Autoblog

Spy Shots: 2010 BMW 5 Series nearing completion

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, BMW

2010 BMW 5 Series - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The 2010 BMW 5 Series is due to hit the market early next year and these latest spy shots are a clear, if predictable, indication of what styling changes are on their way.

The front fascia adopts the upright nose, elongated twin-kidney grille and contoured headlamps (Dame Edna be gone!) originally shown on the 2009 7 Series, while the rear takes on a set of similarly styled tail lamps and looses the Bangled rump we've come to know and loathe.

The overall effect should tie in well with the recently revealed BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, and expect similar powertrain options to be available, including the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8, 3.0-liter inline-six and a host of diesel options offered abroad. Transmission choices will likely include a six-speed manual and an all-new eight-speed gearbox supplied by ZF. And then there's the 2011 M5 to look forward to.

Expect the next M-fettled 5er to pack the X6 M/X5 M's tweaked twin-turbo'd eight nestled within a revised chassis sure to use considerable amounts of aluminum and carbon fiber. It's obvious that development of the next 5 is well underway, and we wouldn't be surprised to see it unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, with the M5 appearing later in 2010.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2010 BMW 5 Series

Spy Shots: 2010 BMW 5 Series nearing completion originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rendered or Spied? Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG pops up on mag cover

John Neff — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupes, Supercars, Mercedes-Benz, AMG

We can't tell you for sure whether or not this image of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG on the cover of Autobild is the real deal or a well done rendering based on some spy shots, but it does appear to have that quality of an actual photograph rather than a Photochop special.

The SLS AMG will mark the first appearance of a production car fitted with gull-wing doors since, well... we suppose the DMC-12 DeLorean, though we're certain that Mercedes hopes its car conjure an image of the original 300SL on which this supercar's styling is based. The cues are all there, including a grille that looks like a guppy with its mouth wide open, fender vents aft of the front wheels and, of course, those doors.

Power will surely be provided by the biggest AMG-sourced V8 that will fit under the long hood, though we have heard rumors of an all-electric version arriving in 2015. We'll see about that, but in the meantime you can compare the shot above to spy shots of the car that were officially released by Mercedes back in April.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

Rendered or Spied? Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG pops up on mag cover originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Mini Cooper Crossover spotted in California

John Neff — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossovers/CUVs, Hatchbacks, MINI

Mini Cooper Crossover spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mini has been caught testing its upcoming Cooper Crossover in the deserts of California, and these two prototypes, despite their psychedelic paint schemes, provide the most clear view yet of the small soft roader. What's of particular note is that these two prototypes do not share the same front end, perhaps because one is the naturally aspirated model and the other turbocharged. The trailing Cooper Crossover prototype features a more typical Mini grille with horizontal slats and a fog light at each corner. The prototype leading the pack, however, features a mesh grille and lower air intake with two inlets.

Based on the Mini Crossover Concept that debuted at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, the production version appears to have more in common with the standard Mini Cooper than the extra large Clubman model. While it does sport an extra pair of doors like the Clubman, these prototypes appear to feature rear lift gates that swing up rather than being split vertically down the center. And while ground clearance does appear to be up relative to a standard Mini, these long-wheelbase, four-door Coopers are far from being rock crawlers.

Check out the rest of our latest spy shots in the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Mini Cooper Crossover - spy shots

[Photos: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Mini Cooper Crossover spotted in California originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Video: Porsche Cayman Shooting Brake caught on camera phone?

Noah Joseph — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sports/GTs, Wagons/Estates, Videos, Hatchbacks, Porsche

Camera phones are turning into quite an asset in this business, as readers of various automotive news sites across the interwebs and around the world have turned into legions of spy photographers. In this instance, one such reader-turned-paparazzo (apparently in Italy, no less) caught on video what appears to be some sort of Porsche Cayman Shooting Brake test mule.

Looking something like the product of a one-night-stand between said Porsche and either a Volvo C30 or an original BMW Z3-based M Coupe, the supposed mule is wearing all black, but apart from that, it appears to be undisguised. Of course, this could be a one-off made by someone with no official connection to Porsche (Rinspeed, anyone?), but then again, it could be a harbinger of a model to come. What do you make of it? Follow the link to view the spy video and voice your opinion in our comments section below. Thanks for the tip, Bill!

[Source: Top Gear]

Spy Video: Porsche Cayman Shooting Brake caught on camera phone? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shot: Redesigned Lincoln MKX gains corporate face

John Neff — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossovers/CUVs, Lincoln

Redesigned Lincoln MKX spy shot - Click above to enlarge

Lincoln's new corporate grille is comprised of a split-wing design that flows up into a pair of swept back headlamps. It debuted on the MKS, has migrated to the MKZ and was expanded for the MKT three-row crossover, and now it's set to appear on the redesigned MKX crossover.

The MKX crossover has always been the odd-man-out in terms of styling when compared to the rest of the Lincoln lineup. Even before the split-wing grille came into being, the MKX debuted with a front fascia that didn't match any of the brand's other models because it was based on the 2005 Lincoln Aviator concept. All that will change as this spy shot reveals.

Whereas the split-wing grille looks over-the-top on the much larger MKT crossover, this most important of Lincoln design cues seems right at home on the smaller MKX. Click the image above for an enlarged view and let us (and Lincoln) know what you think in the comments. Specifically, how do you think the new MKX design compares to its cross-town rival, the 2010 Cadillac SRX?

Spy Shot: Redesigned Lincoln MKX gains corporate face originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Next Toyota Landcruiser Prado/Lexus GX caught in the Middle East?

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:32:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUVs, Lexus, Toyota

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado spy shots -- Click above for image gallery

A tipster in the Middle East has sent pics of what looks to be the area's next Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (known as the Lexus GX stateside). If it is the next version of the SUV, Toyota has gone for a massaging routine as opposed to brute force change. A reshaped front fascia contains swoopier headlights, a vertical-bar grille similar to that of the Australian model), and a raised lower bumper detail. The changes are minimal out back, with more pronounced taillamps and a unique U-shaped chrome taillamp garnish.

As the vehicle seen here is thought to be based on the same platform as the current model, it isn't clear if this is the same chassis that is expected to underpin America's next Toyota 4Runner/GX expected this Fall. In the Gulf region, Al Motor News figures that the predecessor's Toyota engines will carry over: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder and a 4.0-liter V6. The Gulf-market Lexus is also expected to get a 4.6-liter V8 engine option with 310 horsepower.

These shots were apparently taken at a dealer inventory lot, so it is assumed the Prado will be shown officially in the not-too-distant future. You can get a sneak preview for yourself in the gallery of photos below. Hat tip to Ebraheem!

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2010 Toyota Prado/Landcruiser

[Source: Al Motor News]

Spy Shots: Next Toyota Landcruiser Prado/Lexus GX caught in the Middle East? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Reader Spy: Nearly undisguised next-gen Hyundai Sonata snapped in Dubai!

Chris Paukert — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, Hyundai

2011 Hyundai Sonata spy shots - Click above for image gallery

One of our loyal readers was vacationing in Dubai when he happened upon this nearly undisguised and totally unattended 2011 Hyundai Sonata mule. Sammy_R-Gti of assayarat.com explains that he was driving around on vacation and stopped to observe mid-day prayer at a mosque. When he emerged from said house of prayer, he spied the car parked outside of a neighboring spa resort (perhaps some engineers were taking a much-deserved break?), and our man was able to rattle off the photos seen here. Because Sammy_R-Gti (correctly) figured that whoever was with the car probably wouldn't want him photographing their quarry, our man didn't have time to take it all in, but he did gain perhaps the best look yet at Hyundai's pivotal new sedan.

As expected, the roofline and short rear deck indicates that the Korean automaker is going for a much more rakish look, adopting the 'four-door coupe' aesthetic that is so in vogue these days. Unlike earlier spy shots, Sammy has managed to score an almost completely undisguised look at the car's Lexus ES350-like headlamps and its simple three-bar front grille, as well as new details about the sheetmetal's contouring. Judging by the fact that this prototype was fitted with relatively high-profile tires and modestly sized steel wheels with covers, we're guessing that it is a base model.

Check out the gallery of images below. Thanks for the shots, Sammy!

Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Sonata - spy shots

[Source: Sammy_R-Gti of assayyarat.com]

Reader Spy: Nearly undisguised next-gen Hyundai Sonata snapped in Dubai! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Ferrari F450 prototype caught with native body

John Neff — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:34:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Supercars, Ferrari

Ferrari F450 spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ferrari normally tests its future supercars wearing body panels from the prior version, and so earlier spy shots of the upcoming F450 have all been of mules wearing F430 body panels. Today that ends, as our snoops have caught an honest-to-goodness F450 prototype in its own skin. While still covered in camo that obscures the details, it's evident that the body is taking shape and close to finalization.

While we've reported that the F450 may feature a turbocharged, direct-inject V8 engine and possibly a mild hybrid system based on patents filed by Ferrari, Autocar is reporting that the Prancing Horse intends to launch the F430 successor without those advanced technologies. While Ferrari may unveil a hybrid F450 concept at the LA Auto Show later this year in order to be the first to establish a road-going version of the KERS system used in Formula One, the thought is that customers might not be ready for such a green version of the exotic automaker's best-selling model and that new European emissions standards can initially be met by substantially cutting weight and further developing direct injection for its current crop of engines. Stay tuned as we inch closer to the F450's unveiling later this year.

Gallery: Ferrari F450 - spy shots

[Photos: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Ferrari F450 prototype caught with native body originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Nip/Tuck'd Ford S-Max spotted in the Swiss mountains

Chris Paukert — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 09:30:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Minivans/MPVs, Euro

Ford's rakish S-Max people mover may yet come to the States, but we almost certainly won't see it before the facelift seen here takes effect. Caught by long-lensed spy shots for EVO Magazine, this next-generation S-Max mule was caught pulling caravan duty in the Swiss mountains.

According to the U.K. publication, the S-Max's interior is likely to stay the same, meaning that buyers will once again get a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations. The exterior is clearly being tweaked with a new front fascia and grille, as well as reconfigured taillamps featuring LED illumination. Given that the production S-Max first debuted at the Geneva Motor Show back in 2006, this seems like as opportune a time as any to refresh the award-winning MPV.

The engine lineup is expected to remain unaltered, meaning buyers can expect a range of gas and diesel four- and five-cylinder engines as well as manual and automatic transmission choices.

We've been hearing for years now that the sporty S-Max might cross the Pond... is it finally our turn? And if so, would Americans consider it? Have your say in 'Comments.'

[Source: EVO]

Spy Shots: Nip/Tuck'd Ford S-Max spotted in the Swiss mountains originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Milano fresh off production line... still headed for America?

Chris Paukert — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Euro, Hatchbacks, Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo Milano spy shots -- Click above for image gallery

We're not entirely sure where they originated, but some brazen soul has taken a series of camera phone photos of what appears to be a brace of production-line Alfa Romeo Milano hatchbacks. Although low-res, these shots provide the best look yet at the Italian automaker's forthcoming model, with blurry glimpses inside-and-out of what looks for all the world like a plus-sized MiTo (not a bad thing). From the appearance of things, the shots were taken in an Alfa production facility (they're likely early production small batch cars), suggesting that the model is nearly ready for its debut... perhaps in Frankfurt?

The voluptuous five-door certainly integrates styling cues from the smaller MiTo (which itself sought design assistance from the gorgeous 8C Competizione supercar), particularly up front, but the rear end eschews the Mito's traditional round brakelamps for larger, whistle-shaped horizontally oriented units. In typical Alfa fashion, the hatchback also receives a handsome looking instrument panel with a pair of tunneled main gauges (speedometer and tachometer), as well as simple rotary controls for the HVAC system and plenty of metal (or metal-effect) trim.

As you may recall, the Milano was reportedly one of the vehicles named in internal documents as one of the offerings that Alfa will use to spearhead the automaker's return to North American soil. There has been some discussion that Stateside model plans between Fiat, Chrysler, and Alfa will be tweaked, but as far as we know, the hatch is still a solid bet for the U.S. market. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

Gallery: Alfa Romeo Milano production spy shots

[Source: Facebook via Carscoop]

Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Milano fresh off production line... still headed for America? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Production-ready Dacia crossover spotted?

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 19:02:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Geneva Motor Show, Crossovers/CUVs, Nissan, Renault

Spy shots of the 2010 Dacia crossover -- Click above for high-res image gallery

These are said to be pictures of Dacia's coming crossover, caught in a Dacia facility in Romania. Said to be based on the Nissan Qashqai platform and using four wheel drive tech from the Nissan X-Trail, this is another in a line of vehicles with which Dacia wants to take its brand to the world. Names mentioned include Duster and Steppe, and production plans call for one million units per year at a price of €12,000. It is expected to be officially unveiled at next year's Geneva Auto Show. You can have a closer look at it in the gallery of high-res photos below. Hat tip to Ironick

Gallery: Dacia CUV Spy Shots

[Source: Dacia Club via Automarket]

Spy Shots: Production-ready Dacia crossover spotted? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge

Chris Paukert — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:40:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupes, Videos, Supercars, Misc. Auto Shows

Brenda Priddy's long-lens outfit has captured the first shots off the Devon Motor Works GTX supercar during aerodynamics testing.

The butterfly-doored coupe looks very promising in bare carbon fiber, as is word that the prototype was spotted at Willow Springs raceway with British Le Mans champion Justin Bell behind the wheel for testing duties.

This GTX mule certainly has some interesting details to it, including the aforementioned up-and-forward doors, as well as a U-shaped vented hood, center-exit exhaust, a big (and likely temporary) adjustable wing, and funky contrasting fender treatments which may or may not see production.

It isn't altogether clear what engine will be powering this beastie, but Priddy's people reportedly overheard the engineers talking of extracting 650 horsepower out of the drivetrain. California-based Devon, you may recall, was the sole bidder Chrysler reported for its Viper franchise, and it's certainly conceivable that despite the failed bid attempt, the car seen here would still feature a certain 8.4-liter V10 underhood. Indeed, given that Devon continues to tout its creation as "America's next great supercar," that scenario seems rather likely.

The GTX is slated to make its first appearance at next month's Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance (we'll be sure to grab some live photos), and the coupe is tipped to go on sale in the U.S. first in 2010, with other markets to follow. Check out the gallery of renderings below as well as a video of the teasers after the jump.

Gallery: Devon Motor Works GTX renderings

[Source: The Detroit Bureau]

Continue reading Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge

Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Next-gen Porsche 911 sporting double-bubble roof

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:44:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sports/GTs, Porsche

2011 Porsche 911 - Click above for a high-res image gallery of spy shots

With every iteration of the 911, Porsche makes incremental improvements to its iconic sports car and naturally, the next generation will be no exception.

This latest 911 prototype was caught at the Nurburgring sporting 997 sheetmetal, but it's what's on top and out back that deserves note. A double-bubble roof panel has been fitted, while underneath the rear camouflage is a sizeable wing and additional ducting. Look closely and you'll see a small sill at the base of the rear windscreen that's assumed to be feeding the rear-mounted flat-six - likely necessary keep the boxer cool while Porsche engineers figure out how the new contoured roof affects aerodynamics. If previous reports are to be believed, we can expect the next 911 to debut sometime in 2010, but we wouldn't rule out an appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Porsche 911 with double-bubble roof

Spy Shots: Next-gen Porsche 911 sporting double-bubble roof originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Ford Verve mule spotted banging around in Australia

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Economy, Hatchbacks, Ford, Australia

2011 Ford Verve spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Eagle-eyed spy shooters for Car Advice in Australia have managed to snap off a series of photos of a new entry-level Ford hatchback that's likely headed to emerging markets like India, Brazil and some areas in Europe. The car seen in these spy shots is clearly disguised as the previous-generation Ford Fiesta, but it's believed that this new machine may actually be a production version of the Ford Verve concept that was first introduced back in 2007 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

If it ever reaches production, it's likely that the Verve will feature a range of gasoline and diesel engines varying in size from 1.2- to 1.5-liters. According to Car Advice, this new hatchback is expected to get a formal green-light from Ford sometime in mid-2010 en-route to production a few months later. For what it's worth, we don't expect to see this car come Stateside, as America will already have the new Fiesta subcompact followed by a new global Focus. Click here for the rest of the shots.

Gallery: 2011 Ford Verve - spy shots

[Source: caradvice.com.au]

Spy Shots: Ford Verve mule spotted banging around in Australia originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: New Grand Bentley pics smuggled out of Crewe factory

Noah Joseph — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:24:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, Bentley

Bentleys may be as large and luxurious as yachts, but that doesn't mean the premium automaker's factory in Crewe is without leaks. Although Bentley is keen on metering out glimpses at a snail's pace, British auto mag CAR managed to get a hold of a batch of photos of the highly anticipated new "Grand Bentley".

Under development with the code-name Project Kimberley, the new Bentley is slated to replace the aging Arnage sedan at the top of the company's line-up and do battle with the Rolls-Royce Phantom. With technological input from its sister companies under the Volkswagen auto umbrella, the as-yet unnamed Grand Bentley promises to take a big step forward from the Arnage, which still carries its mechanicals and platform from the days when the automaker was under the same roof as Rolls -- not in direct competition. The spy shots reveal mesh grilles, LED lights, a retractable hood ornament (like the Phantom's) and a swooping roofline reminiscent of the classic 50's-era R-Type Continental. Looks pretty sweet, and we'll probably get an even better glimpse as the car's unveiling later this summer approaches with the pace of...well, a speeding Bentley.

[Source: CAR]

Spy Shots: New Grand Bentley pics smuggled out of Crewe factory originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 14:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Gumpert Apollo Speed caught circling the 'Ring?

Noah Joseph — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Supercars, Audi

It may not be pretty - eye of the beholder and all that - but the Gumpert Apollo is one serious ride. But as hardcore as the Apollo is, the eponymous former Audi Sport director behind the niche German automaker apparently wasn't satisfied leaving fast enough alone, so the company unveiled the Apollo Speed at this year's Geneva auto show. But that was just about the last we heard of it, until now, as spy shots of the super-Gumpert lapping the Nurburgring have surfaced online.

The (ahem) stock Apollo already packs a range of Audi V8 engines producing 650, 700 or 800 horsepower depending on customer specification, so clearly there's nothing wrong there. The Apollo Speed spied, however, carries an adjustable rear wing, a more streamlined overhead induction system, revised front fenders and updated tail-lights. And while the focus is clearly on performance here, right down to the racing buckets and competition-spec removable steering wheel, the Apollo Speed is still tipped to carry air-con and DVD info-tainment system. The Stig will undoubtedly be pleased.

[Source: Motor Trend]

Spy Shots: Gumpert Apollo Speed caught circling the 'Ring? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5-Series mule caught in the desert

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedans/Saloons, BMW

2011 BMW 5-Series - Click above for gallery

A year ago, we showed you pics of the next-generation BMW 5-Series doing some high-speed testing on the Nürburgring, but that was pretty much the last we heard about this midsize bahnstormer. Well, intrepid spy photographer Rich Truesdell spotted a similar mule out in the desert last week, and he has filled us in on some additional details. The car he spotted appears to be a 2011 BMW 540i sedan. Rich relates that the car was big enough to have him thinking 7-Series at first, but BMW helped out by having a clearly larger current 7 on hand for comparison purposes. How thoughtful of them.

While not a lot of final detail shows through, Truesdell points out that the heavy rear quarter cladding could be a tip that something is brewing in the recently revamped styling department in Munich. In particular, around the C-pillar, there was a lot of camo, indicating that perhaps there's something worth hiding. Beyond that, the sedan looks like a shortened 7-Series from most angles, and the dual exhausts suggest that this is likely the V8-powered 540i. Follow the source link to read what Rich thought of the vehicle and to see all of the photos in high-res.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5-Series mule

All images (C) 2009 Rich Truesdell/Automotivetraveler.com

[Source: Automotive Traveler]

Spy Shots: 2011 BMW 5-Series mule caught in the desert originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LEAKED: High-res shots of 2010 BMW X1 hit the information superhighway

Chris Paukert — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:55:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Crossovers/CUVs, BMW

2010 BMW X1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although it is isn't slated to be officially revealed until this fall's Frankfurt Auto Show, it feels like we've been seeing the wraps come off BMW's X1 baby crossover for years now. Thanks to a steady stream of spy shots over the last 18 months or so, we feel like we ought to be able to tell you not only the shape and size of the glovebox, but the material its walls are made of. Regardless, these are the first official shots of the X1 that have leaked out on the web, apparently because of German magazine FOCUS online.

As we've already seen almost all elements of the X1 already, the final shape doesn't surprise us, which appears much like a shrunken X5 mixed with styling cues from the bull-nosed 7-Series, 5-Series Gran Turismo, and of course, last year's X1 Concept.

The inside is typical Bimmer fare as well, with a sober but handsome and well-screwed-together look. The usual accoutrements are present in the photo models' driver oriented instrument panels, including iDrive, USB ports, and thumb-shifters for the automatic.

We're already tired of BMW's awkward model naming conventions, but regardless, the CUV is expected to launch in Europe in xDrive18i and xDrive 18d configurations, along with an xDrive20d model whose 177 hp diesel is apparently good for 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, an xDrive23d model with a 204 hp oil-burner (0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds, top speed of 139 mph), as well as the xDrive28i, which is apparently good for 143 mph. No word yet on what models we'll see in the U.S. just yet, but we'd be surprised to see anything less powerful than the xDrive28i in Stateside dealers, and we'll keep our fingers crossed for a diesel variant.

According to current scuttlebutt, the X1 will launch in autumn exclusively paired with all-wheel drive, but rear-wheel drive versions are expected to come on line soon thereafter. Check out the gallery below and keep checking back with us for further details as they become available.

Gallery: Leaked 2010 BMW X1 Images

LEAKED: High-res shots of 2010 BMW X1 hit the information superhighway originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Ford Fiesta sedan caught in The D

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:29:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Economy, Sedans/Saloons, Ford

It shouldn't be entirely uncommon to run across a Ford Fiesta here in the United States now that the Blue Oval has handed the keys to a hundred of 'em to various "agents" all across the country as part of its Fiesta Movement program. What is unusual, though, is seeing a Fiesta sedan, but that's exactly what Domino Vitali, a spy shooter for our friends at WebRidesTV Blog, managed to snap a few shots of just north of the Motor City in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

Though the Ford Fiesta Sedan is already available in China, the American version of the car will differ slightly to conform with U.S. regulations. We'll likely get revised fascias front and rear along with bumpers that offer a smidgen more protection in low-speed impacts. Fortunately for those of us who prefer the utmost in practicality, FoMoCo is also expected to send the hatchback (in both three- and five-door configurations) to America in addition to this new sedan when the Fiesta finally goes on sale as a 2011 model.

[Source: WebRidesTV Blog]

Spy Shots: Ford Fiesta sedan caught in The D originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible

Damon Lavrinc — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:58:00 EST

Filed under: Frankfurt Auto Show, Spy Photos, Convertibles, Mercedes-Benz

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The engineers at Mercedes-Benz are working tirelessly to get the all-new E-Class cabrio ready for its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show. So much so that they appear to be bringing dates along for a ride in the chop-topped mules.

These newest shots of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible are the first we've seen with the cloth top stowed away, and they reveal an interesting detail: a retractable wind deflector mounted on the top of the windshield.

Like Audi, Mercedes has opted to forgo the folding hard-top treatment for the new E, allowing the automaker to retain the coupe's hard-edged style and keep the curb weight in check. When the E-Class Convertible arrives in dealerships early next year, expect a range of six- and eight-cylinder powerplants, including the range-topping E500.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz E-Class convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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