Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Official: Aston Martin vanquishes Virage, unveils 2013 DB9]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/aston-martin-vanquishes-virage-unveils-next-gen-db9/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/aston-martin-vanquishes-virage-unveils-next-gen-db9/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/18/aston-martin-vanquishes-virage-unveils-next-gen-db9/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



As had been speculated, the brief run of the Aston Martin Virage is over with the arrival of the 2013 Aston Martin DB9, shown above. You'll recall that the Virage was introduced as a bridge between the previous DB9 and the now-defunct DBS.

Coupled with the arrival of the new range-topping Vanquish, the '13 DB9 eliminates the middle man, so to speak, merging the Virage's styling elements (as evidenced by the DB9's front fascia) with powertrain and chassis tweaks developed for the Vanquish. You will doubtless note that the DB9 looks like nearly every recent Aston Martin preceding it. We'd agree, while allowing that the familial look is a feature, not a bug. As before, it's offered as a coupe or convertible (Volante).

Power in the new DB9 comes from the latest version of Aston Martin's 6.0-liter V12, making 510 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque in this application. Those are increases of 40 hp and 14 lb-ft over the old DB9, as well as 20 hp and 37 lb-ft over the Virage. Carbon-ceramic brakes are standard, and the car boasts 50/50 distribution of its 3,935-pound curb weight. If you want to shift for yourself, you'll have to make do with the Touchtronic 2's paddles, as there's no traditional manual gearbox offered.

Inside, you'll find the same familiar instrument and control layout featured in the current Vantage and the outgoing DB9 and Virage models. A backup camera is now standard. The new DB9 does not receive the updated interior design that premiered in the 2013 Vanquish, so there's now a clear differentiation between the flagship and the "mainstream" V12 car in that respect.

If you want to order a new DB9, you may do so immediately. Pricing starts at $185,400 and it hits showrooms in November. For the full rundown, you can view the entire PR blast from Aston Martin below.

Continue reading Aston Martin vanquishes Virage, unveils 2013 DB9

Aston Martin vanquishes Virage, unveils 2013 DB9 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013aston martinconvertiblecoupedb9parisparis 2012paris motor showvirageTue, 18 Sep 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: DeLorean hovercraft shows up in McCovey Cove]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/11/delorean-hovercraft-shows-up-in-mccovey-cove/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/11/delorean-hovercraft-shows-up-in-mccovey-cove/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/11/delorean-hovercraft-shows-up-in-mccovey-cove/#commentsFiled under: , ,

DeLorean Hovercraft in McCovey Cove

What's better than any Back to the Future tribute DeLorean? This. Because hovercraft.

And thanks to the guys at Deadspin, we can present video of it frolicking in McCovey Cove outside last night's Giants/Rockies game. As Deadspin reports, the DeLorean hovercraft's build was Kickstarter-funded and previously covered by MAKE. The finished product, which you can watch in action below, is fantastic.

Continue reading DeLorean hovercraft shows up in McCovey Cove

DeLorean hovercraft shows up in McCovey Cove originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Aug 2012 09:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deloreanhovercraftmccovey coveSat, 11 Aug 2012 09:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Here's the Hot Wheels Double Loop Dare stunt from X Games]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/01/heres-the-hot-wheels-double-loop-dare-stunt-from-x-games-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/01/heres-the-hot-wheels-double-loop-dare-stunt-from-x-games-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/01/heres-the-hot-wheels-double-loop-dare-stunt-from-x-games-w-vi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hot Wheels Double Loop Dare

Yesterday, Team Hot Wheels drivers Tanner Foust and Greg Tracy suited up and executed the Double Loop Dare stunt at the X Games. The pair went through the 66-foot-tall loops, which replicate a similar Hot Wheels toy track set, hitting 52 miles per hour and pulling 7Gs in the process. Nifty.

The successful stunt gets marked down as a Guinness World Record, next to other amazing feats like the World's Largest Collection of Rubber Ducks. You can watch video of the stunt below, and check out photos in the attached image gallery as well.

Continue reading Here's the Hot Wheels Double Loop Dare stunt from X Games

Here's the Hot Wheels Double Loop Dare stunt from X Games originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Jul 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sun, 01 Jul 2012 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy Father's Day!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/17/happy-fathers-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/17/happy-fathers-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/17/happy-fathers-day/#commentsFiled under:

1971 Chevrolet Kingswood

From all of us here at Autoblog, Happy Father's Day to our dads, as well as all you dads out there among our readers. Enjoy the day with your families, and remember to check back in each day this coming week, because we have a series of Post-Father's Day giveaways scheduled that you'll definitely want to get in on.

In the meantime, you can grab dad and turn back the clock by clicking the image above. Flickr user Coconv's awesome collection of vintage car advertising will have pops reminiscing in no time.

Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day! originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 17 Jun 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1971chevrolethappy fathers daykingswoodwagonSun, 17 Jun 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish

A week ago, Aston Martin showed off the new AM310 concept at Villa d'Este. Now we know what the DBS replacement will be called when the production version arrives, thanks to the snoops at CAR magazine: Vanquish.

The resurrected moniker, last used on the V12 GT flagship that Aston retired in 2007, is plainly visible on the decklid of the car shown above, whose rear-end styling exactly matches that of the AM310 Concept.

Whether the transporter carrying the new Vanquish was left open by genuine mistake or "accidentally" by design, CAR's video of the discovery, posted below, leaves no doubt as to the next Aston Martin's identity. And we have some tidbits of our own to add to the developing story.

We've heard some rumblings that more concrete information will become available later this month, and that if you want to see the Vanquish in person, you should keep Pebble Beach weekend open. As indicated by the AM310, the Vanquish looks to the ultra-exotic One-77 for some styling cues, but that's not all. Expect the Vanquish to outperform the DBS, with more power from the latest version of Aston's familiar 6.0-liter V12 and less weight thanks to carbon fiber bodywork. Lighter, quicker and faster? Our attention is piqued. U.S. buyers should be able to get their hands on the Vanquish sometime in early 2013.

Continue reading to watch video of the 2013 Aston Martin Vanquish sitting in its transporter, and compare its styling to that of the AM310 in an accompanying second clip.

Continue reading Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut

Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013am310aston martincoupegtnew vanquishv12vanquishSun, 03 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: 2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon unveiled, bound for U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/2013-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-unveiled-is-u-s-bound/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/2013-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-unveiled-is-u-s-bound/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/2013-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-unveiled-is-u-s-bound/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon

The wagon is not dead! BMW has unveiled the latest 3 Series Sports Wagon and announced that it will again be available to U.S. customers. The new long-roof 3 goes on sale in Europe later this year as the 328i, 330d, and 320d Touring. U.S. customers need to wait until Spring 2013 for the 3 Series Sports Wagon to arrive in showrooms, and powertrain details for our market have not yet been announced. The current 3 Series wagon is only offered as the 328i here in the U.S. (with and without xDrive).

The new car is larger than the current model, and boasts 10 percent more cargo volume according to BMW. As with the 3 Series sedan, the wagon will be available in Sport, Luxury, and Modern lines, as well as an M Sport Line, each with a unique approach to their interior and exterior trim.

Inside, the back seats have a 40:20:40 split and the cargo space offers plenty of room (as you can see in the photos). There's also hidden storage, a standard partition net, and if the cargo cover isn't in use, it can be stowed under the cargo floor for added convenience.

Amenities include an available power tailgate that, with the optional Comfort Access package, becomes a hands-free power tailgate; you just wave your foot under the bumper à la 2013 Ford Escape. Naturally, BMW will offer its full complement of tech and driver aids, like BMW Apps, a color HUD, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, BMW Parking Assistant, Rear-view Camera with Top View, and the BMW Assist telematics service.

So, the good news: There's a new 3 Series wagon. The bad news: You need to wait a year. But that's better than no wagon at all, right?

Continue reading 2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon unveiled, bound for U.S.

2013 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon unveiled, bound for U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 May 2012 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 bmw 3 series3 series3 series touring328i335ibmwnewsports wagonstation wagonwagonSat, 12 May 2012 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: New Mini John Cooper Works GP unveiled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/new-mini-john-cooper-works-gp-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/new-mini-john-cooper-works-gp-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/12/new-mini-john-cooper-works-gp-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , ,

New Mini John Cooper Works GP

Spy shots pretty much said it's coming, and here it is: the new Mini John Cooper Works GP. It's making an appearance at the Mini United Festival in France this weekend, and while Mini has yet to detail specific power numbers or show off the car's interior, it has produced a Nurburgring time: 8 minutes, 23 seconds, which, as we reported back in April, betters the last Mini GP (circa 2006) by 19 seconds.

Like its predecessor, the GP-spec hardtop loses its back seat for weight reduction, gets a full complement of power and suspension upgrades, including a race-spec suspension and brakes, and sports exclusive aero tweaks, wheels and graphics to differentiate itself from "regular" JCW models. Figure on a power figure north of the 214 horses the last GP produced (standard JCW Minis make 208 hp right now). Only 2,000 of the new Mini JCW GPs will be built and sold globally.

Given that the regular John Cooper Works models are fairly marvelous as is, the GP should be deliriously fun. No pricing yet, but since a loaded-up John Cooper Works easily runs into the high-$30K range now, we'd expect the limited-production GP to skip right past the $40,000 mark.

Now, when are they unveiling the GP Coupe?

New Mini John Cooper Works GP unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 May 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012breakinggphardtophatchbackjcwjohn cooper worksminiSat, 12 May 2012 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorsports: This is why LeMons is the best race series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/this-is-why-lemons-is-the-best-race-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/this-is-why-lemons-is-the-best-race-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/06/this-is-why-lemons-is-the-best-race-series/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



This weekend, Audi marked the competition debut of its latest R18 race cars at the second round of the World Endurance Championship at Spa-Francorchamps. Yet the most spectacular race car running on any track this weekend was thousands of miles away at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway in the 24 Hours of Lemons "Loudon Annoying" event taking place at the very same time.

Yes, that's a pop-up camper trailer that's been converted into a race car by SpeedyCop & the Gang of Outlaws. And there's video of it after the jump. Now, before you click, see if you can guess what the car underneath is. (Hint, there's another photo in the gallery that makes it very clear.) That answer is also posted after the break, and it makes the whole rig even more fantastic.

Thanks to our friend (and Consumer Reports hotshoe) Jake Fisher for the on-site photos!

Update: Final race recap now posted at Car and Driver.

Continue reading This is why LeMons is the best race series

This is why LeMons is the best race series originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 May 2012 09:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>201224 hours of lemonsawesome thingscamperlemonsloudon annoyingnew hampshireNew Hampshire International SpeedwayNew Hampshire Motor Speedwayrace camperrace carracerSun, 06 May 2012 09:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Some Pirelli World Challenge fans are pretty hardcore]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/29/some-pirelli-world-challenge-fans-are-pretty-hardcore/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/29/some-pirelli-world-challenge-fans-are-pretty-hardcore/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/29/some-pirelli-world-challenge-fans-are-pretty-hardcore/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



This is the #33 Volkswagen GLI driven by Tristan Herbert in the Pirelli World Challenge Touring Car class. This weekend, the series is in Utah, racing at Miller Motorsports Park, and Herbert just took the win in his race this afternoon.

While noteworthy, Herbert's victory itself is not the news item here. It's the circumstances behind the win that appear to be pretty awesome. Scroll past the break to see the tweet from the Pirelli World Challenge folks that adds some immensely cool context.

Continue reading Some Pirelli World Challenge fans are pretty hardcore

Some Pirelli World Challenge fans are pretty hardcore originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Apr 2012 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>donated enginepirelli world challengeracingtouring cartristan herbertvolkswagen glivw gliSun, 29 Apr 2012 15:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Sand Flea robot goes where your R/C car can't]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/sand-flea-robot-goes-where-your-r-c-car-cant/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/sand-flea-robot-goes-where-your-r-c-car-cant/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/03/sand-flea-robot-goes-where-your-r-c-car-cant/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sand Flea Robot

Your nitro-fueled R/C racer may look all badass and be really fast, but it's got its limitations. Namely, walls. The Sand Flea robot shown above, developed by Boston Dynamics, won't win any races or beauty contests, but it laughs at walls. More precisely, it just leaps over them.

The little bot, which scoots around like a regular all-terrain R/C car, is equipped with a CO2-powered piston that gives it the ability to leap 30 feet in the air. When presented with a challenge, the Sand Flea stops, tilts, and launches up and over the obstacle in front of it. The video showing it in action, posted after the jump, is simultaneously astonishing and hilarious (especially when you mentally add this sound effect to each leap). On a full charge, the Flea can make 25 jumps. A gyroscope keeps it stabilized while airborne, and its wheels act as the cushion upon landing.

Funding for the project comes from DARPA, the Joint IED Defeat Organization, and the Army's Rapid Equipping Force, and it's meant to bolster the military's ever-expanding arsenal of reconnaissance tools. As such, PopSci reports that the Sand Flea is headed to the Army Test and Evaluation Command for safety certification, after which several examples will head to Afghanistan for some real field testing.

Continue reading Sand Flea robot goes where your R/C car can't

Sand Flea robot goes where your R/C car can't originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boston dynamicsdarpajumpingleapingmilitaryrobotsand fleaTue, 03 Apr 2012 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[An $8 million "Maserati" that goes 46 mph]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/an-8-million-maserati-that-goes-46-mph/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/an-8-million-maserati-that-goes-46-mph/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/01/an-8-million-maserati-that-goes-46-mph/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Racing yacht VOR70 Maserati

This week, the racing yacht VOR70 Maserati finished its run from Miami to New York City. Intended as a record attempt, skipper Giovanni Soldini elected not to have the final time of the transit ratified because he didn't feel it was reflective of the real speed Maserati is capable of. (The boat had to deal with several weather systems on its way up from Florida, which slowed it. Another attempt at a better time will be made in the future.)

With the boat spending a few days at Manhattan's North Cove marina, just outside the World Financial Center, Maserati invited us down to take a look in person. Maserati, a 70-foot, carbon-fiber monohull, contested the 2008 Volvo Ocean Race under a different moniker. It was subsequently overhauled, had its weight distribution adjusted, and made 10 percent lighter, after which it was reintroduced in its current form, with Maserati as its primary sponsor.

It's capable of traveling at an incredible 40 knots under sail (hence the 46 mph reference in the headline), and what's striking about Maserati in person is that in addition to the hull itself, almost everything else on board is made of carbon fiber: the wheels at the helm, the mast, the grinders and winches, and so on. I pointed at one of the big winches on deck and asked watch leader Brad Van Liew, "How much is that?"

"Around $80,000," he answered. The whole boat apparently cost around $8,000,000. It's the state of the art, and if you're in Manhattan, you might still be able to check it out in person. It's due to head out on another speed record attempt (destination: Cape Lizard, UK) in the coming days.

If you want to follow the ongoing exploits of VOR70 Maserati, bookmark Maserati.Soldini.it for news, blogs, video, the crew's Twitter feeds, and more.

An $8 million "Maserati" that goes 46 mph originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Apr 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sun, 01 Apr 2012 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2012 Aston Martin Virage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/2012-aston-martin-virage-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/2012-aston-martin-virage-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/2012-aston-martin-virage-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

We Bond With Gaydon's Gorgeous Tweener

2012 Aston Martin Virage

"You need to get in touch with Steven Ewing right away," said the instant message. It was from Autoblog editor-in-chief John Neff, and since fleet manager Ewing was online, I pinged him. "Hey, are you available to grab an Aston Martin Virage for the weekend?" he asked. "There's one in New York."

Before answering, a flurry of thoughts raced through my head. Did I have plans this weekend? How much would I really get to drive the car? I don't usually go into the city on Fridays. Should I make the exception? Then I looked out my window, saw the Nissan Versa I was scheduled to drive that very same weekend and banged out a brief reply.

"Yeah, Steve. I can do that."

Continue reading 2012 Aston Martin Virage

2012 Aston Martin Virage originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 aston martin virageastonaston martinjames bond carreviewreviewsroad testviragevirage reviewWed, 21 Mar 2012 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorsports: 2013 NASCAR Dodge Charger Sprint Cup car unveiled in Las Vegas]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/11/2013-nascar-dodge-charger-sprint-cup-car-unveiled-in-las-vegas/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/11/2013-nascar-dodge-charger-sprint-cup-car-unveiled-in-las-vegas/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/11/2013-nascar-dodge-charger-sprint-cup-car-unveiled-in-las-vegas/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 NASCAR Dodge Charger Sprint Cup Car

Dodge has officially unveiled the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Charger, and as you can see, it follows in the footsteps of the 2013 Ford Fusion Cup car, with styling and detailing that's more true to the street car than the generic silhouettes being run by all teams this season.

SB Nation's Jeff Gluck reports that at the ceremony, SRT CEO Ralph Gilles was upbeat about the new race car's prospects for next season, saying that there's already a lot of interest from different Cup outfits, and that he expects to announce which team or teams will be running the car in 2013 by mid-summer.

The new car's unveiling puts a more upbeat spin on an otherwise down week for Doge and SRT's motorsports arm, which absorbed a punch to the gut when Penske Racing announced that it was ending its relationship with Dodge after this season to campaign the new NASCAR Ford Fusion in the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

After all the pre-race ceremonies concluded, the new racer hit the track to lead the field on the pace lap for today's Kobalt 400 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Continue reading 2013 NASCAR Dodge Charger Sprint Cup car unveiled in Las Vegas

2013 NASCAR Dodge Charger Sprint Cup car unveiled in Las Vegas originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013breakingchargerdodgenascarrace carracingsprint cupsrtSun, 11 Mar 2012 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Teased: 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe previewed on Twitter ahead of NY reveal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/10/2013-hyundai-santa-fe-previewed-on-twitter-ahead-of-ny-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/10/2013-hyundai-santa-fe-previewed-on-twitter-ahead-of-ny-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/10/2013-hyundai-santa-fe-previewed-on-twitter-ahead-of-ny-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe

In a lineup packed with new and/or freshly styled vehicles, Hyundai's two larger crossovers, the Santa Fe and its all-but-forgotten three-row counterpart, the Veracruz, still wear the automaker's last-generation styling language. That will be addressed (in part, at least) at next month's New York Auto Show when Hyundai unveils the 2013 Santa Fe.

To get people talking, Hyundai published two renderings of its new CUV this evening via its Twitter feed. Predictably, the 2013 Santa Fe gets sharper lines that are much more in keeping with the rest of the model lineup, and the new face validates a spy photo that hit the web back in January.

Hyundai calls the crossover's fresh styling language "Storm Edge," saying it's an evolution of the "Fluidic Sculpture" theme it's been using the last few years.

Based on the the profile shot, which shows a very small window aft of the rear doors, it appears that the Santa Fe will, for the time being, continue to be a two-row crossover (its optional third row was canned after the 2009 model year) that's designed to battle the likes of the Nissan Murano, Ford Edge, and Toyota Venza.

Whether Hyundai will also use the occasion to formally confirm the rumored long-wheelbase, three-row variant to replace the Veracruz remains to be seen. It's clear the automaker knows that it's hurting in that department.

Continue reading 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe previewed on Twitter ahead of NY reveal

2013 Hyundai Santa Fe previewed on Twitter ahead of NY reveal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 10 Mar 2012 21:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 hyundai santa febreakingcrossoverhyundainew yorknew york 2012new york auto shownyiasnyias 2012santa feSat, 10 Mar 2012 21:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Lamborghini Aventador J speedster leaked ahead of Geneva unveiling]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/04/lamborghini-aventador-j-speedster-leaked-ahead-of-geneva-unveili/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/04/lamborghini-aventador-j-speedster-leaked-ahead-of-geneva-unveili/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/04/lamborghini-aventador-j-speedster-leaked-ahead-of-geneva-unveili/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lamborghini Aventador J

Back in January we heard rumors that Lamborghini would bring two new vehicles to the Geneva Motor Show. Once the Lamborghini MLC SUV was ruled out, that left the Aventador Roadster and a surprise for which guesses have ranged from the Gallardo replacement to the production Sesto Elemento to something else.

That something else appears to be the car shown above. Reportedly dubbed Avendador J, it's a minimalist speedster variant of Lamborghini's flagship supercar, and it got an early reveal this weekend at Czech website AutoForum. The car loses its roof entirely, has a tiny windscreen, and reportedly dumps all unnecessary amenities like air conditioning and an audio system. Any additional weight-saving measures Lamborghini has put into effect will be revealed tomorrow, when the car debuts at the Volkswagen Group's preview gala.

There's much speculation online as to whether the Aventador J will be produced an any number. In truth, it doesn't even matter. If Lamborghini builds any, it will sell all of them, immediately, at whatever price it asks.

Now, Lamborghini also released a video teasing the car's Geneva unveiling, which ends with the hashtag #Unica on the screen. That translates to "only" in English, which could suggest that the Aventor J is, in fact, a one-off.

Follow the jump to watch the teaser, and stay tuned here as all the Geneva festivities ramp up starting Monday evening. We'll be on hand to bring you news and photos of the new Lambos as they're revealed.

Continue reading Lamborghini Aventador J speedster leaked ahead of Geneva unveiling

Lamborghini Aventador J speedster leaked ahead of Geneva unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 10:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinggenevageneva 2012geneva motor showlamborghiniteaseryoutubeSun, 04 Mar 2012 10:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Infiniti Emerg-E electric supercar looks sex-E in official pics]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/25/infiniti-emerg-e-supercar-looks-sex-e-in-official-photos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/25/infiniti-emerg-e-supercar-looks-sex-e-in-official-photos/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/25/infiniti-emerg-e-supercar-looks-sex-e-in-official-photos/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Infiniti Emerg-E

Been wondering what the Infiniti Emerg-E is gonna look like when it takes center stage in Geneva next month? Wonder no more, as the first official photos of the mid-engined, range-extended electric supercar have hit the web.

The pics show a pretty and curvaceous design that holds its own against the likes of the Ferrari 458 and McLaren MP4-12C; more organic-looking than the sharper lines of cars like the Lexus LFA, Audi R8, and Lamborghini Gallardo.

Will the concept car's green drivetrain deliver performance on par with that kind of competition? We're eager to learn what kinds of numbers Infiniti comes forward with. Regardless, this thing's already a winner on looks alone. We can't wait to see it in person.

Infiniti Emerg-E electric supercar looks sex-E in official pics originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 25 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingconceptelectricemerg-egenevageneva 2012geneva motor showinfinitisupercarSat, 25 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Prepare to spend all your money on these movie-car posters [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/prepare-to-spend-all-your-money-on-these-movie-car-posters/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/prepare-to-spend-all-your-money-on-these-movie-car-posters/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/prepare-to-spend-all-your-money-on-these-movie-car-posters/#commentsFiled under: ,

Incredible movie car posters

If you're trying to weather the lousy economy by being fiscally responsible and not splurging on crap that you absolutely do not need, please stop reading now. Because if you like movies, cars, and movie-cars especially, the wall candy offered by MovieCarPosters.com will have you reaching for your wallet before you're halfway through the photo gallery.

These posters are ridiculously cool. Each combines a vehicle silhouette with iconography and color themes pulled from the films and television shows said rides starred in.

In addition to the stuff you'd expect to see, like the BTTF DeLorean, KITT, and the Batmobile (Barris, Furst, Animated, and Tumbler, at that), you'll find killer posters paying tribute to films like Better Off Dead, Big Trouble in Little China, and The Cannonball Run (two varieties), plus TV shows as varied as Arrested Development, Initial D, and Firefly. Gamers, you're represented as well. Even Bronies get some love.

You can browse all the designs in the gallery above. Can't figure any out? Head over to MovieCarPosters.com, where each has a signature quote listed as a hint. (Face it, you'll be going there anyway to place an order.)

What's great is that there's room for so many additions to the series in the future. For example, we're suggesting that Kojak's Buick, Priest's Eldorado from Superfly, and the APC from Aliens all get posterized.

Any suggestions of your own? Sound off in the comments. Likewise, if you place an order, let us know which posters you picked up.

UPDATE: We've discovered that these movie-car posters appear to be more than heavily inspired by original artwork from graphic designer Dean Walton, whose work can be seen and purchased at his Mr. Shabba! Shop. In addition to movie car posters, Walton also created an 'Iconic Racing' and 'Japanese Masters' series.

Prepare to spend all your money on these movie-car posters [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awesome thingsmovie carspostersshoppingswagSun, 12 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![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