Camaro Z28 will get Corvette ZR-1 engine and 556 horsepower: The Sleuth has learned that Chevrolet will launch a high-performance Camaro Z28 model for the 2012 model year. The Z28 was originally scheduled to be in Chevrolet showrooms by now, but was delayed by GM’s bankruptcy a year ago. When it finally does hit the market – likely sometime during the second half of 2011 – the Z28 will arrive with the Corvette’s 6.2-liter supercharged V8. The power rating is 556 horsepower, which is less than what’s in the ZR-1, but the same as the Cadillac CTS-V. The next-generation Camaro will also be making the transition to GM’s upcoming Alpha platform that’s expectedto be more compact than the Camaro’s current Zeta platform. It will also serve as the architecture for at least two Cadillac models.
Jag won’t be left to rot; new F-Typebeing prepped:
Underdeveloped for years, Jaguar will receive a financial shot in the arm over the next few years, the Sleuth has learned. After a bit of digging around, your trusty gumshoe has discovered that Jag’s Indian owner Tata is committing $6 billion over the next five years to product. That means the long-rumored F-Type has been green-lighted for production. It will be a small sports car that will ride on a shorter wheelbase than the current XK and come with a turbocharged V6. A range-topping R version of that model will be available with a 510-horsepower supercharged V8. In addition to the F-Type, the Sleuth has learned that Jag is developing a BMW-3-Series rival with a design theme similar to that seen on the XF and XJ.
Passat refresh includes new technology and bits and pieces from the Passat CC:
With a plant already under construction in Chattanooga, Tenn., Volkswagen is moving quickly to add more production capacity and new products in North America. As the Sleuth has written about before, VW will build a Jettalike car in Tennessee code-named NMS (new market sedan) that will be joined by a freshened Passat that undergoes a few important changes, including a new face that was recently revealed on the Golf and Touareg. There will be efficient Light Emitting Diode (LED) daytime driving lights and taillights. The Passat dashboard will be the same as what’s in the Passat CC and there will be voice-activated GPS and heated and cooled seats. A revised suspension will give the Passat a more comfortable ride while still improving overall handling. Look for it early next year, followed by the NMS in 2013.
Next X3 gains needed space without gaining fat:
The good ol’ Sleuth recently gave you the dirt on the fact BMW will finally revise its X3 sport-utility vehicle. Now, the Sleuth is back with more technical details on the new ride. Most importantly, the next X3 will grow in exterior and interior dimensions, but lose some curb weight. It’s expected that the X3 will gain more than three inches in length, with an added inch to the space between the front and rear wheels, along with an extra 1.1 inches of width and 1.4 inches of height. Despite the extra size, and depending on the model, weight is expected to drop by about 50 pounds. Expect improved fuel economy, more legroom in the back row and more storage space under the rear hatch. The new model will feature a more prominent face plus new wraparound headlights and the interior will get higher quality materials. Expect the launch late next year.
High-performance 1-Series will be called the 135M;
will sport a turbocharged six-cylinder: The Sleuth is following up on a tip delivered to your door some months ago about the possibility of a sportier version of the BMW 1 Series. Well, It’s confirmed. An M version of the vehicle is in the works and will launch at the end of next year, although the car won’t actually wear the obvious M1 nameplate. Instead it will be called the 135 M. A turbocharged inline-six engine is expected to put out between 330 and 350 horsepower. Suspension and brake upgrades will also be part of the 1-Series M package. Separately, the Sleuth has heard that the M5 will swap its current 500-horsepower V10 for the company’s twin-turbocharged V8 that makes 555 horsepower.
Tags: Auto Sleuth
