Autoblog Performance http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Performance http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Who said the KTM X-Bow isn't good in snow?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/who-said-the-ktm-x-bow-isnt-good-in-snow/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/who-said-the-ktm-x-bow-isnt-good-in-snow/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/12/who-said-the-ktm-x-bow-isnt-good-in-snow/#comments Filed under: ,

KTM X-Bow ice racing

As we head towards the second half of February without having had a real winter here in the Midwest, we'll admit to being ticked off. Those Blizzaks we bought for our long-term Mini Countryman? We haven't had much chance to put them to use. Nor have we had any occasion to enjoy the singular pleasure of driving a massively overpowered sports car on an icy road, enjoying every fishtail, opposite-lock correction and powerslide, all while traveling under the legal speed limit, of course.

So what do we do to console ourselves? Watch videos on YouTube like this one, featuring the KTM X-Bow doing a little ice racing with an accompanying motorcycle/quad tandem. We love that this X-Bow's owner is out getting down and dirty in the cold - and that he's not willing to pull his buddies on a tube behind his race car.

Click past the jump to watch the video.

Continue reading Who said the KTM X-Bow isn't good in snow?

Who said the KTM X-Bow isn't good in snow? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 ktm x-bowiceice racingktmktm x-bowvideox-bow Sun, 12 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169191/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/12/who-said-the-ktm-x-bow-isnt-good-in-snow/20169191/article-detail.xml 20169191 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/x-bow-ice-racing-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/x-bow-ice-racing-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW debuts 560-hp twin-turbo M6, manual option under consideration]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2013 BMW M6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 bmw m62013 bmw m62013 bmw m6 convertible2013 bmw m6 coupe6 series6-seriesbmwbmw m6bmw m6 convertiblebmw m6 coupem6 Sat, 11 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169588/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/11/bmw-debuts-560-hp-twin-turbo-m6/20169588/article-detail.xml 20169588 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-bmw-m6-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-2013-bmw-m6-628.jpg <![CDATA[Baja 1000 1970 Grabber Olds is our personal hero]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/baja-1000-1970-grabber-oldsmobile-442-is-our-personal-hero/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/baja-1000-1970-grabber-oldsmobile-442-is-our-personal-hero/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/baja-1000-1970-grabber-oldsmobile-442-is-our-personal-hero/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

1970 Grabber Olds 442

Racing is racing. Whether it's pounding the quarter mile into submission or kicking it sideways around a circle track, going fender to fender or against the clock is the same kind of rush no matter the flavor. As you well know, some of the biggest names in hot rodding tried their hand at what would eventually become the Baja 1000 in the '60s. Parnelli Jones, Don Prudhomme, Jim Garner and Steve McQueen all headed to the sands of Mexico to bash around in massive muscle cars between 1967 and 1972.

Needless to say, few of those racers are around today. Ron Johnson of Tacoma, Washington found what was left of Jim Garner's 1970 "Grabber Olds" 442 back in 2008 and began the laborious process of stitching the vehicle back together. Miraculously, he was able to find the original aluminum-block 410 V8 and even the vehicle's hood, which was removed before the car went bumper-over-tea-kettle in an accident that saw the car roll eight times.

Johnson kept the vehicle as close to original as possible, with a few concessions for modern race requirements. The original rear end was scrap by the time he got his hands on the car, so a replacement 12-bolt was sourced and installed with a Moser spool and Yukon 4.11 gears. After reworking the original V8 with all new internals, the engine is good for 508 horseopwer. A TH400 was purpose-built for the application.

Rod Hall has raced the Grabber Olds in a few vintage series with mixed success. You can check out more photos over at the HotRod.com or read the full feature in the March issue of Hot Rod magazine.

Baja 1000 1970 Grabber Olds is our personal hero originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Feb 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 442baja 1000baja oldsmobile 442grabber oldsmobile 442jim garneroldsmobile 442rod hall Sat, 11 Feb 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169083/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/11/baja-1000-1970-grabber-oldsmobile-442-is-our-personal-hero/20169083/article-detail.xml 20169083 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-grabber-olds-442-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/01-grabber-olds-442-628.jpg <![CDATA[276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



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

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

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

Continue reading 276-hp Vauxhall Astra VXR headed to Geneva

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> astra vxrgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showmokkarad erad e conceptvauxhall astra vxrvauxhall mokkavauxhall rad e concept Sat, 11 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169614/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/11/280-hp-vauxhall-astra-vxr-headed-to-geneva/20169614/article-detail.xml 20169614 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/vauxhallastra280hp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/vauxhallastra280hp.jpg <![CDATA[Only one Aston Martin One-77 left to purchase new]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/only-one-aston-marton-one-77-left-to-purchase-new/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/only-one-aston-marton-one-77-left-to-purchase-new/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/only-one-aston-marton-one-77-left-to-purchase-new/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Aston Martin One-77

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

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

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

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

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

2012 Infiniti M Hybrid Behind The Scenes

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

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

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

Click past the jump to watch the full video.

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 infiniti m hybrid2012 infiniti m35h2012 porsche panamera s hybridhybridinfinitim hybridm35hpanamera s hybridporschevideo Fri, 10 Feb 2012 17:13:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20169255/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/infiniti-takes-us-behind-the-scenes-in-worlds-fastest-hybrid-vi/20169255/article-detail.xml 20169255 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/infiniti-m-hybrid-behind-the-scenes-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/infiniti-m-hybrid-behind-the-scenes-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family"]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Expect the next Soul to look something like the Track'ster, with Kia deploying more than one variant.

Kia's Track'ster Concept is one of the big hits of the Chicago Auto Show, one of the rare concepts that just screams, "Build me!" But after a thorough interrogation of Kia's PR team and an interview with design chief Peter Schreyer, we realize that's just wishful thinking. We do, however, expect the next Soul to look something like the Track'ster, with Kia deploying more than one variant when the second generation appears in a few years.

"If the Soul were to evolve into a family, it would be nice," Schreyer told us.

Kia spokesman Scott McKee repeatedly said the Track'ster was just a concept and not intended to be production feasible, all the while issuing the standard auto company disclaimer, "Every concept car we do is about gathering information from consumers and media."

One of the big pieces of information Kia is likely looking for is whether performance cars from Kia would play with the notoriously cliquish enthusiast community. Even more importantly, however, Kia will be gauging interest in additional body styles for the Soul. Schreyer said he thinks the Soul would be "more substantial" if it were also offered in a two-door version, or in a more performance-oriented flavor. All-wheel drive is a feature Schreyer also specifically mentioned as being on his wish list.

Continue reading Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family"

Kia Track'ster unlikely for production, but hints at next-generation Soul "family" originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chicagochicago 2012chicago auto showconceptkiakia conceptkia soulkia trackster conceptpeter schreyersoultrackster Fri, 10 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168203/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/kia-trackster-unlikely-for-production-but-hints-at-next-genera/20168203/article-detail.xml 20168203 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-trackster-concept-live-chicago-12-opt-1328890225_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/kia-trackster-concept-live-chicago-12-opt-1328890225.jpg <![CDATA[Audi introduces 360-hp TT RS 'plus']]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/audi-introduces-360-hp-tt-rs-plus/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/audi-introduces-360-hp-tt-rs-plus/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/audi-introduces-360-hp-tt-rs-plus/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Audi TT RS Plus

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi ttaudi tt rsaudi tt rs plustt rstt rs plus Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168952/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/audi-introduces-360-hp-tt-rs-plus/20168952/article-detail.xml 20168952 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/audi-tt-rs-plus-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/audi-tt-rs-plus-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai still considering Genesis sub-brand]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-still-considering-genesis-sub-brand/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-still-considering-genesis-sub-brand/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/10/hyundai-still-considering-genesis-sub-brand/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Hyundai Equus

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> genesis subbrandhyundai equushyundai genesishyundai genesis coupehyundai subbrand Fri, 10 Feb 2012 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167009/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/10/hyundai-still-considering-genesis-sub-brand/20167009/article-detail.xml 20167009 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hyundai-equus-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hyundai-equus-628.jpg <![CDATA[Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Chicago Auto Show Debuts]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/editors-choice-top-five-2012-chicago-auto-show-debuts/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/editors-choice-top-five-2012-chicago-auto-show-debuts/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/editors-choice-top-five-2012-chicago-auto-show-debuts/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , ,



The Chicago Auto Show may be the smallest of the North American auto shows we cover (yet largest by square footage, ironically), but year after year, more and more automakers choose to show off some new metal under the lights of McCormick Place. This year saw a total of 18 major reveals (click here to see our full rundown), and while that pales in comparison to last month's Detroit show, there's still a lot of new metal to talk about here in Chicago.

So, of the 18 cars that took the stage in the Windy City, which ones were our favorite? More importantly, which one was the favorite? Follow the jump to see our top five picks for the best 2012 Chicago Auto Show debuts.

Continue reading Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Chicago Auto Show Debuts

Editors' Choice: Top Five 2012 Chicago Auto Show Debuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1993 ford mustang svt cobra r2013 acura ilx2013 hyundai elantra gt2013 volkswagen beetle tdiacurabeetlebest in showchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showcobracobra reditors choiceelantraelantra gtfeaturedfordhyundaiilxkiamustangtditrackstervolkswagen Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168134/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/editors-choice-top-five-2012-chicago-auto-show-debuts/20168134/article-detail.xml 20168134 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-auto-show_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chicago-auto-show.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic visits Europe, first to drive the Lightning GT]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/translogic-visits-europe-first-to-drive-the-lightning-gt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/translogic-visits-europe-first-to-drive-the-lightning-gt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/translogic-visits-europe-first-to-drive-the-lightning-gt/#comments Filed under: , , ,



The Lightning GT all-electric supercar has been inching its way towards production for years now. The last time we talked about itwas November 2010, but it's back thanks to Translogic.

The video series from our colleagues at AOL Autos took a trip to Europe and managed to score the very first drive of the Lightning GT before anyone else. Not even Top Gear has sat in this thing and it's being developed in their backyard.

The specs for the car as they stand today are 400 horsepower from its electric motor powering the rear wheels for a 0-60 time of around 4.5 seconds and a maximum range of 150 miles. The folks behind the Lightning GT even claim that their lithium-titanate batteries (sourced from the U.S.) can be recharged in just 10 minutes when paired with a big daddy ultra powerful off-board charger.

Bold claims for sure, and we'd likely describe the Lightning GT as vaporware if Translogic didn't just drive it. Drive it they did, though, so follow the jump to watch Translogic host Bradley Hasemeyer be the first to put foot to floor in the Lightning GT.

Continue reading Translogic visits Europe, first to drive the Lightning GT

Translogic visits Europe, first to drive the Lightning GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bradley hasemeyerlightninglightning gttranslogicvideo Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168449/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/translogic-visits-europe-first-to-drive-the-lightning-gt/20168449/article-detail.xml 20168449 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/lightning-gt-translogic_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/lightning-gt-translogic.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus plays us like a fiddle with its LFA quartet]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/lexus-plays-us-like-a-fiddle-with-its-lfa-quartet/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/lexus-plays-us-like-a-fiddle-with-its-lfa-quartet/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/lexus-plays-us-like-a-fiddle-with-its-lfa-quartet/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Last we checked, there were fewer than 90 Lexus LFA models in the United States. So imagine our surprise to find not one, not two, but four of the automaker's carbon-fiber exotics parked under the lights in the Lexus booth at the Chicago Auto Show.

Normally, when four of the same models occupy the same stage it's hardly news. However, this quartet of Lexii represents nearly five percent of all LFA models on our shore. Five percent. To put that in perspective, if five percent of Toyota Camry models sold last year were parked in the Toyota booth there would be about 15,000 sedans crammed onto the carpet.

Unexpected appearances aside, the 40-cylinder assembly (with a retail value of more than $1.5 million) gave us the perfect opportunity to see the LFA in red, black and yellow - with an assortment of factory wheels and finishes. And before you make a crack about the LFA not selling, understand these are all customer cars. In fact, one even has an EZPass still in its window. Check out our extensive gallery and let us know which is your next... um, lottery car.

Lexus plays us like a fiddle with its LFA quartet originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 lfa2012 lfachicagochicago 2012chicago auto showlexus lfalfa Thu, 09 Feb 2012 19:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168307/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/lexus-plays-us-like-a-fiddle-with-its-lfa-quartet/20168307/article-detail.xml 20168307 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/lexus-lfa-chicago_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/lexus-lfa-chicago.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai adds more spunk to Veloster Turbo with graphics package]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/hyundai-add-more-spunk-to-the-veloster-turbo-with-graphics-packa/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/hyundai-add-more-spunk-to-the-veloster-turbo-with-graphics-packa/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/hyundai-add-more-spunk-to-the-veloster-turbo-with-graphics-packa/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Hyundai debuted the 2013 Veloster Turbo at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year, adding some more oomph and a more aggressive look to the funky three-door hatch. We felt that an additional 63 horsepower and 71 pound-feet of torque was just what the little Hyundai needed, and we were especially digging the available matte gray paint once the Veloster hits showrooms this summer.

Here at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show Hyundai is offering a completely different take on the Veloster Turbo with a special graphics package. The decals feature a gray and yellow stripe running the length of the car, yellow trim on the front spoiler, side skirts and rear fascia, as well as a checkered flag theme on the side and roof spoiler. It's definitely over the top, but still tastefully done.

So will this graphics package make it to production? Hyundai says 'no' for this particular look, although they are working other (likely more subtle) graphics that will be available to customers.

You can see the 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo with the graphics package in detail in the gallery above.

Hyundai adds more spunk to Veloster Turbo with graphics package originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 chicago auto show2013 hyundai veloster turbochicago 2012chicago auto showhyundaihyundai veloster turbohyundai veloster turbo graphics packageveloster turbo Thu, 09 Feb 2012 14:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168257/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/hyundai-add-more-spunk-to-the-veloster-turbo-with-graphics-packa/20168257/article-detail.xml 20168257 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hyundai-veloster-turbo-graphics_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/hyundai-veloster-turbo-graphics.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT86 offered in stripped down RC flavor... in Japan]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/toyota-gt86-comes-in-stripped-down-rc-flavor-in-japan/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/toyota-gt86-comes-in-stripped-down-rc-flavor-in-japan/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/toyota-gt86-comes-in-stripped-down-rc-flavor-in-japan/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Toyota GT-86 RC

It's getting harder and harder to purchase a genuine stripped down vehicle these days. Manufacturers have discovered that it's both cheaper and easier to offer every model with a surprisingly high level of content rather than build multiple variations on the same theme. That's why tricks like power locks and windows are all but ubiquitous, even on bargain-basement models.

Not so in Japan. Toyota is offering buyers a stripper version of the company's new GT86 sports coupe. The vehicle comes as a blank canvas just waiting for your personal touch. Outside, the stock 17-inch alloy wheels are replaced with 16-inch steelies, and the bumpers, side mirrors and door handles all arrive unpainted. Don't expect to find any fog lights, either.

Indoors, niceties like a stereo, air conditioning and even trim work around the steering wheel and shifter are nowhere to be found. Toyota even went so far as to ditch the plastic intake cover under the hood. The vehicle doesn't come with a limited-slip rear differential, but the sacrifice seems worth it to us. For starters, the GT-86 RC carries a price tag of 1.9 million Yen, or $24,601 at current conversion rates. That's significantly less than the standard model. Then there's the fact that the RC weighs nearly 100 pounds less than the base GT-86.

Sadly, we doubt either Scion or Subaru will offer a similarly stripped-down version of their respective FR-S or BRZ models, though history disagrees with us. Scion did, in fact, offer a stripper version of the tC back in 2007 called the tC Spec Package.

Toyota GT86 offered in stripped down RC flavor... in Japan originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> brzfr-sgt86gt86 rcscionstripper gt86subarutoyota Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168002/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/toyota-gt86-comes-in-stripped-down-rc-flavor-in-japan/20168002/article-detail.xml 20168002 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/toyota-gt-86-rc_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/toyota-gt-86-rc.jpg <![CDATA[Why did Honda kill its best performance engine?]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/why-did-honda-kill-its-best-performance-engine/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/why-did-honda-kill-its-best-performance-engine/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/why-did-honda-kill-its-best-performance-engine/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



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

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

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

Continue reading Why did Honda kill its best performance engine?

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 acura rdxacuraannachicago 2012chicago auto showhondahonda turbo enginerdxturboturbo acuraturbo hondaturbochargedturbocharged acura Thu, 09 Feb 2012 12:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167548/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/why-did-honda-kill-its-best-performance-engine/20167548/article-detail.xml 20167548 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/12rdxengine-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/12rdxengine-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz taps F1 engine division for AMG version of next A-Class]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/mercedes-benz-taps-f1-engine-division-for-a25-amg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/mercedes-benz-taps-f1-engine-division-for-a25-amg/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/mercedes-benz-taps-f1-engine-division-for-a25-amg/#comments Filed under: , , ,

AMG engines

While the current A-Class has stood as something of an odd man out from the rest of the Mercedes-Benz line-up, the new A-Class promises to be a proper Mercedes. And fortunately, with that territory, all signs point to the German automaker planning on including an AMG version.

The trouble is that while AMG has a wealth of experience boring out big engines, the small sort of mills capable of fitting under the hood of something as compact as the A-Class is outside its realm of expertise. Fortunately, Mercedes has another division that thrives on getting the most out of compact powerplants.

That division is Mercedes-Benz HighPerformanceEngines, the Northamptonshire, England-based firm formerly known as Ilmor that constructs the F1 engines for McLaren, Force India and Mercedes' own F1 team. It happened to have been run by Ola Kallenius until he switched over to AMG. Although HPE has until now been operated largely as a stand-alone business, Mercedes has been integrating it into its broader operations, and this - according to reports - could be the first road-car project on which it's called to work.

Until recently, F1 was expecting to switch to small, turbocharged four-cylinder engines, leading HPE to work on such a unit. Since that was scrapped in favor of a V6, the development work is reportedly being applied instead to a new high-output engine for the AMG A-Class.

Tipped to be called the A25 AMG, the veritable hot hatch is targeting the 335-horsepower Audi RS3, only is expected to carry even more power. The engine is also expected to find its way into the new CLC25 AMG, which bodes well for the B-Class-based four-door coupe and shooting brake.

Mercedes-Benz taps F1 engine division for AMG version of next A-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:38:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20165696/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/mercedes-benz-taps-f1-engine-division-for-a25-amg/20165696/article-detail.xml 20165696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/amg-engines_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/amg-engines.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin debuts production V12 Zagato]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Aston Martin V12 Zagato

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

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

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

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

Continue reading Aston Martin debuts production V12 Zagato

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 geneva motor showaston martinaston martin v12 zagatogenevageneva 2012geneva motor showv12v12 vantagev12 zagatovantagezagato Thu, 09 Feb 2012 10:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168047/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/aston-martin-debuts-production-v12-zagato/20168047/article-detail.xml 20168047 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/zagato-front-3-4-mid-low-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/zagato-front-3-4-mid-low-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti still considering version of Nissan GT-R]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/infiniti-still-considering-version-of-nissan-gt-r/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/infiniti-still-considering-version-of-nissan-gt-r/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/infiniti-still-considering-version-of-nissan-gt-r/#comments Filed under: , ,

Nissan GT-R Egoist

The rumor is back: Infiniti is considering a top-dog model based on the Nissan GT-R. The GT-R running gear is impressive with its 500-plus turbocharged horsepower and sophisticated all-wheel drive system, but anyone who's driven Nissan's supercar will tell you that it lacks the finesse you'd expect from an Infiniti.

"We have three or four proposals we are looking at right now." Infiniti Advanced Planning chief Francois Bancon told CAR. Of course, automakers create lots of internal proof-of-concept models that never see the light of day, so having proposals doesn't necessarily have any bearing on what might make production. "It would have to be softer than the GT-R," continued Bancon, acknowledging, "You can't easily tweak the GT-R to deliver the sophisticated, more refined performance we would need on an Infiniti." Whether an Infiniti version of the GT-R is mere rumor or eventual reality, there's going to be a wait. For now, Infiniti is focused on launching a smaller model for 2015, and a GT-R-based halo car would come after that program is successfully under way.

Infiniti still considering version of Nissan GT-R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> infiniti gt-rinfiniti gtrinfiniti nissan gt-rnissan gt-rnissan gtr Thu, 09 Feb 2012 09:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166789/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/infiniti-still-considering-version-of-nissan-gt-r/20166789/article-detail.xml 20166789 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/027-nissan-gt-r-egoist_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/027-nissan-gt-r-egoist.jpg <![CDATA[Which Spyder is the fastest? EVO finds out [UPDATE]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/which-spyder-is-the-fastest-evo-finds-out/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/which-spyder-is-the-fastest-evo-finds-out/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/which-spyder-is-the-fastest-evo-finds-out/#comments Filed under: , , ,



At first glance, pitting the Porsche Boxster Spyder against the Audi R8 Spyder is a bit like throwing a trout in a five-gallon bucket with a piranha. After all, the big Audi boasts over 100 horsepower more than the baby Porsche. Throw in the fact that the R8 puts its power to the ground through all four wheels while the Boxster Spyder is left to manage with just two, and the fight looks even more bleak for Stuttgart's finest. Still, the Audi R8 Spyder isn't a lightweight by any stretch of the imagination. The vehicle needs all 430 horsepower from its 4.2-liter V8 to move the sports car's 3,858 pounds around the track.

The Porsche Boxster Spyder, meanwhile, weighs in at over 1,000 pounds lighter. That 100 horsepower gap doesn't seem so big now, does it? EVO Magazine recently took the time to put the two vehicles to the test and worked up a quick video of their exploits. Who came out on top? You'll just have to hit the jump to find out for yourself.

UPDATE: EVO's embed code is busted, so click through to watch the video.

Which Spyder is the fastest? EVO finds out [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi r8 spyderboxster spyderevo magazineporscheporsche boxster spyderr8 spyderspyder Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20166413/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/which-spyder-is-the-fastest-evo-finds-out/20166413/article-detail.xml 20166413 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/carphoto49610825-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/carphoto49610825-628.jpg <![CDATA[SVT celebrates 20 years with the Mustang that started it all]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/svt-celebrates-20-years-with-the-mustang-that-started-it-all/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/svt-celebrates-20-years-with-the-mustang-that-started-it-all/ http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/svt-celebrates-20-years-with-the-mustang-that-started-it-all/#comments Filed under: , , ,

1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R

Ford debuted the 2013 Shelby GT500 Convertible earlier today at the Chicago Auto Show, but it wasn't the only Mustang vying for our attention on the show floor. In fact, we had a hard time keeping our eyes off this Vibrant Red beauty.

The pony car in question? A 1993 SVT Cobra R, the pinnacle of the Fox Body Mustang. The standard SVT Cobra made its official debut at the Chicago Auto Show back in 1992, and its reappearance in the Windy City was a fitting reminder of the 20th anniversary of Ford's Special Vehicle Team.

So what makes the 1993 SVT Cobra R so special? For starters, just 107 were produced, making it one of the rarest Mustangs ever built by Ford. The 235-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 is the same powerplant as the one in the standard Cobra, but the R model had less weight to push around thanks to the removal of the rear seats, radio, air conditioning and all sound deadening material. Ford also fitted the Cobra R with adjustable Koni shocks, larger front and rear brakes, 17-inch wheels shod with Goodyear tires, an external engine oil cooler and power steering fluid cooler, aluminum radiator and more.

The particular Cobra R brought to the show by Ford is literally a time capsule from the early '90s and in incredible condition. Amazingly, the odometer reads just over 4,100 miles. You can check out the car in detail in the gallery above.

SVT celebrates 20 years with the Mustang that started it all originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1993 ford svt cobra rchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showcobracobra rfordmustang Wed, 08 Feb 2012 19:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20167520/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/08/svt-celebrates-20-years-with-the-mustang-that-started-it-all/20167520/article-detail.xml 20167520 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/1993-svt-cobra-r-chicago_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/1993-svt-cobra-r-chicago.jpg -1 2