Autoblog

New Bugatti model teased in anniversary party invitation?

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:27:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Sedans/Saloons, Supercars, Bugatti, Rumormill

Could a new über-sedan be in the offing from Bugatti? Rumors of a more practical model from the Volkswagen-owned supercar maker have been swirling ever since the Veyron was introduced back in 2005, and the idea has merit since it would likely allow VW to recoup some of the massive development costs that surely went into creating the Veyron. Now, a lone still shot from what is supposedly an invitation to a party celebrating the automaker's first 100 years in business has the interwebs speculating that a super sedan is on its way to an unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Previous rumors indicated that a new Bugatti sedan could share a platform with the next Bentley flagship - which we know is to debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance next month - and use the same all-wheel drive system and 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 engine as the Veyron. At this point, a Bugatti sedan is nothing but speculation and it's equally as possible that we could see either a successor the the four-year-old Veyron in Frankfurt - or nothing at all. In any case, we'll keep our eyes and ears open for more details in the coming months.

[Source: Ferrarichat]

New Bugatti model teased in anniversary party invitation? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2010 BMW 5 Series nearing completion

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, BMW

2010 BMW 5 Series - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The 2010 BMW 5 Series is due to hit the market early next year and these latest spy shots are a clear, if predictable, indication of what styling changes are on their way.

The front fascia adopts the upright nose, elongated twin-kidney grille and contoured headlamps (Dame Edna be gone!) originally shown on the 2009 7 Series, while the rear takes on a set of similarly styled tail lamps and looses the Bangled rump we've come to know and loathe.

The overall effect should tie in well with the recently revealed BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, and expect similar powertrain options to be available, including the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8, 3.0-liter inline-six and a host of diesel options offered abroad. Transmission choices will likely include a six-speed manual and an all-new eight-speed gearbox supplied by ZF. And then there's the 2011 M5 to look forward to.

Expect the next M-fettled 5er to pack the X6 M/X5 M's tweaked twin-turbo'd eight nestled within a revised chassis sure to use considerable amounts of aluminum and carbon fiber. It's obvious that development of the next 5 is well underway, and we wouldn't be surprised to see it unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, with the M5 appearing later in 2010.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2010 BMW 5 Series

Spy Shots: 2010 BMW 5 Series nearing completion originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Next-gen Porsche 911 sporting double-bubble roof

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:44:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sports/GTs, Porsche

2011 Porsche 911 - Click above for a high-res image gallery of spy shots

With every iteration of the 911, Porsche makes incremental improvements to its iconic sports car and naturally, the next generation will be no exception.

This latest 911 prototype was caught at the Nurburgring sporting 997 sheetmetal, but it's what's on top and out back that deserves note. A double-bubble roof panel has been fitted, while underneath the rear camouflage is a sizeable wing and additional ducting. Look closely and you'll see a small sill at the base of the rear windscreen that's assumed to be feeding the rear-mounted flat-six - likely necessary keep the boxer cool while Porsche engineers figure out how the new contoured roof affects aerodynamics. If previous reports are to be believed, we can expect the next 911 to debut sometime in 2010, but we wouldn't rule out an appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Porsche 911 with double-bubble roof

Spy Shots: Next-gen Porsche 911 sporting double-bubble roof originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO]

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:30:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, SUVs, Euro, Crossovers/CUVs, BMW

2011 BMW X1 - Click above for a massive high-res image gallery

As expected after this morning's initial leakage, BMW has released a staggering amount of images of the 2011 BMW X1 showing the brand's new soft-roader in every conceivable environment before it's officially revealed at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

Along with the pics, BMW put out a brief statement (below the fold) confirming the X1's arrival in the U.S. sometime in 2011 and its plans to offer both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive (xDrive) versions, along with "a wide variety of gasoline and diesel powertrain choices." BMW won't officially confirm what mils will make the trip across the Atlantic, but the automaker says the X1 will use its EfficientDynamics system and that one gasoline engine and three diesels will be available when the X1 launches in Europe this fall. Check out all 183 high-res images in the gallery below and expect official U.S. market information to be released closer to the X1's launch in the States.

Gallery: 2011 BMW X1

Continue reading Officially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO]

Officially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: GTbyCitroen gets the green light for limited production

Noah Joseph — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Auto Show, Supercars, Citroen, Special/Limited Editions

GTbyCitroen concept at 2008 Paris auto salon - Click above for high-res image gallery

Less than completely psyched about the launch of the new Citroen C3? Granted, the new compact hatchback may not be the most exciting vehicle ever to come from the quirky French automaker, but don't despair - we've got some more exciting news from the other end of the spectrum as reports surface that Citroen has approved a small run of its fantastical GTbyCitroen supercar for production.

You'll recall the GT as the design which Citroen unveiled together with the creators of the Gran Turismo video game franchise last year in Paris. The closest the concept was ever meant to get to reality was the single show car built and the digitized version which gamers would be able to play on PS3, but earlier this month, we reported that the French automaker was receiving enough interest on the car to consider putting it into very limited production.

As if to whet our appetites, Citroen took the concept on a drive around London last week, and has since confirmed that it will make the climb up the hill at Goodwood this month. But if you're looking for a closer approximation of life-imitating-art-imitating-life, a short run of GTs will reportedly see the light of day. Only six are said to be built, at a reported price of £1.1 million ($1.83 million USD). The jury's still out on what will power the mythical beast - gossip suggests an American V8 sourced from either General Motors or Ford and driving in excess of 500 horsepower through a sequential gearbox - but carbon-fiber construction and exotic interior are said to be part of the final package. We could see a production version at the upcoming Frankfurt show in September, so stay tuned.

Gallery: GTbyCitroen

Gallery: Paris 2008: GTbyCitroen Live

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: GTbyCitroen gets the green light for limited production originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LEAKED: High-res shots of 2010 BMW X1 hit the information superhighway

Chris Paukert — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:55:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Crossovers/CUVs, BMW

2010 BMW X1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although it is isn't slated to be officially revealed until this fall's Frankfurt Auto Show, it feels like we've been seeing the wraps come off BMW's X1 baby crossover for years now. Thanks to a steady stream of spy shots over the last 18 months or so, we feel like we ought to be able to tell you not only the shape and size of the glovebox, but the material its walls are made of. Regardless, these are the first official shots of the X1 that have leaked out on the web, apparently because of German magazine FOCUS online.

As we've already seen almost all elements of the X1 already, the final shape doesn't surprise us, which appears much like a shrunken X5 mixed with styling cues from the bull-nosed 7-Series, 5-Series Gran Turismo, and of course, last year's X1 Concept.

The inside is typical Bimmer fare as well, with a sober but handsome and well-screwed-together look. The usual accoutrements are present in the photo models' driver oriented instrument panels, including iDrive, USB ports, and thumb-shifters for the automatic.

We're already tired of BMW's awkward model naming conventions, but regardless, the CUV is expected to launch in Europe in xDrive18i and xDrive 18d configurations, along with an xDrive20d model whose 177 hp diesel is apparently good for 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, an xDrive23d model with a 204 hp oil-burner (0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds, top speed of 139 mph), as well as the xDrive28i, which is apparently good for 143 mph. No word yet on what models we'll see in the U.S. just yet, but we'd be surprised to see anything less powerful than the xDrive28i in Stateside dealers, and we'll keep our fingers crossed for a diesel variant.

According to current scuttlebutt, the X1 will launch in autumn exclusively paired with all-wheel drive, but rear-wheel drive versions are expected to come on line soon thereafter. Check out the gallery below and keep checking back with us for further details as they become available.

Gallery: Leaked 2010 BMW X1 Images

LEAKED: High-res shots of 2010 BMW X1 hit the information superhighway originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertibles, Mercedes-Benz

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The engineers at Mercedes-Benz are working tirelessly to get the all-new E-Class cabrio ready for its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. So much so that they appear to be bringing dates along for a ride in the chop-topped mules.

These newest shots of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible are the first we've seen with the cloth top stowed away, and they reveal an interesting detail: a retractable wind deflector mounted on the top of the windshield.

Like Audi, Mercedes has opted to forgo the folding hard-top treatment for the new E, allowing the automaker to retain the coupe's hard-edged style and keep the curb weight in check. When the E-Class Convertible arrives in dealerships early next year, expect a range of six- and eight-cylinder powerplants, including the range-topping E500.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered Speculation: Is this the new Saab 9-5?

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:07:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, Wagons/Estates, Saab, Rendered Speculation

Saabs United procured some rendered versions of the coming Saab 9-5 that are purportedly from Saab itself. While computer renderings must be viewed with a few packets of salt sprinkled on the screen, if you compare the 9-5 sedan render with a spy shot of the rear end of the actual car, the similarities look promising.

The wagon rendering is simply too brutally sexy to be believed, and so -- only in order not to have our hopes dashed -- we refuse to believe it. If Saab did have the gumption to design such a car, and Koenigsegg does have the wherewithal to properly market it, then we might just have a proper Swedish car company on our hands again. The 9-5 sedan arrives at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show and goes on sale this year, with the wagon following next year.

[Source: Saabs United via Autoblog.nl]

Rendered Speculation: Is this the new Saab 9-5? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Citroen C3 leaks out, DS4 and DS5 details surface

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:29:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Euro, Crossovers/CUVs, Hatchbacks, Citroen

The crew from World Car Fans apparently have a mole within the Citroen dealer network who supplied them with a handful of images of the 2010 Citroen C3 before its official reveal at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

The leaked images show a significant redesign, including a thoroughly revised front fascia with more aggressive headlamps, sunken foglights and a larger air intake. The windshield has been extended further into the roof, creating a pseudo sunroof and eschewing any rumors about a panoramic glass top. New chrome trim surrounds the grille and across the hatch, while the revised rear end features new tail lamps and a more bulbous back side. If you're seeing a few shades of the recently revealed Citroen DS3 concept, you aren't mistaken, as this new C3 takes several cues from the compact concept that debuted in Geneva.

Speaking of the DS3, Autocar is reporting that development of the upcoming DS4 and DS5 is churning along, and both models will supposedly be high-riding crossovers influenced by the C-Sportlounge concept and Hypnos concept, along with a roofline eerily reminiscent of the BMW X6. The allure of coupe-like CUVs obviously isn't lost on the French, and we can expect one of the new crossover concepts to be revealed alongside the production CS3 in Frankfurt.

[Sources: WCF, Autocar]

Citroen C3 leaks out, DS4 and DS5 details surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback reveals even more in So. Cal.

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, Wagons/Estates, Hatchbacks, Audi

Less than 24 hours ago, Autoblog commenter Zamafir sent us a few cloaked images of the upcoming Audi A5 Sportback getting ready for its close-up at the University of California San Diego. Unsurprisingly, another camera-phone wielding student was able to capture Audi's new five-door A5 sans camouflage, and the results are equal parts telling and predictable.

Although the front end remains masked in these newest spy shots, the bit that matters - the slopping rear hatch - is plain as day, with a stretched C-pillar and elongated rear-quarter window, large rear windshield and slightly upkicked boot lid. The rear overhang doesn't seem disproportionately stretched and the profile proves that at least one German automaker can pull off an attractive mid-sized five-door without relying on a bloated rump.

There's still some debate about whether Audi will offer the A5 Sportback in the States, so just because it was shot in So. Cal. doesn't mean it's headed this way. Instead, expect the A5 to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September (possibly earlier, at the Audi Centenary Celebration in July), with a range of gasoline and diesel powertrains, including an S5 variant packing the supercharged 3.0-liter V6. You can read the full account of Zamafir's rendezvous with the A5 Sportback and see another spy shot of the new five-door over at Fourtitude.

Gallery: Audi A5 Sportback teaser

[Source: Fourtitude]

Spy Shots: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback reveals even more in So. Cal. originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Connecting the Dots: Hyundai's 2011 product plans

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:28:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, Crossovers/CUVs, Hyundai

Hyundai ix-onic Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Hyundai's relentless pursuit of market share continues unabated, and according to Autoweek.nl, the Korean automaker plans to bring four new models to market between now and 2011 to solidify its stronghold.

In addition to the Veloster-like Tiburon replacement rumored to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, a production version of the ix-onic crossover, originally shown in concept form at the Geneva Motor Show, is expected to debut sometime next year packing the same turbocharged 1.6-liter inline four as Hyundai's Tiburon successor and carrying an ix35 badge on the hatch.

Hyundai also plans to expand the i20 and i30 range in late 2010 by adding two MPV versions, one measuring 161 inches long and approximately 63 inches high, and another, slightly larger people mover with seating for seven. The following year, Hyundai will reportedly launch an all-new i40 (Sonata on these shores) to better compete with the Volkswagen Passat and Opel Insignia abroad. Taking inspiration from the Genus concept, both sedan and wagon versions will be available along with a range of four- and six-cylinder engines. Expect the new Tibbie to arrive in the U.S. late next year, followed by the Sonata replacement in 2012, and don't be surprised to see at least one new CUV from Hyundai within the next two years.

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Hyundai ix-onic concept

[Source: Autoweek.nl via WCF]

Connecting the Dots: Hyundai's 2011 product plans originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Audi R8 Spyder

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertibles, Sports/GTs, Supercars, Audi

Audi is testing its forthcoming R8 Spyder, and the car is wearing what appears to be a completely stowable roof, not the targa-style top that has been suggested as a possibility. Yet disappearing along with the roof could also be your view of the engine. The droptop in the spy photos and in Audi's official sketch features a solid engine cover and two curious structures adorned with gills that run up to the rear window. They could line up with an interior element when the roof is down, but it would have to be mighty cool to be worth missing out on that engine. Audi's 552 horsepower competitor for cars like the Vantage V12 and Porsche 911 Turbo Cabrio will bow at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show.

[Source: Fastest Car]

Spy Shots: Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Jun 2009 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Frankfurt Preview: Renault planning 3 electric vehicles

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, Green, Renault

Kangoo be bop Z.E. - Click above for high-res image gallery

This September's Frankfurt Motor Show will play host to three new electric vehicles from Renault, including a concept that previews an all new model. The concept is expected to be based on the same dedicated platform spawned by Renault's alliance with Nissan, due to underpin its new EV due to debut at the Tokyo Motor Show and go on sale in 2010. Renault development chief Christian Steyer told AutoCar that the EVs will benefit from distinctive styling to set them apart from the rest of the automaker's lineup.

In addition to the Trio of EVs, Renault will apparently be showing off both fast charging technology and battery swapping equipment, along with electric conversions of the Megane and Kangoo. The Megane will be the first EV to go on sale in Israel under the Renault-Nissan partnership with Better Place.

Gallery: Renault Kangoo be bop Z.E.

[Source: Autocar]

Frankfurt Preview: Renault planning 3 electric vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Facelifted 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton caught in Germany

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 11:34:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, Euro, Volkswagen

The Volkswagen Phaeton may not have gotten much love in the States, but V-Dub's range-topping saloon has soldiered on in Europe, undergoing a series of minor tweaks since its introduction earlier this decade. For 2011, the Phaeton is finally due for a comprehensive facelift, and these newest spy shots show a new fascia is in the works.

Although the extensive camouflage doesn't give us much to work with, expect a revised grille to join more sculpted, drawn headlamps that lend some familial cohesion to the sedan. Imagine a stretched and broadened Golf and it's likely you're not too far off. Other tweaks include a reworked rear bumper and tail lamps, along with a new instrument panel, center stack and shifter arrangement. A range of powerplants will be available - possibly including a V10 or V12 TDI - and the 2011 Phaeton could debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, with sales beginning shortly thereafter. Chances of it coming back to the U.S.: zero.

[Source: FastestCar]

Spy Shots: Facelifted 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton caught in Germany originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 11:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Opel pulls the wraps off the 2010 Astra's interior

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 11:01:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Euro, Hatchbacks, Opel, Vauxhall, UK

2010 Opel Astra - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Although we're still a few months away from seeing the 2010 Opel Astra in the flesh at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the automaker has released a bevy of interior images of its new compact hatch following the reveal of the fully redesigned exterior.

The new interior takes a huge stride beyond the current model's drab yet functional environment, with upgraded materials and a completely reworked center stack housing controls for the sat-nav, HVAC and infotainment systems. It's mildly mobile phone-like and you wouldn't be alone seeing shades of the new Ford Fiesta in the Astra's center console.

Additionally, there's a redesigned glovebox with removable compartments for pens and coins, an optional compartment under the passenger seat and ambient lighting piped into the door handle surrounds, gear lever recess and center stack.

Based on the new Delta platform that underpins the Chevrolet Cruze, the new Astra will be available abroad later this year, packing a host of gasoline and diesel powerplants with outputs ranging from 100 to 180 hp. Make the jump for the release, along with a groovetastic video of the Astra's new insides.

Gallery: 2010 Opel Astra

Continue reading Opel pulls the wraps off the 2010 Astra's interior

Opel pulls the wraps off the 2010 Astra's interior originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Jun 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will launch with V10 only, next A8 not coming to Frankfurt

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Frankfurt Auto Show, Convertibles, Sedans/Saloons, Sports/GTs, Euro, Supercars, Audi

2010 Audi R8 V10 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's been all but confirmed by Audi that the R8 Spyder is due to debut alongside the new A5 Sportback at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, but according to two reports from Car and Driver, there will be one less vehicle on the show stand in Germany and only one engine available in the drop-top supercar.

The 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will reportedly be available with the 525 hp, 5.2-liter V10 at launch -- meaning no V8 -- with a standard six-speed manual gearbox or optional R-tronic automated transmission. The 420 hp, 4.2-liter V8 currently fitted to the standard R8 could be added later, but Audi seems to favor sticking with the V10 until the R8's replacement arrives a few years down the road.

Additionally, it was widely reported that the 2011 Audi A8 would be unveiled in Frankfurt, but C&D says that the launch has been pushed back sometime after the LA Auto Show in December. Apparently, the reason for the delay is two-fold: Audi doesn't want to risk quelling sales of the current A8 in some of its most important markets (China, Europe and the U.S.) and the automaker is (wisely) worried that the unveiling could be overlooked at a large auto show where too many models are vying for attention. As such, the A8 could be shown initially at a private event in Florida later this year, with the first public exhibition being the Detroit Auto Show in January.

Gallery: 2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI quattro

[Source: Car and Driver (1) (2)]

REPORT: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder will launch with V10 only, next A8 not coming to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz S-Class mule with PRE-SCAN technology spotted?

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, Tech, Mercedes-Benz

At the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz revealed its F700 concept. In addition to being a big sedan with a tiny gas engine, it also wore a version of Mercedes' PRE-SCAN predictive suspension system. The technology scans the road ahead with a set of lasers mounted next to the headlights, and then optimizes the suspension settings to soak up what's coming.

An S-Class mule in Stuttgart has been caught wearing something that spies suggest could be an evaluation version of the PRE-SCAN system, hinting that a production system is in the not-too-distant future. The spotter said that you could put a glass of wine on the car and drive 50 km/hr and not spill a drop. If true, that would be fantastic. If, at the very least, it made the next S-Class as smooth as the Citroen C6 around a horse track, Mercedes would have another solid achievement on its hands. Hat tip to Paul!

Gallery: Frankfurt 2007: Mercedes-Benz F700 Concept

[Source: Spyshots.nl (translated)]

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz S-Class mule with PRE-SCAN technology spotted? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Production Peugeot 308 RC Z said to be racing toward Frankfurt

John Neff — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Euro, Peugeot

Judging by this latest round of spy shots taken by shooters in Spain, Peugeot's 308 RC Z is almost ready to take on the Audi TT which it so openly apes.

Said to be powered by the 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder borrowed from Mini's John Cooper Works in its most powerful incarnation, the RC Z figures to be down on power to the German, so it's good that it figures to be less expensive as well. According to source at Pug, prices figure to start below below £20,000 (circa $33k USD), a useful savings over the Audi.

Other powertrains are also said to be in the mix, all with lower power (a 150 hp 1.6-liter turbo, as well as a 2.0-liter HDI engine giving either 150 bhp or 163 bhp). The 308 RC Z is widely expected to be offered in a front-drive only configuration, so the coupe figures to only challenge lower-end non-Quattro TT models.

The production RC Z is expected to debut at this fall's Frankfurt Auto Show - three years after it debuted in concept form - and go on sale next spring. Thanks for the tip, Andrus!

Gallery: Peugeot 308 RC Z

[Sources: Fastestcar.com; Autocar]

Spy Shots: Production Peugeot 308 RC Z said to be racing toward Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Seat to launch 265hp Leon Cupra R in Frankfurt?

Noah Joseph — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Euro, Hatchbacks, SEAT

2009 Seat Leon Cupra - Click above for high-res image gallery

Buyers overseas aren't left wanting for sport models from Volkswagen's Spanish subsidiary, including the sporty FR line and the powerful Cupra range. But if the latest reports from our Iberian counterparts prove accurate, Seat could be preparing to launch an even more powerful version of its Golf-based Leon at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

Packing the same 265hp engine from the Volkswagen Scirocco R, the rumored Seat Leon Cupra R would also feature a dual-clutch gearbox, AP Racing brakes, a specially-tuned suspension and competition-style bucket seats inside, and the possible inclusion of Seat's trick new XDS electronic differential. With the current range-topping, 240hp Leon Cupra sprinting to sixty in just 6.4 seconds and undercutting the Golf GTI by a good few hundred on the sticker, the 265hp Cupra R could prove to be a real barn-stormer.

Gallery: 2009 Seat Leon Cupra

[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

Seat to launch 265hp Leon Cupra R in Frankfurt? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 1 Series gets closer to production

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:33:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertibles, Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, Geneva Motor Show, Euro, Hatchbacks, BMW

2011 BMW 1 Series - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The BMW 1 Series is due for a thorough overhaul, and judging by these recent spy shots, the entry-level Bimmer is on track to be released late next year. This second generation prototype was caught running between BMW's test centers in Germany wearing the roundel's patented psychedelic camo, and appears to blend some of the new X1's slab sides with the upright grille and fascia that debuted on the redesigned 2009 BMW 7 Series. The 2011 model is expected to be offered in an assortment of body styles, ranging from the coupe and convertible we get here in the States, to a traditional five-door hatch, sedan and possibly a three-door shooting brake.

As for powerplants, it's already been confirmed that BMW is working on a range of four-cylinder engines that may make it to the U.S., and recent rumors suggest a three-cylinder mill packing 1.35-liters of displacement and putting out between 163 and 241 hp is in development for the European market. Naturally, expect both the three- and four-cylinders to have a turbo dangling from the exhaust manifold, and the upcoming SuperSports model - a send-off to the current 1 series due out next year - could be a good indication of what to expect. Informed speculation says the SuperSports will be equipped with a twin-turbocharged 2.0- to 2.2-liter four-cylinder with an output of 300 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. We half-expect the SuperSport to debut at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, with the fully redesigned 1 series bowing at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 1 Series

Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 1 Series gets closer to production originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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