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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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.

Continue reading Nissan to display nine cars at Tokyo Auto Salon including GT-R Nismo with data-logging

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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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/06/nissan-to-display-nine-cars-at-tokyo-auto-salon-including-gt-r-n/

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Rendered Speculation: Jaguar XF Sportbrake

Filed under: Wagon, Jaguar, UK, Design/Style, Luxury

It likely comes as no shock to hear we're all sorts of excited about the prospect of a Jaguar XF Sportbrake. Even though we know the model may never show up on our shores, we're happier in a world in which a machine like this exists. Ivan Martinovic has been so kind as to render what the longroof XF may look like once Jaguar strips off all the swirls. Is it faithful to the final product? Your guess is as good as ours, but we're hoping the production version has a bit more elegance to its rear when it drops.

As we've already heard, the XF Sportbrake is an attempt for Jaguar to snap up buyers who would otherwise spend their hard-earned cash at their local BMW or Audi dealership. Jaguar has made it clear that its new wagon won't be coming to the U.S. due to a tangle of federal regulations. That means we won't get to cram the family in this luxury hauler any time soon. More importantly, it means the Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon and the inevitable - we hope - Jaguar XFR Sportbrake will simply have to glare at one another from the across the pond. Head over to PS Garage for a closer look.

Rendered Speculation: Jaguar XF Sportbrake originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/rendered-speculation-jaguar-xf-sportbrake/

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Recall: 2011 Nissan Rogue vehicles may have bad power steering

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued a recall alert for 2011 Nissan Rogue vehicles. Approximately 7,365 of the cars have incorrectly installed electronics that may cause failure of the crossover vehicles' electric power steering systems. According to NHTSA,...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/safety/2011/12/recall-2011-nissan-rogue-vehicles-may-have-bad-power-steering.html

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Would you pay $8/hour to own a Ferrari?

Filed under: Performance, Etc., Ferrari, Luxury

Life is full of unattainables. Most of us will never hold the keys to an expansive beach-front property, lounge on our own personal yacht or park a Ferrari in the garage, and for good reason. The very exclusivity of those objects is part of their lure, but a new site looks to change all that. Jointli allows regular Joes and Janes to co-own property, vehicles, boats and more. The site's tools allow users to chose potential co-owners in their area, sign agreements and manage time shares accordingly. So, how much would it conceivably cost to own, say, a Ferrari F430?

According to Jointli, four people could conceivably wrangle one of the Italian exotics for as little as $8,000 per person, which works out to close to $8 per hour individually. Of course, Jonli's math means that's the cost after selling the vehicle after just one year of use. It also excludes any unfortunate dings or repairs that may arise as the result of four people who don't know how to drive a Ferrari being tossed the keys. The whole scenario sounds great in a perfect world. Unfortunately, our planet is about as far from that bright center as you can get. Head over to Jointli to check out the system for yourself.

Continue reading Would you pay $8/hour to own a Ferrari?

Would you pay $8/hour to own a Ferrari? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/02/would-you-pay-8-hour-to-own-a-ferrari/

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Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Jaguar, Luxury

There are plenty of attributes we associate with Jaguar. Luxurious, powerful and attractive all spring readily to mind, but we're not sure we'd tie the world "playful" to the brand. Jaguar seems to think otherwise, and has released a new ad showing three of its most sultry models frolicking about in jungles both natural and urban. The spot ends with the tagline "Welcome To Our Jungle," though Axl Rose and Slash are conspicuously absent.

The XJL Supersport, XFR and XKR-S all share some time on screen set to a little Spanish guitar and the bark of delicious supercharged 5.0-liter V8 exhaust notes. The agency behind the spot, Spark44, says that the goal was to show the vehicles as animate, fun objects.

We can certainly attest to these vehicles' ability to paint a smile on your face. The ad does still seem plenty conservative, however. While there's a bit of sideways action here and there, the vehicles mostly seem constrained to speed limits and turn taking. We want to see some sibling rivalry. Hit the jump to check out the full clip for yourself.

Continue reading Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad

Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/jaguars-jungle-looks-awfully-inviting-in-new-ad/

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Nissan shows us its new and improved Continuously Variable Transmission

Filed under: Technology, Nissan

Finally, A CVT That Doesn't Suck



Continuously variable transmissions have been the bane of our enthusiast existence since... well... forever. An endless, droning tone coupled with the dreaded "rubber band" effect has relegated the gearboxes to rolling appliances and miserable fuel misers - save for one particular sedan.

It's not just an improvement, this is the best driving CVT yet.

When Nissan debuted the new Maxima and revived the "Four-Door Sports Car" name, we wanted to love it. Then we saw one glaring omission on the spec sheet: a manual gearbox. Nissan wouldn't offer the Maxima with a stick, and to add insult to injury, the reborn 4DSC would only be available with a CVT. That bitter taste in the back of our throats - disappointment.

But then we drove it. And it wasn't THAT bad. The six faux ratios were a bit of a joke, but they worked, and everything from the seating position to the chassis tuning were better than nearly anything in the segment.

Last week I had the chance to sample the Maxima again, and the timing couldn't have been more perfect. Thirty hours after dropping off the Maxima at the airport I was behind the wheel of an Altima prototype with the automaker's all-new CVT. Nissan claims it boosts fuel economy another 10 percent while offering a dramatically refined driving experience. I can't speak to the new tranny's decreased fuel consumption, but I can say this: It's not just an improvement, this is the best driving CVT yet.

Continue reading Nissan shows us its new and improved Continuously Variable Transmission

Nissan shows us its new and improved Continuously Variable Transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/nissan-shows-us-its-new-and-improved-continuously-variable-trans/

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Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept headlines TMC's Tokyo Auto Salon roster

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Japan, Hatchback, Lexus, Toyota, Tokyo Auto Salon, Racing

Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept - Click above for high-res image

SEMA may take the proverbial cake for the American tuner scene, but the Vegas expo isn't the only tuner show in the world. And with the Tokyo Auto Salon currently underway, Toyota has a wide variety of cars on display under various labels and divisions.

The vehicle you see above is the GRMN iQ Racing Concept. Lest you think the four letters indicate some kind of special nav system, it stands for Gazoo Racing tuned by MN - the same outfit that prepared the Nürburgring 24-winning Lexus LFA racer.

Little in the way of details were released along with the solitary image other than to say that it's based on a limited-edition model that's already sold out, and fitted with a roll cage and supercharger. It's one of seventeen vehicles prepared by the Toyota Motor Corporation and its subsidiaries for the show, including versions of the Prius, Vitz (aka Yaris), Auris, Corolla, Noah, FJ Cruiser, Ractis, Lexus CT and IS F and more, modified by Gazoo, Toyota Racing Development, G Sports and even the Fuji Speedway and a staff collective known as the Toyota Engineering Society. Read all about it in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept headlines TMC's Tokyo Auto Salon roster

Toyota GRMN iQ Racing Concept headlines TMC's Tokyo Auto Salon roster originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Jan 2011 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/16/toyota-grmn-iq-racing-concept-headlines-tmcs-tokyo-auto-salon-r/

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On the refurbished Mercedes-Benz sports coupe

Mercedes-Benz cars exude the fusion of luxury design and functionality. It is no wonder the German car maker became the major sponsor for the Berlin-based Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, which is held in four major cities around the world. The night before the famous runway show officially opens, the automaker?s latest offering?the 2008 Mercedes Benz CLC [...]

Source: http://mercedespartsblog.mbpartswarehouse.com/2008/01/30/on-the-refurbished-mercedes-benz-sports-coupe/

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Volkswagen Cross Coupe Concept looks slick, is not a coupe

Filed under: Concept Cars, Tokyo Motor Show, Crossover, Volkswagen

Let's get one thing straight: This is not a coupe. Not even close. But ever since BMW kicked off the bastardization of the word 'coupe' with its X6 crossover, automakers seem to think that any vehicle with a sloped roofline can be classified by this word that has always been - and should always be - reserved exclusively for two-door cars. That's a whole different rant, though. In the meantime, we'd like to introduce you to the Volkswagen Cross Coupe concept.

Debuting at the Tokyo Motor Show, the Cross Coupe is the first vehicle to ride on Volkswagen's new modular transverse matrix architecture, and it previews the future of the automaker's crossover range. It may look large, but the Cross Coupe is actually smaller than the current Tiguan, closer in size to that of a Nissan Juke. It certainly isn't bad to look at, even with that big, grinning face. The compact shape is well-proportioned, though it appears that the chrome wheels were ripped right off a loaded Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The Cross Coupe is powered by a unique all-wheel-drive hybrid drivetrain, with two electric motors (one for each axle) paired with a turbocharged gasoline engine. Volkswagen estimates that this powerplant will produce around 262 horsepower, but will be able to drive on pure electricity for about 25 miles. Running to 60 miles per hour will take around seven seconds.

Scroll through our high-res image gallery above to see the Volkswagen Cross (not-so) Coupe Concept live from the Tokyo Motor Show floor.

Continue reading Volkswagen Cross Coupe Concept looks slick, is not a coupe

Volkswagen Cross Coupe Concept looks slick, is not a coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/30/volkswagen-cross-coupe-concept-tokyo-2011/

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Recall: 210,000 Toyota Sienna vehicles—mislabeled vehicle load capacity

Toyota is recalling 210,000 Sienna vehicles from model year 2011 through 2012, for failing to comply with federal requirements that specify a vehicle capacity weight be displayed as the rated load for the combination of both cargo and occupants. Incorrect...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/safety/2011/12/recall-210000-toyota-sienna-vehiclesmislabeled-vehicle-load.html

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Jaguar Land Rover won't exhibit in Detroit

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Jaguar, Land Rover

Detroit Auto Show attendees hoping to gawk at the latest sheetmetal from British luxury stalwarts Jaguar and Land Rover will be disappointed to learn that the marques will not be displaying at Cobo Hall this January. Instead, the pair will concentrate on showing their wares at India's New Delhi Auto Expo, whose dates overlap that of the North American International Auto Show.

Stuart Schorr, JLR's Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs, tells Autoblog:

Jaguar Land Rover recognizes the Detroit Show is a world class exhibition, but for 2012 we will not exhibit there. This decision was driven by the fact that since our newest concept vehicles were featured at the Frankfurt show and will be featured at the upcoming Los Angeles Show, we decided to show them next in the Delhi Show in January as part of our effort to build our brands in this growing market. Therefore, without anything new to show in Detroit this year, we felt it most efficient to not participate in the show.

The switch makes some sense, as not only is staging auto show displays a particularly costly and time-intensive endeavor, the change also reflects India's growing importance as a global automotive market. Perhaps not coincidentally, Jaguar Land Rover has been under Indian ownership since Tata Motors purchased the brands from the Ford Motor Company back in 2008.

It is not immediately clear if the brands will return for the 2013 NAIAS.

Jaguar Land Rover won't exhibit in Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/02/jaguar-land-rover-wont-exhibit-in-detroit/

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Nissan shows us its new and improved Continuously Variable Transmission

Filed under: Technology, Nissan

Finally, A CVT That Doesn't Suck



Continuously variable transmissions have been the bane of our enthusiast existence since... well... forever. An endless, droning tone coupled with the dreaded "rubber band" effect has relegated the gearboxes to rolling appliances and miserable fuel misers - save for one particular sedan.

It's not just an improvement, this is the best driving CVT yet.

When Nissan debuted the new Maxima and revived the "Four-Door Sports Car" name, we wanted to love it. Then we saw one glaring omission on the spec sheet: a manual gearbox. Nissan wouldn't offer the Maxima with a stick, and to add insult to injury, the reborn 4DSC would only be available with a CVT. That bitter taste in the back of our throats - disappointment.

But then we drove it. And it wasn't THAT bad. The six faux ratios were a bit of a joke, but they worked, and everything from the seating position to the chassis tuning were better than nearly anything in the segment.

Last week I had the chance to sample the Maxima again, and the timing couldn't have been more perfect. Thirty hours after dropping off the Maxima at the airport I was behind the wheel of an Altima prototype with the automaker's all-new CVT. Nissan claims it boosts fuel economy another 10 percent while offering a dramatically refined driving experience. I can't speak to the new tranny's decreased fuel consumption, but I can say this: It's not just an improvement, this is the best driving CVT yet.

Continue reading Nissan shows us its new and improved Continuously Variable Transmission

Nissan shows us its new and improved Continuously Variable Transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/nissan-shows-us-its-new-and-improved-continuously-variable-trans/

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10 tips to survive Black Friday parking

The latest Consumer Reports holiday shopping poll finds that 44 percent of Americans will do all of their shopping at actual stores this holiday season. And that could make a traditional holiday headache?finding a parking spot at the local mall...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/money/2011/11/10-tips-to-survive-black-friday-parking.html

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Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Jaguar, Luxury

There are plenty of attributes we associate with Jaguar. Luxurious, powerful and attractive all spring readily to mind, but we're not sure we'd tie the world "playful" to the brand. Jaguar seems to think otherwise, and has released a new ad showing three of its most sultry models frolicking about in jungles both natural and urban. The spot ends with the tagline "Welcome To Our Jungle," though Axl Rose and Slash are conspicuously absent.

The XJL Supersport, XFR and XKR-S all share some time on screen set to a little Spanish guitar and the bark of delicious supercharged 5.0-liter V8 exhaust notes. The agency behind the spot, Spark44, says that the goal was to show the vehicles as animate, fun objects.

We can certainly attest to these vehicles' ability to paint a smile on your face. The ad does still seem plenty conservative, however. While there's a bit of sideways action here and there, the vehicles mostly seem constrained to speed limits and turn taking. We want to see some sibling rivalry. Hit the jump to check out the full clip for yourself.

Continue reading Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad

Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/jaguars-jungle-looks-awfully-inviting-in-new-ad/

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Subaru WRX STI S206 is a slice of JDM awesome

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Japan, Tokyo Motor Show, Subaru

There was a time when American buyers were routinely forbidden from getting their hands on automakers' more entertaining pieces of engineering. These days, more and more automakers are turning to global product development, which means we get to play with hardware like the Nissan GT-R and the Ford Focus ST. Subaru, however, seems bent on keeping the really fun stuff on its home turf, including the delicious WRX STI S206. The company's engineers went full bore on the turbocharged flat four-cylinder engine under the hood, balancing all of the internals, dropping on a ball bearing turbo and reflashing the ECU for a total of 316 horsepower.

Outside, the sedan comes equipped with fender-mounted vents and special badges to distinguish the model from the rest of the WRX fleet, and designers have clipped the vehicle's iconic wing in favor of a smaller lip spoiler. We like the look. We just wish we could drive it. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Subaru WRX STI S206 is a slice of JDM awesome

Subaru WRX STI S206 is a slice of JDM awesome originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/30/subaru-wrx-sti-s206-tokyo-2011/

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Tragic motorcycle crash underscores importance of helmet use

I heard terrible news this week that a childhood friend lost her fianc�e in a motorcycle crash. The accident occurred one day after his 40th birthday. Full details are sketchy, but his motorcycle hit another car. This news is very...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/12/tragic-motorcycle-crash-underscores-importance-of-helmet-use.html

BMW Audi European Auto Car Service

Daihatsu D-X portends a less endearing Copen successor

Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Tokyo Motor Show, Daihatsu

We've always had a soft spot for the Daihatsu Copen. Granted, it always struck us as an overly effeminate Audi TT, but that's not a particularly bad thing. But after nearly a decade of production, Daihatsu has to move on, so across the way from the "Ultimate Edition" Copen at the Tokyo Motor Show is this, the Daihatsu DX concept.

An odd amalgamation of Kei car size and SUV styling, the D-X features a retractable hard top and composite body panels that Daihatsu claims can be swapped out at will. Keeping within the Kei car limits in Japan, the D-X is powered by a turbocharged two-cylinder engine outputting around 60 horsepower and spinning the front wheels. We couldn't get a straight answer from the Daihatsu reps on the floor, but based on the model years we through out in broken Japanese, we should be seeing the D-X in production form late next year.

Daihatsu D-X portends a less endearing Copen successor originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/30/daihatsu-d-x-portends-a-less-endearing-copen-successor/

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How Audi created the e-tron Spyder

Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Paris Motor Show, Audi, Electric, Luxury

Making the Audi e-tron Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has pulled back the covers on how it created the e-tron Spyder for the Paris Motor Show, and it's giving us a rare glimpse into what went on behind the scenes. It took five months to turn the sketches into the Paris runway beauty, and Audi tells the story from the viewpoint of the designers modeling and how they balance styling with feasibility. Much of it was, of course, hand made, but even then it went beyond Audi's show-car usual, such as building wheels each containing 66 individual parts.

Not surprisingly, the tale begins like a superhero fable - "It is a functional, rectangular building with a gray facade - a hall like thousands of others in the industrial parks dotting our cities..." - and you'll find the details after the jump.

Gallery: Making the Audi e-tron Spyder

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading How Audi created the e-tron Spyder

How Audi created the e-tron Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Oct 2010 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/24/how-audi-created-the-e-tron-spyder/

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The Spun Bearing: Snow Tires, Batteries, and Top Gear

Snow Tires I waited as long as I could, but finally the temps had dropped enough that the ...

Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/12/02/the-spun-bearing-snow-tires-batteries-and-top-gear/

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Final Numbers: 2011 Detroit Auto Show was bigger than 2010 in every way

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show

The 2011 North American International Auto Show wasn't exactly chock-full of game-changing new product, but that didn't keep the media and public from making it a much bigger success than the 2010 show. Crain's Detroit Business reports that the 2011 Detroit Auto Show held 5,000 members of the international media during press days and 21,000 guests (5,000 more than in 2010) during the two-day industry preview. The annual charity preview saw another 10,500 guests, raising $2.6 million for charity.

That's good news, but the top headlines for the struggling Detroit area are reserved for the $325 to $350 million in total estimated economic impact - about $25 million more than in 2010. A grand total of 735,370 members of the general public purchased tickets to NAIAS; up 20,000 from the 2010 show. Now that's certainly a step in the right direction.

[Source: Crain's Detroit Business | Image: Stan Honda/AFP/Getty Images]

Final Numbers: 2011 Detroit Auto Show was bigger than 2010 in every way originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/26/final-numbers-2011-detroit-auto-show-was-bigger-than-2010-in-ev/

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Just in: 2012 Chevrolet Sonic LT sedan

?Aveo is a four-letter word,? quipped a General Motors engineer to us. GM is happy to move beyond their bottom-feeder Aveo subcompact, giving their new car a new name in this market. The Sonic works hard to erase bad memories...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/11/just-in-2012-chevrolet-sonic-lt-sedan-1.html

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Suzuki debuts range-extended Swift EV Hybrid

Filed under: Hybrid, Japan, Technology, Tokyo Motor Show, Hatchback, Suzuki, Electric

Suzuki hit the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show with a small flotilla of green-minded vehicles, including the Swift EV Hybrid. According to the company, most Swift buyers travel between 12 and 18 miles per day, so engineers designed this range-extended EV to cover that distance on pure electric power. A small-displacement internal combustion engine remains on hand to take over charging duties should the driver deplete the vehicle's batteries, just like in the Chevrolet Volt. Suzuki says that the design has several advantages over a traditional electric vehicle.

For starters, the system uses a significantly smaller battery than a full EV, which means the Swift EV Hybrid uses fewer resources and costs less. It also takes less time to charge than a full EV as well. While we don't expect to see this doorless wonder on the streets any time soon, Suzuki may apply the range-extender technology to production models in the future.

Suzuki debuts range-extended Swift EV Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/suzuki-swift-ev-hybrid-tokyo-2011/

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Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Jaguar, Luxury

There are plenty of attributes we associate with Jaguar. Luxurious, powerful and attractive all spring readily to mind, but we're not sure we'd tie the world "playful" to the brand. Jaguar seems to think otherwise, and has released a new ad showing three of its most sultry models frolicking about in jungles both natural and urban. The spot ends with the tagline "Welcome To Our Jungle," though Axl Rose and Slash are conspicuously absent.

The XJL Supersport, XFR and XKR-S all share some time on screen set to a little Spanish guitar and the bark of delicious supercharged 5.0-liter V8 exhaust notes. The agency behind the spot, Spark44, says that the goal was to show the vehicles as animate, fun objects.

We can certainly attest to these vehicles' ability to paint a smile on your face. The ad does still seem plenty conservative, however. While there's a bit of sideways action here and there, the vehicles mostly seem constrained to speed limits and turn taking. We want to see some sibling rivalry. Hit the jump to check out the full clip for yourself.

Continue reading Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad

Jaguar's jungle looks awfully inviting in new ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/jaguars-jungle-looks-awfully-inviting-in-new-ad/

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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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Navigon launches 2.0 navigation app, offers Black Friday-style discount

Navigon, now a part of Garmin, has posted its next-generation navigation app to the Apple iTunes store. Dubbed ?Navigon 2.0,? this application streamlines the design and allows users to move between pages with animated menus and multi-touch gestures. The new...

Source: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2011/11/navigon-launches-20-navigation-app-offers-black-friday-style-discount.html

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Chevrolet Corvette redefines curb rash during autocross

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

Autocross critics are quick to tell you that the pastime is a good way to learn bad habits behind the wheel. We say that, while it may be true, caning a vehicle around a parking lot while dodging a few cones is a good way to have a lot of fun behind the wheel in a fairly low-risk environment. Most autocross courses are designed to keep the speed down and the technicality up, which keeps both drivers and their vehicles safe from any real damage. Or at least, that's how its supposed to work.

A driver behind the wheel of a Chevrolet Corvette recently found out just what can go wrong when there isn't enough runoff around a cone slalom at a Speed Ventures autocross. According to YouTube, the driver had just returned from a break, meaning that both the track and the vehicle's tires were cold as he came into the esses. The vehicle's rear breaks lose in a slow, drawn out slide that culminates with the entire passenger side of the vehicle getting cozy with a nearby curb. It's gut-wrenching at best. Hit the jump to check out the carnage for yourself.

Continue reading Chevrolet Corvette redefines curb rash during autocross

Chevrolet Corvette redefines curb rash during autocross originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Nov 2011 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/23/chevrolet-corvette-redefines-curb-rash-during-autocross/

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Nissan expanding role of Nismo further into road cars

Filed under: Aftermarket, Motorsports, Performance, Etc., Nissan

Nissan has announced that the company plans to expand its Nismo offerings in the near future with performance variations of the company's mainstream models. Until now, buyers have only been able to take home factory-tuned versions of the 370Z, but company CEO Carlos Ghosn said that the time was right to allow ordinary buyers to sample Nissan's performance DNA. What does that mean, exactly? For starters, vehicles like the Juke Nismo Concept may actually make it to market, and other models may get the go-fast treatment soon thereafter. Nissan has also made it clear that Nismo will get its own global headquarters.

The company says that the new HQ will put all of Nissan's road-race and performance expertise under one roof while giving Nismo fans a central location for fan events. The site will also sell performance products and include a heritage center with plenty of vintage race metal on hand.

We like the idea of more performance-oriented vehicles on the road so long as it doesn't translate into the dilution of the Nismo brand. The world doesn't need a Nismo CrossCabriolet. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Nissan expanding role of Nismo further into road cars

Nissan expanding role of Nismo further into road cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/29/nissan-expanding-role-of-nismo-further-into-road-cars/

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EVO: 2012 BMW 3 Series Test Drive

BMWBLOG is attending an international media event where we will spend some time behind the wheel of the ...

Source: http://www.bmwblog.com/2011/11/30/evo-2012-bmw-3-series-test-drive/

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Volkswagen eT! electric delivery van is out of this world

Filed under: Concept Cars, Minivan/Van, Europe, Work, Volkswagen, Electric

The writer F. Scott Fitzgerald once opined that using an exclamation point is like laughing at your own joke. With that in mind, let's take a look at the latest work van concept from Volkswagen. The German Automaker has partnered with the German Post Office and the University of Art at Braunschweig to create the eT! electric delivery van. The company says that vehicle offers zero-emissions driving and can be operated by a joystick-type device on the passenger side if necessary. We aren't entirely sure how that second feature lends itself to making deliveries any easier, but we applaud the automaker's efforts toward facilitating practical jokers everywhere.

Perhaps more impressive is the fact that VW says that the eT! can be operated semi-autonomously. The vehicle can follow a delivery person from house to house or return to the driver after being parked. While there are no details currently available on the vehicle's drivetrain, Volkswagen does say that the eT! is equipped with electronically opening doors. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading Volkswagen eT! electric delivery van is out of this world

Volkswagen eT! electric delivery van is out of this world originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/volkswagen-et-electric-delivery-van-is-out-of-this-world/

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Paris 2010: Ford pondering bringing five-door C-Max to U.S. [w/poll]

Filed under: Europe, Paris Motor Show, Hatchback, Ford

2011 Ford C-Max - Click above for high-res image gallery

Following the second press day at the Paris Motor Show at a drive event in Southern France, Ford's global vice president of marketing, Jim Farley, let slip to Autoblog that Dearborn decisionmakers are mulling over whether to import the C-Max to the U.S. As you'll recall, Ford has already committed to bringing over the C-Max's larger line mate, the seven-seat Grand C-Max, a vehicle that Farley tells us won't hit American soil until early in calendar 2012 (likely as a 2013 model).

Unlike its bigger brother, the C-Max has conventional front-hinged rear doors (the Grand has a pair of sliders) along with a more aggressive roofline and rear graphic to complement its shorter wheelbase. Think of it as more of a pent-roof Focus wagon and less of a smallish minivan in the mold of the Mazda5 and you've got it.

Interestingly, Farley maintains that Ford won't necessarily wait until the Grand C-Max goes on sale in the U.S. to determine whether or not to bring the model to America, and it will actively solicit feedback from both journalists and consumers to see if there's a business case to be made. While such language is common among PR folks looking to assuage media members always clamoring for the importation of forbidden automotive fruit, Farley sounded quite optimistic. Further, he reminded us that there was "absolutely no plan" initially to market the next-gen five-door Focus in the States, but that all changed after the 2007 Verve concept was met with an enthusiastic response from media members and show goers. A few years ago, we probably would have discounted such talk, but with CEO Alan Mulally and product chief Derrick Kuzak pushing the One Ford agenda globally, who knows? It might just make it Stateside after all.

If Ford does decide to bring the C-Max to America, it may have a minor naming conundrum to deal with. At the moment, the Grand C-Max moniker is expected to be shortened to just 'C-Max' when it goes on sale in the U.S., or the MPV might take on the name 'Focus C-Max,' though a final decision has not yet been made. As the Blue Oval won't sell both models with the same name, the five-door model would ostensibly need a different name.

Do you think the short-wheelbase C-Max would sell? Check out our high-resolution galleries of both models and then be sure to vote in our poll below. We'll have firsthand drive impressions of the European-spec C-Max range to share with you next week, so stay tuned.

Gallery: 2011 Ford C-Max

Gallery: 2011 Ford Grand C-Max

View Poll

Paris 2010: Ford pondering bringing five-door C-Max to U.S. [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Source: http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ford-studying-bringing-five-door-c-max-to-u-s-w/

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