When Ford first introduced the new Focus RS to the European market, it had planned to produce only 1,200 units. However, due to high-demand, Ford of Europe has decided to build an additional 400 units of the 305-hp Ford hatchback – exclusively for sale in German.

Ford said that this is the final decision and that there won’t be any more Focus RS units build after the 400 units are completed.  If you live in Germany and you’re interested, you can order the car now and expect delivery in the early part of 2010.

Click here for more news on the Focus RS.

Refresher: Power comes from a 2.5L 5-cylinder Duratec engine with a large Borg Warner K16 turbocharger. That makes a total of 300-hp and a peak torque.

2009 Ford Focus RS:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Ford (via CarScoop)

If you’ve recently made a trip to the mall, your local Starbucks or even to your local car dealership, you’ve noticed that many retailers have started decorating their stores for the holiday season. Well, a Porsche dealership in the Netherlands is going beyond just adding some lights and a Christmas tree to its store.

To decorate his dealership, Mark Weghe of Porsche Centrum Gelderland invited out the general manager of Barry Callebaut Group (one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world), Eric-Jan Straathof, to cover a brand new 911 Carrera S in chocolate.  Of course before Mark let Eric throw chocolate over a brand new Porsche in his dealership, he wrapped it neatly with plastic.

The chocolate covered 911 Carrera S will remain in the dealership until the end of year. If you’re thinking “oh it will easily melt away,” think again – the temperature in the showroom will be kept under 27 degrees Celsius until 2009 comes to an end.

Chocolate Covered 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera S:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Porsche (via autoblog.nl)

Our favorite segment during the premier of Top Gear season 14 was watching James May being driven by The Stig in the 2009 BMW 760Li as he raced the Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG. You can check out the clip after the jump.

Refresher:

2009 BMW 760Li: 6.0L turbocharged V12 making 535-hp and 550 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic, 0-60 mph comes in just 4.5seconds with a top speed of 160 mph.
2009 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG: 6.2L V8 producing 518-hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed automatic and assists with a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 150 mph.

Click through for the video.

- By: Omar Rana

If you’re someone looking to get into a Pontiac before General Motors shuts the brand down, you better act fast. Tweeting at its Twitter account, Pontiac today listed the number of units for each model left in its dealer inventory.

Here is the list as it stands today:

Pontiac G8 GXP: 16
Pontiac G8 GT: 570
Pontiac G5: 1500
Pontiac Torrent: 400
Pontiac Solstice Coupe: 139
Pontiac Solstice Coupe GXP: 160
Pontiac Vibe: 350
Pontiac G6 GXP: 530

Check out our review of the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP here.

Reviewed: 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP:

- By: Omar Rana

All Photos Copyright ©2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

Source: Twitter

Techart has introduced a modification program for the new 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S that offers up to 35 more horsepower.

The modification includes a new exhaust system with two manifolds and a stainless steel Sportkatanlage, muffler with exhaust flap control unit and an exhaust valve doppelovale tailpipes in gloss black or chrome. All that results in an increase from 385-hp to 420-hp.

To enhance aerodynamics, Techart added a new front spoiler, a roof spoiler and rear wing, a new rear diffuser and new side skirts.

Check out more details after the jump.

Techart 2009 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S:

Press Release:

TECHART Program for Porsche 997 – new performance kit for significantly more power

Leonberg, November 2009 – In an unmistakable look at the IAA be presented TECHART program for the current Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. The individualized Porsche brings perfection of form, sportiness and dynamism, and once again embodies the basic principle of all TECHART products: OEM quality – made in Germany. Available now in the program with this is the new Performance: The components include the exhaust valve “Racing” and a new engine electronics for a notable increase in output by up to 35 hp.

New TECHART performance kit
For the Porsche Carrera S and 4S all-wheel version of one developed TECHART performance kit for listening and feeling. The kit includes a new engine management software and an exhaust valve in the variant “Racing”. The exhaust system includes two manifolds and a stainless steel Sportkatanlage, muffler with exhaust flap control unit and an exhaust valve doppelovale tailpipes in gloss black or chrome. The driver can thereby switch between a sporty-production sound or a powerful racing sound. Overall, the new performance kit provides a clearly noticeable performance increase of 35 horsepower – in the upper rpm range. Optionally, a pure exhaust valve of the variant “sport” is available which, although not a performance boost, it also provides the individual sound experience. The facility consists of muffler with exhaust valve, exhaust valve control unit, and doppelovalen tailpipes in gloss black or chrome.

Aerodynamics and Design
The TÜV-certified Aerokit I is the successful result of intensive development work in the wind tunnel. This increased to improve the use PUR-RIM components of downforce on the axles and also the stability. The front spoiler I, highlights the dynamics of the 911 Carrera and provides by streamlining the flow of air for effective cooling of the brake system. Side emphasizing the powerful sidelines. A roof spoiler and rear wing, three different variants, depending on the requirements to enable an accurate aerodynamic set at the rear. Thus, the variable rear wing IV pitot-air channels and integrates an additional adjustable trailing edge (Gurney flap). The dynamic nature are further complicated by decorative screens for the outside mirrors – made from carbon fiber painted in desired color, Scheinwerferzierblenden, a deep-seated rear diffuser and the new sport exhaust systems emphasized.

TECHART suspension
For sporty, tight handling makes next to a sports spring kit also TECHART TECHART threaded chassis VARIO. For vehicles with PASM, the variant VARIO PLUS is available. Both systems are equipped with threaded shock absorbers with adjustable train and rebound as well as specific main and auxiliary springs. TECHART Formula II and Formula light-alloy wheels, a five-spoked wheel in one or multipieced design underline this sportiness. For the new 911 models is also the TECHART Formula III forged light-alloy forged in the twin-spoke design Available in sizes 19 – and 20-inches. Optional is also the TECHART Noseliftsystem available to overcome curbs or other ramps. By pressing a button the car can be increased by up to 60 millimeters – even while driving up to 60 km / h.

Independent to the last detail: The interior
A wealth of different leather interiors, matching 3-spoke airbag sports steering wheels, aluminum pedals and trim are just a few extras. Custom design is limited by the TECHART-Manufactory almost no limits. The silver-colored accents are inter alia in the dashboard and Türzierteilen, placed at the aperture of the infotainment system in the center console, seat-back trays and coat hooks.

- By: Kap Shah

In effort to take on the Pikes Peak course, Audi has teamed up with Stanford University and its Stanford Dynamics Design Lab to build the Audi Pikes Peak TTS. Known as Shelley, the Audi TT will feature a drive by wire system that will be developed by Volkswagen Electronics Research Lab. They will make sure that Stanford’s control algorithms work properly for the TT to complete the course with no driver.

The 2009 Audi TTS features a 2.0 turbocharged inline 4 engine making 265-hp with a peak torque of 258 lb-ft. It is capable of going from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. It is mated to a 6-Speed S tronic automatic transmission.

Make the jump for the press release for more details.

Audi Pikes Peak TTS (Shelley):

Press Release:

All about the Audi Pikes Peak TTS

The Audi Pikes Peak TTS is nicknamed “Shelley” by the Stanford DDL after Michele Mouton, arguably the most successful female rally driver to date who played a significant part in Audi’s racing history.

Goal
To collaborate with Stanford to build an autonomous vehicle capable of completing the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in a reasonable time using rally driving techniques.

Team:
Volkswagen Electronics Research Lab
Convert a vehicle to drive by wire, develop a safety architecture to ensure a reliable autonomous drive with no safety driver, and implement Stanford’s control algorithms on a system jointly developed with Sun Microsystems.

Stanford Dynamics Design Lab
Develop robust control algorithms that enable the vehicle to drive at the limits of handling on a variety of surfaces, and lets it complete the Pikes Peak course.

Sun Microsystems
Specify a hardware platform that can run Stanford’s real time algorithms and develop a framework that enables Real Time Java to the vehicle CAN system.

Vehicle:
Make and model: 2009 Audi TTS
Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged I4 DOHC
Transmission: 6-Speed S tronic automatic transmission
Fuel Consumption: City: 21 mpg
Highway: 29 mpg
Combined: 24
Power: 265 hp & 6000 rpm1
Torque: 258 lb-ft. @ 2500 – 5000 rpm
Top speed: 155 (249km/h),
Acceleration: 0-60mph: 4.9sec

Weight incl. sensor: ~ 1470kg.

Drive-By-Wire:
Steering: Modified ”APA-BS” (Axially Parallel Actuation-Braun-Schweig), a new production electric power steering system with direct by-wire control through custom ERL Electronics.
Throttle: Electronics from VW ERL reproduce signals to emulate a driver pressing on the throttle.
Brakes: Active brake booster from Continental with by-wire control through ERL Electronics.
Gear: Modification of signals exchanged between transmission and gear shifter using custom ERL electronics on production hardware.
Parking brake: Use of stock electric parking brake from VW Passat through a custom ERL electronic interface utilized on Junior.

Safety:
In addition to multiple redundant systems for vehicle control, and emergency shutdown the Pikes Peak TTS has a Solaris based system running a Java RTS system monitor that can perform a vehicle shutdown if it determines conditions have become unsafe.

As a backup solution, the vehicle includes a telemetry system that can transmit all vehicle parameters to a receiving station up to 20 miles away which can also shut down the vehicle remotely, or order the safety systems to engage and bring the car to a controlled stop.

Sensors:
The Pikes Peak TTS utilizes an Applanix POS LV420 GPS and Inertial Measurement Unit to measure its position.

Vehicle Control:
Hardware:
Two independent systems are being used in the Pikes Peak TTS, the initial controller development is being done on an XPC target using Matlab and Simulink which are the standard research tools from Stanford’s DDL. The final vehicle controls are being run on ruggedized custom built solutions running a Core2Duo CPU and Solaris operating system that is being developed in collaboration with Sun Microsystems.

Software:
The Stanford University Dynamics Design Lab is developing cutting edge control algorithms that look to optimize the ability to control the vehicle under the most demanding circumstances. As these algorithms are finalized they will be merged into a new framework being developed at the ERL based that shares many components with other ERL Autonomous driving projects.

- By: Kap Shah

A new and improved version of Specter Werkes’ latest Corvette C6 GTR will be distinguished by its unique BASF Pearl Blue exterior color and HRE CF40 carbon fiber wheels next week at the 2009 SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Based on Corvette Z06, the new Corvette GTR is a result of a collaboration between Specter Werkes and Lingenfelter Performance Engineering. Lingenfelter provided a twin-turbo system that takes power of the 7.0L LS7 engine to a whopping 800-hp. 0-60 mph and top speed figures were not released but we’re pretty sure they’re nothing short of impressive.

Other than that, Specter Werkes added some styling kits that makes this Z06 look much more aggressive than the stock Corvette ZR1.

Click the ‘Continue Reading’ button for the press release.

2009 Specter Werkes Corvette C6 GTR:

Press Release:

NEWEST CORVETTE GTR FROM SPECTER WERKES/SPORTS DEBUTS AT SEMA WITH HRE CARBON FIBER WHEELS AND LINGENFELTER TWIN-TURBO SYSTEM

TROY, Mich. – The latest Corvette GTR by Specter Werkes/Sports debuts Nov. 3 at the annual SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Distinguished by its unique, BASF Pearl Blue exterior color and HRE CF40 carbon fiber wheels, the newest GTR will be on display outside the Las Vegas Convention Center’s Central Hall, as a feature vehicle for HRE.

Based on the Corvette Z06, this new GTR also represents a collaboration between Specter Werkes and Lingenfelter Performance Engineering, with a Lingenfelter twin-turbo system powering the car – and pumping its 7.0-liter LS7 engine to 800 horsepower.

“Specter GTRs have been featured at SEMA for many years and we’re excited to debut the most unique example to date at this year’s show,” said Jeff Nowicki, president of Specter Werkes/Sports. “From the BASF pearl paint and HRE carbon wheels, to the Lingenfelter engine, there’s never been a GTR like this one and we think it will resonate with sports car enthusiasts of all stripes.”

Featuring dramatic bodywork and carbon fiber details, the GTR blends racing-inspired design cues with uncompromising luxury and performance. The Specter Werkes/Sports GTR package is available on all C6 Corvette models, including the base coupe and convertible, the Z06 and ZR1. The new, Pearl Blue example’s carbon fiber wheels and other carbon accents are complemented by a matte black rear fascia.

The use of HRE carbon fiber wheels is a first on a GTR. They weigh only 22 pounds apiece and are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 Zero Pressure tires. Additional features on the new GTR include:

• StopTech STR big-brake package, featuring six-piston front calipers and four-piston rear calipers
• Mobil 1 synthetic fluids
• Corsa exhaust system with GTR-specific exhaust tips
• Spinneybeck hand-tipped leather interior accents
• Matte-finish carbon fiber accents, including the headlamp housing, front splitter, outside mirrors and more

Specter Werkes/Sports is an automotive prototype and fabrication facility based in Troy, Mich. It specializes in race-proven engine performance enhancements and creating specialty accessories for the C5 and C6 Corvette, the Cadillac CTS and more.

For more information, visit www.spectergtr.com or call 248-583-9559.

- By: Omar Rana

At the 2009 SEMA event next week, StreetConcepts will give a Pearl White 2009 Hyundai Genesis sedan a custom “one-of-a-kind graphic” live at the show. The move marks the eighth consecutive year Hyundai has partnered with Street Concepts.

Detroit-based graphic designer Courtney Mason will complete the work with paint pens.

In addition to the custom graphic, Street Concepts Genesis features 3M carbon fiber roof panels, black chrome accents, and upper and lower spoilers from RKSport.

StreetConcepts 2009 Hyundai Genesis with Custom Paint Graphic:

Press Release:

GENESIS SEDAN TO RECEIVE CUSTOM PAINT GRAPHIC LIVE AT SEMA
Street Concepts and Designer Courtney Mason Bring an Artistic Display to the Show Floor

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 10/28/2009 - Hyundai Motor America and Street Concepts, one of the leading developers of auto show vehicles, bring custom vehicle design live to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show with a paint demonstration on a Genesis sedan. Detroit-based illustrator and graphic designer Courtney Mason will paint a one-of-a-kind graphic on a Pearl White Street Concepts Genesis sedan in Hyundai’s display at the Las Vegas Convention Center Nov. 3–6, 2009 (booth #24387). This marks the eighth consecutive year Hyundai has partnered with Street Concepts.

Using special paint pens, Mason will place her signature stamp on a “blank canvas” Genesis sedan. Mason’s illustrations are typically figurative and inspired by organic forms found throughout nature. As the co-founder of Studio Jellyfish (http://www.studiojellyfish.com), Mason has worked with clients such as Nokia, Motorola, Sony BMG, VH1 and Rockstar Games.

In addition to the graphic, the Street Concepts Genesis exterior will be outfitted with 3M carbon fiber roof panels, black chrome accents by Chrome Tech, and upper and lower spoilers from RKSport. The vehicle will boast upper and lower E&G front mesh grilles also finished in black chrome by Chrome Tech. Interior features include custom suede and piano black detailing as well as carbon fiber dash accents.

“The Genesis sedan serves as the perfect platform for a one-of-a-kind high-performance vehicle at SEMA,” said Shawn Williams, owner, Street Concepts. “We were able to capitalize on what the Genesis already has to offer – smooth lines, luxurious interior features and a world-class Tau V8 engine – to create a customized vehicle sure to inspire the tuner crowd.”

The custom Genesis will showcase Nutek Series 530 22-inch wheels featuring Chrome Tech black chrome wheel centers with black lips and General Exclaim UHP tires. Eibach lowering springs, Brembo brakes and a Magnaflow cat-back exhaust will further enhance the performance of the standard 4.6-liter V8 engine, improving on the impressive 375 horsepower pumped out by the factory engine.

Audio and video enhancements will include a custom Harman International audio system, Nav-TV interface and Vizualogic headrest monitors.

“Matching the sophisticated design of the Genesis sedan with the artistic ability of Courtney Mason and the show-car experience of Shawn Williams created a ‘dream team’ for SEMA,” said Michael Deitz, manager, Product Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “Inspired by the creative minds involved in the project, we decided to showcase the final design of the vehicle live on the showroom floor to involve the SEMA crowd in the experience.”

STREET CONCEPTS

Street Concepts was formed in June 1998 to build award-winning show vehicles for the corporate world. Street Concepts has built numerous top quality show vehicles for an array of manufacturers including Kenwood USA, Oakley, Toyo Tires, MHT Wheels, Mazda Design and several local radio stations. Street Concepts vehicles have graced the pages of magazines such as Truckin’, Street Trucks, Today’s SUV, Lowrider, Lowrider Euro, Import Tuner, Car Audio, Hot Rod and Motor Trend.

- By: Kap Shah

Many would agree that at 300-hp, the 2009 Ford Focus RS is already one of the hottest high-performance hatchbacks on the road. However, if you’re Loder1899, the Focus RS could use a little more horsepower.

Loder1899’s 2009 Focus RS pumps a total of 345-hp from the 2.5L turbocharged 5-cylinder engine, an increase of 45-hp over the base model.

Loder1899 also added a stainless-steel exhaust system, which consists of a Y-pipe, Sportkats, and there is Vorschall silencer. The tuner says that the system provides an increase of 20-hp and a deeper sound than the original Focus RS. A 35mm suspension-lowering package is also part of the whole package along with 20-inch “Vertigo Viginti” wheels.

Loder1899 2009 Ford Focus RS:

Press Release:

As Ford’s professionals are the men from Loder1899 course, clear that the power development at Focus RS is sensational and you had better not be too obvious to fuck with a whole development team.

But the Loders is forgiven, because without the Focus RS Loder1899 there would be no and no RS-Tuning the young pioneers not exciting accessories. 2003 Loder1899 developed a small fine for the Focus RS exhaust system and took it for the first time with Jost Capito team. The Focus fans thanked him with great demand. This time there were specialists in today’s Ford, Land Rover, Jaguar and Aston Martin, the initial spark.

Today Loder1899 Focus hidden under the hood in the form of a syringe, a doping control and sports performance via the air filter. She brings out the 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine further out 45 extra horsepower. Moreover Loder1899 offers the specially-bred athlete for the Focus RS more sophisticated stainless-steel exhaust system, which consists of a Y-pipe, Sportkats, and there is Vorschall silencer. It provides for more rapid 20 horses and a deeper sound than the original Rally-conditioning.

With the brand new designer wheel “Vertigo Viginti” in 20 inches is the perfect appearance of the top athletes from Ford is no more obstacles. Loder1899, known for its custom wheel and tire combinations, provides the perfect finish on request in car boots or special colors. For a crisp finish, the curve provides Loder1899-lowering (-35mm).

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Loder1899 (via WCF)

Yesterday, we told you about the winners that will compete with Bob Lutz and his Cadillac CTS-V at the Monticello Motor Club in New York later this week. Most of us won’t be attending the event, however it’s still pretty interesting to see what the schedule will look during the day.

Each competitor will get to take five consecutive laps of the course at Monticello with one out-lap and one cool-down lap. So subtracting two laps out of the five, each competitor will get three chances to bring in their best lap times. The quickest lap at the end of the day will decide the winner.

Schedule of the event on Oct 29 will look something like this:

8:30 am-11:30 am – Track opens for practice
11:30 am-11:45 am – Introductions, driver meeting, etc.
11:45 am-1:00 pm – Lunch
1:00 pm-2:30 pm – Timed laps

2009 Cadillac CTS-V:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: Inside Line

At the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Alpina unveiled its new 2009 B7 B-Turbo BMW 7-Series. Today, at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show, Alpina introduced a new, long wheelbase version of the new Alpina B7 Bi-Turbo.

A 4.4L V8 gives the BMW Alpina B7 Bi-Turbo a total of 507-hp with a peak torque of 516 lb-ft. It allows for a 0 to 62 mph time of 4.7 seconds with a top speed that is electronically-limited to 174 mph. Power is transferred to the wheels through ZF 6-speed automatic, which also uses Alpina’s Switch-Tronic system to adapt to the driving conditions.

Alpina also announced that the company’s 3,000th vehicle is on its way to Tokyo and will be delivered exactly 30 years after its first Japanese delivery. To date, Alpina has sold over 300 7-series in Tokyo.

Tokyo 2009: BMW Alpina B7 Bi-Turbo:

- By: Omar Rana

Yesterday, we returned our 2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible loaner after a week long test-drive. That means it’s time to close it up with some fun facts before our full-review due out next week.

Fun Facts about the 2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible:

- Starting MSRP comes in at $43,850: Our 2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible carried a final price-tag of $51,685 after being fitted with a Premium Package ($3,250), Illuminated kick-plates ($330), Sport Package ($1,350) R-Spec high-friction brake pads ($370) and a Navigation package ($1,850).
- Power: 3.7L V6 producing 325-hp/267 lb-ft – mated to a 6-speed manual or an optional 7-speed automatic with a manual shift mode. 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds
- EPA fuel-economy estimated at 17/25 mpg (city/highway): We averaged a combined fuel-economy of 17.6 mpg over the full week.
- Key competitors: BMW 335i Convertible ($50,700) and the Lexus IS C 350 ($44,390).

Look out for the full-review coming next week.

2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible (Weekly Test-Drive):

- By: Stephen Calogera

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Stephen Calogera – egmCarTech.

Hein Wagner, a South African man who was born blind, set a new land speed record for the blind after hitting 200 mph in a Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series. He held the 200 mph speed for more than a half mile.

Wagner said that hitting 200 mph is a milestone for any drive, regardless of whether they’re sighted or blind. His record will be entered in the Guinness World Records and will replace the previous record of 191 mph set by a blind Belgian man.

In 2005, Wagner became the first South African man to set a world land speed record in a Maserati while traveling at a speed of 167 mph.

Refresher: Power comes for the Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series comes from a 6.0L twin-turbo V12 that produces 661-hp and a peak torque of 738 lb-ft. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. 0-60mph comes in at 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 200 mph.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: News24

As we continue our test-drive of the 2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible we thought it would be helpful to take a look at the model’s rivals – just to show you guys what else is available out there.

2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible:

• Price: $43,850.
• Power: 3.7L V6 producing 325-hp/267 lb-ft – mated to a 6-speed manual or an optional 7-speed automatic with a manual shift mode.
• 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds.

2009 BMW 335i Convertible:

• Price: $50,700.
• Power: 3.0L DOHC 24-valve inline turbocharged 6-cylinder making 300-hp/300 lb-ft – mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic with manual shift model.
• 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds with a manual transmission and 5.7 seconds with an automatic.

2010 Lexus IS C:

• Price: $44,390.
• Power: 3.5L V6 producing 306-hp/277 lb-ft – mated to a 6-speed automatic with manual shift mode.
• 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds.

As always, stay in touch as we review the G37 S Convertible and ask us all the questions you want about the car. If you want a quicker response send us a Tweet and we’ll reply ASAP.

Hit the jump to see answers from questions asked since yesterday’s update.

2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible (Weekly Test-Drive):

Pat (in e-mail) How many miles per gallon are you getting and how is the handling?

We are averaging 18.5 mpg and handling so far is very impressive. Taking turns at high-speeds makes you feel very confident.

gigan: Compared to this, I can see how people think Acuras have too many buttons. However, I wonder if it is bc Acura has more toys to play w/?

The Infiniti G37 S Convertible has a lot of toys to play with as well; although it’s very simple to navigate around the technological features offered unlike Audi’s confusing MMI system.

Bob: During your “test drive” can you try to flex the body on the G37. I am curious is the cobvertible will have any rattles or sqeaks as the car is brought over bumps. Please try to find a ramp such as a up or down ramp going into a hotel or shopping center. Slowly approach allow one front wheel to drop low / or higher while the rest of the car is level then slowly take the ramp see if there is any flexing creak or squeals coming from the hardtop. You can also do this with some driveways that go downhill then drop to the street.

I had a 2005 G35x that I named “RattleRocket” after the first two years. Everything rattled and sqeaked on that car. I now have an 2008 G37 which is a huge improvment in interior quality and rattles and squeaks. I am considering a 2010 G37 Convertible or another G37 coupe in the spring and I am curious if that hardtop will be quiet enough for me. Trust me I will take the car on a long test drive myself, but this is stuff that you should be looking for in a car.

Second question is how is the 7-speed ? My 2008 has the 5-speed and the car now only has 15,000 miles and sometimes I swear the damn thing slips and sometimes I feel a bit feedback not when changing gears but simply accelerating in gear. Still the G37 rules over any other car that is why I still purchased a second one after my first “RattleRocket”. Hopefully Infiniti is continuously improving quality and I will be a third time return buyer.

“RattleRocket” – very creative. Indeed we have noticed that in previous Infiniti ‘G’ cars we’ve driven. However, that noise is minimized in the convertible. Nonetheless, it is still there. In terms of interior noise, the G37 Convertible is fairly quiet – very quiet when compared to other hard-top convertibles we’ve driven.

The 7-speed automatic transmission – well I hate it. It denies you downshifts and even upshifts. I would rather get a car like this in a manual-transmission but our test-car happens to be a 7-speed automatic and it’s very annoying. However, it does shift pretty fast.

- By: Stephen Calogera

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Stephen Calogera – egmCarTech.

The chilly weather has been fairly forgiving this week as we test-drive our 2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible. Today we’re going to give you a little tour around the inside of the new Infiniti G37 drop-top.

“This new G has dual beauty – it looks as good with the top up or down – along with a beautiful, leather-appointed interior that is meant to be experienced wide-open,” says Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing – and we definitely have to agree.

The interior is very comfortable and controls are very ergonomically placed. We know we say that about a lot of cars but Infiniti definitely focused their attention on keeping the controls very driver oriented. One thing we didn’t like are the seat-adjusting controls; you basically have to keep the door open to be able to toggle around to adjust your seats to your liking. With the door-closed it’s nearly impossible to mess around with the seat settings.

The $3,050 Premium Package gets you Bluetooth, a Bose sound system with 13-speakers, memory seats, iPod connectivity, advanced climate control, a power-tilt telescopic steering column and automatic dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink. Opt for the $1,850 Navigation Package and you can enjoy Infiniti’s Hard Drive Navigation System with 7-inch color touch-screen, XM NavTraffic with Real-Time Traffic information, 9.3GB Music Box hard drive with a CompactFlash slot and Infiniti’s Voice Recognition for climate control, audio and navigation. The $1,150 Technology Package adds Intelligent Cruise Control with Preview Braking, Adaptive Front lighting System and Pre-Crash Seat Belts.

We have the Infiniti G37 Convertible until next week so ask us all the questions you’d like and we’ll get them answered for you. Put your questions in the comments section below or send us a Tweet for a fast response.

2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible (Weekly Test-Drive):

- By: Stephen Calogera

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Stephen Calogera – egmCarTech.

Yesterday we welcomed the new 2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible into our press fleet. Even in 61 degree weather we are driving with the top down; which Infiniti says goes down in 30 seconds. We clocked it in at 28 seconds.

Here are some pics of our G37 S Convertible with the top up and with the top down. Let us know what you think.

As always, ask us all the questions you want about the car in the comments section below or send us a Tweet for quicker reply.

2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible (Weekly Test-Drive):

- By: Stephen Calogera

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Stephen Calogera – egmCarTech.

Yes, we know it’s purple; and yes, we know it’s an automatic – but it’s still beautiful. Joining the 2010 GMC Terrain this week in our Weekly-Test Drive is the new 2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible.

First Impressions: It is one of the most beautiful coupes we’ve seen converted into a convertible. The 2009 G37 Convertible is Infiniti’s direct answer to BMW’s 3-Series Convertible and Lexus’s new IS-C. The hard-top convertible has definitely turned a lot of heads since we picked it up earlier today, especially from the ladies. Of course, that most likely does not mean you will attract girls with a purple convertible; more like girls are attracted to your purple G37 Convertible and can see themselves driving one. The interior is the same exact way you see it on the G37 Coupe, which is ergonomically designed with quality materials. We love the Bose speakers placed in the head rests – but most of all, we love pushing the 3.7L V6 that pumps out 325-hp with a maximum torque of 267 lb-ft. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic with a manual shift mode with steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters. 0 to 60 mph comes in a whopping 5.3 seconds.

Pricing for the 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible starts at $43,850.

As always, stay in touch as we review the car and ask us all the questions you want about the G37 S Convertible. If you want a quicker response send us a Tweet and we’ll reply ASAP.

On a side note – let us know if you think the 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible looks better than the BMW 3-Series Convertible or the Lexus IS-C Convertible. Cast your vote in the poll below.

2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible (Weekly Test-Drive):

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

It’s Wolfsburg’s two hottest hatchbacks going head to head in the latest Volkswagen commercial. Check out the fairly cheesy video of the new 2010 Volkswagen Golf R racing with the 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco R.

Refresher: Both are powered by a 2.0L TSI 4-cylinder engine making 265-hp with a maximum torque of 258 lb-ft. That allows for a 0 to 62 mph time in less than 6.4 seconds.

2010 Volkswagen Golf R:

2010 Volkswagen Golf R:

2009 Volkswagen Scirocco R:

- By: Omar Rana