Well, take a look for yourself!

www.youtube.com/watch?v=A5R-oi91bd4

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Subaru has done it again.  They combined all the best parts from Spec C and added all the great parts and what did they get, an all new Impreza STI R205.  Some of these additions include six-pot (front) and four-pot (rear) brakes with slotted rotors, cast 18-inch aluminum wheels wrapped with Potenza RE070 (245/40R18) tires, inverted strut and coil springs, a front strut tower bar, and a lower arm stiffening brace.  

Engine was not left alone as you could have imagined.  A remapped ECU, new exhaust and turbo, complete this beautiful car.  The outcome is a very healthy 316 horsepower and 319 pound-feet of torque.

To differentiate it from a standard STI, the exterior has been modified with an accented black front grille, front and rear diffusers and a black spoiler.  

If you are the lucky one who lives in Japan, you can have this beautiful vehicle for a mere 4,510,000 yen (A little under $49k US), and even that is not a guaranty because Subaru only plans to produce 400 R205 vehicles.  For a complete press release please read below.

[View with PicLens]

PRESS RELEASE

STI to introduce the Subaru Impreza “R205″

Displacement; 1,994 cc
Transmission; 6 speed manual transmission
Maximum output; 235kW (320PS)/6,400 rpm
Maximum torque; 431Nm (44.0kg.m)/4,000 rpm -Overall length X width X height; 4,415 X 1,795 X 1,465 mm

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The official press release has confirmed the all new 2011 Mustang GT that will house an all new 5.0 liter V8 engine.  

The all new 5.0 is just like the old 5.0 will be 302 cubic inches (4.9-liters or 4,951cc to be exact).  

The engine will have 32-valves with twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT).  It will produces a healthy 412 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque.  No official word on 0-60 performance figures, but we can expect a mid four second numbers, and a quarter-mile in the high 12s.  

The car will be available in ether all new six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic.  With automatic transmission and new Ti-VCT will the new Mustang GT will be able to achieve 25 mpg on the highway and 17 mpg in the city.  Manual transmission will get 1 mpg less on both highway and city.  For a complete list of specs please read the official press release below.

Press Release

The 5.0-liter is back: 2011 Ford Mustang GT leads class with 412 hp, fuel efficiency, chassis dynamics

• The new Mustang GT continues Ford’s powertrain offensive with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8, which uses advanced technology to deliver 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg
• For 2011, Mustang GT adds specially tuned Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), 11.5-inch front and 11.8-inch rear vented disc brakes, and an enhanced suspension featuring an improved rear lower control arm and stiffened rear stabilizer bushings
• For enthusiasts, a Brembo brake package, with larger rotors and calipers from the Ford Shelby GT500^® Mustang, unique 19-inch wheels and summer performance tires, is offered; new fender badges herald return of the 5.0-liter engin.

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 28, 2009 – The 5.0 is back! The 2011 Ford Mustang GT arrives with an all-new advanced 5.0-liter V-8 engine, developed by a passionate cadre of enthusiastic engineers who rallied around the common goal of delivering more than 400 horsepower.

The modern 5.0-liter four-valve Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) V-8 engine in the new Mustang GT will deliver 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque. At the same time, fuel economy is projected to be better than the previous model and unsurpassed in the segment.

“This all-new 5.0-liter engine is the next chapter in the development of the world-class Mustang powertrain portfolio,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “It’s a thoroughly modern engine for the times, delivering the performance and fun-to-drive factor that enthusiasts want, while improving fuel economy.”

Coyote in the lobby
Many of the engineers on the development team have worked in the Engine and Electrical Engineering Building on the Dearborn, Mich., product development center campus. For years they walked past the original 5.0-liter V-8 Coyote Indy racing engine on display in the lobby, continually inspired by its mix of heritage, high technology and horsepower.

The powertrain development community had long wanted to develop a new 5.0-liter powertrain, with strategic discussions beginning in 2000. By 2007, the Mustang competitive landscape was beginning to change, a sign that the time was right for advancing the Mustang GT powertrain to world-class levels.

The team began 5.0-liter engine development with the objective of delivering 400-plus horsepower, on a timetable accelerated by 12 months without compromises in reliability, durability, fuel economy, or noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control.

“Nearly all of the team members have worked on other high-profile powertrain programs,” said V-8 Engine Programs Manager Mike Harrison. “They all had a clear vision of the work required on their particular component or subsystem. Their passion for engines, racing and delivering every last ounce of performance throughout the engine speed range really demonstrated that they put their heads and their hearts into this powertrain.”

Development test engines and benchmarks included 5.0-liter blocks, employing different bore and stroke measurements, GT500 four-valve-per-cylinder heads and cams, various intake manifold runner configurations, differing compression ratios and a deep-sump oil pan. The team also evaluated Ford Racing’s 5.0-liter “Cammer” V-8 crate engine for transferable best practices.

Extensive computer-aided engineering (CAE) modeling, development engine experimentation and evaluation in combination with intricate machine work brought this promising, all-new configuration to jaw-dropping life in an accelerated time frame.

The result of this development is an “and” solution, not an “or.” 2011 Mustang buyers will enjoy the benefits of a powerful engine as well as responsible fuel economy.

Ti-VCT
A critical element in the 5.0-liter V-8’s ability to deliver 412 horsepower, with improved drivability, tractability and fuel economy over the 2010 Mustang GT powertrain, is enhanced Ti-VCT.

For a high-performance application, the team specified cam-torque-actuated variable camshaft timing. Using existing cam torque energy, with assistance from pressurized oil, meant that minimal upgrades to the oil pump were required, resulting in less parasitic drag. Increased volumetric and thermal efficiency gives faster Ti-VCT response at all engine speeds.

During the development phase, camshaft lift profile and port optimization started with higher-lift Ford Racing aftermarket units, modified for compatibility with various four-valve-per-cylinder heads. Extensive CAE and dynamometer testing was performed to fine-tune camshaft events and port flow for performance and fuel efficiency in conjunction with the variable camshaft timing.

The resulting all-new aluminum four-valve-per-cylinder heads feature a compact roller finger follower valvetrain layout leaving more room for high-flow ports for free-breathing performance. Head structure was designed to support higher cylinder head pressures and cross-flow cooling for sustained high-rpm use. Head bolt size was increased from 11 to 12 millimeters to contain the higher combustion pressures.

The aluminum block was developed for optimized windage and oil drainback under lateral conditions and high rpm, such as a track-day outing for an enthusiastic owner and driver. Increased main bearing bulkhead widths and nodular iron cross-bolted main bearing caps with upsized bolts were also employed to accommodate the significant performance increase.

An additional element is the increased capacity and baffling of the deep-sump stamped steel oil pan to enable sustained high-rpm use and offer the convenience of 10,000-mile oil change intervals. Piston-cooling jets also were incorporated for performance-minded customers and for faster oil warm-up on cold start.

Specially designed tubular exhaust headers were developed to maximize exhaust pulse separation and improve flow. A team analyst actually fabricated the tubular headers in his home workshop, bringing the CAE design to life.

Performance and fuel economy
The 412 horsepower and 390 ft.-lb. of torque delivered by the 2011 Mustang GT 5.0-liter V-8 represent significant increases versus the 2010 model year output levels.

The six-speed automatic transmission on the 2011 Mustang GT will deliver up to an estimated 25 mpg highway and 17 in the city. This is up from 23 mpg highway and 17 city for the 2010 model. Six-speed manual transmission Mustang GT models for 2011 are projected to deliver 24 mpg highway and 16 city, matching the 2010 model but delivering significantly more horsepower and performance feel.

2011 Mustang GT fuel economy is enabled by the Ti-VCT, the six-speed transmissions in automatic or manual variations, EPAS and an additional rear decklid seal to enhance aerodynamics.

Fuel economy also is aided by engineering a lightweight powertrain. The engine, as shipped, weighs just 430 pounds. This represents a weight savings of more than 20 percent versus the previous 5.0-liter offering. Lower mass can be attributed to the aluminum block and heads, the lightweight composite intake manifold, composite cam covers and hollow camshafts.

Improved driving dynamics

EPAS has made a dramatic contribution to Mustang GT driving dynamics, delivering quicker on-center steering response, increased effort at highway speeds and reduced effort required in low-speed parking maneuvers. EPAS allows specific tuning for the Mustang GT application.

The 2011 Mustang GT features an enhanced rear lower control arm to add stiffness, improve powertrain NVH control and sharpen handling. A stiffened rear stabilizer bar for better on-center steering is also included. Stabilizer bar diameters, spring rates and dampers all have been tuned for improved dynamics.

A Brembo brake package upgrade will be available for serious enthusiasts. This package includes 14-inch vented front discs from the GT500 Mustang, unique 19-inch alloy wheels and summer performance tires.

Added convenience content
For 2011, Mustang GT offers drivers several new convenience technologies, including:

• Standard message center
• Integrated blind spot mirrors
• MyKey^™ programmable vehicle key
• Illuminated visors
• Universal garage door opener
• Sun visor storage

New look
From the 5.0 fender badges to the new engine cover, Mustang GT honors and continues the proud heritage of its predecessors. The speedometer increases to 160 mph and the tachometer redline advances from 6,500 to 7,000 rpm.

Three vibrant new colors will be added for 2011 including Yellow Blaze Tri-Coat, Race Red and Ingot Silver.

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Subaru has announced the all new 2010 WRX STI Special Edition.  Some of the features that this model will offer over the existing WRX STI are the suspension package form the JDM WRX STI Spec C (1mm thicker rear anti sway bar, stiffer springs and more rear sub frame bushings).  The model will also inherits the charcoal 18 x 8.5-inch 14-spoke alloy wheels.  

For whatever reason, Special Edition STI will have a downgraded stereo (single-disc CD/four speakers versus six-disc/10 speakers), manual HVAC controls, conventional halogen headlamps, and indicator-free side mirrors.  Why bother including a stereo anyway?  They are obviously trying to shave the extra weight, but maybe they should do the same thing they did in 2004 version of STI?  The features mentioned above will not do the trick.

Subaru says it plans to initially offer a limited production run(125 units) for the Special Edition this Spring, and all painted Aspen White.  Later in 2010, the Special Edition will become a normal production model available in other colors.  Hmm very strange concept.  Pricing has not yet been released.  For more details please read a complete press release. 

PRESS RELEASE:

SUBARU INTRODUCES 2010 IMPREZA® WRX® STI® SPECIAL EDITION AND IMPREZA WRX LIMITED AT THE LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com.

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this is not your typical Elise or Exige model, the Evora is nicely trimmed in a very fashionable way.  The interior of the car includes hand-stitched leather from Muirhead and exterior aluminum trim.  The car is a little bigger and taller than its smaller cousins, which should make getting in and out of it much easier.  Evora is expected to have at ;east 30 mpg EPA on the highway and for the performance figures, 0-60 time should come in just 4.9 seconds.  Here are some pictures of the car that Lotus released as well as the official press release.

[View with PicLens]

PRESS RELEASE:

For peace of mind, the 2010 Lotus Evora has a 3-year/36,000-mile limited vehicle warranty with an 8-year chassis perforation warranty.

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www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7wh2FixhXs

www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCzDOpVasHM

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Mitsubishi finally announced pricing information on its new Evolution MR Touring model, and its not cheap.  With a base MSRP of $40,990, the top of the line Lancer finally spills over the $40K line, and is no longer has a ”bargain” sticker next to it.  If you were to go and check every option box when you were to order one, you may actually start considering something a lot more in the sport luxury segment like Audi or BMW.  The fully loaded 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR Touring would retail for $52,728!  you heard me right, fifty plus thousand dollar Mitsubishi Lancer.  I am sure the actual price will be much closer to $47K tops, but it is still a very large number to swallow (at least for me).

You get the typical 291-horsepower turbo four-cylinder engine, paddle-shifted dual clutch six-speed transmission, Brembo brakes, 18-inch BBS wheels with Yokohama Advans, Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-wheel-drive system.  I am sure what Mitsubishi is trying to do is to attract an older crowd by introducing this model, but will they be able to justify this hefty price tag?

Here is a complete list of details:

Official Release Info:

Base Price
$40,990 + $720 destination

Standard Features

Options
$1999 Navigation System

Packages

Accessories
$84 All Weather Floor Mats
$297 Aluminum/Leather Parking Brake Grip
$281 Aluminum / Leather Shift Knob (TC-SST)
$425 Back Up Sensors
$60 Cargo Organizer
$96 Carpet Floor Mats
$456 CD Changer – 6 Disc and Tuner
$107 Chrome Side Mirror Covers
$34 Cigar Lighter
$625 Front Air Dams
$125 Front Brake Air Guides
$515 Front Strut Brace
$319 Intercooler Pipes
$37 “Lancer Evolution” License Plate Frame
$244 Mud Flaps
$2499 Navigation System and Install Kit
$142 RALLIART Spline-Type Wheel Locks
$440 Rear Corner Air Dams
$110 Rear Spoiler Extension
$515 Rear Strut Brace
$506 Rear View Backup Camera
$900 Side Skirts
$85 Side Wind Deflectors
$85 Sunroof Deflector
$32 Wheel Locks

Genuine Mitsubishi accessories are all covered by the limited warranty. Installation labor is not included. See your Retailer for details.

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PRESS RELEASE:

Introducing the New 2010 Lotus Exige S240

The exciting new 2010 Lotus Exige S240 enters the United States and Canadian markets in the fall of 2009 with new front styling, a new rear wing and the same rare combination of exceptional performance and high efficiency.

The Lotus Exige is a renowned high performance coupe that has a well earned reputation as the choice for drivers who demand uncompromised performance, both on the road and on the track.

The 2010 Exige S240 introduces a few key enhancements to update the appearance and improve aerodynamic performance.

A restyled front end and new larger, low drag rear wing, not only reduces drag, but also gives a more muscular stance enhancing the lightweight shrink-wrapped look of the whole car.

The restyled front end includes a larger, more angular air intake to help funnel more air through the radiator to improve the efficiency of the engine. Ahead of the front wheels, on either side of the central aperture, two additional intakes feed airflow to the twin oil coolers. Horizontal vanes bisect these oil cooler air-intakes to stabilize the airflow and further increase the cooling efficiency.

Mounted below the three new air intakes, is a new aerodynamic splitter for the 2010 Exige S240. Made from a lightweight composite, the splitter is now extended to wrap around the whole front end and chiseled side lips are raised to deflect air around the tires to reduce drag.

The composite rear wing is based on the design from the Exige GT3 road car concept shown at the Geneva Motorshow in 2007. Compared to the 2009 Lotus Exige’s tailgate mounted wing it is 7.1 inches wider and mounted 1.8 inches higher and 2.4 inches further back. The new rear wing is mounted to the rear body-shell clam via end plates which not only increases the stiffness of the whole structure but also ensures that as much of the airflow as possible passes over the rear wing. This careful airflow management increases stability, reduces drag and, most importantly, maintains the impressive downforce figure of 93 pounds at 100 mph.

The light weight Exige S240 has one of the highest specific power outputs of any globally emissions certified car at 133 hp per liter and is a perfect demonstration of Colin Chapman’s philosophy of performance through light weight and of Lotus’ relentless pursuit of efficiency. The same technology that makes a light weight car a high performer also makes it efficient. How many cars available on the market today can rocket from 0 – 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, continue on up to a top speed of 150 mph and yet return an EPA rated 26 mpg in highway driving?”

Like all Lotus cars, the functional components of the car are also beautifully designed as Russell Carr, Chief of Lotus Design, explains, “For 2010 we have taken the already visually extreme Exige and given it even more visual drama. The changes we have integrated to the front and rear of the Exige signal an even clearer and purposeful intent. The functional rear wing is race-inspired, the new angular air intakes and full width splitter give a more hard-edged and aggressive look. Overall, the Exige appears more planted and gives the illusion that both the front and rear of the car are wider than they really are, yet without losing its agile and sleek character.”

Roger Becker, Director of Vehicle Engineering said, “The changes we have made to the 2010 Exige are quite subtle when taken individually, but taken as a complete package they make significant improvements to aerodynamics and the overall look of the car. The Exige is a classic fit-for-purpose performance machine. The design tweaks we have made have reduced the drag by cleaning up the airflow around the front and rear of the car while retaining the impressive balanced downforce figures. The end result is an exciting high performance driving experience.”

The heart of Exige S 240

The roof integrated air intake scoop feeds air through the air-to-air intercooled and supercharged 1.8 liter Lotus-tuned and Toyota-sourced 2ZZ-GE engine with Intelligent Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i) to provide 240hp at 8,000 rpm and 170 ft.-lbs. of torque at 5,500. Weighing just 2,077 pounds, the Exige S240 sprints to 60 mph in a blistering 4.1 seconds and the 100 mph barrier sails by in approximately 10 seconds. Despite its supercar-like acceleration and 150 mph top speed, fuel economy is a rather un-supercar-like 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway thanks, in part, to the aluminum six-speed manual gearbox and proprietary Lotus T4e Engine Control System which includes variable rpm cam switching.

Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control:

Passing along lessons learned on the track with the Exige GT3 racing program, Lotus Sport has contributed another important technology – variable launch control combined with variable traction control.

The launch control allows the driver to determine the number of revs they wish to use during a standing start. Having programmed that limit, the driver then holds their foot down fully on the throttle pedal and sidesteps the clutch pedal for a very quick departure from the line. The clutch damper cushions the severity of the clutch to transmission engagement to minimize the stresses to the drivetrain. The launch control also keeps wheel-spin at bay until 6 mph, after which the traction control assumes its duties.

As with launch control, the driver can adjust the amount of traction control desired from the driver’s seat, altering it on the move to suit the characteristics of particular corners. The amount of traction control can be varied in over 30 increments from 0 to 7 percent tire slip, or completely off. The information center within the instrument cluster displays what degree of traction control you have currently dialled in.

Chassis, Suspension and Braking:

At the Exige’s core is a revolutionary chassis comprised of extruded and sheet aluminum and constructed with aerospace epoxy bonding techniques, the first of its kind in the world. The chassis weighs a mere 150 pounds, which enables the U.S. spec Exige to tip the scales at an incredibly svelte 2,077 pounds including standard air conditioning, ABS, power windows, dual airbags, audio system and other amenities that make driving the Exige a pleasure. Despite meeting Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s mandate of extremely light weight, the Exige’s structure is tough enough to meet all U.S. government crash standards. The suspension tuning and effectiveness in any car is only as good as the ‘bracket’ it’s all attached to. The epoxy-bonded extruded and sheet aluminum chassis structure of the Exige has high torsional rigidity providing a strong base that enables very precise tuning of the dampers and springs to strike the perfect balance between exceptional handling capabilities and grip while still providing a comfortable ride.

The 2010 Exige S240 will continue to have a fully independent suspension with unequal length wishbones, Eibach springs and one-way adjustable Bilstein gas dampers along with an adjustable front anti-roll bar to allow customers to tailor the handling characteristics of the car to their own requirements.

New for 2010, the optional Track Package will include adjustable Ohlins dampers with threaded spring perches and remote oil reservoirs front and rear.

The brake system includes large diameter 308 mm cross-drilled and ventilated front and 282 mm cross-drilled and ventilated rear discs with AP Racing 4-piston front and Brembo single-piston rear calipers. The Lotus track-tuned, servo-assisted, four-channel ABS system enhances braking performance and minimizes stopping distance without taking over from the skill of the driver.

The 2010 Exige S240 in more detail:

There are several other enhancements that make the Exige range more sophisticated and a better value than ever before. As with the 2009 model year Exige range, driver and passenger airbags are standard on all models and an on-board Tire Pressure Monitoring System is standard in North American cars.

The instrument pack in the Exige contains so much more than just a pair of stylishly back-lit dials. It also features a high-definition LCD message panel that can display a scrolling text message with vehicle systems information.

The instrument pack always displays the fuel gauge, engine temperature and odometer, however you can select to display the time, trip distance or a digital read-out of your speed in the opposite calibration to that of your speedometer dial – if your dial is in mph, the readout is in km/h.

Warning symbols are ‘hidden until lit’, keeping the instrumentation free from visual clutter and distraction until necessary and then providing the warning information on a ‘need to know’ basis. Gear change ’shift’ lights similarly remain hidden until required. There are three shift up lights, cumulatively lighting when the driver is getting closer to the rev limiter and when all three are illuminated, they flash to indicate that you’re almost on the rev limiter so it’s time to change up a gear!

A “key” issue

The Exige has a “Thatcham approved” alarm/immobiliser system and the key incorporates the controls for the alarm/immobiliser and central locking functions. This key features three buttons, the one which locks the doors and sets the alarm/immobiliser is stylishly crowned with the famous Lotus roundel. The second button unlocks the doors and de-activates the alarm/immobiliser, and the final button is a panic button to sound the alarm in case the driver needs to call attention to the car for any reason.

The new 2010 Lotus Exige S240 is scheduled to launch in the US and Canada in the Fall of 2009. Pricing for the 2010 Exige S240 will remain consistent with the 2009 model year cars starting at $65,690 without destination charges.

Notes:

About Group Lotus plc

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Ltd, which has two operating divisions – Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognized automotive engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), China and offices in Germany and Japan, with rapid expansion in new territories such as Southeast Asia.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world’s OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and customers to full production. This includes third party ‘niche vehicle’ engineering and manufacture worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These include the iconic Lotus Elise, Exige and Europa. Lotus’ latest model, the Lotus Evora, goes on sale in most global markets in the Spring of 2009 and in the US and Canada in the Winter of 2010. Lotus is a global high-tech company, expanding and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels. Together, these two enterprises are a powerful team, committed to changing the rules that define automotive excellence.

Lotus Cars USA is the North American distributor of Lotus sports cars, parts and accessories based in Duluth, Georgia just outside of Atlanta.

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Meet the new 2010 Lotus Exige Cup 260.  This is a faster, stiffer, lighter version of the already very quick, and nimble Exige S introduced in March of this year.

Power is delivered through the same 257 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque supercharged 1.8-liter Toyota engine.  Exige Cup 260 saves more weight by using carbon fiber parts, lightweight battery, wheels, subframe, fly wheel, and rear-window.  They even forgone as far as removing carpets, rearview mirror, and sun visors.  Talk about hard core! 

After adding all this up, the final number is just 1,958 pounds!  it can hit 60 mph in just four seconds flat, thanks to its extremely light weight and a new launch control system.  The handling should be further improved by stiffening the rear-end with two-way adjustable Ohlins dampers.  And now the price, since there is no official price release, rumor has it that it should be about $80K MSRP in US.

Press Release:

The 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige Cup 260

Increased specification, improved efficiency and enhanced handling

The track focussed homologated-for-the-road 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige Cup 260 takes design clues and technical innovations from the Lotus Exige GT3 racecar and combines with class leading emissions of just 199 g/km CO2 and exhilarating performance of 0-100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.
• Extensive use of carbon fibre
• Motorsport lightweight wheels
• Ohlins 2-way adjustable dampers
• Rear chassis stiffness increased by 30%

The Lotus Exige Cup has developed a cult following and a dedicated fan base since the first Lotus Exige Cup 240 was unveiled in 2006. Over the last 4 model years several hundred Exige Cup Cars have been sold, either specifically for race and track use or for a pure road going driving experience. The latest Exige Cup 260, with 260 PS, takes the 38 kg weight savings introduced in the last years model, combines them with the extensive body and aerodynamic improvements and revisions introduced on the 2010 Exige in March 2009 and tops them off with new components and technologies to produce the most focused and pure Exige yet.

Roger Becker, Director of Vehicle Engineering for Lotus said, “The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is the epitome of the Lotus brand philosophy of performance through lightweight. Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus, once said “Adding power makes you faster on the straights; subtracting weight makes you faster everywhere” and the Exige Cup 260 totally proves this, being one of the most exhilarating, focussed and pure sportscars on the road today.”

The 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 is fully homologated for road use in Europe and key markets in Asia and North America – a must have for many race competition programmes where a road legal car has to be entered. The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is also eligible to compete in the Lotus Cup Europe race series, organized and run by LoTRDC.
The 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 takes the design and aerodynamic changes first introduced on the Exige S earlier this year to enhance the look and improve aerodynamic performance.

The lightweight, unpainted carbon chord composite rear wing is based on the design from the Exige GT3 road car concept shown at the Geneva Motorshow in 2007. Compared to the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260 tailgate-mounted wing, it is 181 mm wider and mounted 46 mm higher and 61 mm further back. It is attached to the rear bodyshell clam via rear end plates which not only increases the stiffness of the whole structure but also ensures that as much of the airflow as possible passes over the rear wing. This careful airflow management increases stability, reduces drag and, most importantly, maintains the impressive downforce figures of 42 kg at 160 km/h.

The restyled front end includes a larger, more angular air intake to help funnel more air through the radiator, to improve the efficiency of the engine. Ahead of the front wheels on either side of the main aperture, two larger air intakes increase the airflow to the twin oil coolers. Horizontal vanes, made from lightweight carbon fibre bisect these oil cooler air-intakes to stabilise the airflow to further increase the cooling efficiency.

Mounted below the three air intakes is a new aerodynamic splitter for the 2010 Model Year Exige. Made from lightweight carbon chord composite, the splitter is extended to wrap around the whole of the front end and chiseled side lips are raised to deflect air around the tyres to reduce drag.

Rear chassis stiffness increases by 30%
The Exige Cup 260 now has an evolution of the rear diffuser and structural shear panel based on the version developed for the Exige GT3 race car, which increases the lateral stiffness of the rear subframe by 30% further enhancing its outstanding handling.

The rear diffuser and structural shear panel links the subframe to the main chassis to give greatly increased lateral stiffness to the rear subframe suspension pickup points, resulting in better tyre contact patch control.
This stiffness is also more applicable to those drivers who race or take part in track days using slick tyres that can also be fitted to the Exige Cup 260.

Ohlins two-way adjustable dampers are now fitted as standard, adding even more personalisation of the driving characteristics so the driver can tune the Exige Cup 260 to their driving style and road or track conditions.
A restyled front end and new larger, rear wing that not only reduces drag, but also gives a more muscular stance enhancing the lightweight shrink-wrapped look of the whole car.

Like the 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige S, the 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 exploits the Lotus philosophy of using weight reduction to increase performance and reduce emissions. Fuel economy is impressive with an Official European Combined Cycle figure of 8.5 litres / 100 km (reduced from 9.1 litres / 100 km (combined) for the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260), a frugal 6.5 litres/100 km on the Official European Extra Urban Cycle and just 199 g/km of CO2 (reduced from 216 g/km of CO2 for the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260). Continuous engineering improvements over the last year including careful whole vehicle optimisation has enabled this sportscar to be even better for fuel economy and emissions.
Luke Bennett, Operations Director for Lotus Cars said, “The best thing about the Lotus Exige Cup 260 is its performance, on the track it’s sensationally quick in a straight line and attacks corners with razor-sharp precision. With the lightness and agility you’d expect from a Lotus and the almost telepathic feedback to the driver, this car produces an outrageously fun drive.”

The Exige Cup 260 follows this lightweight philosophy closely. Taking the already lightweight Lotus Exige S, the weight saving programme has looked at all areas of the car where components can be replaced with a lighter version (without pushing the costs beyond the reach of the serious track day driver or clubman racer) or where components can be removed completely without detracting from the purity of the driving experience:

Carbon fibre (resulting in a weight saving of 12kg):-
• Roof Panel
• FIA and HANS compliant driver and passenger seats*
• One piece carbon fibre dash top panel
• Rear tailgate
• Centre tunnel
• Front access panels
• Front splitter (carbon chord)
• Side air intake ducts
• Rear spoiler (carbon chord)
(* The seats are FIA compliant when fitted in conjunction with fixed seat runners that are available as a track only dealer fit option).

Lightweight components (resulting in a further weight saving of 22kg):-
• Lightweight ‘motorsport’ battery
• Ultra-light five spoke forged alloy wheels
• Revised rear engine subframe with lightweight coating
• Lightweight fly wheel
• Lightweight composite bulkhead panel replaces rear window
• Alloy supercharger U-bend pipes

Removing some other non essential components and equipment such as the interior and boot carpets, front mudflaps, battery cover, interior mirror, sunvisors, rear tailgate gas strut, results in a further weight saving of 4kg.

However, as optional extras should a customer wish, air conditioning and an interior noise reduction pack are available, together with the complete range of Lotus metallic, lifestyle and premium paint colours

The MY2010 Exige Cup 260 weighs in at just 890 kg, giving an impressive power to weight ratio of 288 hp / tonne (291 PS / tonne). But, of course, power to weight alone does not make a highly competitive race or track car, so in addition, the Exige Cup 260 has a formidable list of standard performance focused equipment, as follows:-

Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control – additions recommended for track driving
Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control was originally developed for the Lotus Exige GT3 racing programme

The launch control allows the driver to determine the number of revs they wish to use during a standing start. Having programmed that limit, the driver then holds their foot down fully on the throttle pedal and sidesteps the clutch pedal for a very quick departure from the line. The clutch damper cushions the severity of the clutch to transmission engagement to minimise the stresses to the drivetrain. The launch control also keeps wheel-spin at bay until 10 km/h (6 mph), after which the traction control assumes its duties.

As with launch control, the amount of traction control required can be dialled in from the driver’s seat and altered on the move to suit the characteristics of particular corners. The amount of traction control can be varied in over 30 increments from an optimum 7 percent tyre slip to completely inactive. The message display in the new instrument pack displays what degree of traction control is being currently utilised.

Wheels and Tyres
All new Lotus Sport lightweight forged alloy wheels, thought to be the lightest original equipment wheels in the world, weigh just 5.65 kg (front) and 7.75 kg (rear). These ultra lightweight wheels reduce the unsprung mass therefore further improving the handling and contribute a weight saving of approximately 800 g over the already super light forged 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260 wheels. The wheels are shod with Lotus specific LTS construction and compound Yokohama A048 tyres† to maximise grip and achieve the ride and handling targets set by Lotus engineers.
† For GCC States Yokohama A048 LTS tyres are replaced with Toyo Proxes R888 tyres.

Safety Equipment
Lotus Exige Cup 260 cars have the safety equipment expected of a race car, with FIA and HANS compliant carbon fibre lightweight sports seats*, normal 3-point “Webb Lock” harnesses (four or six point driver and passenger seat belt harnesses are available for track use only).

(* The seats are FIA compliant when fitted in conjunction with fixed seat runners that are available as a track only dealer fit option).

A high tensile steel roll over hoop is now fitted with a body coloured Lotus Sport A-Frame as standard and the chassis is already pre-drilled to fit a full front roll cage – a simple dealer fit process involving just the removal of the roof panel for access prior to fitting. Completing the additional safety equipment is a FIA compliant electronic ignition kill switch, with cockpit and external activation, and a FIA compliant plumbed electrically activated fire extinguisher system, again with cockpit and external switches.

Like all current Lotus cars, the Exige Cup 260 is built around a very strong extruded and bonded aluminium chassis tub. Attached to the chassis is a sacrificial energy absorbing composite front structure designed to help absorb crash energy in the event of impact.

Suspension
To suit individual driving styles and road conditions, drivers will now be able to tune the Exige suspension with the Ohlins two-way adjustable dampers (which have 60 compression and 22 rebound settings) and ride height adjustment to reduce the ride height from 130 mm to 120 mm. An adjustable front anti-roll bar allows customers to tailor the handling characteristics of the car to their own requirements.

As the Exige Cup 260 cars are equipped for track use, a double shear track control arm brace is provided to cope with the expected kerb abuse during track racing or hard track day driving.

Brakes
The brake system includes large diameter 308 mm 2-piece cross-drilled and ventilated front discs and 282 mm cross-drilled and ventilated discs at the rear, upgraded Pagid RS14 sports brake pads set into the brake calipers (AP Racing two piece radially mounted, 4 piston at the front and Brembo sliding at the rear), and stainless steel braided brake hoses – all linked to the proven Lotus track-tuned servo-assisted four-channel ABS system that enhances braking performance and minimizes stopping distance without taking over from the skill of the driver.

Performance, Economy and Emissions
The Exige Cup 260 is one of the quickest road cars around a circuit. Key to this incredible track performance is the aerodynamic package, which produces 42 kg of downforce at 160 km/h (100 mph) increasing grip and stability at higher speeds. With a top speed of circa 245 km/h (152 mph) and a zero to 160 km/h (100 mph) in circa 9.9 seconds, 0 to 100 km/h in circa 4.1 seconds (0 to 60 mph in circa 4 seconds), the MY2010 Exige Cup 260 is the perfect partner for the serious racer. Combined Fuel Consumption is 8.5 l/100km and the CO2 emissions 199 g/km.

Engine
The supercharged and intercooled engine in the Exige Cup 260 has a maximum power output of 260 PS (257 hp) at 8000 rpm and a torque figure of 236 Nm (174 lbft) at 6000 rpm. This significant amount of extra power and torque now available together with the VVTL-i variable cam system ensures that there is a smooth and linear delivery of power from low engine speeds all the way to the maximum 8000 rpm (8500 rpm transient for 2 seconds). The Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism meaning that it does not require the use of the engine’s oil) is run from the crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation. Charge air (air under pressure from the supercharger) is cooled through an air-to-air intercooler (the air enters via the enhanced roof scoop) before being fed into the engine itself. All charge air ducting has been kept as short as possible with large diameter pipes to minimise restriction and maximise throttle response and efficiency. Four high capacity injectors and an uprated fuel pump add additional fuel under hard acceleration or continuous high speed driving – only on the track of course!

A lightweight flywheel is fitted (giving even greater flexibility and response to the gear change), a sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfer the engine power and torque to the lightweight C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminium casing) – with the same perfectly spaced ratios as the Exige S. A torque-sensing limited slip differential is fitted as standard, with a plate type limited slip differential available as an option. An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole package as an oil reservoir back-up for extreme track use ensuring that, under those conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant.

Electrical supply is provided by a lightweight motorsport battery which saves a massive 5 kg of weight sitting behind the rear axle – again weight saving is not just the removal of mass but ensuring that this mass is removed where it most affects performance and handling.

Roof Scoop
The Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 has a high flow, full-length carbon roof scoop as part of the lightweight carbon roof panel, which not only saves 4 kg but also ensures efficient cooling through the intercooler, which in turn allows the Exige Cup 260 to gain a higher charge density in the cylinders improving efficiency further.

Specification
The standard specification Lotus Exige Cup 260 is road legal within the European Union, and can be registered for road use.
The Exige Cup 260 is available now for sale in Europe. Individual recommended retail prices for some major European markets are listed below:

Recommended retail prices of the standard road specification Lotus Exige Cup 260
UK (MSRP). Recommended retail price (including VAT) is £45,000, (an additional £950 is charged for on the road costs. These include delivery, PDI, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months Road Fund Licence and a full tank of fuel.

Recommended retail prices of the standard road specification Lotus Exige Cup 260 for the following markets (MSRP) (including transport, delivery, local taxes and first service (but excluding registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):
Belgium € 64.825
France € 64.200,–
Italy € 64.900,–
Switzerland CHF 94.700,–

Recommended retail prices for the following markets (MSRP) (including local taxes (excluding transport, registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):
Germany € 62.950,–
Recommended retail prices for Euro Zone Countries (MSRP) (excluding local taxes, transport, registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):
Euro Zone € 52.899,–

Warranty
The Lotus Exige Cup 260 will have a limited manufacturer’s warranty. The manufacturer’s warranty will be void if the car has ever been used on road or on track with “slick” or equivalent racing tyres. If the launch control facility is utilized, the warranty on related powertrain components is void. Clutch assembly and brake discs are excluded from the manufacturer’s warranty. The manufacturer’s warranty will not apply to any car which is subjected to race or competition use including but not limited to timed runs or laps. Purchaser’s Statutory rights are not affected.

Official European Combined Cycle = 8.5 litres / 100 km (33.2 mpg)
Official European Extra Urban Cycle = 6.5 litres/100 km (43.5 mpg)
Official European Urban Cycle = 11.9 litre/100 km (23.7 mpg)
199 g/km of CO2

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A new Porsche GT3 Cup gets revealed.  Some new features include wider body, lower stance for more down force, competition-spec exhaust, racing wheels that sit in a wider wheel wells, and firmer suspension settings.  A new steering wheel comes with mounted controls, full adjustable column, and carbon-ceramic brakes.

The new engine is being brought in from GT3 RS which is a 3.8-liter 450 horsepower flat-six.  you can only order it in white color, and it will set you back 150,000 euros ($215k US).  The new GT3 Cup will debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Show.  

Here is a complete press release:

World Debut in Frankfurt: the New Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
New Edition of the World´s Most Successful Racing Car

Stuttgart. Stronger, wider, faster – the new version of the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup offers its many customers the world over even greater value than ever before. The successor to the best-selling racing car of all time built in a production series of more than 1,400 units is based for the first time on the 911 GT3 RS, with the weight of the racing model reduced significantly versus the lightweight road-going version.

This is the first GT3 Cup to feature the 44-millimetre (1.73″) wider body at the rear, providing sufficient space for even larger wheels. Wider wheel arches also at the front clearly show that the front wheels are likewise new.

Engine capacity is up by 0.2 litres over the former model, engine output is 30 bhp more than before. The most important facts and figures: 3.8-litre six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit developing 450 bhp (331 kW), sequential six-speed manual gearbox, weight 1,200 kg (2,646 lb), racing version of the 911 GT3 RS.

The new GT3 Cup is clearly recognisable at very first sight through the special looks and design of the front end. The striking daytime driving lights come straight from the current generation of the 911, the front body panels are the same as on the 911 GT3 RS. The front spoiler lip is however 15 millimetres or almost 0.6″ lower to provide significantly more downforce on the front axle. Downforce on the rear axle is also increased by the rear wing extended in width from 1.46 to 1.70 metres (57.5 to 66.9″) and fitted higher up as a feature carried over from the even faster 911 GT3 Cup S in international FIA GT3 racing. The rear air dam with its striking air vent openings as well as the rear lights in LED technology, in turn, come straight from the road model.

The power unit featured in the new 911 GT3 Cup is largely identical to the production engine in the 911 GT3 RS – same output of 450 bhp and same maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm. Capacity of the Cup engine, however, is up from 3.6 litres on the former model to 3.8 litres on the new car, helping to increase engine power by 30 bhp.

A racing exhaust system with a fully controlled catalytic converter helps to reduce harmful emissions to a minimum. As an exclusive feature in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup held on the occasion of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship races, the new 911 GT3 Cup comes with a modified, special exhaust system offering an even more dynamic and muscular sound. Another feature exclusive to the Supercup version is PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes also available on Porsche’s road models. Compared with the composite cast brake discs featured on the Carrera Cup cars, this reduces the weight of the car by approximately 20 kg or 44 lb.

The wheel arches wider at the front and the flared wheel arches at the rear provide ample space for even wider wheels. Hence, the front axle comes with three-piece light-alloy rims measuring 9.5 J x 18 (previously 9 J x 18) and running on 24/64-18 Michelin racing tyres. The three-piece light-alloy rims on the rear axle are up by one inch in width, now measuring 12 J x 18 and running on 27/68-18 tyres.

Additional Unibal joints are featured on the track control arms and the sword-shaped anti-roll bars front and rear are now adjustable to seven different positions on both sides, allowing an even more precise set-up of the car in accordance with the respective race track.

The cockpit of the new 911 GT3 Cup caters even more than before for the specific needs of the driver. An additional vent in the upper part of the front lid, for example, provides the driver with an even better supply of fresh air. The controls for the Info Display are now positioned directly on the steering wheel housing a total of six switches. And in addition to fore-and-aft adjustment, the steering wheel may now also be adjusted for height as on the regular production car.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup available exclusively in Carrara White will be delivered to customers as of the end of October. In the upcoming season it will be raced in no less than seven cup trophies – not only in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup on the occasion of Formula 1 races, but also in the Porsche Carrera Cups in Germany, Asia, Japan, and Italy, as well as the GT3 Cup Challenges in the USA and the Middle East.

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