Ford Cuts Prices on 2008 Escape and Escape Hybrid

DEARBORN, Mich. — The Ford Motor Company has announced that its base 2008 Escape XLS will start at $19,245, including a $665 destination charge, which is a $740 reduction over the 2007 Escape. The '08 Escape Hybrid also gets a price cut of $580 versus the '07 model. The vehicles will be in showrooms by March.

The 2008 Escape Hybrid will start at $25,740, including shipping. Ford said its 2008 Escape XLT V6, the model that is expected to account for half of all Escape sales, will start at $22,545.

The '08 Escape gets an exterior and interior restyling, with what Ford describes as a "bold" face, and such new options as a navigation system for gas models.

The base engine is a carryover 2.3-liter inline-4 that makes 153 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque. Other engine choices include a 3.0-liter V6 and the inline-4 Atkinson Cycle hybrid engine.

Ford said gas models of the Escape will get standard side curtain airbags and AdvanceTrac with roll stability control. New features include an MP3 audio input jack, 16-inch wheels and second-row 60/40-split fold-flat seats. A new Limited Luxury package bundles dual electric automatic temperature control, driver and front passenger heated seats, heated sideview mirrors, reverse sensing and steering-wheel audio controls.

© Source: article on insideline

2007 IMSA Lamborghini Gallardo GTV

(from IMSA Press Release) IMSA Gallardo GTV
The breathtaking IMSA Gallardo’s visual attraction is unmistakable. Thanks to its progressive and intuitive technology, this extraordinary sports car also has fascinating inner values to its name.

Despite its state-of-the-art complexity, the midengine sports car’s technology is absolutely suitable for everyday use. For example, the exciting 5.0L V10 featuring more than 600hp and satisfying any desire for superior performance by means of a torque that will send cold shivers down your spine while promising astounding reserves. The performance-increased power train’s manufacturing and quality control is processed by high-end machines which are elsewhere applied for Formula 1 purposes only. Thereby, the standard product’s precision is further outdone. Any customer may watch the machines’ precise and filigree “dance” online. The 4WD system is laid out in a sporty fashion and will guarantee driving fun even in adverse weather conditions.

Without interfering with the original line, the body-kit conscious of tradition is harmonically absorbed by the body in order to make it complete. The IMSA’s design makes sportiness and exclusive appearance follow exactly the same line. The double-spoke rims featuring central locking do unconditionally obey this concept. The precisely adjustable sports chassis will be tuned according to the customer’s wishes. Brakes being provided with well thought-out safety reserves guarantee a deceleration with racing car qualities. Almost passionately, the eight and six piston callipers embrace the luxuriously dimensioned discs. The finest materials are to be found in the interior. Fragrant leather, comfy alcantara, high quality aluminium and CFRP come together in a haptic climax. – After comprehensive advisory, tailored to the customer’s wishes. – IMSA – Italian temperament and German engineering unified for the highest of qualities.

© Source: article on seriouswheels.com

GM Introducing 2007 Opel GT

RUSSELSHEIM, Germany — In an impressive example of how global collaboration can work, General Motors on Thursday rolled out the 264-horsepower 2007 Opel GT, the European variant of the Saturn Sky Red Line.

The Opel roadster, which hits showrooms in March, will start at the equivalent of $39,675.

The new Opel two-seater will be built at the Wilmington, Delaware, plant next to its sister models, the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky. The Opel GT is nearly identical to its American sibling, except for a few changes that include badging, grille trim and taillamps.

Jointly developed by GM Powertrain engineers on both sides of the Atlantic, the Opel GT is equipped with a 264-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine based on the 2.2-liter direct injection unit available in the Vectra model range since 2004 and on the 2.0-liter turbo induction unit that made its debut in the Vectra GTS in spring 2003.

It has an output of 264 hp at 5,300 rpm and maximum torque of 260 pound-feet at 2,500 rpm. The engine is linked to a five-speed manual transmission.

The roadster accelerates from zero to 62 mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of approximately 143 mph.

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, antilock brakes, an electronic stability program and power accessories.

© Source: article on insideline