Volkswagen Phaeton Facelifted Facelift Spied Testing

Volkswagen took quite a bit of flack for the Phaeton when it was launched in 2002. Critics admitted that it's a really great car but that VW had no business making such a big expensive vehicle and going after BMW's 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz's S-Class when the group had the Audi A8. No amount of bad publicity or sagging sales discouraged VW.

Now a second facelift is in order after the first one was completed in 2007. The 2007 job actually lifted sales and the company is probably counting on this one to do the same before a complete replacement appears in 2011.

From these spy pictures it seems that the front end will benefit from a redesign. So will the rear end apparently. Bumpers, lights and the bonnet should also get a nip and tuck. The front grille is possibly being redesigned to be more in sync with the current VW design language.

A number of engines will be carried over into the facelift while a few new others will be introduced. There is talk of the new Audi V12 TDI and a hybrid making the lineup too to make the car attractive for a possible American debut.

source :worldcarfans.com

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Rolls Royce Ghost Spied in White Livery

Just days after catching a two-tone Rolls-Royce Ghost, our spy photographers have managed to get the first pictures of a prototype decked out in white. Although the photos don't provide any new details about the upcoming entry-level model, they show the Ghost in one of the brand's most popular colors.

Commonly referred to as the "baby" Rolls-Royce, the 2010 Ghost is actually a massive car as it measures 5399mm (212.6 inches) in length, 3295mm (129.7 inches) in wheelbase, 1948mm (76.7 inches) in width, and 1550mm (61 inches) in height.

Power comes from a new 6.6-liter turbocharged V12 engine with more than 500 bhp. The engine is connected to an eight-speed ZF gearbox which was tuned to deliver unparalleled shift comfort and responsiveness. In order to keep this beast under control, Rolls-Royce has equipped the Ghost with an advanced air suspension system that offers dynamic handling while preserving a luxurious ride quality.

The Ghost will be officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, with production beginning shortly thereafter.

source : www.worldcarfans.com

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Exclusive BMW M3 Edition Models Revealed

BMW is releasing a new version of their popular M3. The BMW M3 Edition Models will be available beginning this summer with several cosmetic changes and a dropped suspension.

The decision by BMW to release this edition now is a little surprising considering the fourth generation M3 is barely two years old. In a sluggish automotive market, perhaps BMW is trying to build a bit of momentum with their M-division.

Whatever the reason, the car does have some interesting cosmetic work. Available in three non-metallic colors (Alpine White, Black, and Dakar Yellow), as well as Monte Carlo Blue Metallic, the M3 Edition Models will have an interior specifically designed to match the exterior paint. A chrome package is included standard to accentuate "the truly sophisticated character of the Edition Models." They use a dark, eloxy-plated chrome for the quad tailpipes, kidney grille, and side gills. The color tone perfectly matches the blacked-out 19-inch M-series light alloy rims. Or, if you prefer, you can get the rims in either silver or a contrasting white. We recommend going with the dark rims, because they will also match the black mirror caps.

Inside, BMW uses white material on the center console and door-panel armrests when the vehicle is purchased with either a white or black exterior. Carbon Structure leather with white seams is also used. Black leather is used on the seats, with white seams. However, on the Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo Blue editions the chosen exterior color is used throughout the interior, including on the back- and leg-rests. Armrests and door handles also use the exterior colors for contrasting seams. M-badged trim bars are designed with a checkered flag look.

The Alpine White model, with white interior accents and blacked out wheels, looks pretty hot. There are a few pictures here you can cycle through.

In addition to this, the entire M3 Edition Model has a body that is lowered by 10 millimeters. All of these vehicles come with a 4.0-liter V8 producing 420 hp. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard, with the M-series double-clutch Drivelogic system available as an option.

The BMW M3 Edition Models will be available beginning in July 2009. The new edition will only be sold for six months.

source:worldcarfans.com

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