Autoblog Truck http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog Truck 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[2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/#comments Filed under: , ,



Despite initially launching in just the Crew Cab configuration, the lineup of 2014 GMC Sierra and 2014 Chevrolet Silverado trucks will eventually grow to include three cab sizes and three bed lengths. Oddly enough, our first look at the Regular Cab bodystyle has arrived in a General Motors press release discussing the aerodynamics of the new truck, with an image showing a Sierra Regular Cab testing in the wind tunnel. GMC's website says that Regular Cab and Double Cab models will be available by summer.

While it really didn't take too much imagination to figure out what the two-door version would look like, this Regular Cab Z71 looks pretty sharp with its standard-length (6.5-feet) bed - a longer bed will also be offered. In regards to the aero tuning of the 2014 Sierra, these images show just how far GM has gone in maximizing the truck's fuel efficiency and reducing its noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels. Interestingly, the press release shows visual evidence that keeping the tailgate up is best for aero - there's always been some Mythbusters-level contention about such things -but GM also says that adding tonneau covers (preferably soft) and running boards can also help improve the overall aerodynamics. Scroll down for all of this aero info in the official press release.

Continue reading 2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed

2014 GMC Sierra Regular Cab revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 May 2013 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 gmc sierra2014 gmc sierra regular cabchevy silveradogeneral motorsgmcgmc sierragmc sierra regular cab Thu, 16 May 2013 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572439/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20572439/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/16/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab-revealed/20572439/article-detail.xml 20572439 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-gmc-sierra-regular-cab.jpg <![CDATA[Watch this garbage truck consume a Pontiac Grand Am]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/watch-this-garbage-truck-consume-a-pontiac-grand-am/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/watch-this-garbage-truck-consume-a-pontiac-grand-am/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/15/watch-this-garbage-truck-consume-a-pontiac-grand-am/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Garbage truck crushes car - video screencap

When an old car or truck offers its dying breath in your driveway and you just don't have the financial or mechanical wherewithal to resuscitate it yet again, you traditionally have to go to the trouble of calling a flatbed or a tow truck to come haul it away. That usually helps to put a few bucks in your wallet and helps recycle some of the vehicle's parts, but the transaction doesn't seem as final or perversely satisfying as the dispatch service that this New Way Cobra Magnum garbage truck offers.

Okay, okay, so this refuse hauler isn't actually designed for this sort of thing, but it's oddly comforting to know that a sanitation truck can compact a hapless Pontiac Grand Am into oblivion. Next time, we won't feel so guilty about slipping that rusty charcoal grille onto the curb next to the cans on garbage day. Watch the carnage by scrolling below.

Continue reading Watch this garbage truck consume a Pontiac Grand Am

Watch this garbage truck consume a Pontiac Grand Am originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 May 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> garbage trucknew waynew way cobra magnumpontiacpontiac grand amrefusesanitationvideo Wed, 15 May 2013 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20570146/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20570146/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/15/watch-this-garbage-truck-consume-a-pontiac-grand-am/20570146/article-detail.xml 20570146 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/garbage-truck-crushes-car_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/garbage-truck-crushes-car.jpg <![CDATA[HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video]]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Holden HSV Gen-F GTS

Here it is, folks. Right on schedule, Holden has revealed full details on its reborn range of HSV Gen-F models. The bulk of the new HSV machinery will go on sale next month, though the baddest of them all, the supercharged HSV GTS, will reportedly be delayed until September.

The GTS may well be worth the wait, however, as its 430kW supercharged V8 engine (known as the LSA, the engine makes 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque in the US-market Chevy Camaro ZL1) will make this the fastest Holden ever produced. Lower-level ClubSport models will come equipped with a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 with 317kW of power. A ClubSport R8 sedan with a 325kW version of the engine and a ClubSport SV with a 340kW engine will also be available.

Bodystyle choices range from a sedan to a wagon and, of course, an El Camino a Ute called the Maloo, since this is Australia after all. Long-wheelbase Grange model and an upscale Senator model will be offered with slightly more toned-down exterior looks for those who'd rather blend in to the crowd. Pricing has yet to be announced, but you're welcome to scroll down below to watch a video before checking out all the details from Holden here.

Continue reading HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video]

HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> australiagen-fholdenhsvhsv gen-fhsv gts Tue, 14 May 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568942/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568942/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/20568942/article-detail.xml 20568942 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/holden-hsv-gts-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/holden-hsv-gts-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Convocation of eagles takes over bed of Nissan pickup]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/convocation-of-eagles-takes-over-bed-of-nissan-pickup/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/convocation-of-eagles-takes-over-bed-of-nissan-pickup/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/convocation-of-eagles-takes-over-bed-of-nissan-pickup/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Convocation of eagles attacking bag of fish guts in a pickup truck in Alaska - video still

Let this be a lesson to those of you who plan to visit Unalaska, Alaska (yes, it's a real city on Unalaska Island in the Aleutian Islands): If you park at Safeway with a garbage bag full of fish fillets in your pickup's bed, the eagles will find you. That's what happened above when an unidentified man parked his Nissan and returned to find a convocation of bald eagles feasting on his fish.

Neither the man nor those parked near his truck could get to their cars for fear of getting a beatdown from The 'Murica Bird, and police were called to break it up, which they did with neither beast nor fowl injured in the process.

Other than being awesome watching, other things we can take away from this video are the question who comes up with bird gathering names (a "murmuration" of herons and an "unkindness" of ravens?), and the bounty of this comment left by user "Abraham" at the KUCB news report: "It's just that the luxury edition has so much more eagle, it saddens me to think of you missing out." See what caused it all in the video below.

Continue reading Convocation of eagles takes over bed of Nissan pickup

Convocation of eagles takes over bed of Nissan pickup originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> alaskabald eaglebald eagleseaglesnissanunalaskavideo Mon, 13 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565966/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565966/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/convocation-of-eagles-takes-over-bed-of-nissan-pickup/20565966/article-detail.xml 20565966 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/eagles-nissan-fish_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/eagles-nissan-fish.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA opens investigation into Ford Super Duty trucks over steering woes]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/nhtsa-opens-investigation-into-ford-super-duty-trucks-over-steer/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/nhtsa-opens-investigation-into-ford-super-duty-trucks-over-steer/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/nhtsa-opens-investigation-into-ford-super-duty-trucks-over-steer/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2008 Ford F250 Super Duty - front three-quarter view, red

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into certain 2008 Ford F-250 and F-350 Super Duty pickup trucks. The investigation covers some 340,000 trucks after the government agency received five complaints of steering box failures. Owners claim internal failures resulted in the complete loss of their vehicles' control. In one case, steering box failure is being blamed for an F-Series crashing into another vehicle at around 20 miles per hour, while another another driver said his truck left the road and impacted a guardrail at around 35 mph.

Ford says it is cooperating with NHTSA in the investigation. We'll keep tabs on the investigation and let you know if a recall results.

NHTSA opens investigation into Ford Super Duty trucks over steering woes originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> f-seriesford f-250ford f-350ford f-350 super dutyford super dutyinvestigationnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsasteering box Mon, 13 May 2013 11:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566393/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20566393/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/nhtsa-opens-investigation-into-ford-super-duty-trucks-over-steer/20566393/article-detail.xml 20566393 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2008-ford-super-duty-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2008-ford-super-duty-628.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[Motorcyclist rear ends truck, lands in bed and goes for a ride]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/motorcyclist-rear-ends-truck-lands-in-bed-and-goes-for-a-ride/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/motorcyclist-rear-ends-truck-lands-in-bed-and-goes-for-a-ride/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/motorcyclist-rear-ends-truck-lands-in-bed-and-goes-for-a-ride/#comments Filed under: , , ,



Just imagine for a moment that you're driving across a long stretch of secluded desert highway, and suddenly you see a hand waving at you from inside the vehicle in the rearview mirror. While this might seem like the stuff of scary urban legends, it is exactly what happened to a man last week as he was driving his Nissan pickup through California's High Desert.

According to the Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, a motorcycle rider rear-ended the man's pickup at a high rate of speed, throwing the rider into the bed of the truck. Since it was a rough stretch of road that was under construction, the driver mistook the impact for road debris. Witnesses claim the motorcycle rider was traveling "in excess of 130 miles per hour," and while the rider sustained "minor to moderate" injuries, we imagine that things would likely have been much worse if he hadn't landed in the back of the truck...

Motorcyclist rear ends truck, lands in bed and goes for a ride originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> motorcyclemotorcycle crashmotorcycle safety Thu, 09 May 2013 07:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559757/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559757/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/motorcyclist-rear-ends-truck-lands-in-bed-and-goes-for-a-ride/20559757/article-detail.xml 20559757 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/nissan-titan-bed-1367932812_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/nissan-titan-bed-1367932812.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevy Silverado gets Texas Edition package]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/2014-chevy-silverado-texas-edition/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/2014-chevy-silverado-texas-edition/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/2014-chevy-silverado-texas-edition/#comments Filed under: , ,



According to General Motors, the Lone Star State is responsible for one sixth of all truck sales in the United States, and to draw even more buyers to its showrooms, the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado is being offered in a special Texas Edition package. For buyers not in Texas, though, a similar package called Custom Sport will be offered at the same price premium - $2,165 for LT and $1,895 for LTZ models.

Both packages add 20-inch wheels, a locking rear differential and the Trailering Equipment package, and while the LT trim levels will get body colored mirrors and door handles, the LTZ models will get a whole smattering of chrome, along with a Bose audio system. The Texas Edition will get unique badges to differentiate it from the Custom Sport models. Scroll down for more information on these new packages, and check out our galleries of the 2014 Silverado and the more luxurious Silverado High Country.

Continue reading 2014 Chevy Silverado gets Texas Edition package

2014 Chevy Silverado gets Texas Edition package originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 chevrolet silverado2014 chevrolet silverado custom sport2014 chevrolet silverado texas editionchevrolet silveradopickup trucktexas Wed, 08 May 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562102/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562102/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/08/2014-chevy-silverado-texas-edition/20562102/article-detail.xml 20562102 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-chevrolet-silverado-texas-edition_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-chevrolet-silverado-texas-edition.jpg <![CDATA[VW Amarok R-Style debuting at Worthersee]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/vw-amarok-r-style-debuting-worthersee/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/vw-amarok-r-style-debuting-worthersee/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/vw-amarok-r-style-debuting-worthersee/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Volkswagen has announced another vehicle that will be delighting the brand's fans at this week's Wörthersee festival in Austria. The Amarok R-Style is a performance version of the pickup that VW seemingly sells all over the world... except the US and Canada, of course.

The truck is powered by a 3.0-liter TDI V6 making 272 horsepower and a stout 442 pound-feet of torque. That engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic, and the pair are reportedly good for helping the truck reach 62 miles per hour in 7.9 seconds. While a 20-year-old GMC Cyclone pickup would laugh that figure off as cute, the Amarok R-Style at least looks the part of a performance truck with 22-inch wheels bursting out of fenders widened by 2.36 inches on either side. There's also a carbon fiber diffuser out back, side sill extensions and bigger air intakes up front. Oh, and two chromed tailpipes for good measure.

Inside, the Amarok R-Style apes the GTI with a black, white and red color scheme on its surfaces and deeply bolstered sport seats. A new steering wheel, eight-inch touchscreen, subwoofer and carbon fiber dashboard round out the other extra upgrades.

VW Amarok R-Style debuting at Worthersee originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> vwvw amarokvw amarok r-stylewortherseeworthersee 2013 Wed, 08 May 2013 12:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562186/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20562186/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/08/vw-amarok-r-style-debuting-worthersee/20562186/article-detail.xml 20562186 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-amarok-r-style-000-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-amarok-r-style-000-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Chevy Colorado looks like big brother Silverado]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/next-gen-chevy-colorado-looks-like-big-brother-silverado/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/next-gen-chevy-colorado-looks-like-big-brother-silverado/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/next-gen-chevy-colorado-looks-like-big-brother-silverado/#comments Filed under: , ,



After taking the 2013 model year off, it looks like Chevrolet is putting the final touches on the next-generation Colorado, which is already on sale in South America, Asia and Australia. While we don't know when truck buyers in the US will be able to get their hands on the next-generation Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon, we do know that the trucks will be built at GM's Wentzville, MO plant. This plant currently building the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana, but GM is giving it an expansion, retooling and equipment upgrades totaling $380 million.

Based on these spy shots we can see that there are some pretty substantial styling changes in store for the body-on-frame Colorado, although we're not sure if this is a US-specific look or a global design refresh. While the current second-generation Colorado wears the face more fitting for a Malibu, the truck shown here has a blockier look with a more prominent grille that seems to be more in line with the redesigned 2014 Silverado. There is also a massive lower air dam to improve aerodynamics. More than anything, we're looking forward to finding out what will be under the hood of the new Colorado that could possibly include GM's 3.6-liter V6, the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder or even a small diesel; we also aren't counting out the possibility of the new 4.3-liter V6 recently introduced for the GM's 2014 fullsize trucks.

Next-gen Chevy Colorado looks like big brother Silverado originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 chevrolet coloradochevrolet coloradochevrolet colorado spy shotschevrolet spy shotschevrolet truckcompact pickuppickuppickup truckspy shots Tue, 07 May 2013 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560593/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20560593/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/next-gen-chevy-colorado-looks-like-big-brother-silverado/20560593/article-detail.xml 20560593 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-colorado-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/chevrolet-colorado-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[2014 GMC Sierra 4.3L V6 to offer segment-best 305 LB-FT]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2014-gmc-sierra-4-3l-v6-to-offer-segment-best-305-lb-ft/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2014-gmc-sierra-4-3l-v6-to-offer-segment-best-305-lb-ft/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2014-gmc-sierra-4-3l-v6-to-offer-segment-best-305-lb-ft/#comments Filed under: , ,

GM 4.3-liter V6 Engine

General Motors has released more information on the 4.3-liter V6 available in the 2014 GMC Sierra. The engine will serve up 285 horsepower and 305 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission, and giving the V6 Sierra a maximum tow rating of 7,200 pounds in regular cab, short bed four-wheel drive configuration. GM claims that figure is 500 pounds more than the equivalent Ford F-150 equipped with a 3.7-liter V6, and 700 pounds more than the Ram 1500 with its 3.6-liter V6. Buyers can expect to see the 2014 GMC Sierra with the 4.3-liter engine start at $25,085 including destination.

While the engine does deliver more torque than either of its main competitors, it falls short on the horsepower front. The 3.7-liter V6 in the F-150 develops 302 hp while the 3.6-liter V6 in the Ram 1500 yields 305 hp. GM says fuel economy estimates for its newest entry will land later this year. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Continue reading 2014 GMC Sierra 4.3L V6 to offer segment-best 305 LB-FT

2014 GMC Sierra 4.3L V6 to offer segment-best 305 LB-FT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 May 2013 17:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 gmc sierrageneral motorsgmgmcgmc sierragmc sierra v6v6 Mon, 06 May 2013 17:49:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559409/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559409/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/2014-gmc-sierra-4-3l-v6-to-offer-segment-best-305-lb-ft/20559409/article-detail.xml 20559409 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gm-v6-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/gm-v6-628.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[Next GMC Sierra Denali accidentally leaked on consumer site]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/next-gmc-sierra-denali-accidentally-leaked-on-consumer-site/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/next-gmc-sierra-denali-accidentally-leaked-on-consumer-site/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/03/next-gmc-sierra-denali-accidentally-leaked-on-consumer-site/#comments Filed under: , ,

GMC Sierra DenaliThanks to the quick-to-screen-shot folks at GM Authority, we now have our first look at what is likely the 2014-15 GMC Sierra Denali. GMA reports that the image you see here was temporarily posted on the GMC consumer site, though as you can see now, when you scroll over the "trucks" tab, the image has been removed.

GM Authority states that because the truck in this image wears a blacked-out lower bumper, redesigned grille insert and shiny wheels, this has got to be the upmarket Denali version of the fully redesigned 2014 model year Sierra. The Chevrolet Silverado will be getting a similar treatment, as we've seen in recent spy shots, dubbed the High Country.

Expect the Sierra Denali to ride on large, unique wheels (the one we spied earlier this year was fitted with 21-inch rollers), and feature a huge helping of luxurious interior amenities, as well as premium features like xenon headlamps. An official on-sale date for the Denali has not been released, though it's been reported that the high-grade Sierra, along with its Silverado counterpart, will arrive after the Texas State Fair this summer.

Next GMC Sierra Denali accidentally leaked on consumer site originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 May 2013 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> gmcgmc sierragmc sierra denali Fri, 03 May 2013 16:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557641/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20557641/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/03/next-gmc-sierra-denali-accidentally-leaked-on-consumer-site/20557641/article-detail.xml 20557641 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sierra250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/sierra250.jpg <![CDATA[Ford to add more than 2,000 jobs in Kansas City]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/ford-to-add-more-than-2-000-jobs-in-kansas-city/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/ford-to-add-more-than-2-000-jobs-in-kansas-city/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/ford-to-add-more-than-2-000-jobs-in-kansas-city/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Ford Kansas City

Continued high demand for the Ford F-150, along with the addition of the all-new Transit series of commercial vehicles, has led Ford to announce that it will add over 2,000 jobs at its Kansas City Assembly Plant. At the time of the announcement, the plant boasts 2,450 hourly employees working on two shifts. All told, Ford will invest $1.1 billion in the Kansas City plant to expand truck production and begin producing the Transit series.

According to the automaker, fullsize truck sales are up 19 percent through April of 2013, leading to an additional 900 workers and a third shift of production for the F-150. Production of the Transit series will begin in the fourth quarter of this year, requiring an additional 1,100 workers. In addition, Ford estimates that a total of 18,000 jobs will be created by suppliers to its Kansas City plant to support the additional vehicle production.

Want to know more? Scroll down for the complete press release.

Continue reading Ford to add more than 2,000 jobs in Kansas City

Ford to add more than 2,000 jobs in Kansas City originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fordford f-150ford kansas city assembly plantford transitkansas city Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20555539/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20555539/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/ford-to-add-more-than-2-000-jobs-in-kansas-city/20555539/article-detail.xml 20555539 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ford-kansas-city_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/ford-kansas-city.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[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[Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Cummins Li'l Red Express

The Dodge Li'l Red Express is one awesome quandary of the late '70s. Back then, Dodge had taken to building all sorts of oddball trucks and vans with strange equipment packages, but the Li'l Red Express was something entirely different.

Engineers crammed a honkin' 360 V8 yanked from the company's police interceptor line and plopped the four-barrel-fed block between the fenders, inadvertently creating the world's first sport truck in the process. Bolted as it was to a 727 Torqueflight automatic transmission and a 3.55:1 rear axle, the truck was the quickest vehicle Car and Driver tested in the 0-100 sprint in 1978.

Dodge said the engine put out 225 horsepower. It lied.

Max Kirtley took one look at the Li'l Red Express, yanked that magical V8 from behind the grille and plopped one wild Cummins 6BT turbo diesel inline-six in its place. Sucking down 100-pounds-per-square-inch worth of boost, the 12-valve rocks a Hamilton cylinder head and cam as well as a water injection system and two nitrous injection systems. Kirtley says the truck now puts down closer to 1,000 horsepower and 1,500-1,700 pound-feet of torque.

We don't think he's lying. Check out a video of this Cummins Li'l Red Express hopping down the quarter mile during a few test runs below.

Continue reading Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower

Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cumminscummins lil red expressdieseldodge lil red expressdrag racinglil red expressvideo Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549195/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/20549195/article-detail.xml 20549195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cummins-lil-red-express-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cummins-lil-red-express-628.jpg <![CDATA[China's Great Wall aiming to sell vehicles in US around 2015]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/chinas-great-wall-aiming-to-sell-vehicles-in-us-around-2015/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/chinas-great-wall-aiming-to-sell-vehicles-in-us-around-2015/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/chinas-great-wall-aiming-to-sell-vehicles-in-us-around-2015/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Great Wall Motor Co. display at 2013 Shanghai Motor Show with pickup and camper

Stop us if you've heard this one before: "The Chinese are coming." According to Automotive News, Great Wall Motor Co. plans to sell its vehicles in the US by around 2015. The Chinese automaker has been researching its planned expansion for the last two years, looking at everything from regulatory hurdles to establishing a dealer network, as well as customer needs and wants.

Although it isn't immediately clear what models the company plans to market here in the US, it is apparently looking at establishing a factory stateside. The company currently sells its wares in 76 countries and regions around the globe, but has yet to attempt to crack the US or Canada. Great Wall may be China's largest purveyor of SUVs, but it has a full lineup of models to choose from - it brought 26 vehicles to last weekend's press day for the Shanghai Motor Show, including a stand-alone section for its Haval brand of SUVs.

Of course, the Asian nation's automakers have been promising to bring their vehicles to the US market for years now, but to date, not one has made a full-fledged effort. Not Chery, not Changfeng, not anybody. At the moment, the only Chinese-built cars sold in North America are Honda Fit models, and they are only available in Canada (however, General Motors recently opened the door to importing their own Chinese-built models).

Having said all that, Great Wall is one of China's most respected and most financially established automakers, and it has a lot of experience building factories in other markets (admittedly mostly knock-down plants), as well as exporting vehicles. It seems all but inevitable that Chinese automakers will eventually offer vehicles to US consumers in real volume, but for the moment, there's still a lot of debate about how quickly that reality will set in. To wit, a recent study by Bernstein Research suggested that Chinese automakers still have a decade or more of development before they will be able to field globally competitive products.

China's Great Wall aiming to sell vehicles in US around 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chinese automakerschinese carsgreat wallgreat wall motorhavalshanghai motor show Wed, 24 Apr 2013 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548323/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20548323/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/chinas-great-wall-aiming-to-sell-vehicles-in-us-around-2015/20548323/article-detail.xml 20548323 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/great-wall-pickup-shanghai_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/great-wall-pickup-shanghai.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/2013-toyota-tacoma-trd-sport-quick-spin-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/2013-toyota-tacoma-trd-sport-quick-spin-review/ http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/2013-toyota-tacoma-trd-sport-quick-spin-review/#comments Filed under: , ,

2013 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport - front three-quarter view

"Oh yeah, Toyota still makes the Tacoma." Admit it, that's what you just said to yourself. It's a perfectly natural reaction, but the Tacoma has been quietly anchoring its segment for years, outselling every other compact pickup without making too much of a fuss. Toyota hasn't neglected the Tacoma - it was updated in 2012 with a revised nose and interior as the most noteable changes.

In a world awash with high-value fullsize pickups all vying for your attention, the Tacoma still charms more than a few buyers out of their cash. I hooked a Tacoma for a week to see whether it still has enough to recommend it.

Driving Notes
  • The size of the Tacoma is nice. While fullsize trucks can feel a bit like the automotive equivalent of relaxed-fit jeans, the Tacoma does the Goldilocks "just right" thing for my purposes.
  • Yet the cozy cockpit of the Access Cab I drove can become uncomfortably tight if you've got adults using the jumpseats regularly. If you travel in a pack, get the Double Cab. That goes double if you've got kids still in child seats, it's the better choice.
  • You have to be really committed to buying a compact pickup to ignore the extra value that goes along with the usually useful size available in the hyper-competitive fullsize class. The Tacoma starts at $21,260 with a four-cylinder engine, but the one I drove was a V6 4x4 with an automatic and the $4,035 TRD Sport Extra Value Package, not to mention a few other options to drive the price up to $32,791.
  • You do get a pretty heavily loaded Tacoma for your money, though. To compare, a Ford F-150 STX SuperCab 4x4 rings in at $32,145, but doesn't come with the navigation, hitch, cargo-management features in the bed, running boards and TRD Sport package goodies like foglights, hood scoop, TRD graphics, alloy wheels and specially tuned suspension of the similarly priced Tacoma.
  • Still, the 4.0-liter V6 and five-speed automatic combo is just as thirsty here as a larger truck would be, returning only 18 mpg in my hands.
  • Despite its big V6, the Tacoma feels sluggish, too. The 4.0 V6 in the Nissan Frontier feels a lot more eager.
  • The interior was updated for 2012 too, getting water-resistant seat fabric with the TRD Sport package, along with black center console and door trim. It's hard plastic and shows scuffs easily, but it otherwise looks nice, and it's not like the rest of the class is any better.
  • The classic Toyota small-pickup traits remain. You sit low to the floor with your legs splayed out a bit, just like you always have, and the steering is tight and direct. Keep your boot out of it, and the V6 and five-speed auto are smooth operators, too.

2013 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 toyota tacoma2013 toyota tacoma trd sportquick spinquickspintoyotatoyota tacomatrd Tue, 16 Apr 2013 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20507440/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20507440/article-comments.html http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/2013-toyota-tacoma-trd-sport-quick-spin-review/20507440/article-detail.xml 20507440 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/toyotatacoma006-1363491845_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/toyotatacoma006-1363491845.jpg -1 2