Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Kamal Concept snapped at Fiat R&D facility?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/spy-shots-alfa-romeo-kamal-concept-snapped-at-fiat-randd-facility/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/spy-shots-alfa-romeo-kamal-concept-snapped-at-fiat-randd-facility/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/spy-shots-alfa-romeo-kamal-concept-snapped-at-fiat-randd-facility/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

If this crossover looks a little familiar, your eyes are not playing tricks on you. Alfa Romeo unveiled this concept vehicle at the 2003 Geneva Motor Show. It was called the Kamal, and it was supposed to have gone into production by now. But things have been a little crazy over at the Fiat group. Mergers and acquisitions have collapsed and others have gone through, forcing the Italian automaker to change its product strategy at every turn.

What has us asking questions all over again is this batch of spy shots reportedly leaked by an employee at Fiat's Elasis research and development facility in Pomigliano, Italy. Of course, it's entirely possible the original concept was being moved from one storage facility to another, but then they could be bringing it out again for another reason. One way or another, we should find out soon as Fiat/Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne prepares to decide on Alfa's fate in due course.


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Kamal concept


[Source: alvolante.it via Worldcarfans]

Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Kamal Concept snapped at Fiat R&D facility? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> alfaalfa romeoalfa romeo kamalalfa romeo kamal conceptalfa romeo suvAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoKamalAlfaRomeoKamalConceptAlfaRomeoSuvelasisgeneva 2003geneva motor showGeneva2003GenevaMotorShowkamal Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST <![CDATA[CTS-V Challenge driver and M3 owner Michael Cooper gets pat on the back from BMW]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/cts-v-challenge-driver-and-m3-owner-michael-cooper-gets-pat-on-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/cts-v-challenge-driver-and-m3-owner-michael-cooper-gets-pat-on-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/cts-v-challenge-driver-and-m3-owner-michael-cooper-gets-pat-on-t/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Michael Cooper and his Cadillac CTS-V-challenging BMW M3 - click above for high-res image gallery

This guy. So, some of you no doubt remember the Cadillac CTS-V Challenge. If you don't, here's a refresher: General Motors vice-chairman Maximum Bob Lutz challenged any journalist to bring a CTS-V competitor to California's Laguna Seca where the 77-year-old Lutz would mop the floor with he/she and whatever fancy-pants, Euro sedan they done brung. Of course, the event got moved to New York's Monticello Motor Club, and to guarantee that the Cadillac didn't lose, GM brought in a backup pilot, John Hienricy, the company's noted hot shoe engineer and race car driver. And then every other manufacturer (Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar) decided not to play into GM's marketing ploy, and withdrew their cars' support.

To be frank, we here at Autoblog toyed with the idea of throwing our hoon-hat in the ring, but after Heinricy became Cadillac's ace in the hole, we figured the whole challenge was unwinnable (we've driven with Mr. Heinricy - he's that good). While it would no doubt have been fun, totally playing into General Motor's hands like that (by also losing), well, not so much. Luckily, privateer Michael Cooper and his BMW M3 wasn't in on our conference call.

Mr. Cooper showed up to the Caddy Challenge and laid down a 2:50.424, beating not only Bob Lutz's 2:56.321 in the way more powerful CTS-V, but our pals Lawrence Ulrich (2:53:026) and Jack Baruth (2:51:153), both of whom were driving the big supercharged Caddy. Not surprisingly, Heinricy blew the doors off of every single person, ripping off a 2:46.560. Probably while flossing. But let's not overlook young Michael Cooper, who with 142 less horsepower and a boatload less torque to work with came in less than four seconds behind John (ringer *cough* ringer) Hienricy.

BMW was so taken by Mr. Cooper's feat of good driving that they reportedly invited him down to their North American headquarters in New Jersey and gave him a BMW Performance Multifunction Steering Wheel. How else to thank the guy that tossed such an effective monkey wrench into GM's marketing plans? BMW installed the wheel in Cooper's M3 while he was given a ride in a special BMW Performance enhanced 335i Sedan. So, one more time, a hearty Autoblog congratulations to Michael Cooper and his Cadillac CTS-V challenging BMW M3. The one with the fancy new steering wheel.


Gallery: Michael Cooper's BMW M3


[Source: BMW Blog]

CTS-V Challenge driver and M3 owner Michael Cooper gets pat on the back from BMW originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 BMW M32009 M32009BmwM32009M3BMWBMW M3BMW M3 SedanBmwM3BmwM3SedanBob LutzBobLutzCadillacCadillac CTS-VCadillac CTS-V ChallengeCadillacCts-vCadillacCts-vChallengeJohn HienricyJohnHienricylutzMaximum Bob LutzMaximumBobLutzMicahel CooperMicahelCoopermonticellomonticello motor clubMonticelloMotorClub Mon, 14 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST <![CDATA[Race-spec Jaguar XF touring car debuts at Kyalami Superstars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/race-spec-jaguar-xf-touring-car-debuts-at-kyalami-superstars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/race-spec-jaguar-xf-touring-car-debuts-at-kyalami-superstars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/race-spec-jaguar-xf-touring-car-debuts-at-kyalami-superstars/#comments Filed under: , , , ,


Ferlito Motors Jaguar XF Superstars touring car - Click above for image gallery

We can thank the Italians for some of the most enticing race machinery ever to grace tarmac. But in this case, the Italians have taken a British saloon and transformed it for track duty.

This racing version of the Jaguar XF made its debut this past weekend at South Africa's Kyalami circuit, where the Superstars Series held its season finale. The Italian touring car series pits all manner of specially-prepared machinery - ranging from Chevrolet Luminas and Chrysler 300s to Audi RS4s and the Maserati Quattroporte we reported on earlier - against each other at circuits around Italy, with one round this season held abroad. While you may not recognize any names from the current roster of drivers, the handicapped former CART Champion and F1 driver Alex Zanardi is set to race for BMW in the Italian series.

Few details are available on the new Jag touring car's specifications, but it was prepared by Italian racing garage Ferlito Motors to replace an aging machine based on the old S-Type. For its race debut, the new XF racer finished 12th - dead last of the cars that finished the race, but at least it finished. Follow the jump for the press release and check out the (unfortunately low-res) images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Ferlito Motors Jaguar XF Superstars touring car


[Source: Superstars Series]

Continue reading Race-spec Jaguar XF touring car debuts at Kyalami Superstars

Race-spec Jaguar XF touring car debuts at Kyalami Superstars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ferlitoferlito jaguar xf superstars touring carferlito motorsFerlitoJaguarXfSuperstarsTouringCarFerlitoMotorsitalyjaguarjaguar xfjaguar xf touring carJaguarXfJaguarXfTouringCarkyalamisuperstarssuperstars seriesSuperstarsSeriestouringtouring cartouring carsTouringCarTouringCarsxf Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:31:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: 2011 Audi A1 teased ahead of Geneva unveiling]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-2011-audi-a1-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-2011-audi-a1-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/video-2011-audi-a1-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2011 Audi A1 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Two years ago, the Audi Metroproject Quattro concept bowed at the Tokyo Motor Show. A year later, the Audi A1 Sportback study was unveiled in Paris. And in less than two months, the production 2011 Audi A1 will finally be revealed online ahead of its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show... but not before the hype machine is put into full effect.

After the jump, you can check out three teaser videos of the A1, beginning with a graffiti homage to Audi's new compact hatch, followed by a brief statement from Chairman Rupert Stadler and a design discussion with a few of the A1's creators.

Predictably, all three spots are mum on details, but from previous reports, we know that the A1 is likely to be powered by a 1.4-liter TFSI four-cylinder channeling around 150 hp to a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. All-wheel drive may be exclusive to the 180-hp S1 -- due to arrive sometime in 2011 -- with the standard model dolling out power to the front wheels alone, and a cabrio variant arriving in 2012. Expect all the details to come down from on high in February -- including an announcement about Audi's intent to sell the A1 Stateside -- but until then... jump.


Gallery: 2011 Audi A1 Graffiti Teasers

Continue reading VIDEO: 2011 Audi A1 teased ahead of Geneva unveiling

VIDEO: 2011 Audi A1 teased ahead of Geneva unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20112011 a12011 audi a12011A12011AudiA120122012 audi a12012AudiA1a1audiaudi a1AudiA1genevageneva 2010geneva motor showgeneva showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowGenevaShow Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST <![CDATA[Happy New Year! BMW rings in 2010 with price increases across the board]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/happy-new-year-bmw-rings-in-2010-with-price-increase-across-the/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/happy-new-year-bmw-rings-in-2010-with-price-increase-across-the/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/happy-new-year-bmw-rings-in-2010-with-price-increase-across-the/#comments Filed under: , ,

BMW X6 ActiveHybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Normally we can think of some cute little anecdote to kick these here posts off with, but today... can't do it. BMW is raising their prices by 0.4 percent across the board on vehicles sold in North America. This price increase takes effect on January 1, 2010. Why? BMW isn't saying. And while less than a percent may not sound like much, if you're buying a stripper 760Li ($136,600), that's like $600!

There is a tiny sliver of good news. The three vehicles that just got introduced to this continent in December -- the ActiveHybrid X6, ActiveHybrid 7 and the 550i Gran Turismo -- are unaffected by this price increase. Of course as all three of those vehicles haven't proved themselves in the marketplace yet, so that sliver is even tinier upon second glance.

But it's not just the base prices that are going up. Destination & Handling fees are on the rise as well. Every new BMW is coming with an additional $50 tacked onto the 2009 $825 price, for a total of $875. And yes, this fifty dollar increase applies to the two new hybrids and the Gran Turismo as well. Happy New Year!


Gallery: BMW X6 ActiveHybrid Concept

bmw-x6-hybrid-large_7bmw-x6-hybrid-large_6bmw-x6-hybrid-large_2bmw-x6-hybrid-large_1bmw-x6-hybrid-large_3
[Source: BMW]

Happy New Year! BMW rings in 2010 with price increases across the board originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 550i550i Gran Turismo550iGranTurismoActiveHybrid 7ActiveHybrid X6Activehybrid7ActivehybridX6BMW Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:58:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Despite selling off old bits to BAIC, Saab brand still in search of buyer]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-despite-selling-off-old-bits-to-baic-saab-brand-still-i/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-despite-selling-off-old-bits-to-baic-saab-brand-still-i/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-despite-selling-off-old-bits-to-baic-saab-brand-still-i/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2010 Saab 9-5 - click above for high-res image gallery

Here's a little bit more on the salvation/debacle of Saab. First of all, it should be pointed out that after our last report about Holland's Spyker trying to buy Saab, the freaks lovely people over at Saabs United pointed out some gaping holes in our reporting an inconsistency or two with the Reuters/our version of the facts. As such, we've gone ahead and vetted the information we're using for this post with the brain trust over at Saabs United. Hey, they really like Saabs, what can we say? And now, on to the story.

Automotive News is reporting that China's Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Company (BAIC) has reached a deal with General Motors to acquire the tooling for both the Saab 9-3 and 9-5. Not so fast, says Saab's United! What they actually acquired is the tooling for the old 9-5, as well as the stuff for the pre-2006 9-3. Sort of a big difference, as obviously Saab's just getting geared up to roll out the all new 9-5 - and whomever winds up buying Saab will most likely want to offer both it and the existing 9-3 and its derivatives. Spyker's CEO Victor Muller confirms the BAIC deal is for "old equipment" and goes on to characterize the BAIC deal as, "Good news."

Then there's a bunch of no commenting. Obviously, General Motors has no comment on anything, though they do say that once a deal is reached they will say something. As far as we can tell, the pending Spyker deal is still a definite maybe. BAIC could not be reached to make a "no comment," and Saab's Eric Geer's stated, "We can't comment on anything about the sales process." Though our Saabs United source does provide us with a juicy tidbit, "[Geer's] wife is Saab's head legal counsel so he's like the canary in the coal mine. If he ever resigns suddenly..."

So there you have it - Saab's future is still totally up in the air. Though our source says that in addition to the 9-5 sedan, there's a 9-5 wagon (SportCombi) that's "pretty much ready to go" as well as the 9-4x which has, "been ready for about a year but Caddy had to get the SRX out first." Plus, a new 9-3 is being worked on. And one more thing - Saabs United is reporting that a Swedish group (not Renco) is also in talks with GM, in addition to the Spyker deal. We'll keep you posted.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: Automotive News - subs req. | Saabs United]

REPORT: Despite selling off old bits to BAIC, Saab brand still in search of buyer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Saab 9-32010 Saab 9-3x2010 Saab 9-52010Saab9-32010Saab9-3x2010Saab9-59-39-4x9-5BAICGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMRencoSaabSaab 9-3Saab 9-4xSaab 9-5Saab 9-5 Wagonsaab saleSaab9-3Saab9-4xSaab9-5Saab9-5WagonSaabs UnitedSaabSaleSaabsUnitedSportcombiSpykerswedish automakerSwedishAutomaker Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:28:00 EST <![CDATA[VIDEO: Borat-class "Rolls-Royce" actually looks good]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/video-borat-class-rolls-royce-actually-looks-good/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/video-borat-class-rolls-royce-actually-looks-good/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/video-borat-class-rolls-royce-actually-looks-good/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Not a Rolls-Royce Phantom - Click above to watch the video

Right, so this isn't really a Rolls-Royce. We know, we know -- you thought it was. And that's understandable. But no, it's a fake, a phony, a fraud, etc. And with the owner spending at least, say, $3,000 to turn an old Mercedes-Benz E-Class into a Roller, we understand why you were duped. We aren't surprised, however, that this car exists in a former Soviet Bloc country (supposedly Kazakhstan).

All joking/sardonic comments aside, we always wonder why people bother with stunts like this. The other day we saw a BMW E39 525i with a M5 badge. Now, the only people that will be impressed by an M5 badge are the exact same people who will notice that the E39 is missing the requisite four tail pipes. So, who exactly are they fooling, besides themselves? This Phantom conversion's one redeeming quality is that the finished product (somehow) looks pretty good. Make the jump to watch the video. A tip of the Kalpak to Pasi for the tip!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Borat-class "Rolls-Royce" actually looks good

VIDEO: Borat-class "Rolls-Royce" actually looks good originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 18:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> BoratConversionE-ClassKazakhstanmercedes-benzRolls-RoyceRolls-Royce PhantomRolls-roycePhantom Sun, 13 Dec 2009 18:49:00 EST <![CDATA[MEC Design takes another (eyeball) stab at the SLS AMG]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mec-design-takes-another-eyeball-stab-at-the-sls-amg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mec-design-takes-another-eyeball-stab-at-the-sls-amg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/mec-design-takes-another-eyeball-stab-at-the-sls-amg/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

MEC Design SLS AMG
2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG by MEC Design - Click above for image gallery

Germans are generally so conservative that we sometimes wonder if their aftermarket scene exists only to provide for the anomalies that every society needs. Not many of you fell for MEC Design's first attempt at visually tuning the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, and we would have thought it was something from Tron Legacy if not for the fact of it being yellow. It appears that boys from Berlin returned to their easels and now present the MEC SLS, take two.

It's called a "style study" and to its credit, MEC has deleted the most obscene gestures from the previous rendering: the mommy-make-it-stop nose and horrendous wheels. Nevertheless, MEC's Erector-Set-and-Laffy-Taffy design ethos has only been barely restrained, and the result is still quite troubling. If you have suggestions, you can leave them in the comments section below. We think MEC is reading...


Gallery: MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG


[Source: Caradisiac]

MEC Design takes another (eyeball) stab at the SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 mercedes-benz sls amg2010Mercedes-benzSlsAmgaftermarketAMGgermanymecmec designMecDesignmercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz sls amgMercedes-benzSlsAmgSLSSLS AMGSlsAmg Sun, 13 Dec 2009 12:33:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Vauxhall team creates mathematical formula for perfect parking]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/report-vauxhall-team-creates-mathematical-formula-for-perfect-p/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/report-vauxhall-team-creates-mathematical-formula-for-perfect-p/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/report-vauxhall-team-creates-mathematical-formula-for-perfect-p/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Parallel parking isn't difficult, but we have generally found ways to make it so. Between cars that almost kinda park for you to those with video game displays that turn parking into a Microsoft Flight Simulator landing attempt to the automated cars that park themselves (a frickin' robot! To park!), getting a car into a space couldn't be more complex.

It is a university scientist and engineers at Vauxhall, though, that have proposed the most difficult parking solution we've encountered so far: a not-exactly-short equation. To make it work you'll need to know your car's turning radius, wheelbase, the distance from the center of your car's front wheel to the car's front bumper, and the width of the parked car you're trying to fit behind or in front of.

Drop those numbers into their proper places, let the slide rule dance, use the result to take a few pulls at the wheel, and voila! All you need to do now is leave your insurance information on the cars you just plowed into. If anyone can get this to work, successfully, please let us know. But we though everybody knew the answer to parking is "42." It's the question that's the hard part... Cap tip to Eralp

[Source: Daily Telegraph | Image credit: AtomicNebula via CC2.0]

REPORT: Vauxhall team creates mathematical formula for perfect parking originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> equationsparallel parkingParallelParkingparkingsciencevauxhall Sat, 12 Dec 2009 17:03:00 EST <![CDATA[G-Power takes the BMW X6 M, X5 M to 600 hp and beyond]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/g-power-takes-the-bmw-x6-m-x5-m-to-600-hp-and-beyond/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/g-power-takes-the-bmw-x6-m-x5-m-to-600-hp-and-beyond/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/g-power-takes-the-bmw-x6-m-x5-m-to-600-hp-and-beyond/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

G-Power Typhoon X6 M - click above for hi-res image gallery

We all know what the biggest problem with the BMW X6 M is, right? Not nearly enough power. Sure, 555 hp from a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 is 5 hp more potent than a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, making the X6 M the most powerful production SUV on earth. Still, 600 hp is the new black, so a stock X6 M just ain't going to cut it. Thank heavens, then, for G-Power.

Meet the G-Power Typhoon. Thanks to 15% increased airflow to the intercoolers, G-Power was able to wrangle an additional 45 hp out of the Bimmer's motivator. Torque's up a bit, too. From 500 lb-ft to 516. G-Power claims the 0-62 mph dash is lowered to 4.5 seconds, too. One issue with that, however: Inside Line ripped off a 4.3 second 0-60 mph blast in a stock X6 M, meaning this here Typhoon should be three flavors of bonkers.

Then there's the matter of looks, always a sticking point when discussing modern Bimmers. Here's what we recommend. Go down to your friendly neighborhood BMW dealer with a folding chair. Locate an X6. Sit down in front of it and start staring. Meditate, let everything else you've ever known or thought about cars and car design melt out of your mind. This should take between five and seven hours. The salespeople won't mind -- honest. When you snap out of your trance with your doors of perception suddenly nailed open, the X6 will appear to you as it truly is -- pretty okay-looking.

That settled, we'll admit to liking the G-Power's mods. For instance, you can't say the new front clip looks worse than the old one, can you? And who amongst you doesn't love 25mm profile tires riding on 23-inch wheels? There's all sorts of carbon fiber this and kevlar that available as well. The best part just might be that G-Power isn't leaving the X5 M -- the X6 M's ugly duckling sibling -- out in the cold, as there's a Typhoon kit for it, too. You know what word comes to mind? Nifty, all of it. Highly entertaining press release after the jump.


Gallery: G-Power X6 M and X5 M


[Source: G-Power]

Continue reading G-Power takes the BMW X6 M, X5 M to 600 hp and beyond

G-Power takes the BMW X6 M, X5 M to 600 hp and beyond originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> BMWBMW X5 MBMW X6 MBmwX5MBmwX6MG-PowerG-power TyphoonG-Power Typhoon X5 MG-Power Typhoon X6 MG-powerTyphoonG-powerTyphoonX5MG-powerTyphoonX6MX5X5 MX5MX6X6 MX6M Sat, 12 Dec 2009 12:23:00 EST <![CDATA[Hofele Design introduces Audi A5/R8 mashup to controversial effect]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/hofele-design-introduces-audi-a5-r8-mashup-to-controversial-effe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/hofele-design-introduces-audi-a5-r8-mashup-to-controversial-effe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/hofele-design-introduces-audi-a5-r8-mashup-to-controversial-effe/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Hofele Design R8 Look A5 - click above for high-res image gallery

And by "controversial," we mean "disgusting." Look, the R8 has those side blades because it's a mid-engine car, but Audi felt they still need a place for a set of golf clubs, so they lengthened the cabin so the clubs can be stowed behind the seats. Meaning that the body has a whole lot of extra length in the middle. Rather than go all BMW and start torturing the hell out of the metal, they slapped on some pieces of plastic (fine, carbon fiber) and called it a day, leading to a look that some love and others loathe.

Now, the A5/S5 is a superbly beautiful car. From every angle, the seemingly minimalist design gets better and better. Especially when you run your eyes across the length of its rising and falling center line that runs from the front fenders past the doors only to terminate in the tail lamp. Just about pitch-perfect. Truly, one of the better designs this decade. German tuner Hofele Design (apparently) had but one simple mission: how to destroy it!

The results are self-evident. All those people that are moaning and complaining that their Audi A5 3.2s don't look anything like a R8 V10 can now cease their protests. All two of them. Also, and we know this doesn't need stating but here goes: why would you go through the trouble of mutating your car to the nth degree but then leave on the "A5" and "3.2" badges?

Most people who know Audis (i.e. the very people that might have an outside chance of being impressed by this) would agree that A5 and 3.2 stands for the automaker's worst engine/transmission combination, the slow-revving 3.2-liter V6 that's already been dropped from the new A4 and the numbskull six-speed Tiptronic box that likes to be in sixth gear by 39 mph. So, besides the raw, inharmonious phony aspect of the body kit (nice fake quad pipes) why on earth bother? Especially as the badge on the back says A5 and the one in the grille says S5. That's a rhetorical question, because we all know there's no answer/point. One more thing: the R8 Spyder doesn't even have side blades. And hey, why not another: the camber on the rear wheel's all messed up.


Gallery: Hofele A5 R8


[Source: Hofele Design]

Hofele Design introduces Audi A5/R8 mashup to controversial effect originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2009 Audi A52009 Audi S52009AudiA52009AudiS52010 Audi A52010 Audi S52010AudiA52010AudiS5A5AudiAudi A5Audi A5R8Audi R8Audi S5AudiA5AudiA5r8AudiR8AudiS5HofeleHofele DesignHofeleDesign Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:00:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Tata Nano Europa production details, images come to light]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-tata-nano-europa-production-details-images-come-to-ligh/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-tata-nano-europa-production-details-images-come-to-ligh/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-tata-nano-europa-production-details-images-come-to-ligh/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Ever since Tata first showed off its diminutive Nano, heavily hyped as the Cheapest Car in the World, the Indian automaker has continually said that it intends to sell the machine in somewhat modified form in both Europe and the United States. The blokes over at Autocar were given a sneak peek at the Nano Europa, which is currently slated for a 2011 introduction, and they've seen fit to share a couple of new details with the rest of us.

For instance, the Nano Europa will ditch the Indian market's 33-horsepower twin-cylinder engine for a new all-aluminum three-cylinder unit with 60 horsepower. That new powerplant will be mated to a five-speed manual transmission with ratios optimized for higher sustained speeds while still offering good fuel efficiency and low carbon emissions.

Not surprisingly, the Nano's tiny dimensions will grow a bit for European use, with overall length said to be up by about eight inches than the Indian market version. That extra bit of sheetmetal ought to prove sufficient for the Nano to pass European NCAP crash tests and help provide a bit more space for passengers and their goods. According to Autocar, the £4000 - £5000 Nano (roughly $6,500 to $8,100 on the pricy UK market) "will change the way car prices are viewed when it hits British showrooms." We'd imagine a similar reaction if it ever hits the States, especially if it comes with an even lower price.

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Tata Nano Europa production details, images come to light originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 tata nano europa2011TataNanoEuropananonano europaNanoEuropatatatata motorstata nanotata nano europatata nano europetata nano usTataMotorsTataNanoTataNanoEuropaTataNanoEuropeTataNanoUs Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:41:00 EST <![CDATA[Alfa Romeo teams up with Italia Independent for special-edition Brera]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/alfa-romeo-teams-up-with-italia-independent-for-special-edition/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/alfa-romeo-teams-up-with-italia-independent-for-special-edition/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/alfa-romeo-teams-up-with-italia-independent-for-special-edition/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Alfa Romeo Brera Italia Independent - Click above for high-res image gallery

Say what you will about its driving dynamics, but there's little doubt that the Alfa Romeo Brera is one of the most stylish and fashionable sets of wheels on the road today. As if to reinforce that notion, the Italian automaker has teamed up with fashion house Italia Independent for a special edition model of the angular coupe.

The Alfa Romeo Brera Italia Independent is distinguished by its titanium paint shade, 18" turbine-style dark alloys hiding red brake calipers and an aluminum fuel cap. Inside it's all carbon fiber, black leather and red top stitching, accented with Italia Independent logos.

The special edition is available with the 185-horsepower 2.2-liter four or 260-hp 3.2-liter V6, in front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. Only 900 units will be sold in Europe, Japan and Australia, starting at €29,700 (the equivalent of about $41k USD) for the 2.2 and €38,850 ($57k) for the 3.2. Check out our gallery below for a closer view of this fashion-forward forbidden fruit.


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Brera Italia Independent


[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Alfa Romeo teams up with Italia Independent for special-edition Brera originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 alfa romeo2010 alfa romeo brera2010AlfaRomeo2010AlfaRomeoBreraalfaalfa breraalfa romeoalfa romeo breraAlfa Romeo Brera Italia IndependentAlfaBreraAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoBreraAlfaRomeoBreraItaliaIndependentItalia IndependentItaliaIndependent Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST <![CDATA[(More) Pics Aplenty: VW plays up Scirocco R with new pics, details]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/more-pics-aplenty-vw-plays-up-scirocco-r-with-new-pics-detai/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/more-pics-aplenty-vw-plays-up-scirocco-r-with-new-pics-detai/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/more-pics-aplenty-vw-plays-up-scirocco-r-with-new-pics-detai/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2010 VW Scirocco R -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Volkswagen Scirocco R was recently introduced to the European motoring press, and all of its details have been delivered unto the people. The 2.0-liter, 265-horsepower front-wheel-drive hot hatch comes in two versions: six-speed manual and six-speed DSG, either of which will get you to 60 mph in six seconds or less.

The R is loaded with tech and mods: XDS electronic transverse differential lock to combat understeer, Dynamic Chassis Control for variable damping, Anti-Slip Regulation, and massive 17-inch brakes among other features. If that makes you want to see what one can do in the corners, VW's already found out: two slightly more powerful Sciroccos won the 2.0-liter turbo class at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring earlier this year.

There's an exhaustive press release after the jump that will tell you all about it, and a high-res gallery of photos below if you like your stories in pictures.


Gallery: 2010 Volkswagen Scirocco R


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading (More) Pics Aplenty: VW plays up Scirocco R with new pics, details

(More) Pics Aplenty: VW plays up Scirocco R with new pics, details originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 scirocco r2010 volkswagen scirocco r2010 vw scirocco r2010SciroccoR2010VolkswagenSciroccoR2010VwSciroccoRcoupeperformancesciroccoscirocco rSciroccoRvolkswagen scirocco rVolkswagenSciroccoRvw scirocco rVwSciroccoR Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:56:00 EST <![CDATA[REPORT: Spyker takes the lead in the Saab bidding sweepstakes]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/#comments Filed under: , , ,



General Motors appears on track to either close or sell the ailing Saab brand by 2010. If they do, in fact, sell Saab, they are reportedly stipulating the following: the buyer must be well versed in small scale car production and they should be interested in keeping production in Saab's homeland, Sweden. If you don't know, Spyker fits that particular bill nicely.

Saab appears to be believing the deal will happen. "There are signals everywhere showing we are well on track," says Saab spokesman Eric Greers. We heard last week that Spyker was interested in purchasing Saab, and today's news only confirms it. Of course this wouldn't be a Saab story without the threat of imminent disaster looming in the shadows.

The catch is that if GM and the prospective buyer can't get the deal done by 2010, General Motors is just going to wash its hands of the perennial money loser and shut Saab down and sell off its assets. However, if the talks are going well but no deal has been reached by January, GM might consider funding Saab a little longer. Maybe. For their part, Spyker seems unaware of any looming deadline, though perhaps they should be.

[Sources: Reuters, Autocar | Image: Torsten Silz/Getty]

REPORT: Spyker takes the lead in the Saab bidding sweepstakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> General MotorsGeneralMotorsGMSaabSpykerSweden Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST <![CDATA[Porsche Panamera wins inaugural <i>Bloomberg</i> Car of the Year]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/porsche-panamera-wins-inaugeral-bloomberg-car-of-the-year/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/porsche-panamera-wins-inaugeral-bloomberg-car-of-the-year/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/porsche-panamera-wins-inaugeral-bloomberg-car-of-the-year/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2010 Porsche Panamera Turbo - click above for high-res image gallery

Normally when a vehicle wins a car of the year award, its merit is so obvious that all you have to do to justify the selection is say, "just drive one." However, with the Porsche Panamera, the excitement surrounding Porsche's first ever four-door sports sedan/car is so palpable all you must say is, "Just talk to someone that's driven one." The Panamera's that good. Our man Michael Harley's still heaping praise upon the Turbo in his sleep. In case you missed it - the Porsche Panamera rules.

Then it comes as no surprise that Bloomberg News has selected the different looking Panamera as its inaugural Car of the Year. Says Bloomberg's auto-guy Jason H. Harper, "Like a lot of people I wasn't entirely sure what to expect of the Panamera, but sometime between having a six-foot eight-inch buddy in the back seat and hauling into deep corners around the track, it became clear. It's still a Porsche -- just a really versatile one." You will also no doubt remember that our colleagues over at Inside Line recently stuck the Panamera at the tippity top of their "Most Wanted" list. That's a lot of praise, particularly for a vehicle that has been so divisive aesthetically.

Bloomberg also selected several other winners including Best Green Car (Ford Fusion Hybrid), Best Sports Car (Audi R8 5.2), Best Economy Car (Mazda3), Best Executive Sedan (Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG), Best People Mover and Family Car (Lincoln MKT EcoBoost) and Best All-Around Sports Utility Vehicle (Land Rover LR4). All good choices by the way, though this author might have swapped the E63 AMG for the Porsche and figured a way to sneak in the Ford Shelby Mustang GT500. Just sayin'. Press release after the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Porsche Panamera


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading Porsche Panamera wins inaugural Bloomberg Car of the Year

Porsche Panamera wins inaugural Bloomberg Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 Porsche panamera2010 porsche panamera turbo2010PorschePanamera2010PorschePanameraTurboBloombergBloomberg Car of the YearBloomberg NewsBloombergCarOfTheYearBloombergNewsCar of the YearCarOfTheYearJason H. HarperJasonH.Harperpanamerapanamera turboPanameraTurboPorschePorsche PanameraPorsche Panamera 4SPorsche Panamera SPorsche Panamera TurboPorschePanameraPorschePanamera4sPorschePanameraSPorschePanameraTurbo Thu, 10 Dec 2009 14:29:00 EST <![CDATA[Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K.]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/forbidden-tanda-volkswagen-introduces-tiguan-track-and-avenue-for/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2010 VW Tiguan Track & Avenue - Click above for high-res image gallery

Another dressed up offering has landed on that island haven for special editions, the UK. This time, it's the Volkswagen Tiguan Track & Avenue. Called a "very expressive off-roader," English types will be able to buy it in either "Oryx White Pearl Effect" or "Island Grey Pearl Effect." Not that you'd take those pretty 19-inch Savannah alloys off-road, but there's a specially angled front end with a silver skid plate so you can look like you would.

Inside is lots of amaranth-colored leather in "Heavy Waxy" grade (it looks better than it sounds), along with sport seats and a high-end stereo. Engine choices number four, in both petrol and diesel, topping out at the 200 horsepower 2.0-liter gasoline variant. It will start at €38,225 (a princely $56k USD, but remember - U.K. prices are still higher than that of their U.S. counterparts) for the 2.0-liter TSI diesel with a manual transmission and 170 hp. Read about it in the press release after the jump, and have a look at our gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: VW Tiguan Track & Avenue


[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K.

Forbidden T&A: Volkswagen introduces Tiguan Track and Avenue for U.K. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 volkswagen2010 volkswagen tiguan2010 volkswagen tiguan track avenue2010 vw2010 vw tiguan2010 vw tiguan track avenue2010Volkswagen2010VolkswagenTiguan2010VolkswagenTiguanTrackAvenue2010Vw2010VwTiguan2010VwTiguanTrackAvenuecuvtiguantiguan track avenueTiguanTrackAvenuevolkswagenvw Thu, 10 Dec 2009 11:01:00 EST <![CDATA[Ruf creates Porsche Cayenne based eRuf Stormster]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/porsche-cayenne-eruf-ruf-stormster/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/porsche-cayenne-eruf-ruf-stormster/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/porsche-cayenne-eruf-ruf-stormster/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

eRuf Stormster grün - click above for high-res image gallery

A little more than a year ago, the Porsche tuning specialist at Ruf unveiled their first electric car, the 911-based eRuf. That first iteration was definitely not ready for production, but the crew at Ruf are not known for taking half measures. A few months after the eRuf was shown to the world, the second iteration with more power and lighter batteries appeared as the Greenster at the Geneva Motor Show. Ruf has said it plans to build that car in limited numbers.

The 911 is pretty small, and as a result, packaging enough batteries to get a useful range is not a trivial matter. The latest eRuf variant is the Stormster, a plug-in electric Cayenne, so finding room for the cells doesn't figure to be as problematic. The Stormster is uses the same 270 kW Siemens motor that was in the Greenster along with Li-Tec lithium ion batteries. We don't yet know how many examples they hope to build, where they hope to sell it, or how much it will cost. Critically, we also don't know how far it will go on a charge. The note we got from Ruf does say it will be available in the standard Cayenne body or the special wide-body that Ruf produces, the "Stormster grün." Either way, you can check it out in our high-res gallery below and analyze the press release after the jump.

Update: Ruf spokesman Marc Pfeifer let us know that the Stormster will start production late in 2010 and that the range is aproximately 120 miles per charge. Ruf has not set a price for it yet, but don't count on this to compete with the Nissan Leaf at the low end.

Gallery: eRuf Stormster


[Source: Ruf]

Continue reading Ruf creates Porsche Cayenne based eRuf Stormster

Ruf creates Porsche Cayenne based eRuf Stormster originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> electric porscheelectric porsche cayenneElectricPorscheElectricPorscheCayenneeruf stormsterErufStormsterPorsche Cayenneporsche cayenne evPorscheCayennePorscheCayenneEv Wed, 09 Dec 2009 19:58:00 EST <![CDATA[Donkervoort tweaks the D8 GT for 24-hour race debut in Dubai]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/donkervoort-tweaks-the-d8-gt-for-24-hour-race-debut-in-dubai/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/donkervoort-tweaks-the-d8-gt-for-24-hour-race-debut-in-dubai/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/donkervoort-tweaks-the-d8-gt-for-24-hour-race-debut-in-dubai/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,


2010 Donkervoort D8 GT(4) endurance racer - Click above for high-res image gallery

While fanatics around the world debate the supremacy of one sportscar over another based on numbers alone, here at Autoblog we postulate that such exotic machinery is only as good as its capacity to transport you to another place, if not in body then in your mind. So bear with us and imagine the following scenario: You're based in Holland. You've created what could be the ultimate neo-Lotus 7, and with it you've already placed in a major racing series. So where do you go next? Why, to Dubai, of course!

We're talking about the Donkervoort D8 GT, undoubtedly one of the most futuristically phallic retro road rockets on the street or track today. We got our first glimpse three years ago, and took a closer look in Geneva back in 2007, before production began last year. The 1400-pound cab-rearward track tool packs an Audi-sourced 1.8-liter turbo four driving 270 horsepower to the rear wheels. That's enough power to sixty in less than four seconds.

With the D8 GT, the Dutch manufacturer has already taken second place in the FIA GT4 European Cup, and it is now heading to its first 24-hour race at the Dubai Autodrome on the shores of the Persian Gulf. To prepare for the event, Donkervoort has tweaked the fuel system, the brakes, the aerodynamics, the carbon-fiber sandwich panels and aluminum chassis to create the D8 GT(4). The results ought to be interesting as the 24 Hours of Dubai kicks off in mid-January, but you can check it out now in the gallery below and the press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Donkervoort D8 GT endurance racer


[Source: Donkervoort]

Continue reading Donkervoort tweaks the D8 GT for 24-hour race debut in Dubai

Donkervoort tweaks the D8 GT for 24-hour race debut in Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 24 hours of dubai24HoursOfDubaiAudiAudi turboAudiTurbod8d8 gtD8Gtdonkervoortdonkervoort D8 GTDonkervoortD8Gtdubaidubai autodromeDubaiAutodromeFIAFIA GT4FiaGt4Lotus 7Lotus SevenLotus7LotusSevenminimalistse7entrack daytrack day carTrackDayTrackDayCar Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:28:00 EST <![CDATA[Celebrated photographer David LaChapelle gets artsy with Maybach [UPDATE: Video added]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/celebrated-photographer-david-lachapelle-gets-artsy-with-maybach/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/celebrated-photographer-david-lachapelle-gets-artsy-with-maybach/ http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/celebrated-photographer-david-lachapelle-gets-artsy-with-maybach/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Maybach Zeppelin through the eyes of David LaChapelle - click above to view high-res NSFW gallery

While its enduring legacy will forever be crippling hyperinflation and the inability to fight the rise of Nazism, Germany's post World War I Weimar Republic has something of a positive, cultural heritage. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, theater, art, architecture (Bauhaus anyone?) and music all flourished in pre-Hitler Germany. Cabaret and promiscuity in general became so widespread that conservatives had to busy themselves banning jazz and passing laws against teenagers purchasing pornography. Long story short, Berlin was quite the place to be during the Jazz Age.

And not a bad place to shop for cars, either. Especially decadent, luxury cars. Like the dreamy Mercedes-Benz SSK. Or a stately Horch 430 Cabriolet Drophead Coupe. And even if we could forget the irrepressible 1931 Maybach Zeppelin DS 8, Daimler wouldn't let us. To wit, in order to publicize their brand-new Maybach Zeppelin, Daimler has retained the services of noted fashion/art photographer David LaChapelle and furnished him with both the new car and a lovely custard and black example of the OG 1931 Zeppelin. Here's how Daimler describes the collaboration:
"The renowned American photographer has chosen to collaborate with style icon Daphne Guinness to portray both vehicles in his signature fashion. With creative freedom entrusted to LaChapelle by Maybach, he created photos that whisk the observer to a world filled with luxurious extravagance that features LaChapelle's celebrated surreal tableaux."
Fair enough. There is actually something of a precedent here, as Andy Warhol created a 35-part series for Daimler in 1986 entitled, "Car." Coincidently, it was Warhol that discovered LaChapelle. As far as LaChapelle's photos go, we're showing you the much less interesting one here on the mainpage. There's a Not Safe For Work (nudity) gallery of the other stuff after the jump. Are they any good? Hard to say, but we are reminded of Hunter S. Thompson's description of Bazooko's Circus as, "what the whole hep world would be doing Saturday night if the Nazis had won the war... the Sixth Reich." See for yourselves along with a press release and a making-of video after the jump (NSFW).

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Celebrated photographer David LaChapelle gets artsy with Maybach [UPDATE: Video added]

Celebrated photographer David LaChapelle gets artsy with Maybach [UPDATE: Video added] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1931 Maybach Zeppelin1931 Maybach Zeppelin DS 81931MaybachZeppelin1931MaybachZeppelinDs82010 Maybach2010 Maybach Zeppelin2010Maybach2010MaybachZeppelinAndy WarholAndyWarholDaimlerDavid LaChapelleDavidLachapelleHorchMaybachMaybach 62maybach 62 zeppelinMaybach ZeppelinMaybach Zeppelin DS 8Maybach62Maybach62ZeppelinMaybachZeppelinMaybachZeppelinDs8Weimar RepublicWeimarRepublic Tue, 08 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST