Autoblog Luxury http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Luxury 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[60 years of the Mercedes-Benz SL]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/60-years-of-the-mercedes-benz-sl/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/60-years-of-the-mercedes-benz-sl/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/60-years-of-the-mercedes-benz-sl/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

Only a tiny number of cars have been unquestioned status symbols for six straight decades. The Mercedes-Benz SL is one of them, and - just like another one, coincidentally - it's new for this year. Although "Magic Sky Control" doesn't have the same classic ring as "pagoda roof," the R231 2013 SL aims to keep the streak going.

For folks who might not know where the streak began, there's a short refresher video after the jump that will speed you from the 1952 300 SL up to the present day. Enjoy.

Continue reading 60 years of the Mercedes-Benz SL

60 years of the Mercedes-Benz SL originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mercedes-benz sl2013 slmercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz slslsl-classsl-klassevideoyoutube Sun, 12 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169615/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/12/60-years-of-the-mercedes-benz-sl/20169615/article-detail.xml 20169615 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mercedesslevolution_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mercedesslevolution.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac XTS to feature safety tech developed from autonomous vehicles]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/cadillac-xts-to-feature-safety-tech-developed-from-autonomous-ve/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/cadillac-xts-to-feature-safety-tech-developed-from-autonomous-ve/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/cadillac-xts-to-feature-safety-tech-developed-from-autonomous-ve/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Cadillac XTS tech

Five years ago, GM engineers, a variety of partner companies, and Carnegie Mellon University built a Chevrolet Tahoe that autonomously traversed 60 miles of urban traffic in less than six hours, taking home the DARPA Urban Challenge win. Later this year, some of that technology will make its way to production in the 2013 Cadillac XTS.

The list of active safety systems in the XTS is easily on par with what the Germans offer, including adaptive cruise control, intelligent brake assist, forward collision alert, automatic collision preparation, lane departure warning, blind spot alert and a heads up display (hit the jump for the full, exhaustive list).

The incorporation of all these systems is something GM is calling "sensor fusion," which combines multiple inputs and serious processing power to, in the words of Bakhtiar Litkouhi, GM Research and Development lab group manager for perception and vehicle control systems, "provide advisory, warning, and control interventions to help drivers avoid collisions and save lives."

It's also the first step in bringing both semi-autonomous and fully autonomous vehicles to market, something Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz are all actively working on.

Get a brief primer on the philosophy behind sensor fusion in the video and accompanying release below the fold.

Continue reading Cadillac XTS to feature safety tech developed from autonomous vehicles

Cadillac XTS to feature safety tech developed from autonomous vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 cadillac xtsautonomousautonomous vehiclescadillaccadillac xtsxts Sun, 12 Feb 2012 13:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169283/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/12/cadillac-xts-to-feature-safety-tech-developed-from-autonomous-ve/20169283/article-detail.xml 20169283 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/gmsensorfusion-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/gmsensorfusion-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz improves on the seat belt, again]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/mercedes-benz-improves-on-the-seat-belt-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/mercedes-benz-improves-on-the-seat-belt-again/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/mercedes-benz-improves-on-the-seat-belt-again/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz seat belt

Mercedes-Benz seat belts already have a feature that adjusts the tension of the belt after it's buckled, using motors in the B- and C-pillars. The boffins in Stuttgart have improved on that by turning to their attentions to the buckle, giving it two new functions. When you enter the vehicle, the buckle extends by 70 mmm (2.75 inches) and it illuminates to help you locate it and insert the tongue. Once the seat belt has been fastened, it retracts again to provide the proper tension around the thorax and lower pelvis.

Mercedes says the innovation will appear in its cars soon, and if we placing bets, we'd say the 2013 S-Class is a perfect candidate. There are more photos in the gallery and a press release with more info on the tech after the jump.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz improves on the seat belt, again

Mercedes-Benz improves on the seat belt, again originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mercedes seat beltmercedes seatbeltseat beltseatbelt Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166691/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/11/mercedes-benz-improves-on-the-seat-belt-again/20166691/article-detail.xml 20166691 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mbseatbeltextend_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mbseatbeltextend.jpg <![CDATA[Only one Aston Martin One-77 left to purchase new]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/only-one-aston-marton-one-77-left-to-purchase-new/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/only-one-aston-marton-one-77-left-to-purchase-new/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/only-one-aston-marton-one-77-left-to-purchase-new/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Aston Martin One-77

Bound and determined to get your hands on an Aston Martin One-77? If so, now's the time to get serious. According to duPont Registry, the very last factory-built One-77 is finally up for sale.

The car is located in Tampa Bay, Florida, and its exact build number is not known. According to the report, the first and last One-77, build numbers one and 77, were pre-sold to wealthy buyers expecting them to appreciate in value faster than the other 75 One-77 models created.

In any case, duPont Registry claims there are between five and eight One-77 supercars roaming the streets in the United States, making this one rare Aston Martin. Interested? Better get a move on... and bring along something in the neighborhood of $2 million.

Only one Aston Martin One-77 left to purchase new originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aston martinaston martin one-77one-77 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169216/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/only-one-aston-marton-one-77-left-to-purchase-new/20169216/article-detail.xml 20169216 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/aston-martin-one-77_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/aston-martin-one-77.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti takes us behind the scenes in World's Fastest Hybrid vid]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2012 Infiniti M Hybrid Behind The Scenes

Nissan clearly wants to get as much mileage as it can out of the "duel" it staged between its Infiniti M Hybrid and the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid. You'll remember the spot, showing the M35h ripping through the quarter-mile in less than 14 seconds, ahead of the hybrid Porsche. Infiniti got Guinness World Records to proclaim it the fastest accelerating full hybrid last year, which served as the inspiration for filming the online ad.

Now, a new video has been posted to YouTube, showing some behind the scenes footage of the filming of the ad. It's not exactly earth-shattering stuff, as the parts we found most interesting were the shots of the camera chase car, which is neither an Infiniti nor a Porsche, but actually a Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

While we like the spot, this second go-round with it had us contemplating other things. We always wonder about the effectiveness of comparing your brand to another when it's clearly done to try and rub some of that competitive luster onto your own badge. And backing it up by throwing out a name that we most closely associate with overweight twins riding motorcycles? We like the M Hybrid, and we're happy to get more of a look at it, but if Infiniti really wants to impress, we'd like to see some more competitive comparisons, like how it performs on a road course or even how it matches up with non-hybrid models.

Click past the jump to watch the full video.

Continue reading Infiniti takes us behind the scenes in World's Fastest Hybrid vid

Infiniti takes us behind the scenes in World's Fastest Hybrid vid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 infiniti m hybrid2012 infiniti m35h2012 porsche panamera s hybridhybridinfinitim hybridm35hpanamera s hybridporschevideo Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:13:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169255/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/20169255/article-detail.xml 20169255 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/infiniti-m-hybrid-behind-the-scenes-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/infiniti-m-hybrid-behind-the-scenes-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Audi introduces 360-hp TT RS 'plus']]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/audi-introduces-360-hp-tt-rs-plus/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/audi-introduces-360-hp-tt-rs-plus/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/audi-introduces-360-hp-tt-rs-plus/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Audi TT RS Plus

A few months ago, we heard word Audi was hard at work on an even sharper version of its TT RS, and as it turns out, those rumors were true. Well, sort of. The German automaker has unveiled the Audi TT RS 'plus' in the EU, though the vehicle produces the same 360 horsepower as the fire-breather we sampled last year. The 0-60 mph dash takes the same 4.1 seconds, though buyers in the old country will have the option of outfitting their purchase with a seven-speed dual-clutch S-tronic gearbox. Likewise, the TT RS plus is available in both hardtop and convertible configurations, whereas buyers in the U.S. can only have theirs as a fixed-roof coupe with a manual gearbox.

Interestingly enough, Audi lists the vehicle's curb weight at 3,196.7 pounds, which is just over 100 pounds lighter than what the company quoted us for the U.S.-spec model back in October. Given the weight reduction, we would expect slightly improved performance over the American TT RS, but the 0-60 mph figures are nearly identical.

It wasn't long after we drove the TT RS that whispers of an even brawnier TT RS 'plus' surfaced. The vehicle was rumored to have 385 horsepower and weigh in at 130 pounds less than the standard model. You know what they say: One out of two ain't bad... or something. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading Audi introduces 360-hp TT RS 'plus'

Audi introduces 360-hp TT RS 'plus' originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi ttaudi tt rsaudi tt rs plustt rstt rs plus Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168952/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/audi-introduces-360-hp-tt-rs-plus/20168952/article-detail.xml 20168952 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/audi-tt-rs-plus-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/audi-tt-rs-plus-628.jpg <![CDATA[Three-cylinder BMW 3 Series on its way?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

2012 BMW 3 Series

Peter Nefischer, head of engine development for BMW, has said the automaker is currently working on developing three-cylinder engines to be used across the company's vehicle line. The powerplants would likely be different than the one found in the BMW i8 and wouldn't be partnered with an electric motor. Instead, engineers would turn to forced induction to maintain acceptable power levels. Nefischer said engineers have gone as far as possible with current engine technology, and the next step is smaller, more powerful variants.

So, when can we expect to see a three-cylinder 3 Series hit the streets? According to the report, the vehicle could be here in two years. BMW has already demonstrated the sort of gains that can be made by dropping cylinder count. Just look at the F30 328i with the vehicle's impressive power and fuel economy as an example. Will BMW bring 3 Series to the table with half the cylinders of the tried-and-true I6? Stranger things have happened.

Three-cylinder BMW 3 Series on its way? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 3 seriesbmwbmw 3 seriesrumormillthree cylinder 3 seriesthree cylinder engine Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166986/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/three-cylinder-bmw-3-series-on-its-way/20166986/article-detail.xml 20166986 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-bmw-3-series-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-bmw-3-series-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai still considering Genesis sub-brand]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-still-considering-genesis-sub-brand/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-still-considering-genesis-sub-brand/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-still-considering-genesis-sub-brand/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Hyundai Equus

Automotive News reports Hyundai is still mulling the possibility of a luxury sub-brand. Vehicles like the Equus, Genesis Sedan and Genesis Coupe would all sail under a new Genesis brand sold through Hyundai dealerships. The models would also receive a new alphanumeric naming system to avoid redundancy. Dave Zuchowski, executive vice president of sales for Hyundai Motor America, told Automotive News the automaker is currently discussing whether or not selling premium vehicles with a Hyundai badge on the hood is restricting the company from moving more units.

The report says many Genesis buyers are opting for dealer-installed Genesis emblems in place of their Hyundai badges already. Even so, no final decision has been made about the possible rebranding nor has any time table been placed on the move. Zuchowski says if the Hyundai does decide to segregate its luxury models from the rest of the fleet, it would likely coincide with a significant redesign. That means if it happens, the shift will land in 2013 at the earliest.

Hyundai still considering Genesis sub-brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> genesis subbrandhyundai equushyundai genesishyundai genesis coupehyundai subbrand Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167009/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/hyundai-still-considering-genesis-sub-brand/20167009/article-detail.xml 20167009 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hyundai-equus-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hyundai-equus-628.jpg <![CDATA[Range Rover celebrates 10th anniversary with special editions]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/range-rover-celebrates-10th-anniversary-with-special-editions/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/range-rover-celebrates-10th-anniversary-with-special-editions/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/range-rover-celebrates-10th-anniversary-with-special-editions/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Ten years wouldn't seem like much of an anniversary for an automaker, or even a sub-brand. But we're not talking about a make here, we're talking about one model. That's right: The current Range Rover has been on the market for a decade, which is a rather long life-cycle for any automobile, but Jaguar Land Rover isn't the least bit embarrassed. In fact, it's celebrating the anniversary with a series of special edition models.

Picking up where the Vogue model leaves off, the Westminster Edition features a cabin decked out in leather trim, thick carpeting and piano lacquer veneers, with illuminated treadplates, polished pedals, a 19-speaker Harman/Kardon sound system with Dual View display and heated and cooled front seats. JLR's 4.4-liter turbodiesel V8 pulls all four 20-inch, 10-spoke wheels through an eight-speed automatic.

Meanwhile the Autobiography edition is available with the same engine, or with the supercharged 5.0-liter V8 with six-speed automatic. The Range Rover Design Pack distinguishes the exterior, while the Range Rover Seat Style Pack makes the cabin an even more opulent place to be with the reclining rear seats and moveable front passenger seat you'd expect to find in a limousine.

Full details can be found in the press release after the jump, including pricing in Land Rover's native market since these won't be available in the U.S.

Continue reading Range Rover celebrates 10th anniversary with special editions

Range Rover celebrates 10th anniversary with special editions originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> anniversaryautobiographyland roverland rover range roverland rover range rover autobiographyland rover range rover westminster editionrange roverrange rover autobiographyrange rover westminster edition Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165843/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/range-rover-celebrates-10th-anniversary-with-special-editions/20165843/article-detail.xml 20165843 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/rrover-anniv-spcl_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/rrover-anniv-spcl.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[Bentley hires David Hilton as new Head of Exterior Design]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/bentley-hires-david-hilton-as-new-head-of-exterior-design/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/bentley-hires-david-hilton-as-new-head-of-exterior-design/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/bentley-hires-david-hilton-as-new-head-of-exterior-design/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

David Hilton

Bentley has named designer David Hilton as the company's head of exterior design. Hilton ran his own successful design firm for 12 years before accepting the position with the ultra-luxury automaker. He will now report to Dirk van Braeckel, director of design and styling. Hilton is stepping into the shoes of Raul Pires, who left the company at the end of last year to join forces with Italdesign, the Volkswagen-owned design studio.

Hilton has over two decades of automotive design experience under his belt, having worked with companies from Ford to Volkswagen. The last-generation Ford Focus RS is among his notable accomplishments.

He'll have his work cut out for him moving forward. Bentley is slated to unleash a rash of new products in the coming months, including an all-new SUV and a replacement for the company's aging Continental line. Click past the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Bentley hires David Hilton as new Head of Exterior Design

Bentley hires David Hilton as new Head of Exterior Design originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bentleybentley head of exterior designdavid hiltondesignexterior designhead of exterior designhiring Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168371/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/bentley-hires-david-hilton-as-new-head-of-exterior-design/20168371/article-detail.xml 20168371 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/david-hilton-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/david-hilton-628.jpg <![CDATA[Kia's RWD K9 flagship caught testing in the snow]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kias-rwd-k9-flagship-caught-testing-in-the-snow/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kias-rwd-k9-flagship-caught-testing-in-the-snow/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/kias-rwd-k9-flagship-caught-testing-in-the-snow/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Kia K9 Spy Shots

Kia has taken the company's K9 to Northern Sweden for a little winter testing, and our spy photographers were on hand to catch a glimpse of the vehicle as it went dashing through the snow. The vehicle will borrow from the rear-wheel drive architecture pioneered on the Hyundai Genesis, though will likely boast design cues inspired by the Kia GT Concept. Judging by these photos, full LED headlights will make their way to the model, at least on some trims. Odds are the K9 will boast power from both a 3.8-liter V6 and a 4.6-liter V8 as well as a more powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine borrowed from the Genesis R-Spec.

A standard eight-speed automatic transmission is likely to handle gear-swapping duties, but rumor has it Kia is also working on a new 10-speed transmission, and there's a chance that gearbox will be available in the K9 in the near future. Look for the vehicle to make a full debut later this year as a 2013 model.

Kia's RWD K9 flagship caught testing in the snow originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> k9 spy shotskiakia k9kia k9 spy shotsspy photographsspy shots Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168175/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/kias-rwd-k9-flagship-caught-testing-in-the-snow/20168175/article-detail.xml 20168175 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/02-kia-k9-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/02-kia-k9-628.jpg <![CDATA[Why did Honda kill its best performance engine?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/why-did-honda-kill-its-best-performance-engine/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/why-did-honda-kill-its-best-performance-engine/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/why-did-honda-kill-its-best-performance-engine/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



The performance profile of the turbo four may have doomed it to being merely a footnote in Honda's illustrious history.

When the 2013 Acura RDX launches this spring, Honda will quietly close down a spur line of its Anna, OH, plant. Since 2006, it had been building the 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine used in the first-generation RDX there. These engines were unique, the company's first to be fitted with a turbocharger from the factory. But the redesigned 2013 RDX will be available only with a V6, and with no other application for the turbo four, Honda's most impressive performance engine will die an ignoble death.

The 2.3-liter turbo was a variation of the 2.4-liter four used in the Honda Accord and the Acura TSX. Rated at 240 horsepower, it was the 260 lb-ft of torque that made things special. Honda's traditional approach to engine design had favored high-revving, small displacement engines that made generous power thanks to variable valve timing technologies - but at the expense of torque output. So when Honda announced that it would be producing a turbocharged engine for the first time, it seemed to herald the next wave of Honda performance. Finally, some torque to match the howling VTEC power. But sadly, it was the performance profile of the turbo four that may have doomed it to being merely a footnote in Honda's illustrious history.

Continue reading Why did Honda kill its best performance engine?

Why did Honda kill its best performance engine? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 acura rdxacuraannachicago 2012chicago auto showhondahonda turbo enginerdxturboturbo acuraturbo hondaturbochargedturbocharged acura Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167548/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/why-did-honda-kill-its-best-performance-engine/20167548/article-detail.xml 20167548 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/12rdxengine-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/12rdxengine-opt.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[Maybach lost upwards of $500k on each vehicle sold]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/maybach-lost-upwards-of-500k-on-each-vehicle-sold/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/maybach-lost-upwards-of-500k-on-each-vehicle-sold/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/maybach-lost-upwards-of-500k-on-each-vehicle-sold/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Maybach 57 S Edition 125

Daimler is shuttering Maybach in 2013 after seven years of production. In that time, the company's ultra-ultra-luxury arm managed to sell just 3,000 units, and CAR reports Daimler lost somewhere around $500,000 on each and every one of them.

Even with a ludicrous price tag of over $370,000 for an "entry" Maybach 57, the brand couldn't quite recoup the dizzying $1.33 billion Daimler poured into it since its (re)inception. Rumors ignited over a possible tie up with Aston Martin that would have resulted in a range of new and attractive models, but Daimler has instead decided to snuff out Maybach altogether.

We can hardly blame them.

Mercedes-Benz will pick up the ultra-luxury slack with a new range of sedans based on the S-Class. Those bruisers will likely bow in 2013 just as Maybach turns out the lights for good.

Maybach lost upwards of $500k on each vehicle sold originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> daimlermaybachmaybach 57maybach lossmercedes-benz Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167241/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/maybach-lost-upwards-of-500k-on-each-vehicle-sold/20167241/article-detail.xml 20167241 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mabach-57s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mabach-57s.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Mopar 300 dialed M for Murdered Out]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-mopar-300-chicago-2012/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-mopar-300-chicago-2012/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-mopar-300-chicago-2012/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2012 Mopar Chrysler 300

Our first face-to-face look at the murdered-out Mopar 300 occurred at the Chicago Auto Show today. Peel away the black hood and you will find the the company's familiar 5.7-liter V8 as standard equipment. Output remains at 363 horsepower, but a new final-drive ratio of 3.91:1 working in conjunction with its five-speed W5A580 automatic transmission should drop 0-60 times into the low five-second range.

Other upgrades include firmer suspension tuning (42 percent stiffer front and 23 percent stiffer rear spring rates compared to the Chrysler 300 models with touring-tuned suspension), stickier rubber (245/45R20 Goodyear Eagle F1 three-season tires) and high-performance brake pads in the dual-piston front and single-piston rear calipers.

You won't be able to miss the Mopar Chrysler 300 (except at night) thanks to its Gloss Black paint, Gloss Black 20-inch wheels and numerous other blacked-out appointments both inside and out. The many "Mopar" badges on the fenders and deck lid only serve to reinforce its evilness.

Being the third turn-key Mopar product after the '10 Mopar Challenger and '11 Mopar Charger, the '12 Mopar 300 will be available for purchase this summer for $49,700 (including destination charges), though production is limited to just 500 units.

Continue reading 2012 Mopar 300 dialed M for Murdered Out

2012 Mopar 300 dialed M for Murdered Out originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 mopar 300300chicagochicago 2012chicago auto showchryslermoparmopar 300 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167380/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2012-mopar-300-chicago-2012/20167380/article-detail.xml 20167380 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-chrysler-mopar-300-chicago-1328725426_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2012-chrysler-mopar-300-chicago-1328725426.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Kia Optima SX Limited is literally a dream come true]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-kia-optima-sx-limited-chicago-2012/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-kia-optima-sx-limited-chicago-2012/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-kia-optima-sx-limited-chicago-2012/#comments Filed under: , , ,



While Chrysler got the most attention for its Super Bowl ad starring Clint Eastwood, many found Kia's spot starring Mr. Sandman, Adriana Lima and Motley Crue to be the most entertaining. The car featured in the ad was the new Optima SX Limited, which made its debut today at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

The SX Limited is the new range-topping trim for the Optima, slotting neatly above the SX. What it adds to the already loaded SX are LED daytime running lights, chrome accenting on the rear spoiler and lower door sills, red painted front brake calipers, a unique set of chrome 18-inch wheels, high-dollar Napa leather, wood interior trim and three exterior colors options: Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl or Titanium Metallic.

While no pricing for the SX Limited was given, we obviously expect it to start somewhere north of the SX trim's $26,500 base price. Production begins later this month at Kia's assembly plant in West Point, Georgia.

Continue reading 2012 Kia Optima SX Limited is literally a dream come true

2012 Kia Optima SX Limited is literally a dream come true originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 kia optima sx limitedchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showkiamr. sandmanoptimasx limited Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167254/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2012-kia-optima-sx-limited-chicago-2012/20167254/article-detail.xml 20167254 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-optima-sxl-live-chicago-18-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-optima-sxl-live-chicago-18-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Porsche 911 hits U.S. dealerships]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-porsche-911-hits-u-s-dealerships/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-porsche-911-hits-u-s-dealerships/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2012-porsche-911-hits-u-s-dealerships/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The 2012 Porsche 911 has been soaking up its share of plaudits, now its ready to soak up its share of your bank account. The "longer, lower, wider, 100-pounds lighter, faster" 911 has finally reached dealerships in its two initial guises: 350-horsepower Carrera and 400-horsepower Carrera S.

The entry model will need $82,100 of your hard earned cash, which is a $4,300 premium over the 2011 Carrera MSRP. It takes another $14,300 to affix an S to the rear end. Those prices don't include the $950 destination charge, but you wouldn't let such a tifle stand between you and history anyway, right? You'll find a press release with a few more details after the jump, then we can all turn our attention to the 911 Turbo.

Continue reading 2012 Porsche 911 hits U.S. dealerships

2012 Porsche 911 hits U.S. dealerships originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 9112012 porsche 911911 Carrera911 carrera sCarreracarrera sporsche 911Porsche 911 Carreraporsche 911 carrera s Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165979/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/2012-porsche-911-hits-u-s-dealerships/20165979/article-detail.xml 20165979 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/porsche911atdealers_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/porsche911atdealers.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2013 Acura ILX

The 2013 Acura ILX is here, and it will be one of the new first-responders to address the perception of Acura's weakened health. It might just be our eyes, but the transition to Acura-spec wheels and paint job makes this look much more of-the-family than the concept shown in Detroit. However, the production lines remain true, minus some of the chrome showy bits from the concept.

Motivation will be provided by either a 150-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder working through a five-speed automatic, a 201-hp, 2.4-liter with a six-speed manual, or the first Acura hybrid with a 111-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder getting help from Integrated Motor Assist and a CVT, good for fuel economy estimates of 35/38 miles per gallon, city/highway. Follow the jump for a press release with more information, and look out for live pics from our team at the Chicago Auto Show.

Continue reading 2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury

2013 Acura ILX puts a familiar face on entry-level luxury originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 acura ilxacurachicagochicago 2012chicago auto showilx Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165629/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/2013-acura-ilx-puts-a-familiar-face-on-entry-level-luxury/20165629/article-detail.xml 20165629 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-acura-ilx-chicago_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-acura-ilx-chicago.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Acura RDX gets more of the good stuff]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-acura-rdx-gets-more-of-the-good-stuff/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-acura-rdx-gets-more-of-the-good-stuff/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/2013-acura-rdx-gets-more-of-the-good-stuff/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2013 Acura RDX

More room, more power, more fuel efficiency and more advanced all-wheel drive are the four unique selling propositions for the 2013 Acura RDX. As with the 2013 ILX, the productionized version of Acura's people-hauler is very, very similar to the RDX Concept from Detroit with a new set of wheels and a new paint job.

The 3.5-liter V6 throws 33 more horsepower into the mix versus the previous generation's turbocharged four, and a brand new six-speed automatic transmission helps return an estimated 20 city/28 highway mile-per-gallon rating for the front-wheel-drive model. The AWD version only takes a slight knock from there, getting 19 city/27 highway.

The longer wheelbase and wider track equate to more room inside, and additional levels of luxury have been added features like Keyless Access, Pandora and an available power rear liftgate. There's plenty more information on it in the press release after the jump, and we'll have live shots from the Chicago Auto Show soon.

Continue reading 2013 Acura RDX gets more of the good stuff

2013 Acura RDX gets more of the good stuff originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 acura rdxacurachicagochicago 2012chicago auto showrdx Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165683/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/2013-acura-rdx-gets-more-of-the-good-stuff/20165683/article-detail.xml 20165683 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-acura-rdx-chicago_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/2013-acura-rdx-chicago.jpg -1 2