Oh my god Mazda please bring this car here!  This is a special edition MX-5 “Matte And Black” edition that so far is only slated for release in France to celebrate their 20th anniversary in the French market.  That’s cool and all but dude, seriously! We NEED this MX-5 here in the states! Just send us a few!

[Via Jalopnik]

I love the way Lamborghini drops new cars with almost no warning or clue before hand.  One day you think you know their stable of supercars and then BAM they hit you with a new variant!  With the Geneva Motorshow on the horizon Lamborghini has officially announced a new Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera!  The new Superleggera has a power boost over the previous model and has gone on a high carbon-fiber diet so I’m sure this thing scoots! …You get it? Fiber diet? Scoots?  Ok I’m not going to do that anymore…  Anyway, get the full details and some killer pics below.

Press Release:

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera

Even more dynamic, lighter, more powerful and stunning - the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is the new top model in the Gallardo line-up. Its evocative “superlight” badge refers to a driving machine of true sporting character and describes a high-performance and lean automotive athlete. The Superleggera makes its entrance to continue the success of its predecessor, launched in 2007, of which Lamborghini produced and sold no less than 618 in just one year.

Compared with the already lean Gallardo LP 560-4, the weight of the Gallardo Superleggera has been trimmed by 70 kilograms (154 lb). The super sportscar from Sant’Agata Bolognese boasts a dry weight of no more than 1340 kilograms (2954 lb) - the lightest road-going model in Lamborghini’s range, and a new arrival in one of the most exclusive market niche segments.

One key factor is the exterior and interior components made from carbon-fiber. Carbon-fiber is ideal for the manufacture of sportscars as its use allows for weight reduction and improved mechanical features. The car’s performance is thus enhanced thanks to a better weight-to-power ratio and reduced total mass, which means that CO2 emissions are also lower. Lamborghini has been at the forefront in this material’s application for many years, and now the brand is extending its leadership even further.

The V10 power unit with 5.2 liters (317,6 cu in) of displacement generates 419 kW (570 CV*) in the Gallardo Superleggera. This puts the weight-to-power ratio of the new top model at only 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per CV and guarantees breathtaking performance. The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera handles the dash from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 3.4 seconds and flies past the 200 km/h (124 mph) mark only 10.2 seconds later, ultimately reaching 325 km/h (202 mph). The engine with “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” gasoline direct injection also boasts an impressive degree of efficiency. Its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 20,5 percent compared to the previous model.
The Gallardo Superleggera is an uncompromising driving machine. Its running gear, with its mighty braking system, has a dedicated and exceptionally precise set-up, while its 19-inch wheels, Pirelli P Zero Corsa, clad in Pirelli sports rubber, are extremely light. The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera brings a whole new meaning to the term “super sportscar”.
Design and aerodynamics
The beauty of power

The elegance of every Lamborghini rests on both its extreme power and precise functionality. The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera’s bodyshell is sculptured and completely free from stylistic additions. Dimensions define the contours of a dynamic wedge - 4.39 meters (172,7 in) long, 1.90 meters (74,8 in) wide, but only 1.17 meters (45,9 in) high.

Exterior modifications are all directed at increasing aerodynamic effects. Working closely with wind tunnel experts, the designers from Lamborghini’s Centro Stile remodeled the front bumper - three-dimensional, deeply recessed elements form trapezoidal frames for the large air intakes. Together with the V-shaped, sharply defined nose and the LED daytime running lights, the black elements give the front end a razor-sharp look, reminiscent of Lamborghini’s top model. The new design increases the supply of cooling air and improves the downforce on the front axle.

The modifications to the fully-covered underbody, which include new sill elements and a redesigned diffuser incorporating four large tailpipes, help to achieve better aerodynamic results. The Gallardo Superleggera sports a small rear spoiler as standard. A big rear spoiler is available as an option.
The bodyshell
Intelligent lightweight engineering

The model on which the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is based, the Gallardo LP 560-4, is already a prime example of Lamborghini’s lightweight engineering philosophy, with its dry weight of 1410 kilograms (3108.5 lb). Its bodyshell is made from aluminum, with moulded node elements and extruded parts forming an extremely stiff framework into which the aluminum panels are integrated. The spaceframe structure is impact-resistant and forms the basis for the super sportscar’s precise handling.

Against this background, the task of reducing the weight by a further 70 kilograms (154 lb) presented a huge challenge to Lamborghini engineers - the target figure, a weight-to-power ratio of 2.35 kilograms (5.18 lb) per CV, sets a new best among the competition. Lamborghini engineers handled the task as they usually do - with hi-tech competence and aesthetic flair.
The rear windshield and side windows are made from robust and resistant polycarbonate. The engine cover also includes a polycarbonate window, beneath which the V10 engine is displayed like a technical work of art. The long cover section runs from the roof to the rear of the vehicle and is made from carbon-fiber. Engineers also selected carbon-fiber for the rear spoiler, sills, diffuser, parts of the underbody paneling and the fine exterior mirror casings.

With its minimal weight and extremely high rigidity, carbon-fiber is the ideal material for a super sportscar. As far back as the 1980s, Lamborghini was already gathering experience in this field with the Countach. Today, some parts of the Murciélago’s structure are made from carbon-fiber. In order to secure this leading position even further, the brand from Sant’Agata Bolognese established a center of excellence for carbon-fiber materials, where specialists are developing components, working with efficient manufacturing technologies.

Lamborghini’s carbon-fiber strategy is further proven by its foundation of the “Automobili Lamborghini Advanced Composite Structures Laboratory” (ACSL) at the University of Washington in Seattle, USA. Lamborghini provides support to the facility and its long-term, co-operative research work in the fields of aeronautics and astronautics, together with the composite materials’ application within the automotive sector. Alongside the University of Washington, aircraft company Boeing is also among Lamborghini’s partners.
The aircraft manufacturer commands enormous expertise in the field of composite materials. With the new Type 787 Dreamliner, Boeing has developed the world’s first commercial aircraft built entirely from carbon-fibre. Thanks to its superior characteristics, it consumes around 20 percent less fuel than a conventional aeroplane.
The interior and the use of carbon-fiber

Altogether, carbon-fiber components make up 40 (88 lb) of the 70 kilograms (154 lb) saved on the Gallardo Superleggera. In the interior, too, engineers aimed to reduce weight as much as possible. The center tunnel cover, the door panels and the surround of the e-gear automated manual transmission lever are made from carbon-fiber. The high-end material is also used for the sports seats’ shells. They make a significant contribution to the overall weight reduction.

Just like the rest of the cockpit, the sports seats are clad in lightweight Alcantara instead of leather. At Lamborghini, weight reduction is in no way synonymous with sacrifice - the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is still equipped with air conditioning and electric powered windows as standard.

Lamborghini has built on this strength - the interior is crafted with passionate attention to the tiniest detail; high quality materials indulge both visually and sensually.

The interior, including roof and mats, retains the Lamborghini Gallardo’s black finish. As a contrasting color for elements such as seat trims and stitching, customers can choose among green, yellow, orange and two shades of gray. They match exterior paint finishes in Verde Ithaca, Giallo Midas, Arancio Borealis, Grigio Telesto, Nero Noctis and Bianco Monocerus.
The engine
10.2 seconds from zero to 200 km/h

In the Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, LP stands for “longitudinale posteriore” and refers to the orientation of the V10 engine - which is mounted longitudinally behind the driver, just like every Lamborghini engine. The number 570 refers to the maximum power output in CV, which equates to 419 kW and is available at 8,000 rpm. Equally impressive is the pulling power - the torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398,3 ft lbs) at 6,500 rpm. The increase of 7 kW (10 CV) is the result of the new dedicated engine management strategy.

The V10 has a displacement of 5204 cm3 and achieves a specific output of 80.5 kW (109.6 CV) per liter. Special features on this long-stroke engine with an aluminum crankcase include dry sump lubrication and a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. Both solutions lower the center of gravity, thus improving the handling dynamics. To ensure an ideal combustion chamber fill, the engine has an adjustable intake manifold and continuous control of the chain-driven camshafts.

The crankshaft is conceived as a dual-plane crank - the connecting rods of opposing pistons share one bearing. This configuration delivers alternating ignition intervals of 54 and 90 degrees; a unique sequence that is the reason for the compelling, racing car-like sound of the V10. As the revs rise, resounding bass notes are overlaid with razor sharp harmonics.

The powerful V10, combined with the model’s weight reduction, gives the Gallardo Superleggera LP 570-4 breathtaking performance. The car accelerates zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 3,4 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h (0-124 mph) in 10,2 seconds - then continues relentlessly to its top speed of 325 km/h (202 mph).

The Gallardo Superleggera is also considerably more efficient - compared with its predecessor, its fuel consumption in the EU driving cycle is reduced by 3,5 liters per 100 kilometer (0,9 gal), or 20,5 percent, to 13,5 liters/100 km (16 mpg). This improvement is partly due to the “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” gasoline direct injection, which injects fuel into the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 100 bar. The tumbling mix cools the combustion chambers, which enables a very high compression ratio of 12.5:1 which, in turn, increases efficiency.
Power transmission
Traction without compromise

The Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera comes with the e-gear transmission operated via steering wheel paddles, as standard. The automated system with electronic management shifts through its six gears extremely smoothly and far more quickly than could be achieved by human reflexes.

The e-gear control unit has three operating modes, two of which available in automatic. The “Thrust mode” delivers maximum off-the-line performance and is programmed to manage starting revs of around 5000 rpm with minimal wheel slip.

Every single kilometer in the new Superleggera is utterly thrilling - not least because of the relentless traction in practically every situation. This is largely attributable to the four driven wheels, as indicated by the number 4 in the model name.

The permanent all-wheel drive integrates a central viscous coupling and a 45 percent limited slip differential on the rear axle. In normal circumstances, the power delivered by the V10 is channeled with a ratio of 30:70 to the front and rear axles. The weight distribution of the superlight Gallardo is 43/57 percent front/rear.

In 1993, the Diablo VT was the first Italian super sportscar with an all-wheel drive set-up, and Lamborghini has been steadily consolidating its leadership ever since. In fact, thanks to the car’s superior traction, Lamborghini drivers can accelerate earlier out of a bend than drivers of rear-wheel drive cars.
The running gear
Even firmer, even more precise

The new Gallardo Superleggera is a highly-concentrated driving machine - it thrills with breathtaking cornering speeds and fast, immediate feedback. Its handling is always precise, stable and predictable.

The running gear layout is derived directly from Lamborghini’s motorsport experience. The suspension is aluminum double wishbones. The precise rack and pinion steering keeps the driver very closely connected with the road. The shock absorbers are extremely firm, and the anti-roll bars and suspension mounts have been further reinforced: these features enable the running gear to reach its full dynamic potential. No other model in the Gallardo range is as close to a race car as this one. The development of the Superleggera was heavily influenced by experiences gained from the world’s fastest single-brand race series, the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo.

Another special feature of the Gallardo Superleggera is the wheels. The 19-inch units are aluminum forged and are therefore extremely lightweight - saving 13 kilograms (28.6 lb). The wheel bolts are made from titanium and are also incredibly light and rigid. The tires are 235/35 ZR19 at the front and 295/30 ZR19 at the rear and come from the Pirelli P Zero Corsa series. Developed specifically for the new top model in the Gallardo range, they are closely related to pure race rubber.

Behind the huge wheels are brakes that serve to deliver uncompromising stopping power and are managed by the standard-fit ESP stability control system. The front wheels are served by aluminum eight-piston calipers, with four-piston units at the rear. The ventilated brake discs have a diameter of 365 and 356 millimeters (ø 14.37 x 1.34 in and 14.02 x 1.26 in) respectively. As an optional extra, Lamborghini can fit extremely fade-resistant and lightweight discs made from carbon-fiber ceramic with six pistons at the front. The front ceramic discs have a diameter of 380 millimeters (ø 15 x 1.5 in).
Equipment
Hi-tech for road and track

Alongside its specialized carbon-fiber lightweight components, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera is delivered ex-works with an array of other high-end features. Highlights include the e-gear transmission - a manual gearbox is also available at no additional cost - the dedicated set-up, the Pirelli sports tires and the sports seats. Alcantara upholstery and a hand-stitched steering wheel also set the interior ambiance.

The range of special equipment is particularly sporty. It includes carbon-fiber ceramic brake discs, four-point seat belts, fire extinguisher and a steel roll cage. Visual impact can be further increased by a rear spoiler and the engine bay for the engine compartment - both from carbon-fiber - as well as colored brake calipers.

For the interior, Lamborghini offers special floor mats and leather steering wheels, a storage package and an alarm system. An additional carbon-fiber package includes center console and instrument panel trim, the parking brake handle, parts of the steering wheel and the door handles. A LED light package illuminates the engine compartment, the interior, and the entry area.

Additional features of special equipment increase comfort, such as the multimedia navigation system, the lifting system which raises the front of the car to enable driving over obstacles, a remote control for opening garage doors and a rear view camera mounted beneath the rear spoiler. Customers who want to personalize their Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, can use Lamborghini’s wide-ranging options of the “Ad Personam” individualization program.

 

ALPINA is finally here!  They’re busting the door open in the US by dropping the muscle bound B7 on our soil first.  With a twin-turbo 4.4 liter 500HP V8 this thing is a freakin’ beast!  The front and rear areo treatments don’t hurt either and according to BMW whatever interior surface that isn’t wrapped with fine leather will be covered in alcantara.  Color me sold!  Now all I need is about $122,875 for the standard wheel base or $126,775 for the baller long wheel base version.

So Mercedes Benz is dropping a special edition of their new SL550 dubbed the “Night Edition”.  I looked all over but I couldn’t find any Batman symbols embossed or stitched onto the leather.  However what you do get is a special night black paint in a matte finish, AMG wheels, blacked out headlights and taillights, and a color matched interior.  No, there is no boost in power over other models or even a special button that turns the SL500 into the Batwing.  But, this car does have the power to make a small group of people spend a lot of money because they’re only making 100 cars in this trim so its instantly a collectors item.  A very expensive, drivable collectors item…  I’d still buy one!

If you were holding out on picking up the new 370Z then I think now is the time to pull the trigger.  Nissan just announced a 40th Anniversarymodel to celebrate the sixth generation of the Z.  The 40th Anniversary 370Z starts off as a Coupe in “Touring” trim with the viscous LSD, front lip, rear spoiler, and the Rays wheels.  Where it starts to get exclusive is the aesthetics.  The new anniversary model comes in a limited “40th Quartz” paint job and what Nissan calls “smoke finish” wheels, which are really a satin matte black with red brake calipers in the background.  Inside is a special edition red leather interior with badging and and embossed “40th Anniversary” logo on the seats.  Also just to make you feel special Nissan will throw in a plaque of authenticity and satin car cover. 

Personally, I’m really feeling it.  I love the color, the wheels, and the interior is fresh.  Nissan also did the right thing by building it on a touring model instead of a base so you still get more than just the extra flash.  If you’re feeling it too then jump quick because Nissan is only producing 1,000 units.  With the price hovering just below $40k it should go pretty quickly unless dealers mark it up.

I know what you’re thinking: “WTF?!”  Yes, I’m aware that this is probably the first time that a Jag has ever seen the front of MotorworldHype.com but the thing is..I’ve always been into them.  For the last few years I’ve had an internal conflict that I feel many have had when it comes to Jaguar.  We love their looks, we love their history, but we hated the fact that under all of that it was a blue oval (aka Ford).  Not that I hate Ford but you have to admit it took away from the mystique of the Jaguar brand just a bit didn’t it?

Now that Jaguar is on its own now I feel that Jag has regained a bit of that luster it may have lost during the Ford days and I am not afraid to say that I am totally into the new Jaguar XK.  Seriously this is the probably the closest one can get to owning an Aston Martin if they can afford $100k but not 200k.  Sure the engine might still be Ford-esque but I am willing to look past it this time because the styling is just so FRESH!  I love it!

A little late on this one folks but better late than never!  This is the new Audi S5 sport back.  Next to the R8 and the RS4 this is my favorite Audi right now.  Plenty of room and classy lines are what instantly attract me to the new S5 but what wins me over is the supercharged V6 and the obligatory Audi “Quattro” all-wheel drive.

I heard a report a short while ago that said according to some random research, Lexus’ customer base was getting older and rapidly leaning towards the geriatric.  I tell those people to tally the ages of those buying the super luxury LS sedan or the bad ass IS-F!  However it seems Lexus may be taking these comments to heart since they will debut a new Luxury Hybrid hatch back at this year’s LA Auto Show dubbed the “LF-Ch”.  Some might say this is an attempt to reach towards a younger market or perhaps something to appeal to the higher income bracket tree-huggers.  I guess we’ll find out more once this hits the auto show floor.  In the meantime check out a few pics and a lengthy press release that is sure to contain a few more tidbits.

Press Release:

TORRANCE, Calif. (Sept. 9, 2009) - Lexus today announced the LF-Ch compact hybrid concept, which will have its world premiere on September 15, 2009 at the Frankfurt Auto Show, will be on display for the first time in North America at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show in December.

As the latest concept hybrid vehicle from Lexus, LF-Ch offers dramatic style, premium features, an innovative drivetrain with low emissions, and impressive fuel economy in a sporty yet versatile five-door package.

“Lexus has been leading the luxury hybrid market ever since we came out with the RX 400h in 2005,” said Mark Templin, Lexus division group vice president and general manager. “To continue raising the hybrid benchmark, we need to continue exploring hybrid technology in different segments. The LF-Ch concept gives us the opportunity to gauge consumer reaction and help us determine whether or not this would be viable for production.”

The LF-Ch concept was designed by Calty Design Research Inc., Toyota’s North American-based research and design center located in Newport Beach, Calif., and will allow the brand to study the needs of young urbanites and consumer values in a compact luxury vehicle.

“The LF-Ch concept is the next evolution of the compact luxury vehicle,” said Kevin Hunter, president of Calty. “We were able to create a beautifully designed hybrid with a deep sense of mystery and intrigue.”

Designers created an intriguing contrast between the powerful, machine-like surfaces, fluid forms and details that appear hand-sculpted.

The exterior of the LF-Ch concept exudes strength and simplicity with a wide stance, broad and high-shoulders, an arching roofline that flows into the rear spoiler, and sheer surfaces wrapped in a contemporary yellow paint. To give the sporty five-door concept the illusion of a sleek coupe, designers cleverly blackened the B-pillar and hid the rear door entry button in the chrome molding.

An aggressive grille with a wide front bumper and air dam gives the hybrid concept a powerful personality in keeping with its dynamic lines. Efficient and bright LED taillights and headlamps also add to the vehicle’s personality. The concept is marked with hybrid details including its blue Lexus logo, which is shared across the Lexus family of hybrids, and hybrid side badging.

Inside, designers created an elegant cabin that is contemporary, and functional with metal and leather trim. Metal surfacing stretches the length of the asymmetric dashboard and blends with leather trim to provide a luxuriously handcrafted and soothing environment. The artistic leather, and metal detailing is also visible on the door panels, instrument panel and seats.

A blue headliner light, that borders the roof and contrasts with the yellow exterior, turns on to reveal an ambient pattern reminiscent of a sophisticated lounge. A wide grip steering wheel with integrated paddle shifters makes for a spirited driving experience. The instrument panel features two, large twin dials with a uniquely embellished turbine blade design.

The LF-Ch is powered by the latest generation of Lexus Hybrid Drive technology. A drive mode-switch allows the driver to select between four modes: Normal, Eco, and EV plus a Sport mode that amplifies throttle response for the most enthusiastic drivers.

Lexus’ Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback, also currently found on the 2010 HS 250h hybrid and RX luxury utility vehicles, allows the driver or front passenger to operate the navigation, audio and climate systems.

The LF-Ch has four sport seats that feature trim lighting along the cushion’s edge for cabin illumination. Rear passengers can enjoy headrest-mounted iPhone® docking capability for audio and video entertainment. In addition, the LF-Ch has storage in the rear seat armrests for small items such as iPods®, PDAs and cell phones.

“We look forward to hearing feedback on the LF-Ch,” said Templin. “We hope consumers like what they see so we can change the luxury hybrid marketplace again.”

With Frankfurt on the horizon and other companies like McLaren and Mercedes pulling sheets off early, Rolls Royce has thrown their hat into the early debut mix and drop all the 411 on their newest ultra luxury vehicle.  Known as the Rolls Royce Ghost this car doesn’t replace the Phantom or compliment the Drop-Head Coupe.  The Ghost is its own entity and is the finished product of the RR4 concept first announced back in 2006.  Its kind of odd to describe the piece that the Ghost is trying to fit itself into.  It isn’t quite as large as the Phantom but has more room than the Phantom coupe. 

Think of it as something of a “Phantom Jr.” but not lacking in ammenities.  You are still getting an interior made from some of the finest materials ever put in a moving vehicle and you’re still getting a giant honkin’ twin turbo V12 under the hood.  It’s all just in a slightly sleeker, more compact package.  Do we want one? Heck yes!

Here is another embargo buster via Autoblog.  Pictures of the completely naked camo-less 2010 AMG-built Mercedes Benz SLS Gullwing!  I know this sounds silly but since they used a dodge viper as a test mule for this thing I was always a little afraid in the back of my head that the final product would be viper-esque.  Boy was I wrong!  I mean yeah it has a long nose on it but apart from that its pure neo-retro goodness!  I am dying to see one of these parked next to an original gullwing!

[Photos: CarPoint.com.au]