"While no one is drawing comparisons between the integration of Ford Expeditions in The Dark Knight and the Reese’s Pieces in E.T., the idea behind the marketing strategy remains the same.”

We're so confused. Anyway, the list of vehicles Ford was able to place in movies and the way they were used reads like a list of mundane, everyday events: Dana Scully commutes in a Taurus, other government agents drive Expeditions; the incompetent henchmen at the beginning of The Dark Knight keep their dogs in Expeditions. Ford: the vehicle of choice for minor characters in need of everyday transportation.

Ford goes on to justify the reasons why its more exciting products weren’t appropriate for cameo appearances. For instance, the Ford Edge was deemed “too refined” for The Dark Knight. The company even goes so far as to explain the appearance of Expeditions in the X-Files, “The filmmakers wanted to be true to reality, the government and the FBI do run Expeditions in their fleets.”

Of course, all this is small beans next to the lesbian surf cop extravaganza that is Knight Rider the TV series and that GT500KR. Or, you know, the GM commercial masquerading as the biggest blockbuster of last summer and next summer: Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen.

The full press release follows:

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 27, 2008 – A little more than a month after its debut, the new Batman movie, “The Dark Knight,” has already become the second highest-grossing film of all time – and an all-star opportunity for Ford Motor Company.

“The Joker’s henchmen drive black Ford Expeditions in the opening scene of the movie – which takes place in a dark parking garage – and if you think about the millions of people who will see ‘The Dark Knight,’ the level of exposure for the Ford brand is incredible,” said Brian Daly, senior vice president, JWT, Team Detroit, who is a member of Ford Global Brand Entertainment (FGBE), the Ford office in Beverly Hills that works to “cast” Ford-branded vehicles in movies, television and other entertainment media.

Think of what the 1982 film, “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial,” did for Reese’s pieces, says Michael Bernacchi, professor of Marketing at the University of Detroit Mercy.

“When ‘E.T.’ premiered and that little creature started gobbling up candy, Reese’s Pieces got a lot of fanfare and sales went way up,” he said. “That may have begun the modern day and age of product placement.”

While no one is drawing comparisons between the integration of Ford Expeditions in “The Dark Knight” and the Reese’s Pieces in “E.T.,” the idea behind the marketing strategy remains the same.

“The reason why we do this is to benefit from what I call the ‘halo effect’ of entertainment,” said Daly. “We’re constantly looking for ways to present our vehicles in a way that’s going to enhance the image of the brand through its association with a cool media vehicle.”

For Ford’s Global Brand Entertainment team, however, successful product placement is not just about getting as many vehicles as possible into movies and television shows.

“You have to respect the brand and the messages it’s trying to convey,” said Al Uzielli, senior advisor to FGBE. “We will turn down big potential opportunities in movies and television if we feel that it is not the right fit for our vehicles because our main objective is to protect the brand.”

What constitutes “the right fit?”

Daly says it’s a matter of marrying the right brand with the right role.

“In the case of ‘The Dark Knight,’ the opening scene is kind of menacing, and producers were looking for a vehicle that would fit in well with that,” he said. “It wouldn’t have made sense for the Joker’s thugs to be driving F-150 pickup trucks in the city, for example, and the look of the Ford Edge was a little too refined. A black Expedition looks pretty tough.”

Producers also were interested in a luxury vehicle for a small cameo appearance.

“We knew that the release of ‘The Dark Knight’ was going to coincide with the launch of the new 2009 Lincoln MKS, so we gave them a sneak preview of the vehicle, and they liked it,” said Daly, adding that he had to give producers a pre-production version of the MKS because at the time of filming, the vehicle had not yet gone into full production.

FGBE also worked with the film producers on another summer movie, “The X-Files: I Want to Believe,” to find the right vehicle for the lead character of Dana Scully.

“Scully works as a doctor in a hospital that’s not necessarily where the rich go. She’s a real genuine physician who’s looking after her patients and trying to find solutions for them where there seem to be none,” he said. “She is cutting-edge but also very real, which is why we felt that the Ford Taurus made sense as a vehicle for her.”

Ford Expeditions were chosen for the FBI agents.

“The filmmakers wanted to be true to reality,” said Daly. “The government and the FBI do run Expeditions in their fleets, and the producers liked the strength that the vehicles convey.”

In addition to being able to keenly identify which cars are best suited for which characters, Uzielli says Ford’s success with product placement is largely dependent on developing strong relationships with Hollywood’s top filmmakers.

“What we try to do is become a partner with the creative people we work with,” he said. “They respect what we’re trying to do, which is to protect and promote the Ford brand, and in turn, we are attentive to their needs.”

Sometimes that means going the extra mile to help the production staff solve transportation issues and reduce costs.

For example, FGBE provided “The X-Files” movie stars David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson with Escape Hybrids to use back and forth to the set in Vancouver, Canada.

“Fox has a green initiative going, and they were trying to keep their sets as green as possible,” he said. “So we offered them the Escape Hybrids to drive behind the scenes.”

Because there was a lot of gunfire in the garage scene in “The Dark Knight,” FGBE provided producers with extra quarter panels and doors so that they could “shoot up” the car and then “re-shoot” the scene.

Ford’s Global Brand Entertainment team has established itself as a leader in the arena of product placement.

For the third straight year, Ford topped all other brands — and not just automotive – to win brandchannel.com’s 2008 “brandcameo Award for Overall Product Placement,” appearing in 30 of the 52 number one films at the U.S. box office from Jan. 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008. Ford also won the “Scene Stealer Award,” given to the brand that took the spotlight from its human co-stars, for the placement of the Ford Mustang in the 2007 hit “I am Legend.”

“When you see how Will Smith looked ripping through New York City in that Mustang, that was really hot, and it made him look really cool,” said Daly. “And being associated with Will Smith made Ford look really cool.”

Builder Daniel Deutsch, a Lucasfilm employee, has also made a custom R2-D2 complete with a built-in video projector. Fans of his work apparently include Joey Fatone (if you don't know who that is, consider yourself lucky). We're fans too, but Daniel says he doesn't have any interest in selling off his creations. Too bad, because this would be the perfect way to out-pose the DeLoreans at the Woodward Dream Cruise. [Daniel Deutsch via Gizmodo]

How does it work? If the Go x40 LIVE sees a large number of cell phones stationary along a major highway, it’ll determine that traffic is not moving and plan a route around the hold up. Such a system should work better than current systems, which rely on a limited number of stationary traffic sensors along heavily traveled roads only.

The LIVE also allows drivers to add fuel prices to maps, letting other users find the cheapest prices, and it's still capable of connecting to TomTom’s existing High Definition Traffic Service. The GO x40 LIVE will be initially available in the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, France and Switzerland, but the company does plan to expand its service to other countries in the near future. Let’s hope it comes here. [via MotorAuthority]

10. Nissan GT-R

It's not hard to appreciate the 2009 Nissan GT-R. Unlike almost anything on the road, this latest iteration of the famous Japanese supercar not only outperforms many of its pricier competitors, it also offers a look that's both familiar and fresh. The aggressive front and strong profile makes no secret of the GT-R's ability.

9. Mitsuoka Galue Convertible

Whereas the strange-in-the-wrong-way Orochi from Mitsuoka may be one of the ugliest cars in the world, the Mitsuoka Galue Convertible is very much strange in the right way. Based on the current-generation Ford Mustang, the carriagemakers at Mitsuoka have crafted on the front from a Rolls Royce and the rear from a CTS. It's strange, but we can't help but love it. [Photo Credit: Carscoop]

8. Nissan Teana

While the current Nissan Altima isn't unattractive, the car's Japanese cousin is downright becoming. The sedan's elongated proportions and sweeping lines are distinctly European, while the sharp headlights and large grille are particularly Nissan. Let's hope this is the direction they're going to take American Nissans sometime soon.

7. Honda S2000 Type S

As much as we like the base Honda S2000, the S2000 Type S takes the modest and becoming sports car and adds a dash of Super Potential to the equation. Though some may fault it for its large wing and aggressive ground effects, these bits not only add aerodynamic function to the S2000, they also add much needed teeth. If you've got a hankering for one, the Honda S2000 CR is fairly similar.

6. Mazda RX-8

A minor refresh this year hasn't changed the fact that the Mazda RX-8 design is getting a bit long in the tooth. Nevertheless, the RX-8 is still a head-turner. A mixture of rotary-inspired shapes and exotic details, it's a car that only Mazda could design. One of the best-looking rear 3/4 views of any GT, we're glad those rad rotarians finally added a front to match with the 2009 RX-8.

5. Daihatsu Copen

One of the favorites among Kei Car enthusiasts, the tiny Copen from Daihatsu may not be the most powerful car on the list (in fact, it's the least powerful) but it's undeniably the cutest. In the tradition of tiny roadsters, the Copen looks like something fun a British company like MG would build if British carmakers like MG weren't all owned by the Chinese and Indians. It's proof that good things do sometimes come in small packages.

4. Toyota Century

A love for the Toyota Century is a love for a car that personifies understated luxury. Way understated. The only front-engined, RWD Japanese car to get V12 power, the Century has only been redesigned twice in the last 40 years of its production. Thought it costs nearly $100,000, it doesn't have the "Look at me, look at me!" cues of a Lexus, Mercedes or Bentley. Tasteful and reserved, the Century is the luxury car of the cunning diplomat. [Photo Credit: Yehey Forums]

3. Mazda MX-5 (Miata)

In addition to being a competitive LeMons racer, the MX-5 has historically been a low-key but sleek roadster, and the latest iteration is no different. The slightly flared fenders, rounded surfaces and low profile are timeless and beautiful.

2. Toyota Mark X

One of the best looking sedans that few people have ever heard of, the sleek Toyota Mark X may be related to the American Lexus GS300 but in a way that makes us think one of the two was secretly adopted. This RWD sedan has the shapely curves of an E-Class Mercedes combined with the sloping and textured nose of an Alfa (sans the crest) and that wonderful disregard for subtlety that makes us love Japanese cars.

1. Infiniti G37

The Infiniti G37 is a coupe that just missed getting placed on our most beautiful cars list. A drastic improvement over the previous generation, the G37 practically sparkles in person. Unlike most Japanese luxury cars, the sculptors of the G37 took chances with the design. The gently raked beltline and 1980s-professional-woman wide shoulders balance the feminine and the masculine like few modern cars can. But it's the details, like the 10-spoked wheels and creased grille, that make this otherwise toned-down coupe scream.

Much as we still have faith in democracy, we're also skeptical as to whether or not these particular vehicles are M-prototypes — or if M-badged trucks are coming at all. For instance, you'd think that they'd fit an M-model with bigger wheels, and maybe even remove the roof rack, but then they are just prototypes. All enthusiasts should hope these are just sport editions — if they are full-blown M-models, there really is nothing sacred left. [palbay]

2009 BMW Model Year Pricing
2009 BMW 128i Coupe: $29,200
2009 BMW 135i Coupe: $35,600
2009 BMW 128i Convertible: $33,800
2009 BMW 135i Convertible: $39,900
2009 BMW 328i Sedan: $33,400
2009 BMW 328i xDrive Sedan: $35,300
2009 BMW 335i Sedan: $40,100
2009 BMW 335i xDrive Sedan: $42,000
2009 BMW M3 Sedan: $54,500
2009 BMW 328i Sports Wagon: $35,200
2009 BMW 328i xDrive Sports Wagon: 37,100
2009 BMW 328i Coupe: $36,300
2009 BMW 328i xDrive Coupe: $38,100
2009 BMW 335i Coupe: $42,000
2009 BMW 335i xDrive Coupe: $43,800
2009 BMW M3 Coupe: $57,500
2009 BMW 328i Convertible:$44,300
2009 BMW 335i Convertible:$50,400
2009 BMW M3 Convertible: $66,150
2009 BMW 528i Sedan: $45,500
2009 BMW 528i xDrive Sedan: $47,700
2009 BMW 535i Sedan: $50,800
2009 BMW 535i xDrive Sedan: $53,000
2009 BMW 550i Sedan: $60,000
2009 BMW M5 Sedan: $85,100
2009 BMW 535i xDrive Sports Wagon: $55,400
2009 BMW 650i Coupe: $77,700
2009 BMW M6 Coupe: $101,700
2009 BMW 650i Convertible: $84,800
2009 BMW M6 Convertible: $107,500
2009 BMW X3 xDrive30si: $39,400
2009 BMW X5 xDrive30i: $47,100
2009 BMW X5 xDrive48i: $55,800
2009 BMW X6 xDrive35i: $55,500
2009 BMW X6 xDrive50i: $66,200

[Full PDF at BimmerFile]

You know you're looking at a car deal that should make you run away in terror make a bombshell offer right away when the seller takes the time to pound out a lengthy stream-of-consciousness tirade about the car's problems, then doesn't bother to rotate the photos 90° prior to uploading them. And when you're searching high and low for a nimble mid-engined handlin' machine to disintegrate on totally own the racetrack, you can forget all about the boring MR2 or the way-too-reliable Fiero. Yes, forget 'em! What you need is something Italian, like this 1981 Fiat X1/9 (go here if the ad disappears). Asking price is $600, but the seller has an air of desperation and junkyards only offer $200 for a small car's scrap value, so there's a good chance you'll be able to turn a profit by selling off excess parts… leaving you money to rig up the world's most redneck junkyard-turbocharged Fiat, which should boost engine power from the factory 75 horses up to a block-ventilating track-dominating 150! The engine and transmission allegedly work, and the seller claims there's "plenty of rust but the chasssity of the car is solid!!!" It runs, the chasssity is solid, and the price is right- we can't see a single flaw in this plan!

The X1/9 is a fine LeMons choice, no arguments there, but you can kiss that Index Of Effluency trophy goodbye if some team out-huevos yours by keeping a British car alive for at least half the race, particularly if they manage the feat in a tiny 70s British Leyland sports car. We like the Triumph GT6, the TR7 should come equipped with built-in yellow flags, and you often see Sprites available for dirt cheap… but imagine the glory of getting towed off the track every five laps roaring past the competition in this 1972 MGB-GT (go here if the ad disappears)! You got your Lucas Electrics, your lever-action shocks, your finicky SU carbs, your 50s-vintage pushrod four, and- best of all- that legendary British Leyland build quality, all in one gorgeous Pininfarina package! This one is 600 bucks, but the devoted eBay seller should be able to get back quite a bit of that. You get a "trunk full of parts" and the seller claims the car "has not been started in several years," which might imply that it's capable of starting again. Maybe you'll have enough money left in the budget to put some big swaybars on it, thus avoiding unsightly asphalt marks on the door handles!

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Most of the time, when I see a jacked-up 4x4 with big mud-slingin' tires in a context as distinctly urban as this, it strikes me as a silly vehicle. Not so with an International Harvester!


This Scout might not be a '72, but the grille is a '72. No doubt some parts have been swapped here or there, so there's no telling at a glance.


If it is a '72, the available engines were a (non-AMC) 304 V8 and a 196-cube four-cylinder. Base price with four-wheel-drive was a mere $3,340, midway between the $3,588 list for a Bronco wagon and the Blazer's $3,145 price tag. I'm pretty sure the vacuum gauge dangling from dash was a non-factory option.

BMW X5 Security is the only vehicle in its class to that a completely ballistic level of protection of VR4 offers. Or: balls of hand weapons such as one .44 magnum, one .357 magnum and 9 a millimeter Luger ricochet on B4 the certified material of the car. The ballistic level of protection of VR4 has been tested and has been certified according to the European directives. Moreover the testing agency has tested at the request of BMW additional with short and long distance cannonadings under angles of 45 and 90 degrees. Tests also these endured BMW with liveliness, as a result of which the car also became in accordance with certified.

On the they panels, the roof, the front and the back of the car material of a special high performance fibre developed in the Netherlands has been applied. Some parts have been once more extra reinforced with a kogelwerende steel type. The windows have been made of security glass with a cross-section of 22 millimeter and offer also ballistic level of protection VR4. Moreover the glass has been laminated. If it break it remains on its spot, so that the inzittenden are not touched by flying round bits. The trunk barge has been also armoured and as a result, good and safe opbergplaats. There than 500 kilos luggage more can be taken along in.

attack alarm and camera ’ s
BMW X5 Security has equipped with an intercom system and an attack alarm. By means of the intercom is communicate with the outside world without doors or estimate to open. When attack alarm descends, all windows and doors are concluded automatically. The service of the system has been got rid of subtly behind a afdekplaatje. Thanks to the camera system the driver can see simply what behind the car happens there, without farmhouses looking at. The camera ’ s in the voorbumper offers visibility on what by the car happens there. As a result, the driver has more overview at for example to leave of busy parking places or narrow lanes. See the camera pictures to be on the posting of iDrive-controller that in the instrument panel are assembled.

Standard finished factory guard
All security supplies in BMW X5 Security are provided finished factory. As a result, are possible security supplies in and are introduced around the passenger compartment seamless. Balls or other fragments cannot penetrate therefore in the interior on critical points as joints and passage areas. To process the extra weight of all security supplies well, is special components of assume adapted. Thus among others the bump silencing devices, framework and software under hands were taken. Under BMW X5 Security special security links which go along even empty still up to 50 kilometres, have been assembled. And drive with a speed of 80 km/u on empty security links is no problem.

file assistentiesystemen
Standard BMW X5 Security has equipped rijdynamische the systems Adaptive Drive, what inclines of coachwork against goes and Active Steering, what ensures wheel precision still more. And could the brake strength of the car decrease, for example by extremely high temperatures, then intervenes dynamic stability control (DSC). Anti-fading the support of this system foresees the car in which case of extra brake strength. Security, dynamics and protection: BMW X5 Security it offers therefore all on premiumniveau. This car has been four-wheel-operated sport-loving BMW, but or with exceptional security supplies which BMW ’ characterises s security vehicles.

Thirty years experience
Only some car manufacturers have a tradition in the construction of armoured car ’ s. already more than thirty years is to BMW one of them and offers its customers exclusive, reliable and exceptionally safe vehicles. This because it is taken into account at the construction of each BMW Security, always all existing active and passive security aspects. If extra service for its customers offers moreover already wide twenty years special file skill trainings to BMW for drivers of armoured vehicles. Participants can choose from several training levels, depending on knowledge earlier acquired. The programme exists from theories and practice part where the participants learn handle the armoured vehicles. The trainings are worldwide given by very experienced instructors.

HELP WANTED: NAME THE ILL-MOBILE

Nike 6.0 and the BMX Crew are at the first stop of the AST Dew Tour in Baltimore. We've created this beast of a machine and we need help coming up with a suitable name. It's a souped-up, tricked out, action sports shred-mobile: part amphib, part 1970's camper, 100% rock and roll. Let's name this thing!!

The 8-wheeled ill-mobile is capable of crossing deserts, climbing mountains and taking the team to any secret spot. Racks for bikes, surfboards, wakeboards, skateboards, mean going anywhere for any scene. There's an on deck bbq for grilling up fresh meat, a deluxe camper shell salvaged from a junkyard in remote corner of Oregon and a basement couch for a front seat.

Rails to grind are featured on both sides, and a quarter pipe folds down for impromptu sessions. The stereo system requires 2 car batteries, a set of jumper cables and a little luck, but once it's blasting, it's like a stick of dynamite in your eardrum.

[Nike via Core77, special thanks to Recovry4x4 at Steel Soldiers for the ID assist.]

After waiting for a while on the roadside, the guy finally took his shoe off and pressed down on the remaining nub of a pedal with his big toe to limp the car to a dealership. It remains to be seen if this is an isolated incident or a widespread problem, but this owner (who also owns an '05 Evo VIII) is now wondering why he didn't spend his hard-earned clams on a new Corvette. [evolutionm via dieselstation]

Nissan Releases New G-Series line

When you have a vehicle line – say the Infiniti G – that has chalked up award after award, topped comparison test after comparison test, and endeared itself to a growing legion of passionate owners, what do you do for an encore? If you happen to be a world-class performance luxury brand – say like Infiniti – the answer is simple: Everything. The popular Infiniti G roars into the 2009 model year with an extensive array of changes, including:

* The addition of an all-new Infiniti G37 Convertible model, slated to launch in the first quarter of 2009
* A new 328-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine for the Infiniti G Sedan – now designated the G37 Sedan
* A new all-wheel drive model for the Infiniti G Coupe, the G37x
* A new 7-speed automatic transmission for all Infiniti G models (6-speed manuals transmissions also available)

"A little success makes you want to try harder. A lot of success makes you want to blow the doors off the competition again – which we're poised to do with the new, intensified Infiniti G lineup for 2009," said Ben Poore, Infiniti's vice president of marketing. "Year after year we strive to offer our customers one of the freshest product lineups in the industry – which we've done again in 2009 with the new second-generation Infiniti FX, upcoming G Convertible and the enhanced G37 Coupe and G37 Sedan."

2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible

The all-new G37 Convertible, the first-ever open-air G, is set for a mid-2009 model year introduction. Based on the current G37 Coupe, the G Convertible promises stunningly seductive styling and G-worthy dynamic performance. The new G37 Convertible will feature a three-piece automatic retracting hardtop, to keep a coupe-like roofline, and available unique interior treatment. Audio and HVAC systems have been enhanced to provide an inviting experience with the top up or down. The all-new Infiniti G37 Convertible is set to make its world debut at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

2009 Infiniti G37 Sport Sedan

The Infiniti G premium high-performance sport sedan receives a significant upgrade under the skin in 2009 with the addition of a new VQ37VHR "VVEL" 3.7-liter V6 rated at 328 horsepower. It is mated to a new 7-speed automatic transmission or close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.

Now designated as the Infiniti G37 Sedan, other major changes include new available sport brakes with 4-piston front/2-piston rear calipers and large 14-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors, a new sport 18-inch wheel design and standard Scratch Shield paint (self-healing clearcoat finish).

The 2009 G37 Sedan is available in four models – G37, G37 Journey, G37S Sport 6MT and G37x AWD. It goes on sale in September 2008.

2009 Infiniti G37 Sport Coupe

For 2009, the G37 Coupe's performance envelope expands with the addition of a new G37x AWD model with advanced ATESSA E-TSÔ all-wheel drive system. Also new for 2009 is a 7-speed automatic transmission with Drive Sport (DS) Mode and Downshift Rev Matching (the G37 Coupe is also available with a 6-speed manual transmission).

All 2009 G37 Coupes receive standard Scratch Shield paint (self-healing clearcoat finish). The 2009 G37 Coupe is available in four models – G37, G37 Journey, G37S Sport 6MT and G37x AWD – each with standard 330-horsepower 3.7-liter VQ-series V6 with VVEL technology. It goes on sale in September 2008.

[Source: Nissan]

Since the X-Games format is a head-to-head tournament on the super-special stage, Picard's opponent, Dave Mirra, went on to win the race despite broken control arms on his Subaru, which caused him to limp around the course making three-point turns. In the final round, Travis Pastrana claimed the gold medal victory over none other than Top Gear USA host Tanner Foust. [YouTube]

While this is just rendered speculation, those same sources claim the new Lancer Sportback will be entering markets by 2010, but no official word-on-high places the vehicle on US shores yet. However, the Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback will be tempting us from afar when it debuts at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. [Carscoop]

"While many might still groan at a GT500KR that can transform on-the-fly into an F-150, Thompson talked to futurists at Microsoft to find some grounding in reality. Their meetings discussed what cars and trucks might be like in 2030. "They (Microsoft futurists) talked about vehicles being able to maneuver between smaller spaces, meaning it would have to squeeze itself, or it would grow larger or grow bigger wheels to get over a large obstacle. I thought, 'Wow, if these guys are already thinking about this now, then we need to be looking at this.'"

It looks like KITT's new off-road program will become a regular part of Knight Rider. Thompson says we'll see it in two of the first four episodes. There might be other modes on the horizon, too. "As long as we stay within about the same mass, you might see other versions of KITT," says Thompson. "You're not, however, going to see it turn into a huge spaceship," Thompson tells us."

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: This is a bonehead move by GM. Saab already had a mediocre reputation on the reliability front, so reducing warranty coverage is not going to help dealers compete with BMW and Mercedes. Of course, that may be exactly the point. This may be one of the first quiet steps in letting Saab wither on the vine: Reduce competitiveness through corporate maneuvering, then blame dealers for lackluster sales when they axe the marque. Either way, as the owners of a 9-5 that needed a timing chain replacement at 60,000 miles, we wouldn't take this change too lightly. [Forbes]

AC Schnitzer presents the new styling and performance package for the BMW X6

The new BMW X6 exerts a particular form of magnetism: not only does its chassis sit perfectly on the road, it also magically attracts attention. Now it appears there is only one place where the fascination, dynamism and presence of the first Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) can be enhanced: in the workshops of AC Schnitzer in Aachen. The result is a visual and technical masterpiece which further magnifies the core qualities of the X6.

In the X6 by AC Schnitzer, the front skirt with its diagonal air intakes and repositioned fog lights are exposed. The drive-under protection has been removed in favour of a more dynamic contour of the spoiler edge. The rear carries a massive skirt with framed edges. In contrast to the original, all components are painted body-colour throughout, so the body appears downstretched and hence more dominant. Instead of the drive-under protection originally fitted here, AC Schnitzer Designer Michele Viandante has opted for a rear diffuser.

Another eyecatcher is the chromed tailpipes of the dual-flow exhaust system in AC Schnitzer Racing Design. The BMW X6 is not the only SAC in the world, but it is one of the first vehicles to be fitted with the multipiece AC Schnitzer alloy wheels Type Vll. With their black paint and tightly arranged spokes, the 22" rims present a challenging stance. The changing angles of the web pairs give an air of sophistication.

Typical AC Schnitzer: The vehicle's appearance is not misleading, but simply a reflection of its inner values. The renowned BMW tuner has developed a real firecracker under the bonnet of the diesel versions 3.0dX and 3.5dX with a new Motor Control Unit. Precise performance data will be released shortly. Of course, sheer engine power is not the only ingredient in sporting performance. So Manfred Wollgarten, Technical Director of AC Schnitzer, has developed a unique suspension spring kit for the X6 on the North Loop of the Nürburgring.

One thing can be disclosed: Despite its high body, the X6 by AC Schnitzer in this configuration will show a clean pair of heels to many sports saloons. Perfect handling with corresponding Look and Feel is ensured by the "EVO" 3-spoke Sport Airbag steering wheel. With AC Schnitzer, you hold the road firmly in almost any position. The X6 by AC Schnitzer takes control on public roads as willingly as on changing terrain with varying up and down gradients!

[Source: AC Schnitzer]

How about this for a brain bender: After the shrinking mid-sized cars, they're talking about taking the future entry-level Saab 9-1 and basing it on the popular-in-Europe Opel Corsa! My, my, Saab, how you'll be shrinking.

Jalopnik Snap Judgment: We like this idea. Saabs have always been quirky, pocket-sized cars that go against the grain and win admiration for it. Monster-sized Saabrolets like the 9-7X just aren't right. For a brand that embodies European sensibilities, this seems like a choice that should have been made from the get-go. [Auto News Sub. Req]

Driving sucks in New York. Not only are the roads pot-holed, third-world battlefields, but local drivers treat them as such, doing everything possible to kill their fellow commuters. All this is made worse by the cops; their numbers swollen post-9/11, they prowl the streets like sharks, looking for anyone that stands out to punish with the full force of the law. You'd think driving a bright red Evo here would be a bad idea, but the thing is, it's not.

In MR trim, the Evo gains sound deadening, higher-quality suspension and bunch of toys like a decent stereo and satellite navigation. Then there's the gearbox. Called Twin-Clutch SST, it's Mitsubishi's version of a dual-clutch automated manual, and it's probably the best I've ever used.

Those features combine to create a car that's smooth-riding, well-controlled, quiet inside and that makes carving through gaps in heavy traffic completely fuss-free. None of that should sacrifice performance, while the suspension and gearbox will actually work to improve it.

Swipe the shifter that looks like it belongs in a manual over to the left, and you're in full-manual mode. No computerized brain tells it when to shift, leaving you in complete control. Well, at least once you've pulled away. The lack of a clutch to dump keeps take-off (and attempted donuts) wheelspin-free while high-rev launches require the use of a special launch control only available in Super-Sport automatic mode. Shifts are immediate and come when called for, never once beeping in protest instead of delivering the downshift required.

Cruising along slowly through the overcrowded suburban roadways, the MR's promise is ever-present in its immediate direction changes and ability to leap out of merge lanes. Its classier, toned-down looks don't draw attention the way the carbon-clad Evo IX I pass does, maybe due to the proliferation of down-market models like the Ralliart that share near-identical body addenda. The rear wing remains huge, but too many wannabes mean that, now, wings no longer signify performance. Cops we pass hardly take a second glance, more upset by Mitsubishi's manufacturer plate than the car's intent to speed.

Inside the MR you feel like an escaped convict, the car's promised performance making itself evident through the aggressive shifting, fierce acceleration and immediate responsiveness, but conveying those experiences in a manner that's positively refined. Cover up the plasticky interior, and this combination could spell M3.

It's really hard to write a remarkable review about an unremarkable drive. But maybe that's the most remarkable thing about the MR. Not only did it make the shittiest roads in the world tolerable, but it did so in a package supposedly capable of rivaling cars like the Porsche 911 GT3 RS or Ferrari F430 once the going gets more glamorous. To that ability I can't attest, but stuck in rush hour, I know which car I'd rather be in, and I'm excited about the possibility of owning a car of this caliber that's equally capable in the everyday grind. 

Photography: Björn Schütrumpf

It's been a couple months since our last Scout in this series, and this is the oldest one I've managed to find on the island so far.


In '72, you could get your Scout II with a 196-cube four-cylinder engine (that's 3.2 liters, for you fans of the metric system and/or really big four-bangers) or a 304-cubic-inch V8. No, that's not an AMC engine- genuine farm equipment here!


Breakers breakers, any takers? It's been a while since CB radios were relevant; whatever vestige of CB that the cellphone didn't kill, cheap and powerful FMS/GMRS radios finished off. Still, a CB antenna on a Scout just looks right.

We've seen six International Harvester vehicles so far in Alameda, which means we get a poll. Which one do you like best?

Gawker Media polls require Javascript; if you're viewing this in an RSS reader, click through to view in your Javascript-enabled web browser.

Tokyo July 17 2008 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation will unveil its new Pajero Sport*1 SUV model at the Moscow Auto Salon 2008 (The Moscow Motor Show) to be held at the Crocus Expo in Moscow between August 26 and September 7 (opens to the public on August 29). The new Pajero Sport will be phased in selected regions*2 such as Russia, the ASEAN area, the Middle East, Latin America and Oceania starting in the fall this year.
*1 The model will carry a different name in different markets: Montero Sport in South America, Nativa in Latin America and Challenger in Australia.
*2 The new Pajero Sport will neither be sold in Central & Western Europe nor in North America, where other types of SUVs are favored.

The new Pajero Sport features dynamic and sporty exterior lines, complemented by a stylish and vast interior space that engenders a sense of comfort, purpose and safety. This cabin, available in either a 2-row (5-passenger) or 3-row (7-passenger) seating configuration is also very practical with water-repellent seats and a waterproof luggage compartment floor, ideal for leisure use.

Mitsubishi's latest SUV will be powered by a choice of three engines which all deliver outstanding motive performance and fuel economy: 2.5-liter and 3.2-liter common rail direct injection diesel units and a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline unit*3.

In terms of architecture, the body of the Pajero Sport is mounted on a new ladder frame to realize high levels of durability and reliability, consistent with the needs of its target markets.

Mitsubishi's All Wheel Control philosophy, forged through its participation in the Dakar Rally and other contests, informs all of the company's 4WD systems. The new model will use the Super Select 4WD system, also used in the Pajero*4 SUV, which transmits drive torque effectively to all four wheels on all types of surface. The body, frame and driveline not only give Pajero Sport outstanding off-road performance but allow it to deliver excellent drive dynamics over all surfaces.

The choice of the Moscow Motor Show to unveil the new Pajero Sport is a clear indication of Russia's eminent position within Mitsubishi Motors. In fiscal 2007 Mitsubishi Motors sold some 100,000 vehicles on the Russian market, boosted by the ever successful Lancer line-up and a popular range of SUVs.

MMC is confident that the new Pajero Sport SUV will make a strong addition to its SUV range, which also includes the Pajero and Outlander. Coming on the heels of the introduction of the Lancer*5 sports sedan last year, this will allow MMC to expand SUV sales and hit a total sales volume of 140,000 units on the Russian market in fiscal 2008.
*3 Russian-spec vehicle will only be available with the 3.2-liter diesel engine and 2-row, 5-passenger capacity seating arrangement.
*4 "Montero" in Spanish-speaking countries and "Shogun' in the UK.
*5 Galant Fortis in Japan.

MMC will hold its Press Briefing at the Mitsubishi Motors stand at 17:20 on Tuesday August 26.

Obviously riding on the Saab 9-3 Sportcombi, the 9-3X appears to add the Cross Wheel Drive (XWD) system which debuted on the Saab 9-3 Turbo X, dual pipes out the back, the requisite flared plastic fenders and skid plates and of course, a bigger back end. [More at Trollhattan Saab]

Among the initiatives Wagoner announced today were:

-Truck capacity reduction by 300,000 units, including stamping and engines
-Cutting sales and marketing budgets, particularly in motorsports and promotions
-Holding engineering expenses steady
-Reduce salaried headcount
-Eliminate health care coverage at 65 for retirees, but increase pension payments
-No base compensation increases for salaried employees through 2009
-No cash bonuses for executives
-Delaying next gen full size pickups and SUVs
-Delay V8 engine design developments
-Alternative and small displacement engine design budget increases
-Suspension of dividend payments
-Defer health care spending payments
-Explore sale of assets: Hummer under review, remaining brands focused on profit improvements
-Additional borrowing against assets

Prior to the news conference, an anonymous GM executive familiar with the plan said, reportedly with a straight face, "It will be a clear message on the ways we will restore our health, our measures to realign capacity. It's tough medicine, but it's real." Unlike every wave of job cuts since 1973, this one is REAL. Well, that should do it then.

How did we get to this point? It started with innocent "flame-surfacing" resulting from a bored designer, and before you know it, we've got people styling SUVs like a monstrosity that would make Mark Hamill's ride from Corvette Summer blush. The only thing we can take comfort in, is that it's just a custom. But when something like this shows up on the dealer lots in 2015, don't say we didn't warn you.
[VWvortex]

The soft-roader based on the 1-Series is said to something of an upmarket Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, you know, for hairdressers people that love the higher ride height of an SUV, but have no actual use for one. Pricing will probably start around $30,000. So, if you're looking to spend less money and look like even more of a tool, you may want to consider the alleged Mini-branded SUV that's said to share many of the X1's components.
[MotorAuthority]

First, 80 MPG for a Fox-body Mustang is like 300 MPG for a Geo Metro. We haven't taken the effort to run the equations, but we're pretty sure there just isn't that much energy in a gallon to begin with, much less all of the losses from various frictions and combustion inefficiencies.

The car is to be entered in the Progressive Automotive X Prize challenge and if Doug's claims turn out to be valid, we plan on turning in our engineering card, that's all we're saying. Check out the video on YouTube and see what you think for yourselves. [Ecomodder]

In addition to barely reduced fuel consumption, expect the production ActiveHybrid to share the concept's bizarre hood bulge, as evidenced in these photos. While we don't know exactly when it will be released, this will be BMW's first hybrid and we're putting our money on a 2010 on-sale date.

While it's tempting to mock BMW for selling such a blatantly hypocritical vehicle, the rest of the BMW EfficientDynamics range actually does accomplish reasonable fuel efficiency, so we think they're just playing it smart by selling efficient diesels to people who actually care about reducing fuel consumption while charging a premium to those who merely want to be seen to be doing so.

Unlike spotted owls, KGP's photographers actually managed to get close to the X6 ActiveHybrid without suffocating on its fumes. Here's what they had to say:

We spotted BMW's X6 ActiveHy