Autoblog

Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Watch as a Ferrari FF goes rallying in the snow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/watch-as-a-ferrari-ff-goes-rallying-in-the-snow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/watch-as-a-ferrari-ff-goes-rallying-in-the-snow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/watch-as-a-ferrari-ff-goes-rallying-in-the-snow/#commentsFiled under: Performance, Europe, Videos, Ferrari, Off-Road

Markku Alen drives Ferrari FF in the snow

Ferrari has had its share of drivers who knew their way around a snowy rally course. Gilles Villeneuve, for example, was famous for the drifting techniques he picked up racing snowmobiles in his native Quebec. And Kimi Raikkonen, for another, left the Scuderia for the World Rally Championship where he exercised his Finnish roots. Thing is, both of these top drivers were gone from the Ferrari roster long before the company introduced the FF as its first all-wheel-drive car.

That's where Markku Alen comes in. The former World Rally Champion took the FF up to the Arjeplog track in the north of his native Sweden, just an hour's drive south of the Arctic Circle, to stretch it out in the snow. Fortunately, he also brought a film crew along. While Ferrari's shot footage of the FF playing in the snow before, none of it came out quite as majestic as this clip. Follow the jump to check it out.

Continue reading Watch as a Ferrari FF goes rallying in the snow

Watch as a Ferrari FF goes rallying in the snow originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrariferrari ffmarkku alenrallysnowswedenvideoThu, 02 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST

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20163125 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/110012car_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/110012car.jpg <![CDATA[Mini claims first international rally win]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/mini-claims-first-international-rally-win/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/mini-claims-first-international-rally-win/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/31/mini-claims-first-international-rally-win/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Mini, Middle East

Mini JCW SPC at Qatar International Rally

It may not be a World Rally Championship event, but Mini is celebrating its first win at an international rally (at least its first such win of the modern era).

The event in question was the Qatar International Rally, a fully FIA-sanctioned event that kicks off the 2012 Middle East Rally Championship (MERC). Abdulaziz Al-Kuwari (with his brother Nasser as co-driver) edged out the competition by an impressive margin of 2:24.9 in the Mini Countryman JCW Super Production Car - the same vehicle that Prodrive fields in the WRC but with a smaller wing and restrictor plate, and similar to the X-Raid vehicle that recently won at Dakar.

Victory at the event was particularly meaningful for Prodrive, which got its start at the Qatar International Rally way back in 1984 to kick off the first MERC in the Rothmans Porsche 911 SC RS (pictured in the high-res image gallery below).

Continue reading Mini claims first international rally win

Mini claims first international rally win originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abdulaziz al-kuwaricountrymanmiddle east rally championshipminimini jcwmini john cooper worksmini john cooper works super production carmini rallyprodriveqatar international rallyrallyTue, 31 Jan 2012 18:30:00 EST

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20160339 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webmini-qatar_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webmini-qatar.jpg <![CDATA[Rhys Millen's Hyundai Veloster rally car is about par for the course]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/rhys-millens-hyundai-veloster-rally-car-is-about-par-for-the-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/rhys-millens-hyundai-veloster-rally-car-is-about-par-for-the-co/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/25/rhys-millens-hyundai-veloster-rally-car-is-about-par-for-the-co/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Videos, Hatchback, Hyundai, Humor, Racing

Rhys Millen's Hyundai Veloster at the tee

We can think of a handful of automobiles that appear to be closer to golf carts than what we'd otherwise think of as "cars". Like the Smart ForTwo, for example. Or the Tata Nano. Rhys Millen's Hyundai Veloster rally car, on the other hand, is not the first vehicle that would come to mind for schlepping clubs around the fairway, but Rhys himself appears to think otherwise with this latest video just released by Hyundai.

In the clip after the jump, you'll see what happens when Millen gives new meaning to the notion of picking the right driver for the course. The added bonus of using competition machinery in place of the usual putter put-putters is that you just might get to the green before your ball does. And that could come in handy on the PGA Tour. Watch all the way through to the end for the blooper reel.

Continue reading Rhys Millen's Hyundai Veloster rally car is about par for the course

Rhys Millen's Hyundai Veloster rally car is about par for the course originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>golfhyundaihyundai velostermillenrallyrhys millenvelostervideoWed, 25 Jan 2012 19:59:00 EST

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20156871 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/rhys-golf_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/rhys-golf.jpg <![CDATA[Lotus Exige R-GT rally car gets first shakedown test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/lotus-exige-r-gt-rally-car-gets-first-shakedown-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/lotus-exige-r-gt-rally-car-gets-first-shakedown-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/lotus-exige-r-gt-rally-car-gets-first-shakedown-test/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Europe, Lotus, Racing

Lotus Exige R-GT Rally Car

Lotus has been busily preparing its new Exige R-GT rally car, and the automaker just put the racer through its first shakedown tests in Turin, Italy. So far, the Lotus team is happy with the vehicle's progress, but testing will continue in 2012 as the company prepares to take on the 2012 FIA World Championship. Don't expect the Exige R-GT to take on too many gravel stages, however. Lotus says the rally car will lock horns with competitors in the FIA GT Class on the asphalt events in Monte Carlo, Tour de Corse and San Remo.

Lotus began working on its rally fighter in July, 2011, which is a pretty quick turn around for the vehicle's first shakedown run.

But the Exige R-GT Rally Car isn't the only tasty piece of news from the company. Lotus also fired up the company's IndyCar engine for the first time as well. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Lotus Exige R-GT rally car gets first shakedown test

Lotus Exige R-GT rally car gets first shakedown test originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20136015 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-exige-r-gt-rally-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-exige-r-gt-rally-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[Subaru promises BRZ, Impreza STI concepts plus rally return at Tokyo Auto Salon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/subaru-promises-brz-impreza-sti-concepts-plus-rally-return-at-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/subaru-promises-brz-impreza-sti-concepts-plus-rally-return-at-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/subaru-promises-brz-impreza-sti-concepts-plus-rally-return-at-t/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Japan, Hatchback, Subaru, Tokyo Auto Salon, Racing

Subaru display at 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon

Unlike most cities, Japan's capital city plays host to two major automotive exhibitions: the Tokyo Motor Show and the Tokyo Auto Salon. While these terms may be interchangeable when it comes to European expos, in Tokyo, they connote two different shows altogether. The first is the Motor Show, where new concepts and production models are unveiled by the world's automakers. The Auto Salon is more of a tuner expo along the lines of the SEMA show in Las Vegas. So after Subaru made its long-anticipated splash at the Tokyo Motor Show with its new BRZ, now it's heading to the Salon with some modified versions.

First up is a version of the BRZ Concept STI, packing some prototype carbon-fiber components, suspension upgrades, Brembo brakes and more. Subaru has also teamed up again with aftermarket tuner Prova (which shares its name with the traditional license plates carried by prototypes in italy) for a BRZ Black Edition. And you can bet there will be a handful or two of other tuners eager to show what they can do with the new rear-drive sports coupe, as well.

Subaru itself will also be showcasing an upgraded Impreza called the G4 STI with all manner of performance enhancements, and will, at long last, announce its return to a number of different motorsport disciplines. The Super GT300-spec BRZ, which we already know about, will be displayed alongside the Legacy-based racer it replaces. But there will also be a WRX STI that's slated to be fielded at the Nürburgring 24, and Subaru will also be announcing its return to professional rally competition, though not the World Rally Championship series it left years ago, it will contest the Intercontinental Rally Challenge. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Subaru promises BRZ, Impreza STI concepts plus rally return at Tokyo Auto Salon

Subaru promises BRZ, Impreza STI concepts plus rally return at Tokyo Auto Salon originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 tokyo auto salonbrzimprezaintercontinental rally challengerallystisubarusubaru brzsubaru brz sti concepttokyotokyo auto salonwrxwrx stiTue, 27 Dec 2011 14:15:00 EST

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20135843 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/subaru-brz-salonweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/subaru-brz-salonweb.jpg <![CDATA[Is this the highest-flying Honda ever?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/is-this-the-highest-flying-honda-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/is-this-the-highest-flying-honda-ever/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/is-this-the-highest-flying-honda-ever/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Etc., Videos, Honda, Humor

Honda Civic rally jump

We know it doesn't look like the rallying Honda Civic hatchback above is doing anything special, but trust us, this is a case of "Oh, I wasn't expecting that at all."

After barreling across the ridiculously long run-up to the crest, the pilot even lets off the gas before launch, yet still manages to look like he's qualifying for the 2014 Winter Olympic ski jump in Sochi. He might want to work on his pre-running notes before the next outing.

You'll find the mighty leap in the video after the jump. You can start preparing your "VTEC just kicked in yo!" now.

Continue reading Is this the highest-flying Honda ever?

Is this the highest-flying Honda ever? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentciviccivic rallycivic sicrashhondajumprallyrallyingwreckTue, 20 Dec 2011 14:58:00 EST

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20131653 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/highflyinghonda_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/highflyinghonda.jpg <![CDATA[Valentino Rossi hopes for future in rally racing [UPDATE: w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/30/valentino-rossi-hopes-for-future-in-rally-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/30/valentino-rossi-hopes-for-future-in-rally-racing/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/30/valentino-rossi-hopes-for-future-in-rally-racing/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Motorcycle, Rumormill

Valentino Rossi

Valentino Rossi, certainly the greatest motorcycle racer of our generation, has no concrete plans to leave MotoGP. In fact, after an extremely disappointing first season with Ducati in 2011, we'd wager he'll be sticking around for at least a few more years to prove he's still got what it takes to win at the highest level when competing on competitive machinery.

But, as we've heard in the past, Rossi would love nothing more than to "retire" by taking a break from two-wheeled competition and settling into something with four. And while we know The Doctor has proven quite adept at piloting a Ferrari Formula One machine, the likeable Italian apparently prefers to rally. In an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Rossi said:

I'm happy, it was one of my best rallies, even if I had won it the past. Getting ahead of Loeb in two specials really turned me on... I'll do a few more years in MotoGP, then I'd race in rallies: these machines are really fun to drive because they have less electronics.

A future career in rally racing wouldn't be a stretch for Rossi - the motorcycle racer finished in second place in a Ford Fiesta RS WRC, a mere 24 seconds behind eight-time world champion Sebastien Loeb's Citroen DS3.

*UPDATE: Video of Rossi's rally exploits added after the break.

Continue reading Valentino Rossi hopes for future in rally racing [UPDATE: w/video]

Valentino Rossi hopes for future in rally racing [UPDATE: w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>monza rally showrallyrally racingrossisebastien loebvalentino rossiworld rally championshipwrcWed, 30 Nov 2011 09:31:00 EST

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20116709 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/valentino-rossi_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/valentino-rossi.jpg <![CDATA[Tired of Turkey? Here's 22 minutes of Porsche 911 GT3 RS rally footage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/tired-of-turkey-heres-22-minutes-of-porsche-911-gt3-rs-rally-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/tired-of-turkey-heres-22-minutes-of-porsche-911-gt3-rs-rally-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/24/tired-of-turkey-heres-22-minutes-of-porsche-911-gt3-rs-rally-f/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Videos, Porsche

If you need a little assistance getting through your annual 80-course meal and various NFL games, may we offer you some GT3 RS à la Rally? Some kind chef has cobbled together 22 minutes of footage of the Porsche that loves to get dirty doing slides and Scandinavian Flicks and making rooster tails.

This choice bit of German dessert awaits you after the jump.

Continue reading Tired of Turkey? Here's 22 minutes of Porsche 911 GT3 RS rally footage

Tired of Turkey? Here's 22 minutes of Porsche 911 GT3 RS rally footage originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911gt3gt3 rsporsche 911porsche gt3 rsrallyrallyingvideoThu, 24 Nov 2011 19:01:00 EST

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20113478 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/gt3rsrallycross_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/gt3rsrallycross.jpg <![CDATA[How to lose the 2011 Targa Newfoundland in one easy step [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/30/how-to-lose-the-2011-targa-newfoundland-in-one-easy-step-w-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/30/how-to-lose-the-2011-targa-newfoundland-in-one-easy-step-w-vide/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/30/how-to-lose-the-2011-targa-newfoundland-in-one-easy-step-w-vide/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Convertible, Mazda, Canada, Racing

Mid-stage is no time to let your driver know his navigator has no damn clue what's going on.

My helmet has just been crammed into the cross ribs of the roof of our Miata for the third time in less than a kilometer, driving a guttural "OOMPH" from my lungs mid-sentence at the same time. I regain my breath, look from the route book to the kitchen timer that's Velcroed to the rally computer on the dash, and start counting out the seconds on my fingers. My tiny brain is already too overloaded for simple math, and I've reduced myself to elementary school tricks for quick calculations. It's the fifth stage of the fourth day, and the verdict isn't good; we're a far cry from our target time.

"We are 17 seconds slow," I say into the mic, doing my best to stifle any tones of urgency.

"Seventeen seconds? Are you sure?"

The short answer is that no, I'm not sure. For the first time in a full week's worth of time-speed-distance rallying, our time intervals are making no damn sense. We'll pass one and be 25 seconds down only to pass the next and be within five seconds of our target. I'm all kinds of crossed up, but mid-stage is no time to let your driver know his navigator has no damn clue what's going on.

"I'm sure. Beat on this thing."

Always project confidence.

Continue reading How to lose the 2011 Targa Newfoundland in one easy step [w/video]

How to lose the 2011 Targa Newfoundland in one easy step [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20065463 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/targa-newfoundland-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/targa-newfoundland-lead.jpg <![CDATA[The Road to Targa Newfoundland, Part 3: Homework and gearing up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/the-road-to-targa-newfoundland-part-3-homework-and-gearing-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/the-road-to-targa-newfoundland-part-3-homework-and-gearing-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/06/the-road-to-targa-newfoundland-part-3-homework-and-gearing-up/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Convertible, Performance, Mazda, Canada, Racing

Alpinestars Gear

We're officially less than five days from the first stage of the 2011 Targa Newfoundland, and I'm frantically busy trying to cram as much information into my brain before arriving in St. John's as I possibly can. Having never navigated in a rally, there's a slew of symbols, terminology and theory to absorb before the green flag drops on September 12.

Then there's the small issue of establishing a working relationship with the Terratrip on-board vehicle computer. The thing has an instruction manual that could have been written by a Soviet-era novelist, and while I think I'll only be responsible for a few button mashes here and there, I don't want to be the guy who accidentally recalibrates the machine or keys in the self-destruct code. Keep on reading to see how the rest of our preparations are proceeding.

Continue reading The Road to Targa Newfoundland, Part 3: Homework and gearing up

The Road to Targa Newfoundland, Part 3: Homework and gearing up originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Sep 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 targa newfoundlandalpinestarsflyin miatarallytargatarga newfoundlandTue, 06 Sep 2011 18:59:00 EST

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20036044 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/alpinestars-gear-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/alpinestars-gear-630.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block unveils new multi-hoonable Ford Fiesta HFHV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/ken-block-unveils-new-multi-hoonable-ford-fiesta-hfhv/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/ken-block-unveils-new-multi-hoonable-ford-fiesta-hfhv/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/ken-block-unveils-new-multi-hoonable-ford-fiesta-hfhv/#commentsFiled under: Videos, Hatchback, Ford, Specialty, Off-Road, Racing

Ken Block's Ford Fiesta HFHV

Being Ken Block has got to be a lot of fun, but like any other life, it has its share of problems. In Ken's case, he's actively involved in a number of rally disciplines, each of which has its own parameters and requires its own type of car. Solution: the Ford Fiesta HFHV.

The initials stand for Hybrid Function Hoon Vehicle, but don't let that first H fool you: there's nothing Prius about this car. It's the new beast which Ford and Block have developed for adaptable use in each of three types of rally competition: stage rallies, rallycross and Gymkhana.

The car is based on Block's Ford Fiesta RS WRC, albeit with a 2.0-liter turbo four capable of producing as much as 600 horsepower and 665 pound-feet of torque, depending on configuration. And configurability is what this car's all about. By swapping the wheels and tires and adjusting everything from the suspension to the engine mapping, the HFHV can be quickly set up for any of these three functions. Believe it or not, Block's Monster crew says it can even be street-legal, depending on the setup.

Bottom line: expect to see this car wherever you see Block pop up, whether it's on a rally stage, a closed parking lot or a film set - starting with the X Games this weekend in Los Angeles. Follow the jump to watch the video footage and read the full press release.

Continue reading Ken Block unveils new multi-hoonable Ford Fiesta HFHV

Ken Block unveils new multi-hoonable Ford Fiesta HFHV originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lotus Exige Cup 260

Lotus Exige Cup 260 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The ambition in the Hethel offices of Lotus appears to know no bounds, its road car program rivaled only by its expanding racing operations.

The British automaker already participates, in one manner or another, in Formula 1, IndyCar, GP3 and GT racing. The company is also said to be working on a new LMP2 program to challenge for the second-tier Le Mans category. But before that comes around, reports indicate that Lotus is working on an in-house rally project.

Rather than compete in the top-tier WRC or IRC classes, reports suggest that a production-based Exige is in the works for privateer entries, presumably for tarmac rallies, set to debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Despite the fact that the Exige has gone out of production, it remains a popular choice among privateers who have Lotus road cars converted to rally specifications by independent outfitters, a slice of whose pie Lotus apparently is keen to take.

The growing motorsport division at Lotus is headed by one Claudio Berro, who followed CEO Dany Behar over from Ferrari, where he was once the F1 team's manager. And, like his former boss Jean Todt, Berro comes from a background as a rally co-pilot, navigating a Talbot Sunbeam Lotus through the Group 2 Italian Rally Championship in the early '80s.

Lotus planning Exige-based rally car for Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mini at the Rallye de Monte Carlo Historique

Every racing series has its iconic race. F1 has Monaco. NASCAR has Daytona. Indy and Le Mans hardly need any elaboration. And rallying has Monte Carlo. The thing is, the Monte Carlo rally hasn't been part of the World Rally Championship for several years now. But that's about to change.

The legendary event - organized by the same Automobile Club de Monaco that puts on the Monaco Grand Prix and a number of vintage racing events - dates all the way back to 1911, and aside from notable breaks for a couple of world wars, has been held pretty much ever year since. From 1973 through 2008, it was an integral part of the World Rally Championship, but after that it went to the rival Intercontinental Rally Challenge.

A landmark announcement, however, reveals that the Monte Carlo Rally is returning next season to the WRC, but not at the expense of the IRC. Instead, the round will act as the season opener for both rally championships.

The Italian Rally is also scheduled to return next season. An anticipated rally in Abu Dhabi, however, was excluded from the 2012 WRC calendar, which encompasses 13 rounds mostly in Europe. The Jordan Rally, which was so problematic this season, was also excluded, with overseas rounds held only in New Zealand, Mexico and Argentina. However, unlike F1, whose schedule is also set by the FIA, the Latin American rounds are not paired, but instead punctuated by a return to Europe for the rally in Portugal. Follow the jump for the full schedule.

Continue reading Monte Carlo rally returns next season to World Rally Championship

Monte Carlo rally returns next season to World Rally Championship originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automobile club de monacofederation internationale de lautomobileintercontinental rally challengemonacomonte carlomonte carlo rallyrallyworld rally championshipwrcTue, 07 Jun 2011 07:58:00 EST

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19958534 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/mini-monte_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/mini-monte.jpg <![CDATA[Rally Cross to be held outside on streets of LA for X Games 17]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/28/rally-cross-to-be-held-outside-on-streets-of-la-for-x-games-17/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/28/rally-cross-to-be-held-outside-on-streets-of-la-for-x-games-17/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/28/rally-cross-to-be-held-outside-on-streets-of-la-for-x-games-17/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Racing

tanner foust rallycross la 2010

X Games 16 SuperRally - Click above for high-res image gallery

RallyCross and the X Games were made for one another, and X Games 17 will feature one of the coolest tracks ever. The games, which will run from July 28 through July 31, will include a first-ever rally street circuit in downtown Los Angeles.

Three-time rally gold medalist and Top Gear U.S. host Tanner Foust sounds pretty excited about the development, and we can't blame him. "Being in the car, ripping through streets, cranking the handbrake through intersections while door-to-door and jumping next to buildings is going to be truly epic! I can't wait!"

We're guessing ESPN can't wait either, as the shots from the competition will likely be awe-inspiring. And the sports news network will have the event very well covered, with 25 hours of high definition coverage and another 18 hours of 3D coverage.

And, of course, the X Games wouldn't be the X Games without dirt bikes, so you can expect plenty of Enduro X coverage. There will also be eight new Moto X competitions, which will take place inside The STAPLES Center. Sounds like a good time. Hit the jump to read over the ESPN press release, and check out our high-res image galleries below for some of the rally action from last year.

Gallery: X Games 16 Rally Car Racing

Gallery: X Games 16 SuperRally

Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Motor World Hype]

Continue reading Rally Cross to be held outside on streets of LA for X Games 17

Rally Cross to be held outside on streets of LA for X Games 17 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enduro xespn x gamesmoto xrallyrallycrossrallycross downtown lastaples centertanner foustx gamesx games 17Thu, 28 Apr 2011 19:25:00 EST

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19923951 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/foust-rallycross_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/foust-rallycross.jpg <![CDATA[Online Find of the Day: BaT bags a pair of Lancia Delta Integrale specials]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/online-find-of-the-day-bat-bags-a-pair-of-lancia-delta-integral/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/online-find-of-the-day-bat-bags-a-pair-of-lancia-delta-integral/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/online-find-of-the-day-bat-bags-a-pair-of-lancia-delta-integral/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Classics, Performance, Auctions, Europe, Hatchback, Lancia

Lancia Delta Integrale special editions

Lancia Delta Integrale special editions - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's rare enough to find one Lancia Delta Integrale for sale in North America. It's rarer still to find an example of one of the special edition cars Lancia made over the last two years of the Delta Integrale's life cycle. This week, though, Bring a Trailer is featuring two such cars from one Canadian seller.

The first car is one of 400 1992 Lancia Delta Integrale Martini 5 Special Editions, built to commemorate Lancia's fifth World Rally Championship. The Martini 5 also marked the first run of special edition Integrales. According to the seller, this one has been upgraded with Martini 6 decals, 17-inch Speedline wheels and a catalytic converter-less Group B exhaust system.

Inside, there's an aftermarket OMP steering wheel, Alcantara trim and a pair of delicious Recaro buckets. The seller says he still has the original wheels if the 17s are a bit much. Though the car is apparently street legal in Canada, it will need a catalytic converter if it's going to pass a smog test in Vancouver. Those of us in the States will have to make do with a show and display exception, or wait until the car is 25 years old before it can be registered.

The second car is one of 250 1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Edizione Finale cars made specifically for the Japanese market. Like all Edizione Finales, this example wears Rosso Amarento paint, and carries a laundry list of the Delta's most desirable options. That means a set of anthracite gray 16-inch Speedline wheels, push-button start, carbon fiber trim, aluminum pedals, a passenger footrest and the same Recaro furniture that graces the Martini Delta. On top of all that, the Edizione Finale received a bump to 250 horsepower, thanks to revised engine management.

Both cars are available exclusively through BaT, though we doubt they'll be sticking around too long given their rarity and desirability. Unfortunately for us, they're priced accordingly. The 1992 Martini 5 car is listed at a heady $80,000, while the 1994 Edizione Finale is "just" $65,000. Head over to Bring A Trailer for more.

Gallery: 1992 Lancia Delta Integrale Martini 5

1992 Lancia Delta Integrale Martini 5 front

1992 Lancia Delta Integrale Martini 5 side

1992 Lancia Delta Integrale Martini 5 rear 3/4

1992 Lancia Delta Integrale Martini 5 rear 3/4

1992 Lancia Delta Integrale Martini 5 rear

Gallery: 1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Edizione Finale

1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Edizione Finale 3/4

1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Edizione Finale front

1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Edizione Finale front

1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Edizione Finale 3/4

1994 Lancia Delta Integrale Edizione Finale side

[Source: BringATrailer]

Online Find of the Day: BaT bags a pair of Lancia Delta Integrale specials originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 15:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1992 lancia delta integrale martini 51994 lancia delta integrale edizione finalebringatrailerdeltaintegralelancialancia deltalancia delta integralerallywrcTue, 26 Apr 2011 15:21:00 EST

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Robert Kubica

Robert Kubica has finally been released from hospital following his terrifying February rally crash. In case you forgot, Kubica hit an Armco barrier, which punctured the cockpit of his Skoda Fabia S2000, nearly severing off his hand and casting doubt on the future of his driving career.

Kubica's release is an important step in his overall recovery, but hardly means the Polish Formula One ace will be back in the cockpit any time soon. According to doctors, his recovery is moving along apace, but he still has seriously limited use of the injured appendage. The main concern is the extensive nerve damage Kubica's crash caused in the affected limb. How long the nerves will take to right themselves is anyone's guess.

For now, Kubica will spend some time at home in Monaco before going back to Italy to start a long and extensive rehab program. It may be months or even years before the full implications of the crash on the 26-year-old Pole's F1 driving career are known, but we're glad to hear he's out of the hospital and on to the next stage in his recovery.

[Source: Crash.net]

F1 driver Kubica released from hospital originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andorraandorra rallycrashf1formula 1formula onekubicarallyrobertrobert kubicarobert kubica crashskoda fabia s2000Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:32:00 EST

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Sebastien Loeb

Sebastien Loeb drives the 2010 Jordan Rally

Mounting a rally is never easy to begin with. Organizing one in the Middle East amidst the greatest popular upheaval in the region's considerable history, however, is another matter entirely. We recently reported on the potential effects which demonstrations and revolutions across the region could have on motorsport competition, and now it's all come home to roost.

Only two months after protests forced the cancelation of the Bahrain Grand Prix, a number of unpredictable factors have caused the delay - but not the cancellation - of the WRC rally in Jordan. Although the Hashemite Kingdom itself has remained relatively stable, getting the cars and equipment there this year proved a unique hassle. Teams were cautioned against trying to go through the Suez Canal due to the situation in Egypt, and with protests kicking into high gear in Syria, Plan B was out, too. Organizers ended up shipping by sea from Italy to Israel, only to be faced by further setbacks.

Stormy weather reportedly dictated it unsafe for the ship to dock in Haifa - Israel's northern port on the Mediterranean - leaving it stranded one kilometer offshore. When the harbor finally gave the all-clear for the ship to dock, one of its engines wouldn't start, forcing tug-boats to bring it in and shutting down all traffic in the port in the process. The shipment was then delayed in customs and took fourteen hours to finally reach the Jordanian coast of the Dead Sea where the garages are being set up.

The rally is now set to begin on Friday, two days behind schedule, but ready to go nonetheless. Meanwhile, the ship has since been impounded by the Israeli ministry of transportation until its engine can be repaired, forcing organizers to make alternative arrangements for getting their cars and gear back to Italy for the Sardinia rally on May 5.

[Source: Autosport | Image: McKlein/Citroën]

WRC Jordan Rally delayed due to political unrest, stormy seas and engine trouble originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead seaegypthaifaharborisraeljordanjordan rallyportrallyrally jordanshipshippingsuez canalsyriaworld rally championshipwrcThu, 14 Apr 2011 18:40:00 EST

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19913319 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/loeb-jordan-wrc_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/loeb-jordan-wrc.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Mitsubishi Evo IX goes airborne at 2011 Targa Tasmania]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/video-mitsubishi-evo-ix-goes-airborne-at-2011-targa-tasmania/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/video-mitsubishi-evo-ix-goes-airborne-at-2011-targa-tasmania/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/13/video-mitsubishi-evo-ix-goes-airborne-at-2011-targa-tasmania/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Videos, Mitsubishi, Australia

targa tasmania crash

Kym Illman's Mitsubishi Evo misses a turn - Click above to watch video after the jump

Apparently, "left four and a half after crest" is code for 'hold on tight!'

Kym Illman and co-driver Kirrilee Gentleman were cruising along a late stage of the 2011 Targa Tasmania. Their Mitsubishi Evo IX was running well and Gentleman was shouting out the guidance so Illman could keep pushing. Apparently, however, the pair got mixed up on one crucial route point - a slow left immediately following a fast straight with a crest at the end.

As Gentleman tried to point out the rapidly approaching "left 4.5 after crest," Illman was trying to clarify what he heard. They didn't have time for that, however, because the car went light over the crest while traveling approximately 190 kilometers per hour (118 miles per hour). Again, left four and a half after crest!

"LEFT FOUR AND A HALF AFTER CREST!"

Brakes don't work too well in this particular situation, so the Evo flew right through the turn, and wound up in the Tasmanian countryside.

"Sorry."

Thankfully, neither driver or co-driver were hurt. The video cameras were rolling, providing footage from two angles. The first angle shows us Kym and Kirrilee's vantage point while the second reveals just how violently the jolt shock the co-driver. Illman was wearing a HANS device while Gentleman, sadly, was not. Click past the jump to see the clip.

[Source: Youtube]

Continue reading Video: Mitsubishi Evo IX goes airborne at 2011 Targa Tasmania

Video: Mitsubishi Evo IX goes airborne at 2011 Targa Tasmania originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 Apr 2011 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 targa tasmaniacrash videoevo ixkirrilee gentlemankym illmanlancer evolutionmitsubishimitsubishi evorallytarga tasmaniaWed, 13 Apr 2011 19:25:00 EST

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19912313 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/targa-crash_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/targa-crash.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti goes rallying in Spain with G37 safety car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/08/infiniti-goes-rallying-in-spain-with-g37-safety-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/08/infiniti-goes-rallying-in-spain-with-g37-safety-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/08/infiniti-goes-rallying-in-spain-with-g37-safety-car/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Coupe, Europe, Infiniti, Racing

Infiniti G37 Coupe S safety car

Infiniti G37 Coupe S safety car - Click above for high-res image gallery

Infiniti is no stranger to motorsports. The Japanese luxury marque supplied engines to the Indy Racing League in the late 90s, and recently launched a sponsorship deal with the World Champion Red Bull Racing team in Formula One (which runs sister-company Renault's engines). But rallying is new territory for the Nissan premium division.

Now before you let your imagination run wild, bear in mind that the G37 coupe you see here is not actually competing in any rally events. It is, however, being used as a safety car for the Spanish Rally Championship.

For the task, the G37 Coupe S dubbed "Work Car Zero" has been outfitted with roll-bar, dampers, brakes, bucket seats and harnesses, fire-suppression system, communications equipment and special lighting. Otherwise, it's pretty much bone stock (save for the garish paint scheme).

Follow the jump for all the details in the press release and scope out the images in the high-res gallery below for a closer look.

Gallery: Infiniti G37 Coupe S safety car

[Source: Infiniti]

Continue reading Infiniti goes rallying in Spain with G37 safety car

Infiniti goes rallying in Spain with G37 safety car originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19905755 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-infiniti-003hires_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/web630-infiniti-003hires.jpg <![CDATA[Spoiler Alert: Global RallyCross Championship starts with a bang [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/spoiler-alert-global-rallycross-championship-starts-with-a-bang/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/spoiler-alert-global-rallycross-championship-starts-with-a-bang/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/28/spoiler-alert-global-rallycross-championship-starts-with-a-bang/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Racing

Global RallyCross Championship at Irwindale Speedway

Global RallyCross Championship at Irwindale Speedway - Click above for high-res image gallery

Former World Rally Championship title-holder Marcus Grönholm dominated the first-ever Global RallyCross Championship event this past weekend at Irwindale Speedway, first winning the head-to-head SuperRally competition on Friday and following it up with a dominating performance in the multi-car RallyCross event on Saturday.

Formula Drift retiree and Top Gear USA host Tanner Foust also had a strong performance, finishing in second behind Grönholm in both events with the same Ford Fiesta that he drove to a double gold medal in the X Games 16.

Complete event coverage of the Global RallyCross Championship is set to air on ESPN2 on April 17, but until then you can check out our gallery of Friday's action below or follow the jump to watch a video of Grönholm's victory in the final SuperRally race.

Gallery: Global RallyCross Championship at Irwindale Speedway

Photos copyright (C)2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Spoiler Alert: Global RallyCross Championship starts with a bang [w/video]

Spoiler Alert: Global RallyCross Championship starts with a bang [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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