Porsche unveiled the 918 Spyder Concept at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, followed by the 918 RSR Racing Lab at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show. Both concepts will be used as base versions for the 918 Spyder production and racing vehicles scheduled to arrive in 2013.
The production version 918 Spyder was officially confirmed for an end of 2013 launch with the first deliveries beginning in early 2014. Porsche will build only 918 units and will price each unit at $845,000 on the US market.
The Porsche 918 Spyder Concept is powered by a 500 HP 3.4 liter V8, along with a pair of electric motors producing 109 horsepower each. But for the production version, this engine will be replaced with an engine featuring a larger displacement of 4.6 liter based on the RS Spyder LMP2 race car. This engine will deliver a total of 550 HP and will be combined with three electric motors that will increase the total output to an impressive 720 HP.
BMW is playing around with its lineup these days, providing a couple of models with different names, depending on their body styles. The first to get that differentiation was the 3-Series, with the sedan and station wagon versions keeping the 3-Series name and the coupe and convertible getting tagged as 4-Series models. The BMW 3-Series sedan has already debuted, but the coupe and convertible models are still undergoing testing proven by the new series of spy shots for the upcoming 4-Series Coupe.
The future BMW 4-Series Coupe will be a smaller version of the current 6-Series with design elements borrowed from its 3-Series sedan brother. But the fact that it is a coupe model will make it sportier and more aggressive. The model will be immediately recognized as a BMW thanks to the usual design features: new-style exposed, three-dimensional BMW double kidney grille and a larger rear window.
Under the hood of the 4-Series, BMW will place the same engines as in the sedan version - including two petrol and two diesel - with output going up to 306 HP for the most powerful version - the 435i.
The current BMW X5 went on sale back in 2006 and after what will end up being eight years, BMW will finally release a brand-spanking new generation X5 in 2014, and we were able to grab some spy shots of its first tests. The new model will be completely redesigned, much lighter compared to the current model, and powered by more fuel efficient engines.
It’s no surprise BMW will be working on their X5, considering Audi and Landrover have announced they will be focusing on lighter models for the future. BMW is matching these statements with a 330 lb drop for the new X5, compared to the current model, through the extensive use of aluminum. It will be offered with the company’s latest turbocharged engine in a smaller capacity and an improved fuel economy. The top version, however, will still enjoy its usual 4.4 liter V8 engine, but with improved figures. It has been rumored that BMW will also offer a hybrid X5.
In addition to the weight drop and engine modifications, the next X5 will also get a revised suspension, improved xDrive all-wheel-drive technology, and systems like lane departure warning and compensation, night vision, park assist, traffic sign recognition, surround view cameras, and active cruise control.
Mercedes is prepping its lineup for a complete overhaul in the next few years, even for its less than spectacular Viano, which is the passenger version of the Vito commercial panel van. The first generation Viano has been on the market since 2004 and was due for a new look.
At first glance, these first spy images of the Viano look to be a hot AMG version with a raised hood and a bigger grille marking the most grandiose of changes. But, before anyone gets too excited, this is just a mule for the next generation Viano and that raised hood and bigger grille are there to make room for the new engine and cooling systems, which were too big to fit under the old setup.
Expect to see the new Viano/Vito make its public debut in late 2013 or 2014, quite possibly next to a Renault version since Mercedes and Renault are working together on both cars and transporters.
Now that Bentley has officially confirmed the production of their future SUV, Lamborghini is reconsidering their choice for the next model in their lineup. Before this, the Estoque sedan was practically a shoe-in for the next spot, but an SUV may be sneaking its way in after all. Insert grunt and groans of disappointment here.
It’s not anywhere near set in stone yet, but if the future Lamborghini lineup includes a new SUV, this may be what it will look like. The first details for the SUV suggest that the model will be built in cooperation with Porsche and will share its platform with the Cayenne. It is also rumored that the next SUV will be a hybrid model combining a V12 engine with an electric motor. The V12 will deliver a total of 600 HP, while the electric motor will offer an all-electric drive range of 15 miles.
If the SUV is produced, Lamborghini will start offering it in limited edition, but the production may be increased depending on the interest in the market. Expect to see the new SUV sometime in 2015.
