SURPRISINGLY GOOD AUDI A5 SPORTBACK LAUNCHES IN SOUTH AFRICA

Markus Gleitz can sure keep a secret. He kept one for over four years from his family, his friends and even his girlfriend. No, Gleitz is not some German secret agent. He’s an automotive designer based in Ingolstadt. And his secret was the Audi A5 Sportback. See, the new cars you see driving around on the road aren’t exactly new in the sense of something like an iPod or a TV. Designers and engineers work on a car for about five years before it’s ready to go public. Gleitz started work on the A5 Sportback sometime in 2004, beginning with a proposition sketch which was presented to Audi bosses.
As in any other office environment, the competition amongst colleagues is quite high; everyone wants to impress the bosses. In this instance it was Gleitz’s interpretation of the A5 model that captured the boss’s attention and he was given the go-ahead to help further develop the model.


People, including myself, have often wondered where exactly the car fits into the whole Audi range. I mean you already have the A4 with four doors and the A5 with its two doors. Plus there are Avant models to suit the more practical family that wants extra space. Why go Sportback? In fact, what exactly is a Sportback.


Sportback apparently slides between what we South Africans call a station wagon and a coupe. The roofline is slanted and extends sideways to elongate the shoulder line for that extra space. Wheel arches are wide but the upper body isn’t as wide as a wagon’s.


Gleitz took some time off from his busy schedule (I asked him time and time again what he was working on at the moment but to no avail…or did he tell?) to join us during the car’s launch down in KwaZulu Natal. It’s not often that one gets to meet the guy who actually designed the car you drive, albeit some years before. He’s totally unassuming; a young buck so far from his 40s that you’d think his life hadn’t begun. Yet the maturity of his design left me breathless.


Nothing like a nice three-hour drive to explain why the Sportback exists. While the freeloader goes for the Avant and the carefree moneyed eye the Coupe, the responsible neighbourhood racer picks the Sportback. Not only does it offer excellent interior space but it also looks very good as well. Simplicity is a trait now quite synonymous with the Audi brand. In fact VW Group (of which Audi is a major part) has adopted the word simplicity as a cornerstone of its styling philosophy. Chief Designer Walter de Silva, an eccentric Italian, is the driving force behind keeping things simple. “If a line has no use don’t include it” he’s said to often say.


I must admit I wasn’t particularly bowled over by the car’s styling at first. After all the A5 Coupe – interestingly designed by a Japanese man – is still the iconic coupe not just at Audi but in its segment as well. The Sportback was just a mere addition of two extra doors, in my head at least.


But after driving it through the valleys of northern KZN I began to mingle with it. I began to appreciate the kind of buyer who might be interested in it. Station wagons are not so cool in the SA market; we just don’t buy them. Coupes are very cool indeed, but most can’t swallow the kind of padkos, pram, cotbed, grocery bags etc that we are accustomed to. Plus getting into the back is a mission. Enter the Sportback. The wheelbase is 2.8 metres long which is almost as long as a whole sub-compact Japanese car. Space with pace.


Pace is good, but is there a compromise in handling? Not a chance. Technically the car shares almost everything with the Coupe, which means handling is on the upper end of the fun-on-meter. This is especially applies to the quattro models which give you not just the safety net of AWD when needed, but the feeling that you are driving a rear-wheel-drive car. Almost.


My first leg of two found me taking the keys of a 3.0 TDI. I love that engine, it’s one of my favourites on the market. It’s the same 3.0 V6 diesel turbo, common rail DOHC with direct injection found in other Audis. Maximum power is 176kW between 4000rpm and 4400rpm while maximum torque of 500Nm appears from 1500rpm to 3000rpm. Good flexibility indeed and it shows on the open road where the link between the accelerator, 7-speed S Tronic gearbox (Sportback is only available in automatic in Mzansi) and wheels seems as short as Mike Tyson’s temper. Speaking of the pint-sized bulldog, the TDI will munch kilometers with the ease of a chainsaw through a dry log. It just keeps pushing. Audi claims a 0 - 100km/h acceleration time of 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 250km/h. We couldn’t achieve neither, but I’m sure we would get pretty close if we tried harder.


Truth be told the 3.2-litre V6 is not my cuppa I’m afraid. In Gauteng where the altitude hovers around 1500m such engines really suffer. So much so that a 155kW 2.0T would give it a throat-choking scare and possibly kick its arse in the right hands. But at the coast it breathes well enough and growls appropriately. Power is rated at 195kW at 6500rpm and peak torque is 330Nm between 3000rpm and 5000rpm.


The more time I spent with the A5 Sportback the more I got to appreciate its properties. More importantly I began to understand its purpose and realised that Audi has a winner in its hands. Having shrunk at a slower rate than its two main rivals in 2009, the brand will make use of its latest addition to the fullest as it chases BMW for supremacy in the premium sector.




Audi A5 Sportback Pricing
2.0T FSI multitronic (R414 500)
3.2 FSI quattro S tronic (R503 500)
3.0 TDI quattro S tronic (R511 500)

Lay off the Cappuccinos....

What car is the best car to turn into a Nissan GT-R clone? Why, a convertible kei car of course! A Suzuki Cappuccino gave up it's life for this unfortunate science experiment.

Sun Motor Group NEV

This ungodly creation comes once again from China, land of copyright infringement. It's what appears to be a Smart-clone, except it's roof has been morphed to be able to fit a solar panel. Of course, they could have designed the car to suit the solar panel, but I guess that would be too hard. Apparently, their design skills are as good as their Photoshop skills (if the second picture is true to scale, this thing's bigger than a semi). Click for video!

Performance and Review Mazda Cx7

Performance and Review Mazda Cx7




Researching on and to penetrate the national automotive market with the release of the SUV Mazda CX-7 facelift and Mazda CX-9 facelift.

formally brought before the CX-7 GEN 2 is equipped with engine capacity of 2300 cc Turbo conditions and SUVs Mazda CX-9 3700 V6, PT MMI bring bring the journalist to feel the performance SUV, Mazda CX-7 and CX-9.

Test drive that has been prepared through the meanders along Jakarta to Bandung became a symbol of the presence of the CX-7 and CX-9 has been updated now.

But not out of the Zoom-Zoom spirit that offers a different driving experience from domestic manufacturers such Sakura.

In this opportunity, for both products Mazda CX-7 and CX-9 is, we have given a different impression to each variant. Especially in the Mazda CX-7 is now fully with the 4x2, and the renewal interor and exterior sides.

CLK GTR Roadster VS Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR

Selling CLK GTR Roadster


CLK GTR Roadster VS Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR: Auction Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR and CLK GTR Coupe Roadster



In selling Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Coupe




Two luxury cars were sold in an auction held in London. The car that was auctioned Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR coupe made in 2005 and the CLK GTR Roadster lansiran in 2006.

Both are super rare sports car made by a German manufacturer that is expected to sell more than 1.1 million pounds.

Mercy duet scarce due to both the production is very limited. Just imagine, for Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR Coupe, Mercy only produce as many as 20 units. While CLK GTR Roadster even crazier that is only produced as much as 5 units.

Both are expected to be sold each, or about 522,500 pounds for the CLK GTR coupe. While CLK GTR Roadster is predicted to be sold up to 616,000 pounds or approximately

In addition to its rarity, the price is two CLK GTR can be fairly high thanks to the sangar V12 engine with a capacity of 6.9 liters.

With such specification, is not wrong if the machine uses a six-speed manual transmission with a sequential gearbox, dual independent double wishbone suspension, and carbon-fiber brakes are able to shed up to 612 horsepower hp.

In addition to the two CLK GTR, the auction will also attend the Aston Martin DB2 lansiran in 1950 who participated in the prestigious Le Mans race and the Mille Miglia, Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman Landaulet made in 1969 and the Bugatti Type 57C Stelvio 1938 production year.

All three of each is expected to sell around 550,000 pound sterling, pound sterling 308,000, and 440,000 Pounds Sterling.

ULTIMATE BMW 760LI LAUNCHED, DRIVEN

New class leader. Three words, over and over in my head as I slice yet another curve on Franschoek Pass, the one feared and revered by every driving enthusiast who’s been on it. My driving partner doesn’t seem to be holding on to anything, so my lines must be clean. Well as clean as any line created by a two-tonne German.
Sure I’ve driven the BMW 7 Series before. Being wet behind the years and not having outside (or inside?) access means only two generations, including what’s perhaps the most controversial motor car of all time. Let bygones be bygones I say. A last word on that though. Some years ago I came across a spy picture of the 2002 7 Series before it was launched. That rear was smooth, flowy, looking almost like the 2010 Jaguar XJ’s. I guess some engineer realised it would be too unaerodynamic and promptly ordered changes, resulting in what’s perhaps the most controversial rear end of all time.
I doubt such concerns are being raised with the new car which was launched last year already in the form of a 730d, 740i and 750i. These cars exude massive presence. They don’t polarise like the previous- generation model. This week the flagship (sorry, there is no M7 coming) model arrived on our shores. You’ll recognise it by its 760Li nomenclature, V12 signature on the gills and four chrome-plated trapezoidal tailpipes. A choice of six wheel types can be had but my favourite of the lot is a radial-spoke styling coded 252, SA 2HL. Get the brochure for a clearer reference. An M Sport pack that turns the car into an M7 lookalike, whatever that mythical creature would have looked like, is available at R14 000.
If you know Franschoek Pass in Cape Town you know how close to a mishap you can get. In any car. One mistake and some emergency helicopter will be scraping you off the mountain cliff. That the 760Li cut it side to side with the precision of a sushi chef speaks volumes not only about the car but the driver’s balls as well. For without the latter one simply dismisses it as just another expensive limousine for some rich bastard with no driving skills. Which of course it isn’t. True, those tonnes are evident as they should; nature can be hoodwinked but never totally foiled.
The steering wheel with Servotronic assistance does come into its own without over-assisting. Rear tyres (275/40 R19 101Y RSC) and the rack (wire in this instance) are in constant communication with my hands, so I know with a high degree of accuracy exactly where the front wheels are. Actually at times I would have to look back and was only reminded that this is a 5.2 metre ship when I saw how much rear space there was. It grows by about 14cm from the normal short wheelbase model.
About four hours earlier I had been a rear passenger having been chauffeured from the airport into town, Cabinet Minister-style. Unfortunately I didn’t have much departmental running and only had the George Michael DVD player and my partner to keep me entertained. Those rear seats are electronically adjustable too so that one almost lies at a 45-degree angle when fully applied. They also slide forward individually. We activated the mandatory curtains (also electronically) so as to add further mystique to our already attention-grabbing drive. I quite enjoyed the seat-cooling function which as the name implies, cools down the seat when the car has been baking in the sun for too long. Your whole body can be massaged on request as well.
“This is the flagship of the 7 Series range,” proclaims the visibly proud BMW Public Relations chief. “In fact it is the flagship car for BMW. It represents everything that we stand for; power, driving pleasure, fuel efficiency and luxury.”
Tick, tick, tick and tick. Care for some details?
Ok. The 760Li is powered by a 6.0-litre V12 aluminium engine with high precision direct injection. Two turbos supply all the compressed air it needs to force out its maximum 400kW at 5250rpm. Peak torque is a highly handy 750Nm handed to your right foot from 1500rpm all the way up to 5000rpm. BMW claims a 0 – 100km/h time of 4.6 seconds. I tried testing this claim once or twice and I believe it to have real substance. The least it will achieve is a sub-5 second time under everyday conditions. Compared that to the M3’s claimed 4.9 seconds and the X6 M’s 4.7 seconds and you begin to see exactly what type of customer you’re dealing with here. Forget all about the slouchy old man in a grey suit; this is a stealth attacker of significant magnitude. Top speed is the usual 250km/h and getting there is no hard work.
An 8-speed automatic gearbox provides for creamy smooth changes which are complemented by a manual override function for the suit who’s feeling feisty.
A lot of the hard toil is absorbed by the rear suspension which reads like the who’s who of suspensions; integral Vmulti-arm axle, aluminium, separate streering with anti-squat and anti-dive…etc etc. driver assistant aids include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) which works with ABS and ASC.
Though I haven’t driven the 760Li’s most direct rival the Mercedes-Benz S600 L, I know it will not take corners as confidently as the 7er. I know it will accelerate just as furiously and be as cosy on the bum, if not slightly more so than the sportier Beemer.
But for the super executive who loves not just a typing and cell phone session at the rear, who loves his curves as much as his kick, the 760Li provides what is probably the ultimate platform for personal expression. 


BMW 760Li Pricing
760Li standard (R1 632 500)
760Li M Sport (R1 646 500)
760Li Individual (R1 717 500)

Volkswagen Automotive Future World Ruler

Volkswagen Automotive Future World Ruler



While the new targeting to become the ruler of the world automotive industry in the coming year 2019, Volkswagen was able to beat this year was the Toyota.

But it was not in terms of car sales, but in terms of number of cars produced this year.

Germany as a manufacturer is scored as many car production 4.4 million units during the 9 months. The number is far higher than the ruler of the automobile industry the world today, Toyota's only managed to produce a car as many as 4 million units.

Increased production of this significant is the effect of suspected government programs that provide subsidies for people who want to swap their old cars with new cars more efficient.

Similar cash program for the U.S. government clunker. But for these matters, Germany is a Forerunner for having started the program since 2008 ago.

The program has proved successful to put the German automotive industry to increase 26.1 percent. VW already ambitious for this level up not to waste the opportunity.

Because thanks to these subsidies, sales of VW can jump to 34 percent with total sales reaching 622.853 units. Skoda Fabia brand and is the most developed brand because its sales Jumped to 92.4 percent while Octavia rose 20.4 percent.

The success of VW became the manufacturer with the world's largest production also followed by a successful Ford beat GM production Effort won the third-largest position in the automotive world.

Ford has been producing cars reported as many as 3.7 million units in the first nine months of 2009. Slightly above GW which has produced 3.6 million units of cars.

75 YEARS OF JAGUAR...AND COUNTING

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Jaguar name, and 75 years of looking forward, designing and building cars that represent the very best of technical innovation, design leadership and sporting success.

Mike O'Driscoll, Managing Director of Jaguar Cars, said: "In 2010 we celebrate our past, and 75 years of designing and building cars that celebrate the art of automobile making. We're also celebrating the promise of the future, and the introduction of the all-new XJ.  In just three years we've completely revitalized the Jaguar line-up with the launch of three beautiful fast cars".


Just a few years ago Jaguar set out to re-make the brand and to revitalize the model range.  It started in 2008 with the introduction of the all-new award-winning XF. This four door, five seat car has the looks of a coupe and the heart of a sports car. In 2009 Jaguar re-engineered the XK coupe and convertible, and in the process created one of the world's great grand tourers. And, 2010 sees the beginning of sales of the ground-breaking XJ, which incorporates all of the virtues that make a Jaguar.

Mike O'Driscoll added: "The development of our new range of cars is all part of making Jaguar the modern, sporting company that it was under our founder Sir Williams Lyons – a company that made its name creating cars that were innovative, exciting and always original.”

Ian Callum, Jaguar Design Director, said: “Jaguar design over the next 75 years must respect and reflect on the past 75 while continuing to push boundaries of technology, luxury and sporting style. Designing cars with a presence that demands a turn of the head and an allure that pulls at the heart has been central to the Jaguar brand throughout the years.

"A successful piece of design should stand the test of time, holding it’s own through passing fashions. Jaguar has a range of cars that are as iconic today as they were when launched – testament to Jaguar’s legacy in creating beautiful fast cars.

"Looking at the present with the XK, XF and all-new XJ and with an eye on the future, we will continue to innovate and set the benchmark, not only in automotive design, but in luxury premium design as a whole.”

Sir William Lyons founded Swallow Sidecars in 1922, and went on to create a range of 'SS' branded motorcycle sidecars and automobiles in the 1920s and early 1930s. When it came to the launch of the all-new SS 100 in 1935, Sir William wanted a new and evocative name for his company. After asking his advertising agency for suggestions, Sir William chose 'Jaguar', and the SS 100 model became the world's first Jaguar.

The ‘Jaguar’ name was an ideal choice - it represented the feline grace and elegance, power and agility that set his cars apart. Sir William once said that a car "was the closest thing we can create to something that is alive", a sentiment that has stood the test of time. The new brand name captured the essence of all of the cars created from that point forward.

Over the years Jaguar has built some of the world's most iconic cars; the XK120, introduced in the late 1940s, was an instant sensation and the most glamorous sports car of the period; the C Type and D Type race cars that followed, dominated motor racing in the 1950s; the E-Type, launched in the heady 1960s, has been called the most beautiful car ever built and it defined a whole generation.  Sports cars have always defined Jaguar, but the Company has also built some of the Industry's most memorable sedans, such as the Mark II in the early 1960's and the renowned XJ range.

During the year Jaguar will celebrate our 75th anniversary at some of the world's most glamorous automotive settings, including the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Revival in the UK; the Concours D’Elegance at Pebble Beach in the US and at the Mille Miglia classic in Italy. Jaguar is also returning to the racetrack with its new JaguarRSR XKR GT2 and will compete in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).

HONDA JAZZ FREAK FIRE SPARKS SA JAZZ RECALL

Honda SA yesterday announced a safety recall of the previous generation Jazz to inspect and modify driver door power-window switches that may, in some cases, short circuit as a result of water intrusion into the housing.
Following the tragic fire in September 2009, Honda Motor Co. has launched an extensive investigation to determine the cause of the incident. Whilst the cause of the fire remains indeterminable, the investigation has shown that water intrusion into the power window switch housing may, in some instances cause a short circuit, which in exceptional circumstances, may lead to potential damages.
As a precautionary measure, Honda has decided to implement a safety recall of all 2002-2008 year model Jazz units in South Africa.
Owners of 2002-2008 year model Jazz will be notified directly of this recall. Honda dealers will inspect the driver door power window switch and if water intrusion is observed, the switch will be replaced. In all cases a counter measure to prevent any water intrusion will be fitted.
Customers may contact Honda South Africa on 0800 HONDA1 or email care@honda.co.za.

Sales of VW Polo Defeat 30 Rivals

Sales of VW Polo Defeat 30 Rivals



Volkswagen Polo subcompact car aside 30 other cars in the selection of the best cars Europe or Europe's 2010 Car of the Year for 2010.

Of the 59 jurors who are all automotive journalists from 23 European countries was about 25 jury chose the Polo as a favorite car. Polo convince almost all of the jury because of the safety package is comprehensive and modern machinery

Meanwhile, a spokesman for VW Polo tells us that global sales of some time ago launched a 3 door version of the record in Europe this year.

Polo beat Toyota IQ stuck tight in the second position, then in the third position followed by the Opel / Vauxhall Astra.

4 other finalists car is PSA Citroen C3 Picasso, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Peugeot and Skoda Yeti 3008.


Review VW Polo is as follows:
Polo technical data:
Volkswagen Polo Specifications:

Body:
3/5-door hatchback

Dimensions:
3.97 X 1.68 X 1:46 m.

Transmission:
Front Wheel Drive. Girboks manual and automatic.

Gasoline engines:
1.2 (60/70 hp), 1.4 (85), 1.2 TSI (105)

Diesel Engines:
1-6 Tdi (75/90/105 hp)

Fuel Consumption and CO2 Emissions:
5.5 petrol engines up to 5.9 liter/100 km - 128 to 139 g / km
4.2 diesel engines up to 4.3 liter/100 km - 109 to 112 g / km

HYUNDAI H1 TALKS DIESEL POWER

HYUNDAI SAYS: Hyundai’s H1 nine-seater luxury wagon, a runaway success since its launch in March 2009 and with sales peaking at 90 units in December, is now available with the option of effortless turbodiesel power.

The 2,5-litre common-rail unit fitted to this capacious carrier is rated at 120 kW at 3 800 revs/min and 392 Nm at 2 000 revs/min and slots in above the existing 2,4-litre petrol model. This highly refined and smooth-running powerplant is available exclusively with a five-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a level of refinement not normally associated with the class. Of all-aluminium construction, the engine has a 91 mm bore and a 96 mm stroke resulting in smooth operation from idle to redline, while the DOHC  16-valve cylinder head contributes to its exceptional fuel efficiency.



A look at the features and specifications list confirms the H1 2.5 VGTi’s upmarket positioning, with rear park distance control, alloy wheels, leather upholstery, air conditioner (along with four air vents and temperature and fan speed controls for rear occupants), and radio/CD with Auxiliary input all standard. This represents a package of comfort and convenience features unmatched by any of its rivals.

The newcomer to the H1 range is aimed primarily at the hospitality industry – it will be ideal for moving guests around in comfort and safety – but it is also to have appeal for old age homes, corporates, and finally for those with large broods who like to travel en mass. Whatever the role, a genuine ability to carry eight people and their luggage over long distances (or nine if the ‘occasional’ seat between the driver and front passenger is deployed) is its key strength: it isn’t an MPV and therefore doesn’t suffer from that category’s universal shortcoming of having minimal luggage space once the rearmost seats are in use. Adding to its appeal in a working application is the 1 500 kilogram towing capacity of the two-pedal turbodiesel.

The volume of the H1’s geometric luggage compartment is an impressive 850 litres and indeed, it is an immensely practical vehicle, designed to be put to work on a daily basis. The rugged design is built around front-engined rear-drive architecture, dual sliding doors, a massive and upright tailgate, and a ‘semi-bonneted’ nose.
This layout allows for a substantial front crumple zone and in addition, the H1 has a series of reinforced ‘rings’ aligned with the  key body pillars and linked with them across the floor and roof, and side impact protection beams in all four doors. An all-disc braking system with four-channel ABS and electronic control of the fore/aft distribution of hydraulic pressure ensure maximum retardation even when fully laden. Dual airbags and front seatbelts equipped with pre-tensioners are fitted.
When crash-tested by Australasian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP) the H1 achieved four out of a possible five stars – a rating which puts it right up near the front of the class.

Safety and space is what has made the H1 so successful since launch and to that the turbodiesel adds miserly fuel usage: in mixed driving, the bus is expected to use just 10.1 litres per 100 km, an excellent drag co-efficient of just 0:34 contributing to this healthy figure.  With an ability to cruise tirelessly as far as refinement and frugality goes, and the final ingredient needed to make it perfect as far as touring was concerned, was comfort.

To this end there’s a five-link, coil spring rear suspension system to go with front and rear track widths which are the widest in the class. Handling characteristics are car-like, with confidence-inspiring roadholding. Rack and pinion steering ensures crisp responses while hydraulic assistance reduces the effort required in tight situations. In fact, drivers will find the H-1 pleasingly easy to park and along with the generous glass area and substantial mirrors, there is of course the PDC system fitted to the rear bumper.

The H1 2.5 VGT is priced at R359 900 including the industry-leading 5-year/150 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km service plan, and 15 000 km service interval contribute to low ownership costs and peace of mind. All this adds up to a vehicle which is perfect for business and families that like room to manoeuvre.

DUTCH SUPERCAR MAKER SPYKER BUYS SAAB

After being ditched (or was he accosted out the door?) by a probable suitor in supercar maker Koenigsegg, SAAB may finally (again) have a new owner. Internet reports suggest that a deal has been made between General Motors (current owners of the SAAB auto brand), Spyker Motors (the Dutch supercar maker) and SAAB.





Apparently the deal says that Spyker will pay US$74 million (about R561 million) in two cash installments. The money must be paid by this July. GM will keep $326 million worth of redeemable preference shares in the company. The General will also retain a great deal of say in the new entity in the sense that a number of cars designed and developed under GM, such as the new 9-5 and upcoming 9-4X SUV, will continue being supplied by GM.



The sale supposedly does not affect existing warranties in countries such as South Africa and the US.

10 Car Seller In America

10 Car Seller In America | Best-selling car in the United States was the Honda Accord



Popularity Honda Accord in the United States seems to have very entrenched. Having previously been awarded as the most stolen cars in 2008 and the most widely used car sought in the first half of 2009, the Accord is now also a new car purchased by most of their customers in the United States.

Survey conducted by the Cars site is asking a lot of new car dealers. Honda Accord became the most favorite left the Dodge Challenger and the Honda Civic.

While rival Accord, Toyota Camry, had to settle for fourth with the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 and Honda Odyssey diurutan five, six and seven. Meanwhile, the host who is also a movie star of the Chevrolet Camaro transformer must be satisfied in the eighth.

So did a duet Toyota, Prius and Corolla are also to be satisfied in order the ninth and tenth.

And if we are keen to see this list, it becomes increasingly clear dominance of domestic manufacturers in the land of rising sun Uncle Sam.

Because of the new ten list of most favorite cars, the cars from Japanese manufacturers master the 8 position is much more dominant than the only master ruamah represented by Dodge Challenger and Chevrolet Camaro are only two positions and eight of the ten list of most favorite new cars in America in Parus 2009 was the first.

Here's a list of most favorite new car in America in the first half of 2009.

1. Honda Accord
2. Dodge Challenger
3. Honda Civic
4. Toyota Camry
5. Honda CR-V
6. Toyota RAV4
7. Honda Odyssey
8. Chevrolet Camaro
9. Toyota Prius
10. Toyota Corolla
    

Weber Faster One

No, I did not just make that name up. This car is apparently the result of a Bugatti Veyron / Lincoln Zephyr cross breeding program gone awry. This 900-horsepower/774 lb-ft twin-supercharged V8 powered car supposedly goes from 0-60mph in 2.7 seconds. Lucky for people who buy it, it'll be going too fast for people to get a good glimpse at it.

Mitsuoka Ray

Ok - last one. This one is also no doubt based on some Nissan, with looks derived from the Riley Elf/Wolsely Hornet. But I won't tell you about it - I'll let Mitsuoka tell you in their own words:

"Good old. Bosom landscape of the mind. "Retro" attracted by the spirit of the past era of nostalgia alone is not quite sure. We are really attracted to the "retro" is a more fundamental, something more universal. Graceful as a flower, as the concept beyond the age to attract and keep people. The car Oka Akira "麗しき" to learn, "RAY / Ray" and the flowering you named his car. To extend clued-up jealousy over his style, and leave the name of a beautiful car can run."

Mitsuoka Ryoga

Bear with me - I'm almost through the Mitsuoka range, past and present. Behold the Ryoga, a kind of Bentley/Jaguar/90's Nissan bastard child. Also behold this Engrish description:

"Each time a new one is over. Over yonder. I think that single-minded move. One of fulfillment get to the summit, however, gone tomorrow. Go even higher. So his way over for the continued though. "Excel". Devote yourself to the spirit of my car. We would not like to run life is the same person. Who's not. Ask for my own happiness. It is caught era without the Joneses without it. Own aesthetic dictates just wrestle, run. "Excel". Devote yourself to the aspirations of my car. Again, age, the boy remain. Coming out journey. Relaxed mind. Fresh air to the brain and sink into come. Beyond the day-to-day is a much more relaxed. The boy's heart is as full of adventure. "Excel". Devote yourself to the freedom of my car. Challenge. The dream destination. And the mountains, valleys. Road is not flat. But his it should challenge. As long as my aim, without having to succumb to the difficulties face forward. Now the dream is still on the way. You stare on making the utmost efforts. "Excel". Devote yourself to my life to the car."

Mitsuoka Nouera 6-02

Oddly, Mitsuoka also sells ANOTHER Corolla based retro-car. This one comes across as being more mainstream, in that it isn't quite as classical and they offer a station wagon. However, the front end on this guy actually looks worse, almost a taller version of the mug on it's Orochi brother. Out back, things look much the same as the Galue 2-04.

Mitsuoka Galue 2-04

Thought I would post this one seperately from the other Galue, as it looks different and is based off a Corolla. Intended for people who want a really fugly car in a smaller package, the Galue 2-04's looks skew more towards Bentley than Rolls. Although that kind of like comparing apples to dog feces shaped like an apple.

Mitsuoka Galue

The Mitsuoka Galue has a long and storied history of fugliness. I'll start off with what you can go out and purchase right now, should you suffer from a temporary lapse in judgement.

The Galue range currently consists of 4 cars; the Galue-III (based off the Nissan Fuga or Infitini M), the Galue S50 Limo (same), the Galue Convertible (based off the Mustang), and the Galue 2-04 (based off the Corolla). I'm only going to cover the first two in this post.

In the conversion from Fuga to Galue, a Roll-ish front end is plopped on with about 5 feet of front overhang. At the rear, Cadillac tailights are grafted on as the body narrows to a pinches rear end.



The S50 limo follows the same conversion process, yet the stretch adds a strange central window that makes the limo actually look far worse than the sedan.



For the convertible, basically apply the same styling principles to a Mustang. Someone should have turned this Mustang into glue, not a Galue.



For your viewing displeasure, I've also included a pic of the Galue-II (based off a Nissan Cedric, yet with a similar front end look) and Galue-I.




I'm not sure why, but the British website for Mitsuoka only lists info on the first generation Galue. So for you Engrish reader pleasure, I present to you the overview of the Galue-I:

"In 1996, Butte, following Oka Akira KURASHIKKUTEISUTO swarming four-door sedan that gave birth to the self-taught, GALUE-I. GALUE-I engine will be mounted, 130-horsepower six straight OHC L 2. Mission 4 and 5 AT MT can choose from two types. It features appearances by the dress-up, round eyes and rounded fender headlights, large-plated grill, over plating with a rider attached to the front bumper and around the British-car atmosphere. And the vertical rear combination lamp design, but with a rider over bumper plating and will be seated."