Autoblog

In-car navigation systems set to go 3D?

Chris Shunk — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST

Navigation systems have quickly gone from being an interactive way to direct one from Point A to Point B to massive infotainment centerpieces capable of MP3 player integration, web browsing and wifi. Auto Express is reporting that GPS units could go 3D as soon as next year, because advancements in hardware could make the technology feasible with already available dual image LCD screens (like the one in the 2010 Jaguar XJ).

If you're thinking that you're going to have to wear those goofy paper 3D glasses to find the nearest McDonalds, that's not the case. Faster processors and increased memory will enable the LCD to oscillate between two images fast enough to give the illusion of depth. The incorporation of important landmarks embedded within the 3D image ought to go leaps and bounds towards finding your destination easier.

In the near term, it's likely that the functionality will first be available in aftermarket systems, with OEM models becoming available after the tech becomes a bit more mainstream. Actually, Clarion has been selling a 3D nav system in the UK for over a year and Sony and Panasonic have had the tech available in Japan, so it's more a matter of when, not if, the tech will be available in North America.

[Source: Auto Express]

In-car navigation systems set to go 3D? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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J.D. Power study shows people interested in new car tech, but not if they have to pay for it

Chris Shunk — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Trends, I.C.E., Technology

Smaller, cheaper electronics have been a boon for the auto industry, as car technology has boomed over the past few years. J.D. Power has been studying the tech trend, surveying over 19,000 potential car buyers to gauge interest in new tech like nav systems and infotainment systems. The powerful research company found that customers are now far more tech-savvy than they were in the past, and they're also very interested in adding new features to their next car purchase. That's great news for automakers, but unfortunately (and unsurprisingly), many aren't interested in paying for the new features.

J.D. Powers found that 67% of those surveyed were interested in a navigation system. But when the average price of $1,600 was revealed, the number dropped to only 20%. Luxury buyers were a bit more interested, though only 45% of those surveyed would still opt for the interactive LCD. Cheaper off-board navigation services like On-Star or Ford's SYNC direction service weren't very good alternatives, either. Only one-third of those who were interested in navigation would go the off-board route, even though the systems have proven to be very effective and easy-to-use. We're guessing that part of the allure of the LCD nav is that it makes the whole dash look more high-end.

Customers are also very interested in utilizing their MP3 players in the car. Nearly two-thirds wanted the ability to listen to their music players in the car, while 27% wanted "smart phone" music connectivity. Of those who already use their music devices in their car, over half use an auxiliary jack, and 20% use an FM transmitter. Hit the jump to pour over the J.D. Power press release.

[Source: J.D. Power]

Continue reading J.D. Power study shows people interested in new car tech, but not if they have to pay for it

J.D. Power study shows people interested in new car tech, but not if they have to pay for it originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EXCLUSIVE: Sneak peek at Hyundai Genesis Coupe's next-gen nav system

Chris Paukert — Wed, 27 May 2009 19:27:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, I.C.E., Technology, Hyundai

Hyundai Genesis Coupe navigation system prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Hyundai's sparkling Genesis Coupe debuted earlier this year, we heard from many of you who were excited about the rear-drive model's performance prospects. More than a few we spoke with, however, expressed disappointment that it did not arrive in showrooms with an optional in-dash navigation unit, particularly since Hyundai was plainly targeting premium competitors like the Infiniti G37. Well, we've just returned from the company's HATCI facility (Hyundai-Kia American Technical Center, Inc.) in Ann Arbor, and we're happy to report that we've been given an in-depth look at a prototype of the company's next-generation system that will find its way into the Genesis Coupe beginning later this summer.

Fair Warning: The accompanying photographs are of a rough engineering prototype unit, but we thought our readers would appreciate the early look. As is typical of such mules, the instrument panel is more than a bit tired looking from having its "head unit swapped out more often than you change your underwear" (so says Dan Bedore, Hyundai's quick-witted P.R. manager).

Click on the jump to get the full skinny.

Gallery: Hyundai Genesis Coupe navi sneak peek

Continue reading EXCLUSIVE: Sneak peek at Hyundai Genesis Coupe's next-gen nav system

EXCLUSIVE: Sneak peek at Hyundai Genesis Coupe's next-gen nav system originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Eyes on the Road: AT&T bringing CruiseCast in-car satellite tv to market

Dan Roth — Mon, 25 May 2009 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Gadgets, Etc., I.C.E.

AT&T is starting to work with pockets of customers to test its CruiseCast satellite-based entertainment service before officially putting the TV/radio service on wide offer. When the whole clan is on the go, it may work to keep everyone calm and quiet, and when your Prevost motor coach is loaded up with everything else, you might as well go for the TV service, too. Truckers sticking DBS dishes on their rigs would likely be pleased with the CruiseCast system, especially since AT&T is using some new technology developments by RaySat that defeats the typical issues with line of sight obstacles and underpasses.

For comparison's sake, Sirius is cheaper and offers much more variety than AT&T's 20 music/talk radio stations, but their optional Backseat TV service only offers three television channels, and they are all geared for the kiddies. Conversely, AT&T's CruiseCast hardware must be professionally installed and will set you back $1,299, and the monthly payment is $28. Once the service is available for all customers in early June, they'll have 22 television channels to choose from. All that for the price of a used car and more than $300 bucks a year in subscription costs. Official press release posted after the jump.

[Source: Engadget]

Continue reading Eyes on the Road: AT&T bringing CruiseCast in-car satellite tv to market

Eyes on the Road: AT&T bringing CruiseCast in-car satellite tv to market originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 May 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Future Ford SYNC upgrade could include Pandora streaming

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 18 May 2009 19:27:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, CES, I.C.E., Ford

Click the image above to view a video of the new SYNC system after the jump

At the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Ford announced that three new features would be included on the next iteration of the SYNC system: traffic data, GPS-guided directions and the ability to snag information from the web through the user's data/GPS/Bluetooth-enabled smartphone to display or read weather conditions, sports scores and other information through the stereo.

On May 26th, the upgrade will be made available to all current 2010 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury owners (you download the update to your PC, then transfer it to the SYNC system through a thumb drive) and all new 2010 models will be equipped with the upgrade from the factory. But as Ford CEO Alan Mulally promised, there's more on the way.

Ford and Microsoft plan to continually update SYNC, and according to Charlotte Fisher from Ford's Design and Technology team, "every six to eight to twelve months we'll be delivering new services." One of the possible features Ford could include on future iterations of SYNC is streaming internet radio, and Fisher confirmed that Ford is currently "talking with Pandora." Can you say XM-killer? Hit the jump to watch a video of the new system in action.

Continue reading Future Ford SYNC upgrade could include Pandora streaming

Future Ford SYNC upgrade could include Pandora streaming originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 May 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Those Monsters: Monster Cable sues Monster Transmission

Dan Roth — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 13:03:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Etc., Government/Legal, I.C.E.

Monster Cable is nothing if not aggressive. The company rabidly peddles overpriced wiring products to purchasers incapable of analysis, and Monster Cable is just as obnoxious about suing everything in sight that uses "Monster" in its name. What kind of copyright infringement might Monster Mini Golf be foisting upon a company that charges way too much for wire that offers dubious, if any, performance advantage? While the issue with Monster Mini Golf has been settled, Monster Cable is now going after another totally unrelated business. While the company says it's over any issues with Monster Transmission of Florida, the shop says the story is not yet over. While Monster Cable seems bent on copyrighting the word "Monster," the businesses they're harassing are engaged in actual commerce, some even building class-leading products, you know, like the type Monster claims it makes (and charges for). We're off to stock up on lamp cord to hand out as part of an overpriced interconnect recovery package.

[Source: Engadget]

Those Monsters: Monster Cable sues Monster Transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Apr 2009 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New York: Definite Maybe - VW Up! could be headed Stateside

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:20:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Budget, Minivan/Van, Green, I.C.E., Hatchback, Volkswagen

Volkswagen Up! Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here in New York, Volkswagen CEO Stefan Jacoby said the company might be shaking things "Up" again in the States. The on-again, off-again status of the Up! mini-car on these shores is apparently about to go on - again. While the Up! (likely to reintroduce the Lupo nameplate) won't see production until 2012 at the earliest, Jacoby is hinting that it could be on sale here when it debuts: "Up! could be in the future of the market here. In urban areas like New York, a car like Up! has a good chance."

Jacoby, among others, thinks that fuel efficiency will remain a big draw into the future, so cars like the Up! make a lot of sense for VW, returning an anticipated 50 mpg. And that's just in conventional internal-combustion engine configuration. Throw in some of VW's alternative-fuel technology, and that number could go up significantly. "We are looking at second-generation biofuels, electric cars, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and nanotechnology," Jacoby said. That doesn't mean VW thinks the end of the ICE is nigh. When the U.S. market starts to rebound at the end of 2009, Jacoby anticipates a total market of 13 million to 14 million vehicles, the vast majority ICEs.

We've already speculated that the Up! will be produced in India, and that we'll most likely get the roomier Space Up! microvan model rather than the smaller three-door hatch version. We're also hearing that the original Beetle-like rear-engine, rear-drive configuration will be swapped to front/front for production. Engine options are said to range from a 600cc turbo to a 1.2-liter three-cylinder, in gas and diesel forms. Mileage could be as high as 80 miles-per-gallon. If it has any of the driving dynamics that Volkswagen is known for, we can see this being a worthy rival for the Honda Fit and Fiat 500 in the fun little econo car class.

Gallery: VW up!

Gallery: VW space up! blue

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd.]

New York: Definite Maybe - VW Up! could be headed Stateside originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Don't tell ME how to drive! - Next-gen Ford navigation system could have "emotions"

Dan Roth — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:58:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., I.C.E., Technology, Ford

In the near future, Ford vehicles may fire back a retort if you get cheesed off enough to yell at the car. According to the details of a patent filing, Ford is working on an Emotive Advisory System (EAS) that simulates emotions when interacting with occupants, and may also use an avatar to express itself.

The EAS also uses sensors to detect the emotional state of occupants and generate responses based on that data. We all tend to forge some kind of bond with our cars, but it's a little too fantastical and hilarious to imagine rocking down the blacktop in a new Taurus SHO and having the car say "You don't need to drive like a jerk just because you're mad at me."

Gallery: Ford Next-Gen Navigation System

[Source: swdelaw]

Don't tell ME how to drive! - Next-gen Ford navigation system could have "emotions" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ironic legislation: CARB ruling to kill aftermarket plug-in hybrids?

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Government/Legal, Green, I.C.E., Technology

The uncertain future of the alternative-powered and alternative-fueled vehicle is being decided by a confluence of old and new technology, big business and start-ups, marketing, vested interests, and public perception. It is no surprise, then, that when it comes to government regulation, we are bound to end up with some conflicting decisions. A company in California that converts regular hybrids to plug-in hybrids has found itself smack in the middle of one of those conflicts.

Last year, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) cut its mandated amount of electric vehicle sales in California by 70%. Some thought that might leave an exploitable opening for plug-in hybrids to gain serious market share. A number of start-ups have been established that install additional batteries into cars like the Toyota Prius, rendering them all electric below 34 mph, and allowing them to be recharged in 4 hours from a standard 3-prong outlet. The retrofit turns the 40+ mpg Prius into a 100+ mpg dromedary.

A new CARB proposal would require those start-ups to put their cars through smog tests that run about $25,000 per car, and to warranty their conversions for 10 years or 150,000 miles. The smog test issue has to do with a pollutant buildup issue in the catalytic converter and the gas vapor canister on cars that do a lot of cold starts and that might not use their internal combustion engines for more than three days. The warranty terms are the same as those mandated for any company that sells hybrids in California.

The start-ups say the pollutant issue has already been tested and solved by battery provider A123 systems, and it was approved in Massachusetts, a state that follows the same emissions standards as California. As for the warranty, the start-ups say they aren't altering the Prius, they are adding aftermarket batteries, so it doesn't make sense to force them to match the Prius' warranty. Besides that, the batteries they install are not expected to last ten years, so the warranty would be pointless anyway. The new regulations are expected to come into force next week anyway. Hat tip to reader Daniel

[Source: East Bay Express]

Ironic legislation: CARB ruling to kill aftermarket plug-in hybrids? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bentley V8 turns 50 years old

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 16:28:00 EST

Filed under: Classics, I.C.E., Bentley

Click on the image above for a small high-res gallery of Bentley's V8 engine

When the conversation turns to classic V8 engines from a bygone era, the discussion often starts and ends with the small block Chevy that was introduced way back in 1955 and continues to terrorize the overhead-cam masses from Ford all the way to Ferrari. Bentley would like to remind you that it, too, has an iconic engine born back in the '50s that still deserves to be feted, and it still has pushrods. And celebrated it shall be at the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation lecture on January 22nd. This year will mark the 6¾-liter Bentley V8 engine's 50th anniversary, with the motor having seen its first installation in the 1959 Bentley S2. The mill was enlarged back in 1968 to its current displacement and has seen the addition of turbochargers and intercoolers on the way to its current position under the hoods of the 530-horsepower Bentley Brooklands coupe, Arnage and Azure convertible models for 2009. Congrats on the achievement, Bentley Boys.

Gallery: Bentley V8 engine

[Source: Bentley]

Continue reading Bentley V8 turns 50 years old

Bentley V8 turns 50 years old originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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AMG Boss: "The horsepower wars are over."

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:59:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Performance, Etc., Green, I.C.E., Technology, Mercedes-Benz

Click above for a high-res image gallery of the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series

That's the way it goes with fashion: it's on the runway in Paris in March and in a bucket at Big Lots by September. Mercedes-Benz' in-house tuning arm, AMG, has decided to turn with the popular tide and call time on horsepower brinkmanship, with the division boss saying, "We are going to use other ways to extract better performance, including weight saving, engine optimization and alternative technologies."

What's the new fashion? Getting the most out of the least. AMG is going to do that by losing weight, installing tech like the SL63 AMG's wet clutch gearbox on the coming E63 AMG, and possibly re-engineering Mercedes' diesel, hybrid, and four-cylinder engines for AMG duty.

Not too long ago, imagining an A-Class AMG would have been beyond comprehension, but this is the future. We just hope everyone has thought through the consequences: with the reins being pulled on increasingly powerful motors, this is going to put a lot of horses out of work. And that makes the possibility of an equine industry bailout something we can't rule out...

[Source: Autocar]

AMG Boss: "The horsepower wars are over." originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Land Rover to borrow one of Jag's diesels

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:32:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, I.C.E., Jaguar, Land Rover

When the facelifted Range Rover Sport and Land Rover Discovery 3 (LR3 in the U.S.) take their bows later this year, in addition to the new faces they'll also be showing off new engines. The 2.7-liter TDV6 currently used is good for 190 hp and 324 lb-ft. The new engine will be Jaguar's 3.0-liter twin turbocharged V6 diesel and will come in two flavors: one with 237 hp for the Discovery 3, and one with 272 hp and 420 lb-ft for the Range Rover Sport.

Those numbers are down on the figures achieved by the same lump in the Jaguar, at 275 hp and 443 lb-ft, but even the 237 hp variant should give the 190 hp 2.7-liter a proper shellacking. Even though the 2.7-liter, might remain as an option, the same engine swap yielded a 12% increase in gas mileage in the Jaguar. With the 3.0-liter providing more power on less fuel, it makes us think the 2.7-liter will be shown the door either by Land Rover or its customers.

[Source: Autocar]

Land Rover to borrow one of Jag's diesels originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Jan 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hartley reworks Hayabusa powerplant for easy use in autos

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:29:00 EST

Filed under: I.C.E., Suzuki, Motorcycle

We've been enamored with the idea of stuffing a Suzuki Hayabusa-derived V8 engine into an appropriately light and sporty four-wheeled conveyance since we first learned of such a powerplant's existence last Spring. The task of creating a 'Zuki-powered sled is set to become significantly easier now that Hartley Engineering has managed to rework the 'Busa block a bit. An entirely new crankcase has been designed and hewn from a huge chunk of 6061 T6 aluminum. It may not be a V8, but this new inline-four engine, known as the H2, is a diminutive powerhouse that can bolt right up to a standard automotive transmission. Why is this a big deal? Motorcycle gearboxes generally don't have a dedicated reverse gear and usually output their high-revving power via a chain. Now, the prospect of a 140-pound engine with over 200 horses powering something along the lines of a Super 7 has us salivating once again. Those with equally imaginative minds can now begin plotting their next projects, as the H2 is expected to be ready for purchase in early '09.

[Source: Hartley Enterprises via The Kneeslider]

Hartley reworks Hayabusa powerplant for easy use in autos originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Dec 2008 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ward's Auto declares Ten Best Engines of 2009

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 14:33:00 EST

Filed under: Green, I.C.E.

Ward's Auto has released its annual list of Ten Best Engines for the new year, and our first assessment is that it's just as interesting for what isn't present as for what is. First of all, let's get the official list out of the way:

Audi AG: 2.0L TFSI turbocharged DOHC I-4 (A4 Avant)
BMW AG: 3.0L turbocharged DOHC I-6 (135i Coupe)
BMW AG: 3.0L DOHC I-6 Turbodiesel (335d)
Chrysler LLC: 5.7L Hemi OHV V-8 (Dodge Ram/Challenger R/T)
Ford Motor Co.: 2.5L DOHC I-4 HEV (Escape Hybrid)
General Motors Corp.: 3.6L DOHC V-6 (Cadillac CTS)
Honda Motor Co. Ltd.: 3.5L SOHC V-6 (Accord Coupe)
Hyundai Motor Co. Ltd.: 4.6L DOHC V-8 (Genesis)
Toyota Motor Corp.: 3.5L DOHC V-6 (Lexus IS 350)
Volkswagen AG: 2.0L SOHC I-4 Turbodiesel (Jetta TDI)

Take a good look. Nissan's ubiquitous VQ, which up to this point, was the only engine series that had made Ward's Ten Best ever since the list's inception in 1995, is conspicuously absent. That's a big deal. We also note a couple of turbodiesel engines, one in BMW's favored inline-six configuration and one that powers VW's Jetta TDI. Ford's updated 2.5L hybrid four cylinder is also recognized, rounding out this year's trio of green powerplants. We also note that there's only one American V8 engine, the redesigned HEMI from Chrysler. More snubs? How'd they miss the amazing powerplants that sit under the hoods of the Corvette ZR1 and the Nissan GT-R? Update: Thanks goes to our commentators, who point out that the ZR1 and GT-R are too expensive to make the list.

[Source: Ward's Auto]

Continue reading Ward's Auto declares Ten Best Engines of 2009

Ward's Auto declares Ten Best Engines of 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Dec 2008 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes will begin phasing out V12 engines

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 17:41:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, I.C.E., Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz, longtime stalwarts of the V12 engine, is considering lowering its preferred cylinder count by a third. While our first inclination is to assume that this change is being made to increase the fuel efficiency and lower the emissions of the overall Daimler line, the real reason that the bent-12 engine program is being dropped is simply because the block is too long. A V12 is, for all intents and purposes, the same length as an inline-six, and the German automaker's latest line of mainstream engines are all in a V-design, so its cars are no longer being designed with an engine compartment large enough to house such a lengthy engine. Fear not, power fans, as the company isn't abandoning high horsepower in general. The V12 program is apparently being shifted towards twin-turbo V8s, and the magic of forced-induction means there's no reason to assume that fewer cylinders will equal fewer ponies. Expect the moratorium on V12s to begin the next few years.

[Source: Auto Bild]

Mercedes will begin phasing out V12 engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Nov 2008 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Honda V8 coming... in 2015

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 16:38:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, I.C.E., Acura, Honda

"You've got to have the right tool for the job." "You can't bring a knife to a gun-fight." Etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. We've heard it all before. Honda makes some excellent engines, there's no doubt about that, from small displacement four-pots that rev through the roof to gloriously smooth and reliable V6 units. Unfortunately, the fun stops there, as the Japanese automaker has steadfastly stuck to its guns, not building an eight-cylinder engine when it can do just as well with fewer pistons.

Regardless of how competent its six may be, nearly all of Honda's competitors offer V8 engines in their top-level models, and Acura fanatics have been begging for a range-topper to compete with the likes of Audi, BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz for years. They may soon get their wish, as Honda's CEO Takeo Fukui has stated once and for all that Acura will indeed be getting an eight for its next top-level sedan.

What good is a beefy engine if you can't get the power to the ground? A big, heavy V8 engine over the front tires is a recipe for a horribly unbalanced front-driver, and Honda realizes this. So expect the aforementioned sedan to get rear-wheel-drive to go along with its newfound infusion of displacement. When? Not until 2015 according to some industry sources. That's a veritable eternity in the auto biz, so we have to wonder if Fukui has let the cat out of the bag a bit prematurely.

[Source: Auto Observer]

Honda V8 coming... in 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Nov 2008 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fisker Karma to use GM's 2.0-liter turbo'd four

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Green, I.C.E., GM

Click above for high-res gallery of the Fisker Karma

Fisker Automotive has apparently decided that 260 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque should be plenty of power to recharge some batteries. Those 260 galloping ponies will come courtesy of the General in the form of its 2.0L direct injected and turbocharged Ecotec four banger, an engine that we've sampled ourselves plenty of times. We feel well qualified, therefore, to suggest that this is an excellent motor, but it really sounds like a major case of overkill for this particular application. Perhaps that's better than "underkill" (if such a word actually existed) as that powerful engine ought to be able to recharge the Fisker Karma's on-board lithium ion batteries at an extremely brisk pace. The faster the internal combustion engine can charge up the battery pack, the quicker the car can revert back to its native electric-only operation. Plus, that engine is a relatively light chunk of alloy, so the Karma's motor shouldn't be burdened by the gasoline-fed boat anchor too horribly under electric power.

We also find it a bit interesting that Fisker chose GM as its powertrain supplier, which means that the Karma and GM's own Chevy Volt are now even closer cousins than before. Both vehicles will sport four doors, lithium ion batteries and an extended-range electric vehicle drivetrain; and with this announcement, both are now slated to share four cylinder engines from GM. This kinda makes 'em second-cousins through marriage, no?

Gallery: Fisker Karma

Continue reading Fisker Karma to use GM's 2.0-liter turbo'd four

Fisker Karma to use GM's 2.0-liter turbo'd four originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sirius and XM debut new lineups

Dan Roth — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Gadgets, Etc., I.C.E., Technology

Sirius and XM have buried the hatchet and merged their content, to the likely displeasure of many. XM closes 15 stations while simultaneously adding 22 new selections to the lineup, and Sirius pretty much broke even, trading 11 stations for 10 new ones. As has always been the case, the sports fans fare the best. Reception is reportedly better, too, though we're sure the lossy-codec lack of fidelity still makes it all virtually unlistenable to anyone that pays attention. If you don't care that cymbal crashes on SatRad sound like a pair of metal trash cans being hurled down a fire escape, you'll likely be pleased with the shuffling; though we hope they've left our beloved Soulsville alone.

[Source: Kicking Tires]

Sirius and XM debut new lineups originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai develops high-performance diesel R-Engine

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:58:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, SUV, I.C.E., Technology, Hyundai

Not too long ago, Hyundai didn't compete directly with anything coming out of Germany (or perhaps that's the other way around). Now Hyundai is determined not to let up on its recently-made foes. Today it unveiled the R-Engine, a new diesel in two capacities that the company says "can comfortably beat the power outputs of all German and French competitors." So there.

The Euro-V compliant, common-rail lumps come in 2.0-liter and 2.2-liter flavors, each with piezo-electric fuel injectors and electronic variable geometry turbos. Refinement comes via an internal, silent steel timing chain and a lower balance shaft housed in a stiffened ladder-frame housing. Weight has also been reduced thanks to a head cover, intake manifold and oil filter housing all made from plastic.

The 2.0-liter R-Engine puts out 181 hp and 289 lb-ft. That compares to 170 hp and 258 lb-ft for Audi's 2.0-liter TDI. The 2.2 liter Hyundai diesel pushes 197 hp and 321 lb-ft. , which compares with 215 hp and 398 lb.-ft. for Mecedes' 3.2-liter BLUETEC CDI.

Hyundai says the first vehicles to get the new diesel R engine will be SUVs and large sedans sold in Europe. Unfortunately, there appear to be no plans to bring it to the U.S. where our diesel emissions standards are higher than the Old Country's, at least for now.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Hyundai develops high-performance diesel R-Engine

Hyundai develops high-performance diesel R-Engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Next-gen SRX and Equinox to also get DI 3.0L V6

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:31:00 EST

Filed under: I.C.E., Crossover, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Rumormill

If current rumors prove accurate, General Motors has big plans for its line of high-feature V6s, and with good reason. These six-cylinder engines make class competitive power and are very smooth. Thanks to direct injection, the engine range also offers excellent fuel efficiency when mated to GM's equally new six-speed automatic transmission. We recently heard that a new 3.0-liter version of this powertrain duo would make an appearance in the new 2010 Buick LaCrosse, and now we're hearing the engine will also be optional in the upcoming Chevy Equinox and standard in Cadillac's new SRX. Expect the new 3.0-liter V6 to offer around 250 horses and fuel efficiency slightly under 30 mpg on the highway. The Equinox's standard engine will be a new 2.3-liter direct-inject inline four-cylinder unit making something north of 200-horsepower, while the uplevel Caddy SRX should get the optional 300-plus horsepower 3.6L powerplant as found in the CTS.

[Source: GM Inside News]

Next-gen SRX and Equinox to also get DI 3.0L V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Nov 2008 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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