For Chevrolet fans the next-generation Corvette can’t come around soon enough, but it’s not scheduled to arrive 2013 as a 2014 model. While it’s still a few years off, there is plenty of wild rumour and speculation about exactly what form the new model will take. Will it use a turbocharged V8 engine, will it have a retro-inspired split rear window design? Nothing is certain, but recent reports have been leaking out from GM sources that it might not be as exciting as fans hope.

The reports are stating that the design of the next Corvette will be more evolutionary than revolutionary. The design won’t include anything as far out as a standard split window, and it probably won’t be offered as an option, either. The rumored new 5.5-litre V8 may not happen and the new Corvette could push on with the tried-and-true 6.2-litre V8 as its base engine. The rumour of a mid-engine layout was always a bit fanciful and has also been denied. (more…)

The year 2014 is shaping up to be a big one for the Ford Mustang. The iconic model will celebrate its 50th anniversary and to mark the occasion an all-new production model will be released. The announcement came last week from Ford’s design chief, J Mays, who spoke at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

According to Mays, the design of the next-generation Mustang has already been completed – three years ahead of its launch. But what’s more interesting is Mays statement that the new version of Ford’s pony car will be more future focused than retro styled.

“Both redesigns introduced in 2005 and 2010 are retro vehicles,” Mays said at the Frankfurt Motor Show. “The challenge with the 50th anniversary car is to not just look back over your shoulder, but to try to win all of the Mustang faithful yet bring the brand forward as well.”

It sounds like a tough task and if there’s anything that really angers badge fans it’s poorly considered exterior styling. However, Mays is confident that, even though the new Mustang will be different, it will still keep the famous models character. (more…)

While it’s not uncommon for a sleek European sedan to be called feminine, it’s never been a term you’d use for the Dodge Viper. But that may all change according to an odd recent announcement. Speaking at the Automotive News World Congress in Detroit, the head of Chrysler design boss and head of the Dodge brand, Ralph Gilles, told the press that the next generation of the Dodge Viper is going to be “drop-dead beautiful” and have a look inspired by “a naked woman on the beach”.

A completely new design is a good idea considering sales of the previous generation model steadily declining over the years with only 392 sold in 2010, when production ceased.

Gilles also confirmed that the new model won’t be based on the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, and clarified that it’s not going to have Ferrari powerplants either. He also went on to state that the next Viper would try to steal buyers away from traditional foe the Chevrolet Corvette and also the Porsche brand. But neither Porsche or Chevrolet are probably too worried at this point. The Dodge boss was also confident regarding the cost-effectiveness of the Viper, stating that it will be profitable.

The all-new 2013 Dodge Viper is scheduled to be first show next year, without any tan lines.