AT THE HEART OF THIS BEAST

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It looks like a future where Ferrari starts using turbocharged engines is drawing closer and closer to reality. It is reported that the next-generation California will sport a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V-8, similar in design to the powertrain that currently resides under the Maserati Quattroporte’s hood. It’s not going to be an identical engine, as the one the California will have will be built using all-Ferrari components.

Source: Top Speed

DIG OR DISS: The 2015 BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car

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As one of next year’s most anticipated cars, a convertible version is also on the cards. BMW showed off a convertible i8 Spyder when the i8 was still at its concept stage, but Bimmerpost suggests the model might have gained official approval for production. It’s touted for a late 2015 introduction, which confirms earlier estimates that a Spyder model would arrive around two years after the coupe hit the market.

Source: Motor Authority

MINI UPGRADE

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Fresh off the debut of the 2015 Mini Cooper in Los Angeles, Mini has announced the John Cooper Works Concept for next month’s Detroit Auto Show. As the name implies, it’s officially a concept. The JCW Concept is packed these styling queus: the front apron, grille, and side skirts are entirely new and are claimed to optimize aerodynamic balance at high speeds. Out back, the JCW Concept gets a unique rear wing and a diffuser similar to the one found on the previous generation JCW GP. It all sits on newly designed 18-inch JCW wheels. Mini calls this paint color Bright Highways Grey. With its red roof, door mirrors, hood stripes, and bodywork accents, the JCW Concept won’t go unnoticed.

Source: Road & Track

CAR MEETS FASHION

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With Mercedes-Benz owning the Fasion Week, Infiniti has also entered the world of fashion as it partnered with designers Zac Posen and Thom Browne. On the surface, the partnership between Infiniti and these two designers may seem like just another in the overstayed trend of celebrity creative directors. One of those hallmark elements is a completely chrome exterior finish, including the wheels. In an industry where chrome finish usually equates to gaudy and overdone, Browne’s Q50 is surprisingly attractive in person. The chrome finish reads a bit darker and smokier than most of the in-your-face executions out there, and it’s an appealing contrast to the understated, masculine interior featuring Browne’s signature red, white, and blue striping and stitching.

Source: Road & Track

WHAT LIES AHEAD: Audi

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The German carmaker’s CEO Rupert Stadler has confirmed plans to introduce 11 all-new models, though he did not go into specifics. Audi has already announced plans to launch a Q1 in 2016. It could be joined by a variety of other crossovers including a Q2, Q4, Q6 and Q8. Stadler’s comment about the “prestigious full-size category” also raises the possibility of the long-rumored A9 which could be a coupe or an Allroad sedan.

Source: World Car Fans