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[Review: 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/23/2011-gmc-sierra-3500hd-sle-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/23/2011-gmc-sierra-3500hd-sle-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/23/2011-gmc-sierra-3500hd-sle-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Looks The Same Yet Is Anything But

2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE
2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE - Click above for high-res image gallery

2010 has been a banner year for heavy-duty pickup truck fans, with revamped entries from all three U.S. automakers making their debut this year. Of those, the HD pickups from both Chevrolet and GMC received the most subtle exterior updates, but virtually everything under their skins is new, including a heavily revamped version of the company's 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8.

When it comes to full-size pickup trucks, the old Burger King tag-line of "Have It Your Way" still rings true. Regardless of where your brand loyalty lies, these types of trucks are available with either gas or diesel engines; as regular, extended or crew-cab and with regular or long beds. All you have to do is figure out what you need the truck for and then check the appropriate boxes on the dealer's order sheet. Somewhere in the middle of this cacophony of choice lies the 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD.

Continue reading...


Gallery: Review: 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE

2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE

Photos copyright (C)2010 Sam Abuelsamid / AOL

Continue reading Review: 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE

Review: 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD SLE originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Sep 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 gmc sierra hdfeaturedgmcgmc sierra hdreviewreviewssierra hdThu, 23 Sep 2010 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2011 Ford F-450 Lariat]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/15/2011-ford-f-450-lariat-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/15/2011-ford-f-450-lariat-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/15/2011-ford-f-450-lariat-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Industry Giant Still Working Hard to Stay Ahead



2011 Ford F-450 Lariat - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ask any economics professor - competition is a good thing. Exhibit A? The large pickup truck market. Ford F-Series trucks have been the number-one selling vehicle line in the United States for more than three decades, but the automaker has never grown complacent. Each new iteration has been bigger, badder and more capable than its predecessor, and that goes twofold for Dearborn's heavy-duty models.

Despite the fact that Toyota and Nissan never followed up their light-duty trucks with three-quarter or one-ton models, just the threat of such entries spurred Ford, General Motors and Dodge to significantly up their games. In the first half of 2010, the Detroit Three have introduced revamped heavy-duty pickups to feed a segment that, while shrinking, remains large and highly profitable. With that in mind, we saddled up to the Big Daddy of the F-Series range, the F-450, to see if the behemoth could play the dual roles of load-lugger and daily ride. Click through the jump to see how we fared.


Gallery: Review: 2011 Ford F-450 Lariat


Photos copyright (C)2010 Sam Abuelsamid / AOL

Continue reading Review: 2011 Ford F-450 Lariat

Review: 2011 Ford F-450 Lariat originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Sep 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford f-450f-450featuredfordford f-450reviewreviewsWed, 15 Sep 2010 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Super GT moving closer to DTM, may adopt KERS; Grand Am to join as well?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/report-super-gt-moving-closer-to-dtm-may-adopt-kers-grand-am/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/report-super-gt-moving-closer-to-dtm-may-adopt-kers-grand-am/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/report-super-gt-moving-closer-to-dtm-may-adopt-kers-grand-am/#commentsFiled under:

DTM race start at Hockenheim 2010

In an attempt to reduce costs and get more brands into the field, it's beginning to look like as many as three different race series in Europe, Asia and the United States may adopt a more-or-less common set of rules. The German Touring Car Championship (shown above) is set to introduced a new rules package for the 2012 season and the Japanese SuperGT series looks to be on-board for its GT500 class. Here in the States,. the NASCAR-owned Grand Am series is also considering jumping in, presumably to replace the current GT class.

The proposals being considered by the DTM organizers clearly show some NASCAR influence, although with more modern technology. A common carbon-fiber chassis could be mandated with an agreed-upon wheelbase and overhangs for all cars. DTM is considering "Introduction of "design line" where on one side all cars are common" which sounds an awful lot like NASCAR's dreaded common templates. Along with the V8 powerplants, hybrid kinetic energy recovery systems (KERS) could be part of the picture. The goal is to cut the cost of these cars in half from current levels.

If the new rules are adopted by all three groups, it could result in cross-pollination of cars between the series with Lexus, Nissan and Honda joining Audi and Mercedes-Benz in DTM and possibly the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro mixing it up with the Germans and Japanese.

[Sources: RaceCar Engineering, Touring Car Times, DTM | Image: Bongarts/Getty]

Report: Super GT moving closer to DTM, may adopt KERS; Grand Am to join as well? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dtmgerman touring cargerman touring car championshipGermanTouringCarGermanTouringCarChampionshipgrand amGrandAmjapan supergtJapanSupergtKERSnascarsuper gtSuperGtsupergt gt500SupergtGt500Thu, 19 Aug 2010 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Lotus willing to build Evora-based sportscars for other automakers?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/lotus-willing-to-build-evora-based-sportscars-for-competitors/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/lotus-willing-to-build-evora-based-sportscars-for-competitors/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/lotus-willing-to-build-evora-based-sportscars-for-competitors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Lotus Evora - Click above for high-res image gallery

Lotus is considering offering up its latest sports car platforms to other automakers, and this isn't the first time. When the Elise debuted in the mid-90s, Lotus sold the chassis to form the basis of new lightweight coupes with different powertrains, the most notable of which included the Opel Speedster/Vauxhall VX220 and, of course, the Tesla Roadster.

According to recent reports, Lotus has received inquiries from several automakers about using the new Evora in similar ways. While the Evora is all-new, the chassis is built using similar, Elise-like aluminum extrusions riveted and bonded together for a light, strong structure. Since the Evora has been designed around a V6, automakers have the potential to fit a range of larger, more powerful engines. The upsized chassis could also provide a better platform for electric motors, with far less modifications than those required to turn an Elise into a Tesla. However, if any automaker does develop something off the Evora, it's likely to be a few years away.

Us? We're thinking about a 3.5-liter Ecoboost-powered, mid-engine mini-Ford GT. How about you?

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lotus Evora


Photos by Michael Harley / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Autocar]

Lotus willing to build Evora-based sportscars for other automakers? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evoraLotuslotus eliseLotus Evoralotus evora platformlotus evora platform sharingLotusEliseLotusEvoraLotusEvoraPlatformLotusEvoraPlatformSharingThu, 19 Aug 2010 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Ford Falcon to get blown 5.0-liter Coyote]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/rumormill-ford-falcon-to-get-blown-5-0-liter-coyote/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/rumormill-ford-falcon-to-get-blown-5-0-liter-coyote/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/rumormill-ford-falcon-to-get-blown-5-0-liter-coyote/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford FG Falcon XR Series
Ford FG Falcon XR Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back before Ford announced it was producing a new aluminum block version of its supercharged 5.4-liter V8 for the 2011 GT500, speculation ran rampant that the new 5.0-liter Coyote V8 would get the force-feeding treatment. At the time, Ford declined to comment, but even with the introduction of the lighter 5.4-liter, the speculation never died away.

It now appears that a supercharged 5.0-liter will first appear in Australia in 2011 powering the new Falcon XR8 and possibly a GT-HO. Ford acknowledged that the Boss 302 could have been fitted with a blower, saying in its release that "the Mustang team knew a supercharger would be the simplest way to extract significant power improvements from the new 5.0-liter V8, but they elected not to pursue forced induction for the 2012 Boss to stay true to the original Boss 302 engine."

Given that the rest of the 5.4- and 4.6-liter V8 applications in North America are disappearing in 2011, one has to wonder how long Ford will keep the current GT500 engine around. The most recent speculation is that a boosted version of the Coyote will arrive here in time for the 50th anniversary of the ponycar in 2014. And that can't come soon enough.


Gallery: Ford FG Falcon XR Series


[Source: GoAuto.com.au]

Rumormill: Ford Falcon to get blown 5.0-liter Coyote originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5.0-liter5.0-liter v85.0-literV85.0-mustang5.0-v8australiaaustralian ford falconAustralianFordFalconcoyotecoyote v8CoyoteV8fordford falcon fgFord Falcon XR8ford focusFordFalconFgFordFalconXr8FordFocusSuperchargedsupercharged 5.0l v8supercharged coyote v8Supercharged5.0lV8SuperchargedCoyoteV8Wed, 18 Aug 2010 19:26:00 EST<![CDATA[General Motors 2011 VIN decoder reveals new 1.0L, 1.2L, 1.6L four cylinder engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/general-motors-2011-vin-decoder-reveals-new-1-0l-1-2l-1-6l-fou/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/general-motors-2011-vin-decoder-reveals-new-1-0l-1-2l-1-6l-fou/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/general-motors-2011-vin-decoder-reveals-new-1-0l-1-2l-1-6l-fou/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 Chevrolet Spark - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors' Service and Parts Operations website has published a pair of new documents for decoding 2011 model year Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) which reveal several new engines. The passenger car list includes a pair of small inline-fours of 1.0 and 1.2-liters displacement. Both engines are listed as port-injected, dual-overhead-cam units from the automaker's South Korean operations, GM Daewoo Automotive Technologies (GMDAT). We're assuming that these are the engines for the Spark mini-car that is due to arrive on our shores sometime during the coming year.

Also on the car list are a pair of 1.6-liter fours listed at 80 and 82 kilowatts. The 80 kW unit matches the 108 horsepower output of the current Aveo engine, so presumably it's a carryover until the new model arrives early in next year. That car is expected to use 110 hp (82 kW) version.

Finally, in the light-duty truck list, there is a 177 horsepower 2.2-liter diesel inline-four. GM has made clear that it has no plans to offer any light-duty diesel engines in the States, so we assume that this is for an export market vehicle, likely the Chevrolet Colorado pickup. The decoder guides are after the jump. A tip of the hat to xeong5!


Gallery: 2010 Chevy Spark


[Source: General Motors Service and Parts Operations]

Continue reading General Motors 2011 VIN decoder reveals new 1.0L, 1.2L, 1.6L four cylinder engines

General Motors 2011 VIN decoder reveals new 1.0L, 1.2L, 1.6L four cylinder engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Chevrolet aveo2011 general motors engines2011 gm engines2011ChevroletAveo2011GeneralMotorsEngines2011GmEnginesaveochevrolet aveoChevrolet SparkChevroletAveoChevroletSparkchevycoloradogeneral motorsGeneralMotorsGM Daewoo Automotive Technologiesgm enginesGmDaewooAutomotiveTechnologiesGMDATGmEnginessparkWed, 18 Aug 2010 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: Are you the next Dodge Charger SRT8?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/reader-spy-are-you-the-next-dodge-charger-srt8/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/reader-spy-are-you-the-next-dodge-charger-srt8/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/reader-spy-are-you-the-next-dodge-charger-srt8/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Dodge Charger prototype
2011/2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 prototype - click above for high-res image gallery

It's no secret that Chrysler is unleashing redesigned versions of the 300 and Dodge Charger sedans this Fall and we've seen numerous images of them prowling the streets of suburban Detroit in recent months. Now another of Autoblog's eagle-eyed readers, Marty M., has dropped us a note to let us know that he had captured what appears to be the new SRT8 version of the Charger.

We're assuming this is the high-output Charger based on the size of the wheels and rear deck appendage, along with the depth of the front air dam. The freshly contoured flanks are visible under the camo, but we can't quite tell if there is a new piece of glass at the trailing edge of the rear doors. The new SRT8 engine is expected to grow from the current 6.1-liters to 6.4-liters with at least 450 horsepower, and shooter Marty tells us it sounds very much how a big V8 ought to. It isn't known if the high-performance SRT version of the next Charger will debut alongside its lesser linemates for model year 2011, or if it will hang out until it can earn a 2012 designation. Either way, it's time to get excited.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011/2012 Dodge Charger SRT8



Reader Spy: Are you the next Dodge Charger SRT8? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 dodge2012 dodge charger2012 dodge charger srt82012Dodge2012DodgeCharger2012DodgeChargerSrt8chargerdodge chargerDodge Charger SRT8dodge ramDodgeChargerDodgeChargerSrt8DodgeRamspyspy picsspy shotspy shotsspy-shotsSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsSRT-8SRT8Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Lincoln, Buick top ACSI satisfaction study for first time ever]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/lincoln-buick-top-acsi-satisfaction-study-for-first-time-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/lincoln-buick-top-acsi-satisfaction-study-for-first-time-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/lincoln-buick-top-acsi-satisfaction-study-for-first-time-ever/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Buick Lucerne and Lincoln MKS

The annual American Consumer Satisfaction Index is out, and while the auto industry as a whole slipped this year, Lincoln-Mercury and Buick moved to the top of the heap for the first time ever. Each of the domestic brands was rated on a scale of 100, with Ford Motor Company's LM outpost scoring an 89 (up one point from last year) and General Motors' Buick holding steady at 88 points. Mercury capturing part of the top spot is somewhat bittersweet, of course, as the Blue Oval announced in June that it will shutter its mid-level brand.

On the Japanese side of the street, Lexus took a hit from the string of recalls that has haunted Toyota this year. Almost every recent Lexus model was affected by at least one recall, while a smaller percentage of Toyota brand vehicles were covered. Lexus was down five points for the year to 85 with Toyota down two points to 84.

Nissan took the biggest jump of all 19 brands, rising five points to 82, while at the same time, Chrysler dropped a similar amount to 80. Dodge and Jeep brought up the tail of the group with 78 and 77 points, respectively. The auto industry as a whole averaged 82 points - well ahead of the average of 75.9 for the entire U.S. economy. You can check out the complete ACSI results in the press release after the jump.

[Source: The American Consumer Satisfaction Index | Photos Copyright (C)2010/ AOL]

Continue reading Lincoln, Buick top ACSI satisfaction study for first time ever

Lincoln, Buick top ACSI satisfaction study for first time ever originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acsiAmerican Consumer Satisfaction IndexAmericanConsumerSatisfactionIndexbuickbuick acsiBuickAcsicustomer satisfactin ratingscustomer satisfactionCustomerSatisfactinRatingsCustomerSatisfactionlincolnlincoln acsiLincolnAcsisatisfaction indexsatisfaction surveySatisfactionIndexSatisfactionSurveyWed, 18 Aug 2010 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Congress considering higher weight limits for interstate trucks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/congress-considering-higher-weight-limits-for-interstate-trucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/congress-considering-higher-weight-limits-for-interstate-trucks/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/congress-considering-higher-weight-limits-for-interstate-trucks/#commentsFiled under:

Tractor trailer with rockpile

This fall, Congress will consider modifying 36-year old regulation that would increase the weight limit for trucks on interstate highways by 8.5 tons. According to The Wall Street Journal, the increase from 80,000 pounds to 97,000 pounds is being pushed by a coalition of over 150 companies that move products around the country and across the nation's roads. The official rationale for the change is to cut fuel consumption and emissions, as the current legislation requires trucks carrying heavier, denser products to run only partially full to avoid exceeding the limits. The obvious rationale is with fewer trucks running with heavier loads, overall fuel consumption would be cut.

However, there are a number of downsides to what looks like a "green" change. Heavier trucks do disproportionately more damage to roads and bridges and also pose greater safety risks, including taking longer to stop and being more susceptible to instability.

Given the poor state of many of the bridges in the U.S., is it worthwhile to save some fuel and CO2 at the risk of accidents like the Minneapolis bridge collapse a few years ago? Have your say in 'Comments.'


[Source: The Wall Street Journal via Chicago Breaking Business | Image: Corbis]

Congress considering higher weight limits for interstate trucks originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavier tractor trailersheavier trucksHeavierTractorTrailersHeavierTrucksincreaing truck weight limitsIncreaingTruckWeightLimitstractor trailerTractorTrailertruck weight limitstrucksTruckWeightLimitsWed, 18 Aug 2010 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[General Motors and SAIC to jointly develop small engine and dual clutch transmission]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/general-motors-and-saic-to-jointly-develop-small-engine-and-dual/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/general-motors-and-saic-to-jointly-develop-small-engine-and-dual/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/general-motors-and-saic-to-jointly-develop-small-engine-and-dual/#commentsFiled under: , ,

General Motors has reached an agreement with one of its primary Chinese partners, Shanghai Automotive Industries Corp. (SAIC), on the joint development of powertrains for small vehicles.

GM and SAIC will develop and produce a family of four-cylinder engines ranging from 1.0- to 1.5-liters with direct injection and turbocharging. The GTDI engines should cut fuel consumption by around 20 percent compared to similarly-sized engines with equivalent output.

The engine will be used in GM and SAIC vehicles in China and around the world, and to go along with the new engine, the partners will also develop a small dual-clutch transmission that should provide a 10 percent boost in efficiency over current six-speed torque converter automatics. Work on the engine and transmission will occur at GM's powertrain engineering center in Pontiac, MI and the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center in Shanghai.

GM has yet to announced when the new powertrains will debut in production, but mid-2011 is a safe bet.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading General Motors and SAIC to jointly develop small engine and dual clutch transmission

General Motors and SAIC to jointly develop small engine and dual clutch transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 23:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dual clutch gearboxdual clutch transmis...dual clutch transmissionDualClutchGearboxDualClutchTransmis...DualClutchTransmissiongasoline direct injectiongasoline turbocharged direct injectionGasolineDirectInjectionGasolineTurbochargedDirectInjectiongeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgm saicgm saic dctgm saic gtdigm saic powertrain developmentgm-saicGmSaicGmSaicDctGmSaicGtdiGmSaicPowertrainDevelopmentshanghai automotiveshanghai automotive industry corpShanghai Automotive Industry CorporationShanghaiAutomotiveShanghaiAutomotiveIndustryCorpShanghaiAutomotiveIndustryCorporationTue, 17 Aug 2010 23:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Jack Roush loses sight in left eye after plane crash, still aims to fly]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/report-jack-roush-loses-sight-in-left-eye-after-plane-crash-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/report-jack-roush-loses-sight-in-left-eye-after-plane-crash-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/report-jack-roush-loses-sight-in-left-eye-after-plane-crash-st/#commentsFiled under: , ,



They say that statistically speaking, flying is safer than driving. Jack Roush might beg to differ with that assessment. After his second life-threatening plane crash in eight years, the NASCAR bigwig was back at the Michigan International Speedway this past weekend to watch his team in action.

Roush's recovery from his injuries during the crash in Oshkosh, WI will be almost complete with one notable exception: Roush has lost the vision in his left eye. For now, Roush also has a back brace to support a fractured spine and piece of hardware in his cheek.

Despite the loss of vision on one eye, The Detroit News indicates that Roush has excellent sight in the right eye and fully intends to fly again once his physical recovery is complete. While there are tougher vision restrictions on commercial pilots, private aviators are evidently allowed to fly with only one eye.

Interestingly, based on a quote in the DetNews article, it sounds like Roush might be blaming the airport's air traffic controller for the plane crash:
"I filed my NTSB report today, which is a matter of public record. It speaks for itself. The reality of it, on a trip arrival into Oshkosh, Wis., I was put in conflict with the flight plan of another airplane close to the ground, and I was unable to address the conflict and keep the airplane flying. I ground-looped the airplane. The airplane did a great job staying intact."
No doubt we'll hear more about this as the National Transportation Safety Board investigates the incident further, but for now, Roush says he just feels extraordinarily lucky.

[Source: The Detroit News | Image: Jason Smith/Getty]

Report: Jack Roush loses sight in left eye after plane crash, still aims to fly originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jack roushjack roush crashjack roush injuredjack roush losing sight in one eyejack roush plan crashjack roush plane crashJackRoushJackRoushCrashJackRoushInjuredJackRoushLosingSightInOneEyeJackRoushPlanCrashJackRoushPlaneCrashroushroush plane crashroush racingRoushPlaneCrashRoushRacingTue, 17 Aug 2010 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Lotus Evora S looks great in red]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/spy-shots-lotus-evora-s-looks-great-in-red/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/spy-shots-lotus-evora-s-looks-great-in-red/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/spy-shots-lotus-evora-s-looks-great-in-red/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lotus Evora S - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Paris Motor Show in just over a month is shaping up to the be one of the biggest shows for Lotus in many decades. While the highlight is expected to be a new supercar successor to the departed Esprit, it apparently won't be alone. At least two additional occupants of the Lotus stand have been accidentally confirmed, including an Evora Automatic and a hotted-up Evora S.

This second iteration of the newest Lotus is expected to receive a supercharger bolted to its 3.5-liter Toyota V6 boosting it up to 350 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. The brakes and thermal requirements of the base Evora have reportedly been sized for more powerful models so they won't need upgrading for the S.

A prototype of what's believed to be the Evora S was caught outside the Nürburgring this week preparing for its public debut. The only notable visual difference for the S appears to be a more prominent rear diffuser. Check out the little red devil by taking a closer look at our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Lotus Evora S


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Lotus Evora S looks great in red originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evoraEvora SEvora SCEvoraSEvoraScLotusLotus Evoralotus evora slotus evora scLotusEvoraLotusEvoraSLotusEvoraScNürburgringspyspy picsspy shotspy shotsspy-shotsSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsTue, 17 Aug 2010 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford says 2010 Taurus resale value up by whopping 39%]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/ford-says-2010-taurus-resale-value-up-by-whopping-39/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/ford-says-2010-taurus-resale-value-up-by-whopping-39/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/ford-says-2010-taurus-resale-value-up-by-whopping-39/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Ford Taurus SEL - Click above for high-res image gallery

While most of the major mechanical systems of the Ford Taurus were unchanged from the 2009 to 2010 models, the all-new styling and interior has inspired people to more people to buy the shapelier four-door than its bland predecessor. Through the first seven months of 2010, sales of the Taurus have jumped by 116 percent, and apparently that newfound enthusiasm also extends to early secondhand sales of the big sedan.

According to Ford, average auction prices on used 2010 Tauruses are now 39 percent higher than comparable 2009 models. That's a jump of $7,100 and, as the Blue Oval dutifully points out, a $2,500 premium over a Toyota Avalon of the same vintage. The Taurus, like its crosstown rival, the Buick LaCrosse, clearly demonstrates the benefits of injecting a healthy dose of style and substance to a mainstream sedan. The volumes may not match the Toyota Camrys and Honda Accords of the world, but the design has inspired people to pay more, generating profits for their manufacturers. Check out Ford's official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Taurus SEL


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford says 2010 Taurus resale value up by whopping 39%

Ford says 2010 Taurus resale value up by whopping 39% originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 ford2010 ford taurus2010 ford taurus resale value2010Ford2010FordTaurus2010FordTaurusResaleValueFord resale valueford taurusford taurus resale valueFordResaleValueFordTaurusFordTaurusResaleValuetaurustaurus resale valueTaurus SELTaurusResaleValueTaurusSelTue, 17 Aug 2010 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[California Chevrolet dealer unhappy with arbitration, sues for franchise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/california-chevrolet-dealer-unhappy-with-arbitration-sues-for-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/california-chevrolet-dealer-unhappy-with-arbitration-sues-for-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/california-chevrolet-dealer-unhappy-with-arbitration-sues-for-f/#commentsFiled under: , ,

When General Motors announced a couple of weeks ago that it had completed the arbitration process with all of its discontinued dealers, the automaker no doubt hoped that its painful retail shrinkage process was over. But sadly, it was not to be - Rally Auto Group of Palmdale, CA, is apparently not quite ready to call it quits.

The arbiter in Rally's case removed the dealer's Chevrolet franchise and awarded it to a Saturn dealer that was located nearby; but allowed Rally to keep its Cadillac, Buick and GMC dealerships. Rally claims that, under the law passed by congress last year that created the dealer arbitration process, the arbiter should not have split the franchises but rather kept the whole dealership together or ordered it closed in its entirety.

So far, Rally is the only GM dealer to sue in the wake of the arbitration process, though three Chrysler dealers have also reportedly sued.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

California Chevrolet dealer unhappy with arbitration, sues for franchise originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>general motorsgeneral motors dealer arbitrationgeneral motors dealer reinstatementgeneral motors dealersGeneralMotorsGeneralMotorsDealerArbitrationGeneralMotorsDealerReinstatementGeneralMotorsDealersgmgm bankruptcyGM dealergm dealer arbitrationgm dealer closingsgm dealer lawsuitgm dealersgm dealershipgm dealership closingsgm dealershipsGmBankruptcyGmDealerGmDealerArbitrationGmDealerClosingsGmDealerLawsuitGmDealersGmDealershipGmDealershipClosingsGmDealershipsrally auto groupRallyAutoGroupTue, 17 Aug 2010 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: 2013 Ford Mondeo/Fusion looks more Kinetic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/rendered-speculation-2013-ford-mondeo-fusion/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/rendered-speculation-2013-ford-mondeo-fusion/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/rendered-speculation-2013-ford-mondeo-fusion/#commentsFiled under: ,

The cover of the latest issue of Auto Express in the UK features one of the first renderings of the next-generation Ford Mondeo, which as we all know will be basically the same as Ford's future replacement for the Fusion in the States. If this drawing proves accurate, it looks like the new midsize models will combine a lot of what we see in the 2012 Focus at the front end with a greenhouse and rear stance that actually looks more like the current Taurus.

The Fusion was Ford's first model to adopt the automaker's now ubiquitous three-bar grille design, but this rendering finally dispenses with that look in favor of something a little more Kinetic. We don't know if the production model will go this way or perhaps use the modified perforated version adopted by the latest Taurus and Explorer.

The new Mondeo and Fusion will probably debut sometime later in 2011 and come to market early in 2012 as a 2013 model.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rendered Speculation: 2013 Ford Mondeo/Fusion looks more Kinetic originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 ford2013 ford fusion2013 ford mondeo2013Ford2013FordFusion2013FordMondeoford fusionFord MondeoFordFusionFordMondeofusionfusion mondeoFusionMondeomondeomondeo fusionMondeoFusionrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingTue, 17 Aug 2010 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota cuts 600 contract workers in Japan as production slows]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/toyota-cuts-600-contract-workers-in-japan-as-production-slows/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/toyota-cuts-600-contract-workers-in-japan-as-production-slows/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/toyota-cuts-600-contract-workers-in-japan-as-production-slows/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A recent report out of Japan had Toyota preparing to cut domestic vehicle production by up to 20 percent in the fourth quarter of 2010. Why? Sales of hybrids and other fuel efficient vehicles are expected to drop following the expiration of tax incentives on those vehicles. Now comes word that Toyota has eliminated 600 jobs at its Japanese plants in preparation for the production slow down.

Toyota has not veered from its traditional policy of not laying off regular employees. The latest cuts are coming from the ranks of the temporary contract workers that it employs for terms of less than three years. At the end of its last fiscal year, Toyota had 2,400 contract workers in Japan. Contract employees are occasionally promoted to full-time status, but that seems rather unlikely in this case given the production cuts.

[Source: Japan Today]

Toyota cuts 600 contract workers in Japan as production slows originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Thanks to an alert reader perusing the Ford Racing online parts catalog, we now know that both the new 5.0-liter "Coyote" V8 and the aluminum-block supercharged 5.4-liter V8 that power the 2011 Mustang GT and GT500 can be purchased in boxes.

The 412 horsepower, twin-cam 32-valve V8 comes fully dressed except for the air-conditioning compressor and alternator. That means it has compete fuel injection and ignition systems and all the manifolding and other bits. The other item that's not included is the wiring harness and powertrain control module which will set you back an extra $1,499 on top of the $6,999 for the engine.

For those with a hankering for even more grunt, the aluminum 5.4-liter also comes dressed for success with 550 hp and 510 pound-feet of torque. The cylinder bores of the new engine have been coated with a Plasma Transferred Wire Arc system to make them tougher than steel or iron with much lower weight. The blown engine is a good bit steeper - $20,999 - plus the harness and PCM. A tip of the hat to GT!

Gallery: 2011 Ford Mustang 5.0 V8


[Source: Ford Racing]

New Ford 5.0L and supercharged 5.4L V8s now available as crate engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5.05.0-liter5.4-liter5.4Lcoyote v8CoyoteV8fordford 5.0ford 5.0 v8Ford 5.0-Liter V8ford 5.0l v8 crate engineford 5.4Ford 5.4 literFord 5.4Lford 5.4l supercharged crate engineford crate enginesford gt500ford gt500 crate engineford racingFord5.0Ford5.0-literV8Ford5.0lV8CrateEngineFord5.0V8Ford5.4Ford5.4lFord5.4LiterFord5.4lSuperchargedCrateEngineFordCrateEnginesFordGt500FordGt500CrateEngineFordRacingMon, 16 Aug 2010 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Porsche celebrating 60th year in U.S. by searching for oldest example in the country]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/16/porsche-celebrating-60th-year-in-u-s-by-searching-for-oldest-ex/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/16/porsche-celebrating-60th-year-in-u-s-by-searching-for-oldest-ex/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/16/porsche-celebrating-60th-year-in-u-s-by-searching-for-oldest-ex/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Sixty years ago, New York City businessman Max Hoffman began selling a diminutive German sports car with an air-cooled four-cylinder boxer engine hanging off the rear axle. Today, Porsche is one of the most highly respected performance brands in the world.

To celebrate its diamond anniversary in America, Porsche is inviting fans to share its favorite stories about the brand on an online family tree. Even better if you still have an old Porsche stashed away in a barn or garage somewhere, Porsche wants to hear from you. If you have the oldest car in each of a dozen model categories, Porsche will have it photographed for a special exhibit at the Porsche museum in Stuttgart. One car will be selected for display at the Porsche stand at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December. Head over to www.Porsche60Years.com to submit your story or car.


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading Porsche celebrating 60th year in U.S. by searching for oldest example in the country

Porsche celebrating 60th year in U.S. by searching for oldest example in the country originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Any hopes that Suzuki might have had a year ago that the Kizashi would revive its U.S. sales prospects were quickly dashed once the car went on sale in late 2009. The attractively style Kizashi has not made any noticeable dent in the hyper-competitive mid-size segment, however, and Suzuki's sales through July are down by 48 percent compared to its already terrible first half of 2009. After peaking at 101,884 units in 2007, Suzuki has only moved 13,501 vehicles through July of this year.

As a result, Suzuki reportedly sent out buyout offers to 150 of the 354 U.S. dealers it had earlier this year and about 50 of them accepted. One of the closing dealers is Gene Butman Suzuki of Ypsilanti, MI (pictured above) which in recent months only had a handful of new Suzuki models in stock. The former Suzuki store is now peddling used cars for the adjacent Ford outlet, although the signs are still in place as of today. Suzuki agreed to cash payments for franchises as well as buying back tools, inventory and signs. By eliminated dealers, Suzuki hopes to raise per-store sales for its remaining outlets, and according to Automotive News, no further network reductions are planned.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd | Image: Sam Abuelsamid / AOL]

Report: Struggling Suzuki cuts 50 U.S. dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealer closingdealer closingsdealer relationdealer relationsDealerClosingDealerClosingsDealerRelationDealerRelationssuzukisuzuki dealersuzuki dealer closingsSuzukiDealerSuzukiDealerClosingsMon, 16 Aug 2010 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda's fix for prematurely dying Civic hybrid batteries hurting fuel economy, performance?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/16/hondas-fix-for-prematurely-dying-civic-hybrid-batteries-hurting/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/16/hondas-fix-for-prematurely-dying-civic-hybrid-batteries-hurting/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/16/hondas-fix-for-prematurely-dying-civic-hybrid-batteries-hurting/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2008 Honda Civic Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Until the past year or so, the Civic Hybrid had been by far the best selling gas-electric model introduced by Honda. However, the second-generation model introduced in 2006 has not been entirely problem-free. There have been several lawsuits against Honda claiming that the Civic doesn't meet its advertised mileage claims. While those sort of claims are often dubious given their dependency on factors like driving style, climate and terrain, premature battery failures are not.

According to the Los Angeles Times, it appears that 2006-2008 Civic Hybrid models are suffering an abnormally high rate of battery failure at relatively low miles. The nickel-metal-hydride batteries are evidently prematurely losing their ability to hold a charge - particularly in hot weather areas like Arizona and when used in a lot of stop-and-go traffic. The Civic Hybrid has a dual compressor air-conditioning system with an engine driven primary compressor and a smaller electric compressor to keep the system going when the engine is shut during a stop. Using the air conditioning will cause the battery to go through more charge cycles, eventually wearing it down. Read on after the jump for more on why the battery might be failing and how Honda is attempting to address it.

Update: Honda spokesman Chuck Schifsky let us know that the software updated for the 2006-8 Civics is based on the changes that were introduced for the refreshed 2009 models. The 2009 models apparently also got an updated battery but obviously that change isn't going into the older cars. The original 2006-8 models would spend a lot of time during hot weather use with the A/C on which apparently caused the charge cycling rate to increase wearing down the battery.

Update 2: Honda confirmed that the battery pack did change from 2008 to 2009 but its not clear exactly what was updated.


Gallery: ABG Garage: 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid

Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / AOL


[Source: Los Angeles Times]

Continue reading Honda's fix for prematurely dying Civic hybrid batteries hurting fuel economy, performance?

Honda's fix for prematurely dying Civic hybrid batteries hurting fuel economy, performance? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20062006 honda civic hybrid2006HondaCivicHybridbattery failureBatteryFailureCalifornia Air Resources BoardCaliforniaAirResourcesBoardcarbcivic hybridcivic hybrid batteryCivicHybridCivicHybridBatteryhondaHonda Civichonda civic hybridhonda civic hybrid battery failureHondaCivicHondaCivicHybridHondaCivicHybridBatteryFailurehybrid batterieshybrid batteryhybrid battery failurehybrid battery packHybridBatteriesHybridBatteryHybridBatteryFailureHybridBatteryPacknickel metal hydrideNickelMetalHydridenimhnimh batteriesnimh batteryNiMH rechargeableNimhBatteriesNimhBatteryNimhRechargeableMon, 16 Aug 2010 11:00:00 EST