Mazda Shinari Concept
By Michael Brose on Sep 01, 2010
Full Story: HERE
"The Mazda Shinari concept gives us a clear idea as to what the next Mazda 6 will look like. The first vehicle wearing a new Mazda design language dubbed Kodo (“Soul of Motion”), the Shinari concept is a gorgeous, if slightly overblown, four-seat coupe that looks like the lovechild of a Maserati GranTurismo and a Jaguar XF. The cab-rearward proportions; swoopy lines; and giant, 21-inch wheels give the impression that Mazda might be going after the likes of Mercedes, BMW, and Audi."
"The Shinari is based on a new architecture that can be front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive. Further proof of this car's future 6-ness comes in the confirmation that the concept's architecture will underpin the next generation of Mazda C- and D-segment vehicles (think Toyota Camry and Honda Accord). We peeked underneath the concept and discovered a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (likely one of the company's new Sky powerplants) driving the front wheels, and a lower-control-arm front-suspension layout."
Source: Caranddriver.com
Mazda Sky-G and Sky-D Engines
By Michael Brose on Sep 01, 2010
With escalating fuel-economy regulations, car manufacturers have been forced to make changes to their line-ups. In response, Mazda has launched a new series of 4-cylinder engines called the Sky-G (gasoline) and Sky-D (diesel).
Full Story: HERE
"Increasing the compression ratio—in this case, to a staggering 14:1 from 11:1 in the current 2.0-liter (the U.S. version is 10:1)—is a classic way to squeeze more work out of the piston's power stroke. But it creates problems, too, because compressing the air/fuel mixture this much causes excess heat build-up in the cylinder, which leads to premature auto-ignition, or knock."
Source: Caranddriver.com
2012 Volkswagen Beetle
By Michael Brose on Sep 01, 2010
VW has finally gotten around to giving the New Beetle a face lift. I'd have to say, it reminds me of an Audi TT.
Full Story: HERE
"Compared to the outgoing model, the next-gen New Beetle sports somewhat more angular details, and a source who has seen the vehicle describes it as 'a sharper, stronger, more substantial car.' The front end draws from the horizontal lines that characterize VW's current portfolio -- without abandoning the trademark round headlights, of course. The side windows are outlined, and the rear end looks more powerful than that of the current model. Still, the look will be immediately recognizable."
Source: Caranddriver.com
