NEWS: Mitsubishi Sportback

By Michael Banovsky
Photo courtesy Mitsubishi

Here it is, folks: The new Lancer Evo X. Okay...it's what Mitsubishi are showing at the Frankfurt show in September. Still, it's a good indication of how the Lancer/Lancer Evo will look when sitting on DaimlerChrysler's new small-car platform.

Let the turbo kits begin.

NEWS: Custom lettering

By Michael Banovsky

We here at Inside Track feel that car names can be boring.

For instance, the next Miata will be called the MX-5... In Europe, The Toyota Echo Hatchback is called "Vitz" (which is much cooler, btw). The Vibe is called "Voltz", the Integra is "RSX" over here...and don't get us started on the Lexus GX470 being called the "Land Cruiser Prado" in Japan.

Well, point your browser over to YourEmblem.com and finally you can order the letters to say "Gooolie" instead of "6000 LE".

We will not take any responsibility for misuse...and badges don't make your car go any faster. Oh, and "Wagon Queen Family Truckster" will set you back about $106.00 CDN, plus shipping...

NEWS: New Vehicle roundup

By Michael Banovsky
Photos courtesy their respective manufacturers

Golf R32



Yes, Volkswagen continues the across-the-pond-tease – this time with the limited-edition R32. It features a 250 horsepower V6, DSG gearbox, 4Motion all-wheel-drive, and tires that are speed rated for 300 km/h. Inside, special seats, trim inserts, and steering wheel complete the look. Prices start at €32,200 (about $48,360 CDN).




Volkswagen Passat V6



These are the details of the all-new Passat to be launched in the U.S. shortly. All details for Canada (including the engine lineup) should be unchanged. It will be in Canada at the same time or shortly after it’s debut in the U.S.

From Volkswagen: “(Our) most powerful Passat ever, the 280-horsepower 2006 Passat 3.6L—an all-new car that arrives at U.S. dealerships in two months… This new Passat will be among the most powerful front-drive, family midsize cars ever offered… The V6 offers a nearly class-leading power-to-weight ratio that allows this family hauler to propel from 0-60 mph in just 6.6 seconds.

Prior to the launch of this new top-of-the-line V6, Volkswagen will bring the 2006 new Passat model to the U.S. market beginning this month. This all-new sedan will represent the most, sophisticated and affordable German-built family midsize car on the market today, with the starting price at less than $23,000 (less than $28,000 CDN) [for the 4-cylinder model].

Significantly, the new Passat’s base engine is upgraded to a sophisticated new four-cylinder engine called the 2.0T. This two-liter is efficient and sporty and uses a turbocharger and an intercooler for cool, higher-density intake air. The 2.0T’s high-end breathing is further enhanced by its four-valves per cylinder. The engine’s overall efficiency begins with an advanced direct-injection fuel delivery system that culminates in 200 hp at 5,100 revolutions per minute, and 207 lbs.-ft. of torque all the way from 1,800 rpm to 5,000 rpm—an extraordinary torque curve that provides plenty of pulling power from the low end through the top.”




Suzuki Grand Vitara



This one IS coming to Canada! It looks like Suzuki pulled off an excellent design, based on the Chevrolet Equinox. Exact specifications and mechanical data will be announced at the Frankfurt auto show in September.




Porsche Panamera



Just in case you missed it, the long-rumoured 4-door Porsche sedan has been approved for production in 2008 as a 2009 model. Prices will start north of $100,000 to take the fight to the Mercedes-Benz CLS, Bentley Continental GT, BMW M5, etc.

As if the thought of a 4-door Porsche was enough to make you weep, imagine what one will look like when a bling-conscious celebrity gets one. Chrome rims and mesh grills, no doubt…