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[New York Auto Show: No paint for these Volvos, the entire body is covered in fabric]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/06/new-york-auto-show-no-paint-for-these-volvos-the-entire-body-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/06/new-york-auto-show-no-paint-for-these-volvos-the-entire-body-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/06/new-york-auto-show-no-paint-for-these-volvos-the-entire-body-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click on the image above to view a hi-res gallery

Volvo is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. As part of the company's observance, it brought over a restored 1927 PV4, nicknamed the Jakob for the Volvo display at the New York Auto Show. Volvo offered two versions of this sedan, an open-bodied model in plain steel and a covered model wrapped with fabric. This particular PV4 was registered in November, 1927, by a school inspector. The changed hands only a few times in the next seven decades before Volvo purchased it in 2001 to have it restored. One of the owners did store it a barn for an extended length. Weighing 2,425 pounds, the PV4 is powered by a 1.95-liter 4-cylinder that pumped out 20 horsepower. It cost 5,800 krona in 1927, or a little more than $800 by today's exchange rate.

Gallery: 1927 Volvo PV4 Jakob

New York Auto Show: No paint for these Volvos, the entire body is covered in fabric originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Apr 2007 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 06 Apr 2007 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[New York Auto Show: Audi S5 hits North American shores]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/05/new-york-auto-show-audi-s5-hits-north-american-shores/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/05/new-york-auto-show-audi-s5-hits-north-american-shores/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/05/new-york-auto-show-audi-s5-hits-north-american-shores/#commentsFiled under: ,


click above image to view more images of the red Audi S5 at the NY Auto Show

Showing its performance side first, Audi unveiled the S5 ahead of the A5 in North America at the New York Auto Show. Both vehicles, however, had already made their world debut in Geneva.

Looking very intense in blazing red, the S5 styling complements the unique powertrain that includes a 324354-horsepower V8, 6-speed manual gearbox and quattro all-wheel-drive. Bigger than most of its competition, the S5 is seeking an edge in interior comfort while maintaining as high a level of performance as its coupé competition. A few of the key exterior features include a grille with S-model influences, aggressive bumper outlines, 18-inch wheels, aluminum-style mirror housings and four oval exhaust tips.

Even more performance is expected for the upcoming RS5; meanwhile the S5 should keep Audi enthusiasts happy.

Gallery: Live shots of Audi A5 and S5

New York Auto Show: Audi S5 hits North American shores originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2007 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Thu, 05 Apr 2007 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[New York Auto Show: Lexus LS460 wins World Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/05/new-york-auto-show-lexus-ls460-wins-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/05/new-york-auto-show-lexus-ls460-wins-world-car-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/05/new-york-auto-show-lexus-ls460-wins-world-car-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The World Car of the Year Awards has just concluded with the Lexus LS460 earning the honor of being called the planet's best auto for 2007. The LS460 beat out the Audi TT and new MINI Cooper, which were also finalists. The Audi TT, however, did not walk away empty handed, earning a trophy for World Car Design of the Year. Audi earned yet another honor for World Performance Car of the Year, with the RS4 being handed that honor. The RS4 won out over such heavyweights in world performance as the BMW 335i and Porsche 911 Turbo. Finally, the Mercedes-Benz E320 BLUETEC won the award for World Green Car of the Year, earning bragging rights over rival BMW and its Hydrogen 7, as well as the Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion.

New York Auto Show: Lexus LS460 wins World Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2007 09:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>world car design of the yearworld car of the yearworld green car of the yearworld performance car of the yearWorldCarDesignOfTheYearWorldCarOfTheYearWorldGreenCarOfTheYearWorldPerformanceCarOfTheYearThu, 05 Apr 2007 09:17:00 EST<![CDATA[New York Auto Show: Polly Wheels gives young girls their own line of die-cast cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/new-york-auto-show-polly-wheels-gives-young-girls-their-own-lin/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/new-york-auto-show-polly-wheels-gives-young-girls-their-own-lin/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/new-york-auto-show-polly-wheels-gives-young-girls-their-own-lin/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Update: We just added a gallery of high-res photos of the Polly Wheels collection.



There is an exhibit area at the New York Auto Show with a staggering 1,190 vehicles on display. And it's "manned" by a trio of vivacious pre-teens playing "Race to the Mall" with a new line of die-cast toy cars made just for girls.

Polly Wheels, the latest offering from Mattel based off the Polly Pocket line of dolls, made its official debut at the New York Auto Show today. Fifty different models will be released in all this year, and about 20 are already out. The unique toys were designed with heavy input from girls, based on their insights and play patterns. The cars are heavy into candy colors and glitter, as a result. And in a switch from Mattel's boy-based line of cars, the Polly Wheels feature a removable "friend" in the driver's seat.

The 2-inch cars, which retail for just under $3 each, are a little more generic if not cartoonish than the faithful representations found in the Mattel Hot Wheels and Matchbox lines. In fact, only the chassis is die-cast; the bodies are plastic so the wild colors, such as "Splashin' Pink" and "Glitter Peach", can stand out. The "Race to the Mall" raceset retails for $34.99 and will be available in June.

Gallery: Polly Wheels

Continue reading New York Auto Show: Polly Wheels gives young girls their own line of die-cast cars

New York Auto Show: Polly Wheels gives young girls their own line of die-cast cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2007 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Hot WheelsHotWheelsMatchboxMattelWed, 04 Apr 2007 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[New York Auto Show: Subaru gives Tribeca facelift, more power [VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/new-york-auto-show-subaru-gives-tribeca-facelift-more-power-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/new-york-auto-show-subaru-gives-tribeca-facelift-more-power-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/new-york-auto-show-subaru-gives-tribeca-facelift-more-power-to/#commentsFiled under: , ,


UPDATE: Video of live reveal added after jump

click on image above to view high-res shots of the 2008 Subaru Tribeca

The Tribeca has the lowest consumer awareness of any Subaru product. You have to admit, the first edition, which came out in 2005, was rather odd looking. So Subaru has given the Tribeca a facelift and added more horsepower for 2008 model year. The newest version was shown for the first time today at the New York Auto Show.

The new Tribeca has a much less polarizing design than the first edition. Gone is the isolated grille design, in favor of a grille that is integrated into the front bumper. In fact, all of the sheetmetal forward of the A-pillar is new. There's a more prominent hood line, sleeker headlamps and more aggressive front valance. The rear end was also freshened with restyled three-quarter windows, wider taillamps and new rear valance.

A new 3.6-liter engine that runs on unleaded fuel will power the 2008 Tribeca. Horsepower is increased from 245 to 256, and torque jumps from 215 lb-ft to 247 lb-ft. The features highly valued by Tribeca loyalists, such as the graceful interior and the all-wheel-drive system, will carry over. Subaru did improve access to the third-row seat.

Subaru officials say the new Trifecta will go on sale this summer, with a starting price less than $30,000.

Catch the complete Subaru news release following the jump, as well as a high-res photo gallery by clicking below. You can review all of today's debut by visiting the master post of debuts and galleries, as well.

Gallery: 2008 Subaru Tribeca

Continue reading New York Auto Show: Subaru gives Tribeca facelift, more power [VIDEO]

New York Auto Show: Subaru gives Tribeca facelift, more power [VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2007 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 subaru tribeca2008SubaruTribecasubarutribecaWed, 04 Apr 2007 16:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Mulally charms in New York, praises restructuring despite layoffs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/alan-mulally-charms-in-new-york-praises-restructuring-despite-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/alan-mulally-charms-in-new-york-praises-restructuring-despite-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/04/alan-mulally-charms-in-new-york-praises-restructuring-despite-l/#commentsFiled under: , ,



While acknowledging that losing a third of the salaried workforce has been an "upheaval" for employees, Ford CEO and president Alan Mulally said the company restructuring is "generally going well".

In somewhat of a fireside chat with the press to open the 2007 New York International Auto Show this morning, Mulally was charming and entertaining while asserting that Ford is in a strong position to reverse its financial and product slump.

"If you want to be in the automotive business, this is the best time to be at Ford," he said when asked about company morale following a large force reduction. At the same time, he instructed his posse, including North American boss Mark Fields, to stand up. "Look at the smiles on their faces," he quipped.

Mulally's keynote address to open press days at the show was really a few minutes of off-the-cuff remarks about his decision to join Ford, and he gave a 4-point rundown on the automaker's restructuring goals. Mulally had no pre-written speech, didn't use a teleprompter and walked casually around stage as he talked to the large gathering. He didn't make any announcements, either; although he did offer a hint about a future luxury hybrid. When asked about luxury hybrids, Mulally looked at Fields, then said, "Nothing I can talk about right now."

Continue reading Alan Mulally charms in New York, praises restructuring despite layoffs

Alan Mulally charms in New York, praises restructuring despite layoffs originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2007 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 04 Apr 2007 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA['Bullrun' debuts on Spike TV Tuesday night; needs more driving action, fewer explosions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/12/bullrun-debuts-on-spike-tv-tuesday-night-needs-more-driving-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/12/bullrun-debuts-on-spike-tv-tuesday-night-needs-more-driving-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/12/bullrun-debuts-on-spike-tv-tuesday-night-needs-more-driving-a/#comments

While wrestling superstar Bill Goldberg is showcased as the front man for Spike TV's new automotive reality series "Bullrun," he's not on camera enough to hold this fractured show together. If the producers had let the vehicles and driving be the stars, then the show might not be crying out for more of Goldberg's participation. Instead, "Bullrun" gets a flat tire coming out of first gear, at least in the opening episode.

The one-hour show debuts Tuesday, March 13, at 10:00 PM. It's based on the international auto rally of the same name, a cross country event designed for exotic cars which costs the entrants nearly $20,000 to participate. The Spike TV reality version runs between the Canadian and Mexican borders, covering 4,100 miles through nine states and 21 cities in 18 days. The competition pits 12 teams of ordinary, mostly likable characters in a variety of cool vehicles. About the only common denominator between the teams appears to be the inability to read a map or find road signs.

More of the review and information on the teams following the break

Continue reading 'Bullrun' debuts on Spike TV Tuesday night; needs more driving action, fewer explosions

'Bullrun' debuts on Spike TV Tuesday night; needs more driving action, fewer explosions originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Mar 2007 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 12 Mar 2007 11:54:00 EST<![CDATA[We too have an Anna Nicole Smith story to tell!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/22/we-too-have-an-anna-nicole-smith-story-to-tell/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/22/we-too-have-an-anna-nicole-smith-story-to-tell/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/22/we-too-have-an-anna-nicole-smith-story-to-tell/#commentsFiled under: , ,



With all the news surrounding the death of Anna Nicole Smith, the car junkies over at Jalopnik were smart enough to write a headline that no doubt go many search engines to look their way, although it took a couple degrees of separation to find the link. Apparently the lawyer for Anna Nicole's mom has an impressive car collection.

Well, we can boast a one-time direct connection to the blonde bombshell herself, and also her direct connection to cool cars. Then named Vickie Smith, she appeared at the Hot Rod Nationals in Canfield, Ohio. I was there covering the show for an enthusiast magazine. I talked to her a few times in the hospitality area during the weekend. Even though she had roots in the Texas plains, I could tell she was bored with all Midwest yokels and their stupid giggles, sneers and proposals. At that time, she had not learned of either the Guess modeling job or the Playmate of the Year honors, but obviously she had higher aspirations than listening to some pimply kid from Indiana brag about his 327 El Camino.

Continue reading We too have an Anna Nicole Smith story to tell!

We too have an Anna Nicole Smith story to tell! originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Feb 2007 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anna nicole smithAnnaNicoleSmithvickie smithVickieSmithThu, 22 Feb 2007 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[MazdaSpeed expands grassroots driver program; will pay more contingency money, too]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/18/mazdaspeed-expands-grassroots-driver-program-will-pay-more-cont/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/18/mazdaspeed-expands-grassroots-driver-program-will-pay-more-cont/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/18/mazdaspeed-expands-grassroots-driver-program-will-pay-more-cont/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Instead of dumping a boatload of money in a high-profile racing series, Mazda has chosen to focus on the little guy in sportsman categories. In doing so, Mazda is funding its own program with parts sold to grassroots racers throughout the country.

For example, Mazda makes up about 2 percent of the overall new-vehicle market in the United States, yet its cars account for 50 percent of SCCA club racers.

Mazda also promotes its drivers. Whenever there's an open seat in a professional class, Mazda drivers in the lower classes get the first shot. Last year, the automaker also rewarded Star Mazda champ Adrian Carrio with a $100,000 scholarship in the hope of securing a seat in the 2007 Champ Car Atlantic series. And SCCA Spec Miata champ Andrew Caddell was given a new MX-5 and MazdaSpeed parts to build an MX-5 Cup car for 2007.

Now the company wants to expand its motorsports effort by offering even more competitions so drivers can move up through the ranks.

Continue reading MazdaSpeed expands grassroots driver program; will pay more contingency money, too

MazdaSpeed expands grassroots driver program; will pay more contingency money, too originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Feb 2007 08:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Sun, 18 Feb 2007 08:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Julio Ochoa Ruelas, co-founder of Dukes car club and lowriding 'godfather,' dies]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/12/julio-ochoa-ruelas-co-founder-of-dukes-car-club-and-lowriding/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/12/julio-ochoa-ruelas-co-founder-of-dukes-car-club-and-lowriding/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/12/julio-ochoa-ruelas-co-founder-of-dukes-car-club-and-lowriding/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The LA Times reports that Julio Ochoa Ruelas, who founded the Dukes So. Cal. car club with his three brothers, passed away last month. The Dukes is the oldest lowrider car club still in existence, now with 29 chapters.

Julio and his brothers were long recognized as the spark that ignited the lowriding trend in Los Angeles. Working on old cars out of their uncle's shop, the brothers cruised local boulevards before starting the Dukes in 1962. After Vietnam, one of the brothers, Fernando, opened Ruelas Custom while Julio, who worked at a grocery store, scrounged parts. His favorite trick to source hand-to-find items was convincing telephone-pole workers or home inspectors to tell him when they spotted something of interest in a backyard.

Julio's best-known car was part of the most popular exhibition at the Petersen Automotive Museum, according to director Dick Messer. Julio and the Dukes were also featured in the documentary "Low and Slow." Observers said Julio's funeral procession looked more like a car show than a memorial. There are photos and memories of Julio also listed in a forum at layitlow.com.

[Source: Jocelyn Y. Stewart / Los Angeles Times]

Julio Ochoa Ruelas, co-founder of Dukes car club and lowriding 'godfather,' dies originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Feb 2007 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DukesJulio Ochoa RuelasJulioOchoaRuelaslowriderMon, 12 Feb 2007 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Uma Thurman in a yellow Lambo. Yeah, baby!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/12/uma-thurman-in-a-yellow-lambo-yeah-baby/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/12/uma-thurman-in-a-yellow-lambo-yeah-baby/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/12/uma-thurman-in-a-yellow-lambo-yeah-baby/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The first Pirelli film titled "The Call" was more of a satanic, tire-smoking standoff than a forum for promoting tires. But it was artsy, very well photographed with plenty of cool special effects and intriguing; a thinking man's endorsement of Pirelli tires.

The next film called "Mission Zero" premiers Monday at pirellifilm.com but I had a chance to screen it Sunday. "Mission Zero" is a no-holds-barred action film with Uma Thurman driving a yellow Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder trying to evade assassins shooting at her from an old Mopar B-body with a fake supercharger. The conflict stretches from Beverly Hills to the Los Angeles port and is action for the sake of action. Very little to think about in this short film, which was directed by Kathryn Bigelow (Point Break), except why a Lambo can't outrun a sled from the late '60s in a 20-mile chase. The action isn't limited to the asphalt. There are knives, machine guns and a shoulder-fired rocket; all of which sometimes feels like a bad homage to the "Kill Bill" series.

But enough nit-picking. The film is free and it features Uma in a yellow Lambo. She now joins my personal cinema hall of fame populated by hot blondes with cool cars: Suzanne Somers in a T-bird, Susan George in a Charger, Joy Harmon on a DeSoto. Go girl!

[Source: pirellifilm.com]

Uma Thurman in a yellow Lambo. Yeah, baby! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Feb 2007 11:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Kathryn BigelowKathrynBigelowPirelliMon, 12 Feb 2007 11:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago Auto Show: Toyota boss calls for more industry cooperation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/08/chicago-auto-show-toyota-boss-calls-for-more-industry-cooperati/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/08/chicago-auto-show-toyota-boss-calls-for-more-industry-cooperati/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/08/chicago-auto-show-toyota-boss-calls-for-more-industry-cooperati/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Even though Toyota is the most profitable automaker in the world, the company is open to more cooperative research efforts with Detroit. Jim Press, president of Toyota Motor North America, said the challenges in responding to environmental concerns are increasing for all manufacturers.

"And while I know our industry can meet these challenges, we always have and now more than ever need to work together," said Press, speaking before the Economic Club of Chicago at the Chicago Auto Show.

Press said Toyota and other manufacturers have made important contributions in fuel economy and pollution controls, but more advancement are being produced "through technology sharing agreements."

Noting the "monumental effort" and staggering costs required to support an infrastructure for fuel cell vehicles, Press said more cooperation is the answer. He called on for "changes in our relationships" with suppliers, the government and communities.

"At Toyota, we've said for years that automakers should compete in the showroom but cooperate in the laboratory," said Press. "I hope we're alert enough to recognize that what began a century ago as a metal-bending business has transformed into an amazing high-technology environment that presents a whole world of opportunities for creative solutions."

Press said the economic outlook for this year is "good," noting low inflation, rising consumer spending and continued business investments. He said he's also confident that Detroit automakers will "continue their recovery" and will adjust production to align with "real market demand." He expects 2007 auto sales to hit 16.5 million, or "a year much like the last one."

Finally, Press said Toyota supports the Bush administration's goals on CAFE.

In a Q&A session after the speech, Press said Toyota entered NASCAR because there are 80 million fans of the sport, and few are driving a Camry or Tundra.

"The reality is from a marketing point of view, when you go out to the parking lot at a NASCAR event and see what the fans are driving," said Press. "You can see why we're in NASCAR."

Chicago Auto Show: Toyota boss calls for more industry cooperation originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Feb 2007 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Thu, 08 Feb 2007 18:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago Auto Show: Maserati officially launches Trident Discoveries CPO program]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/08/chicago-auto-show-maserati-officially-launches-trident-discover/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/08/chicago-auto-show-maserati-officially-launches-trident-discover/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/08/chicago-auto-show-maserati-officially-launches-trident-discover/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Maserati is going after the premium BMW, Jag and Porsche shopper by announcing today it will be offering certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles. Combined with a new in-house finance service and the addition of an automatic transmission to the Quattroporte, the Trident Discoveries CPO program should help Maserati expand its customer base.

"We don't want to be an exception," said company spokesman Jeff Ehoodin at a press conference during the Chicago Auto Show. "We are not an exotic."

CPO programs have been a major marketing platform for other luxury brands, especially those trying to lure first-time owners. Last year, BMW sold just over 80,000 CPO vehicles while Mercedes-Benz and Lexus were around the 46,000 mark. Porsche and Land Rover were on the low end with 2006 sales of about 6,000 units each.

Maserati obviously doesn't have a product line that cross-shops with a C-class or 3-series and isn't expecting CPO numbers that high. However, the automaker does want to seduce a potential 7-Series or S-Class AMG buyer to consider a used but fully serviced and inspected Maserati.

"One hundred percent of our sales are conquests," said Ehoodin. "We want to present every opportunity for ourselves."

Qualifying Maseratis sold under the Trident Discoveries program are no more than five years old and have not logged more than 90,000 miles. The vehicle undergoes a 120-point inspection and is guaranteed not to have been in a serious accident. Roadside assistance and extended warranty plans are also available.

Chicago Auto Show: Maserati officially launches Trident Discoveries CPO program originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Feb 2007 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>certified pre-ownedCertifiedPre-ownedCPOmaseratiquattroporteusedThu, 08 Feb 2007 12:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago Auto Show: New Dodge trucks can carry a 'chip-load' of stuff]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-new-dodge-trucks-can-carry-a-chip-load-of-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-new-dodge-trucks-can-carry-a-chip-load-of-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-new-dodge-trucks-can-carry-a-chip-load-of-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click for a 22-image high-res gallery of the new Dodge Ram Chassis Cab HD

Looking to break Ford's domination of the medium-duty truck market, Dodge today launched its Ram 4500 and 5500 chassis cab. Frank Kelgon, executive VP of product development, showed off the two trucks in usual Dodge flair, dumping a load of Jay's Hot Stuff chips on the floor in front of always-hungry auto journalists.

These vehicles are the foundation for just about every type of commercial application, including dump trucks, tow vehicles and delivery trucks. The Ford F-series F-450 and F-550 have been segment leaders since the Super Duty line came out. But lately GM has offered some competition with the Chevy Kodiak and GMC Topkick lines. Now Dodge wants a piece of the action. And Dodge is ready to attack all markets, even those who demand luxury as the Laramie trim level will be offered in addition to the ST and SLT.

Available in both 2- and 4-wheel-drive, the new chassis cabs can be ordered with either a regular or Quad Cab body. There are four cab-to-axle lengths for the regular cab (60, 84, 108, and 120 inches) and two (60 and 84) for the Quad Cab. Maximum GVWR for the 4500 model is 16,500 pounds; the 5500 goes up to 19,500 pounds. The GCWR for both models is 26,000 pounds. They all come standard with huge 15.4-inch brakes, and the massive 52-gallon fuel tank leaves the factory with B5 biodiesel fuel.

Dodge is also leveraging its association with Cummins, offering a 6.7-liter turbodiesel rated at 305 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque. The engines are backed with either a 6-speed auto or manual transmission and are 50-state legal under the latest emissions regulations.

Dodge press release after the jump.

Gallery: Dodge Ram Chassis Cab HD

Continue reading Chicago Auto Show: New Dodge trucks can carry a 'chip-load' of stuff

Chicago Auto Show: New Dodge trucks can carry a 'chip-load' of stuff originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 19:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 07 Feb 2007 19:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago Auto Show: Dodge Dakota get facelift, more ponies and flex-fuel capability]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-dodge-dakota-get-facelift-more-ponies-and-fl/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-dodge-dakota-get-facelift-more-ponies-and-fl/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/chicago-auto-show-dodge-dakota-get-facelift-more-ponies-and-fl/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above image for a high-res photo gallery of official shots

Even as the domestic midsize pickup segment continues to crumble, Dodge is giving the original mama bear a makeover and power boost for 2008. Unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, the new Dakota sports crisper front-end styling and new 4.7-liter V8 option that will offer E85 capability.

Sales of midsize trucks from GM, Ford and Dodge have slumped dramatically in the past few years as their fullsize brothers received all the marketing attention and a host of incentives. Meanwhile, the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier continue to pick up market share by appealing to a younger buyer. That's the motivation behind the Dakota's facelift and power enhancements.

"The new 2008 Dodge Dakota was redesigned to broaden its appeal to younger customers with active lifestyles," says Dodge marketing official Tom Loveless.

The new front end has hints of the Dodge Nitro with sharper edges and rectangular headlamps. Dodge also spruced up the interior with a new instrument panel, additional storage options and available heated bench seat.

The new engine is rated at 290 horsepower with 320 lb-ft of peak torque. Just like the Hemi, this new cylinder head features two spark plugs per cylinder. The engine is capable of running E85 ethanol fuel. Standard engine for the Dakota is a 3.7-liter V6 rated at 210 horsepower. Maximum tow rating on the Dakota is 7,050 pounds.

The 2008 Dodge Dakota hits dealers in August. The full Dodge news release follows the jump.

Gallery: 2008 Dodge Dakota

Continue reading Chicago Auto Show: Dodge Dakota get facelift, more ponies and flex-fuel capability

Chicago Auto Show: Dodge Dakota get facelift, more ponies and flex-fuel capability originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Wed, 07 Feb 2007 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford's Mark Fields announces Bold Move: Bring back Taurus & Sable brands]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/fords-mark-fields-announces-bold-move-bring-back-taurus-and-sabl/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/fords-mark-fields-announces-bold-move-bring-back-taurus-and-sabl/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/07/fords-mark-fields-announces-bold-move-bring-back-taurus-and-sabl/#commentsFiled under: ,



Making both a bold and simple move, Ford's North American boss Mark Fields confirmed this morning what we already knew, that the Taurus and Sable brands will be resurrected for 2008.

Fields, delivering the keynote address at the Chicago Auto Show this morning, said the Ford Five Hundred nameplate will be dropped in favor of the venerable Taurus badge. The Freestyle crossover vehicle will also be renamed the Taurus X, and Mercury Montego will switch to the Sable nameplate. All three vehicle will be introduced to the press later in the day, though we were first introduced to the new "Taurus" in Detroit.

Fields said only four in 10 consumers were aware that Ford offered a vehicle called the Five Hundred. Yet the Taurus nameplate, which was killed last year, had built up 20 years of strong brand recognition and was recognized by 80 percent of shoppers. Fields also said Taurus was Ford's third-best-known brand behind F-Series and Mustang. During the early '90s, the Taurus was America's best-selling car five years running. About seven million Taurus models were sold in 21 years, and Ford estimates nearly 3.5 million are still on the road.

Check out more of our thoughts, a complete transcript of Mark Fields' speech, and VIDEO of him delivering the announcement after the jump.

Continue reading Ford's Mark Fields announces Bold Move: Bring back Taurus & Sable brands

Ford's Mark Fields announces Bold Move: Bring back Taurus & Sable brands originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Feb 2007 11:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Five HundredFiveHundredFreestyeFreestyleMark FieldsMarkFieldsMontegoSableTaurusTaurus XTaurusXWed, 07 Feb 2007 11:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Disagree with the judges? You pick America's Most Beautiful Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/30/disagree-with-the-judges-you-pick-americas-most-beautiful-road/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/30/disagree-with-the-judges-you-pick-americas-most-beautiful-road/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/30/disagree-with-the-judges-you-pick-americas-most-beautiful-road/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click on the above image to view a high-res gallery of all the AMBR contenders

As with any beauty contest, there are differing opinions on the selection of Kevin & Karen Alstott's 1935 Ford as America's Most Beautiful Roadster. The Ridler Award winner was not my first choice, either. But then again, I preferred Betty over Veronica, Mary Ann over Ginger, Jan over Marcia and Janet over Chrissy, so what do I know? Perhaps Autoblog readers would like to view the leading contenders and make their own selection.

My favorite was Dennis DeCamp's '32 roadster (shown) with its Jon Barrett-built alloy 427 Ford engine and hand-formed aluminum body by Marcel. Gabe's Custom Interiors did the stitching and Speed Shop squirted the paint. Barry's Speed Shop handled all the construction. Nicknamed F-32, the car features a unique push-rod suspension front and rear that locates the shocks inboard, ala Indy Car. There's also a Ferrari influence with the hood scoop, nifty tear-drop exhaust outlets and a clever sprint-car cue with the push-bar license-plate frame. In my humble opinion, this '32 says a lot about innovation, performance, craftsmanship and just plain hot-rodding. I'm an engine guy, and little details -- like the cantilevered engine mounts and the headers that seamlessly morph from square port to round tube -- are impressive.

Following the jump are brief capsules on nine other contenders. There's also a link to a gallery with more than 70 photos of the 10 vehicles that didn't win. Don't forget to check out the winner again and make your own choice.

Gallery: AMBR-contenders

Continue reading Disagree with the judges? You pick America's Most Beautiful Roadster

Disagree with the judges? You pick America's Most Beautiful Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jan 2007 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Tue, 30 Jan 2007 11:06:00 EST<![CDATA['Deuce' celebrates 75th anniversary in spectacular display at Grand National Roadster Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/29/deuce-celebrates-75th-anniversary-in-spectacular-display-at-gr/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/29/deuce-celebrates-75th-anniversary-in-spectacular-display-at-gr/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/29/deuce-celebrates-75th-anniversary-in-spectacular-display-at-gr/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click on the above image to view a high-res gallery

The iconic symbol of hot rodding is unquestionably the 1932 Ford. Designed with aerodynamic poise by Edsel Ford, the '32 also showcased Henry Ford's engineering genius with the introduction of an affordable V8 engine. Luckily, Ford didn't make the flathead motor as powerful as possible. Thousands of speed-loving, mechanically inclined owners handled the rest. History has been very kind to the '32. Almost anything is cool, from primered rat rods to billet masterpieces.

Last year, a panel of hot rod experts selected the 75 most significant 32 Ford hot rods out of 474 nominees. At this year's 58th annual Grand National Roadster Show held over the weekend at the Los Angeles County Fairgrounds, about 60 of those 75 were gathered for a historic display in a 44,000-square-foot building. Eight of the 75 did not survive. Each of the vehicles on display had placards with essays and rare photos to document their selection.

Other '32 events are planned for the year, including "Deuce Week" at the Petersen Automotive Museum in February, and the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance will honor the class of '32.

There's a great story written by Ken Gross, who has one of the featured 75 deuces in the display, on Inside Line. It also has a link to a gallery with writeups on all 75 cars. Then check out our gallery to see the vehicles as they were displayed.

Gallery: 32Display

'Deuce' celebrates 75th anniversary in spectacular display at Grand National Roadster Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jan 2007 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 29 Jan 2007 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Kevin & Karen Alstott's '35 Ford wins America's Most Beautiful Roadster award]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/29/kevin-and-karen-alstotts-35-ford-wins-americas-most-beautiful-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/29/kevin-and-karen-alstotts-35-ford-wins-americas-most-beautiful-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/29/kevin-and-karen-alstotts-35-ford-wins-americas-most-beautiful-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click on the above image to view a high-res gallery

Last year's winner of the prestigious Ridler Award at the Detroit Autorama has added another big trophy to its collection. Kevin and Karen Alstott's 1935 Ford convertible captured top honors at the 58th Grand National Roadster show on Sunday night when it was named America's Most Beautiful Roadster.

This was the 58th edition of the Grand National Roadster Show, which was known as the Oakland Roadster Show before moving to the more spacious Los Angeles County Fairgrounds. The honor has been won by some of the industry's most notable hot rodders, including Blackie Gejeian, George Barris, Tex Smith, Ermie Immerso, Boyd Coddington and Chuck Lombardo.

The Alstott's '35, nicknamed the Iowa Radster, was built by Roger Burman at Lakeside Rods & Rides. Marcel DeLay hand-formed the body and the Recovery Room finished the interior. Power comes from a 408-cubic-inch all-aluminum small-block engine.

Gallery: AMBR-winner

Kevin & Karen Alstott's '35 Ford wins America's Most Beautiful Roadster award originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jan 2007 10:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 29 Jan 2007 10:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/08/detroit-auto-show-2008-mitsubishi-lancer/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/08/detroit-auto-show-2008-mitsubishi-lancer/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/08/detroit-auto-show-2008-mitsubishi-lancer/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above image to view 78 images in our high-resolution gallery

The latest expression of Mitsubishi Motors' recovery from its DaimlerChrysler addiction is the 2008 Lancer. With the company's net income "in the black" and positive response to new products in Japan, Mitsubishi appears poised to regain some of the prestige its products enjoyed in the '90s.

Mitsu officials praised the synergy between other companies in the huge Mitsubishi family for its current momentum. To demonstrate there is no sibling rivalry within the brand, the new Lancer shared the stage today at the Detroit Auto Show introduction with a concept of its high-performance big brother, the Lancer Evo, and the original Lancer rally car from the '70s.

Acknowledging that American sales of the new Lancer are critical to its continued rebound, Mitsubishi developed an all-new 2.0-liter engine rated at 152 horsepower and will offer an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) in place of an automatic tranny. A 6-step Sportronic feature that allows "manual" shifts with a steering wheel paddle will be included in the sporty GTS trim level. The 2008 Lancer will also be the first vehicle sold in the U.S. to follow the new EPA mileage estimating tests.

Follow the jump for Mitsubishi's complete press release on the new Lancer, and click here to 78 pics in our gallery of high-resolution images.



For our comprehensive listing of everything from Detroit, click here.

Continue reading Detroit Auto Show: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer

Detroit Auto Show: 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jan 2007 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LancerMon, 08 Jan 2007 17:40:00 EST