Honda CR-V Concept debuts in the O.C. [w/video]

Filed under: Concept Cars, Videos, Crossover, Honda, Misc. Auto Shows

Proving it's more than just a haven for flat-billed tattoo enthusiasts and Disney-branded tourists, Orange County is hosting the global debut of the 2012 Honda CR-V concept. The slick-looking crossover gets a serious style upgrade, and judging by recent Honda concepts, it's all but certain to be a very thinly disguised version of the production CR-V.

Before it goes on sale later this year, the fourth-generation CR-V that you can buy in stores will be shown to crowds at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. Behind the updated lines, the automaker promises that we'll be getting improved fuel economy and new innovative features, but it isn't talking specifics.

Stay tuned as more news of the updated 2012 Honda CR-V rolls out. For now, if you can't run over to the Orange County Auto Show, check out our high-res gallery of the concept, then click past the jump to watch a new video discussing the concept.

Continue reading Honda CR-V Concept debuts in the O.C. [w/video]

Honda CR-V Concept debuts in the O.C. [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/honda-cr-v-concept-debuts-in-the-o-c-w-video/

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GM introduces a front center air bag for crossover vehicles

Drivers and front passengers in crossover vehicles made by General Motors could soon get another layer of protection during collisions. Today, GM announced it will offer a new centrally-mounted air bag that is said to better protect occupants in side-impact...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/09/gm-introduces-a-front-center-air-bag-for-crossover-vehicles.html

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A Motorsport Pilgrimage

IND-Distribution takes us on their journey to Germany and shares with all of us some unique and exciting ...

Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/09/27/a-motorsport-pilgrimage/

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2012 BMW 1 Series M Coupe the "most affordable" M product ever offered

Filed under: Car Buying, Detroit Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, BMW

2012 BMW 1 Series M Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery

At $47,010 (including destination), the 2012 BMW 1 Series M Coupe isn't exactly cheap. Still, Matthew Russell, BMW product and technology PR rep, says it's "the most affordable M BMW has ever sold, adjusting for inflation, including the original E30 M3." That car cost around $34,000 when it was introduced in 1988. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Russell is more than right: $34,000 in 1988 had the same buying power as $62,885 in 2010.

With rumors of BMW getting into front-wheel-drive cars, we asked Dr. Kay Segler, president of BMW M GmbH, if M could do a FWD car. Segler said, "I haven't thought about that," and went on to remark that he couldn't see doing a sub-1-Series M car. Russell elaborated with, "There are rumors about what is coming, but those aren't from us." As to other rumors about whether the coupes will be limited or capped in number, we were told categorically, "No." But that was amended with, "But they will be hard to get."

Gallery: 2012 BMW 1 Series M Coupe: Detroit 2011

Live photos copyright (C)2011 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

Continue reading 2012 BMW 1 Series M Coupe the "most affordable" M product ever offered

2012 BMW 1 Series M Coupe the "most affordable" M product ever offered originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 11:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/16/2012-bmw-1-series-m-coupe-the-most-affordable-m-product-ever-o/

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GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video]

Filed under: Etc., Safety, Technology, Crossover, Buick, Chevrolet, GM, GMC

Just when you thought automakers couldn't shove any more inflatables into a vehicle's cabin, General Motors has introduced yet another new airbag. The company's new front center airbag is basically designed to keep the driver in place during a solo far-side impact, as well as prevent occupants from bouncing off of one another if there is more than one person in the car. The new device is set to be introduced as standard equipment on models like the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia with power seats beginning in the 2013 model year. The tethered, tube-shaped airbag deploys from the right side of the driver's seat and positions itself in the center of the vehicle.

GM says that the company's analysis of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data revealed that far-side impact crashes accounted for 11 percent of the belted front occupant fatalities in non-rollover incidents between 2004 and 2009, and that those deaths represented 29 percent of all fatalities in all side-impact crashes.

Automotive parts supplier Takata co-developed the airbag with GM over the course of three years. Hit the jump for the full press release as well as a video of the device in action.

Continue reading GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video]

GM debuts new front center airbag [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/29/gm-debuts-new-front-center-airbag-w-video/

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2011 Singapore Grand Prix proves bright lights can't replace race action [spoilers]

Filed under: Motorsports

What makes Formula 1 stand out above all other forms of motorsport is not the level of competition, and it's not the glitz and glamor. It's the combination of the two. The race action keeps the hardcore fans coming back, while the allure draws in new fans from all walks of life. But the two need to be present in equal measures in order for the formula to work.

Many of those die-hard fans, however, have bemoaned some of the newer tracks on the calendar - circuits that offer great panoramas in exotic locales, but that don't make for particularly close race action. The Marina Bay Street Circuit in Singapore is one such track. While offering plenty in the way of glitz and glamor - particularly under the spotlights and a starry sky - it doesn't quite measure up on the racing action side of the equation.

That was, unfortunately, the case this weekend for the fourth running of the Singapore Grand Prix since its resurrection in 2008. Follow the jump to see what we mean.

Continue reading 2011 Singapore Grand Prix proves bright lights can't replace race action [spoilers]

2011 Singapore Grand Prix proves bright lights can't replace race action [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Sep 2011 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/25/2011-singapore-grand-prix-proves-bright-lights-cant-replace-rac/

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Bugatti substantially reworking Galibier before seeking final approval

Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedan, Performance, Bugatti, Luxury

The Galibier is dead. Long live the Galibier.

Plans are reportedly moving ahead at Bugatti headquarters in Mulsheim, France, to succeed the Veyron with a version of the Galibier concept super-sedan unveiled back in 2009. But before the company's CEO Wolfgang Dürheimer makes the final pitch by the end of the year to the board of the Volkswagen Group for final approval, some significant changes are being made.

For one, the car is being made longer. The whole rear end is being thoroughly redone. And the engine, originally proposed as a detuned version of the Veyron's 1000+horsepower W-16 with twin superchargers in place of the quad turbos, will now be reboosted up past the four-digit mark.

The changes reportedly come out of feedback from current Veyron owners, half of whom have reportedly seen and sat in the Galibier concept car already. As a result, Dürheimer has been quoted as saying that the project has now entered the "second half of the design phase", but that the finished product will still bear more than a passing resemblance to the show car pictured above.

Bugatti substantially reworking Galibier before seeking final approval originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/27/bugatti-substantially-reworking-galibier-before-seeking-final-ap/

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Paris 2010: 2011 Toyota Verso-S is a small MPV with big features

Filed under: Minivan/Van, Paris Motor Show, Toyota

2011 Toyota Verso-S - Click above for high-res image gallery

The mini-MPV segment is quite popular outside of the United States, and Toyota has just unveiled its newest member of that market - the 2011 Toyota Verso-S. We didn't know much about it earlier in the year, but the secrets have been spilled at the Paris Motor Show.

The Toyota Verso-S takes the stage as the shortest entrant into the B-MPV segment. However, the interior volume is on par with that of rivaling C-segment vehicles. It is the first car in this category to offer a multimedia, touchscreen system in the center stack. Down the line, an optional Navi-Box feature will be made available which boosts the multimedia capability but it also greatly enhances the navigation system features. The system can display speed camera warnings, sign posts on roadways and allows users to access numerous Google-based connected services. Points of Interest can be downloaded from the internet and entered as destinations. Also, the Navi-Box can display fuel prices, news and weather reports.

The 2011 Toyota Verso-S will go on sale in February 2011. Two engines will be made available; one diesel and one standard gasoline-burner. The diesel unit is a 1.4-liter diesel engine that produces 90 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque between 1,800 and 2,800 rpm. The 1.3-liter gasoline engine produces 99 hp and 93 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline engine is rated at nearly 43 miles per gallon while the diesel unit can hit 55 mpg. Both engines come standard with a six-speed manual transmission however the 1.3-liter can be paired with a seven-speed sequential unit and the 1.4-liter can be fitted with a six-speed automated manual. Click through our gallery of live shots to see the funky little MPV for yourself.

Gallery: Paris 2010: Toyota Verso-S

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: 2011 Toyota Verso-S is a small MPV with big features originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-toyota-verso-s-is-a-small-mpv-with-big-features/

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Mercedes-Benz gives the 101 on driving

Mercedes-Benz is best known worldwide for its high-performing luxury models. Car strength, however, is not only the key element for this German automaker as safety is also a top priority. True to form, Mercedes-Benz has arranged a driving program dubbed as ?First Gear? for young motorists toward an accident-free driving.
?Maximizing on-road safety is not the [...]

Source: http://mercedespartsblog.mbpartswarehouse.com/2008/02/19/mercedes-benz-gives-the-101-on-driving/

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Kia to show rear-drive V8 coupe concepts in Frankfurt, Detroit

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Kia

Hyundai and Kia may have separate product lineups, but the two Korean automakers are owned by the same company. But while the two companies have shared platforms and engines on most occasions, for some reason, Hyundai received a rear-drive platform and the impressive Tau V8 engines for its Genesis range while Kia was left out of the fun.

That could change with the introduction of the K9 sedan, which has been rumored to arrive in 2012, but does Kia have more plans for rear-wheel-drive and maybe even a V8 engine? The UK's What Car? is reporting that Kia is looking to get quite a bit sportier in the future, suggesting that the automaker will release a pair of rear-drive coupe concepts to gauge interest. The first eight-pot coupe will reportedly show up for duty at the Frankfurt Motor Show, followed by a second concept car at the Detroit Auto Show in January. If public opinion of the rumored concepts is strong, What Car? claims a production model could ensue for 2015.

What Car? also renews speculation that Kia is eying a competitor to the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The would-be roadster would be small and light, but importantly, it may not be rear-drive. Word is that the drop-top could utilize the platform of the next generation Cee'd. While we're all for another compact roadster, we'd add that in order to truly compete with the Mazda, rear-drive should definitely be part of the equation. Those with really long memories will recall that Kia has already experimented with small front-drive roadsters designed to take on the Miata - it briefly retained the rights to build its own version of the second-generation Lotus Elan (M100) back in the late 1990s.

Kia to show rear-drive V8 coupe concepts in Frankfurt, Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/06/kia-to-show-rear-drive-v8-coupe-concepts-in-frankfurt-detroit/

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Infiniti M35h sets hybrid 1/4-mile Guinness World Record

Filed under: Motorsports, Hybrid, Sedan, Infiniti, UK, Luxury

On Tuesday, August 23, a lone 2012 Infiniti M35h ripped down the UK's rain-drenched Santa Pod Raceway and sped into the record books as the world's quickest hybrid vehicle.

Driven by Tim Pollard, associate editor of the UK's Car Magazine, and overseen by Guinness World Records, the 360-horsepower M35h dashed down the quarter-mile track in 13.9031 seconds (average of all runs). The quickest run of the day tripped the clock at 13.8960 seconds. In describing the M35h's record-setting run, Pollard stated, "At Santa Pod you could feel the instant torque of the electric motor away from standstill - the car just leapt off the line."

Lest you think it's only quick for a hybrid, Infiniti points out that, in the hierarchy of quick vehicles, the M35h's time puts it on a par with the following performance icons:

• 1982 Lamborghini Countach S: 13.9 secs
• 1998 BMW M3: 13.8 secs
• 2007 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante: 13.6 secs
• 2007 Porsche 911 Carrera: 13.6 secs
• 1966 Shelby Cobra: 13.5 secs
• 1964 Ferrari 250 GTO: 13.5 secs

The M35h scoots from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds and tops out at 155 mph. On the consumption side, the M35h snagged an official EPA rating of 27/32 mpg city/highway, with a combined rating of 29 mpg. Currently, the M35h is North America's only 350-plus horsepower, 30-plus mpg highway vehicle. Feel free to read all the details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Infiniti M35h sets hybrid 1/4-mile Guinness World Record

Infiniti M35h sets hybrid 1/4-mile Guinness World Record originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/21/infiniti-m35h-sets-hybrid-1-4-mile-guinness-world-record/

Automobile

BMW working on carbon-ceramic brakes for M5

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Europe, BMW, Luxury

Word has it that BMW is working on some serious stoppers for its M5. According to Bimmerfile, Dr. Herbert Diess, a member of the BMW board of management, has confirmed that the company is currently testing carbon ceramic discs for the M5 and upcoming M6. Brake supplier Brembo has teamed up with SGL Carbon for a joint venture to manufacture the discs, and Brembo is already responsible for bits like the multi-piston calipers already at work on the 2012 M5.

So, when we can we expect to see carbon discs on the performance sedan? That still remains unclear. Diess says that the hardware is at least another year out from production, which dovetails nicely with the scheduled arrival of the M5 on American shores. Even so, no one is saying whether the brakes will come as part of an optional package or as standard equipment on the 2013 model. Stay tuned.

BMW working on carbon-ceramic brakes for M5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/bmw-working-on-carbon-ceramic-brakes-for-m5/

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Autoblog Podcast #149

Filed under: Podcasts, Budget, Hybrid, Technology, Tokyo Motor Show, Chrysler, Dodge, Toyota, Tokyo Auto Salon, Electric, Lancia

Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Episode #149 of the Autoblog Podcast, the first frost edition, has arrived. The Tokyo Motor Show is coming up, and there have been a couple previews of what to expect there. The Toyota FT-86 concept has had everyone abuzz with its heralding as the spiritual successor of the much-beloved AE86 of the 1980s. Also building excitement for Tokyo is Subaru's Hybrid Tourer concept. Moving on from Asia, we touch on Lancias being rebadged as Chryslers before wrapping up with Chrysler and Fiat's collaboration on an electric car. Very last, we hit up some questions before calling it a night and going to sleep off our ailments. Keep the feedback rolling in to Podcast at Autoblog dot com, thanks for filling our survey with data, and we'll see you soon for #150! Remember, if you get lonely, there's always Joystiq and Engadget. Thanks for listening!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #149

Autoblog Podcast #149 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/autoblog-podcast-149/

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Column: The M brand is special after all

For the skeptics in the group that feel BMW is watering down the M brand, the company has ...

Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/09/23/column-the-m-brand-is-special-after-all/

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Infiniti M35h sets hybrid 1/4-mile Guinness World Record

Filed under: Motorsports, Hybrid, Sedan, Infiniti, UK, Luxury

On Tuesday, August 23, a lone 2012 Infiniti M35h ripped down the UK's rain-drenched Santa Pod Raceway and sped into the record books as the world's quickest hybrid vehicle.

Driven by Tim Pollard, associate editor of the UK's Car Magazine, and overseen by Guinness World Records, the 360-horsepower M35h dashed down the quarter-mile track in 13.9031 seconds (average of all runs). The quickest run of the day tripped the clock at 13.8960 seconds. In describing the M35h's record-setting run, Pollard stated, "At Santa Pod you could feel the instant torque of the electric motor away from standstill - the car just leapt off the line."

Lest you think it's only quick for a hybrid, Infiniti points out that, in the hierarchy of quick vehicles, the M35h's time puts it on a par with the following performance icons:

• 1982 Lamborghini Countach S: 13.9 secs
• 1998 BMW M3: 13.8 secs
• 2007 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante: 13.6 secs
• 2007 Porsche 911 Carrera: 13.6 secs
• 1966 Shelby Cobra: 13.5 secs
• 1964 Ferrari 250 GTO: 13.5 secs

The M35h scoots from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds and tops out at 155 mph. On the consumption side, the M35h snagged an official EPA rating of 27/32 mpg city/highway, with a combined rating of 29 mpg. Currently, the M35h is North America's only 350-plus horsepower, 30-plus mpg highway vehicle. Feel free to read all the details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Infiniti M35h sets hybrid 1/4-mile Guinness World Record

Infiniti M35h sets hybrid 1/4-mile Guinness World Record originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/21/infiniti-m35h-sets-hybrid-1-4-mile-guinness-world-record/

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Class action lawsuit to be filed against Mercedes alleges AMG V8 defects

Filed under: Performance, Europe, Government/Legal, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

Mercedes-Benz is reportedly facing a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court of New Jersey for alleged defects in the company's M156 V8. According to the plaintiffs, premature internal wear occurs because the engine uses cast nodular iron camshafts and 9310-grade steel valves. Something about that combination causes early failure, either due to improper offset of the components or inadequate heat treating. The plaintiffs also allege that Mercedes-Benz and AMG have known about the issue since 2007, when Daimler released a service bulletin on the problem. At this point, it's unclear how many engines this alleged defect covers, or exactly when or if the lawsuit will go to trial.

The M156 V8 - one of the snarliest and best-sounding engines we've ever driven - has served as the powerhouse for a wide range of AMG vehicles. The 6.3-liter lump actually displaces 6.2 liters, but churns out 525 horsepower in its newest iteration. The engine has found its way into vehicles like the C63 AMG, E63 AMG, ML63 AMG and SL63 AMG, among others. Head over to BenzBoost for a look at the full lawsuit.

Class action lawsuit to be filed against Mercedes alleges AMG V8 defects originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/class-action-lawsuit-to-be-filed-against-mercedes-alleges-amg-v8/

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Ford channels Captain Obvious with new E-Bike Concept

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Hybrid, Etc., Ford, Electric

Ford model names have always been rather esoteric. Okay, so Model T was fairly straightforward, but just about everything since has been named to evoke an image of something else: Mustang. Explorer. Focus. Heck, even Taurus is more imaginative than calling it the Ford Rental Car. The Blue Oval's latest product, however, is considerably more straightforward. At least in name.

Dearborn's newest debut is an e-bike called... the E-Bike. And as you might have guessed, it's an electric bicycle. The lightweight frame, made of carbon-fiber and aluminum, incorporates a 340Wh lithium-ion battery pack that drives a 350W electric motor in the front wheel hub. The system is managed by state-of-the-art electronic sensors which, Ford is keen to point out, are derived from Formula One - although the company hasn't been active in the series since 2004.

The concept bike is being showcased at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but only after all the journalists have gone home. And though Ford admits it has no plans to put the two-wheeler into production, the E-Bike Concept is part of its ongoing research into alternative transportation. We'll be waiting for the Ford Bus Pass to debut sometime in the coming months. Read more about it in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Ford channels Captain Obvious with new E-Bike Concept

Ford channels Captain Obvious with new E-Bike Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/18/ford-channels-captain-obvious-with-new-e-bike-concept/

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MB?s bionic car graced NY museum

The concepts of the German automobile company Mercedes-Benz for bionic cars had their debut last week during the media presentation of the ?Design and the Elastic Mind? exhibit, which focuses on developments in mobility and communications, held in the New York-based Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Mercedes-Benz bionic car and other upcoming technologies and findings that [...]

Source: http://mercedespartsblog.mbpartswarehouse.com/2008/02/26/mb%e2%80%99s-bionic-car-graced-ny-museum/

Car Service Car Repair Mini Auto Mercedes

Honda bringing CR-Z TS-1X concept to Tokyo Auto Salon

Filed under: Aftermarket, Hybrid, Japan, Hatchback, Honda, Tokyo Auto Salon

The 2011 Tokyo Auto Salon gets underway January 14th, and Honda a is bringing an aggressively-styled CR-Z to the party. Dubbed the Tesutosutadimoderu TS-1X, the two-seater was a standard Honda CR-Z before a set of sporty wheels, body-kit and flat-black paint scheme upped the car's threat level from wallflower to ready-for-war.

We're not going to call this body kit ugly before seeing at least a few more shots of it installed, but if we found out there's a K20 under the hood, we wouldn't be surprised to see it push straight into attack mode and sprout a sweeping red lamp up front. In any case, this won't be the last bit of craziness seen from Tokyo... stay tuned.

[Source: Honda]

Honda bringing CR-Z TS-1X concept to Tokyo Auto Salon originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/13/honda-bringing-cr-z-ts-1x-concept-to-tokyo-auto-salon/

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Camaro driver and navigator die in Silver State Classic crash

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Etc., Chevrolet, Racing

The Silver State Classic Challenge had a brush with tragedy on Sunday when two competitors lost their lives competing in the event. According to the Nye County Sherriff's Office, 53-year-old driver Richard DeKneef of California and his co-driver, 41-year-old Merille Hill of Ely, Nevada were both killed on Sunday when their Chevrolet Camaro blew a tire, rolled several times and caught fire. Both men were reportedly trapped inside the blaze.

The Silver State Classic Challenge is an open-road rally held across 90 miles of Route 318 in Nevada, where professional and amateur drivers alike can push their vehicles to the upper limits of speed in a sanctioned event.

DeKneef and Hill's deaths are the first fatalities at the event since 1992. Organizers have held the race every year since 1988. Our sympathies go out to the DeKneef and Hill families.

Camaro driver and navigator die in Silver State Classic crash originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/camaro-driver-and-navigator-die-in-silver-state-classic-crash/

European Auto Car Service Car Repair Mini Auto

Lamborghini Aventador 1:8 scale model costs 12 times the real thing [w/exclusive photos]

Filed under: Etc., Lamborghini, Toys/Games, Design/Style, Luxury

When it comes to objects of automotive lust, few tip the scales further than the Lamborghini Aventador. Naturally, most mere mortals (like us) can't come up with nearly enough expendable income to ever fulfill the dream of owning an actual, drivable toy like that.

If we can't afford the real thing, at least we can get ourselves a smaller scale model, right? Well, maybe... unless the 1:8 scale Aventador you've got your eye on comes with seats, headlights and steering wheel made from diamonds, wheels fashioned from gold and platinum and a perfectly scaled copy of the body crafted from carbon fiber.

Just how much would such a fancy bauble cost? We hope you're sitting down: at least $4.7 million. Yes, in dollars. Auction house Sotheby's plans to sell the wee Lambo to the highest bidder in December with the lofty starting price just quoted, but if you just can't wait to get your hands on it, you can buy it from Robert Gülpen, the modeler, for a cool $6 mil.

Or, you could buy a dozen actual Aventadors for that price, which may be far more satisfying. Check out our exclusive photos of the model taken by photographer David Kaiser, and follow the jump for a video of the model on display behind bulletproof glass at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Continue reading Lamborghini Aventador 1:8 scale model costs 12 times the real thing [w/exclusive photos]

Lamborghini Aventador 1:8 scale model costs 12 times the real thing [w/exclusive photos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Sep 2011 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/17/lamborghini-aventador-1-8-scale-model-costs-12-times-the-real-th/

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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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2012 Porsche 911 lops 13 seconds off predecessor's 'Ring time, quick as 997 GT3

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Porsche

The Porsche 911 is dead, long live the Porsche 911. The German automaker's latest and greatest has taken to the Nürburgring where old marks have fallen hard. The 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S was sent through the Green Hell, where it promptly beat the time achieved by the prior 997 version by a whopping 13 seconds.

With a time of 7:40, the 2012 911 matches the mark set by the previous 911 GT3. If you happen to own a previous generation 911 GT3, we'll pause here for a moment while you go out to smash something with a hammer.

Back? Great. You shouldn't fret too much, because this just means the next-generation GT3 should be a land rocket capable of blistering the surface of the 'Ring. GT2 guys, your numbers are still safe... for now.

2012 Porsche 911 lops 13 seconds off predecessor's 'Ring time, quick as 997 GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/21/2012-porsche-911-lops-13-seconds-off-predecessors-ring-time-q/

Auto BMW Audi European Auto

Maybach celebrates Daimler's 125th with special edition 57 S

Filed under: Sedan, Maybach, Luxury

Daimler may not be able to sell very many Maybachs, but there's a flip-side to that equation: Rarity. Exclusivity. Qualities which a Maybach has in spades. But if every tycoon and magnate in your elite neighborhood already has one, and you want to stand out a bit (but not too much) from the crowd, you're going to want something even more exclusive. Like the Edition 125!

That exclamation mark - like the concept currently on display in Frankfurt - is part of the name, not added emphasis on our part, and helps underscore the claim which Daimler lays on the origins of the automobile which it now celebrates a century and a quarter later.

The party starts off with the 57 S model, that being the (relatively) shorter-wheelbase sedan with the twin-turbo V12 that's just had its output increased to 630 horsepower. That's power that'd make many a supercar blush, but Maybach didn't stop there: for the special edition, the automaker gave the 57 a new front grille, a set of high-contrast 20-inch alloys and the signature of Wilheml Maybach (he who helped Gottlieb Daimler invent the automobile) embroidered into the glovebox lid.

The Edition 125! also gets special Tahiti Black and Patagonia Silver color options, part of an expanded catalog of color swatches available for the exterior and interior of the elite Mercs which you can read more about in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Maybach celebrates Daimler's 125th with special edition 57 S

Maybach celebrates Daimler's 125th with special edition 57 S originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/maybach-celebrates-daimlers-125th-with-special-edition-57-s/

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Super Lexus LS has a name (and specs): TMG Edition

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Performance, Lexus

Lexus fans are abuzz over the sight of a potential new LS-based super sedan, and details about the mystery machine are leaking out across the intertubes. The folks at AutoGuide have somehow managed to get shots of the Nürburgring-running prototype parked in a garage along witha a conveniently displayed spec sheet which gives us a lot more information about the sporty four door shown testing on the 'Ring.

According to their information it's called the Lexus LS TMG Edition, and the TMG stands for Toyota Motorsport GmbH. That would be the European motorsports branch for the Japanese automaker, which helps to explain the Cologne plates spotted on the car. According to the spied spec sheet, the LS TMG boasts a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 641 horsepower and 524 pound-feet of torque. That should be enough to push the large luxo rocket from 0-62 miles per hour in 4.2 seconds and on to a top speed that's a hair under 200 miles per hour.

While we have no idea whether this is a production prototype, a one-off exercise or something else entirely, the very existence of a 641-horsepower, 200 mile-per-hour Lexus LS suggests that the crew behind the LFA are holding increasing sway over the Toyota luxury asylum. Needless to say, we're okay with that.

Super Lexus LS has a name (and specs): TMG Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Sep 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/21/super-lexus-ls-has-a-name-and-specs-tmg-edition/

BMW Audi European Auto Car Service

MB Malaysia aims 3,900 units this year

With a decent passenger car sales in 2007, the Malaysia subsidiary of German automaker Mercedes-Benz remains optimistic as it aims to sell 3, 900 units of passenger car this fiscal year.
Last year, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia amassed a total of 3, 606 passenger cars. This number posted a good eight percent jump from only 3, 327 vehicles [...]

Source: http://mercedespartsblog.mbpartswarehouse.com/2008/02/21/mb-malaysia-aims-3900-units-this-year/

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Lured in by Opel Ampera tech, BMW seeks deal with GM

Filed under: Hybrid, Technology, BMW, GM, Opel, Rumormill, Electric, Diesel

Spiegel Online set the rumormill ablaze with an unconfirmed report that General Motors is seeking some sort of cooperative deal with German automaker BMW. Speigel says The General's interest in BMW is primarily related to the German firm's gasoline and diesel engine technology.

Beyond that, Spiegel reports that Stephen Girsky, GM's board member in charge of strategy, has started discussions with BMW on "far-reaching joint projects." For his part, BMW chairman Dr. Norbert Reithofer previously went on record saying the German automaker was open to the idea of selling engines to other companies so long as such a move - like the recent agreement BMW made with Fisker Automotive - wouldn't strengthen a direct competitor's position or damage BMW's reputation.

In exchange, Spiegel reports that BMW is intrigued by the technology behind the Opel Ampera. This should come as no surprise considering that former Opel exec Frank Weber (pictured) now heads research and development at BMW. Weber is known as the leader of the team that transformed the Chevrolet Volt from a wild-eyed concept to a production vehicle.

Dow Jones says neither General Motors nor BMW were immediately available for comment on this alleged deal.

Lured in by Opel Ampera tech, BMW seeks deal with GM originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/lured-in-by-opel-ampera-tech-bmw-seeks-deal-with-gm/

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Updated Hyundai Genesis Coupe to debut at 2012 Detroit Auto Show

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Coupe, Hyundai

Spy Shots: Next-generation Hyundai Genesis Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai has put the Genesis Coupe on an extreme weight-lifting regime. The result? A new look and more power. The current 3.8-liter V6 Genesis Coupe produces 306-horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Expect the next-generation car to carry the same 333-horsepower, 291 pound-feet of torque-producing mill as found in the 2012 Genesis Sedan. No word yet on improved power figures for the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-pot, which currently produces 210-horsepower and 223 pound-feet of torque.

We're sure more details on both updated powerplants will be emerging soon enough; we'll get to see both versions of the updated Genesis Coupes when Hyundai pulls off the wraps at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show.

Updated Hyundai Genesis Coupe to debut at 2012 Detroit Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/updated-hyundai-genesis-coupe-to-debut-at-2012-detroit-auto-show/

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Google exec praises "magical software" working in his Mercedes-Benz

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Safety, Technology, Videos, Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz would love for you to consider its technology akin to magical software. When Google senior vice president Vic Gundotra is the one using those words, however, they might hold a bit more weight. The executive for Skynet Google feels that way because of a close-call he had while driving his S-Class.

Traffic had stopped in front of him, but Gundotra didn't notice. His Mercedes did, however, and the electronic nannies brought the car to a complete stop without a lick of input from Vic. He was so impressed with the technology that he decided to write the automaker a letter to thank them for installing the system into its cars.

That thank you comes from a source that understands software, so Mercedes decided to reach out to Gundotra. The Google exec agreed to appear in a commercial for Benz, and he wasn't paid for his participation. Click past the jump to see the 30-second spot.

Continue reading Google exec praises "magical software" working in his Mercedes-Benz

Google exec praises "magical software" working in his Mercedes-Benz originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/google-exec-praises-magical-software-working-in-his-mercedes-b/

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Volkswagen passes on showing Phaeton concept in Frankfurt, new car expected for 2015

Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedan, Volkswagen, Luxury

The Volkswagen Group had a whole lot and then more to show off at the Frankfurt Motor Show this year. There were about a dozen vehicles rolled out at the pre-show VW Group evening, and then more once the show opened the following morning. For the Volkswagen brand itself, the new production Up! was the main focus, sharing the stage with the Nils concept, the Beetle R showcar and the Polo rally car. But there was, according to the UK's CAR magazine, to be one more major debut.

That additional concept car would have been a preview of the next-generation Phaeton, but apparently VW's corporate strategists opted to hold it back so as not to detract from the Up! runabout. Instead, it will likely show off the concept second-generation luxury sedan at another show in the near future, but the production model isn't expected to come until 2015.

When it does, we'll find out what strategy the Phaeton will have switched to. Insiders suggest it will be downsized to slot in between the Audi A6 and A8 (rather than compete directly with the latter) and could include one or several less traditional (and more practical) bodystyles in addition to a traditional four-door sedan.

We're also likely to be looking at smaller engines than the eight, ten and twelve-cylinder mills currently on offer, all in an effort to sell the new Phaeton to more customers than the current model, one in two of which reportedly stay in Volkswagen's hands as VIP shuttles.

Volkswagen passes on showing Phaeton concept in Frankfurt, new car expected for 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/22/volkswagen-passes-on-showing-phaeton-concept-in-frankfurt-new-c/

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