Top Gear's Stig revealed as former NASCAR driver

The BBC's Top Gear is perhaps the most well-recognized and widely-watched motoring program on earth, and the series' dependence on a hired gun that plies the world's best supercars at the show's test track is equally well-known. That driver's identity has been a closely guarded secret of the show, however - until today.

According to the latest reports from the UK's The Daily Telegraph, the secretive 'tame racing driver' that dresses in a white racing suit and helmet for the BBC's Top Gear television program has been outed as racing driver and Bristol, UK resident, Ben Collins.

Collins has previously denied being The Stig, though his name has come up on several occasions in association with the character. Rumors of a clause in The Stig's contract that requires immediate termination from the Top Gear show upon exposure of his true identity could explain the public denials, however.

According to the reports Collins' identity as The Stig has been an 'open secret' for some time now, and was finally broken to the public thanks to the newspaper's decision to part from the honor-code that had kept the identity secret.

A previous Stig, now known as the Black Stig, preceded the new, white-clad version, but was killed of from the show upon the revelation of his identity as former British Formula 1 driver Perry McCarthy. It's not yet known if the current Stig will now face a similar fate, or what sort of Stig might replace him.

Rival for the new X1 SUV?? maybe... The Audi Q1 crossover

Audi has hinted at launching a new Q3 compact crossover positioned below the Q5 ever since the debut of 2007’s Cross Coupe quattro concept. However, an even smaller soft-roader is expected to be launched to help Audi reach its goal of delivering 40 different models by 2015. The new entry-level soft-roader is likely to be called the Q1 and latest reports claim it won’t come onto the market until late 2012 at the earliest.

Rising fuel prices are causing buyers of large SUVs to downsize to smaller and more fuel efficient vehicles, but many don’t want to give up some of the unique characteristics of their SUVs – namely, the taller ride height and line of sight. Carmakers are predicting strong growth in the compact SUV segment and are racing to develop a new generation of tiny soft-roaders. Audi’s parent company, Volkswagen, is expected to launch a new SUV version of its next-generation Polo and BMW is currently testing prototypes for its new X1.

The new Q1 is expected to be based on Audi’s upcoming A1 minicar, which itself will be based on a modified Polo platform. The car will measure approximately 3.95m in length and will feature a coupe-styled body. Both two and four-door versions are expected to be released.

Power will come from a 1.4L TFSI four-cylinder engine producing 125hp (93kW) or a TSI unit with 150hp (112kW). Diesel fans will be able to pick from a 1.2L TDI with 80hp (60kW) or a 1.6L TDI with 120hp (90kW).

All new Photos of 2010 Nissan GT-R SpecV

Nissan earlier this month revealed details for its new limited-production GT-R SpecV model, which goes on sale in Japan early in February and is expected to arrive in the U.S. later this year. The SpecV is targeted specifically at enthusiast drivers who desire race car-level performance in a street-legal vehicle. Today I have live photos of the car taken at a dealership in Nagoya, Japan.

Based on the new ‘Series II’ GT-R, the SpecV model includes unique body, interior and performance equipment and modifications, raising the already potent supercar’s performance to even higher levels.


The SpecV's new exterior features include a carbon-fiber rear spoiler, a carbon-fiber grille, and carbon-fiber brake ducts. The special edition is also available with an exclusive ‘Ultimate Black Opal’ paint scheme – a unique purplish black, found on the car in the live photos below. Inside, the car comes with only the two front seats, which themselves are special Recaro carbon-fiber buckets. More carbon-fiber is used for the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.

Performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine's twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration, while also allowing the engine to operate at a lower speed for improved fuel economy. Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.

Nissan is yet to reveal official power figures but output is expected to be similar to the 478hp (356kW) level offered in the standard Series II model.

Instead, Nissan engineers have focused on handling performance, equipping the car with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels developed by Nismo. The lighter unsprung weight provided by the new wheels, together with the enhanced braking capability, an exclusive suspension and high-grip tires, combine to deliver improved race-track performance.

The new SpecV officially made its world debut at the recent Tokyo Auto Salon. Pricing will start at ¥15,750,000 in Japan, which is roughly double the price of the standard model.

Pagani releases full details for new Zonda R

The Pagani Zonda and its several variants are already among the most dramatically styled and exclusive supercars in the world, but founder Horacio Pagani has more ambitious plans for the car in the form of the Zonda R. First previewed in late 2007, Pagani has now released full details for the car, which made its world debut this week at a small event in Vienna.

Powered by a very hot variant of the 7.3L AMG V12 engine that underpins several other Zondas, the R model is an exercise in extremes - extreme design, extreme materials and extreme performance. Though the car has yet to take to the track in anger - at least publicly - its heavier, less powerful Zonda F stablemate already set a scorching Nurburgring lap time of 7:27.82.

However, while the Zonda F was designed from the start as a road car, the all-new Zonda R was designed with one intention in mind – ultimate performance at the racetrack without any implications of rules, except for safety, where no compromise is allowed.

In September 2006 the first drawings were ready, but it was crucial to have the support of Mercedes-AMG for a high revving engine with a power output of 750hp (560kW), dry sump lubrication, low weight and a low centre of gravity. Peak torque is rated at a healthy 524lb-ft (710Nm). New modifications to the engine include a carbon-fiber high-flow intake, a racing multiple disc sintered clutch, and an F1-style exhaust system.

The Zonda R is a car designed from scratch, with only 10% of the Zonda F components to be carried over. Specifications include forged suspension, a newly designed six speed transversal sequential gearbox, a full carbon-fiber monocoque body, and an aeronautical four pump fuel tank.

The wheelbase has grown by 47mm, the overall length by 394mm and the track is increased by 50mm. The bodywork and aerodynamics have been modified to offer maximum downforce. Other features include magnesium forged rims with a central wheel nut and a quick pneumatic lifting system.

The new bodywork has been honed to offer elevated downforce even in low speed corners. The longer front bonnet with flaps, closed underbody and the rear overhang with the adjustable rear wing and race derived diffuser all work to improve aerodynamics.

Pagani is yet to reveal production and pricing details but previous suggested it may retail at upwards of €1.2 million.

Hamann Tycoon BMW X6 widebody kit

Late in 2008 Hamann revealed its plans for the BMW X6, including a range of performance and appearance upgrades. Today the tuning house expands that range with a new Tycoon widebody kit for the 'sports activity coupe'.

Building on the foundation of Hamann's earlier X6 modificaitions, including power upgrades to the xDrive30d and xDrive35d diesel engines as well as the big and powerful xDrive50i petrol V8. Rated at 261hp (195kW) and 315hp (235kW) for the diesel models, respectively, Hamann has not yet disclosed the power upgrade for the xDrive50i, though building on the already-potent 400hp (298kW) twin-turbo V8 ensures it will be a beast.

The key new upgrades for the Tycoon variant, however, relate to the widebody kit, which extends the car's horizontal width by 2.36in (60mm). That extra width comes via wider fender flares, and an updated front fascia and side skirt kit help accentuate the new, wide stance. LED daytime running lights also add a unique touch, while the rear of the vehicle gets a new diffuser and roof spoiler.

Alloy wheels in 23in 'XXL format' fills the gaping arches to the brim, and the wide lip further emphasizes the widebody design. A 40mm lowering kit, wide low-profile tires and reworked suspension ensure the big vehicle makes good use of the new-found width and stability.

Extensive carbon fiber trim and Hamann-branded accents both inside and out finish off the Tycoon treatment. For more examples of tuned BMW X6s, check out the work of MCCHIP, AC Schnitzer and Lumma Design.

Audi’s next-generation A8

The current Audi A8 has been on sale since 2003 and since that time has only received a minor facelift to keep it fresh alongside the Mercedes Benz S-Class, Lexus LS and recently revealed BMW 7-series. The minor styling changes implemented during the recent facelift will have to soldier on for a few more years as the next-generation ‘D4’ A8, according to latest reports, is expected to arrive in the second half of this year, following a debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

A prototype for the car has already been spotted undergoing cold weather testing, hidden beneath the current D3 body. Tell-tale signs that the prototype was the next-generation model included extended fender flares, a stretched wheelbase and wider track.

As the rendering suggests, the design of the new model will be an evolution of the current car. The aluminum spaceframe body will carry over, saving engineers more than 150kg compared with a conventional steel body. The car’s final curb weight is expected to range from between 3,630lb (1,650kg) and 4,180lb (1,900kg) depending on the model specification. The newest rendering diverges somewhat from earlier previews of the car with new slotted lower air intakes in the front air dam and redesigned LED-edged headlights.

Distinguishing features will be a large single-frame grille, LED daytime running lights and a coupe-like profile. Speaking with Car and Driver, Audi's chief designer Stefan Sielaff explains: "The first generation was very dogmatic and product-design-like. With the second generation, the theme was 'elegance'—softer, flowing lines. The upcoming third generation will be stronger, sharper, and more precise."

Sielaff also revealed that the new A8 will be “the first of a new styling language at Audi”. In 2008 Audi released several teaser sketches of its future product lineup, including the new D4 A8.

Under the new sheet metal will be an extended version of the modular platform used in the A4, but expect to see more exotic materials such as aluminum and magnesium employed to help save further weight and improve dynamics. The base model will remain FWD but AWD variants will feature the latest quattro torque vectoring SportDifferential, which distributes drive individually between each axle and between the rear wheels for improved traction and stability. There will also be electronic control for the air-suspension, steering, pedal response and transmission systems.

The new engine lineup will feature a 250hp (186kW) 3.0L V6 TDI, a 290hp (216kW) 3.0L V6 FSI, a 340hp (253kW) 4.2L V8 TDI, a 372hp (277kW) 4.2L V8 FSI and finally a 620hp (462kW) 5.0L V10 FSI reserved for the S8. Audi is yet to decide on whether it will launch a 12-cylinder model, however there are plans for a new mild-hybrid version. There will also be more supercharged units as well as increased application of Audi’s latest valve-lift system. The 6.0L W12 engine is reportedly being phased out due to its high costs and emissions.

2009 will be very busy for Audi as the carmaker is not only launching the new A8 but also the V10-powered version of the R8, the new TT-RS, the A5/S5 Cabrio, A5 Sportback, A4 Allroad, the S4, and a Q7 facelift. The long-wheelbase version of the A8 will arrive in mid-2010.

Preview: 2010 BMW X1 SUV

The next couple of years will be very busy for BMW as it launches a handful of new models including new versions of current top sellers and some models we’ve never seen before. The new X1, revealed in these new computer generated renderings and spy shots taken last year, falls into the latter category, taking the carmaker into the compact SUV market currently dominated by the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.

The newest rendering shows the BMW designers will stick closely to the lines of the Concept X1 showcased at October's Paris Motor Show.

The most recent set of spy images, meanwhile, thoroughly reveal the upcoming X1 - the latest prototypes shedding the heavy camo gear seen on previous test cars in favor of less inhibiting material. We also get a chance to look inside the interior for the first time. The automatic transmission and predominant 'mph' markings on the speedometer suggest this is likely a U.S. spec car being tested. As the renderings show, the X1 will also share a bit of the X6 crossover's updated styling, though avoids the awkward stance and front end of the larger vehicle.

The new X1’s running gear is based on the 1-series compact car but its ride height will be taller and BMW’s X-drive AWD system will also feature.

Engine options will range from a 145hp (108kW) 1.8L four-cylinder petrol engine to a range-topping 3L diesel. Transmissions will include a conventional six-speed manual as well an optional six-speed self shifter. Expect to see elements from the CS concept car make it onto the new X1 including an enlarged grille, wrap around headlights and an aggressive bumper.

Production is expected to top the 100,000 mark and will start at a BMW plant in Leipzig by the middle of next year. The X1 will be priced higher than the 1-series, likely starting close to the $30,000 mark. Much of the car’s components will also be shared with an upcoming SUV model from Mini to save on development costs, although the BMW model is expected to be significantly larger than the Mini.

Wald reveals new kit for Nissan's GT-R at 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon Wald reveals new kit for Nissan's GT-R at 2009 Tokyo Auto Salon

Japanese tuning house Wald International has a wide range of styling and performance kits for nearly every major luxury car brand on the market, but this time the company has focused its attention on a humble Nissan, albeit one of the fastest Nissans ever produced. The car is the all-new Nissan GT-R, a vehicle whose lines and shape were dictated almost exclusively by the drive for optimal aerodynamics.

Improving on the original design would be a tough task for any tuner, and not surprisingly most of the aftermarket kits we’ve seen thus far, such as the Zele and Arios, appear almost completely stock. Wald’s new kit sets out to change all this by including a full bodykit, new wheels, and plenty of carbon-fiber accessories.

Wald has given the GT-R a new look through a custom carbon-fiber front lip spoiler, a custom nose cover, a carbon-fiber engine cover, a new rear wing, and some low-drag duct covers also made out of lightweight composite.

All of the accessories can be had in a choice of either wet or dry carbon fiber - wet being the glossy-look material most people are accustomed to, and dry carbon fiber being the dull grey material that wins races and goes into space. The price differential between the two is accordingly as huge as the appearance differential: including taxes, the full wet carbon kit is priced at ￥1,039,500 ($11,620), while the dry kit runs ￥2,362,500 ($26,410).

Surprisingly no power-adding modifications were revealed, though with the reported difficulty in tuning the GT-R's engine and the obvious benefits of an extensive carbon-fiber-replacement program, the Wald take on GT-R modification may be one of the most successful.