BMW X5 M: Official Video of Prototype Model

BMW X5 M: Official Video of Prototype Model

The M version of the X5 has been an on-off story ever since BMW introduced the first generation model of its mid-sized luxury SUV in 1999. Now, for the first time, BMW has not only publicly admitted than it's working on a X5 M variant, but the Bavarian automaker went one step further by releasing an official video of a prototype model undergoing testing. BMW did not disclose any specific details, with the video showing Bernd Limmer from BMW M GmbH driving the X5 M prototype at the Nurburging race track and at the same time explaining what's so special about the M models. No word yet on when -and if- the BMW X5 M will find its way into production.

2010 Kia Soul Mini-MPV

2010 Kia Soul Mini-MPV Inside and Out

First of all, allow us to say that it is not at all certain that Kia's new mini MPV model will use the Soul name. However, the car which bears the codename YN, does share the same platform with the new Kia Soul as well as with the Hyundai i20. Set to take the fight to the Opel Meriva, Nissan Note and Honda Jazz when it's launched at the end of 2009, Kia's new little MPV will offer more space and practicality than its faux-crossover Soul sibling.

The prototype model's heavy camouflage does not allow us to see any exterior details other than the large panoramic roof, but it is apparent that Kia's mini MPV will be less flashy and funky than the Soul. Inside, as is evident from the scoop photos, the mini MPV uses the same three-gauge instrument panel and three-spoke steering wheel as the Soul, though the center console has been completely redesigned. Buyers should expect to find lots of clever folding seats and plenty of storage compartments.

Powertrain options will include 1.6-liter petrol and diesel engines, both producing an output of 126HP, while some markets will also get a 115HP 1.6-liter diesel and a 142HP 2.0-liter gasoline engine.

The new mini-MPV will be manufactured by Kia's sister brand Hyundai at the company's new factory at Nosovice in the Czech Republic, although Korean versions are likely to be built in Korea. Production of Hyundai's version of the mini-MPV, which will replace the Matrix, will start in the Czech factory by 2011.

Expect to see Kia's little minivan making its global premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2009.

For Sale: Unique Bugatti Veyron Vincero by Mansory

For Sale: Unique Bugatti Veyron Vincero by Mansory

With so much money going around in Dubai, even a Bugatti Veyron seems passé these days. Having said that, it's not at all surprising that you can find cars in Dubai that you've never heard about like this Mansory-prepped Veyron called Bugatti Vincero, which is up for sale by Prestige Cars. There's no official information on the customized Veyron other than that, according to Prestige Cars, only three examples have been built. Bugatti Elijah is also 1 of the best and amazing car. Bugatti Chiron beat all the concepts but a remarkable choice for beauty.

From the pictures we see that the Veyron-based Vincero features an awesome paint job complemented by a nice set of black alloy wheels and plenty of carbon fiber parts. The interior has also been overhauled - though in a less tasty way. Prestige Cars has not said how much it's asking for the Vincero but we gather that our readers Christmas presents combined wouldn't even do the job.

2010 Lexus HS 250h Dedicated Hybrid Sedan Confirmed for Detroit Show

2010 Lexus HS 250h Dedicated Hybrid Sedan Confirmed for Detroit Show

We've been hearing rumors about Lexus' first dedicated hybrid model for quite a while now, but today, the Japanese automaker officially confirmed that the all-new HS 250h will make its worldwide debut at next month's 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Lexus has not disclosed any official information whatsoever on the HS 250h, but according to the grapevine, the dedicated hybrid sedan will be similar in size to the company's IS Sedan.

Sources also suggest that the HS 250h will be initially launched in 2009 with conventional nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries, but will switch to lithium-ion cells by the end of 2010. Stay tuned on SpeedVsLuxurious.blogspot.com for more details on the highly anticipated Lexus hybrid model.

Nissan GT-R Tuned by Cobra

Nissan GT-R Tuned by Cobra N+ with up to 620HP

German tuning firm COBRA N+ has announced the development of a new performance package for the GT-R that will be available just in time for the Japanese sportscar's European market launch in the spring of 2009. In standard form, after its recent facelift that is the four-wheel drive GT-R comes equipped with a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 485HP. COBRA N+ is readying two performance packages for the GT-R.

The first tuning stage is projected to deliver 550HP, with an increase in torque to 680 Nm. To achieve this, the twin-turbocharged engine electronics were reprogrammed, boost pressure was increased by 0.15 bar and the air intake was modified with sport air filters. Also under development is a free-flow COBRA N+ stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts.

With this package the Nissan GT-R from COBRA N+ will sprint to 100 km/h (62 km/h) in less than 3.5 seconds, on its way to a top speed of some 320 km/h (199 mph). The second tuning package which is still under development, will boost output to a hefty 620 HP and peak torque to approximately 800 Nm.

MORE ABOUT NISSAN GT-R TUNED BY COBRA CAR

1,104 hp Zenvo ST1 Danish supercar

1,104 hp Zenvo ST1 Danish supercar

Over the years, we’ve seen a lot of supercars created by small companies, but this definitely is one of the most interesting we’ve seen lately. Created by the Danish startup company Zenvo Automotive, the Zenvo ST1 is a rear wheel drive supercar powered by a turbocharged and supercharged 7.0 liter V8 engine delivering an whooping 1,104 hp. Yup, no typos there, 1,104 hp. With the engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, the ST1 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.0 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 375 km/h (233 mph).

And if that’s not impressive enough, the car also looks extremely attractive, with polished stainless steel exhaust outlets, carbon-fiber body panels, light tinted glass, forged aluminum wheels (19 inch front and 20 rear) and the mettalic paint.

According to Zenvo, the ST1 has been in development since 2004 and they hope the first customers will get their cars next year. Though no mention on the pricing, one thing’s for sure, those will be some really lucky customers.

MORE ABOUT ZENVO ST1

Ferrari California

Ferrari California

From mid October to early November, Ferrari invited more than 300 journalists from all over the world to Sicily to test-drive its latest supercar, The California. As you can see in our picture gallery after the jump, the members of the press had the chance not only to discover the attractions of the new coupe-convertible Ferrari but also the unspoilt beauty of western Sicily. The California, which is mechanically related to both the Maserati GranTurismo and Alfa Romeo 8C, comes with a retractable hardtop and is powered by a 4.3-liter V8 engine delivering an output of 460 HP.