Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Chicago: 2012 Ram Laramie Limited is one fancy truck]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-ram-laramie-limited-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-ram-laramie-limited-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-ram-laramie-limited-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Ram Laramie Limited

The Chicago Auto Show was commonly known for years as a truck show, with automakers using the McCormick Place to show off their sport-utility vehicles and pickups. And while trends have indeed shifted in the automotive world (SUV is a dirty word these days), some companies still take time to debut a special truck or two here in the Windy City. Ram, Chrysler's pickup truck arm, has brought its new 2012 Laramie Limited to Chicago, offering full-size truck buyers a host of upscale standard amenities in a decidedly classy package.

The Ram Laramie Limited's exterior is attended to with the addition of big alloy wheels and chrome accents, while inside, there's a smattering of leather upholstery with contrast stitching, deep berber carpets, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, unique gauges, LED ambient lighting and navigation, among other amenities.

The Laramie Limited is available in 1500, 2500 HD and 3500 HD configurations, and will hit dealerships later this year.

Continue reading 2012 Ram Laramie Limited is one fancy truck

2012 Ram Laramie Limited is one fancy truck originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2012chicago auto showdodgelaramie limitedramram 1500ram 2500 hdram 3500 hdWed, 08 Feb 2012 19:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago: 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser has been updated, apparently]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-toyota-land-cruiser-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-toyota-land-cruiser-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-toyota-land-cruiser-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Toyota Land Cruiser

Look very, very closely. This is the 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser, which, though not immediately apparent, is different than the 2012 model. How, exactly? The updated SUV has new features like LED running lamps up front, a revised taillamp design and some new wheel options. Inside, there's a brand new hard drive-based navigation system complete with Toyota's fancy new Entune infotainment system.

Aside from that, there isn't much else in the way of newness for Toyota's stalwart off-roader. Under the hood is the automaker's 5.7-liter V8 with 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, and a standard Multi-Terrain Select system keeps things in check for when the pavement turns to dirt... or sand... or mud.

Check out the full scope of Land Cruiser goodness in the press release after the jump, and click through our gallery of images live from the Chicago Auto Show to see all of those ever-so-slight design tweaks.

Continue reading 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser has been updated, apparently

2013 Toyota Land Cruiser has been updated, apparently originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 toyota land cruiserchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showland cruisertoyotaWed, 08 Feb 2012 18:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago: 2013 Mazda MX-5 Special Edition shows off its new black hat and shoes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-mazda-mx-5-special-edition-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-mazda-mx-5-special-edition-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-mazda-mx-5-special-edition-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Chicago Auto Show and the Mazda MX-5 Miata have quite a history. After all, the very first Miata debuted at the 1989 Chicago show, and since then, Mazda has routinely used the Windy City expo to showcase some sort of new roadster hotness.

For 2012, we've been introduced to the MX-5 Special Edition (clever name, we know), which dons a new black power retractable hard top and gunmetal wheels, among other small updates.

Underneath the skin, Mazda has fitted its standard suspension upgrade kit, which includes Bilstein shocks, while inside you'll find black accents and heated black leather seats, along with a full kit of tech options. Pricing starts at $31,225, and only 450 will be sold in the United States. Get it while it's hot.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda MX-5 Special Edition shows off its new black hat and shoes

2013 Mazda MX-5 Special Edition shows off its new black hat and shoes originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mazda mx-52012 mazda mx-5 special editionchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showmazdamiatamx-5mx-5 miataWed, 08 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago: 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT delivers lightness, functionality]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-chicago-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-chicago-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



After driving the 2013 Elantra GT out on stage here in Chicago, Hyundai executives immediately focused on one of its new five-door's core values: lightness. You see, the GT is the lightest C-segment hatchback in the United States, weighing 151 pounds less than a Mazda3, 175 pounds less than a Ford Focus and 222 pounds less than the fatty-fat-fat Volkswagen Golf. Even so, the Elantra GT has the most capacious interior in its class.

Power comes from the Elantra sedan's 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, meaning 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque are on tap, and can be paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Fuel economy is only slightly worse than the 40-mile-per-gallon Elantra sedan, with the GT expected to get as high as 39 mpg on the highway. The full details are available in Hyundai's release below the fold.

Continue reading 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT delivers lightness, functionality

2013 Hyundai Elantra GT delivers lightness, functionality originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai elantra gtchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showelantraelantra gthyundaiWed, 08 Feb 2012 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Long Term: 2011 Mini Countryman: January 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2011-mini-countryman-january-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2011-mini-countryman-january-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2011-mini-countryman-january-2012/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Literally two days after my last update about our long-term Mini Countryman, I found myself trudging through a snowstorm at 30 miles per hour on Interstate 94 along Michigan's west coast. I guess Mother Nature had heard my cries about not being able to test our Mini in the snow, and decided to reward me with super slippery roads and poor visibility for two and a half hours straight. Lovely.

Mile after mile, the Mini dutifully carried on while I watched large SUVs and a host of mid-size sedans slide off into the ditches on either side of I-94. I've lived in southeast Michigan my entire life, and I know how to drive in the slushy, slick stuff, but there's nothing quite like the combination of all-wheel drive and proper winter tires for times like this - it not only helps with driver confidence, but makes the whole process of safely navigating through a snowstorm much less fatiguing. Mini's All4 all-wheel-drive system made sure power was being sent to exactly which wheels needed it most, and our car's Bridgestone Blizzak WS-70 winter tires provided by the folks at Tire Rack kept the rollers from slipping during acceleration or skidding during braking.

After using the Mini to schlep many an Autoblog staff member to and from various Detroit Auto Show happenings, I handed the Countryman off to executive editor Chris Paukert, who turned it back over praising the All4 system and snow tires' handling on split-mu surfaces - even with the driver's side tires on wet asphalt and the passenger-side wheels trudging through ice and slush, the Mini remained confident and steady despite times when traction coefficients differed at every corner.

The Countryman now resides in Cleveland, Ohio, where it will be under Editor-in-Chief John Neff's care for the next month. We haven't had any snow to speak of since sending the Mini to Ohio, but I'm sure if Neff complains enough, Mother Nature will reward him with a big ol' lake-effect dumping to the Lake Erie coast so he can see just how good our All4/Blizzak combo is.

Keep your eyes locked on the official Autoblog Facebook page for the majority of our updates, as well as the official Autoblog Twitter account (@therealautoblog, look for the #ablongterm hashtag).

2011 Mini Countryman: January 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 mini cooper s countryman2011 mini countrymanablongtermablongterm-countrymancooper s countrymancountrymanfeaturedlong-termminiTue, 07 Feb 2012 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Next Mini to get rear-hinged Clubman doors?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/next-mini-to-get-rear-hinged-clubman-doors/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/next-mini-to-get-rear-hinged-clubman-doors/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/next-mini-to-get-rear-hinged-clubman-doors/#commentsFiled under: ,



Much as we love the Mini Clubman and its rear-hinged, passenger-side door, this would be an incredibly stupid idea. Functionality is one thing, but ruining the design of the fetching Mini Cooper hardtop would be a downright shame.

Nevertheless, Autocar reports that a rear-hinged door could be in store for the next Mini. A recent set of spy shots showed a Cooper hardtop prototype with an unusually short driver door with what appears to be a small suicide door behind it. Our best guess? This could just be Mini playing with door configurations, since the automaker received quite a bit of criticism for the placement of the Clubman's rear door in right-hand-drive markets.

Mini is keen on the rear-hinged door idea, though. Autocar states that the next-generation Clubman is expected to get a door on either side instead of just one, and that rear-hinged doors will be found on the Countryman-based Paceman coupe, as well. Fine by us, but please, leave them off the original hardtop.

Next Mini to get rear-hinged Clubman doors? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clubmancooperminirear-hinged doorsTue, 07 Feb 2012 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: 2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-buick-regal-gets-standard-eassist-automatic-option-for-gs/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Buick launched its mid-size Regal sedan in late 2010 as a 2011 model, with the Turbo, high-performance GS and eAssist models following suit over the past year. Now, General Motors' tri-shield arm has announced a couple of powertrain updates that will go into effect for the 2013 model year, namely the discontinuation of the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter inline-four in the base Regal.

For 2013, the Regal's standard engine is the 2.4-liter eAssit powerplant - a mill that, according to the EPA, is good for up to 36 miles per gallon on the highway. Buick pulled a similar stunt with its larger LaCrosse, killing off the base 2.4 in favor of the eAssist powertrain with a V6 available as a no-cost option. That said, Buick has not announced pricing for the updated 2013 Regal line, but we'll be interested to see if the 220-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-four of the Regal Turbo will be available at no additional cost.

The 270-hp Regal GS carries over largely unchanged, though as initially promised, a six-speed automatic transmission will now be optional. Buick states that the self-shifting unit will not hinder performance (well, except for that whole shift-on-your-own-terms thing), citing that the automatic-equipped Regal GS will sprint to 60 miles per hour in 6.7 seconds, just like manual-equipped cars.

Buick will release full pricing and availability for the 2013 Regal line later this year. In the meantime, read the full details for yourself in the press release below the fold.

Continue reading 2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS

2013 Buick Regal gets standard eAssist, automatic option for GS originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 buick regal2013 buick regal gsbuickeassistgsregalregal gsTue, 07 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: 2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2013-mazda-cx-5-priced-from-20-695/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2013-mazda-cx-5-priced-from-20-695/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/2013-mazda-cx-5-priced-from-20-695/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mazda's attractive and fun-to-drive 2013 CX-5 goes on sale this month, and the automaker's North American arm has just announced that it will be priced from $20,695 (*not including $795 for destination). That's a higher base price than competitors like the Hyundai Tuscon, Kia Sportage and Subaru Forester, but the CX-5 boasts some of the best driving dynamics in the segment, not to mention the best fuel economy numbers in the class.

That $20,695 price point refers, of course, to the CX-5 Sport with the (remarkably good) six-speed manual transmission. Opting for the six-speed automatic will set you back an additional $1,400, and if you want to add all-wheel drive, be prepared to dish out another $1,250. Moving up, Touring models with either front- or all-wheel drive start at $23,895 and $25,145, respectively, and are only available with the six-speed automatic gearbox. Lastly, the range-topping Grand Touring comes in at $27,045 (FWD) and $28,295 (AWD), and with the $1,325 technology package added to the GT trim, you'll be looking at $29,620 for a fully loaded CX-5.

The 2013 CX-5 uses Mazda's brand new 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline engine, along with a host of other weight-saving technologies. We've driven the CX-5 on two different occasions, and while we're quite impressed with the steering, manual gearbox and suspension, we wish interior refinement were a bit better. Still, Mazda is positioning the CX-5 as the enthusiast's small crossover, and we're inclined to agree. Follow the jump for Mazda's official pricing release.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695*

2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695* originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5mazdapricingMon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Honda to enter World Touring Car Championship with new Civic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/honda-to-enter-world-touring-car-championship-with-new-civic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/honda-to-enter-world-touring-car-championship-with-new-civic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/honda-to-enter-world-touring-car-championship-with-new-civic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda WTCC Civic racer renderings - Official

Honda has announced plans to enter the FIA World Touring Car Championship with this, a hot new racer based on the newly redesigned 2012 Civic (well, the European five-door, anyway). Details are slim about the new touring car racer, but the automaker has released a statement confirming that the Civic will be powered by a bespoke 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four, developed by Honda R&D in accordance with FIA's Super 2000 regulations. Honda has also formed a joint partnership with Mugen and J.A.S. Motorsport to develop the new Civic.

So, how soon will we get to watch the new hatchback swap paint with other WTCC racers? Honda hopes to officially join WTCC this season, with some inaugural rounds possibly held in Japan, China and Macau. Following that, a two-car team will be entered into every race in the 2013 championship. Hit the jump for the full details.

Continue reading Honda to enter World Touring Car Championship with new Civic

Honda to enter World Touring Car Championship with new Civic originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda civicciviceuropean civichondatouring carworld touring car championshipwtccFri, 03 Feb 2012 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Mazda bringing special edition MX-5 Miata to Chicago]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/mazda-bringing-special-edition-mx-5-miata-to-chicago/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/mazda-bringing-special-edition-mx-5-miata-to-chicago/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/mazda-bringing-special-edition-mx-5-miata-to-chicago/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Flashback to 1989, and you'll recall the Mazda debuted the very first Miata under the lights of the Chicago Auto Show. Because of that, Mazda has had a tendency to debut many a special edition Miata at the Chicago expo, and this year will be no different.

Limited to just 450 units here in the Untied States, the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Special Edition takes the top-trim Grand Touring model a step further with a new black-only power retractable hard top - the first time a non-body colored hard top has been available - as well as new 17-inch gunmetal wheels, black exterior accents, black heated leather seats and piano black interior trim. Two new exterior colors - a special white and red - will be offered, and the car can be had with either the six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

Mazda makes no mention of powertrain upgrades for the MX-5 Special Edition, but the normally optional Premium and Suspension packages will come as standard equipment. This means buyers will be treated to goods like Bluetooth, Sirius satellite radio, Bilstein shocks and a sport-tuned suspension. Pricing and detailed specs will be released as part of next week's Chicago festivities, but for now, follow the jump for Mazda's initial press release.

Continue reading Mazda bringing special edition MX-5 Miata to Chicago

Mazda bringing special edition MX-5 Miata to Chicago originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mazda mx-5 special editionchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showmazdamiatamx-5special edition miataThu, 02 Feb 2012 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2012 Mini Cooper S Roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/2012-mini-cooper-s-roadster-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/2012-mini-cooper-s-roadster-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/2012-mini-cooper-s-roadster-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Attractive New Roadster Prepares To Cannibalize Convertible

2012 Mini Cooper S Roadster

For a brand that's only about 11 years old (since its modern rebirth, anyway), Mini is doing quite well for itself. Since the launch of the 2001 Mini Cooper, the BMW-owned automaker has now sold over two million vehicles in 100 markets, and over the course of the past decade, has expanded one front-wheel-drive platform into six models with a grand total of 39 different variants. The fact that Mini has hit the big time is in no way breaking news.

What's really interesting is how each new model continues to be supported and loved by the Mini faithful. Perhaps the most controversial addition came in 2010, when Mini first debuted its bigger, four-door Countryman - the most un-mini Mini. Now, though, it has grown to account for 30 percent of the brand's sales here in the United States, perfectly coexisting with its Hardtop, Convertible and Clubman brethren. Nicely done.

But this story isn't all loveliness and perfection: Enter the Mini Coupe, a car that we can't quite give our seal of approval. It's heavier than the iconic Hardtop, less functional, more expensive and frankly, less attractive. Sure, it stands true to the brand's core values of fun, tossable driving dynamics and cheeky style, but at the end of the day, we don't downright love it like we do the other models.

Now meet the Roadster. Immediate comparisons to the Coupe are indeed warranted (we'll get to that), but if any car in the Mini portfolio should be worried, it's the Convertible. The Roadster is less expensive than the aging Convertible, looks better (arguably) and has a more capacious boot. No, this new Roadster doesn't seat four, but then again, the Convertible doesn't exactly do a fantastic job of that, either. And after driving the new Mini Roadster along the sunny Portuguese coast, our impression is that this sixth Cooper variant isn't so much another niche product for a niche manufacturer, it's instead a better droptop than the current Cooper Convertible.

Continue reading 2012 Mini Cooper S Roadster

2012 Mini Cooper S Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 mini cooper s roadstercoopercooper roadsterfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveminiroadsterWed, 01 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Mini Rocketman reportedly canned]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/mini-rocketman-reportedly-canned/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/mini-rocketman-reportedly-canned/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/23/mini-rocketman-reportedly-canned/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Mini Rocketman (we'll spare you the Elton John lyrics) was one of our favorite concepts from the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. Sure, the name is silly, but this pint-sized concept showed what could be in store for an even more mini Mini. A smarter Smart, if you will. However, a new report from CAR states that the entry-level Mini project has allegedly been canned. The Rocketman as we know it has been grounded.

The reason? CAR reports that it would be a costly endeavor to develop the Rocketman to meet street-legal specifications; specifically, handling, stability and crash standards. The concept only measures in at 134.6 inches long - a full 12 inches shorter than a standard Cooper hatchback, and while Mini insiders said that a production version could come as early as 2016, there are now no plans to offer a vehicle smaller than the current Cooper.

Mini Rocketman reportedly canned originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptminimini cityrocketmanrocketman conceptMon, 23 Jan 2012 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe caught undisguised ahead of Chicago debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2013-hyundai-elantra-coupe-caught-undisguised-ahead-of-chicago-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2013-hyundai-elantra-coupe-caught-undisguised-ahead-of-chicago-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2013-hyundai-elantra-coupe-caught-undisguised-ahead-of-chicago-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe spy shot

Here it is, ladies and gents - the 2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe. The svelte new two-door will make its official debut at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show in just a few weeks, but our intrepid spy photographers managed to catch this completely uncovered prototype on the back of a flatbed truck.

Not surprisingly, the new coupe relies heavily on the same Fluidic Sculpture design language of the award-winning sedan, though subtle tweaks have been made to give the two-door a bit more sporting flare. The foglight housings appear larger and more angular, giving the front end a slightly more aggressive appearance. Out back, a small lip spoiler has been added to the rear deck that both enhances the swoopy profile shape of the Elantra and adds another element of style to the rear end.

As we reported earlier, the Elantra Coupe will get a sport-minded SE trim level, and all in, Hyundai hopes that the coupe will account for 20 percent of all Elantra sales. We'll have the full details in just a few weeks, but scroll through our gallery of spy shots to see naked coupe from all angles.

2013 Hyundai Elantra Coupe caught undisguised ahead of Chicago debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai elantra coupebreakingchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showelantraelantra coupehyundaispy picsspy shotsFri, 20 Jan 2012 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor tackles Hell's Revenge Trail]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2012-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-tackles-hells-revenge-trail/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2012-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-tackles-hells-revenge-trail/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/20/2012-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-tackles-hells-revenge-trail/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We recently went off the beaten path with a Ford F-150 SVT Raptor in Moab, Utah to test the 2012 model's improved off-road chops. While Editor Paukert's tale of the experience certainly gets the point across, there's nothing quite like watching Ford's monster tackle the rocks and dirt in high-definition video, especially video that was taken by a hovering camera-equipped drone.

While the Raptor is best known for its desert-storming, dune-jumping prowess (we ourselves have greatly enjoyed getting all four wheels off the ground), what's truly amazing is watching a vehicle this big tackle some of Moab's toughest obstacles at a snail's pace. Follow the jump to see for yourself.

Continue reading 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor tackles Hell's Revenge Trail

2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor tackles Hell's Revenge Trail originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 ford f-150 svt raptorf-150fordhells revengemoabsvt raptorvideoFri, 20 Jan 2012 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI to debut at Chicago Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/18/2013-volkswagen-beetle-tdi-to-debut-at-chicago-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Volkswagen has confirmed to Autoblog that the oil-burning 2013 Beetle TDI will make its public debut at the Chicago Auto Show next month.

No specific details have been released at this time, but you can bet that the automaker's slick 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four will be underhood. In the Golf, Jetta and Passat, the mill kicks out 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, and both six-speed manual and DSG transmissions will likely be available. This engine is already good for as high as 43 miles per gallon highway in the Passat (and we've routinely hit as high as 50 mpg in our long-term Jetta TDI), so we expect exceptional fuel economy out of the diesel Bug, as well.

What's more, our understanding is that Volkswagen plans to offer the TDI engine in the upcoming Beetle Convertible, which will make it the very first clean diesel droptop available in the United States. Of course, we won't know for sure until the roofless Bug debuts later this year, but still, it's something to get excited about (if ragtop Beetles are your thing, anyway).

Stay tuned for the full scoop live from the Chicago show next month.

2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI to debut at Chicago Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 volkswagen beetle tdibeetle tdichicagochicago 2012chicago auto showdieseltdivolkswagenvwWed, 18 Jan 2012 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Five-door Fiat 500 headed to Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/five-door-fiat-500-headed-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/five-door-fiat-500-headed-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/17/five-door-fiat-500-headed-to-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Fiat 500 in red

According to The Detroit Free Press, a plus-sized version of the cheeky little Fiat 500 is heading to the Geneva Motor Show in March. Olivier Francois, head of the Fiat brand, has reportedly confirmed that a five-door 500 will be shown in Geneva, and that the new vehicle will be sold here in the United States starting in 2013.

Sound familiar? About one year ago, we reported that Fiat was working on a four-door (or, five-door) 500 internally known as Project L-Zero. This larger 500 was specifically being designed to round out the automaker's portfolio here in the U.S., though at the time, it was unclear whether or not the vehicle would be sold in other markets. Judging by the fact that the five-door 500 will debut in Switzerland, we can only assume that worldwide consumption is in the cards.

Five-door Fiat 500 headed to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 fiat 500500500 five-doorcinquecentofiatgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showl-zeroolivier francoisproject l-zeroTue, 17 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Detroit Police give up on car theft, ban street parking to curb break-ins]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/detroit-police-give-up-on-car-theft-ban-street-parking-to-curb/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/detroit-police-give-up-on-car-theft-ban-street-parking-to-curb/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/detroit-police-give-up-on-car-theft-ban-street-parking-to-curb/#commentsFiled under:



Full disclosure: Two of my friends had their cars broken into in downtown Detroit last week. These incidents happened within days of each other along the same city block in the entertainment district behind Detroit's Fillmore and Fox theaters - the exact area that this story references.

Detroit is often painted in a bad light when it comes to things like public safety, and while I - a proud Detroit resident - will gladly shout praise for The D any day of the week, the truth is, it's not just my friends who have been wronged. A rash of break-ins have been reported in this area of Detroit over the past couple of weeks.

So, how are the Detroit Police responding to this issue? Prohibiting street parking.

The Detroit Free Press reports that curbside parking will be prohibited in a small section of downtown Detroit just west of Woodward Avenue. Additional squad cars will be patrolling the area to not only enforce this new parking ban, but to keep a closer watch on the area in an effort to prevent larcenies.

This new initiative was started last Thursday, and according to local news site MLive.com, establishments along Park Avenue have already witnessed large amounts of cars being towed, even though no signage has been installed to inform drivers that street parking is not allowed. Thankfully, MLive also reports that these towing fees will be refunded. To help encourage this program, Detroit company Olympia Entertainment will reportedly reduce the rates on its pay-to-park lots in and around downtown.

As of this writing, it's unclear how long the ban on street parking will be in effect. The 2012 Detroit Auto Show is currently bringing lots of people (and their cars) into the city, which could contribute to this increase of break-ins. (Remember when a BMW-owned 7 Series was stolen during the 2011 Detroit show?) In the meantime, police are advising drivers to park in well-lit or secure parking lots.

Detroit Police give up on car theft, ban street parking to curb break-ins originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>break-insdetroitdetroit policelarcenypolicestreet parkingtheftMon, 16 Jan 2012 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: 2013 Porsche Boxster unveiled with more efficiency, performance and maturity [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-porsche-boxster-unveiled-with-more-efficiency-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-porsche-boxster-unveiled-with-more-efficiency-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-porsche-boxster-unveiled-with-more-efficiency-performance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Porsche may have just unveiled its new 2012 911 Carrera Cabriolet at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this week, but the German automaker is wasting no time before showing off its next bit of overhauled hotness, the 2013 Boxster. The mid-engine roadster won't make its official debut until the Geneva Motor Show in March, but we've been given some preliminary details ahead of the new Box's primetime unveiling.

Much like the 911, the new Boxster's design is more evolution than revolution, and that's a-okay with us. The redesigned roadster is extremely handsome, and most of us on the Autoblog staff think it's the best-looking Boxster yet. We like the revised headlamps and more svelte running lamp/air intake setup, and the wider stance and longer wheelbase are nicely masked in the new design. The 2013 Boxster's all-aluminum skin also helps the new model shed a few pounds compared to its predecessor, which will not only make it that much more engaging out on the road, but also improve fuel economy.

But really, the Boxster is all about performance, and under the hood behind the seats are two flat-six engines with direct injection, thermal management and start/stop functionality. The base Boxster uses a 2.7-liter flat six, good for 265 horsepower (10 hp more than its predecessor) while the Boxster S is powered by a 3.4-liter six that produces 315 hp (an increase of 5 hp versus the 2012 model). The standard Boxster will run to 60 miles per hour in 5.4 seconds with the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, while the Boxster S will do the same jaunt in just 4.7 seconds. A six-speed manual gearbox (what, no seven-speed?) is also available with either engine. Porsche will offer a Sport Chrono package that further enhances performance, adding things like dynamic transmission mounts and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV).

Look for the 2013 Boxster to hit United States showrooms this summer, priced from $49,500 for the base car or $60,900 for the Boxster S (not including $950 for destination). Now, about that Cayman...

Continue reading 2013 Porsche Boxster unveiled with more efficiency, performance and maturity [w/video]

2013 Porsche Boxster unveiled with more efficiency, performance and maturity [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxsterboxstergenevageneva 2012geneva motor showporscheWed, 11 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit: Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Detroit Auto Show Debuts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/editors-choice-top-five-2012-detroit-auto-show-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/editors-choice-top-five-2012-detroit-auto-show-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/editors-choice-top-five-2012-detroit-auto-show-debuts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



That's a wrap, folks. Press days for the 2012 Detroit Auto Show have come and gone, meaning there's just one thing left to do: pick our favorites.

As we said in our end-of-show wrap-up, the Detroit show is back in full force after several years of being stuck in first gear in the wake of a stagnant auto industry and a horrid economic climate. This year, though, automakers from the United States, Asia and Europe all had impressive production and concept vehicles to show off. After tallying our votes, these are our five favorites.

Continue reading Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Detroit Auto Show Debuts

Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Detroit Auto Show Debuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac ats2013 dodge dart2013 ford fusion2013 hyundai veloster turboacuraatscadillacdartdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showdodgefeaturedfordfusionhyundainsxturbovelosterWed, 11 Jan 2012 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: 2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-mazda-cx-5-achieves-best-in-class-26-35-mpg-epa-rating/#commentsFiled under: ,

2013 Mazda CX-5 front three-quarter

Mazda has released the official EPA fuel economy figures for its 2013 CX-5, and as anticipated, the new compact crossover has achieved an all-important best-in-class designation. The front-wheel-drive, six-speed manual-equipped CX-5 is rated at 26 miles per gallon city and 35 mpg highway, thanks to Mazda's efficient Skyactiv direct-injection 2.0-liter inline-four. In fact, Mazda claims the CX-5 actually gets the best fuel economy rating of any SUV (read: crossover) sold in America, full stop.

CX-5 models equipped with front-wheel drive and Mazda's new Skyactiv six-speed automatic transmission are good for 26/32 miles per gallon city/highway. And while those highway numbers match up with the four-cylinder Chevrolet Equinox, the Mazda's 26 mpg city rating bests the Chevy by a whopping four mpg. All-wheel-drive CX-5s are rated at 25/31 mpg city/highway. Follow the jump for Mazda's official release.

Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating

2013 Mazda CX-5 achieves best-in-class 26/35 mpg EPA rating originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mazda cx-5cx-5cx5fuel economymazdampgWed, 11 Jan 2012 09:57:00 EST