Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Official: 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander

Remember when we said that the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV II (worst name ever) shown in Tokyo was basically the next Mitsubishi Outlander? We weren't lying. The 2013 Outlander will debut next month at the Geneva Motor Show, and Mitsubishi has released the first photo of the new crossover. What's more, the fancy PX-MiEV II concept apparently wasn't a vaporware showcase; Mitsubishi says that a plug-in hybrid version of the Outlander will join the roster later in 2012.

The Euro-spec Outlander launches this summer with 2.0-liter gas and 2.2-liter turbodiesel power, three seating rows, and an eco-driving coach feature designed to help drivers eke out the best possible fuel economy. Furthermore, the diesel version will offer an automatic start-stop feature to help maximize efficiency and minimize emissions.

Available driver aids include Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control systems. There's not much else to tell right now, other than that Russia gets the new Outlander first, followed by a global rollout that includes North America. Follow the jump to read the press release, and click the image above to see a larger version.

Continue reading 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013breakingcrossovercuvgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmitsubishioutlandersuvThu, 09 Feb 2012 11:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Cruze Station Wagon

This is the new Chevy Cruze station wagon, which will debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show and then arrive in European showrooms this summer. At 184 inches, it's longer than both the Cruze sedan and hatchback (by three and seven inches, respectively).

Inside, there's 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats up, and up to 52.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. Drivers will get to choose from a range of gasoline (1.6, 1.8, and 1.4T) and diesel (1.7 and 2.0) powertrains, and the long-roof Cruze arrives with Chevy MyLink available.

Australians will get a Holden-badged version, but as for us? Sorry, guys. Don't expect anything in the near future. Chevrolet spokesman Michael Albano says, "No plans on bringing the wagon to US at this point. But we'll continue to evaluate market as needed."

The official press announcement is pasted after the jump, and you can click on the image above to see a larger version.

Continue reading Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva

Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingchevroletchevycruzeestategmholdenstation wagonwagonThu, 09 Feb 2012 09:16:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: '64 Ford Falcon "Tiki Taxi"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/14/ebay-find-of-the-day-64-ford-falcon-squire-tiki-taxi/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

1964 Ford Falcon Squire

All summer, I make it a point to hit the local cruise nights, and while there are plenty of regulars on hand week to week, a few cars make just one appearance and vanish. Way back in May, the car you see above, a surf-themed 1964 Ford Falcon Squire dubbed "Tiki Taxi", showed up. Immediately smitten, I snapped a bunch of photos, all of which are now gallerized here. Good thing, because the car never materialized again.

Fast-forward to today. Turns out, the "Tiki Taxi" is for sale. The coolest '64 Falcon station wagon in the known universe has a 289, three on the floor, and a JVC cassette deck to play your Martin Denny tapes during the ride to Trader Vic's. Current high bid (as of post time) is $6,600, and you still have two days to get in on the action. Check out the photo gallery to see just how beautifully turned out this wagon really is. You can also download full-resolution shots here.

eBay Find of the Day: '64 Ford Falcon "Tiki Taxi" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1964auctioncustomebayfalconfor salefordkustomsquirestation wagonsurf themedtiki taxiwagonSat, 14 Jan 2012 11:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show debuting its first lawn tractor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/31/detroit-auto-show-debuting-its-first-lawn-tractor/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/31/detroit-auto-show-debuting-its-first-lawn-tractor/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/31/detroit-auto-show-debuting-its-first-lawn-tractor/#commentsCraftsman CTX 9500 Garden Tractor

The new Ford Fusion. The 2012 BMW 3 Series. The Lexus LF-LC. The Craftsman CTX-series... lawn tractor? Indeed, as odd as it sounds, you can count the latter among the many debuts scheduled for the 2012 Detroit Auto Show when the doors open to the public.

Craftsman's new premium tractors go on sale in February and will range in price from $3,000 to $6,500, with two yard tractor and two garden tractor models available. (The garden tractors are the most flexible, able to accommodate the full spectrum of towed, front-mounted, and ground-engaging attachments, which are sold separately.)

Power comes from Briggs & Stratton, whose available 30-horsepower engine allows for a top forward speed of 8 miles per hour (3 mph in reverse). It's mated to a hydrostatic automatic transmission. Key features include electronic fuel management, automatic traction control (power is independently split between the rear drive wheels), a quick-release mowing deck, electronic cutting height adjustment, digital instrumentation, cruise control, tilt steering, and the obligatory cupholder. The evolution of creature comforts for these rigs will continue as well. In an interview with The New York Times' Jim Motavalli, a Craftsman spokesperson says that an iPod jack is planned as a future enhancement for its tractors.

The Craftsman CTX will be displayed in the concourse/lobby area of the COBO Center, so Dodge needn't be concerned about it stealing the Dart's thunder on the main show floor. Regardless, that placement ensures plenty of eyeballs for the new tractor as the public files in and out of the exhibition. And if you think the CTX seems like an absurd product to showcase in Detroit, consider this: it's at least more viable and relevant to American consumers than the Chinese-car vaporware that has occupied premium floor space at the venue in the past.

You can read the full press blast from Craftsman after the jump.

Continue reading Detroit Auto Show debuting its first lawn tractor

Detroit Auto Show debuting its first lawn tractor originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Toyota GT 86 sports car revealed [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/26/europes-toyota-gt-86-sports-car-revealed-arrives-june-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/26/europes-toyota-gt-86-sports-car-revealed-arrives-june-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/26/europes-toyota-gt-86-sports-car-revealed-arrives-june-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Toyota GT 86

It's no secret that the Toyota FT-86 will finally make its production-spec debut next week at the Tokyo Motor Show, and ahead of that, the automaker's UK office has released the first official photos and some initial specs. In Europe, the car will officially be called the Toyota GT 86. In Japan, however, the car will simply be called 86.

Cutting right to the chase, here are the specs that are now official, from the Toyota UK announcement. Obviously, there's more to come:
  • 2.0-liter boxer with D4-S injection (direct and port injected)
  • 197 hp @ 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) @6,600 rpm
  • 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions
  • 17-inch wheel/tire package standard
  • 4,240mm (167 in.) long, 1285mm (50.6 in.) high, 2,570mm (101 in.) wide
  • 53:47 front-to-rear weight distribution
  • 475mm (18.7 in.) center of gravity
As demonstrated in the photos, everything is basically in line with what we've seen so far in the various leaked materials. So, start getting excited. In addition to the sharp styling outside, the interior looks the business, and the "86" fender logo is just plain cool. The GT 86 goes on sale in the UK next June.

We'll be on hand in Tokyo for the official reveal at the end of the coming week, with plenty more then. In the meantime, peruse the photo gallery, then hit the jump for a video and the full press release.

Continue reading Toyota GT 86 sports car revealed [w/video]

Toyota GT 86 sports car revealed [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 22:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>86breakingfr-sfrsft-86ft86gt 86gt-86gt86scion fr-ssports carsubiyotatokyotokyo 2011tokyo motor show 2011toyobarutoyotatoyota 86Sat, 26 Nov 2011 22:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford looks to Facebook for 2013 Mustang reveal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/12/ford-looks-to-facebook-for-2013-mustang-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/12/ford-looks-to-facebook-for-2013-mustang-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/12/ford-looks-to-facebook-for-2013-mustang-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Mustang Facebook tease

The updated 2013 Ford Mustang has already been spied driving around in its seizure-inducing camo patterns. The ponycar's formal introduction is imminent, and Ford wants to make its Facebook fans part of the process.

Right now, if you "Like" the official Ford Mustang Facebook page, you can then clutter your friends' news feeds with share a Mustang badge. Ford's tallying each share, and for every 5,000 of them, it'll unveil one of four 2013 Mustang photos that are so zoomed and cropped that you can't really see anything teasers.

So, if you want to start unveiling the 2013 Mustang, surf over to Facebook and start sharing. Just remember to go "Like" the Autoblog.com page while you're there, too.

Ford looks to Facebook for 2013 Mustang reveal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Nov 2011 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013facebookfordford mustangmustangrevealsocial mediateaserSat, 12 Nov 2011 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: GM and UAW reach tentative labor agreement [UPDATED]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/17/gm-and-uaw-reach-tentative-agreement-in-labor-talks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/17/gm-and-uaw-reach-tentative-agreement-in-labor-talks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/17/gm-and-uaw-reach-tentative-agreement-in-labor-talks/#commentsFiled under: ,

Chevrolet Volt Assembly

Contract negotiations between General Motors and the United Auto Workers have led to a tentative agreement on a new labor deal, pending ratification by membership.

Specifics of the four-year contract, agreed upon last night at around 11:00 PM, have not been released, but in an official announcement on its website, the UAW says that the deal includes improvements in both health-care coverage and profit sharing for its 48,500 GM workers. UAW boss Bob King also said that the proposed contract will lead to the rehiring of laid-off workers, the creation of new jobs, and the repatriation of some jobs that had been moved offshore.

In its coverage of the GM/UAW labor agreement, Bloomberg says that it's not yet clear whether higher-than-usual signing bonuses will be used to help ensure the contract's acceptance by the union rank and file.

With General Motors out of the way, Bloomberg reports that the union will likely shift focus to Chrysler. It appears that Ford, which has not received a no-strike pledge from the UAW, will need to wait until the Chrysler contract is settled to work on its new deal with the union.

UPDATE: In a follow-up to its initial article on the new GM/UAW deal, Bloomberg reports that sources with knowledge of the contract's specifics say that pay for entry-level workers will rise by $2.00 to $3.00 per hour.

Furthermore, UAW members will reportedly be paid a signing bonus of $5,000 each if the tentative contract is ratified. That would be a new record signing bonus (workers received $3,000 each for signing the 2007 contract), but well short of the $8,000 to $10,000 number that had seen speculation last week.

GM and UAW reach tentative labor agreement [UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Sep 2011 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingcontractcontractsdealGeneralMotorslabor agreementunited auto workersSat, 17 Sep 2011 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: Tony Stark trades his Audi for mystery Acura in <i>The Avengers</i> (UPDATED)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/03/tony-stark-trades-his-audi-for-an-acura-in-the-avengers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/03/tony-stark-trades-his-audi-for-an-acura-in-the-avengers/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/03/tony-stark-trades-his-audi-for-an-acura-in-the-avengers/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Tony Stark's new Acura sports car. Next summer, when The Avengers opens to packed multiplexes, playboy billionaire Tony Stark will be rolling in a trick new ride. After driving an Audi R8 in the two Iron Man features, Stark apparently switches to a never-before-seen Acura sports car (in keeping with S.H.I.E.L.D.'s use of all Acura vehicles, as seen in this summer's Thor and Captain America films).

The new ride appears in a series of on-set photos published at SuperHeroHype.com (borrowed from WENN.com) showing Robert Downey, Jr. standing next to it as Chris Hemsworth (Thor) and Tom Hiddleston (Loki) look on. Another shot, posted at WorstPreviews.com (we've posted a cropped version here), shows the mystery Acura convertible by itself, parked on the set in New York's Central Park.

Note to the spoiler-averse: the WorstPreviews.com report explicitly details the scenes that were filmed, and they're reportedly for the the conclusion of the movie. So, you've been warned.

We also have a note in to Acura to see if they'll give up any other information. We'll update the post accordingly if and when we know more.

UPDATE: Acura spokesman Gary Robinson has gotten back to us. Follow the jump to see what he had to say.

Continue reading Tony Stark trades his Audi for mystery Acura in The Avengers (UPDATED)

Tony Stark trades his Audi for mystery Acura in The Avengers (UPDATED) originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Sep 2011 13:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura sports caravengersbreakingnew acura sports carrobert downey jr.the avengerstony starkSat, 03 Sep 2011 13:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Ferrari 458 Spider gets Superamerica-style roof]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/ferrari-458-spider-gets-superamerica-style-roof/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/ferrari-458-spider-gets-superamerica-style-roof/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/23/ferrari-458-spider-gets-superamerica-style-roof/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ferrari 458 Spider

The debut is OFFICIAL! Click here to view official specs and images.

Today, Ferrari is unveiling the 458 Spider, and official video of the new sports car's roof operation has already hit YouTube. It's as simple as it is slick. The rear-hinged tonneau flips up, after which the Superamerica-style roof panel rotates back into the space behind behind the seats. After extending two small trim elements, the tonneau comes back down. It's elegant and fast, and the car, predictably, looks beautiful. Keep an eye out for additional info on Ferrari's newest addition later today. In the meantime, hit the jump to see the roof in action.

Continue reading Ferrari 458 Spider gets Superamerica-style roof

Ferrari 458 Spider gets Superamerica-style roof originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458458 italia458 spider458 spyderferrariferrari convertibleroof videospidervideoTue, 23 Aug 2011 08:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2011 Nissan Quest]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/08/2011-nissan-quest-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/08/2011-nissan-quest-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/08/2011-nissan-quest-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A Minivan-Shaped SUV Minus The Ground Clearance

2011 Nissan Quest

The last-gen Nissan Quest minivan was an oddball. It had good power, handled quite well, and was unconventional-looking. The thing is, unconventional isn't necessarily the best thing for a vehicle as mainstream as a minivan. Nissan pulled the plug on the funky-looking Quest after the 2009 model year, promising to return after skipping 2010.

So here we are with the new 2011 Nissan Quest, which is essentially a less dramatic-looking Nissan Elgrand (as it's known in Japan). It arrives in a minivan segment that's as competitive as ever and stacked with new products. The excellent 2011 Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna lead the class. Chrysler punted the gimmicky in-car card tables, banished the trashy interiors, and released the greatly improved Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country. We grabbed the keys to a new Quest to see whether it really hangs with the A-listers.

Continue reading 2011 Nissan Quest

2011 Nissan Quest originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 nissan questfeaturedminivannissannissan quest reviewquestreviewreviewsMon, 08 Aug 2011 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: This is the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/30/this-is-the-2012-toyota-camry-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/30/this-is-the-2012-toyota-camry-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/30/this-is-the-2012-toyota-camry-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Toyota was busy introducing all flavors of the 2012 Toyota Camry to the media earlier this week, but since all that stuff's embargoed, there's not much to tell. Yet. But what isn't under embargo is this collection of spy photos showing the 2012 Camry Hybrid in its birthday suit while shooting a television commercial.

The new Camry's familiar roofline communicates practicality overall, but the updated sheetmetal has more crisp lines, with new fascias fore and aft. The hybrid's grille treatment apes that of the facelifted Highlander Hybrid, and yes, those headlights are indeed the ones Akio Toyoda teased a few weeks ago.

In a nutshell, it's still a conservative look, but decidedly less frumpy than before. Now, let's see what changes Toyota's made below the surface to bring the Camry in line with the current midsize family-sedan competition.

This is the 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 09:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 toyota camrybreakingcamrycamry hybridhybridtoyotaSat, 30 Jul 2011 09:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: Should Cadillac make the CTS-V go "Supersonic"?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/should-cadillac-make-the-cts-v-go-supersonic-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/should-cadillac-make-the-cts-v-go-supersonic-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/12/should-cadillac-make-the-cts-v-go-supersonic-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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

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

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

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


View Poll

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillacctscts-vcts-v coupects-v sedancts-v sport wagonspecial editionsupersonic blueTue, 12 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit, F-150 and interstates among Fortune's "100 great things about America"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/03/detroit-f-150-and-interstates-among-fortunes-100-great-things/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/03/detroit-f-150-and-interstates-among-fortunes-100-great-things/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/03/detroit-f-150-and-interstates-among-fortunes-100-great-things/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Ford F-150
2011 Ford F-150 4x4 SuperCrew - Click above for high-res image gallery

Fortune joined this weekend's parade of all things USA with its list of "100 great things about America." Be forewarned: the list itself is exceedingly dopey. After all, Clif bars, 60 Minutes, GEICO commercials, and LeBron James are among the things that Fortune somehow manages to rank ahead of the men and women collectively serving in our armed forces. (They're number 64, for whatever that's worth. Fortune separates out the SEALs, ranking them #5.)

Thanks to our nation's obsession with them, cars and car-related items dot the list as well. A few even crack Fortune's top 25: Detroit (#14), the Ford F-150 (#11) and interstate highways (#2). NASCAR sits at #51, drive-in movie theaters (the remaining few) occupy the 87th spot, Kevin Spacey's Honda commercial voice-overs rank 41st (not making any of this up) and Exxon Mobil comes in at #88.

To read the whole facepalm-inducing list, head over to Fortune, where you'll also learn that duct tape (#16) ranks ahead of the Bill of Rights (#17).

Detroit, F-150 and interstates among Fortune's "100 great things about America" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 Jul 2011 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>americaforbesford f150fourth of julynascaruncle samSun, 03 Jul 2011 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Max Papis is unhappy with Jacques Villeneuve]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/26/max-papis-is-unhappy-with-jacques-villeneuve/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/26/max-papis-is-unhappy-with-jacques-villeneuve/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/26/max-papis-is-unhappy-with-jacques-villeneuve/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Bucyrus 200 at Road America
Jacques Villeneuve ticks off Max Papis - Click above to watch video after the jump

Yesterday's Bucyrus 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series race at Road America finished ugly, with wrecked cars and angry drivers highlighting a conclusion that took a lot longer than it probably should have. The race was set for a green-white-checkered finish, and as it went back to green, Jacques Villeneuve, driving the #22 Dodge Challenger, tried to make a move to the outside to gain position on the leaders.

Villeneuve quickly ran out of road, however, and as he dove in to stay off the grass, he bumped Brian Scott's #11 Toyota, sending it into the gravel, and then cut off Max Papis, driving the #33 Chevrolet. Papis went hard into Villeneuve's Dodge, then slid off the track into the wall. Thanks to the ubiquitous in-car radio feeds in NASCAR coverage, we got to hear Papis react with a disgusted, "Thank you, Jacques. Good job," followed by, "I knew the 22 was going to do something stupid."

As everyone pitted, Villeneuve caught plenty of flack. Scott was first in line, riding up behind Villeneuve and bumping his Dodge as it entered the pits. Then, a ticked-off Papis pulled alongside and parked to give Villeneuve a piece of his mind.

As for the race itself, two more green-white-checkered attempts were needed to being it to an end. Reed Sorenson was awarded the win as the race ended under yellow, taking first after race officials ruled that Ron Fellows, who appeared to be the victor, had gained position on Sorenson after the yellow flag had come out. As for Jacques Villeneuve? He podiumed, finishing third. Hit the jump to watch the Villeneuve mishap.

Continue reading Max Papis is unhappy with Jacques Villeneuve

Max Papis is unhappy with Jacques Villeneuve originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodgeSun, 26 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Monster Tajima smashes 10-minute mark at Pikes Peak, ascends in 9:51.278]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/26/monster-tajima-smashes-10-minute-mark-at-pikes-peak-ascends-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/26/monster-tajima-smashes-10-minute-mark-at-pikes-peak-ascends-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/26/monster-tajima-smashes-10-minute-mark-at-pikes-peak-ascends-in/#commentsFiled under:

Pikes Peak Unlimited class results
Monster Tajima sets new record at Pikes Peak - Watch video after the jump

Nobuhiro "Monster" Tajima has accomplished his goal of ascending Pikes Peak in under 10 minutes. As shown on the official Pikes Peak Timing page, Tajima obliterated his old record of 10:01.408, taking his Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special up Pikes Peak in 9:51.278. Video of Tajima's record run and post-race interview at the summit is posted after the jump.

Our man Jeff Glucker is at Pikes Peak and he'll have complete coverage later on. For now, however, know that Monster Tajima has done it, setting a new record as he battled an overheating engine, no less. More to come later - there's still a lot of racing to go this afternoon.

Continue reading Monster Tajima smashes 10-minute mark at Pikes Peak, ascends in 9:51.278

Monster Tajima smashes 10-minute mark at Pikes Peak, ascends in 9:51.278 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 16:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-minute markbreakinghill climbmonster tajimapikes peakSun, 26 Jun 2011 16:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: What goes into Aprilia's Performance Ride Control?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/19/what-makes-aprilias-performance-ride-control-special/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/19/what-makes-aprilias-performance-ride-control-special/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/19/what-makes-aprilias-performance-ride-control-special/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC SE w/ Performance Ride Control - Click above to watch video after the jump

Electronic driver aids in cars? Commonplace. We take them for granted, whether they're enhancing performance, convenience, or safety. But what about motorcycles? Those of us who don't ride may be surprised to see how technology is now making bikes better, too. Case in point: Aprilia, which features a suite of aids dubbed Performance Ride Control in the 2011 RSV4 Factory APRC SE.

Aprilia USA went to our friends at Hell For Leather and Tangent Vector to produce a video that demonstrates and explains the significance of Performance Ride Control. Hit the jump to watch the video, where you'll see launch control, wheelie control, traction control and quickshift come together to help riders push the performance envelope. This stuff's not just for cars anymore, and the benefits are equally remarkable.

Continue reading What goes into Aprilia's Performance Ride Control?

What goes into Aprilia's Performance Ride Control? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 Jun 2011 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011apriliaFactory APRC SEperformance ride controlrsv4Sun, 19 Jun 2011 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Dramatic 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans is in the books]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/12/dramatic-2011-24-hours-of-le-mans-is-in-the-books/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/12/dramatic-2011-24-hours-of-le-mans-is-in-the-books/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/12/dramatic-2011-24-hours-of-le-mans-is-in-the-books/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 24 Hours of Le Mans - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans is over, and despite losing two of its three cars in horrifying crashes, it is Audi, once again, that climbs to the top of the podium as the race's overall winner. Andre Lotterer piloted the #2 Audi R18 TDI to victory, 13 seconds ahead of the Simon Pageneaud in the #9 Peugeot 908. The rest of the top five finishers were all Peugeot 908s, the #8 and #7 factory team cars, followed by the #10 Team Oreca Matmut entry. The top gasoline-powered LMP1 finisher was the Toyota-powered #12 Rebellion Racing Lola.

It's also a big day for Corvette Racing, which, after losing the leading #74 Corvette C6.R to an accident, still drove on to victory in GTE Pro with the #73 car of Olivier Beretta, Tommy MIlner, and Antonio Garcia. The 73 was a lap down at the 18 hour mark, but made it all back up to take the checkered flag with Garcia at the wheel, following a very strong stint by Milner. Second place in GTE Pro goes to the #41 AF Corse Ferrari, and BMW Motorsport visits the podium at Le Mans with a third-place finish for the #56 BMW M3 GT.

In the LMP2 Class, the leader at the midway point, the #41 Greaves Motorsport entry, drove to victory, followed by the #26 Signatech Nissan and #33 Level 5 Motorsports Lola HPD coupe.

Finally, in GTE Am, another Corvette claims victory: the #50 C6.R fielded by Labre Competition (it was one of last year's factory cars). Labre Competition also took second in the #70 Porsche 911 RSR. Rounding out the GTE Am podium is the #68 Robertson Racing Ford GT, one of the best-looking race cars on the circuit.

The 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans was both thrilling and chilling, and ultimately, all that drama translated into an exciting finish, with a jubilant and depleted Audi squad fending off everything Peugeot could throw at it. On the tenth anniversary of its first Le Mans win, Corvette Racing shook off last year's crushing disappointment at Le Mans with its victory, which also coincides with Chevrolet's centennial.

As the victors enjoy some well-earned celebration, the best auto race on Earth is history. We're already looking forward to next year.

Dramatic 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans is in the books originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Jun 2011 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingSun, 12 Jun 2011 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 24 Hours of Le Mans mid-race update]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/mid-race-photo-break-at-the-2011-24-hours-of-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/mid-race-photo-break-at-the-2011-24-hours-of-le-mans/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/mid-race-photo-break-at-the-2011-24-hours-of-le-mans/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 24 Hours of Le Mans
2011 24 Hours of Le Mans - Click above for high-res image gallery

Okay, it's not quite the halfway point at the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans (there's a little over 12 hours to go at this time), but we have a new batch of photos from Drew Phillips ready for your perusal. Taken as the sun began its descent, the gallery below features a nice mix of cars from all the classes.

As you've probably seen by now, Audi has lost two of its three cars. Allan McNish's #3 Audi R18 TDI crashed out in spectacular fashion during the the first hour of the race. Though his car was totally destroyed, he walked away from the shunt unscathed. Then, #1 Audi R18 driver Mike Rockenfeller followed suit with an equally terrible nighttime crash of his own after making contact with the #71 Ferrari on the Mulsanne straight. Rockenfeller also climbed out of his car afterward. Other than a cut sustained on one arm, he's okay, but is being kept in the hospital overnight for observation. That's good news all around for the Audi drivers involved in a couple of scary crashes.

As of 8:20 PM Eastern, despite its bad luck so far, Audi currently leads Le Mans, with the #2 R18 TDI ahead of the #9 and #7 Peugeot 908s in LMP1. The highest-running gasoline-powered LMP1 car is the #16 Pescarolo Judd of Pescarolo Team. The leader in GTE Pro is the #74 Corvette Racing C6.R. In LMP2, the #41 Greaves Motorsport Zytek Nissan is up front. Finally, the GTE Amateur class is currently led by the #81 Flying Lizard Motorsports Porsche 911 RSR.

That's it for now. You can follow live timing at LeMans.org, and for a great single-page collection of audio & video feeds, plus timing, a spotter's guide, and live chatting, check out Global Sports.

If you missed our photo gallery from the start of the race, be sure to check that out as well. We'll be back with more coverage from Le Mans later in the race.

2011 24 Hours of Le Mans mid-race update originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Jun 2011 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>201124 hours of le mansle mansmid-race updatephoto gallerySat, 11 Jun 2011 20:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Second Audi R18 out of Le Mans as Rockenfeller involved in huge crash]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/second-audi-r18-out-of-le-mans-as-rockenfeller-involved-in-huge/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/second-audi-r18-out-of-le-mans-as-rockenfeller-involved-in-huge/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/second-audi-r18-out-of-le-mans-as-rockenfeller-involved-in-huge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rockenfeller crash
Mike Rockenfeller crashes his Audi R18 TDI at Le Mans - Click above to watch video after the jump

Audi is down to one R18 TDI in the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans after Mike Rockenfeller was involved in the team's second horrific accident of the race, following the disastrous Allan McNish crash in the race's first hour. As Rockenfeller, driving the #1 car, overtook the #71 Ferrari on the Mulsanne straight, the two cars made contact, sending Rockenfeller into the barrier at full speed, obliterating the Audi in dramatic, terrifying fashion. The shunt was captured by an unmanned camera and Rockenfeller's on-board cam.

Rockenfeller got out of the car on his own power and is apparently okay. He's being checked out at the medical center as a precaution. The safety car is out for what will undoubtedly be another long cleanup. The remaining Audi, the #2 car, is still the race leader. 15 hours to go, people. Follow the jump to see the Rockenfeller crash. The second video is longer, and shows the reaction in the Audi garage.

UPDATE: Audi Sport boss Wolfgang Ullrich was just interviewed on EuroSport, and he again confirmed that Rockenfeller left the car on his own, adding that the driver was communicative with staff at the onsite medical center. Rockenfeller is now headed to the hospital for additional precautionary scans. This is basically the same course of events that Allan McNish went through following his crash earlier today.

UPDATE 2: Mike Rockenfeller is okay, but he's being kept at the hospital overnight for observation.

Continue reading Second Audi R18 out of Le Mans as Rockenfeller involved in huge crash

Second Audi R18 out of Le Mans as Rockenfeller involved in huge crash originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Jun 2011 17:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>201124 hours of le mansaudiaudi crashaudi r18crashle mansmike rockenfellermulsanne straightr18rockenfeller crashsecond audi crashtdiwreckSat, 11 Jun 2011 17:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Live shots of Audi R18 Le Mans crash site show the devastation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/live-shots-of-audi-r18-le-mans-crash-site-show-the-devastation/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/live-shots-of-audi-r18-le-mans-crash-site-show-the-devastation/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/live-shots-of-audi-r18-le-mans-crash-site-show-the-devastation/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Audi R18 TDI wreckage at Le Mans
Audi R18 TDi wreckage at the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans - Click above for high-res image gallery

As you're likely aware, the #3 Audi R18 TDI driven by Allan McNish was destroyed in a spectacular accident earlier this morning at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. McNish walked away from the scene, was checked out at the hospital, given a clean bill of health, and has since returned to the Audi garage.

QuattroWorld.com is onsite at Le Mans and was only 100 yards away from being in the very wrong spot at the wrong time as the Audi crash took place. Those guys were able to capture some unique photos that they're now graciously sharing with Autoblog.

Please follow QuattroWorld on Facebook to keep up to date on the action at Le Mans (just don't expect too many Peugeot pictures). Thanks again to QuattroWorld, Josh Decker and Mike Juergens for the photos, which you can check out in the gallery below.

Live shots of Audi R18 Le Mans crash site show the devastation originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Jun 2011 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>201124 hours of le mansallan mcnishaudicrashle mansr18wreckSat, 11 Jun 2011 13:04:00 EST