2011 Maserati Granturismo S Convertible+20" Birdcage Wheels+rare Color Combo=wow on 2040-cars

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Maserati Levante shows Kubang inspiration in leaked images

One of the most anticipated debuts at next month's Geneva Motor Show comes from Maserati, which is set to show its first crossover. A major part of the brand's revival, the new Levante will be challenged to strike the right chord in an increasingly competitive segment. That's not the new Levante at the top of the page. It's the Kubang Concept on which it's based. The leaked shots come from the Dutch Auto Week – like our Autoweek, but taller – and include six shots that we're betting were in a tin labeled "Do not open until March 1." They provide a great look at the new crossover from a range of angles, and include a shot of a very, very red cabin. This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings. We see a great deal of Kubang concept around the headlights, although it's clear Maser's designers evolved the Levante's grille to better match the Ghibli sedan. It's more chiseled and strong, part of which can be blamed on the chrome slats – the Kubang's grille slats were just black. The rear fender and shoulder lines look like they've almost been lifted straight from the Ghibli, while the roofline and rear window give the impression that Maserati is favoring sporty looks over any real utility. We're unable to post the leaked Levante images here, but we'd strongly suggest you give them a look over at Auto Week. And stay tuned for the official info on the Levante, when it gets its grand debut early next month. Related Video:

Learn why this man has four different Maserati 3500GT classics

When you're born, it's impossible to know what sort of cars you'll be into as an adult. Your dad might be into old Mopars while your mom prefers a Ford Mustang. You, on the other hand, might end up being a fan of English cars (that was the case with your author, at least). Regardless of which vehicle type, era or marque you prefer, though, it's usually possible to trace back to the exact moment you fell in love with them.
For Frank Mandarano, his love of all things Maserati started at its birthplace in Italy, before spawning into a passion that saw him found a club and take possession of four 3500s over the years. One car in Mandrano's one-make collection stands out, though - a rare 3500GT that was imported into Mexico in 1960. It is a sweet sounding and gorgeous coupe to behold, making it the perfect subject for the crew at Petrolicious. Scroll down and have a look.

The new Lotus Evora GT430 Sport is quicker with an automatic

Few automakers exploit platform variants as much as lotus. The company has four models, one of which is essentially a hardtop version of another. The Lotus Evora 400 sits atop the range, and since its debut last year we've seen the Evora 410, Evora 410 GP Edition and the Evora GT430. Today, the British automaker announced the Evora GT430 Sport, essentially a less hardcore but nearly as capable version of the GT430. The two biggest differences are the non-limited availability and the available six-speed automatic transmission. All 60 examples of the GT430 were only available with a manual. Both cars use the same 3.5-liter V6 topped with an Edelbrock supercharger that's good for 430 horsepower. Manual models make 325 lb-ft of torque, while automatic-equipped cars make 332 lb-ft. Despite a 24-pound penalty, the GT430 Sport automatic hits 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, a tenth quicker than the manual. While gearing in the automatic limits top speed to 170 mph, manual models can reach 196 mph. That makes this the fastest road-going Lotus ever. No matter which one you choose, the GT430 comes with Ohlins TTX two-way adjustable dampers, slotted and ventilated brake discs with AP Racing four-piston calipers, a Torsen-type limited slip differential and an adjustable traction control system. The front and rear bumpers, front access panel, roof panel, rear quarter panels and one-piece louvered tailgate and spoiler are all made of carbon fiber. The non-Sport GT430 adds a carbon fiber front splitter, rear wing, louvered wheel arches and a wider set of wheels and tires. The carbon fiber theme continues inside. The seats, door sills and parts of the instrument cluster are all made of the lightweight material. Most of the rest of the interior is trimmed in leather and black Alcantara. At $136,000, the new GT430 Sport undercuts the limited-run model by about $11,000. There's no word on if the car will make it here to the U.S. Hopefully Lotus' new parent company will keep the ball rolling. Related Video: