GMC Granite concept (w/ Video)

The biggest surprise at the 2010 NAIAS was GMC's Granite concept - a design that expands (or rather contracts) the truck/crossover brand's 'professional grade' philosophy to a compact hatchback aimed at urban hipsters and early adopters. Conceived by Frank Saucedo's Advanced Design team in California and then built at GM's Design Center in Detroit, the Granite combines the basic proportions of the Nissan Cube and Scion xB with a military/industrial feel inspired by the current G-Star and Diesel fashion lines. Watch the videos to the left to see the young international design team present the rationale behind the new concept, and read our opinion of the Granite in our 2010 Detroit Auto Show Highlights.

Aston Martin enters V12 Vantage (2009) at Nurburgring 24hrs

Aston Martin V12 Vantage race car By Ben Pulman First Official Pictures 27 April 2009 09:52 Aston Martin will enter a V12 Vantage in the 37th Nurburgring 24-hour race on 23-24 May, along with ‘Rose’, the yellow V8 Vantage that was first entered at the infamous ‘Ring race in 2006. Aston claims the V12 Vantage racer will be pretty close to production spec, bar a revised suspension set-up, some safety modifications (a roll cage) and a reduced kerbweight (goodbye stereo system and other goodies). There are also new Pirelli P Zero slick tyres.

Bugatti Galibier also a victim of VW cost cutting?

Reports suggest that the Bugatti Galibier – Bugatti’s four-door super saloon – is facing more delays. Another VW cost cutting victim? Now it looks like the next model in the Bugatti range – the Bugatti Galibier – is also facing uncertain delays.