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[Lotus celebrates return to F1 with Exige S Type 72]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/lotus-celebrates-return-to-f1-with-exige-s-type-72/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/lotus-celebrates-return-to-f1-with-exige-s-type-72/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/lotus-celebrates-return-to-f1-with-exige-s-type-72/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lotus Exige S Type 72 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After a 15-year hiatus, Lotus is coming back to Formula One, and to commemorate its return to the top tier of motorsport, the Hethel crew is creating yet another special Exige inspired by the Type 72 that dominated F1 in the Seventies.

Like nearly every other limited edition Lotus released in the last few years, the Exige S Type 72 is little more than a repainted, kitted-up version of its midship masterpiece. The supercharged, 1.8-liter inline four remains unchanged, putting out 220 horsepower and allowing the two-tone coupe to sprint to 60 in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 145 mph.

A set of carbon fiber ProBax sport seats swathed in black microfiber with contrast stitching ties in with the exterior's gold wheels and emblems, while standard twin oil coolers and an adjustable front anti-roll bar round out the mechanical upgrades.

Lotus has slated 20 Type 72s for sale in the UK, with another 20 destined for markets outside of the mainland (no word on U.S. distribution), each carrying a price tag of £35,995 or 40,332 euro. Not cheap, but then again, how do you put a price on nostalgia?


Gallery: Lotus Exige S Type 72

Continue reading Lotus celebrates return to F1 with Exige S Type 72

Lotus celebrates return to F1 with Exige S Type 72 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exige sExigeSlotusLotus Exige S Type 72LotusExigeSType72type 72type-72Type72Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: New spots from Ken Block prove he's got more skills, better drugs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/video-new-spots-from-ken-block-prove-hes-got-more-skills-bett/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/video-new-spots-from-ken-block-prove-hes-got-more-skills-bett/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/video-new-spots-from-ken-block-prove-hes-got-more-skills-bett/#commentsFiled under:

Click above to have your mind blown after the jump

The Ken Block/DC Shoes marketing machine shows no signs of slowing as we drift bass-ackwards into 2010, and to close out the year, Block and his crew have released four new videos to delight, amaze and discombobulate.

Although the Gymkahana Two Director's Cut and Block vs. Pastrana: Game of Suck Highlights vids are an entertaining diversion before the holidays, it's the Gymkhana Two Artist Remix that's set to challenge Major Lazer's Pon de Floor (look it up) for the most mind-warping, psychedelic-addled clip of 2009. The less said, the better, so jump first and ask questions later. Tip of the D/C-branded baseball cap to Scotto for the tip.

Continue reading VIDEO: New spots from Ken Block prove he's got more skills, better drugs

VIDEO: New spots from Ken Block prove he's got more skills, better drugs originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game of suckGameOfSuckgymkhanagymkhana two artist remixGymkhanaTwoArtistRemixken blockKenBlocktravis pastranaTravisPastranavideoTue, 22 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Track-focused, budget-oriented Toyota FT-86 on the way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/report-track-focused-budget-oriented-toyota-ft-86-on-the-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/report-track-focused-budget-oriented-toyota-ft-86-on-the-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/22/report-track-focused-budget-oriented-toyota-ft-86-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Toyota FT-86 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

The latest issue of EVO hasn't dropped into our laps yet, but our favorite Brit pub apparently got the scoop on another variant of the Toyota FT-86 -- one that's supposedly track tuned and considerably cheaper than the model due to arrive in 2011.

Powered by the same Subaru-sourced, Toyota-tuned boxer four, this supposedly stripped out variant could dispatch some of the standard model's amenities and come equipped with upgraded brakes and suspension components specifically designed for track work and drifting duty. According to EVO, a fully optioned FT-86 would carry a price tag of around $27,000, while this budget-oriented performance model will retail for around $22,000 -- a similar setup to the Hyundai Genesis Coupe RSpec.

EVO goes on to report that Toyota's crosstown rivals are working on a one-make race series for the Honda CR-Z and plan to campaign the hybrid hatch at the 24 hours of Nurburgring enduro in May. The more the merrier we say...


Gallery: Toyota FT-86 Concept in the Studio


[Source: EVO via FT86Club via Jalopnik]

REPORT: Track-focused, budget-oriented Toyota FT-86 on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crzft-86ft86hondahonda cr-zhonda crzHondaCr-zHondaCrztoyotatoyota ft-86toyota ft86ToyotaFt-86ToyotaFt86Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[NSX no more: Honda HSV-10 GT ready to race in SuperGT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/nsx-no-more-honda-hsv-10-gt-ready-to-race-in-supergt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/nsx-no-more-honda-hsv-10-gt-ready-to-race-in-supergt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/nsx-no-more-honda-hsv-10-gt-ready-to-race-in-supergt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Honda HSV-10 GT - Click above for high-res image

The Honda NSX might be gone, but it's set to live on as the HSV-10 GT in Japan's SuperGT championship.

Although we don't have an official release or specs yet, we do have the image above and some preliminary details on the HSV-10 GT or Velocity Sports Honda. Built to the 2010 GT500 regulations, the new front/mid-engine racer from Honda is packing a 500+ hp, 3.4-liter V8 and sending power through the same Ricardo sequential manual gearbox fitted to the 2010 SuperGT cars from Nissan and Toyota. Underneath all that glorious carbon fiber is the same chassis Honda's been working on (originally as an NSX replacement) for the last two years. The SuperGT season opener is scheduled for March 20 and 21 of 2010, but we expect more details and a host of high-res images to hit soon. Stay tuned...

UPDATED with press release after the jump.

[Source: LeBlogAuto]

Continue reading NSX no more: Honda HSV-10 GT ready to race in SuperGT

NSX no more: Honda HSV-10 GT ready to race in SuperGT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 22:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinggt500hondahonda hsv-10 gthonda supergthonda supergt500HondaHsv-10GtHondaSupergtHondaSupergt500hsv 10 gthsv-10 gtHsv-10Gthsv10gtsupergtMon, 21 Dec 2009 22:39:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW Z4 GT3 coming in 2010 with M3 powerplant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/bmw-z4-gt3-coming-in-2010-with-m3-powerplant/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/bmw-z4-gt3-coming-in-2010-with-m3-powerplant/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/bmw-z4-gt3-coming-in-2010-with-m3-powerplant/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW Motorsport has announced a lust-worthy addition to its growing line of customer racing offerings in the form of the BMW Z4 GT3.

Although BMW hasn't released pics yet, the factory-built Z4 will be powered by an uprated version of the M3's 4.0-liter V8 currently fitted to the race-ready M3 GT2. Controlled by a Type-408 ECU and Power400 control unit, the 4.0-liter V8 is good for a claimed 480 horsepower and sends its ample grunt through a standard six-speed sequential gearbox. Central-locking wheels, ABS and a host of other kit will allow the Z4 GT3 to campaign in a number of sanctioned events, including the FIA GT3 European Championship, International GT Open, ADAC GT Masters and several 24-hour enduros.

Deliveries begin in the second quarter of 2010, with an estimated price of 298,000 euro, or over $425,000 on a straight exchange. Full details and ordering information available in the press release below the fold.


Gallery: 2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is


[Source: BMW Motorsport]

Continue reading BMW Z4 GT3 coming in 2010 with M3 powerplant

BMW Z4 GT3 coming in 2010 with M3 powerplant originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw motorsportbmw z4 gt3BmwMotorsportBmwZ4Gt3fiagt3z4Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Noble M600 attempts to kill Clarkson, embarasses Enzo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/video-noble-m600-attempts-to-kill-clarkson-embarasses-enzo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/video-noble-m600-attempts-to-kill-clarkson-embarasses-enzo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/video-noble-m600-attempts-to-kill-clarkson-embarasses-enzo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Noble M600 - Click above for an updated high-res image gallery

No climate control. No sat-nav. No ABS. No ESP. What the Noble M600 lacks in luxury and safety amenities it makes up for in raw, mechanical brutality. And you know what? That's okay.

With curb weight of 2,810 pounds, a row-your-own six-speed manual and 650 horsepower and 618 pound-feet of torque on tap from its Volvo-sourced, twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, the M600 is a purist breath of fresh air in an era of tech-laden, heavyweight supercars. But stats (0-60 in three seconds, top speed of 225 mph) only tells half the tale.

Clarkson and the crew take the all-new, £200,000 Noble around the Top Gear test track and the results are predictably deranged. Not only does the traction control only have two settings - on and off - but keeping the mid-engine beastie in check proves too much for TG's ham-fisted frontman. That means it's a job for the Stig. And you can check out the results and its supercar-crushing lap time after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Noble M600

Continue reading VIDEO: Noble M600 attempts to kill Clarkson, embarasses Enzo

VIDEO: Noble M600 attempts to kill Clarkson, embarasses Enzo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clarkson m600clarkson noble m600ClarksonM600ClarksonNobleM600jeremy clarksonJeremyClarksonm600noblenoble m600NobleM600top geartop gear noble m600TopGearTopGearNobleM600Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Ex-Microsoft CFO Chris Liddell named CFO of General Motors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/breaking-ex-microsoft-cfo-chris-liddell-named-cfo-of-general-mo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/breaking-ex-microsoft-cfo-chris-liddell-named-cfo-of-general-mo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/breaking-ex-microsoft-cfo-chris-liddell-named-cfo-of-general-mo/#commentsFiled under: ,

In the search for an auto industry outside, General Motors has announced that Chris Liddell will become the automaker's vice chairman and CFO in 2010.

Set to replace Ray G. Young -- a 20-year veteran of GM -- Liddell, the former Chief Financial Officer for software giant Microsoft, will report to GM's chairman and acting CEO Ed Whitacre and use his financial expertise to right the General's ship after one of the worst years in the automaker's history.

Liddell, an engineering and philosophy major, oversaw Microsoft's global acquisitions, accounting and reporting while leading its financial team, and will depart from the software colossus on December 31. More details on this corporate breath of fresh air in the press release after the break.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: Ex-Microsoft CFO Chris Liddell named CFO of General Motors

BREAKING: Ex-Microsoft CFO Chris Liddell named CFO of General Motors originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 11:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewscfochris liddellchris liddell general motorschris liddell gmChrisLiddellChrisLiddellGeneralMotorsChrisLiddellGmgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmrightvice chairmanViceChairmanMon, 21 Dec 2009 11:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.18.09]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-18-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-18-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-18-09/#comments

First Drive: 2011 Toyota Sienna tries to make the minivan cool

The all-new Sienna is chock-full of features: Impressive lounge seating, a widescreen monitor and a competent chassis. Plus, it was developed by Kazuo Mori, a tried-and-true sports car devotee. But is it cool enough to bring the minivan back from the brink?

Cut It Out: Toyota's recalled pedal modification remedy detailed step-by-step

A Lexus insider supplied us with pictures and details of how Toyota is dealing with its "unintended acceleration" issue. The fix might seem simple, but the process is anything but.

Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand

After a protracted saga that's seen bidders drop in-and-out and old model tooling and assets sold off to the Chinese, the enigmatic brand known as Saab is dead. Now what?

Also of interest:

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Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.18.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>uturnFri, 18 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Dan Neil drives the Audi eTron, tells Musk and Fisker to watch out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-dan-neil-drives-the-audi-etron-tells-musk-and-fisker-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-dan-neil-drives-the-audi-etron-tells-musk-and-fisker-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/video-dan-neil-drives-the-audi-etron-tells-musk-and-fisker-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Dan Neil drives the Audi e-tron - Click above to watch video

The LA Times' Pulitzer Prize-winning auto critic, Dan Neil, had a chance to sample the Audi e-tron while the electric R8 (R8e?) was down in So. Cal. for the LA Auto Show, and he's suitably impressed with the nine-month-old prototype that -- unlike your average concept -- is actually functional.

Not only does it go, stop and turn, the e-tron has a fully functional climate control system, power windows, MMI system and a host of other gadgets on board, making it a rarity in the world of one-off concepts. Granted, it's still just an overly-stylized mule (thankfully, the million-spoke wheels were dispatched in favor of the R8 V10's hoops), but this is less about the driving experience (although Neil raves about the dynamics and power delivery) and more about the world's largest automakers getting into the electric vehicle game.

Neil's primary point is that while Tesla and Fisker are laying the foundation for EV proliferation, automakers like Audi, Ford, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen all have electric whips in the works. Neil contends that the standards set by the major OEMs are what's going to drive EVs into the mainstream and if the e-tron (and the forthcoming electric Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG) are any indication, enthusiasts can have their cake and eat it too. Check out the full write-up and hit the jump for Dan's video review.


Gallery: LA 2009: Orange Audi e-tron


[Source: LA Times]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dan Neil drives the Audi eTron, tells Musk and Fisker to watch out

VIDEO: Dan Neil drives the Audi eTron, tells Musk and Fisker to watch out originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi e-tronaudi etronAudiE-tronAudiEtrondan neildan neil audi e-trondan neil audi etronDanNeilDanNeilAudiE-tronDanNeilAudiEtrone-tronetronvideoFri, 18 Dec 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Camaro SS Pace Car ready for Indy 500]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/2010-camaro-ss-pace-car-ready-for-indy-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/2010-camaro-ss-pace-car-ready-for-indy-500/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/2010-camaro-ss-pace-car-ready-for-indy-500/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Indianapolis 500 Pace Car - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Indianapolis 500 is still more than five months away, but General Motors is getting a jump on the 2010 season with the unveiling of the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS Pace Car.

Shown today at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the tangerine Camaro is a rolling homage to the original pony pace car that rolled onto the track in 1967, complete with Inferno Orange Metallic paint, White Diamond rally stripes and a color-matched instrument panel. While the auto-box equipped, 400-hp 6.2-liter V8 apparently remains unchanged, the rest of the modifications are primarily cosmetic, including the Indy 500 logos adorning the doors, front fenders and seat headrests, along with an all-new front grille that's slated to be available as a Camaro accessory in the future. The only safety equipment is the strobe light system mounted inside the rear window, negating the need for a traditional roof-top light bar.

The 2010 Indy 500 Camaro will be on display at the Indianapolis Auto Show starting on December 26, but you can get all the details by checking out the gallery below and the press release below the fold.


Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro Indianapolis 500 Pace Car

Continue reading 2010 Camaro SS Pace Car ready for Indy 500

2010 Camaro SS Pace Car ready for Indy 500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 chevrolet camaro indianapolis 500 pace car2010 chevy camaro indianapolis 500 pace car2010ChevroletCamaroIndianapolis500PaceCar2010ChevyCamaroIndianapolis500PaceCar500500 days of summer500DaysOfSummercamarocanadachevroletIndianapolis 500Indianapolis500indypace carPaceCarFri, 18 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Subaru spokesman concerned that RWD Toyobaru could dilute brand identity]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-subaru-spokesman-concerned-that-rwd-toyobaru-could-dilut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-subaru-spokesman-concerned-that-rwd-toyobaru-could-dilut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/report-subaru-spokesman-concerned-that-rwd-toyobaru-could-dilut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru Sports Coupe Renderings - Click above for high-res image gallery

It should come as no surprised that Subaru -- a brand that's made its name in the States for offering rugged, all-wheel drive vehicles -- is a little wary about bringing its own version of the RWD Toyobaru to the U.S.

Speaking with Wards Auto, Subaru spokesperson Michael McHale said, "We're an all-wheel drive brand," going on to say that, "If it doesn't affect the core of the brand, maybe we'd bring it in as an interesting option."

Although we've yet to seen the Subaru variant of the Toyota FT-86, the rebodied version is expected to debut sometime in 2010, with both examples going on sale in Japan later next year or in early 2011. Power is supposedly supplied by Subaru-sourced, Toyota-tweaked flat-four, putting out around 200 horsepower in naturally aspirated guise.

For Toyota to make a business case for putting the FT-86 into production, it's been all but assumed that the RWD coupe would go on sale in markets outside of Japan -- specifically in Europe and North America. However, the Subaru version's fate isn't quite as clear. If earlier reports are any indication, offering an AWD coupe could be a possibility given the coupe's underpinnings. But if it's strictly RWD, McHale hopes consumers can, "forgive us a one-off exception."


Gallery: Subaru FT-86 Sports Coupe renderings



[Source: Wards Auto]

REPORT: Subaru spokesman concerned that RWD Toyobaru could dilute brand identity originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupeft-86ft86Subarusubaru coupeSubaruCoupeToyobarutoyotatoyota ft-86toyota ft86ToyotaFt-86ToyotaFt86Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.17.09]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-17-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-17-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-17-09/#comments

Review: 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d delivers obsolescence to gasoline-powered sibling

The X5 has always been a competent handler, but even with BMW-esque agility, it lacked something in the efficiency department. With the introduction of the new diesel-powered xDrive35d, one of its biggest downsides has finally been addressed.

VIDEO: How not to behave during a traffic stop

One roadside siren was none too happy about the ticket she received and she made her distaste all too clear to her husband, the arresting officer and the guy with the video camera. You've got to see it to believe it.

Top 10 Forward-Thinking Vehicles of the Decade

Trend-setting. Far-reaching. Record-setting. In a word: Important. Use whatever descriptors you'd like, what we're looking are some of the most forward-thinking cars of the last decade. Is your pick on the list?

Also of interest:

Browse our archive of Daily U-Turn posts or subscribe to the RSS feed

Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.17.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>uturnThu, 17 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Jay Leno to cram SLS AMG's V8 into 1969 Mercedes 6.3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/jay-leno-to-cram-sls-amgs-v8-into-1969-mercedes-6-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/jay-leno-to-cram-sls-amgs-v8-into-1969-mercedes-6-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/jay-leno-to-cram-sls-amgs-v8-into-1969-mercedes-6-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

1968 Mercedes-Benz 300SEL 6.3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ask us to pick our favorite Mercedes-Benz products of all time and towards the top of that list sits this: The 1968-1972 300SEL 6.3. Introduced at the 1968 Geneva Motor Show, the original 6.3 was the product of one rogue Mercedes engineer who took the 109-series Type 300 SEL sedan and shoved the Type 600 limo's 6.3-liter V8 underhood. The heart transplant was good for 250 horsepower, allowed the Teutonic sled to rocket to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds, top out at 136 mph and made it the fastest road-going sedan of the time.

Not only did the 6.3 out accelerate the Porsche 911 S and Jaguar E-Type 4.2, with it's pneumatic suspension, anti-dive control and four-wheel disc brakes, it could dance as well as it could surge. And of course, Jay Leno has a 1969 example parked in his So. Cal. stable.

During a press event earlier this month, Jay and the Mercedes crew held a little soiree at his "shop" and revealed Leno's plans to swap in the 6.2-liter V8 from the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG into his 40-year-old sedan. The union of the 300SL and the 563-hp AMG-fettled mill apparently has Mercedes' blessing, as the automaker's engineerings are helping Jay with the swap. Naturally, we can't wait to see and hear the results, and we'd expect a video of the reborn beast to be up in the coming months.


Gallery: 1968 Mercedes-Benz 300SL 6.3


[Source: USAToday via Save The Enzos]

Jay Leno to cram SLS AMG's V8 into 1969 Mercedes 6.3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jay lenojay leno 6.3JayLenoJayLeno6.3lenomercedesmercedes-benzmerecedes-benz 300sl 6.3Merecedes-benz300sl6.3sls amgSlsAmgThu, 17 Dec 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.16.09]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-16-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-16-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-16-09/#comments

First Drive: 2010 Lexus LS460 Sport Package is F-ing with perfection

Lexus is serious about offering more performance-oriented vehicles, but does the LS460 Sport Package fall in-line with the F-Sport ethos? We find out in our First Drive.

North American Car and Truck of the Year awards get shortlisted - Who are your winners?

The top 25 contenders for the North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards have been announced and the nominees for 2010 are some of the most interesting to date. Did your pick make the list?

Aston Martin shows off completed Cygnet, Euro sales in 2010

When the Aston Martin Cygnet appeared earlier this year, we were convinced it was an April Fools joke delivered a few months too late. Apparently, the joke's on us. The Toyota iQ-based minicar is coming and production begins in 2010.

Also of interest:

Browse our archive of Daily U-Turn posts or subscribe to the RSS feed

Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.16.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>uturnWed, 16 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Hennessey Performance Venom GT rendered, nearly uncovered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/hennessey-performance-venom-gt-rendered-nearly-uncovered/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/hennessey-performance-venom-gt-rendered-nearly-uncovered/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/hennessey-performance-venom-gt-rendered-nearly-uncovered/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hennessey Venom GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

After providing us an exclusive glimpse inside the Hennessey Performance workshop, the Texas-based tuner has let more details slip on the development of the Venom GT -- a Lotus Elise-based supercar packing Corvette ZR1 firepower.

Before the production version debuts at the Geneva Motor Show this March, Hennessey has released a few renderings, along with more shots from inside the shop and a basic spec sheet, including performance figures and few technical details. The rear-drive, two-seater should tip the scales at 2,395 pounds, with a twin-turbo V8 mounted amidships and dolling out 1,000 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 950 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. As reported previously, power will be sent through a six-speed manual gearbox with forward progressed scrubbed off by Brembo brakes sized 15 inches in front and 14 inches in the rear. And the performance stats are nothing short of unbelievable. 0-60 mph will be dispatched in 2.2 seconds. 0-100 mph in 4.9 seconds and the 200 mph mark will be had in 14.5 seconds before maxing out at a claimed 262 mph. Judging by the newly released pics, the Venom GT is nearly complete and we expect to see the production version before it's official unveiling in Switzerland.


Gallery: Hennessey Performance Venom GT in the shop



[Source: Hennessey Performance]

Hennessey Performance Venom GT rendered, nearly uncovered originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gthennesseyhennessey performancehennessey performance gthennessey performance venomhennessey performance venom gthennessey performance vgtHennesseyPerformanceHennesseyPerformanceGtHennesseyPerformanceVenomHennesseyPerformanceVenomGtHennesseyPerformanceVgtperformancevenomvenom gtVenomGtWed, 16 Dec 2009 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Audi A8: The first production vehicle equipped with Google Earth]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/2011-audi-a8-the-first-production-vehicle-equipped-with-google/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/2011-audi-a8-the-first-production-vehicle-equipped-with-google/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/2011-audi-a8-the-first-production-vehicle-equipped-with-google/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Audi A8 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Among the myriad of technological features coming to the 2011 Audi A8, its revised Multi Media Interface system, complete with the new "MMI touch" feature, will also include the first application of Google Earth in a production car.

In addition to the traditional hard-disk navigation system, an optional GPRS/EDGE modem is integrated into the MMI nav-plus system allowing a constant stream of information to be downloaded and accessed from Google. Along with GPS-based searches for local services, users can plan out their trips on Google Maps, Google Earth or through Audi's online portal, and navigation data is analyzed and relayed to all the A8's systems, including the automatic cruise control with "Start & Go" functionality, the adaptive lights and the eight-speed automatic gearbox.

With a SIM card inserted into the A8's MMI setup (or data-enabled phone paired via Bluetooth) Google Earth can provide drivers with a three-dimensional view of their surroundings displayed on the A8's eight-inch LCD display, showing satellite imagery and terrain modeling, along with all the traditional navigation system's functionality both online and off. The integration of Google Earth is set to go live on the A8 sometime in the middle of 2010, soon after Audi's new flagship goes on sale in the spring. Check out all the details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Audi A8

Continue reading 2011 Audi A8: The first production vehicle equipped with Google Earth

2011 Audi A8: The first production vehicle equipped with Google Earth originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 a82011 audi a82011 audi a8 google earth2011A82011AudiA82011AudiA8GoogleEarthaudi a8AudiA8google earthGoogleEarthWed, 16 Dec 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.15.09]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-15-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-15-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-15-09/#comments

Quick Spin: Mitsubishi i is a good car with a bad name

We've been assured that the diminutive Mitsubishi i is headed to the States, so we took it for a spin through the mountains towering over Palm Springs and came away impressed with its packaging and poise.

Dirty Dozen: Twelve of the auto industry's biggest busts of the last decade

After a fierce debate, we've picked the auto industry's biggest busts of the last decade and take solace in the fact that Naughties are almost behind us.

Bugatti honors Dubai with three special editions Veyrons

The world doesn't just need another limited edition Bugatti Veyron... it needs three. So what's the perfect venue for the trio's debut? The Dubai Motor Show, natch.

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Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.15.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>uturnTue, 15 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-sls-amg-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

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

We've been all but assured that a convertible version of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG was on the way, and now we've got photographic proof of the de-gullwinged drop-top weathering the wintery climes before its reveal in 2010.

Although Mercedes officials haven't divulged much about the SLS cabrio, it's likely to be fitted with a retractable soft-top rather than a folding hard-top in a bid to keep weight in check and retain some of the trunk's capacity. Naturally, the chassis will be fortified to increase rigidity, but considering the SLS AMG was designed from the onset to be both a coupe and a convertible, we suspect the extent of the modifications to be limited and the weight penalty to be minimal.

Some reports indicate that the SLS AMG Roadster could debut as early as the Geneva Motor Show in March, but if we were betting gentlemen, we'd suspect the convertible SLS to debut later in 2010, likely at the Paris Motor Show.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgbenzmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz sls amg roadstermercedes sls amg roadstermercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amg roadsterMercedes-benzSlsAmgRoadsterMercedesBenzMercedesBenzSlsAmgRoadsterMercedesSlsAmgRoadsterroadsterslsspy shotsSpyShotsTue, 15 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Preview: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-2011-mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-2011-mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/detroit-preview-2011-mercedes-benz-e-class-cabriolet/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is ready for its close-up at the Detroit Auto Show, but before the shindig in Michigan gets underway next month, Mercedes has dropped all the official details on its CLK convertible replacement.

Like the coupe on which it's based, the Cabrio is a step up from its predecessor and comes packing a choice of powerplants: a 3.5-liter V6 putting out 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque in E350 guise or a 5.5-liter V8 churning out 382 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque in the E550 cab.

Unlike some of its competition, the E-Class Convertible doesn't employ a retractable hard-top, but rather a 0.9-inch cloth roof that pays dividends in the capacity department. With the top up, the trunk is good for nearly 14 cubic feet of space and cut down to just over three cubic feet when the top is dropped and stowed behind the rear passengers. There's also a pass-through underneath the roof's enclosure -- similar to the recently released Audi A5 convertible -- that should make schlepping longer parcels a bit easier.

The real party piece on the convertible E-Class is the new AirCap system, which includes a 2.4-inch wind deflector that extends from the windshield, along with a draft-stop mounted behind the rear seats. According to Mercedes, this limits the amount of wind intrusion into the passenger compartment up to speeds of 100 mph, keeping your perfectly coifed hair in check and making conversations easier when storming the autobahn.

Other tech includes the Mercedes Airscarf, which blows warm air around the neck of the front seat passengers (originally seen on the SL) and Mercedes' first application of head airbags in a convertible. If you're champing at the bit to get your hands on the 2011 E-Class Convertible, you'll have to wait until May, but in the meantime, you can scope out all the details in the press release below the fold.


Gallery: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Continue reading Detroit Preview: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

Detroit Preview: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 mercedes e class cabriolet2010 mercedes e-class cabriolet2010 mercedes-benz e-class2010 mercedes-benz e-class cabrio2010 mercedes-benz e-class cabriolet2010 mercedes-benz e-class convertible2010Mercedes-benzE-class2010Mercedes-benzE-classCabrio2010Mercedes-benzE-classCabriolet2010Mercedes-benzE-classConvertible2010MercedesE-classCabriolet2010MercedesEClassCabriolet20112011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet2011Mercedes-benzE-classCabrioletcabrioletdetroitdetroit 2010detroit auto showDetroit2010DetroitAutoShowe class cabriolete-classe-class cabrioletE-classCabrioletEClassCabrioletmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMon, 14 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.14.09]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-14-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-14-09/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/daily-u-turn-what-you-missed-on-12-14-09/#comments

Review: 2010 Nissan Maxima SV Sport is a lot of car for a lot of coin

Despite being hobbled by front-wheel drive, the Maxima SV Sport can hold its own on the bi-ways and backroads. But at what cost?

Kepler Motors Motion supercar to debut at Dubai Motor Show

We've seen plenty of supercar start-ups come and go, but Kepler Motors appears to have the right stuff with its carbon fiber, Ecoboost-powered Motion coupe.

VIDEO: GM commissions Chevrolet Volt dance to go with song. Yes, really.

Following the release of the Chevrolet Volt theme song, GM tapped a handful of dancers to perform an accompanying two-step at the LA Auto Show. And yes, it's bad.

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Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 12.14.09 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>uturnMon, 14 Dec 2009 19:20:00 EST