First LookIroc ConceptThe Next VW Sport Coupe?Volkswagen introduced the first Scirocco at the Geneva auto show in 1974 and had an instant classic on its hands. Now, more than 30 years later, the company has finally introduced a probable successor to that distinguished lineage, the IROC concept. Intended as an "attainable dream car" like its predecessor, the IROC incorporates dynamic, progressive styling elements, seating for four and the best of VW's new technology, including the peerless DSG sequential gearbox and its Twincharger TSI engine, which incorporates both a supercharger for low-end grunt and a turbo for power delivery at the top end of the rev range.
While most Americans will associate the IROC moniker with stock car racing or a mid-'80s Camaro, look closely at the word Scirocco and you'll see where the designation for this project came from. Undoubtedly, like the first Scirocco, it makes a pretty bold statement. If they built it, would you buy it?www.vw.com
First LookBmw X5Sav ReduxThe original BMW X5 was a brand-new type of vehicle: an SUV with performance and capabilities befitting a sports car, albeit with a much higher center of gravity. And now the next generation is upon us. The new X5 will be powered by a 3.0-liter inline six cylinder or a 4.8-liter V8 capable of 350 bhp. Naturally, a host of other innovative technical features and engineering wizardry abound. A new patented suspension design, new rack-and-pinion steering system, and, of course, full-time, electronically controlled variable all-wheel drive are all part of the package. Active steering is available for the first time on a vehicle of this type, as well as a new system called AdaptiveDrive, a combination of Active Roll Stabilization and Electronic Damping Control. Look for a full driving impression in an upcoming issue.www.bmw.com
First LookVolvo C30 ConceptHot Shoe Apply HereIt appears Volvo is stepping up its contribution to the world of custom cars. In association with Evolve, ipd and Heico Sportiv Volvo has commissioned the construction of three highly modified C30s for display at this year's SEMA Show in Las Vegas. Each tuner is building their C30 in line with their corporate philosophy. The Evolvo C30 is "what would happen if you placed a C30 and an F1 car into a blender. "The Heico Sportiv car is slanted towards the active/outdoor lifestyle group. The ipd C30 is all about high horsepower and canyon carving capability wrapped in an bold package. We find this interesting as several of our younger staffers been asking when the C30 is slated to arrive. Will the C30 be enough to lure them from their modified Civics? Let's hope so.www.vw.com
First LookKoenigsegg CcxOne Stink-Fast SwedeThe latest iteration of the Koenigsegg CC family, the CCX features a completely revised set of body and interior components specifically designed to meet American federal highway regulations. It runs the same engine used by the previous CCR, a cast-aluminum, 32-valve V8 that develops an amazing 806 bhp at 6900 rpm and 678 lb-ft of torque, while retaining the ability to run on crappy, low-octane American fuel and meet emissions restrictions. Acceleration to 62 mph (100 km/h) can be achieved in 3.2 pavement-wrinkling seconds; the manufacturer claims quarter-mile runs beneath 10 seconds and a heady top speed in excess of 245 mph. Michelin Pilot Sport 2s on center-locking magnesium alloy wheels, 19s up front and 20s in the rear, are the standard running gear. Other standard equipment includes hydraulic ride height control, five-stage traction control, a car cover and massive six-piston brakes with 14-inch rotors.
So, you know of any really, really long, really flat, really smooth and straight roads? The base model CCX will set you back about $540,000; fully equipped with options like carbon rims, ceramic brakes, a custom colored leather interior and navigation, its price climbs as high as $610,000.www.koenigsegg.com
TunedMTM Bentley Continental GTThe Quintessential High-Speed RollerDubbed the "Birkin Edition," MTM's Continental GT is the world's fastest Bentley, topping out at 331 km/h (205 mph). At least that's what they told us. For those lucky enough to drive a CGT, Motorentechnik Mayer (MTM) has a comprehensive tuning program to titillate your senses-or was it scare you senseless?-and possibly bring your Bentley grand touring machine up to world record status. Engine tuning programs range from tweaking the existing management software to complete overhauls of the 6.0-liter W12, with outputs as high as 650 bhp and a staggering 586 lb-ft of torque. MTM also offers an electronic suspension-lowering module, 21-inch wheels, matching Dunlop tires, and a sport brake system for both the front and rear axles.www.mtm-online.comwww.hoppenmotorsport.com