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| Design student pens Aston Martin Volare concept, complete with AWD and hydrogen fuel cell
August 24, 2009 at 8:58 pm
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| Filed under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin, UK, Alternative Fuel  Aston Martin Volare concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
While driving the Aston Martin V12 Vantage, Top Gear's Jeremy Clarkson lamented that with tightening environmental regulations, this may be as good as it ever gets. If he's right, Aston's going to have to look elsewhere for fresh ideas on how to bring the high-performance GT into the green age, and they might want to have a chat with James Trim. The 23-year-old designer penned this concept car, called the Aston Martin Volare, as his latest project. And needless to say, it looks fantastic.
Blending the aggressive lines of the One-77 with the taut stance of the Vantage, the Volare has a smooth design all its own. But it's what's underneath that could be the most important: electric motors driving all four wheels and supplied by a hydrogen fuel cell stack. Trim's portfolio also includes some convincing Audi, BMW and Jaguar designs, but the Aston could be his most convincing yet.
[Source: James Trim via AutoTrader]
Design student pens Aston Martin Volare concept, complete with AWD and hydrogen fuel cell originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| St. Louis-area dealer thinks Hummers and firearms go together like Smith & Wesson
August 24, 2009 at 8:29 pm
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| Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Etc., Hummer 
Peanut butter and jelly. Burgers and fries. Hummers and, um, handguns? That's right, where else but in the good ol' U. S. of A. could such necessary staples of everyday life be bundled together under one roof?
Like many other Hummer dealers, Jim Lynch, the man behind Lynch Hummer of Chesterfield, Missouri (a suburb of St. Louis), found himself with lots of vacant floorspace after fuel prices, the economic downturn and the court of public opinion conspired to restrict vehicle sales at his fine establishment. What to do? Seems rather obvious to us - add firearm and ammunition sales, what else? According to Lynch, "It is a natural fit. Our customers enjoy outdoor sports and the firearms have been a big hit with our Hummer owners."
It's all about customer service, says Lynch, "We take our mission of providing a pleasant shopping environment for our customers very seriously... We sold our first Hummer online in 1995 and have been a leader in online sales of off-road parts and accessories through our Adventure Accessories web site for many years. We plan to do the same with firearms and accessories on our website."
Interested in adding both a Hummer and a new Glock (or Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Kimber, Colt, Benelli, Beretta, Browning, FNH, H&K, Springfield Armory, Ruger, Walther, Stoeger, Franchi, Uberti, CMMG, DPMS, Bushmaster or Barrett) to your arsenal? Click here to visit GunsAndHummers.com and hit the jump for the official press release. In the meantime, we'll be waiting for the first Mini dealer paired with a Starbucks franchise.
[Source: GunsAndHummers.com]Continue reading St. Louis-area dealer thinks Hummers and firearms go together like Smith & Wesson St. Louis-area dealer thinks Hummers and firearms go together like Smith & Wesson originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 8.24.09
August 24, 2009 at 8:20 pm
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Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 8.24.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Spy Shots: Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris SSUV ready for production debut in Frankfurt?
August 24, 2009 at 7:58 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, SUV, Europe, Spyker  Exotics used to be confined strictly to sportscars, but not anymore. Porsche and Maserati have got four-door sedans on the market, and Aston Martin's is on the way. But in lucrative markets like the Middle East and Russia, demand is high for exotic SUVs, and automakers are stepping up to fill the gap left by the Lamborghini LM002 and currently occupied, with few other exceptions, by the Porsche Cayenne. Spyker wants itself a piece of that pie, and after years of preparation, its Peking-to-Paris "Super Sport Utility Vehicle" looks to be nearing production.
Apparently spied undisguised at Spyker's factory in the Netherlands, sources suggest that the SSUV is being prepared for its production debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The design has reportedly been updated to follow the lead of the new C8 Aileron, but the big question is what will sit underneath the hood. Expected to ditch the concept car's V12 in favor of a V8 - with an accompanying model designation change from D12 to D8 - the Spyker sport-ute was tipped to adopt American power (in the possible form of the Cadillac CTS-V's supercharged mill), though transplanting the company's existing Audi-sourced engine is always a possibility.
[Source: Autogespot - translated]
Spy Shots: Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris SSUV ready for production debut in Frankfurt? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: Toyota recalling nearly 700,000 vehicles over melting door panels - in China
August 24, 2009 at 7:28 pm
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| Filed under: Sedan, China, Toyota 
If you just got into your China-made Toyota Camry only to notice that your door panel has inexplicably melted, it's probably not your fault and the problem is going to be fixed for free. That's good news for you, we suppose, but not so much for Toyota. New reports say the Japanese automaker is recalling 688,314 Chinese-made sedans for faulty electronic window control systems. The damaged switches were reportedly caused by excessive lubricant used during manufacturing, which can cause overheating and, in rare cases, melting. The excessive lube issue has been traced to a single supplier, according to China's breathlessly named General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine.
The vehicle most affected by the recall is the Camry, with 384,000 recalls. The Corolla comes in second with 245,000 units affected, followed by 35,000 Vios and 22,000 Yaris models involved in the recall. A Toyota China spokesman reportedly told Gasgoo that no accidents have occurred as a result of the defect.
[Source: Gasgoo]REPORT: Toyota recalling nearly 700,000 vehicles over melting door panels - in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: Suzuka secures future of Japanese Grand Prix for three years
August 24, 2009 at 7:01 pm
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Japan, Honda, Toyota 
At the risk of sounding like the end of a cheesy kung-fu movie, the future of the Japanese Grand Prix is safe...for now. After Toyota confirmed it could no longer host the race at its Fuji Speedway, Honda has reportedly stepped up to secure a new deal with Bernie Ecclestone to hold the race at its Suzuka circuit for the next three years. Hiroshi Oshima, president of Honda's Mobilityland division met with Ecclestone in Valencia at the European Grand Prix this past weekend to sign the contract.
The Suzuka International Racing Course hosted the event twice in the early Sixties before the Japanese Grand Prix switched to Fuji. Suzuka hosted again from 1987 through 2006, after which an alternating agreement was signed between the two tracks. With Suzuka now set to host until 2011, Honda will hold the race but field no team, while Toyota continues to compete but host no race...for now.
[Source: Autosport | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]REPORT: Suzuka secures future of Japanese Grand Prix for three years originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| TechArt offers visual upgrades for Porsche Boxster and Cayman
August 24, 2009 at 6:28 pm
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| Filed under: Aftermarket, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Porsche  TechArt Porsche Boxster and Cayman - Click above for high-res image gallery
For each of its model lines, Porsche offers a wide variety of model variants and plenty of options straight from the factory. But that's only the starting point, with a whole slew of aftermarket tuners offering a range of customization options for owners of Stuttgart's finest. TechArt has long remained at the forefront, and has now launched a new set of modification kits for the latest Boxster and Cayman.
Although TechArt hasn't touched the engine this time around, the aftermarket kits offer a host of visual, aerodynamic and chassis modifications for the entry-level models. The Aerokit I includes a new front spoiler, side sills, rear spoiler and diffuser, with round exhaust tips available in different finishes. The Aerokit II, meanwhile, upgrades with an Audi-style daytime running lamp (DRL) kit, while the TechArt's Vario suspension drops the ride height by 30 mm, mounted to 19- and 20-inch wheels. There are also a whole mess of extra bits to spruce up the interior, all of which you can read about in detail in the press release after the jump and view in the high-res image gallery below.
[Source: TechArt]Continue reading TechArt offers visual upgrades for Porsche Boxster and Cayman TechArt offers visual upgrades for Porsche Boxster and Cayman originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| VIDEO: Mexican Chevy dealer's transforming Bumblebee suit has us jonesin' for Halloween
August 24, 2009 at 5:58 pm
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| Filed under: Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Chevrolet, Toys/Games, Design/Style  Got a minute? Literally, just a minute, 'cause you're going to want to see this. And then you're going to want to know where you can get one for Halloween.
Crafting a suit to look like a Transformer is one thing, but this video, apparently taken at a Chevrolet dealership in Mexico, shows a guy in a Bumblebee suit that actually transforms into a Camaro! Okay, so it's not a real Camaro. It doesn't drive, it doesn't chase after Megan Fox or save the planet from evil robots from outer space. For that, you need Michael Bay and a whole lotta CGI. But short of that, this is about as freakin' awesome as it gets. Follow the jump to watch the video. Thanks for the tip, Pham!
[Source: YouTube]Continue reading VIDEO: Mexican Chevy dealer's transforming Bumblebee suit has us jonesin' for Halloween VIDEO: Mexican Chevy dealer's transforming Bumblebee suit has us jonesin' for Halloween originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Audi to unveil RS3 in Frankfurt?
August 24, 2009 at 5:29 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Performance, Hatchback, Audi  Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
The Frankfurt Motor Show is fast approaching with a slew of exciting debuts. And you can bet Audi will use the semi-annual home-turf show to debut some savory pieces of machinery, but just what those will be is still a matter of speculation. Earlier reports suggested the new A8 could bow in Frankfurt, along with ruminations of drop-top or even electric variants of the R8 supercar. But the latest reports indicate that Ingolstadt is secretly preparing the RS3 hot hatch for its close up.
Based on the A3 premium hatch, the RS3 would firmly upstage the existing S3 with the TT RS powerplant, only reportedly tuned up to as much as 400 horsepower. That's a lot of horses, but you can bet Audi's signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system would be up to the task. Frankfurt debut or not, this is one four-ringed circus we're looking forward to, whenever it's ready.
[Source: Auto Motor & Sport (Swedish edition) via World Car Fans]
Audi to unveil RS3 in Frankfurt? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| 2010 VW Golf TDI starts at $21,990, rated 29/40 mpg - or maybe 30/42?
August 24, 2009 at 4:57 pm
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| Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Hatchback, Volkswagen, Diesel 
2010 Volkswagen Golf - Click above for high-res image gallery
For 2010, Volkswagen is again discarding the Rabbit badge in favor of the Golf name used in the rest of the world's markets. The European hatchbacks will begin arriving in the U.S. in the coming weeks, beginning with the GTI. The standard Golf will again be available with diesel power, the same 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine that arrived last year in the Jetta TDI. Although they aren't linked to from the main VW site, new GTI and Golf websites are now live and include TDI information, specs and pricing.
The base two-door, 2.5-liter gas-powered Golf starts at $17,490 and the four-door will command $19,190. Like the Jetta, TDI models come with a higher level of equipment and therefore start at $21,990 and $22,590 with a six-speed manual gearbox. The new GTI, meanwhile, starts at $23,290.
What's interesting are the fuel economy numbers for the TDI. The Volkswagen website lists both the manual and DSG versions of the new Golf TDI at 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. However, a quick check of the EPA's FuelEconomy.gov site shows that the Golf TDI rates even better at 30 mpg city and 42 highway. Similarly, the EPA also lists the 2010 Jetta TDI with DSG at the same level of improvement over the 2009 model's 29/40. Assuming the EPA numbers are correct, VW must have done some recalibration work on the DSG model. Thanks to Jay for the tip!
[Source: Volkswagen]2010 VW Golf TDI starts at $21,990, rated 29/40 mpg - or maybe 30/42? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: Lexus hatch coming to U.S. in 2012?
August 24, 2009 at 4:31 pm
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| Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Hybrid, Hatchback, Lexus, Luxury 
Lexus CT concept teaser sketch - Click above to enlarge
Last week, Lexus released a teaser image for a small hatchback that's tipped to debut in concept form at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. At the time, we wondered out loud if Toyota's premium brand would see fit to offer the entry-level model here in the States since sales of small wagon-shaped premium cars like the Audi A3 and Volvo C30 have yet to set this side of the world on fire.
Citing unnamed sources at Toyota, Automotive News reports that the Lexus hatch will indeed be developed for Europe but could possibly come Stateside in 2012. If that's true, the entry Lexus would potentially go up against the aforementioned European hatchbacks along with the BMW 1 Series and upcoming small cars from Cadillac and Lincoln.
Previous rumors had indicated that the new Lexus hatchback would be based on the Toyota Auris, carry the CT designation and come equipped with a range of hybrid powerplants - possibly starting with the 1.8-liter four cylinder with Hybrid Synergy Drive from the 2010 Toyota Prius.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]
REPORT: Lexus hatch coming to U.S. in 2012? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| VIDEO: Korean Spirra supercar runs with the big dogs
August 24, 2009 at 3:58 pm
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| Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, South Korea 
The big dogs in this case being a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder and a pair of Ferrari F430s. And in case you're wondering, a Spirra is a Korean supercar built by Oullim Motors and sold through Proto Motors since 2007. Looking like a not half bad mashup of a late model Toyota MR2 and an Acura NSX, what counts of course is what's under the hood. The original Spirra (by Proto) had a mid-mounted 320 hp 4.6-liter Ford Modular V8 -- essentially a Mustang Cobra motor. However, once Oullim took over, the American muscle was dropped in favor of a force inducted Hyundai V6. Specifically the 2.7-liter Delta unit out of the Tiburon.
When hooked to a supercharger, the Spirra S makes 400 hp. Not bad at all. However, when a turbocharger gets involved the Spirra Turbo generates a whopping and impressive 500 hp. Looks like there is a replacement for displacement, no? A supercar needs this sort of thrust, especially when it's going to tangle with the aforementioned big dogs of the Italian persuasion. And here's the kicker -- the Spirra only weighs about 2,200 pounds. That's one fat guy more than a Lotus Elise. Meaning its power-to-weight ratio is on the deviant side of totally insane.
Top speed is well over 200 mph, especially with something called "Mission Tuning Offset" installed. We're not really sure what that is. Nor are we sure when watching the video if we're looking at the super'd or turbocharged car, though we'll err on the side of turbo. And with a price tag (about $130,000) that's about half that of the big dogs it's running with, we think we'd like to get our hands on a Spirra. Like, yesterday. Video of the hoonage, after the jump. Thanks to Austin for the tip!
[Source: YouTube]
Continue reading VIDEO: Korean Spirra supercar runs with the big dogs VIDEO: Korean Spirra supercar runs with the big dogs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: KTM halts X-Bow production
August 24, 2009 at 3:31 pm
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| Filed under: Performance, Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, MISC  KTM X-Bow - Click above for high-res image gallery
Austrian motorcycle manufacturer KTM had high hopes for its first foray into the world of four-wheeled motoring, but that was before the economy took a dive. Now reports suggest that the company has had to rethink how many of its X-Bow track cars it can sell, but further than that, they've had to stop production as supply outstrips demand.
KTM originally figured on building 500 units of the X-Bow each year, but soon thereafter increased their targets to 1000 per year. So far the factory in Graz, Austria, has built 500. Unfortunately, only 80 of those have reportedly been sold. According to reports coming from across the Atlantic, the extra stock has forced KTM to stop production altogether while it tries to sell the units it has on hand, with production not expected to resume again until January 2010.
[Source: PistonHeads]REPORT: KTM halts X-Bow production originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Spy Shots: 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe getting a nip/tuck?
August 24, 2009 at 3:00 pm
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| Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Nissan, Design/Style 
Next on the Cavalcade of Mild Styling Tweaks, the Nissan Altima Coupe. It's still mostly internet speculation about what's in store, but some pictures of what's believed to be the 2010 Altima Coupe have surfaced. Altimas.org forum member Mr_Coupe got hold of a couple of stills that appear to depict a facelifted Altima two-door and a 370Z Roadster getting all shot up by a Mercedes M-Class process truck. It could be running footage or a commercial being filmed, and it's unclear where the two snaps came from, but it offers grist for the mill.
When we asked about the photographs, Nissan told us the following:
"We can confirm that several marketing activities (photo shoots, etc.) have been underway for the past several weeks capturing a number of Nissan products. While the image does appear to be a 2010 Altima, no further information will be provided at this time."
It looks like the Coupe will be given a grille more like its sedan siblings (although the four-door is also likely to get refreshed), and the headlamps appear different here when the picture is scaled up. As we head into the end of 2009, there's sure to be more details coming soon. With just a single shot of the front end, we're left to wonder if the same kind of treatment has gone on out back, with subtle changes to the rear fascia and taillamps. Now that we've lit the conjecture bomb, we're just going to back away behind this blast wall here...
Thanks for the tip, Mehdi!
[Source: Altimas.org]
Spy Shots: 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe getting a nip/tuck? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields
August 24, 2009 at 2:31 pm
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| Filed under: Budget, Hatchback, Suzuki 
2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack - Click above for high-res image gallery
We've praised Suzuki's SX4 Crossover in these pages before. With its quasi-softroader abilities, surprisingly direct steering, segment-exclusive all-wheel drive and generous equipment levels, the cheap n' cheerful hatchback has carved out a unique niche for itself in the U.S. marketplace. What it has always needed, however, was a bit more power and better fuel economy.
For 2010, Suzuki has given it exactly that - but only just. An all-new, 16-valve, 2.0-liter four-cylinder has taken up residence under the hood, and it now achieves 150 horsepower (@ 6,200 rpm) and 140 pound-feet of torque (@ 3,500 rpm). Those figures represent increases of 7 hp and 4 lb-ft of torque, increases that we presume would be difficult for most drivers to detect without other changes to go along with them. Thankfully, Suzuki has also spent a few shekels on the SX4's gearbox range, and the standard-fit manual transmission gains an extra ratio (for a total of six), while the three-pedal averse will get a new paddleshift CVT - both units with rejiggered ratios to improve acceleration times as well as mileage scores. About that - Suzuki claims the SportBack manual will get 22 mpg city/30 highway, while the CVT will net 23/30. While these figures represent improvements, they still trail classmates like the Honda Fit and Chevrolet Aveo, though the Suzuki does offer more power.
On the outside, the SportBack has been dropped onto 17-inch, 50-series Dunlops, with a lowered, KYB-controlled suspension setup, and there's a new bumper and grille to go along with the car's revamped aero package that includes new side skirts, a rather meek front spoiler, and a tweaked rear spoiler. Interestingly, Suzuki claims that the 2010 alterations actually make the SportBack perform better than its own well-regarded Swift in various handling disciplines, including steering and yaw performance, skidpad, as well as braking. Light-duty off-roaders take note - the SportBack is really just a conventional compact, as it isn't available with all-wheel drive like its Crossover stablemate.
Inside, the Sportback gets an updated navi system that includes 3D graphics, lane guidance, as well as collateral information like weather mapping and airline arrivals/departures, and there's a new instrument cluster as well.
No word yet on pricing, but by way of guidance, the 2009 model-year SX4 Crossover (with its extra pair of driven wheels) commands $16,099. You can check out the full press release after the jump and the high-res gallery below.
[Source: Suzuki]Continue reading 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Citroën releases production DS3 ahead of Frankfurt debut
August 24, 2009 at 2:00 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Citroen, Luxury  Citroën DS3 - Click above for high-res image gallery
French fashion is at the forefront of the industry, and the same goes for French cuisine and French wine. But when it comes to cars, France's auto industry can hook you up (assuming you live overseas) with economical hatchbacks and minivans, but that's just about it until you get to the seven-figure Bugatti Veyron. Which is owned by a bunch of German fellows. That gigantic gap is apparently one which Citroën hopes to plug with its new DS line.
Citroën launched its premium initiative with the DS Inside Concept at the Geneva Motor Show this past March, and the French automaker has a whole range of premium vehicles lined up. Now Citroën has released the production version of the first model in the line, and it looks pretty darn close to the concept. In fact, the only thing they seemed to have changed from the show car to the production model is the exhaust - switched from twin pipes to a single tip - and the radio antenna, which goes with a conventional aerial instead of the concept's fin. Otherwise - and overall - Citroën appears to have managed the transition from concept to production in exceptionally smooth style - even retaining the showcar's unique fin-like B-pillar treatment.
The compact premium hatch shares its underpinnings with the new C3, only with a touch more class. Like a custom-tailored French suit, buyers can specify a whole range of color choices, extending beyond the usual exterior and interior shades to include the roof color, door mirror housings, dashboard trims, wheel hubs and more.
Power choices include two diesels (90 or 110 horsepower, respectively) and three gasoline engines (95, 120 or 150 horsepower), with five- or six-speed manuals. Mini and Fiat ought to take notice, and you can check out the full details in the press release after the jump and the images in the high-res mega gallery below.
[Source: Citroën]Continue reading Citroën releases production DS3 ahead of Frankfurt debut Citroën releases production DS3 ahead of Frankfurt debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| VIDEO: It's Footloose with mimes... it's the 1985 Renault Alliance Convertible!
August 24, 2009 at 1:29 pm
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| Filed under: Classics, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Renault, Humor
When it comes to fashion and cars, the Eighties were not one of our better decades. Marketing efforts weren't so great either, and a long forgotten extended commercial for the 1985 Renault Alliance Convertible makes a case that all three elements should have never been combined. The Renault was a fuel efficient box with a penchant for breaking down on a regular basis, men and women wore two polo shirts at the same time with both collars up, and the jingles of the time inspired the singing career of Michael Bolton.
Hit the jump to watch the craziest nonsense you've ever seen. The video starts off on the beach, then moves to a deserted 1890s-style boom town littered with carriages, mimes, breakdancers, three very Eighties Footloosian dancers and some kick-ass neon signs.
At over three minutes long, we're not sure what the spot was used for (it's too long for television), but its period excellence leaves no doubt as to what decade it was filmed in. And make no mistake: This video won't make you any smarter and it might leave you with a rehash of those childhood mime nightmares, but this old Renault promotion is at least good for a laugh. Many of them. Hat tip to Duncan!
[Source: Renault via YouTube]Continue reading VIDEO: It's Footloose with mimes... it's the 1985 Renault Alliance Convertible! VIDEO: It's Footloose with mimes... it's the 1985 Renault Alliance Convertible! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| First Drive: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is a diamond on the rough
August 24, 2009 at 12:58 pm
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| Filed under: Truck, Ford, First Drive, Off-Road  2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor - Click above for high-res image gallery
Although some of us have an unabashed love for all-things off-road, the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor didn't register a huge blip on our collective radar. We figured it would be a performance kit that was much more kit than performance, or an off-road wunderkind that makes life a Hobbesian kind of brutish when used anywhere but the moon. We spent two days in Southern California, one of which in the Raptor's Anza Borrego Desert birthplace, to discover one thing: We were wrong. The Raptor is all that. And a bag of chips. And dessert.
All photos copyright Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs Inc.
Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is a diamond on the rough First Drive: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is a diamond on the rough originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| 9ff reveals details and renderings of its custom Porsche Panamera
August 24, 2009 at 12:28 pm
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| Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedan, Performance, Porsche  9ff Porsche Panamera - Click above for high-res image gallery
For better or worse, the new Panamera promises to open doors to new markets for Porsche - and for Porsche tuners, for that matter. But 9ff isn't about to let Gemballa have all the fun. The tuning house responsible for the berserk GT9 supercar, with its Bugatti Veyron-rivalling capabilities, announced its Panamera tuning program even before Porsche unveiled the car, and has now revealed initial details and another round of renderings.
Predictably for power-hungry 9ff, the alphanumeric tuner starts with the Turbo model and upgrades in stages. The PT-55 gives the Panamera Turbo an ECU upgrade and new air filters to boost output up from 500 to 550 horsepower. The PT-60, as you might have guessed, offers 600 horsepower courtesy of a fresh exhaust with sport catalytic converters. Finally, the PT-65 packs (anybody? anybody?) 650 horsepower by fitting new turbos, as well as a full aero kit. 9ff says it will offer 22-inch three-piece wheels and a host of interior upgrades as well. Check out the renderings in the gallery below.
[Source: 4wheelsnews.com]9ff reveals details and renderings of its custom Porsche Panamera originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| P.S.A. - Facelifted 2010 Honda CR-V coming Sept. 17
August 24, 2009 at 12:00 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Japan, Crossover, Honda 
You're excused if you look at these images and see little more than the Honda CR-V that we already know and love. According to a corner of its home-market website, the Japanese automaker is debuting what it calls the "new CR-V" on September 17th, possibly at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Already a hot perennial seller, Honda is understandably cautious to mess too much with success, though calling this updating anything other than a mid-cycle refresh is a bit of a stretch.
Subtle grille and fascia changes are about the extent of what we can make out from the limited images, leaving the CR-V a good looking sales workhorse in Honda's stable. We'll all have to hold our breath until mid-September when the whole enchilada will be revealed and we'll find out if there are changes under the skin worth talking about.
[Source: Honda Japan via Carscoop]P.S.A. - Facelifted 2010 Honda CR-V coming Sept. 17 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: NUMMI workers demonstrate over plant's potential closing
August 24, 2009 at 11:31 am
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| Filed under: GM, Toyota, UAW/Unions 
Toyota has never closed a U.S. assembly plant, but the suddenly struggling Japanese automaker has said that it would shudder the NUMMI factory in California, the only auto plant in the state, by next March. The upcoming closure isn't a big surprise since General Motors was allowed to bow out of its half of the joint venture project with Toyota during bankruptcy, giving Toyota full responsibility for the California plant. And since the Pontiac Vibe is no longer being made at the facility, capacity has dropped to a reported 60%, making the facility unprofitable at a time when Toyota is losing money.
The closure of the plant means, of course, that its 5,300 employees will soon be without a job. To protest the closure of NUMMI, an estimated 1,000 workers turned out to demonstrate in front of the facility last week. The union-organized workers are in a tough position, too, since their UAW contract expired last week. The contract was indefinitely extended, but either party can cancel it with five days notice. And with unemployment at 11% in California, finding a new job will be no easy task.
[Source: The Detroit Bureau | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]REPORT: NUMMI workers demonstrate over plant's potential closing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| VW's Winterkorn reportedly proposes a trio of new Porsches
August 24, 2009 at 10:58 am
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| Filed under: Porsche  2010 Porsche Panamera - Click above for a high-res image gallery
VW CEO Martin Winterkorn appears to be laying out a future for Porsche that could make the company happier, but might not please its core customers... again. Of course, the impetus is to increase volume. Porsche sold nearly 100,000 vehicles in its last fiscal year -- but won't get anywhere close to that this fiscal year -- but Winterkorn wants the Stuttgart sports car manufacturer to put out 150,000 units annually by 2013.
More volume means selling more of what they've got, or making something new to sell. The new proposed direction is the latter: three new models, two of which would be lower-cost numbers-makers. There were no details given beyond market placement, but the first car would slot in below the Boxster. If you have images of a 914 sputtering through your head, banish the thought -- Winterkorn promises that VW will not make Porsches.
The second car has been referred to as a "baby brother" for the Cayenne, or a Porsche version of VW's Tiguan. That could be the mini-ute that Porsche and Audi have spent the past few years denying its existence. At the top is another version of the Panamera, maybe one with the same stellar interior and driving abilities but with a stellar back end to match. No matter what they end up looking like, the real point is that you'll be seeing a lot more Porsches on the roads soon.
[Source: AutoBild (translated) via German Car Blog]VW's Winterkorn reportedly proposes a trio of new Porsches originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| What Hath the Economy Wrought: Entry level Ferrari Spider?
August 24, 2009 at 10:29 am
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| Filed under: Etc., Humor 
As the global economy shows signs of both recovering and getting worse, luxury and exotic automakers are hedging their bets more and more. Introducing cars like the Aston Martin One-77, Bugatti Sang Bleu and Bentley Muslanne made perfect sense -- in 1999. In today's unstable financial climate, you just can't be too careful. While most enthusiasts are salivating over the release of the new Ferrari 458 Italia with its auto-deforming front air intakes and 200+ mph top speed, the more rational among us are getting excited about the new low cost offerings from Europe like the Alfa Romeo MiTo, Fiat 500 and the just spotted baby Ferrari Spider (that's prancing horse speak for "roadster") pictured above.
Set to be named the El Duce, Maranello's newest rag top will compete with the likes of Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4 and Chevrol... hey wait a second -- that's not a Ferrari!! That's some Starbucks swillin' hoser's tarted up Mazda Miata!
Be honest... did he almost have you fooled into thinking this is an actual Ferrari? Us too! It's the attention to detail. Like the Prancing Horse emblem, the Ferrari badge and the Ferrari license plate frame. They don't just hand those out at half-priced day at Pick'n'Pull. Most convincing is the sign that states, "Ferrari Parking Only: All Others Will Be Towed." Because if it were actually, say, a Mazda Miata, it would have been towed already, right? Normally, only F355 owners go through the trouble of driving around with that particular sign in their trunk. And check out those Pininfarina designed mud flaps. Ferraritastic, no? How best to sum this one up? Ah, got it: Ten pounds of suck in a five pound bag. And you thought the BMW R8 is bad. Oh wait, it is! Thanks to Ryan in Seattle for snapping this photo and sending it in.
What Hath the Economy Wrought: Entry level Ferrari Spider? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| REPORT: Honda to show EV prototype in Tokyo, production in 2015
August 24, 2009 at 9:58 am
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Honda has repeatedly told the world it doesn't see battery electric vehicles as being viable anytime soon. Instead, the company has planned to retain its focus on hydrogen fuel cells. However, the realities of hydrogen distribution (or lack thereof), may be pushing Honda to do something it doesn't necessarily want to.
Honda will reportedly unveil a prototype for a battery powered mini car at the Tokyo Motor Show in October, with a production version expected to hit the streets by 2015. Despite the company's preference for hydrogen fuel cells, a plug-in may be necessary in order to meet the numbers of zero emission vehicles mandated by new California standards in coming years.
The automaker could certainly leverage the work it has done on the electrically driven FCX Clarity in combination with lithium batteries from its joint venture with GS Yuasa.
[Source: Reuters]REPORT: Honda to show EV prototype in Tokyo, production in 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Frankfurt 2009 Preview: Maserati GranCabrio unveiled!
August 24, 2009 at 9:19 am
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Performance, Maserati, Luxury  Maserati GranCabrio - Click above for high-res image gallery
After what seems like years of eager anticipation, and with the weeks ticking down until the Frankfurt Motor Show, Maserati has finally unveiled its long-awaited convertible model. With the Maserati GranCabrio, it looks like the Italian automaker has done a beautiful job of translating the Pininfarina-designed GranTurismo into an open-top machine.
The questions on all our minds as we saw an endless stream of heavily-disguised test mules were whether the new convertible would have a fabric or metal roof, retain its four seats or sacrifice the back row (like its predecessor, the Spyder), and which engine would be found under that long hood.
Now we've got our answers. Unlike the Ferrari California, the GranCabrio features a cloth roof that deploys over the four-place passenger compartment, saving both weight and space. In fact, it's the first four-seat convertible in the company's history, and boasts what Maserati says is the longest wheelbase on the market. The Trident marque has also chosen to fit the convertible with the 4.7-liter 433-hp V8 from the GranTurismo S, bypassing the base 4.2-liter unit and mating it to the highly-rated ZF six-speed automatic. The new Maser's public debut is scheduled for the Frankfurt show next month, but in the meantime, follow the jump to read the press release and check out the quartet of images in the gallery below.
[Source: Maserati]
Continue reading Frankfurt 2009 Preview: Maserati GranCabrio unveiled! Frankfurt 2009 Preview: Maserati GranCabrio unveiled! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 08:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| GM issues a 'No-Decision' on fate of Opel, German government not happy
August 24, 2009 at 8:58 am
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| Filed under: Europe, GM, Opel 
General Motors was meant to decide who would be the winning bidder for Opel last Friday. But it didn't. Instead, GM asked the German government for more information on federal financial assistance available to buyers. The German government would like Magna to take over Opel as it vowed to retain a huge chunk of jobs in Germany, but GM has given every indication of preferring Belgian investment fund RHJ.
GM wants to know how much money RHJ would get in case it was chosen to buy Opel. It looks like GM still has issues with Magna buying Opel and is looking for a way to choose RHJ and save at least a little face with the German government. If RHJ can get an attractive financial package from the feds, it can also save more jobs than it might be inclined to otherwise, and GM doesn't have to worry about Russian competitors using its own technology.
The German government wants none of it, though. It has called on the United States government to get GM to make a decision. That isn't likely to happen, but it shows how intense things are with Opel, politicians, labor and upcoming elections. On a side note, the BBC reported that part of GM's plan could include a buy-back option for Opel, which, if true, would probably make a lot more sense for RHJ than Magna.
[Source: Auto News, sub req'd]GM issues a 'No-Decision' on fate of Opel, German government not happy originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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