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[Review: 2012 BMW 528i xDrive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/20/2012-bmw-528i-xdrive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/20/2012-bmw-528i-xdrive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/20/2012-bmw-528i-xdrive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Little Engine That Could Gets Its First Real Test



BMW owners in Europe have traditionally been presented with a wide variety of engine options from which to choose, ranging from a slew of four-cylinder petrol or diesel variants to a few six-, eight- and even 10-cylinder options. Here in the U.S., the pickings had been decidedly more slim for a long time, with the 3.0-liter inline six serving as the smallest measure of cylinder displacement. Even the ultra-compact 1 Series could only be ordered with the naturally aspirated or turbocharged 3.0.

That changed for the 2012 model year when a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hit our shores. This new engine is more powerful than the naturally aspirated 3.0-liter, with 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque at our beck and call. The engine was a common sense fit for the 3 Series, and early returns show that the 328i may, in fact, be the 3er to get.

But while the 3 Series was an obvious pairing for the 2.0T, the bigger and heavier 5 Series is a less apparent choice. That didn't stop BMW from offering the engine under the hood of the 2012 528i, and the German automaker didn't even shy away from pairing the mini mill with its weighty xDrive all-wheel-drive system, even though it wasn't even an option in the six-cylinder 2011 528i.

We spent a week with a well-appointed 528i with xDrive to see if the new turbocharged 2.0-liter had the guts to motivate 4,001 pounds of German engineering, while still feeling like a luxury sport sedan.

Continue reading 2012 BMW 528i xDrive

2012 BMW 528i xDrive originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jul 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bmw 5 series2012 bmw 528i xdrive5 series528i528i xdrivebmwfeaturedreviewreviewsxdriveFri, 20 Jul 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2013 Acura RDX]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/2013-acura-rdx-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/2013-acura-rdx-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/19/2013-acura-rdx-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Softening Of A Sharp-Edged CUV

2013 Acura RDX

If you had asked us back in 2006 if the then-brand-new Acura RDX would be a success, our answer would have been yes. And why not? The Acura brand was still in demand, buyers were increasingly clamoring for luxury crossovers and the economy appeared to be in solid shape. And don't forget that the RDX was seemingly ahead of its time, pairing together a turbocharger and inline four-cylinder engine before it became de rigueur among engine choices.

If you had asked us that question six years ago, we would've been dead wrong, because the RDX proved to be anything but a sure bet. The compact luxury crossover stumbled along with woeful sales over the past half-decade, with 2007 being its best year with a meager 23,356 units sold. As it turns out, American luxury car buyers weren't ready for a boosted CUV with a stiff ride, limited cargo-hauling capabilities and lousy fuel economy.

While the first RDX was a box office flop, Acura feels like it has an appropriate sequel for the 2013 model year. Gone is that performance-oriented turbo-four that was so out of place. Honda's luxury arm has instead gone with the company's tried and true 3.5-liter V6, placed it in a new larger platform, and added a raft of much-needed refinement.

Continue reading 2013 Acura RDX

2013 Acura RDX originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 acura rdxacuraacura rdxfeaturedrdxreviewreviewsThu, 19 Jul 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Watch someone survive being ejected through a sunroof in a rollover]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/15/watch-someone-survive-being-ejected-through-a-sunroof-in-a-rollo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/15/watch-someone-survive-being-ejected-through-a-sunroof-in-a-rollo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/15/watch-someone-survive-being-ejected-through-a-sunroof-in-a-rollo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

UK man ejected through sunroof - security camera video

Every once in a while, we see a video that defies explanation, and this is definitely one of those times. Scroll down to watch security camera footage of a young man in England who might be the luckiest individual on earth.

Los Angeles' KTLA5 reports that a man and his girlfriend were having a loud argument while she was driving when the car they were in hit a wall and rolled violently. The whole thing was caught on a security camera. Judging by the grainy footage, as the car slowed its roll, the man shot through the sunroof. Instead of laying on the cement writhing in pain, though, he appears to simply stand up, dust off his clothes and check on his girlfriend. Both individuals were reportedly taken to the hospital with minor injuries and released.

We're thinking it was a good thing that the sunroof was either open or shattered, but it would have been an even better thing if the man were wearing his seatbelt. Scroll down to watch the video for yourself.

Continue reading Watch someone survive being ejected through a sunroof in a rollover

Watch someone survive being ejected through a sunroof in a rollover originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentcctv cameracrashcrash failcrash winenglandman ejectedsecurity camerasunroofSun, 15 Jul 2012 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: In-car navigation systems expected to quadruple by 2019]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/in-car-navigation-systems-expected-to-quadruple-by-2019/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/in-car-navigation-systems-expected-to-quadruple-by-2019/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/in-car-navigation-systems-expected-to-quadruple-by-2019/#commentsFiled under:

bmw nav

Navigation systems have been coming down in price lately, making in-car directions more accessible to the masses. At the same time massive tech companies like Apple and Microsoft have gotten into the game as well, and as TheDetroitBureau.com reports, a new study shows that these forces are converging to quadruple the systems by 2019.

That's another 13 million nav systems per year around the world, or 56 million units by 2019. The biggest gains will likely take place in China, with sales going from 355,000 to 11.8 million in a decade.

The study unsurprisingly predicts that navigation systems will also change considerably during that time, going from traditional DVD-based technology to inexpensive in-car systems and smart phone-based systems like the upcoming Apple tech that will be found on future vehicles from General Motors, BMW, Toyota, Audi and many other OEMs.

Cheaper tech and increased competition tend to go hand-in-hand, but that recipe could be toxic for traditional navigation providers like TomTom and Garmin. Such companies will need to rely on ingenuity and smaller margins to continue to thrive in the more competitive market.

In-car navigation systems expected to quadruple by 2019 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegarmingooglegpsnavinavigationnavigation systemtomtomFri, 13 Jul 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Watch what might be the best-ever save attempt in motoring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/watch-what-might-be-the-best-ever-save-attempt-in-motoring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/watch-what-might-be-the-best-ever-save-attempt-in-motoring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/10/watch-what-might-be-the-best-ever-save-attempt-in-motoring/#commentsFiled under: , ,

dash cam screencap of men trying to save runaway car

We have no idea why the vehicle in the below video was rolling downhill on the wrong side of the road (a bad parking brake would be a good guess), but we do know that the gentleman in white is either brave or crazy... or a chilly cocktail of both.

In the video above, we have some dashboard camera footage of a vehicle rolling out of control with a gang of guys chasing after it as things look increasingly dire. It takes one particularly fleet-of-foot man with some serious brass clock-weights to run alongside and try to dive into the car before a nasty accident ensues. Scroll down to watch the video and see if he was successful.

Continue reading Watch what might be the best-ever save attempt in motoring

Watch what might be the best-ever save attempt in motoring originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jul 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car rundowncar savedash camdashboard cameurythmicsrunaway carrundownvideoTue, 10 Jul 2012 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Watch a Jeep Grand Cherokee fail Sweden's Moose Test *UPDATE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/watch-a-jeep-grand-cherokee-fail-swedens-moose-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/watch-a-jeep-grand-cherokee-fail-swedens-moose-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/watch-a-jeep-grand-cherokee-fail-swedens-moose-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jeep Grand Cherokee threatens to roll over during moose test

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has proven to be a rock-solid off-road-capable SUV with a dose of civility on public roads. But while the top Jeep has a terrific reputation and a long list of accolades, at least one model apparently didn't have the chops for the Teknikens Moose (or Elk) test over in Sweden.

The moose test is a lighting-fast emergency lane change maneuver that takes place at a relatively staid 40 miles per hour. While most vehicles clear the obstacle with little fuss, the below video shows that a Grand Cherokee Overland got up on two wheels and very nearly rolled. Teknikens Värld tester Linus Pröjtz points out in the Overland model comes standard in Sweden with 20-inch wheels, rollover protection and electronic stability control.

The Swedish car magazine (translation: "World of Technology") goes on to call on Chrysler to put a stop sale on the Grand Cherokee in Sweden until this issue is addressed, and they claim Chrysler has yet to provide an explanation as to why the vehicle performed so poorly.

Here in the States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the Grand Cherokee four stars, including a five-star score for side impacts. However, in rating the SUV's rollover resistance, the GC only managed three stars in rear-wheel drive configuration, while four-wheel drive models netted four stars.

Scroll down to take in the press release from Teknikens, followed by the one-minute video that shows the GC Overland going all Dukes of Hazzard.

*UPDATE: Chrysler brand fan site Allpar has published an article that alleges that the rollover test was rigged, arguing the test was conducted in an intentionally overloaded vehicle. Further, it reports that the magazine conducted the test again - with Chrysler engineers standing by - in three different correctly loaded Grand Cherokees over eleven separate runs, but they were "unable to reproduce" the wheel lift condition.

**UPDATE: Chrysler confirms it is actively investigating the test and has just furnished Autoblog with an official response which you can read by scrolling down.

Continue reading Watch a Jeep Grand Cherokee fail Sweden's Moose Test *UPDATE

Watch a Jeep Grand Cherokee fail Sweden's Moose Test *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jeep grand cherokee2012 jeep grand cherokee overlandelkelk testgrand cherokeejeepmoose testoverlandroll overrolloverstability controlswedenteknikensvideoMon, 09 Jul 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Truck driver shortage means a longer wait for your packages]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/truck-driver-shortage-means-a-longer-wait-for-your-packages/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/truck-driver-shortage-means-a-longer-wait-for-your-packages/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/03/truck-driver-shortage-means-a-longer-wait-for-your-packages/#commentsFiled under: ,

semi truck driver

The news may be flooded with stories about the lagging U.S. economy and disappointing jobs reports, but it appears there is at least one profession that could use a few more applicants. USA Today reports that there is a genuine shortage of truck drivers, and the problem is leading to pricier deliveries and longer waits on packages.

There are plenty of reasons for the driver shortage, with a raft of retiring baby boomers and the $4,000 to $6,000 price for a six-week training course being among the main culprits. Another potential issue is a requirement for trucking companies to publish their safety records, which has reportedly led to some companies looking only for drivers with clean records. And the problem could become worse in the next year as the federal government enacts strict federal limits on the time drivers can spend behind the wheel of a big rig.

The good news is that drivers at least 21 years of age have plenty of opportunities for employment. Pay has gone up as well, with compensation jumping five percent year-over-year to an average of $50,000 per year. And with pay jumping that fast, a few thousand dollars worth of training becomes more of an investment.

Truck driver shortage means a longer wait for your packages originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Jul 2012 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driverhiringjobrigsemisemi drivertrucktruck driverwagesTue, 03 Jul 2012 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Ford to exceed EcoBoost target by 100,000 units]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/ford-to-exceed-ecoboost-target-by-100-000-units/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/ford-to-exceed-ecoboost-target-by-100-000-units/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/ford-to-exceed-ecoboost-target-by-100-000-units/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Ford Explorer EcoBoost badge

Like almost every other automaker these days, Ford is having a tough time in Europe right now, and here in the States, its per-share stock price is lagging, but that isn't stopping the automaker from exceeding some of its goals. The Detroit Free Press reports that sales of the company's EcoBoost turbocharged and direct-injected engines are going beyond expectations. The Blue Oval's signature powerplants have made it to a wide variety of Ford and Lincoln products, from larger vehicles like the Explorer, Taurus and MKT to smaller models like the new Escape and Focus ST.

In fact, Ford is reportedly on track to sell 1.6 million of these forced-induction vehicles in 2013 - a full 100,000 units more than it had previously estimated.

The smaller, more efficient EcoBoost powerplants will make the Ford lineup more efficient and a program to cut down the amount of platforms the automaker uses globally is helping to trim costs. Ford product development chief Raj Nair claims that the automaker is on track to clip its platforms from 22 in 2011 to 10 by 2017. The move should save Ford hundreds of millions of dollars as platform costs drop as scale increases.

Ford to exceed EcoBoost target by 100,000 units originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ecoboostfordford motor coford motor companyford saleslincolnturboturbochargedMon, 02 Jul 2012 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Houston woman warns motorists of speed trap with sign, gets thrown in jail]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/houston-woman-warns-motorists-of-speed-trap-with-sign-gets-thro/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/houston-woman-warns-motorists-of-speed-trap-with-sign-gets-thro/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/houston-woman-warns-motorists-of-speed-trap-with-sign-gets-thro/#commentsFiled under: ,

nicole plummer holding sign

This story is irritating on so many levels. It involves a dreaded police speed trap, a good samaritan warning motorists of the potential fine and a 12-hour stint in a Texas jail cell.

Houston-area resident Natalie Plummer, who was riding her bike on the way home from the grocery store, noticed that cops were pulling over speeders with what looked like a speed trap, so she decided to turn her bag into a make-shift warning sign. That sort of action seems to be covered by the Constitution, but Plummer was still arrested for allegedly standing in the street when there was a sidewalk present. For the record, Plummer tells KRTK that she never left the sidewalk, and she claims that the arresting officer threatened her with an arrest for obstructing justice, which is a felony offense.

Scroll down to watch the ABC News report. We can see the cops being irritated with Ms. Plummer's sign-holding activity, but a 12-hour jail term seems more than a little excessive. Heck, even a fine of $1 seems a bit heavy handed, but then many feel the same way about speed traps.

Continue reading Houston woman warns motorists of speed trap with sign, gets thrown in jail

Houston woman warns motorists of speed trap with sign, gets thrown in jail originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arrestedcopsjailnicole plummerpoliceprisonsignspeed trapFri, 29 Jun 2012 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Chrysler adding jobs at Toledo Jeep plant to boost Wrangler production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/chrysler-adding-jobs-at-toledo-jeep-plant-to-boost-wrangler-prod/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/chrysler-adding-jobs-at-toledo-jeep-plant-to-boost-wrangler-prod/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/chrysler-adding-jobs-at-toledo-jeep-plant-to-boost-wrangler-prod/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

wrangler unlimited altitude

New car sales have been on the upswing, and few vehicles have experienced more success than the Jeep Wrangler. The iconic off-roader set an all-time May sales record with 14,454 units sold, and its total sales are up 34 percent on the year.

That's good news for Chrysler, and it could lead to more high-wage manufacturing jobs in northern Ohio. Automotive News reports that Team Pentastar plans to add an unspecified number of jobs to its Toledo Jeep plant in the fourth quarter of 2012. The move should help Chrysler satiate demand for the perpetually hot Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, and it could help international sales, as well. CEO Sergio Marchionne is on record saying that he'd like the Wrangler to spur Jeep sales across the pond.

That said, there is a chance that this decision won't lead to many new hires in the near term. The Toledo, Ohio complex also builds the Jeep Liberty until August, when the plant will receive a makeover that will result in an additional 300,000 square feet of production space. It seems likely that the Wrangler jobs could come from the neighboring plant (the whole complex uses two facilities), but when production picks up at the renovated building, new jobs would have to be added. Chrysler has previously announced that up to 1,100 new positions will be available at the complex by the end of 2013.

Chrysler adding jobs at Toledo Jeep plant to boost Wrangler production originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hiringjeepjobslibertyplanttoledounlimitedwranglerFri, 29 Jun 2012 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Next BMW M5 to drop manual transmission option]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/next-bmw-m5-to-drop-manual-transmission-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/next-bmw-m5-to-drop-manual-transmission-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/next-bmw-m5-to-drop-manual-transmission-option/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



There is something very right about a rear-wheel-drive sports sedan with over 500 horsepower and a manual transmission, and yet few vehicles check those boxes quite like the BMW M5. Unfortunately, most M5 buyers prefer to leave their left foot out of the gear-shifting equation, which is leading BMW to lose the manual tranny option altogether in favor of a dual-clutch-only approach.

Inside Line reports that the next M5, and the M6 for that matter, will not feature a manual transmission option. BMW M-brand Engineering chief Albert Biermann reportedly told IL that manual-equipped M5 models are topping out at 15 percent of total sales, making the MT a money-loser for the brand. Biermann claims that the volume of manual transmission buyers makes it all but impossible to make another three-pedal M5, adding "nobody wants it in Europe or anywhere else, so this will be the last time we do it."

This is most definitely not good news for stick shift-loving enthusiasts, but at the same time we can hardly argue against Biermann's point. There's no sense in offering a no-charge manual option if the vast majority of buyers don't want it. Fortunately, the M3 doesn't suffer from the same problem, so the M5's baby brother will continue to offer a row-your-own option.

Next BMW M5 to drop manual transmission option originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwclutchdual-clutchm5m6manual transmissionThu, 21 Jun 2012 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2013 Infiniti JX35 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/2013-infiniti-jx35-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/2013-infiniti-jx35-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/21/2013-infiniti-jx35-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Big Luxury That's Long On Looks

2013 Infiniti JX35

Three-row crossovers are a bit like accounting departments in that every automaker has one, and there isn't much else about them that's exciting. But while most every automaker offers a crossover with seating for seven or eight, there surprisingly aren't many options in the luxury space. The Audi Q7 doesn't really count since it weighs an SUV-like 5,200 pounds. Lincoln offers the MKT, but few buyers have taken Ford's luxury marque up on that offer. And then there is the Buick Enclave, which sells well but suffers from that "not quite a Cadillac" feeling. That's it... every other three-row luxury vehicle falls squarely in the body-on-frame SUV category, until now.

Infiniti is looking to spice up the larger luxury space with its JX35, which is built on next-generation Nissan Pathfinder hardware, but with more expressive sheet metal and a spruced-up cabin compared to its mainstream counterpart. Since the field is wide open for Infiniti, the luxury brand appears ready to blaze its own trail with a reasonable $40,000 price of entry and an impressive suite of available features.

Continue reading 2013 Infiniti JX35 [w/video]

2013 Infiniti JX35 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 infiniti jxcrossovercvtfeaturedinfinitijxjx35luxuryreviewreviewsThu, 21 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Nissan debuts first barrage of Altima ads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/nissan-debuts-first-barrage-of-altima-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/nissan-debuts-first-barrage-of-altima-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/nissan-debuts-first-barrage-of-altima-ads/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Nissan has plenty to be proud of with its all-new 2013 Altima. The sedan promises to average 38 miles per gallon on the highway, which is best-in-class for a non-hybrid. The new Altima also boasts a lighter and stronger frame, increased power and quicker acceleration among its many improvements.

As you'll see below, crafting an ad campaign is that much easier when you have so much to be proud of. Scroll down to watch the first four commercials that Nissan has lined up to introduce its new Altima to America.

In the first two, Nissan plays it straight with a raft of back-patting and a couple of jabs at the competition from Honda and Toyota. The second two spots aim for the funny bone while also pointing out new technology and hammering away at those all-important fuel economy numbers.

We're especially fond of the last commercial, which cleverly points out that the horn will honk when the tires have been filled to the optimum level. Funny stuff.

Continue reading Nissan debuts first barrage of Altima ads

Nissan debuts first barrage of Altima ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 nissan altimaadaltimacommercialnissansedanspotWed, 20 Jun 2012 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Nissan expects Leaf sales to double when TN plant comes online]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/19/nissan-expects-leaf-sales-to-double-when-tn-plant-comes-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/19/nissan-expects-leaf-sales-to-double-when-tn-plant-comes-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/19/nissan-expects-leaf-sales-to-double-when-tn-plant-comes-online/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Nissan Leaf - blue - front three-quarter view

The Nissan Leaf isn't exactly flying off dealer shelves these days, but the slow-selling EV could receive a sales boost when some production is moved to Tennessee. Bloomberg reports that Nissan is ambitiously expecting to double Leaf sales once the plant comes online in December. The sales boost would then give Nissan a chance at hitting 20,000 sales for the fiscal year that ends on March 31, 2013.

It isn't out of the question that the Leaf could gain momentum with the help of local manufacturing, but first Nissan will need to get EV buyers in the showroom. Leaf sales have ebbed the past two months, falling behind the Chevrolet Volt in sales by more than a three-to-one margin. And speaking of margins, moving production to Tennessee from Japan should help Nissan's quest to make money on the Leaf thanks to lower labor and parts costs.

The Smyrna, Tennessee plant will be ramped up for Leaf production by December. The facility will be able to build up to 200,000 Leaf models and 150,000 battery packs per year.

Nissan expects Leaf sales to double when TN plant comes online originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Jun 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan leaf2013 nissan leafleafnissannissan tennesseesmyrnasmyrna tennesseetennesseeTue, 19 Jun 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Watch <i>Top Gear</i> complete a world record double loop]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/watch-top-gear-complete-a-world-record-double-loop/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/watch-top-gear-complete-a-world-record-double-loop/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/watch-top-gear-complete-a-world-record-double-loop/#commentsFiled under: ,

Top Gear double-loop attempt

The Top Gear team has made a bit of history at the Top Gear Festival in Durban, South Africa, as a stunt driver pulled off a double loop in front of a crowd of over 15,000. The event involved a 26-foot tall double loop track that looks to have come right out of a Hot Wheels box, except that it weighs over eight tons. The stunt vehicle of choice was a custom-made buggy with a throttle lock that could travel at a constant 24-26 mile per hour speed that the math geeks said was necessary for a successful "Deadly 720."

Scroll below to watch a nearly two-minute video that starts with cheering crowds and the trio of Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond and ends with the buggy stunt. We're thinking the best part of the video was the in-buggy view of the double loop.

Continue reading Watch Top Gear complete a world record double loop

Watch Top Gear complete a world record double loop originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buggyclarksondeadly 720durbanjames mayjeremy clarksonloop-the-looprichard hammondstunttop geartop gear festivaltop gear livevideoMon, 18 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Judge gives car thief break, thief gives judge's car a break-in]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/judge-gives-car-thief-break-thief-gives-judges-car-a-break-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/judge-gives-car-thief-break-thief-gives-judges-car-a-break-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/judge-gives-car-thief-break-thief-gives-judges-car-a-break-in/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Broken auto glass from break-in

Stealing cars is (obviously) against the law, and getting caught usually translates into a significant prison term. We're guessing the crime is just a bit stiffer if you're caught attempting to swipe the ride of a judge, especially if you just left her court room.

SF Gate reports that Judge Lillian Sing had just finished giving convicted felon Phillip Bernard a break after he missed some probation requirements when the gentleman walked out of the court room and used a weighted sock to smash a car window in the court parking lot. Of course, it happened to be the judge's vehicle, and Bernard timed his malfeasance so that two police officers just happened to be walking by when the incident occurred. We're guessing the move was either a string of complete stupidity or the 32-year-old homeless man actually wanted to go back to jail.

It should come as no surprise that Bernard is back behind bars and we're guessing the good judge probably won't be so lenient the next time she sees him.

Judge gives car thief break, thief gives judge's car a break-in originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto theftburglarycar theftcar thiefjudgejudge singlillian singphillip bernardsan franciscosmashed windowstolen carThu, 14 Jun 2012 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Ford configurator prices new 2013 Explorer Sport from $40,720*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/ford-configurator-prices-new-2013-explorer-sport-from-40-720/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/ford-configurator-prices-new-2013-explorer-sport-from-40-720/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/08/ford-configurator-prices-new-2013-explorer-sport-from-40-720/#commentsFiled under: , ,

explorer sport configurator

With at least 350 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, the 2013 Ford Explorer Sport is no ho-hum grocery getter. Now that we know how much the most powerful Explorer costs, we may have to start cutting coupons. Ford has priced the new Explorer Sport at $40,720 plus another $825 for destination charges. That price tag comes in at nearly $1,000 more than the similarly equipped Explorer Limited with all-wheel drive, yet it adds the EcoBoost V6 and sport-tuned suspension.

The standard Explorer Sport comes nicely equipped, but far from loaded. The Blue Oval offers a 402A package with voice-activated navigation and Travel Link, pushbutton start and remote start for $4,130. Add adaptive cruise control ($1,150), dual-panel moonroof ($1,595) and dual-DVD for the second row and you're looking at $50,415.

That's a good bit of coin for a crossover with a Ford badge, but if you've always dreamed of an Explorer with a boosted sledgehammer of a powertrain, this Sport may be your best bet.

Ford configurator prices new 2013 Explorer Sport from $40,720* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 explorer2013 ford explorer sportconfiguratorecoboostexplorerexplorer sportfordmyford touchFri, 08 Jun 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2013 Ford Flex]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/06/2013-ford-flex-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/06/2013-ford-flex-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/06/2013-ford-flex-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

More Of The Same Is Just Fine With Us

2013 Ford Flex

The Ford Flex hasn't seen much sales success since it first hit America's streets back in 2008, and its boxy flanks have been decidedly hit or miss with the buying public. Still, when we first got a chance to drive the Flex, the big crossover was a revelation. It was smooth yet brash, comfy and luxurious all at once. In hindsight, one could argue that this big boat stands as a harbinger of Ford's revival. After the Flex arrived, a re-imagined Fusion, a much-improved Edge, the Explorer crossover and the new Focus all bowed.

The Flex was a big step forward for the Blue Oval in terms of refinement and bold design, but three-row crossover buyers are clearly looking for something more. Fortunately for Ford, the 2013 model year brings with it a refresh of its worst-selling Blue Oval-badged crossover, with more power, additional technology and a new face. Has Dearborn fiddled with the Flex formula enough to finally turn its most unique-looking crossover into a sales success? Only the market will determine that, but we spent a week with the vehicle to determine if it might have a shot.

Continue reading 2013 Ford Flex

2013 Ford Flex originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 ford flexcrossoverfeaturedflexfordford flex reviewmyford touchreviewreviewswagonWed, 06 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Dodge Durango, Avenger models will be discontinued, SRT model for Journey planned]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/dodge-durango-avenger-models-will-be-discontinued-srt-model-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/dodge-durango-avenger-models-will-be-discontinued-srt-model-fo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/dodge-durango-avenger-models-will-be-discontinued-srt-model-fo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2011 Dodge Durango - black, front three-quarter view

Chrysler has gotten on pretty well in the post-bankruptcy world, with a big assist from its newest master. But while Chrysler has seen dramatic improvement thanks to refreshes and a few new models, the next couple years could be very exciting.

Automobile Magazine recently got the chance to talk cars with CEO Sergio Marchionne, and the charismatic leader apparently had plenty to say. Among the top headlines are the reported upcoming death of the Dodge Avenger in 2014 and Dodge Durango in 2016. We're thinking nobody will miss the Avenger, but the Durango sounds like a bit of a bummer.

That's until we see that the Durango will be replaced by a Jeep Wagoneer; a rehash of an old name based on the same platform and engine choices of the Dodge three-row utility. The Durango platform will also spawn the Maserati Kubang (which will likely be named something else), a move that should go a long way toward helping Maserati hit 50,000 units per year.

The Wagoneer is just the tipping point for new Jeeps on the way. Among the other models expected are an all-new Liberty in 2013 followed by a new Patriot in 2014 and a Fiat 500-based subcompact crossover tentatively named Jeepster.

The Chrysler brand should also look a bit more interesting as the 200 gets re-imagined for 2013 and the Town & Country morphs into a crossover in 2015. The Chrysler brand will reportedly also get a Dodge Dart-based 100 compact, but not until 2016 or later, which seems like a long way off.

Among the other interesting vehicles expected to bow are as many as six Alfa Romeo models including the 4C Coupe, the next MiTo, the Giulietta and an unnamed crossover. And then there will be a smattering of new Fiat 500 models including the 500L and the XL, which will reportedly feature seating for up to seven.

The SRT lineup will also be getting a sheetmetal injection with the addition of the Dart SRT4 and the Journey SRT6. Now if Sergio Marchionne can make the Journey exciting, he'll be up for auto executive of the decade.

Dodge Durango, Avenger models will be discontinued, SRT model for Journey planned originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeochryslerdodgedurangofiatjeepjourneymarchionnesrtwagoneerTue, 05 Jun 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2012 Buick Regal eAssist [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/2012-buick-regal-eassist-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/2012-buick-regal-eassist-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/04/2012-buick-regal-eassist-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jump-Starting An Already Solid Sedan

2012 Buick Regal eAssist

Hybrids only account for about two percent of annual U.S. auto sales, yet there is a huge push by most automakers to incorporate the green tech into future product. The reasons for this are many, and they include improved public perception, better Corporate Average Fuel Economy numbers and a push to continually improve the technology. The craze really caught on with the Toyota Prius, though it was started in the U.S. by Honda and Ford got in the game with the Escape Hybrid.

General Motors has taken a different approach to hybrid tech with a combination of technologies that includes the Voltec system used in the Chevrolet Volt and the Two-Mode Hybrid system that has been relegated to GM light-duty trucks and large SUVs. The third and most affordable option is eAssist, which utilizes a small, 65-pound 115V lithium-ion battery and a 15-horsepower electric motor to improve fuel economy by up to 25 percent.

We spent a week in a well-heeled 2012 Buick Regal with eAssist to gain a better understanding of the technology and to see how well GM's Gen II mild hybrid tech works in the real world.

Continue reading 2012 Buick Regal eAssist [w/video]

2012 Buick Regal eAssist [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 buick regalbuickeassistfeaturedhybridregalregal eassistreviewreviewsMon, 04 Jun 2012 11:57:00 EST