Autoblog Geneva Motor Show http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Geneva Motor Show http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[BMW debuts 560-hp twin-turbo M6, manual option under consideration]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2013 BMW M6

What's the new M6 made of? Just like the last generation, it takes all the best bits from the M5 and distills them into two door form. And this time, the convertible comes first.

At its heart, the M6 Coupe and Cabriolet are all about the engine, and as expected both models use the same twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 (ironically codenamed S63) to output 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, the latter of which peaks between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. Those figures should sound familiar, as they're almost exact duplicates of the M5's specs (the sedan makes an additional two lb-ft of torque), including the 7,200 rpm rev limiter and Valvetronic system.

Mated to the same seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox as the M5, BMW claims the M6 Coupe will run from a rest to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds, with the cabrio taking an additional tenth of a second to hit the same mark. According to our sources, a six-speed manual option is under consideration, but it won't be available at launch. And again, just like the M5, fuel consumption has been reduced by 30 percent while power has increased by around 10 percent.

Also included is BMW's Active M Differential, an electronically controlled multi-plate limited slip diff that works in conjunction with the DSC and the new Dynamic Damper Controls that electro-hydraulically tweak damping force on-the-fly depending on the settings and the situation.

Inside the subtly blistered wheel arches are massive 16.1-inch carbon ceramic rotors in front, gripped by six piston blue calipers, with equally impressive 15.6-inch rotors out back held by a single-piston caliper. The standard wheels are M-specific 19-inch alloys with 265/40 R19 ultra-high performance summer tires in front and 295/35 R19 rubber in the rear, with 20-inch lightweight hoops available as an option.

BMW isn't citing exact curb weights for either the coupe or cabrio yet, but assures us that they're notably less than the previous E63/E64, and the double-bubble carbon fiber roof on the coupe is a visual testament to that.

Sales of the convertible will start this June, with the coupe arriving later this summer as a 2013 model. And we hear we'll get to see the drop top in person at the New York Auto Show, with the coupe debuting in Geneva. Hit the jump for all the tech-laden details.

Continue reading BMW debuts 560-hp twin-turbo M6, manual option under consideration

BMW debuts 560-hp twin-turbo M6, manual option under consideration originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 bmw m62013 bmw m62013 bmw m6 convertible2013 bmw m6 coupe6 series6-seriesbmwbmw m6bmw m6 convertiblebmw m6 coupem6 Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169588/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/20169588/article-detail.xml 20169588 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-bmw-m6-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-bmw-m6-628.jpg <![CDATA[276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Vauxhall has three big reveals planned for the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, one of them being the 280-horsepower Vauxhall Astra VXR that was announced last November as the Opel Astra OPC. That means the 2.0-liter turbo four lives underhood, and in addition to 276 ponies, it dishes out 295 pound-feet of torque. Handling is aided by the limited-slip differential for the front axle, the HiPerStrut suspension and the "fully adaptive FlixRide system."

Vauxhall's also got a concept "pedelec" bicycle called the "RAD e" headed to the show. Taking some of its cues from the Opel RAK e Concept shown at Frankfurt, the RAD e attaches a 250-watt electric motor to a bicycle to assist the rider. The motor is good for a range of 37 to 90 miles. Finally, the Vauxhall Mokka crossover - their version of our Buick Encore - will make its formal debut in Geneva.

Follow the jump for the press release highlights, and have a look at the trio in the photo gallery.

Continue reading 276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva

276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> astra vxrgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmokkarad erad e conceptvauxhall astra vxrvauxhall mokkavauxhall rad e concept Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169614/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/20169614/article-detail.xml 20169614 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/vauxhallastra280hp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/vauxhallastra280hp.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota teases FT-Bh concept hybrid city car ahead of Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/toyota-teases-ft-bh-concept-hybrid-city-car-ahead-of-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/toyota-teases-ft-bh-concept-hybrid-city-car-ahead-of-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/toyota-teases-ft-bh-concept-hybrid-city-car-ahead-of-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Toyota FT-Bh Concept
Most concepts you'll see on the show stands of the Geneva Motor Show will come packing some manner of sci-fi powertrain and ultra-expensive chassis and body materials. That's where the Toyota FT-Bh concept stands apart.

Toyota is calling it a "full hybrid city car study," so the FT-Bh isn't destined for production. However, Toyota's goal was to create an inexpensive, fuel efficient urban runabout that doesn't rely on expensive materials or complex manufacturing, but rather uses existing technology to make an affordable hybrid for the masses - something that would be perfect for Europe.

Thing is, Toyota is bringing just that to Geneva in mass-market form.

Joining the FT-Bh on stage is the production version of the Yaris Hybrid, which for all intents and purposes is exactly what the FT-Bh is: an inexpensive, small hybrid based off an existing platform and using tried-and-true technology. Packing a 1.5-liter gasoline engine mated with an electric motor, the Yaris Hybrid outputs 98 horsepower and is some 20% lighter than the Auris Hybrid. Toyota is calling it "Europe's first full hybrid supermini," which begs the question: Where's the line between a "supermini" and a "city car?" We'll find out when we're on the floor in Switzerland next month.

Get all the details on Toyota's Geneva plans in the press blast after the break.

Continue reading Toyota teases FT-Bh concept hybrid city car ahead of Geneva

Toyota teases FT-Bh concept hybrid city car ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ft-bh conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showtoyotatoyota FT-Bhtoyota FT-Bh concept Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169246/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/toyota-teases-ft-bh-concept-hybrid-city-car-ahead-of-geneva/20169246/article-detail.xml 20169246 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-toyota-geneva-2012-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-toyota-geneva-2012-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bertone releases sketches of Nuccio Concept ahead of Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/bertone-releases-sketches-of-nuccio-concept-ahead-of-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/bertone-releases-sketches-of-nuccio-concept-ahead-of-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/bertone-releases-sketches-of-nuccio-concept-ahead-of-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Bertone Nuccio teaser sketch

Turin-based styling house Bertone has released a couple of sketches teasing its upcoming Nuccio Concept car. To be debuted at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, the Nuccio will reportedly be based on a mid-engine platform and is meant to commemorate the company's 100-year anniversary.

The Nuccio is named after founder Giovanni Bertone's son, who took over the company and separated it into two divisions, one for building cars and one for designing them for clients. Giuseppe "Nuccio" Bertone died in 1997 and was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in Detroit in 2006, having led his eponymous company through its most successful years.

The Nuccio Concept will be a berlinetta (Italian for little saloon) of classic Bertone design, sporting a pronounced wedge shape that sits very low to the ground. No real details were provided with the two sketches, so we'll have to wait until the Geneva festivities kick off for any hints on the powertrain or seating configuration.

Bertone releases sketches of Nuccio Concept ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bertonebertone nucciogenevageneva 2012geneva motor shownuccionuccio bertone Fri, 10 Feb 2012 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169156/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/bertone-releases-sketches-of-nuccio-concept-ahead-of-geneva/20169156/article-detail.xml 20169156 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bertone-nuccio_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/bertone-nuccio.jpg <![CDATA[2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe priced at $76,895]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-bmw-640i-gran-coupe-priced-at-76-895/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-bmw-640i-gran-coupe-priced-at-76-895/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-bmw-640i-gran-coupe-priced-at-76-895/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe

BMW has slapped a sticker onto the latest addition to the 6 Series lineup, and the all-new 2013 640i Gran Coupe will carry at sticker of $76,895 (including the $895 destination charge) when it goes on sale this summer.

The 640i is the first variant of the segment-splitting "4+1" sedan, which gets power from the ubiquitous TwinPower turbocharged and direct-injected 3.0-liter inline-six putting out 315 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8-powered 650i Gran Coupe will be on offer later this year in both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive guise, although BMW is holding off on pricing those two 445 hp models until closer to launch. Full details in the press blast after the break.

Continue reading 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe priced at $76,895

2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe priced at $76,895 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe price2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe pricing6 seriesbmwgran coupegran coupe price Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168471/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/2013-bmw-640i-gran-coupe-priced-at-76-895/20168471/article-detail.xml 20168471 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-bmw-6-series-gran-coupe-028-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-bmw-6-series-gran-coupe-028-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander

Remember when we said that the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV II (worst name ever) shown in Tokyo was basically the next Mitsubishi Outlander? We weren't lying. The 2013 Outlander will debut next month at the Geneva Motor Show, and Mitsubishi has released the first photo of the new crossover. What's more, the fancy PX-MiEV II concept apparently wasn't a vaporware showcase; Mitsubishi says that a plug-in hybrid version of the Outlander will join the roster later in 2012.

The Euro-spec Outlander launches this summer with 2.0-liter gas and 2.2-liter turbodiesel power, three seating rows, and an eco-driving coach feature designed to help drivers eke out the best possible fuel economy. Furthermore, the diesel version will offer an automatic start-stop feature to help maximize efficiency and minimize emissions.

Available driver aids include Forward Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Adaptive Cruise Control systems. There's not much else to tell right now, other than that Russia gets the new Outlander first, followed by a global rollout that includes North America. Follow the jump to read the press release, and click the image above to see a larger version.

Continue reading 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva

2013 Mitsubishi Outlander revealed, will debut in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013breakingcrossovercuvgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmitsubishioutlandersuv Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168074/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/2013-mitsubishi-outlander-revealed-will-debut-in-geneva/20168074/article-detail.xml 20168074 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/newmitsuoutlandersmall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/newmitsuoutlandersmall.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin debuts production V12 Zagato]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Aston Martin V12 Zagato

Aston Martin has pulled back the sheets on the first images of its production V12 Zagato. The road car is headed for an official debut at this year's Geneva Motor Show in March.

Following in the tradition of the automaker's ultra exclusive One-77, the V12 Zagato will take more than 2,000 man-hours to manufacture thanks to hand-hewn body panels, including the hood, roof and doors. Not surprisingly, Aston Martin has committed to building just 150 examples. The V12 Zagato will also make extensive use of carbon fiber, with the front and rear fenders, trunk lid and door sills all constructed from the composite.

Aston Martin created four new colors especially for the V12 Zagato, and paint alone takes 100 hours to complete. Indoors, it takes a full seven hides to cover the cabin in hand-stitched, quilted leather.

The V12 Zagato effectively rides on the same underpinnings as the V12 Vantage, which means buyers can look forward to a 6.0-liter V12 engine with 510 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, while a six-speed manual transmission puts the power to the ground. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Aston Martin debuts production V12 Zagato

Aston Martin debuts production V12 Zagato originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 geneva motor showaston martinaston martin v12 zagatogenevageneva 2012geneva motor showv12v12 vantagev12 zagatovantagezagato Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168047/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/20168047/article-detail.xml 20168047 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/zagato-front-3-4-mid-low-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/zagato-front-3-4-mid-low-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Cruze Station Wagon

This is the new Chevy Cruze station wagon, which will debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show and then arrive in European showrooms this summer. At 184 inches, it's longer than both the Cruze sedan and hatchback (by three and seven inches, respectively).

Inside, there's 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats up, and up to 52.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. Drivers will get to choose from a range of gasoline (1.6, 1.8, and 1.4T) and diesel (1.7 and 2.0) powertrains, and the long-roof Cruze arrives with Chevy MyLink available.

Australians will get a Holden-badged version, but as for us? Sorry, guys. Don't expect anything in the near future. Chevrolet spokesman Michael Albano says, "No plans on bringing the wagon to US at this point. But we'll continue to evaluate market as needed."

The official press announcement is pasted after the jump, and you can click on the image above to see a larger version.

Continue reading Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva

Chevrolet Cruze station wagon unveiled ahead of Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> breakingchevroletchevycruzeestategmholdenstation wagonwagon Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167995/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/chevrolet-cruze-station-wagon-unveiled-ahead-of-geneva/20167995/article-detail.xml 20167995 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/cruzewagonsmall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/cruzewagonsmall.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari to unveil new F620 in Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/ferrari-to-unveil-new-f620-in-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/ferrari-to-unveil-new-f620-in-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/ferrari-to-unveil-new-f620-in-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Ferrari at Geneva

It's not every day that Ferrari unveils a new model. And most of the time, when it does, it's a variant of an existing one. But when the doors open at the Geneva Motor Show next month, word has it that the House that Enzo Built will be showcasing an all-new front-engined V12 GT to replace the long-serving 599.

Dubbed F620, the all-new supercar is expected to pack a 6.2-liter version of the direct-injection V12 from the FF into an aluminum chassis. Expect the usual smattering of carbon fiber bits, but don't expect to see the costly material being used for structural components: Ferrari has discounted the application due to its high cost to manufacture and repair. Also off the table for this model is the part-time all-wheel-drive system from the FF, as the F620's anticipated 700 horsepower will drive the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

However accurate the forecasted specifications turn out to be, we'll find out one way or another next month.

Ferrari to unveil new F620 in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 geneva motor show599599 gtb fiorano620f620ferrariferrari 599ferrari 599 gtb fioranoferrari f620genevageneva 2012geneva motor show Wed, 08 Feb 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166539/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/ferrari-to-unveil-new-f620-in-geneva/20166539/article-detail.xml 20166539 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ferrari-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/ferrari-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen to unveil production Golf GTI Cabriolet in Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/volkswagen-to-unveil-production-golf-gti-cabriolet-in-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/volkswagen-to-unveil-production-golf-gti-cabriolet-in-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/volkswagen-to-unveil-production-golf-gti-cabriolet-in-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet concept

If you were watching the news out of Wörthersee last year, you may recall the Volkswagen Golf GTI Cabriolet concept pictured above. The show car debuted at the annual Volkswagen fan-fest in Austria, alongside an even hotter Golf R Cabriolet and a whole mess of other machinery from the burgeoning German auto empire. But that was the last we heard of it ... until now.

Reports coming in from across the pond indicate that Volkswagen is planning to actually build the GTI Cabrio, and that it will unveil the production version at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show next month. Although Volkswagen has offered the GTI's engine in versions of the Golf Cabriolet and Eos in some markets, this would only be the second time that a full-on GTI convertible will be offered from the factory, complete with the suspension and other bits that go along with it.

Word has it that the GTI Cabrio would be the final swan song for the current sixth-generation Golf before it's replaced next year. But if that's not enough, VW is also tipped to be preparing the hotter 268-horsepower, all-wheel-drive Golf R Cabrio for production as well. Chances that either of these would be offered on this side of the Atlantic, however, don't look good.

Volkswagen to unveil production Golf GTI Cabriolet in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> genevageneva 2012geneva motor showgolfgolf rgtigti cabriogti convertiblevolkswagenvw Tue, 07 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165599/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/volkswagen-to-unveil-production-golf-gti-cabriolet-in-geneva/20165599/article-detail.xml 20165599 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/1vw-gti-cabriolet_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/1vw-gti-cabriolet.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #268 LIVE]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-268-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-268-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-268-live/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast

We record Episode #268 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and you can drop us your questions via our Q&A module below. Check out our discussion topics or chime in to help determine what else the crew chats about this evening. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #268

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #268 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> autoblog podcastautoblog podcast topicschrysler profit sharingfiat 500lhonda civic hybrid lawsuitsuperbowl commercials Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165666/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-268-live/20165666/article-detail.xml 20165666 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Skoda up!grades with five-door Citigo]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/skoda-up-grades-with-five-door-citigo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/skoda-up-grades-with-five-door-citigo/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/skoda-up-grades-with-five-door-citigo/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Skoda Citigo

On this side of the Atlantic, one Volkswagen division's new product may not have a significant impact on those of another. That's because the German auto giant's brands are kept quite separate in North America. Less so, however, back in Europe, where a new VW is likely to reappear in due time as a Seat or Skoda.

Case in point: the new Up! city car, which is also sold overseas as the Seat Mii and Skoda Citigo. And, true to form, with the Volkswagen brand having enlarged its city car to a five-door, its Czech cousin has followed suit.

And so, starting in May (after its debut at the Geneva Motor Show), European buyers will be able to get their hands on a five-door Citigo, offering the same 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine (in either 60- or 75-horsepower guise) as the Up, Mii and three-door Citigo. Details in the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Skoda up!grades with five-door Citigo

Skoda up!grades with five-door Citigo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> citigoskodaskoda citigoupvolkswagen up Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20160356/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/skoda-up-grades-with-five-door-citigo/20160356/article-detail.xml 20160356 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/citigo5web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/citigo5web.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/nissan-invitation-concept-peeks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/nissan-invitation-concept-peeks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/nissan-invitation-concept-peeks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Nissan Invitation Concept

Nissan is headed to the Geneva Motor Show in March with a brand new hatchback concept. Called Invitation, this five-door should give us an idea of what the Japanese manufacturer has planned for its next B-segment contender. The concept borrows a bit from the likes of the Honda Fit, though that's no bad thing. With a clean, athletic design, the Invitation is a refreshing break from some of the automaker's more questionable exteriors.

Nissan hasn't divulged any drivetrain details as of yet, though the company has said each of the Invitation derivatives will be eligible to wear the company's Pure Drive badge. That means the production-version Invitation will be among the most efficient and economical vehicles Nissan produces. We do know the hatch will boast the ever-cool around-view monitor system along with a full slate of tech goodies. Hit the jump for the full press release and be sure to keep an eye open for our Geneva show coverage of the concept's official unveiling.

Continue reading Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video]

Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> conceptgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showinvitationinvitation conceptnissan Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165134/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/nissan-invitation-concept-peeks-out-ahead-of-geneva-debut/20165134/article-detail.xml 20165134 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-nissan-invitation-concept628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-nissan-invitation-concept628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Suzuki Regina concept renamed G70, production version coming?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/suzuki-regina-concept-renamed-g70-production-version-coming/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/suzuki-regina-concept-renamed-g70-production-version-coming/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/suzuki-regina-concept-renamed-g70-production-version-coming/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The Suzuki Regina concept shown at the 2011 Tokyo Auto Show was an unusual little car. We don't want to get our hopes up about production (especially since we'd probably never get it in America anyway), but the Regina will return to the spotlight at the Geneva Motor Show with some tweaks that have us wondering if Suzuki plans to actually build the French-looking runabout. Despite its bold styling, the Regina's drivetrain seems plausible enough; it's powered by a conventional three-cylinder gasoline engine.

The Regina will apparently be renamed G70 when it's shown in Switzerland. Tokyo publicity for the car centered around the five-door as "an idea for a 1,600-pound sedan that gets 75 miles per gallon." Suzuki has officially pegged the weight of the G70 at 730 kg, or 1,606 pounds. The "70" in the name likely comes from its 70g/km of carbon emissions, but Suzuki hasn't divulged its numbers yet. Follow the jump for a press release on the G70 concept.

Continue reading Suzuki Regina concept renamed G70, production version coming?

Suzuki Regina concept renamed G70, production version coming? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> g70genevageneva 2012geneva motor showreginaregina conceptsuzukisuzuki g70suzuki regina Sat, 04 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20163571/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/04/suzuki-regina-concept-renamed-g70-production-version-coming/20163571/article-detail.xml 20163571 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-suzuki-regina-concept-tokyo-2011628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-suzuki-regina-concept-tokyo-2011628.jpg <![CDATA[Production Mercedes-Benz A-Class spotted undisguised]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/production-mercedes-benz-a-class-spotted-undisguised/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/production-mercedes-benz-a-class-spotted-undisguised/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/04/production-mercedes-benz-a-class-spotted-undisguised/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

A-Class

We've gotten various peeks at the Mercedes-Benz A-Class for a few months now, from the patent drawings to spy shots to QR-coded teasers. Then, of all things in all places, a cyclist with a handlebar-mounted camera gets a full-on shot of the real deal while riding in Lanzarote, Spain for what we assume is a photo or video shoot.

If you liked the look of the patent drawings, then you'll be happy with the glimpse here. It even looks close enough to the Concept A for us to give Mercedes props for truth-in-concept-car designing. There's debate as to whether this is the AMG A-Class, but regardless, the final version will be shown at next month's Geneva Motor Show. Until then, watch the video after the jump.

Continue reading Production Mercedes-Benz A-Class spotted undisguised

Production Mercedes-Benz A-Class spotted undisguised originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> a-classconcept aconcept a-classgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmercedes a-classmercedes-benz a-classyoutube Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20164407/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/04/production-mercedes-benz-a-class-spotted-undisguised/20164407/article-detail.xml 20164407 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/a-classspylanzarote_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/a-classspylanzarote.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti names Geneva-bound range-extended sports car concept EMERG-E]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/infiniti-emerg-e-announced-as-name-for-geneva-bound-electric-con/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/infiniti-emerg-e-announced-as-name-for-geneva-bound-electric-con/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/infiniti-emerg-e-announced-as-name-for-geneva-bound-electric-con/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Infiniti EMERG-E Concept teaser

Infiniti has named its electric concept car headed for next month's Geneva Motor Show the EMERG-E. The company says that its showcar will be a coupe powered by a 1.2-liter gasoline engine with a range-extending electric motor. The powerplant will be mounted amidships for superior weight distribution, and the Japanese automaker promises the concept will offer impressive performance.

Infiniti has released very few details beyond saying the car's pure-electric range will be "respectable." The vehicle also promises zero-emission driving in most urban settings, so there's a good chance the concept will show off some advanced charging tech as well. The automaker is intent on making us wait until the vehicle's full unveil in Geneva before it drops any more clues, though a few more teaser images have surfaced to whet our appetite. Check them out in our gallery below.

Infiniti names Geneva-bound range-extended sports car concept EMERG-E originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 geneva2012 geneva motor showconceptemerg-eemerg-e conceptgeneva motor showinfinitiinfiniti electric conceptinfiniti emerg-e concept Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162827/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/03/infiniti-emerg-e-announced-as-name-for-geneva-bound-electric-con/20162827/article-detail.xml 20162827 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-emerg-e-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-emerg-e-628.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat 500L previewed ahead of Geneva Motor Show]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/fiat-500l-previewed-ahead-of-geneva-motor-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/fiat-500l-previewed-ahead-of-geneva-motor-show/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/fiat-500l-previewed-ahead-of-geneva-motor-show/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Fiat has finally tipped its hand on the 500L. After months of watching painful renderings of the five-door hatchback float to the surface, the company has dished a few official details ahead of the vehicle's debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March.

The 500L is 162.9 inches long, a smidge over 70 inches wide and 65.3 inches tall. Fiat says the four-door 500 combines an SUV driving experience with B-segment fuel efficiency and could easily serve as a first car for those who like the 500 but need a little more functionality. The Fiat 500L will begin production in Europe in the last quarter of this year. When it does, two gasoline engines and a turbo-diesel will find their way behind the headlights.

The Italian automaker isn't saying much about the company's plans for the 500L in the U.S., but we've previously heard American buyers will be able to sample the five-seater soon. Believe it or not, a seven-seat version is also planned for Europe. Follow the jump for the full press release and stay tuned for the unveil on March 6.

Continue reading Fiat 500L previewed ahead of Geneva Motor Show

Fiat 500L previewed ahead of Geneva Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 geneva2012 geneva motor show500500lfiatgenevageneva motor show Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162707/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/fiat-500l-previewed-ahead-of-geneva-motor-show/20162707/article-detail.xml 20162707 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-fiat-500l-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-fiat-500l-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford previews 2012 B-Max MPV ahead of Geneva debut]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/ford-previews-2012-b-max-mpv-ahead-of-geneva-debut/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/ford-previews-2012-b-max-mpv-ahead-of-geneva-debut/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/ford-previews-2012-b-max-mpv-ahead-of-geneva-debut/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 Ford B-Max

You've seen the S-Max. You've seen the C-Max. Now get ready for the B-Max.

The latest European-focused mini minivan from Ford was previewed in concept form at last year's Geneva Motor Show, but has now been confirmed for production release at the 2012 edition of the same expo this March. Based on the Fiesta (the C-Max is based on the Focus), the new B-Max will arrive into a highly competitive segment overseas, so it will need to offer some alluring features to make its mark.

The edgy design should help, but the party piece for this diminutive people carrier is that it has no B-pillars. And we don't mean that the windows have no frame: we mean the entire pillars are incorporated into the doors themselves, so that when you open the doors there's no encumbrance to loading and unloading of passengers and cargo alike.

Motivation is provided by a 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine, with Duratorq diesels also on offer. After its unveiling in Geneva, the new B-Max will go on sale at dealers across Europe later this year. Follow the jump for the full press release and click the thumbnails below to view the pair of images released thus far in high resolution.

Continue reading Ford previews 2012 B-Max MPV ahead of Geneva debut

Ford previews 2012 B-Max MPV ahead of Geneva debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 ford b-max2013 ford b-maxb-maxbmaxfordford b-maxgenevageneva 2012geneva motor show 2012 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162228/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/ford-previews-2012-b-max-mpv-ahead-of-geneva-debut/20162228/article-detail.xml 20162228 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fordbmax02web_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fordbmax02web.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Audi RS4 Avant headed to Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/2013-audi-rs4-avant-headed-to-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/2013-audi-rs4-avant-headed-to-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/01/2013-audi-rs4-avant-headed-to-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Downsizing? What downsizing? While rivals may be replacing cylinders with turbochargers - heck, even Audi itself has done that with the twin-turbo V8 succeeding the V10 in the S8 and such - the new RS4 is reportedly on its way in full-fat 4.2-liter V8 FSI trim.

The report comes courtesy of AMAG, the importer for Audi in Switzerland, which has confirmed that the RS4 Avant (oft spied in prototype guise) is scheduled to debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show this coming March. Along with it, we're told to expect a series of new TSFI engines and an upgraded TT-RS with 360 horses.

As for the RS4 Avant, we're looking at 450 horsepower with all-wheel drive and enough cargo capacity to make any luxury crossover buyer reconsider (much like the S4 Avant pictured above, only more so). That is, buyers in Europe, anyway, as we're not expecting the RS4 to make the trek across the Atlantic.

2013 Audi RS4 Avant headed to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 geneva motor show2013 audi rs4 avantaudiaudi rs4 avantgenevageneva motor showrs4rs4 avant Wed, 01 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20161272/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/01/2013-audi-rs4-avant-headed-to-geneva/20161272/article-detail.xml 20161272 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/audi-rs4-3-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/audi-rs4-3-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



Rumors of BMW M launching a diesel model have been circulating for over a year, and confirmation has finally arrived in the form of not one, not two, but four M-fettled oil-burners, each sporting all-wheel drive and the oft-rumored tri-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six. And before you get excited, none of them are slated for sale in the U.S. - this is a Euro-only affair.

So with that unfortunate fact out of the way, let's get to the details.

The new M models come in the form of the M550d xDrive sedan, M550d xDrive touring, X5 M50d and X6 M50d. Each makes use of a 3.0-liter inline-six common-rail diesel with the aforementioned trio of turbos specifically developed for the M Performance range. Output is rated at 376 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 545 pound-feet of torque available from 2,000 to 3,000 revs. If you're keeping track at home, that's a bump of 80 hp and 103 lb-ft over the 535d and 74 hp and 103 lb-ft more than the 3.0-liter mill fitted to the diesel X5 and X6.

Each model comes equipped with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and standard xDrive AWD, allowing the M550d sedan to hit 60 mph in 4.6 seconds - just four tenths of a second off the all-new M5's 0-60 run. You read that right. The M550d Touring hits 60 in 4.9 seconds, with the X5 M50d and X6 M50d passing the mark in 5.4 and 5.3 seconds, respectively. All models are limited to 155 mph and fuel consumption ranges between 6.4 liters/100km and 7.7 liters/100km.

Interestingly, the M-ified diesel 5ers ditch the standard electromechanical steering for a hydraulic system that's derived from the M5, and both the X5 and X6 variants uses systems similar to those on the X5 M and X6 M.

And if you're wondering why we won't see these M diesels here in the States, blame the necessity to reengineer the SCR (selective catalytic reduction) systems to make them comply with emissions standards across the country. We'll be seeing all four live from the Geneva Motor Show in March, but you can get the first batch of details in the press release after the break.

Continue reading BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d

BMW M goes diesel, introduces M550d, X5 M50d, X6 M50d originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 5 seriesbmwbmw mbmw m550dbmw m550d touringbmw x5 m50dbmw x6 m50ddieselmm dieselx5x6 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20156972/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/25/bmw-m-goes-diesel-introduces-m550d-x5-m50d-x6-m50d/20156972/article-detail.xml 20156972 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/02-m-performance-diesels-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/02-m-performance-diesels-628.jpg -1 2