Vauxhall has recently announced the availability of the new VXR8 performance sedan for the UK market. The rear-wheel drive sedan is based on the face-lifted Holden HSV E3 GTS model recently launched in Australia. The new Vauxhall VXR8 is powered by a 6.2 liter LS3 engine with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic gearbox. This engine configuration produces an output of 431PS (425bhp/ 317kW) and 550Nm (406lb-ft) of torque. The sedan accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in only 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 155mph (250km/h). Priced at £49,500 ($77,065) inc. 20 percent VAT, the VXR8 is available only through 6 selected Vauxhall dealers in the UK. [WorldCarFans]
Toyota USA has announced retail prices for the 2011 Corolla and the upcoming 2011 Matrix. The new facelifted 2011 Corolla has received several minor exterior and interior appointments and is offered in three trim levels (Corolla, LE and S). The new Corolla has a redesigned front grille, new bumpers, wheel designs and chrome accents. On the inside, the sedan provides an upgraded heater, as part of an all-weather package. Additionally, LE variants have metallic trim, heated mirrors, cruise control, remote keyless entry, better stereo and variable intermittent windshield wipers. All trim levels feature a comprehensive safety package that consists of Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology brake override system. The 2011 Corolla will hit the market in January 2011, followed by the Matrix in Spring next year. The 2011 Toyota Corolla is priced at $15,600 upwards, while the Toyota Matrix retails for $18,545. [CarScoop]
KIA has officially unveiled pricing of the next Optima at the 2010 New York Auto Show. The 2.4-liter model is available in two trim levels, the LX and the EX. The LX with a six-speed manual gearbox has a starting MSRP of $19,690. Standard features include six-airbags, an AM/FM/CD/MP3/Sat audio system, power windows and locks, dual exhaust with chrome tips, a cooling glove box and auxiliary USB audio input jacks for MP3 players and Bluetooth wireless technology connectivity with steering-wheel mounted voice activation. The same LX model with a 6-speed Automatic transmission is priced at $21,190 and adds alloy wheels, cruise control and an Active Eco System. [CarScoop]
The Mercedes-Benz SLK has a slick, auto-retracting roof known as the Vario-Roof. The 2012 model will have a new $2,800 option called the Magic Sky Control, which will allow the glass roof to be made either transparent or darkened at the push of a button. The Magic Sky Control roof is embedded with tiny particles that either align under voltage to allow light to pass through, or randomly scramble to make it opaque. [eMercedesBenz]
The BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 is claimed to be the world’s most powerful and fastest luxury sedan. The SV12 R Biturbo 800 engine allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 3.9 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph). The sedan also comes equipped with a new aerodynamics package and loads of extra interior equipment. [AVING]
Toyota will begin manufacturing its Prius hybrid in Thailand starting from November 2010. The car will be built at the firm’s Gateway Plant, near the Thai capital Bangkok, where it also makes the Corolla, Camry, Camry Hybrid and other models. For your info, Toyota aims to sell 1 million hybrid vehicles or more annually before the end of the decade. [CarScoop]
