Jeep Wrangler 2D

Road reminiscent steep "American slides, mud-filled trenches and ditches. Overcoming them - quite normal for the Jeep Wrangler 2D.

2008 Jeep Wrangler


The full-power Jeep Wrangler 2D is as unique as its fans - people, confident in themselves and prefer routine in a violent life. The Jeep Wrangler 2D is the joy of life.


Truck distinguishes outstanding capabilities Full power transmission. On the Jeep Wrangler 2D you visit anywhere they want, regardless of the quality of roads and weather conditions.


Jeep ® Jeep Wrangler 2D is the most famous open SUV in the world. In this brave woven harmoniously the Jeep Wrangler 2D design and legendary off-road opportunities inherent in a brand Jeep that gives customers about the excellent road storm.


A direct descendant of the first-famous Jeep Willys MB of 1941 - the new Jeep Wrangler 2D car for the 65 years of its existence and development has become a legend and recognized leader among wheel-drive vehicles.


Built on the basis of an original structure failed Jeep vehicles, the new vehicle is equipped with completely renovated frame. Changed its appearance and interior design, new engines and modern means of security. Cars became more powerful, sophisticated, spacious, comfortable, converted to travel in the open air, economical and safe.


Interiors of the new Jeep Wrangler 2D logical continuation of the external design: it looks like the straight and courageous, but also provides passengers a new level of comfort, space and convenience.


All versions of the new Jeep Wrangler 2D have more spacious front zone to accommodate passengers: compared to the previous model, Cabin width increased by 11.8 cm at the thighs, and at 13.1 cm at the shoulder.


New seats are anatomical shape conforming to the shape of the human body and, therefore, provide reliable support. In addition, adjustable seat height allows the driver to settle with maximum convenience by taking the optimal driving position. Fabric against the emergence of resistant stains not absorbs odors and is not discolored.


On the rear seat is freely sit down two adult passengers, as the width of the passenger compartment in the shoulder increased by 9.9 cm, in the thighs by 4 cm and the gap grew to kneel on the 3 cm (compared to the previous model Jeep Wrangler 2D).


Rear seats can be folded to increase the luggage compartment. The length of the cargo compartment behind the back of the rear seats, increased by 5 cm more space for rear seat backs increases the luggage compartment the new Jeep Wrangler 2D almost doubled.


Interiors of the new Jeep Wrangler 2D Unlimited can accommodate five adult passengers, for the first time in the history of Jeep Wrangler 2D models, and has a wealth than ever for baggage volume and variety of seating configurations.

Rear passengers will appreciate the great foot space (94.5 cm) and the width of the passenger compartment at the level of thighs (144 cm). Panel rear seat (with a ratio of Sections 60/40) can be put down to the level of sex - this provides the greatest overall space for baggage, which had the Jeep Wrangler 2D ever.

In all versions of the basic equipment includes the Jeep Wrangler 2D petrol engine V-6, with a working volume of 3.8 liters and upper-location distribution shafts. The engine develops power 198 hp and torque 315 N o m, this engine is equipped 4-step automatic transmission.

New 3,8-liter engine V-6 consumes 11.9 liters of fuel per 100 km in the mixed cycle traffic, whether on what version of the car it used Jeep Wrangler 2D.

For the first time, "civilian" cars Jeep Wrangler 2D and Wrangler Unlimited is proposed diesel engine. This feeding system with diesel fuel "Common Rail" and working volume of 2.8 liters develops power 177 hp and maximum torque 400 N o m in the range of 2000 to 2600 min-1.

The Jeep Wrangler 2D engine type "Panther" has a working volume of 2777 cm3 and equipped with the electronic system changes geometry turbocharger (VGT), which also contributes to a significant improvement in engine performance over the previous model.

Its weight reduced by about 6% (to 15 kg), a lifetime of modern transmission increased from 100000 to 140000 km run. Using the nozzle accelerate fuel injection process and increase the accuracy of regulatory feed. As a result, fuel economy remained at the previous engine, despite the increased power and increased torque.

The new diesel engine 2.8 CRD works with automatic rally. Fuel: up to 10 l/100 km for the Jeep Wrangler 2D and not exceeding 10.3 l/100 km for the Wrangler Unlimited (with mixed cycle driving).

Jeep Wrangler 2D Security

- Next Generation Air bags for the driver and front passenger.

- With programmed deformation zones in the front and rear parts of the body, designed to absorb impact energy and the protection of passengers.

- Adjustable height intermediate loops front seat belts to properly adjust the belt and take passengers comfortable position.

- Disc brake mechanisms for the front wheels / drum brake mechanisms rear wheels.

- Sentry Key engine immobilizer, which provides a high level of protection against hijacking

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

Always the bull is the symbol of power, aggressiveness, and courage: these features of all cars signed Lamborghini.


Bullfighter and bull form symbolic representations in the fighting. This animal-mating antithetical elegance is also a symbiosis of violence and beauty that makes the spectacle of bullfighting particularly attractive.

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640


So faithful to the tradition he wants, always, the bull as a symbol of the prestigious car manufacturer founded by Ferruccio Lamborghini - just born under the sign of the bull - the head of Automobili Lamborghini have decided to baptize the last born of a noble family with the name of a bull. And so, after recalling names or bulls that are linked to the bullfights as Miura, Jslero, Urraca, Bravo, Jalpa and Espada (the latter term indicating the sword, that is the weapon of the bullfighter, and traversed the bullfighter himself) it is now a Murcielago - which among other things in Spanish means "bat" - a new name but certainly effective to express the dynamism, elegance and power of a sporting breed which is the last Lamborghini born. "

Lamborghini Murcielago LP640


"The Lamborghini Murcielago is a car Coupe 2 places and 2 ports (the latter with the opening now feature" vertical ") based on the typical layout Lamborghini: Central rear V12 engine, transmission according to the outline of the House change of place in front of the engine rear differential and "integrated" in the power plant, permanent wheel drive with viscous center coupling.

2003 Lamborghini Murcielago Interior


This layout, strength of the projects Lamborghini for more than three decades, gives an optimal weight distribution (58% and 42% rear front) with obvious positive effects on the characteristics of traction, braking and handling. Even with the suspension (independent articulated quadrilateral) represents the most advantageous for a GT car of high performance and are in line with the Lamborghini tradition. The exterior body panels are carbon fiber, with the exception of the roof and door panels, which are made of steel.

In the rear there are two taken active air for cooling the engine system VACS (Variable Air-flow Cooling System ") with a variable aperture section. In addition, to ensure a smooth aerodynamic balance at any speed, the tail was a wing to tilt also varies. Depending on the speed of the car, the rear wing can take three different positions: 0 to 130 km / h closed, between 130 and 220 km / h partially open (50th) and over 220 km / h fully open (70 ° approx).

The exterior mirrors are electrically folding, and arms support and cap of considerable size to allow for "milestones" the rear fenders that are very pronounced, especially taken in open air, but without compromising the stability of the same even at high speeds. The "mission" was to draw a worthy heir to the Lamborghini Diablo: the new car would be exciting, unmistakable, but also safe and ergonomic.

Surely the line Lamborghini Murcielago is linked to the genome of the Lamborghini and its plan will honor the most significant icons formal. In its line are the architecture or, more precisely, the structuring of surfaces and the wedge of the Countach, the sensual tension of the Miura volumes and proportions outside the town of Diablo, with its advanced cockpit.

The Lamborghini Murcielago is characterized in particular from the body of the passenger car: the idea is "a people", made famous by the Countach and Diablo, which puts tension in a single arc from front to rear and stresses thus form a wedge.

The Lamborghini Murcielago is a car superlative, whose mechanical structure does not, nor requires no imagination: its line must reflect this and therefore does not present any superfluous ornamentation, no gadgets. In a word: a pure line. With a strong momentum of athleticism, obtained by reducing the visual changes and amplifying the masses "muscle", situated above and around the wheels. The curves of the body, with their complex tensions, interact and merge into one.

Its silhouette, whose proportions are dictated by strong connotations formal and edges, takes inspiration from the solutions adopted on famous "stealth". The dynamic surface for cooling and downforce and then have originated in the aeronautical field, in which, more than any other, has the function to dictate the form.

And this line, so inspired by that of the fighter jet, must be particularly efficient. Each serving technique is conducted by an active system: in this way the aerodynamic efficiency is not compromised by thermodynamic added a goal or aerodynamic when it is not necessary.

The propeller of the Lamborghini Murcielago - which is in good standing with the most stringent standards antiinquinamento valid in all countries of the world, including the United States, Japan and Europe - is a 12-cylinder V-60th of 6192 cc entirely fueled by aluminum unleaded petrol, which has a power of 580 hp (426 kW) at 7500 rpm and a torque of 650 Nm at 5400 rpm.

The torque curve is optimized in the field of operation (including schemes relatively low for a motor sports), using a system of variable-geometry intake (VIS), a system of phase change (VVT) is on the intake camshaft is about to exhaust bodies and electronic throttle control ( "drive-by-wire") that allow a reduction of pollutant emissions and improved monitoring of the minimum and handling . In particular, it should be noted that already at 2000 rpm torque of the Lamborghini Murcielago is greater than the value of maximum torque of the majority of Granturismo cars on the market today.

Compared to its predecessor, also fit the lubrication system "a dry sump" ("dry sump"), which allows a lowering of the whole group power by 50mm, resulting in lower benefits of the center of gravity.

The system of variable-geometry intake it is essentially based on the variation of the geometry of aspiration "upstream" of the primary conduits and is based on three different modes of behavior, obtained through the opening and closing of two butterfly valves (one Plenum on and carried on a bypass), managed by the power control engine Lamborghini "LIE".

Totally unprecedented is the above-mentioned system "VACS" ("Variable Air-flow Cooling System). A high-performance car obviously requires a high engine power. This engine in turn requires an adequate "cooling engine", i.e. a system of jacks air cooling radiators. In a traditional project it must be taken such size taking into account the conditions of employment more critical, for example in case of high temperatures, even if a corresponding short periods of use (on average 15% of the life of the car). This implies taken air oversized compared to "average", thus penalizing the aerodynamic characteristics, and thus reducing performance of the car.

To escape from this logic the Automobili Lamborghini SpA has made the cooling system with air taken in variable geometry can vary the section of way depending on the request of the engine and external temperature conditions. In this way is reduced to cases of necessity (as explained above average 15% of the life of the car) the aerodynamic penalty caused from the air.

The system has two rear side air taken by opening a compass, two positions: closed (O °) or open (20th). The transition from one position to another can be controlled automatically according to operating conditions (water temperature and engine temperature) or manually at the discretion of the driver (via button, only motor starts). Not missing a security strategy, which has become operational in the event of obstacle to normal movement: a warning light indicates the possible malfunction?

With 580 hp (426 kW) maximum power of its propeller 12-cylinder V-60, and maximum torque of 650 Nm from 7500 rpm, the Lamborghini Murcielago can exceed 330 km / h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km / h in 3.8 seconds. Compared to previous models, the handling of the Lamborghini Murcielago has benefited from a substantial improvement, which was obtained through a more regular curve of torque, increased power, the new 6-speed exchange and improvement of the management of electronic power. The progress in terms of performance and handling, even during the most severe sporting uses, is accompanied by an equally substantial improvement in ride comfort. "

The management and control of motor parameters and the car is done through a system of 3 Units "master" and 1 satellite unit, namely 2 power management engine Lamborghini "LIE", 1 unit Lamborghini "GFA" ( "Management Functions Ausiliarie" ) And 1 unit Lamborghini "PMC" (Power Motor Control ", the satellite unit). The connections between these units are via CAN BUS.

In particular, each of the 2 LIE microprocessor 32 bit/20Mhz manages and controls an engine block, with differentiation of functions and recognition at the assembly through an identification pin, while the "car" are borne by GFA and PMC with Microprocessor 32 bit/20MhZ and 80-pin connector each.

Control algorithms designed to ensure the passing of the standard U.S., Europe and Japan. "TRANSMISSION" As anticipated, changing the Lamborghini Murcielago is a 6-speed transmission while maintaining the typical layout Lamborghini.

For greater rigidity of the system and greater stability in the basic operation, the tree primary and secondary are three media (against two of Diablo).

Lubrication is a forced, with internal pump to return. The use to synchronize the new generation (double and triple cone) and the optimization of kinematics control have led to a significant reduction in the effort to drive lever command change.

The rear differential is flanged to the engine for the possibility of replacement without the complete removal of the vehicle powertrain. The clutch control system is optimized through the use of a "slave cylinder" to coax bearing with substantial reduction in the average load the clutch pedal.

Even in the Lamborghini Murcielago was adopted a system of permanent four-wheel drive with viscous center coupling ( "Viscous Traction), with self rear differential to 45% and 25% earlier. This solution is an active traction control: the torque in excess on the main (rear) is in fact transferred automatically into the secondary axis (front) to keep an ideal traction.

The Murcielago's chassis has been significantly tightened, and has thus reached a value of torsional stiffness of 20,000 Nm. Achieving this goal was a key objective of the program of development of the car, and obtaining this result has resulted in significant improvements in the performance of the car: a better behavior of the suspension, more comfort driving and a significant reduction of internal noise.

The connections between the parties in steel and carbon fiber are obtained through bonding and steel rivets. In the chassis, which has a structural steel roof and a fund linked to carbon tubular structure, are used ribbed sheets printed, also with structural function.

These, in particular, the improvements achieved compared to the previous frame (Diablo). In the area earlier had been an advancement of 15 mm shock of the attacks, attacks torsion bar front suspension and attacks (pass car = 2665mm), the replacement of some of the tubes and panels in the area of the rear wheel arches, with a panel carbon fiber, linked to the perimeter of the tubular structure, as in the geometry of the bottom against the progress of the front axle for better accessibility and increased space for housing the pedal.

The suspensions, four-wheel independent quadrilaterals articulated arm in steel and hydraulic shock absorbers with electronic calibration in scope and automatic manual, were optimized to achieve excellent performance with regard to handling and stability in straight line. The improvements were mainly springs and shock absorbers, the anti-roll bars - front and rear - and the new setting total suspensions themselves.

The size of the circles wheel, aluminum valves and demise, are 8 ½ x 18 "(front) and 13 x 18" (rear) tires of the measures, which are PIRELLI P Zero "RED", are respectively 245 / 35 ZR 18 and 335/30 ZR 18. The wheel circles have benefited from a new design with floating valves that allow better circulation of cooling air around disc brakes and calipers. The tires provide better ride comfort, a reduction in rolling noise and improved performance of the car.

The safety skills are among the strengths of Lamborghini Murcielago. The braking system consists of four disc brakes with brake caliper four cylinders, hydraulic transmission to two independent circuits, one for the front axle and the other for the rear. At includes a hydraulic pump in tandem, a servo vacuum, the emergency brake and parking. Obviously this is also an anti-lock system (ABS) to 4 channels with DRP (electronic braking distribution) and TCS. "

The anti-lock braking system, such as TRW, is an integral part of the braking system basis and consists of a unit of electro-hydraulic control and 4 wheel speed sensors.

The system can monitor and control each wheel independently (4-channel system). To maintain the condition of security guaranteed by the full independence of the 2 hydraulic circuits (one for the front brakes and one for the rear) of the hydraulic control are double, and no part of the system is in common.

In case of failure of the anti-lock system, marked by special red light placed on the dashboard, the basic braking system will continue to operate normally. Compared to the previous model, was scaling the "DRP" (Dynamic Rear Proportioning), which is additional to that basic respect and ensure in all conditions - even those that do not involve the intervention of ABS base - the optimum allocation of braking between the front and rear.

Even the standard of passive safety of the Lamborghini Murcielago are decidedly high were adopted two airbags, a first pilot of 60 liters with a single inflator and passenger side of 130 liters with dual inflator that comes from a new dashboard cover, saddle, without seams. Both are controlled by a new unit.

In the Lamborghini Murcielago have been met all the stringent safety standards EU, Japan and USA: occupant protection FMVSS 201, FMVSS 208 occupant crash protection, side impact protection FMVSS214, FMVSS 301 Integrity plant fuel, materials Flammability FMVSS 302, FMVSS 401 trunk for Security Children and some 581 Bumpers.

At the wheel of the Lamborghini Murcielago everything is under control. The instrumentation, clear and precise, includes an electronically controlled group that integrates into a single plan all the instruments and their functions with many improvements and aesthetic quality and is directly interfaced through a CAN line, a unit Lamborghini "GFA" ("body computer").

In the new instrument panel has also integrated the "trip computer" that controls the functions of average and maximum speed, maximum acceleration, remaining, stopwatch and voltmeter.

Among the other driver's aids are to report the Electrically operated for closing the exterior mirrors, heated electrically, the mirror Anti Procedure and the "lifting system" which allows, at low speed, 45mm to raise the front axle of the car .

The interior is leather steering wheel with sports (also in leather) to three races and the shifter selector with steel and steel: This is a detail that derives from an ancient tradition Lamborghini. Were also provided numerous storage compartments and the additional radio-loading CD has been specially designed for specific Lamborghini.

Among the optional expected the short gear ratios and the navigation system. The sportsmanship of the Lamborghini Murcielago remains certainly nothing to comfort, which is noticeably improved compared to the Diablo.

It is definitely increased the comfort noise result of the optimization of materials used, the elimination of steps unwanted noise, the adoption of integrated panels and the use of insulation in the wheel, which help to reduce noise rolling.

The Murcielago's climate allows for adjustment of temperature of between 16 and 31 degrees Celsius, the automatic distribution of the passenger depending on the season and temperature outlet from the group, the automatic control of speed ventilation with eight different levels, the auto recycling and the compressor.

The limits of operation of the air conditioning Lamborghini Murcielago, which also maintains an office defroster automatic and allows a full self, remain between -29 and 55 degrees Celsius temperature outside.

Honda Civic Type R New

Driving pleasure and performance, but also practicality - the synonym for this combination is tempting: Honda Civic Type R. around the differing demands of Type R future customers more effectively, the athletic form of the first Civic in various equipment options.


In addition to the corresponding previous model, the new version can Honda Civic Type R and fully equipped, and ordered to be radically reduced. With the enhanced offer Honda contributes to the individual wishes of the Honda Civic Type R-customer accounts and wants, the success of the first Type R is not only repeat, but also still exceeded. First, the new Honda Civic Type R to the international audience at the Paris Motor Show presented, the sale will start in spring 2007.


Due to the excellent performance, levels of its predecessor model Honda saw no need to change the engine power increase. The new Honda Civic Type R is therefore also with a 2.0 l DOHC i-VTEC aspirated with almost identical performance.


It was refined in detail and the response by a new wave of compensation, and "drive-by-wire" throttle control. The maximum power of 201 hp at 8,000 is now U/min-1 achieved (so far: 200 hp at 7,400 U/min-1).


Despite slightly fewer empty weight and the rigid body, the performance data with those of the previous model (6.6 seconds from 0 to 100 km / h, maximum speed of 235 km / h) almost identical.

Honda Civic Type R Concept


Because of better aerodynamics, the air resistance and reduced a modified gearbox translation offset slightly in the empty weight. The combination of Honda's intelligent variable valve timing with i-VTEC variable intake camshaft control VTC.

Honda Civic Type R Interior


The body of the new Civics also forms the basis for the Type S and Type R models. As with the Type S is the track width of the rear axle by 20 mm wide, yet sportier configuration of the shock and compensatory bushings and springs remain, however, the Honda Civic Type R reserved.


Tires - the dimension 225/40 Z R18 provide additional liability, while reducing ground clearance by 15 mm to the stability of the car. It was also the focus of the body by the central location of the fuel tanks below the soil of the passenger compartment lowered. A streamlined, and a more direct steering transmission ratio sports provide a response.


The new Civic has one of the most stable bodies in the C-segment. Those of Honda Civic Type R were further optimized, and play an important role in the particularly strong driving dynamics.

Honda Civic Type R Engine


The results are much better driving characteristics compared to the previous model, and the values of driving dynamics and stability are among the best in this class. At the same time, the shock absorbers vote in the new Honda Civic Type R a more comfortable ride.

The vicious design makes the new Honda Civic Type R unmistakable. The aerodynamics are harmoniously integrated and underline - together with low ground clearance, the standard 18 "seven-spoke alloy wheels, front spoiler with larger air intake and fog lamps, and triangular shaped exhaust as end pieces - the performance. At the rear there is an unmistakable, in vehicle color painted spoilers. More subtly held detection features are Type-R logo on the front calipers, and the traditional red "H" on the honeycomb grille.

Entry strips of stainless steel, sport bucket seats in black with red Alcantara and held red seats and back parts can be no doubt that this vehicle for pure driving enjoyment has been developed. Of the other Civic models is the Honda Civic Type R dual-link cockpit illuminated by red specially designed instruments and controls. Its exclusivity proves the Honda Civic Type R also by a front of the shifter attached metal plaque engraved with a serial number of the vehicle.

First, the Honda Civic Type R in a version with all the extras. For upscale features include head airbags, cruise control, fog lights, rain sensor and a two-zone automatic climate control. A modern navigation system with voice control and dynamic route guidance (TMC) is optional.

To the philosophy of the Honda Civic Type R into account, it is also a "light" version. By waiving components such as audio system, luggage compartment cover, underbody protection for the engine and parts of the sound-insulation materials, the vehicle weight by 40 kg reduced. The Honda Civic Type R is for the FIA Group N and A are allowed.

Honda will build on the Geneva Motor Show the Honda Civic Type R show - albeit only as a concept car. After the five-brother, but almost identical concept to production vehicle, is the first view is certainly very close to the series.

The already known 200 horsepower 2.0 litre i-VTEC engine from its predecessor, will also discuss the future Honda Civic Type R drive.

Also in Geneva earlier this year will be the new, specially developed for Europe Legend. Its 3.5-liter V6 VTEC with 24 valves makes 295 hp at 6000 rpm and 353 Nm at 5000 rpm. Standard on board is the so-called Super Handling all-wheel drive (SH-AWD) by Honda, the perfectly with the vehicle stability programme VSA harmony.

Hennessey Z700: Track-Ready 2010 Corvette ZR1 with 705HP, 775HP or 1000HP

Eager to satisfy those who believe that too much horsepower is never enough, Hennessey Performance Engineering has introduced an uber-Corvette in the form of the 2010 ZR1-based Z700. The American tuner claims that the track-orientated Z700 is to the Corvette what the GT3 RS is to the Porsche 911 and the ACR to the Viper. To be produced in a limited run of 24 units for the 2010MY, the Z700 features an array of performance enhancements including an upgraded version of the ZR1's LS9 V8 engine.

The upgraded supercharger, exhaust and air induction systems help lift output from 638 horsepower to 705 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and peak torque to 717 lb-ft at 3,200 rpm. The result is a zero to 60mph (96km/h) sprint time of just 2.9 seconds while the quarter mile is covered in 10.6 seconds at 134 mph. The standard 2010 Corvette ZR1's times are 3.4 seconds and 11.3 seconds at 131 mph respectively.

And if that ain't enough, Hennessey also offers two optional power kits that boost output to 775HP and a massive 1,000HP.

Additional mods on the Z700 include a set of lightweight carbon fiber wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires, which Hennessey says reduce rotating weight by nearly 60 lbs, a lowered suspension and a new aero parts such as the carbon fiber front splitter, canards and rear spoiler that are said to add over 300 lbs of downforce.

Inside, the tuner has upgraded the ZR1's cabin with lightweight carbon fiber seats and Alcantara steering wheel and shift knob.

The price for the basic Z700 including the 2010 ZR1 donor car has been set at $207,150 US or at today's exchange rates, €149,312. That's almost double the price of the factory 2010 Corvette ZR1 638HP that starts from $104,920 and four-times the cost of the basic Corvette Coupe 430HP V8 that begins from $49,515.

Hyundai starts accepting Cash-for-Clunkers trade-ins early

2009 Hyundai Elantra Touring

While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration doesn't plan to release its final rules and regulations for the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS), otherwise known as Cash-for-Clunkers program, until July 23rd, Hyundai has decided that its customers don't have to wait. Alexandria Hyundai in Alexandria, VA has already accepted the first trade-in and doled out its first rebate. The clunker is a 15-mpg 1995 Ford Explorer, and Katherine Michon of Arlington, VA traded it in for a $4,500 credit on a brand new 26-mpg Hyundai Elantra Touring.

How can Hyundai get away with accepting clunkers early? The automaker is giving dealers short-term cash advances to cover the cost of its rebates until the CARS program officially kicks off later this month. Hyundai has 13 models with particular engine combinations that qualify for CARS, and the NHTSA has already confirmed that transactions on or after July 1, 2009 are eligible.

This could be a brilliant move on Hyundai's part, since its own internal research shows that 11 percent of car shoppers have delayed their purchase to take advantage of the rebates. If Hyundai is the only game in town that's accepting trade-ins and giving rebates early, it could steal a few sales away from other brands that are waiting patiently for the program to officially begin.

On the other hand, the NHTSA warns on the CARS official website that "interested dealers and consumers may want to wait until all of the detailed issues that must be addressed in the implementing regulations are resolved and the final rule is issued." By that time, however, you'll be driving around in a new car and getting reimbursed for the rebate will by Hyundai's problem.

GM North American design chief Bryan Nesbitt to run Cadillac, report to Lutz

Shakeups in the RenCen continue apace. You know how Bob Lutz says that General Motors will be design-driven going forward? It looks as if he wasn't kidding. Later today, GM will formally announce that current North American design head Brian Nesbitt will assume a new and very different role as the general manager of the Cadillac division.

Nesbitt will report directly to Bob Lutz, according to reports published by Automotive News and The New York Times Wednesday evening. Bryan Nesbitt is perhaps best known for his work designing the Chrysler PT Cruiser and later, its crosstown retro rival, the Chevy HHR. Among his other responsibilities in his present design role at GM, Nesbitt recently oversaw the Cadillac CTS Coupe and SportWagon projects. He officially takes the reins at Caddy on August 1. Cadillac's interim general managers, Steve Hill and Steve Shannon, will be reassigned to as-yet-unannounced roles within General Motors according to spokesman Terry Rhadigan, who talked to Automotive News.

2010 Smart Fortwo: 21 Percent More Power, Same Fuel Consumption for Diesel Model

Smart has introduced the 2010 model year Fortwo that benefits from a revised diesel engine as well as from minor optimizations for the petrol units. The re-engineered 3-cylinder diesel now has an output of 54HP or 21 percent more power than before and a maximum torque of 130Nm, an increase of 18 percent. Even though the more powerful diesel makes the Fortwo more lively allowing the mini to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 16.8 sec, combined fuel consumption still stands at 3.4lt/100km (69mpg US) while CO2 emissions also remain at just 88 g/km.

For the petrol range, Smart's engineers optimized the engine and the transmission management in order to comply with the more demanding EU5 exhaust gas standards.

Other changes for the 2010MY Fortwo include new contrast components in shiny pearl black for the interior along with a new folding armrest which is available as an option. Further optional equipment includes the smart hands-free system with a colour display and extensive multimedia functions.

In Europe, the updated Smart Fortwo is available for order now with prices for the petrol models remaining unchanged while the 54HP Fortwo cdi starts from €11,790 in Germany.