Autoblog Off-Road http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Off-Road 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[Isuzu Trail View is Google Street View for off road]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/isuzu-trail-view-is-google-street-view-for-off-road/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/isuzu-trail-view-is-google-street-view-for-off-road/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/isuzu-trail-view-is-google-street-view-for-off-road/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Isuzu Trail View - video screencap

Isuzu has taken to advertising its not-for-North-America KB pickup truck with a unique initiative. The company wanted to apply the Google Street View philosophy to some of South Africa's more remote off-road trails, and the result is Isuzu Trail View. Using multiple action cameras situated in a 3D-printed housing strapped to the top of the truck, the crew began bouncing along dirt and rock paths, recording all the while. They also shot additional video and worked with experts to provide excellent clips on how to navigate common off-road obstacles.

You can watch the making-of video below, and you can head over to the Trail View site to poke around a few South African trails for yourself. All we want to know is, how long before Jeep does the same here in the US?

Continue reading Isuzu Trail View is Google Street View for off road

Isuzu Trail View is Google Street View for off road originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> googlegoogle street viewisuzuisuzu kbisuzu kb pickupisuzu pickupisuzu trail viewoff roadoff roadingstreet viewstreetviewtrail view Fri, 17 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566938/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566938/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/isuzu-trail-view-is-google-street-view-for-off-road/20566938/article-detail.xml 20566938 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/suzuki-trail-view-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/suzuki-trail-view-628.jpg <![CDATA[Millionth Jeep Wrangler JK to roll off line this morning]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-roll-off-line/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-roll-off-line/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-roll-off-line/#comments Filed under: , , ,



According to a report on the Chrysler Communications Facebook page and one fairly grainy image of the production line, at around 11:00AM Eastern this morning, the one-millionth Jeep Wrangler JK will roll out of the company's Toledo assembly plant.

The third-generation or "JK" Jeep Wrangler has been around since the 2007 model year, and has obviously been more popular than ever. With a greater than ever number of trim levels, two-door and four-door Unlimited models and hardy off-roading Rubicon packages, the JK offers more to choose from than ever for those looking for something in a traditional Jeep. In fact, with the modern 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 powering it, the 2012 model year saw more than 140k Wrangers sold here in the US; the best-ever figure for the model.

With a model refresh due out for the Wrangler in 2015 (along with the likely addition of a diesel engine option), we expect that sales will continue to roll right along, too.

Millionth Jeep Wrangler JK to roll off line this morning originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 jeep wranglerjeepjeep wranglerjk wranglerone millionth jeep wrangler jk Fri, 17 May 2013 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20573752/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20573752/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-roll-off-line/20573752/article-detail.xml 20573752 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1-millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1-millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-628.jpg <![CDATA[Peugeot's legendary Climb Dance remastered in high-definition glory]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/peugeots-legendary-climb-dance-remastered-in-high-definition-gl/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/peugeots-legendary-climb-dance-remastered-in-high-definition-gl/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/peugeots-legendary-climb-dance-remastered-in-high-definition-gl/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Peugeot Climb Dance Pikes Peak film - remastered screencap

Climb Dance, the rally-porn film celebrating the Pikes Peak Hill Climb victories of Ari Vatanen in 1988 and Robby Unser in 1989 - and including footage from both drives - has been remastered in high definition. It was commissioned by Peugeot, maker of the four-wheel steering 415 T16 Grand Raid, the racecar that took both drivers to the top to overall victories.

Peugeot will be hoping that Sébastien Loeb can dance the same way next month when he runs up the now-paved mountain in his 208. You'll find the breathtaking remastered Climb Dance below, as well as tribute the Motor Trend made with Marcus Gronholm in a Ford Fiesta back in 2009. Enjoy.

Continue reading Peugeot's legendary Climb Dance remastered in high-definition glory

Peugeot's legendary Climb Dance remastered in high-definition glory originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ari vatanenclimb danceford fiestapeugeotpeugeot 405 t16pikes peakpikes peak international hill climbrobby unservideo Thu, 16 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20571485/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20571485/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/peugeots-legendary-climb-dance-remastered-in-high-definition-gl/20571485/article-detail.xml 20571485 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/climb-dance-remastered_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/climb-dance-remastered.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini reportedly confirms Urus for production in 2017]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/lamborghini-reportedly-confirms-urus-for-production-in-2017/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/lamborghini-reportedly-confirms-urus-for-production-in-2017/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/lamborghini-reportedly-confirms-urus-for-production-in-2017/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The editorial director of EVO, Harry Metcalfe, was at the Lamborghini anniversary gala that saw the launch of the Egoista concept car, and tweeted this bit of news on the Urus: "Lamborghini confirms Urus SUV for 2017 production at tonight's #Lambo50 gala dinner." The Urus, you'll remember, was the concept SUV revealed at the Beijing Motor Show last year and branded "the first Lamborghini for everyday use" by company CEO Stephan Winkelmann. But that would only be if it were produced, and as of December last year it still hadn't been given the green light - even though development had continued.

This year, though, a couple of things have happened to convince some that it's probably on its way. There were patents filed in China in February, and in March Audi CEO Rupert Stadler told Autocar "Lamborghini has to do it. Because of the need to dovetail into production cycles, we should see the Urus in 2017." And since Audi is the official owner of Lamborghini, one would think the CEO knows what he's talking about when he says Lamborghini "has" to do something.

It's predicted that the showroom version will appear in 2016 as a 2017 model, accounting for the time it will take to develop and Stadler's 'production cycle' comment, referring to a slot in the refresh timetable for the Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne and Volkswagen Touareg with which the Urus will share its MQB platform. A report in Car and Driver says the Sant' Agata company will also be looking for the Urus to bolster its sales in China and its coffers in Italy, and cost between $150,000 and $200,000.

Lamborghini reportedly confirms Urus for production in 2017 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 May 2013 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> harry metcalfeLamborghinilamborghini suvlamborghini urus Sun, 12 May 2013 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565938/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565938/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/12/lamborghini-reportedly-confirms-urus-for-production-in-2017/20565938/article-detail.xml 20565938 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/urus-production-2017_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/urus-production-2017.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevrolet Silverado]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-chevy-silverado-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-chevy-silverado-review-first-drive/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/2014-chevy-silverado-review-first-drive/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

The Fullsize Pickup, Refined



No one's underestimating the importance of the all-new 2014 Chevrolet Silverado. While General Motors continues to shovel the current generation off dealer lots at an impressive pace, it would be too kind to simply say the old mule has started to show its age. The GMT900 platform that's rolling along under the 2013 model has been underpinning fullsize GM trucks since 2007, and while the Silverado has stayed competitive through most of the intervening six years, the past two haven't been kind to the machine.

Ford just won't quit sharpening its F-150 in one way or another, throwing interior and driveline updates at the stalwart pickup with the fevered pace of a company possessed. Like the Silverado, the F-150 is no fresh piece of hardware, but fuel-efficient and powerful engine options and a well-sorted interior put the truck consistently ahead of the now aged Chevrolet. And then there's the Ram 1500. Chrysler let loose with both barrels with the 2013 update, tearing into the fullsize market with a beautiful cabin, excellent tech and plenty of clever engineering.

Chevy engineers stood back and watched this happen, biting their tongues and whittling away all the while on the next-generation 2014 Silverado. There are only a handful of carryover parts from old machine to new, and the result is a pickup that offers more power, efficiency and refinement than the previous generation while holding the pricing line. This is, without a doubt, the best Silverado ever built, but does that make it the best pickup?

Continue reading 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

2014 Chevrolet Silverado originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 chevrolet silverado2014 chevy silverado2014 silverado2014chevroletsilverado2014silveradochevychevy silveradofeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivesilverado picssilverado review Thu, 09 May 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563229/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563229/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/2014-chevy-silverado-review-first-drive/20563229/article-detail.xml 20563229 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/03-2014-chevrolet-silverado-fd-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/03-2014-chevrolet-silverado-fd-opt.png <![CDATA[Range Rover Hybrid heading to Frankfurt]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2013 Land Rover Range Rover

Two years after the Range_E concept debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, thus previewing the coming Range Rover hybrid drivetrain and beginning the succeeding speculation, a company executive has confirmed the arrival of a hybrid Range Rover and Range Rover Sport later this year. The first time we'll see them is at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but Stuart Frith, chief program engineer for Range Rover Sport told Australian site Car Sales that the vehicles will be in showrooms before the year is over, as well.

As we wrote in our deep dive previewing the 2013 Range Rover, the diesel hybrid system uses a 3.0-liter V6 engine mated to a ZF eight-speed transmission with an integrated electric motor. The 1.7-kWh battery pack sits in the chassis floor, protected by a boron steel cradle, so cabin space is not compromised. The numbers we were given at the time were 333 horsepower, a sub-seven second run to 60 miles per hour in the big Range Rover and 45 imperial miles per gallon. The 2014 Range Rover Sport is expected to post the same horsepower number and battery placement. Neither of these models will be coming to the US.

The Range Rover Sport will also get a traditional diesel, the SDV8 being slotted into the engine bay, bringing 516 pound-feet of torque with it when it goes on sale later this year. Eventually, Frith said it will also get Land Rover's version of the 2.0-liter, 240-hp EcoBoost engine that propels the Evoque and the LR2 - the weight savings of the new model has made the four-cylinder a viable option.

Range Rover Hybrid heading to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 frankfurt motor showfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showland roverland rover range roverland rover range rover hybridland rover range rover sport Tue, 07 May 2013 19:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559061/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559061/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/20559061/article-detail.xml 20559061 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/08-2013-land-rover-range-rover-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/08-2013-land-rover-range-rover-review.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country - front three-quarter view

It's no secret that fullsize pickups are the financial engines that power Detroit automakers - it's been that way for decades. In recent years, though, growing consumer appetites for dolled-up trucks has meant even more opportunities for manufacturers to line their coffers while pleasing increasingly discerning customers. Trims like King Ranch on the Ford F-Series and Laramie Longhorn on Ram trucks now include high-end amenities that were the exclusive preserve of luxury cars just a few years ago.

General Motors has been content to let its GMC brand harvest top-shelf pickup buyers for some time now - particularly with its high-line Denali models - but it's hard to turn away easy profits. GM says over 30 percent of new pickup sales now transact above $40,000, and that figure is growing by the year. Thus, it's no surprise that execs are finally letting Chevrolet get in on the action with this new range-topping High Country trim for the 2014 Silverado. Officials tell Autoblog that it's the first premium-branded Chevy pickup since the Cameo Carrier of the 1950s.

Sitting above the LTZ and Z71 off-road model, the Silverado High Country sets itself apart with trim-specific chrome grille and body-color bumpers front and rear - the only fullsize Chevy so equipped - along with unique 20-inch alloy wheels and a few bits of chrome frosting to go with the usual complement of badges. Available only in crew cab configuration, High Country will be offered in both two- and four-wheel drive with the buyer's choice of V8 engines - 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter - along with either a 5-foot, 8-inch or 6-foot, 6-inch box. There are no specific powertrain or suspension calibrations for the model.

Continue reading Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country

Chevy sees greener pastures with 2014 Silverado High Country originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 chevy silverado2014 chevy silverado high countrychevychevy silveradochevy silverado high countrygeneral motorshigh country Sun, 05 May 2013 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556432/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20556432/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/05/2014-chevy-silverado-high-country-official/20556432/article-detail.xml 20556432 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-chevrolet-silveradohighctry-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-chevrolet-silveradohighctry-628.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover Defender LXV special edition celebrates 65 years of going anywhere]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/land-rover-defender-lxv-special-edition-celebrates-65-years-of-g/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/land-rover-defender-lxv-special-edition-celebrates-65-years-of-g/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/land-rover-defender-lxv-special-edition-celebrates-65-years-of-g/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Land Rover held a 65th birthday party for itself at Packington Estate, on the grounds where its contributions to the world of off-roading were tested from the very first model in 1948 all the way through the 1970s. If you weren't there, you missed getting a piece of the birthday cake delivered by a Lynx military helicopter, but you can still get a piece of the anniversary action in the Land Rover LXV Defender SE - LXV being the ancient Roman way of writing "65."

Starting with a Defender specced with the 2.2-liter diesel and six-speed manual, the birthday-boy special edition adds a Santorini Black or Fuji White exterior hue, a Corris Grey roof and interior accents, 16-inch Sawtooth wheels, leather seats and unique badging. Pricing hasn't been announced, probably because it's rude to talk about the cost of a gift on someone's birthday.

For now you can read the press release below and see the celebrant in the high-res image gallery above.

Continue reading Land Rover Defender LXV special edition celebrates 65 years of going anywhere

Land Rover Defender LXV special edition celebrates 65 years of going anywhere originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> anniversaryland roverland rover anniversaryland rover defenderland rover lvx defender se Fri, 03 May 2013 17:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557131/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557131/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/03/land-rover-defender-lxv-special-edition-celebrates-65-years-of-g/20557131/article-detail.xml 20557131 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/land-rover-lxv-defender-se_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/land-rover-lxv-defender-se.jpg <![CDATA[Happy 50th birthday, Jeep Wagoneer]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/happy-50th-birthday-jeep-wagoneer/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/happy-50th-birthday-jeep-wagoneer/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/happy-50th-birthday-jeep-wagoneer/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Jeep Grand Wagoneer

The Wagoneer got the SUV on the radar of buyers looking for something capable, comfortable and rugged.

The Jeep Wagoneer was introduced 50 years ago, and it's that vehicle we have to thank for the herds of excellent crossovers and SUVs that make up our current automotive landscape. On a personal level, I have always loved the full-size Jeeps and their crisp Brooks Stevens styling, which aged well over their long tenure on the market. The SJs, as they're known among enthusiasts, were the Wagoneer and its two-door counterpart, the original Cherokee. The Wagoneers had become true luxury vehicles by the end of their run, which stretched form late 1962 as a '63 model all the way to 1991, when they were offered exclusively under the Grand Wagoneer nameplate.

At the end of the line in 1991, The New York Times called the Grand Wagoneer "one of the last true gas guzzlers" as it eulogized the vehicle. It deserves more respect than that; the Wagoneer got the SUV on the radar of buyers looking for something capable, comfortable and rugged. People who could afford such luxuries seemed to understand its purpose. At the end of production, the average Grand Wagoneer buyer pulled in over $100,000 a year, and the Jeep often served as a second or third car. There is no denying that the Wagoneer invented the luxury SUV, years before the Range Rover was ever offered for sale.

Continue reading Happy 50th birthday, Jeep Wagoneer

Happy 50th birthday, Jeep Wagoneer originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> jeepjeep cherokeejeep grand wagoneerjeep wagoneersj Thu, 02 May 2013 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554916/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554916/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/happy-50th-birthday-jeep-wagoneer/20554916/article-detail.xml 20554916 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/jeep-grand-wagoneer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/jeep-grand-wagoneer.jpg <![CDATA[How the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor became a reality]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/how-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-became-a-reality/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/how-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-became-a-reality/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/how-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-became-a-reality/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Ford F-150 SVT Raptor prototype testing camouflaged in the deserve - video screencap
The camouflaged Ford F-150 SVT Raptor prototype captured above blazing its way across the desert during a test run left company engineers giggling in amazement, reveals Jamal Hameedi in a new Autoweek video. Ford's global performance vehicle chief engineer, accompanied by senior exterior designer Bruce Williams, sat down with the publication to discuss the concept and development of the automaker's super off-road F-150.

Designing a high-performance pickup in 2008, right when the cost of gasoline was going through the roof, seemed insane at the time, but the team pushed forward with the innovative vehicle regardless. The interview includes plenty of Ford B-roll footage as visual candy, and the conversations include discussions about exterior design, ride comfort, anti-lock brake tuning, suspension engineering, weight reduction and why it was necessary to make the Raptor visually different than Ford's standard F-150. The model's origin story is very interesting, and you can learn more about it by watching the video below.

Continue reading How the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor became a reality

How the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor became a reality originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 May 2013 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 ford f-150 svt raptorfordford f-150ford f-150 svt raptorford svt raptorjamal hameediorigin storysvtvideo Wed, 01 May 2013 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553904/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20553904/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/01/how-the-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-became-a-reality/20553904/article-detail.xml 20553904 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/svt-raptor-lead-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/svt-raptor-lead-628.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover 'Parkour' ad shows off-road beauty without featuring a vehicle]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/land-rover-parkour-ad-shows-off-road-beauty-without-featuring/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/land-rover-parkour-ad-shows-off-road-beauty-without-featuring/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/01/land-rover-parkour-ad-shows-off-road-beauty-without-featuring/#comments Filed under: , , ,



After 65 years of building globe-conquering luxury vehicles, Land Rover is proving that its off-road abilities are so well known that it doesn't even have to feature a single vehicle in its advertising to convey its message. Rather than showing off a new model such as the 2013 Range Rover or the new 2014 Range Rover Sport, Land Rover's Parkour Roam Free commercial instead shows a quartet of male parkour traceurs running, jumping and flipping around in the wilderness.

Despite not showing any of its products, Land Rover has managed to create a spot that is actually both entertaining and beautiful. Check out the video posted below, and then let us know in the comments whether or not you think such marketing can be effective.

Continue reading Land Rover 'Parkour' ad shows off-road beauty without featuring a vehicle

Land Rover 'Parkour' ad shows off-road beauty without featuring a vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 May 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> car commercialsland roverland rover commercialparkourtraceurvideo Wed, 01 May 2013 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554613/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20554613/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/01/land-rover-parkour-ad-shows-off-road-beauty-without-featuring/20554613/article-detail.xml 20554613 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/land-rover-roam-free-ad_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/land-rover-roam-free-ad.jpg <![CDATA[New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The Mercedes-Benz Unimog, the superhero villain of the off-road world that's just waiting to make the jump to Transformer, has been completely upgraded for its new generation. There are ten models, expanding the range and getting new designations across the traditional all-terrain series and the implement-carrier series. Panoramic cabins get more visibility, multifunction steering wheels and better dash clusters, improved HVAC and a three-mode central tire inflation system. Outside, there are new items like LED headlights and daytime running lamps in the bumper, roof-mounted windshield wipers and a front-camera monitor for the implement carrier.

The new engine lineup is compliant with Euro VI, featuring four- and six-cylinder BlueEfficiency engines putting out anywhere from 156 horsepower to 354 hp. Powerplant placement has also been tweaked, the chassis members getting a revised curve to place the engine a bit further back and lower, maintaining off-road clearance and lowering the Unimog's center of gravity. The new location of the engine means the cabin has more room, and the wheelbase is shorter. Combined with a higher turning angle, the Unimog has a smaller turning radius than before.

The implement carrier gets what's called a "synergistic traveling drive," the bonus being that drivers don't need to stop in order to use an attachment - a hydrostatic transmission works with the regular manual transmission at up to 31 kilometers per hour for seamless switching.

Those are just a tiny number of the changes in the new monsters from Mercedes-Benz. You can find out enough about them in the two videos and three press releases below to become a certified dealer.

Continue reading New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video]

New Mercedes Unimog debuts to the cheers of little boys everywhere [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 mercedes-benz unimogmercedes unimogmercedes-benzmercedes-benz unimogtruck Sat, 27 Apr 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549771/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549771/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/new-mercedes-unimog-debuts-to-the-cheers-of-little-boys-everywhe/20549771/article-detail.xml 20549771 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-unimog_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2013-unimog.jpg <![CDATA[The Petersen celebrates 50th anniversary of the Baja 500 and 1,000]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/the-petersen-celebrates-50th-anniversary-of-the-baja-500-and-1-0/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/the-petersen-celebrates-50th-anniversary-of-the-baja-500-and-1-0/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/26/the-petersen-celebrates-50th-anniversary-of-the-baja-500-and-1-0/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The year 1963 was a pretty good one for things on wheels - Lamborghini was born that year, as was the Porsche 911, and we'll give a shout out to the all-American Apollo GT even though it only lasted four years. This summer, Petersen Automotive Museum is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Baja 500 and Baja 1,000 desert races with an exhibit called Braving Baja: 1,000 Miles to Glory.

Truth be told, the 50th anniversary of the peninsula race was last year - it was in 1962 that Dave Ekins and Billy Robertson, Jr. did a 950-mile timed run from Tijuana to La Paz to prove the grit of Honda's new CL72 Scrambler motorcycle. That single time trial has turned into the trophy truck, buggy, Volkswagen Beetle and motorcycle spectacle that we know today. 1962 was also the anniversary of Shelby American and the dearly departed Iso, so it still wasn't a bad year for things on wheels.

The event kicks off with a tribute dinner on May 2 featuring Elkins and Parnelli Jones - another legendary off-road racer - in attendance taking audience questions. Two days later will be a one-day off-road show in which anyone can participate who has a museum ticket and a vehicle that can handle the dirt.

The exhibit itself runs through September 2nd and will feature all manner of Baja paraphernalia including numerous bikes and buggies that have run the route, like a 1964 Myers Manx, a 1960 Bilstein VW Baja Bug driven by Doug Robinson and the 2003 Honda XR650R ridden by Mouse McCoy as seen in the Baja documentary Dust to Glory. If you're interested, there's a press release below with info on all the events.

Continue reading The Petersen celebrates 50th anniversary of the Baja 500 and 1,000

The Petersen celebrates 50th anniversary of the Baja 500 and 1,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bajabaja 1000baja 500braving bajaexhibitmuseumpetersen automotive museum Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547790/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20547790/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/26/the-petersen-celebrates-50th-anniversary-of-the-baja-500-and-1-0/20547790/article-detail.xml 20547790 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/baja-exhibit-petersen_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/baja-exhibit-petersen.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes G550 Night Edition is just for Japan]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/mercedes-g550-night-edition-is-just-for-japan/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/mercedes-g550-night-edition-is-just-for-japan/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/22/mercedes-g550-night-edition-is-just-for-japan/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The Mercedes-Benz G550 Night Edition is the latest to join the queue of limited-edition vehicles lined up for some yen. Following closely on the wheels of the Japan-only C63 AMG Special Edition, the all-Nippon version of the G-Class is limited to 100 units and will only be shown at the Mercedes-Benz Connection in Roppongi - the swanked-up, nightlife district of Tokyo.

Buyers will get a G550 in Obsidian Black with fenders from the G63 AMG hovering over dark-finish, twin-five-spoke alloys. The interior can be optioned in either Classic Red or Porcelain White Designo. It will require 13,900,000 yen to be among the 100 (roughly $142,000 US), and if you're curious, it will roll into Roppongi on April 22.

Mercedes G550 Night Edition is just for Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> japanlimited editionmercedesmercedes g550mercedes g550 night edition Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545557/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545557/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/22/mercedes-g550-night-edition-is-just-for-japan/20545557/article-detail.xml 20545557 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mercedes-benz-g550-night-edition_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mercedes-benz-g550-night-edition.jpg <![CDATA[ItalDesign Giugiaro Parcour concept gets a move on]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/italdesign-giugiaro-parcour-concept-gets-a-move-on/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/italdesign-giugiaro-parcour-concept-gets-a-move-on/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/italdesign-giugiaro-parcour-concept-gets-a-move-on/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

ItalDesign Giugiaro Parcour concept - video screen capture

The rather awesome ItalDesign Giugiaro Parcour concept first seen at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show hasn't been affixed to some museum plinth just yet. The high-riding assemblage of curves, wedges and prisms laid over the carcass of a Lamborghini Gallardo - in both coupe and convertible forms - was sent out to play for the cameras, solely for our benefit.

We're not sure what we'd do with a 550-horsepower off-road coupe with a 13-inch maximum ride height and a track mode that can get to 60 miles per hour in 3.6 seconds and goes 200 mph. Oh, that's right, we do know: we'd call it the Lamborghini LM003 and line up to buy one. We'd also watch it in action in the video below.

Continue reading ItalDesign Giugiaro Parcour concept gets a move on

ItalDesign Giugiaro Parcour concept gets a move on originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> italdesignitaldesign giugiaroitaldesign giugiaro parcourvideo Thu, 18 Apr 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545257/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545257/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/18/italdesign-giugiaro-parcour-concept-gets-a-move-on/20545257/article-detail.xml 20545257 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/italdesign-parcour-video_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/italdesign-parcour-video.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Land Rover Range Rover [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/2013-land-rover-range-rover-review-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/2013-land-rover-range-rover-review-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/11/2013-land-rover-range-rover-review-video/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Legendary, Iconic... And Improved?



It is an undeniable reality that there are only so many adjectives to choose from when describing a given vehicle. Here are two that tend to be both overused and misused perhaps more than any other: legendary and iconic.

Forgive us for regaling you with these descriptors yet again, but when it comes to the 2013 Land Rover Range Rover, there simply aren't any words in the English language that can be applied to this sport utility vehicle that are as accurate and forceful as legendary and iconic. And what's especially impressive about our use of these adjectives is that they apply equally well when discussing the Range Rover's off-road capabilities as they do its position as a status symbol.

This marketplace position, however laudable and desirable it may be, presents a unique problem: How do you redesign a legendary SUV to be better, faster and stronger while maintaining its posh image? The boffins at Land Rover think they've nailed the art of the redesign, and we spent a week with the 2013 Range Rover to find out for ourselves if you really can mess with success and come out the victor.

Continue reading 2013 Land Rover Range Rover [w/video]

2013 Land Rover Range Rover [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 land rover range roverfeaturedland roverland rover range roverreviewreviews Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20536763/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20536763/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/11/2013-land-rover-range-rover-review-video/20536763/article-detail.xml 20536763 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2013-land-rover-range-rover-review-opt2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2013-land-rover-range-rover-review-opt2.jpg <![CDATA[Ford announces 2014 F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/ford-announces-2014-f-150-svt-raptor-special-edition/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/ford-announces-2014-f-150-svt-raptor-special-edition/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/ford-announces-2014-f-150-svt-raptor-special-edition/#comments Filed under: , , ,


Ford has pulled the wraps off its anticipated 2014 F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition model, a new variant of the popular street-legal off-road specialist. In a nutshell, the "special" is all cosmetic - there are no mechanical upgrades to the truck and its 6.2-liter V8 (411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque), Torsen limited-slip differential, beadlock-capable wheels and internal triple-bypass FOX Racing Shox dampers all remain untouched.

The SVT Raptor Special Edition, which adds cosmetic enhancements to the existing Luxury Package, will be offered in Ruby Red Metallic and Tuxedo Black Metallic with box-side graphics. The interior upgrades include Brick Red seat bolsters (with black inserts), cloth honeycomb highlights and a console top finish panel.

As of now, Ford has only release a couple pictures of the Special Edition model. But check back later, as we will update the gallery when additional high-res images are released later today, and be sure to peruse the press release below for all the details.

[Ford has released seven images - all have been added to the gallery.]

Continue reading Ford announces 2014 F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition

Ford announces 2014 F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 ford f-150 svt raptorfeaturedfordford f-150 svt raptorford special editionraptor special edition Tue, 09 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20535373/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20535373/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/ford-announces-2014-f-150-svt-raptor-special-edition/20535373/article-detail.xml 20535373 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-ford-raptor-special-edition-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-ford-raptor-special-edition-628.jpg <![CDATA[Land Rover planning entry-level 'baby' SUV?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/land-rover-planning-entry-level-baby-suv/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/land-rover-planning-entry-level-baby-suv/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/land-rover-planning-entry-level-baby-suv/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Land Rover DC100

Autocar reports Land Rover may be mulling a new, inexpensive SUV to slot below the company's current offerings. John Edwards, global brand director for Land Rover, has confirmed his company's product planners are currently evaluating the viability of a baby SUV. Edwards says he scan see such a model performing well in several markets, but has yet to see a convincing business case for bringing the machine to life right now. Other premium manufacturers are seriously pushing into the small CUV market with vehicles like the upcoming Porsche Macan, BMW X1 and even the Mini Countryman.

If the small Land Rover were to come to fruition, we could expect the car to carry an MSRP of around 18,000 pounds in the UK, or around $27,500 in the US at current conversion rates. Autocar reports the machine would likely borrow design cues from the beefy-looking Land Rover DC100 Concept as well as the upcoming Defender replacement.

Land Rover planning entry-level 'baby' SUV? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> baby suvcuvland roverland rover cuv Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20534878/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20534878/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/land-rover-planning-entry-level-baby-suv/20534878/article-detail.xml 20534878 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/land-rover-dc100_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/land-rover-dc100.jpg <![CDATA[Shelby boosts production of 575-hp Raptor on early demand]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/shelby-boosts-production-of-575-hp-raptor-on-early-demand/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/shelby-boosts-production-of-575-hp-raptor-on-early-demand/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/shelby-boosts-production-of-575-hp-raptor-on-early-demand/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Shelby-tuned 2013 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor - live at New York Auto Show reveal

Shelby American unveiled its all-new Shelby Raptor at the New York Auto Show last month, saying that it would build just 100 examples of its off-road bad boy, a pickup priced at $17,995 over the cost of the donor Ford F-150 SVT Raptor. But the Las Vegas outfit apparently underestimated just how popular the supercharged 575-horsepower 4x4 would actually be.

Strong early demand reportedly has Shelby singing a whole new tune, as the company is now saying it will build upwards of 500 units annually. While the increased production will likely make for at least 400 more happy owners, those who were on the original short list - possibly speculating on future values - might not be grinning as much. Needless to say, the company has assured everyone that each and every one of the modified Raptors will still be listed in the official Shelby registry.

Keep in mind that Ford isn't sitting idle on its trophy-truck-for-the-street, either. The company will reveal its own 2014 F-150 SVT Raptor Special Edition this month.

Shelby boosts production of 575-hp Raptor on early demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 ford f-150 svt raptorfordford f-150 svt raptorshelbyshelby automobilesshelby f-150shelby raptorshelby svt f-150 raptor Mon, 08 Apr 2013 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20530699/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20530699/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/08/shelby-boosts-production-of-575-hp-raptor-on-early-demand/20530699/article-detail.xml 20530699 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/shelby-raptor-ny_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/shelby-raptor-ny.jpg <![CDATA[Range Rover Evoque convertible unlikely to see production]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/range-rover-evoque-convertible-unlikely-to-see-production/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/range-rover-evoque-convertible-unlikely-to-see-production/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/07/range-rover-evoque-convertible-unlikely-to-see-production/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



From the time when all we had were rumors of a Range Rover Evoque convertible, to the grainy spy shots of said topless SUV in some English alley, to the time it rolled out on the floor of the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, nothing could keep people from asking, "Is this really happening?"

To be fair, there were a number who asked in anticipation, enthused about the prospect of getting both a commanding driving position and wide open sky in a more toothsome package than the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet. Nevertheless, the number wasn't enough to recommend the concept for production: A report in Car and Driver says the prospects aren't "as bright as we were led to believe when the crossover cabrio debuted," and that instead an Evoque with a panoramic roof that opens is a better bet.

Elsewhere in the rapidly evolving Land Rover line-up, platform harmonization and more cowbell aluminum is the way forward. From the recent use of four platforms supporting six vehicles, there will soon be only two: the EUCD architecture for the LR2 and Evoque; all else will be built on a modified version of the D7 platform created for the new Range Rover. That puts not only variants like the Chinese-market long-wheelbase Range Rover in the aluminum game, but also models like the next Defender and LR4. That latter model is expected to bow next year, the Defender might need more time while the design department moves on from the DC100, which wasn't warmly received.

Range Rover Evoque convertible unlikely to see production originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Apr 2013 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> aluminumevoque convertibleland roverrange roverrange rover evoquerange rover evoque convertible Sun, 07 Apr 2013 17:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532774/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20532774/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/07/range-rover-evoque-convertible-unlikely-to-see-production/20532774/article-detail.xml 20532774 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/rr-evoque-convertible_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/rr-evoque-convertible.jpg -1 2