Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni

Few names resonate more with the Lamborghini faithful than Valentino Balboni, Lambo's long-term test driver who's honed every model to roll off the line since 1973. In an ultimate tribute to Balboni, the Italian supercar manufacturer has created this: the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni.

As its name would imply, the Gallardo ditches the standard model's all-wheel drive system and sends power to the rear wheels, and according to the automaker, the 550-2 "was conceived in line with [Balboni's] own thinking, and it meets many customers' requests for a model with a unique character, which offers a very special kind of active driving fun."

The 5.2-liter V10 has been tweaked to put out 550 hp and coupled with a the Gallardo's reduced curb weight (3,042 pounds), the LP 550-2 can sprint to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and top out at 199 mph.

As we saw yesterday, the exterior receives a new set of Scorpious wheels (hiding a revised suspension) and a white and gold stripe running the length of the Lambo, with the theme carrying over inside in the form of a white leather center console and seats. Eight exterior shades are available, along with black, orange or yellow brake calipers, depending on the chosen hue, and in addition to the standard transparent engine cover, rear-view camera, navigation system and Bluetooth integration, buyers can option up for the e-gear transmission and carbon ceramic brakes.

PRESS RELEASE

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni – Driving fun with absolute precision

He has long been revered as one of the many legends surrounding the world's most uncompromising sports car brand – Valentino Balboni, a remarkable test driver with his own personal cult status. Automobili Lamborghini now presents a model in his honour and bearing his name – the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni.

The latest version of the Gallardo, Lamborghini's most successful model of all time - overall, more than 9,000 units of the model range have already been produced - boasts not only its own distinctive design and exclusive equipment, but its technology is unique too, as indicated by the model badge: the 550 stands for the power output in hp and the 2 is for rear wheel drive.

For several decades, Valentino Balboni has had a distinct influence on the character of the super sports car bearing the sign of the bull. With his fine-tuning and testing work, he has helped to shape many automotive legends, from the Lamborghini Miura of the 60s through to the current Gallardo and Murciélago models. Balboni was hired in 1967 by company founder Ferruccio Lamborghini himself. From early on, it was evident that the young Balboni had a special feel for cars, that most sensitive of all instincts that connects to the 'life blood' of an automobile and defines the soul of a test driver.

"A Lamborghini must always combine the precision of a race car with the reliability of a good friend," says Balboni. Since 1973, he has sat at the wheel of every prototype built by the brand, and even most production cars have passed through his hands before being delivered to their customers. This has turned Balboni into one of the most important representatives of the brand, with an outstanding reputation and status among the brand's fans and customers worldwide.

Limited to 250 units

After over 40 years with Lamborghini, Balboni is now officially retired. Yet, Valentino Balboni continues to travel to many countries around the world as an ambassador of the brand.
The special exclusivity of the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni is guaranteed – it is limited to 250 units.

Light-footed yet extremely safe

With this latest version of the Gallardo, Lamborghini is honouring its long-standing test driver in a very special way. The LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni was conceived in line with his own thinking, and it meets many customers' requests for a model with a unique character, which offers a very special kind of active driving fun. The Balboni model is the only current Lamborghini that delivers its power to the road via its rear wheels alone.

Rear wheel drive has a special appeal to those sports car drivers who enjoy a particular driving style. Thanks to the eminently powerful V10 driveline, controlled oversteer is no problem – naturally always to the extent defined by the driver - because refined road manners and perfectly tuned assistance systems mean that the Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni is an exceptionally safe sports car to drive.

Driving fun with unique character

In order to shape this unique character that combines driving fun and safety, the engineers at Sant'Agata Bolognese have incorporated extensive modifications into the LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni. It was not simply a question of moving the transmission to the rear axle, the vehicle had to be adjusted and tuned in every element of its driving dynamics. This includes springs, dampers, stabilisers and even the tyres. The aerodynamics were also adjusted to take account of the change to the power flow.

The rear axle differential, with a 45 percent limited slip, was also redeveloped, as was the calibration of the e-gear transmission. One significant point was the adjustments made to the ESP system. While the standard program is focused on high stability, the CORSA program permits greater drift angles, thus enabling drivers to enjoy the dynamics of the LP 550-2 to their full extent.

Outstanding performance is guaranteed

Adjustments have also been made to the very heart of the Gallardo, the 5.2 litre ten-cylinder: the perfect synthesis of hi-revving pleasure, pulling power, a constantly exuberant temperament and a powerful symphony played in all keys. In the Valentino Balboni, the compact and lightweight power unit generates 405 kW (550 hp). At a dry weight of only 1,380 kilograms, this guarantees outstanding performance: the LP 550-2 is catapulted from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62mph) in a breathtaking 3.9 seconds, while the top speed of 320 km/h (199 mph) guarantees its place among the ultimate in super sports cars.

Powerful elegance in its distinctive design

The Valentino Balboni is not only unique in terms of its technology: its design and equipment reinforce its exclusivity. Its classic sporting character is emphasised by a colour strip in white and gold running from the front panel over the roof and parts of the engine cover all the way to the rear spoiler, with inspiration from the classic sports cars from the '70s. This colour treatment underscores the powerful elegance of the Gallardo and emphasises the unique Lamborghini design DNA. The Special Edition is available in eight colours, from Bianco Monocerus through to Verde Ithaca, or Arancio Borealis to Nero Noctis. The Scorpius wheels retain their dark grey finish, while the brake callipers come in black, orange or yellow, depending on the exterior paint finish.

Classic sporting look for the interior, too

The characteristic colour combination is repeated in the interior. The basic colour of the full leather upholstery is black. Both seats, however, feature the colour strip in white. The centre console is completely upholstered in Polar white leather to create a powerful accent. A badge below the left side window bears the signature of Valentino Balboni and the production number of the car.

The exclusivity of the Valentino Balboni is augmented further by its extensive equipment. Alongside several new leather features in the interior, there is also the transparent engine cover, the rear view camera, the navigation system with Bluetooth and the lifting system for the front axle that makes it easier to drive over obstacles. In addition to the extensive standard equipment, a list of further options is available including e-gear transmission and carbon ceramic brakes.

Suggested retail price – without taxes
Europe:
162.000 €

UK:
137.900 £

USA:
219.800 $

Novitec unveils twin-supercharged Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M

We're unsure about the logic behind messing with one of Ferrari's amazing creations, let alone a limited edition model like the Scuderia Spider 16M. But German tuning company Novitec Rosso has no qualms about putting their own creative mark on the cars from Maranello. Their most recent creation is this twin-supercharged Scuderia Spider 16M that puts out 696 horsepower at 8400 rpm and 503 lb-ft torque at 6300 rpm. Capable of hitting 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and topping 205 mph, it's easily one of the fastest convertibles in the world. The Italian drop top also gets larger wheels and tires, sport springs with a hydraulic lift system, black taillights, side markers and reflectors, a leather/carbon fiber steering wheel, and carbon fiber shift paddles.

[Source: Novitec via AutoGuide.com]

2010 Citroen C3 is here

The Citroen C3 is old enough in car years that it's getting a re-do before it undergoes a mid-life crisis. The new version is certainly a more mature design, receding hairline and all. Citroen has come up with its own euphemism for it, coining the phrase "Zenith Windscreen" to describe a large windshield that extends further up into the roof than normal to create a panoramic feel to the interior.

The new C3 is a smoother looking supermini than before, with slicker styling keeping it modern and slipping through the air with a Cd of .30. Inside the redone sheetmetal, the interior gets classed up and quieted down. Most notably, there's an integrated air freshener, presumably useful when you're using all 10.5 cubic feet of boot space to haul big dogs or foie gras party platters.

An HDi (Citroenese for "diesel") engine keeps CO2 emissions low, and new powerplants are in the pipeline for 2011. The new engines will use stop/start, the diesel versions of which will drop carbon dioxide emissions further, while gasoline-fueled C3s will also dip below the 100g/km of CO2 emissions level with a new three-cylinder engine. The C3's new duds don't come with the typical generational increase in weight, and the Chevron-emblazoned C-class car will motor onto the small car battlefield ready to earn more accolades with its latest generation.

[Source: Citroen]

Hyundai Equus coming to the States in July 2010, priced under $60,000

According to an anonymous source at Hyundai, buyers in the U.S. will get their first crack at the Hyundai Equus sedan beginning next July, with a cost of entry somewhere south of $60,000.

The Genesis-based sedan, which stretches a little over seven inches longer than Hyundai's first attempt at entry-level luxury, is available in Korea with either the Genesis' 3.8-liter V6 or 4.6-liter V8. However, Stateside buyers will only be able to purchase the bent-eight model when sales begin next summer.

Hyundai's primary aim with the Equus is to compete with the similarly priced Lexus LS460 ($64,700), while offering more luxury amenities including reclining rear seats, massagers and LCD displays. According to Rick Case, the owner of six Hyundai dealerships in North America, "It won't be a volume model for us. It will be a halo car for the brand." If you want to scope out the Korean-market Equus before sales begin next year, 100 sedans are currently available for evaluation at dealerships across the country.

[Source: Autoweek]

Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder

We love us some supercar photos, and Lamborghini just made our day by releasing a plethora of new images of the Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder. Introduced late last year at the L.A. Auto Show, the new Gallardo drop-top received a host of upgrades compared to its predecessor, including a new folding top, LED taillights, and, of course, the new 552 horsepower 5.2-liter V10 also found in its coupe sibling.

[Source: WebRidesTV.com]

Ferrari Scuderia Spider 16M tuned by Novitec Rosso

After tuning the Ferrari's extreme 430 Scuderia, NOVITEC ROSSO has now taken on a F430 Scuderia Spider 16M.

Novitec Russo has bolted on a couple of superchargers to the car’s 4.3L V8 engine. The final power output was rated at 696hp (519kW), up from the standard car's 510hp (380kW).

While the standard 16M will demolish the sprint to 62mph in just 3.7 seconds and go on to a top speed of 196mph, there's little doubt that all the additional horsepower will help push the Novitec Rosso Scuderia Spider 16M well beyond the 200mph mark, and possibly even come close to the tuned 430 Scuderia which tops out at 215mph.

Sportier springs have been fitted to lower the centre of gravity and improve handling while a hydraulic lift system is installed at the front end to lift the car by up to 40mm to help it negotiate obstacles like speed bumps and curbs. And the lift is activated simply by pushing a button from the cabin.

For the exterior, high-performance Pirelli tyres come in size 235/30 ZR 20 at the front and 325/25 ZR 20 at the rear. At the rear, Novitec's trademark black tail lights replace the traditional Ferrari-red, while a custom LED strip has also been added as an additional brake light.

NOVITEC ROSSO has put a price tag of €47,000 (USD66,000) on the tuning package.

Aston Martin working on Cygnet Concept Car based on Toyota iQ

To comply with tough new fuel economy and emissions regulations coming into effect in Europe by 2012, Aston Martin has joined forces with Toyota to develop a new minicar model called the Cygnet, which is based on Toyota’s iQ minicar. The Aston Martin Cygnet is a mix of luxury, compactness and environmental friendliness.

Though it’s still in the concept stage, the production of the car is expected to be given before the end of the year. Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez said: "Much work is still required, but I am confident that this project could become reality in the not-too-distant future."

As revealed by the teaser image, the Cygnet will adopt some very distinct Aston Martin trademarks to differentiate it from its Toyota sibling. The vehicle is being designed for Europe but other details such as the launch date, price and production volumes have not been decided.

The car on which it is based, the iQ, measures just three meters in length, is powered by a three-cylinder engine and has a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. The Cygnet is expected to keep most of these attributes, but its interior is expected to be as luxurious as that found in any other Aston Martin model.

However, if you want to buy a Cygnet, you have to be already own an Aston Martin. The luxury automaker has identified that around 30% of existing customers have small cars such as a Mini or Smart ForTwo in their garages for city traffic.

Spy shots: Mercedes Benz E-Class Cabrio with top down

After unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show earlier this year, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has drawn fans’ attention to news of the upcoming E-Class Cabriolet and Estate models.

The former spy shots of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe Cabrio showed the car with a soft top, now spy photographers have caught the car testing in Germany with its top down.

About 100mm longer than the CLK Cabrio preceding it, the E-Class Cabrio also bears the same raked A pillar and steep belt-line of the ConceptFASCINATION study revealed back in September last year.

With the top down, we can see the test car's unique air deflector. Taking the shape of a mini-spoiler over the windscreen, the item is sure to cause a stir amongst Mercedes fans. Should the piece stay on the final version of the car, it will likely polarize those interested in the E-class into two groups: one that likes the function, and one that hates the look.

Power is expected to come from the same engine line-up as that featured in the E-Class Coupe, which means four, six and eight-cylinder units with outputs from 150kW/200hp to 285kW/382hp - the top end model being the E500/550.

KW Automotive Dodge Challenger SRT8

With the brawny shapes, the edged radiator grill and an engine with an enormous cubic capacity, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 is a real American. But the biggest weakness of the vehicle may be its road holding ability. German running gear specialist KW Automotive helps to improve the weaknesses with some modifications.

The standard Challenger SRT8 comes with a 6.1L HEMI V8 engine churning out 425 hp (313 kW) – More than enough power for most. Therefore, KW has not focus on the engine performance, but did fit the car with K&N sport air filter and a completely new Magnaflow 3.5in diameter exhaust system.

Engineers have fitted VW’s Variant 1 stainless steel suspension upgrade, which lowers the car at either axle by up to 50mm. The stainless steel casing guarantees that the components inside remain continuously flexible even when they are strained more in winter.

The KW Dodge Challenger features a new running gear which is approved by the Technical Control Board. One of the most striking features of the KW Dodge Challenger is a pair of vertically lifting ‘Lamborghini-style’ doors provided by LSD. Other modifications include HRE 22in forged aluminum wrapped in Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tires.

For more information, read the press released below:

Only a few are left. The changed spirit of time and the crisis of the American car manufacturers diminish the number of classical muscle cars. The Dodge Challenger belongs to this minority. With its brawny shapes, the edged radiator grill and an engine with an enormous cubic capacity, the car is a real American. But this also applies for its road holding. The running gear specialist KW helps to improve the weaknesses in taking bends. With high-quality components, KW makes the Challenger unique and at the same time preserves the character of the American.

425 hp (313 kW) – that is the power behind the 6.1-litre SRT HEMI V8-engine. Thus, the road cruiser has enough propulsion. Therefore, KW has not concentrated on the engine performance apart from fitting a K&N sport air filter and a completely new exhaust system. But when it comes to its road holding characteristics in bends, KW has performed many changes. The running gear specialist from Fichtenberg in Germany fits its running gear Variant 1 in the stainless steel version inox line. The factory-made damping is optimally adjusted to the Challenger SRT8 and renders the perfect balance between sporty and tense adjustment and enough remaining comfort. The running gear is approved by the Technical Control Board and is equipped with an operating license and offers a lowering area from 10 to 50 millimeters on both axles. The stainless steel casing guarantees that the components inside remain continuously flexible even when they are strained more in winter.

In order to make the ideal use out of the new running gear and its perfected road holding, KW co-operated with the high-class manufactory HRE Wheels. The manufacturer equips the Challenger with forged light-alloy wheels HRE 995R in brushed aluminum which shine in a satin black rim well. With their three-part construction, the wheels not only impress with their striking appearance, but also with their premium manufacture. They are available in the dimensions 10x22 inches at the front- and 11x22 inches at the back axle. The applied high-performance wheels Dunlop SP Sport Maxx in 265/35 ZR 22 at the front and 295/30 ZR 22 at the back render the best possible grip.

The exhaust system by Magnaflow renders the right sound for the sporty appearance. The 18-inch prime pipe branches into a two-pipe system and powerfully roars at the back with four polished 3.5-inch end pipes.

But running gear, wheels and sound were not enough for kW. Therefore, the doors of the refined Dodge Challenger can be opened upwards thanks to LSD-hinges. The adjustable Guided Roller System (GRS) renders safety and precision when opening and closing the doors. Moreover, the LSD-hinges have proved in side crash tests that they offer the same safety as the original doors. The gull-wing doors add the finishing touches to the American car and complete the unique refinement.

It was not an easy task for KW to remodel the Dodge Challenger. The aim was to perfect a classic car of the American Way of Life without reducing the myth of the muscle car. This balance has been perfectly accomplished by the running gear manufacturer.

For more information about the wide variety of products by KW automotive GmbH including running gear springs, dampers, sport running gears, coilovers as well as application lists, please visit the web site www.KWsuspensions.com.

Spy shots: Saab’s next-gen 9-5

The next – gen Saab 9-5 is confirmed to make its world debut at this September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Spy shots of the upcoming vehicle have surfaced. And now we got these computer generated renderings which may look slightly different to the final design. From the pics, it appears that the new 9-5 will have a much more dramatic look than previous versions.

Underneath the new sheet metal will be a heavily revised version of GM’s FWD Epsilon II platform, which is also shared by Opel for its new Insignia range. To differentiate Saab as a premium product engineers will provide a stiffer suspension set-up, a new steering rack and a different range of electronics. The car’s wheelbase will stretch 2.84m, which is up 14cm on the current model, and the overall length will stretch just over 5m. This increased wheelbase will free up more interior space as well make the 9-5 a real rival to cars like the Cadillac STS and Volvo S80.

Engine options will include a range of four-cylinder petrol and turbodiesel units including a biofuel model. There will also likely by an AWD flagship model with a turbocharged petrol V6 displacing 3.6L and developing upwards of 350hp (261kW). Other engines will include a 210hp (157kW) 2.0L unit and mid-level 2.8L V6. A petrol-electric hybrid model is also expected. Different markets will configure different choices depending on their own needs, so the US for example would get the Buick Lacrosse's 3.6-litre V6 while Europe a 2.8-litre V6 turbo.

The new 9-5 will be built at Opel’s Ruesselsheim plant in Germany with production tipped to start in the middle of the year.

Mugen takes on the Honda Stream

You wanted something sporty, but due to additions to the family, a minivan is as athletic as its going to get. But if that minivan is the 2010 Honda Stream, you can still satisfy your sporty urges thanks to Mugen. The practically in-house tuner has developed a full line of interior, exterior, aero, performance, handling and cosmetic parts for the people mover -- from typical Mugen mods like spoilers and wheels to a performance air filter and TypeT touring brake pads. If you add the sport suspension to your minivan, well, maybe you really do need to get a different car.

[Source: Mugen]

Jaguar to make a roaring lion? XKR Goodwood Special mooted

The details haven't been disbursed yet, but one of Jaguar's chief engineers has reportedly spilled the beans on a special XKR to be shown at Goodwood. Called, fittingly, the XKR Goodwood Special, it will get more power than the standard XKR's (shown above) 500 horses, and more audible snarl than the current exhaust emits.

Because Jag is said to be reconsidering the car's brightwork treatment, the Goodwood Special will wear a satin graphite detailing package that could foreshadow a future running change (we know we could do without the metal surrounds on the car's front skirt nostrils). The car is still being finished so there's a good chance it won't be seen until just before the event, but we always look forward to a cat that scratches harder and roars louder.

[Source: Pistonheads]

Infiniti Essence concept to run the Goodwood Hillclimb

When Infiniti decides to tackle a new market, it sure knows how to make an entrance. At the Geneva Motor Show in March, the gas-electric hybrid Essence made jaws drop with its commanding size, beautiful lines, and green-inspired 592-hp soul. Unfortunately for every man, woman and child on the face of the earth, the Essence won't make its way to production -- ever -- but it's actually going to be driven in the UK... briefly.

Infiniti's voluptuous concept will make an appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it'll make the run the hill climb and be joined at the FoS-TECH pavilion by the world's first right-hand-drive G37 convertible . While we're more than a little disappointed that the Essence will never hit production, if the concept's handsome design makes its way into other Infinitis, it'd be a good start. Press release below the fold.

[Source: Infiniti]

GM to build B-segment cars in Lake Orion, MI

Following weeks of speculation, General Motors finally made its decision official this afternoon. Its new small cars will be built in Michigan with final assembly taking place at the Lake Orion plant with stampings coming from the nearby Pontiac Metal Center. As a result of the decision, 1,400 jobs will be preserved in hard-hit Michigan.

The Lake Orion factory was due to be idled in September, when production of the Pontiac G6 ends there. Instead it will be re-tooled to build a new small car that has not yet been announced. The plant will be specified as a B/C plant, meaning it will have flexibility to build both B and C segment cars. The first will be a B car, which will replace the Aveo and may be called the Viva. The plant will also be able to build C cars like the new Cruze and possibly a Buick version of the Opel Astra. The Viva would be a B-segment car similar in size to the new Ford Fiesta. Powertrain components will also be sourced from GM's North American operations although no specifics have been announced yet. GM emphasized that this is the first car of this size to be built in the United States from any major automaker.

[Source: General Motors]


PRESS RELEASE

Michigan Plants Will Build GM's Future Small Car

UAW, state & local government support, and GM's efficient, flexible manufacturing operations make competitive, profitable small car in U.S. possible

1,400 total jobs to be saved

DETROIT -- General Motors selected its assembly plant in Orion Township, Mich. and stamping facility in Pontiac, Mich., to build its future small car, which will add to the automaker's growing portfolio of U.S.-built, highly fuel-efficient cars, including the Chevrolet Cruze and Volt. Today's announcement will restore approximately 1,400 jobs in total -- 1,200 at Orion Assembly and 200 at Pontiac Metal Center, Building # 14.

This decision is dependent on the successful outcome of ongoing economic incentive negotiations between GM and state and local government officials.

"Small cars represent one of the fastest-growing segments in both the U.S. and around the world," said Troy Clarke, president of General Motors North America. " GM will be the only automaker, foreign or domestic, to build small cars in the U.S . , and we believe Orion Assembly and Pontiac Stamping are well suited to deliver a high-quality, fuel-efficient car that competes with anything in the marketplace."

A selection team comprised of leaders from several of GM's functional areas, including manufacturing, labor relations and finance, made the final decision based on a specific set of criteria. Orion Assembly will be retooled and is anticipated to be a two-shift operation, building 160,000 cars annually - a combination of both small and compact vehicles.

"This is great news for our members at UAW Local 5960, Oakland County, and the State of Michigan, and shows the world the UAW can compete in the most competitive segment of the automotive industry," said Cal Rapson, UAW Vice President and Director, UAW-GM Department. "My heart also goes out to our UAW members in Janesville, Wisc., and Spring Hill, Tenn. Our work will not be complete until all of our members displaced by the shrinking auto industry are returned to work. With today's announcement, we can begin to restore hope that the worst of the times are behind us."

Gary Cowger, Group Vice President of GM Global Manufacturing & Labor Relations added: "I would like to personally thank all of the key stakeholders involved in the review process, including state and local government officials. This vehicle segment is one of the toughest and most competitive in the world but with our recently modified agreement with the UAW and GM's proven capability in efficient, flexible manufacturing, it is now possible for GM to produce these size vehicles in the U.S. in a cost-competitive and profitable way."

As announced on June 1, Orion Assembly will be placed into standby capacity status in Sept. 2009. Pontiac Metal Center 's Building #14 will be placed into standby capacity status in Dec. 2010. Pontiac Metal's buildings #15 and #25 will close by Dec. 2010, or sooner depending on market demand. Timing for the retooling of the small car assembly and stamping plants is still under study, but we anticipate this prep work would begin in late 2010 in anticipation of the start of production in 2011.

Two other GM assembly plants in Spring Hill, Tenn. and Janesville, Wis. were also under consideration to build the future small car. Spring Hill will be placed in standby capacity status in Nov. 2009, as announced earlier this month. The plant could be brought online at some point in the future should GM require additional capacity due to increased market demand. Janesville was placed on standby capacity in May 2009 and will remain in that status.

GM already has a strong manufacturing presence in the United States. Currently, about 67 percent of GM cars and trucks sold in the United States are built there. With this announcement, GM anticipates that U.S. production levels will increase beyond 70 percent by 2013, augmenting its already industry-leading U.S. manufacturing footprint of by far more plants than any other OEM.

General Motors Corp., one of the world's largest automakers, was founded in 1908, and today manufactures cars and trucks in 34 countries. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 235,000 people in every major region of the world, and sells and services vehicles in some 140 countries. In 2008, GM sold 8.35 million cars and trucks globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Hummer, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Canada, Russia and Germany. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

2009-Cadillac Escalade Platinum Hybrid

2009-Cadillac Escalade Platinum Hybrid, Pictures, photo and images. The Cadillac already offers both hybrid and Platinum variants of the Escalade, but this latest offering combines the 'green' powertrain of the former with the amenities of the latter. Platinum models add a number of distinctive touches both inside and out, including a unique grille, LED headlamps, Aniline leather seating, magnetic ride control, and unique 22-inch aluminum wheels.The new model will utilize the 6.0-liter V8, just like the ‘lesser’ Escalade Hybrid, paired to General Motor’s 2-Mode hybrid system. Economy figures have not yet been released up to this time, but it is expected to be around 20 mpg city and 21 mpg highway which are the same figures that come with the two-wheel-drive Escalade Hybrid.

See More Pictures of 2009-Cadillac Escalade Platinum Hybrid Above

Specification of Cadillac Escalade 2007

The all-new 2007 Cadillac Escalade EXT is the perfect combination of versatility luxuryand in the full-size truck segment. The Escalade EXT offers unmatched versatility mixing device pickup truck style and functionality into a thoroughly luxurious Escalade.
Based on GM's all-new full-size SUV platform, de'07 Escalade EXT features new powertrain, chassis, safety and interior systems. These integrated systems deliver the most powerful, efficient luxury full-size SUV in this segment, led by the new 6.2-liter all-aluminum V8 engine with VVT that generates 403hp and a robust 417lb.ft. of torque.The EXT model is a unique Sport Utility Truck (SUT) body style, making it a part SUV, part-pickup profile. The industry-exclusive Midgate panel, car owners easily convert the EXT five-passenger SUV into a two-passenger pickup with 9ft. protected and secure storage. The Midgate, located behind the rear bench can be folded into the cabin, the cargo area to extend from 5ft. to 8ft., for a total of 101cu.ft. Secure volume. A standard lockable Tonneau cover protects items in the cargo bed, or can be removed for extra vertical space. When closed, it is suitable for a 300lb.

Specification :
Type: Large Truck
Where Built: Mexico
EPA Class: Sport Utility Vehicles
Dimensions
Exterior
Length: 222 in. Width: 79.1 in.
Height: 74.5 in. Wheel Base: 130 in.
Ground Clearance: 10.6 in. Curb Weight: 5838 lbs.
Gross Weight: 7200 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 41.1 in. Front Hip Room: 64.4 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 65.3 in. Rear Head Room: 40 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 65.3 in. Rear Hip Room: 62.3 in.
Front Leg Room: 41.3 in. Rear Leg Room: 39.1 in.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 109 cu. ft. Maximum Seating: 5
Performance Data
Performance
Base Number of Cylinders: 8 Base Engine Size: 6.2 liters
Base Engine Type: V8 Horsepower: 403 hp
Max Horsepower: 5700 rpm Torque: 417 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 4300 rpm Maximum Payload: 1362 lbs.
Maximum Towing Capacity: 7600 lbs. Drive Type: AWD
Turning Circle: 39 ft.
Fuel Data
Fuel
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway)
Automatic: : 13 mpg / 19 mpg
Range in Miles: (City/Highway)
Automatic: 403 mi. / 589 mi.

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2009 Volkswagen CC Images

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2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Pictures

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Black Edition

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sport

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wallpaper

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Interior

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Picture

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Car Show

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Pictures

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Black Edition

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sport

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wallpaper

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Interior

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Picture

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Car Show