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[REPORT: New Honda president says we don't need V8s, rear-wheel drive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/new-honda-president-says-we-dont-need-v8s-rear-wheel-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/new-honda-president-says-we-dont-need-v8s-rear-wheel-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/new-honda-president-says-we-dont-need-v8s-rear-wheel-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2009 Acura TL - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda Motor Co.'s new president, Takanubo Ito, has said in no uncertain terms that V8 power and rear-wheel drive motivation aren't in the automaker's future.

Ito, who took the reigns from Takeo Fukui last month, said during his first press conference, "I don't think we need a classic front-engine, rear-drive car. It would be meaningless to emulate what other companies have done for more than five decades."

Honda's new president went on to say that, "We are considering incorporating new engines, motors, transmissions and chassis into mid- to large-sized hybrid vehicles," and confirmed that his predecessor's plan to create a V8 and a new rear-wheel drive architecture have been killed after Honda reassessed its priorities amidst the tanking economy. Instead, expect Honda's future premium offerings - primarily those from Acura - to adopt fuel-efficient inline-four and V6 engines, equipped with hybrid motors, and all-wheel drive.


Gallery: 2009 Acura TL


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

REPORT: New Honda president says we don't need V8s, rear-wheel drive originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acurahondarear wheel driveRearWheelDriverwdtakanubo itoTakanuboItov8Mon, 20 Jul 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REMINDER: Hyundai Genesis Coupe press intro live streaming webcast at 11am EDT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/reminder-hyundai-genesis-coupe-press-intro-live-streaming-webca/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/reminder-hyundai-genesis-coupe-press-intro-live-streaming-webca/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/25/reminder-hyundai-genesis-coupe-press-intro-live-streaming-webca/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe - Click above for high-res gallery

In just a little bit, Hyundai will be allowing fans and gawkers the rare opportunity to participate in the official press introduction of its new 2010 Genesis Coupe. When new models come to market, automakers typically invite members of the media to some location where they get to listen a presentation on the technical details and marketing plans before going out for a first drive. The information shared during these events eventually gets passed on to you, the readers. Hyundai is holding its Genesis Coupe launch event as this you read this, and now you can join in by tuning in to a live streaming feed right here on the internet.

Those of you looking for insights on the Genny Coupe can head over to http://genesispresspass.com/live/ at 11am EDT. You can even still submit your questions now to the Hyundai executives via a form on the site, and they may be answered live during the Q&A part of the event. Those of you watching online will obviously have to wait for an opportunity to drive the Coupe, but you might learn something new when you tune in.


Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

REMINDER: Hyundai Genesis Coupe press intro live streaming webcast at 11am EDT originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupeGenesisgenesis coupeGenesisCoupeHyundairear wheel driverear-driveRearWheelDriveRWDWed, 25 Mar 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Again: Toyota/Subaru RWD cars reportedly put on indefinite hold]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/dead-again-toyota-subaru-rwd-cars-reportedly-put-on-indefinite/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/dead-again-toyota-subaru-rwd-cars-reportedly-put-on-indefinite/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/26/dead-again-toyota-subaru-rwd-cars-reportedly-put-on-indefinite/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Like a schizophrenic love affair, the on-again, off-again Subaru/Toyota rear-wheel drive coupe is apparently off again. That morsel of sobering news comes via Detroit Free Press columnist Mark Phelan, who says that both automakers now admit that the project has been put on hold. The inexpensive 2+2 sports coupes had been the subject of much speculation and a seemingly infinite number of renderings, and in fact what looked to be an early prototype had been spotted last year.

Many enthusiasts were hoping that the car would signal Toyota's intent to return to the performance heritage of the AE86 Corolla, while Subaru stood to benefit from having a sportier-bodied, less expensive coupe than the WRX (although the car's RWD configuration was seemingly at odds with the company's all-wheel drive ethos).

In any case, the goal of a pair of 2011 sports coupes has evidently fallen by the wayside as yet another victim of the global financial crisis. Despite this development, Toyota maintains its small stake in Subaru, and the two automakers will continue joint production of the Camry in Subaru's Lafeyette, Indiana facility.

Toyobaru, we hardly knew ye.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Dead Again: Toyota/Subaru RWD cars reportedly put on indefinite hold originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AE86rear wheel driveRear-driveRearWheelDriveRWDRWD CoupeRwdCoupeSubaruSubatoyToyobaruToyotaWRXThu, 26 Feb 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[No Surprise: Ford halts RWD programs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/no-surprise-ford-halts-rwd-programs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/no-surprise-ford-halts-rwd-programs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/no-surprise-ford-halts-rwd-programs/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Ford Interceptor concept

Ebb and flow. That's the way the petroleum market works, and if history holds true - and it normally does - then fuel prices are set to go up... again... and then some. So it's no surprise that Ford, GM and Chrysler - not to mention its competitors from across the Pacific - all brought out plenty of fuel-sipping models at this year's Detroit Auto Show. Nor is it surprising that J Mays, Ford's design chief, is telling the world that FoMoCo's rear-wheel-drive plans have been nixed.

"We've got other priorities," Mays told Automotive News/Autoweek, referring to both Ford and Lincoln's plans for a RWD sedan. "We're going down a path right now that is all about fuel efficiency."

The original plan - which began a year ago and was already under review in the middle of 2008 when gas prices were peaking - was to work with Ford's Australian arm to develop a new, large RWD platform that would be shared with the U.S. market. The new sedan was due in 2013, but as the landscape changed, Ford decided to eliminate the plan altogether. Mays says he was looking forward to the project, but he seems resolute with the shift to efficiency. We say: now's the time to start working on a small, RWD shooting brake with a 1.4-liter EcoBoost four.

Gallery: Ford Interceptor Concept


[Source: Autoweek]

No Surprise: Ford halts RWD programs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deadfordkillednixnixedrear wheel driveRearWheelDriverwdMon, 12 Jan 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Lamborghini working on two rear-wheel-drive cars for 2009 ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumormill-lamborghini-working-on-two-rear-wheel-drive-cars-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumormill-lamborghini-working-on-two-rear-wheel-drive-cars-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumormill-lamborghini-working-on-two-rear-wheel-drive-cars-for/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Lamborghini Murcielago SV

Those who have been praying for a two-wheel drive Lamborghini, your wishes may have been granted twofold. De Telegraaf is reporting that Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann has confirmed not one, but two different rear-drive-only Lambos for 2009. First up will be a Murciélago LP640-2 with 640 HP coming from its mid-mounted longitudinal V12. The "2" at the end of the moniker signifies two-wheel-drive, separating it from the current LP640-4 equipped with AWD. It's still possible this model will be dubbed SV for Super Veloce. It's no Diablo SVTT or Murcielago R-GT, but it'll do.

Next up will be the a new Superleggera Gallardo LP560-2, as in Superlight Gallardo, with a longitudinal 560 HP engine in back, also driving the rear wheels. That should keep the Gallardo neck-and-neck with the Scuderia from arch-nemesis Ferrari. The elimination of the AWD equipment should save quite a few kilos and make the driving experience a bit hairier for anyone intent on stepping up to wrestle these bulls. Expect to see them late next year, possibly as 2010 models.

Gallery: Lamborghini Murcielago SV - spy shots


[Source: Autotelegraaf.nl]

Rumormill: Lamborghini working on two rear-wheel-drive cars for 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gallardoGallardo LP560-2gallardo superleggeraGallardoLp560-2GallardoSuperleggeraLamborghini rear wheel driveLamborghini rwdLamborghiniRearWheelDriveLamborghiniRwdmurcielagoMurcilago LP640-2MurcilagoLp640-2rear wheel driverear wheel drive LamborghiniRearWheelDriveRearWheelDriveLamborghinirwd lamborghiniRwdLamborghiniThu, 18 Dec 2008 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Plans for an all-RWD Pontiac shelved?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/plans-for-an-all-rwd-pontiac-shelved/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/plans-for-an-all-rwd-pontiac-shelved/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/25/plans-for-an-all-rwd-pontiac-shelved/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


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

A quick glance at Pontiac's (rumored) future product plans reveals just how much fuel prices have affected plans for an all rear-wheel drive lineup. Let's see, we've got the Solstice and the G8, and, um... that's it. Sure, we're expecting the G8 ST soon, but the El Camino-come-lively will never sell enough to keep bean counters happily sliding their abaci beads in their cubicles. The Solstice also plays to a relatively small crowd, so its future could be up in the air, as well.

As for the rest of the brand's lineup, the Grand Am G6 will remain on the same front-wheel drive platform for the foreseeable future as there's just not enough funds to switch it to a rear-wheel-drive platform. Meanwhile, the G5 is tied to the Cobalt and the future Cruze from Chevrolet that uses the FWD Delta platform. The Vibe comes from Toyota and is based on the Corolla's underpinnings. Please, don't get us started on a possible Aveo-based subcompact from GM's "Performance Division". As our esteemed editor says, "So sad, G8 rules." Indeed it does, and it may be the best we'll get from Pontiac for a while.

Gallery: Review: 2008 Pontiac G8 GT


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Plans for an all-RWD Pontiac shelved? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Aug 2008 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pontiacpontiac g8pontiac solsticePontiacG8PontiacSolsticerear wheel driverear-wheel driveRear-wheelDriveRearWheelDriverwdrwd pontiacRwdPontiacMon, 25 Aug 2008 15:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncertain future for Ford's RWD vehicles, more EcoBoost on the way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/uncertain-future-for-fords-rwd-vehicles-more-ecoboost-on-the-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/uncertain-future-for-fords-rwd-vehicles-more-ecoboost-on-the-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/uncertain-future-for-fords-rwd-vehicles-more-ecoboost-on-the-w/#commentsFiled under:



It's been a while since we've heard about FoMoCo's development of large rear-wheel-drive vehicles for Ford and Lincoln - no surprise considering the current climate. With fuel prices continuing their upward trajectory and CAFE standards looming on the horizon, Ford is apparently reevaluating the efficacy of offering RWD vehicles in a market starving for fuel efficient whips.

In addition to this morning's story that Ford is considering offering an EcoBoost four-cylinder on its F-150 pickup, Automotive News is reporting that Ford's use of turbocharged, direct-injected engines could expand to beyond 500,000 vehicles annually by 2012.

Continue reading Uncertain future for Ford's RWD vehicles, more EcoBoost on the way

Uncertain future for Ford's RWD vehicles, more EcoBoost on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselecoboostexpeditionf150fiestafordlincolnmustangnavigatorrear wheel driveRearWheelDriverwdMon, 14 Jul 2008 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Alfa Romeo hunts for 169 platform; 149 gets its own]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/29/alfa-romeo-hunts-for-169-platform-149-gets-its-own/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/29/alfa-romeo-hunts-for-169-platform-149-gets-its-own/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/29/alfa-romeo-hunts-for-169-platform-149-gets-its-own/#commentsFiled under: , ,

After having being introduced way back in 1998, Alfa Romeo finally stopped production of the 166 last year. Now without a flagship sedan to hold up the top of the range, Alfa is working on the development of its successor. However, the 169 (as the model is expected to be called) has been pushed back at least another three years while the automaker tries to sort out which platform it will be based on.

With an eye towards the American market, Alfa is said to be committed to making the new 169 a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, but the only rear-drive platform the Milanese automaker has in its range belongs to the 8C Competizione, which CEO Luca de Meo recently rejected as a possible donor for the 169. (Rats.) The platform that underpins sister-company Maserati's Quattroporte and GranTurismo was likewise dismissed as too costly, as Alfa Romeo looks to other automakers - chief among them Jaguar, now owned by the Fiat Group's Indian ally Tata - for a suitable rear-drive platform for Alfa's new flagship sedan.

In related news from the other end of the range, the upcoming 149, which - along with the new MiTo - will replace the aging 147, is reportedly getting a brand new platform of its own. The reports contradict earlier suggestions that the five-door hatch would be based on the Fiat Bravo platform when the new 149 is introduced in 2009.

[Source: AutoTelegraaf via Motor Authority]

Alfa Romeo hunts for 169 platform; 149 gets its own originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 18:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>149169alfa 149alfa 169alfa platformalfa romeoalfa romeo 149alfa romeo 169alfa romeo platformalfa romeo rear wheel driveAlfa149Alfa169AlfaPlatformAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeo149AlfaRomeo169AlfaRomeoPlatformAlfaRomeoRearWheelDriverear drive platformrear wheel driveRearDrivePlatformRearWheelDriveSun, 29 Jun 2008 18:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Toyota/Subaru coupe caught in the wild]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/spy-shots-toyota-subaru-coupe-caught-in-the-wild/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/spy-shots-toyota-subaru-coupe-caught-in-the-wild/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/04/spy-shots-toyota-subaru-coupe-caught-in-the-wild/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

AutoExpress may have provided us with a rendering of what the new RWD Subaru coupe might look like, but Winding Road's hired spies have provided the real deal. Shot outside a test center in the UK (amidst white-out conditions), the camo-clad mule is sporting some body panels pilfered from the current Legacy, but with a Toyota emblem in front, a pair of Recaro buckets inside and a shrunken trunk, there's little doubt that this prototype is more than just your standard sedan.

There's still no confirmation about what kind of output the 2.0-liter flat-four will be producing, as estimates have ranged from 180- to 220-hp, but grunt is expected to be shoveled to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox and pricing should start a few pennies shy of $20,000.

[Source: Winding Road]

Spy Shots: Toyota/Subaru coupe caught in the wild originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>couperear wheel driveRearWheelDrivespiedspy shotsSpyShotssubarutoyotaWed, 04 Jun 2008 21:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: FWD Impala around through 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/confirmed-fwd-impala-around-through-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/confirmed-fwd-impala-around-through-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/confirmed-fwd-impala-around-through-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



It has been rumored for the last few months that Chevrolet would be soldiering on with a front-wheel-drive Impala for at least the next few years. The recent contract agreement between the Canadian Auto Workers union and General Motors appears to cement this rumor as fact. According to the signed pact, GM promised to keep the Oshawa Assembly plant, where the current-generation Impala is made, open until 2012 -- two years longer than first planned. The Impala is a pretty good seller for the General, so we're not too surprised that upper-level management would want to leave it alone, but that doesn't stop us from wanting to see Chevy's bread-and-butter full-size sedan return to its roots by going rear-wheel-drive.

One thing is for certain: by the year 2012, the W-Body platform of the current Impala will be absolutely ancient. On the other hand, we've had nothing but good things to say about the new Zeta platform which underpins such enthusiast-friendly vehicles as the new Pontiac G8. Therefore, we can at least hold out some hope that GM will find a way to offer as many vehicles as possible using the new chassis architecture, whether they are named Impala or not. Anybody want to see a new Nova?

[Source: The GM Source]

Confirmed: FWD Impala around through 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 May 2008 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>front wheelfront wheel drivefront wheel drive im...FrontWheelFrontWheelDriveFrontWheelDriveIm...fwd impalafwd-impalaFwdImpalaimpalarear driverear weel driverear wheel driverear wheel drive imp...RearDriveRearWeelDriveRearWheelDriveRearWheelDriveImp...rwd impalarwd-impalaRwdImpalaw-bodyzetazeta platformzetaplatformFri, 23 May 2008 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[RWD Scion tC coming to Formula Drift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/08/rwd-scion-tc-coming-to-formula-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/08/rwd-scion-tc-coming-to-formula-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/08/rwd-scion-tc-coming-to-formula-drift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a huge high-res gallery of the RS*R Scion tC drift car.

We've enjoyed our fair share of front-wheel-drive hijinks in empty parking lots with our right hand firmly grasping the e-brake, but in the end, tail-out antics are always more enjoyable behind the wheel of something with the proper wheels driven. "Proper," however, isn't the way we'd describe how Scion decided to go about campaigning a tC in this year's Formula Drift series.

With backing from Toyota, the aftermarket firm RS*R converted a run-of-the-mill tC into a rear-wheel-drive monster utilizing a BEAMS-built 3S-GE engine and taking advantage of the Toyota Avensis/Caldina all-wheel-drive chassis on which the tC is built. RS*R ripped out the abysmal 2AZ-FE 2.4-liter four-pot from the stock car, fabbed up a series of new mounts to facilitate the transverse to longitudinal conversion and dropped in the 3S-GE after fitting the four-cylinder with an HKS GT3037 turbo, intercooler, Blitz dual SBC boost controller and an AEM EMS engine management system. Approximately 400 hp is now routed to the rear wheels through a Tilton triple carbon clutch and a G-Force, five-speed sequential gearbox. RS-R coilovers keep things suspended on all four corners, and are hidden by the custom wide-body kit and Enkei RPF1 wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes R1R rubber.

The RS*R tC will be piloted by Ken Gushi, the youngest driver ever to compete in the D1 series, beginning at the season opener on the Streets of Long Beach on April 12th. Hit the jump to read the full press release and check out Formula D's website to see when the competition will be heating up in your area.

Gallery: RS*R Formula Drift Scion tC


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading RWD Scion tC coming to Formula Drift

RWD Scion tC coming to Formula Drift originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken gushiKenGushirear wheel driverear wheel drive scion tcRearWheelDriveRearWheelDriveScionTcrwdrwd scion tcrwd tcRwdScionTcRwdTcsciontcTue, 08 Apr 2008 19:04:00 EST<![CDATA[This needed to happen: RWD Volvo C30]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/05/this-needed-to-happen-rwd-volvo-c30/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/05/this-needed-to-happen-rwd-volvo-c30/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/05/this-needed-to-happen-rwd-volvo-c30/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a photo galllery of Skruffse's RWD C30

While Volvo's C30 has wily charms in its stock configuration, we could see how it'd be even more entertaining with the power being sent to the proper wheels. While we're talking revisions, a honkingly large turbocharger and external-reservoir dampers would be welcome additions, too. The race-ready ride height is dead sexy, and while it's a crazy thing to do to a perfectly good brand new Volvo, Sweden's Skruffse has carried out some beautiful fabrication work. The use is obviously racing of some sort, and with wide tires at all four corners we're surmising that it's something that involves turning, versus drag racing. Seeing this car's tow rig - a first-generation V70, it all comes together -- those willing to strip the C30 down like a stolen Pinto and rejigger the chassis are true Volvo nuts. We're pretty sure the warranty has been voided, though.

Gallery: Skruffse RWD C30 Racer


[Source: CarScoop]

This needed to happen: RWD Volvo C30 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Apr 2008 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c30 hatchbackc30 racecarC30HatchbackC30Racecarracing c30RacingC30rear wheel driveRearWheelDriverwdrwd c30RwdC30volvo c30volvo hatchbackVolvoC30VolvoHatchbackSat, 05 Apr 2008 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Australia denies American RWD platform development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/ford-australia-denies-american-rwd-platform-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/ford-australia-denies-american-rwd-platform-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/26/ford-australia-denies-american-rwd-platform-development/#commentsFiled under: , ,



That didn't take long. After Monday's article in the Detroit News reporting that Ford's U.S. operations were going to be developing its own RWD platform here in the States, the FoMoCo crew from Down Under refutes that story saying, "It's too early to speculate on that." With the dollar not holding up like it used to, the idea that Stateside Ford engineers would develop their own left-hand drive, RWD architecture seems sound, especially considering that the Falcon's underpinnings can't support switching the controls from starboard to port. If Ford's U.S. team can manage to provide both, then there's going to be a serious glut of manufacturing and engineering jobs in Australia if and when it happens.

[Source: CarPoint via TTAC]

Ford Australia denies American RWD platform development originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 18:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiafordrear wheel driveRearWheelDriverwdWed, 26 Mar 2008 18:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford developing new rear-drive platform in Dearborn]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/ford-developing-new-rear-drive-platform-in-dearborn/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/ford-developing-new-rear-drive-platform-in-dearborn/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/ford-developing-new-rear-drive-platform-in-dearborn/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Ford has apparently finally heard the call and green-lighted development of a new global rear wheel drive platform and a family of vehicles to be built on it. However, unlike General Motors, Ford will not rely on its Australian division to do the heavy lifting. Since the collapse of the U.S. dollar has made the United States a low cost country, the development of the new platform has been moved back to Dearborn. The most recent attempt at a rear-drive architecture that debuted on the latest Australian Ford Falcon was something of a debacle for the company. Unlike Holden, which designed its RWD Zeta platform to be built in right- and left-hand-drive versions, the new Falcon platform is right-hand drive only. This new Ford architecture to be developed near Detroit, however, will spawn models for both the Ford and Lincoln brands, including an all-new Mustang. With Ford making a major push to reduce weight in future models, hopefully these new cars will come in a lot lighter than the GM equivalents, as well.

[Source: Detroit News]

Ford developing new rear-drive platform in Dearborn originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiadearbornfordrear wheel driverear-wheel driverear-wheel-driveRear-wheelDriveRearWheelDriveMon, 24 Mar 2008 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter TCC's Rumormill: GM's RWD plans to include Buick and Cadillac]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/19/enter-tccs-rumormill-gms-rwd-plans-to-include-buick-and-cadil/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/19/enter-tccs-rumormill-gms-rwd-plans-to-include-buick-and-cadil/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/19/enter-tccs-rumormill-gms-rwd-plans-to-include-buick-and-cadil/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We're getting a bit tired of trying to keep up with what models GM plans to underpin with a rear-wheel-drive platform. Aside from the upcoming Camaro and the Pontiac G8, no other vehicles have received the divine anointment from the General's higher-ups due to impending CAFE regulations that will supposedly quell any developments on the RWD front.

However, The Car Connection has pretty much confirmed what we've already known: GM's plans for RWD vehicles will include both a rear-driven Buick and Cadillac. The new models will share the same Aussie-derived Zeta platform from the aforementioned Camaro and G8, with the rear-driven Caddy expected to replace the aging STS and DTS, and a Buick model taking over where the front-drive Lucerne left off.

Until we actually see one of these new models in the flesh (production or concept) we're not planning to hold our breath, but the idea of a RWD Buick seems at least plausible, particularly considering the impending demise of Ford's Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car line.

[Source: The Car Connection]

Enter TCC's Rumormill: GM's RWD plans to include Buick and Cadillac originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More news on the microcar front comes in the form of "confidential planning documents" procured by Automobilwoche outlining Volkswagen's plan for its rear-wheel-drive compacts over the next nine years. VW considers the launch of its new "Small Family" lineup of RWD vehicles as the most important launch since the Beetle was fazed out in favor of the Golf in 1974.

Production of the new minicars will being in 2010, likely utilizing the Skoda plant in Vrchlabi, within the Czech Republic, with 100,000 vehicles destined for Europe sporting the Volkswagen badge, and another 100,000 wearing Skoda and Seat logos. Variants of the uber-compact three-door are expected to come in at about 3500mm long, sporting a price tag under €8,000, with a five-door version, stretched by 80mm and priced around €9,450.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Entry-level, RWD vehicles coming from VW in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Oct 2007 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More details have come to the fore about the ongoing development of a lightweight sports car birthed from the union of Toyota and Subaru. Our friends over at 7Tune were kind enough to translate the finer points of an article in Daily Car, and the one burning question -- what platform the new coupe would be derived from -- has been answered.

A test mule has been spotted running around Toyota's test track in Toyota City, built off a shortened Subaru Legacy chassis and powered by the firm's SOHC two-liter flat-four. Although the mule's underpinnings are currently derived from the Legacy's (with about 200mm lopped off), it's expected that a version of the Impreza 15S's platform will be used instead. This gives credence to the idea that the new coupe will send power to the rear wheels, as the AWD chassis could be modified to be exclusively RWD. Currently, the test car is running the all-wheel driveline with the front drive shafts removed.

Subaru's 108 HP 1.5-liter boxer (EL15) is likely to be used to power the new coupe, apparently due to the rear differential's fragility and Toyota's aim of making the coupe as fuel efficient as possible. While barely cresting the 100 HP mark won't set the spec sheet ablaze, the fact that the vehicle will tip the scales at 1,100 kg (2,425 lbs.) should make it a competent performer in the same way as its AE86 forbearer.

If Toyota can keep the weight down (a constant challenge), while keeping the price below 2,000,000 yen, it's rumored that we could see the coupe make its debut sometime next year, with sales beginning later in 2008.

[Source: 7Tune]

Toyota/Subaru sports car details emerge, answers big questions originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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During an interview with BusinessCar, Hyundai UK's head Tony Whitehorn finally confirmed what's been rumored for going on a year: the automaker's new RWD coupe will replace the Tiburon. The coupe will take about 50- to 60-percent of the styling cues originally debuted on the Veloster concept and is set to make its world debut at the London Motor Show in July of 2008.

When the as-of-yet unnamed coupe goes on sale, expect power to be provided by the automaker's 260 HP 3.8-liter V6, with the possibility of a two-liter turbocharged mill finding its way underhood. Whitehorn goes on to eschew rumors of a V8 powerplant, as well as hybrid and diesel options. Doh!

[Source: BusinessCar via Motor Authority]

Gallery: Hyundai Veloster Concept

Hyundai RWD coupe coming to London motor show in '08 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupehyundaiinline fourInlineFourlondonlondon auto showlondon motor showLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowrear wheel driverear-wheel driverear-wheel-driveRear-wheelDriveRearWheelDriverwdtiburontony whitehornTonyWhitehornturbochargedv6v8velostarWed, 26 Sep 2007 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Welcome back to the rumormill: Toyota developing cheap RWD coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/06/welcome-back-to-the-rumormill-toyota-developing-cheap-rwd-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/06/welcome-back-to-the-rumormill-toyota-developing-cheap-rwd-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/06/welcome-back-to-the-rumormill-toyota-developing-cheap-rwd-coupe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Back in March, Winding Road floated the idea that Toyota may be in the process of developing a rear-wheel drive vehicle in the same vein as the Corolla AE86 of the 80s. At the time, it was easy to pass it off as pure speculation. Now, the GTChannel says that its sources in the Land of the Rising Sun have also confirmed that a 2+2, front-engine, RWD vehicle is in the works and that if and when it comes to market its sticker will be "well under [$] 20k" - maybe even $16,000.

Considering that the Scion brand has quickly emerged as a cost-conscious means of stylish transport, it wouldn't be hard to imagine that such a vehicle would slot in nicely within the youth-oriented marque, even if its price would make it a direct competitor to the tC. The only rub is finding a suitable platform to build the new vehicle atop, and the only RWD vehicle that could fit the bill would be the Lexus IS. Granted, the $30,000+ sports sedan's underpinnings might be a bit of a stretch (or shortening, in this case) to make a budget performance car, but the ability to cut costs via platform sharing isn't out of the question. Maybe some of the old IS's architecture could even be used.

In the meantime, we're hoping to see spy shots of a tC-bodied mule making the rounds around the 'Ring, rear-wheels a blazing and powersliding into the Carousel.

[Source: GTChannel]

Welcome back to the rumormill: Toyota developing cheap RWD coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As much as we enjoy featuring professional spy photog's material, sometimes the real joy comes courtesy of your average Joe. So when we got tipped off that TheCarBlogger was able to catch a camo-clad Genesis prototype floating around out in the open (location undisclosed), we were more than happy to share the love.

Although little is revealed through the liberal application of vinyl and styrofoam, it's evident that Hyundai decided to remove a few horizontal slats to make the front a bit less Camry-esque, while the HID headlamps received the chrome treatment and the 18-inch rolling stock still seems to hint at Hyundai's economy car roots.

Look for the production version of Hyundai's first foray into the luxury sedan segment to reach consumers late next year, sporting either a 3.8-liter V6 or the new 4.6-liter "Tau" V8.

[Source: TheCarBlogger]

Gallery: Hyundai Concept Genesis

Spy Shots: Hyundai Genesis caught originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 09 Jun 2007 07:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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