Report: Audi A6 Hybrid not coming until 2015?

Filed under: Car Buying, Detroit Auto Show, Hybrid, Sedan, Audi, Luxury

201? Audi A6 Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

At last week's Detroit Auto Show, Audi unveiled the 2012 A6, and trotted out a hybrid variant capable of achieving 38 miles per gallon and running up to 62 miles per hour on electricity alone. So when can we buy one? Audi isn't sure.

According to Autoweek, Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen says the timetable for the A6 hybrid is still to be determined. In fact, we may not see the gas- and electron-powered luxury sedan until 2015. In the meantime, we'll be quite happy to spend some seat time with the 300 horsepower supercharged version.

Gallery: Audi A6 Hybrid: Detroit 2011

Live photos copyright (C)2011 Chris Paukert / AOL

[Source: Autoweek]

Report: Audi A6 Hybrid not coming until 2015? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/report-audi-a6-hybrid-not-coming-until-2015/

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Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Pearl concept van sets sail for Frankfurt

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Minivan/Van, Europe, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

There was a time when "land yacht" was not a nice thing to say about a Buick Riviera car, but these days it seems de rigueur. Range Rover has brought in naval architects to take on their sport-ute, Rolls-Royce uses teak decking on its Phantom DHC, Audi's gone out to see with the Q7 Coastline concept, even Volvo has given its wagons the Ocean Race theme. Now Mercedes-Benz is following the same lead with its latest show car, er...van.

Benz has taken one of its Viano vans (a model not available on these shores) and turned it into the Vision Pearl concept. Dubbed a "yacht on four wheels," the Viano Vision Pearl is decked out in a unique matte pebble-grey paint job, but it's the interior treatment that sets it apart: White and grey leather, wood floor, brushed aluminum trim, auto-tinting windows, on-board wi-fi and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

All-in-all, it brings us back to the Nautica edition Mercury Villager and the Plymouth Voyager when it had that little sailboat badge on the nose we knew as kids, but then maybe there's a reason both those marques went under. One way or another, the Viano Pearl Vision will come to port at the Frankfurt Motor Show come September, but you can check it out now with the pair of high-res images below and the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Pearl concept van sets sail for Frankfurt

Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Pearl concept van sets sail for Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/28/mercedes-benz-viano-vision-pearl-concept-van-sets-sail-for-frank/

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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.

Gallery: Paris 2010: Renault Latitude

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.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-latitude-ready-to-carry-the-flag-for-french/

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Mercedes-Benz details new variable-displacement V8 for SLK55 AMG

Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Technology, Mercedes-Benz

Balancing power and economy is a tricky business, especially for Mercedes-Benz and its in-house performance division, AMG. On the one hand, a buyer's conscience demands improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. But on the other, AMG knows what its customers really want is pure, unadulterated muscle.

Eventually, that dichotomy is expected to amount to the exclusive use of turbochargers across the AMG range, allowing the German automaker to reduce displacement while increasing output. But in the meantime, Affalterbach has found another solution: cylinder deactivation.

The latest AMG powerplant, labeled M152, is based closely on the M157 engine that already powers the new CL63 AMG and its four-door counterpart, the S63 AMG. What makes this engine different, first of all, is the removal of the twin turbochargers. It also makes use of a new air intake, cylinder heads, valve drive, oil system, crankcase and, most importantly, a Formula One-derived cylinder deactivation system that allows it to run - when so selected - on four pistons when conditions don't require all eight. Click through the jump to continue reading.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz details new variable-displacement V8 for SLK55 AMG

Mercedes-Benz details new variable-displacement V8 for SLK55 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/mercedes-benz-details-new-variable-displacement-v8-for-slk55-amg/

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2012 BMW M3 Convertible gets new Individual Composition Package

BMW of North America released to the dealers the pricing and changes for the 2012 models. Customers of ...

Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/07/28/2012-bmw-m3-convertible-gets-new-individual-composition-package/

Automobile Auto BMW Audi

Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Pearl concept van sets sail for Frankfurt

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Minivan/Van, Europe, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

There was a time when "land yacht" was not a nice thing to say about a Buick Riviera car, but these days it seems de rigueur. Range Rover has brought in naval architects to take on their sport-ute, Rolls-Royce uses teak decking on its Phantom DHC, Audi's gone out to see with the Q7 Coastline concept, even Volvo has given its wagons the Ocean Race theme. Now Mercedes-Benz is following the same lead with its latest show car, er...van.

Benz has taken one of its Viano vans (a model not available on these shores) and turned it into the Vision Pearl concept. Dubbed a "yacht on four wheels," the Viano Vision Pearl is decked out in a unique matte pebble-grey paint job, but it's the interior treatment that sets it apart: White and grey leather, wood floor, brushed aluminum trim, auto-tinting windows, on-board wi-fi and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

All-in-all, it brings us back to the Nautica edition Mercury Villager and the Plymouth Voyager when it had that little sailboat badge on the nose we knew as kids, but then maybe there's a reason both those marques went under. One way or another, the Viano Pearl Vision will come to port at the Frankfurt Motor Show come September, but you can check it out now with the pair of high-res images below and the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Pearl concept van sets sail for Frankfurt

Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Pearl concept van sets sail for Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/28/mercedes-benz-viano-vision-pearl-concept-van-sets-sail-for-frank/

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Mini E to be phased out in a year, Coupe goes on sale this fall

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Mini

Mini E - Click above for high-res image gallery

When asked about the arrival of the production Coupe and Roadster at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show, Mini Communication Manager Nathalie Bauters told us that the Mini Coupe "will go on sale in the fall, probably as a 2012 model year. The Roadster will come six months later as a 2012 or 2013 model."

What won't ever make the retail playground is the Mini E. "It will not go on sale, it was for research," she said. Some of the leases on the first year trial for consumers and electric companies have been extended to a second year, but the end of the second year will mark the phase out of the program. A lease program with the 1 Series-based BMW Active E will follow, also to gather intelligence on electric cars, with both programs helping to prepare for the arrival of the BMW Megacity.

Gallery: MINI E

Mini E to be phased out in a year, Coupe goes on sale this fall originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/14/mini-e-to-be-phased-out-in-a-year-coupe-goes-on-sale-in-the-fal/

Car Repair Mini Auto Mercedes Jaguar

We ride shotgun as Marcus Gr�nholm practices for X Games 17 [w/video]

Filed under: Motorsports, Videos, Ford, Racing

The El Toro Marine Base in Irvine, CA has become somewhat of a quasi West Coast testing ground for the automotive industry in the past several years. Currently, it's perhaps best known for being the site of the Top Gear USA test track, but we've attended media events, learned how to drift, and watched a variety of manufacturers test out their wares on the military compound's abandoned runways.

Most recently, Ford turned the strips of tarmac into a replica of the X Games 17 RallyCross course and brought out two-time WRC champ Marcus Grönholm and Moto-X-legend-turned-rally-driver Brian Deegan for a practice session ahead of this weekend's main event. Lucky for us, they also asked us to tag along with the enticing offer of a shotgun seat in a 575-horsepower all-wheel drive Fiesta racecar. Count us in.

Click through the jump to continue reading...

Continue reading We ride shotgun as Marcus Gr�nholm practices for X Games 17 [w/video]

We ride shotgun as Marcus Gr�nholm practices for X Games 17 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/29/we-ride-shotgun-as-marcus-gronholm-practices-for-x-games-17-w-v/

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2011 Porsche Panamera V6 [w/video]

Filed under: Performance, Hatchback, Porsche, New Car Reviews, Luxury

Meeting Stuttgart's Most Unlikely Ambassador



Full Disclosure: Until just recently, I'd never driven a Porsche. It wasn't as if I'd earned some black mark from the German sportscar maker - I've spent the better part my a career pontificating on the virtues of the plucky 914 and more than a few synapses thinking about scoring seat time in cars like the Boxster Spyder, Cayman R and, if I were feeling really indulgent, the 911 GT2 RS. Hell, after learning of the automaker's prowess in the Transsyberia Rally, I even became a stout defender of the Cayenne SUV's right to exist.

At some point, I began wearing the fact that I'd never saddled up with any of Porsche's products as a badge of absurd honor. It was simply impressive that I'd managed to survive nearly half a decade as an auto-scribe without so much as a brush with Stuttgart's finest.

Those days are officially over.

I've wrapped up a week with the 2011 Porsche Panamera - the newest model to rankle the chains of the brand's purists. As it turns out, the sprawling five-door is the perfect ambassador for an automaker that values handling and driver engagement above all else.

Continue reading 2011 Porsche Panamera V6 [w/video]

2011 Porsche Panamera V6 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Jul 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/28/2011-porsche-panamera-v6-review/

Auto BMW Audi European Auto

Chevrolet Cruze to go diesel in 2013

General Motors has announced plans to make a diesel version of the Chevrolet Cruze in 2013. Like small cars from other automakers, there has been a diesel Cruze available in Europe for years. And as recently as six years ago,...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/07/chevrolet-cruze-to-go-diesel-in-2013.html

Auto BMW Audi European Auto

Videos: BMW i3 and BMW i8

Here are the first videos of the all-new BMW i3 and BMW i8 unveiled earlier in Frankfurt, Germany. ...

Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/07/29/videos-bmw-i3-and-bmw-i8/

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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:

• Autoblog's complete coverage of the 2011 North American International Auto Show

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman
Runtime: 01:37:39

---

Get the podcast:
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
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[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

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.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/autoblog-podcast-213-with-dave-sullivan-of-autopacific/

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VW Touareg TDI sets lonely record on World's Longest Highway [w/video]

Filed under: Motorsports, SUV, Etc., Volkswagen, South America, Diesel

Volkswagen can now lay claim to another world record thanks to the efforts of off-road driver Rainer Zietlow and his team of adventurers. The crew packed into a Volkswagen Touareg TDI and covered the entire span of the Pan-American Highway from start to finish in 11 days, 17 hours and 22 minutes. The trip covered 14 countries and 16,000 miles of near non-stop driving. TÜV NORD Mobility verified the time, which beat out the previous record holder by a full three days.

The journey began on July 2 in the southernmost portion of Argentina and clipped through a variety of challenging conditions. The team faced a sandstorm in Chile and treacherous muddy roads in Alaska, but preplanned fuel stops helped cut the team's time down as much as possible.

Zietlow and his teammates also played a bit of a philanthropic role by donating 10 cents for every kilometer traveled to two Latin American villages to help combat childhood poverty. Hit the jump for the video and full press release.

Continue reading VW Touareg TDI sets lonely record on World's Longest Highway [w/video]

VW Touareg TDI sets lonely record on World's Longest Highway [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/vw-touareg-tdi-sets-lonely-record-on-worlds-longest-highway-w/

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Mercedes-Benz taps David Coulthard as AMG ambassador

Filed under: Motorsports, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Marketing/Advertising, Mercedes-Benz

Over the course of fourteen years in Formula 1, David Coulthard drove for only a handful of teams: Williams, McLaren and Red Bull. Championship-frontrunning teams all, but arguably no single manufacturer has been as influential on his life and career as Mercedes-Benz.

Coulthard was reportedly driven home from the hospital upon his birth in his father's Merc. Years later, the German automaker would power him to a dozen grand prix wins at McLaren. And now that he's retired from F1, Coulthard is driving an AMG C-Class in the DTM series.

Of course, that's not all he's been up to since leaving F1 behind, reporting on camera for the BBC's grand prix coverage team and acting as an adviser of sorts to the Red Bull team he helped form back in 2004. And now he can add one more, as reports indicate he's been brought on as something of a brand ambassador for AMG in the UK, bringing it all back to the Silver Star automaker and joining fellow DTM driver Bernd Schneider.

In his new capacity, DC is expected to help out at public relations events for Mercedes-AMG, but he's also tipped to get more deeply involved in setting up the suspensions on the company's line of notoriously sturdy vehicles, helping to adjust them for UK roads in particular. Of course, it wouldn't hurt if AMG muscle cars benefited from DC and his thirteen grand prix victories' worth of experience here in the colonies, either. Follow the jump for the official press release.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz taps David Coulthard as AMG ambassador

Mercedes-Benz taps David Coulthard as AMG ambassador originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/26/mercedes-benz-taps-david-coulthard-as-amg-ambassador/

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F1's Ecclestone to face $50M bribery charges?

Filed under: Motorsports, Europe, Government/Legal, Celebrities

Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone may find himself in legal trouble in Germany over allegations that he bribed a bank official $50 million. According to Yahoo Sports' European arm, prosecutors are currently gathering evidence against the F1 honcho.

The would-be charges center around the deal that led CVC Capital Partners to own F1. The courts say that Gerhard Gribkowsky, who worked with CVC Capital Partners, deposited $50 million into an Austrian account in order to avoid paying taxes on the funds. Prosecutors are currently trying to tie Eccelstone, who is currently employed by CVC as the head of F1, to that money.

Not surprisingly, Eccelstone is denying the accusations, saying that he's done everything in his power to work with investigators on the matter, but that as far as he knows, there are no problems. Gribkowsky, meanwhile, is currently being held in jail on charges of tax evasion, corruption and fraud.

F1's Ecclestone to face $50M bribery charges? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/f1s-ecclestone-to-face-50m-bribery-charges/

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Vettel and Webber hit the N�rburgring in pair of Infiniti M sedans

Filed under: Motorsports, Hybrid, Sedan, Marketing/Advertising, Infiniti, Luxury, Racing

This past weekend, the Formula One circus rolled into Eifel for the German Grand Prix. And though it was campaigned once again at the Nürburgring, the race was held on the GP-Strecke. The infamous Nordschleife hasn't been used for F1 racing since the early 80s, when it was deemed too dangerous for modern open-wheelers. But while they were on site, championship leaders Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber and their sponsor Infiniti didn't miss the opportunity for a little wheel-to-wheel action around the Green Hell.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance's premium marque that powers Seb's and Mark's Red Bull race cars put the duo on the Norschleife in a pair of Infiniti Ms, but here's the kicker: while Webber got the keys to the M37s sport sedan, Vettel climbed into the M35h hybrid.

So which driver had the advantage? Considering that Infiniti claims that the M35h is the world's quickest hybrid sedan and its most powerful car on the market - hitting 62 mph from a standstill in 5.5 seconds versus the conventional M37s' 6.2 - it looks like Vettel was set to get the jump on his elder wingman once again. Follow the jump to watch the video footage to find out.

Continue reading Vettel and Webber hit the N�rburgring in pair of Infiniti M sedans

Vettel and Webber hit the N�rburgring in pair of Infiniti M sedans originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/vettel-and-webber-hit-the-nurburgring-in-pair-of-infiniti-m-seda/

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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.

Gallery: Paris 2010: Ferrari California with HELE System

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.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ferrari-california-featuring-hele-system/

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2012 Porsche 911 caught nekkid with new lines

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, Porsche, Luxury

Porsche is letting the next-generation 911 out of the house with ever-skimpier garb. Our spy photographers managed to land a handful of photos of the vehicle out and about with nothing but a few decals covering the details. Engineers have worked to obfuscate the headlights, tail lights and front fascia, leaving the rest of the elongated 911 out in the open air for all to see. With the German automaker releasing a detailed teaser video of the vehicle and a few production stills of its own, there seems to be little motivation behind covering up the car's flanks.

While Porsche is still fairly tight-lipped about exactly what the next-generation sports car will bring, we've heard that the beast will pack a seven-speed manual transmission for increased fuel economy. Word is that base models will come packing 350 horsepower from a 3.4-liter flat-six cylinder engine, too, while offering better fuel economy thanks to tricks like electronic power steering. Stay tuned for more as we get it.

2012 Porsche 911 caught nekkid with new lines originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/2012-porsche-911-caught-nekkid-with-new-lines/

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2011 German Grand Prix shows who's the Ring leader [spoilers]

Filed under: Motorsports, Europe

The 2011 Formula One World Championship, as it's unfolded so far, has been nothing if not smooth sailing for defending champion Sebastian Vettel and his Red Bull Racing team. The young German has started every race so far this year from the front row and gone on to finish on the podium at each, winning six of the nine rounds that unfolded before this weekend.

A lock for a repeat title, then? Not quite, because this weekend's tenth round in Vettel's home country of Germany represents the tipping point. As the midpoint of the nineteen-race season, it can all come together or fall apart for the defending champ from here on in. Follow the jump to see how Vettel and his rivals kicked off the second half of the year.

Continue reading 2011 German Grand Prix shows who's the Ring leader [spoilers]

2011 German Grand Prix shows who's the Ring leader [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/24/2011-german-grand-prix-shows-whos-the-ring-leader-spoilers/

Automobile Auto BMW Audi

First drive: 2012 Ford Focus

While the Ford Focus, with its crisp handling, controlled ride, and relatively roomy interior, topped our small-car Ratings from 2004 through 2006, the subsequent updates did less well in our testing. But Ford has introduced a completely redesigned Focus for...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/07/first-drive-ford-focus.html

Automobile Auto BMW Audi

BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe launching in 2012

Next year, BMW will add a new model to the elegant 6 Series family. The BMW 6 Series ...

Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/07/27/bmw-6-series-gran-coupe-launching-in-2012/

Automobile Auto BMW Audi

Consumer Reports launches new crash test video player

We have integrated more than 300 crash test videos into our video archive, alongside 400 other car videos. Now, all in one place, you can peruse the latest video offerings from Consumer Reports covering a wide range of topics. High-impact...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/07/consumer-reports-launches-new-crash-test-video-player.html

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Nissan, Infiniti returning to Detroit Auto Show in 2012

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Infiniti, Nissan

After a two-year hiatus, Nissan and its premium arm, Infiniti, will return to the Detroit Auto Show in January 2012, according to the show's organizers. "We're thankful that NAIAS is, once again, an important part of Nissan's international auto show strategy," said North American International Auto Show chairman Bill Perkins.

Nissan and Infiniti opted to pull out of the show a few years ago to focus its larger Stateside debuts on the Los Angeles, Chicago and New York shows.

In other NAIAS news, the show's organizers have announced that for 2012, it will once again return to a two-day press conference schedule. For 2011, all of the major automaker press conferences were crammed into the first day of exhibition, and we don't doubt that the main reason for the rescheduling was the number of complaints filed by both the automakers and the members of the media. Automakers such as Ford, General Motors and Chrysler have stated that they will have major product reveals on both days of the press preview.

As much as we love working a 16-hour day in order to obsessively cover the Detroit show, we're exhaling a big sigh of relief that a more relaxed press conference schedule has been confirmed. Follow the jump for NAIAS' official statement.

Continue reading Nissan, Infiniti returning to Detroit Auto Show in 2012

Nissan, Infiniti returning to Detroit Auto Show in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jun 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/17/nissan-infiniti-returning-to-detroit-auto-show-in-2012/

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Survey shows dogs to be a dangerous driver distraction

Most of the buzz around distracted driving involves the use of a cell phone, but a new study shows that dogs in the car can be a hazard, as well. AAA and Kurgo, a pet travel company, polled 1,000 dog...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/07/survey-shows-dogs-to-be-a-dangerous-driver-distraction.html

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Chrysler joins Ford, backs hand-held cellphone ban

Filed under: Safety, Technology, Chrysler

Chrysler has joined Ford in backing a federal ban on the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving. According to The Detroit News, Chrysler, Ford and Verizon Wireless have all announced their support of the Safe Drivers Act of 2011. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D, NY), would require the Transportation Department to study the impact of distracted driving over two years, especially on younger drivers. After that time, the agency would make a recommendation on minimum federal standards to ban cell-phone use while driving and appropriate penalties.

That's in spite of recent research by the Governor's Highway Safety Association that indicates distracted-driving legislation has had little to know actual impact on phone use behind the wheel.

Still, as The Detroit News points out, nine states and the District of Columbia have enacted laws aimed squarely at cell phone use. A federal standard would require all states to enforce the same penalties. General Motors, meanwhile, has declined to support the bill, opting instead to back Oprah Winfrey's efforts on distracted driving awareness.

Chrysler joins Ford, backs hand-held cellphone ban originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/19/chrysler-joins-ford-backs-hand-held-cellphone-ban/

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Spy Photos: New BMW M6 caught with M5 in California

The high-end “M brothers” were spotted yesterday by Motor Trend in the sunny state of California. The next ...

Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/07/21/spy-photos-new-bmw-m6-caught-with-m5-in-california/

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2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Chrysler, First Drives, Luxury

Reborn Luxury Bruiser Aspires To Great Heights



We couldn't help but ask Chrysler officials point-blank about what cars their 2012 300 SRT8, the brand's self-proclaimed "Ultimate combination of world-class luxury and performance," will compete against. Their answer, delivered with zero hesitation and a perfect poker face? The Cadillac CTS-V. That utterance shut us up so quickly that we had to sit back in our chair to ponder the bold response.

The new 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8, the highest-performing model ever in Chrysler's lineup, boasts a powerful 6.4-liter Hemi V8 punch, massive Brembo brakes, lightweight forged wheels, countless hours of suspension tuning and a slew of cosmetic goodies. It is, without question, a very impressive sport sedan. But choosing a target like the CTS-V, Cadillac's highly regarded flagship performance vehicle, may reveal a bit too much confidence. After all, the CTS-V isn't just more powerful - its chassis is a bit lighter, it's shorter in stature and it wears stickier shoes. Of course, it's also much more expensive.

We didn't question Chrysler's comment, or even raise an eyebrow to their claim. We were, after all, sitting at a racetrack with a 300 SRT8 idling in the hot pits just a dozen yards away. Instead, we walked out of the building, donned a helmet and climbed into the driver's seat to find out for ourselves.

Continue reading 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/22/2012-chrysler-300-srt8-first-drive-review/

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Should Cadillac make the CTS-V go "Supersonic"?

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Wagon, Cadillac, Design/Style, Luxury

Cadillac CTS-V "Supersonic Blue" prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last month, following an IM conversation between myself and Autoblog's Test Fleet Manager, Steve Ewing, I tweeted this. I love the Supersonic Blue paint GM offers on the Chevrolet Corvette, you see, and I think it'd look killer on the Cadillac CTS-V. I hadn't given it much thought until yesterday, when I attended a Cadillac event at the Monticello Motor Club. Parked outside the clubhouse next to the pit road, was the car you see above, a new CTS-V sedan finished in Supersonic Blue with satin graphite wheels. Inside, the Recaro seats and door trim matched the exterior. It's wicked.

I immediately asked Cadillac spokesman David Caldwell if this was a new paint color for the 2012 model. It's not. Not yet, at least. Caddy prepped the car and brought it out to Monticello to gauge reaction to the color before a final decision is made. If it winds up happening, it'll likely be a new special edition, in the vein of this year's Black Diamond package. Personally, I think this is a no-brainer, and said as much to the Caddy reps on hand. Maybe you think differently, though, so here's your shot to weigh in.

Use the poll below to tell Cadillac if you think they should have the CTS-V go Supersonic. Before you vote, just imagine the Sport Wagon done up like this. Got that mental image? Good. Now go vote.

View Poll

Should Cadillac make the CTS-V go "Supersonic"? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/should-cadillac-make-the-cts-v-go-supersonic-w-poll/

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BMW Motorrad E-Scooter concept gets detailed [w/videos]

Filed under: Concept Cars, BMW, Motorcycle, Electric

BMW Motorrad Concept Vehicle BMW E-Scooter - Click above for high-res image gallery

The BMW Motorrad Concept Vehicle BMW E-Scooter is all-electric, but does its best to provide the range of a regular, internal-combustion-engine scooter. The point of this exercise was to create an electric mount that could take the place of a scooter commuter in terms of range, power and convenience. The E-Scooter has a daily range of 100 kilometers (62 miles), and it's battery can be fully charged in three hours from a household outlet.

Speaking of that battery, instead of a proper frame, the aluminum casing for the battery and liquid-cooled ancillary systems acts as the frame. BMW says the powerplant is strong enough for "safe and reliable overtaking" on highways and for "hill starts on steep slopes" with two on board.

Lacking a hub motor and planetary gearbox, a toothed belt runs from the electric motor to a belt pulley on the swinging fork pivot, where a drive pinion controls power to the rear wheel via a roller chain. Intense, yes, but what else would you expect of BMW? For all the info, check out the gallery of high-res photos below and the press release and videos after the jump.

Continue reading BMW Motorrad E-Scooter concept gets detailed [w/videos]

BMW Motorrad E-Scooter concept gets detailed [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jul 2011 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/04/bmw-motorrad-e-scooter-concept-gets-detailed-w-videos/

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BMW prices Performance Edition 135i and 335i upgrades for U.S. at just $550

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, Performance, BMW, Luxury

BMW is about to make current and future 1 and 3 Series sedan owners happy. At least, the ones seeking a tick more performance. The automaker is now offering the BMW Performance Edition as a a limited-availability option package on 2011 335i sedans. It will also be made available to existing 135i and 335i customers beginning later in the year.

The BMW Performance Edition is comprised of a power kit, a pair of blacked-out kidneys for the nose and a BMW Performance Edition badge. The grille treatment and badge are a nice touch, but it's the power kit that holds the meat of the group. Engine output is raised from 300 to 320 horsepower and from 300 to 317 pound-feet of torque for manual-transmission equipped cars and 332 lb-ft for the automatics.

The best part? Checking this option on your order form will only run you an extra $550. That figure is for new cars, while the retrofitted price plan will come out later in the year. Click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading BMW prices Performance Edition 135i and 335i upgrades for U.S. at just $550

BMW prices Performance Edition 135i and 335i upgrades for U.S. at just $550 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/21/bmw-prices-performance-edition-135i-and-335i-upgrades-for-u-s-a/

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