Next generation of VW Scirocco

2014 brought a facelift for the Volkswagen Scirocco, six years after the launch of the third-generation model.

An all-new Scirocco is expected in 2017 at the earliest, and reports so far are pointing towards a change of recipe, with the next-generation Scirocco tipped to migrate from the shooting brake shape towards a full-fledged sports coupe body style.

However, Photoshop manipulator X-Tomi has imagined the next-generation Scirocco as an evolution of the current model, applying styling cues from VW’s current arsenal (the Passat headlights being the most obvious) on the shooting brake body. 

Honestly, it looks more like a facelift than an all-new model, but the same can be said about many of VW’s launches from recent years...

The next-generation VW Scirocco will continue to be based on the Golf platform, but unlike the current model, it will benefit from the modern MQB architecture. This should make it lighter by about 100 kg (220 lbs) – combine that with more powerful engines and the upcoming Scirocco promises to be more exciting than ever.

Renderings courtesy of X-Tomi Design

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Audi R8's Upcoming Facelift

The first true supercar to be created by Audi, the R8, has won universal praise thanks to its handling, quality, every day usability and, in the V10-equipped model, performance numbers.

Despite the fact that it wouldn’t seem out of place if it were launched today, the truth is that Audi’s mid-engined wonder is already five years old, having been introduced in 2006.

Therefore, its replacement is already being developed and is due in 2014, with the open-top Spyder model to follow the next year.

But first, the current R8 will receive an update in 2012. According to Car Magazine, the refreshed R8 will get a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox replacing the sequential six-speed unit, while the upgraded V10 will receive a small bump in power and the interior will sport the latest MMI multimedia interface.

The big news, as far as the first-generation R8 is concerned, is the launch of a limited-production electric version towards the end of 2012.

The British publication reports that the second generation R8 will differ in many ways from its predecessor. For one, the aluminum bodywork and chassis will be replaced by a new architecture which, while still aluminum-based, will also feature carbonfiber for the transmission tunnel, the B-posts and the rear firewall.

Total weight will be reduced by around 100 kg (220 lbs), while torsional rigidity will increase by 13 percent.

On the engine front, we won't see many changes as Audi is said to continue with its two naturally aspirated units. The base version will still be powered by a 4.2 V8, with its output bumped from 420 to 450HP, and the top version by a 5.2-liter V10 with 550HP.

However, down the road Audi may switch to the new turbocharged V8 that was recently unveiled in the Audi S7 and Bentley Continental GT, probably with a hike in power to 600HP.

As previously reported, the second generation R8 and the Gallardo's replacement will make use of Audi's MSS (Modular Sports car System) architecture, while the third generations of both models will employ a new platform developed primarily by Porsche.

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2012 Toyota Tacoma Facelift

Toyota's designers started on the outside by adding a new front grille on all grades that led to restyling of the headlamps, while the hood and the front bumper are also new.


Inside, the new model year brings a revised instrument gauge panel and controls on the center console along with a new steering wheel and a fresh choice of audio systems for certain models including Toyota's new Entune infotainment and navigation systems on the higher-grade versions.
There are no mechanical changes for 2012, with the Tacoma line offering buyers three options, a 2.7-liter four-pot with 159-hp and 180 lb-ft. of torque, a 4.0-liter V6 that generates 236-horsepower with 266 lb-ft. of torque, and a TRD-prepped 4.0-liter supercharger V6 capable of delivering 304 horsepower and 334 lbs.-ft. of torque.

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2011 Maybach 62s facelift

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