Autoblog

Click above for high-res gallery from first drive of the 2008 Pontiac G8 GT

We don't know how it happened or who started it, but some automotive news outlets have published their first drive reviews of the 2008 Pontiac G8 GT before the imposed embargo by GM. Since we don't have one of our own (yet), we'll be sending you to a non-guilty party with a great review of Pontiac's new rear-wheel-drive performance sedan. Popular Mechanics had a chance to drive the G8 GT in Malibu, and we're not surprised that they were extremely impressed. Aside from the crazy fast performance numbers that come courtesy of the car's 6.0L V8 producing 361 horsepower, PM claims it's the steering and handling of the G8 GT that leaves the biggest positive impression. When was the last time you heard that said about a large domestic sedan? Even the six-speed automatic was praised, though a rumor that a Corvette LS3-powered G8 GXP version will offer a six-speed manual is music to our ears. Much thanks to PM for allowing us to host some high-res photos of their drive with the G8 GT, some of which you won't find on their own review, but make sure to click over and read the first round of many platitudes this car is bound to receive.


[Source: Popular Mechanics]

The original Bullitt Mustang was one of the original sleepers, as all flash and flare were stripped in favor of a clean slate that could fly through the streets of San Francisco with the greatest of ease. The 2008 Bullitt has shed all the frivolities of the Shelby models, or even a stock GT, for that matter. What Ford did do was to add 15 HP through cold air induction and an engine re-calibration, made the ride more track-ready, and slid in the visual cues that brings us back to Steve McQueen's 40 year-old original.

The Popular Mechanics film crew was front and center for a sweet peak at what the 2008 Bullitt can really do, and it's a blast to watch. The newest Mustang spin-off dazzles out of the gate with an impressive array of wasted rubber while the green pony car keeps a tight orbit. We then learn some interesting facts about the Bullitt, like how Ford engineers designed the 4.6L V8 to deliver 315 HP on regular fuel, but the performance quotient increases if premium fuel is added. The extra .20 for 94 octane doesn't sound as bad when it's paying you back with extra ponies. Take a look at the video by clicking here, or hit the read link below. If you watch it and don't want to at least take a Bullitt for a spin, we're inclined to believe your interest in cars will one day pass.

[Source: Popular Mechanics]

Popular Mechanics is handing out its breakthrough awards, and Ford's SYNC made its way into the tech magazine's top 10 breakthrough products. SYNC's reasonable $395 price tag and voice recognition capability gave Ford and Microsoft's joint project the edge, and Popular Mechanics also really liked the fact that SYNC can read your text messages to you. SYNC will be available on 12 Ford products for the 2008 model year, with more availability in 2009.

Ford wasn't the only automaker to make its way onto the breakthrough award list, either. GM, BMW, and DaimlerChrysler's joint Two-Mode Hybrid project was also recognized for its ability to save fuel on the gas guzzlers that need it most.

[Source: Popular Mechanics]

With all the rumors surrounding the hyped-up Corvette, Jim Dunne over at Popular Mechanics wanted to get some answers, so he went to the source – well, a source, at least.

According to the "largest Corvette dealer in Michigan" the Blue Devil/SS 'Vette will get a singular supercharger, will cost upwards of $100k and could possibly push out the current Z06 to be the dominant Corvette in the General's lineup. Only 3,000 abnormally-aspirated, Corvette supercars will be built over two years, with 1,500 units being allocated for sale each year.

The shocker? According to the unnamed dealer, none of GM's manual transmissions are up to the task of handling all the ponies produced by the blown powerplant. The solution: it's getting an automatic.

The one question that wasn't answered (or possibly even asked) is "when?" We're putting our money on Detroit or Chicago, but considering all the misinformation out there; we'd suggesting talking to a dealer.

[Source: Popular Mechanics]

Yesterday, Ben Stewart over at Popular Mechanics had a close encounter of the prototype kind while spending some time on the Angeles Crest Highway in So. Cal. He caught a glimpse of a camo'd current generation Accord sitting in a local lot and, knowing that it could be driven away at a moment's notice, began snapping pics of the moribund mule.

Now, an Accord sporting an ill-fitting bra is nothing to get too excited over, until Ben figured out that it's actually the next generation Acura TSX in drag. Supposedly, underneath the body panels is the "new" TSX chassis, necessitating those awkwardly flared fenders, housing 225/50ZR17 tires.

He came to this unlikely conclusion after noticing a few other TSXs following the mule (comparison testing) and when he got back to the office, Stewart made few calls. Turns out that the upcoming TSX will be built on an all new platform, likely using the turbo mill that's found in the new RDX, with the option of sending power to all four wheels.

What's it going to look like you ask? Less crease, more swoop is the short answer. But if you need a bit more detail than that, check the Honda Sports4 Concept that debuted at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show.

[Source: Popular Mechanics]

I don't envision myself needing the power and capability of an SUV any time soon in my life, but the Durangoneer is one ute I would drive just for fun. It's a HEMI-powered 2004 Dodge Durango chassis that's been shortened and strengthened wearing the body of a 1988 Jeep Grand Wagoneer - early SUV looks with late model technology and capability. The Durangoneer was built as a project car for Popular Mechanics and was apparently at this year's SEMA Show in Las Vegas, but we must've walked right by it. It's understandable, though, since it takes a few seconds to realize you're not actually looking at an '88 Wagoneer. The Durangoneer is being auctioned off next month at RM Auction's annual "Vintage Motor Cars in Arizona" auction on January 19th. What's more, any cash this thing brings in over and above $35,000 will be donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Follow the jump for more pics and a press release that contains additional info on the Duragoneer.

[Source: RM Auctions]