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      <title>The Torque Report</title>
      <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/</link>
      <description></description>
      <language>en</language>
      <copyright>Copyright 2012</copyright>
      <lastBuildDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 13:36:25 -0800</lastBuildDate>
      <generator>http://www.sixapart.com/movabletype/</generator>
      <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs> 

      
      <item>
         <title>Ford to Lead the Industry by Replacing One-Quarter of its Lineup by 2016</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Ford_Fusion_0008-20159.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Ford_Fusion_0008-20159.html','popup','width=1280,height=605,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Ford_Fusion_0008-thumb-530x250-20159.jpg" width="530" height="250" alt="2013_Ford_Fusion_0008.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.ford.com">Ford</a> is set to replace 26 percent of its lineup between 2013 and 2016 according to a <a href="http://www.bofa.com">Bank of America</a> Merrill Lynch report. Ford will lead the industry by introducing the most new or refreshed vehicles in the U.S. during the period. The annual "Car Wars" report predicts that <a href="http://www.gm.com">GM</a> will replace 25 percent of its lineup, while <a href="http://www.toyota.com">Toyota</a> will replace 24 percent and Nissan will match the industry average at 23 percent.</p>

<p>New models are picking up from the "lull" during the last three years. The Bank of America report predicts that most new introductions will be in the crossover, luxury-car and light-truck segments. <a href="http://www.chrysler.com">Chrysler</a> and <a href="http://www.honda.com">Honda</a> will trail the segment by with replacement rates of 20 percent.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/ford_to_lead_the_industry_by_re.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/ford_to_lead_the_industry_by_re.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">American Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Ford</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Bank of America</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Chrysler</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Ford</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">GM</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Honda</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Nissan</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Toyota</category>
        
         <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 13:36:25 -0800</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>2012 Hyundai Azera Named IIHS Top Safety Pick</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_Hyundai_Azera_0003-20156.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_Hyundai_Azera_0003-20156.html','popup','width=1280,height=852,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_Hyundai_Azera_0003-thumb-530x352-20156.jpg" width="530" height="352" alt="2012_Hyundai_Azera_0003.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
The all-new <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2011/11/2012_hyundai_azera_debuts_in_l.html">2012 Hyundai Azera</a> has achieved the <a href="http://www.iihs.org/">Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS)</a> highest honor as a Top Safety Pick. In order to be labeled as a Top Safety Pick, a vehicle has to receive a "good" rating, the highest rating possible in front, side, rollover and rear crash tests.</p>

<p>"Having a great recipe of safety equipment baked into the all-new Azera put it on the top pick list," said Scott Margason, director, product planning, Hyundai Motor America. "The Azera takes ESC and seating to the next level, by adding the ability to automatically counter steer the car from pulling too much in one direction and further reduce head and neck injuries through an impact reducing seat structure."</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/2012_hyundai_azera_named_iihs.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/2012_hyundai_azera_named_iihs.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Hyundai</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Korean Cars</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Hyundai</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Hyundai Azera</category>
        
         <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 13:17:55 -0800</pubDate>
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         <title>2013 Nissan Altima Production Begins in Tennessee</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Nissan_Altima_Production-20144.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Nissan_Altima_Production-20144.html','popup','width=1280,height=853,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Nissan_Altima_Production-thumb-530x353-20144.jpg" width="530" height="353" alt="2013_Nissan_Altima_Production.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
Nissan has officially kicked off production of the all-new <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/04/2013_nissan_altima_gets_38_mpg.html">2013 Nissan Altima</a> at its Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant in Tennessee. It's been 20 years since the first Nissan Altima rolled off the line in Smyrna and 4.4 million Altimas later, the fifth generation is here.</p>

<p>"The <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/04/2013_nissan_altima_gets_38_mpg.html">Nissan Altima</a> ranks among the country's top-selling cars and best-known nameplates," said Bill Krueger, vice chairman, <a href="http://www.nissanusa.com">Nissan Americas</a>. "This generation is not only the most innovative Altima ever, it also becomes the benchmark for quality in the midsize car segment. And there's no better plant to rise to the challenge than our top-quality manufacturing operations in Smyrna."</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/2013_nissan_altima_production.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/2013_nissan_altima_production.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Japanese Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Nissan/ Infiniti</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Nissan</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Nissan Altima</category>
        
         <pubDate>Wed, 16 May 2012 03:41:58 -0800</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>2013 BMW 135is Packs 320-HP and Starts at $44,145</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_BMW_135is_Coupe-20129.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_BMW_135is_Coupe-20129.html','popup','width=1280,height=670,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_BMW_135is_Coupe-thumb-530x277-20129.jpg" width="530" height="277" alt="2013_BMW_135is_Coupe.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.bmwusa.com">BMW</a> has unveiled a new "enhanced performance" version of the 2013 1 Series, the 2013 BMW 135is. The 2013 BMW 135is coupe and convertible will now be the top versions of the 1 Series, since the <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2010/12/bmw_1_series_m_coupe_to_cost_a.html#more">1 Series M coupe</a> is already gone.</p>

<p>The 135is is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder (N55) engine with 320 horsepower and 317 lb-ft. of torque. Even with the extra power over the <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2010/12/bmw_1_series_m_coupe_to_cost_a.html#more">135i</a>, <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/european_cars/bmw_mini/">BMW</a> claims that the 135is will maintain the same emissions level and MPG ratings as the lesser powered 135i. The 135is also gets a performance exhaust system and the engine gets an upgraded cooling system. Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or 7-speed double clutch transmission.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/2013_bmw_135is_packs_320-hp_an.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/2013_bmw_135is_packs_320-hp_an.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">BMW/ MINI</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">European Cars</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">BMW</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">BMW 1 Series</category>
        
         <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 18:15:38 -0800</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Confirmed with More than 770 Horsepower and 78 MPG</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Porsche 918 Spyder_prototype_4-20114.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Porsche 918 Spyder_prototype_4-20114.html','popup','width=806,height=535,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Porsche 918 Spyder_prototype_4-thumb-530x351-20114.jpg" width="530" height="351" alt="Porsche 918 Spyder_prototype_4.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
Porsche's 918 Spyder hybrid is slated to arrive by the end of 2013, but <a href="http://www.porsche.com">Porsche</a> has been kind enough to release a few of the details now. Prototypes of the hybrid super car are currently being tested with camouflage harking back to historical Porsche 917 racing cars, that signal the final touches to the 918 Spyder.</p>

<p>The 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid is powered by a V8 engine and two electric motors, which will put out more than 770 horsepower according to Porsche. The 4.6-liter V-8 engine is expected to put out around 570 horsepower and sends its power to the rear wheels. One electric motor also sends its power to the back, while another electric motor sends power to the front of the 918 Spyder. Although the hybrid system will put out more than 770 horsepower, Porsche estimates that the 918 Spyder's fuel consumption in the region of three litres per 100 kilometers (78 MPG U.S) The 918 Spyder will also have an electric-only range of 15 miles, reach 0-60 mph in under 3.0 seconds and have a top speed over 200 mph.</p>

<p> </p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/porsche_918_spyder_hybrid_conf.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/porsche_918_spyder_hybrid_conf.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">European Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Porsche</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">The Green Report</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Hybrid</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Porsche</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Porsche 918 Spyder</category>
        
         <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 08:35:34 -0800</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>Acura Shows Off the NSX Concept in Red</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept 01-20102.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept 01-20102.html','popup','width=1280,height=853,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept 01-thumb-530x353-20102.jpg" width="530" height="353" alt="Beijing Motor Show Acura NSX Concept 01.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.acura.com">Acura</a> gave us our first look at the <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/01/acura_nsx_concept_debuts_as_a.html">NSX concept</a> at the Detroit Auto Show in January. The concept was originally shown off in a light charcoal, now here are new photos of the NSX Concept in red.</p>

<p>in case you need a refresher, the NSX concept is a preview of the next-generation NSX that will arrive within the next three years. The <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/02/video_honda_takes_us_back_to_t.html">NSX</a> concept features Acura's new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD hybrid system. The system uses a two electric motor drive unit up front that can instantly send negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. The next-generation VTEC V6 engine features direct-injection and is mated to a dual clutch transmission with built-in electric motor that sends its power to the rear wheels.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/acura_shows_off_the_nsx_concep.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/acura_shows_off_the_nsx_concep.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Honda/ Acura</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Japanese Cars</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Acura</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Acura NSX</category>
        
         <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 04:56:26 -0800</pubDate>
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         <title>Audi Q3 Red Track Debuts at the Wörthersee Tour</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_Audi_Q3_Red_Track-20090.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_Audi_Q3_Red_Track-20090.html','popup','width=1280,height=905,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_Audi_Q3_Red_Track-thumb-530x374-20090.jpg" width="530" height="374" alt="2012_Audi_Q3_Red_Track.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.audiusa.com">Audi</a> is going to unveil a new version of the Audi Q3 crossover at the Wörthersee Tour. The Audi Q3 Red Track is powered by a 2.5L five-cylinder TFSI engine with direct injection and turbocharging that generates an output of 340 hp 332 lb-ft. of torque. The power of the turbocharged five-cylinder unit is transferred to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system via a seven-speed S tronic transmission. The Audi Q3 red track accelerates from 0-62 mph in 5.4 seconds and continues to a top speed of 163 mph.</p>

<p>On the outside the Q3 Red Track is painted in Energy Red paint that contains golden pearlescent particles. Its add-on body parts are in matte gray quartz-based paint. Eye catching features on the sides of the Q3 Red Track are the flared wheel arches and the running boards, which Audi is to incorporate into the extensive range of Q3 accessories. The newly styled aluminum roof rails are specially designed for transporting skis. The Q3 Red Track also rides on 20 inch wheels with off-road tires. It's track has also been increased by 1.57 inches and the body is 1.18 inches higher compared to the other Q3 models.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/audi_q3_red_track_debuts_at_th.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/audi_q3_red_track_debuts_at_th.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">European Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">VW/ Audi</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Audi</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Audi Q3</category>
        
         <pubDate>Tue, 15 May 2012 04:41:10 -0800</pubDate>
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         <title>Next-Generation 2014 Infiniti G37 to Arrive Next Spring</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_infiniti_g_sedan_04-20087.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_infiniti_g_sedan_04-20087.html','popup','width=1028,height=771,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_infiniti_g_sedan_04-thumb-530x397-20087.jpg" width="530" height="397" alt="2012_infiniti_g_sedan_04.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
The guys over at <em>Inside Line</em> recently spoke with Andy Palmer, executive vice president of <a href="http://www.nissanusa.com">Nissan</a> and <a href="http://www.infinitiusa.com">Infiniti's</a> Global Business Unit, who confirmed that the next-generation G37 will arrive in the spring of 2013.</p>

<p>Palmer did not provide many other details about the new G37, but it is possible that it could eventually get a four-cylinder in place of the V6 in the base G. Nissan's new partnership with Mercedes-Benz has confirmed plans for Nissan to build four-cylinder engines for the next Mercedes-Benz C-Class, but it's also highly possible that this engine could also find its way under the hood of a <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2010/08/2011_infiniti_g25_sedan_starts.html">G model</a>.<br />
</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/next-generation_2014_infiniti.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/next-generation_2014_infiniti.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Japanese Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Nissan/ Infiniti</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Infiniti</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Infiniti G37</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Nissan</category>
        
         <pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 13:16:34 -0800</pubDate>
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         <title>Chevy to Add New Trax Small SUV to its Global Lineup</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Chevy_Trax-20084.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Chevy_Trax-20084.html','popup','width=1280,height=710,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_Chevy_Trax-thumb-530x293-20084.jpg" width="530" height="293" alt="2013_Chevy_Trax.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.chevy.com">Chevy</a> is set to introduce a new small SUV to its global lineup by the end of this year. The all-new Chevy Trax small SUV is going to debut at the Paris Motor Show in September. <a href="http://www.gm.com">GM</a> states that the five-passenger Trax will offer class-leading interior space and be offered in over 140 markets. Mexico and Canada will be the first markets to launch the small SUV in the fourth quarter of this year. Unfortunately because of the strong position of the Equinox, there are no plans to introduce the Trax in the U.S. market. </p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/chevy_to_add_new_trax_small_su.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/chevy_to_add_new_trax_small_su.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">American Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Chevrolet</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">GM</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Chevy</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Chevy Trax</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">GM</category>
        
         <pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 07:47:43 -0800</pubDate>
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         <title>BMW M135i Officially Unveiled in 3 and 5-Door Versions</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/BMW_M135i_3Door_3-20072.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/BMW_M135i_3Door_3-20072.html','popup','width=1280,height=853,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/BMW_M135i_3Door_3-thumb-530x353-20072.jpg" width="530" height="353" alt="BMW_M135i_3Door_3.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.bmwusa.com">BMW</a> has officially taken the wraps off the M version of the 1 Series hatchback in Europe. The M135i was previewed in <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/02/bmw_m135i_concept_to_debut_in.html">concept form</a> at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The production version is powered by a turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder engine with 320 horsepower. This is the first time a BMW M Performance model has been powered by a gas engine.</p>

<p>Buyers in Europe will be able to choose between either three or five door bodystyles, which feature an M suspension and body kit. The 3.0L engine can be mated to either a standard six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. The manual equipped M135i should reach 0-62 mph in 5.1 seconds, while the eight-speed version is a few ticks faster at 4.9 seconds.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/bmw_m135i_officially_unveiled.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/bmw_m135i_officially_unveiled.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">BMW/ MINI</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">European Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Videos</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">BMW</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">BMW 1 Series</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">BMW M135i</category>
        
         <pubDate>Mon, 14 May 2012 03:55:55 -0800</pubDate>
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         <title>2013 BMW 3 Series Sport Wagon Officially Unveiled</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_BMW_3Series_Wagon_23-20060.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_BMW_3Series_Wagon_23-20060.html','popup','width=1280,height=853,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2013_BMW_3Series_Wagon_23-thumb-530x353-20060.jpg" width="530" height="353" alt="2013_BMW_3Series_Wagon_23.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
Here's the first official photos and info about the all-new 2013 <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/european_cars/bmw_mini/">BMW</a> 3 Series Sport Wagon, that will be sold in the U.S. The 3 Series Sport Wagon is slightly larger than its predecessor with a wider track and longer overall length and wheelbase. Most of the added length benefits the rear seat passengers, which now have more space to stretch out than before. Cargo volume has also been increased by 10 percent.</p>

<p>The 2013 <a href="http://www.bmwusa.com">BMW</a> 3 Series Sport Wagon will launch in Europe later this year and will arrive in U.S. showrooms in spring 2013. Inside the rear seat can be folded down in three sections in a 40:20:40 split.  A net as well as an additional strap along the right side panel can be used to help secure cargo and a net along the left-hand panel will also be available. A storage tray under the load compartment floor and a deep stowage compartment on the left-hand side of the cargo area can accommodate smaller items. The luggage compartment cover can also be stowed away under the load compartment floor, allowing it to be kept in the car even when not in use and a separate partition net helps keep things in place when the rear seats are folded down.<br />
</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/2013_bmw_3_series_sport_wagon.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/2013_bmw_3_series_sport_wagon.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">BMW/ MINI</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">European Cars</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">BMW</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">BMW 3 Series</category>
        
         <pubDate>Sun, 13 May 2012 07:29:13 -0800</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>Mini John Cooper Works GP Unveiled, it&apos;s the Fastest Mini Ever</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Mini_John_Cooper_Works_GP_2-20048.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Mini_John_Cooper_Works_GP_2-20048.html','popup','width=1280,height=905,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Mini_John_Cooper_Works_GP_2-thumb-530x374-20048.jpg" width="530" height="374" alt="Mini_John_Cooper_Works_GP_2.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.miniusa.com">Mini</a> has unveiled the fastest production Mini ever, the John Cooper Works GP. The John Cooper Works GP recently lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 8 minutes and 23 seconds, a full 19 seconds quicker than the the lap time set by its predecessor, the Mini Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit.</p>

<p>Underpinning the performance characteristics of the Mini John Cooper Works GP is exclusive powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics technology inspired directly by motorsport. Mini hasn't announced the final horsepower figures, but it wil pack more than the 214 horsepower that the previous model had. It also gets an adjustable race suspension. On the outside the Mini John Cooper Works GP gets large front and rear aprons, side skirts, a bespoke roof spoiler and a newly developed rear diffuser which optimizes airflow around the underbody. The rear seats have also been removed to save weight.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/mini_john_cooper_works_gp_unve.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/mini_john_cooper_works_gp_unve.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">BMW/ MINI</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">European Cars</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Mini</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Mini Cooper</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Mini John Cooper Works GP</category>
        
         <pubDate>Sun, 13 May 2012 07:02:33 -0800</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>Porsche Plans New Smaller Sedan to Compete Against the Mercedes-Benz E-Class</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_porsche_panamera_turbo_s_0008-20045.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_porsche_panamera_turbo_s_0008-20045.html','popup','width=1280,height=850,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/2012_porsche_panamera_turbo_s_0008-thumb-530x351-20045.jpg" width="530" height="351" alt="2012_porsche_panamera_turbo_s_0008.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.porsche.com">Porsche</a> is reportedly working on a new sedan that will be smaller than the current <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2011/03/2012_porsche_panamera_turbo_s.html">Panamera</a>. It will be released by 2017 and go head to head with models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/2011/03/porsche_is_working_on_a_baby_p.html">BMW 5 Series</a>.</p>

<p>Internally the new sedan is code-named Pajun and according to <em>Auto Bild</em> the new sedan will cost between 65,000 euros and 100,000 euros.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/porsche_plans_new_smaller_seda.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/porsche_plans_new_smaller_seda.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">European Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Porsche</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Porsche</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Porsche Pajun</category>
        
         <pubDate>Fri, 11 May 2012 04:40:01 -0800</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>Nissan Begins Construction of New Facility to Build Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz Engines</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Nissan and Mercedes-Benz_Groundbreaking-20042.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Nissan and Mercedes-Benz_Groundbreaking-20042.html','popup','width=1280,height=853,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Nissan and Mercedes-Benz_Groundbreaking-thumb-530x353-20042.jpg" width="530" height="353" alt="Nissan and Mercedes-Benz_Groundbreaking.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
The Renault-Nissan Alliance and Daimler partnership reached a milestone today when Tennessee officials joined Nissan leadership to break ground on a new manufacturing facility in Decherd, Tenn. The new facility, which is located at the existing <a href="http://www.nissanusa.com">Nissan</a> powertrain assembly complex - will produce Mercedes-Benz 4-cyl. gasoline engines for <a href="http://www.infinitiusa.com">Infiniti</a> and <a href="http://www.mbusa.com">Mercedes-Benz</a> models.</p>

<p>"Today, we begin an exciting new chapter for the Renault-Nissan Alliance and our continued investment in the United States," Swenson said. "Today's groundbreaking marks the latest move in our collaboration with Daimler to localize production capacity and enhance our competitiveness in the global market."</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/nissan_begins_construction_of.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/nissan_begins_construction_of.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">European Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Japanese Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Mercedes-Benz</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Nissan/ Infiniti</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Videos</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Mercedes-Benz</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">NIssan</category>
        
         <pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 14:04:47 -0800</pubDate>
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      <item>
         <title>GM Trademarks the Riviera Name, Will it be Used for a Future Buick?</title>
         <description><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Buick_Riviera_Concept_031-20033.html" onclick="window.open('http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Buick_Riviera_Concept_031-20033.html','popup','width=1280,height=853,scrollbars=no,resizable=no,toolbar=no,directories=no,location=no,menubar=no,status=no,left=0,top=0'); return false"><img src="http://www.thetorquereport.com/assets_c/2012/05/Buick_Riviera_Concept_031-thumb-530x353-20033.jpg" width="530" height="353" alt="Buick_Riviera_Concept_031.jpg" class="mt-image-none" style="" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/american_cars/gm/">GM</a> has reportedly filed for the trademark of the Riviera name, which has fueled more speculation that GM could apply the name to a future <a href="http://www.buick.com">Buick</a> model. The Riviera name is obviously not new, but the last time that we saw it used was for the 2007 Buick Riviera concept that debuted in China.</p>

<p>It's not known if GM is simply just filed for the trademark, but doesn't have any plans to actually use it. Many automakers will trademark many names, but not actually use them, like Ford who trademarked a series of "MK" names for the <a href="http://www.thetorquereport.com/american_cars/lincoln/">Lincoln</a> brand.</p>]]></description>
         <link>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/gm_trademarks_the_riviera_name.html</link>
         <guid>http://www.thetorquereport.com/2012/05/gm_trademarks_the_riviera_name.html</guid>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">American Cars</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">Buick</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#category">GM</category>
        
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Buick</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">Buick Riviera</category>
        
          <category domain="http://www.sixapart.com/ns/types#tag">GM</category>
        
         <pubDate>Thu, 10 May 2012 04:21:30 -0800</pubDate>
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