Autoblog

2010 LA Auto Show: Day One (obsessively covered)

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST

Production Cars

2012 Nissan CrossCabriolet	2012 Nissan GT-R	2011 Chevy Camaro Convertible
Lambo Gallardo Performante	2011 Nissan Quest	2011 Fiat 500 (U.S.)
2012 Saab 9-4X	2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63	2011 Porsche Cayman R
2012 Mazda5	2012 Range Rover Evoque 5dr	2012 Toyota RAV4 EV
2012 Volkswagen Eos	2011 Acura TSX	2012 Buick Regal GS
2012 Buick LaCrosse eAssist	2011 Kia Optima Hybrid

Concept Cars

Subaru Impreza Design Concept	Nissan Ellure Concept	Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept
Ford Focus Race Car Concept	Honda Fit EV Concept

2010 LA Auto Show: Day One (obsessively covered) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: U.S.-spec Fiat 500 right at home in Chrysler's hip new LA dealership

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 02:00:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Hatchback, Chrysler, Fiat

2011 Fiat 500 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yesterday, we told you about the grand opening of Chrysler's swanky new Motor Village dealership in downtown Los Angeles - the first North American dealership to sell the Fiat 500. As part of its big opening-day ceremonies, Chrysler unveiled the U.S.-spec 500 ahead of its official reveal at this week's LA Auto Show. A variety of colors and trims were on hand, and being surrounded by all of these 500s at once only makes us more eager to get some seat time in the diminutive little Italian Job.

The first round of 500s will go on sale later this year, in Sport, Pop and Lounge trim levels. A wealth of colors, interior fabrics and wheels will be available, and you can see some of what Fiat has to offer in our high-res image gallery, below.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2011 Fiat 500

LA 2010: U.S.-spec Fiat 500 right at home in Chrysler's hip new LA dealership originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Resinating the Essential: Infiniti offering limited-edition sculpture with Louis Vuitton case

Noah Joseph — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Etc., Infiniti, Design/Style

Infiniti Essence sculpture - Click above for high-res images

Rolling sculpture is how you might describe the Infiniti Essence show car. When it was unveiled in Geneva last year it stole the show, and now the Japanese luxury marque is following up with a limited-edition sculpture of the car itself.

Crafted from resin by the same creative minds behind the Essence concept, the Essence sculpture will only be produced in a limited run of 300 examples, each fetching $300. The sculpture is transported and presented in a special case hand-crafted by Louis Vuitton, the luxury goods workshop that made the custom-fitted luggage for the concept car.

The sculpture will debut at the upcoming LA Auto Show before going on sale at infinitilifestyle.com in December, but you can get a closer look now by clicking the thumbnails below and following the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: Infiniti Essence sculpture

[Source: Infiniti]

Continue reading Resinating the Essential: Infiniti offering limited-edition sculpture with Louis Vuitton case

Resinating the Essential: Infiniti offering limited-edition sculpture with Louis Vuitton case originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA Preview: Jeep rolls out premium Grand Cherokee and Liberty trims

Noah Joseph — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, SUV, Jeep, Luxury, Off-Road

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit - Click above for high-res image

Jeep is preparing to rumble in to the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show with a pair of upscale variants on two of their most popular models: the Grand Cherokee Overland Summit and the Liberty Jet.

The Overland Summit edition of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee stands among the most luxurious and equipped vehicle the Chrysler division has ever made. Jeep has chromed the grille, fog lamp bezels and 20-inch rims and painted it a new shade of Rugged Brown (optional alongside gray, beige and black), decking out the interior with Black Olive veneers, two-tone Nappa leather and Berber floor mats.

The Liberty Jet edition also adds a load of chrome to the wheels, lower grille, side moldings, tailgate, roof rails and mirror housings, while blacking out the headlamps to compliment the silver, charcoal, black or blackberry colors available. Inside the Liberty Jet packs a nine-speaker audio system and a host of optional features bundled as standard.

The Overland commands a $42,495 MSRP (before destination) in two-wheel drive spec and $45,995 for the 4x4, while the Jet package adds $1,495 to the Liberty Sport or $995 to the Liberty Limited. Both will be unveiled at the LA show before opening the order books in December, but you can check out the details in the press release after the jump right now along with the pair of high-res preview images in the gallery below. Hat tip to Brian!

Gallery: Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit and Liberty Jet

[Source: Jeep]

Continue reading LA Preview: Jeep rolls out premium Grand Cherokee and Liberty trims

LA Preview: Jeep rolls out premium Grand Cherokee and Liberty trims originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: 2011 Hyundai Elantra brings "fluidic sculpture" to the C segment

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Budget, Sedan, Hyundai

2011 Hyundai Elantra - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Elantra may have been one of Hyundai's worst-kept secrets. Aside from releasing a self-taken spy shot, the Korean automaker already debuted the Elantra in the form of the Avante, the version destined for Hyundai's home market. Last week, we told you about the new sedan's ability to achieve 40 miles per gallon on the highway, and finally, we now have the official images and details about the Elantra bound for the U.S. And we must say, it's quite a looker.

Hyundai has made quite an impression with its "fluidic sculpture" design language, most recently with the updated Tucson crossover and Sonata sedan. The new Elantra's design is tied to the rest of the family with its strong side character lines, wraparound taillamps and hexagonal grille. We can't wait to see what it looks like in deep red or black.

As previously reported, the 2011 Elantra will be powered by an all-new 1.8-liter inline-four that produces 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. Curiously, Hyundai has not seen fit to utilize its new 1.8-liter mill with direct injection, but the automaker's North American CEO, John Krafcik, tells us not to rule out the addition of GDI direct injection on future versions of the Elantra. Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, the Elantra will return a ultra-respectable 29 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. Hyundai says that 40 mpg is attainable on the full range of Elantra trims, unlike the Chevrolet Cruze and upcoming Ford Focus which need to be optioned a certain way to achieve such a lofty fuel economy figure.

Official trim levels and pricing specifications will be released closer to the sedan's official debut at the LA Auto Show later this week, and we can expect the Elantra to arrive at dealerships before the end of the year. In the meantime, scroll through our high-res gallery below to see the new Elantra from all angles.

Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Elantra

[Source: Hyundai]

Officially Official: 2011 Hyundai Elantra brings "fluidic sculpture" to the C segment originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Porsche will reveal new mid-engine sports car in LA

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 10:31:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Porsche

2010 Porsche Cayman - Click above for high-res image gallery

Porsche has officially announced its plans to reveal a "mid-engined sports car" next week at the Los Angeles Auto Show, in addition to showing off its latest crop of 911 models - the GTS and Speedster. It might sound vague, but we're placing bets that the German automaker's big reveal is the much-rumored Cayman Clubsport, a sort of "hardtop Boxster Spyder."

According to earlier reports, the Cayman CS will be motivated by the automaker's 3.4-liter flat-six, with power expected to be around 333 horsepower. Much like its Boxster kin, the Clubsport's main objective will be lightness, with sources saying that anywhere from 162 to 184 pounds will be shed from the stock Cayman S body. This means things like fabric door pulls, aluminum body components and lightweight alloy wheels will be on hand, keeping the Clubsport focused on being a nimble, spirited track day queen.

We'll have the official word live from Los Angeles next week, so stay tuned. To read all of the elusive details, follow the jump for Porsche's press release.

Gallery: 2010 Porsche Cayman S

[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading Porsche will reveal new mid-engine sports car in LA

Porsche will reveal new mid-engine sports car in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Nov 2010 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Land Rover reveals five-door Evoque ahead of LA debut

Noah Joseph — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 12:59:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Crossover, Land Rover, Luxury, Off-Road

Range Rover Evoque five-door - Click above for high-res image gallery

There once was a time when three-door sport-utes were commonplace, but they gradually gave way to the versatility of the five-door body style. The trio-portal is making a comeback these days in the luxury crossover market, thanks to the likes of the new Range Rover Evoque and upcoming Porsche Cajun. And while the three-door versions of both are scheduled to arrive on the scene first, both are being followed by five-door versions. Land Rover has just pulled the sheet on its five-door Evoque, which will make its official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The specs are largely the same as the three-door Evoque that bowed at this year's Paris Motor Show, but with a couple extra doors thrown into the mix to enable easier access to the rear seats. Nothing too complicated there, but it could make all the difference for many consumers looking to keep the sleek profile but not willing to forgo the bodystyle.

There's a wealth of details in the press release after the jump and a fresh batch of high-resolution images in the gallery below. If you want to know what a baby Range Rover looks like with the extra openings, check 'em out.

Gallery: Land Rover Range Rover Evoque 5-door

[Source: Land Rover]

Continue reading Land Rover reveals five-door Evoque ahead of LA debut

Land Rover reveals five-door Evoque ahead of LA debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Nov 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Hyundai Elantra peeks out ahead of LA Auto Show

Zach Bowman — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 16:02:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Budget, Sedan, Hyundai

Take a look-see at what slipped out of Hyunda HQ via the miracle of Twitter. Despite the best efforts of one very dedicated member of Hyundai's PR team, the 2011 Elantra managed to show the internet some skin ahead of its debut at the LA Auto Show. The new Korean economy fighter is fabled to break the 40 mpg barrier across the board all while wearing the company's snappy new design language. Let the Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze take this as fair warning; you may have a fight on your hands once the Elantra hits town.

We'll be getting a closer look at the 2011 Elantra later this week, so stay tuned.

[Source: Twitter]

2011 Hyundai Elantra peeks out ahead of LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First photos of U.S.-spec Mitsubishi i-MiEV revealed ahead of LA debut

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 09:29:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Hatchback, Mitsubishi, Electric

U.S.-spec Mitsubishi i-MiEV - Click above for high-res image gallery

We first saw sketches of what Mitsubishi's i-MiEV might look like when it arrives in the United States, and now we have the first official images a week before the car's public debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Sure, the production-ready i-MiEV you see here loses many of the aggressive-looking elements of the preview sketch, but Mitsubishi has indeed followed through on its promise to offer more robust dimensions and an upgraded interior.

The U.S.-spec i-MiEV is 11.2 inches longer, 4.3 inches wider and 0.2 inches taller than the JDM version. We're glad that Mitsubishi has added a lot of length and width while only minimally increasing height, since that should beef up the rather narrow i-MiEV's stance here on American roads. Inside, the interior looks substantially more comfortable, with a two-tone color scheme and a redesigned center stack, encompassing updated audio and HVAC controls.

Mitsubishi is still targeting an on-sale date near the end of 2011 for the all-electric i-MiEV, with prices coming in below $30,000 (before government rebates). Hit the jump for Mitsubishi's official press blast.

Gallery: U.S.-spec Mitsubishi i-MiEV

[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading First photos of U.S.-spec Mitsubishi i-MiEV revealed ahead of LA debut

First photos of U.S.-spec Mitsubishi i-MiEV revealed ahead of LA debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Nov 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: 2012 Buick Regal GS unveiled ahead of LA debut

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedan, Performance, Buick, GM

2012 Buick Regal GS - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors left us on the edge of our seats at this year's Detroit Auto Show when its Buick Regal GS show car was unveiled. A few months later, GM confirmed that the sportier Regal was headed for production, and now, just a short time before the sedan's official debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, we have official information and photos of the production-ready car. Ladies and gentlemen, the 2012 Buick Regal GS has arrived.

GM has, of late, made great strides to rework Buick's image here in the United States, trying to inject some youth and enthusiasm in a brand that has long been associated with a much older crowd of buyers. This top-rung Regal is based heavily on the performance-oriented Opel Insignia OPC, one of Europe's most praised sport sedans, and while the U.S.-spec car you see here certainly looks like it's fresh off the boat, it has been toned-down in its transoceanic journey. We get the Opel's beefed-up visuals with large, fang-like air intakes up front, big exhaust-work out back and optional 20-inch satin chrome wheels (19s are standard, if that's more your style), but where the Regal GS begins to separate itself from the Insignia OPC isn't visible from outside.

Powering the GS is The General's turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec inline-four, estimated to produce 255 horsepower at 5,300 rpm and 295 pound-feet of torque from 2,500 to 4,000 rpm. To any enthusiast's delight, this power runs solely through a six-speed manual transmission, though we're told that a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters will be available shortly after launch. The Opel OPC, for the record, receives a force-fed 2.8-liter V6 that generates 325 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.

Unlike the show car that GM rolled out back in January (and unlike the Buick's European counterpart), all-wheel drive will not be available on U.S.-spec models. Front-wheel drive doesn't sound too elegant for a sport sedan like this, but GM has fitted its High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) front suspension design which we've found to curb torque steer and reduce understeer in other applications. We asked GM why it decided to omit AWD, and the simple answer is this: It's cheaper to use front-wheel drive and the automaker is completely confident that its HiPerStrut system will fare just as well. We've tested this system in the larger LaCrosse and a variation of it on the Saab 9-5, and although we'll wait until we get some street (or track) time before we reach a final consensus, we don't think the GS will be all that unruly when pushed hard, especially given the lowered power output.

Uprated Brembo brakes promise to keep the power in check, and GM's new Interactive Drive Control with standard, sport and high-engagement GS mode allows the driver to tweak the suspension and steering feel.

Inside the GS, the Regal's cockpit has largely been left alone, save the addition of some sport enhancements. A flat-bottom sport steering wheel is standard, as are heated, leather sport seats. Other standard goodies include things like Bluetooth, XM satellite radio, park assist and bi-Xenon headlamps.

We're definitely ready to see how the Regal GS fares out on the road, and we'll get our first taste closer to the car's on-sale date, currently scheduled for the third or fourth quarter of 2011. Follow the jump for GM's official press release with all of the details.

Gallery: 2012 Buick Regal GS

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2012 Buick Regal GS unveiled ahead of LA debut

Officially Official: 2012 Buick Regal GS unveiled ahead of LA debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG coming to LA Auto Show

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:59:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedan, Performance, Mercedes-Benz

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Not long after Mercedes-Benz took the wraps off of the shapely new CLS-Class at this year's Paris Motor Show, sources within the automaker have told Autoblog that the AMG-fettled CLS will bow at next month's Los Angeles Auto Show.

Much like the revised S63 and CL63, expect the 2012 CLS63 AMG to use the automaker's new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8, churning out 544 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. That power will be managed via Merc's latest seven-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission sending power solely to the rear wheels. An AMG Performance Package will be on hand, as well, boosting output numbers up to 571 hp and 664 lb-ft. We can't wait to experience this beast firsthand.

Naturally, expect a bulgier, more aggressive exterior appearance complete with large AMG wheels and a host of LED lamps up front. Interior refinement will likely feature sport seats, a smaller-diameter steering wheel with paddle shifters and, of course, carbon fiber trim.

Stay tuned for official images and details closer to the car's official debut in Los Angeles.

Gallery: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG coming to LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan confirms blockbuster LA Show including Murano CrossCabriolet and Ellure concept

Zach Bowman — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Convertible, Crossover, Infiniti, Nissan

Nissan has officially confirmed reports that it will, in fact, be storming the LA Auto Show with a host of new vehicles. A total of three new models will be on hand, including the much talked-about 2011 Nissan Murano convertible (or "CrossCabriolet" in marketing-speak) and the debut of the production version of the all-electric Leaf. The third model is something more of a mystery. So far, all Nissan is saying is that it's a new sedan concept that sails under the Ellure banner. We're guessing some sort of EV hijinks are involved with that one.

Infiniti will also show off a raft of new metal, including the 2012 M Hybrid. Additionally, visitors to the LA show can expect to get their first in-person glimpses of the 2011 G25 Sedan and the IPL G Coupe. The 2010 LA Auto Show gets rolling on November 19 and runs through the 28th.

[Source: Nissan | Image: Inside Line]

Nissan confirms blockbuster LA Show including Murano CrossCabriolet and Ellure concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: 2012 Saab 9-4X makes its digital debut ahead of LA Show

Steven J. Ewing — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:17:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Crossover, Saab

2012 Saab 9-4X - Click above for high-res image gallery

Much like the 2010 9-5 sedan, the fate of Saab's 9-4X crossover hung in limbo during General Motors' sale of the Scandinavian automaker. Now that Saab is safely under the umbrella of Spyker Cars, the new 9-5 is trickling out on the road and we've just received the full host of images and data detailing the production-spec 9-4X, set to be publicly revealed at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show.

While the 9-4X's styling is clearly the evolution of Saab's Aero X concept, the Cadillac SRX provides much of the crossover's groundwork - this vehicle was wholly developed during the GM era, after all. This means that both the Caddy's 3.0-liter V6 (265 horsepower) and turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 (300 horsepower) are on hand in the 9-4X, mated to six-speed automatic transmissions. The base engine can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive, while the turbo engine is solely offered with Saab's torque-vectoring XWD all-wheel-drive system. Saab has also fitted its DriveSense adaptive chassis system to Aero models, which offers three different drive setups: Comfort, Sport and Eco.

The 9-4X's cabin is similar to what you'll find in the 9-5, with a cockpit-like, driver-focused center stack and a push-button ignition on the center console. If the Saab's cabin is anything like what GM has crafted for the SRX, things should be pretty luxurious, albeit with a sprinkling of quirky Scandinavian touches.

Look for the 9-4X to hit North American dealerships in May of next year with prices being announced closer to launch. For now, follow check out the images below and hit the jump for the full details in Saab's press release.

Gallery: 2012 Saab 9-4X

[Source: Saab]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2012 Saab 9-4X makes its digital debut ahead of LA Show

Officially Official: 2012 Saab 9-4X makes its digital debut ahead of LA Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible priced from $30K, will debut in LA

Steven J. Ewing — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:20:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Chevrolet, GM

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible - Click above to see this image in high-res

General Motors has announced that the highly anticipated Chevrolet Camaro Convertible will (finally) make its production-spec debut at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show. Both the 3.6-liter V6 (now with 312 horsepower) and 6.2-liter V8 will be available, mated to six-speed manual or automatic transmissions. Aside from the folding soft top, very little has changed in terms of updates for the 2011 Camaro.

The Camaro Convertible hits dealerships in February of next year (perfect timing for us in the snow belt), priced from $30,000, which includes the $850 destination charge. That's nearly $7,000 more than the price of a base Camaro coupe, which leads us to believe that bottom-end trim levels won't be available on the convertible. And for those of you wondering, the least expensive Mustang V6 Convertible starts over $2,000 less at $27,995.

We'll have more details closer to the car's LA show unveiling. GM's current press release is available after the jump.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible priced from $30K, will debut in LA

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible priced from $30K, will debut in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Saab 9-4X leaks out ahead of production debut

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 28 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Spy Photos, Crossover, Saab

Saab 9-4X spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now that the fate of Saab is in the hands of Spyker Cars, future product plans seem to be moving right along. The new 9-5 is out on the road and the 9-4X crossover is scheduled to make its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show this November.

Our friends at Saabs United managed to snag some shots of a pre-production 9-4X, giving us a glimpse of the automaker's new CUV before we see it in person later this year. The 9-4X was initially conceived under Saab's General Motors ownership, meaning its underpinnings are shared with the Cadillac SRX crossover. Word on the street is that the production taillamps will look slightly different than the ones on this early model, but that aside, don't expect things to change much between now and November.

Because the 9-4X is closely related to the SRX, we fully expect the 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 to be under the hood. Don't rule out the possibility of the 9-5's 2.0-liter turbo four being offered, as well. Both engines will more than likely be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and as the "x" in the name suggests, all-wheel drive will be on hand.

Until we get the official word in Los Angeles later this year, scroll through our gallery of spy shots below, and head over to Saabs United for all things Griffin.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Saab 9-4X

[Source: Saabs United]

Spy Shots: Saab 9-4X leaks out ahead of production debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: 2012 Porsche Cayman Clubsport headed for LA Auto Show

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Porsche, Rumormill

2010 Porsche Cayman S - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Porsche enthusiast site Planet-9.com, a hardcore version of the Cayman, dubbed CS or Clubsport, will be shown at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show in December. This isn't the first time we've heard rumblings of a lighter, more powerful Cayman, but now that Porsche has successfully launched the Boxster Spyder, it's only fitting that the same sort of package be offered on its harder-core hardtop sister.

Expect the Clubsport to produce around 333 horsepower from its 3.4-liter flat-six, an increase of 13 hp over the Cayman S. From there, lightweight 19-inch wheels will be standard, as will fabric door pulls, aluminum body components and a slightly revised front fascia that we've seen on the Boxster Spyder. Obviously, the real goal with a Clubsport model is lightness, and Planet-9 reports that the CS should be about 162 to 184 pounds lighter than the stock Cayman S.

If the LA Auto Show reveal stands true, the Cayman CS should be hitting the road sometime in 2011 as a 2012 model, priced from around $66,300. Fingers crossed, everyone.

Gallery: 2010 Porsche Cayman S

[Source: Planet-9]

Rumormill: 2012 Porsche Cayman Clubsport headed for LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nissan releases more 2011 Quest minivan teasers

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:41:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Minivan/Van, Nissan

2011 Nissan Quest teasers - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan dropped the first teaser image of the 2011 Quest minivan just before this year's New York Auto Show, and now we're seeing more shadowy angles of the new minivan, including the interior. Toyota's new "Swagger Wagon" is already off to a good start, and Honda's angular new Odyssey will be hitting the road later this year, so the minivan segment is starting to get pretty competitive once again.

From these teasers, we see a shapely new nose and a very upright rear greenhouse that gives the illusion of wrapping all the way around the D-pillar (sort of like what Nissan has done on the Cube). Nothing too outrageous has been done to the interior, but we expect overall refinement to be substantially better than what we've seen in previous Quests, and the usual host of cubbies and cup holders will surely be on hand.

The 2011 Quest will make its official public debut at this December's Los Angeles Auto Show, and those of you who are salivating at the thought of a new Nissan van can stay up to date on the newly launched Quest microsite. In the meantime, check out the gallery below to see the latest teasers, and follow the jump to read Nissan's (very short) press release.

Gallery: 2011 Nissan Quest Teasers

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan releases more 2011 Quest minivan teasers

Nissan releases more 2011 Quest minivan teasers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: VW New Beetle successor timeframe and details come into focus

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Budget, Hatchback, Volkswagen

2005 Volkswagen Ragster concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Volkswagen New Beetle hasn't exactly been, well, "New," for many years now. However, a report from AutoWeek states that the Bug will get a much-needed overhaul later this year, with a concept car expected to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show near the end of 2010. Following the show car debut, the production New Beetle should be hitting U.S. dealers in May of 2011.

AW reports that design sources within Volkswagen indicate that the new New Beetle will take styling cues from the 2005 Ragster concept (pictured). What's more, the next-generation car will have a stronger focus on driving dynamics, rather than overall retro style. As for powertrains, the U.S. can expect both the 2.5-liter five-cylinder and 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder mills to be under-hood, with a twin-charged 1.4-liter gasoline/electric hybrid reportedly in the works. Five- and six-speed manual transmissions will be offered, as well as an optional seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

But while all this is well and good, will a styling and dynamic overhaul be enough to revive the New Beetle's momentum here in the U.S., or will it simply go the way of the original Beetle in just a few years time? Have your say, in comments.

Gallery: 2005 VW Ragster Concept

[Source: AutoWeek]

Report: VW New Beetle successor timeframe and details come into focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Apr 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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