Everyone knows me for being head over heels in love with the Dodge Challenger. It is the most beautiful car to have ever existed. Well, so certain glasses wearing, mail carrying, car nuts say. So much emotion is drawn from this muscle car and has thus far enjoyed a warm welcome by even the simplist of car lovers. Playing the waiting game from concept to my garage was border line torture. Unfortunately, this reborn beauty may be short lived.

In 2006, Chrysler revealed their newest eye catching concept. Demand of a production model came quickly. Somewhere in the design process, an accountant decided that the best retro muscle car to hit the market in recent years did not deserve a new engine. So it got the standard SRT8 6.1L V8, producing 425 horsepower. Yes, the nostalgia was purposeful, remembering that the old 426 HEMI from the 1970′s had 425hp. But we…cough, cough……enthusiasts were screaming for the more unique 6.4L which would put the approximate horsepower above the coveted 500 mark. However, Chrysler opted for a quick concept-to-production run, which I must say was executed quite impressively, and went with the proven motor.

It came near the date to finally put an order on the first of the true second generation Challengers. No, I don’t count that piece of *** Mitsubishi Galant that ran from the late 70’s into the mid 80’s. Excitement grew, talk abounded all over the internet forums, and enthusiasts flocked into dealership showrooms to hand over their astronomical down payments. But when they arrived, found that ALL the 2008 models would be AUTOMATICS! I’m tearing up just thinking of that saddening night in December. Don’t get me wrong, this newly designed Dodge Challenger has a smooth and quite responsive 5-speed automatic. Obvious though, the real men who like to enjoy their obscene automotive purchases prefer the love and control that only a manual transmission can give. 6-speed in 2009! Holy Mosses, that means no numbered badge. Crap!

If you purchased a Dodge Challenger in 2008, you got the SRT8. I know, history shows that most manufactures begin pushing the setup that will often bring the most money: the cheaper, lesser equipped cars. I believe Chrysler knew that while the Challenger had unanimously won the hearts of enthusiasts, the common buyer still didn’t “get it”. Let’s be honest, it weighs over 4,000lbs, is larger than many sedans currently on the market, but with two fewer doors, and the concept car’s color was orange when the whole country seemingly wants green. So if Chrysler wanted to bring this reborn muscle car to fruition, the only way to sell it would be to build the enthusiast car, get it out on the street and let others know that Dodge performance is back! Neighbors of the enthusiasts would then go to the dealership, figure out they can’t afford neither the sticker price nor the fuel mileage of the thirsty V8, so they opt for the 3.5L V6 instead. For 2009, Chrysler only sold a meager 25,852 Challengers, compared to Ford’s 66,623 Mustangs that same model year. You may think that’s pretty good, but consider just 10 years earlier, Ford sold a total of 126,067 Mustangs for 1999. Perhaps this is just a sign of the times.

For 2010, the Challenger got updates! That’s right, color choices now include Plum Crazzy Purple and Detonator Yellow, replacing Hemi Orange. Before your favorite colorful finger comes shooting out, let us think about how many other cars out there get any major changes within a year and a half of its generational debut. Yes, the die-hard, mullet wearing Challenger lovers were keeping their fingers crossed once again that the coming model year would include that dreamy 6.4L HEMI, but it didn’t. In reality, the let down wasn’t just the absence of the larger HEMI, it was the absence of really anything new coming out of Chrysler for 2010. Ford debuted the redesigned Mustang, GM released the sexy new Camaro after taking an 8 year break, and Chrysler, well…….brought yellow. Hold on just a second, rumor once again has it that the 2011 model Challenger WILL come with updated powertrains across the board. Please don’t let it be a HEMI Hybrid!

With US demand growing for more fuel efficient vehicles and Fiat/UAW/US Government owned Chrysler soon producing cars like the Fiat 500 and electric models on the way, the Dodge Challenger has little chance of surviving past its Chrysler-announced 2013 production end, where it may or may not get a 3rd generation update (once again, the Galant can rot in hell before I acknowledge it as a Challenger). If it does, it may come with two extra doors. The second-time demise of the Challenger might not come from popular demand of certain vehicles pushing out the muscle car, but rather the direction, or lack thereof, that Chrysler is headed. Currently, Chrysler is losing money hand over fist. The typical car buyer wants a car that is reliable, fuel efficient, and appeals to women; attributes not typically synonymous with Chrysler products. Therefore, it is my opinion that the Dodge Challenger in my garage will never have many brothers out there on the street. Some may think that’s a bad thing, but I almost prefer it that way.

Why do I keep hearing heavenly angel music every time I say Corvette Grand Sport. Oh, that’s right, because only God could have made a car this awesome! Yes, we at Burnout Radio land have finally got our review video of the 2010 Corvette Grand Sport up for viewing. Gotta say, we’ve tested a lot of cars, but this one has become a favorite.

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Yes, after months of working out the details of the Saturn exchange from GM to Penske Automotive Group, the deal is now dead. The thought was that Penske would continue to use rebadged GM vehicles over the next couple years and then open their repertoire to overseas brands. However, with GM still in bankruptcy limbo and the future/direction of the company in question, Penske saw the light and backed out of the deal. Coincidentally, Penske Automotive Group’s stock shortly there after got bumped up to “a good buy”.

That’s right. Coming to a full sized family garage near you, Ford has developed a new minivan called the C-MAX. It’ll be powered by a 1.6L I-4 and carry up to 5 passengers. Is it just me, or does this look a bit too similar to the coming Fiesta (which also sports a 1.6L)? If room for five passengers isn’t enough, a stretch version that will tote 7 people is in consideration as well. If a twin turbo charged V6 ecoboost becomes an option, I’ll let you know.

. . . sort of. Yes, you heard me. Tesla Motors has recrutted Audi’s general manager of sales operations John Walker and YouTube’s head of global communications Ricardo Reyes.

John, taking the role of V.P. of N. American sales, and Ricardo, becoming Tesla’s V.P. of Communications are just some of the interesting changes going on at this innovative electric car company. Along with attracting some interesting talent, Tesla is reportedly moving their operations from San Carlos, California, to nearby Palo Alto in order to acomidate the building of the Model S sedan.

With John and Ricardo joining Tesla Motors, what do you think their next car down the road might be called? I’m thinking roadseightatube!

With Ford having success in the retro Mustang and Dodge recapturing the hearts of the Mopar crowd with a new Challenger, it was time for Chevrolet to step up to the plate. After a long absence, the Camaro is making its way back on the scene and what a way to do so.

We tested the 2LT/RS and right from the start you can tell this car is special. It’s curb appeal is second to none in the muscle car category. But we were a bit hesitant with the interior, from all the photo’s we had seen it appeared that the interior might have been a bit too retro but that isn’t the case at all. Chevrolet took a trip to some of the previous generation Camaros to get their inspiration. While some parts of the dash were inattentively boring, namely the passenger side, and the quality of material used was a bit disappointing, the interior still deserves an B+ overall. The old school gauges mixed with a touch of modern innovation really makes the interior a pleasure to look at. Outside of a few ergonomic issues with the steering wheel controls, all the other gadgets and amenities within the car are easy to understand and operate. And the seats are some of the best we’ve been in.

However, the exterior of this car is the real hero of the story, as you can see in the gallery below. Compared to its competitors, the Camaro is by far the sexiest design rolling out of Detroit. With the RS package you can get the V8 look without the V8 price, and few individuals will ever be able to tell the difference. This Camaro’s aggressive looks gather quite number of thumb-ups and appreciative head nods from passers-by.

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Not only that, but the ride and drive is both smooth and firm, thanks in part to the independent rear suspension. If you want the convenience of an automatic and the control of a manual, the 6 speed auto delivers some of the fastest shift we’ve ever seen in an automatic. However, the paddle shifters on the steering wheel are not very accessible while cornering.

Chevrolet designed a whole new 3.6L direct injected V6 that is a huge jump in both technology and performance from the previous generation Camaro. This 304hp pony will do 0-60mph in just 6.1 seconds. Unexpectedly though, a good burnout was quite difficult to come by.

If you’re the kind of guy that lusts after a big motor then, this is not the Camaro for you. Yes, the V6 has plenty of powerful, but with it’s weak exhaust note and lack of torque you’ll be left longing for the big V8 from the SS Camaro. No, this car meant for the individual that enjoys the history, the attention, and the overall persona that only a Camaro can bring.

If you still can’t get enough Camaro, then be sure and check out our video review below or listen to Episode 58 of our podcast.

You heard me right! However, I am being a little misleading. Chevrolet has just announced a Transformers package for the all new Camaro. If you’re wanting to roll out with your personal Bumblebee, it’ll cost you an extra $995. This announcement came from, of all places, the Comic-Con convention in San Diego a few days ago. While this package will get you a bucket full of Transformers badges and racing stripes, it will NOT transform into the bumblebee character we all know an love.

I found this hilarious article in Yahoo News. In the good ‘ole US of A, when a group threatens AND places explosive devises into a building as a measure of bargaining in any sense, there is definite jail time coming. Not in France! Former plant workers of french auto parts supplier New Fabris have just voted to remove the gas canisters intended for blowing up their plant as a result of a paycheck coming from the once main clients of New Fabris, Renault and Peugeot. So…… terrorism + france = $ ……?

Now don’t get too excited, no v-12 for this go-kart. Aston Martin is taking the Toyota I-Q  and giving it that Aston Martin flair. Why? Because Aston Martin has a problem with their vehicles. That wonderful big rumbley v-12 they are so famous for, just isn’t kind enough to the environment for European Union. So to combat this, they commandeered Toyota’s I-Q and renamed it Cygnet. For the extra money, you’ll not only get the Aston Martin emblem, but the plush interior and some sexy but squished Aston Martin styling on the exterior. But sadly no v-12 to go with it.

That’s right! Charlie’s favorite origin of car makers is sending us yet another top quality brand of vehicle. CT&T wants to tap in on the electric car craze going on in the states right now and wants to do it quick. Their e-Zone vehicle may be here as early as next year! I wonder if it will also come with a 1,000,000 mile / 1,000 year warranty.

Hey Guys.  If you like the new Camaro and are looking forward to the upcoming Transformers movie, you might enjoy this part to the Chevy website.  While you’re watching the videos, notice the what-could-be next generation Corvette and the upcoming Volt.

As recently published by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, bigger cars are safer than smaller cars.  DUH!!  In one of my favority Jay Leno jokes, the late night comedian gave reference to the new smart car entering the U.S. market saying “not so SMART when you get hit by an SUV!”

I want one!  Rather, I want the engine!  Rumor has it that the all new for 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be nicely equipt with the long awaited 6.4L Hemi, putting out at least 505 horsepower and 510 lbs-ft of torque.  This engine is expected to trickle through to other SRT8 models such as the Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Chysler 300.  Along with the awesome engine upgrade, the Cherokee SRT8 will also be updated with a lower, sportier suspension, larger rotors and brakes, and a cold air induction system utilizing a cowl air hood, though in the rendering there is a ram air hood.  Go figure.

As said in the title, the Cadillac Converj Concept is largely that, a Volt.  Well, in all fareness, the Converj is a Volt powertrain in a really really really nice luxury package.  As with the Volt, the Converj utilizeds the latest electic motor design.  220 lithium ion batteries power the 270 lbs-ft torque electric motor.  A tiny gas engine, regenerative braking, and solar panels keep all those batteries charged.  We’ll let you know later how big your pocket book needs to be to get one as soon as we find out.

Does anybody really care to hear about the ugly puddle of  crap that GM is becoming.  GM will be closing 1,700 more dealerships in the coming months.  Supposedly, a dealer needs to sell roughly 1,000 vehicles in a year to stay profitable.  They currently have 6,500 dealerships, requiring them to sell about 6.5 million vehicles per year.  They only sell about 2 million annually, enough to sustain around 2,000 dealers.  In a nut shell, there you go.

Today’s reason for loving the near perfect british auto maker is the 2010 Vantage V12.  Once again Aston Martin has created a work of art, inside and out.  This model will boast a 6.0 liter V12 putting out 510hp and 420 lbs-ft of torque.  She’ll do 0-60 in 4.2 seconds and will top out at 190 mph.  If that’s not enough for you, they utilized todays usefullness of carbon fiber to lighten the car to about 3,700 lbs.  Unfortunetely, sense the Vantage is not the most road-hugging car aerodynamicaly, Aston Martin had to redesign the stability control program to keep her down.   To me, it’s unstability just means it’s that much more exciting!

In case you haven’t heard, I thought I would bless you with the reality that GM has failed to realize.  THEY”RE BANKRUPT!  This past week, GM officials have announced they are starting bankruptcy proceedings and will soon be publishing a photo of all the top execs giving us, the taxpayer, their best finger pointed upward.  Okay, I made up the finger part, but that’s the message being portrayed.

Borrowing from the newly realesed Fast and Furious movie, I will describe this the New Tesla Model S as “new model, original parts”.  While there are some modifications here and there, at the end of the day, she’s still simply and electric vehicle that goes real fast.  The Model S will take you a bit further than the Roadster to a total of 300 miles on a singloe charge.  But, what they don’t tell you is that number is dependent on you having a concervitive foot.  If you’d like to take advantage of the 0-60 in 5.6 seconds, then you may not make it to 300.  Price tag is more impressive too, calling for $57,400.  However, the government in all its glory is offering you a $7,500 tax credit for purchasing this vehicle.  So, buy this car, save a tree, and promote national debt.  Can you feel the sarcasm?

If you like gullwing doors, then you’ll like the  Melkus RS2000.  This original 1969 lightweight sportscar is being remade for 2009.  Yes! This year!  Sadly enough, no hard numbers have been announced, but rumor has it the RS200 will be sporting a 1.8L producing between 150 and 200 horsepower.  Combine that with it weighing in less that 2,200 lbs, you get one zippy little car.  If that’s not enough, the GT version is said to be putting out close to 300 horsepower.

Korea is now bringing their hybrid technology to the states in the soon-to-be all new HND-4.  It boasts a 1.6L inline 4 combined with a 100kw electric motor.  Together, they produce 154 horsepower and thanks to it being a plug in hybrid it can drive up to 40 miles without using a single drop of gasoline. So that means your daily commute will be cheaper than ever and you won’t be spewing those evil toxic green house gases out of the HND-4′s tail pipe. Yup that’s right this car’s a granola crunching hippie’s best friend.

You read that right! No more bunnies from Germany eating all your Japanese Rice.  Well, sort of.  The VW Rabbit will simply go back to being known as the Golf and will be uping it’s horsepower to 210 for 2010.  Let’s say it together;  210 for 2010! 210 for 2010! One thing I like is not only will you be able to get a 6 speed manual, but the available automatic transmission is also a 6 speed. Can you say close ratio gear box? Hopefully the automatic gearbox will make the missed down shifts of the last generation a thing of the past.

It seems like everytime I read the news these days, automotive or otherwise,  there is something that has been cancelled.  Today, it’s the Lamborghini Estoque. I’ll be honest, it was not my favorite concept.  How many of you would tell me truethfully that if you had “lambo” money, that you’d purchase one with four doors?  The glorified Italian supercar manufacturer says they haven’t taken the steps toward producing the car beyond the concept, indicating two things: the Estoque may not have been scheduled for it’s production debut in 2011 as been reported, and this cancellation may potentially be short lived.

We’re soon heading off to the Hot Import Nights Auto Show in Austin,TX.  Come check us out along with all the hot cars and even hotter women.  Show runs April 11th. You can find more info at www.hotimportnights.com

Sorry ladies, but this doesn’t help your case for being good drivers.

 After much disapointment, enough opposition was met to change the minds of certain people to reschedule the beloved auto show.  The dates are May 9 through May 17.  53 different brands are scheduled to be there.  Let’s all give a BIG pat on the back to all those who helped make this possible in this crapshoot of an economy.

AT&T is going GREEN!!  Communications giant AT&T will reportedly be spending $565 million over the next 10 years updating their fleet of vehicles.  Purchasing all 15,000 from Ford, this buy is geared toward making AT&T fuel efficiant by utilizing vehicles that run primarily on natural gas, along with an assortment of electric/gasoline hybrids. So does this mean that blue globe of a logo will soon be green?

Millionaire Yari Bar recently received a speeding ticket that would make most people bankrupt trying to pay.  While out for an afternoon drive in Siiligarvi, Finland, Mr. Bar got clocked doing 82 km/h in a 60 km/h zone.  Apparently, in Finland, the price of the ticket is based on a percentage of your daily income. That percentage is detemined by how much  you were going over the speed limit. For Yari Bar, that ticket comes to a grand total of $143,196 in US currency. Ouch!