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[Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/jeep-recalling-over-161k-2007-2008-wrangler-at-models-due-to-tra/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Owners of model year 2007-2008 Jeep Wranglers with automatic transmissions may have to visit their local dealers as Chrysler is recalling 161,450 of the SUVs over potential transmission overheating problems. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), Wrangler models manufactured between June 2006 and July 2008 with automatic transmissions were not fitted with a transmission fluid temperature warning system. If the AT fluid in the affected vehicles overheats, it may boil over and come in contact with hot engine or exhaust components - possibly leading to a fire.

To help alert drivers that their Jeep's transmission is overheating, dealers will inspect and install a visual "Hot Oil" message in the instrument cluster accompanied by an audible chime to indicate the elevated fluid temperature. The service will be performed free of charge starting in December. For more information, owners of the affected models may call Chrysler at 1-800-835-1403, NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236, or visit www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence

Jeep recalling over 161k 2007-2008 Wrangler AT models due to tranny temp. sensor absence originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007 Jeep Wrangler2007JeepWrangler2008 Jeep Wrangler2008JeepWranglerAT fluidAtFluidfirefluidJeep RecallJeep Wrangler RecallJeepRecallJeepWranglerRecallNHTSAnhtsa recallNhtsaRecalloverheatRecallTransmissionwrangler pickupwrangler truckWranglerPickupWranglerTruckWranglerUnlimitedFri, 20 Nov 2009 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/mitsubishi-recalls-nearly-30k-2008-2009-lancer-lancer-evo-models/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mitsubishi Evo X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Potential corrosion of the front impact airbag sensor has prompted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to recall up to 29,353 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer and Lancer Evolution models. NHTSA is concerned that long-term exposure to a mixture of melted snow and salt thrown up by other vehicles on the road may cause the wintery mixture to adhere to the front impact sensor and lead to corrosion over time. In the event of an accident or collision, a damaged sensor may short-circuit and delay airbag deployment possibly causing driver or passenger injury. The recall is currently limited to states where heavy road salt is used in the winter (i.e., Connecticut, New York, Wisconsin, etc...).

Mitsubishi dealers have been instructed to replace the airbag sensors with a redesigned model with improved corrosion resistance. Of course, the service will be performed at no charge. While the safety recall isn't scheduled to begin until November 27, 2009, owners may contact Mitsubishi Customer Relations at 888-648-7820, contact NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236, or visit NHTSA on the Internet at www.safercar.gov. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X


[Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration]

Continue reading Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors

Mitsubishi recalls nearly 30k 2008-2009 Lancer/Lancer EVO models over airbag sensors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 mitsubishi lancer2008 mitsubishi lancer es2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X2008MitsubishiLancer2008MitsubishiLancerEs2008MitsubishiLancerEvolution2008MitsubishiLancerEvolutionX2009 mitsubishi lancer ralliart2009MitsubishiLancerRalliartAir Bagairbagauto recallAutoRecallcar recallCarRecallcorrosionEVOEvo XevolutionEvoXLancerlancer EVOlancer evolutionLancerEvoLancerEvolutionMitsumitsubishimitsubishi recallMitsubishiLancerMitsubishiRecallNHTSA RecallNhtsaRecallRecallSafety RecallSafetyRecallsaltTue, 17 Nov 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Saab dealers 'running out of cars']]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/report-saab-dealers-running-out-of-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/report-saab-dealers-running-out-of-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/report-saab-dealers-running-out-of-cars/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

With new vehicle production at a trickle, and its dealer network slashed by a third, retailers of the Saab brand are finding inventory shrinking to drought levels. Some of the remaining dealers may even run out of new vehicles before replacements arrive.

Point the blame towards the pending sale of Saab to Koenigsegg Automotive AB, and the fact that an all-new Saab 9-5 model is still sitting on the horizon. With the transaction still not complete, financial limitations have kept new vehicle production low. In addition, the Swedish assembly plant tasked to build the new 9-5 sedan is in the process of retooling. "When we close the deal and change owners we can start producing again for real as we then will have financing," Eric Geers, a Saab spokesman told Bloomberg.

Even if the deal with Koenigsegg closes as planned, the 2010 Saab 9-5 (the company's first all-new car in seven years) won't hit European showrooms until early next year. U.S. dealers will likely have to wait even longer, starving as the last of their dwindling inventory rolls away.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: Bloomberg]

REPORT: Saab dealers 'running out of cars' originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Saab2010 saab 9-52010Saab2010Saab9-59-5dealer networkDealerNetworkdealersinventorykoenigseggkoenigsegg saabKoenigseggSaabpendingplant closurePlantClosureProductionretoolingSaab 9-5Saab9-5saleSwedishTue, 17 Nov 2009 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/review-2009-dodge-challenger-srt8-six-speed-reveals-its-true-ch/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/review-2009-dodge-challenger-srt8-six-speed-reveals-its-true-ch/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/review-2009-dodge-challenger-srt8-six-speed-reveals-its-true-ch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-Speed - Click above for high-res image gallery

This isn't our first sampling of the reborn Dodge Challenger. We've driven the SE, R/T and SRT8 variants before. However, this time it's different. We've secured a Challenger SRT-8 with a six-speed manual transmission - and it's a whole different breed of bull.

The six-speed-equipped Dodge Challenger SRT8 drives exactly as it looks. Unlike the countless poseurs promising handling with oversize tires, performance with monstrous exhaust pipes, or luxury with overstuffed cabins, the Challenger SRT8 delivers only what its exterior suggests - a mountain of machismo-infused muscle-car entertainment.

We had a week with Dodge's tribute to testosterone, and it's one we won't soon forget. Contrary to its automatic-equipped siblings, the manual gearbox transforms the SRT8 from merely entertaining to positively supernatural. Make the jump to find out why this husky red coupe had us shaving twice daily.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-Speed


Photos copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character

Review: 2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 six-speed reveals its true character originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Dodge2009 Dodge Challenger2009 Dodge Challenger SRT82009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-speed2009Dodge2009DodgeChallenger2009DodgeChallengerSrt82009DodgeChallengerSrt86-speedBrembochallengerChallenger 6-speedChallenger SRT8Challenger6-speedChallengerSrt8dodgeDodge Challengerdodge challenger srt8Dodge SRT8DodgeChallengerDodgeChallengerSrt8DodgeSrt8featuredHEMIManual transmissionManualTransmissionreviewreviewsSRT8srt8 6-speedSrt86-speedTorRedtremecTremec6Tremec6060Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[STUDY: Cash for Clunkers helped Japanese way more than Detroit 3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/study-cash-for-clunkers-helped-japanese-way-more-than-detroit-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/study-cash-for-clunkers-helped-japanese-way-more-than-detroit-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/study-cash-for-clunkers-helped-japanese-way-more-than-detroit-3/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



While there is no question that Obama's Cash-for-Clunkers program accelerated vehicle sales this summer, a new report by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute shows the big winners were from Japan, not Detroit.

According to the study, nearly 85 percent of the trade-ins were from General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler, yet they only sold 39 percent of the new cars moved off the lots. On the other hand, 8 percent of the trade-ins came from Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, manufacturers who accounted for 41 percent of new car purchases.

While these numbers may be justified by the large quantity of inefficient domestic trucks and SUVs that were deemed clunkers, customer loyalty also seems to have taken a big shift. About 68 percent of owners who traded in Toyota, Honda, or Nissan vehicles replaced them with another from one of those Japanese brands, while only 43 percent of consumers who traded in Detroit steel purchased another General Motors, Ford, or Chrysler product. The program cost the U.S. taxpayers about $3 billion.

[Source: USA Today | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]

STUDY: Cash for Clunkers helped Japanese way more than Detroit 3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto salvageAutoSalvagebillionCash for ClunkersCashForClunkersCFCcostObamasalvagetrade-intrade-insFri, 13 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Koenigsegg reportedly rejects 81 out of 218 U.S. Saab dealers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/koenigsegg-reportedly-rejects-81-out-of-218-u-s-saab-dealers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/koenigsegg-reportedly-rejects-81-out-of-218-u-s-saab-dealers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/koenigsegg-reportedly-rejects-81-out-of-218-u-s-saab-dealers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Automotive News, Federal Express letters arrived at 81 of Saab's 218 dealers on Thursday stating that their franchises had not been selected to move forward and become a dealer for the post-sale entity, Saab Cars North America. The package from General Motors said that Swedish supercar maker Koenigsegg, Saab's buyer, had selected only certain stores based on its business plan requiring strong, well-located dealers showing profits and high volume.

All Saab dealers signed termination agreements in June when GM entered bankruptcy. The dealers who received reject letters today will follow the terms of those agreements. Meanwhile, the remaining 137 U.S. Saab dealers will have to wait patiently until the end of November when the sale is scheduled to close (although those close to the deal say it may take longer). Current Saab dealer contracts with GM will not expire until October 2010, at which point the remaining dealers will sign new franchise agreements with Saab Cars North America.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

Koenigsegg reportedly rejects 81 out of 218 U.S. Saab dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 saab 9-3X2010 saab 9-52010 saab 952010Saab9-3x2010Saab9-52010Saab95BankruptcyDealersGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsgm saleGmSaleKoenigseggRetailersSaabSaleFri, 13 Nov 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Volkswagen Touareg successor headed for Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-volkswagen-touareg-successor-headed-for-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-volkswagen-touareg-successor-headed-for-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/12/report-volkswagen-touareg-successor-headed-for-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Volkswagen Touareg - Click above for high-res image gallery

January's North American International Auto Show (Detroit Auto Show) is expected to host the debut of Volkswagen's all-new third-generation Touareg SUV (the facelifted "second-gen" arrived in the States as a 2008 model). While details are few, rumor has it that VW will introduce its new Touareg with a variety of powerplant choices during its first model year, including a hybrid variant.

As previously reported, the hybrid is expected to combine the supercharged 3.0-liter TSI V6 from the Audi S4 mated to a 38 kW electric motor. An all-new eight-speed automatic transmission wraps up the package. Total combined power is 374 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. With an all-wheel drive powertrain, the Touareg Hybrid should sprint to 60 mph in less than seven seconds and return a combined EPA fuel economy figure of about 26 mpg. While it debuts in just two months, the new Volkswagen Touareg isn't expected in showrooms until the second half of 2010.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Touareg


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Volkswagen Touareg successor headed for Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 volkswagen touareg2011VolkswagenTouaregall-newDebutDetroitTouaregunveilunveiledunveilingVolkswagenVolkswagen SUVVolkswagen TouaregVolkswagenSuvVolkswagenTouaregVW TouaregVwTouaregThu, 12 Nov 2009 14:32:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Motors begins offering free vehicle history reports from Experian]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/report-ebay-motors-to-offer-free-vehicle-history-reports-from-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/report-ebay-motors-to-offer-free-vehicle-history-reports-from-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/report-ebay-motors-to-offer-free-vehicle-history-reports-from-e/#commentsFiled under: ,



Consumers wary of purchasing vehicles off eBay may take a bit of comfort in the online auction site's announcement that all vehicles built since 1981 will now include free vehicle history reports effective today. The "AutoCheck" information, supplied by Experian Automotive, will detail whether vehicles have been involved in major accidents, have salvage titles, have been stolen or repossessed, have had their odometers tampered with, or have seen special duty as a taxi or police vehicle. Of course, the service is only able to detail information which has been reported, a common complaint about vehicle history reports. Nicolas Franchet, senior director of U.S. vehicles at eBay Motors, says the free reports will help build the level of trust between the buyers and sellers. "We're interested in being the best place to buy and sell your car online," Franchet said.

Those familiar with eBay Motors will recall that the site has offered vehicle history reports from CarFax, Inc., when supplied by dealers. Those reports are still be available via a link, but the new AutoCheck data supplied without charge is now automatically displayed in a shaded area below the vehicle image in the body of the listing. For more details, check out the official press release after the jump or eBay Motors.

[Source: Experian Automotive | Image: Sean Gallup/Getty]

Continue reading eBay Motors begins offering free vehicle history reports from Experian

eBay Motors begins offering free vehicle history reports from Experian originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutoCheckbuycar auctioncar salecar salesCarAuctionCarFaxCarSaleCarSalesDealere-bayeBayeBay MotorsEbayMotorsExperianhistory reportHistoryReportpurchaseSalessoldvehicle history reportvehicle saleVehicleHistoryReportVehicleSaleWed, 11 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Total Croc: Porsche suing popular shoe company over naming rights?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/total-croc-porsche-suing-popular-shoe-company-over-naming-right/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/total-croc-porsche-suing-popular-shoe-company-over-naming-right/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/total-croc-porsche-suing-popular-shoe-company-over-naming-right/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Porsche AG is known for vigorously defending its intellectual property. It's understandable, as the company has spent more than half a century building its performance-oriented automotive brand around design patents, logos, and the company's familiar vehicle nomenclature. Crocs, Inc., on the other hand, is a shoe manufacturer credited with introducing the world to low-cost injection-molded foam footwear. Crocs does not build cars... um, thankfully.

What Crocs did do was name its popular sandal the "Cayman" (pictured at right). Of course, this set off all the alarms at Porsche as that name is already trademark registered by the automaker for its two-seat sports coupe. What followed next was expected... in mid-May, Crocs received a letter from Porsche notifying them of the alleged trademark infringement. At the end of July, Porsche filed a notice of injunction in German courts against the European use of the Cayman name by Crocs.

While we realize that few of our readers would ever confuse a pair of Crocs' Cayman with the Porsche Cayman, one has to wonder if Porsche is taking this a bit too far. Rumor has it that the Cayman Islands in the western Caribbean are monitoring the situation and already working on their own legal defense... Hat tip to Freddy for the lead!


Gallery: 2010 Porsche Cayman


[Source: Deadline Watch]

Total Croc: Porsche suing popular shoe company over naming rights? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caymancopyrightcopyright infringementcopyright lawcopyright-infringementCopyrightInfringementCopyrightLawCrocs CaymanCrocsCaymanInjunctionLawsuitLaysuitporschePorsche CaymanPorscheCaymanTrademarktrademark disputetrademark infringementtrademark-infringementTrademarkDisputeTrademarkInfringementtrademarksTue, 10 Nov 2009 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealers being scaled out of existence]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-stand-alone-lincoln-mercury-dealers-dying-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-stand-alone-lincoln-mercury-dealers-dying-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/report-stand-alone-lincoln-mercury-dealers-dying-off/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In 2006, Ford began to shrink its dealership network in order to more efficiently align its distribution network. Three years later, it appears that the hardest hit are the company's stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealerships. While there were 619 Lincoln-Mercury dealerships nationwide just a few years ago, the number had dwindled down to just 357 at the beginning of 2009.

Automotive News recently spoke with Ford CEO Alan Mulally about the future of the Lincoln brand and its stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury stores. While Ford's current strategy is pushing combo Ford-Lincoln-Mercury retailers, Mulally would not confirm that eliminating the stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealerships was the desired end result. When pushed on the question, Mulally reiterated that Ford was focusing on building a distribution network which allowed sales volume, product breadth, and profitability... qualities that are apparently better served by the Ford-Lincoln-Mercury store.

Mulally added that although these combo dealerships will be selling the Lincoln MKS on the same lot as the Ford Taurus (both vehicles share platforms and mechanicals), retailers will learn how to deliver the sales experience that fits the vehicle and differentiates the brand. Whether this concept works or whether car salesmen simply take the easy route and sell the less expensive Ford remains to be seen.

Either way, it has to be asked - is peeling away at the automaker's stand-alone LM dealers part of a larger plan to do away with Mercury altogether? Inquiring minds want to know...

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: Stephen Brashear/Getty]

REPORT: Stand-alone Lincoln-Mercury dealers being scaled out of existence originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyAlanMulallycar dealercar dealerscar showroomCarDealerCarDealersCarShowroomCombinationConsolidationDealershipsDualFordFord dealershipsford mercuryFord-Lincoln-MercuryFordDealershipsFordMercurylincolnLincoln-Mercurlincoln-mercuryMercurymulallyMullallyshowroomMon, 09 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[First Look: Bugatti 16C Galibier Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/bugatti-16c-galibier-concept-first-look/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/bugatti-16c-galibier-concept-first-look/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/bugatti-16c-galibier-concept-first-look/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fine Art Masquerading As A Sedan

Bugatti 16C Galibier Concept - Click above for new high-res image gallery

Bugatti invited us to the first unveiling of its new 16C Galibier Concept on U.S. soil at a special event in Southern California last week. While we have all seen the press images from its debut in Molsheim last month, the select in-person preview gave us an excellent opportunity to talk with Bugatti about the concept, scrutinize the vehicle up close, and to actually spend some time sitting inside the passenger cabin.

The first modern four-door from Bugatti is absolutely striking in the flesh.
Introduced as the automaker's first modern four-door sedan, the 16C Galibier Concept is a close look at what the production 16C Galibier will resemble when it goes on sale in about three years (with a sales price estimated to be about $1.6 million). While it's engineered to be a sedan without peers - and we have no reason to question Bugatti's ability to accomplish this objective - the mechanical aspects of the Galibier will have to take a back seat to its design until the production model arrives in 2012.

In this rarefied automotive segment, the utilitarian value of the vehicle is absent. Vehicles are purchased for their design - that physical aura - and their historical distinction. Performance is expected. Understanding the connection, Bugatti chose a prestigious Beverly Hills gallery to host the event. After a brief introduction, the fabric cover hiding the concept was removed. Follow the jump to find out our reaction.


Gallery: Bugatti 16C Galibier concept

Continue reading First Look: Bugatti 16C Galibier Concept

First Look: Bugatti 16C Galibier Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16c galibier16cGalibierbugattiBugatti 16C Galibier ConceptBugatti16cGalibierConceptfeaturedgalibiergalibier 16cgalibier conceptGalibier16cGalibierConceptMon, 09 Nov 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: BAIC/Koenigsegg may produce Saab 9-5 in China]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-baic-koenigsegg-may-produce-saab-9-5-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-baic-koenigsegg-may-produce-saab-9-5-in-china/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-baic-koenigsegg-may-produce-saab-9-5-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Co. (BAIC), announced as a minority partner in Koenigsegg's deal to purchase Saab from General Motors two months ago, plans to produce the Saab 9-5 on Chinese soil next year. The involvement of BAIC in the Saab transaction helps Koenigsegg close the deal and gives the Chinese company leverage to re-badge the previous-generation Saab 9-5 as its own or to simply expand the brand's existing reach within the country.

In September, Saab CEO Jan-Ake Jonsson told reporters he wanted to double the number of Chinese Saab dealers from 15 to 30, and that he had an interest in local Chinese production. "Beijing Auto is an opportunity for us to establish ourselves in the Chinese market with their experience," the CEO said. Under current plans, Saab imports all cars to China, where they're sold under the Shanghai General Motors network. Sales have been slow, but promoting the brand under the watchful eye of BAIC may help the brand gain traction in China's huge automotive market.

[Source: Gasgoo]

REPORT: BAIC/Koenigsegg may produce Saab 9-5 in China originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-5BAICBAIC SaabBaicSaabBeijing Automotive Industry Holding CoBeijingAutomotiveIndustryHoldingCoBejing AutoBejingAutoChinaInventoryJan-akeJonssonKoenigseggManufacturingPartnershipPrevious generationPreviousGenerationProductionSaabShanghai GM networkShanghaiGmNetworkSat, 07 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler gets in-car TV going with FLO TV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/chrysler-gets-in-car-tv-going-with-flo-tv/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/chrysler-gets-in-car-tv-going-with-flo-tv/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/chrysler-gets-in-car-tv-going-with-flo-tv/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Starting in late December, Chrysler Group LLC will take claim as the first U.S. automaker to offer live mobile television in its Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. Programming for up to 20 channels will come through FLO TV[TM] Auto Entertainment and will offer shows for nearly everyone. As of now, the lineup includes CBS Mobile, CNBC, Comedy Central, FOX News, MSNBC, MTV, Nickelodeon, and more.

While companies have offered "live" TV in the past through large and expensive roof-mounted satellite dishes, the Mopar system captures signals through a mouse-size roof antenna. The feed arrives via a dedicated multicast network from FLO TV (a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc.). The associated receiver and wiring are all hidden, so that they remain out of view to the vehicle's occupants. Utilizing the existing DVD system's 7-inch display, passengers will be able to use a wireless remote control to surf channels, much like they do with current home-based systems.

The $629 (plus installation) package will be offered as a deal-installed option on most new Chrysler SUV/minivan products, and may be retrofitted to some older vehicles equipped with DVD entertainment systems. The cost of system, however, includes a one-year pre-paid FLO TV service subscription. As long as Sponge Bob is on, we're sure many of Chrysler's smallest customers will be quite happy.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler gets in-car TV going with FLO TV

Chrysler gets in-car TV going with FLO TV originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chrysler TVChryslerTvDodge TVDodgeTvflo tvflo tv entertainmentflo tv personal televisionFloTvFloTvEntertainmentFloTvPersonalTelevisionin-car entertainmentin-car tvIn-carEntertainmentIn-carTvJeep TVJeepTvMopar TVMoparTvTelevisionWed, 04 Nov 2009 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[They still make that? VW Golf Mk1 ends production after 25 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/they-still-make-that-vw-golf-mk1-ends-production-after-25-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/they-still-make-that-vw-golf-mk1-ends-production-after-25-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/they-still-make-that-vw-golf-mk1-ends-production-after-25-years/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volkswagen CitiGolf - Click above for high-res image gallery

The original Volkswagen Golf Mk1 arrived as a replacement to the Volkswagen Beetle way back in 1974. Sold in the States as the Volkswagen Rabbit, the early front-wheel-drive hatchback had a transverse-mounted (water-cooled) 1.5-liter four-cylinder rated at just 70 horsepower. It was good for a 93 mph top speed and nearly 38 miles per gallon. While the standard Rabbit was rather ho-hum, the late-to-arrive Mk1 "GTI" ushered in the hot-hatch movement with its 90-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder, slick manual transmission, and upgraded suspension. It was a seriously cool car.

In 1984, Volkswagen introduced the Golf Mk2. As the successor was bigger, wider, and more expensive than the original - and customers may have been turned-off by the "improvements" - VW chose to continue the Mk1 production and sell it as the low-cost Econo Golf, or CitiGolf.

Over the past 25 years, more than 500,000 units of the venerable Mk1 have rolled out of a South African assembly plant for sale in markets abroad. Variants have been fitted with a wide range of engine choices (both gasoline and diesel), from 1.1-liters up to 1.8-liters of displacement. Transmissions have included 4- and 5-speed manuals, plus the (obviously outdated) 3-speed automatic. Lacking nearly all of today's necessary safety equipment (a driver's airbag was eventually fitted), time finally caught up with the CitiGolf this summer and the South African plant was closed in late August.

Interesting side note: the tooling used to build the CitiGolf all these years in South Africa was reportedly originally used to make the Rabbit at Volkswagen's Westmoreland plant in Pennsylvania. Thanks for the tip, Doug!


Gallery: Volkswagen CitiGolf


[Source: in4ride]

They still make that? VW Golf Mk1 ends production after 25 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closeEndingFirst-genGolfJettaMk1ProductionRabbitSouth AfricaSouthAfricaVolkswagen GolfVolkswagen Mk1Volkswagen RabbitVolkswagenGolfVolkswagenMk1VolkswagenRabbitVW Mk1VwMk1Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/mazda-recalls-nearly-40-000-b-series-pickups-over-cruise-control/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Last month, Ford widened its cruise control switch recall to 4.5 million vehicles. Included in the growing list of cars and trucks was the Ford Ranger pickup - the mechanical twin to the now-discontinued Mazda B-Series pickup. Not surprisingly, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has now widened its recall to encompass 39,600 of Mazda's 1995-1997 and 2001-2003 trucks for the exact same fault.

According to the recall, trucks equipped with a Texas Instruments speed control deactivation switch (SCDS) and/or anti-lock brake system (ABS) manufactured on or before December 5, 2002, may encounter a vehicle fire if the switch deteriorates and leaks. As in the Ford recall, Mazda dealers will install a universal fused jumper harness on the cruise control deactivation switch at no charge.

Owners of the recalled vehicles may contact Mazda at 800-222-5500 (option #6), contact the NHTSA's Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236, or go to www.safercar.gov. Recall information after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues

Mazda recalls nearly 40,000 B-Series pickups over cruise control issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>B SeriesB-SeriesBSeriescruise controlcruise control recallcruise control switch firescruise recallCruiseControlCruiseControlRecallCruiseControlSwitchFiresCruiseRecallfaultfireMazdaMazda B-seriesMazda PickupMazdaB-seriesMazdaPickupPickupRecallspeed controlSpeedControlswitchTexas InstrumentsTexasInstrumentsTue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo is Stuttgart's quickest car yet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/2010-porsche-911-turbo-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/2010-porsche-911-turbo-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/2010-porsche-911-turbo-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Porsche 911 Turbo - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's faster to 60 mph than a Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 or Ferrari Enzo. Porsche's fastest offerings, including the Carrera GT, GT2 and road-going 911 GT1 "Strassenversion" will only see its LED tail lamps during a typical sprint. Only the unlikely - make that incomprehensible - meeting of an SSC Ultimate Aero or Bugatti Veyron at a stop light will concern this car's owner that he or she has met a worthy adversary. The vehicle is the new seventh-generation 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo. Sporting a new 500-horsepower engine mated to the automaker's lightning-fast dual-clutch PDK transmission, the all-wheel drive coupe devours the magic 0-60 mph benchmark in less than 3.2 seconds.

Porsche invited us to a track outside Lisbon, Portugal to savor their latest Turbo iteration. While the physical appearance remains virtually unchanged to the uninformed eye, hidden under the familiar sheet metal is a new powertrain that makes one of the world's best sports car even more exceptional. What are the new mechanical specifications of the powerplant, and where does it come from? What's it like to drive on a track? Is the PDK transmission really better than the six-speed manual? Follow the jump for all of the answers...


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo


Photos copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo is Stuttgart's quickest car yet

First Drive: 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo is Stuttgart's quickest car yet originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 porsche 911 turbo2010Porsche911Turbo911911 turbo911Turbofeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveporscheporsche 911porsche 911 turboPorsche911Porsche911TurboMon, 02 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Police auctioning off motorized La-Z-Boy used in DWI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/police-auctioning-off-motorized-la-z-boy-used-in-dwi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/police-auctioning-off-motorized-la-z-boy-used-in-dwi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/police-auctioning-off-motorized-la-z-boy-used-in-dwi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If you've ever had the urge to cruise your neighborhood in a self-propelled La-Z-Boy, your opportunity has arrived. Minnesota resident Dennis Anderson (no relation to the Gravedigger monster truck franchise - we think) has forfeited his notorious motorized, and over-the-top modified, recliner chair involved in his DWI incident and crash recently is going on the eBay auction block later this week.

To recap, this masterpiece of motorized furniture isn't your average run-of-the-mill family room napper. This particular innovative and highly customized chair is fitted with a nitrous-boosted lawnmower engine good for a top speed in the neighborhood of 20 mph (it is fitted with a parachute... apparently in case you happen to drive off a cliff). Dual headlights help guide you home from the late nights at the bar, while an integrated stereo sound system will make you everyone's envy at the stop lights (maybe from the curb, as we don't think it is technically street legal).

While Mr. Anderson got off with two years of probation for his antics, his prized possession is sadly being liquidated - sans reserve price - thanks to a Minnesota law allowing police to auction vehicles seized in drunk-driving cases. So, what do you think it will go for?

[Source: Engadget]

REPORT: Police auctioning off motorized La-Z-Boy used in DWI originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionchairDennis AndersonDennisAndersonDrunk drivingDrunkDrivingDUIDWIeBayfor saleForSaleLa-z-boylazy boyLazyBoyloungeMinnesotareclinerTue, 27 Oct 2009 17:41:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: NY cracking down on cabbies using cell phones - only took 10 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-ny-cracking-down-on-cabbies-using-cell-phones-only-too/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-ny-cracking-down-on-cabbies-using-cell-phones-only-too/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/report-ny-cracking-down-on-cabbies-using-cell-phones-only-too/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's hard to believe, but cab drivers in New York City are prohibited by law from talking on cell phones, with or without headsets. That doesn't seem to stop them, says the city's Taxi and Limousine Commission. Citing phone-related accident statistics, the commission is now proposing more stringent rules that would raise fines and even keep cabbies from using hands-free devices to chat. "We've tried everything else; there's no other way we can make this work," says Matthew W. Daus, the taxi commissioner.

In the first six months of 2009, only one ticket was issued for every 500,000 cab rides. Cabbies escape prosecution because they claim they were only wearing the hands-free devices, not using them. "Judges have been dismissing summonses because there's no proof of conversation," says Daus. Under the proposed rules, the wearing of a headset merits an infraction. Under the current rules, cab drivers are allowed to talk on cell phones while stopped at a red light. The new rules would require drivers to pull over to answer the phone.

Without a doubt, the cabbies are riled. Calling the proposed rules inhumane, they claim mobile phones are crucial in emergencies and the only way they are able to keep in touch with relatives during their 12-hour shifts. While the drafted rules are subject to public hearings next month, the drivers point out the absurdity of some of the proposals. When one organizer at the New York Taxi Workers Alliance was told that he'd have to pull over to answer a ringing phone, his amusing answer was rather succinct: "Where do you get space to put your car?"

[Source: NY Times | Photo by EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty]

REPORT: NY cracking down on cabbies using cell phones - only took 10 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabbiecellular phoneCellular PhonesCellularPhoneCellularPhoneslegalmobilemobile phoneMobilePhonenew lawsuitnew york cityNewLawsuitNewYorkCitynyc taxiNycTaxirulestaxiMon, 19 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> sees what happens when your floor mat sticks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/consumer-reports-sees-what-happens-when-your-floor-mat-sticks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/consumer-reports-sees-what-happens-when-your-floor-mat-sticks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/consumer-reports-sees-what-happens-when-your-floor-mat-sticks/#commentsFiled under: , ,



In the wake of Toyota's huge floor mat recall, theorists have come up with several survival strategies designed to overcome a throttle that's stuck wide-open. Putting some of these theories to the test - and debunking several myths in the process - is the team over at Consumer Reports.

With a large test track and a fleet of vehicles at their disposal, the magazine's engineers initially focused on the "just step hard on the brakes" method of bringing the car to a halt. Interestingly enough, CR tested a Mercedes-Benz E350 and a Volkswagen Jetta Wagon - both fitted with drive-by-wire "smart throttles" that are designed to ignore conflicting inputs (throttle and brake at the same time). CR reports that these cars simply shut down to idle and came safety to a stop. The story was a bit different with a Toyota Venza and Chevrolet HHR, however. When the brakes on those vehicles were firmly applied at 20 mph, their transmissions downshifted to fight the deceleration. The vehicles were both eventually brought to a stop after the first test. However, when the test was repeated at 60 mph on brakes that had been cooled since the earlier run, both vehicles quickly suffered fade from their overheated brakes and were unable to come to a complete stop.

As is the general rule, a vehicle's braking system is stronger than the engine when the car is standing still. However, the tests conducted by Consumer Reports demonstrate that the power of the engine combined with the momentum of a car at highway speed is often enough to overtax the braking system's ability to bring the car to a stop (the brakes overheat and fade). Their suggestion is to simply slide the transmission lever to neutral - removing the engine's power from the equation - and apply the brakes firmly to bring the car to a stop. Once stopped, shut the engine off and then shift safely into Park. This "shift-to-neutral" action was equally effective on all four vehicles. The CR team also explored shutting off the engine (turn the key or hold the Start/Stop button down for more than a few seconds). This method also worked well, but it does present some danger. Switching off the engine disables power steering on most vehicles, eliminates brake boost, and may lock the steering wheel if the key is turned back too far - making a safe stop nearly impossible.

[Source: Consumer Reports | Image: George Heyer/Getty]]

Consumer Reports sees what happens when your floor mat sticks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brake fadebrake failureBrakeFadeBrakeFailureChevroletConsumer ReportsConsumerReportsfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallfloormatsfloormats recallFloormatsRecallMercedes-BenzStart buttonStartButtonStop buttonStopButtonthrottleThrottle TestThrottleTestToyotatoyota floormattoyota floormatstoyota recallToyotaFloormatToyotaFloormatsToyotaRecallVolkswagenWide open throttleWideOpenThrottleThu, 15 Oct 2009 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Quick Spin: 2010 Nissan Altima a well-mannered sedan without surprises]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/quick-spin-2010-nissan-altima-a-well-mannered-sedan-without-sur/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/quick-spin-2010-nissan-altima-a-well-mannered-sedan-without-sur/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/quick-spin-2010-nissan-altima-a-well-mannered-sedan-without-sur/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

As the company's number-one global volume vehicle, the Altima is instrumental in keeping the lights on at Nissan HQ. Now in its fourth-generation (last redesigned for the 2007 model year), the made-in-the-USA model is sold in both sedan and coupe variants with a choice of two gasoline engines or one hybrid powerplant. Nissan offers four sedans for the 2010 model year, with the Altima slotting in directly under the flagship Maxima in the lineup (with both sharing Nissan's D-platform architecture).

After spending time with the 2010 Nissan Altima, we understand why it's the brand's best selling model and while it's not a tire shredding sport sedan, this competent family hauler deserves all the kudos and sales volume it's earned.


Gallery: Quick Spin: 2010 Nissan Altima


Photos copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Quick Spin: 2010 Nissan Altima a well-mannered sedan without surprises

Quick Spin: 2010 Nissan Altima a well-mannered sedan without surprises originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Altima Sedan2010 Nissan2010 Nissan Altima2010 Nissan Altima Sedan2010 Sedan2010AltimaSedan2010Nissan2010NissanAltima2010NissanAltimaSedan2010SedanaltimaAltima 2.5Altima 3.Altima 3.5Altima SedanAltima SRAltima2.5Altima3.5AltimaSedanAltimaSrDrivefeaturednissanQuick SpinQuickSpinReviewWed, 14 Oct 2009 14:58:00 EST