We have just received some new images of the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder, which will make its debut at the 2009 LA Auto Show next month. We’ll be in LA live covering the show, so make sure you join us on Dec. 2 to see some live photos.

Click here to view our original post on the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder.

Refresher: Weighing in at 2,811 pounds, the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder is powered by a 3.4L 6-cylinder engine with direct fuel-injection making 320-hp. Mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission and the Sports Chrono package, the Boxster Spyder goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 166 mph with the roof open.

Click through for the updated high-res image gallery.

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder:

- By: Omar Rana

During a parade lap at the Italian automaker’s Ferrari World Final, CEO Luca di Montezemolo managed to get a new Ferrari California stuck in a gravel trap on the track in Valencia, Spain. Ferrari drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa were on board waving to the crowd as Montezemolo randomly turned the steering wheel and ended up in the gravel pit.

Embarrassing? Yes. Nonetheless, Ferrari had another California waiting for Montezemolo to continue his parade lap.

Click through for the video.

Part 1:

Part 2:

- By: Kap Shah

For those of you that admire Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May, you probably knew that yesterday was the premiere of Top Gear Series 14. We’ve just found some YouTube videos cover a segment of the show where the Top Gear crew drives the Aston Martin DBS Volante, Ferrari California and the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder through Romania.

We recommend watching these videos right away since YouTube might yank them after BBC gives them a call.

Click through for the videos.

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

- By: Kap Shah

Watching some of the world’s most exotic supercars falling into the hands of people that can’t drive them doesn’t even surprise us anymore. This week, check out two friends racing their Ferrari Californias in the streets of Sofia, Bulgaria.

“They were speeding around corners when one of them lost control, clipped a car, and crashed into some construction equipment,” according to the folks over at WreckedExotics.

Click through for the video.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: WreckedExotics

A chrome finish Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster has been spotted traveling the streets of London (we first thought it was Dubai as well) and turning heads everywhere it goes.

Our thoughts? It’s completely hideous and should be taken off the roads. Your thoughts would be appreciated in the comments section below.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Synamatiq (via AutoBlog)

Earlier this morning we saw the lightest model available in Porsche’s lineup – the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder. We now have a video of it in action – check it out after the jump.

Click here to view our original post on the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder.

Refresher: Weighing in at 2,811 pounds, the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder is powered by a 3.4L 6-cylinder engine with direct fuel-injection making 320-hp. Mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission and the Sports Chrono package, the Boxster Spyder goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 166 mph with the roof open.

Make the jump for the video.

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder:

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder:

- By: Kap Shah

The 2009 LA Auto Show is just weeks away and we’ll be on hand providing you live coverage. One of things we are now looking forward to is the “lightest Porsche” available – the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder.

The model is the newest member of the Boxster family and will go on sale February 2010.

Weighing in at just 2,811 pounds, the 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder is powered by a 3.4L 6-cylinder engine with direct fuel-injection making 320-hp (10 more than the Boxster S). Mated to Porsche’s 7-speed dual-clutch PDK transmission and the Sports Chrono package, the Boxster Spyder goes from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 166 mph with the roof open.

Pricing will start at $61,200.

Make the jump for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder:

Press Release:

2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder: Light, Powerful, Purist Roadster to be Introduced at Los Angeles Auto Show

Porsche’s newest entry will be the lightest in its line-up

ATLANTA “November 5, 2009“ Weighing in at just 2,811 lbs., the new 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder will be the lightest Porsche available“ from a company known for lightweight, proficient sports cars. This new mid-engined roadster represents the true, purist form of the sports car “agile, powerful, open and efficient. This third Boxster model will join the Boxster and Boxster S and will make its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, December 2, 2009.

The newest member of the Boxster family stands out from the other versions of Porsche’s mid-engined roadster. Its low-slung, lightweight soft top “when closed“ extends far to the rear to protect the driver and passenger from bright sunshine, wind and weather. This top, when combined with extra-low side windows and two striking bulges on the single-piece rear lid, provides the Boxster Spyder with a sleek silhouette reminiscent of the Carrera GT.

The Boxster Spyder features a 3.4-liter six-cylinder engine with Direct Fuel Injection upfront of the rear axle. Maximum output is 320 horsepower (hp), 10 hp more than the Boxster S. The combination of 10 more hp and 176 pounds less weight than the award-winning Boxster S, plus an all-new sport suspension that lowers the Boxster Spyder 20 mm, a lower center of gravity, a standard limited slip differential, and exclusive wheels provides the kind of driving dynamics that back up the unique look. Aluminum door skins and lightweight interior door panels from the 911 GT3 RS contribute to the weight reduction.

When equipped with Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission and the Sports Chrono Package, the new Spyder, using Launch Control, accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Top track speed is 166 mph“ with the roof open.

Fundamentally, the entire Boxster family is the successor to the legendary 550 Spyder and RS 60 of the Fifties and Sixties, all sharing the same mid-engine roadster concept. Low weight and supreme agility combine to provide outstanding driving pleasure.

In 2004 and 2008 Porsche produced limited editions of the Boxster bearing the additional name Spyder, honoring the 550 and RS 60. In contrast, the new Boxster Spyder is a regular, but specially developed and upgraded production model as compared with the Boxster and Boxster S.

The 2011 Boxster Spyder goes on sale February 2010. U.S. pricing is $61,200.

- By: Kap Shah

BMW confirmed yesterday that it had developed an M5 convertible 20 years ago, but cancelled plans to produce it a week before it was to be launched at the Geneva Motor Show. The E34 M5 Convertible was shown to a select group of journalists at an event that celebrated 25 years of the BMW M5.

The car, which was set to be launched during the Geneva Motor Show at the time, was cancelled due to sales concerns.

The reason for the drop of an M5 convertible was due to belief that it would cause a demand for a base 5-Series convertible, which would jeopardize sales of the highly-profitable 3-Series convertible.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

We’re pretty sure that by now you’ve heard enough about the Toyota FT-86 and the Subaru 086A. Both cars are a new rear-wheel-drive sports car developed jointly by Toyota and Subaru and will go on sale sometime in early 2011.

According to a report by AutoTelegraaf, Toyota and Subaru are both planning a convertible version of their sports coupesx. A senior official at Toyota told the publication that if the coupe launch is strong enough, the companies may plan on doing a convertible version.

From what we can gather, it is reported that the base Toyota and Subaru sports coupe models will be powered by a 2.0L turbocharged boxer engine making above 200-hp. Subaru is also planning an STI version that will pump out close to 308-hp.

If given the green light, the convertible version of the car will launch a year after the coupe goes on sale.

Click here for more news on the Toyota FT-86 Concept.

Toyota FT-86 Concept:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoTelegraaf (via MotorAuthority)

UK publication AutoCar is outlining Porsche product plans for the next four years. If they are to believed, we have a couple of exciting things coming from Porsche’s garage.

First up, Porsche has a V6 and a diesel version planned for the new 2010 Panamera sedan. Both models will be a little more affordable than their more powerful V8 siblings.

Following that, a new redesigned Porsche Cayenne is due out sometime in 2010.  The Porsche SUV will receive some modifications to the headlights and taillights along with a reworked direct-injected V8 as seen in the Panamera. A hybrid version of the Cayenne will arrive in 2011 with fuel-economy improvements of up to 30 percent.

The already confirmed Panamera Hybrid is also due out in 2011.

Porsche will give the 911 sports coupe a facelift in the summer of 2012 with some engineering enhancements including a modification to the steel floorpan and an extended wheelbase by 50mm to 2400mm and an upgraded suspension.

Also in the works is the much-rumored compact SUV known as the Rockster, which will fit below the Cayenne. It will use some of the body engineering from the Audi Q5.

Last but not least, it is reported that a Coupe and Convertible version of the Panamera are also in the works. The model will compete against the likes of the Maserati GranTurismo and the GranTurismo Convertible. Look out for the drop-top Panamera in 2013.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoCar

Maserati welcomed the brand new 2010 GranCabrio – which in the United States is called GranTurismo Convertible – to a packed room at its Corporate Showroom on Park Avenue, New York. The premiere took place after a week on display in famed Grand Central Station in New York City.

The 2010 Maserati GranCabrio made its debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this year. Power comes from a 4.7L V8 producing 440-hp with a maximum torque of 361 lb-ft. Mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, 0-62 mph come in just 5.4 seconds with a top speed of 176 mph.

Maserati dealers in the U.S. are taking orders now with deliveries to begin in early 2010. Pricing has not yet been announced.

2010 Maserati GranTurismo Convertible:

- By: Omar Rana

While we have yet to see the production version of the Audi A1, series production of the new compact car from Audi will kick off later this month. According to a report by Car Magazine, who recently spoke with Audi executives, the A1 will also be available as a convertible (cabriolet) and as an estate.

“We will start with the three-door version with several different engine variants,” Audi’s sales and marketing boss Schwarzenbauer said. “Will we do further models? Look at what we do with the A3 range – we could something similar with the A1.”

Powertrain wise, the Audi A1 will most likely start with a 1.2L engine and top off a 1.8L turbo unit, both available in gasoline and diesel fuel types. You can also expect an electric, hybrid and an S1 variant as well. Rumor has it that the A1 will most likely be followed up by a Q1 SUV.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: CAR Magazine (via WCF)

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.

The Audi R4 is one model that we’ve heard a lot about from European media outlets, but nothing has ever been confirmed by Audi itself. Last we heard anything about the R4 it was reported that the model will be based on the Volkswagen Concept BlueSport that was unveiled at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

According to a new report by AutoExpress, the R4 will be the production version of the e-tron concept, which was revealed at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show last month. Audi’s American president, Johan de Nysschen, recently confirmed that the e-tron concept will enter production with prototypes to hit the roads within 24 months.

The UK publication said that the R4 is also likely to spawn petrol-engine versions with up to 300-hp for those of you that don’t care about going ‘green.’

If the report is to believed, the R4 will most likely arrive in 2012 in a roadster, coupe and convertible trim.

Audi e-tron Concept:

- By: Kap Shah

Source: AutoExpress

During a live chat session with General Motors Company’s CEO Fritz Henderson last week on GM’s FastLane Blog, the head of the Detroit automaker was asked what cars he has in his garage right now.

Fritz replied that he owns a “Camaro, my 2005 corvette and a Saab 9-3 Aero Convertible.” Henderson did not specify which Camaro (V6, or the V8 SS) he owns, neither did he tell us what’s under the hood of his Corvette.

Either way, we just thought you guys would like to know.

- By: Kap Shah

Source: GM FastLane Blog

We just heard that the final Chevrolet Camaro Convertible version was privately shown to dealers earlier last week. Speaking to consumers and the media on a live chat at GM’s FastLane Blog, CEO Fritz Henderson said that the Camaro Convertible will arrive as a 2012 model in the first quarter of 2011.

Interestingly a consumer asked whether or not GM is planning a Camaro sedan.

“Will the new GM branch out their successful brands,” asked an individual named Brian. “For example, will we see a 4 door Camaro. I would love to own one but I need 4 doors for my family – I DO NOT want to buy an M3 from BMW.”

Fritz responded saying we “do not see a 4-door camaro in our future. We will continue to look for performance opportunities across our lineup, including in sedans.”

Honestly, we wouldn’t mind a Camaro sedan based on the beloved Pontiac G8.

- By: Omar Rana

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.