Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Buick Regal live unveiling - Click above for high-res image gallery

Trivia Time: When was the last time a U.S. market Buick was available with a manual transmission? Honestly, we can't recall anything more recent than a buddy in high school having a hand-me-down mid-Eighties Somerset coupe with a stubby, workmanlike five-speed. Even back then its presence in our friend's hooptie was a genuine curiosity and a source of perpetual amusement.

Naturally, we posed this same question to a few Buick PR-types this morning at a first drive event upon learning from vehicle line executive Jim Federico that the reborn 2011 Regal will receive a six-speed manual transmission option (mated to a blown 2.0-liter four, no less). The answer? Shoulder shrugs and sheepish looks. Curiously, nobody even tried to answer our query with a red herring like the ill-fated Reatta coupe (it only came with a four-speed automatic).

So we now know when a Buick will next feature God's Own Gearbox (probably in the third quarter of 2010), but we still can't crack this historical chestnut - so we beseech thee, Autoblog Nation... what year was the last Buick built with a DIY transmission - and what car was it in? Hit us with your best shot in Comments.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal Live Unveiling


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Buick2011 Regal2011Buick2011RegalbreakingbreakingnewsBuickBuick RegalBuickRegalJim FedericoJimFedericomanual transmissionManualTransmissionRegalstick shiftstick-shiftStickShiftThu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Mahindra maps out 'potential' U.S. dealer network for forthcoming small diesel pickup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mahindra-maps-out-potential-u-s-dealer-network-for-forthcomin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mahindra-maps-out-potential-u-s-dealer-network-for-forthcomin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mahindra-maps-out-potential-u-s-dealer-network-for-forthcomin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Mahindra 'potential' dealer network - Click above to enlarge

No, you're not looking at yet another voting map, or even a topographical depiction of the WalMarting of America (trust us, you don't want to see that). The image seen above is that of Mahindra's "dealership network." We're putting quotes on that because the Indian automaker says on its website that the dots represent only "potential" outlets for their forthcoming small diesel pickup trucks.

Even if the map hasn't been finalized (and doesn't have an associated time frame for each franchise coming on-line), the map is interesting because it illustrates widespread interest in the brand. Credit for that in part should go to the promise of a robust, cheap, and fuel-efficient small truck from a major global player - but it should be equally predictable because there are lots of showrooms sitting empty (or on their way to doing so) thanks to the downsizing of dealer networks associated with General Motors, Chrysler and other automakers.

We could have predicted widespread traction for the brand in regions like the Midwest and even the Northeast, but the concentration of likely franchises in Florida surprises us. Either way, we'll have to wait a bit longer to see just who finally ends up selling the automaker's TR20 and TR40 models - they are expected to go on sale in the first quarter of next year. Hat tip to Sunny B!


Gallery: Mahindra Pik-Up

mahindra-pickup-large_21mahindra-pickup-large_11mahindra-pickup-large_22mahindra-pickup-large_12mahindra-pickup-large_13

[Source: Mahindra]

Mahindra maps out 'potential' U.S. dealer network for forthcoming small diesel pickup originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diesel pickupdiesel truckDieselPickupDieselTruckdietindian automakerIndianAutomakermahindra and mahindraMahindraAndMahindraMMpickuppickup truckPickupTruckTR 20TR 40TR-20TR-40TR20TR40Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Dutch Porsche dealership covers new 997 Carrera S in milk chocolate for the holidays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/dutch-porsche-dealership-covers-new-997-carrera-s-in-milk-chocol/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/dutch-porsche-dealership-covers-new-997-carrera-s-in-milk-chocol/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/dutch-porsche-dealership-covers-new-997-carrera-s-in-milk-chocol/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Porsche Centrum Gelderland's chocolate 911 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back when we were but wee little Autobloggers, Easter was one of our favorite holidays. Not that we were religious, mind, we just really dug finding baskets filled with sugary treats nestled in plastic grass first thing in the morning. As far as we were concerned, you could keep your colored eggs, your jellybeans, your Cadbury creme eggs - heck, we weren't even that excited about those supernaturally yellow marshmallow Peep things - we wanted the Big Daddy - the solid chocolate bunny.

You can imagine our horror, then, when at some point in our childhood, our long-eared cacao friend went on a diet, although we didn't know it right off. Oh, he looked about the same - and he even sported the same jaunty tinfoil jacket. But he weighed much less - he was - *shudder* - hollow. Empty inside like our little crestfallen Easter morning spirits.

Thankfully, these many years later, Porsche Centrum Gelderland appears to be going some way towards healing our childhood wounds and restoring our faith in humanity. Well, if not humanity, at least in the validity of hollow chocolate treats. You see, the Dutch Porsche dealership has apparently taken a brand-new 911 Carrera S and as a sort of marketing stunt, they've gone and covered it in chocolate. According to AB tipster Patrick, in the absence of a giant dipping mechanism, they've used 175 kilos of molten goodness (that's about 385 pounds) to conceal Stuttgart's finest, reserving another couple kilos of white chocolate for detailing like the headlamps.

Why on earth did they decide to do this? It's apparently for a Dutch holiday centered around "Sinterklaas" - Saint Nicholas - who was the Danish inspiration for Santa Claus. As the story goes, the holiday is held in The Netherlands on the evening of December 5, and one of the holiday's most storied traditions is that people buy or make chocolate letters in celebration - hence the milky goodness that is Centrum Gelderland's Choco997.

The dipped Porsche will remain on display until Christmas, at which time we fully expect to see it wheeled into a walk-in freezer until it can to be thawed in time to make an appearance in our Easter basket next Spring. Thanks for the tip, Patrick!


Gallery: Porsche Centrum Gelderland's Chocolate 911


[Sources: Automobiel Management; Autotelegraaf.nl]

Dutch Porsche dealership covers new 997 Carrera S in milk chocolate for the holidays originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CacaoChocoChocolateChocolatierEasterPorschePorsche 911Porsche 997Porsche CentrumPorsche Centrum GelderlandPorsche911Porsche997PorscheCentrumPorscheCentrumGelderlandSinterklaasStuttgartTue, 17 Nov 2009 19:26:00 EST<![CDATA[GM's RenCen headquarters in Detroit 'at risk' without tax credits?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/gms-rencen-headquarters-in-detroit-at-risk-without-tax-credit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/gms-rencen-headquarters-in-detroit-at-risk-without-tax-credit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/gms-rencen-headquarters-in-detroit-at-risk-without-tax-credit/#commentsFiled under: , ,



According to The Detroit News, General Motors has gone on record as suggesting that without state tax credits designed to keep 2,500 employees ensconced at its Detroit Renaissance Center headquarters, the automaker could pull out of Motown's skyline and into the suburbs and surrounding areas.

As the story goes, transcripts from the Michigan Economic Development Corp. say that the Michigan Economic Growth Authority needs to amend a slate of already-approved tax credits to include the Renaissance Center. The requested amendment reportedly includes a provision that GM would need to keep at least 2,500 employees working at the RenCen with a total payroll of $60 million in order to qualify for the incentives.

If GM does not receive the tax breaks, it could disburse the approximately 1,500 additional workers at its headquarters to other offices in the metro Detroit area.

[Source: The Detroit News | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

GM's RenCen headquarters in Detroit 'at risk' without tax credits? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DetroitGMMichigan Economic Development Corp.MichiganEconomicDevelopmentCorp.Renaissance CenterRenaissanceCenterRenCentax breakstax incentivesTaxBreaksTaxIncentivesTue, 17 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In a surprise move, Ford has announced that it will pursue the development of an all-new Police Interceptor model. The move comes on the heels of General Motors' announcement that it plans to challenge the Crown Victoria's law enforcement dominance with its own heavy-duty Chevrolet Caprice sedan.

Details are slim, but Ford says the forthcoming PI will arrive in 2011 and it will sport durability, safety, and performance parameters that are superior to that of the Jurassic Panther-platform Crown Vic. Given the relatively tight timeframe and durability targets, we have to assume that the replacement cop car could be based on the rear-drive Australian-market Ford Falcon shown above. The Blue Oval promises that the car will be engineered and built in America, so it could also be an Ecoboost version of the Ford Taurus (as seen in the SHO), but front-drive cars have had trouble meeting the durability and cost requirements of police duty in the past, making this something of an open question. In an official release posted after the jump, Ford says it will disclose full vehicle specs in the first quarter of 2010, which should give enough time for both law enforcement and police vehicle equipment manufacturers to prepare for the changeover.

Ford says it presently shifts about 45,000 of the 60,000 police cars sold in the States each year, so it makes sense that Dearborn would not be willing to cede this market to Chevy's Caprice and the already established Dodge Charger.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011

BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalbreakingbreakingnewsCrown Viccrown victoriaCrownVicCrownVictoriaFordFord FalconFordFalconlaw enforcementLawEnforcementpanther platformPantherPlatformpolicepolice carpolice interceptorPoliceCarPoliceInterceptorFri, 13 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: <i>Detroit News</i> says GM will build Cadillac Converj]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


2009 Cadillac Converj concept - click above for high-res gallery

After much hemming and hawing, General Motors will reportedly build a version of the Cadillac Converj, the gorgeous but awkwardly named extended-range coupe concept first shown at last year's Detroit Auto Show. According to The Detroit News, the Converj will probably take a few years to reach dealer showrooms, as GM will first direct its efforts on launching the Chevrolet Volt, the more affordable sedan with which it is likely to share much of its Voltec drivetrain architecture.

From where we sit, the Converj seems like a natural move for GM, as Cadillac's higher margins should help offset the research, development, and production costs of everything from the Volt's lithium ion batteries to its motors and control modules. For its part, however, Cadillac is still declining to comment on the story, and the DetNews story doesn't name a source.

Either way, GM vice chairman Bob Lutz has previously gone on record as a champion of a production Converj, and he has said that a serial version would look very similar to the 2009 showcar - in much the same way that the Camaro evolved from concept to production. As the concept was gorgeous, we're down with that - we only hope it doesn't take as long to build as the Bowtie's broad-shouldered muscle car.


Gallery: Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj


Gallery: Cadillac Converj concept


[Source: The Detroit News]

BREAKING: Detroit News says GM will build Cadillac Converj originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob lutzBobLutzbreakingbreakingnewscaddycadillaccadillac conceptCadillacConceptconverjDetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowNAIASMon, 09 Nov 2009 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG straightens up and flies right]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/2011-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/2011-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/2011-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

On one hand, it may seem like an odd time for Mercedes to be jumping back into the ultra-premium end of the car market, particularly in light of its recent less-than-standouts efforts (think: McLaren SLR and the salesproof Maybach). But this isn't the case with the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. In fact, this isn't really a Gottlieb and Karl joint at all - at least not by any traditional definition.

The SLS is actually an Aufrecht Melcher Großaspach project. Huh? It's AMG's first bumper-to-bumper, start-to-finish project - and having just torn around the California countryside and hot-lapped around Laguna Seca, we're left wondering only one thing: Why did it take more than 40 years for this to happen? Well, perhaps we should cut Mercedes some slack, as it has only owned the high-performance arm since 1999, so perhaps the appropriate thing is to look at the SLS' 2009 rollout as something of a tenth anniversary present to itself. In that light, the folks from Stuttgart know how to throw one hell of a party.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG straightens up and flies right

First Drive: 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG straightens up and flies right originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Mercedes SLS2010MercedesSls2011 Mercedes-Benz2011 SLS2011Mercedes-benz2011Sls6.2-literAffalterbachAMGbernd schneiderBerndSchneidereight-cylinderfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveGull winggull wing doorsGullwingGullwing doorGullwingDoorGullWingDoorsLaguna SecaLagunaSecaMBMercedes-Benz SLSMercedes-benzSlsMontereySLS AMGSlsAmgthree-pointed-starV8Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: BMW teases new 5 Series sedan ahead of unveiling using amazing kinetic sculpture]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/video-bmw-teases-new-5-series-sedan-ahead-of-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/video-bmw-teases-new-5-series-sedan-ahead-of-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/video-bmw-teases-new-5-series-sedan-ahead-of-unveiling/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 BMW 5 Series - click above to watch the video

We knew that BMW's pivotal 5 Series was slated for replacement soon, and we've seen plenty of spy shots to prove that it's in the cards. Up until just now, however, we didn't know when it would appear.

In a brief press release available after the jump, BMW promises that its new 5 Series will be revealed with a "Live-Stream of the unveiling ceremony" on November 23 at 8pm CET. In the meantime, the automaker has released a teaser video of an amazing kinetic sculpture at the BMW Museum that gives away the car's outline. You can check it out after the jump.

[Source: BMW]

Continue reading VIDEO: BMW teases new 5 Series sedan ahead of unveiling using amazing kinetic sculpture

VIDEO: BMW teases new 5 Series sedan ahead of unveiling using amazing kinetic sculpture originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 Series5-series525i530i535i550i5SeriesBimmerBMWMon, 09 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles - Day 3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/#comments

We're on to Day 3 of our SEMA Sweeps and have given away two of five limited-edition PSP/Gran Turismo bundles so far. Yesterday's winner has been randomly selected and contacted, so let's move on again and give away our third bundle.

We're doing this in honor of the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and with it, the Seventh Annual GT Awards, so take advantage of our generosity and follow the directions below for your chance to win. Note that we've changed our request from favorite cars in Gran Turismo PSP to favorite tracks, a partial list of which is linked to in the directions below. Your answer in the comment won't have any effect on your chances of winning since the sweepstakes winner is drawn at random, so pick a track, leave a comment and keep your fingers crossed!

Entering is easy. All you have to do is:
  • Leave a comment in this post telling us your favorite version of Gran Turismo to date.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the U.S. or Canada (excluding Quebec, désolé!)
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 3:00PM EST on Thursday, November 5
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive one PSP/GT bundle (ARV $199.99) that includes a Mystic Silver PSP-3000 system, Gran Turismo PSP game on UMD, a PlayStation Network downloadable voucher for a white Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, PlayStation Network downloadable movie voucher (title TBD) and Sony MusicPass voucher good for 10 downloadable songs.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here
That's it - it's free and easy. Good luck!

SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles - Day 3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gran turismo pspGranTurismoPspsemasonyWed, 04 Nov 2009 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles - Day 2]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-day/#comments

We're on to Day 2 of the SEMA Sweeps in which we're giving to you, dear readers, five limited-edition PSP/Gran Turismo bundles over five days. Yesterday's winner has been randomly selected and contacted, so it's time to move on and give away our second of five prizes.

We're doing this in honor of the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and with it, the Seventh Annual GT Awards, so take advantage of our generosity and follow the directions below for your chance to win. Note that we've changed our request from favorite cars in Gran Turismo PSP to favorite tracks, a partial list of which is linked to in the directions below. Your answer in the comment won't have any effect on your chances of winning since the sweepstakes winner is drawn at random, so pick a track, leave a comment and keep your fingers crossed!

Entering is easy. All you have to do is:
  • Leave a comment in this post telling us your favorite track featured in Gran Turismo PSP (Hint: Here's a partial list)
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the U.S. or Canada (excluding Quebec, désolé!)
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 1:30PM EST on Wednesday, November 4
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive one PSP/GT bundle (ARV $199.99) that includes a Mystic Silver PSP-3000 system, Gran Turismo PSP game on UMD, a PlayStation Network downloadable voucher for a white Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, PlayStation Network downloadable movie voucher (title TBD) and Sony MusicPass voucher good for 10 downloadable songs.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here
That's it - it's free and easy. Good luck!

UPDATE: Sorry folks, comments were accidentally disabled when the post went live. They're now active and we've extended Day 2's entry period to 1:30PM EST on Wednesday, November 4 to make up for the lost time.

SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles - Day 2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gran turismogran turismo pspgran turismo psp bundleGranTurismoGranTurismoPspGranTurismoPspBundlegt awardsGtAwardspspsemasema 2009sema showSema2009SemaShowTue, 03 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour goes down the road nicely... but is that enough?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/2010-honda-accord-crosstour-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/2010-honda-accord-crosstour-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/2010-honda-accord-crosstour-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour - Click above for high-res image gallery

We hadn't been parked but a minute or two when it happened. After about a half an hour wringing out our test subject on what few curvy stretches of road suburban Detroit had to offer, we opportunistically pulled into a roadside fruit stand to snap a few photos before our ride got any dirtier. It was at exactly this point that a Lincoln MKZ rolled up, a window whirred down, and two gray-tufted heads popped out. "What is it?" inquired the couple in boisterous unison. Silence. "It's the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour," we eventually blurt out, my co-driver sounding suspiciously apologetic. "It's... it's gorgeous!" The late-sixty-something man isn't being facetious - in fact, he's gushing - taking his hands off the Lincoln's wheel and gesturing as if to reinforce his sincerity.

If we're lyin,' we're dyin.'

"It's absolutely beautiful."

More silence.

"Really? Would you like to take a closer look?" No sooner had we extended the offer than said window was rolled up and the MKZ hurriedly shepherded into a parking spot. Moments later, our curious seniors were all over Honda's latest like first-in-liners at an early bird all-you-can-eat buffet. They took in its daring fastback profile, sized up its cargo hold, fiddled with its power seat controllers and gooshed its soft-touch plastics. Not only were they clearly impressed, they loved the way it looked.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour


Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour goes down the road nicely... but is that enough?

First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour goes down the road nicely... but is that enough? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Crosstour2010 Honda2010 Honda Accord Crosstour2010Crosstour2010Honda2010HondaAccordCrosstouraccordaccord crosstourAccordCrosstourCrossOverCUVFeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivehondaHonda AccordHonda Accord Crosstourhonda crossoverHonda CrosstourHonda CUVHondaAccordHondaAccordCrosstourHondaCrossoverHondaCrosstourHondaCuvreviewedTue, 03 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Hyundai developing competitor for OnStar, Sync... but new system needs a name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/breaking-hyundai-developing-competitor-for-onstar-sync-but/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hyundai Equus - Click above for high-res image gallery

As part of its product and marketing development process, Hyundai has reached out to owners and enthusiasts to create a network of consumers with which to discuss everything from future models and technologies to advertising tactics, polls, and so on.

Autoblog has learned of a communiqué issued to members late last week where Dean Macko, Hyundai's Manager of Brand Strategy, appealed to focus group members to help come up with a name for a new "Advanced Technological System" - a telematics package likened repeatedly to General Motors' OnStar and Ford's Microsoft Sync.

According to Macko, the system Hyundai is pursuing focuses on "four buckets of service": Safety and Security (including theft immobilization and automatic emergency service notification in the event of a crash), Infotainment (wireless connectivity features for telephone, music, etc.), Navigation (like OnStar's turn-by-turn direction service), and Vehicle Diagnostics, a tool for both owners and dealers that could help track the need for maintenance and potentially even notify one's dealer to order parts for a forthcoming repair.

Macko admits Hyundai has come up with a number of possible names on its own, including In Touch, Ring, Fuse and Emerge, but the company is reaching out to its network for suggestions. Calling them "naming experts," Macko indicates that this focus group has already helped come up with titles for future paint colors.

To be clear, in Macko's video message, he only says that Hyundai is "thinking about" introducing such a system - he does not commit to a product, timetable, or price. However, given the tone of his message and the nature of the group that Macko is appealing to, we have to believe that this new technology is just around the corner... perhaps tied to the launch of the Equus luxury sedan?

Hyundai apparently needs these naming suggestions by this Wednesday, November 4, and while most of you probably aren't part of Hyundai's focus group, we know that top company officials trawl these hallowed precincts on a daily basis. Thus, if you have a suggestion of your own, why not drop it in 'Comments' - who knows, they just might pick yours. Thanks for the tip, Mike!


Gallery: Quick Spin: Hyundai Equus

equus_ride---01equus_ride---02equus_ride---03equus_ride---04equus_ride---05

BREAKING: Hyundai developing competitor for OnStar, Sync... but new system needs a name originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluetoothbreakingbreakingnewsconnectivityDean MackoDeanMackoFord SyncFordSyncGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGPShaptichyundaiimmobilizerinfotainmentinfotainment systemInfotainmentSystemMicrosoftMicrosoft SyncMicrosoftSyncOn StarOnstarSat-navtelematictelematicstheft recoveryTheftRecoveryvehicle diagnosticsvehicle immobilizationVehicleDiagnosticsVehicleImmobilizationwireless connectivityWirelessConnectivityMon, 02 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Drop the Hammer: Getting schooled with AMG Driving Academy at Lime Rock]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/drop-the-hammer-getting-schooled-with-amg-driving-academy-at-li/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/drop-the-hammer-getting-schooled-with-amg-driving-academy-at-li/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/drop-the-hammer-getting-schooled-with-amg-driving-academy-at-li/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

AMG Driving Academy at Lime Rock - Click above for high-res image gallery

The world's sickly economy not withstanding, selling luxury vehicles is easy. From the suppleness of a swatch of leather to the exquisite graining on a piece of rare wood veneer to having every electronic gewgaw available at one's fingertips, what defines a luxury car is essentially self-evident. To a substantial degree, everyone knows quality and true luxury when they see and feel it. The same cannot be so easily said when it comes to matters of high performance.

Selling luxury may be easy, but as AMG has figured out, selling high-performance is a heck of a lot more fun.
As one of the globe's premiere aspirational brands, Mercedes-Benz would appear to have the luxury selling routine knocked. But the company's AMG performance division has become an increasingly prominent part of its portfolio and bottom line, and these vehicles attract a different sort of customer and require a different marketing approach. Thankfully, as AMG has become increasingly important to Mercedes, its product line has risen in quality and dynamic performance. But while luxury and quality are easily conveyed, how do you sell four-wheeled thrills?

The thing is, as an automotive marketer, you can preach how great your sports car is until you're blue in the face, but until you're able to really show people how superior your vehicle is, you're never going to win them all over. And if you're like AMG, your offerings have become way too fast and capable to be safely exploited on public roads. So what's Mercedes to do? Why, give current and potential owners the chance to explore the dynamic limits of both their automobiles and themselves in a fun, legal, educational, and most importantly, safe environment. Enter the AMG Driving Academy.

Mercedes has offered its AMG driving program overseas for some time now, but this year is the first time they've brought the experience to the States. With events at Connecticut's storied Lime Rock Park, Florida's Palm Beach International Raceway, and California's legendary Laguna Seca, the venues Mercedes has chosen are certainly top-notch. But what about the experience? We had to find out for ourselves.


Gallery: AMG Driving Academy at Lime Rock Park

Continue reading Drop the Hammer: Getting schooled with AMG Driving Academy at Lime Rock

Drop the Hammer: Getting schooled with AMG Driving Academy at Lime Rock originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced drivingAdvancedDrivingAffelterbachAMGAMG Driving AcademyAmgDrivingAcademyC63 AMGC63AmgDriving schoolDrivingSchoolE63 AMGE63AmgfeaturedLime RockLimeRockMercedes AMGMercedes-Benz AMGMercedes-benzAmgMercedesAmgracing schoolRacingSchoolSL63 AMGSl63AmgSLK63 AMGSlk63AmgTommy KendallTommyKendallMon, 02 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles! - Day 1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-da/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-da/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/sema-sweeps-win-one-of-five-sony-psp-gran-turismo-bundles-da/#comments

Because our thumbs are practically aching in anticipation of the new Gran Turismo 5 game for Playstation 3, we've been hunting high and low for ways to keep our inner-child occupied until its release. Thankfully, the folks at Polyphony Digital and Sony have teamed up to make our wait more bearable with their new limited-edition PSP/Gran Turismo bundle, and we thought it'd be nice to share this welcome bit of relief with the Autoblog faithful.

As this week also marks the start of the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, and with it, the Seventh Annual GT Awards, we couldn't think of a better way to celebrate than by giving away one PSP/Gran Turismo bundle per day for five straight days!

Entering is easy. All you have to do is:
  • Leave a comment in this post telling us your favorite car featured in Gran Turismo PSP (Hint: Here's the compete list)
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the U.S. or Canada (excluding Quebec, largely due to Celine Dion)
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 12:00PM EST on Tuesday, November 3
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive one PSP/GT bundle (ARV $199.99) that includes a Mystic Silver PSP-3000 system, Gran Turismo PSP game on UMD, a PlayStation Network downloadable voucher for a white Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo, PlayStation Network downloadable movie voucher (title TBD) and Sony MusicPass voucher good for 10 downloadable songs.
  • For a list of complete rules, click here
That's it - it's free and easy. Good luck!!

UPDATE - Date of Day 1's entry period ending corrected.

SEMA Sweeps: Win one of five Sony PSP/Gran Turismo bundles! - Day 1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giveawaygran turismogran turismo giveawaygran turismo pspgran turismo sweepstakesGranTurismoGranTurismoGiveawayGranTurismoPspGranTurismoSweepstakespolyphony-digitalPSPpsp givawayPSP gran turismopsp sweepstakesPspGivawayPspGranTurismoPSPGTPspSweepstakessonysony playstationSonyPlaystationsweepstakesMon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[U.S. Acura TSX Sport Wagon not motivated by Honda Crosstour feedback]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/u-s-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-not-motivated-by-honda-crosstour-feed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/u-s-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-not-motivated-by-honda-crosstour-feed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/u-s-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-not-motivated-by-honda-crosstour-feed/#comments
2009 European Honda Accord Tourer - click above image for hi-res gallery

If you've been following the dust-up surrounding Honda's 2010 Accord Crosstour, you might therefore assume that Wednesday's announcement that the company plans to bring over its European-market Accord Tourer may have been motivated in part by early online reaction to the forthcoming five-door crossover. But as we suspected, t'aint necessarily so.

The Accord Tourer will hit U.S. shores later next year branded as the Acura TSX Sport Wagon, and as just about anyone in automotive product planning will tell you, new models aren't conceived that quickly - even if the vehicle in question is just a simple porting-over job from another market. There are emissions and crash-test certification hoops to jump through, suppliers that need to be contracted, dealers that need to be trained and marketing strategies that need to be built.

As spokesman Chuck Schifsky tells Autoblog, "Honda, as you know, is about as fast a reacting a product planning company as there is, but we don't react that quickly!... If our past is any indication, then us announcing the TSX wagon at this point shouldn't have been a surprise - we're notoriously known for bringing out a car and having it arrive in showrooms not long afterwards." Indeed, Schifsky is right - vehicles like the third-generation CR-V were seemingly in dealers within weeks of the public announcement and press launch. That said, Schifsky did admit that the timing of the announcement was moved up slightly for "strategic reasons," but he also said that those reasons had nothing to do with the Crosstour.

We asked Schifsky what the TSX Sport Wagon will look like when it arrives, and he told us that the car will not simply be the same as the European car. He admits he hasn't seen the finished product for himself yet, but he acknowledges that changes will be made to bring the design in-line with Acura's current styling language (read: it will receive a variation of the love/loath shield grille), and equipment levels will change to meet U.S. expectations. Given how much effort and money has been expended developing Acura's new corporate face, he believes it would be "foolish" to bring the Accord Tourer as-is, simply swapping the Honda badge for its Acura counterpart. Says Schifsky, "I would look to the U.S. TSX as an indicator as to what kind of equipment the car will have." Further, he advised us to examine the differences between the European-market Accord sedan and the Tourer bodystyle to look for indicators of what sort of changes the American market wagon will likely receive.

It's too early for Honda to reveal pricing for the 2011 model, but as the current TSX sedan starts at $29,310 and the 2010 Crosstour's price figures to be above a Accord V6 sedan (base price: $26,805), it's likely that there will be significant pricing overlap between the two models. Will there be any cannibalization? The Crosstour should lay claim to superior space and foul-weather capability thanks to its all-wheel drive model, but if the TSX sedan is anything to go on, the Acura will have superior driving dynamics, closer-to mainstream looks and a more desirable badge.

Either way, this one will be fun to watch play out...


Gallery: Honda Accord Tourer


Gallery: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour

U.S. Acura TSX Sport Wagon not motivated by Honda Crosstour feedback originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Acura TSX2010 Honda Accord2010 Honda Crosstour2010AcuraTsx2010HondaAccord2010HondaCrosstour2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon2011AcuraTsxSportWagonAccordCrosstourHonda AccordHonda Accord CrosstourHonda CrosstourHondaAccordHondaAccordCrosstourHondaCrosstourTSX sport wagonTSX WagonTsxSportWagonTsxWagonFri, 30 Oct 2009 19:26:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Acura confirms Euro Honda Accord Tourer coming as TSX sport wagon!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/breaking-acura-confirms-euro-honda-accord-tourer-coming-as-tsx/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/breaking-acura-confirms-euro-honda-accord-tourer-coming-as-tsx/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/28/breaking-acura-confirms-euro-honda-accord-tourer-coming-as-tsx/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Honda Accord Tourer - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we polled you yesterday afternoon about whether Honda was right in choosing to build the insurrectionary 2010 Accord Crosstour instead of picking the Accord Touring from its overseas showrooms, we didn't know that Acura was going to announce that it was doing just that today. Honest. In fact, as far as we're concerned, you guys made it happen. Well, 47.7% of you (at last count), anyway, as bringing over the Accord Tourer was your number one suggestion for a Honda/Acura load-lugger.

In any case, in a (very) brief press release available after the jump, Acura has announced the addition of a TSX sport wagon to its 2011 lineup, and it will likely look suspiciously like the Euro-market Accord Touring model that many people have been clamoring for. Acura confirms that the model will be based on the TSX sedan, which is itself basically a Euro Accord. It is unclear which powertrains we'll get, or if styling will be tweaked from its European counterpart, but it is expected to arrive next fall. Color us excited.

Now, about that JDM Odyssey...


Gallery: Honda Accord Tourer


[Source: Acura]

Continue reading BREAKING: Acura confirms Euro Honda Accord Tourer coming as TSX sport wagon!

BREAKING: Acura confirms Euro Honda Accord Tourer coming as TSX sport wagon! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Accord CrosstourAccordCrosstourAcurabreakingbreakingnewsCrosstourHonda AccordHondaAccordsport wagonsports wagonSportsWagonSportWagonTSXTSX sport wagonTsxSportWagonWed, 28 Oct 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: BMW looking at cheaper 5 Series Gran Turismo, rules out M model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rumormill-bmw-looking-at-cheaper-5-series-gran-turismo-rules-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rumormill-bmw-looking-at-cheaper-5-series-gran-turismo-rules-o/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/rumormill-bmw-looking-at-cheaper-5-series-gran-turismo-rules-o/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


BMW 535i Gran Turismo - Click above for high-res image gallery

The famed automotive pot-stirrers at Autocar are at it again. According to two blurbs from the UK publication, BMW's new 5 Series Gran Turismo may spawn at least one less costly, less powerful variant, but a high-performance M version is apparently off the table.

On the fuel and financial economy front, Bimmer is reportedly considering adding four-cylinder powerplants to the controversial new five-door, including the 175 bhp diesel from the 320d. A twin-turbo diesel may also be in the cards. The fear here is that the premium-priced 5GT may in fact be priced too aggressively, as it stickers above a comparable 5 Series Touring model. In any case, we don't expect to see the less-powerful diesel Stateside, although we wouldn't be terribly suprised if the company chose to shoehorn in something like the twin-turbo 3.0-liter diesel already on offer in the 335d.

On the M side of the equation, Autocar says that the gasoline V8-powered 550i will remain the pinnacle of the range, as BMW has "ruled out" a M-Technik variant. Given that BMW has recently seen fit to move M beyond traditional cars (see: X5 and X6) and that these higher performance models often have thicker margins attached, this strikes us as somewhat curious decision - especially as the 5GT figures to be the most dynamically promising of the bunch. This source also doesn't jibe with what we heard from BMW officials just last month when we drove the car in Portugal. At that time, the official line was that no decision had been made, but knowing glances and meek smiles seemed to indicate that things looked good for the model.

In other words, we'll believe it when we (don't) see it.


Gallery: First Drive: BMW 535i Gran Turismo


[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: BMW looking at cheaper 5 Series Gran Turismo, rules out M model originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5 Series5 Series GT5-Series5-Series GT5-seriesGt535i535iGT550i550iGT5Series5SeriesGtBimmerBMWBMW dieselBMW Gran turismoBMW Grand TurismoBMW MBMW MotorsportsBMW wagonBmwDieselBmwGrandTurismoBmwGranTurismoBmwMBmwMotorsportsBmwWagondieselGran TurismoGrand TurismoGrandTurismoGranTurismoM-technikMotorsportTue, 27 Oct 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Caterham CSR 175 makes unexpected world debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-caterham-csr-175-makes-unexpected-world-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-caterham-csr-175-makes-unexpected-world-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-caterham-csr-175-makes-unexpected-world-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Caterham CSR 175 - Click above for high-res image gallery

It would be tempting to call this year's Tokyo Motor Show an entirely domestic affair, but that's not entirely accurate, as a few smaller specialty automakers like Lotus and Alpina took advantage of a surplus of available square footage by nailing down prime floor space for themselves. As a belated addition to the festivities, Caterham, England's merry band of Colin Chapman acolytes marked the occasion with the world debut of its CSR 175.

The new model slots in as a new bottom rung to the CSR franchise, which is paradoxically the marque's premium range. The 175 joins the range's existing trio of variants, the 200 bhp CSR200, the 260bhp CSR260 and the full-house 260 bhp CSR Superlight. If you're paying attention, you can therefore deduce that the new addition possesses 175 bhp. That may not sound like a lot of power, but in a car that weighs as much as an anorexic gnat, we reckon the Ford-sourced 2.3-liter Duratec four-pot will still be plenty entertaining.

Either way, traditional minimalist roadsters like the Se7en have never been about terminal velocity, they've always been predicated on leech-like cornering and giant-kiling acceleration. And given that the 175 shares the CSR family's stiffer spaceframe chassis, updated suspension and refined aerodynamics, Caterham's latest should continue corner like a cat on carpet. And given the vast empty expanses of the stuff here at the show, we'd be tickled if someone handed us the keys for a bit of after-hours fun...


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Caterham CSR 175


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Caterham CSR 175 makes unexpected world debut

Tokyo 2009: Caterham CSR 175 makes unexpected world debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Tokyo Motor Show2009TokyoMotorShowCaterhamCaterham CSRCaterham CSR 175CaterhamCsrCaterhamCsr175lotus 7lotus sevenLotus7LotusSevense7ense7venTokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowThu, 22 Oct 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Rear-wheel drive Toyota Mark X had us at "mite-suppressing agent"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-rear-wheel-drive-toyota-mark-x-had-us-at-mite-suppr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-rear-wheel-drive-toyota-mark-x-had-us-at-mite-suppr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-rear-wheel-drive-toyota-mark-x-had-us-at-mite-suppr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Toyota Mark X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Remember back when Toyota actually offered rear-wheel drive cars? Sure, a production version of the FT-86 concept is on the way, and yes, you can get a Toyota-branded truck or plump for a Lexus that routes its power out back - but when was the last time Americans could get a proper rear-driver from the Japanese automaker? It had to be back in 2005 when the third-generation MR2 petered out. And for something with four doors? Let's just say it's been a lot longer.

For Japan's Toyota faithful, however, the rear-drive picture has stayed altogether brighter. Since 2004, the brand has offered the Mark X, a sedan that has shared much of its architecture with the Lexus GS and IS - including its rear- and all-wheel drive configurations. For 2010, the Mark X has come in for a freshening, and the conservatively handsome model has us wishing that Toyota would reconsider offering the model Stateside more than ever.

Sadly, we can't get too excited just yet, because Toyota isn't exactly coughing up all of the key dynamic details. Oh, we know that the second-generation Mark X will be available with either a 2.5-liter or a 3.5-liter V6 paired to a standard six-speed automatic transmission. But Toyota isn't talking much in the way of power or performance metrics, although it does admit that the smaller-engined model will still hit 62 mph in 8.4 seconds.

Further changes beneath the reworked skin include a tweaked suspension with lower-friction parts and beefed-up locating arms. An optional "sports type model" also adds a computer-controlled suspension, different power delivery settings (Sport, Snow, and Eco modes), paddle shifters, as well as variable-ratio electric power steering - a feature we don't normally associate with this class of vehicle. Did we mention the tinted head- and tail-lamps for added sports aggression?

Of course, it wouldn't be a JDM press introduction without some suitably improbable press release verbiage, and the Mark X doesn't disappoint. Toyota's design theme for the new model is "glam tech" which duals "the visual glamour conveyed by the vehicle with the 'high-tech' expression of its modern and precise feel." Not ambitious enough? The lux-oriented "Premium type" model features "refined velour-moquette seat covers... treated with mite-suppressing agent that also prevents static electricity."

"Mite-suppressing agent?" Toyota, even after all these years, you still know the way to our hearts...


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: 2010 Toyota Mark X


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Rear-wheel drive Toyota Mark X had us at "mite-suppressing agent"

Tokyo 2009: Rear-wheel drive Toyota Mark X had us at "mite-suppressing agent" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 09:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allergydust mitedust mitesDustMiteDustMitesJDMLexus GSLexus ISLexusGsLexusIsMark XMarkXrear-drive ToyotaRear-driveToyotarear-wheel driveRear-wheelDriveRWDtokyotokyo auto showtokyo motor showtokyo2009TokyoAutoShowTokyomotorshowtokyomotorshow2009toyotaToyota Mark XToyotaMarkXThu, 22 Oct 2009 09:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Nissan Fuga appears more 'M'pressive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/nissan-fuga-tokyo-2009-infiniti-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/nissan-fuga-tokyo-2009-infiniti-m/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/nissan-fuga-tokyo-2009-infiniti-m/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Nissan Fuga - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've always thought that Infiniti's current M35/M45 sedan deserved greater consideration from American consumers than it has typically received. With a strong VQ-series powerplant and entertaining rear-wheel drive handling, there has always been a lot to like from behind the wheel, but its restrained styling has seemingly always failed to convey the sort of emotion delivered by the driving experience. Thankfully, judging by its just-introduced Nissan Fuga twin here at the Tokyo Motor Show, anonymous styling figures to be less of an Achilles heel going forward.

Powered in the Japanese market by a pair of VQ-series V6 engines displacing 2.5-liters and 3.7-liters respectively (power figures have not been disclosed), the real emphasis for the next-gen model appears to be on advanced safety and creature comfort technology. We're hoping this focus doesn't result in compromised dynamics, but we are very curious to sample such bits of electronic wizardry as Nissan's "Forest AC" that includes a breeze setting and an aroma atomizer, to say nothing of "Intelligent Pedal," a new system that can actually make braking decisions based on data from the sat-nav unit. In our experience, bearing in mind how often the map data has been wrong in a given vehicle's GPS system, we hope that the system doesn't randomly lock up the binders for a phantom hairpin - especially with someone following a bit too closely behind.

Either way, when the Fuga comes to North America next year, we expect it to once again be powered by either the larger of the two VQ-series V6s or a V8 engine. A hybrid model will hit Japan next autumn, and we hear it's also coming Stateside.

Check out the Infiniti M Fuga's newly voluptuous curves in our high-res gallery below and the official release after the jump.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: 2010 Nissan Fuga


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Nissan Fuga appears more 'M'pressive

Tokyo 2009: Nissan Fuga appears more 'M'pressive originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Tokyo Motor Show2009TokyoMotorShow2010 Nissan Fuga2010NissanFugaForest ACForestAcFugainfiniti MInfiniti M35infiniti M45InfinitiMInfinitiM35InfinitiM45intelligent pedalIntelligentPedalM35M45NissanNissan FugaNissanFugapremium rear-drive sedanPremiumRear-driveSedanrwdtokyoTokyo 2009tokyo auto showTokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoAutoShowTokyoMotorShowThu, 22 Oct 2009 08:41:00 EST