2010 Citroen Sports Car Concept GQbyCitroen

French automaker Citroen has just unveiled the latest details of a new brand concept car, the GQbyCitroen, designed for the compact sports car segment. The latest concept was developed in partnership with the fashion experts GQ magazine and has been designed to provide “the ultimate gentleman’s drive”. The Citroën GQ Concept was born through a unique partnership between the UK's market-leading quality men's monthly and a team of Citroën designers, collaborating to create the ultimate gentleman's drive. This is the first time a British magazine has collaborated with a car company in this way.

2010 Citroen Sports Car Concept GQbyCitroen

Responding to a brief by GQ's editor, Dylan Jones, Citroën's team, headed by British designer - and the man responsible for the new Citroën DS3 - Mark Lloyd, took a new look at the GT theme and integrated it with a typical Citroën design approach bringing Citroën GQ Concept from design outline to concept reality.

2010 Citroen Sports Car Concept GQbyCitroen

Citroën GQ Concept combines classically sophisticated features and contemporary styling with a sculpted front end, rounded rear, strong body contours and sleek concave rear windscreen - a signature Citroën design.

2010 Citroen Sports Car Concept GQbyCitroen

The car's cabin is accessed by rear coach doors and reveals a spacious, comfortable and futuristic cabin. Completing the car's bespoke styling, the interior detailing and upholstery selections were provided by Patrick Grant, the Creative Director of prestigious Savile Row tailors, E.Tautz, who commented: "Savile Row is all about balance and Tautz's simple military inspired interior is the perfect counterpoint to the Gallic flair of the exterior."

2010 Citroen Sports Car Concept GQbyCitroen

Dylan Jones commented: "I wanted something practical, something cool, and something idiosyncratic - i.e. something surprising that didn't just look like a concept car. The GQ car needed to have the 'want' factor, but it also needed to look, feel and 'drive' like the sort of car no sane man could choose to ignore. We think it looks very very special."

2010 Citroen Sports Car Concept GQbyCitroen

Dynamic performance and environmental responsibility were also key requirements for the project. The Citroën GQ Concept is powered by a plug-in Hybrid with a 1,598cc, 4-cylinder direct injection petrol engine offering a sporty 0-60mph time of just 4.5seconds, an electronically limited top speed of 155mph and CO2 emissions of just 80g/km.

2010 Citroen Sports Car Concept GQbyCitroen

"For me, the car that has always represented the pinnacle of automotive excellence and refinement is the GT - the Grand Tourer. It is not the all-out sports car, rather it is something gentlemanly, it has performance and it is for travelling, not racing. We wanted to create something that, like GQ, was aspirational, but also retained the classic automotive ideals. We didn't want a car for the mass market. We wanted a car for GQ.'"

2010 Citroen Sports Car Concept GQbyCitroen

The GQbyCitroen will make its world debut at a special event in London this week.

2010 Honda Civic Sports Car Type R Mugen 200

2010 Honda has announced today the launch of their new BTCC team and also premiered the special edition Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 200. As you have probably already guessed, the Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 200 will be built in only 200 units and will go on sale in April. In addition to the jam-packed Civic Type R MUGEN with its tweaked 240HP 2.0-liter i-VTEC, of which only 20 units will be sold in the UK at a hefty £38,599 a piece (approximately US$60,300 or €44,400 at today's exchange rates), Honda today announced that it will offer a less hardcore variant of the hot hatch without the performance upgrades.

2010 Honda Civic Sports Car Type R Mugen 200

The Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 200 is powered by the standard 201PS i-VTEC engine and features a number of styling upgrades, plus a Limited Slip Differential. The Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 200 features front and rear bumpers with skirts, various badges and a Limited Edition number plaque. The car comes with a Championship White exterior paint and gloss black door mirrors. The Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 200 sits on 19-inch alloy wheels and the company also plans to offer various chassis tuning parts as an option.

2010 Honda Civic Sports Car Type R Mugen 200

The Honda Civic Type R MUGEN 200 price will be announced at a later date and you'll be able to start ordering yours from March. An enhanced, limited edition Civic Type R featuring exclusive MUGEN equipment will go on sale through Honda dealers in the UK in April.

2010 Honda Civic Sports Car Type R Mugen 200

Inspired by MUGEN Euro’s high-performance Type R, the MUGEN 200 is fitted with unique body parts, wheels and badges to give it stand-out looks. As its name suggests, only 200 of the special Type R models will be made. A range of tuning parts, to further enhance the chassis dynamics of the Type R, will also be available as dealer fit options. The order bank for the MUGEN 200 opens in March, when prices will also be announced.

2010 Honda Civic Sports Car Type R Mugen 200

This limited edition Type R continues the association between Honda (UK) and MUGEN Euro – the Northampton-based subsidiary of Honda’s long standing tuning partner MUGEN. Last year, MUGEN used its 36 years of experience and engineering expertise gained at the forefront of global motorsport, to further develop the Type R, and create the Civic Type R MUGEN of which just 20 units will be made.

2010 Honda Civic Sports Car Type R Mugen 200

From April, a network of Honda dealers will also offer an exclusive range of original MUGEN tuning parts for Type R owners to use to modify their own cars – both used and new. These parts will be available to buy from a number of selected dealers across the UK, and will offer a range of tuning and cosmetic parts, including sports suspension upgrades, lightweight wheels and interior trim.

2010 Honda Civic Sports Car Type R Mugen 200

The limited edition car also celebrates the launch of Honda’s BTCC team for 2010, continuing its long-standing relationship with Team Dynamics. The team will compete in two Civics – which will feature a similar White and Black colour scheme to the MUGEN 200 cars. More details will be announced before the first race of the season, which is at Thruxton on 4 April.

 

2010 Honda Civic Sports Car Type R Mugen 200

2010 Infiniti FX Limited Edition Only 100 Units

ROLLE, Switzerland (Feb 1, 2010) – The Infiniti FX Line of performance crossovers might already be one of the rarest and best equipped cars in its class but this has not stopped customers demanding an even more exclusive version. Hoping to gauge some more interest in Europe, Infiniti announced today that it will offer the European market. Infiniti is responding with a very special, limited run of the FX37S and FX50S called, simply, the Infiniti FX Limited Edition.

2010 Infiniti FX Limited Edition Only 100 Units

The Infiniti FX Limited Edition will be rare indeed. Availability has been strictly limited to just 100 units across Western Europe. Based on the already dramatic looking FX37S and FX50S, the Limited Edition features striking Black Obsidian 'Scratch Guard' paintwork as standard, with equally distinctive Moonlight White pearl metallic available as an option. Unique 21 inch 'Turbine' design alloy wheels are finished in dark Graphite, as are the radiator grille, air vents and roof rails are in similar trim. It has 320PS 3.7-litre V6 or potent 390PS 5.0-litre V8.

2010 Infiniti FX Limited Edition Only 100 Units

The Infiniti FX Limited Edition's interior is equally breathtaking. Opening one of the doors reveals illuminated 'Infiniti' entry guards and a carefully co-ordinated combination of the finest natural materials, including supple Graphite leather upholstery with contrasting stitching and a luxurious Alcantara® headlining. Genuine Carbon fibre is used extensively on the dashboard, centre console and door panels, replacing the standard cello flame maple wood veneer. 

2010 Infiniti FX Limited Edition Only 100 Units

Completing the Infiniti FX Limited Edition's extensive standard specification, Infiniti's state-of-the-art Connectiviti+ technology package provides a fully integrated navigation, communication and entertainment system including an 11-speaker Bose® Premium Sound System, the Michelin Guide, full iPod connectivity and a 10GB music box with Gracenotes database. An option on the standard FX37S, this is joined on both the V6 and V8 engined Limited Editions by Infiniti's unique Around View Monitor. With its breathtaking combination of sports car proportions and muscular SUV stance, the FX is an unmistakable performance luxury crossover.

2010 Infiniti FX Limited Edition Only 100 Units

The Infiniti philosophy of Modern Luxury is exemplified in the Infiniti FX Limited Edition's stylish and comprehensively appointed interior. From the supple Graphite leather upholstery complete with quilted stitching, to the opulent Alcantara® trimmed headlining and roof pillars and wool carpets, only the finest natural materials are used. Illuminated 'Infiniti' door entry guards are also unique to the Infiniti FX Limited Edition.

2010 Infiniti FX Limited Edition Only 100 Units

The extensive use of genuine carbon fibre across the dashboard, centre console and door panels provides an appropriately high-tech contrast to the soft-touch natural materials and provides a fitting backdrop to the Infiniti FX Limited Edition's standard Connectiviti+ infotainment system. Employing the very latest Hard Disk Drive (HDD) technology it features a fully integrated satellite navigation system with 42-country, Europewide coverage and, in a world-first collaboration with Michelin Green Guide, a database of some 22,000 addresses, which enables the location and booking of leading hotels and restaurants while on the move.

2010 Infiniti FX Limited Edition Only 100 Units

Additional standard equipment includes electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats, an electric sunroof, Infiniti's keyless entry and start system, and magnesium paddle shifts that work in conjunction with the seven-speed automatic gearbox. Also included is startling performance that sees the V8 powered Limited Edition speeding to 62mph in just 5.8 seconds with the V6 version only a second behind. Traction in all weathers is assured by intelligently controlled, all-wheel drive.

2010 Infiniti FX Limited Edition Only 100 Units

The FX Limited Edition is available for reservation now via an Infiniti Centre. Pricing starts at £55,855 for the 320PS, V6 engined FX37S rising to £62,035 for the 390PS, V8 powered FX50S.

Citroen 2020 Dakar Rally Vehicle Concept Car By Chu Hyung Kwon

The futuristic Citroen 2020 Dakar Rally Vehicle concept from designer Chu Hyung Kwon came forth as the designer’s desire to have more high-tech Dakar Rally vehicles, which have technology at par with that of F1 racing. The basic theory behind this structural skin is that the core is the strongest part of the vehicle, while the outer extremities (the structural surface) displays relative flexibility. This is the basic concept behind the reduction of shock from external elements. A main feature of the concept appears to be elasticity; also, I’m totally in favor of elasticity, the more, the better. But that’s beside the point. The concept uses elasticity for safety and to some point, for stability.

Citroen 2020 Dakar Rally Vehicle Concept Car By Chu Hyung Kwon

An elastic capsule surrounds the driver and works to reduce/ prevent injuries in event of a collision. Elastic working at the concept’s rear helps it to get back on its wheels if it is ever knocked off upside down. The wheels are a special arrangement, each with a number of sections. In case of a puncture or damage, only the said section needs to be removed, rather than having to deal with the entire wheel.

Citroen 2020 Dakar Rally Vehicle Concept Car By Chu Hyung Kwon

Shock resistance. With modern advances such as the following, even the most severe of impacts will be dissipated: AeroGel, Carbon/Kevlar composite, and liquid metal. along with the formentioned simple self-righting system and the ability to climb right up the side of a pit make this Structural Skin car quite the formidable foe.

Lightning-powered Yog Concept Vehicle By Arun Thomas Design

Conceptualized obviously by an Indian designer – Arun Thomas –, the Yog trike is somehow related to the physical and mental discipline that Hollywood stars like so much to brag about practicing, Yoga. The shape of this futuristic trike is supposedly derived from Yoga, so is it rightful asking if the riding position induces a certain state? Because nobody certainly doesn’t want to start meditating at 100mph as I understand the thing is meant to go fast too.

The Yog personal transport vehicle looks like a whole bunch of fun and one mean ride. Indian designer Arun Thomas proposed the trike design concept, powered by a modified jet engine driving a propeller, and with electrical energy from batteries, as an entry to the Michelin Design Challenge 2010.

The “Yog” is a futuristic vehicle that harnesses lightning to provide sustainable commutation without compromising on power. Powered by artificial thunderstorms created in a closed system that converts lightning into electricity, the vehicle concept moves with the forward thrust produced by a simple tuned-up aircraft engine with an electrically driven propeller. Steered with a skid steer mechanism, the Yog locates the battery, which juices up after receiving electric energy from the power source, neatly within the vehicle.

Running on wheels made of an elastic wheel hub and an elastic rubber, freely connected to the hub enclosed by elastic composite materials, the three-wheeler uses air and magnetic repulsion power to define its shape. The form, together with its name, of the vehicle is derived from yoga, a path to join the individual self with the Divine, Universal Spirit through Physical and mental exercises, which reflects Indian values.

2011 Mazda Sports Car Mazda6 Facelift

Mazda has released the first 2011 Mazda6 facelift images and details and announced that the new version will be premiered at the Geneva auto show in March. As far as the exterior design goes, the 2011 Mazda6 facelift features new headlights and rear light clusters. This new, upgraded version enhances the strengths of its predecessor, retaining its fun-to-drive feeling and excellent fuel efficiency; while improving refinement, cabin ambience, environmental compatibility and safety performance. 

2011 Mazda Sports Car Mazda6 Facelift

The 2011 Mazda6 facelift also comes with new chassis settings and several new active safety features – like a new pivoting adaptive front lighting system and hill-launch assist – that together make the Mazda6 facelift one of the safest and easiest-to-drive cars in its segment.

2011 Mazda Sports Car Mazda6 Facelift

The Mazda Mazda 6 design concept is "bold & exquisite." The updated model carries over the solid front face of its predecessor, and retains the beauty, strength and tension conveyed through its simple contours. With enhancements for a stronger expression of dynamism and sportiness, the latest facelifted Mazda 6 expresses a more premium identity. 

2011 Mazda Sports Car Mazda6 Facelift

Six engines will be available, including a powerful new 2.0-litre DISI petrol that uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions than the 2.0-litre engine it replaces. Its five-speed automatic transmission was adapted especially for this new petrol engine to deliver an optimal combination of acceleration and fuel economy.

2011 Mazda Sports Car Mazda6 Facelift

The 2011 Mazda6 facelift also offers updated versions of the MZR 1.8 and 2.5-litre engines while the MZR-CD 2.2-litre turbo diesel unit is offered in three power levels, from 129 to 180 PS, all of them sporty, with improved fuel-efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. 

2011 Mazda Sports Car Mazda6 Facelift

The 2011 Mazda6 facelift price will be announced later in the spring when the new version will go on sale across Europe. It is one of three premieres that will be unveiled at Mazda’s press conference to be held at the Mazda stand in Hall 5, on 2 March.

2011 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Concept Next-Gen Porsche Supercar

The 2011 Porsche 918 hybrid concept is set to debut tomorrow at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. This is not your average hybrid like Toyota Prius or Honda Insight. With four other debuts planned for this year’s Geneva auto show, Porsche saved one surprise for just before the show opened. Behold the 918 Spyder concept, a radical Carrera GT–like supercar that employs Porsche’s latest take on enviro-firendly performance technology.

2011 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Concept Next-Gen Porsche Supercar

"The strategic aim is to demonstrate that even a supercar can be environmentally friendly. Porsche 918 hybrid concept promises total driving pleasure—and a clear conscience. This is a trendsetting and sustainable premium product that uses the issue of social acceptability to its advantage. And it reflects the legacy of Ferry Porsche, who was convinced that sports cars would never go out of fashion.”

2011 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Concept Next-Gen Porsche Supercar

“In a way, the 918 is two cars in one,” explains the soft-spoken design director. “Its character can change from mild to wild and vice versa—mild as in wafting along in eco mode, wild as in switching the drive program selector to sport or race. In mild, the car benefits from the relatively low weight and strong aerodynamic performance. In wild, it improves downforce and stability by extending the adjustable wing, and it raises the two ram-air intake scoops to further enhance thermodynamic efficiency. 

2011 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Concept Next-Gen Porsche Supercar

Design-wise, it was our mission to visualize a brand-new, unique, and revolutionary vehicle concept. Big wheels were a must, the stance had to be positively ground-hugging, and an unmistakable front end was imperative, as was a pacesetting mix of classic curvatures and contemporary creases. There is no doubt that the Porsche 918 Spyder marks an important evolution of our design language, certain elements of which are bound to appear on future production models.

2011 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Concept Next-Gen Porsche Supercar

Moving in the same direction as Ferrari with its 599 Hybrid concept, Porsche is laying its cards on the table with this dual-purpose supercar plug-in hybrid. Said to “combine high-tech racing features with electric mobility to offer a fascinating range of qualities,” the 918 Spyder concept borrows the mid-mounted 3.4-liter V-8 engine from the RS Spyder race car, singing a symphony of 500 hp up to a 9200-rpm redline. That covers the race portion of the equation, while electric motors found at both the front and rear axles that combine for an output of 218 hp handle the electric mobility. These motors, able to move the car on electric power alone, make the 918 a full hybrid, which Porsche claims has a range of 16 miles using the liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery found behind the passenger compartment. Porsche claims the concept is capable of hitting 62 mph in under 3.2 seconds, topping out at 198 mph, lapping the Nürburgring in 7 minutes and 30 seconds (faster than a Carrera GT), and achieving fuel economy of up to 78 mpg, but certainly not while laying down those figures.

2011 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Concept Next-Gen Porsche Supercar

In parallel-hybrid rear-wheel-drive mode, the superclever Porsche can run on gasoline, on electricity, or on a combination thereof. The front wheels, though, are driven on demand by the so-called electric portal axle. A button on the steering wheel allows the driver to handle the 918’s multiple-personality disorder, selecting from E-Drive, Hybrid, Sport Hybrid, and Race Hybrid modes. E-Drive is exactly that, using the stored energy in the batteries that’s supplied through plugging the car in at home or captured from regenerative braking. Hybrid mode combines the two drive systems, allowing the driver to either conserve fuel or flog the car to their heart’s content. Sport Hybrid is a step to the performance side using both gas and electric systems with power biased to the rear wheels and torque vectoring for improved handling. Greenies need not apply to the Race Hybrid setting, which squeezes out every bit of oomph from all onboard systems and even features an “E-Boost” push-to-pass button that feeds additional electric power for overtaking. As if the 500-hp gas motor needed any help.

2011 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Concept Next-Gen Porsche Supercar

If required, the mighty V-8 can even act as a supersize range extender -- by driving the rear electric motor, which in turn supplies the lithium-ion batteries. In E-mode and with the batteries fully charged, a feather-footed driver can achieve a zero-emissions range of up to fifteen miles. The plug-in charge time varies from two to seven hours, depending on the available voltage. The green-colored brake calipers advertise the energy-regeneration system, which feeds the battery pack behind the seats. The energy cells are also charged when the vehicle is coasting.

2011 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Concept Next-Gen Porsche Supercar

The concept also uses advanced features like variable aerodynamics for increased efficiency and added downforce at high speeds, as well as a Range Manager that uses the navigation system to present the predicted range the car is able to roam in its various modes.