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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff RossThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[2013 Nissan GT-R and 2013 Alpina B6 mix it up on track and street]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/2013-nissan-gt-r-and-2013-alpina-b6-mix-it-up-on-track-and-stree/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/2013-nissan-gt-r-and-2013-alpina-b6-mix-it-up-on-track-and-stree/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/2013-nissan-gt-r-and-2013-alpina-b6-mix-it-up-on-track-and-stree/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Alpina B6 vs. 2013 Nissan GT-R in Autocar track battle - video screencap

Here we have Autocar making an unforeseen comparison: the Nissan GT-R against the Alpina B6 at Brands Hatch and on public roads. Steve Sutcliffe clobbers the circuit in the 3,828-pound, all-wheel-drive sports car, then sees how well the 4,114-pound, rear-wheel drive grand tourer does against it.

Sutcliffe says there are quite a few similarities between the two cars, but that's really only on the spec sheet. The Nissan's got two turbos attached to its 3.8-liter V6, 542 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The Alpina's got two turbos attached to its 4.4-liter V8, 532 hp and 528 lb-ft. But one's brief is to be a monster on the track, the other on the boulevard, and if there's anything the video demonstrates, it's each car's focus.

The results are lopsided, and so is the way the winner was chosen. Sutcliffe's still fun to watch, though, and you'll find him in action in the video below.

Continue reading 2013 Nissan GT-R and 2013 Alpina B6 mix it up on track and street

2013 Nissan GT-R and 2013 Alpina B6 mix it up on track and street originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 May 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 alpina b62013 nissan gt-ralpinaalpina b6autocarbmwbmw 6 seriesbmw m6nissannissan gt-rsteve sutcliffevideo Fri, 24 May 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582656/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582656/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/2013-nissan-gt-r-and-2013-alpina-b6-mix-it-up-on-track-and-stree/20582656/article-detail.xml 20582656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/alpina-b6-vs-gt-r_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/alpina-b6-vs-gt-r.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin teases something very fast]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/aston-martin-teases-something-very-fast/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/aston-martin-teases-something-very-fast/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/aston-martin-teases-something-very-fast/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Aston Martin shadowy teaser - video screencap

Aston Martin has released a short teaser video entitled Coming Soon that features the image above near its close. Based on the profile and the hood intakes, the short money is on this being the V12 Vantage S, since the standard model has yet to earn the addition of the 19th letter of the alphabet. It looks like there might also be a new roof treatment on the car in the video, but that could merely be a trick of the light.

It probably won't be long before we get another teaser or the genuine article revealed. For now, there's the video below provided for your sleuthing.

Continue reading Aston Martin teases something very fast

Aston Martin teases something very fast originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 May 2013 15:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aston martinaston martin v12 vantageteaservideo Fri, 24 May 2013 15:47:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582847/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582847/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/aston-martin-teases-something-very-fast/20582847/article-detail.xml 20582847 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/aston-martin-vantage-tease_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/aston-martin-vantage-tease.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé bows at Villa d'Este]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe-bows-at-villa-deste/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe-bows-at-villa-deste/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe-bows-at-villa-deste/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe - front three-quarter view

The first collaboration between BMW and Pininfarina is this blunt-force two-door called the BMW Pininfarini Gran Lusso Coupe revealed at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. Said to be the "interpretation of a luxurious BMW Coupé as seen through the eyes of Pininfarina," once you get past all of the design-speak, you can focus on the full-bodied and keen-edged missile sitting on 21-inch wheels.

The long wheelbase makes for short overhangs. Up front, BMW's design language gets scraped across a whetstone, everything getting sharper, including the usually round cat's eye headlights that have gone dihedral. Under the hood is a V12, behind the twin-kidney grille in matte-sheen aluminium and high-gloss black. The same aluminum treatment also backs the taillights, the lenses designed to let air flow through them.

Inside is room for four, a cockpit canted toward the driver, Foglizzo leather in black and Tobacco Brown, 48,000-year-old kauri wood from New Zealand, deep pile carpet on the floors, a patterned virgin wool headliner and an "oblong aperture in the roof liner" set off by white LEDs.

There are words as flowery as the materials in the press release below and a gallery of high-res images to make sense of it all above. What do you think, should BMW consider a production version of this concept as a successor to the long-dormant 8 Series? Have your say in Comments.

Continue reading BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé bows at Villa d'Este

BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé bows at Villa d'Este originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 May 2013 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw 8 seriesbmw conceptbmw gran lusso coupebmw pininfarina gran lusso coupeconcorso deleganza villa destepininfarinavilla deste Fri, 24 May 2013 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582659/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20582659/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe-bows-at-villa-deste/20582659/article-detail.xml 20582659 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-pininfarina-gran-lusso-coupe.jpg <![CDATA[McLaren announces anniversary edition MP4-12C Coupe and Spyder specials]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/mclaren-announces-anniversary-edition-mp4-12c-coupe-and-spyder-s/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/mclaren-announces-anniversary-edition-mp4-12c-coupe-and-spyder-s/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/24/mclaren-announces-anniversary-edition-mp4-12c-coupe-and-spyder-s/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

McLaren MP4-12C Spyder Anniversary Edition

McLaren is rolling out special editions of the company's MP4-12C Coupe and Spyder supercars to commemorate its 50th anniversary. Produced by McLaren Special Operations, the cars will feature a new front fascia with additional downforce as well as carbon-fiber trimmed air inlets. Engineers also shed a few pounds from the machine by crafting the floorboard in carbon Kevlar. Each anniversary edition comes with carbon ceramic brakes as standard equipment as well as a set of bespoke, ultralight 19-inch wheels painted Satin Black. McLaren says the rollers are a full 4.4 pounds lighter than the stock wheels, combined.

Inside, buyers will find a full leather interior, and the anniversary editions will only be available in one of three colors. Those with the cash can choose between Carbon Black, Supernova Silver or McLaren Orange. We'll have ours in the latter, please. McLaren will kindly ask for $295,254 for the coupe and $325,836 for the Spyder at current conversion rates. Take a look at the press release below for more information.

Continue reading McLaren announces anniversary edition MP4-12C Coupe and Spyder specials

McLaren announces anniversary edition MP4-12C Coupe and Spyder specials originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> mclarenmclaren mp4-12cmclaren mp4-12c anniversary editionmclaren mp4-12c spyder Fri, 24 May 2013 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581672/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581672/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/24/mclaren-announces-anniversary-edition-mp4-12c-coupe-and-spyder-s/20581672/article-detail.xml 20581672 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mclaren-5012c01-1369364359_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mclaren-5012c01-1369364359.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac auctioning first CTS V-Sport for charity]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-auctioning-first-cts-v-sport-for-charity/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-auctioning-first-cts-v-sport-for-charity/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/cadillac-auctioning-first-cts-v-sport-for-charity/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2014 Cadillac CTS

General Motors will auction off the first Cadillac CTS V-Sport for charity. Mary Barra, head of global product development for GM, announced that the automaker will donate the first CTS V-Sport to the SAE Foundation to be auctioned in support for the organization's science, technology, engineering and mathematics educational programs (STEM). GM supports the STEM programs through its GM Foundation, both with financial grants and with 1,500 mentors and volunteers to help students with their studies.

This year, Mary Barra became the first woman to win the SAE Foundation's Industry Leadership Award in the accolade's 25-year history.

The CTS V-Sport auction will also include a performance driving school package for those with a mind to learn a thing or two about controlling the car on a road course. You can read the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading Cadillac auctioning first CTS V-Sport for charity

Cadillac auctioning first CTS V-Sport for charity originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 cadillac cts v-sportcadillac cts v-sportmary barrasae foundationsae stem Thu, 23 May 2013 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581552/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20581552/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/cadillac-auctioning-first-cts-v-sport-for-charity/20581552/article-detail.xml 20581552 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-cadillac-cts-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-cadillac-cts-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi A8 facelift on the way]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/audi-a8-facelift-on-the-way/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/audi-a8-facelift-on-the-way/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/audi-a8-facelift-on-the-way/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Refreshed Audi A8 caught testing under camouflage - front three-quarter view

The coming Audi A8 has already been spotted in camouflage on public roads at earthly elevations, and now our snappers have caught it at elevation in the Alps. The evolution will entail modified head- and taillights, different sculpting for the grille and a new bumper profile said to be more in line with the A6 S Line.

Inside, there might also be adjustments made to input controls like the gesture touchpad and the MMI infotainment system that include behind-the-scenes improvements like new Nvidia Tegra chips, but such revisions are expected to be minor. With the S8 and the TDI just having been launched, don't be surprised if engine outputs also remain the same. The prevailing sneaking suspicion is that we'll see the car unveiled at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

Audi A8 facelift on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 audi a8audiaudi a8frankfurtfrankfurt 2013frankfurt motor showspy shots Thu, 23 May 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580816/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580816/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/audi-a8-facelift-on-the-way/20580816/article-detail.xml 20580816 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/audi-a8-facelift_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/audi-a8-facelift.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Kia Cadenza]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/2014-kia-cadenza-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/2014-kia-cadenza-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/2014-kia-cadenza-review-first-drive/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Kia's Second Effort At Luxury Finds More Love Than The Amanti

2014 Kia Cadenza

The same recent global economic crises that have led luxury automakers to invade the small car market are also somewhat responsible for the influx of near-luxury sedans from mainstream automakers. As the likes of Mercedes-Benz and Audi are reaching down for new customers, automakers like Hyundai, Chevrolet and Toyota are reaching up to bridge the gap and fill in the white space between the industry's typical high-volume large sedans and established luxury sedans. Joining this emerging market, the 2014 Kia Cadenza is the latest sedan to blur the line between value and luxury. One of Kia's core focuses has been offering value to customers, and even with a starting price of $35,100, the Cadenza still represents plenty of that kind of thinking.

Despite what might first come to mind, the Cadenza is not named after a piece of furniture. Instead, Kia notes the name for its new front-wheel-drive flagship comes from the Italian musical term that translates as 'cadence'. The name thus fits in nicely with the brand's other musically inspired model name, Forte. Much like the Hyundai Genesis, the Cadenza will serve as a test of sorts to see how much customers are willing to pay for a Kia, and despite recent reports indicating that Kia has confirmed the Quoris for next year, the reality is that the availability of the bigger rear-wheel-drive flagship will be determined in part by how well the Cadenza strikes a chord with buyers.

This isn't Kia's first crack at mid-level luxury. That distinction goes to the bug-eyed, Amanti, which was killed off in 2009. The same basic recipe is still in place - V6 power, roomy interior and a lengthy list of standard features, yet this car seems altogether better outfitted to appeal to modern consumers than the baroque Amanti. We headed out to the great weather and even better roads near San Diego to test the 2014 Kia Cadenza to see for ourselves if it has the inner harmony and cadence to keep step with full-size luxury sedans or if it's just here to make a bunch of noise.

Continue reading 2014 Kia Cadenza

2014 Kia Cadenza originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 cadenza2014 kia cadenzafeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivekiakia cadenza Thu, 23 May 2013 11:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580590/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20580590/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/2014-kia-cadenza-review-first-drive/20580590/article-detail.xml 20580590 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-kia-cadenza-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-kia-cadenza-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Online Find Of The Day: 2008 Cadillac XLR picks up where Excalibur left off]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/online-find-of-the-day-2008-cadillac-xlr-picks-up-where-excalib/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/online-find-of-the-day-2008-cadillac-xlr-picks-up-where-excalib/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/online-find-of-the-day-2008-cadillac-xlr-picks-up-where-excalib/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Custom 2008 Cadillac XLR Neoclassic - front three-quarter view

We try very, very hard to keep snark away from creations like the one you see here. After all, someone poured plenty of enthusiasm, time and money into turning a 2008 Cadillac XLR into a modern interpretation of the new-old cars typically done by cottage builders like Excalibur and Clénet. Even so, it's hard not to wince when you set an eye on this machine. With its wheelbase stretched to accommodate the extra bodywork, goofy sidewalls and upkicked nose (examine it in profile, it looks slightly bent in the middle), this "neoclassic" takes whatever was loveable about the Cadillac underneath and buries it in a tacky grave.

Miraculously, the engine bay has been left unmolested, which means the retractable hardtop convertible still features a 4.6-liter Northstar V8 engine good for 320 horsepower. If only that were enough to outrun its shame. If, for some reason, you feel like taking this thing home, Harry Kaufmann Motorcars of Milwaukee says it can be yours for a paltry $74,998. We wish were joking. Check it out here.

Online Find Of The Day: 2008 Cadillac XLR picks up where Excalibur left off originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 May 2013 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2008 cadillac xlrbaroquecadillaccadillac xlrcustom cadillac xlr neoclassicneoclassicneoclassical Thu, 23 May 2013 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579609/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579609/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/online-find-of-the-day-2008-cadillac-xlr-picks-up-where-excalib/20579609/article-detail.xml 20579609 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cadillac-xlr-neoclassic-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/cadillac-xlr-neoclassic-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mansory Stallone makes a man out of Ferrari F12]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mansory-stallone-ferrari-f12/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mansory-stallone-ferrari-f12/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/mansory-stallone-ferrari-f12/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The Mansory Stallone you see above isn't the first such transmogrification of a Prancing Horse. This one is based on the Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, but the first honor, as far as we can tell, went to the Stallone based on the 599 GTB Fiorano. The F12 version was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this year, but we missed out, and we were sure you wouldn't want to miss it.

As with its predecessor, this one gets a total makeover, from the new front clip and hood to the side skirts, new rear end, rear diffuser and rear wing. There is additional muscle for the 6.0-liter V12, too - a tweaked ECU and sports exhaust with a stainless steel muffler getting matters up from 740 horsepower to 775, and torque from 509 pound-feet to 535. Moving things forward is a set of bespoke, staggered, lightweight aluminum wheels, 21 inches up front, 22 in the back.

The showstopper is inside, where a red and black leather treatment and redesigned steering wheel will make the cabin a very intense place to be. Check out the press release below for the minutiae, and the high-res gallery above for more angles.

Continue reading Mansory Stallone makes a man out of Ferrari F12

Mansory Stallone makes a man out of Ferrari F12 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ferrariferrari f12 berlinettamansorymansory stallone Wed, 22 May 2013 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579882/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579882/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/mansory-stallone-ferrari-f12/20579882/article-detail.xml 20579882 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mansory-f12-stallone_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/mansory-f12-stallone.jpg <![CDATA[2014 SSC Tuatara deliveries to start as soon as December]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-ssc-tuatara-deliveries-to-start-as-soon-as-december/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-ssc-tuatara-deliveries-to-start-as-soon-as-december/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-ssc-tuatara-deliveries-to-start-as-soon-as-december/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Tuatara SSC on the lawn at Pebble Beach

Word has it SSC will deliver its first Tuatara supercar beginning in either December of this year or January of next. The news comes courtesy of company CEO Alan Leverett, who also said that the machine will set buyers back $1.3 million. As GTSpirit.com points out, the revelation is somewhat surprising given that SSC hasn't even unveiled the production-specification car just yet. It would seem that little fact hasn't been enough to scare away potential buyers.

The last time we heard major news from SSC was nearly a year ago when the company officially changed its name from Shelby SuperCars to SSC and broke ground on a new 36,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in Washington. Since then, the company has been largely mum about progress on its ludicrous Tuatara, although last month, it did disclose that powertrain testing had exceeded "all design specifications" during dyno testing, registering 1,350 horsepower and 1,280 pound-feet of torque. As you may recall, the car's Ultimate-Aero-based early prototype managed to bolt to 200 miles per hour in a scant 16 seconds thanks to a 6.8-liter V8 with the same power.

2014 SSC Tuatara deliveries to start as soon as December originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 ssc tuatarajerod shelbyshelby supercarssscssc tuatara Wed, 22 May 2013 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579784/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579784/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/2014-ssc-tuatara-deliveries-to-start-as-soon-as-december/20579784/article-detail.xml 20579784 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ssc-tuatara-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ssc-tuatara-628.jpg <![CDATA[Marchionne offers belated apology for 'wop engine' comment]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/marchionne-offers-belated-apology-for-wop-engine-comment/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/marchionne-offers-belated-apology-for-wop-engine-comment/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/marchionne-offers-belated-apology-for-wop-engine-comment/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne talks with microphone and his hand up

Automotive News reports Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne has issued a written apology for his comments regarding his decision to stick with an Italian engine for the upcoming Alfa Romeo 4C. As you may recall, back in January, Marchionne was quoted as saying, "I cannot come up with a schlock product, I just won't. I won't put an American engine into that car. With all due respect to my American friends, it has to be a wop engine." The CEO penned an apology to the Italian American ONE VOICE Coalition for using the racial epithet, saying that he made the comment in jest. Marchionne also said he realizes his remarks were unacceptable.

ONE VOICE, an organization aimed at fighting discrimination and stereotyping of Italian Americans, thanked Marchionne, Chrysler and Fiat for the apology. Marchionne is an Italian-born Canadian citizen, and he's gotten in trouble for other comments in the past. In 2011, he called high interest rates Chrysler was paying to the Canadian government "shyster rates." He apologized a day later.

Marchionne offers belated apology for 'wop engine' comment originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> alfa romeochryslerfiatmarchionneone voiceracial epithetsergio marchionnesergio marchionne apologyslurwop Wed, 22 May 2013 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579631/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20579631/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/marchionne-offers-belated-apology-for-wop-engine-comment/20579631/article-detail.xml 20579631 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sergio-marchionne-hand_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sergio-marchionne-hand.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Ram 3500 HD]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2013-ram-3500-hd-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2013-ram-3500-hd-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2013-ram-3500-hd-review-first-drive/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Tow It All

2013 Ram 3500 HD

There are no shiftier sands than those that underlie the heavy duty truck market. Ford, General Motors and Chrysler have been locked in the same interminable sniping match for years, each delighting in picking their competitors off with new, more powerful drivelines and ever loftier tow ratings. Right now, Ram sits at the top of the heap with its 2013 3500 HD. With the optional Max Tow package, the truck is rated to pull an astonishing 30,000 pounds. That's ludicrous weight - the kind of heft typically left to the semi world.

In fact, most states require you to have a commercial driver's license just to pull that much ballast around behind you, and for good reason: All that tonnage comes to bear on every aspect of a vehicle's driving dynamics. Every maneuver takes longer, requires more forethought and exacts a larger toll on the vehicle's hardware. Of course, as is often the case, there can be a gulf between what it says on a machine's label and what the rig can actually muster in terms of performance. We hitched a full 30,000 lbs behind the 2013 Ram 3500 HD to find out exactly how well the truck lives up to its reputation.

Continue reading 2013 Ram 3500 HD

2013 Ram 3500 HD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 3500 hd2013 ram 3500 hd2013 ram 3500 hd first drive2013 ram hdcumminsfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivehdram 3500 hdram hd Wed, 22 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578571/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578571/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/2013-ram-3500-hd-review-first-drive/20578571/article-detail.xml 20578571 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-ram-3500-hd-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-ram-3500-hd-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Automobile Magazine names its 2013 All-Stars]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,



Employing complex scientific formulas and methodologies probably best described as "Whatever we felt like choosing," Automobile has named its All-Stars for the 2013 model year. The 11 vehicles earned their trophies for being "the best and most significant" offerings to the mag's staff and contributors, and while we were surprised to see a couple of them on the list, none of them were shocking. In no particular order, they are: Random notes: The least expensive vehicle on the list was the Ford Focus at $16,995 however, it was the $24,495 Focus ST that was actually driven; the least expensive vehicle as-tested, when such indication was given, was the $28,265 BRZ; the most expensive vehicle as-tested was the $75,615 Porsche Boxster S, hurdling the price of the A7 by nearly $4,000; the greatest disparity between base and as-tested price was the Ram, from the $24,395 skin-and-bones truck to the $54,335 Laramie Longhorn Crew Cab; the GTI was viewed through the history of its birthplace, Wolfsburg.

There you have it. Head on over to Automobile for the full story and the adventures they created to test each winner.

Automobile Magazine names its 2013 All-Stars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audi a7automobileautomobile magazineautomobile magazine all-starsbmw 3 serieschevrolet camaro zl1ford focushonda accordmazda cx-5porsche boxsterram 1500scion fr-ssubaru brzvolkswagen golf gti Wed, 22 May 2013 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578483/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578483/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/automobile-magazine-names-its-2013-all-stars/20578483/article-detail.xml 20578483 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-camaro-zl1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-camaro-zl1.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Defender plans scrapped, Freelander name being dropped]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/next-gen-defender-plans-scrapped-freelander-name-being-dropped/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/next-gen-defender-plans-scrapped-freelander-name-being-dropped/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/next-gen-defender-plans-scrapped-freelander-name-being-dropped/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



There seem to be plenty of reports swirling in regards to Land Rover lately. According to Autocar, not only is the British automaker going back to the drawing board for the design of its next-generation Defender, but the outlet is also saying that the Freelander name could be dropped.

While the article doesn't say why, its source indicates that current plans for the next Defender have been scrapped, yet there is a still a replacement in the works. The existing Defender will end production in 2015, but this replacement vehicle will not be ready by then. We imagine that the styling of the replacement won't echo that of the DC100 Concept shown above, and that the news would affect the planned Defender-based Tata SUV as well as the proposed Land Rover factory in India.

As for the Freelander, it sounds like the next generation of this SUV will be out by next year, but it will not be wearing the Freelander name. Instead, Land Rover will include it as a smaller version of the Discovery. Here in the States, these two vehicles are named LR2 (Freelander) and LR4 (Discovery).

Next-gen Defender plans scrapped, Freelander name being dropped originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 May 2013 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> land roverLand Rover DC100land rover defenderland rover discoveryland rover freelanderland rover lr2land rover lr4 Wed, 22 May 2013 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578607/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578607/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/next-gen-defender-plans-scrapped-freelander-name-being-dropped/20578607/article-detail.xml 20578607 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/land-rover-dc100-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/land-rover-dc100-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Kia to make push upmarket with Quoris next year, new Sedona also likely]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/kia-to-make-push-upmarket-with-quoris-next-year-new-sedona-also/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/kia-to-make-push-upmarket-with-quoris-next-year-new-sedona-also/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/kia-to-make-push-upmarket-with-quoris-next-year-new-sedona-also/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

​2013 Kia Quoris - silver - front three-quarter view

What, you didn't think that Kia was going to let Hyundai have all the big-dollar fun, did you? Hyundai may have blazed a trail upmarket with its Genesis Sedan and more recently, the Equus, but its corporate sibling, Kia, has arguably been autodom's hottest brand the last few years, with increases in style, tech, consumer consideration and sales that are the envy of the industry. So it's no surprise that it isn't stopping its North American product onslaught with its just-introduced 2014 Cadenza sedan, it's reportedly readying its premium-minded rear-drive Quoris cruiser for a launch here next year.

That's according to a new report from Automotive.com, which spoke with Kia officials at the media launch of the Cadenza. The oddly named Quoris ("derived from the English words 'core' and 'quality,'" says Kia), will likely nuzzle up against its Equus stablemate when it debuts, carrying an estimated $50,000 to $70,000 price tag. To our eyes, the Kia looks markedly more contemporary than the Equus inside-and-out (no surprise, it's a much newer design). And there's even more reason for optimism on Kia's behalf: the Hyundai Equus has been doing just fine on the sales front - even before its recently introduced facelift. So it's not unreasonable to interpret the luxury sedan market as open to the idea of owning a full-size luxury sedan from a non-traditional country.

In other news, Kia recently exhumed its elderly Sedona minivan, dusting it off, putting a little more frosting on its flanks and trotting it out to customers anew for 2014. The people mover's odd, Lazarus-like reanimation moment apparently isn't lost on Kia executives, who still very much want a modern minivan. According to the same report, an all-new Sedona, likely informed by 2011's funky KV7 Concept, is still a ways off - but we could hear more about it as early as later this year.

Kia to make push upmarket with Quoris next year, new Sedona also likely originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 kia sedona2015 kia quoriskiakia quoriskia sedona Tue, 21 May 2013 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578458/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20578458/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/kia-to-make-push-upmarket-with-quoris-next-year-new-sedona-also/20578458/article-detail.xml 20578458 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-kia-quoris-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-kia-quoris-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Bentley Flying Spur]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-bentley-flying-spur-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-bentley-flying-spur-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/2014-bentley-flying-spur-review-first-drive/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Redefining Super Luxury On A Shrinking Planet

2014 Bentley Flying Spur - front three-quarter view

Anyone on Earth with access to the Internet, a television or radio for the last 20 years knows that China is no longer the poor stronghold for strict Communist ideals that it was for much of the 20th Century. (Well, at least not in some places.) Traveling to China twice in less than a month - first to Shanghai for a very international auto show and now to Beijing to drive and review the 2014 Bentley Flying Spur - I've learned that there's no lack of personal wealth, at least in two of the world's largest cities.

And yet, even I think the scene before me is a little bit ridiculous. Here I am, slowly climbing up a hillside to reach a fortification at something called Zhuanduo Pass, where roughly a dozen pristine examples of Western decadence sit idling their hand-built 12-cylinder engines in the shadow of China's revered and awesome Great Wall. Not five kilometers south of here, I'd passed an old man in traditional all-black garb, literally carrying a bundle of sticks on his back from one side of a village to the other. Now as I look through the snug-fitting and silent side glass of my $200,000+ palace on wheels, I'm more apt to see fat German tourists crisping in the hot Chinese sun while blowing the equivalent of an average Chinese monthly paycheck on lunch and a few Great Wall souvenirs.

Of course, it's nothing like the average Chinese person that Bentley is targeting with this new Flying Spur. There is a rapidly ballooning class of rich and super rich in the People's Republic these days; China can now lay claim to around 100 billionaires (in US dollars), as well as some 60,000+ individuals worth more than $16 million and, famously, now more than 1 million millionaires. Considering that Bentley had a booming year in 2012 by selling 8,510 vehicles, the importance of what is quickly becoming the world's biggest luxury car market is easy to see.

And that's why, despite the cost of hauling me from Ann Arbor to Beijing and back, and despite the cognitive dissonance of driving a $200,000+ car through villages whose buildings are probably worth less in total, Bentley jumped through a whole lot of hoops to pull off what it says is the first-ever global vehicle launch in China. I've got to tell you, if this is what being a trailblazer feels like, I could get used to it.

Continue reading 2014 Bentley Flying Spur

2014 Bentley Flying Spur originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 bentley flying spurbentleybentley chinabentley continental flying spurbentley flying spurcontinental flying spurfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveflying spur Tue, 21 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576370/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20576370/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/2014-bentley-flying-spur-review-first-drive/20576370/article-detail.xml 20576370 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bentley-flying-spur-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bentley-flying-spur-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Audi passes BMW as top luxury brand in India]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/audi-passes-bmw-as-top-luxury-brand-in-india/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/audi-passes-bmw-as-top-luxury-brand-in-india/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/audi-passes-bmw-as-top-luxury-brand-in-india/#comments Filed under: , ,



By the end of this decade, India is expected to be one of the top three car markets in the world, but automakers are already starting to duke it out for sales. In terms of premium brands, Automotive News says that Audi has jumped out to an early lead for sales in the country due in large part to the recent introduction of the Audi Q3 (shown above).

In 2012, Audi's sales increased 43 percent, rising to 9,350 units and outselling BMW (8,686) and Mercedes-Benz (7,015), both of which experienced a drop in sales last year of 9.5 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively. While none of these sales figures are particularly significant on a global scale, the article says that the market for premium cars in India is expected to quadruple by 2020 up to around 120,000 units. AN attributes Audi's lead to its offering of new SUVs while its rivals have been focusing on small hatchbacks.

Audi passes BMW as top luxury brand in India originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi q3indialuxury crossoverluxury suv Tue, 21 May 2013 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575907/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575907/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/audi-passes-bmw-as-top-luxury-brand-in-india/20575907/article-detail.xml 20575907 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2011-audi-q3-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2011-audi-q3-fd.jpg <![CDATA[McLaren 12C Spider worked over by Gemballa]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-12c-spider-worked-over-by-gemballa/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-12c-spider-worked-over-by-gemballa/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/21/mclaren-12c-spider-worked-over-by-gemballa/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



A host of carbon fiber parts designed and made in Germany are what turn the McLaren MP4-12C Spider into the Gemballa GT Spider. The 625-horsepower, twin-turbo V8 is untouched, almost everything else is heavily touched. There's the body kit that includes new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, new tailpipes and logos. Swing up the doors and you'll find a reskinned interior in leather and Alcantara in your choice of color, plus color-matched gauges. That will run you 19,980 euro ($25,647 US) including paint and installation, but it can alternatively be shipped internationally if you'd like to have your own people install it.

The GForged-one wheels are an inch larger than the standard units, at 20 inches up front and 21 inches in back, but don't change the weight of the car. There are two styles and two finishes available, and shod in Michelin Pilot Super Sport rubber they'll require 7,980 euro ($10,243) of your hard earned. Throw down a little more and you can have the brake calipers painted, too.

If this number whispers seductive German nothings in your ear, check out the press release below and the high-res gallery above.

Continue reading McLaren 12C Spider worked over by Gemballa

McLaren 12C Spider worked over by Gemballa originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 May 2013 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aftermarketgemballagemballa gt spidermclarenmclaren mp4-12c spider Tue, 21 May 2013 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575042/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575042/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/21/mclaren-12c-spider-worked-over-by-gemballa/20575042/article-detail.xml 20575042 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gemballa-mclaren-mp4-12c_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gemballa-mclaren-mp4-12c.jpg <![CDATA[2014 BMW M5 and M6 add Competition Package bundles, stay close to home otherwise]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-bmw-m5-and-m6-add-competition-package-bundles-stay-close-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-bmw-m5-and-m6-add-competition-package-bundles-stay-close-t/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/2014-bmw-m5-and-m6-add-competition-package-bundles-stay-close-t/#comments Filed under: , , ,

​2014 BMW M5 and M6 Competition Package models - sitting on race track

The leaked facelift images and the Competition Package rumors were accurate: These are the 2014 BMW M5 and M6 models, with exactly three nips and four tucks distinguishing them from their outgoing counterparts, as well as an expected track-day overhaul package. The standard M5 boasts 560 horsepower from its 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V8, and the new Competition Package ups that to a preliminary 575 hp, with shifting options remaining the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission or the six-speed manual. Unsurprisingly, the M6 family - including the two-door coupe, convertible and four-door Gran Coupe - get this optional treatment as well.

The go-fast packs make a lot more changes around the cars, though. It lowers them by ten millimeters, recalibrates the steering, differential, front bushings, coil springs, dampers and M chassis control system while adding stiffer anti-sway bars and black chrome exhaust tips. All models sit on 20-inch M light alloy wheels and can be specced with carbon ceramic brakes. For the dragsters among you, the result is a 0-62 mph time that drops by 0.1 second in all models but the M6 convertible.

Inside, on all 2014 M5 and M6 models, there's a new look to the steering wheel, a touchpad for the iDrive controller, more storage and more chrome trim. Two more paint colors and two more leather hues have been announced, with more Frozen paint finishes on the way as well. We're told prices will be announced closer to the models' August on-sale date. For now you read what BMW has to say about them in the press release below.

Continue reading 2014 BMW M5 and M6 add Competition Package bundles, stay close to home otherwise

2014 BMW M5 and M6 add Competition Package bundles, stay close to home otherwise originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 bmw m52014 bmw m62014 bmw m6 convertible2014 bmw m6 gran coupebmwbmw 5 seriesbmw 6 seriesbmw 6 series gran coupebmw m5competition package Mon, 20 May 2013 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575045/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20575045/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/2014-bmw-m5-and-m6-add-competition-package-bundles-stay-close-t/20575045/article-detail.xml 20575045 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-m5-and-m6-competition-pack_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-bmw-m5-and-m6-competition-pack.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 V10 gets tuned up by ABT]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/audi-r8-v10-gets-tuned-up-by-abt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/audi-r8-v10-gets-tuned-up-by-abt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/20/audi-r8-v10-gets-tuned-up-by-abt/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

ABT-tuned Audi R8 V10 - front three-quarter view, red

Bavarian tuners ABT have done another job on the Audi R8 V10, pumping up the 5.2-liter FSI V10 from 525 horsepower to 600 hp, and torque from 391 pound-feet to 406 lb-ft. With 50 more horsepower than the R8 V10 Plus - but not the extreme weight-loss scheme - ABT claims a 0-62 mile per hour run of 3.5 seconds, the same as the R8 V10 Plus, and a top speed for the mid-engined coupe of 198 miles per hour "is no problem at all."

Managing all that speed are the aero tweaks provided by a comprehensive body kit including a rear wing, a lowered and beefed-up suspension, a stainless steel exhaust and 19-inch wheels in two different designs.

The press release below has a few more bits of info on the matter. And while ABT hasn't put a price on the Audi upgrades, but it's safe to say that nearly 200 mph in an R8 won't come cheap.

Continue reading Audi R8 V10 gets tuned up by ABT

Audi R8 V10 gets tuned up by ABT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> abtabt r8 v10aftermarketaudiaudi r8audi r8 v10 Mon, 20 May 2013 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20574728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20574728/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/20/audi-r8-v10-gets-tuned-up-by-abt/20574728/article-detail.xml 20574728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/abt-audi-r8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/abt-audi-r8.jpg -1 2