Autoblog Diesel http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Diesel http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png 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/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Expedition drives from Russia to Canada over North Pole...]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Bus expedition from Russia to Canada via North Pole - shot on ice

No, a Ford Expedition did not drive from Russia to Canada via the North Pole, but that's exactly what a team of intrepid explorers accomplished recently. Using specially-modified buses with massive tires, the group slowly drove 2,485 miles in 70 days over drifting ice, occasionally using a pickaxe to clear a path and staying on guard for chasms that could open up and plunge the team into the frigid arctic waters. Average speeds were about 6 mph, "at the speed of a (farm) tractor." While the big tires technically allowed the buses to float if the need arose, the team preferred to stay out of the water to keep the suspension from getting coated in thick, hard ice. Falling in on foot would mean almost certain death.

According to Phys.org, the buses were powered by Toyota diesel engines, but were built with prototype parts from a previous driving expedition to the North Pole. Right now, the machines are parked in a garage in Canada's Resolute Bay while the the team rests up with family back home. They plan to continue their trek to back across the Bering Straight to Russia. If successful, the team may eventually offer a version of their buses for commercial sale.

Expedition drives from Russia to Canada over North Pole... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bering straightcanadadriving to the north poleexpeditionnorth poleresolute bayrussiatoyotavassili Ielaguine Wed, 22 May 2013 08:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576712/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/expedition-drives-from-russia-to-canada-over-north-pole/20576712/article-detail.xml 20576712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/russia-canada-arctic-expedition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/russia-canada-arctic-expedition-628.jpg <![CDATA[Car emissions can turn good cholesterol bad]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/car-emissions-can-turn-good-cholesterol-bad/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/car-emissions-can-turn-good-cholesterol-bad/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/car-emissions-can-turn-good-cholesterol-bad/#comments Filed under: , ,

Auto emissions - exhaust pipe closeup

Before you head to the pharmacy to refill your Lipitor prescription, check this out. The American Heart Association's journal on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology has concluded that high levels of vehicle emissions can cause high cholesterol in mice, which could indicate that air pollution is a contributing factor in high cholesterol or vascular disease.

In the study, mice were exposed to diesel exhaust for two weeks "at a particulate mass concentration within the range of what mine workers usually are exposed to" (according to UCLA), which, not surprisingly, had a negative effect on the bloodstream. First, the air pollution altered the HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein, a.k.a. "good cholesterol") to the point that the positive properties of the protein were reduced and could lead to high levels of LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein, "bad cholesterol") and hardening of the arteries. While this seems like a study related to extreme pollution, it draws yet another linkage between our environments and our health.

Car emissions can turn good cholesterol bad originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> air pollutionamerican heart associationcholesteroldieseldiesel emissionsdiesel exhaustexhaust emissionshdlhigh cholesterolldlvehicle emissions Tue, 21 May 2013 18:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576701/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576701/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/car-emissions-can-turn-good-cholesterol-bad/20576701/article-detail.xml 20576701 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/exhaust-pipe-emissions_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/exhaust-pipe-emissions.jpg <![CDATA[2014 BMW 5 Series starts at $50,425* and gets a new diesel, 5 Series GT starts at $60,925* [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/the-2014-bmw-5-series-starts-at-50-425-and-gets-a-new-diesel/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/the-2014-bmw-5-series-starts-at-50-425-and-gets-a-new-diesel/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/19/the-2014-bmw-5-series-starts-at-50-425-and-gets-a-new-diesel/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



BMW itself says it is making "Precise modifications to the design" of the facelifted, sixth-generation 5 Series, and this is the result. The 2014 5 Series will come in four flavors - sedan, Touring, Gran Turismo and ActiveHybrid 5 - the biggest news probably the addition of a diesel engine for the US market.

When they go on sale in August, the 528i sedan will start at $50,425, a $1,700 increase over the 2013 model, and if you want xDrive that adds $2,300 to the price across the model range. The 535d employs a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline six-cylinder diesel with 255 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque and starts at $56,025. BMW portends "substantial fuel efficiency gains over its gasoline-fueled counterpart," but the exact numbers won't come until closer to the on-sale date. The $64,825, top-dog 550i holds pat with 4.4-liter, twin turbo V8, with output upped to 445 hp and 480 lb-ft - an increase of 45 hp and 30 lb-ft of torque. The outputs haven't changed on the twin-turbo four-cylinder in the 528 nor the 3.0-liter six-cylinder gasoline engine in the 535, and *all prices include the $925 destination charge. The engines are also fitted with a coasting mode that uncouples the powertrain when rolling downhill.

Outside there are new "contour lines" for the grille and air intakes, slimmer taillights and elements that accentuate the car's width - as if that were necessary. Xenon adaptive headlights will be standard along with side indicator lights on the rearview mirrors, the options list adds LED headlights, the Luxury Line and Modern Line packages. The former package adds chrome trim to certain exterior elements, the latter adds matte chrome trim.

Inside will be more storage and more cup holders, additional luggage capacity in the 5 Series GT, an optional rear seat entertainment system that puts tablets on the front seatbacks, and a touchpad iDrive controller.

There's a lot more besides which you can read about in the press release and video below, and you can pair words with images in the four high-res galleries above and below.

Continue reading 2014 BMW 5 Series starts at $50,425* and gets a new diesel, 5 Series GT starts at $60,925* [w/video]

2014 BMW 5 Series starts at $50,425* and gets a new diesel, 5 Series GT starts at $60,925* [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 May 2013 17:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 bmw 5 series5 seriesbmwbmw 5 seriesbmw 5 series gran turismobmw 5 series gtbmw 535d Sun, 19 May 2013 17:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575046/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575046/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/19/the-2014-bmw-5-series-starts-at-50-425-and-gets-a-new-diesel/20575046/article-detail.xml 20575046 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-5-series-sedan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-5-series-sedan.jpg <![CDATA[Baby not keen on VW's stop/start tech]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/vw-stop-start-ad-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/vw-stop-start-ad-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/vw-stop-start-ad-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Volkswagen Stop Start Ad

Babies and cars go together like screaming blobs of insomnia and sleep machines. New parents quickly find that nothing soothes an irritable newborn quite like a quick drive around the block, and Volkswagen employed that truth in the company's newest ad for its stop/start technology. The spot follows one new dad as he tries to lull his child to sleep with the burble and purr of his Tiguan TDI. Unfortunately, his efforts are thwarted by the machine's start/stop system at each stop light.

While the clip does a great job of explaining how the start/stop system works and what it does for the buyer, Volkswagen took a bit of a gamble by having the system wake a sleeping babe. Automakers spend plenty of time trying to convince the world that their stop/start gear is as smooth as possible, and while this wee Volkswagen enthusiast falls asleep the moment the diesel engine wakes up, the implication is that the system isn't exactly imperceptible. Check out the
for yourself.

Continue reading Baby not keen on VW's stop/start tech

Baby not keen on VW's stop/start tech originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> adcommercialstop startvideovwvw tiguanvw tiguan tdi Fri, 10 May 2013 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564907/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20564907/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/vw-stop-start-ad-video/20564907/article-detail.xml 20564907 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-stop-start-ad-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-stop-start-ad-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz releases US-spec 2014 Sprinter details]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/mercedes-benz-releases-us-spec-2014-sprinter-details/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/mercedes-benz-releases-us-spec-2014-sprinter-details/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/mercedes-benz-releases-us-spec-2014-sprinter-details/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Last week, Mercedes-Benz released the details for the updated 2013 Sprinter intended for global markets, but this week it has announced what changes are being made to the US-spec version of the van for the 2014 model year, including the Freightliner model. As expected, most of the changes made to the European model will be present on the 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter when it goes on sale in the US, which is expected to be this fall.

The biggest difference between the Sprinter announced last week and the one headed to our shores is what is found under the hood. While European Sprinters will come with diesel engines and offer the availability of a supercharged four-cylinder gasoline or CNG engine, US Sprinters will still offer the 3.0-liter V6 BlueTEC diesel. This year's Sprinter now comes standard with a new base engine, the 2.1-liter four-cylinder BlueTEC diesel. This smaller engine will produce 161 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque, and will be paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission; the optional 3.0 V6 puts out 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque, and will be mated to a six-speed auto.

Fuel economy for the new Sprinter has not been announced, but Mercedes-Benz has made numerous changes with the goal of improving efficiency. To this end you'll find a new, low-friction rear axle and the optimization for the generator, fuel pump and power steering pump.

All of the other changes will carryover to the US including the revised exterior styling, the updated interior (which has not been revealed yet) and the advanced safety features such as collision prevention, blind spot detection and lane keep assist. Oddly enough, it appears that US Sprinter models will not be getting the Crosswind Assist feature. Mercedes-Benz USA has limited the number of images it revealed with this press release, so some of the models shown in the original gallery might not be offered in the US.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz releases US-spec 2014 Sprinter details

Mercedes-Benz releases US-spec 2014 Sprinter details originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 freightliner sprinter2014 mercedes-benz sprintercommercial vanfreightlinerfreightliner sprinterfullsize vanmercedes-benzmercedes-benz sprinter Mon, 06 May 2013 18:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559394/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559394/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/mercedes-benz-releases-us-spec-2014-sprinter-details/20559394/article-detail.xml 20559394 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-mercedes-benz-sprinter.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen still considering small roadster]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/volkswagen-still-considering-small-roadster/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/volkswagen-still-considering-small-roadster/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/volkswagen-still-considering-small-roadster/#comments Filed under: , ,

Volkswagen BlueSport Roadster

Despite the on-again, off-again rumors surrounding a small Volkswagen roadster, it would appear that a small droptop two-seater is still on track. CarScoops, citing a report in Germany's Auto Motor und Sport magazine, states that there are many people within Volkswagen who still believe that this sort of vehicle would be good for the brand.

"I'm not the only one in our company who is convinced that a small roadster wouldn't be the worst thing for Volkswagen," the automaker's design chief, Walter de Silva, told AMS, according to CarScoops. "This is a vehicle that we particularly like, and we always have in mind."

Volkswagen showed the BlueSport concept (pictured above) at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, but the project was quickly put on hold, with earlier reports stating that there simply wasn't a business case for the car. Those reports were contradicted early last year, and it's good to hear that spokespeople within the company are still looking to move forward with the project.

The BlueSport concept debuted with a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, good for 177 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. According to Volkswagen, the BlueSport would hit 62 miles per hour in 6.6 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 140 mph, and able to hit fuel economy numbers as high as 54.7 miles per gallon. Of course, a small turbocharged gasoline engine could also work in this application, and CarScoops states that this sort of vehicle could also find homes within the Audi and Porsche brands, as well.

Volkswagen still considering small roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> vwvw bluesportvw bluesport conceptvw roadster Mon, 06 May 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559048/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559048/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/volkswagen-still-considering-small-roadster/20559048/article-detail.xml 20559048 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/00vwroadster_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/00vwroadster.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec 4Matic

We got our first taste of the refreshed 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK lineup last summer, once again affirming our belief that it's easy to fall in love with the littlest Benz CUV. There's something sort of charming about the boxy, rugged-looking luxury crossover, and while it won't set the world on fire in terms of driver engagement, it's a solid front-runner in the segment.

In addition to the GLK350 - in both rear- and all-wheel-drive forms - Mercedes-Benz has now launched this GLK250 BlueTEC model, packed with a brand new 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine and offered exclusively with the automaker's 4Matic all-wheel drive. With improved fuel economy and torque-tastic diesel characteristics, this oil-burning GLK could easily be the star child of the company's small CUV lineup. We hit the roads northwest of Ann Arbor, MI to find out.

Driving Notes
  • Mercedes' new 2.1-liter turbo-diesel engine is good for a healthy 200 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This is the first application of Merc's new four-pot diesel here in the US, but we'll soon be seeing it in the E-Class later this year. Compared to the GLK350, the diesel engine has 102 less horsepower but 96 more foot-pounds of twist. What's more, the torque thrust is delivered at just 1,600 rpm in the BlueTEC, compared to 3,500 rpm in the GLK350.
  • That said, the GLK250 is significantly slower off the line than its naturally aspirated counterpart. Hitting 60 miles per hour in the BlueTEC takes 7.9 seconds, compared to only 6.4 seconds in the GLK350. Of course, the diesel model is slightly heavier than its petrol-drinking kin - 4,321 pounds here versus the 4,079 of a 4Matic-equipped GLK350.
  • Where you really win, though, is fuel economy. Mercedes-Benz rates the GLK350 4Matic at 19/24 miles per gallon (city/highway), but the BlueTEC increases those numbers to 24/33. That bests all other competitors in the class, for now. (Remember, there's an Audi Q5 TDI on the horizon...)
  • On the road, the 2.1-liter diesel is perfectly matched with the more relaxed dynamics of the GLK. Even with the more powerful 3.5-liter V6, this CUV isn't one to be hustled, but we rather like the refined characteristics of the Merc from behind the wheel.
  • There is a very small amount of turbo lag at takeoff, but once you hit the meat of the torque band, you'll never be at a loss for power. The seven-speed automatic transmission is a smooth operator, and has a sport mode that's more eager to fire off downshifts for spirited driving.
  • Steering feel is generally good, but doesn't offer as much feedback as a BMW X3. That said, the suspension is extremely well-sorted for a small luxury CUV application, providing just the right amount of feedback without ever being too abrasive, even on these large 19-inch wheels wrapped in 235/50R19 Continental 4x4 Contact tires. The brakes, however, feel weak in this GLK. You really need to sink your foot deep into the pedal to achieve adequate stopping force.
  • The interior of this GLK is as nice as it ever was. Thanks to that upright, boxy shape, and a tall glasshouse, the cabin feels very open and airy, especially with the shade retracted on that panoramic sunroof. It's an attractive interior, too, even in the dark hues of our tester. Everything is nicely organized and material quality throughout is nothing short of premium.
  • Naturally, a full host of infotainment and safety technology is available, including Mercedes' MBrace2 system. The interior is quite functional, too, with spacious rear accommodations and up to 54.7 cubic feet of storage with the bench folded flat.
  • The GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic starts at $38,590, which falls in the middle of the $37,090 GLK350 and $39,090 GLK350 4Matic. Our fully optioned tester rang in at $50,485, and before you guffaw, know that an Audi Q5 Hybrid starts at $50,900 - that's without a single option box ticked.
  • Considering the cost savings over the GLK350 4Matic and the huge bump in fuel economy, we don't expect that the average GLK buyer will miss the added off-the-line oomph of the 3.5-liter engine all that much. This BlueTEC model is easily the best GLK yet.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mercedes glk250 bluetec 4maticmercedesmercedes glk-classmercedes glk250 bluetecmercedes glk250 bluetec 4maticquick spinquickspin Mon, 06 May 2013 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554032/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554032/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/20554032/article-detail.xml 20554032 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-1367414589_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-1367414589.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec gets 33 mpg, priced from $38,950*]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-gets-33-mpg-priced-from-38-9/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-gets-33-mpg-priced-from-38-9/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/30/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-gets-33-mpg-priced-from-38-9/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

GLK250 BlueTec on Mercedes-Benz's configurator - screencap

It's been more than a year since we first saw the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec unveiled at the 2012 New York Auto Show, but it looks like the compact diesel crossover is finally starting to roll into dealerships. Those wanting to buy a diesel GLK will only have to pony up an extra $1,500 over a base, gas-powered GLK350, as the GLK250's starting price is listed at $38,590 (*not including $905 destination charge).

The turbocharged 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel produces 200 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, and Mercedes-Benz has also provided some fuel economy numbers for this model, with claimed EPA estimates of 24 miles per gallon city and 33 mpg highway. There is no listing for the GLK250 on the EPA's website yet, but the figures represent significant increase over the GLK350's lackluster 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway figures, which are for the rear-wheel drive model. The GLK250 comes standard with the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system - a $2,000 option on GLK350 - meaning that if you want an all-wheel-drive version of the 2013 GLK, it's actually cheaper to opt for the diesel model. Head over to the Mercedes-Benz site for the full 2013 GLK-Class configurator.

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec gets 33 mpg, priced from $38,950* originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mercedes-benz glk250 bluetecbluetecconfiguratordieselglk pricingmercedes-benzmercedes-benz glkmercedes-benz glk-classmercedes-benz glk250 Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553177/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553177/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/30/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-gets-33-mpg-priced-from-38-9/20553177/article-detail.xml 20553177 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mercedes-glk250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mercedes-glk250.jpg <![CDATA[New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The Mercedes-Benz Unimog, the superhero villain of the off-road world that's just waiting to make the jump to Transformer, has been completely upgraded for its new generation. There are ten models, expanding the range and getting new designations across the traditional all-terrain series and the implement-carrier series. Panoramic cabins get more visibility, multifunction steering wheels and better dash clusters, improved HVAC and a three-mode central tire inflation system. Outside, there are new items like LED headlights and daytime running lamps in the bumper, roof-mounted windshield wipers and a front-camera monitor for the implement carrier.

The new engine lineup is compliant with Euro VI, featuring four- and six-cylinder BlueEfficiency engines putting out anywhere from 156 horsepower to 354 hp. Powerplant placement has also been tweaked, the chassis members getting a revised curve to place the engine a bit further back and lower, maintaining off-road clearance and lowering the Unimog's center of gravity. The new location of the engine means the cabin has more room, and the wheelbase is shorter. Combined with a higher turning angle, the Unimog has a smaller turning radius than before.

The implement carrier gets what's called a "synergistic traveling drive," the bonus being that drivers don't need to stop in order to use an attachment - a hydrostatic transmission works with the regular manual transmission at up to 31 kilometers per hour for seamless switching.

Those are just a tiny number of the changes in the new monsters from Mercedes-Benz. You can find out enough about them in the two videos and three press releases below to become a certified dealer.

Continue reading New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video]

New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes-benz unimogmercedes unimogmercedes-benzmercedes-benz unimogtruck Sat, 27 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549771/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549771/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/20549771/article-detail.xml 20549771 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-unimog_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-unimog.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #330]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/autoblog-podcast-330/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/autoblog-podcast-330/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/autoblog-podcast-330/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Shanghai Motor Show, 2014 Jaguar F-Type, 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel

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Episode #330 of the Autoblog Podcast is (finally!) here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Executive Editor Chris Paukert talk about the Shanghai Motor Show, our time with the 2014 Jaguar F-Type and the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel. We also give extra attention to your questions and comments. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. You can follow along after the jump with our Q&A. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #330:


Topics:
In the Autoblog Garage:
Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Chris Paukert

Runtime: 01:40:46
Get the podcast:
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
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Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #330

Autoblog Podcast #330 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 bmw m62013 jeep grand cherokee srt2013 lexus rx350 f sport2014 chevrolet cruze diesel2014 jaguar f-typeautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 330bmwf-typefeaturedgrand cherokee srtjaguarjeeplexusm6podcastrx350shanghai motor show Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST Autoblog Podcast #330Autoblog01:40:46 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549572/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549572/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/26/autoblog-podcast-330/20549572/article-detail.xml 20549572 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Cummins Li'l Red Express

The Dodge Li'l Red Express is one awesome quandary of the late '70s. Back then, Dodge had taken to building all sorts of oddball trucks and vans with strange equipment packages, but the Li'l Red Express was something entirely different.

Engineers crammed a honkin' 360 V8 yanked from the company's police interceptor line and plopped the four-barrel-fed block between the fenders, inadvertently creating the world's first sport truck in the process. Bolted as it was to a 727 Torqueflight automatic transmission and a 3.55:1 rear axle, the truck was the quickest vehicle Car and Driver tested in the 0-100 sprint in 1978.

Dodge said the engine put out 225 horsepower. It lied.

Max Kirtley took one look at the Li'l Red Express, yanked that magical V8 from behind the grille and plopped one wild Cummins 6BT turbo diesel inline-six in its place. Sucking down 100-pounds-per-square-inch worth of boost, the 12-valve rocks a Hamilton cylinder head and cam as well as a water injection system and two nitrous injection systems. Kirtley says the truck now puts down closer to 1,000 horsepower and 1,500-1,700 pound-feet of torque.

We don't think he's lying. Check out a video of this Cummins Li'l Red Express hopping down the quarter mile during a few test runs below.

Continue reading Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower

Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cumminscummins lil red expressdieseldodge lil red expressdrag racinglil red expressvideo Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549195/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/20549195/article-detail.xml 20549195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cummins-lil-red-express-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cummins-lil-red-express-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi supercar not yet approved, R4 not quite dead, still room for an MPV]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/audi-supercar-not-yet-approved-r4-not-quite-dead-still-room-fo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/audi-supercar-not-yet-approved-r4-not-quite-dead-still-room-fo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/audi-supercar-not-yet-approved-r4-not-quite-dead-still-room-fo/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Audi V12 TDI engine bay

According to a report by Autocar, all we thought we knew of the in-development Audi supercar we might not actually know. A piece in Car and Driver, not even a month old, said the diesel-hybrid halo car was in the design stages, would get the engine from the R18 E-Tron Quattro and its carbon fiber tub. Now we get word that that while the coupe is indeed being designed, it hasn't yet been signed off and there's no business case for it yet. Said business case, whenever it is built, is also dubious of the diesel aspect of the car at the moment - diesels aren't known for creating Pavlovian purchase responses in buyers in the two key markets of the US and China.

The report suggests that instead of a diesel, the 2014 Le Mans regulations changes "could swing the favour back towards petrol models," which would give the so-called Scorpion a better tie to racing technology. Of course, that also assumes that Audi would contest next year's Le Mans with a gas-powered car. If so, that would be an about-face on the original reasons for the halo sportscar in the first place.

In other news, seems Audi also believes it can slot another sportscar below the R8, it just needs to get the financials sorted. The R4 - a Porsche Boxster-sized roadster - that has been chattered about for years is still in on the table but appears a long way off. Company R&D chief Wolfgang Durheimer said it would need to be mid-engined and bring plenty of tech to separate itself from the TT, but mass-market price point is the catch as is the focus on other segments in the portfolio.

The least sexy side of the Audi pool, but apparently the most important, is boiling with plans for new utility vehicles and possibly an MPV. What Car? quotes Durheimer at the Shanghai Motor Show saying "SUV products are a first priority," which would fit into what we've been hearing about the brand's design overhaul, the products in question a Q above the Q7 and another below the Q3. A people mover is also said to be under consideration assuming Audi can create something that hauls six or seven while maintaining brand values.

Audi supercar not yet approved, R4 not quite dead, still room for an MPV originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi q2audi q3audi q7audi r18audi r20audi scorpionaudi supercarr20supercarwolfgang durheimer Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548291/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548291/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/audi-supercar-not-yet-approved-r4-not-quite-dead-still-room-fo/20548291/article-detail.xml 20548291 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/audiscorpion_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/audiscorpion.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/#comments Filed under: , ,



Mazda has a long motorsports history, and one that is peppered with fascinating cars. The latest chapter in Mazda's racing story has just been written, as Joel Miller and Andrew Carbonell have driven the Visit Florida Racing Mazda6 Skyactiv-D to the car's first ever victory at the Rolex Grand-Am GX race at Road Atlanta. The win marks the first ever for Mazda's diesel-burning, production-car based Skyactiv-D racer, and the first win for a diesel-powered car in a Grand-Am event.

In fact, it was a particularly good day for the Mazda Motorsports team, as a Mazda6 also picked up the third finishing spot at Road Atlanta. Director of Mazda Motorsports, John M. Doonan, said of the racecar, "We've always said that the best street cars make the best racecars, and, with more than half of the components in the race engine being shared with the street engine, this program is a solid proof-point."

SpeedSource Engineering, which helped to build the Mazda6 racer, was greatly heartened by the car's performance in just it's fourth-ever race. Owner Sylvain Tremblay called the victory, "a tribute to the thousands of hours of hard work over many months," continuing, "The normal plan with a new car is to spend the first year in development, the second year seeking race wins, and challenging for a championship in year three. We are already at our year-two status after four races. We can't wait to get to the Belle Isle course in Detroit for round five."

Continue reading Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta

Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> andrew carbonellgrand amjoel millermazdamazda mazda6racecarroad atlantaskyactiv-d Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547431/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547431/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/20547431/article-detail.xml 20547431 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda6-skyactiv-d-road-atlanta-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda6-skyactiv-d-road-atlanta-628.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #330 LIVE!]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-330-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-330-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-330-live/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #330 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #330 [RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #330 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> autoblog podcast 330autoblog podcast topicspodcast 330 Mon, 22 Apr 2013 16:50:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546534/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546534/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/22/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-330-live/20546534/article-detail.xml 20546534 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel gets 46 mpg]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2014-chevrolet-cruze-diesel-gets-46-mpg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2014-chevrolet-cruze-diesel-gets-46-mpg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2014-chevrolet-cruze-diesel-gets-46-mpg/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel

General Motors has announced the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel will return 46 miles per gallon highway based on Environmental Protection Agency estimates, besting original projections by some 4 mpg. As GM points out, the figure is better than "any non-hybrid passenger car in America," including the Volkswagen Passat TDI at 43 mpg and the Volkswagen Jetta TDI at 42 mpg. The Toyota Prius, meanwhile, still bests the Cruze Diesel thanks to the hybrid's 48 mpg highway rating.

Still, Chevrolet should be proud of its four-door. The car's turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 148 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission. Drivers will also enjoy an overboost function that can crank the engine to 280 lb-ft of torque for brief stints. This all means that the Cruze will be able to travel 700 miles on a single tank of fuel, while achieving a 0-60 time of 8.6 seconds. You can check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel gets 46 mpg

2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel gets 46 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 chevy cruze dieselchevy cruzechevy cruze dieselenvironmental protection agencyepampg Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20544597/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20544597/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/18/2014-chevrolet-cruze-diesel-gets-46-mpg/20544597/article-detail.xml 20544597 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-cruze-clean-turbo-diesel-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-cruze-clean-turbo-diesel-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next Mercedes-Benz C-Class to get diesel, hybrid versions]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz C-Class spy shots

Mercedes-Benz is planning a more aggressive product strategy for its next-generation C-Class range. "We were fighting the 3 Series with two arms tied behind our back, and now we will change that," Steve Cannon, the automaker's US CEO, told Automotive News in a recent interview.

In addition to offering more body styles of the new C-Class, AN reports that the revamped Mercedes will also be offered here with hybrid and diesel powertrains. Currently, the C-Class comes in coupe and sedan variants, with only gasoline engines. The BMW 3 Series, however, is available as a sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon, and offers buyers the choice of gasoline, diesel (the upcoming 328d) or hybrid power.

Mercedes-Benz will show the next-generation C-Class at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show, with sales of the US-built sedan following in August. Coupe, convertible and hybrid models will follow in early 2015, and while diesel and all-wheel-drive versions are planned, no specific timetable has been released regarding availability.

Automotive News reports that Mercedes will not be bringing over the wagon version of the C-Class, and we won't be getting any sort of funky crossover-ish things to rival the BMW 3 Series GT. Furthermore, AN states that we will also not be getting any sort of low-cost entry-level C-Class to rival the new BMW 320i, as Mercedes-Benz will offer the swoopy CLA-Class to those looking for a cheaper entry into the brand.

Next Mercedes-Benz C-Class to get diesel, hybrid versions originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dieselhybridmercedes-benzmercedes-benz c-class Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542475/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20542475/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/20542475/article-detail.xml 20542475 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Audi's diesel-electric supercar is codenamed 'Scorpion']]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/audis-diesel-electric-supercar-is-codenamed-scorpion/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/audis-diesel-electric-supercar-is-codenamed-scorpion/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/audis-diesel-electric-supercar-is-codenamed-scorpion/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Speculation continues as to the final nature of the diesel-hybrid Audi supercar said to arrive in 2016 or 2017. A previous report in Automobile had the halo coupe, based closely on the R18 etron quattro endurance racer, codenamed R20 and pegged to look like a Le Mans winner for the street with around 700 horsepower and 737 pound-feet of torque from a twin-turbo V6. Now Car and Driver has updated the gossip with a report that the car is internally called "Scorpion," and it will be even closer to the R18 than supposed.

CD says the heart of the car will use the R18 etron quattro's carbon fiber tub and its engine will be "taken directly" from the race car. That means a 3.7-liter V6 with a single turbo that, in ACO-spec restricted form, outputs 500 hp and 625 lb-ft - CD suspects production output could get to 600 hp - and drives the rear wheels, aided by hybrid motors driving the front wheels. And remember, at Le Mans the R18's hybrid motors can't kick in until they're above a certain speed in order to prevent Audi from getting an advantage coming out of slow corners. A street car wouldn't face that restriction.

The Scorpion would be a fulsome and undiluted example of the technologies Audi has created during its return to sports car racing. Its exterior design hasn't been finalized, with CD citing either the convoluted concept of "a retro take on the future of racing" or packaging that would adhere to the R18's looks. To make sure it is properly appreciated and sells well, production could be limited to the same 333 units as the R8 GT and A1 Quattro.

Audi's diesel-electric supercar is codenamed 'Scorpion' originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi r18 e-tron quattroaudi r20scorpion Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20540003/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20540003/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/audis-diesel-electric-supercar-is-codenamed-scorpion/20540003/article-detail.xml 20540003 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/r18-sports-car-scorpion_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/r18-sports-car-scorpion.jpg <![CDATA[Transit Courier completes Ford's new commercial van line, will we get it?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/transit-courier-completes-fords-new-commercial-van-line-will-w/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/transit-courier-completes-fords-new-commercial-van-line-will-w/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/transit-courier-completes-fords-new-commercial-van-line-will-w/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



This week Ford rolled out the 2014 Transit Courier, the fourth addition to its Transit range. Ford says its the first time for the nameplate in the compact van segment.

"Ford has now completely transformed its commercial vehicle line-up, with four all-new, class-leading Transits for European customers," said Barb Samardzich, vice president of product development for Ford Europe. "With the all-new Transit range, we expect sales to grow to 400,000 units per year by 2016, well over 50 percent more than we sell today."

When the Courier goes on sale in the Spring of 2014, it will offer more than 1,400 pounds of payload capacity, multiple mounting points for racks or other framework and a rear cargo area that can carry items 5.3 feet-long. An optional folding passenger seat boosts the cargo length to 8.5 feet.

"With 10 percent more load volume and floor area than its closest competitors, the all-new Transit Courier brings a new level of productivity to the compact van segment," Samardzich said in the press release.
Three engines will be available in the Courier with start-stop optional with all of them. First there is the choice between the two Duratorq TDCi diesel choices: a 1.5-liter, 74-horsepower and a 1.6-liter, 93-horsepower. A step up from that would be the 1.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine with 98 horses.

Pricing on the 2014 Transit Courier hasn't been announced yet and Mike Levine, Ford's truck communications manager, tells us, "There are no plans to bring Transit Courier to the US."

Read the official press release below.

Continue reading Transit Courier completes Ford's new commercial van line, will we get it?

Transit Courier completes Ford's new commercial van line, will we get it? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> commercial vanduratorqecoboostfordford europeford transitford transit couriertdci Sat, 13 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538769/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538769/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/13/transit-courier-completes-fords-new-commercial-van-line-will-w/20538769/article-detail.xml 20538769 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-transit-courier-000-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-transit-courier-000-opt.jpg <![CDATA['80s Vixen RV is the 'first driver's motor home' [UPDATE]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/80s-vixen-rv-is-the-first-drivers-motor-home/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/80s-vixen-rv-is-the-first-drivers-motor-home/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/80s-vixen-rv-is-the-first-drivers-motor-home/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Vixen RV - video screencap - front three-quarter view, white

There is no class of vehicles that drives worse than RVs. Period. Who would of have thought strapping a house worth of furniture, appliances, carpeting and plumbing to a bus would have detrimental effects on a machine's drivability? It turns out there was one machine in the '80s that promised to rethink the modern RV. The Vixen was designed and built in Pontiac, Michigan to be everything the rigs of the day were not. Powered by a BMW turbodiesel engine and wearing an aerodynamic body, the Vixen was low enough to fit in most standard garages, had a top speed of 100 miles per hour and could net 30 miles per gallon.

It also happened to look like a suppository. While critics praised the Vixen for its clever packaging, which allowed a six-foot tall individual to stand up inside without ducking, the public didn't quite rush to take these things home. According to some reports, the Vixen Motor Company only managed to sell 300 original turbodiesel models, and though other variations showed up to attempt to lure in customers, a total of just 587 units were moved over three years, from 1986 to 1989. That makes it something of a novel curiosity today, as evidenced by the fact that the kitschy factory-produced video below has only just now gone viral. Check it out below.

UPDATE: A second official video has been added below.

Continue reading '80s Vixen RV is the 'first driver's motor home' [UPDATE]

'80s Vixen RV is the 'first driver's motor home' [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> motor homemotor homesmotorcoachrecreational vehiclesrvrvsvideovixenvixen motor homevixen rv Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532990/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532990/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/08/80s-vixen-rv-is-the-first-drivers-motor-home/20532990/article-detail.xml 20532990 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/vixen-rv-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/vixen-rv-628.jpg <![CDATA[Citroën C4 Picasso arrives lighter, roomier and Euro 6-approved [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/citroen-c4-picasso-arrives-lighter-roomier-and-euro-6-approved/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/citroen-c4-picasso-arrives-lighter-roomier-and-euro-6-approved/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/05/citroen-c4-picasso-arrives-lighter-roomier-and-euro-6-approved/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2014 Citroen C4 Picasso - front three-quarter view

The 2013 Citroën C4 Picasso brings some unexpected company to the new 2014 Jeep Cherokee and its novel headlight arrangement. And since two such designs are rarely an accident in vehicle design, we'll say this could be a trend. More traditionally, the C4 Picasso brings smaller dimensions outside, more space inside, lighter weight and more technology to Europe's small people-mover game.

Built on PSA-Peugeot/Citroën's Efficient Modular Platform 2, it's lost 140 kilograms (308 pounds) so it weighs as much - or as little - as the Citroën C3 Picasso and its new design has an air drag index that's better than the Audi R8 and Ford GT. The wheelbase is stretched, the front overhang is reduced by 70 millimeters, and the lower position of the engine and floor drop the center of gravity and the wider track makes for a more aggressive stance and delivers better handling.

Inside, the do-it-all center stack is topped by a 12-inch high-definition screen augmented by a seven-inch touchscreen. The dividers in the two-tone instrument panel are black on the driver's side and Champagne or Ardoise on the passenger side. The info display on the larger screen is reconfigurable, while the smaller, seven-inch screen controls functions like the air conditioning, navigation and Multicity Connect apps. The first row of seats is patterned to look like a one-piece bench, the second row can move fore and aft, standard trunk space is a around 19 cubic feet and the tailgate made of composites opens and closes electronically. Airiness is ensured by the panoramic windscreen and glass roof.

Among its engines are the brand's first BlueHDi diesel engines to meet Euro 6 standards. They can be paired with a six-speed manual, a six-speed clutchless gearbox and, coming in early 2014, a six-speed automatic. Safety and convenience comes with surround cameras in a package called 360 Vision*, Park Assist, adaptive cruise control, active seatbelts, automatic high beam, blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning systems.

It will go on sale in France in June of this year. For more on this funky four-wheeled Technospace, check out the press release and video below for more details.

Continue reading Citroën C4 Picasso arrives lighter, roomier and Euro 6-approved [w/video]

Citroën C4 Picasso arrives lighter, roomier and Euro 6-approved [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 citroen c4 picassocitroën c4 picassocitroencitroen c4citroen c4 picassompvtechnospacevideo Fri, 05 Apr 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20527269/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20527269/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/05/citroen-c4-picasso-arrives-lighter-roomier-and-euro-6-approved/20527269/article-detail.xml 20527269 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-citroen-c4-picasso-04-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-citroen-c4-picasso-04-opt.jpg -1 2