Autoblog Budget http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Budget 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[Mitsubishi previews new Attrage global sedan]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mitsubishi-previews-new-attrage-global-sedan/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mitsubishi-previews-new-attrage-global-sedan/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mitsubishi-previews-new-attrage-global-sedan/#comments Filed under: , ,

Mitsubishi Attrage sedan - front three-quarter view, blue

It's been about a month since we first saw the Mitsubishi Concept G4 at the Shanghai Motor Show, but now the automaker has revealed the first images for the sedan in production trim. Wearing the Mitsubishi Attrage nameplate, this sedan will go on sale this summer in Thailand and could eventually makes its way to the US. Despite being essentially a sedan version of its subcompact Mirage, Mitsubishi refers to the Attrage as its next-generation global compact sedan, suggesting it's a fair bit larger than its hatchback counterpart.

We only have this single image to go on, but the new Attrage obviously has the same overall look as the Concept G4. As expected, it does lose some of the more conceptual bits, including the fancy headlights, grills and wheels. While the styling has us thinking back to the late 1990s, the true advantage of the Attrage is likely to be its fuel consumption. US fuel economy for the Attrage hasn't been released, but the closely related 2014 Mirage is expected to return 37 miles per gallon in the city and 44 mpg on the highway using the same 1.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine paired with either a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission. Scroll down for the brief press release for the Thai-built Attrage.

Continue reading Mitsubishi previews new Attrage global sedan

Mitsubishi previews new Attrage global sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mitsubishi attragemitsubishimitsubishi attragemitsubishi concept g4mitsubishi miragemitsubishi thailand Tue, 21 May 2013 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20577737/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20577737/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/mitsubishi-previews-new-attrage-global-sedan/20577737/article-detail.xml 20577737 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mitsubishi-attrage_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mitsubishi-attrage.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Toyota Corolla shows just enough to keep us interested]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-toyota-corolla-shows-just-enough-to-keep-us-interested/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-toyota-corolla-shows-just-enough-to-keep-us-interested/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-toyota-corolla-shows-just-enough-to-keep-us-interested/#comments Filed under: ,

2014 Toyota Corolla teaser - S badge and taillamp

To date, the best idea we have of what the 2014 Toyota Corolla will look like is the shape and styling of the Furia Concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show. Obviously the compact car will turn down the wick a fair bit from that orange machine, and now we have one more scintilla of an idea of what the final product will look like.

Published today on Toyota's official Facebook page, the image above clearly shows the rear quarter of the 2014 Corolla S. Though the low angle is pretty wonky, we can make out that the shape of the taillight cluster is very similar to that of the Furia, albeit without the same LED treatment, A hint of a trunk-lid spoiler is also in evidence, and also follows the Furia's lead.

Toyota points out that the new Corolla will be shown in earnest on June 6. Expect to see the full version of the car by that date at the latest - online leaks have a tendancy to speed these things up.

2014 Toyota Corolla shows just enough to keep us interested originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 toyota corollacorolla teasertoyotatoyota corolla Tue, 21 May 2013 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578252/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578252/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/2014-toyota-corolla-shows-just-enough-to-keep-us-interested/20578252/article-detail.xml 20578252 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/toyota-corrola-teaser-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/toyota-corrola-teaser-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota begins shipping Le Yaris to America]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/toyota-begins-shipping-le-yaris-to-america/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/toyota-begins-shipping-le-yaris-to-america/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/toyota-begins-shipping-le-yaris-to-america/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Toyota Yaris

Our tiniest Toyota (Scion iQ notwithstanding) is about to get a little French flair. The Japanese automaker announced Thursday that its Toyota Motor Manufacturing France facility would begin building Yaris models destined for North America - specifically, the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. This will mark the first time in history that Toyota has exported vehicles to North America from Europe.

Initially, Toyota will export roughly 25,000 Yaris models to North American markets from France each year. In order to handle this additional production, Toyota Motor Manufacturing France has invested 10 million euro into its French facility.

Despite being somewhat of a snooze-fest (it's a car!), the Yaris carries on in North America with a 106-horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, with prices starting at $14,370 for the three-door and $15,395 for the five-door, not including $795 for destination.

Continue reading Toyota begins shipping Le Yaris to America

Toyota begins shipping Le Yaris to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> francetoyotatoyota yaris Fri, 17 May 2013 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20574228/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20574228/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/toyota-begins-shipping-le-yaris-to-america/20574228/article-detail.xml 20574228 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2013-toyota-yaris628opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2013-toyota-yaris628opt.png <![CDATA[Project Ugly Horse: Part VIII]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/project-ugly-horse-part-viii/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/project-ugly-horse-part-viii/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/project-ugly-horse-part-viii/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Now With More EcoBoost



There's an EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder in there somewhere, and it's headed straight for Ugly Horse.

For the second time in my life, I'm staring at an engine in the back of a truck with no concept of how to get it safely into the garage by my lonesome. The first time this happened, I dragged home a $300 International 345 V8 in the back of my Scout Terra only to discover that the bounds of my manliness terminated well before my ability to muscle that 800-pound cast iron block out of the pickup bed.

Now you know the story of how and why I bought my first engine puller.

Some six years later I'm playing out the same dance, though a Ford F-250 has stolen the Scout's starring role, and there's a towering pallet of thick cardboard boxes in place of the old International mill. It's not that the boxes are particularly heavy. They're just stacked too high to get in the garage. Each one is emblazoned with a massive Ford Racing Performance Parts logo and wrapped in enough plastic to keep both prying fingers and the persistent rain at bay. Good thing, too. There's an EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in there somewhere, and it's headed straight for Ugly Horse.

Project Ugly Horse is an ongoing series. Need to catch up? You can find the previous articles here.

Continue reading Project Ugly Horse: Part VIII

Project Ugly Horse: Part VIII originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1989 ford mustangecoboostecoboost fox body mustangecoboost mustangfeaturedfocusfocus stfordford focus stford mustangproject ugly horseugly horse Fri, 17 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20570764/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20570764/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/project-ugly-horse-part-viii/20570764/article-detail.xml 20570764 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/slot-a-tab-b-628-1368799270_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/slot-a-tab-b-628-1368799270.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Dodge Dart gets brace of new special edition models]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-dodge-dart-gets-brace-of-new-special-edition-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-dodge-dart-gets-brace-of-new-special-edition-models/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2013-dodge-dart-gets-brace-of-new-special-edition-models/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



After almost a year on the market it, it is becoming more clear to Dodge how customers like to option out their Darts, so the automaker has combined popular features into three special edition packages and sweetened the prices. Start with a standard 2013 Dart and add either the SXT or Limited "Special Editions" or Rallye Appearance Group, and you'll save yourself a lot of box checking.

The $595 Dart SXT Special Edition takes the trim just above the base model and adds a new grille, dark-tinted headlights and projector fog lights, LED racetrack taillights, cruise control and audio controls on the leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Limited Special Edition starts with the top-end model and adds a power sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control and Nappa leather seats among other features, for $1,810.

The Rallye Appearance Group (pictured) is a package for the SXT, and it blacks out the front fascia, throws on 17-inch wheels and some badging for $395. The new special editions are reaching dealers now and could help the Dart's sales to further improve after a slow start. You can find out more about them in the press release below.

Continue reading 2013 Dodge Dart gets brace of new special edition models

2013 Dodge Dart gets brace of new special edition models originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 dodge dartdodgedodge dartdodge dart limiteddodge dart rallyedodge dart sxt Thu, 16 May 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20571455/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20571455/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/2013-dodge-dart-gets-brace-of-new-special-edition-models/20571455/article-detail.xml 20571455 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dodge-dart-rallye_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/dodge-dart-rallye.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Honda Grom motorcycle is a 125cc-shot of awesome [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2014-honda-grom-motorcycle-is-a-125cc-shot-of-awesome-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2014-honda-grom-motorcycle-is-a-125cc-shot-of-awesome-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/2014-honda-grom-motorcycle-is-a-125cc-shot-of-awesome-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2014 Honda Grom motorcycle - profile view, red

My very first turn at the handlebars of a motorcycle came courtesy of an MSF Honda CB125. Despite the fact that it wore a very stern sticker on the tank warning all who rode that it was for instructional purposes only and not for legal sale, I wanted nothing more than to ride it past the cones of my license test and straight home. There was just something about the lightweight, low-power machine that just felt right. Now Honda is giving American buyers the chance to take home something similar. Meet the Grom. Yes, it's basically a sexed-up scooter, but that's fine by me.

There's a fuel-injected 125cc single pushing the fat-tired bike around, and a four-speed gearbox handles shifting duty.The smallish 12-inch wheels give the Grom a bit of a goofball appearance, but the handsome bodywork and gold forks help offset the look. Something tells me this joker is more fun than should be legal. Check out a fun video of the bike in action by scrolling down, and while you're there, you'll find a full press release on all of the new Honda powersports models, including the Grom. You can also head over to the Honda consumer site for more information. The bike will land in showrooms this August with an MSRP of $2,999.

Continue reading 2014 Honda Grom motorcycle is a 125cc-shot of awesome [w/video]

2014 Honda Grom motorcycle is a 125cc-shot of awesome [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 125cc2014 honda gromhondahonda gromhonda grom 125hondagrom125motorcyclevideo Wed, 15 May 2013 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568567/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568567/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/2014-honda-grom-motorcycle-is-a-125cc-shot-of-awesome-w-video/20568567/article-detail.xml 20568567 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-honda-grom-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-honda-grom-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi subcompact sedan coming to US in 2015?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/mitsubishi-subcompact-sedan-coming-2015/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/mitsubishi-subcompact-sedan-coming-2015/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/mitsubishi-subcompact-sedan-coming-2015/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mitsubishi G4 Sedan

Speaking to some of its dealers recently, Mitsubishi unveiled its plans for a new subcompact sedan offering in the US. Automotive News reports the automaker showed off a rendering of a new subcompact sedan and said the machine will debut sometime in 2015.

The little four-door could be based on the three-cylinder G4 Concept that bowed at the Shanghai Motor Show this year, effectively making it a four-door version of the current five-door Mirage. Mitsubishi dealers are currently starving for new products to entice buyers into showrooms. A redesigned Outlander will show up this summer, long before the teased subcompact sedan. The automaker is also planning to bring out a revised version of the five-door Mirage compact later this year.

Dealers are taking the announcement as a sign that Mitsubishi has finally begun to turn things around. Automotive News spoke with Scott Grove, who owns two Mitsubishi dealerships near Chicago. Grove said he thought the dealer meeting was more positive than it's been in years, and that he believes Mitsubishi is finally on the offensive.

Mitsubishi subcompact sedan coming to US in 2015? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mitsubishimitsubishi g4 conceptmitsubishi miragemitsubishi mirage sedan Tue, 14 May 2013 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568327/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568327/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/mitsubishi-subcompact-sedan-coming-2015/20568327/article-detail.xml 20568327 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mitsubishi-g4-sedan-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mitsubishi-g4-sedan-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Toyota Corolla details leaked]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-toyota-corolla-details-leaked/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-toyota-corolla-details-leaked/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-toyota-corolla-details-leaked/#comments Filed under: , ,

Toyota Furia Concept

Toyota will launch the 2014 Corolla later this year, and thanks to the ever-leaky internet, a couple of key details about the new sedan have been revealed. Car and Driver was able to uncover these bits of information thanks to someone at a Toyota dealer in Kansas who has seen the car, as well as its order guide, though the dealer's site has since removed its original posting.

We got our first glimpse at the next-generation Corolla's design at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show, where Toyota unveiled the Furia concept, pictured above. Yes, it looks all sporty and aggressive, but fear not, appliance shoppers, C/D says that the production car should have a couple of Furia bits mixed in with a huge helping of Camry-inspired styling.

The 2014 Corolla will reportedly continue to use a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, though the mill has been massaged a bit, adding Toyota's Valvematic continuously variable valve timing. A four-speed automatic (yep!) will be offered in the base model, though the manual transmission now has six gears, and higher trim levels can be had with a CVT. Both engine output and fuel economy numbers should improve slightly over the 2013 model. Currently, the Corolla produces 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque, and achieves 27/34 miles per gallon (city/highway) with the five-speed manual 'box.

Trim levels will now be called base, LE, S and Eco, and a couple of improvements have been made to the materials and equipment offered inside the cabin. Softex leather will be available for 2014, as will a push-button start and a navigation system.

Toyota has not confirmed any of this information, but we won't have to wait too much longer before getting the official details on the fully freshened Corolla.

2014 Toyota Corolla details leaked originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 toyota corollatoyotatoyota corollatoyota furia concept Thu, 09 May 2013 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563593/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563593/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/2014-toyota-corolla-details-leaked/20563593/article-detail.xml 20563593 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-toyota-furia-concept-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-toyota-furia-concept-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[BMW may keep next 1 Series out of the US]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/bmw-may-keep-next-1-series-out-of-us/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/bmw-may-keep-next-1-series-out-of-us/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/bmw-may-keep-next-1-series-out-of-us/#comments Filed under: , , ,



As BMW prepares to introduce the all-new 2 Series coupe and convertible, the 1 Series name definitely won't be going away. We know new sedan and hatchback models are in the works; including the GT shown above. According to Car and Driver, though, the future of the 1 Series nameplate in the US could be dependent on rival premium small cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and Audi A3.

In an interview with C/D, BMW's North American head of product planning and strategy, Paul Ferraiolo, said that pricing might be the biggest deterrent to offering the third-gen 1 Series in the US. As he points out, BMW currently prices the 1 not too far from the 3 Series, but Mercedes-Benz and Audi will have their new small cars priced well below the $30,000 mark. BMW's Mini brand will also factor into the consideration since the 1 GT will share its underpinnings with the next-gen Cooper lineup.

BMW may keep next 1 Series out of the US originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audi a3bmwbmw 1 seriesbmw small carmercedes-benz cla-classpremium small cars Tue, 07 May 2013 17:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20558997/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20558997/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/bmw-may-keep-next-1-series-out-of-us/20558997/article-detail.xml 20558997 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-1-series-gt-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/bmw-1-series-gt-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevy Spark ditching four-speed automatic for CVT]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-chevy-spark-ditching-four-speed-automatic-for-cvt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-chevy-spark-ditching-four-speed-automatic-for-cvt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/2014-chevy-spark-ditching-four-speed-automatic-for-cvt/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2013 Chevy Spark

According to Green Car Reports, a few minor changes are on deck for the littlest Chevrolet. Christi Landy, Chevy's small car marketing director, confirmed to GCR that the 2014 model year Spark will lose its four-speed automatic transmission in favor of a continuously variable unit.

The new CVT will be offered alongside the Spark's five-speed manual transmission, and no other changes are planned regarding the car's 84-horsepower, 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine. Fuel economy numbers have not been released as of this writing, but a slight gain is expected for the new CVT model.

This isn't a huge deal to the naked eye, but we fully expect that the new CVT-equipped Spark will offer a more refined driving experience. The 2014 Spark hits Chevy dealers later this year.

2014 Chevy Spark ditching four-speed automatic for CVT originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 chevy sparkchevychevy sparkcontinuously variable transmissioncvt Fri, 03 May 2013 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557346/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557346/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/03/2014-chevy-spark-ditching-four-speed-automatic-for-cvt/20557346/article-detail.xml 20557346 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-chevrolet-spark-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2013-chevrolet-spark-fd.jpg <![CDATA[GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Controversial Chevrolet Trax ad - screencap

In what can only be described as a growing trend, another automaker finds itself in trouble for an ad that critics are calling offensive. A new television and internet ad for the Chevrolet Trax subcompact crossover is under fire for its soundtrack, which a Chinese newspaper has labeled "racist."

The commercial blends the not-sold-in-the-US vehicle with a Flapper-era backdrop and soundtrack, and it's the latter that has General Motors spokeswoman Ryndee Carney issuing an on-the-record apology to Advertising Age: "Our intent was not to offend anyone and we're deeply sorry if anyone was offended... we're reviewing our advertising approval processes to make sure this doesn't happen again." The song in question, Booty Swing, is performed by Austrian DJ and producer Parov Stelar, refers to "the land of Fu Manchu" a place in which the girls sing "ching, ching, chop-suey." The South China Morning Post was among the first to publish a story criticizing the commercial as racist.

The ad, known as The Original Reborn, has been running in Canada - where the vehicle is on sale - and AdAge also reports that it has been featured on the automaker's European websites. Since the controversy erupted, Chevrolet has since substituted a new version of the ad that omits the lyrics, but you can view the original by scrolling below.

Controversial ads are nothing new for this industry, but there has been a bumper crop of them lately, including a recent Hyundai suicide-themed spot and a series of Indian-market Ford print ads featuring celebrity caricatures making light of S&M-tinged kidnappings.

UPDATE: A video of the song itself has been added below - it spells out the lyrics in question.

Continue reading GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE]

GM apologizing for this Chevy Trax ad dubbed 'racist' [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 chevy traxbanned adsbooty swingchevychevy traxcontroversial adsoriginal rebornparov stelarvideo Thu, 02 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556212/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556212/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/gm-apology-for-racist-chevrolet-trax-ad-video/20556212/article-detail.xml 20556212 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-trax-controversial-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevy-trax-controversial-ad.jpg <![CDATA[This is how you set your V8 Miata on fire in your garage]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/this-is-how-you-set-your-v8-miata-on-fire-in-your-garage/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/this-is-how-you-set-your-v8-miata-on-fire-in-your-garage/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/this-is-how-you-set-your-v8-miata-on-fire-in-your-garage/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

V8 Miata on fire video

We were never all that great at math, but we can tell you that Miata + V8 = awesome. That even applies to heavy cast-iron small block Chevrolet V8s with carburetors instead of fuel injection. But as one aspiring wrench recently found out, even the most sound of formulas can lead to disaster when you start throwing in unknown variables. Variables like a leaky fuel system. The gentleman in the video below seems keen on firing up his partially installed Chevrolet engine using a jug of fuel and a remote starter, but disaster strikes when things suddenly go all flambé.

From what we can see, it looks as if the carb itself is leaking fuel down the front and back of the engine. Throw in a few sparks and suddenly you have a fresh reminder to check on your fire extinguisher's expiration date. Or, in this guy's case, whether or not you even own a fire extinguisher. After dousing the garage in gasoline and spreading the flames with authority, our young hero manages to get his hands on a garden hose and actually manages to get the fire under control before the scenario turns into an awkward conversation with the insurance company. Check out the insanity in the video below.

Continue reading This is how you set your V8 Miata on fire in your garage

This is how you set your V8 Miata on fire in your garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> firemazda miatamazda miata on firemiata on firev8 miata on firevideo Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552512/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20552512/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/this-is-how-you-set-your-v8-miata-on-fire-in-your-garage/20552512/article-detail.xml 20552512 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/v8-miata-on-fire-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/v8-miata-on-fire-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Honda Fit Sport]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/2013-honda-fit-sport-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/2013-honda-fit-sport-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/29/2013-honda-fit-sport-review/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Revisiting The Runabout Of Record

2013 Honda Fit Sport

The current Honda Fit has been around the block a few times. The subcompact hatch has soldiered on without significant revision since its first update for US customers in 2009, and while Honda is on the verge of launching a third generation, we thought we'd take the time to see how the runabout stacks up against the new wave of small, efficient and plucky five-doors now on the American market. Those include old standbys like the Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris, as well as relative newcomers like the Chevrolet Sonic and Ford Fiesta.

Those machines may have all covered ground on the Fit, but Honda's wee machine holds a pleasant surprise for those buyers still willing to give the car the time of day. While the rest of the Japanese automaker's lineup has succumbed to dreaded model bloat, the Fit has remained true to the spirit of Honda that we remember from our vagabond youths. This may very well still be the closest genetic ancestor to the Civic models of old.

Outside, the Fit Sport continues to wear its "I'm the meanest June Bug" looks with pride. The oversized, wedge-shaped headlamps and aggressive lower fascia help lend the design plenty of attitude up front, and our tester's 16-inch alloy wheels keep this Honda from looking like it was the cheapest thing on the lot. Still, with a massive windscreen, tall greenhouse and short wheelbase, the Fit Sport can't help but look over-inflated, but that's a criticism we could levy at nearly every other product in this segment as well.

Continue reading 2013 Honda Fit Sport

2013 Honda Fit Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 honda fitfeaturedhondahonda fitreviewreviews Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550916/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20550916/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/29/2013-honda-fit-sport-review/20550916/article-detail.xml 20550916 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-honda-fit-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-honda-fit-review.jpg <![CDATA[Reborn Ford Escort could make its way to Europe]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/reborn-ford-escort-could-make-its-way-to-europe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/reborn-ford-escort-could-make-its-way-to-europe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/reborn-ford-escort-could-make-its-way-to-europe/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



The Ford Escort concept just unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show was created with the Chinese market in mind, but it's got people talking all over the world. Not purely fancy, the point of the Escort concept was to give Chinese buyers a preview of what they could expect to see in a Ford showroom in the near future. If Ford wasn't seriously considering the new Escort for other countries, a report in Auto Express indicates that the concept's reception has changed all that.

No less than the incoming chairman of Ford UK said "it could work in other places," bolstering the comments of "a senior Ford insider" who said the question of bringing the car to Europe to slot in underneath the Focus had been raised. That's a long way from anything of the kind happening, which would require Ford to figure out how to sell it for the right price and not torpedo the company reputation among Euro buyers. In any case, we'd be as intrigued as anyone if an Escort resurrection created the next 'who knew?' market segment of few-frills transportation offered by non-Asian carmakers.

Reborn Ford Escort could make its way to Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> europefordford escort conceptford ukuk Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548783/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548783/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/26/reborn-ford-escort-could-make-its-way-to-europe/20548783/article-detail.xml 20548783 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-escort-europe_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-escort-europe.jpg <![CDATA[2015 Chevrolet Cruze spied on its home turf]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/2015-chevrolet-cruze-spied-on-its-home-turf/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/2015-chevrolet-cruze-spied-on-its-home-turf/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/2015-chevrolet-cruze-spied-on-its-home-turf/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2015 Chevrolet Cruze - spy shot, camouflaged

The next Chevrolet Cruze isn't set to go into production for about another year, and we're just now seeing prototypes of the new compact running around here in the States. Not much more has been revealed since we saw the car blasting through the snow in Europe, but we can still clearly see new design elements like the larger grille, slimmer headlamps and redesigned taillamps.

Our spy photographers worked up a composite image of this Cruze prototype alongside the current model, and here, we can clearly see some big visual changes are in store for the new model. The 2015 Cruze's hood slopes downward more dramatically, the windshield is more heavily raked, and the roofline looks more fluid overall. The next-generation Cruze will ride on the new global Delta platform that will also underpin other General Motors vehicles like the Chevrolet Volt and Equinox.

As for what's under the hood, we expect the normal range of gasoline four-cylinder engines (both naturally aspirated and turbocharged), and the compact's new turbodiesel four should carry over, as well. Have a look at the full brace of spy photos in the gallery above.

2015 Chevrolet Cruze spied on its home turf originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 chevrolet cruzechevroletchevrolet cruzespy photosspy picsspy shots Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547501/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547501/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/23/2015-chevrolet-cruze-spied-on-its-home-turf/20547501/article-detail.xml 20547501 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-2015-chevrolet-cruze-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-2015-chevrolet-cruze-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mitsubishi Concept G4 leaves us feeling blue]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/mitsubishi-concept-g4-shanghai-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/mitsubishi-concept-g4-shanghai-2013/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/mitsubishi-concept-g4-shanghai-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Mitsubishi G4 Concept - live at 2013 Shanghai Motor Show - front three-quarter view

To say we were unimpressed by the 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage that debuted in New York earlier this year would be one heck of an understatement. So pardon us for not oohing and aahing over the Concept G4 that we're seeing for the first time here in Shanghai. It is, basically, a Mirage sedan. Try to contain your excitement.

Mitsubishi states that it intends to roll out the production version of the G4 Concept globally, powered by a 1.2-liter MIVEC engine mated to a continuously variable transmission that should at least be good for some substantial fuel economy gains. The Mirage, after all, is rated at 37/44 miles per gallon city/highway. We're also told that the car will be very lightweight, and that this should aid in making this thing not drive like a total dud.

We'll wait and see how the relatively sharp lines of the concept transfer to production form, but given that we already know what the Mirage looks like, we have a pretty good feeling that we'll be just as underwhelmed the second time around. Have a look below for the press blast.

Continue reading Mitsubishi Concept G4 leaves us feeling blue

Mitsubishi Concept G4 leaves us feeling blue originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 shanghai motor showmitsubishimitsubishi concept g4shanghaishanghai motor show Sat, 20 Apr 2013 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546143/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20546143/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/mitsubishi-concept-g4-shanghai-2013/20546143/article-detail.xml 20546143 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-mitsubishi-concept-g4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-mitsubishi-concept-g4.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Escort Concept goes back to basics]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/ford-escort-concept-goes-back-to-basics/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/ford-escort-concept-goes-back-to-basics/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/19/ford-escort-concept-goes-back-to-basics/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Here's the thing about China: The folks buying cars there have a very different set of standards than shoppers in many other markets around the globe. While we all drool over hot metal with bold designs, and while we appreciate automakers going an extra step to inject even their cheapest offerings with aggressive and interesting cues, that sort of sheetmetal sex appeal doesn't always sell in the People's Republic. Case in point is Jaguar, which may be designing a more traditional-looking version of its XJ for the Chinese market, or more to the point of this story, Ford currently sells the less-exciting, last-generation Focus compact in China right alongside the new one.

So consider this new Shanghai-bound C-segment concept a preview of what's to come for that more traditional, budget-minded, less-sexy market. More proof of this pudding: Ford's even calling this concept the Escort - a nod to the Blue Oval's compact car days of yore, and a name that stirs up thoughts of basic, affordable transportation rather than great driving dynamics or bold design. "Customers in China described seeking a vehicle that is stylish - but not one that is arrogant or pretentious," Ford states. And this new Escort concept previews a possibility of providing exactly that for this rapidly expanding automotive market.

Ford Escort ConceptWhat you're looking at, then, is one of the most simple Ford designs we've seen of late, though it still incorporates all of the automaker's latest DNA. The signature hexagonal grille is front and center, flanked by attractive LED headlamps and chrome-rimmed foglamp housings. The entire car's design focuses on clean, smooth surfaces, with one strong character line flowing from front to back just below the beltline. We will say that the car looks decidedly more premium from the rear view, where narrow, horizontal taillamps with an LED accent give the car added visual width. Bland as it may be, it's a handsome little concept, though fear what would likely happen if all of the conceptual details get dumbed down for a production model.

We aren't able to see inside the concept, and no details have been released about what might lie under the hood. Ford is mostly using the Escort as a way to show Chinese customers what could be in store for a future product offering, especially since the automaker is committed to bringing 15 new products to China by the year 2015. Ford even plans to build five new plants in China by 2016 as part of a larger plan to open seven facilities throughout Asia-Pacific, with enough capacity to produce roughly 2.7 million vehicles annually in the region.

In addition to the Escort Concept, Ford will use the Shanghai Motor Show to debut the Chinese-market Mondeo, complete with its new 1.5-liter EcoBoost inline four-cylinder engine, as well as the new Fiesta ST. Scroll down for the full press blast.

Continue reading Ford Escort Concept goes back to basics

Ford Escort Concept goes back to basics originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Apr 2013 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 shanghai motor showfordford escortford escort conceptshanghaishanghai motor show Fri, 19 Apr 2013 21:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545829/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545829/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/19/ford-escort-concept-goes-back-to-basics/20545829/article-detail.xml 20545829 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-ford-escort-concept628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-ford-escort-concept628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Subcompact car sales in a funk despite high gas prices]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/subcompact-car-sales-in-a-funk-despite-high-gas-prices/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/subcompact-car-sales-in-a-funk-despite-high-gas-prices/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/15/subcompact-car-sales-in-a-funk-despite-high-gas-prices/#comments Filed under: , ,

2013 Mazda2 - metallic green, front three-quarter view

When gas prices rise, knee-jerk consumerism means that sales of small cars increase in lockstep, right? Well, sometimes - but that's not always the case. Ward's Auto reports that sales of subcompact car sales in America are off despite fuel prices pushing and holding at $3.50 to $4.00 a gallon across the country. According to the report, the "Lower Small" segment has seen a 2.6-percent sales decline since October, while fuel prices have been on the rise. Despite their comparatively thirsty appetite for fuel, the industry publication notes that sales of large crossovers are up a whopping 61 percent over the same time period.

Part of the sales stories may center on the boom/bust cycle that comes as a result of new or aging models in each segment - the full-size CUV segment has received a raft of new models, including the refreshed Lambda triplets from General Motors, the Nissan Pathfinder and even derivatives like the new Sport model in the Ford Explorer family. Yet it isn't as if America's subcompact segment is stagnant - as Ward's points out, most of the players are two years old or less.

Sales losers in the first quarter of the year include the Mazda2 (pictured - down 51.9 percent), Toyota Yaris (-27.9 percent) and Hyundai Accent (-24.7), though other models including the Kia Rio and Chevrolet Sonic slipped as well. Conversely, the Nissan Versa and Ford Fiesta held their own, registering sales up 11.6 percent and 3.3 percent, respectively.

Part of subcompacts' sales problem may be due to the fact that those same automakers offer larger compact models whose fuel economy figures are comparable to that of their smaller counterparts. Further, pricing differences may not amount to all that much between the models - particularly in leasing situations where compact cars' typically command higher residual values.

Subcompact car sales in a funk despite high gas prices originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mazda22013 toyota yarisauto salescar salesmazdasubcompactsubcompact carstoyotatoyota yaris Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20539108/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20539108/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/15/subcompact-car-sales-in-a-funk-despite-high-gas-prices/20539108/article-detail.xml 20539108 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-2013-mazda-mazda2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/628-2013-mazda-mazda2.jpg <![CDATA[Tata looking to add nicer Nano models to reverse sales flop]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/14/tata-looking-to-add-nicer-nano-models-to-reverse-sales-flop/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/14/tata-looking-to-add-nicer-nano-models-to-reverse-sales-flop/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/14/tata-looking-to-add-nicer-nano-models-to-reverse-sales-flop/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Tata Nano Gold Plus

Bloomberg reports Tata may introduce more expensive vehicles based on the automaker's low-buck Nano in an attempt to lure more buyers. As the company discovered, even the world's least wealthy drivers aren't interested in a vehicle marketed as the world's cheapest car.

Wrap your head around that one.

Tata has sold 229,157 Nano models since 2009, and last month saw sales fall by 86 percent compared to March 2012. Even so, the company says it doesn't plan to kill off the car. Instead, Tata may bring a number of Nano variations to market.

Those may include something along the lines of the Pixel Concept. That machine debuted at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, offering two doors and a diesel engine along with a bit more style. Specifically, Tata wants to target a wide range of buyers across multiple price points instead of attempting to sell people a four-wheeled scooter replacement.

Tata looking to add nicer Nano models to reverse sales flop originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Apr 2013 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> tatatata nanotata pixeltata pixel concept Sun, 14 Apr 2013 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538765/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20538765/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/14/tata-looking-to-add-nicer-nano-models-to-reverse-sales-flop/20538765/article-detail.xml 20538765 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/tata-nano-gold-plus-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/tata-nano-gold-plus-628.jpg <![CDATA[Project Ugly Horse: Part VII]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/project-ugly-horse-part-vii/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/project-ugly-horse-part-vii/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/project-ugly-horse-part-vii/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Devils, Details and Weight Reduction

Ford Racing Aluminum Driveshaft

There are many things I could call this exercise. A party is not one of them.

I've spent three days crammed in the axle well of this 1989 Mustang with nothing to keep me company beyond a trouble light, a DeWalt drill on the very last of its legs and billion razor sharp, red hot slivers of metal with an affinity for my most sensitive of regions. My joints are raw from crawling around on the concrete. I'm half deaf from the shriek of the spot weld cutter and the boom of the cold chisel and hammer.

There are many things I could call this exercise. A party is not one of them. You see, after test-fitting the independent rear suspension from a 2004 Mustang Cobra into the old Fox Body I was left with the really challenging portion of the install: the details.

Technically, I could have simply plumbed some brake lines, said, "screw the emergency brake," dropped in a driveshaft and rolled, but I want this car to function in all the ways a road machine should, while still being able turn a decent lap on a road course. Combine that desire with a compulsion to scrape every ounce of unnecessary weight from the Mustang, and the result is me doing my best impression of a hammer-wielding Quasimodo, contorted into the void where the rear suspension should be.

Need to catch up on Project Ugly Horse? Take a look at the earlier posts here!

Continue reading Project Ugly Horse: Part VII

Project Ugly Horse: Part VII originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1989 ford mustangautoblog project ugly horseautoblog ugly horsefeaturedfordford mustangugly horseugly horse mustang Fri, 12 Apr 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537842/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20537842/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/12/project-ugly-horse-part-vii/20537842/article-detail.xml 20537842 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/driveshaft-628-1365714962_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/driveshaft-628-1365714962.jpg -1 2