Thursday, June 30, 2011
Road trip prep: 10 things to check before you hit the road
It?s the busy summer travel season and with gas prices dropping around the country, it?s a great time to head out on a road trip. Whether you?re driving a short distance or across the country, here are some tips to...
Lotus planning Exige-based rally car for Frankfurt
Filed under: Motorsports, Lotus, Racing
Lotus Exige Cup 260 - Click above for high-res image gallery
The ambition in the Hethel offices of Lotus appears to know no bounds, its road car program rivaled only by its expanding racing operations.
The British automaker already participates, in one manner or another, in Formula 1, IndyCar, GP3 and GT racing. The company is also said to be working on a new LMP2 program to challenge for the second-tier Le Mans category. But before that comes around, reports indicate that Lotus is working on an in-house rally project.
Rather than compete in the top-tier WRC or IRC classes, reports suggest that a production-based Exige is in the works for privateer entries, presumably for tarmac rallies, set to debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Despite the fact that the Exige has gone out of production, it remains a popular choice among privateers who have Lotus road cars converted to rally specifications by independent outfitters, a slice of whose pie Lotus apparently is keen to take.
The growing motorsport division at Lotus is headed by one Claudio Berro, who followed CEO Dany Behar over from Ferrari, where he was once the F1 team's manager. And, like his former boss Jean Todt, Berro comes from a background as a rally co-pilot, navigating a Talbot Sunbeam Lotus through the Group 2 Italian Rally Championship in the early '80s.
Lotus planning Exige-based rally car for Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Paris 2010: Ferrari California featuring HELE system
Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Technology, Paris Motor Show, Ferrari
Ferrari California with HELE System - Click above for high-res image gallery
One theme we have seen so far at this years Paris Motor Show, is automakers showing off vehicles which don't seem to flow with past company history. Ferrari just added a vehicle to the growing list. Have a look at the Ferrari Calfornia fitted with the HELE System. HELE stands for High Emotion Low Emissions and is a system designed to reduce C02 emissions without taking away from the joy of driving a Ferrari.
The HELE System works by utilizing a variety of technical measures including a start/stop function that can restart the car in 230 milliseconds, intelligent engine fan and fuel pump control, electronically controlled variable displacement air-conditioning technology and adaptive gear shifts. The result is a 23 percent reduction in C02 emissions.
We joke about automakers moving away from their traditional vehicles, but it's these types of cars that allow them to continue to build the ones we love. There probably would be no Porsche GT2 RS without the Cayenne, for example. The Ferrari California fitted with the HELE System shows that the purveyor of the Prancing Horse understands the world is constantly changing - and Ferrari is doing its best to continue to build the cars it's known for while staying in tune with the current climate of the world.
Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL
Paris 2010: Ferrari California featuring HELE system originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ferrari-california-featuring-hele-system/
Fewer Ferrari buyers are seeing red these days
Filed under: Performance, Ferrari, Design/Style, Luxury
2012 Ferrari FF - Click above for high-res image gallery
Back in the early 1990s, an impressive 85 percent of all Ferrari models were dressed in red paint. While we can understand that Ferrari and red go together like peanut butter and jelly (or red white and... green), it's tough to understand how 85 percent of all customers could buy such a rare horse, yet insist upon such a common color. Apparently, more recent Ferrari owners agree, since the number of Prancing Horses in rosso have dropped to "only" 45 percent for 2010.
Greater differentiation is one reason for the decrease in the color red, but it also helps that Ferrari has become far better at utilizing the rest of the color spectrum. The automaker tells us in the post-jump press release that two-tone liveries have become one of the latest crazes, with the roof painted a different color than the rest of the body. Ferrari has also says it has perfected a three-layer painting technique that utilizes three coats of paint for a deeper and more brilliant color than has been offered in the past.
Perhaps the coolest thing Ferrari is doing with color is customizing its finish to just about any paint the customer desires. For example, if you like the color of the yellow fire hydrant at the end of your street, simply send a sample to the folks in Maranello, and they'll match it. Not that we'd recommend it...
Ferrari's efforts to add a bit more color to the most famous lineup of exotic supercars is obviously paying dividends. The automaker claims that special-order finishes have gone up from only one percent 10 years ago to 10 percent today. So go ahead, don't be yellow. Order your Ferrari in Blu Scozia, Avio Met or Vinaccia.
Want to know more about Ferrari's Pantone proclivities? Hit the jump.
Continue reading Fewer Ferrari buyers are seeing red these days
Fewer Ferrari buyers are seeing red these days originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/29/fewer-ferrari-buyers-are-seeing-red-these-days/
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Audi shows off A1 clubsport quattro at Le Mans
Filed under: Concept Cars, Hatchback, Audi
Audi A1 clubsport quattro - Click above for high-res image gallery
Audi has a huge presence at this weekend's 24 Hours of Le Mans. In addition to running a trio of R18s in the race, the Four Rings takes over a large portion of the track with displays, hospitality suites and even a temporary hotel that is built for the event each year.
One of the vehicles on display was the A1 clubsport quattro that debuted last week at Wörthersee, a celebration of all things Volkswagen. The show car is a clue that Audi's quattro system will soon make its way into the A1 lineup, although the demonstration is more extreme than anything that will make it to production.
Under the hood is a 500-horsepower version of the 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, allowing the A1 clubsport quattro to go from 0-100 kilometers per hour (62 miles per hour) in just 3.7 seconds. The car also features a beautiful matte white paint job, a widebody aerodynamics kit, carbon fiber roof and rear spoiler, retro 19-inch wheels and more.
You can see our live photos of the Audi A1 clubsport quattro in the included high-res gallery, and check back in the next few days for more coverage of the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Audi shows off A1 clubsport quattro at Le Mans originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jun 2011 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/10/audi-shows-off-a1-clubsport-quattro-at-le-mans/
Toyota and Lexus show off at Tokyo Auto Salon
Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, Coupe, Sedan, Hatchback, Lexus, Toyota, Tokyo Auto Salon, Design/Style
Lexus F-Sport CT200h - Click above for high-res image gallery
You've seen the Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept (lucky you!), and now it's time to divert your attention towards the rest of the Japanese automaker's wares being shown off at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
First up is the Toyota Prius G Sports Concept, which features the kind of gaping maw only the Mama Cylon could love. Rounding out Toyota's offerings is the TRD Auris GT Concept, which we think actually looks kinda nifty with its subdued body kit and blindingly bright yellow paint.
Lexus wasn't left out of the proceedings either, and its machines are arguably more interesting than its mothership's. There's the F-Sport CT 200h (a future production model) taking center stage with its unique alloy wheels, body kit and Recaro seats, which is joined by the IS F Club Circuit Sports Racer and a set of Club Performance Accessories for the IS F that include front and rear spoilers and a carbon fiber hood.
Last but certainly not least is the Gazoo Racing Lexus LFA supercar that raced at last year's Nürburgring 24 Hours race. See both sets of vehicular craziness in our high-res image galleries below, then check out all the details in the press releases after the break.
[Source: Toyota]
Continue reading Toyota and Lexus show off at Tokyo Auto Salon
Toyota and Lexus show off at Tokyo Auto Salon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Jan 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/17/toyota-and-lexus-show-off-at-tokyo-auto-salon/
Pikes Peak brings the cars to the crowd at Fan Fest
Filed under: Motorsports, Etc.
Pikes Peak Fan Fest 2011 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Before the official Pikes Peak Hill Climb racing action hits the mountain, the fans command attention in Colorado Springs. The appropriately named Fan Fest completely takes over Tejon Street, packing it with rows of high-speed vehicles, throngs of Pikes enthusiasts, and excited race teams.
Everything ranging from the mighty Unlimited Class vehicles to dirt bikes and racing sidecars line the street. Paul Dallenbach's 1,300-horsepower four-wheeled rocketship sits near Monster Tajima's Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special, while Rhys Millen's RMR PM580 and the GT-R-powered Dacia Duster are both a few blocks away.
Doug Siddens was also on hand, and his 300-horsepower RZR side-by-side is running even faster than he thought it would. Siddens believes he may end up finishing with a time in the 11-minute range, which is simply blistering in his vehicle.
This isn't just about the familiar faces and vehicles, however, as relatively unknown drivers get to chat about their cars, trucks and two-wheeled hill-climbers with anyone who's interested. Fan Fest is the ultimate chance for Pikes Peak lovers to meet an old hero, or introduce themselves to a brand new one.
Pikes Peak brings the cars to the crowd at Fan Fest originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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The limited Mercedes-Benz SL65 Black Series
Porsche and Lamborghini ? watch out! The German automaker Mercedes-Benz AG, along with the company?s racing team Hans-Werner Aufrecht or HWA, is all set to launch its revamped SL sports car now tagged as Mercedes SL65 Black Series in the Geneva motor show this March.
CAR Magazine Online revealed yesterday that the Mercedes-Benz SL65 Black Series [...]
CAR Magazine Online revealed yesterday that the Mercedes-Benz SL65 Black Series [...]
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
BMW Z2 to feature all-wheel drive?
Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Performance, Europe, BMW
The BMW Z2 is on its way, despite not exactly being the darling of BMW brass. So says Britain's CAR Magazine, which argues that the German automaker doesn't want lose out to the everyman's small roadster, the Mazda MX-5 Miata, now that its own Z4 has gotten larger and more expensive.According to CAR, unlike the larger Z4, the Z2 will only be available with a folding soft top, which should be good for weight but less so for refinement.
Fortunately, CAR suggests that any talk of the car being front-wheel drive has been killed dead. Instead, BMW's top guys are trying to make the choice between employing rear- or all-wheel drive to make the little roadster go.
A trio of 2.0-liter turbo engines are earmarked for the Z2, generating between 170 and 272 horsepower, and a couple of diesel powerplants with the same displacement are also mooted.
As of now, the report suggests that there's a lot of finalizing to be done in Munich on everything from platforms to engines, so stay tuned for more info as it becomes available. In the meantime, check out CAR for a pair of Z2 renderings.
BMW Z2 to feature all-wheel drive? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/bmw-z2-to-feature-all-wheel-drive/
Autoblog Podcast #213: With Dave Sullivan of AutoPacific
Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Podcasts, Buick, Chevrolet, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, UAW/Unions
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
Episode #213 of the Autoblog Podcast is our first show in a while with a guest. Dave Sullivan, auto analyst for AutoPacific, joins us as we discuss the supposedly impending arrival of the Toyobaru coupe at the Geneva Motor Show, the apparent officialness of a Camaro Z28 for 2012, whispers of a new Ford GT, and UAW attempts to convince automakers in the southern U.S. to organize. Your feedback and questions fuel some more discussion until we wrap up at an hour and thirty eight minutes. Thanks for listening!
Autoblog Podcast #213: With Dave Sullivan of AutoPacific
- Toyobaru confirmed for Geneva
- UAW president calls non-union carmakers "Human Rights Violators"
- Camaro Z28 begins production January 1, 2012
- New Ford GT possibly in the cards?
- Editors' Choice: Top five vehicles from NAIAS
In the Autoblog Garage:
2011 Hyundai Elantra
2011 Buick Lacrosse
2011 Kia Optima EX
News Topics: Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman
Runtime: 01:37:39
Get the podcast:
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Feedback:
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)
Review the show in iTunes and take our survey
Autoblog Podcast #213: With Dave Sullivan of AutoPacific originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/autoblog-podcast-213-with-dave-sullivan-of-autopacific/
Factory Five announces winners of crowdsourced WRX-based sportscar design [w/video]
Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Performance, Subaru, Specialty, Design/Style
Factory Five 818 Design Contest Winners - Click above for image gallery
Factory Five hosted a contest to find a new design for its upcoming 818 sports car. The call went out to designers from around the globe, and winners have been crowned. The top dog goes by the name Nouphone Bansasi, and his hard work netted him $5,000.
The 818 sportscar is going to be Factory Five's next project. Designers needed to adhere to a few guidelines as part of the contest. The production vehicle will utilize a Subaru WRX donor car, stick to a 95-inch wheelbase, seat two people, work with a mid-engine/rear-drive configuration and weigh no more than 818 kilograms (1,800 pounds, and hence the name).
Many entered, and the designs are pretty impressive. Bansasi took the the top spot, but many received recognition for their work. You can check out the top creative creations in the gallery below. Also, we've got video of Factory Five discussing the outcome of the contest and the upcoming 818 sportscar posted after the jump.
Oh, and not that anyone asked us, but we're kinda partial to the design by Romain Ferrands, which is included in our gallery.
Continue reading Factory Five announces winners of crowdsourced WRX-based sportscar design [w/video]
Factory Five announces winners of crowdsourced WRX-based sportscar design [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/factory-five-announces-winners-of-crowdsourced-wrx-based-sportsc/
Monday, June 27, 2011
Camaro leaves the premises in hairy Grand-Am crash at Road America
Filed under: Motorsports, Videos
Günter Shaldach hops the fence at Road America - Click above to watch video after the jump
During the weekend's Grand-Am Rolex Sports Car race at Road America, Günter Shaldach radioed his crew to report what he called "a brake issue." Shortly after that, as Shaldach's CoolTV Chevrolet Camaro was hurtling toward turn one behind Joe Foster's Florida.com Mazda RX-8, he locked up at full tilt, and plowed into the Mazda. Then it got really ugly. Shaldach continued straight through the gravel trap and tire barriers, then flew over the course fence into the outside world.
Fellow team driver Oliver Gavin later said Shaldach had pushed the brake pedal and it went to the floor, then everything simply locked up. The airborne red blur in the pic above is Shaldach's leaping Camaro, the trail of dust on the right is the Mazda. Thankfully, Shaldach got out of the car and walked back up to the track on his own. Follow the jump to see video of the incident.
Continue reading Camaro leaves the premises in hairy Grand-Am crash at Road America
Camaro leaves the premises in hairy Grand-Am crash at Road America originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/26/camaro-leaves-the-premises-in-hairy-grand-am-crash-at-road-ameri/
Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Clocked by frustrating vehicle controls
On a beautiful June weekend, I took our Toyota Highlander Hybrid test vehicle home. I was looking forward to driving it on our family excursions. The car drove nicely, had great visibility, excellent fuel economy, and plenty of room--even putting...
MIT students develop liquid fuel for electric cars
Filed under: Technology, Electric
A group of Massachusetts Institute of Technology students may have come up with the perfect solution to our electric vehicle charging woes. Instead of relying on lithium or nickel, the new battery design stores its electrons in semi-solid flow cells. Charged particles are suspended in an electrolyte solution and pumped between compartments used for storing or releasing energy. The tech supposedly makes the batteries up to ten times more efficient than their traditional counterparts, and even more importantly, the new tech is cheaper to produce. Estimates say that the design could cut the size and expense of current batteries by as much as 50 percent.
That's all well and good, but the really cool part is that charging the cells is as simple as pumping the drained fluid out and pumping fresh charged fluid in. That means that getting on your way could take as little time as a standard gasoline fill-up, greatly reducing the inconvenience and range woes associated with modern EVs. An operational prototype is expected to be completed in the next 18 months or so.
MIT students develop liquid fuel for electric cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jun 2011 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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BMWBLOG 1M European Delivery Experience: Day 4
From your living room, the Nurburgring can appear to be quite wide and spacious, with ample room to ...
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/06/25/bmwblog-1m-european-delivery-experience-day-4/
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Pricing: 2012 Chevrolet Sonic to start at $14,495
Chevrolet has announced pricing for the all-new, sub-compact Sonic LS sedan to start at $14,495, including destination charges. The LS hatchback will start at $15,395. Both models will come with a standard 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. (The...
Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/06/pricing-2012-chevrolet-sonic-to-start-at-14495.html
Chevrolet Colorado Rally Concept looks ready to tackle Dakar, maybe the moon
Filed under: Concept Cars, Truck, Chevrolet, GM, Misc. Auto Shows
Chevrolet Colorado Rally Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
The production version of the next-generation Chevrolet Colorado has yet to be revealed, but auto show crowds in Argentina are getting a peek at the possible lines of the upcoming pickup. Chevrolet is picking the Buenos Aires International Motor Show as the stage on which it will show off its new Colorado Rally Concept.
An aggressive and strong style are the immediate visual cues given off by the Rally Concept, which is meant to handle some serious off-road driving. A pair of integrated winches (one up front and one out back) will help should you actually manage to get the Colorado Rally Concept stuck. That ought to prove to be a difficult task, thanks to the 305/60R18 BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires, long-travel suspension and 2.8-liter diesel engine.
Keeping up the aggression, the interior of the Chevy Colorado Rally Concept is equipped with racing seats and five-point harnesses. The driver or co-driver can adjust tire pressure and suspension settings from the cabin, while either can also enjoy some fresh air from the vents cut into the acrylic side windows.
To say that this truck is built to run off-road is an understatement.
Dear General Motors,
Make this truck. And sell it in the States. Please.
Sincerely,
Autoblog.com
Continue reading Chevrolet Colorado Rally Concept looks ready to tackle Dakar, maybe the moon
Chevrolet Colorado Rally Concept looks ready to tackle Dakar, maybe the moon originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/16/chevrolet-colorado-rally-concept-looks-ready-to-tackle-dakar-ma/
2012 Porsche 911 Turbo S Edition 918 Spyder
Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Marketing/Advertising, Porsche, Quick Spins
Porsche's Buy-One-Get-One-For-$160K Offer
If nothing else, the 2012 911 Turbo S Edition 918 Spyder wins the contest for the Porsche with the longest and perhaps clumsiest name ever. But after a day of driving it on good roads all around Stuttgart's farm country and blasting along the no-limit Autobahn, however, we break down like always and decide it's pretty damned cool to possess any 911 Turbo S whatsoever.
What's ultimately best about this admittedly opportunistic offering from Porsche's marketing department is that it doesn't cost one red cent more than the standard 530-horsepower 911 Turbo S - $160,700 for the coupe or $172,100 for the convertible. You just know that they talked about charging more in a meeting. "Perhaps we should charge $10,000 more, c'mon. That's a cool $10 million!" You know they did.
Besides, even more than a normal 911, you probably can't afford one anyway, so there's no reason to start bellyaching. That's because only 918 units of this special Turbo S trim are being shifted out the door at Zuffenhausen, and they are offered only to those magnates who will have their "people" stand in line to fetch a $845,000 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid. You do not have to buy the accompanying Turbo S 918 edition, but as a Porsche spokesperson tells us, "so far, all 918 Spyder customers have taken their matching-number Turbo S." (A report we have been given reason to doubt, but...) Naturally, the numbers on the little badges inside match, which is totally cute. Our tester was numbered "000," which automatically made us cooler than anyone.
2012 Porsche 911 Turbo S Edition 918 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery
If nothing else, the 2012 911 Turbo S Edition 918 Spyder wins the contest for the Porsche with the longest and perhaps clumsiest name ever. But after a day of driving it on good roads all around Stuttgart's farm country and blasting along the no-limit Autobahn, however, we break down like always and decide it's pretty damned cool to possess any 911 Turbo S whatsoever.
What's ultimately best about this admittedly opportunistic offering from Porsche's marketing department is that it doesn't cost one red cent more than the standard 530-horsepower 911 Turbo S - $160,700 for the coupe or $172,100 for the convertible. You just know that they talked about charging more in a meeting. "Perhaps we should charge $10,000 more, c'mon. That's a cool $10 million!" You know they did.
Besides, even more than a normal 911, you probably can't afford one anyway, so there's no reason to start bellyaching. That's because only 918 units of this special Turbo S trim are being shifted out the door at Zuffenhausen, and they are offered only to those magnates who will have their "people" stand in line to fetch a $845,000 Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid. You do not have to buy the accompanying Turbo S 918 edition, but as a Porsche spokesperson tells us, "so far, all 918 Spyder customers have taken their matching-number Turbo S." (A report we have been given reason to doubt, but...) Naturally, the numbers on the little badges inside match, which is totally cute. Our tester was numbered "000," which automatically made us cooler than anyone.
Continue reading 2012 Porsche 911 Turbo S Edition 918 Spyder
2012 Porsche 911 Turbo S Edition 918 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/2012-porsche-911-turbo-s-edition-918-spyder-quick-spin-review/
24H Nurburgring: BMW Motorsport Qualifies in GT
Our own Horatiu and Shawn are in the enviable spot of sitting live trackside for the 2011 24 ...
Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/06/25/24h-nurburgring-bmw-motorsport-qualifies-in-gt/
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Paris 2010: Ferrari California featuring HELE system
Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Technology, Paris Motor Show, Ferrari
Ferrari California with HELE System - Click above for high-res image gallery
One theme we have seen so far at this years Paris Motor Show, is automakers showing off vehicles which don't seem to flow with past company history. Ferrari just added a vehicle to the growing list. Have a look at the Ferrari Calfornia fitted with the HELE System. HELE stands for High Emotion Low Emissions and is a system designed to reduce C02 emissions without taking away from the joy of driving a Ferrari.
The HELE System works by utilizing a variety of technical measures including a start/stop function that can restart the car in 230 milliseconds, intelligent engine fan and fuel pump control, electronically controlled variable displacement air-conditioning technology and adaptive gear shifts. The result is a 23 percent reduction in C02 emissions.
We joke about automakers moving away from their traditional vehicles, but it's these types of cars that allow them to continue to build the ones we love. There probably would be no Porsche GT2 RS without the Cayenne, for example. The Ferrari California fitted with the HELE System shows that the purveyor of the Prancing Horse understands the world is constantly changing - and Ferrari is doing its best to continue to build the cars it's known for while staying in tune with the current climate of the world.
Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL
Paris 2010: Ferrari California featuring HELE system originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ferrari-california-featuring-hele-system/
2012 Audi R8 GT [w/video]
Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Audi, First Drives
A Supercar Without The Bad Attitude
2012 Audi R8 GT - Click above for high-res image gallery
Regardless of the frequency, our pulse still races every time we fire up a ten-cylinder engine. It's not just the unique sound or the warbled vibration that gets the blood flowing - it's the anticipation. Whether the badge says Gallardo, Viper or M5, a V10 under the hood promises intoxicating power and frenzied excitement.
The new Audi R8 GT packs just such an engine - a 5.2-liter V10. Mid-mounted in an aluminum and magnesium monocoque chassis, the powerplant is rated at 560 horsepower. With all-wheel drive and a sequential gearbox, the coupe rockets to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds before hitting an aerodynamic wall just shy of 200 miles per hour. It is, notes Audi, the lightest, fastest and most powerful supercar in its lineup.
Constructing the R8 GT was hardly a mild undertaking. Audi first put the R8 on a diet, shedding 180 pounds. They then turned their attention to the powerplant, where engineers were able to coax the 5.2-liter V10 into delivering another 35 hp. The suspension, brakes and underpinnings were upgraded, while the automatic gearbox and all-wheel-drive system received their own new set of commands. Lastly, unique cosmetic touches were applied that not only improved the R8's appearance, but boosted performance.
As Audi has limited production of the R8 GT to just 333 copies worldwide (with only 90 examples falling into very lucky hands within the United States), we consider ourselves fortunate to be one of just a handful of journalists at Sonoma, California's Infineon Raceway to put the world's newest exotic through its paces on a race circuit.
Continue reading 2012 Audi R8 GT [w/video]
2012 Audi R8 GT [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/2012-audi-r8-gt-first-drive-review/
Subaru releases official video of Isle of Man TT record run
Filed under: Motorsports, Sedan, Performance, Etc., Videos, Subaru, UK
Subaru at the Isle of Mann TT - Click above to watch video after the jump
Subaru has released an official video of the company's recent record-breaking efforts at the Isle of Mann TT. As you may recall, the official sponsor of the race dusted off an impressive elapsed time of 19 minutes and 37 seconds while averaging 115.356 mph. If that's not impressive enough, driver Mark Higgins cracked the 160 mph barrier while blasting through the island course. All told, the U.S.-spec WRX STI clipped through 200 corners, including one spot where the driver and co-driver nearly went tumbling at 130 mph.
Subaru says that the car was left mechanically stock save a few safety additions. A fire-suppression system and roll cage were added in the event of a hairy situation, as well as a set of competition seats and belts. Stouter Mintex brake pads were also fitted for the run, though the stock calipers and rotors stayed along for the ride. The WRX STI also boasted an even freer-flowing exhaust, and engineers nixed the speed limiter, which allowed Higgins to crank the turbocharged flat-four up to 162 mph. Finally, a set of Tein dampers helped the winged machine tackle the uneven pavement and massive jumps of the course. Hit the jump to see the recap video for yourself.
Continue reading Subaru releases official video of Isle of Man TT record run
Subaru releases official video of Isle of Man TT record run originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/24/subaru-releases-official-video-of-isle-of-man-tt-record-run/
Friday, June 24, 2011
Nissan to display nine cars at Tokyo Auto Salon including GT-R Nismo with data-logging
Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Japan, Nissan, Tokyo Auto Salon
With everything going on in January (Detroit Auto Show and CES, just to name two), it's easy to overlook one of the largest tuning expos in the world: The Tokyo Auto Salon. As it's done in previous years, Nissan will have have a large presence at Japan's aftermarket extravaganza, bringing nine vehicles in various states of tune, along with a new variant of the venerable GT-R.
Nissan hasn't divulged exactly what's included in the updated NISMO Club Sports Package for the GT-R, only saying that it boasts "a high level of sports performance." It's safe to assume that a tweaked ECU, reworked suspension, new aerodynamic components and a set of wheels are part of the package, but the most compelling part is a new data logging system. Developed by Nissan's in-house tuning arm, the NISMO Data Logger Kit allows drivers to download performance data from the GT-R to their computers via a USB cable. Nissan hasn't released pricing or availability yet, but this strikes us as something that could make it to the States in due time.
Joining the tweaked GT-R, Nissan will show off the Roox Highway Urban Selection concept, a sport-pack equipped Skyline coupe and sedan, a few Autech-tweaked models and the NISMO 370Z (known in Japan as the Fairlady Z). You can get a sneak peak at Nissan's booth, along with some of the models it plans to display, at Nissan's Tokyo Auto Salon minisite, and make the jump for all the official details.
Nissan to display nine cars at Tokyo Auto Salon including GT-R Nismo with data-logging originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Chevrolet Cobalt lives... in South America
Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedan, Chevrolet, GM, Misc. Auto Shows, South America
Chevrolet Cobalt Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
The Cobalt lives. Well, not here in the United States, where the Chevrolet Cruze has thankfully banished all memories of GM's last uncompetitive compact, but at least in Argentina. Alongside the Colorado Rally Concept, Chevrolet is displaying the Cobalt Concept you see here at the Buenos Aires International Motor Show.
We're pretty sure this new Cobalt is a Cobalt in name only, as it doesn't appear to share anything with the previous model that is no longer in production and, though no dimensional details are provided, seems smaller than the Delta platform used by its erstwhile namesake. Perhaps it uses the Gamma architecture used by the new Sonic and global Aveo?
In any case, this Cobalt, though officially a concept, seems destined for production in South America and possibly other emerging markets around the world. The automaker says it will offer a range of engines from 1.3 to 1.8 liters that will run on either ethanol, gasoline or diesel.
As far as the styling goes, we can see the current Chevrolet design language front and center, with a two-tier grille up front flanked by sweeping headlamps. The flanks are highlighted by downward-pointing swage lines front and rear. Out back, LED lights punctuate some questionably large, chrome-surrounded lamps.
Inside, this Cobalt Concept is impressively finished with leather seating surfaces and door panels. A unique woodgrain accent highlights the steering wheel. LED lighting in a soft blue is a welcome touch, as is the in-dash navigation system and twin seven-inch LCD screens in the headrests, which we doubt would make it into production.
Check out our high-res image gallery for all the pics.
Chevrolet Cobalt lives... in South America originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 16:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Chevrolet sponsors 2011 Woodward Dream Cruise [w/video]
Filed under: Concept Cars, Classics, Chevrolet
2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Chevrolet has inked a three-year deal to sponsor the Woodward Dream Cruise starting this year as part of its 100th anniversary celebrations. The arrangement means Chevrolet will enjoy an enormous showing at the next three Dream Cruises, with past, present and future models getting to bask in the limelight.
This year, the company will host a flotilla of its classic models, joined by some of its future performance products and the current Chevrolet Equinox, Volt, Cruze, Camaro and Corvette. To keep things exciting, Chevy will roll out a pre-production version of its upcoming 2012 Camaro ZL1 hot rod. That's certainly something worth looking forward to.
Sponsoring the Woodward Dream Cruise will put the Golden Bowtie front and center and it means the company will have a captive audience on its home turf to advertise, celebrate itself and get feedback on upcoming models. As always, you can expect a full suite of coverage right on these pages.
Check out the complete press release after the break, along with a video featuring various GM machinery at previous Dream Cruises.
Continue reading Chevrolet sponsors 2011 Woodward Dream Cruise [w/video]
Chevrolet sponsors 2011 Woodward Dream Cruise [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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Production Bugatti Galibier to revive Royale nameplate?
Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Bugatti, Luxury
Bugatti Galibier 16C concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
With production of the Veyron winding to a close, Bugatti is preparing to move on to the next big thing. That thing, as has oft been reported, is expected to be a production version of the Galibier concept sedan from last year. The latest reports, however, suggest that it won't be called the Galibier when it hits exclusive showrooms, but rather revive the classic Royale nameplate.
The original Bugatti Royale was the very height of opulence, packing a 12.7-liter straight-eight into a 21-foot limousine. That's bigger than a Rolls-Royce Phantom or a Ford F-450. Ettore Bugatti planned on marketing the vehicle to heads of state (hence the name), but when the Depression rolled around, sales projections plummeted and Bugatti only made six of them. The remaining 23 engines were used to power locomotives.
The Royale celebrated its 80th birthday in 2007 when five of the six examples in existence gathered for the Goodwood Festival of Speed. If the 800-horsepower, sixteen-cylinder Galibier were to be put into production as the Royale (with or without
Production Bugatti Galibier to revive Royale nameplate? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/22/production-bugatti-galibier-to-revive-royale-nameplate/
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Paris 2010: Renault Latitude ready to carry the flag for French automaker
Filed under: Sedan, Europe, Paris Motor Show, Renault, Russia
2011 Renault Latitude - Click above for high-res image gallery
Earlier this year, the 2011 Renault Latitude was unveiled at the Moscow International Auto Show. The European version has now made its debut in front of the crowd at the Paris Motor Show. The Latitude is considered a business-class saloon and Renault is positioning it to become the automaker's flagship vehicle.
The styling of the Renault Latitude somehow evokes images of the Chyrsler Sebring, new Volkswagen Jetta and any Lexus vehicle - yet it's done in a stylish manner. When it launches in Russia, the Latitude will be available with either a 139-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT or a 2.5-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic that's good for 177 hp. The four-cylinder unit is rated at 34 miles per gallon while the V6 gets just under 30 mpg. As the car expands into other markets, it will feature an expanding lineup of engine and gearbox choices.
Inside, the Renault Latitude is all about comfort. The power-adjustable driver's seat features a massaging function with five pneumatic rollers and four different settings. In order to keep everyone else happy, the Latitude has a climate control system with triple-zone adjustability.
The 2011 Renault Latitude hit dealer showrooms in September 2010, in Morocco and Algeria. It then starts popping up in Russia and the Ukraine before being made available throughout Africa. The European model will follow after that.
Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL
Paris 2010: Renault Latitude ready to carry the flag for French automaker originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | CommentsSource: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-latitude-ready-to-carry-the-flag-for-french/
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