The new Audi RS5 continues where the RS4 left off, for two years Audi has had no mid-level performance vehicle to go against the BMW M3, now the new RS5 looks set to take on the challenge.  Many RS enthusiasts will be glad to know that the RS5 comes with an updated version of the 4.2l V8 that was in the RS4.  It posesses a 30hp advantage over the RS4 and BMW M3, which brings a total of 450hp and 317.15 lb ft of torque, all this being channeled through Audi's 7 speed S-tronic double clutch gearbox (launch control included), and an upto date Quattro system.

Along with being able to sprint the 1725 kg RS5 from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 sec and achieve a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited, but Audi can adjust the speed to 280 km/h upon request) Audi also claims a fuel economy figure of 10.8l per 100 km (21.78 mpg). As mentioned before the RS5 features updates to the engine and Quattro system. The engine now features a revised intake and exhaust system for better breathing, adjustable camshafts and tumble flabs in the intake manifold.  The result is an engine that can rev all the way to 8250 rpm, where it produces peak horsepower. The RS5 will feature a sports exhaust system, which features flaps that open when the engine goes past certain rpms - just like the RS4.

As for Audi's new Quattro all wheel drive system, the RS5 sees the introduction of a Crown-gear differential for its center diff unit.  The default setting of torque distribution is 40:60 front to rear, but thanks to the way the new crown-gear diff works, you can expect upto 70% of drive going towards the front wheels or upto 85% to the rear.  Audi can also place the new unit at the rear axle at the demand of customers.

19 inch 5 spoke wheels come as standard, while 20 inch items can be had as an option.  The brake discs are 365mm in diameter, with black brake calipers bearing an RS logo. Customers will also be able to opt for carbon ceramic brake discs measuring some 380mm in diameter.  The RS5 also comes with an elctronic power-steering system called Servotronic.

Audi will let the public see the RS5 at the Geneva motorshow next week, pricing the sleek-looking coupe from 77,700 Euros with sales expecting to start in the spring.

America's lead Muscle car has been given a few updates for the 2011 model year. Although thinner stripes and new wheels might be the elements that standout in terms of exterior differences, there are enough technical modifications made to expect a completely different animal to the 2010 GT 500.

The biggest change comes in the form of using an aluminium engine block which has its roots on the engine found the Ford GT supercar.  The new 5.4l supercharged V8 features an improved block structure through the use of a unique bulkhead chilled process and six-bolt billet main bearing caps.  The use of an aluminium block means that the Shelby has been saved of 102 lbs, which Ford claims to have also improved the fuel economy figures, now 23 mpg highway and 15 mpg city, up 1mpg for each figure meaning that it wont be subject to a gas guzzler tax.

Power is rated at a Ford GT matching 550 hp, while torque is 510 lb ft.  The Shelby also comes with an optional SVT performance package which includes; a nice new set of Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2 performance tyres, lighter wheels, a higher rear axle ratio, and stiffer springs.

SVT engineers have carried over the stabilty control system from the 2010 model - AdvanceTrac - but they have gotten rid of the hydraulic steering system and replaced it with an elctronic unit called EPAS (Electronic Power Assist Steering).

In terms of noise/refinement, Ford have added additional sound absorbing and deadening materials in order to reduces road noise, while also promising more enjoyment from the exhaust note.  The 2011 model comes with an aggressive 2.75inch sports exhaust system (see video below to hear it) which has played its part in the 10 extra ponies over the 2010 model GT500.

Ford have really added an extra level of excitement in the world of muscle cars, now if only Chevrolet would do the same with its Camaro. A modern day Z28 would be very nice indeed.

It hasn't been that long since the revised version of the 997 Turbo was revealed, but here we are - a few months later - and Porsche have produced another variant of the Turbo, the Turbo S.  The Turbo S comes with a 30hp advantage over the normal Turbo, giving a total of 530hp and a potent 513 lb ft of torque from its 3.8l twin turbo flat six.  The Turbo S is only available with Porsche's latest 7 speed double-clutch gearbox, PDK, and is able to sprint from 0-60mph in 3.3 sec and onto a top speed of 315 km/h (195 mph). Despite the increse in perfomance, Porsche is also claiming no change in the fuel economy figures over the standard Turbo, 11.4 litres for every 100 kilometres (24.8 mpg).

The Turbo S benefits from having carbon ceramic brakes, Porsche's Traction Management system (PTM) which monitors proper distribution of power and traction through all four wheels, dynamic engine mounts, a mechanical differential lock on the rear axle, and 19 inch RS design wheels with central locking.

The Turbo S will be available at dealerships as of May 2010, with a price tag of 173,241 Euros for the coupe version, and 184,546 Euros for the cabriolet version.

Being both a succesful TV personality and the world's biggest petrolhead definitely has its perks. For example, you get to be one of the first people to sample the new Morgan Aero Supersports coupe. Jay Leno chats with company owner Charles Morgan, and takes the Supersports for a nice V8-sounding drive.

The last sedan to be made by Aston Martin was the Lagonda whose production started in the 1970s and ended in 1991. The new Rapide is now on sale, and in terms of competition it goes out against Maserati's Quattroporte, the Bentley Flying Spur, Mercedes S class, and not to forget Porsche's newest addition-the Panamera. Autocar Magazine have been lucky enough to sample Aston Martin's latest offering, watch the review below.

With Toyota having recalled an estimated 8 million vehicles due to issues concerning throttles being jammed open, Edmunds Insideline have made a video showing what you could do if ever you are found in such an unfortunate situation.