Chevy Corvette C7

Chevy Corvette C7

When: Fall 2013
How Much: $50,000 and up

We know more about the next Vette than we did just a few months ago. Gone are thoughts of a split rear window, a turbocharged V-6, or a midengine design. It now appears that the C7 will debut at this coming winter's North American auto show in Detroit with a 5.5-liter V-8 that still uses pushrods. However, thanks to direct injection and higher compression, it's reasonable to expect the new Corvette to put out 440 hp, so it could match or best the outgoing 6.0-liter.

The car will be visually arresting for certain. Inspiration will come at least in part from the present Camaro. One sure bet—GM will finally, praise heaven, give its $50,000 Ferrari slayer an interior that's gorgeous, and with seats that hold the driver comfortably on track day.

2014 Audi A3

2014 Audi A3

When: Mid-2013
How Much: $30,000 and up

The forthcoming A3 will be based on the VW Golf. It would be nice if the U.S. got the hatch, but that's unlikely. We probably will get a diesel A3, though, and the four-door sedan will come in a hotter S3 version that's also a possibility for North America, though an über-powerful RS3 is highly unlikely.

Hopefully the chassis that underpins the new Audi will be more modular than previous versions. That would allow integration of hybrid tech and front-drive or AWD setups that could shave weight on various Audis and Volkswagens, helping engineers to increase fuel economy while downsizing displacement

2013 SRT Viper

2013 SRT Viper

When: December 2012
How Much: TBD
Our Guess: $100,000

With a 640-hp V-10 and a body made of magnesium, aluminum, and carbon fiber, we're expecting greatness from Chrysler's supercar. And at 100 grand, it'd better be great—there's already a Corvette ZR1 in this price range that can eat Ferraris, and the C7 will only up the ante. Plus there's a certain new Mustang that's far cheaper and should be mighty impressive too. And even if the Viper is faster than the Ford or Chevy in a straight line, it must improve its handling over the outgoing model. While SRT folks are claiming a scorching 0-to-60 time of 3.5 seconds and a 206-mph top speed for the new car, the last Viper was time-warp-fast too—and also saddled with unpredictable handling and frequent maintenance headaches.

Haunted by those ghosts of Vipers past, Chrysler engineers started over. They lowered the car's weight by about 140 pounds and made its chassis 50 percent stiffer. (That alone tells you how far Chrysler had to go to make a Viper that's world class.) The Tremec-supplied six-speed manual (no automatic, at least not yet) is said to have far lower clutch effort, while bringing tighter ratios and more precise feel. The suspension is entirely new, again with the aim of more predictable handling. And there's a multi-setting stability-control system with a full-off mode for the track. That could be great, but only if the car doesn't actually need the electronic assist to handle like a supercar.

That will be key. This Viper is designed to challenge cars that can reach nine tenths of their potential without technological guardrails. The SRT needs to get in that ballpark to be a real winner.

2013 Dodge Dart R/T

2013 Dodge Dart R/T

When: October 2012
How Much: $23,290

Most of the new front-wheel-drive Dart models go on sale this summer, and we like what we've driven so far. But the fastest of the breed, the R/T, holds off for a fall launch.

Like its less muscular brethren, the R/T rides on a Fiat chassis borrowed from the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, with a fully independent suspension. We expect that suspension to be a little lower and stiffer in the R/T. The car will get the most horsepower of the lot, with a 184-hp 2.4-liter four under the hood.

At this point it's unclear if the R/T will come with only a six-speed manual or with a dual-clutch automatic as well. We do know that the R/T, like the Sonic RS, is going to face stiff competition from slightly pricier models, including the Ford Focus ST, the expected Fiesta ST, and the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ. Even if these sporty cars are bunched around $25,000, slightly above the Dart R/T, their performance chops could put a pinch on sales of the Dodge

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo

When: Late summer 2012
How Much: TBD
Our Guess: $23,000

Right now, the Veloster lacks the performance cred to back up its killer looks. But that will change once this 201-hp version hits the streets. The 45 percent boost in horsepower has most folks taking a second look at the Veloster, and hoping this Turbo is a signal that Hyundai is getting as serious about performance as it has been about quality and design over the last few years.

So far, though, signs remain cloudy—the stonking 1.6-liter motor with dual exhaust notwithstanding. Word is the Veloster Turbo gets the same suspension, which is disappointing. The stock Veloster is fun but stiff-kneed and less refined when compared to better-bred sporty cars like VW's GTI—or the Subaru BRZ, which is only somewhat costlier than what we're expecting to see from the Veloster Turbo. Also, ask Mini engineers about controlling torque steer in a 200-hp car with a short wheelbase. That, too, has probably made Hyundai sweat.

Even if the Veloster Turbo isn't perfection out of the gate, we hope it's a sign of better-performing Hyundais (and Kias) to come.

Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is one of the older crossover SUVs on the market, but it's still a favorite for families that put safety and prestige on about the same level. Though it was new in 2003, and hasn't been updated substantially since, it's one of the safest vehicles you can buy.

You'd never guess its age from its exterior, features list or driving dynamics, though. In fact, the XC90 has more technology now than ever before, and it's a great choice for families who need as many as seven seats.

While Volvo updated the exterior look of the XC90 yet again in 2013--with a new body-color bumper-and-trim look, new bumper brightwork, and LED running lamps and taillamps, all of which make this model look more carlike once again--the XC90 does show its age inside, where it still shows the design direction of Volvo before it went to more minimalist layouts and thin-panel controls (as you'll find in the S60 and XC60, among others).

This year, the 2014 XC90 3.2 gets the executive c-pillar emblem and floor mats, the folding front passenger seat, 19-inch "Galateia" wheels and the option for the upgraded Sovereign leather. The R-Design model also receives the Homelink garage door opener and digital compass and the new Crystal White Metallic paint. All-wheel drive is now a stand-alone option, as is the Blind Sport Information System, dual-screen rear seat entertainment system, the Red wood steering wheel, and the 19-inch Galateia wheels.

The XC90 performs as well as you might expect from a family-oriented crossover, but there's no reward here for driving enthusiasts. You'll find plenty of power from the 240-horsepower, 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic (the V-8 was discontinued last year and is a fading memory), and it's an exceptionally smooth combination with the six-speed automatic. Yet the XC90 just isn't much fun to drive; it's mostly a matter of the detached feel of the steering, even though quick maneuvers are safe and sound. Synthetic motor oil is standard on all XC90 models; it extends oil-change intervals to 10,000 miles.

Thanks to three rows of seating, the XC90 can accommodate up to seven and is a good alternative to either the more trucklike SUVs or a well-optioned minivan. This model still lives up to Volvo's reputation for excellent seats--especially in the first two rows--a

Volkswagen Gti 2013

                                                           Volkswagen Gti 2013

The 2013 GTI is a 2- or 4-door, 5-passenger CS, or WG, available in 10 trims, ranging from the 2-Door to the 4-Door Autobahn.



Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 200-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 31-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed m transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed a transmission with overdrive is optional.

Ferrari F12berlinetta

Ferrari F12berlinetta

Engine
The F12berlinetta uses a 6,262 cc (382 cu in), naturally aspirated 65° V12 engine shared with the Ferrari FF, producing 740 PS (544 kW; 730 hp) at 8500 rpm and 690 N·m (509 lb·ft) of torque at 6000 rpm, making it the most powerful road-legal Ferrari to date, only surpassed by the 2013 LaFerrari. This allows the F12berlinetta to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in an officially reported 3.1 seconds, with third party tests reporting as little as 2.8 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h (120 mph) in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of over 340 km/h (210 mph). It is theoretically possible that the F12berlinetta can reach 362 km/h (225 mph).[citation needed]
The engine of the F12berlinetta has been designed to be more efficient than that of the 599, as well as more powerful. The engine management system is fitted with Ferrari's HELE start-stop system to reduce fuel consumption when idling. Ferrari reports that the F12berlinetta can achieve 18 mpg-imp (15.7 L/100 km; 15.0 mpg-US) – a 30% improvement over the 599 – and produces CO2 emissions of 350 g/km.

Transmission
In common with the California, 458 Italia, FF and LaFerrari, the F12berlinetta transmits power through a 7-speed dual-clutch automated semi-automatic gearbox operated by the driver using 'paddles' behind the steering wheel. Compared to similar models, the F12berlinetta uses shortened gear ratios to match the power of the engine.

Chassis
The F12berlinetta is built around an aluminium space frame chassis co-developed with Scaglietti. The chassis is made up of 12 different aluminium alloys and improves structural rigidity by 20% over the 599, whilst reducing weight by 70 kg (150 lb). The centre of gravity has been lowered by around 25 mm (1 in). The F12berlinetta's weight distribution is 46% front, 54% rear.
Similar to other contemporary Ferrari models, the F12berlinetta uses Ferrari's third generation CCM3 carbon ceramic disc brakes with ABS, SCM-E magnetorheological suspension, an electronic limited slip differential, ESP Premium stability control and F1-Trac traction control. The car's stability and traction control, suspension and other settings are controlled by the Manettino dial mounted on the steering wheel.

Performance
Ferrari reports that the F12berlinetta is capable of lapping the Fiorano test circuit in 1 minute, 23 seconds; 1.0 second faster than the 599 GTO, 2.0 seconds faster than the Enzo Ferrari, 2.0 seconds faster than the 458 Italia, 2.0 seconds faster than the 430 Scuderia and 3.5 seconds faster than the 599 GTB.

Aerodynamics
The F12berlinetta makes use of aerodynamic techniques based on Ferrari's 599XX and Formula One programmes, developed with wind tunnel and CFD testing. A notable feature is the Aero Bridge, an air channel running from the bonnet, through the flanks and along the sides of the vehicle, creating an effect that increases downforce. Another feature is Active Brake Cooling ducts, which open to direct cooling air only when the brakes are hot, keeping them closed at other times to reduce aerodynamic drag. The F12berlinetta produces 123 kg (270 lb) of downforce at 200 km/h (120 mph) – an increase of 76% over the 599 GTB – and has a drag coefficient of 0.299.

2011 BUGATTI VEYRON

VITAL STATS

• ENGINE

  8.0L W-16

• POWER

  1,200 @ 6,400 rpm

• TRANSMISSION

  7-spd auto-shift man w/OD

• 0-60

  2.4 seconds

• DRIVETRAIN

  all wheel

• MONTHLY PAYMENT 

  $42,477

• SEATING

  2 passengers

• CARGO

  1.3 cu.ft.

• MPG 

  7 City / 15 HWY

• WARRANTY

  36 months

2011 BUGATTI VEYRON OVERVIEW

The 2011 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport may be the ultimate high-performance exotic supercar. The Super Sport is a new, sportier version of the Veyron that provides an even more extreme driving experience.

The Super Sport's engine, an 8.0-litre W18 with four turbo chargers, is the most powerful ever to be built into a production vehicle - 1200 horsepower and 1106 lb-ft of torque results in an unparalleled forward thrust, sent through a 7-speed dual clutch transmission to an all-wheel drive system. Carbon-ceramic brake discs, a rear wing air-brake and an automatic height adjusting suspension are standard. Forged alloy wheels and tires were designed specifically for the Veyron in order to handle the incredible top speed. A wide variety of paint colors in monotone or two-tone applications, or even clear-coated carbon fiber body panels, are available. Standard features include heated leather and carbon fiber sport seats, a navigation system and a Puccini audio system. The color of nearly every surface can be specified by the customer.

Almost unbelievably, the 1,001 horsepower and 922 lb-ft of torque in the Veyron 16.4 were deemed insufficient by some, so Bugatti engineers boosted power (with larger turbochargers and bigger intercoolers) to 1200 horsepower and 1106 lb-ft of torque for the Super Sport version. The exterior air intake tubes have been replaced by NACA ducts and the roof has been extended rearward to mostly cover the engine. The new front fascia features larger openings with the lower one extending around the sides to the wheel arch. A new double diffuser in the rear incorporates twin center-mounted exhaust tips. The suspension is also modified, with revised springs, stiffer anti-roll bars and new shock absorbers.

Corvette ZR1

Corvette ZR1

Power:

• 750 bhp @ 6,600 rpm

Performance:

• 0-60 mph: 2.8 sec.*

• 1/4 mile: 10.3 @ 139 mph*

• Top Speed: 224 mph

* With optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires 

HPE750 Upgrade Package Includes:

• Supercharger Pulley Upgrade (Increases boost from 9 to 13 psi)

• High Flow Supercharger Snout Upgrade

• CNC Ported Cylinder Heads

• HPE Air Induction System

• Upgraded Valvetrain Parts

• Custom HPE Camshaft

• Extreme Duty Valve Springs

• All Necessary Gaskets & Fluids

• Professional Installation

• HPE Engine Management Calibration

• 6,700 rpm Rev Limiter (200 rpm over stock)

• Chassis Dyno Tuning & Road Testing

• Hennessey Premium Floormats

• Hennessey Carbon Fiber Door Sills

• Serial-Numbered Dash & Engine Plaques

• Hennessey Exterior Badging

• 3 Year / 36,000 Mile Limited Warranty 

2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed Convertible

Bentley's PR department is in an enviable position. While other automakers need to launch an entirely new model, or at the very least a major face lift in order to appear on our radar, all Volkswagen's ultra-luxury subsidiary needs to do is come up with another trim level and a different engine control unit for home-page visibility. Just take the 2014 Continental GT Speed convertible—which will make its in-the-metal debut at the Detroit auto show later in January—as an example. Oh, did we mention that Bentley claims it’s the fastest four-seat convertible in the world? That could have something to do with all this fuss, too.

Actually, the changes that set the Speed apart from the standard GT convertible are not trivial. The twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter W-12 engine not only emits an intoxicating soundtrack, it also makes a stunning 616 hp, up from 567. Maximum torque is 590 lb-ft, served up at a low 2000 rpm. That translates to ear-to-ear-grin–inducing levels of performance. Bentley claims that the sprint from zero to 60 mph takes a mere 4.1 seconds; 100 mph comes up in 9.7 seconds, comfortably below the 10-second marker that defines the performance elite. And another exclusive marker is surpassed as well: This convertible tops out at a lofty 202 mph. The W-12 is mated to a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic—a highly competent unit that can skip gears upon the driver’s request—featuring two column-mounted paddle shifters.

The Speed version also sets the internal hierarchy straight again. While the standard W-12 is quicker than the recently launched V-8–powered Continental on paper, real-life performance seems to be superior in the GT V-8. The Speed, by contrast, will enjoy a comfortable margin between itself and entry-level eight-cylinder. By the same token, it also guzzles a lot more gas: Bentley is estimating fuel-economy numbers of 12 mpg in the city and 20 on the highway. At this price point, hoping for average consumption in the middle-teens probably isn’t a big deal, but the Speed will require more-frequent refueling than the V-8 will, and that‘s an annoyance on long journeys. Thankfully, the tank holds a generous 24 gallons.

Given this convertible's claimed 5500-pound curb weight (that’s 385 pounds heavier than the coupe), the superior performance is all the more remarkable. Yes, Bentley took out some weight when the second generation of the Continental was launched in 2010, but only so much can be done to lighten a platform that’s shared with Volkswagen’s fantastically over-engineered Phaeton. (Internally, this model is referred to as a very major face lift; budget restraints kept the brand from creating an entirely new vehicle for the second-gen Conti.)

Hustling over tight country roads is not the Continental's preferred domain, but when asked, it can go through the motions impeccably, while not necessarily gracefully. The suspension is stiffer and 0.4-inch lower than in the standard Continental, and the stability-control system is reprogrammed to allow more slip and earlier re-application of torque after an intervention. And, importantly, the car rides on high-performance tires and massive 21-inch wheels. Just don't expect miracles from this platform with a heavy W-12 engine up front. The all-wheel-drive system is rear-biased with just 40 percent of the power routed to the front wheels. All that said, ambitious drivers likely will experience considerable understeer and faster-than-normal brake wear.

The exterior of the GT Speed convertible is described by the press release as "the darker side of Bentley design." Indeed, the grille and lower air intakes are finished in a darker hue, the exhaust tips feature a dark finish and specific styling, and the interior can be specified with Dark Tint Aluminum “Engine Spin" decor. Nevertheless, the changes are altogether subtle, no doubt to leave extra room for a far more extreme Supersports model down the road.

In essence, the 2014 Bentley Continental GT Speed convertible is a polished and slightly enhanced version of the Conti GTC—and that vehicle stands for fantastic style, great luxury, and awesome power with a hand-crafted finish. And the new Speed convertible has a bit more of everything. If the premium for the Speed treatment in the coupe is anything to go by, expect the droptop version to start at nearly $240,000 when it goes on sale later this year

Audi R8

Audi R8 (road car)

Audi R8

Overview
ProductionJune 2007–present
9,945 built by the end of 2008AssemblyNeckarsulm, GermanyDesignerWalter de Silva
Frank Lamberty (2004)Body and chassisClassSports carBody style2-door coupé
2-door roadsterLayoutLongitudinal mid-engine,
quattro permanent all-wheel driveRelatedAudi RSQ
Audi Le Mans quattro (Concept)
Audi R8 TDI Le Mans (Concept)
Lamborghini GallardoPowertrainEngine4.2 L FSI V8, 2×DOHC
5.2 L FSI V10, 2×DOHCTransmission6-speed manual
7-speed manual
6-speed R-Tronic
7-speed S-TronicDimensionsWheelbase2,650 mm (104.3 in)LengthV8 Coupé: 4,431 mm (174.4 in),
V10 Coupé: 4,435 mm (174.6 in),
V10 Spyder: 4,434 mm (174.6 in)WidthV8 Coupé & V10 Spyder: 1,904 mm (75.0 in),
V10 Coupé: 1,930 mm (76.0 in)HeightV8 Coupé: 1,249 mm (49.2 in),
V10 Coupé: 1,252 mm (49.3 in),
V10 Spyder: 1,244 mm (49.0 in)Curb weightV8 Coupé: 1,560–1,565 kg (3,439–3,450 lb),
V10 Coupé: 1,620–1,625 kg (3,571–3,583 lb),
V10 Spyder: 1,720–1,725 kg (3,792–3,803 lb)

Alfa Romeo MiTo

Overview
Manufacturer	Alfa Romeo
Production	2008–present
Assembly	Mirafiori, Turin, Italy
Designer	Juan Manuel Diaz   Alfa Romeo MiTo
Body and chassis
Class	Supermini
Body style	3-door hatchback
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
Platform	Fiat Small platform
Related	Fiat Grande Punto Fiat Linea Opel Corsa D Opel Meriva B
Powertrain
Engine	0.9 L I2 t/c petrol (TwinAir) 1.4 L I4 petrol 1.4 L I4 t/c petrol/LPG 1.4 L l4 t/c petrol (MultiAir) 1.3 L l4 t/c diesel (JTDM) 1.6 L I4 t/c diesel (JTDM)
Transmission	5-speed manual 6-speed manual 6-speed Dual Dry Clutch TransmissionFPT C635
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,511 mm (98.9 in)
Length	4,063 mm (160.0 in)
Width	1,721 mm (67.8 in)
Height	1,446 mm (56.9 in)
Curb weight	1,080–1,205 kg (2,400–2,660 lb)