Patent images reveal all-new Merc A-Class

Almost one month ago, I published a post regarding Merc's upcoming compact models, and now the all-new A-Class has been revealed through some patent images. Not so flashy as the concept, but still nice enough I would say... although the front end has some Volvo elements and the rear one some influence from Citroen.

Video: LFA lap at Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach

Latest FT-86 rendering... is this the real deal?!

A few days ago I posted a photo from the latest Mag-X issue, which arrived today. As usual, I always try to provide you with the latest renderings coming straight from Japan. Anyway, as the time passes by and we are getting closer to December, I expect more accurate renderings of the production version to be published.

According to the article, the FB20 will deliver 200 ps and 205 Nm of torque, while it will come with the D-4S injection system. The bore and stroke will be 86 x 86 mm! In terms of transmissions, a 6AT will be also available with paddle shifts on the steering wheel. As already known, power will go to the rear wheels and an LSD will ensure the best power distribution.

The FT-86 will be on sale in April 2012.

New Lexus LFA promo video!!!

Tony B Drifts the Lexus LFA in Sonoma

Latest impression of new FT-86 by Mag-X!

The latest Mag-X issue has a rendering of the highly anticipated FT-86 on the front cover and it is the latest impression coming from Japan. Stay tuned for more photos and info!

More details about Honda CR-Z Mugen

As already reported almost one month ago, not only Honda is working on a spicy CR-Z, but apparently Mugen is doing the same. The Mugen version is being developed purely as a one-off prototype and it will deliver around 197bhp and 181lb ft of torque!!! Mugen is actually using a supercharger to deliver the extra power, and the internals of the 1.5L four-cylinder petrol engine have been upgraded.

‘The idea was to use the significant advantage of the early torque provided by the Honda IMA electric motor, then increase the torque available from the petrol engine gradually, to first maintain and then increase this,’ says Mugen Euro’s project manager Colin Whittamore. ‘A supercharger and complementary electronics allow us to very neatly map the IMA to the extra power and torque of the engine in a unique package, giving a smooth, integrated and powerful driving experience.’

The impressive bit is the fact that Mugen may actually be able to improve on the standard CR-Z’s 56.5mpg and 117g/km CO2. Of course, and top of the list are front and rear five-stage adjustable dampers. There’s an increase in track width too, lightweight 17in forged Mugen GP alloys to reduce unsprung mass, and bigger brakes with four-pot monobloc calipers. There’s also a full visual upgrade, including Mugen-spec front and rear bumpers, a particularly large rear wing and some side skirts. And finally, Mugen is promising a ‘large reduction in overall weight’ so reckon on the removal of the back seats and a carbonfibre bonnet to cover that supercharged engine.

[Source: CAR magazine]

First official images of Scion FR-S (FT-86) Concept!!!

Those are the first official images of the Scion FR-S Concept, making its debut at the New York Auto Show, confirming that the new FT-86 will be sold as a Scion in the States. Also, it seems that it will carry the FR-S badge. If you take a close look, you will notice some minor changes compared to the FT-86 II Concept (earlier post), such as the lack of the front side LEDs, slightly different front and rear bumper design etc.

All-new Subaru Impreza officially revealed!

Finally, the all-new Subaru Impreza has been revealed, and although the sedan version is a disappointment compared to the striking concept, the 5-door one isn't that bad IMO. In any case, it's a huge improvement compared to the previous-gen model.

It's lighter, faster, more frugal, stiffer, nicer inside, has a better suspension and more interior room, all the while being the same size as the previous generation. Said Subaru Production Line Manager James Todd, "it's all upside."

European versions of the Impreza will be powered by an all new 4-cylinder 1.6L Boxer petrol engine and will be available with either a new five-speed manual transmission or Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT.