.

As for the engine updates, Onyx Cars took the Bentley Continental GT’s standard 6.0 liter W12 and bumped it up from the standard 567 HP all the way to 660 HP. That final outcome is 20 HP up from their last tuning project for the same car.

Buggati Veyron VS BMW M3

2012 Maserati GranTurismo MC

Maserati unveiled the GranTurismo MC Stradale at the 2010 Paris Auto Show, but the company is now bringing the North American version of the car to the New York Auto Show. It’s not exactly the street-legal machine found with the Stradale nameplate, though. This is the Maserati Corse (MC) which means we have a racing setup with no hopes to take it out on the streets. Eliminate the Stradale wording, add a new transmission and two rear seats, and you get a car that will only be sold on the US and Canadian market, strictly for track use.

The new GranTurismo MC will be the fastest production car Maserati has ever sold in the US market. It is powered by a 4.7-liter all-alloy V8 engine that delivers 443 HP at 7000rpm and and a peak torque of 376 lbs-ft at 4750rpm. This translates into enough power to sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and hit a top speed of 185 mph. The MC version comes with a automatic gearbox instead of the Race Shift transmission that was used for the Stradale version.

2012 Jaguar XF-R

Jaguar not only brought the standard XF to the New York Show, they also brought the most powerful version in the line-up - the XF-R. This model has received a unique, assertive styling treatment that further differentiates it from other XF models.

The 2012 XF-R will be distinguished by a more aggressive bodywork treatment, a new front grille, a new hood, modified front fenders, and redesigned LED taillights. An "R" letter has been placed on both the front and the rear of the car giving onlookers the proof they need to distinguish the more powerful Xf from the standard version. If the badge isn’t enough then they can always take a look at the new exhaust system with four end pipes for instant clarification.

Of course, the easiest way to tell that you are dealing with a more powerful kitten is checking out what’s under the hood. The XFR comes packing the same 5.0-liter V8 engine but gets supercharged to deliver 510 hp. This engine is mated to an electronically controlled, six-speed transmission with additional clutch plates. The power is just enough to sprint the car from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

2011 Maybach 57 Wedding Commemorative by Project Kahn

Weddings are a huge deal for just about every woman with a breath and for Kate Middleton, the event is even more spectacular considering she is tying the knot with none other than Prince William. An event like this is sure to be on the calendars of every romantic in the world and would likewise never slip past the automakers marketing departments as a fleeting thought so finding a vehicle to mark the occasion wasn’t something we thought would be difficult. Turns out, we were right. Project Kahn has taken the time to create a special Maybach 57 Wedding Commemorative edition, which is appropriately painted in pearl white.

The Wedding Commemorative Maybach 57 will feature special paintwork and finish to go along with the pearl white exterior and will also make good use of a new set of 22" wheels. The 57 will also have Project Kahn Maybach 57 smoked rear lights, special interior components, and Pentagon privacy glass. The royal tribute carriage is made complete with a number plate fit for a prince: 4 HRH. For those that do not know, HRH stands for His/Her Royal Highness.

Project Kahn explains the intention behind the special edition: "Project Kahn understands the meaning of traveling in style and with the conversion we perform on this prestige vehicle there is no more of a stylish way to travel. The 4 HRH number plate is worthy of befitting a vehicle such as the Project Kahn Maybach 57. And as a proud Englishman and designer, this is our way of wishing the royal couple many happy years together."

Another model getting the royal treatment is the Lexus LS600h. The hybrid sedan hit it big as Prince Albert II of Monaco and his future wife, Miss Charlene Wittstock, will be driving the Lexus during the shindig. We’re sure these won’t be the only royal vehicles hitting the procession so we’ll keep a look out for any more.

2011 Volvo S60 R-Design

While it’s probably a title that Volvo doesn’t want to get rid of, the car brand known for being one of the safest in the world is taking a step in a new direction with a pretty good aesthetic and performance upgrade for the S60.

Under its performance line, R-Design, the Swedish automaker gave their resident sedan a welcome change on both its looks and engine output. Together with the XC60 R-Design, the S60 R-Design made its debut at the New York Auto Show and is set to go on sale later this summer.

"The jump in performance will re-define these two R-Design models," said Doug Speck, president and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America.

"Along with styling and suspension features that set them apart from other versions, our two newest R-Design models will have a higher ’fun-to-drive’ quotient. I see that as a positive thing, and so will car buyers."

You don’t need to convince us that the S60 R-Design just became a more interesting flagship sedan. How that translates to sales will be another matter, but the early returns are looking very promising.

2011 Ford Focus RS by MR Car Design

About a week after tuning company Anderson Germany treated us to a stealthy upgrade of the Ford Focus RS, another German aftermarket company has taken a stab at their own program for the American hot hatch.

MR Car Design developed the latest in a long line of performance kits for the Focus RS, one that takes the hot hatch’s 300-horsepower output and bumps it up all the way to 360 horsepower. This was accomplished when the German tuning company fitted the Focus RS with a new custom-made exhaust system with its own downpipe and a 200-cell catalytic converter. They also added a new air filter courtesy of K&N, as well as a newly-optimized engine management system.

While the engine remains the same - a 2.5-liter 20-Valve DOHC - the original 300-horsepower has jumped to a whole new level - 360 horsepower - resulting in a car that can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds.

It’s not the fastest-tuned Focus RS we’ve seen, but anytime you can pack as many as 360 ponies on a hatchback, you know you’ve got a car that can throw down with the best of ’em.

2012 Chevrolet Malibu ECO

Next to the 2013 Malibu, Chevrolet also brought at the New York Auto Show the Eco version, a model that comes equipped with new fuel-saving eAssist technology. The new Eco version will be sold next to the Malibu LS, LT and LTZ version starting the summer of 2012.

"The Malibu ECO is a smart choice for customers who want excellent fuel economy without the price premium of popular hybrid sedans," said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. "The Malibu ECO’s 38-mpg highway estimate is comparable with those hybrids. Malibu ECO exemplifies Chevrolet’s drive to use technology that delivers high-value, gas-friendly performance. In fact, the Malibu ECO delivers the fuel economy of a compact car in a midsize sedan."

The eAssist system uses a state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery and an electric motor-generator to enable regenerative braking electric assist and start-stop functionality. With this system the new Malibu Eco will deliver an impressive 26 mpg on city driving and 38 mpg on the highway.

2012 Chrysler 300S

Chrysler is further expanding their 300 line-up with the addition of the new 300S models, offered in both V6 and V8 versions. The new models will arrive at Chrysler dealerships in the fall of 2011.

"No chrome . . . no wood . . . matte carbon fiber finishes . . . unique black or Radar Red leather . . . our biggest wheels, and world’s first integration of Beats by Dr. Dre audio technology – the best standard audio system period. This is the new Chrysler 300S and it has an attitude that comes through loud and clear," said Olivier Francois, President and CEO — Chrysler Brand and Lead Executive for Marketing, Chrysler Group LLC. "For the Chrysler brand, it’s not just about design, it’s about substance. And with the Chrysler team working with Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine for months, I know the new 300S with its mapped sound waves, designed algorithms and unique Beats Audio components are a direct result from our model collaboration – a partnership between an OEM and the music industry – that makes the 300S perform with the power to play music as the artist intended it to be heard."

2011 Mercedes CLS63 AMG by Wheelsandmore

German tuner, Wheelsandmore, has released their first package for the relatively young Mercedes CLS63 AMG and boy did we hope it was going to be good. With tuning kits provided by Carlsson and Brabus delivering 600HP and 730HP respectively, Wheelsandmore needed to come out with a spectacular package to even think about competing against these packages. Unfortunately, Wheelsandmore only managed to increase the V8’s engine to a total of 580 HP while elevating the peak torque to 575 lbs-ft. In order to obtain this 62 HP increase, the tuner modified the ECU and installed a new exhaust system to make the engine sound that much better.

Next to the engine upgrades, Wheelsandmore is also offering a new set of 20" three-part forged wheels, finished in black, and a new KW suspension. The wheels create a perfect contrast with the white exterior paint and the carbon fiber aero parts, but we can’t say they are enough to make up for the mild power update. Technically, 62 HP isn’t a mild increase whatsoever, but with other kits provided drastic power upgrades, the Mercedes CLS63 AMG by Wheelsandmore just falls short.

2011 Holden Thunder Ute

Any Australians anxiously awaiting the return of the Thunder can now breathe a tremendous sigh of relief; it seems that Holden will be bringing back the special edition Thunder nameplate to the VE Series II Ute line-up. The special edition has been launched as a celebration of the 60th anniversary of the original 1951 Ute and will be based on the popular SV6 and SS Ute models. The SV6 will be powered by a 3.6l SIDI V6 and the SS Ute will come with the standard V8. Both models will come standard with a six-speed manual transmission and optional six-speed automatic.

The special edition Holden Thunder Ute will be available in 10 exterior colors and will be distinguished by unique 19-inch five spoke charcoal alloy wheels. Thunder badges will also be visible on the side and rear of the exterior, while the interior gets sports seats with leather bolsters and Touch-screen Holden-iQ system with Satellite Navigation.

"Over 60 years of production, the Holden ute has evolved from typical tradesman’s transport to two-door sports machine with a practical edge - that’s epitomized by the Thunder range," Holden Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales John Elsworth said. "It is a really bold, tough looking ute which we think will appeal to many of our traditional sports ute buyers. We’re expecting it to be an absolute winner in our showrooms."

2011 Audi R8 800 HP by PPI

It was only last year that PPI Razor unveiled the GTR-10, an update package based on the Audi R8 V10 version. Their package increased the total output of the Audi to an impressive 600 HP, but that accomplishment didn’t seem to be enough for the German tuner. They have now moved on to squeeze 800 HP from the R8 and not from its V10, but rather from the V8 version. Now that’s an upgrade!

In order to achieve such a monstrous update, PPI adapted the engine to get a better compression ratio and a stronger resistance of the first and second gear. That, plus an adjustment of the ECU and two R48 Bi-Centrifugal Superchargers with magnetic coupling, the V8 engine’s output has been increased from 420 HP to 801 HP with a peak torque raised to 634 lbs-ft. The air intake system has also been altered to include a special sport air filter in a Carbon Fiber air box for optimal air flow.

Getting double the amount of power out of the smaller V8 engine has undoubtedly boosted the sports car’s performance numbers. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph is now made in 2.9 seconds, while top speed goes up to a super car mark of 217 mph. The beautiful sounds coming out of the engine can be heard through the PPI Dual Inlet Sport Exhaust specifically designed and optimized to work with the supercharging system in the R8.

The package also includes numerous aerodynamic updates that can be added to match up the exterior with the heart-thumping metal found under the hood. What’s not available as of yet is the price for this insane package, but we can’t imagine these modifications will come cheap.

Finalists for 2011 Miss Tuning Award now up for vote

Here’s something you can do while on your lunch break at work. You might have noticed how at auto shows, there seems to be an overabundant number of scantily-clad women in high heels next to the cars that are being unveiled. That, dear friends, is no accident.

There’s a better level of enjoyment and satisfaction going around these cars while talking to these beautiful models. What would happen if a major auto show is devoid of the beautiful presence of these women? It definitely wouldn’t be as exciting, that much we know.

So now that the finalists for the 2011 Miss Tuning Award have been announced, it’s time for us to give back to these 20 fine young ladies by casting our votes on who we think deserves the title of 2011 Miss Tuning. After the round of 20 young ladies, the top 10 vote-getters will proceed to the finals at this year’s Tuning World Bodensee from May 5-8, 2011 where the winner will officially be crowned as the face of the tuning world for 2011.

2012 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake

The legendary Ford Mustang line has spit out many iterations in its decorated history, but of all the versions of that line, none has been more powerful than the Shelby GT500 Super Snake.

First introduced in 2008, the Shelby GT500 Super Snake has been the crown jewel of the Mustang line, a car that blends torque-twisting muscle with a supercar-like power that very few American-made cars can reach.

This month, the latest incarnation of the Shelby GT500 Super Snake will slither its way to New York when it makes its official debut at the New York International Auto Show.

The car’s debut in New York is symbolic of the rich history between the annual event and the American marquee. According to John Luft, president of Shelby American Inc., the New York International Show holds a special place in the hearts of Shelby. "The very first Shelby car was introduced there in 1962, as well as the 1968 and 2008 Shelby GT500KR and the 2006 Shelby Hertz GT-H," he said. "This year, we’re returning with one of the most powerful and important Shelbys ever built."

Needless to say, we’re all gearing up for the New York Auto Show, especially for the unveiling of this American icon.

2011 Jeep Cherokee Overland

The 45th Moab Jeep Easter Safari is set to open on April 19, 2011 and as has been the case in recent years, Jeep and Mopar will be on hand to present a number of new customized vehicles for the attending public to swoon over.

This year, a total of six vehicles will be displayed, one of which is a tuned-up Jeep Cherokee - Liberty here in the US - that has been christened as the Overland. Based on the 2011 Cherokee, the Overland has been set up with a 2.8-liter CRD 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine with a Selec-Trac II 4x4 system. In addition to the imposing powertrain, the Overland was also dressed up in a zebra safari paint pattern and fitted with an ARB 3-inch suspension lift and Old Man Emu shocks, as well as a set of Mickey Thompson 265/75-R16 MTZ tires that have been mounted on steel wheels. Mopar also added an ARB air locker in the rear differential and on-board air compressor to ensure increased traction for the hulking SUV.

Likewise, Chrysler’s aftermarket company also gave the Overland a number of underbody protection equipment, including skid plates for the SUV’s front suspension, transmission, and transfer case. You’ll also find a host of other items like front and rear tow hooks, slush mats, cargo tray liner, sill guards and a new sport pedal kit.

2011 Maserati GranCabrio by Novitec Tridente

With an affinity towards Italian sports cars, Novitec has taken to great lengths to ensure the utmost quality and style for Ferrari and Maserati models alike. We’ve already seen tuning programs for Maserati models such as the GranTurismo and the Quattroporte, so the next logical step for the primed tuning firm is the GranCabrio. Some may have expected this package to have come out long before it has, but perfection takes time and adding 150 HP to the sports car is rather close to perfection. Joining the power upgrade is a top speed that has been increased to 187 mph and a subtle aerodynamic package.

Pricing for the complete GranCabrio tuning program - including exterior and interior modifications - has yet to be announced, but if an engine upgrade is all that is desired then that will cost $26,800.

2012 Audi R8 GT Spyder

Okay, so this isn’t exactly the most surprising news of the day, but it sure ranks up there with the coolest. Audi is said to be launching a Spyder version for the R8 GT at the Frankfurt Motor Show this Fall. As with the coupe version, the Spyder will be limited to 333 units and should be priced at about $20,000 higher than the coupe, which is sold for about $196,800 in the U.S. The similarities will even extend to the number of units available in the U.S. We last heard that we were getting 90 units of the GT Coupe and we expect the same number for the Spyder version.

Under the hood, Audi will place the same 5.2 liter V10 engine that delivers a total of 560 HP and 398 lbs-ft of torque, but because of the soft-top, the future spyder version will only have a top speed of 193mph, 6mph less than the coupe. The added weight is obviously necessary, but does go away from Audi’s original weight-savings goal for the R8 GT. In order to achieve the 220 lbs weight loss for the Audi R8 GT Coupe, the company used a new carbon fiber liftback, a fixed rear wing, modified brake calipers, reduced engine-bay sound deadening, and a lighter windscreen. We expect them to provide similar treatment for the convertible version of the R8 GT.

Renault drops models on the Zoe ZE Concept

Here’s something that should get you over that Monday bug. With the exception of high-powered supercars throwing down against one another, nothing gets us more excited than seeing two of our favorite topics together in one fancy photo shoot: cars and girls, or girls and cars, depending on what your preferences are. Okay, there are dudes there too, but we’ll save that for you ladies.

And just so we don’t get sidetracked by the lovely models pressing themselves against the Renault Zoe ZE Concept with their lips pouting as if they want us to do something about it, we can’t forget about the car itself.

Back in 2009, Renault unveiled the Zoe ZE Concept to introduce their take on future electric city cars. As an EV, the Zoe emits zero noise and drags zero pollutants when in use. It’s powered by a 70kW (94 horsepower) electric motor that helps produce 166 lb/ft of torque and sits on a large set of 21” wheels.

While the model is still in concept form, it doesn’t take away from the potential of the car and the possibilities of seeing it out on the streets someday. In fact, Renault did plan on having a production model released sometime in 2012 so this photo shoot is probably the first of many marketing stints preparing the world for the Zoe.

Who know, maybe we’ll end up riding shotgun on this electric city car to one of these hot models sometime in the very near future.

2011 Infiniti G37 S Coupe Rally Safety Car

How odd would it be for rally fans to see a Nissan, let alone an Infiniti, getting its tires dirty in the world of rallying? The Japanese automaker isn’t exactly a name synonymous with rally racing, so you might need to excuse us for being a little apprehensive when word broke out that an Infiniti G37 S Coupe would be part of the Spanish Rally Championship.

Turns out, though, the G37 S Coupe will not be doing any rally racing of its own. Instead, it has been tapped as the official rally-spec safety car of the SRC. Color us surprised with this bit of news.

To cope with the rigors of the rally world, the G37 S Coupe’s chassis and suspension were strengthened. Among the new additions to the car’s make-up include new Bilstein dampers, upgraded brake pads, its very own light bar and siren, a roll cage, a new set of Sparco race seats and harnesses, a fire suppression system, and high-performance Michelin tires.

Other important features added to the rally safety car include a GPS navigation system and a plethora of communications equipment developed to assist the car in case of an emergency.

In terms of powertrain, the G37 S Coupe safety car will have the same output coming out of the standard 3,696cc 24-valve V6 engine – 320 horsepower – and will be mated to the standard six-speed manual transmission.

Infiniti may not be all that known in the world of rally racing, but if the company ever needed to get its feet wet in the often dusty and muddy world of rallying, this could be the first step in doing so.

2011 Caterham Seven Supersport

The Lotus-based Caterham Seven has been around for quite awhile with the first sports car model setting its wheels to the road back in 1973. A lot has changed since then and Caterham is now up for the challenge of producing a speedier model derived directly from the race car that competes in the highly-successful Caterham Supersport championship. The new model is appropriately called the Supersport and can be purchased for £19,995 (including tax) in self-build form (about $32,600 at the current exchange rates).

Caterham Cars engineering director, Mark Edwards, said: "The SP/300.R was our first brand new model for 15 years. But the Supersport is all about our roots. The Seven was born out of motorsport and this new model illustrates the values – accessibility, affordability and unadulterated fun – that have made Caterham the iconic brand it is today and which will ensure the Seven’s continuing global success. We’ve built faster and more powerful accelerating cars before, but the Supersport’s character, value and low running costs have generated a machine that will excite sportscar fans, including those on a budget.

2012 Subaru Impreza

 

Subaru is offering up a small taste of what’s to come with the first image of the new 2012 Impreza. The sedan and hatchback versions of the Impreza will be making their debut at the 2011 New York Auto Show on April 20th. No details on the new Impreza have been released, but Subaru has confirmed that it will deliver a fuel economy of 36 mpg on the highway, a significant improvement over the current 27 mpg, and allowing it to have the highest fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car in the US.

The new and improved fuel economy for the 2012 Impreza was achieved with the use of a 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder producing 148 HP and 146 lb-ft of torque which debuted in Europe earlier this year. This engine replaces the current 170 HP 2.5-liter SOHC aluminum-alloy engine. Further aid is offered with the use of the new continuously variable transmission.

Subaru has also confirmed that the 2012 Impreza will come with a totally new design that "will propose roomier cabin space with new level of comfort and refinement for enhanced product appeal." Sounds intriguing, but we’ll find out more when the 2012 Subaru Impreza makes it debut in New York at the end of the month. Stay tuned!

German Do-It-Yourselfer Builds Himself a Chevrolet Camaro Transformers 3 Bumblebee

Whether you watch the string of Transformers movies for the sultry Megan Fox, the action-packed scenes, or the nostalgia of it all, there shouldn’t be one person out there that can say anything bad about Bumblebee, the beautiful yellow Camaro nipping at the heels of Sam Witwicky (played by Shia Labeouf). One man took his love for the muscle car so far that he transformed his Chevrolet Camaro into a Bumblebee Badass, all by himself.

Okay, so it may not scream professional tuner, but this fan took his build very seriously with a matte yellow paint job combined with a matte black hood, rear wing, strips, and a new set of wheels. He even built some of the parts with his own two hands, including the new hood with added air vents, front bumper, and front splitter. New side skirts and a rear diffuser were also added to convert the overall look into that of the famed Camaro.

All this Camaro can’t do is transform into an AutoBot, but this is the real world, so we’ll have to live without that little detail. We have to give props where they are due and this guy deserves them. He is currently working on the detailing and interior of his new ride so we’ll get back with details on those aspects when they are complete.

2011 Jaguar XF and XJ Designer Edition

After what seemed to be a flop of an auto show in 2009, the AutoRai is said to come back this year chock full of automakers ready to show off the best of their work. One luxury automaker making its presence known will be Jaguar with two special editions designed by Jaguar’s chief designer, Ian Callum. The two models are called the XF and XJ Designer Editions and will be limited to only 20 units each.

The XF Designer Edition is based on the 3.0 liter V6 version and will feature Bi-Xenon headlights, 19 inch alloy wheels in Artura Stratus Grey metallic paint or Ultimate Black, a heated leather steering wheel, standard sports seats, and a heated windshield.

The XJ Designer Edition is based on the same 3.0 liter V6 version and will be distinguished by a leather headliner, a Bowers & Wilkins 1200W audio system, a TV tuner, and a Dual View display on the Touch HD Screen.

Both models have been painted in Stratus Grey London and combined with tan leather upholstery and a Piano Black dash finish. Sales will begin in May 2011 with the XF Designer getting a price tag of € 77,790 ($110,000 at the current exchange rates), while the XJ Designer will sell for € 121,290 ($171,000 at the current exchange rates).

2014 Mercedes C-Class Convertible

Now that Mercedes has a sedan and a coupe version for the C-Class, anyone would expect to find a convertible staring at them in the near future. These people would absolutely be right, but the new convertible may contain a few differences compared to the current C-Class models. While the general design lines will remain the same, the C-Class Convertible model will not compete with the usual BMW 3-Series and Audi A5. Instead, Mercedes may be opting for a model that will be placed in a class below these competitors. This decision shouldn’t be too surprising considering the company has just brought the E-Class Convertible on the market and offering a similar model wouldn’t make good business sense.

Following the usual trend lines, the C-Class Convertible will also get an AMG version, but while the entry level models will get a four-cylinder engine, the AMG version will use the same 5.5 biturbo V8 engine used in the CLS63 AMG. The only difference provided for the engine will be that power will be reduced to about 420 HP compared to the current 525 HP. Customers will also have the possibility of opting for a Performance Package that will increase the total output to about 450 HP. This will ensure a 0 to 60 mph sprint of about 5 seconds, while top speed will be limited to 155 mph.

Expect to see the Mercedes C-Class Convertible on the streets at or a little before 2014.