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[New York 2010: Random sights from the Big Apple]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/02/new-york-2010-random-sights-from-the-big-apple/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/02/new-york-2010-random-sights-from-the-big-apple/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/02/new-york-2010-random-sights-from-the-big-apple/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 New York International Auto Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

At many auto shows there are usually several hundred - if not thousand - images that we've taken that don't make it into our posts. Sometimes we categorize them and create several themed galleries, other times we create megagalleries of all of the random sites from the auto show and the surrounding soirees, sights and scenery. New York 2010 was such a case.

At the 2010 New York International Auto Show, we saw some cars that we've lusted after before but now saw in a new light, race cars that didn't necessarily deserve a separate post but still revved our engines, models who smiled just long enough to give us hope... for the future of the industry at least, and just random sights that helped create the overall atmosphere of excitement we felt at this year's event.

While the number of press conferences seemed down, the number of debuts actually seemed to increase (see here). There wasn't the sense of gloom and doom we've felt at other recent shows, the parties actually felt like celebrations for a change and the announcements didn't sound like words of desperation. Perhaps it's the spirit of the city that never sleeps, but New York 2010 seemed like a signal that the industry is really starting to make a turnaround. Click below to get started on your tour of the rest of the show's random impressions.


Gallery: Random shots from 2010 New York Auto Show

New York 2010: Random sights from the Big Apple originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york2010 New York Auto Show2010NewYork2010NewYorkAutoShownew yorknew york 2010new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowFri, 02 Apr 2010 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19423398/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/02/new-york-2010-random-sights-from-the-big-apple/19423398/article-detail.xml 19423398 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/ny-auto-show-banner_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/ny-auto-show-banner.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Five Axis mods the 2011 Scion tC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-five-axis-mods-the-2011-scion-tc/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-five-axis-mods-the-2011-scion-tc/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-five-axis-mods-the-2011-scion-tc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Scion tC by Five Axis - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yesterday, Scion revealed their brand spankin' new 2011 tC to the world's automotive press here at the New York Auto Show. We happen to think the car looks just fine, but will admit that for a youth oriented brand such as Scion, a little bit more aggression might have been nice. Meet the Five Axis tuned Scion tC, a car that couldn't get much more aggressive unless it was holding a gun. A really big one. \ If you don't know, Five Axis is mostly known for their show car offerings.

The "Blood Shot Red" paint is slathered over a four-inch wide body kit. The lower grill is just plain nuts. Sadly the doors of this concept were locked, but we could see (but not really photograph) that the interior's stuffed with all sorts of customized good stuff, with lots of what appears to be leather and suede. The suspension is made up of Tein adjustable coil-overs. The brakes are ginormous (especially for a 180-horsepower tC), measuring 14-inches in front and 13-inches in the rear. But the brakes aren't the crazy part.

The crazy part consists of the wheels. Ready? The front wheels are so big they require 245/30/20 rubber. The rear? 295/30/20. That's right, the rear wheels are 10.5-inches wide. Remember this car's a front-wheel driver. Sort of gives new meaning to the phrase, "all show and no go," eh?


Gallery: New York 2010: Scion tC by Five Axis


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

New York 2010: Five Axis mods the 2011 Scion tC originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 19:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2011 scion tc2011ScionTcfive axisfive axis scion tcfive axis widebody scion tcFiveAxisFiveAxisScionTcFiveAxisWidebodyScionTcnew york 2010new york auto showNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowscionscion tcScionTctcThu, 01 Apr 2010 19:18:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19422812/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-five-axis-mods-the-2011-scion-tc/19422812/article-detail.xml 19422812 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadfiveaxissciontcnylive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadfiveaxissciontcnylive.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 Kia Sorento SX offers more standard kit, added visual flare]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-2011-kia-sorento-sx-offers-more-standard-kit-add/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-2011-kia-sorento-sx-offers-more-standard-kit-add/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-2011-kia-sorento-sx-offers-more-standard-kit-add/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Kia Sorento SX - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia officially debuted the new SX trim level for the 2011 Sorento at this year's Atlanta Auto Show, but they also brought the dolled-up crossover to New York for a larger-scale unveiling. The Sorento is already off to a good start in the U.S. - it has already become Kia's top-selling vehicle for the first few months of 2010 - and the SX, which goes on sale this Summer, offers up a bit more standard equipment and style to the lineup. The revised front fascia is a bit buffer than lesser trims and the ride height has been lowered by about one inch, giving it a more aggressive stance.

Under the hood is Kia's 3.5-liter V6, which produces 276 horsepower. Upgrades over the lesser LX and EX models include things like sharp 18-inch wheels and Dual Flow Damper shock absorbers. Inside, leather seats are standard, as is a back-up camera, Infinity audio system and voice-activated navigation. Look for Kia's all-new UVO infotainment system to debut in the Sorento later this year. Check out our galleries below to see the SX in high-res glory.


Gallery: New York 2010: 2011 Kia Sorento SX


Gallery: 2011 Kia Sorento SX


Live photos by Steven J. Ewing / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

New York 2010: 2011 Kia Sorento SX offers more standard kit, added visual flare originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york2010 New York Auto Show2010 ny auto show2010NewYork2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 kia sorento2011 Kia Sorento SX2011KiaSorento2011KiaSorentoSxkiaKIA SorentoKiaSorentonew york auto shownew york auto show 2010NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010NY Auto ShowNyAutoShowSorentosorento sxSorentoSxThu, 01 Apr 2010 14:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19422810/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-2011-kia-sorento-sx-offers-more-standard-kit-add/19422810/article-detail.xml 19422810 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/sorentosxopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/sorentosxopt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive is deeply impressive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-bmw-alpina-b7-xdrive-new-york-2010-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-bmw-alpina-b7-xdrive-new-york-2010-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-bmw-alpina-b7-xdrive-new-york-2010-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive - Click above for high-res image gallery

We dig super sedans. You get 94 percent of the performance of a sports car (or there abouts) plus the ability to take a few friends along for the hair-raising ride. Also, cops don't seem to scrutinize big snazzy sleepers as much as they do bright yellow scissor-doored whatchamacall'em-ardos. It should come as no shock then that when we first heard about the new Alpina B7, we were pretty excited. When we then subsequently learned that an all-wheel drive version of BMW's sportiest big sedan was coming to the New York Auto Show, well, our excitement grew.

Then we saw the car in the flesh.

Let's just say we're now triple excited. A few pertinent stats, if we may. The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 found in a host of BMWs has been significantly improved to 500 horsepower (up by 100 hp over stock) and 516 pound-feet of torque (up by 66 pound-feet). The B7 is also more aerodynamic than your garden variety 7 Series, comes with zillion-spoke wheels (fine, twenty) and can hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. With the Alpina B7 xDrive, you can now toss AWD into that already frothy mix.

But the above stats aren't the crazy parts. It's the details that impress the most. For example, all four of the heavy-duty half shafts come out of the 7 Series High Security. The 60 to 0 mph braking distance is identical to a Porsche Turbo. That last bit is not an April Fools' joke, although it's somewhat mitigated by Alpina's saying, "that's cold braking distance." While not a stat per say, the AWD system is mechanically identical to other BMW xDrive systems, though Alpina has written their own software system, presumably for the better.

One last thing that's actually a little to complicated to explain: take a look at the center of the B7's wheel. You'll see that once you've slid the heraldry over, there's a keyhole. Now, if you zoom out, you'll notice no valve stems anywhere on the wheel. In other words, your tire pressure's locked in and can be adjusted to the tenth of a PSI. Pretty cool, no?

High res gallery below, official press release after the jump.


Gallery: New York 2010: Alpina B7 xDrive


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: BMW/Alpina]

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive is deeply impressive

New York 2010: 2011 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive is deeply impressive originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 13:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow20112011 B72011 BMW Alpina B7 xDrive2011B72011BmwAlpinaB7Xdrive7 Series7-series7Seriesalpinaalpina b7 xdriveAlpinaB7Xdriveb7javitsnew yorknew york 2010new york auto shownew york auto show 2010NewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010ny auto showNyAutoShowNYIASNYIAS 2010NYIAS2010xdriveThu, 01 Apr 2010 13:12:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19422806/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/2011-bmw-alpina-b7-xdrive-new-york-2010-unveiled/19422806/article-detail.xml 19422806 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/alpinabyx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/alpinabyx.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Hyundai Equus debuts in U.S. production trim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/hyundai-equus-2011-new-york-2010-unveiled-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/hyundai-equus-2011-new-york-2010-unveiled-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/hyundai-equus-2011-new-york-2010-unveiled-live/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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

Hyundai showed off its new Sonata Turbo and Sonata Hybrid yesterday at the New York Auto Show, two vehicles that should help keep the brand's mid-size sedan moving up the sales charts with a bullet. With March sales figures just trickling in, it looks like the Sonata is now the third best-selling mid-size sedan behind the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. With its high level of equipment, style, quality and performance, it's not surprising to see this Korean doing well. Today in New York, the automaker showed how it can take that level of refinement found in the Sonata and its bigger brother, the Genesis, and ratchet it up another notch for a new flagship, the Hyundai Equus.

The Equus actually showed up last year in New York, sent over in world-market form to gauge customer interest. Apparently, it went swimmingly for Hyundai, as the production Equus will officially go on sale here towards the end of the year - well an oxymoronically named Equus, minus its signature hood ornament. Looking slightly less like the Lexus LS460 than the previous version of the car we'd seen, the U.S.-spec Equus has a shape that fits right in with upscale sedans from Buick, Lexus and Infiniti, if not Mercedes, BMW and Audi. Particularly at the rear fender, there is a swoop that doesn't quite speak luxury like the rest of the car though, reminding us more of a Dodge Charger than a Euro sedan. This production version though, particularly with its cleaner hood and grille, definitely has a refined look.

CEO John Krafcik wouldn't give us a firm number but did promise that the 385-horsepower sedan will come in with a base price somewhere between $50,000 and $60,000. The Equus will also launch a new luxury ownership experience being sold through select dealers in a dedicated area that will also include Genesis and Genesis Coupe. It will be available in four- or five-seat configurations with a mini fridge splitting the rear bucks on the rear twosome. Those backseats are also extremely comfortable, with power ventilation, heating and massage, plus a Maybach-like foot rest. Very nice.

Hyundai has also said that the Equus buying experience will be a step up from other models, with an iPad-like tablet device replacing the traditional owner's manual. We'll have full details on this interesting bit of kit shortly. For the moment, we have live shots for you below and the official press release after the jump so you can get the rest of the lowdown on this highbrow Hyundai.


Gallery: New York 2010: Hyundai Equus


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Equus


Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading New York 2010: Hyundai Equus debuts in U.S. production trim

New York 2010: Hyundai Equus debuts in U.S. production trim originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 hyundai equus2011HyundaiEquusapple iPadAppleIpadEquusHyundaihyundai equusHyundaiEquusiPadnew yorknew york 2010new york auto shownew york auto show 2010New York AutoshowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010ny auto shoNyAutoShotabletThu, 01 Apr 2010 12:54:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19423072/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/hyundai-equus-2011-new-york-2010-unveiled-live/19423072/article-detail.xml 19423072 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/00hyundaiequusny2010630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/00hyundaiequusny2010630.jpg <![CDATA[Lutz' last quote? Toyota won't get back "God-like status"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/lutz-last-quote-toyota-wont-get-back-god-like-status/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/lutz-last-quote-toyota-wont-get-back-god-like-status/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/lutz-last-quote-toyota-wont-get-back-god-like-status/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If there's one thing we'll miss when Bob Lutz finally packs up and heads out to pasture, it'll be the guy's role as General Motors' resident quote machine. Take this latest gem, for example. According to BusinessWeek, Lutz has been quoted as saying, "Toyota's God-like status will never be reclaimed." He was speaking to reporters at the New York Auto Show about post-bankruptcy GM, and happened to take a swing at the company's biggest rival at the same time.

The General has made up serious ground on the heels of the Japanese automaker's recent recall woes, though both companies are expected to announce sales growth for the month of March. In the meantime, Lutz is still slated to retire from GM for good on May 1. After that, we'll have to find someone else to tell use that the Pontiac G8 will live on under the Chevrolet banner.

[Source: BusinessWeek]

Lutz' last quote? Toyota won't get back "God-like status" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 New York Auto Show2010NewYorkAutoShowBob LutzBob Lutz QuoteBobLutzBobLutzQuoteGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMLutzNew York Auto ShowNew York Auto Show 2010NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010ToyotaToyota RecallToyota RecallsToyotaRecallToyotaRecallsThu, 01 Apr 2010 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19422840/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/lutz-last-quote-toyota-wont-get-back-god-like-status/19422840/article-detail.xml 19422840 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/lutz_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/lutz.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Kia adds five-door hatch to Forte lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-kia-adds-five-door-hatch-to-forte-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-kia-adds-five-door-hatch-to-forte-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-kia-adds-five-door-hatch-to-forte-lineup/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Kia Forte five-door - Click above for high-res image gallery

Since Americans seem to be finally latching onto the concept of the compact five-door hatchback, Kia is jumping into the fight with a new variant of the Forte. The five-door Forte debuts with a slightly revised front fascia (something that will make its way onto all Forte models) to go with its new more useful backside.

Under the hood the Forte five-door retains the same port-injected 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter inline-four engines found in the sedan and Koup. Those engines remain paired with six-speed transmissions of the manual or automatic flavors. Inside, a new center console can be equipped with a navigation system for the first time, push-button start is available and the automatic versions get paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Look for the Forte five-door to hit Kia dealers in the coming months.


Gallery: New York 2010: Kia Forte Five-Door


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading New York 2010: Kia adds five-door hatch to Forte lineup

New York 2010: Kia adds five-door hatch to Forte lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow20112011 kia2011 kia forte2011 kia forte five-door2011 kia forte hatchback2011Kia2011KiaForte2011KiaForteFive-door2011KiaForteHatchbackforteforte five-doorForteFive-doorkiakia fortkia forteKiaFortKiaFortenew yorknew york auto shownew york auto show 2010new york auto show s...New York AutoshowNewYorkNewYorkAutoshowNewYorkAutoShow2010NewYorkAutoShowS...ny auto showNyAutoShowThu, 01 Apr 2010 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19417233/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-kia-adds-five-door-hatch-to-forte-lineup/19417233/article-detail.xml 19417233 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadforte5doorny2010live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadforte5doorny2010live.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 Kia Optima turns up the heat in the mid-size sedan segment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-kia-optima-new-york-2010-live-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-kia-optima-new-york-2010-live-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-kia-optima-new-york-2010-live-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Kia Optima - Click above for high-res image gallery

Thanks to designer Peter Schreyer, Kia has been cranking out some really impressive-looking vehicles recently. In fact, the Soul hatchback was a contender for the World Design of the Year award. And while we've seen hot new designs for both the Sorento and Sportage, the most significant addition to the Kia portfolio is the revamped 2011 Optima sedan.

The Optima shares its platform and powertrains with the recently introduced 2011 Sonata, but the design is wholly unique. It features a bold new front fascia, swoopy side lines and a sleek rear end, and with its impressive fuel economy and choice of naturally aspirated or turbocharged power, the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry indeed have some stiff competition coming in the near future. Click through our gallery of live shots below to see high-res photos of the Optima.


Gallery: New York 2010: Kia Optima


Gallery: 2011 Kia Optima


Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Kia Optima turns up the heat in the mid-size sedan segment

New York 2010: 2011 Kia Optima turns up the heat in the mid-size sedan segment originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 New York Auto Show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 Kia Optima2011 Optima2011KiaOptima2011Optimakiakia optimaKiaOptimanew york auto shownew york auto show 2010New York AutoshowNewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010NY Auto ShowNyAutoShowoptimaThu, 01 Apr 2010 11:38:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19423013/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/2011-kia-optima-new-york-2010-live-reveal/19423013/article-detail.xml 19423013 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadkiaoptimany2010live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadkiaoptimany2010live.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Kia Optima introduced with DI, turbo and hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-kia-optima-new-york-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-kia-optima-new-york-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/2011-kia-optima-new-york-2010-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Kia Optima - Click above for high-res image gallery

At the New York Auto Show today, Kia officially introduced its new 2011 Optima mid-size sedan and, as we expected, it shares much with the recently launched Hyundai Sonata. In spite of the same wheelbase and almost identical dimensions, however, this is no case of badge engineering. The Optima has completely different styling from its corporate sibling with a crisp, modern look that is in keeping with other recent Kia introductions.

What it does share with the Hyundai is its complete powertrain lineup, including a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter Theta II inline-four, a turbocharged 2.0-liter version of the same engine and the new 2.4-liter hybrid powertrain. The latter two configurations were both announced by Hyundai yesterday for the Sonata. Each of the engines features direct injection and variable valve timing with the non-hybrids being rated at 200 and 274 horsepower, respectively. All the powertrains are mated to six-speed transmissions, with the base model being available with a manual and the others being all automatic.

Three trim levels will be offered: LX, E, and SX, with the two upper trim levels receiving Kia's new Uvo infotainment system as standard equipment. The Uvo system, you may recall, is based on the same Microsoft Car operating platform that underpins Ford Sync.

The Optima is based on the same lightweight architecture as the Sonata, and we expect it will achieve similar fuel economy numbers when it goes on sale this Fall (early 2011 for the hybrid). That would put it in the (very impressive) 22/35 mpg range for the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter engine, 22/34 for the turbo and 37/39 mpg for the hybrid. Check out the high-resolution images below and the press release after the jump - and be sure to stay tuned, we'll have live shots and impressions from the show floor posted shortly.


Gallery: 2011 Kia Optima


[Source: Kia]

Continue reading 2011 Kia Optima introduced with DI, turbo and hybrid

2011 Kia Optima introduced with DI, turbo and hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow20112011 Kia Optima2011 kia optima hybrid2011KiaOptima2011KiaOptimaHybridkiakia optimakia optima hybridKiaOptimaKiaOptimaHybridnew yorknew york autonew york auto shownew york auto show 2010new york auto show s...New York AutoshowNewYorkNewYorkAutoNewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010NewYorkAutoShowS...ny auto showNyAutoShowoptimathetatheta iitheta ii gdiTheta II GDI TurboThetaIiThetaIiGdiThetaIiGdiTurboThu, 01 Apr 2010 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19416996/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/2011-kia-optima-new-york-2010-reveal/19416996/article-detail.xml 19416996 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/optimaext01opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/optimaext01opt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 Subaru WRX STI sedan has wing, needs gold wheels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-2011-subaru-wrx-sti-4-door-has-wing-needs-gold-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-2011-subaru-wrx-sti-4-door-has-wing-needs-gold-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-2011-subaru-wrx-sti-4-door-has-wing-needs-gold-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI - Click above for high-res image gallery

For the first time in three years, Subaru is offering up a four-door sedan version of their performance icon, the WRX STI. This is the first time that Subaru has ever offered an STI in two body styles. That's right, you can also buy the five-door STI. And while we love hot little performance wagons, you have to admit the wing is pretty sweet. Or at least admit that the four-door Impreza body is so... awkward looking (we know, we know) that the looks are actually improved by a 14-inch wing.

New for the STI(s) this year is an improved suspension consisting of stiffer bushings, stiffer springs, and thicker anti-roll bars at both ends of the car. The 2011 STI also sports less unsprung weight than the 2010 model due to lighter 18-inch wheels that are a combined 17.6 pounds less heavy. While power is unchanged (305 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque), high-speed stability of the four door is greatly improved, as is at the limit handling, by - you guessed it - that mega wing.

Since the sedan is marginally lighter than the five-door, 0-60 mph times might improve. However, since there's less weight over the rear wheels (and since the STI's diff is slightly rear-biased) they might be a bit slower. Also, the sedan STI features two mufflers (still has four pipes) as opposed to the wagon's one giant muffler (and four pipes). Subaru claims that while this has no bearing on horsepower or torque, it makes the car sound, "Meaner and louder."

We mentioned to Subaru that we dig the new wing, but really think the wheels should be gold like the classic STI/BBS marriage of years past. Even the optional 18 x 8.5-inch BBS wheels are silver. Our Subaru PR pal smiled at us and said, "Glad we gave you something to bitch about." Also, a quick PSA for those of you thinking about buying a new STI and deleting the wing: Subaru highly recommends you also change the trunk springs, because minus the weight of the wing, the trunk will smash in the rear window.

Update: The 2011 STI is also available in Limited trim, meaning leather seats plus a sunroof.


Gallery: New York 2010: Subaru Impreza WRX STI


Gallery: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI


Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Subaru WRX STI sedan has wing, needs gold wheels

New York 2010: 2011 Subaru WRX STI sedan has wing, needs gold wheels originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 STI2011 STI Sedan2011 Subaru WRX STI2011 Subaru WRX STI Sedan2011Sti2011StiSedan2011SubaruWrxSti2011SubaruWrxStiSedanNew YorkNew York 2010New York Auto ShowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNY 2010ny auto showNy2010NyAutoShowstiSubaruSubaru WRX STISubaru WRX STI 4-DoorSubaru WRX STI Four-DoorSubaruWrxStiSubaruWrxSti4-doorSubaruWrxStiFour-doorwrxWRX STIWrxStiThu, 01 Apr 2010 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19422780/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/new-york-2010-2011-subaru-wrx-sti-4-door-has-wing-needs-gold-w/19422780/article-detail.xml 19422780 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadwrxstiny2010live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadwrxstiny2010live.jpg <![CDATA[Hamsters FTW! Kia Soul ad wins top Nielsen Auto Ad award [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/hamsters-ftw-kia-soul-ad-wins-top-nielsen-auto-ad-award-w-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/hamsters-ftw-kia-soul-ad-wins-top-nielsen-auto-ad-award-w-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/hamsters-ftw-kia-soul-ad-wins-top-nielsen-auto-ad-award-w-vide/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia wins Nielsen's top auto ad award - Click above to watch the video after the break

Those painfully trendy hamsters and their brand-new Kia Soul managed to nab Nielson's Most Effective Automotive Ad Award. Of all the car ads out there, the 2.5 million TV viewers polled by Nielsen remembered the most about the clever spot from Kia. And why not? The adorable anthropomorphic animals and good tunes featured in the ad manage to make a solid impression. It beat out Cadillac's commercial featuring Kate Walsh and an ad for the Chevrolet Silverado starring Howie Long.

Nielsen's been handing out the awards at the New York Auto Show for four years now. Last year, Ford took top honors with a commercial that featured real-life women test-driving the Ford Focus for the first time. Hit the jump to see Kia's winning rodents.

[Source: Nielsen]

Continue reading Hamsters FTW! Kia Soul ad wins top Nielsen Auto Ad award [w/video]

Hamsters FTW! Kia Soul ad wins top Nielsen Auto Ad award [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 Kia Soul2010 New York Auto Show2010KiaSoul2010NewYorkAutoShowAuto ShowAutoShowKiaKia SoulKiaSoulMost Effective Automotive Ad AwardMostEffectiveAutomotiveAdAwardNew YorkNew York Auto ShowNewYorkNewYorkAutoShowNielsenNielsen Most Effective Automotive Ad AwardNielsenMostEffectiveAutomotiveAdAwardSoulThu, 01 Apr 2010 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19422168/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/hamsters-ftw-kia-soul-ad-wins-top-nielsen-auto-ad-award-w-vide/19422168/article-detail.xml 19422168 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/hamsters-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/hamsters-630.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Volkswagen Polo wins 2010 World Car of the Year award]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/volkswagen-polo-2010-world-car-of-the-year-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/volkswagen-polo-2010-world-car-of-the-year-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/01/volkswagen-polo-2010-world-car-of-the-year-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,


2010 World Car of the Year winner Volkswagen Polo

Awards season is finally winding down with the 2010 World Car of the Year and World Performance Car of the Year being handed out this morning at the 2010 New York Auto Show. After whittling the fields down to three finalists in each category, the panel of 59 international journalists voted one last time to crown the World Car of the Year.

While the Toyota Prius, Volkswagen Polo and Mercedes-Benz E-Class were nominated, it was the Polo that took home the gold for 2010 World Car of the Year.

On the performance vehicle front, the nominees were the Audi R8 V10, Porsche 911 GT3 and Ferrari California, with the Audi winning top honors.

They also handed out a Design award for a group of finalists including the Citroen C3 Picasso, Kia Soul and Chevrolet Camaro. That honor went to the Camaro. (U-S-A! U-S-A!)

The Green category saw Volkswagen's line of diesel-powered BlueMotion vehicles beat out the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight hybrids. (Die-sel! Die-sel!)

Click below for a gallery of all the winners.


Gallery: 2010 World Car of the Year winners announced in NY

Volkswagen PoloAudi R8 V10Chevrolet CamaroVolkswagen Bluemotion

New York 2010: Volkswagen Polo wins 2010 World Car of the Year award originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010 world car of the year2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2010WorldCarOfTheYearaudiaudi r8audi r8 v10audioAudiR8AudiR8V10CamarochevroletChevrolet CamaroChevroletCamaroChevy CamaroChevyCamaronew yorknew york 2010new york auto shownew york auto show 2010New York AutoshowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010ny auto showNyAutoShowr8r8 v10R8V10volkswagenvolkswagen bluemotionVolkswagen PoloVolkswagenBluemotionVolkswagenPoloVW PoloVwPoloWorld Car Designworld car design of the yearworld car of the yearworld car of the year 2010world car of the year awardworld car of the year greenworld car of the year green awardWorldCarDesignWorldCarDesignOfTheYearWorldCarOfTheYearWorldCarOfTheYear2010WorldCarOfTheYearAwardWorldCarOfTheYearGreenWorldCarOfTheYearGreenAwardThu, 01 Apr 2010 09:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19422781/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/01/volkswagen-polo-2010-world-car-of-the-year-new-york/19422781/article-detail.xml 19422781 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/01polowinner_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/01polowinner.jpg <![CDATA[We obsessively covered Day 1 of the...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2010-new-york-auto-show-day-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2010-new-york-auto-show-day-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2010-new-york-auto-show-day-1/#commentsFiled under:




So, Day One of the New York Auto Show brought with it the release of 17 new production cars along with a smattering of news, which you'll see by scrolling to the bottom. Have a favorite? Check back tomorrow for Day Two of our coverage!

Production Vehicles
Other News from New York:
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid gets unique look and 37/39 MPG rating [w/video]
It wasn't that many years ago that no one really took the engineering capabilities of Hyundai all that seriously. Thanks to recent introductions like the Genesis coupe and sedan, the Tucson and the Sonata, the Korean automaker is rapidly gaining respect.
2011 Hyundai Sonata turbo with 274 HP and 34 MPG!
Ever since Hyundai announced at the Los Angeles Auto Show that it would add a turbocharged variant to its all-four-cylinder lineup in the new Sonata, there has been considerable speculation about how much power the engine would produce.
Mazda6 diesel confirmed with hybrid-like 43 MPG
If there's one thing we're clamoring for here in the U.S., it's more diesel engines in passenger cars. Mazda will soon be answering our cries, as it plans to launch its all-new SKY-D powertrain in its "next-generation mid-sized car" (read: Mazda6) sometime in 2012.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG priced at $183,000 for the U.S.
Mercedes-Benz announced pricing today for its all-new, homegrown gullwing. We don't have an official MSRP breakdown yet, but our man on the NY Auto Show floor tells us that the 2011 SLS AMG will start at $183,000 in the U.S. when it begins to go on sale this summer.
2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport lands on show floor, V6 and hybrid not happening
"You'll turn blue in the face if you're holding your breath waiting for a V6 Kizashi." That was the word from a Suzuki spokesman at last night's insider preview of the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi Sport. Don't count on the hybrid anytime soon, either.
Ford and Microsoft announce Hohm electric vehicle charging partnership
At this year's New York Auto Show, Ford announced an extension of its partnership with Microsoft (see also: Sync) into the electric vehicle (EV) recharging realm: The free Hohm energy management application.

We obsessively covered Day 1 of the... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShownew york 2010new york auto showNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowny 2010ny auto showNy2010NyAutoShowWed, 31 Mar 2010 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421828/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/2010-new-york-auto-show-day-1/19421828/article-detail.xml 19421828 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/10nyiaslogoopta_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/10nyiaslogoopta.png <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon is lovable, but somewhat underwhelming]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-2011-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-is-lovable-but-somewh/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-2011-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-is-lovable-but-somewh/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-2011-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-is-lovable-but-somewh/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's quite a phenomenon at this year's New York Auto Show. Two - yes, two wagons have debuted. The first was the Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon (our current pick for Best In Show, we might add), and the second is from Acura. The U.S.-market Acura TSX is the Honda Accord overseas, and the wagon variant that other markets will finally come to our shores to fill out the TSX lineup.

From all appearances, the only differences between the Euro Accord wagon and the TSX Sport Wagon are the addition of Acura badges and a slightly more upscale interior. Powering the Sport Wagon is the same 2.4-liter inline-four found in the sedan, mated exclusively to a five-speed automatic transmission. Official fuel economy numbers haven't been finalized just yet, but Acura claims that the wagon will achieve around 30 miles per gallon on the highway.

Sadly, the TSX wagon is only available with front-wheel drive, as Acura says that it has no plans to offer its Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system in the TSX range. A pity, since we're big fans of this grips-at-all-paws setup. This could prove to be a sticking point for some consumers, however, especially since Acura's claimed competitive set (BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, namely) both offer all-wheel drive.

Still, we're always pleased to see another wagon on the road, and we're hoping that consumers will feel the same when the TSX Sport Wagon hits dealerships in late Fall. For now, hit the jump to read the full details in Acura's press release and click through our attached galleries to see the new wagon from all angles.


Gallery: New York 2010: Acura TSX Sport Wagon


Gallery: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon

2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon

Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Acura]

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon is lovable, but somewhat underwhelming

New York 2010: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon is lovable, but somewhat underwhelming originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 New York Auto Show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon2011AcuraTsxSportWagonAcuraacura tsxacura tsx sport wagonAcuraTsxAcuraTsxSportWagonluxurynew york auto shownew york auto show 2010NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010NY Auto ShowNyAutoShowTSXTSX sport wagonTsxSportWagonwagonWed, 31 Mar 2010 17:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19422012/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-2011-acura-tsx-sport-wagon-is-lovable-but-somewh/19422012/article-detail.xml 19422012 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadacuratsxswny2010live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadacuratsxswny2010live.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Chevrolet Cruze RS ups the entry level ante]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/chevrolet-cruze-rs-new-york-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/chevrolet-cruze-rs-new-york-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/chevrolet-cruze-rs-new-york-2010-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Cruze RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here's the skinny: The Cruze RS is an appearance package for Chevy buyers who want a Cruze with a higher level of panache. That out of the way, the RS sports sexier front and rear fascias along with more aggressive rocker panels. Don't forget the pretty OK-looking fog lamps. There's a slick rear spoiler, too. We're also pretty smitten with the big, aluminum wheels that are slathered in some impressive rubber - 235/40/19 to be specific. That's pretty large. Inside features a blacked out interior with leather seats and fabric dash materials.

The Cruze RS get's the same 1.4-liter VVT turbo as the Cruse Eco (as well as 70% of all Cruzes, so says Chevy) and should be coming on line just after the regular Cruze (finally) arrives in the third quarter of this year to eventually replace the aging Cobalt. Until then, make the jump to read the press release.


Gallery: New York 2010: Chevrolet Cruze RS


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: Chevrolet Cruze RS ups the entry level ante

New York 2010: Chevrolet Cruze RS ups the entry level ante originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 Chevrolet Cruze2011 Chevrolet Cruze RS2011 Cruze RS2011ChevroletCruze2011ChevroletCruzeRs2011CruzeRsChevroletChevrolet CruzeChevrolet Cruze RSChevroletCruzeChevroletCruzeRsChevycruzeCruze RSCruzeRsNew YorkNew York 2010New York Auto ShowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNY 2010ny auto showNy2010NyAutoShowWed, 31 Mar 2010 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421896/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/chevrolet-cruze-rs-new-york-2010-reveal/19421896/article-detail.xml 19421896 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadchevycruzersny2010live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadchevycruzersny2010live.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco is efficient, not a stripper]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-chevrolet-cruze-eco-new-york-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-chevrolet-cruze-eco-new-york-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-chevrolet-cruze-eco-new-york-2010-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco - click above for high-res image gallery

For the past week, we've been hearing all about the latest iteration of the Chevrolet Cruze, the 40-mpg Eco model. While the name is rather uninspired (Eco's the best they got?), the technology that allows the Cruze Eco to hit that lofty number is anything but. Here's the really interesting part: Chevy is claiming that fully 70% of Cruzes will feature the 1.4-liter variable-valve timing turbo I-4, including the Eco model. But wait a moment, how does the Cruze Eco achieve such lofty mileage with the same engine (same power, too - 138 horsepower @4,900 rpm, 148 pound-feet of torque @1,850 rpm)? Keep reading.

Starting with the front of the Eco, there's a new, wind tunnel-massaged front fascia complete with a class-first "Aero Shutter." Take a look at the air inlet area below the grill. During low speed driving (say stop and start city type stuff) the aero shutter is open. However, at higher speeds when cooling the turbocharged engine isn't as much of an issue, the shutter shuts, allowing air to more efficiently stream around the vehicle.

There's also a slim lower chin spoiler and "tire blockers," which we typically call spats. Moving on to the rear, there's a new fascia back there that's also been wind tunnel tested for more slippery-ness. Surface area is further decreased by lowering the car by 10 mm compared to other Cruzes. There's a full-body underpanel to keep air from getting hung up on stuff like the exhaust and suspension components, as well as ultra low rolling resistance tires shared with the Volt. Finally, there's an ultra-tall 6th gear (the Cruze Eco is manual-only) that allows the rpms to greatly drop when the vehicle is at cruising speed.

As you may imagine, Chevy has also done its very best to reduce mass as much as possible, going to far as to shave welds down by a millimeter. But here's the thing: while working on the body in white, Chevy discovered that the mass-saving measures they made to the Eco could easily be applied to other Cruze models, which means that the not-quite-yet-on sale Cruze will have across the board improved mileage. Nice, no? The Chevy Cruze should go on sale in the 3rd quarter of 2010 with the Eco (probably) making it out of the gate by the 4th quarter of this year.

As far as the seemingly random "not a stripper" fragment in the title goes, Chevrolet has made the decision not to totally decontent the Eco. According to Chevy, people's tastes are changing (ya think?) and they want high mileage vehicles to have lots of creature comforts. For instance, the Eco ships with 17-inch forged aluminum wheels. Nice. Make the jump to read the press release.


Gallery: New York 2010: Chevrolet Cruze Eco


Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco is efficient, not a stripper

New York 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco is efficient, not a stripper originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 Chevrolet Cruze Eco2011 Cruse Eco2011 cruze2011 cruze eco2011ChevroletCruzeEco2011CruseEco2011Cruze2011CruzeEcoChevroletChevrolet CruzeChevrolet Cruze EcoChevroletCruzeChevroletCruzeEcoChevycruzeCruze EcoCruzeEcoGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMNew YorkNew York 2010New York Auto ShowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNY 2010ny auto showNy2010NyAutoShowVoltWed, 31 Mar 2010 15:54:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421834/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/2011-chevrolet-cruze-eco-new-york-2010-reveal/19421834/article-detail.xml 19421834 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/cruseeco_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/cruseeco.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-scion-iq-new-york-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-scion-iq-new-york-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-scion-iq-new-york-2010-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Scion iQ - Click above for high-res image gallery

Well, well, well - it looks like Toyota's iQ is coming to the U.S. after all, only it will be (as reported) sporting a Scion badge. Makes sense. Especially as according to Scion, the world's smallest four-seater is aimed squarely at a very young demographic. Not just young, but hip and urban, too. In fact, we were told that the iQ represents a "new urbanism," and is a vehicle for a "progressive buyer." We can hear Glenn Beck's aneurysm from here.

As for details, the "mini-er, smart-er" iQ sports a 1.3-liter engine delivering its not-yet-divulged power through a CVT. Mileage should be in the high 30s, which is reasonable but far from overwhelming for such a small package. The iQ will also ship with stability control, traction control and ABS, as well as ten - count 'em - ten airbags, as well as the industry's first-ever rear window bag. As for now, that's the whole story. We'll update you on price, performance specs, and on-sale date when we know more. Press release after the jump.


Gallery: New York 2010: Scion iQ


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing

New York 2010: 2011 Scion iQ is a little intriguing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 iQ2011 scion2011 Scion iQ2011Iq2011Scion2011ScionIqiQNew YorkNew York 2010new York Auto ShowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNY 2010ny auto showNy2010NyAutoShowScionScion iQScionIqWed, 31 Mar 2010 15:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421731/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/2011-scion-iq-new-york-2010-reveal/19421731/article-detail.xml 19421731 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadsciontcny2010iqlive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadsciontcny2010iqlive.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Scion reveals better looking, more powerful 2011 tC]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-scion-tc-new-york-auto-show-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-scion-tc-new-york-auto-show-2010-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/2011-scion-tc-new-york-auto-show-2010-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Scion tC - Click above for high-res image gallery

The big reveal for Scion at the 2010 New York Auto Show is staring you square in the face. Meet the 2011 tC. Scion describes the car as defining "refined aggression." They called it, "masculine," too. Even though the new car borrows fairly heavily from the 2006 Fuse concept (not to mention the outgoing tC), our collective jury is still out on the refined aggression part. But we'll go ahead and agree that the new model does indeed look more masculine, which is good for Scion, as the tC demographic not only skews young (most youthful in the industry it turns out), but very male as well.

As for what's new, the engine is now a 2.5-liter I-4, up from 2.4 liters. Power is up as well. The new tC ships with a respectable 180 horsepower and 173 pound-feet of torque. That's plus 19 ponies and 11 pound feet. The suspension is now "sport tuned" and the power steering is electronic, which Scion assured us better allows the engineers to dial in more steering feel. Uh-huh.

The new tC also gets better gas mileage than the previous car (no word yet on exactly how much better) and comes with two new transmissions. There's a six-speed automatic that features sequential-shift (Scion-speak for a manual shift mode) as well asa six-speed manual that promises more refined shifting than the old five-speed.

Other goodies include 18-inch wheels and larger tires, bigger brake rotors (Scion claimed 16-inch rotors front and back during the press conference, but that's... insane) and a flat-bottom steering wheel. The tC has been our favorite Scion ever since Scion replaced the fist-gen xB with the fatter second-gen model. As such, it looks as if we have a new favorite. Press release, after the jump.


Gallery: New York 2010: Scion tC


Gallery: 2011 Scion tC


Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading New York 2010: Scion reveals better looking, more powerful 2011 tC

New York 2010: Scion reveals better looking, more powerful 2011 tC originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShow2011 Scion tC2011 tC2011ScionTc2011TcNew YorkNew York 2010New York Auto ShowNewYorkNewYork2010NewYorkAutoShowNY 2010ny auto showNy2010NyAutoShowScionScion tCScionTctcWed, 31 Mar 2010 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421724/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/2011-scion-tc-new-york-auto-show-2010-reveal/19421724/article-detail.xml 19421724 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadsciontcny2010live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/leadsciontcny2010live.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda6 diesel confirmed with hybrid-like 43 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/mazda6-diesel-confirmed-with-hybrid-like-43-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/mazda6-diesel-confirmed-with-hybrid-like-43-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/mazda6-diesel-confirmed-with-hybrid-like-43-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mazda SKY-D and SKY-G engines - Click above for high-res image gallery

If there's one thing we're clamoring for here in the U.S., it's more diesel engines in passenger cars. Mazda will soon be answering our cries, as it plans to launch its all-new SKY-D powertrain in its "next-generation mid-sized car" (read: Mazda6) sometime in 2012.

The big news about this engine is that it's expected to achieve up to 43 miles per gallon on the highway, trumping the current class-leader of fuel economy in the mid-size sedan department, the Ford Fusion Hybrid. This powerplant will be mated to a brand new six-speed automatic transmission, called SKY-Drive, and will not only meet Tier 2 Bin 5 regulations, but will meet North America's strict emissions standards.

In addition to the SKY-D diesel engine, Mazda has said that it plans to build a new SKY-G gasoline engine that when coupled to the SKY-Drive six-speed automatic will provide 15 percent better fuel economy than the its petrol poweplants currently in use. Hit the jump to read the full details in Mazda's press release.


Gallery: Mazda SKY-G and SKY-D Powertrains


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda6 diesel confirmed with hybrid-like 43 MPG

Mazda6 diesel confirmed with hybrid-like 43 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 New York Auto Show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShowdieselenginefuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencymazdamazda6mazda6 dieselMazda6Dieselnew york auto shownew york auto show 2010NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2010powertrainsky-dsky-gWed, 31 Mar 2010 14:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421742/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/mazda6-diesel-confirmed-with-hybrid-like-43-mpg/19421742/article-detail.xml 19421742 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/mazdaskypowertrains000opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/mazdaskypowertrains000opt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2010: Ford and Microsoft announce Hohm electric vehicle charging partnership]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-ford-announces-hohm-electric-vehicle-charging-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-ford-announces-hohm-electric-vehicle-charging-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-ford-announces-hohm-electric-vehicle-charging-par/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Alongside the debut of the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid at this year's New York Auto Show, Ford announced an extension of its partnership with Microsoft (see also: Sync) into the electric vehicle (EV) recharging realm. The new space that Microsoft and Ford want to take over is your garage; the method of attack is the free Hohm energy management application.

Hohm is a cloud-based system that can be used today to manage and control home energy usage. When it comes to future EVs and home charging, the system will be able to automate and optimize recharging and, most likely, communicate with a smartphone to relay information and update settings (need to turn off your dryer for some reason while you're at work, Hohm can let you do that). The MyFord Touch and Sync technologies could also be integrated into the system, allowing your car to tell you it wants to be recharged at night during off-peak hours.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer appeared via satellite during Ford's press conference to promote the new direction that these two companies are going in together. Ballmer said, "electric cars are going to transform so much of our society" and that information technology will be critical in getting EVs on the road. Ford president and CEO Alan Mulally said that this partnership "makes electric vehicles viable." Ford's group vice president of global product development, Derrick Kuzak, said that Hohm will make EVs "a reality for everyone, not just a lucky few" because it manages the cost for the end user and helps utilities manage and understand the EV load.

But Kuzak also said that Hohm will help people evaluate if their home is ready for an EV, implying that not everyone will be able to use Hohm (an obvious point, but it negates his pie-in-the-sky "EVs for everyone" statement). We'll be able to draw our own conclusions once the all-electric Focus becomes the first Ford EV to use Hohm, probably some time in 2011.


Gallery: Ford Hohm


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading New York 2010: Ford and Microsoft announce Hohm electric vehicle charging partnership

New York 2010: Ford and Microsoft announce Hohm electric vehicle charging partnership originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Mar 2010 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 new york auto show2010 ny auto show2010NewYorkAutoShow2010NyAutoShowbreakingfocus ev hohmFocusEvHohmfordford hohmford microsoftford microsoft hohmFordHohmFordMicrosoftFordMicrosoftHohmhohmhohm electric carhohm evhohm focusHohmElectricCarHohmEvHohmFocusmicrosoftmicrosoft hohmMicrosoftHohmnew york auto showNewYorkAutoShowny auto showNyAutoShowWed, 31 Mar 2010 14:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19421602/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/31/new-york-2010-ford-announces-hohm-electric-vehicle-charging-par/19421602/article-detail.xml 19421602 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/new-york-ford-hohm-630-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/new-york-ford-hohm-630-1.jpg -1 2