Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif 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/<![CDATA[Video: Jay Leno's Garage welcomes the Jaguar C-X75 concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/23/video-jay-lenos-garage-welcomes-the-jaguar-c-x75-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/23/video-jay-lenos-garage-welcomes-the-jaguar-c-x75-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/23/video-jay-lenos-garage-welcomes-the-jaguar-c-x75-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Jaguar C-X75 with Jay Leno
Jay Leno drives the Jaguar CX75 Concept - Click above to watch video after the jump

Here's another feather for Jay Leno's cap. The Tonight Show host can officially say that he is one of only a handful of drivers to have slipped their way behind the wheel of the amazing Jaguar C-X75 concept from this year's Paris Motor Show. Penned by design guru Ian Callum, the supercar is as sexy as it is advanced. The vehicle gets its power from a quartet of electric motors that are good for 195 horsepower each. Throw in two small turbine engines for generating power and you've got one very unconventional extended-range hybrid.

The C-X75 was designed to celebrate the Leaping Cat's diamond anniversary, and as such, the company pulled all the stops. With a design that pulls from the most successful points in Jaguar history, the car is nothing short of gorgeous. Will it make it to production? We're not sure, but for the moment, you can hit the jump to watch Leno take it all in - and don't forget to watch for an appearance by Callum, too.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Jaguar C-X75 Concept


Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: YouTube via Jay Leno's Garage]

Continue reading Video: Jay Leno's Garage welcomes the Jaguar C-X75 concept

Video: Jay Leno's Garage welcomes the Jaguar C-X75 concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris motor showc-x75cx75 conceptIan Callumjaguarjaguar cx75 conceptjay lenojay lenos garageparis motor showTue, 23 Nov 2010 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19730319/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/23/video-jay-lenos-garage-welcomes-the-jaguar-c-x75-concept/19730319/article-detail.xml 19730319 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/jay-leno-with-jaguar-c-x75_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/jay-leno-with-jaguar-c-x75.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 1M Coupe stops by Paris, doesn't even stay for the show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/06/bmw-1m-coupe-stops-by-paris-doesnt-even-stay-for-the-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/06/bmw-1m-coupe-stops-by-paris-doesnt-even-stay-for-the-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/06/bmw-1m-coupe-stops-by-paris-doesnt-even-stay-for-the-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW 1M coupe striptease in Paris
BMW 1M Coupe teasers - Click above for image gallery

Between the 6 Series Coupe concept, the 5 Series Touring wagon and the new X3 crossover, BMW had plenty to show us this year at the Paris Motor Show. But the real surprise, as it turns out, may have been in the French capital during the show, it wasn't even put on display. Instead, the Bavarian automaker took its currently-in-progress 1M Coupe out onto the city's famous tree-lined boulevards, covered up and disguised, but did a suitably Parisian burlesque striptease to give us a glimpse at what to expect.

Aside from the silhouette, all we can see are the front fender, headlamp (which is now taped-up in Zorro-esque fashion for some reason) and part of the air dam - all of which we saw before in the last teaser video - along with a newly-revealed section of the rear bumper and quad-pipe exhaust, plus the wheels protruding from the flared arches. If previous reports prove accurate, there will only be 2,700 examples on offer, so this may be the best look we'll get for some time... better check it out in the gallery below. Thanks for the tip, Jason!


Gallery: BMW 1M Coupe teasers


[Source: BMW M-Power via 1Addicts]

BMW 1M Coupe stops by Paris, doesn't even stay for the show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m1 m coupe1 series1 series m1 series m coupe1M1Series2010 paris2010 paris motor show2010Paris2010ParisMotorShowbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 1 series mbmw 1 series m coupebmw 1m coupeBmw1SeriesMMparisparis 2010paris motor show 2010Paris2010ParisMotorShow2010teaserWed, 06 Oct 2010 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19663168/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/06/bmw-1m-coupe-stops-by-paris-doesnt-even-stay-for-the-show/19663168/article-detail.xml 19663168 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-1m-tease4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-1m-tease4.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Honda CR-Z gets Euro-cessorized]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-honda-cr-z-gets-euro-cessorized/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-honda-cr-z-gets-euro-cessorized/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-honda-cr-z-gets-euro-cessorized/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Honda CR-Z with Accessories
2011 Honda CR-Z with optional accessories - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda's big introduction at this year's Paris Motor Show may have been the 2011 Jazz Hybrid, but that doesn't mean the Japanese automaker didn't bring some other automotive fodder for us to look at. Here, for example, is the new CR-Z hybrid hatch wearing some of Honda's optional visual accessories.

Honda is really trying to emphasize that the CR-Z is a sport hybrid. By adding things like larger wheels, a mesh grille, unique blue-tinged headlights, carbon fiber trim and a rear spoiler, the little hybrid's visual sportiness has indeed been improved without falling prey to the over-modded tuner look. This CR-Z may certainly look the part of a new-age hot hatch, but even the fanciest of body jewelry won't help the not-entirely-sporty and not-so-efficient hybrid powertrain under the hood.

Click your way through our gallery of live images below to see and judge the added visual modifications for yourself.


Gallery: Paris 2010: 2011 Honda CR-Z w/ Accessories

2011 Honda CR-Z2011 Honda CR-Z2011 Honda CR-Z2011 Honda CR-Z2011 Honda CR-Z

Photos copyright (C)2010 Chris Paukert / AOL

Paris 2010: Honda CR-Z gets Euro-cessorized originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor show2011 cr-z2011 honda cr-zcr-zcrzhondahonda cr-zparisparis motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19657603/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-honda-cr-z-gets-euro-cessorized/19657603/article-detail.xml 19657603 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/000-2011-honda-crz-eurocessories-parisopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/000-2011-honda-crz-eurocessories-parisopt.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat 500C Abarth EsseEsse packs quite a punch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-fiat-500c-abarth-esseesse-packs-quite-a-punch/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-fiat-500c-abarth-esseesse-packs-quite-a-punch/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-fiat-500c-abarth-esseesse-packs-quite-a-punch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Arbath 500C esseesse
2011 Fiat 500 Abarth EsseEsse - Click above for high-res image gallery

At this year's Geneva Motor Show, Abarth-tuned versions of the Fiat 500C and Punto Evo debuted, adding some cajones to the cute-as-a-bug Fiat 500C and the no-less-lovable Punto. Now, at the Paris Motor Show, the mark of the Scorpion brought us even hotter versions of both, and our reaction was that the difference between 500C, Abarth 500C and Abarth 500C EsseEsse is much more than just shades of gray.

Wearing a gray-on-gray paint job and carrying the EsseEsse postscript - Italian for "SS" - the Abarth 500C gets a substantial boost in output and a variety of upgrades to match. In the case of the 500C, it picks up 22 tiny ponies under its curved bonnet to bring the total to 160 horsepower. That's good for a 7.6-second sprint to 62 miles per hour. Perhaps not record-breaking, but just look at it; cute as a button and pretty darn quick.

The EsseEsse also features an array of upgrades to the suspension, brakes, rolling stock and more, plus Blue&Me connectivity and Record Monza exhaust. Full details can be found in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Arbath 500C esseesse

Paris 2010: Arbath 500C esseesseParis 2010: Arbath 500C esseesseParis 2010: Arbath 500C esseesseParis 2010: Arbath 500C esseesseParis 2010: Arbath 500C esseesse

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat 500C Abarth EsseEsse packs quite a punch

Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat 500C Abarth EsseEsse packs quite a punch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor show500 abarth500 abarth esseesseabarthfiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthfiat 500 abarth esseesseparisparis motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 16:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656880/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-fiat-500c-abarth-esseesse-packs-quite-a-punch/19656880/article-detail.xml 19656880 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadarbathesseesse500cparis_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadarbathesseesse500cparis.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Audi R8 GT is powerful, lightweight gorgeousness]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-audi-r8-gt-is-powerful-lightweight-gorgeousnes/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-audi-r8-gt-is-powerful-lightweight-gorgeousnes/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-audi-r8-gt-is-powerful-lightweight-gorgeousnes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Audi R8 GT
2011 Audi R8 GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

In terms of supercar hotness, the Audi R8 is indeed something special. And though we have our disagreements about Audi's R-Tronic manu-matic transmission, the R8 never ceases to impress us with its purely awesome style and dynamics.

For this year's Paris Motor Show, Audi brought out its limited-production R8 GT. Held to only 333 units retailing for €193,000 (about $256,000 USD), the R8 GT features a more powerful version of the automaker's 5.2-liter V10. In addition to the boost in horsepower (560, up from 525), this hotter R8 uses carbon fiber in place of aluminum on some of the body panels. This, in addition to thinner windshield glass and polycarbonate rear windows, drops the R8 V10's weight by 220 pounds. Slim and slender, fast and furious.

Have a look at the R8 GT for yourself in the high-res gallery of live shots below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Audi R8 GT

Paris 2010: Audi R8 GTParis 2010: Audi R8 GTParis 2010: Audi R8 GTParis 2010: Audi R8 GTParis 2010: Audi R8 GT

Gallery: Audi R8 GT


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: 2011 Audi R8 GT is powerful, lightweight gorgeousness originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor show2011 audi r8 gtaudiaudi r8audi r8 gtparisparis motor showparis motor show 2010r8 gtFri, 01 Oct 2010 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19657000/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-audi-r8-gt-is-powerful-lightweight-gorgeousnes/19657000/article-detail.xml 19657000 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadaudir8gtparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadaudir8gtparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS simply begs to be flogged]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-gt2-rs-simply-begs-to-be-flogged/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-gt2-rs-simply-begs-to-be-flogged/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-gt2-rs-simply-begs-to-be-flogged/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS
2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we look at the 2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS, it's hard not to slip away to daydreams of blasting around the Nürburgring channeling Walter Röhrl the whole time. After all, this is Porsche's most powerful 911 yet (that's still street legal!), boasting 620 horsepower from its twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter flat-six. Getting to 60 miles per hour takes just 3.4 seconds and you'll be doing 205 mph flat out.

All of this goodness plus some matte carbon fiber bodywork and a red Alcantara interior can be yours for $245,000. The line forms to the right.

Check out our live gallery of high-res photos direct from the Paris Motor Show, below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RS

Paris 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RSParis 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RSParis 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RSParis 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RSParis 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RS

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: 2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS simply begs to be flogged originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor show2011 porsche 911 gt2 rs911 gt2 rsparisparis 2010paris motor showporscheporsche 911 gt2 rsFri, 01 Oct 2010 13:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656979/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-gt2-rs-simply-begs-to-be-flogged/19656979/article-detail.xml 19656979 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01911gt2rsparis2010-1285940791_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01911gt2rsparis2010-1285940791.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Chevrolet Aveo is ready for global B-segment battle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-aveo-paris-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-aveo-paris-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-aveo-paris-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Aveo
Chevrolet Aveo show car - Click above for high-res image gallery

My, what big eyes you have.

The Chevy Aveo might look a little awkward from certain angles, but it's sure to be a wholly better machine than its predecessor. Still, the new design is a big step forward for General Motors, and we like certain cues like the rear door handles being integrated into the C-pillar and the mean, Spark-inspired taillamps. This Aveo you see here is actually a "show car" for the time being, as the production car will receive minor tweaks and changes depending on the market in which it's sold.

When it goes on sale in America next year, the new Aveo will more than likely be powered by The General's 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine good for 115 horsepower, though Europeans will have up to four engines from which to choose including a 1.3-liter diesel. Along with a huge interior refresh, the Aveo should now be better poised to compete with offerings like the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit. Have a look for yourself in our high-res gallery of live shots direct from the Paris Motor Show.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Chevrolet Aveo

Paris 2010: Chevrolet AveoParis 2010: Chevrolet AveoParis 2010: Chevrolet AveoParis 2010: Chevrolet AveoParis 2010: Chevrolet Aveo

Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Aveo


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Chevrolet Aveo is ready for global B-segment battle

Paris 2010: Chevrolet Aveo is ready for global B-segment battle originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor showaveochevroletchevrolet aveochevy aveoparisparis 2010paris motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656858/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/chevrolet-aveo-paris-2010/19656858/article-detail.xml 19656858 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadchevyaveoparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadchevyaveoparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Mastretta MXT stakes a claim for Mexican elemental performance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/mastretta-mxt-paris-2010-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/mastretta-mxt-paris-2010-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/mastretta-mxt-paris-2010-mexico/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Mastretta MXT
2011 Mastretta MXT: Click above for high-res image gallery

Mexico may be known as a hub for automotive production in the Americas, but it isn't typically identified as a hotbed of design or engineering. The folks at Mastretta are out to change that with their new MXT sports car.

Powered by a Ford-sourced 2.0-liter Duratec I4 engine mounted amidships and plumbed with a turbo for 250 horsepower and 257 pound-feet of torque, the MXT is a simple, lightweight proposition designed to resonate with the Colin Chapmans and Gordon Murrays of this world.

Mastretta MKT at 2010 Paris Motor Show, rear viewThe overall shape of the car is perhaps derivative but quite appealing in person, with better-than-expected fit and finish for a small-volume prototype, though the interior still needs some modest refining (even for an elemental track day car). The aluminum semi-monocoque construction features a carbon fiber belly pan and a steel subframe, and suspension is via double wishbones front and rear. The body is comprised of fiberglass reinforced plastic, which should help with both ease of manufacturing and updating.

Thanks to Mexico's low labor costs, the folks at Mastretta (a company that cut its teeth building kit cars and commercial buses) are optimistic that they can sell the 2,050-pound MT for just $50,000-$60,000 for European audiences, with the goal of eventually bringing the car north to the States. That strikes us as an ambitious target for a car with over 1,800 unique pieces and a handful of major carbon fiber components, but with virtually no costly electronics to develop (there's no stability control, ABS, or what have you) and no airbags (at least in this prototype stage), it's possible that they could be on to something.

Mastretta officials we spoke with are going for UK certification shortly in order to sell the MXT across Europe. Plans for any U.S. sales will require passing a more stringent homologation process, however, so the company will likely need to build sales momentum before it attempts to set a foot in the North American market. Volume targets are modest at present, with initial production plans calling for one car a week, ramping quickly to about 150 units per year, with a longer-term goal being 500 units.

Check out our high-res gallery from the show floor below, and then hop the jump for the official press release.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Mastretta MXT

Paris 2010: Mastretta MXTParis 2010: Mastretta MXTParis 2010: Mastretta MXTParis 2010: Mastretta MXTParis 2010: Mastretta MXT

Gallery: Mastretta MXT


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Mastretta]

Continue reading Paris 2010: Mastretta MXT stakes a claim for Mexican elemental performance

Paris 2010: Mastretta MXT stakes a claim for Mexican elemental performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor showmastrettamastretta mxtmexican supercarmexicomxtparisparis 2010paris motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 12:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656834/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/mastretta-mxt-paris-2010-mexico/19656834/article-detail.xml 19656834 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadmastrettamxtparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadmastrettamxtparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Chevrolet Cruze hatchback looks good in Paris, would look better in America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-cruze-hatchback-paris-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-cruze-hatchback-paris-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-cruze-hatchback-paris-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback at 2010 Paris Motor Show
Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback - Click above for high-res image gallery

You know, the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback is a pretty good-looking little C-car. Sure, many of the show car bits will be removed when this five-door Cruze goes into production, but on the whole, General Motors has impressed us with this attractive hatchback version of its new compact car.

Unfortunately, the five-door Cruze is not slated for North American consumption - we'll have to make do with the still-good but less-functional (and less-attractive) sedan. GM may think that Americans don't buy hatchbacks, but according to recent sales data of hatches versus their sedan counterparts, The General would be very, very wrong. Regardless, Europeans will get to sample the Cruze Hatchback when it goes on sale in the old country in mid-2011.

Thus, we are left to sit and stare at the Cruze hatchback as it shines under the lights of the Paris Motor Show. Get a look at the five-door Chevy for yourself in the high-res image gallery below and check out Chevy Europe's official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback

Paris 2010: Chevrolet Cruze HatchbackParis 2010: Chevrolet Cruze HatchbackParis 2010: Chevrolet Cruze HatchbackParis 2010: Chevrolet Cruze HatchbackParis 2010: Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback

Gallery: Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Chevrolet Cruze hatchback looks good in Paris, would look better in America

Paris 2010: Chevrolet Cruze hatchback looks good in Paris, would look better in America originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor showchevroletchevrolet cruzechevrolet cruze hatchbackchevy cruzechevy cruze hatchbackcruzecruze hatchbackparisparis 2010paris motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656844/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/chevrolet-cruze-hatchback-paris-2010/19656844/article-detail.xml 19656844 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01cruzehatchparis2010-1285939636_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01cruzehatchparis2010-1285939636.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Renault Dezir concept is wild, twisted beauty]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-dezir-concept-is-wild-twisted-beauty/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-dezir-concept-is-wild-twisted-beauty/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-dezir-concept-is-wild-twisted-beauty/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Renault Dezir Concept
Renault Dezir concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Don't let anyone tell you that Renault can't do a concept car. The French manufacturer pulled the sheets back on its all-electric Dezir at this year's Paris Motor Show, and the concept is as sexy as it is absurd. Designers took a stab in an all-new direction with a pair of reverse-hinged butterfly doors that are the epitome of awesome. Likewise, the ultra-wide stance and aluminum sideblades are our kind of flashy. As you might expect, this concept makes use of a fittingly-futuristic powertrain. Renault says that under all of that curvy sheet metal there's a full EV drivetrain on hand.

Surprisingly enough, there isn't supercar-rivaling power on hand, though. The company puts the Dezir final horsepower figure at around 150 ponies and 166 pound-feet of torque - not exactly e-tron rivaling numbers. Even so, the concept is said to be able to dart to around 60 mph in just shy of five seconds. Check it out in our high-res image galleries below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Renault Dezir Concept

Paris 2010: Renault Dezir ConceptParis 2010: Renault Dezir ConceptParis 2010: Renault Dezir ConceptParis 2010: Renault Dezir ConceptParis 2010: Renault Dezir Concept

Gallery: Renault Dezir Concept


Live photos by Drew Phillips, Zach Bowman / AOL

Paris 2010: Renault Dezir concept is wild, twisted beauty originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 Paris2010 Paris Auto Show2010 Paris Motor ShowConceptDezirDezir ConceptParis Auto ShowParis Motor ShowRenaultrenault dezir conceptFri, 01 Oct 2010 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656234/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-dezir-concept-is-wild-twisted-beauty/19656234/article-detail.xml 19656234 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadrenaultdezirparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadrenaultdezirparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Honda Fit (Jazz) Hybrid greens up the place [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-honda-fit-jazz-hybrid-greens-up-the-place-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-honda-fit-jazz-hybrid-greens-up-the-place-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-honda-fit-jazz-hybrid-greens-up-the-place-w/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda Fit Hybrid
2011 Honda Fit (Jazz) Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ever since Honda debuted the Fit hatchback, we've said that it would be a perfect vehicle to have a gasoline-electric hybrid variant. Honda didn't exactly hear us loud and clear, however. First, we got the Insight, which isn't all that great, and then came the CR-Z, which is a peculiar blend of sport and efficiency.

Other markets, however, will now get a hybrid version of the Honda Jazz, the Euro-spec Fit. It uses the same Integrated Motor Assist mild hybrid system as the Insight and CR-Z matched with a 1.3-liter gasoline engine. After making its world debut at the Paris Motor Show this week, the hybrid Jazz will go on sale in Europe in the early part of 2011.

Click through our high-res galleries of both live and stock shots of the Jazz Hybrid, and click past the jump to watch two videos of the green (literally) machine out on the road.


Gallery: Paris 2010: 2011 Honda Fit Hybrid

2011 Honda Fit Hybrid2011 Honda Fit Hybrid2011 Honda Fit Hybrid2011 Honda Fit Hybrid2011 Honda Fit Hybrid

Gallery: European Honda Jazz Hybrid


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Chris Paukert / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: 2011 Honda Fit (Jazz) Hybrid greens up the place [w/video]

Paris 2010: 2011 Honda Fit (Jazz) Hybrid greens up the place [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor showhondahonda fithonda fit hybridhonda jazzhonda jazz hybridparisparis motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656113/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-honda-fit-jazz-hybrid-greens-up-the-place-w/19656113/article-detail.xml 19656113 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/fithybridlive630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/fithybridlive630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lotus shocks Paris Motor Show with five concept debuts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/lotus-shocks-paris-motor-show-with-five-concept-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/lotus-shocks-paris-motor-show-with-five-concept-debuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/lotus-shocks-paris-motor-show-with-five-concept-debuts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lotus Esprit Concept
Lotus Esprit Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been a while since something took us by surprise at an auto show. Usually we've seen the pictures and read the press releases a few days ahead of time, so there's nothing new revealed we weren't already expecting. Until today. We were expecting Lotus to reveal a pair of new Evora models, a new front-engined GT called the Elite, and if we were lucky, maybe the new Esprit. What we got was something much, much better.

As we arrived at the Lotus booth here at the Paris Motor Show, we spotted a total of five cars under cover. Perhaps a concept and some new versions of existing cars? What proceeded to happen was something entirely unexpected. Lotus CEO Dany Bahar addressed the crowd, announcing that Lotus would be entering a new era. In a matter of minutes, the wraps were pulled off the Esprit, Elan, Elite, Elise and Eterne concept cars, each time with a gasp from the crowd as the next concept's name was announced. This wasn't just the introduction of a few concept cars. We were witnessing the complete and utter revitalization, rebranding and rebirth of a legendary car company.

Lotus Elise and Elan concepts - Click above for high-res image galleries

With this new lineup of cars, it's easy to see that Lotus wants to play with the big boys - Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Aston Martin. Bahar had announced last year that this was the direction the company would take, but we didn't expect it to happen so soon or all at once.

One question still has to be asked, though. Is this direction the right one for Lotus? We can appreciate all forms of performance cars, but is there enough room for Lotus to edge its way into each of these target markets? Can the Esprit conquer the McLaren MP4-12C or the Ferrari 458 Italia? Will buyers go for a Lotus Elite over the Ferrari 599 GTB or the Aston Martin DBS?

Lotus Elite and Eterne concepts - Click above for high-res image galleries

Lotus has long been the master of lightweight, nimble sports cars, and many will undoubtedly say that the company should stick to the same cars it's been building for the last decade. After all, what would Colin Chapman say about a Lotus coupe that weighs over 3,600 pounds? And a grown up Elise? Then there's the styling. As usual, we're split down the middle here at Autoblog. Half of us love the styling, while the other 50 percent thinks it looks too generic. In the end, only time will tell whether Lotus fans will like the direction the company is headed.

There's quite a bit of information on each vehicle, so click the links below to learn more about them.


You can also browse through our live galleries of each concept:

Gallery: Paris 2010: Lotus Esprit Concept


Gallery: Paris 2010: Lotus Eterne Concept


Gallery: Paris 2010: Lotus Elite Concept

Lotus EliteLotus EliteLotus EliteLotus EliteLotus Elite

Gallery: Paris 2010: Lotus Elise Concept


Gallery: Paris 2010: Lotus Elan Concept


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Lotus shocks Paris Motor Show with five concept debuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor showelaneliseeliteespriteternefeaturedlotuslotus elan conceptlotus elise conceptlotus elite conceptlotus esprit conceptlotus eterne conceptparisparis motor showThu, 30 Sep 2010 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655883/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/lotus-shocks-paris-motor-show-with-five-concept-debuts/19655883/article-detail.xml 19655883 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/leadlotusespritparislive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/leadlotusespritparislive.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Ferrari SA APERTA is a limited-edition homage to Pininfarina]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-ferrari-sa-aperta-is-a-limited-edition-homage-to-pin/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-ferrari-sa-aperta-is-a-limited-edition-homage-to-pin/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-ferrari-sa-aperta-is-a-limited-edition-homage-to-pin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ferrari SA APERTA
Ferrari SA APERTA - Click above for high-res image gallery

Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina would be proud. The Ferrari SA APERTA has made its global entrance, so stare at it while you can because you might never see one in person. Just 80 sans-roof examples of the front-engined V12 hot-rod will be built. That number serves to honor the 80th anniversary of Pininfarina, just as the letters S and A honor Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina.

It's not entirely topless, though. It does come with a lightweight soft-top which can be installed if the rain begins to fall. We imagine the procedure for putting that top on is surprisingly difficult and it would be smarter to just drive faster and evade the weather. It would be a shame to muffle the open-air song from that 6.0-liter 12-cylinder engine, even just a little bit.

The Ferrari SA APERTA (aperta is Italian for "open") is a wonderful way to pay tribute to two men and a company that have played an important role for Enzo's company.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Ferrari SA APERTA

Ferrari SA APERTAFerrari SA APERTAFerrari SA APERTAFerrari SA APERTAFerrari SA APERTA

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: Ferrari SA APERTA is a limited-edition homage to Pininfarina originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris auto salon2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor showferrariferrari sa apertaparisparis auto salonparis auto showparis motor showsa apertaThu, 30 Sep 2010 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655217/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-ferrari-sa-aperta-is-a-limited-edition-homage-to-pin/19655217/article-detail.xml 19655217 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/lead599saapertalive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/lead599saapertalive.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS is the middle child we can live with]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-carrera-gts-is-the-middle-child-we/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-carrera-gts-is-the-middle-child-we/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-carrera-gts-is-the-middle-child-we/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS
2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nestled in between Porsche's perennial favorite 911 Carrera S and audacious 911 GT3 is the automaker's latest creation - the 911 Carrera GTS. It features the slightly wider body of the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4 models, but only delivers its power to the rear wheels. Speaking of power, Porsche has upgraded the 3.8-liter flat-six to crank out 408 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, and with added visual bits like 19-inch RS Spyder wheels and SportDesign front and rear fascias, this is indeed the middle child 911 that we'd be happy to live with.

The 911 Carrera GTS is making its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show, and we've snagged some live shots of both the coupe and cabriolet under the auto show lights. Have a click through our high-res image galleries below to see the latest hotness.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Porsche 911 Carrera GTS

Porsche 911 Carrera GTSPorsche 911 Carrera GTSPorsche 911 Carrera GTSPorsche 911 Carrera GTSPorsche 911 Carrera GTS

Gallery: Paris 2010: Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet

2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: 2011 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS is the middle child we can live with originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 14:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor show911 carrera gts911 gtscarrera gtsparisparis motor showporscheporsche 911porsche 911 carrera gtsThu, 30 Sep 2010 14:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655255/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-carrera-gts-is-the-middle-child-we/19655255/article-detail.xml 19655255 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/05911gtsparislive-1285868336_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/05911gtsparislive-1285868336.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Exagon Motors Furtive eGT range-extended EV looks better in person [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-exagon-motors-furtive-egt-range-extended-ev-looks-be/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-exagon-motors-furtive-egt-range-extended-ev-looks-be/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-exagon-motors-furtive-egt-range-extended-ev-looks-be/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Exagon Furtive e-GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Exagon Motors hasn't often appeared in these pages - the company built some electric ice racers last year - and so yesterday's announcement of the Furtive e-GT extended-range/all-electric sports car caught us by surprise. We recovered from our shock long enough to check it out in person at the Paris Motor Show today, and the metal does the sleek shape more favors than a camera lens. Still, with a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds (take that, Tesla Roadster) and some range guarantees (!), we'll take one no matter how it looks.

Specifically, Exagon guarantees that the Furtive-eGT will be able to go - when "calculated according to European standards and energy use cycles" - the following distances before the range extender kicks in:

At a constant speed of 50 km/h : 402 km (31 miles per hour : 250 miles)
At a constant speed of 90 km/h : 288 km (56 mph : 179 miles)
At a constant speed of 110 km/h : 241 km (68 mph : 150 miles)
At a constant speed of 130 km/h : 197 km (81 mph : 122 miles)

Another interesting thing about the Furtive-eGT is that the range extender is an option, which is certainly a welcome change from the one-type-fits-all powertrains we see in the Tesla, Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt. Check out more views of the Furtive-eGT in the gallery below and be sure to click past the jump to watch the video.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Exagon Motors Furtive-eGT

Exagon Motors Furtive-eGTExagon Motors Furtive-eGTExagon Motors Furtive-eGTExagon Motors Furtive-eGTExagon Motors Furtive-eGT

Gallery: Exagon Furtive e-GT


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Chris Paukert / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Exagon Motors Furtive eGT range-extended EV looks better in person [w/video]

Paris 2010: Exagon Motors Furtive eGT range-extended EV looks better in person [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 13:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor showexagonexagon furtive e-gtfurtive e-gtparisparis 2010paris auto salonparis auto showparis motor showparis motor show 2010Thu, 30 Sep 2010 13:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655374/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-exagon-motors-furtive-egt-range-extended-ev-looks-be/19655374/article-detail.xml 19655374 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/n022-exagon-motors-furtive-eopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/n022-exagon-motors-furtive-eopt.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept in detail]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lamborghini-sesto-elemento-concept-in-detail/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lamborghini-sesto-elemento-concept-in-detail/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lamborghini-sesto-elemento-concept-in-detail/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept
Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last night we gave you the first look at Lamborghini's new Sesto Elemento, a concept car that demonstrates the company's latest technologies. At the time we didn't have the opportunity to get a close look at many of the car's details, but we're making up for it today with plenty of new photos and more info.

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept, rear viewIf there's one thing that caught our attention about the Sesto Elemento, it's the weight. Lamborghini was able keep its curb weight to 999 kg, or 2,202 lbs, thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber and carbon fiber reinforced plastics. The entire car is essentially constructed from the lightweight materials including the monocoque, front frame, body panels, major suspension components and wheels. With a 570-horsepower V10 mounted behind the cockpit, the San Elemento has just 3.86 pounds to push for every horsepower. Lamborghini claims a 0-100 km/h time of just 2.5 seconds and a top speed of over 300 km/hr, or 186 mph.

While the technical details are impressive, we weren't immediately taken with the exterior design. As our own Chris Paukert put it, "There's a lot going on." What's interesting is that while we don't necessarily like the design as a whole, each of the individual elements is quite stunning. The interior is impressive to see as well, with nearly nothing to hide the structural and functional aspects of the car.

Have a look at all the details of the Sesto Elemento in the mega gallery below, or read the full press release from Lamborghini after the jump.


Gallery: Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept In Detail


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept in detail

Paris 2010: Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept in detail originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor showlamborghinilamborghini sesto elemento conceptparisparis motor showsesto elementosesto elemento conceptThu, 30 Sep 2010 11:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655021/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lamborghini-sesto-elemento-concept-in-detail/19655021/article-detail.xml 19655021 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/leadsestoelementodetails_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/leadsestoelementodetails.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Lotus debuts Eterne hybrid sedan concept [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lotus-debuts-eterne-hybrid-sedan-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lotus-debuts-eterne-hybrid-sedan-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lotus-debuts-eterne-hybrid-sedan-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lotus Eterne Concept
Lotus Eterne concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we think of Lotus, the words "hybrid" and "sedan" aren't exactly the first words that come to mind. Now, though, Lotus is changing all that with the introduction of its Eterne concept, a four-door sedan with an optional hybrid powertrain. This may be a big step in a different direction for Lotus, but it's nothing new. The Eterne takes the same shape as the Porsche Panamera, Aston Martin Rapide and Audi A7 Sportback.

Like the new Esprit concept, the Eterne is powered by a 620-horsepower, 5.0-liter V8 sourced from Toyota. The optional hybrid drivetrain uses a Formula 1-style KERS energy recuperation system, and the Lotus sedan will be available in both rear- and all-wheel drive. Of course, this is still a Lotus, so good performance numbers are an absolute must, and we're told that the Eterne will run to 60 miles per hour in just 4.0 seconds on its way to a top speed of 196 mph.

While merely a concept at this point, Lotus says that the Eterne is slated for production in 2015 and that the sedan will cost around $190,000. We'll have live photos direct from the Paris Motor Show floor soon, so stay tuned.

UPDATE: Video added after the jump and live shots added in second gallery below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Lotus Eterne Concept


Gallery: Lotus Eterne Concept

Lotus Eterne ConceptLotus Eterne ConceptLotus Eterne ConceptLotus Eterne ConceptLotus Eterne Concept

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Lotus debuts Eterne hybrid sedan concept [w/video]

Paris 2010: Lotus debuts Eterne hybrid sedan concept [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor showeterne conceptlotuslotus eternelotus eterne conceptparisparis 2010paris motor showThu, 30 Sep 2010 11:54:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655532/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lotus-debuts-eterne-hybrid-sedan-concept/19655532/article-detail.xml 19655532 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01lotuseterneparisliveopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01lotuseterneparisliveopt.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Mini Countryman WRC looks the part]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-mini-countryman-wrc-looks-the-part/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-mini-countryman-wrc-looks-the-part/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-mini-countryman-wrc-looks-the-part/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mini Countryman WRC
Mini Countryman WRC - Click above for high-res image gallery

When Mini first announced it was taking the Countryman to tango with the rest of the brawlers in the World Rally Championship, we had our doubts about the crossover's ability to keep the pace. But judging by the look of the Prodrive-prepped machine, the Countryman WRC should have no problem locking horns with the big boys on the world stage. Mini gave the rally racer an official unveil at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, but the company is keeping the drivetrain details to itself for now.

Not too long ago, the internets enjoyed a rash of videos showing a Countryman WRC prototype busting through the hills of Portugal, so we have some notion of the car's capabilities off tarmac. Will Prodrive's expertise be enough to help Mini keep its head above water in the WRC? Something tells us that all depends on who they stick in the cockpit. Hit the jump for the full press release.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Mini Countryman WRC


Photos by Zach Bowman / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Mini Countryman WRC looks the part

Paris 2010: Mini Countryman WRC looks the part originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor showcountrymanminimini countrymanmini countryman wrc rallyparisparis motor showThu, 30 Sep 2010 11:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655220/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-mini-countryman-wrc-looks-the-part/19655220/article-detail.xml 19655220 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/leadwrcminiparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/leadwrcminiparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Ford Fiesta RS WRC ready to hit the dirt running]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-ford-fiesta-rs-wrc-ready-to-hit-the-dirt-running/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-ford-fiesta-rs-wrc-ready-to-hit-the-dirt-running/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-ford-fiesta-rs-wrc-ready-to-hit-the-dirt-running/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Ford Fiesta RS WRC reveal at 2010 Paris Motor Show
2011 Ford Fiesta RS WRC - Click above for high-res image gallery

The FIA World Rally Championship is shaping up to be particularly interesting in 2011, and the new-for-2011 Ford Fiesta RS is a big reason why. The Blue Oval's latest dirt-spitting racer will contest its first race at Rally Sweden in mid-February, but the Fiesta S2000-based rally car made its debut this morning at the Paris Motor Show.

In typical WRC fashion, the blue and gray Fiesta RS is all gaping intakes, massive flares and skyscraping wings, and needless to say, it looks The Business. Motivated by an EcoBoost-branded 1.6-liter turbocharged four of undisclosed output, the four-wheel-drive RS will get a shakedown run on Spain's gravel roads next week, though Ford says it's already conducted about 3,000 kilometers worth of testing with various engines.

The new car, which supplants the Blue Oval's prior Focus-based WRC car, will be driven by Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen, along with Jari-Matti Latvala and Miikka Anttila. Check out our spanking-new galleries below and pop past the jump for the official press release.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Ford Fiesta RS WRC


Gallery: Ford Fiesta RS WRC


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Chris Paukert / AOL

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Paris 2010: Ford Fiesta RS WRC ready to hit the dirt running

Paris 2010: Ford Fiesta RS WRC ready to hit the dirt running originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor showecoboostfiestafiesta rsfiesta s2000fordford fiestajarmo lehtinenmikko hirvonenparisparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010world rally championshipwrcThu, 30 Sep 2010 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655018/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-ford-fiesta-rs-wrc-ready-to-hit-the-dirt-running/19655018/article-detail.xml 19655018 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-ford-fiesta-wrc-live-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-ford-fiesta-wrc-live-630.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Audi A1 1.4 TFSI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-2011-audi-a1-1-4-tfsi/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-2011-audi-a1-1-4-tfsi/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-2011-audi-a1-1-4-tfsi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi A1 1.4 TFSI
2011 Audi A1 1.4 TFSI - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite the success of the Mini Cooper and America's newfound love of hatchbacks, Audi continues to deny us the all-new A1. There are a variety of reasons for excluding the pint-sized hatch from the U.S. market (marketing, brand image, average transaction price, etc.), but the introduction of the twin-charged A1 here at the Paris Motor Show has us questioning all of them.

Packing a 1.4-liter TFSI (read: both turbo and supercharged) inline four-cylinder engine, the A1 puts out 185 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque, sends it to the front wheels through a seven-speed S tronic gearbox and can sprint to 60 in 6.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 141 mph. Think of it as the luxury alternative to the Ford Fiesta, with a price tag to match: €24,250 or just over $30k at current exchange rates. Get all the details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Paris 2010: 2011 Audi A1 TFSI


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Damon Lavrinc / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: 2011 Audi A1 1.4 TFSI

Paris 2010: 2011 Audi A1 1.4 TFSI originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 06:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor show2011 audi a1 1.4 tfsia1audiaudi a1parisparis 2010paris auto showparis motor showparis motor show 2010Thu, 30 Sep 2010 06:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655041/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-2011-audi-a1-1-4-tfsi/19655041/article-detail.xml 19655041 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-a1-tfsi-paris-live-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01-a1-tfsi-paris-live-630op.jpg -1 2