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| Frankfurt Preview: Audi reignites electric car rumors with new mini-site [w/VIDEOS]
September 2, 2009 at 9:02 pm
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| Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi, Alternative Fuel 
The internet's been abuzz with talk of Audi's plan to bring something electric to the Frankfurt Motor Show later this month, and the German automaker has just thrown a bucket of fuel on those flames in the form of a new micro-site called electricityuntamed.com.
Naturally, details are in short supply, but Audi has put up a countdown clock that's set to go off on September 15th. Not coincidentally, that's the first day for media previews in Frankfurt. Yes, we'll be there with digital SLRs in hand and internet connections at the ready.
We really can't say if Audi's planning to show off an electric version of its awesome R8, but that's got to be the most likely candidate as its been constant rumormill material (although its been reportedly denied by Audi) for at least the last few months. It also seems to go along with the overall theme of the site, which focuses in on the power made possible by electric drivetrains. Click past the break to see what we mean. Warning: videos autoplay.
[Source: electricityuntamed.com]Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Audi reignites electric car rumors with new mini-site [w/VIDEOS] Frankfurt Preview: Audi reignites electric car rumors with new mini-site [w/VIDEOS] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Survey: 80% of public considering American brand for next car purchase [w/POLL]
September 2, 2009 at 8:27 pm
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| Filed under: Car Buying 
It seems like only yesterday we brought you news that Consumer Reports recommends the Mustang over the Camaro and Challenger. In fact, it was yesterday. Now, if you read the post's fine print, you saw that the Ford racked up 78 points to the Chevy's 71 and the bloated big old Dodge managed just 53. We mention this because CR just released the results of a new survey where 80% of the respondents said they would consider purchasing an American car, whereas less than 50% said they would consider an Asian or European brand. But as it turns out, not all American cars are created equal.
Almost least surprisingly, confidence in Ford is up the most -- a big 17% over last year. Why aren't we surprised? With products like the new 2010 Mustang, Flex, Taurus (and SHO), F-150 and Transit Connect (with the Euro-Focus looming) how could consumers not stop and take a second look? And with all-stars like the Shelby GT500 and Raptor SVT, third, fourth and fifth looks are in order.
Most surprisingly, confidence in recently bankrupt and mondo-pruned back General Motors is up 6% compared to last year, possibly proving the maxim that GM is too big too fail. Least surprising is the word on Chrysler -- consumer confidence has fallen off a whopping 25%. True, like GM they went belly up. Unlike GM, the Pentastar'd maker sells the Caliber, Sebring, Journey and Nitro -- Jeep Compass, too. And of course, Mopar's fate now rests in the hands of Fiat. Not exactly a sleep-easy prescription. Fun poll for you to participate in after the jump.
[Source: Consumer Reports | Image Source: Justin Sullivan]
Continue reading Survey: 80% of public considering American brand for next car purchase [w/POLL] Survey: 80% of public considering American brand for next car purchase [w/POLL] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 9.1.09
September 2, 2009 at 8:20 pm
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 | Review: 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is a tarnished Golden Oldie
In the '90s, Chrysler put out a series of attractive, innovative models before taking a sharp detour into the crash test building. But when Chrysler design was still on a roll, one of the highlights was the debut of the PT Cruiser. And we've finally putting it to the test. |  | Limited-edition Porsche 911 Sport Classic marks return of the ducktail
The Porsche 911 Sport Classic is arguably one of the most desirable special editions the automaker has put out in the last decade. Too bad its only going to be available to 25 lucky buyers in Europe. |  | Video Exclusive: Bugatti Veyron joins Forza Motorsport 3
Forza Motorsport 3 developer Turn 10 Studios has decided to share some exclusive video footage with Autoblog that features one of our favorite cars: the Bugatti Veyron. When the game is released, you'll be able to take the wheel of the world's most expensive 'bug' without having to drop $1.6 million large. And of course, you'll get to customize it all you like. Take that, Sang Bleu... | Other news of import
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Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 9.1.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| They Come From a Land Down Under: Australian V8 Supercars join in on the Forza 3 action
September 2, 2009 at 8:00 pm
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Toys/Games, Australia  Forza Motorsport 3 Australian V8 Supercars screen shots - Click above for high-res image gallery
Whatever kind of cars you're into, Forza 3 looks like it'll have you covered. The XBox 360 driving game from Turn 10 Studios is quickly emerging to be the best simulator yet, packed with four hundred cars from fifty automakers on a hundred different tracks.
We've recently brought you screen shots and gameplay video footage of some of the most tantalizing machinery under the sun on Forza's virtual circuits - from American muscle cars and sport-utes to Bugattis and Japanese Super GTs - and now Turn 10 has announced a partnership with race organizers Down Under to include Australian V8 Supercars into the game as well. The additional car selection boils down to Holden Commodore VEs and Ford Falcons in a variety of actual liveries, so if you can't make it half way around the world to see the Aussie touring cars go wheel to wheel, you'll soon be able to drive them (virtually) at home. Check out the fresh batch of screen shots in the gallery below.
[Source: Forzacentral]
They Come From a Land Down Under: Australian V8 Supercars join in on the Forza 3 action originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Despite low take-rate, GM reportedly extending eBay experiment
September 2, 2009 at 7:28 pm
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| Filed under: Car Buying, Auctions, GM 
General Motors' experiment in selling new cars and trucks on eBay hasn't exactly been a raging success story. Despite this, America's largest automaker has extended the program, which will now run through the end of the month instead of halting on its originally scheduled ending date of September 8th.
According to estimates from Automotive News, GM has listed some 16,000 new vehicles on the auction site but has sold only 50 of those machines. That's not the entire story, though, says Mark LaNeve, GM vice president of U.S. sales:
We are very pleased with the progress of the initial promotion and its ability to raise awareness and consideration for our outstanding new-vehicle inventory... The numbers on eBay itself aren't significant, but we didn't think it would be. The dealers want to continue it, and so we are working on making some tweaks to it and continue.
The General says that 4,000 or so eBay shoppers have negotiated with the automaker to purchase a vehicle, but the vast majority of those transactions have not taken place online. Instead, a large portion of those buyers contacted the dealership directly to finalize a sale or haggle on a price after viewing the auction. And so the experiment continues...
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]Despite low take-rate, GM reportedly extending eBay experiment originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Ginetta developing all-new G40 for the road and track
September 2, 2009 at 6:59 pm
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, MISC  Ginetta G40 - Click above to view in high resolution
Race cars are usually designed one of two ways. Either a company's engineers take an existing road car and adapt it towards racing (as with most touring, GT racing and rally cars, for example) or they start with a clean sheet of paper and design a race car from the ground up (as they do for Formula One and Le Mans prototypes). Ginetta appears to be taking a different approach, however. The British sportscar manufacturer has announced the development of a new product, dubbed G40, to slot below the G50 in its road car lineup - but there's a competition-spec model planned right from the start.
Few details have been released on the G40's specifications, but Ginetta does say that it will be powered by a 1.8-liter Ford Zetec inline-four and should weigh in at about 850 kg (1874 pounds), pack two seats and exceed FIA regulations for crashworthiness.
On the track, the G40 will be used in the Ginetta Junior Championship - a British one-make racing series for racers between the ages of 14 and 17, currently campaigned with purpose-built Ginetta Juniors in support races for the British Touring Car Championship. The G40 could also be made ready for GT4 racing as well.
Just 20 examples are planned for the first batch, and the G40 will start at £24,950 (around $40,600 USD). Interested? You can learn more by checking out the official press release after the jump. Thanks for the tip, Sean.
[Source: Ginetta]Continue reading Ginetta developing all-new G40 for the road and track Ginetta developing all-new G40 for the road and track originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Rendered Speculation: Volkswagen preparing Golf CC for Frankfurt?
September 2, 2009 at 6:34 pm
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| Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Hatchback, Volkswagen, Rumormill  Think the German auto industry is packed enough with segment-busting five-door whatchamacallits? Apparently the Germans don't, because they keep on rolling 'em out. With BMW showing its 5 Series GT and Audi unveiling the new A5 Sportback, Volkswagen may be joining the fray as well with a baby brother to the slick Passat CC based on the Golf.
Although some reports suggest that Wolfsburg could be preparing to unveil the new Golf CC at the Frankfurt Motor Show, we'd be surprised if it were ready so soon. The five-door coupe/sedan/hatchback is expected to be based on the next-generation Golf VII, which isn't due until 2012 at the earliest.
[Source: L'Automobile via eurocarblog]
Rendered Speculation: Volkswagen preparing Golf CC for Frankfurt? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Hold Your Horses: 2011 Mustang details leak out on internet forum?
September 2, 2009 at 6:00 pm
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| Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Ford 
2010 Ford Mustang GT - Click above for high-res image gallery
Some potential future Mustang news comes by way of an internet forum user who calls himself TheInsider. With a handle like that, he must know what he's talking about, right? We kid. But some of the rumors he spills gives with what we've been hearing too. In any case, this source tells the masses at The Mustang Source that the 2011 Mustang's 3.7-liter V6 will be rated at 315 horsepower, neatly outperforming the direct-injected 3.6-liter unit installed in the Chevrolet Camaro by a handful of ponies. But wait, there's more!
Moving up the power ladder a step, the 2011 GT will see a bump up to an even 400 horsepower, which we're expecting to come from the 5.0-liter Coyote V8, and those horses will be corralled though a new six-speed manual gearbox. Unfortunately, because the base V6 will sport so much additional power, the mooted EcoBoost model may never come to fruition.
As we've previously heard, rumor has it that the '11 Stang with the new Coyote V8 and Track Pack with Pirelli P Zero Corsa R tires was able to lap GingerMan Raceway in South Haven, Michigan at the same rate as a current BMW M3 - fine company indeed. The final two insights of note are that next year's GT500 will be blessed with an aluminum block and that a Boss edition is slated for 2012. Not surprisingly, six pages have accrued on the thread since yesterday morning. Click here to check out the banter in its entirety.
[Source: The Mustang Source]Hold Your Horses: 2011 Mustang details leak out on internet forum? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Porsche to offer proper paddle shifters on all models?
September 2, 2009 at 5:31 pm
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| Filed under: Technology, Porsche 
2010 Porsche 911 Turbo - Click above for a high-res image gallery
The new Porsche 911 Turbo is packed with sports car goodness, primarily with the inclusion of a new steering wheel with proper paddles for tapping your way through the gearbox. The replacement of the silly up-down switches on the spokes will be an option on the Turbo and it seems like the wiring from the wheel to the column is the same regardless of which style you choose.
That means the new wheel can plug into the connection on any new Porsche steering column including the 911, Boxster or Cayman. So if you aren't content with Porsche's admonishment that the two-switch setup is technically superior, you will soon have another way to pay an absurd premium for an option on your Porsche.
[Source: Car and Driver]
Porsche to offer proper paddle shifters on all models? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| VIDEO: Michael Schumacher gives us a walk around of the Ferrari 458 Italia
September 2, 2009 at 4:59 pm
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| Filed under: Videos, Ferrari 
Michael Schumacher on the 458 Italia: Click above to watch the video after the jump
The marketing team in Maranello has been putting in a lot of effort to keep the Internets drooling over Ferrari's newest creation, the 562 hp 458 Italia, with a steady flow of information hitting the web.
The newest piece of 458 propaganda comes in the form of the world's most famous Ferrari employee talking about why the new Italia kicks ass. Hit the jump to listen to Michael Schumacher go over the finer points of the all new 458 Italia. Brakes, suspension, F1-style seven-speed gearbox and driving experience are all covered in a mere 1:32, and we agree with Mr. Schumacher when he calls the 458 Italia "una bella machina."
Continue reading VIDEO: Michael Schumacher gives us a walk around of the Ferrari 458 Italia VIDEO: Michael Schumacher gives us a walk around of the Ferrari 458 Italia originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Official Honda Crosstour Facebook page all lit up with early negativity [w/POLL]
September 2, 2009 at 4:30 pm
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| Filed under: Wagon, Etc., Crossover, Hatchback, Honda  2010 Honda Crosstour - click above image for hi-res gallery
Ruh roh. Looks like Honda's "friends" aren't so happy about the upcoming Crosstour. And rather than us tell you why that might be, we'll let the people speak for themselves. And we'll let Honda's marketing types speak back to the people. Here's the first three comments on the page, warts and all:
Was really hoping this car was going to look like the JDM or the Tourer...but we got neither. Very dissapointed!!! -- Ciamaris R.
The bad move here was teasing a wagon and delivering this Aztec/Venza, why? They don't appeal to the same people (wagons appeal to existing Honda, Subaru & VW owners and CUV's to people who buy cars solely for their street presence (it... helps if they aren't ugly btw)). Through inept PR you've set yourselves up for an instant backlash that is going to dominate the press narrative for this car's launch...and you deserve it. Were you trying to keep a lid on the new Venza competitor? To what purpose? Did you really think that Toyota didn't know this was coming down the pipe? You've dissapointed and angered existing, money in hand customers by raising their expectations and then showing them a product you must know they would consider a betrayal of your brand heritage. If you had announced the CUV aspect of this ahead of time all those buyers would have tuned out this release and just kept on waiting for the wagon, faith in brand intact... -- Ted G.
Excellent another hideous car from Honda. This should be a real sales leader in the Early 40's Soccer Mom demographic. How about a legitimate replacement for the S2000 or NSX instead more garbage like this? -- Andrew C. Ouch! But Honda's not going to take this kinda smack talk lying down, no sir. Read the official defense and vote in our poll after the jump.Continue reading Official Honda Crosstour Facebook page all lit up with early negativity [w/POLL] Official Honda Crosstour Facebook page all lit up with early negativity [w/POLL] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| VIDEO: Porsche 911 Sport Classic wags its ducktail
September 2, 2009 at 3:58 pm
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| Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Porsche 
How many versions and permutations of the 911 can Porsche churn out? Apparently one more, as we discovered this morning with the release of the new, limited-edition Sport Classic.
The 911 SC packs an extra 23 horsepower over stock, retro duck-tail spoiler and carbon ceramic brakes in a body with tone-on-tone racing stripes, classically-inspired Sport Classic wheels, and a special woven leather interior. But with only 250 to be made and a price tag approaching a quarter-mil, the video after the jump may be the closest any of us get to this exclusive sportscar. Check it out.
Continue reading VIDEO: Porsche 911 Sport Classic wags its ducktail VIDEO: Porsche 911 Sport Classic wags its ducktail originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Updated 2010 Lexus LS sedan headed to Frankfurt
September 2, 2009 at 3:33 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Hybrid, Sedan, Lexus, Luxury  2010 Lexus LS 600h L - Click above to view in high resolution
Following the leaked brochure revealing the entire revised Lexus LS range, a solitary image of the updated LS 600h L has popped up on the internet.
The revisions are fairly minimal, restricted primarily to new bumpers and lights front and rear, turning indicators integrated into the mirror housings and, of course, new wheels. There've been some modifications made to the interior as well, while the hybrid system on the top-of-the-line model shown has been optimized. The hybrid model has also been subtly visually distinguished from the conventional LS 460.
The image appears to confirm that Toyota's luxury division will be unveiling the new model at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show alongside the LF-Ch concept car, so we should be getting official confirmation along with more details and photos in the coming days.
[Source: CarScoop]
Updated 2010 Lexus LS sedan headed to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Oldplay: Inside Line pits Buick LaCrosse against Lexus ES 350... who wins?
September 2, 2009 at 2:59 pm
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| Filed under: Buick, Lexus 2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for high-res image gallery
When it comes to isolating the two most important stats automakers consider when determining a vehicle's success or failure, the Lexus ES350 is a smash it. The stats in question are sales volume and profit, and the ES typically tops the entry-level luxury sales chart while often exceeding its competition in terms of price. Conversely, Buick has been stuck at the opposite end of the spectrum, with little in the way of product or respect - at least until recently. The well-received Enclave proved that General Motors' one-time bastard child could make competitive product, but the 2010 LaCrosse is tasked with taking on the likes of Acura and Lexus.
Inside Line was impressed enough with a LaCrosse it reviewed earlier that the online publication pitted Buick's upstart against the long dominant ES350. IL notes that the Lacrosse outweighs the ES by nearly 500 pounds, generates 2.5 fewer miles per gallon and has a .6 second slower 0-60 mph time, yet it handily bests the aging ES in nearly every category. Hit the read link below to check out the comparison. Has Buick arrived as a legitimate contender to Lexus? It's definitely too early to tell, but it looks like the division could finally be ready to put up a good fight.
[Source: Inside Line]Oldplay: Inside Line pits Buick LaCrosse against Lexus ES 350... who wins? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Rendered Speculation: Volvo C30 earmarked for a 2010 refresh?
September 2, 2009 at 2:28 pm
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Hatchback, Volvo, Rumormill  Now that a series of images of Volvo's refreshed C70 hardtop convertible have hit the interwebs, the enterprising group at Swedespeed have put together an interesting preview of the C30 hatchback, a model that is expected to get a similar revitalization.
Up front is likely to be a new fascia that mimics the changes made to the C70. As such, expect a larger, more shapely grille flanked by blocky, upright head lamps that sweep well back into the front fenders. In the rear, the changes figure to be far less dramatic, with Swedespeed projecting alternations including a larger Volvo script across the trademark rear glass hatch along with LED tail lamps and a smoother rear bumper.
Expect to see both the 2010 Volvo C30 and C70 hardtop convertible make their official debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this month.
[Source: Swedespeed]Rendered Speculation: Volvo C30 earmarked for a 2010 refresh? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| "Bonkers" is Relative: Heffner Performance cranks out the 1100-hp twin-turbo Lamborghini Murcielago
September 2, 2009 at 1:58 pm
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| Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Lamborghini  Heffner Performance Lamborghini Murcielago Twin-Turbo - Click above for high-res image gallery
Sure, there are some cars on the road more bonkers than the Lamborghini Murcielago. But not many. After all, how do you best over 570 horsepower driving all four wheels? Well, how about nearly doubling the output and channeling it all through half the wheel count? That's exactly what Heffner Performance has done with its twin-turbo upgrade for the aging raging bull. By bolting on a set of turbochargers, the Sarasota, Florida-based tuning garage has boosted the corral up to 1,100 horsepower, all driving through the rear wheels.
As you can see from the photos in the high-res image gallery below and the pair of videos after the jump, the craftsmanship looks flawless. But it's the acceleration that really boggles the mind. With that much power channeled through two wheels, we don't want to ask about the standstill sprint to 60 mph, but Heffner's given us a hint at the twin-turbo Murci's in-gear acceleration times, which is really what it all comes down to. A stock Murcielago can jump from 60 miles per hour up to 130 in 9.5 seconds. Pretty impressive, but that's just for reference. The Heff? 5.1 seconds. In 90-degree heat. With "only" 950 horsepower dialed in. With all 1,100, Heffner figures she'll do it in less than four.
[Source: Heffner Performance via Automotive Addicts]
Continue reading "Bonkers" is Relative: Heffner Performance cranks out the 1100-hp twin-turbo Lamborghini Murcielago "Bonkers" is Relative: Heffner Performance cranks out the 1100-hp twin-turbo Lamborghini Murcielago originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Libyan Rocket: Colonel Muammar Gaddafi designs a "safe" car
September 2, 2009 at 1:30 pm
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| Filed under: Sedan, Etc., Design/Style  Muammar Gaddafi's Libyan Rocket - Click above for high-res image gallery
It's been a big month for Libya. First, convicted Lockerbie bomber Abdel Basset al-Megrahi was returned to the northern African nation by the new Scottish government because he's dying of prostate cancer. Second, Brotherly Leader and Guide of the Revolution (aka Muammar Gaddafi) designed a car. Called the Saroukh el-Jamahiriya (Libyan Rocket), Gaddafi's car seats five, has a 230-hp V6 and the nose and tail of a rocket. While different, it's not entirely terrible. Kinda like how the 2024 Honda Civic might look. Hey Muammar, quit your day job.
Launched at a conference called the Organization of African Unity and organized by Colonel Gaddafi, the Rocket is set to be be produced in Tripoli, Libya's capital where a factory is set to be built next month. Why is Libya building a car, and why did Col. Gaddafi design it? Safety. In response to the high numbers of people killed and injured annually on Libya's roads, Gaddafi had to act. Says a spokeshole, "The leader spent so many hours of his valuable time thinking of an effective solution. It is the safest car produced anywhere."
How so safe? We're not entirely sure, the Libyan Rocket does come with airbags, an "electronic defense system" (no idea) and collapsible bumpers that supposedly help out in a crash. Somehow we don't think Volvo's losing any sleep. However, the spokeshole goes on to say, "The invention of the safest car in the world is proof that the Libyan revolution is built on the happiness of man." We were wondering. Hat tip to Peter
[Source: BBC | Photos by AFP/Getty]
Libyan Rocket: Colonel Muammar Gaddafi designs a "safe" car originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Review: 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is a tarnished Golden Oldie
September 2, 2009 at 12:57 pm
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| Filed under: Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, Chrysler, Reviews  2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser - Click above for high-res image gallery
It wasn't so many years ago that Chrysler's design department was considered among the best in the industry. Attractive, innovative shapes came one after another, then they took a sharp detour into the crash test building and the rest is Sebring/Compass/Caliber history. In the late '90,s when Chrysler design was still on a roll, one of the highlights was the debut of the PT Cruiser.
As insolvency fast approached, CEO Bob Nardelli and his staff were scrambling to find cars to kill and, unsurprisingly, the nearly decade-old PT wound up on that list. Surprisingly, after exiting bankruptcy court in July, Chrysler decided to keep the PT alive through the end of 2010 when new models start arriving. After perusing our review list and realizing that, like the S2000, we've never tested the PT, we called Chrysler to get one last go-'round in the retro-hatch.
Photos copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.
Continue reading Review: 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is a tarnished Golden Oldie Review: 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser is a tarnished Golden Oldie originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Spy Shots: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept snagged at Munich photo shoot
September 2, 2009 at 12:37 pm
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| Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Hybrid, Performance, Europe, BMW  Excited by BMW's new Vision EfficientDynamics concept car? So are we. But while the rest of us have to wait another couple of weeks to see the future-think show car at the Bavarian automaker's show stand in Frankfurt, one lucky enthusiast got an early glimpse while visiting the company's flagship BMW Welt in Munich.
Looks like he got quite an eyeful too, as Car and Driver has a comprehensive gallery of the car shot from every angle while BMW was apparently doing some photography and video work itself. Follow the link to check it out.
[Source: Car and Driver]Spy Shots: BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept snagged at Munich photo shoot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Autoblog Podcast #143 - with automotive legend Denise McCluggage
September 2, 2009 at 12:20 pm
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| Filed under: Car Buying, Podcasts, Government/Legal, Marketing/Advertising, Acura, BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Toyota, Volvo, Celebrities  Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
Racer, skydiver, magazine editor, and Automotive Hall of Fame inductee but a smattering of accomplishments that Denise McCluggage has racked up during her tenure as one of the car-craziest people on the planet. For Episode #143 of the Autoblog Podcast, Denise takes time to join Chris, Sam and Dan to talk about current automotive news and answer some of your questions. We start off what turns out to be a record-length podcast with the news of a lawsuit against Toyota by one of its former lawyers, and move on to talk about the Hyundai Sonata Photochop that turned up in a dealer's ad showing a close approximation of the 2011 car. We wrap up by waving the diesel flag and talking about Ford's new Scorpion engine before taking a couple of questions and calling it a night just shy of the two-hour mark.
Hit us up at Podcast at Autoblog dot com with questions, comments and feedback, check out the survey we've been relentlessly asking you to fill out, and thanks for the new reviews in iTunes - we even went popular! In the meantime, you can get your Weblogs podcast fix from our friends at Engadget and Joystiq. Thanks for listening, see you next week!Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #143 - with automotive legend Denise McCluggage Autoblog Podcast #143 - with automotive legend Denise McCluggage originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
 | Media Files
08-31-09-autoblog-E143.mp3 (MP3 Audio, 1 KB)
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| REPORT: Dodge Sprinter sales to cease as Mercedes opts to sell model itself with new diesel
September 2, 2009 at 11:57 am
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| Filed under: Minivan/Van, Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz, Diesel 
2007 Dodge Sprinter - Click above for high-res image gallery
As much as Daimler has been hating on Chrysler lately, one would think that the Pentastar was the cold-hearted deviant who stuck a knife into the heart of the German automaker. The "Merger of Equals" turned out to be a bum deal for Chrysler, but at least it was able to procure some hardware from its German ex. Some parts of the LX platform that underpins the Dodge 300C, Charger and Challenger, and the platform that will underpin the next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee and Durango all came from Mercedes-Benz, as does the excellent Sprinter van.
Though the Sprinter has been met with some level of success at select Dodge dealers, Mercedes has decided to pull the plug on Chrysler in 2010. About 350 dealers sell the Sprinter as a Dodge, and the large commercial van has managed sales of about 20,000 per year since it donned the Ram head in 2003. Mercedes is switching to 120 dealers branded Daimler Vans USA.
The updated Sprinter van, which will now be branded as a Mercedes, will receive a new 3.0L diesel engine that will reportedly be eligible for sale in all 50 US states. The Daimler dealers will reportedly be able to sell up to 18,000 vans per year, a sizable portion of the van's production quota of 32,000 vehicles per year. The remaining production will be sold as Freightliners. The commercial vehicle company has 45 specialized Sprinter van dealers across the nation.
Daimler says the reason for the switch has a lot to do with the fact that the vehicle is now established in the market, though one has to wonder if the German automaker is making an effort to further distance itself from its former step-child. The big losers in the deal could be the 350 Dodge dealers who spent $30-50K to upgrade their dealerships to sell and service the vans.
[Source: Automotive News - subs req'd]REPORT: Dodge Sprinter sales to cease as Mercedes opts to sell model itself with new diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Dodge Caliber SRT4, we hardly knew ye?
September 2, 2009 at 11:29 am
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| Filed under: Performance, Hatchback, Dodge 
Dodge Caliber SRT4 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Today, we mourn the passing of a fallen pint-sized performer. If reports from Inside Line's Straightline blog are accurate, it seems that the Dodge Caliber SRT4 will no longer be offered after the 2009 model year draws to a close, and that's something of a shame.
As we've already covered, the 2010 Caliber is blessed with a significantly improved interior that brings the car much closer to its intended competition, a development that could have put the SRT4 on a few more shopping lists. Plus, if the Caliber is going to be filling Dodge showrooms anyway, enthusiasts and brand loyalists would surely prefer the option of a performance model. Of course, we're not sure how good a business case the small-volume SRT4 ever made for itself, so perhaps it's been a money loser from the get-go and Dodge didn't want to risk investing in any further model-specific interior updates. We'll probably never know.
Unfortunately, this news means that the 285-horsepower turbocharged engine and six-speed manual transmission from the SRT4 will never be mated up with the interior the Pentastar should have put in the Caliber from the very beginning. Oh well, hot hatch fans still have a few good options to choose from here in the States, including the brand new 263-horsepower 2010 Mazdaspeed3 that we recently sampled for the first time. Rest in peace, SRT4.
[Source: Straightline]Dodge Caliber SRT4, we hardly knew ye? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Autoblog Video Exclusive: Bugatti Veyron joins Forza Motorsport 3
September 2, 2009 at 11:00 am
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| Filed under: Videos, Bugatti, Toys/Games 
Exclusive footage of the Bugatti Veyron in Forza Motorsport 3 -- Click above to watch video
Forza Motorsport 3 developer Turn 10 Studios has decided to share some exclusive video footage with Autoblog (and our sister site Joystiq) that features one of our favorite cars: the Bugatti Veyron. When the game is released, you'll be able to take the wheel of the world's most expensive 'bug' without having to drop $1.6 million large. And of course, you'll get to customize it all you like. Take that, Sang Bleu...
Said Turn 10 head Dan Greenawalt, "Including the Veyron allows our fans and community to experience one of the world's rarest supercars at an unparalleled level of realism. Few people will ever get to see this car in person, let alone race or drive one, so the fact that we have it in Forza Motorsport 3 where it's fully drivable, tunable, paintable and even damageable is a very exciting concept to us. We hope our community shares that passion and enthusiasm!"
Damaging the Veyron in the game wouldn't be as bad as overcooking the real thing into the Armco, but we still recommend against it. However, having driven the thing twice, we can say that if you can get the actual Veyron to lay down rubber or drift through corners, then please give us a call - we have a trophy for you... Check out the video footage after the jump.
[Source: Turn 10 Studios, Joystiq]
Continue reading Autoblog Video Exclusive: Bugatti Veyron joins Forza Motorsport 3 Autoblog Video Exclusive: Bugatti Veyron joins Forza Motorsport 3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| "Big Daddy" Don Garlits to hit the strip again in new Dodge Challenger Drag Pak
September 2, 2009 at 10:29 am
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| Filed under: Motorsports, Dodge, Celebrities 
Don Garlits' Dodge Challenger Drag Pak - Click above to enlarge
Don Garlits is a legend and a pioneer in the world of drag racing. Through the course of his long career, "Big Daddy" has produced a number of innovations that have since become staples of the sport. Garlits, who specialized in Top Fuel, was the first drag racer to produce such a machine with a rear-engine layout following an accident that cost him part of his foot. Later, he was among the first to be successful with a streamlined Top Fuel car.
This week, at the age of 77 - six years after his last race - Garlits will hit the track again in Indianapolis behind the wheel of a new Dodge Challenger Drag Pak. The car that Garlits is driving is the first production Challenger Drag Pak to roll off the line after the special performance model debuted last year at the Performance Racing Industry show. There's no word on whether Garlits will continue competing after this weekend's U.S. Nationals, but this will certainly make for one heck of a coming out party.
[Source: Chrysler]Continue reading "Big Daddy" Don Garlits to hit the strip again in new Dodge Challenger Drag Pak "Big Daddy" Don Garlits to hit the strip again in new Dodge Challenger Drag Pak originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Ferrari brand guru Dany Bahar poached as new Lotus CEO?
September 2, 2009 at 10:00 am
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| Filed under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Lotus, Ferrari Dany Bahar presenting the new Ferrari 458 Italia
Ferrari has announced some changes in senior management, including the appointment of Sebastiano Rio as its new industrial director. But the real news that has people talking is the departure of Dany Bahar.
After years as Red Bull chief Dietrich Mateschitz's right hand, Bahar moved to Ferrari two years ago to head up its new Global Brand Department, working in parallel with the racing team and road car divisions to put those little prancing horses on everything from pencils to laptop computers. His resignation from Ferrari has generated reports that the marketing guru is moving over to Lotus to take the chief executive position vacated this past July by Mike Kimberley.
If the reports prove accurate, it would be the second senior executive to leave the Ferrari family for a competing British sports car-maker, following the departure of designer Frank Stephenson to head up the newly formed McLaren Automotive's design department. We'll have to wait for an official announcement from Lotus for confirmation, but in the meantime you can read Ferrari's after the jump. And get ready for Lotus baseball caps to flood the market.
[Source: Ferrari and Autosport]Continue reading Ferrari brand guru Dany Bahar poached as new Lotus CEO? Ferrari brand guru Dany Bahar poached as new Lotus CEO? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Frankfurt Preview: Limited-edition Porsche 911 Sport Classic marks return of the ducktail
September 2, 2009 at 9:28 am
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| Filed under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Performance, Porsche, Specialty 
Porsche 911 Sport Classic - click either image for high-res image gallery
Porsche has been building limited-edition 911s almost as long as it has been building the rear-engined wundercar, and the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show will see the launch of yet another. The new 911 Sport Classic you see before you has been tweaked by Stuttgart's Porsche Exclusive in-house customizing department, and suddenly our upcoming trip to Germany looks a lot brighter.
 Fortunately for enthusiasts, when Porsche says special, they mean it - this far more than just a tape and body kit job. Changes to the Sport Classic Grey model start at the nose with a revised fascia and take off from there. Up top, the roof panel receives a double-bubble treatment: a pair of domes above the driver and passenger with a channel down the middle. At the rear, the ducktail spoiler from the legendary the Carrera RS 2.7 makes its first appearance on a modern 911 and is flanked by even wider rear fenders to enclose the SC's extended track.
Porsche has seen fit to include some mechanical goodness as well. Under that charismatic ducktail, a new intake manifold with flaps that control the runner lengths adds 23 horsepower to the normally aspirated flat-six, bringing the headcount to 403. Carbon ceramic brakes are enclosed in special Fuchs-style 19-inch wheels designed that evoke the last 911SC of the late Seventies and early Eighties, and the whole package lurks closer to the ground thanks to the inclusion of PASM sport suspension.
The interior hasn't been ignored either, with various bits being finished in Espresso Nature natural leather and the use of new materials to the marque, including woven leather/yarn seat panels.
Of course, also following firmly in company tradition is the Sport Classic's premium price. Just 250 examples will be built and we don't imagine Porsche will have any trouble clearing its decks - even though it is priced at a tidy €169,300 ($240,702 USD) - before any applicable value added taxes. It may be extraordinarily dear, but we still want one in the worst way. It isn't immediately clear if the 911 SC will be made available in the U.S., but either way, Porsche is seemingly aware that we don't have that many spare samoleans rolling around in our bank accounts. As such, Porsche Design Driver's Selection has thoughtfully developed a line of accessories inspired by the new SC, including a polo shirt, cap, a 1:43 scale diecast, and - wait for it - a personalized lanyard. Perhaps we can afford one of those.
Click on the high-res gallery below for more limited-edition awesome in high-res, or check out the official press release after the jump.
[Source: Porsche]Continue reading Frankfurt Preview: Limited-edition Porsche 911 Sport Classic marks return of the ducktail Frankfurt Preview: Limited-edition Porsche 911 Sport Classic marks return of the ducktail originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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| Heel & Toe: Oregon designer dreams up Ferrari, Ducati sneakers
September 2, 2009 at 8:59 am
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| Filed under: Etc., Ferrari, Design/Style Ferrari and Ducati concept Fila shoes by Olivier Henrichot - Click above for high-res image gallery
Before Ferrari's vast merchandising empire teamed up with Puma to put prancing horses on anything from baseball caps to running shoes and everything in between, they were in bed with Italian sportswear company Fila. That partnership produced some attractive products, but while Puma's line packs more merchandise, if Olivier Henrichot is behind the designs, Maranello may want to consider going back to Fila.
The Portland, Oregon-based designer worked up a whole portfolio of intriguing footwear for Ferrari and two-wheel counterpart Ducati that join what appears to be a growing closet full of concept shoes - like the Lambo Reventon kicks and Gallardo pumps - that further demonstrate how the two fields of shoes and cars are growing closer than ever.
[Source: Coroflot via NextAutos]Heel & Toe: Oregon designer dreams up Ferrari, Ducati sneakers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments 
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