Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-mazda-mazda2-los-angeles-auto-show-2009-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Mazda2 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Ford Fiesta may have been the big B-segment reveal last night, but Mazda has finally decided to bring its own compact runabout to North America, and it's based on the same architecture as it Blue Oval sibling. Originally launched in Europe, Japan, and Australia a couple of years ago, the Mazda2 was very well-received by media and consumers alike, a warm reception that probably helped make the case for the Japanese automaker to bring it over to the United States. That time has arrived, and the Mazda2 will be available in North America as a 2011 model.

Although Mazda revealed what the North American spec version will look like, it's still holding back additional information, including engine specifications, interior details, and pricing. We'll get more details soon, but in the meantime, check the full release after the jump and our live pics from the floor below.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Mazda2


Gallery: 2011 Mazda2


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011

LA 2009: Mazda unveils North American spec Mazda2 for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Mazda22011Mazda2lala 2009la auto showla auto show 2011 mazda2la showLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2011Mazda2LaShowmazdamazda2Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:31:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Infiniti M wraps tons of tech in an attractive wrapper, hybrid coming in mid-2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/2011-infiniti-m37-2011-infiniti-m56/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/2011-infiniti-m37-2011-infiniti-m56/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/2011-infiniti-m37-2011-infiniti-m56/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Infiniti M - Click above for high-res image gallery

Take a look over Infiniti's current line-up and two vehicles stand out: The M and the QX. Both vehicles have been soldiering on while the brand's volume models (G and FX) have undergone major redesigns, leaving Infiniti's flagship sedan and hulking SUV toiling away unchanged since 2003 and 2004, respectively.

Tonight, that changes.

We'll probably see a mildly tweaked G in So. Cal. while covering the LA Auto Show (an updated QX full-size SUV won't appear until later), but the star of the party is the 2011 Infiniti M. Due to go on sale next spring, the M will be available with two powerplants -- Infiniti's ubiquitous 3.7-liter V6 and a new 5.6-liter V8 -- each available with rear- or all-wheel drive and both packing enough electronic gizmos to make even the most hardened NASA engineer's head spin.

UPDATE: A hybrid version of the M will debut sometime in the middle of 2010. A live image gallery of the M56 has been added below, along with more high-res pics of both the Sport and Touring models. Also, scope out the sexiest door handles you'll see this week here.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Infiniti M


Gallery: 2011 Infiniti M

Continue reading 2011 Infiniti M wraps tons of tech in an attractive wrapper, hybrid coming in mid-2010

2011 Infiniti M wraps tons of tech in an attractive wrapper, hybrid coming in mid-2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 infiniti m2011 infiniti m372011 infiniti m562011InfinitiM2011InfinitiM372011InfinitiM56infinitilala auto showla2009LaAutoShowmm37m56Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, mass-market potential has four doors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/la-2009-2011-chevrolet-cruze-potential-has-four-doors/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/la-2009-2011-chevrolet-cruze-potential-has-four-doors/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/la-2009-2011-chevrolet-cruze-potential-has-four-doors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is finally coming Stateside and during a private event held earlier this evening ahead of the LA Auto Show, General Motors - 20 minutes after announcing the departure of Fritz Henderson as CEO - unveiled the U.S.-spec version of its Cobalt replacement and Toyota Corolla competitor.

Sharing much of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt's architecture, the Cruze has the potential to be a massive leap forward for Chevy in the mid-size/compact segment. Larger than the Cobalt in almost every dimension and packing a choice of either a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder putting out 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque or a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter four-pot, fuel economy and efficiency take center stage. However, "driving enjoyment" was mentioned more than once during the presentation, so to aid both its fuel consumption (an estimated 40 mpg with the turbo'd four) and enhance the experience, buyers will be able to choose between a manual or automatic six-speed gearbox.

Although we've seen the Cruze in person before (it's been on sale in Europe and other markets for over six months), its sharp lines, taut headlamps and enlarged grille play Dr. Jekyll to it's rather staid, Mr. Hyde rump. Inside, the two-tone brown and black leather interior is a tremendous improvement over the model it replaces, with an artfully sculpted dash and center stack surrounded by soft touch materials, brushed fauxluminum and a smattering of chrome. Back seat passengers should be equally pleased with the appointments and a 60/40 split bench ups the ante for usability.

The Cruze's arrival late next year couldn't be better timed, as Ford is readying the next generation Focus and Honda is toiling away on a reworked Civic. We're expecting to get some seat time in the coming months, and for the first time in recent memory, we're looking forward to sampling a new mid-size product from the General. Full details in the press release below the fold and check out the gallery of live images below.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze


Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

Continue reading LA 2009: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, mass-market potential has four doors

LA 2009: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, mass-market potential has four doors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow20112011 chevrolet cruze2011 chevy cruze2011ChevroletCruze2011ChevyCruzechevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevycruzelala 2009la auto showla2009LaAutoShowlashowTue, 01 Dec 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Buick Excelle debuts in China, sedan coming to America soon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/new-buick-excelle-debuts-in-china-sedan-coming-to-america-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/new-buick-excelle-debuts-in-china-sedan-coming-to-america-soon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/new-buick-excelle-debuts-in-china-sedan-coming-to-america-soon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Buick Excelle XT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back in August, when General Motors gave the media a tour of its design studios to show off pieces of its upcoming lineup, one of the cars we saw was a compact four-door Buick sedan. That sedan was essentially a re-grilled and trunked version of the recently introduced Opel Astra, but GM did not say what badging the car would receive in North America. However, the five-door hatchback version has just debuted in China at the Guangzhou Motor Show as the newest baby Buick.

In what is Buick's largest market, the compact is badged as the Excelle, and we wouldn't be surprised to see that name come to the U.S. provided there aren't any issues with the similarly named (and defunct) Hyundai Excel. The car we saw in August was identical to the Excelle shown above from the B-pillars forward. It only differs at the rear where the hatch was originally a traditional trunk.

Unlike the last Saturn Astra (and previous attempts at smaller Buicks), the inside of the new car looks much more upscale and should be more appealing to American consumers. We'll probably only get the 181-horsepower, 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder in the Excelle in order to set it apart from the 140-hp Chevy Cruze that shares the same platform. If our version gets the 138-hp 1.8-liter at all, it will probably be paired with the automaker's new, second-generation BAS hybrid system.


Gallery: Buick Excelle XT


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading New Buick Excelle debuts in China, sedan coming to America soon

New Buick Excelle debuts in China, sedan coming to America soon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 buick2011 buick excelle2011Buick2011BuickExcellebuickbuick chinabuick excelleBuick Excelle Sedanbuick excelle xtBuickChinaBuickExcelleBuickExcelleSedanBuickExcelleXtchinaexcelleMon, 30 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

More than a year after first showing us a styling buck and nearly as long since launching it overseas, General Motors is finally showing off the production Chevy Cruze for North America. Set to be shown publicly this week at the LA Auto Show, the Cruze is still a good eight or nine months away from arriving in U.S. showrooms.

When it does finally arrive, the Cruze should be a huge step forward from the Chevy Cobalt, and GM hopes it will be an able competitor to the next-generation Honda Civic and Ford Focus, which are slated to arrive not long afterward. The Cruze is slightly larger than the Cobalt, but will be powered by downsized engines, including a new 1.4-liter turbocharged four cylinder with 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, as well as a 1.8-liter normally-aspirated unit with similar power but less torque. All Cruze models will get six-speed gearboxes - either manual or automatic. The turbo Cruze is expected to score an impressive 40 mpg EPA highway rating.

Based on our brief experience driving a Chevy Volt powertrain mule (Cruze and Volt share common DNA), the Chevrolet Cruze should be more refined than the outgoing Cobalt by an order of magnitude, with a roomier interior and much better-executed passenger cabin. We'll see it in person later this week in L.A., and in the meantime, you can check out the first official images from GM in the gallery below. The official press release follows after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim

LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 chevrolet cruze2011 chevy cruze2011ChevroletCruze2011ChevyCruzebreakingchevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevychevy cruzechevy cruze interiorchevy cruze lordstownChevyCruzeChevyCruzeInteriorChevyCruzeLordstowncruzela auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowla2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeles 2009LosAngeles2009Sun, 29 Nov 2009 09:14:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Kia Cadenza bows in Korea, replacing Amanti in the U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/2011-kia-cadenza-bows-in-korea-replacing-amanti-in-the-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/2011-kia-cadenza-bows-in-korea-replacing-amanti-in-the-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/2011-kia-cadenza-bows-in-korea-replacing-amanti-in-the-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

Kia has taken the wraps off the 2010 Cadenza in its home market before its official debut at next month's Riyadh Motor Show in Saudi Arabia, and if you're wondering what the South Korean automaker had planned for the next generation Amanti, this is it.

Based on an all-new front-drive platform (Type-N) spanning 195.5 inches, the Cadenza is slightly shorter than the Amanti it's due to replace, but its wheelbase has grown to 112 inches and Kia managed to reduce the weight by over 280 pounds while keeping torsional rigidity and overall strength up. MacPherson struts are employed up front with a multi-link suspension in the rear, while 11.8-inch discs (front) and 11.2-inch rotors (rear) are hidden behind standard 16-inch or optional 17-inch wheels.

Three engines, each mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, will be available when the Cadenza launches outside of North America in January. Outputs will range from 162 (four-cylinder) to 286 hp (V6), with the latter like to come to the US. Kia hasn't released when the new Amanti will make it Stateside, but the smart money says sometime late in 2010. Make the jump for the full release.


Gallery: 2011 Kia Cadenza/Amanti



[Source: Kia]

Continue reading 2011 Kia Cadenza bows in Korea, replacing Amanti in the U.S.

2011 Kia Cadenza bows in Korea, replacing Amanti in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 kia amanti2011 kia cadenza2011KiaAmanti2011KiaCadenzaamanticadenzakiaTue, 24 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Redesigned 2010 Infiniti G and 2011 QX joining M in LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/redesigned-2010-infiniti-g-and-2011-qx-joining-m-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/redesigned-2010-infiniti-g-and-2011-qx-joining-m-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/redesigned-2010-infiniti-g-and-2011-qx-joining-m-in-la/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Although Nissan and Infiniti won't have an official presence at next week's LA Auto Show, the luxury marque will unveil its 2011 M sedan at an event the night before the show and plans to webcast the proceedings at 7:00 pm PST on December 1.



Joining the thoroughly redesigned M on stage will be the updated 2010 Infiniti G and the oft-spied the 2011 Infiniti QX. Although official details haven't been released for either model, a set of promo shots have already leaked out, showing a slightly reworked fascia equipped with a few organic creases, new foglamp surrounds and a tweaked grille. The QX receives a similar, although much more elaborate redesign, with a bulging hood, acres of chrome and a canted D-pillar.

Powertrain and equipment details haven't been released yet, but expect all the information to be revealed in one week's time.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Next-gen Infiniti QX


[Source: Infiniti, The Infiniti Source]

Redesigned 2010 Infiniti G and 2011 QX joining M in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 infiniti g2010InfinitiG20112011 infiniti g2011 infiniti m2011 infiniti qx2011InfinitiG2011InfinitiM2011InfinitiQxginfinitilala 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowmqxMon, 23 Nov 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/bmw-5-series-2011-sedan-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/bmw-5-series-2011-sedan-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/bmw-5-series-2011-sedan-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 BMW 5 Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 5 Series is an important model for BMW, particularly in North America where it's the brand's second best seller behind the 3 Series. Heading into 2010, BMW has expanded its mid-size line with the new Gran Turismo body style already on sale. However, the volume leader for the 5 Series is the four-door sedan, which officially debuts today. The 2011 model transitions to a new platform architecture shared with the latest 7 Series as well as the upcoming Rolls-Royce Ghost. The 5 Series sedan gets a four-inch shorter wheelbase than its siblings, but at 116.9 inches, it still stretches well past its competition. The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class runs a mere 113.1 inches between its axles and the Cadillac CTS is 113.4 inches.

From a technical perspective, the new 5 Series picks up much of what can be found in the 7 Series and the Gran Turismo. Read on after the jump to learn more about it.

UPDATE: Nine videos added and more images uploaded into gallery.


Gallery: 2011 BMW 5 Series sedan


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan

Officially Official: BMW unveils all-new 5 Series sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 bmw 5 series2011 BMW 5-Series2011Bmw5-series2011Bmw5Series5 series5Seriesbmwbmw 5BMW 5 seriesBMW 5-seriesBmw5Bmw5-seriesBmw5SeriesMon, 23 Nov 2009 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: First look at the 2011 Chevy Aveo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/spy-shots-first-look-at-the-2011-chevy-aveo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/spy-shots-first-look-at-the-2011-chevy-aveo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/spy-shots-first-look-at-the-2011-chevy-aveo/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Back in August, in the wake of General Motors emergence from its pre-packaged bankruptcy, the automaker gave select members of the media a preview of several upcoming products. Among those was the next Chevrolet Aveo, which will take up the B-segment mantle to battle the new Ford Fiesta, Mazda2, Honda Fit, and Toyota Yaris. Unlike the current Aveo, which is built in South Korea by Daewoo, the new model will be built at the Orion, MI assembly plant north of Detroit.

While there had been speculation that the ungainly-looking Chevy Viva from Brazil would be the Aveo replacement, that is an entirely different car - although it will likely share some mechanical bits with the Aveo.

At the August preview, GM design manager Bob Boniface confirmed to us that the Aveo moniker would be retained because, in spite of the baggage the current model carries, it does have recognition and launching a new nameplate has been deemed too expensive a proposition. Of course, that was three months ago and the Aveo is still a year or so away from launch, so things could change. Whatever it's called, early spy shots from Brenda Priddy and Co. suggest that it's shaping up to be a better-looking car than the current model, with a wider stance that looks less tippy.

[Source: The Detroit News]

Spy Shots: First look at the 2011 Chevy Aveo originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 chevy aveo2011ChevyAveoaveoaveo5chevroletchevychevy aveoChevy Aveo5ChevyAveoChevyAveo5spy picsspy shotspy shotsspy-shotsSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotssubcompactSun, 22 Nov 2009 12:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A7 caught in production form]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/spy-shots-2011-audi-a7-caught-in-production-form/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/spy-shots-2011-audi-a7-caught-in-production-form/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/spy-shots-2011-audi-a7-caught-in-production-form/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2011 Audi A7 Spied - Click above for high-res image gallery

The intrepid spy shooters at KGP have caught the 2011 Audi A7 uncovered in a testing lab in Germany ahead of its official reveal next year, and the sleek, low-slung saloon/coupe hasn't lost much of its flavor in the transition from showcar to production.

Although the shots don't give us a clear view of the front fascia, the headlamps and front clip have obviously been toned down from its conceptual predecessor shown earlier this year the Detroit Auto Show. However, its sloping roofline and well-integrated hatch would appear to prove that at least one automaker can create a five-door hatch that's simultaneously attractive and functional.

If our tea leaf-reading is accurate, we'd expect to see the A7 make its production debut either in Detroit this January or at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Powertrain options should include everything from Audi's turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four to the S4's supercharged six, along with a V8 option further down the line. And if the BMW 5 Series GranTurismo proves to be a hit in the States, we won't be at all surprised if Audi follows suit and by offering the A7 in North America.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A7

Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A7 caught in production form originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Audi a72011 Audi a7 spy pics2011 Audi a7 spy shots2011AudiA72011AudiA7SpyPics2011AudiA7SpyShotsa7audidetroit auto showDetroitAutoShowgeneva motor showGenevaMotorShowFri, 20 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[U.S.-spec Chevrolet Cruze to debut at LA Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/u-s-spec-chevrolet-cruze-to-debut-at-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/u-s-spec-chevrolet-cruze-to-debut-at-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/u-s-spec-chevrolet-cruze-to-debut-at-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

General Motors has announced plans to unveil the U.S.-spec version of the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze at next month's LA Auto Show, alongside the all-new Chevrolet Volt. The compact sedan has been available in Europe and across the Pacific for over a year, but will finally go on sale in the States in the third quarter of 2010.

Originally shown at the Paris Motor Show last year, the Cruze is designed to replace the aging Cobalt and will be packing a 1.4-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder that GM expects to max out at 40 mpg on the highway. Production will begin at the General's Lordstown, OH plant this coming April, and it would seem that GM doesn't plan to offer the 1.6- or 1.8-liter gas engines (or the Euro-market 2.0-liter turbo diesel) at launch. Hit the jump for GM's releases and expect more details to follow when we hit the ground in So. Cal. on December 2nd.


Gallery: 2011 Chevy Cruze

Continue reading U.S.-spec Chevrolet Cruze to debut at LA Auto Show

U.S.-spec Chevrolet Cruze to debut at LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 chevrolet cruze2011 chevy cruze2011ChevroletCruze2011ChevyCruzechevroletchevycruzelala 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowTue, 17 Nov 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: C/D says Lutz confirms Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-c-d-says-lutz-confirms-cadillac-cts-v-sport-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-c-d-says-lutz-confirms-cadillac-cts-v-sport-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-c-d-says-lutz-confirms-cadillac-cts-v-sport-wagon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Between the Buick Regal GS, front-wheel drive (and possible hybrid) Chevrolet Impala and the rumored Caprice SS, Bob Lutz has managed to release a scad officially unofficial details on General Motors' future product plans over the last two days. And now comes this.

Speaking with Car and Driver, Maximum Bob went into Maximum Bloviation mode when discussing the Buick Regal wagon, and then ostensibly confirmed that the Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon has been given the green light by saying, "You'll be able to get the CTS-V any way you want." Meaning: the CTS-V will be available in both coupe and five-door variants.

Naturally, anything that jumps out of Lutz' mouth should be taken with an extra helping of NaCl, as his past off-hand announcements haven't always come to fruition. Regardless, creating the duo of CTS-Vs is damn easy and we're hoping to see both in production form next year.

[Source: Car and Driver]

REPORT: C/D says Lutz confirms Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 cadillac cts-v coupe2011 cadillac cts-v wagon2011CadillacCts-vCoupe2011CadillacCts-vWagonbob lutzBobLutzcadillaccadillac cts-vcadillac cts-v coupecadillac cts-v wagonCadillacCts-vCadillacCts-vCoupeCadillacCts-vWagoncoupects-vwagonMon, 16 Nov 2009 16:49:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: BMW X3 U.S. launch delayed by up to 6 months for custom order effort]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-bmw-x3-u-s-launch-delayed-by-up-to-6-months-for-custom/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-bmw-x3-u-s-launch-delayed-by-up-to-6-months-for-custom/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-bmw-x3-u-s-launch-delayed-by-up-to-6-months-for-custom/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



According to BMW of North America's president, Jim O'Donnell, the Roundel crew will delay the launch of the 2011 BMW X3 by six months to establish a new customer ordering program and iron out which engines will be available in the States.

The move will apparently make the customization of the X3 both easier for consumers and less expensive for BMW, which plans to offer models with the top ten options on dealer lots. Production of the X3 will move from Magna Steyr's facility in Austria to the automaker's Spartanburg, S.C. plant, where it will be built along side the X5 and X6.

Traditionally, the X3 would be available with the bigger and more expensive inline-six at launch, but BMW plans to make four engines available at the onset, likely a naturally aspirated inline six, turbocharged six and possibly a diesel four-cylinder and the recently introduced six-pot from the 335d.

The delay means we won't be seeing the redesigned X3 in showrooms until the middle of 2011 -- some six months after BMW's U.S-built cute 'ute goes on sale in Europe. However, BMW plans to allow customers to begin ordering their X3s in October of 2010, so expect to see the revamped crossover unveiled in production (or light "concept" guise) early next year.

[Source: Autoweek]

REPORT: BMW X3 U.S. launch delayed by up to 6 months for custom order effort originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 bmw x32011BmwX3bmwbmw x3BmwX3x3Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Buick Regal likely to be launch platform for next GM hybrid system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/buick-regal-likely-to-be-launch-platform-for-next-gm-hybrid-syst/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/buick-regal-likely-to-be-launch-platform-for-next-gm-hybrid-syst/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/buick-regal-likely-to-be-launch-platform-for-next-gm-hybrid-syst/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last night, General Motors publicly unveiled the 2011 Buick Regal that goes on sale in North America in the first half of next year. The Regal will be Buick's new mid-sized sedan entry and is essentially just a re-grilled version of the Opel Insignia that went on sale in Europe last year. The North American Regal will be built at the Oshawa Ontario assembly plant in Canada beginning in calendar 2011 and will only be offered with a choice of direct-injected four-cylinder engines. However, the Regal is actually slated to go on sale in calendar 2010, and some are suggesting that the sedan will be sourced from Germany for 12 to 15 months.

The base engine will be the 2.4-liter normally aspirated unit that debuted earlier this year in the Chevrolet Equinox, among other models. With a six-speed automatic transmission, the Regal should hit 30+ mpg on the highway. The optional unit will be a 220-hp version of the 2.0-liter turbo, but that powertrain likely won't come on-line right away.

Earlier this year, documents were leaked that listed the Oshawa plant as building a new mid-size hybrid sedan in 2011. It looks like the Regal will be that car with GM's new second generation mild hybrid system that was announced in 2008. The new system uses a more powerful motor/generator and a lithium ion battery. According to Ward's Auto World, the Regal could also get GM's plug-in two mode hybrid system, but that likely won't appear before late 2011 at the earliest.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal


[Sources: Ward's Auto World - sub req'd | GM-Volt.com]

Buick Regal likely to be launch platform for next GM hybrid system originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011BuickBuick Regalbuick regal hybridBuickRegalBuickRegalHybridhybridmild hybridMildHybridplug inplug in hybridplug-inplug-in hybridplug-in-hybridplug-in-hybridsPlug-inHybridpluginPlugInHybridpluginsregalregal hybridRegalHybridFri, 13 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

Once up a time in the '80s, it was fashionable in Detroit to create so-called Euro-sedans by taking conventional mainstream grandma-mobiles and painting all the chrome black, dispensing with the white walls and installing overly stiff springs. Fortunately, those dark days are gone and General Motors and Ford at least have gotten their heads around how to build the kind of cars they sell in Europe. Just bring over European cars.

When bankrupt GM decreed that Buick would survive as one of the company's four core brands, it quickly became clear that Buick would need more models to flesh out its showrooms alongside the LaCrosse and Enclave. It wasn't long before it became obvious that the next addition would be a new Regal. The Regal is already available in Buick's biggest market of China and it's coming back to North America in 2010 as a 2011 model. Anyone familiar with the Opel Insignia will immediately recognize the Regal as the same car with the brand's trademark waterfall grille swapped in. Read on after the jump for more information.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading 2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup

2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 buick2011 buick regal2011Buick2011BuickRegalbreakingbuickbuick regalBuickRegalregalWed, 11 Nov 2009 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: Porsche reveals new lightweight Boxster Spyder [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-preview-porsche-reveals-new-lightweight-boxster-spyder-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-preview-porsche-reveals-new-lightweight-boxster-spyder-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-preview-porsche-reveals-new-lightweight-boxster-spyder-w-vi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Porsche Boxster Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're less than a month away from the LA Auto Show, which means that automakers are starting to dribble out some of what we'll be seeing there. The gang from Zuffenhausen will be rolling out a new lightweight edition of the Boxster dubbed "Spyder" especially for those who live where the sun shines and the roads twist. Like the classic 550 Spyders of the Fifties, the top mechanism in this new Boxster is merely a formality - rather than providing fully enclosed driving is more of a sun-shade than anything else.

Overall, Porsche's engineers have pared off about 176 pounds from the Spyder, bringing it down to 2,811 pounds. Propulsion comes via a direct-injected 3.4-liter boxer six with a 10 horsepower boost over the Boxster S for a total of 320. With the automaker's seven-speed PDK dual clutch gearbox, the Spyder gets to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and manages a combined 25.3 mpg (US) on the EU drive cycle.

In Porsche's time-honored "less is more" (money) world, the Boxster Spyder goes on sale in February 2010 with a base price $61,200. We're quite sure your local Porsche dealer will happily offer to put back some additional weight in your car in the form of options, but, hey - at least your wallet's heft will be pared back significantly to help offset the difference. For the rest of you dreamers, be sure to check out our high-res gallery below along with the some videos and the press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading LA Preview: Porsche reveals new lightweight Boxster Spyder [w/VIDEO]

LA Preview: Porsche reveals new lightweight Boxster Spyder [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 porsche boxster2011 porsche boxster spyder2011PorscheBoxster2011PorscheBoxsterSpyderla auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowPorscheporsche boxsterPorsche Boxster SpyderPorscheBoxsterPorscheBoxsterSpyderThu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor XT, $100K off-road race truck]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-2010-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-xt-100k-off-road-race-tr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-2010-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-xt-100k-off-road-race-tr/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/sema-2009-2010-ford-f-150-svt-raptor-xt-100k-off-road-race-tr/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Ford F150 Raptor R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Does the idea of a $100,000 pickup truck give you heart palpitations? If so, you might want to skip over the rest of this text. For the past year Ford has been using off-road races like the Baja 500 and 1000 as real world test tracks to prove out the performance and durability of the new F-150 SVT Raptor pickup. The Raptor R that Ford has been racing is actually pretty close to the production truck, although it does have more power and suspension travel.

Now the Ford Racing crew is following in the footsteps of the various FR500 Mustangs of the last five years and offering a factory-built race truck. Called the Raptor XT, it features the same 500-hp 6.2-liter V8 found in the latest edition of the Raptor R. The Raptor XT also gets all the interior amenities of a standard road going Raptor while adding the chrome-moly roll cage and tubular bumpers of the R. The XT even gets the 15-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel travel of the race truck.

Only 50 units of the Raptor XT will be built for the 2011 model year and only the most extreme off-roaders will be willing to pay the $99,950 price tag. Like the FR500 race Mustangs, the Raptor XT is off-road only, but in this case it's really off the road.


Gallery: Ford F-150 SVT Raptor R


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading SEMA 2009: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor XT, $100K off-road race truck

SEMA 2009: 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor XT, $100K off-road race truck originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 ford f150 raptor xt2011 ford focus2011FordF150RaptorXt2011FordFocusf-150f-150 svt raptorF-150SvtRaptorfordford f-150FordF-150raptorraptor xtRaptorXtSEMAsema 2009SEMA ShowSema2009SemaShowsvt raptorSvtRaptorTue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: GM delays Chevy Cruze launch by three months]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/report-gm-delays-chevy-cruze-launch-by-three-months/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/report-gm-delays-chevy-cruze-launch-by-three-months/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/report-gm-delays-chevy-cruze-launch-by-three-months/#commentsFiled under: , ,

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

Like other automakers, General Motors would prefer to avoid the recall stigma that plagued first-year examples of rival Ford's Focus a decade ago. North American versions of that car were recalled five times in the first year to fix early production glitches. The new Chevrolet Cruze had been scheduled to launch production at the company's Lordstown, Ohio factory in April of next year, but according to The Detroit News, that timeline has now been pushed back to July.

Although earlier launches of the Cruze in China and Europe have not endured any serious problems, this is the company's first major new product since it was re-born out of bankruptcy this summer, and GM wants to avoid anything going wrong in the U.S. as well.

The Cruze is expected to hit 40 mpg in highway driving with its new 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. According to the DetNews, the delay will also give GM time to have every variant of Cruze ready for customers on day one. Often, production launches are staggered with some trim levels and build combinations held back at first. This frequently causes problems for an automaker if they don't build enough examples of the models people actually want to buy.


Gallery: 2010 Chevy Cruze - live shots


[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: GM delays Chevy Cruze launch by three months originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 chevy cruze2011ChevyCruzechevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevychevy cruzechevy cruze delaychevy cruze lordstownChevyCruzeChevyCruzeDelayChevyCruzeLordstownCruzeLordstownThu, 29 Oct 2009 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A8 coming with four-cylinder turbodiesel, new V12 under development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/spy-shots-2011-audi-a8-coming-with-four-cylinder-turbodiesel-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/spy-shots-2011-audi-a8-coming-with-four-cylinder-turbodiesel-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/spy-shots-2011-audi-a8-coming-with-four-cylinder-turbodiesel-n/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Audi A8 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Camouflaged prototypes of the 2011 Audi A8 have been caught running the Nurburgring, and accompanying these newest shots comes word that Audi's reworked flagship will be available with a host of new powerplants.

According to reports, Audi's range-topper will continue to be available with a W12, but it's expected to grow from 6.1- to 6.5-liters and exceed 500 horsepower -- 50 hp more than the outgoing twelve. Stepping down from that would be a supercharged V8 with more than 400 horsepower and a cylinder management system that could shut down up to four cylinders.

To really get the gas mileage going, however, Audi is reportedly working on a new 2.0-liter diesel with two turbos that pumps out more than 200 horsepower. If the new powerplant comes to market, it would match Mercedes-Benz' BlueEfficiency four-cylinder in the S-Class. The new A8 is expected to debut at the Detroit Auto Show this January, with sales beginning in late 2010.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A8


[Source: L'Automobile]

Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A8 coming with four-cylinder turbodiesel, new V12 under development originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 a82011 audi a82011A82011AudiA8a8audiaudi a8AudiA8dieselspy shotsspy shots 2011 audi a8spy shots audi a8SpyShotsSpyShots2011AudiA8SpyShotsAudiA8Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Lexus LFA hotlap at Homestead-Miami Speedway]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/lexus-lfa-video-hot-lap/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/lexus-lfa-video-hot-lap/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/lexus-lfa-video-hot-lap/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Click above to view the videos after the jump

Hiromu Naruse is Toyota Motor Company's "master test driver." He's the man responsible for honing our favorite ToMoCo sports cars - from the MR2 to the Supra - and he's one of four drivers that ran the 24 Hours of Nürburgring (along with several other races) in two Lexus LFA prototypes, joining Toyota's president, Akio Toyoda in the #14 car. Yesterday, he became our personal chauffer around the Homestead-Miami Speedway.

The only problem: the batteries died on our GoPro camera. Thankfully, 0-60's helmsman Brian Scotto had his own minicam and handed it over when it was our turn to get a few hot laps from the master. After the jump you'll find two videos: one mounted on the inside of the windshield (the suction cup isn't rated over 150 MPH, and we hit 157 MPH on the oval) and another shot by Scotto's iPhone as Naruse-san delicately snaked the Lexus LFA around the Speedway. 3... 2... 1... jump.

Continue reading VIDEO: Lexus LFA hotlap at Homestead-Miami Speedway

VIDEO: Lexus LFA hotlap at Homestead-Miami Speedway originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 lexus lf-a2011 lexus lfa2011LexusLf-a2011LexusLfahiromu narusehiromu naruse 2011 lexus lfahiromu naruse lexus lfaHiromuNaruseHiromuNaruse2011LexusLfaHiromuNaruseLexusLfalexuslf-alfamiami homesteadmiami homestead speedwaymiami speedwayMiamiHomesteadMiamiHomesteadSpeedwayMiamiSpeedwayFri, 23 Oct 2009 19:55:00 EST