First Drive: 2009 Saleen Dark Horse Mustang

Well, first drive may not be totally accurate. The folks over at Autoblog had more of a "first ride" in the 2009 Saleen Dark Horse Mustang, as they were relegated to the passenger seat.

You can't blame Saleen for wanting to be cautious with their new marque ride. The horse that they rode in was the very first one off the assembly line, and the only one built so far.

The "ride" occurred at Willow Springs Raceway outside of Los Angeles. The car was given an official introduction by CEO Chris Theodore, followed by a ride along with Derek Hartland, Saleen's chassis engineer.

The Dark Horse is a brutally fast version of the Mustang. The supercharged V8 pins you to your seat during acceleration while massive 15-inch cross-drilled rotors with 6-piston calipers pitch you forward just as hard.

The car handles as well as it accelerates, biting corners with ferocious grip thanks to Saleen shocks, springs, and their second generation watts-link system. The combination of supercharger whine and deep V8 rumble sounds great, backing up the Dark Horse's menacing appearance.

All of this performance and exclusivity comes at a price, of course. And the price of entry is steep, right around $90,000. Only 25 will be built, with production beginning in November.

The Saleen Dark Horse is obviously one of the best performing Mustangs you can buy, and the rarity of the car makes it a fabulous collectible. Unfortunately this will also mean that most, if not all of them will be locked up and not driven or enjoyed. Such is the way with ultra low production special edition vehicles.

Dodge developing Challenger SXT

The Dodge Challenger is a good looking car that is selling very well so far. The base Challenger SE carries most of the styling cues of it's more expensive brother, the SRT8 but with a much more reasonable price.

Not surprisingly, Dodge is looking to add more of a visual punch to the lower powered V-6 Charger with the SXT package trim package. Chrysler of Canada is experimenting with what an SXT should look like by recently displayed a mock-up of the coupe at the Georgian College Autoshow in Barrie, Ontario, Canada to gauge interest.

Chrysler surveyed Canadians regarding whether the SXT Challenger should receive a racing stripe, and also gave onlookers a choice of an 18-inch Mopar rim, or some played-out chrome rims.

Chrysler also asked how much the SXT package should cost, and we're hoping our northern neighbors checked the "Less than $500" box, if only because the other choices were more expensive. Keep it reasonable, eh?

2009 Saleen Dark Horse Extreme Edition

If it takes you more than five seconds to say the name of a car, it has to be good. The baddest and meanest Saleen Mustang to date has arrived, and it's officially called the Dark Horse Extreme Edition.

The Dark Horse is basically an extreme edition Mustang with a few added options including the new Speedlab SuperShaker option. The horse pumps out 620 horsepower and 600 lb ft of torque utilizing the Saleen Port Matched Series VI Integrated Screw type supercharger.

Other features include a unique Flat Black exterior graphics package, fender identification badge, Saleen serialized engine plaque, Navigation System and sport leather seating with Alcantara inserts.

According to Ceo Chris Theodore, the “Dark Horse is the meanest, darkest and fastest Saleen yet."

2010 Ford Mustang revealing picture of the week

We've seen the new soon to be revealed 2010 Mustang's hood, dash, and bits and pieces of the body. This week, we see the new seats.

The darkened picture of the seats and center console is a teaser much like previous shots. The new thrones look mighty inviting, with a nice amount of padding and some American sized bolsters.

The center console appears to be a little bit taller than the current generations.

Stay tuned for next weeks revealing picture, all leading up to the car's official reveal.

Performance West Group Ford F-350 Striker to debut at SEMA

In stock form, the Ford F-350 is a formidable sight. It looks much like a freight train coming down the highway, both in size and looks. It's the perfect platform for excess.

Enter the F-350 Striker, a heavily fortified show truck version of the F-350 created by the mad scientists at Performance West Group which will make it's debut at SEMA. Part truck and part Mustang GT500KR, the Striker will be intimidating other, lesser vehicles at the show.

Gale Banks is tuning the PowerStroke V8 engine above its 350 hp and 650 lb-ft. Hulst Customs is fabricating the bodywork. American Lightweight will be providing the aluminum 24" wheels. Katzkin Leather and Sony are doing duty inside to make sure you enjoy what will surely be a monster system in beauteous comfort.

The truck will then be covered in Striker Silver and Badass Blue before being set loose. Even if the thought of fueling the thing up scares you more than seeing it behind you on the highway, the Striker would make a nice driveway conversation piece.

Grassroots Motorsports $2008 Challenge

With the economy tight and everyone looking to pinch some pennies, project car enthusiasts tend to push their projects to the back burner to focus on more important things, like paying bills.

Fortunately for enthusiasts, there are more frugal options for racing in today's world. Grassroots Motorsports Magazine is out to prove that cheap racing is still alive and well.

The Kumho Tires Grassroots Motorsports $2008 Challenge is entering it's ninth year. The magazine crew dedicated to amateur motorsports has organized an annual competition of cars built around a budget equal to the current year in dollars.

While this may sound ridiculously restrictive given the high cost of racing in general, but some competitors come in under the cap. The 2007 champion, a Chevrolet Corvette, managed to top the field for less than $2,000. The cost cap forces participants to be creative and use some backyard ingenuity.

The $2008 Challenge will take place October 3 – 4 at Gainesville Raceway in Gainesville, FL. The cars will spend a grueling two days dueling it out on the autocross course, drag strip and even the parking lot for a car show. Competitors should also be brushed up on their accounting skills since they are required to keep an itemized list of all their expenses. This detail keeps the event fair and also offers the magazine's readership inspiration to create their own budget racers.

PRESS RELEASE

Sept. 22, 2008 – ORMOND BEACH, Fla.

It's not easy to build a racer that handles and performs like a supercar. Tack on a $2008 budget, and the task becomes seemingly impossible-unless you're a competitor at the Kumho Tires Grassroots Motorsports $2008 Challenge.

For the ninth consecutive year, Grassroots Motorsports magazine has challenged its readers to buy, build and race a car on a tiny budget. Each year, some of the craziest car nuts in the country have risen to the challenge and built penny-pinching powerhouses.

This year's Challenge will be held October 3-4 at Gainesville Raceway in Gainesville, Fla. Keeping with tradition, the budget has increased by one dollar to $2008.

Despite the low budget, past entries have been able to outrun exotic supercars with 10-second quarter-mile passes, and they've done so while looking good enough to wow seasoned concours judges.

And while this event is no clunker-fest, you can expect to see some pretty outrageous machinery. Entries from the $2007 Challenge included a Zamboni that traded the ice rink for the autocross track. Also entered was a twin-turbo Corvette fitted with some special features: An additional engine and fan created a Chaparral-inspired suction unit that glued the car to the track. Looking at this event's history, it seems that the outrageousness and performance levels of Challenge creations increase every year.

Competitors and their cars are judged on how well they perform in three areas: autocrossing, drag racing and concours. And, of course, Challengers may not spend more than a total of $2008 to build their vehicles. Some trading and selling is allowed, but each vehicle entered must be accompanied by a detailed budget that itemizes each and every dollar spent.

For complete details, including rules, a schedule and a list of entrants, see http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/events/2008-challenge/

For details and videos from last-years' $2007 challenge, including the budget for the $2007 Challenge-winning Vette sucker car, see http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/events/07-challenge/

Grassroots Motorsports is the how-to magazine for the serious sports car enthusiast. From profiles of new sports cars to in-depth--and occasionally off-the-wall--project cars, for 25 years each issue of GRM has been packed with practical tips helping real-world sports car enthusiasts get race car performance out of their daily drives. To receive a free trial copy of Grassroots Motorsports, request one online at grassrootsmotorsports.com/try/ or call the magazine's offices at 800-520-8292.

2010 Camaro accessories revealed

More news now on the 2010 Camaro after the SS has been revealed, courtesy of the folks at Camaro5.com forums. According to the site, dealers will begin taking orders for the new musclecar on October 13th, although pricing may not be available at that time.

Also revealed are a list of performance and appearance accessories that includes a rear spoiler, rear diffuser, ground effects package, many different kinds of stripes, different engines covers for both the V6 and V8 models and performance parts like a cold air intake, catback exhaust, shorty headers and Hurst short throw shifter.

Interior accessories include the obligatory carbon trim kit, a body-colored lighted trim kit, floormats and a nostalgic looking subwoofer, while a selection of chrome and painted wheels will also be offered.

Quite an impressive list of modifications, which will definitely help the Camaro live a long healthy life with enthusiasts. View the thread here to see more pictures of the plethora of accessories that will be available.

SSP bringing back the Firehawk name on G8 GT

The Firehawk is coming back. Much to the chagrin of Firebird fans, however, it won't appear on a new version of the Firebird but on the upcoming G8 GT.

The Firehawk name is well known by GM performance buffs, having graced some of the highest performing Firebird models from 1991 until 2002. Built by New Jersey based SLP (Street Legal Performance), the Firehawk models received various levels of performance upgrades and could hang with the best of American muscle during its day: the later models could run 0 to 60 mph in around five seconds and passing the 1/4 mile in the mid 13's.

While the Firebird sadly wasn't reborn alongside the new Camaro, SLP has decided to bring back the Firehawk moniker and use it on the Pontiac G8 with three special editions. The V6 and V8 will be offered with performance packages, along with a supercharged edition. The upgraded rides will be offered alongside the regular models at dealerships and will carry a full warranty.

While this sounds like great news to most of us, the folks at LS1Tech.com were literally outraged that the Firehawk name would be used on anything besides a Firebird, much less a four door sedan.

For the record, SLP owns the Firehawk name and can use it any way it seems fit. We'll save final judgement for when the car is unveiled and we get some solid performance numbers.

Chevy Camaro SS unveiled at Indy Bash

The Chevrolet Camaro SS was officially unveiled at the Indy Bash 2008, our first look at the live in person super Camaro.

The SS is powered by a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 putting out 422 hp and 408 lb.-ft. of torque, and in this case, backed by a six speed automatic transmission.

Looking inside the SS, there is a nice racy looking pieces. Shiny plastic door handles and dash trim matches the two tone black and leather seats with contrast trim.

You will also be able to see the SS at the Paris Motor show next month, so stay tuned for more details.

Saleen to introduce "Dark Horse" Mustang

With the 2010 Mustang set to debut in November, time is running out for special edition versions of the current pony car. Saleen is going out with a bang in respects to the current model with it's recently announced "Dark Horse" Mustang.

The super 'stang will feature the 620 horsepower V8 from the S302 Extreme plus the SuperShaker system that combines a functional ram air system with Saleen's twin-screw supercharger system - a first for a Saleen production car.

The "Dark Horse" will sport the Heritage body style and have additional features exclusive to the model. Production will begin in the Fall of 2008, and only 25 will be produced.

The car will officially debut next week, we'll bring you additional details when that happens.

New Challenger to be offered with 'Cuda package

When papa Chrysler gave it's Plymouth brand the axe, many storied nameplates went with it, none as iconic as the Hemi 'Cuda. With Chrysler bringing back some of it's musclecar heritage with the newly reborn Challenger, 'cuda fans feel left in the dark.

But their dreams of driving a new 'cuda may soon be realized. HXC Performance is hard at work designing a retrofit kit that would transfer a new Dodge Challenger into a proper Plymouth 'Cuda.

Many aficionados consider the 1971 model to be the best looking, and it is this model that HXC has chosen to be the base for it's conversion. Included is a new grille, fender "gills" (which were only used in '71), Shaker hood, tail lights and a new rear valance.

To up the performance ante of the standard HEMI-powered R/T model, a Brembo brake package and suspension upgrade will also be included, as will a few engine option packages that can bump the power up to 475 horsepower.

2009 F-150 fuel efficiency details revealed

Image via WikipediaWe still don't know when it will officially go on sale (maybe in a month or so), but more details of the upcoming F-150 have been revealed, including fuel efficiency ratings. Ford is promising that it will be the most fuel efficient truck in it's class.

Using the tried-and-true fuel-saving techniques of lowering weight and improving aerodynamics, Ford claims the 2009 F-150 models will get, on average, 8%-better fuel economy than their 2008 predecessors. The SFE package will get as much as 21 mpg city with a V-8 engine, which, as full-size-truck drivers know, is a substantial improvement.

"Ford has committed to have the best or equal to the best fuel economy with every new product we introduce, and we are delivering with the new F-150," says Matt O'Leary, Ford F-150 chief engineer. "Fuel economy has moved from 10th to third place among pickup buyers' top purchase considerations -- right behind durability and value. The new F-150 delivers on all three as the industry leader."

To maximize your fuel economy with the F-150, you'll want to opt for the SFE package, which stands for "Superior Fuel Economy." The SFE package is available only on the F-150 SuperCrew XL and XLT 2WD models with the 5.5-ft beds. They'll come with a 4.6L three-valve V-8 that's been worked over to squeeze every last bit of efficiency out of it. It will feature a new technology called open-valve injection, which will allow the engine to run more spark advance at high engine speeds and loads and get the most efficiency out of each drop of gas. The engine will also use an aggressive fuel cutoff program that will cut fuel to the engine the instant you take your foot off the gas pedal and turn it back on when the engine reaches a low speed, or when you put your foot back on the gas.

Proprietary Ford software keeps the fuel cutoff and restart smooth, unlike, say, the fuel cutoff when you hit the rev limiter. The SFE also picks up a six-speed transmission, 3.15:1 rear-axle ratio and 18-in. chrome wheels with low rolling-resistance tires. The SFE's drag coefficient has been dropped to 0.403, 6% better than the 2008 F-150. All this is good for 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. Even with the small V-8 and low-ratio rearend, the SFE can still tow up to 7500 lb. The SFE package will be a no-cost option on SuperCrew XLTs, but will cost $1095 on SuperCrew XLs.

Across the entire 2009 F-150 lineup, Ford has switched to lighter-weight ultra-high-strength steel that shaves 100 lb off the curb weight. Every model also features improved aerodynamics, such as a reworked front valence that will improve airflow under the truck. Up top, the rear of the cab has been reworked to smooth out airflow over the bed, and a lip on the top of the tailgate helps direct airflow cleanly off the back of the truck. The larger 5.4L 3-valve V-8 in non-SFE-equipped trucks also gets open-valve injection for maximum power and efficiency, though it isn't clear whether non-SFE equipped trucks will get the six-speed automatic. The 5.4L-equipped trucks will tow up to 11,300 lb and can haul up to 3030 lb in the bed, the best in the class.

Delaying the new F-150 may have aggravated some that were anxiously awaiting it's arrival, but Ford has seemingly done the right thing by fine tuning the truck. With the economy in a state of flux and gas prices still rising, it will be important for the venerable F series to continue to enjoy some success. Even if it's long run as the best selling vehicle in America has finally come to an end.

Check out AmericanTrucks.com and their line of Ford Truck Parts.

2009 F-150 pricing drops

Image by Getty Images via DaylifeFollowing up yesterday's post concerning the new 2009 F-150's fuel economy ratings, today Ford announced pricing for the truck. While the economic outlook isn't too friendly for trucks, Ford is touting the trucks value, improved fuel economy, and introduction of the new SFE package that will help the truck average 21 mpg on the highway.

Ford is also saying that it's MSRP will be comparable or better in all three cab formats. According to Ford marketing manager Mark Grueber, the new F-150 lineup offers "better-equipped trucks at a greater value than the competition," with more towing capacity, hauling ability, and safety features "at a starting price of more than $1000 less than a comparably-equipped competitive truck." As an example, the automaker cites the F-150 Lariat SuperCrew starting at $35,820, which it claims is more than $5000 less than a similar 2009 Dodge Ram. In addition, the Blue Oval says that the 2009 F-150 will come with more standard safety equipment than any other half-ton truck on the market and is sure to earn an NHTSA 5-star crash test rating and IIHS "Best Pick."

Here's how the range's pricing breaks down:

2009 Ford F-150:

* XL $21,320 - $33,340 4.6L V-8, four-speed automatic

* STX $24,120 - $31,365

* XLT $25,290 - $36,015

* FX4 $34,605 - $38,315 six-speed automatic, Sirius satellite radio, trailer tow package, six-way power driver seat

* Lariat $33,160 - $39,265 10-way power driver and passenger seat, heated seats, SYNC, power pedals

* King Ranch $39,815 - $43,260 heated/cooled seats, universal garage door opener

* Platinum $41,415 - $44,860 20-in. wheels, power running boards, unique exterior and interior treatment, rain sensing wipers

The new F-150 automatically faces an uphill battle when it comes to market, with Americans shunning trucks for more fuel efficient vehicles. Its healthy list of standard equipment and competitive pricing, however, should enable the F-150 to continue to maintain its crown as the best-selling truck in the country. With 10 million different configurations to choose from, most buyers will find a model that meets their needs.

Check out AmericanTrucks.com and their line of F150 Parts.

2010 Mustang Dash

This week's exciting revealing picture of the upcoming 2010 Mustang is....the dash.

But in all seriousness, it is indeed a nice looking piece. It appears that the quality of the parts involved is much improved over the previous 'stang.

I must say that the previous generation had a nice looking dash for pictures, but it felt pretty cheap to me. Hopefully all of this has been fixed with the new dash.

The materials involved have a high quality look to them, and are accented by a three spoke steering wheel featuring the new Mustang logo in the center.

The circular air vents at each end and gauge cluster are adorned with chrome bezels, and the seats appear to be finished with some stitching work, as does the steering wheel. A square vent appears above the center stack.

Stay tuned for next weeks revealing photos leading up to the 2010 Mustang's official unveiling.

AmericanMuscle.com is your online authority for Mustang Parts.

2011 Chevy Volt Revealed

After months of speculation, rumors, and leaked spy photos, GM today finally pulled the wraps off of it's great green hope, the 2011 Chevy Volt.

This is by no means the 2007 show car concept, which debuted at the Detroit auto show. Engineers needed to improve aerodynamics for production, which explains why the flat, sharp surfaces of the show car transformed into long, rounded forms on the final product.

Though it's looks differ from the slinky concept car from Detroit, the premise remains the same. Deemed an "extended-range electric vehicle", the car is designed to operate as an electric vehicle until the batteries are depleted. At that point, a small gasoline engine kicks in to recharge the batteries - not drive the wheels. Owners will also be able to recharge the Volt by plugging it into either a 120- or 240 volt outlet when parked at home or at work.

Electric propulsion comes courtesy of a 150-hp motor, primarily sourcing its power from a T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack which runs the length of the car. GM says the Volt will travel up to forty miles in EV mode, before turning to the gas engine. We've not yet seen official specs on that "generator," but previous reports suggest it's a 1.4-liter I-4 which burns gasoline or E85.

Unlike GM's previous electric car, the EV1, the Volt's chassis isn't entirely unique. Like the 2010 Chevrolet Cruze and the forthcoming Saturn Astra, the Volt makes use of GM's next-generation Delta platform. Though much of the car is unique, sharing some bits - like the McPherson strut front suspension - allows GM to reduce development and production costs.

Designers did try to differentiate the Volt from its siblings inside, carrying over some of the high-tech look from the concept. The main instrument cluster is customizable, while the center console, trimmed with a white finish and fitted with touch-sensitive controls, is reminiscent of an iPod. Bluetooth connectivity for both phones and audio devices is standard, while a navigation system is optional.

Still uncertain are the Volt's production timing and pricing. Last we heard, GM hopes to build the Volt in Hamtramck, Michigan, and should reach dealers with a sticker price of approximately $30,000 to $40,000.

Detriot close to getting $25 billion in Government loans

Image by Getty Images via Daylife With Detroit automakers getting close to receiving $25 billion dollars in low interest government loans to try and stop some of the bleeding profits, there has been a lot of speculation on just what those dollars will be used for.

The government will only support investment in vehicles that improve fuel economy by at least 25 percent compared to their respective segments. In other words, don’t look for any federally funded V-8 muscle cars. The key to benefiting from these loans will lie in how far along automakers are in developing green cars.

For GM and Ford, the loans will turn out near immediate results. Both automakers already have advanced fuel-saving technologies, and can use the loans to implement them on a larger scale.

GM can offset costs for its Chevrolet Volt. It may also spread its Two Mode hybrid system (left) to other models. Right now, the system is only on its expensive full-size SUVs, but GM could use some of the loans to implement it on everything from the Buick Enclave to the Chevrolet Malibu.

GM could also produce more diesel engines and speed along development of its homogeneous charge compression engines. The engines supposedly combine the best attributes of gasoline and diesel, and are currently due around 2015.

Ford, meanwhile, can use the money for its upcoming Escape (top) and Mercury Mariner plug-in hybrids and its efficient EcoBoost engines, the first of which will appear in the Lincoln MKS. It could also consider bringing over more diesel engines along with its European small cars.

Chrysler, on the other hand, could find itself in a bit of a quandary. It certainly needs cash, but does not seem to have many programs for which the loans can apply. Chrysler could, like GM, spread the Two Mode hybrid system from its trucks to cars like the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger. It may also apply the loans for its next generation of Cummins diesel truck engines, due out in 2010.

Import brands that build cars here are technically eligible for the loans, but will have difficulty meeting the requirements. In particular, the loans will give preference to automakers retooling plants more than 20 years old.

It will be your money backing these loans (estimated cost to taxpayers: $7.5 billion). There has been some backlash regarding the loans. Some compare this move to one that likens the U.S. to China, who regularly fund Chinese owned businesses.

I look at it this way. American automakers are in trouble, as a result of their attempts to satisfy the public desire for large and powerful vehicles. No speculation could have seen the current gas crisis coming. I would much rather the government attempt to help these companies than see them defect overseas, which is the other alternative.

Video of the Week - Twin Turbo LS1 Volvo wagon!

That's how you pick up the groceries....

Twin Turbo LS1 Volvo 740 Wagon! 500+ hp @ only 7 l

Product Review – BBK Aluminum Underdrive Pulley Set

Everybody likes cheap horsepower, especially when it’s an easy bolt on. One of the more popular bolt on’s for Mustangs as well as other late model musclecars is the venerable underdrive pulley set.
Underdrive pulleys do exactly what the term implies, they slow down the speed at which the accessories drive. They accomplish this by using different size pulleys on the crank, water pump, and alternator. The alternator and water pump are run at slower speeds while the crank spins more freely. Think of switching gears in your 10 speed bicycle from the big gear in front and the little gear in back to the little gear in front and big gear in back. This slows down the tire and makes it easier for you to turn the pedals. This allows the engine to rev up much more freely and is usually good for 8-10 horsepower.
Unlike engine modifications like cams, cylinder heads and intake and exhaust, underdrive pulleys can be the simplest power freeing modification you can do to your car. Some special tools are required such as an impact wrench to zip off the alternator pulley and a crankshaft dampener puller if your installation requires removal of the crank pulley/dampner assembly but all and all most kits are a simple "Bolted-on" operation.
Installation time takes roughly between thirty minutes and an hour, and even if you’re not a do it your selfer, most shops will charge a minimal price for such an installation. Dollar for dollar it’s one of the best performance upgrades you can make.
The BBK aluminum pulley set consists of some nicely finished pieces that add some good looks to your engine coupled with a large weight loss, thanks to a hand polished finish. These BBK pulley kits are designed as direct bolt on replacements for the current factory pulleys and retain full cooling and charging characteristics. The kit also allows for the use of existing serpentine belts.
The kit I’m installing on my 1983 Mustang 5.0 convertible is the 79-93 3 Piece Aluminum Pulley Kit - 5.0L, part number 1553. This kit is available from American Muscle for $129.99 with free shipping! Here’s the step by step installation.

1. Disconnect your battery. Very important!
2. Loosen alternator nut, water pump and crank pulley bolts while belt is still in tension. (To simplify removal of the alternator pulley loosen with an air impact, with belt in place.
3. Bolts and three factory pulleys can now be easily removed.
4. Install new pulleys with bolts hand tight at this point. Install belt. Torque all bolting per factory specifications. (Use of Loctite thread lock is recommended on all threads.)
5. Check that belt is properly seated in all pulleys. Insure tensioner arrow is within the indicator marks on tensioner. If adjustment is required, relax tensioner from belt, loosen upper 9/16 hex alternator anchor bolt, shift alternator toward air cleaner or allow it to move in as required within the clearance of the diameters. Tighten while holding alternator. If additional adjustment is required, remove belt, loosen ¾” nut while holding tensioner pulley.
6. Set warm idle speed for automatic cars at 650-700 rpm in drive. Standard shift at 750-800 rpm.

And you’re ready to go! Once installed, there is definitely a seat of the pants difference. My 5.0 revs quicker and pulls harder. Definitely an easy and inexpensive way to add some horsepower!

Report gasoline price gouging!

Image by Getty Images via Daylife Here in South Carolina, we awoke this morning to find gas prices have risen 54 cents a gallon on average. I fueled up yesterday at a cost of $3.56 a gallon. The same station this morning is charging $3.99 a gallon. The first station I tried to stop at had shut it's pumps down, presumably saving what gas it had to price gouge the consumer today.

There have been reports of some stations in nearby towns charging up to $5.21! All of this because of speculation of what Hurricane Ike "might" do to our oil refineries in Texas.

This is a classic example of price gouging. While this practice has been illegal in the United States since the beginning of time, oil companies get away with it regularly.

You can help by reporting this type of activity here.

2008 D3 Cadillac XLR-V

Stigmas are hard to shake. Perhaps the hardest one in the automotive world to shake is the idea that Cadillac makes cars for the more "senior" members of society. Long has this been an image that Cadillac has tried to shake, even as it's counterpart Buick seems to embrace it.

With Caddy recently introducing the new CTS, it's a legitimate German fighter. The car has received much praise and was even Motor Trend's Car of the Year. But when you look upwards in the lineup to the Corvette twin XLR, you can't help but think that it's a Corvette for older folks.

The XLR is, basically, a Corvette with less power, more plush interior, and a softer ride. It sports some nice styling and is definitely a head turner. Corvettes are a dime a dozen, but when you see an XLR it turns heads.

For those with a desire to look unique and go fast, D3 Motorsports has the solution for you. D3's focus has been on amping-up Cadillac's already formidable V-series offerings, with its take on the Cadillac XLR-V roadster being the latest and greatest.

Save for the shiny 20 inch wheels, this Caddy is all business. D3's stage 2 package consists of an upgraded supercharger, monster dual intake, Corsa full exhaust system, upgraded intercooler, performance spark plugs, auxiliary methanol injection cooling system, and retuned suspension (although no components are replaced). Rubber also is upgraded, with Toyo Proxes T1Rs sized 245/35ZR20 up front and 285/30ZR20 in the rear replacing the stock 19-in. Pirelli runflats.

All of these upgrades result in 575 hp at 5900 rpm and 585 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Sixty mph comes and goes in just 4.2 sec, the quarter in 12.7 sec at 112 mph - take that Vette owner!

D3's asking price for the package is $16,435 -- $8555 for the performance modifications, $5200 for the wheels, $1180 for the tires, and $1500 for the installation. The XLR-V itself costs $101,300, bringing the total price to $117,735, some $15,000 and change shy of the SL63. Skip the big-ticket wheels and accompanying tires, and that drops to $111,355 -- not the worst deal in the world, all things considered, and a far cry from your grandpa's old Fleetwood.

Focus RS coming to America?

Image by jonanamary via Flickr With Ford making moves to bring several of it's European models stateside, there is new found hope that we'll see the new Focus RS on domestic soil. Despite all of the hoopla over ever rising gas prices, there is still an overwhelming majority of Americans that don't want to compromise performance.

There's no denying the appeal of high performance coupled with reasonable fuel economy. Most enthusiasts want a little extra spice in their daily commute. Americans are power hungry by nature. Europeans have the same desire for performance that we do, except their gas is much more expensive than ours and their cities provide narrow roads and an underwhelming amount of parking spaces.

Enter the Focus RS, which debuted at the London Motor Show. Sporting a screaming 2.5L Duratec turbo four under the hood, the rally esque ride has drawn a tremendous response in the UK, with 1000 already ordered.

Ford of Europe has reported that it has been inundated with orders, with almost 40% of buyers wanting the car in Electric Green, the color of the show car.

Representing a return of the famed Rallye Sport badge last seen in 2002, the RS puts out 295 hp and 302 lb-ft of torque and includes extras such as a Quaife Automatic Torque Biasing limited-slip differential and a front suspension system called a "RevoKnuckle" designed to reduce torque steer. Despite lacking the all-wheel drive setup some competitors boast, the Focus RS manages an estimated 0 to 62 mph time of under 6 sec.

One can only imagine what a blast this car would be on a winding road, but naturally Ford is being cautious with the idea of bringing it stateside. But when Ford of Britain's chairman and managing director Roelant de Waard says the company is "delighted by the reaction of performance car enthusiasts to the new Focus RS and that so many want to place orders even though it will not be available until early next year," hopefully the staff in Michigan will take notice and let American drivers in on the fun, too.

2010 Mustang Interior Pictures

Here's the clearest view yet of the 2010 Mustang's interior, courtesy of the folks at KGP Photography. What you see here is an extensively reworked cabin with many all new components combined with some existing pieces.

The center stack distinctly shows tightly packed multimedia and climate-control units surrounded by what appears to be aluminum trimming. Two new rectangular center vents sit directly above the center console. On either side of the center stack are revised oval air vents as well.

Positioned in front of the driver are updated white-faced gauges complete with classic elongated musclecar font. Set in front of the tachometer and speedometer is a beefier three-spoke steering wheel featuring rearranged multimedia functions. The cruise control is now on the left side while the controls for the Sync entertainment system are on the right.

All in all, it appears that the interior of the new 'stang will be more refined and upscale than previous models. Perhaps a twist on Ford's move to more European models?