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[First Drive: 2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A Reminder To Drive



After five days in Europe, I'm finally able to count the number of hours I've slept on both my hands and feet. I've been stuck in this sort of schmoozing fugue state for the past few days, part hapless journalist, part aimless wanderer.

The Geneva Motor Show is over. Covered. Done. But my trip isn't even halfway through. There's one last thing to do and that's drive the all-new Porsche Boxster. That means another flight. Another shuttle. Another hotel. And yet another press conference. This one I actually care about. It's just too bad I can barely focus, let alone take notes.

Chassis codes, curb weights, gear ratios and torque figures fly through the air. I manage to catch a few and jot them down. I'm running below E, barely fueled by some post-show adrenaline, copious quantities of caffeine and the occasional upbeat of my flustered circadian rhythms.

But I'm keeping my eye on the prize. One day with the new version of one of my favorite rides in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.

Walter Röhrl flashes on the asymmetrical jumbotron towards the end of the over-the-top PowerPoint presentation. He's driving the Boxster. I desperately want to be him. Right now. And that's when I hear him say part of our drive route will be the Monte Carlo Special Stage of the World Rally Championship. Another night of partial insomnia is now guaranteed.

Continue reading 2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video]

2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 boxster s2012 porsche boxster sboxsterboxster sfirst driveFirstDriveporscheporsche boxsterporsche boxster sMon, 12 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2012 Toyota Prius V]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/2012-toyota-prius-v-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/2012-toyota-prius-v-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/09/2012-toyota-prius-v-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Life In The Commuter Lane

2012 Toyota Prius V

Form follows function, so it's easy to find one element of a vehicle that explains everything you need to know about it.

Look at the widened haunches of a 911 and you know there's serious hardware in the Porsche's rump. Check the elongated bed of an F-150 and its obvious the Ford should be roaming free on the ranch. Look at a Smart ForTwo... Actually, don't. It's for your own good.

So when I opened the door to the 2012 Toyota Prius V, a single feature stood out: the cupholder. Encircled in a chrome ring and mounted dead-center in the massive armrest, this lone receptacle was the defining feature of the interior. As it should be. The Prius is the commensurate commuter and the V variant's raised roof and enlarged hatch make it even more practical for Mommy and Daddy carpool duty. At least in theory.

Continue reading 2012 Toyota Prius V

2012 Toyota Prius V originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 toyota prius vfeaturedpriusprius vreviewreviewstoyotaFri, 09 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Wagon blends style with utility]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-chevrolet-cruze-wagon-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-chevrolet-cruze-wagon-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2012-chevrolet-cruze-wagon-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Chevrolet Cruze Wagon

In the fine tradition of the Celebrity Wagon, the Bow Tie brand brings you this: The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze Wagon.

We kid, but in all honesty, the Cruze Wagon isn't just a more utilitarian take on one of our favorite C-segmenters - it's an attractive one to boot.

And speaking of boots, the Cruze wagon uses its extra inches to good effect, expanding the cargo capacity of the standard sedan and hatchback models to 17.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and blowing out to 52.9 inches with the rear thrones folded flat.

Chevrolet MyLink comes along for the ride, and in Europe, buyers get a choice of three gasoline engines and two diesels. But here in the U.S. we get nothing. Chevy has no plans to bring the Cruze Wagon to the States.

2012 Chevrolet Cruze Wagon blends style with utility originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 Chevrolet Cruze Wagonchevroletchevrolet cruzechevrolet cruze wagoncruzegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showwagonWed, 07 Mar 2012 10:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: BMW M Performance Parts continue to expand the brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m-performance-parts-continue-to-expand-the-brand/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW M Performance Parts

The relentless expansion of M-engineered and branded wares doesn't just stop at the M diesel quadruplets and the M135i. Here in Geneva, BMW announced the latest line of M performance parts that spans the spectrum from appearance bits to powertrain upgrades.

M Performance exhausts will be available for the new 1 Series (in Europe), along with the 3 Series and 5 Series. Carbon fiber front splitters join black kidney grilles in the catalog, as does a new version of the M Performance steering wheel. BMW also claims to have some suspension components are in the works, and all this kit will be on sale and ready for installation at BMW dealers in the United States this summer.

BMW M Performance Parts continue to expand the brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series3 series5 seriesbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 3 seriesbmw 5 seriesbmw m performancegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showm performance partsWed, 07 Mar 2012 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Tata Megapixel is a high-res effort on a low-res budget]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/tata-megapixel-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/tata-megapixel-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/tata-megapixel-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Tata Megapixel

What's the next Tata Nano going to look like? The Megapixel concept is a good indication of where the Indian brand's ultra cheap micro-car could be headed in the next few years, and if the onboard tech makes it to production, the Megapixel could be one of the most compelling - and most affordable - city cars in the world.

Measuring in at a scant 138 inches, the Megapixel combines a small footprint with four electrically powered and individually articulating wheels that help it achieve an impressive nine-foot turning radius.

Power is provided by the aforementioned wheel-mounted electric motors which can deliver a maximum of 369 pound-feet of torque, with a 13kW lithium-ion battery pack providing the juice. A 325cc single-cylinder gasoline engine will refill the batteries for trips longer than 54 miles, giving the Megapixel a theoretical range of over 560 miles. A production model is still a ways out, but with Tata's continued expansion and ambition, we wouldn't be surprised to see something like the Megapixel on sale in India and other developing markets by the end of the decade.

Tata Megapixel is a high-res effort on a low-res budget originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genevageneva 2012geneva motor showmegapixeltatatata megapixeltata megapixel conceptWed, 07 Mar 2012 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Artega still alive, fits GT with panoramic roof]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/artega-gt-panoramic-roof-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/artega-gt-panoramic-roof-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/artega-gt-panoramic-roof-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



You know things aren't going to well for Artega when one of the bullet points in its press release is "a completely redesigned infotainment system - and smaller mirrors." But the ambitious niche automaker is still plugging along, preparing to expand its dealer network beyond Europe and into Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and China later this year.

In addition to the new infotainment systems and mirrors, Artega is adding another model to its GT range, this time with a glass panoramic roof - the closest thing Artega will get to a convertible.

Power is still provided by a VW-sourced 3.6-liter V6 mounted amidships and sending power to a six-speed DSG. The all-electric Artega SE is still under development with no firm on-sale date, but reps we spoke to at the show continue to claim there's plenty of consumer interest, even if Artega has only offloaded a few hundred GTs in the past several years.

Continue reading Artega still alive, fits GT with panoramic roof

Artega still alive, fits GT with panoramic roof originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 07:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artegaArtega GTartega segenevageneva 2012geneva motor showWed, 07 Mar 2012 07:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: SsangYong XIV-2 Concept is another Korean with style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/ssangyong-xiv-2-concept-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/ssangyong-xiv-2-concept-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/ssangyong-xiv-2-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If SsangYong is known for anything, it's trucks. The aspirational Korean marque brought out a handful of new pickups and SUVs here in Geneva, but the real showstopper on the SsangYong stand - if there is such a thing - is the XIV-2 concept.

The concept's name is more contrived than its styling (it stands for eXciting user-Interface Vehicle 2), but its blend of high-riding coupe style with a more traditional CUV body is intriguingly attractive in person and proves that there's at least one other automaker hailing from Korea that can do something interesting in a rather staid segment.

SsangYong claims motivation is provided by a 1.6-liter diesel four mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, and Yoo-il Lee, the automaker's CEO, is adamant that a production version - available in coupe, three-door and five-door styles - will come to market in Europe within the next year. Make the jump for the full details.

Continue reading SsangYong XIV-2 Concept is another Korean with style

SsangYong XIV-2 Concept is another Korean with style originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genevageneva 2012geneva motor showssangyongSsangYong XIV 2 ConceptSsangYong XIV-2 ConceptWed, 07 Mar 2012 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: BMW M135i Concept is a behatched successor to our favorite 1er]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m135i-concept-is-a-behatched-successor-to-our-favorite-1er/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m135i-concept-is-a-behatched-successor-to-our-favorite-1er/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/bmw-m135i-concept-is-a-behatched-successor-to-our-favorite-1er/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW M135i Concept

If BMW isn't willing to give us an authentic M-ified 1 Series, we'll have to settle for the next best thing, and that's the M135i, the latest performance package from the marque's motorsport division.

Based off the three-door F20 variant of the Euro-only 1 Series, the M135i isn't quite the 1er/M3 lovechild of the dearly beloved 1 Series M Coupe, but it's still packing BMW's tried-and-true-and-tunable turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, putting out more than 300 horsepower presumably through a six-speed manual gearbox.

Beefed-up brakes, tweaked suspension bits and 18-inch M-branded wheels are fitted at each corner, while restyled front and rear fascias round out the rest of the exterior mods.

We've heard through the grapevine that the M135i has already been approved for production, both in rear-wheel-drive and xDrive trim for Europe (except the UK), but considering the F20 still hasn't come Stateside, don't expect the M135i to make the trek... yet.

BMW M135i Concept is a behatched successor to our favorite 1er originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 06:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 seriesbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 135ibmw 135i conceptbmw m135ibmw M135i conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showWed, 07 Mar 2012 06:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: 2013 Audi A6 Allroad evolves the formula]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a6-allroad-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Audi A6 Allroad

Following in the footsteps of the U.S.-bound A4 Allroad, Audi has unveiled its bigger, stouter brother here at the Geneva Motor Show.

The 2013 Audi A6 Allroad takes the same proven formula of past rough-and-tumble models and applies it to the Avant version of the latest A6, raising the ride height by around 2.5 inches, slapping some plastic cladding around the wheel arches and fascias, flaring the fenders, tucking a few stainless steel trays to the underbody and topping it all off with a pair off roof rails.

Three diesel powerplants will be available ranging from 204 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque to 313 hp and 479 lb-ft of twist. The lone gasoline engine - the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 from the S4 - puts out 310 hp and some 324 lb-ft though a seven-speed dual-clutch 'box to all four wheels.

However, unlike the A4 Allroad, we likely won't be seeing the A6 in the U.S., so only one beefed up Audi wagon will have to suffice.

2013 Audi A6 Allroad evolves the formula originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi a6 allroada6allroadaudiaudi a6 allroadgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showWed, 07 Mar 2012 03:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Ruf gets to work on the 991 Porsche 911, reveals new CTR 3 [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/ruf-rt35-rgt-8-ctr3-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/ruf-rt35-rgt-8-ctr3-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/ruf-rt35-rgt-8-ctr3-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The all-new 991 variant of the Porsche 911 has only been on sale for a few months, but renowned Porsche tuner Ruf is already hard at work applying its patented blend of power, handling and braking to the latest 911.

On hand at the Geneva Motor Show are two new 991-based Rufs, the Rt 35 Anniversary (green, above) and the RGT 8 (yellow). The Rt35 is a rolling celebration of Ruf's 35 years in business and beats Porsche to the punch by offering a twin turbo kit for the Carrera S, outputting 621 horsepower and an equally astounding 608 pound feet of torque through a standard seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Ruf isn't citing a 0-60 time, but claims the Rt35 tops out at a little over 205 mph.

The original RGT 8 debuted here in Geneva two years ago and shocked Porsche purists by packing a race-derived V8 where the flat-six would traditionally reside. This updated version based on the 991 uses a similar 4.5-liter V8 good for 543 hp and 368 lb-ft of twist, all routed through a proper six-speed manual gearbox.

Finally, Ruf has updated its flagship CTR 3 in a new Clubsport variant, with copious quantities of carbon fiber both inside and out and powered provided by a twin-turbo flat-six outputting 740 hp and 708 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed sequential gearbox puts the power down, further ensuring its status as a track machine that's barely suitable for a run to the corner store. Bonus Ruf porn in the video below.

Continue reading Ruf gets to work on the 991 Porsche 911, reveals new CTR 3 [w/video]

Ruf gets to work on the 991 Porsche 911, reveals new CTR 3 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911991ctr 3genevageneva 2012geneva motor showporscheporsche 911rgt 8rt 35rt-35rufruf ctt3ruf rgt-8ruf rt-35Tue, 06 Mar 2012 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: 2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2012-volvo-v40-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Volvo V40

With the S40 gone and the C30 on its way out the door, Volvo has a few holes in its line that Audi and BMW are happy to fill with the all-new A3 and 1 Series, respectively.

Enter the V40, a five-door hatch that's one of the most attractive designs from Sweden since the Ikea Skürg. It's a svelte bit of kit, with an organic fascia bleeding into a subtly sculpted hood and capped off with a sloping roofline that can be had in full panoramic glass.

Like the exterior, the interior is a mild evolution of Volvo's current design ethos, with a minimalist, floating center stack situated beneath a large touchscreen display.

Power is provided by Volvo's ubiquitous 254-horsepower turbocharged five-cylinder mated to either a six-speed automatic or manual gearbox, good for a 6.7-second run to 60 mph. Start-stop tech and regenerative braking are standard, along with Volvo's usual suite of safety features.

But alas, the V40 is not for U.S. consumption. Which is a shame, because the States could benefit from an alternative that slots in with the entry-level Germans. Check out the complete press release below.

Continue reading 2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series

2012 Volvo V40 takes aim at A3, 1 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volvo v40genevageneva 2012geneva motor showv40volvovolvo v40Tue, 06 Mar 2012 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Hyundai i-oniq Concept blends series hybrid with shooting brake style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/hyundai-i-oniq-concept-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/hyundai-i-oniq-concept-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/hyundai-i-oniq-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



If you're a sucker for high-riding shooting brakes, the Hyundai i-oniq concept has what you're after, albeit with a certain anonymity we haven't seen from Hyundai of late.

Complete with elongated gullwing doors and an expansive greenhouse featuring curved glass both behind the A-pillar and on the hatch, the i-oniq is the latest interpretation of Hyundai's "fluidic sculpture" design language. It's a beautiful profile and a classy shape, but the front fascia has shades of Citroën while the rear is more amorphous bulge than svelte hatch. It's pretty, but it's just not striking.

Inside, the i-oniq embodies concept car chic, with layers upon layers of materials, textures and tiers spanning the dash, seats and door panels.

Hyundai claims a 1.0-liter, three-cylinder gasoline engine is fitted under the hood, but its 60 horsepower doesn't reach the wheels. The engine is strictly a generator, juicing up a lithium-ion battery pack that sends power to a single-speed transmission and on to a 100-hp electric motor.

As with most high-style concepts, the i-oniq isn't headed to production, but some kind of series hybrid drivetrain is certainly in the cards for future Hyundai models. Hit the jump for the details.

Continue reading Hyundai i-oniq Concept blends series hybrid with shooting brake style

Hyundai i-oniq Concept blends series hybrid with shooting brake style originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 11:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showhyundaihyundai i-oniqi-oniqTue, 06 Mar 2012 11:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Lotus coats Evora GTE in carbon fiber for F1 Edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/lotus-evora-gte-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/lotus-evora-gte-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/lotus-evora-gte-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've seen plenty of Evora GTE models over the last two years. Some concepts, some production variants and now this, a carbon fiber-bodied Evora to celebrate Lotus' Formula 1 heritage and christened by none other than Kimi Raikkonen.

Like the rest of the GTE Evoras, this variant is a road-going version of Lotus' ALMS car currently campaigned by Alex Job Racing. Power is provided by the same 444-horsepower supercharged V6, with overall weight reduced by some 200 pounds, making it the fastest roadworthy Lotus in the company's history. And it's only fitting that the F1 edition wears the marque's storied black and gold livery both inside and out.

Lotus coats Evora GTE in carbon fiber for F1 Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evoragenevageneva 2012geneva motor showlotuslotus evoralotus evora gtelotus evora gte f1 editionTue, 06 Mar 2012 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: 2013 Audi RS4 Avant is the latest behatched forbidden fruit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2013-audi-rs4-avant-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2013-audi-rs4-avant-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2013-audi-rs4-avant-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Cadillac admits it only needs to sell a half dozen CTS-V Sport Wagons to cover its development costs. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for the 2013 Audi RS4 Avant. Audi execs have made it clear that its hottest midsize Avant won't be coming to the States anytime soon, so if you're particularly sensitive to forbidden fruit, stop reading now.

Like the RS5, the RS4 Avant packs Audi's meticulously crafted 4.2-liter V8 putting out 450 horsepower at a stratospheric 8,250 RPM and 317 pound-feet of torque from 4,000 to 6,000 RPM. A seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox sends power to Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, including a beefed up version of the S4's torque vectoring rear differential. The run to 60 blows past in the high four-second range and while the "standard" top speed is limited to 155 miles per hour, grease the palms at the Audi service department and you'll max out at 174 mph.

The 14.4-inch front rotors are framed by standard 19-inch lightweight wheels, with optional 14.9-inch carbon ceramic discs barely obscured by 20-inch hoops. A customizable, active suspension is fitted at all four corners, dropping the RS4 by nearly an inch over its standard Avant counterpart.

Pricing hasn't been set, but sales are due to begin this fall in Germany. And if Audi can make the case in the States, we hear the next generation could be a global model.

2013 Audi RS4 Avant is the latest behatched forbidden fruit originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi rs4 avantaudiaudi rs4 avantaventgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showrs4Tue, 06 Mar 2012 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: MyFord Touch, MyLincoln Touch upgrades shipping this week]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/myford-touch-mylincoln-touch-upgrades-shipping-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/myford-touch-mylincoln-touch-upgrades-shipping-this-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/myford-touch-mylincoln-touch-upgrades-shipping-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A few months back, Ford told us that it had listened to consumers and wanted to cure the ills of the first generation MyFord Touch. Starting today, the Blue Oval will begin shipping out USB drives to owners of 2013 Ford Taurus and Flex models, allowing them to install the latest version of the software from the comfort of their garages.

The update addresses many gripes that both the public and press have had with the MyFord Touch and MyLincoln Touch interface since its launch in 2010. The graphics have undergone a relatively major overhaul with bolder text and a cleaner, more user friendly UI. Just as important, the touchsceen lag we've complained about in the past should be all but eradicated and voice recognition has also improved. No word from Ford on how it's dealt with the intermittent crashes that users have experienced, but we know that it was a top priority for engineers.

Ford's wonks have also added more phone support, Audible audiobook integration, a revamped mapping and navigation system and the ability to link a variety of tablet devices to the Sync platform.

Ford is shipping both a USB flash drive that contains the update and an SD card with all-new mapping data. Ford claims the installation should take around an hour, but if you're hazy on the install process, it can be performed at your local Ford or Lincoln dealer. Make the jump for the official details.

Continue reading MyFord Touch, MyLincoln Touch upgrades shipping this week

MyFord Touch, MyLincoln Touch upgrades shipping this week originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flexfordlincolnmyford touchmyford touch upgrademylincoln touchmylincoln touch upgradesynctaurusTue, 06 Mar 2012 09:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Lotus pops the top on Exige S Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/lotus-pops-the-top-on-exige-s-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/lotus-pops-the-top-on-exige-s-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/lotus-pops-the-top-on-exige-s-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lotus Exige S Convertible

With the Elise slowly shuffling off this mortal coil, Lotus needs another slinky soft-top to fill out its lineup. In the run-up to the Geneva Motor Show, we assumed that would be a convertible version of the Evora, but we were wrong. This is the Lotus Exige S Convertible, which begs the question: What took 'em so long?

The only thing that separates the two models is ripping off the fixed roof on the Exige and replacing it with a removable cloth top or optional hard top. The same supercharged 3.5-liter V6 is mounted amidships, outputting 345 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Mated to the standard six-speed manual, 60 miles per hour comes and goes in 3.8 seconds, but Lotus will also offer the Roadster with its new Serial Precision Shift (SPS) automated manual gearbox, complete with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Sales are expected to begin throughout Europe later this year, but with the Elise and Exige twins already gone from the U.S., don't look for the Roadster to hit Stateside Lotus dealers anytime soon.

Lotus pops the top on Exige S Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exigegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showlotuslotus exigelotus exige s convertibleTue, 06 Mar 2012 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Bentley can do better than the EXP 9 F Concept [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/bentley-exp-9-f-concept-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Bentley has been hinting at the possibility of a full-size ultra-luxury SUV for a few years and here in Geneva the rumors finally became reality in all their awkwardly majestic glory.

Just as awkward is the 'ute concept's name: the EXP 9 F, which is about as imaginative and puzzling as its styling. If you were to task a sophomore Photoshop wizard to digitally create a Bentley SUV, this would be the result. And that's probably the most disappointing aspect of the EXP 9 F - its utter predictability.

Grabbing bits from the Mulsanne and Continental range, mounting them up front, raising the ride height and then adding a liftback hatch is the easy way out. Same for the interior, which takes Bentley's bespoke aesthetic and gives it the Big Gulp treatment. Maybe we're too plebeian, but for this ute's target demographic, it just doesn't carry the gravitas you'd expect of something this large wearing the Flying B.

The same applies to the drivetrain, which utilizes the 6.0-liter W12 that's been doing duty in the Continental for years. The only interesting propulsion proposition is the possible fitment of Bentley's new V8, augmented with an electric motor and battery pack to make the world's largest and least efficient plug-in hybrid.

It's just bad on all sides, so like the Aston Martin Lagonda concept before it, we're hoping Bentley sees the light, heads back to the drawing board and comes up with something befitting of such a storied marque. Just after it quietly pulls it off the show stand, just like Aston did two years ago.

Continue reading Bentley can do better than the EXP 9 F Concept [w/video]

Bentley can do better than the EXP 9 F Concept [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 05:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentleyBentley EXP 9 Fbentley suvexp 9 fgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showTue, 06 Mar 2012 05:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Ruf stretches Porsche Panamera to gloriously hideous effect]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/ruf-porsche-panamera-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/ruf-porsche-panamera-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/ruf-porsche-panamera-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ruf Porsche Panamera RXL

Give the people what they want. And when it comes to China, the people - or more accurately, the gilded class - want their rides long. Extra long. And Ruf is all too happy to oblige, stretching a Porsche Panamera S some 400mm; 250mm at the B-pillar and another 150mm at the rear door.

The effect inside is even more luxurious than its standard stablemate, with acres of legroom and a custom quilted upholstery fit for even the most oversized NBA retiree. From the outside, it's... awkward, as most stretches of this variety are.

But the obvious question is obvious: Why buy a Porsche when your confined to the back? Regardless, give your chauffeur a gift this spring by plunking down the $250,000+ Ruf is expected to ask for the Panamera RXL.

Ruf stretches Porsche Panamera to gloriously hideous effect originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 03:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genevageneva 2012geneva motor showlimolimousinepanamerapanamera stretchporscheporsche panamera rxlruf porsche panamera rxlrxlTue, 06 Mar 2012 03:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva: Volkswagen Group previews its wares on eve of Geneva show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-group-geneva-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-group-geneva-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-group-geneva-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lamborghini Aventador J live image

The Volkswagen Group is comprised of 11 brands producing 240 vehicles across 49 factories throughout the world. So the best way to show off the range of the VW family is to cram a few thousand journalists and VIPs into a massive makeshift stand to outline the Group's goals, what's in the pipeline and what you'll be able to buy later this year.

To that end, VW pulled out all the stops on the eve of the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, bringing along 10 vehicles from across the range. We'll be delving into the details of each over the next two days of show coverage, but before that happens, you can read all about what we saw tonight from the cheap seats after the break.

Continue reading Volkswagen Group previews its wares on eve of Geneva show

Volkswagen Group previews its wares on eve of Geneva show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3amarokaudiaventadoraventador jbentleyboxsterbugattiexp 9 fgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showgiugiarojotalamborghiniporscheveyron grand sport vitessevolkswagenvw agMon, 05 Mar 2012 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Next Audi A4, Q7 to have e-tron Quattro option]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/next-audi-a4-q7-to-have-e-tron-quattro-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/next-audi-a4-q7-to-have-e-tron-quattro-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/01/next-audi-a4-q7-to-have-e-tron-quattro-option/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Speaking at Audi's annual press conference earlier today, Rubert Stadler, the automaker's chairman, commented on plans to expand the e-tron line beyond the R8 model due next year.

The push will reportedly include plug-in hybrid versions of both the next-generation A4 and Q7, with the 2014 Audi A3 being the first model out of the gate with a plug-in option.

Another report indicates that the same race technology being pioneered by the recently unveiled R18 e-tron quattro hybrid LeMans prototype will be fitted to the B9 A4, with a pair of electric motors driving the rear wheels (versus the front, on the racer) because of the A4's FWD architecture.

Stadler went on to say that by 2020, Audi will have an e-tron version of each vehicle it offers in every segment, which in all likelihood will be either a pure electric model or some form of hybrid.

Next Audi A4, Q7 to have e-tron Quattro option originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a4audiaudi a4audi e-tronaudi etronaudi q7b7 a4e-tronetronThu, 01 Mar 2012 19:01:00 EST