Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Official: Mitsubishi previews new Attrage global sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mitsubishi-previews-new-attrage-global-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mitsubishi-previews-new-attrage-global-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mitsubishi-previews-new-attrage-global-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mitsubishi Attrage sedan - front three-quarter view, blue

It's been about a month since we first saw the Mitsubishi Concept G4 at the Shanghai Motor Show, but now the automaker has revealed the first images for the sedan in production trim. Wearing the Mitsubishi Attrage nameplate, this sedan will go on sale this summer in Thailand and could eventually makes its way to the US. Despite being essentially a sedan version of its subcompact Mirage, Mitsubishi refers to the Attrage as its next-generation global compact sedan, suggesting it's a fair bit larger than its hatchback counterpart.

We only have this single image to go on, but the new Attrage obviously has the same overall look as the Concept G4. As expected, it does lose some of the more conceptual bits, including the fancy headlights, grills and wheels. While the styling has us thinking back to the late 1990s, the true advantage of the Attrage is likely to be its fuel consumption. US fuel economy for the Attrage hasn't been released, but the closely related 2014 Mirage is expected to return 37 miles per gallon in the city and 44 mpg on the highway using the same 1.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine paired with either a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission. Scroll down for the brief press release for the Thai-built Attrage.

Continue reading Mitsubishi previews new Attrage global sedan

Mitsubishi previews new Attrage global sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mitsubishi attragemitsubishimitsubishi attragemitsubishi concept g4mitsubishi miragemitsubishi thailandTue, 21 May 2013 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Meet the man whose house is designed around his car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/meet-the-man-whose-house-is-designed-around-his-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/meet-the-man-whose-house-is-designed-around-his-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/meet-the-man-whose-house-is-designed-around-his-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Holger Schubert and his Ferrari garage - Petrolicious video screencap
It's been a couple of years since we last heard about Holger Schubert and his award-winning office/garage, but it looks like the city of Los Angeles, thankfully, did not force him to tear down the bridge that gives his Ferrari 512 BBi arguably the nicest parking spot in California. Petrolicious is back again with another well-done video, which finally introduces us to Schubert as well as his lust-worthy Ferrari.

As for the structure, it is half garage and half work space with an office, couch, bookshelf and television, and one hell of a view. There is a ramp that raises to allow the Ferrari to roll backward out of the garage before starting up on the aforementioned bridge that sits 16-feet above the ground. The car itself is an equally admirable piece of art, with a wedge-like shape and its reserved dark gray hue. If you're not the jealous type, scroll down to meet Schubert and his incredible Ferrari.

Continue reading Meet the man whose house is designed around his car

Meet the man whose house is designed around his car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrariferrari 512 bbferrari berlinetta boxerferrari boxergaragegarage mahalholger schubertpetroliciousvideoTue, 21 May 2013 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: McLaren pondering Honda-powered 911 killer?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-pondering-honda-powered-911-killer/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-pondering-honda-powered-911-killer/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-pondering-honda-powered-911-killer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As one of the premier sports cars in the world, the Porsche 911 is always driving around with a target on its rear-engined backside. If a new report is to be believed, the latest automaker with plans to build a 911-fighting sports coupe could be McLaren. Motor Trend is reporting that the recent news that Honda and McLaren are teaming up to build Formula One racecars could bear road-going fruit as well.

According to the article, the unnamed entry-level McLaren coupe may be powered by a Honda-sourced engine, but a detuned version of the 3.8-liter V8 from the MP4-12C is said to be more likely. All in, though, there is no solid information on the car just yet. As a reminder, M/T points out that the last time McLaren partnered up with a mainstream automaker, the world was introduced to the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren.

McLaren pondering Honda-powered 911 killer? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondahonda mclarenmclarenmclaren hondamclaren-hondasports coupeTue, 21 May 2013 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Audi passes BMW as top luxury brand in India]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/audi-passes-bmw-as-top-luxury-brand-in-india/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/audi-passes-bmw-as-top-luxury-brand-in-india/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/audi-passes-bmw-as-top-luxury-brand-in-india/#commentsFiled under: , ,



By the end of this decade, India is expected to be one of the top three car markets in the world, but automakers are already starting to duke it out for sales. In terms of premium brands, Automotive News says that Audi has jumped out to an early lead for sales in the country due in large part to the recent introduction of the Audi Q3 (shown above).

In 2012, Audi's sales increased 43 percent, rising to 9,350 units and outselling BMW (8,686) and Mercedes-Benz (7,015), both of which experienced a drop in sales last year of 9.5 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively. While none of these sales figures are particularly significant on a global scale, the article says that the market for premium cars in India is expected to quadruple by 2020 up to around 120,000 units. AN attributes Audi's lead to its offering of new SUVs while its rivals have been focusing on small hatchbacks.

Audi passes BMW as top luxury brand in India originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi q3indialuxury crossoverluxury suvTue, 21 May 2013 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: BMW-Toyota sports car heading towards Tokyo debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/bmw-toyota-sports-car-heading-towards-tokyo-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/bmw-toyota-sports-car-heading-towards-tokyo-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/bmw-toyota-sports-car-heading-towards-tokyo-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Earlier this year, BMW and Toyota confirmed a four-part joint venture mostly focusing on increasing improving vehicle efficiency using fuel cells, lightweight materials and better battery technology. Also tucked into the announcement was a "feasibility study" for a shared platform to underpin a future midsize "sports vehicle."

In terms of the latter, it seems that things have stepped up from the feasibility stage to the conceptual stage, as Motor Trend reports we could see a pair of new sports car concepts debut later this year in at the Tokyo Motor Show. There isn't much information about the new program, but the article suggests the sports cars could be all-wheel drive hybrids, with electric motors powering the front wheels and a gas engine powering the rear wheels. While a partnership between Toyota and BMW might not lend itself to a catchy portmanteau like "Toyobaru," here's hoping it will bear fruit that is as exciting as the ones produced by the Toyota/Subaru tie up.

BMW-Toyota sports car heading towards Tokyo debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw toyotasports carsports vehicletokyo motor showtoyotatoyota bmwtoyota bmw partnershipMon, 20 May 2013 18:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Is Chevrolet readying a CNG-powered Impala?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/is-chevrolet-readying-a-cng-powered-impala/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/is-chevrolet-readying-a-cng-powered-impala/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/is-chevrolet-readying-a-cng-powered-impala/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chevrolet Impala prototype testing with CNG powertrain - rear view

When it comes to fleet vehicles, the Chevrolet Impala definitely plays an important role for General Motors, and it looks like GM is hard at work developing the next-gen Impala for bulk-buying businesses. The Motoring Journal recently spotted a handful of Impalas testing in Colorado with minor camouflage, but upon closer inspection, these appear to be test mules for a new compressed natural gas (CNG) model - a powertrain combination far more likely to find favor with fleet buyers than everyday consumers.

Aside from the obvious "CNG" stickers affixed to the decklid, these cars also have different exhaust outlets than what we saw on the V6-equipped Impalas during our first drive of the sedan back in March. Images also show under the hood with a different engine cover and plenty of exposed wiring as the CNG system continues testing. There was also an electrical connector poking out of the front fascia, and at least one of the sedans had a receiver-style trailer hitch.

During the launch of the 2014 Impala, Chevrolet said that it is looking to flip the current fleet-to-retail from 70:30 to a more profitable and resale-friendly 30:70 ratio, and this new CNG Impala could be a good way to retain some of that 30-percent fleet business. We reached out to GM for word on when a CNG Impala might arrive, and received this response:

We do offer a CNG van and a bi-fuel pickup truck, but still studying the demand for CNG powered passenger cars. Infrastructure is a consideration for anyone buying these types of vehicles. Unfortunately, there's nothing to announce today on this front.

Our best guess is that it could debut for the 2015 model year, since the ninth-generation model is carrying over for fleet-only sales as the 2014 Impala Limited.

Is Chevrolet readying a CNG-powered Impala? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevy impalachevychevy impalacngcompressed natural gasnatural gasspy photosspy shotsMon, 20 May 2013 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series GT spied in 7-seat trim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/bmw-1-series-gt-spied-in-7-seat-trim/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/bmw-1-series-gt-spied-in-7-seat-trim/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/bmw-1-series-gt-spied-in-7-seat-trim/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

BMW 1 Series GT spied disguised in 7-seat trim

As BMW prepares to introduce its first-ever front-wheel drive car, the upcoming 1 Series GT, it looks like there will be at least two versions of the car. A conventional-looking hatchback was spotted testing late last year, but now we see an extended-length version in order to accommodate a third row of seats.

Judging by these spy shots, this 1 Series GT prototype has received an extended wheelbase, larger rear doors and more upright D-pillars compared to our previous spy shots (show in the gallery below) all with the aim of creating additional passenger and cargo space. Like the smaller 1 Series GT, this longer model would likely carry over the same powertrain options, which are expected to consist of three- and four-cylinder engines, a hybrid system and the choice of front- or all-wheel drive. The 1 Series GT could make its debut this fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but we might have to wait until next year to see the people mover.

BMW 1 Series GT spied in 7-seat trim originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 10:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 1 series 7-seaterbmw 1 series gtbmw mpvbmw sport active tourerbmw spy shotsspy photosspy shotsMon, 20 May 2013 10:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Honda could halve its US lineup without crimping its sales much [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/honda-could-halve-its-us-lineup-without-crimping-its-sales-much/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/honda-could-halve-its-us-lineup-without-crimping-its-sales-much/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/honda-could-halve-its-us-lineup-without-crimping-its-sales-much/#commentsFiled under: ,



Taking a detailed look at the Honda lineup in the US, it isn't hard to see the strength of some models and the weaknesses of others. A recent report on Autoline Daily points out that its five core models - the Accord, Civic, CR-V, Odyssey and Pilot - make up a full 93 percent of Honda's sales in the US. Through April, Honda has sold 419,798 vehicles, and 389,474 of them were from these core models; not to mention the fact that the Accord was the top-selling car in the US last month.

This means that Honda could technically cut six of its 11 models and only lose about 5,000 sales per month. Of course, this is just some data crunching and there is no reason to believe that Honda is planning to kill off any of its models in the near future. In fact, it seems to be committed to the Ridgeline, while Japanese-made models that may actually lose money for Honda still fill unique voids. Scroll down for the video report - fast-forward to the 1:43 mark for the Honda info.

Continue reading Honda could halve its US lineup without crimping its sales much [w/video]

Honda could halve its US lineup without crimping its sales much [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 May 2013 15:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hondahonda accordhonda civichonda cr-vhonda cr-zhonda crosstourhonda fcx clarityhonda fithonda insighthonda odysseyhonda pilothonda ridgelinehonda salesSat, 18 May 2013 15:13:00 EST<![CDATA[ETC: Costco offering this $115,000 full-size F1 simulator in UK]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/costco-offering-this-115-000-full-size-f1-simulator-in-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/costco-offering-this-115-000-full-size-f1-simulator-in-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/costco-offering-this-115-000-full-size-f1-simulator-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



For video game enthusiasts who can't stand the thought of playing a racing game on a single television screen, using a standard controller and (gasp!) sitting on a couch, there are plenty of realistic racing simulators out there. While better simulators usually include a trio of monitors, a racing chair and appropriate steering wheel and pedals, Costco has what could be the ultimate racing simulator for Formula One fans in the UK with deep pockets and a desire for a life-like gaming experience.

Costing a mere 90,000 British pounds (roughly $136,000), Costco UK sells a simulator mounted to a life-size F1 car that includes plenty of composite, carbon fiber and alloy. It even has full brakes, wheels and tires. The price includes set up and training, but don't expect to pick one up in addition to a 10-pound package of bacon and a 40-count package of toilet paper, since it takes about 12 to 18 weeks to deliver. All that is missing to get this thing on a real track are the engine and transmission. As for the simulation aspect, this system uses three 23-inch thin film transistor (TFT) screens, an Intel Core i7 processor and a five-speaker surround sound system.

Head over to the Costco UK website to check out what has to be the coolest and most excessive gaming device ever.

Costco offering this $115,000 full-size F1 simulator in UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 18 May 2013 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costcof1formula 1formula oneracing simulatorvideo gameSat, 18 May 2013 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Portland police pursuit quack down caught on dash cam]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/portland-police-pursuit-quack-up-caught-on-dash-cam/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/portland-police-pursuit-quack-up-caught-on-dash-cam/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/portland-police-pursuit-quack-up-caught-on-dash-cam/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



One driver in Portland, OR should make a hefty donation to his or her local wildlife conservation group after a family of ducks got the person out of a speeding ticket. A Portland police officer clocked a car going 52 miles per hour in a 35-mph zone, but when the officer went to pursue the speeder, a mother duck and her two ducklings ran some unintended interference.

Rather than just going around the ducks, the officer blocks the street to usher the waterfowl from the road. While the speeder got away, it's nice to see some compassion from the authorities. Besides, the gesture might've saved more than just the ducks from an unfortunate accident on the rain-slicked road. Scroll down to watch the video taken from the patrol car's dash cam.

Continue reading Portland police pursuit quack down caught on dash cam

Portland police pursuit quack down caught on dash cam originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dash camdash camedashcamduckmallard duckpolicepolice campolice chaseportland policespeeding ticketvideoFri, 17 May 2013 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Lexus LFA owner gets town to remove speed bump]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/lexus-lfa-owner-gets-town-to-remove-speed-bump/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Lexus LFA supercar at sunset

What do you do if you have enough money to buy a Lexus LFA but can't get the car safely to your house? Get local government involved, of course. Rune Berge Vik, of Stavanger, Norway, did just that after he bought a Lexus LFA (the only LFA in the Nordic region according to tv2.no) last year only to find out that it could not clear a speed bump in his neighborhood.

To remedy the situation, Vik got in touch with his city, which had the speed bump removed. Talk about your tax dollars hard at work. On the other hand, it's commendable that the man actually uses his supercar as a daily driver, and besides, doesn't a street-legal car have the right to access said public streets?

Lexus LFA owner gets town to remove speed bump originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 lexus lfalexuslexus lfalocal governmentspeed bumpspeed humpFri, 17 May 2013 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Mitsubishi confirms pair of MiEV Evolution II electric racecars for Pikes Peak]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/mitsubishi-confirms-pair-of-miev-evolution-ii-electric-racecars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Preparing for next month's Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, Mitsubishi - the presenting sponsor of this year's PPIHC - has unveiled its entrant for the race: the all-electric MiEV Evolution II. Building off last year's MiEV-inspired entrant, the Evolution II has received numerous improvements, including a more powerful electric drive system, a lower center of gravity and even a more traditional racecar look. Driving a pair of MiEV Evolution II models this year will be Hiroshi Masuoka from Mitsubishi vehicle development and six-time PPIHC motorcycle winner, Greg Tracy.

Both MiEV Evolution II racers employ a quartet of electric motors (last year's car used just three), and output has been increased from 280 kilowatts (375 horsepower) up to 400 KW (536 hp). For improved handling, the cars' lithium-ion battery packs help provide lower centers of gravity, and both Masuoka's and Tracy's cars have received active yaw control, stability control and redesigned anti-lock braking systems. Hopefully, this will help them stick to the mountain better. As previously mentioned, even their look has changed, with less of a wide-body i-MiEV feel and more of a racecar appearance. We think the finished product would actually make for a pretty cool Le Mans Prototype racer, or perhaps an electrically powered rival for trackday cars like those from Radical.

Mitsubishi confirms pair of MiEV Evolution II electric racecars for Pikes Peak originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric racecargreg tracyhill climbhiroshi masuokamitsubishimitsubishi imitsubishi i mievmitsubishi miev evolution iipikes peakpikes peek international hill climbFri, 17 May 2013 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: 2014 BMW 6 Series M Sport family to start from $80,625*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-bmw-6-series-m-sport-family-to-start-from-80-625/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-bmw-6-series-m-sport-family-to-start-from-80-625/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/2014-bmw-6-series-m-sport-family-to-start-from-80-625/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 BMW 6 Series with M Sport package - front three-quarter view

BMW shoppers looking for sportier and more luxurious versions of the 6 Series and 6 Series Gran Coupe without stepping up to the mighty M6 now have something new to check out. Offered on all versions of the 640i and 650i for the 2014 model year, the company's M Sport Edition package goes on sale in June with prices starting at $80,625 for the 640i Coupe, $83,325 for the 640i Gran Coupe and $87,925 for the 640i Convertible (*all prices including $925 for destination).

This package will allow standard 6 Series models to receive M6 styling cues like the more aggressive, aero-tuned front fascia, 19-inch wheels and even the option of the M6-exclusive Sakhir Orange metallic hue shown above. Matching the M6-like exterior, the interior will also be upgraded with an M-specific steering wheel, M badges on the door sill plates and the option of BMW Individual leather with a unique white and orange color scheme. With price increases of well over $5,000 for the M Sport Edition, this package also includes plenty of standard features like the company's Professional hi-fi audio system, head-up display, ConnectedDrive Navigation and - wait for it - a ski bag.

Continue reading 2014 BMW 6 Series M Sport family to start from $80,625*

2014 BMW 6 Series M Sport family to start from $80,625* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw 640i m sport edition2014 bmw 650i m sport editionbmwbmw 6 seriesbmw 6 series convertiblebmw 6 series coupebmw 6 series gran coupebmw 6 series pricingFri, 17 May 2013 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Subaru Forester first to ace difficult new IIHS crash test [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/subaru-forester-first-to-ace-difficult-new-iihs-crash-test-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/subaru-forester-first-to-ace-difficult-new-iihs-crash-test-w-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/subaru-forester-first-to-ace-difficult-new-iihs-crash-test-w-v/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety introduced its new small overlap frontal crash test last year, and while a number of cars have passed the test with an "Acceptable" rating, the 2014 Subaru Forester is the first vehicle to ace the test with a "Good" rating. A total of 13 small crossovers and SUVs were subjected to the more rigorous testing procedure, and only the Forester and the 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport drove off with the highest Top Safety Pick+ rating.

Two of the worst-performing vehicles that were called out in this group were the Nissan Rogue and Jeep Wrangler, which were the only two not to receive a Top Safety Pick Rating. The Jeep Patriot did earn that distinction despite not performing well in the small overlap test. To be named a Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn top ratings in front, side, rear and roof-strength tests, while a Top Safety Pick+ requires four out of five to be "Good" ratings with the fifth no worse than "Acceptable;" the Forester received "Good" ratings in all five tests. Scroll down for a video showing how the Forester and some of its competitors performed in the small overlap test, along with a press release.

Continue reading Subaru Forester first to ace difficult new IIHS crash test [w/video]

Subaru Forester first to ace difficult new IIHS crash test [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 subaru forester2014 subaru forester crash test2014subaruforestercrashtestcrash testiihsInsurance Institute for Highway Safetysmall overlap frontal crash testsubaru forestersubaruforesterTop Safety Picktop safety pick+Thu, 16 May 2013 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: 2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Despite initially launching in just the Crew Cab configuration, the lineup of 2014 GMC Sierra and 2014 Chevrolet Silverado trucks will eventually grow to include three cab sizes and three bed lengths. Oddly enough, our first look at the Regular Cab bodystyle has arrived in a General Motors press release discussing the aerodynamics of the new truck, with an image showing a Sierra Regular Cab testing in the wind tunnel. GMC's website says that Regular Cab and Double Cab models will be available by summer.

While it really didn't take too much imagination to figure out what the two-door version would look like, this Regular Cab Z71 looks pretty sharp with its standard-length (6.5-feet) bed - a longer bed will also be offered. In regards to the aero tuning of the 2014 Sierra, these images show just how far GM has gone in maximizing the truck's fuel efficiency and reducing its noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels. Interestingly, the press release shows visual evidence that keeping the tailgate up is best for aero - there's always been some Mythbusters-level contention about such things -but GM also says that adding tonneau covers (preferably soft) and running boards can also help improve the overall aerodynamics. Scroll down for all of this aero info in the official press release.

Continue reading 2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed

2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 gmc sierra2014 gmc sierra regular cabchevy silveradogeneral motorsgmcgmc sierragmc sierra regular cabThu, 16 May 2013 14:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick Spin: 2013 Hurst Edition Trans Am]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/2013-hurst-edition-trans-am/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/2013-hurst-edition-trans-am/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/2013-hurst-edition-trans-am/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Hurst Edition Trans Am - front three-quarter view, white

No, you didn't read our title wrong. This is a 2013 model year Trans Am, and yes, that is a Pontiac logo affixed to the front of the car. But don't bother dialing up your local General Motors dealership just yet. This is the new Hurst Edition Trans Am created by the Trans Am Depot located in Tallahassee, FL. Having spent a number of years restoring early Trans Am models, the crew at Trans Am Depot finally did what many Pontiac enthusiasts wish GM would have done - create a modern Trans Am using the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro.

As the former owner of a 1977 model, I've been wanting to check out Trans Am Depot ever since I first saw the company have American Choppers build a trio of motorcycles inspired by its Pontiac remakes. So I jumped at the chance to head to Florida's capital city to visit the shop and drive its latest creation, the new Hurst Edition Trans Am. As a collaboration with Hurst, this car made its debut at the 2012 SEMA Show and then popped up again on our radar with a cheesy yet perfectly fitting video back in March.

Driving Notes
  • For this Quick Spin, I was in the black Hurst Edition SEMA car driving behind the gorgeous pearl white example seen here, and between their audacious styling and killer exhaust notes, people kept gawking at us - ok, the cars - as if we were the buxom, bikini-clad babe seen in the aforementioned video.
  • From a styling standpoint, this Trans Am is way more than just a body kit. Trans Am Depot has performed extensive changes to the Camaro's body to give it an appearance that closely resembles the 1977-78 Firebird, with unique front and rear fascias that include modern LED headlights and taillights, as well as era-appropriate down-turned quadruple exhaust outlets. Some of the minor alterations include detail work like adding front fender extractors, removing the Camaro's faux rear wheel vents and adding a little length to the tail section to give the Trans Am a flatter, more unique rear end. Hurst Edition cars are only offered in black, white and silver paint with the iconic shaker hood and Screaming Eagle, and the whole look is finished off with 20-inch, gold-accented honeycomb wheels.
  • As the hood scoop suggests, the Hurst Edition uses the same 6.2-liter V8 as the Camaro SS, and an optional supercharger boosted the power to 575 horsepower at the rear wheels on my test car. There is also a supercharger kit that delivers up to 720 hp, and if that still isn't enough, a twin-turbo kit is available offering 1,100 horses. With 575 hp, the Hurst Edition still has plenty of power to break the wheels lose even with StabiliTrak on, making me wonder how crazy the more powerful versions are. More impressive than the power from this V8 are the noises it makes. Under the hood, a muffled whine hints at the supercharger while the dual exhaust belts out an incredible note under full throttle.
  • Just like the extensive changes made to the car's styling, Trans Am Depot had done more than just dump a ton of extra power under the hood. A one-inch drop in the suspension helps tuck the staggered-width alloys into the wheel wells, while an Eibach sway bar upgrade should help give the heavy Camaro chassis a little more cornering bite. Sadly, I didn't have the chance to put the Hurst Edition T/A through any challenging handling exercises... it is Florida after all.
  • Inside, the Hurst Edition also gets an appropriately retro theme with repatterned seats, restyled instrument gauges and, naturally, a cue-ball short-throw Hurst shifter. The black-and-gold color scheme gives the cabin a classic look while carbon fiber accents on just about every surface adds modern panache with finishing touches like the billet sill plates and embroidered headrests.
  • My biggest disappointment about the interior - and perhaps the entire car itself - is a lack of the sparkly, machined-metallic-look gauge trim found on the dash of the late-'70s Firebirds. To me, this was as defining of an element as the Screaming Chicken for these old Pontiacs. What this car lacks in a single piece of '70s-era trim, though, it more than makes up for with its t-tops. Trans Am Depot used to farm out its T-tops, but has now since up with a proprietary design for improved style and function. GM, take note.
  • Now, turning your Camaro into a Trans Am is no cheap ordeal. If you have a donor fifth-gen Camaro and eight weeks to spare, Trans Am Depot will turn you out a base Hurst Edition starting at $29,985. This former SEMA queen came with some optional add-ons like the $10,550 supercharger kit and a stiff $7,500 for the t-tops.
  • While Trans Am Depot is limiting production of the Hurst Edition, it also offers the 7T7 model (on which the Hurst is based) with its '77 Trans Am styling, as well as the 6T9 built to look like the 1969 Trans Am and the 6T9 Goat styled after the 1969 GTO. And if, for some reason, you doubt just how much these guys love powerful Pontiacs, check out their daily drivers sitting out in front of the shop: a pair of rare Pontiac G8 GXP Firehawk sedans.

2013 Hurst Edition Trans Am originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevy camaro2013 hurst edition trans amchevy camarohursthurst edition trans ampontiacpontiac firebirdpontiac trans amtrans am depotMon, 13 May 2013 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Maserati's small two-seater could arrive by 2016]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/maseratis-small-two-seater-could-arrive-by-2016/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/maseratis-small-two-seater-could-arrive-by-2016/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/maseratis-small-two-seater-could-arrive-by-2016/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Maserati grille

As a following act to the redesigned Quattroporte and the recently unveiled 2014 Maserati Ghibli, Maserati will be releasing a slew of new products in the coming years, including the next-generation GranTurismo, the all-new Levante SUV and a new 911-fighting coupe - possibly called Gran Sport. While all of this information was detailed last year in a leaked product plan document, there were no dates associated with any of the new products. Auto Express is now reporting that the new GranTurismo will be out in 2015 and the new smaller coupe is expected out in 2016.

According to the report, the new coupe will be smaller and sportier than the GranTurismo, and it will feature a mid-engine layout with a platform that isn't shared with the Alfa Romeo 4C. This product onslaught is a part of Maserati's plan to increase sales to 50,000 units globally by 2015.

Maserati's small two-seater could arrive by 2016 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maseratimaserati coupemaserati gran sportmaserati two-seaterMon, 13 May 2013 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Business booming for Hyundai in 'Bama, new production record set]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/business-booming-for-hyundai-in-bama-new-production-record-set/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/business-booming-for-hyundai-in-bama-new-production-record-set/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/business-booming-for-hyundai-in-bama-new-production-record-set/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Although it may be a distinction of mild importance on a global scale, Hyundai announced that last month it set an all-time sales record for the month of April. Digging a little deeper, Hyundai-Blog - an enthusiast site not affiliated with the South Korean automaker - is reporting that another record was set: to go along with 63,315 total sales in April, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembled a record 37,372 Elantra and Sonata sedans.

This doesn't mean that half of Hyundai's April sales came from the Montgomery, AL plant, but it's still a telling sign of just how important this new factory is. The Elantra and Sonata are by far Hyundai's most popular models, accounting for almost 63 percent of all Hyundai sales so far in 2013. Congrats on the achievement, Hyundai.

Business booming for Hyundai in 'Bama, new production record set originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 May 2013 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundaihyundai elantrahyundai motor manufacturing alabamahyundai productionhyundai saleshyundai sonataSun, 12 May 2013 13:04:00 EST<![CDATA[ETC: Boatpack box puts a sailing vessel on your roof]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/boatpack-box-puts-a-sailing-vessel-on-your-roof/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/boatpack-box-puts-a-sailing-vessel-on-your-roof/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/boatpack-box-puts-a-sailing-vessel-on-your-roof/#commentsFiled under: ,



Roof-mounted carriers are perfect for adding a little extra cargo capacity when heading off on a road trip, but an Australian company has come up with an innovative way to take advantage of this device when not in use. When not needed to carry cargo, the Boatpack becomes a small, lightweight boat, which, as evidenced by the images, can create some absolutely awkward mother-son bonding time. At $1,590, the Boatpack is not cheap, but if you like spending a little time on a small lake while on vacation, this is a pretty interesting idea.

When needed to store cargo, the lockable Boatpack offers 23 cubic feet of volume, but weighing in at just 44 pounds it's also lightweight enough to be removed by just one person for use as a boat. Oars come included with the Boatpack, but it has also been designed to accommodate electric outboard drive units. And for Tommy Boy fans, we all now have a real excuse to yell "stop playing with your dinghy" at people out on the water.

Boatpack box puts a sailing vessel on your roof originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 May 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boatingboatpackcargo carrierdinghyportable boatsSun, 12 May 2013 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Would you allow advertisements on your infotainment system? [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/11/would-you-allow-advertisements-on-your-infotainment-system-w-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/11/would-you-allow-advertisements-on-your-infotainment-system-w-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/11/would-you-allow-advertisements-on-your-infotainment-system-w-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



As consumers find new ways to avoid commercials and advertisements, companies are constantly trying to find new ways of marketing to them. Other than radio commercials, it's hard to think of a way for ads to show up in our cars, but Reuters is reporting that General Motors is considering selling ads show inside its in-car infotainment systems.

In the article, GM CEO Dan Akerson talked about the possibility of in-car ads with the example being a "brought to you by Alltstate" message showing up on the infotainment screen. Of course, this doesn't even begin to factor in what sort of ads we'll start seeing in GM cars once it launches its widespread 4G LTE Internet access for most vehicles starting with the 2015 model year.

Does this kind of advertising creep strike you as being par for the future course, or insidious beyond your wildest dreams? Make your voice heard, in our poll below.

View Poll

Would you allow advertisements on your infotainment system? [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 May 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingdan akersongeneral motorsgmin-car advertisingSat, 11 May 2013 11:01:00 EST