BMW is gradually replacing its N54 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six (featured in models like the 335i) with the firm's new twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six cylinder engine, designated N55. The latest Bavarian products to get the N55 are the 2011 model year 135i Coupe and Convertible that will go on sale in the United States in Spring 2010.
With a maximum output of 300HP at 5,800 rpm and a peak torque of 300 lb-ft available from 1,200–5,000rpm (U.S.-spec version), the new six-cylinder produces the same level of performance as the current twin-turbo six-cylinder.
As promised at the SEMA show last November, General Motors announced the launch of a special edition version of the 2010 Camaro that's distinguished by a never-before available, unique green hue. The Synergy Green exterior color was first previewed at the 2009 SEMA show with a concept model.
The limited edition production car is based on 2010 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT powered by a 304HP 3.6-liter V6 coupled with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. It will be produced in limited quantities from February to May with pricing starting at $26,790.
Chevrolet isn't the only brand in the GM Group playing around with vivid colors and special editions that hark back to models of the 60s and 70s. So is the firm's European division Opel that has released a new exclusive edition of the Corsa supermini called 'Color Race' inspired from the late 1960s - early 1970s Rallye Kadett B Sprint.
The first day of the Tokyo Auto Salon 2010 saw Toyota announcing its plans to roll out a new series of modified cars under the "G Sports" name for the Japanese market this summer. These special variants will be developed in cooperation with Toyota's tuning and racing partner, GAZOO, and will benefit from a series of performance upgrades.
And what a better way to grasp the attention of buyers and petrol heads alike for the new G Sports models than to reveal a specially modified version of the FT-86 concept that previews Toyota's upcoming rear-wheel drive compact coupe.
Being one of the favorites at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon that opened Friday in Japan, Toyota couldn't but present a concept model of its latest generation Prius hybrid. Like the FT-86 G Sports Concept that also made its world premiere today at Japan's largest tuning show, the Prius G Sports Concept previews a new series of performance models based on series production cars called "G Sports" that will be sold through Toyota's dealers in Japan.
The G Sports package includes all kinds of cosmetic and performance goodies, but curiously enough, none that concern the gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain...
