CAR asks Automakers for New Santa’s Sleigh…

Bentley GTC Sleigh

This is why you always ask for what you *really* want for XMas; You just might get it. The guys over at CAR were brave enough to ask the burning question: “What would happen if car companies designed Santa’s sleigh?”. The responses were fun, thought out, and of course; done in each manufactures unique style. There’s even a GTR tribute from the guys at Nissan!

AEM: Audi A4 2.0T Cold Air Intake

AEM is trying to show Santa up with another new release. This time the Audiphiles can rejoice as the newest Cold Air Intake system from AEM is for the 2005.5-2008 Audi A4 2.0T.

This Cold Air Intake System provides an extra 4.7HP and respectable 8.7 TQ all while increasing airflow 45%.

AEM: Chevy Cobalt SS Turbo Cold Air Intake

21-682P

AEM is proud to announce the all-new Cold Air Intake System for the turbocharged 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS. AEM Cold Air Intakes relocated the air filter outside of the engine compartment to deliver the coolest air inlet temps possible which creates more horsepower and torque.

The AEM Cold Air Intake provides an staggering 17.3 HP and 14.7 TQ and increases air flow by 50%!

Top Gear Awards 2008

Always a fan of what the Brits’ over at TopGear have to say, it should come as no surprise that when they announce their picks for Best Cars of 2008, I listen. Now, I know not all of these cars are on American roads (or may ever see them for that matter) but that’s not the point, one of our favorite past times over here is imagining how great the cars everywhere else in the world. =)

  • Dodge Challenger: Muscle car
  • Citroen C3 Picasso: Family car
  • Fiat 500 Abarth: Hot hatch
  • Honda FCX Clarity: Green car
  • McLaren MP4-23: Racing car
  • Toyota iQ: Small car
  • Vauxhall Insignia: Executive car
  • KTM X-Bow: Sports car
  • Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe: Luxury car
  • Lamborghini Gallardo LP-560-4: Supercar
  • Corvette ZR1: Performance car
  • Ferrari California: Convertible
  • Volkswagen Scirocco: Car of the year

Lexus LF-A Supercar Off the Chopping Block?

Lexus LFA

Jalopnik is reporting that back on December 1st, Toyota registered the term ‘LFA’ with the US Patent and Trademark Office (Trademark # 77623634). This tid-bit of information, may be a bit of a silver lining on the cloud of doubt surrounding the recent rumors that Toyota/Lexus was pulling the plug on the LF-A supercar project.

Taking all that into account, it still doesn’t mean the LFA is a ‘go’, but at least not all hope is lost.

Skunk2 PR: MegaPower Headers

Skunk2 Megapower Header

The Skunk2 MegaPower Header is designed and engineered to maximize exhaust flow and increase both horsepower throughout the entire RPM powerband. Skunk2’s unique design is the result of over a decade of racing experience coupled with computerized modeling and extensive dyno testing. Each Skunk2 MegaPower Header features equal length, sequentially-paired, stepped primaries and a 4-2-1 Tri-Y design with a 2.5 inch collector.

Skunk2 Megapower Header Detail

These features coupled with the unique design specs provide an extremely broad powerband that can be used on a wide range of engine sizes and configurations. Each header is constructed from T-304 stainless steel with fully polished, mandrel-bent tubing and a CNC-machined flange for added strength and durability.

Yorkshire Police Evolves

If you’ve been holding back you admission to the Academy because you don’t want to get stuck driving a boring car all day, then it’s time to buy yourself a ticket to the UK; South Yorkshire to be exact.

Evo X Police Car

The boys in blue over at UK’s South Yorkshire Police Department there have just added a Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X to their fleet, which ALREADY includes an Evo VIII and IX! The Evo X will be used specifically in their Road Crime Unit in cases involving drug dealers and car thieves.

2009 American LeMans Series Schedule

Audi has withdrawn from ALMS 2009. Does Mazda stand a chance to repeat as the only Japanese company to win at LeMans, after a rickety 2008 Season? Will the Corvette Racing Team again dominate GT1?

ALMS

The 2009 American LeMans Season kicks off March 21st at Sebring International Raceway in Sebring, FL and the only way to find out the answers is to watch, or better yet, attend the races!

Euro Fords Coming Stateside?

Euro Focus RS

It’s not everyday that I’m singing the praises of the Blue Oval, but a recent announcement peaked my interest. Word is, former Dakar Rally driver Jost Capito has been named to head the American SVT and European TeamRS divisions of Ford. Although nothing is official, with Capito pulling the strings on both operations, that might pave the way for some European only vehicles to start hitting the US Streets.

Building on the success of the Impreza WRX & Lancer Evolution, who knows maybe the dark horse of the AWD Turbocharged vehicles could be a 300HP FOCUS RS.

Nismo S-Tune 370Z Unveiled

I’ve been reluctant to talk much about the 370Z. Truth be told; I’m not in love with it, however this new S-Tune version from NISMO may be what I need to be converted.

Nismo STune 370Z Front

Nismo STune 370Z Rear

Although power stays about the same, the new aerodynamics package gives this 370Z the little extra ‘umph’ it needs. In addition to the body kit, larger deep dish rims, stainless steel exhaust, upgraded suspension and S-Tune brake pads are also offered. If you are in the same boat I am, give the intro video at Nissan’s Website a look and get back to me.