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[M3-fighting Volvo S60 Polestar spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/m3-fighting-volvo-s60-polestar-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/m3-fighting-volvo-s60-polestar-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/m3-fighting-volvo-s60-polestar-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volvo S60 Polestar spy shots

If news of a more powerful Volvo S60 sounds familiar, it's because we just reported on this subject earlier in the week. Now, though, a reader of the same Swedish site that initially broke the news has fired back with a set of spy photos, and we can clearly see that Volvo is indeed making improvements to the S60.

As for what exactly those improvements are, your guess is as good as ours. As we reported before, Polestar - the tuning firm that now offers power upgrades for the current range of Volvo products - is said to be handling the more potent S60, with horsepower slated to be somewhere in the 350 to 400 range. Volvo could use a version of the Yamaha-sourced V8 from the XC90, but in this day and age, a boosted version of the turbocharged inline-six sounds more realistic.

Of course, a hotter S60 will need more than just power to make it truly competitive with the likes of the BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. We're sure that Polestar has many a trick up its sleeve, and we're indeed interested to see how the whole project pans out. Stay tuned.

M3-fighting Volvo S60 Polestar spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>polestars60spy photosspy picsspy shotsvolvoFri, 25 May 2012 17:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20245503/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/m3-fighting-volvo-s60-polestar-spotted-testing/20245503/article-detail.xml 20245503 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-volvo-s60-polestar-spy-shots628opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-volvo-s60-polestar-spy-shots628opt1.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin DBS/DB9 successor caught at the Ring preparing for Villa d'Este debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/aston-martin-dbs-db9-successor-caught-at-the-ring-preparing-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/aston-martin-dbs-db9-successor-caught-at-the-ring-preparing-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/24/aston-martin-dbs-db9-successor-caught-at-the-ring-preparing-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Aston Martin DB9/DBS successor at the Nurburgring

As much as it pains us to say it, the current core range from Aston Martin has grown a little stale. But fret not: a new model is just around the corner.

Snapped undergoing testing at the Nürburgring in this latest batch of spy shots is what looks to be a new and nearly complete V12 GT from Gaydon. Code-named AM 310, it could be a successor to either the DB9 or DBS - or could carry a different nameplate altogether and replace them both.

While the engine and platform carry over as modified versions of the existing building blocks, sources anticipate just about everything else in the new sportscar will be new. The bodywork - styled as something of a blend between the current DBS and the top-of-the-line One-77 - is tipped to be made up almost entirely of aluminum and carbon fiber, reducing the weight for the 6.0-liter V12 engine - anticipated to come with a 55-horse boost over the current DBS for a solid 565 horsepower. That ought to be sufficient to propel the rakish coupe to highway speeds in under four seconds.

An even lighter version clothed entirely in carbon fiber is also said to be in the works, but we may not have to wait that long, as the AM 310 may debut as soon as this weekend at the prestigious and glamorous Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este.

Aston Martin DBS/DB9 successor caught at the Ring preparing for Villa d'Este debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 May 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>310am 310astonaston martinaston martin 310aston martin db9aston martin dbsconcorso deleganza villa destedb9dbsnürburgringnurburgringspyspy shotsvilla desteThu, 24 May 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20244293/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/24/aston-martin-dbs-db9-successor-caught-at-the-ring-preparing-for/20244293/article-detail.xml 20244293 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/astondbsspyweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/astondbsspyweb.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 facelift comes into focus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



These are spy shots of the facelifted Audi R8 that we expect to see later this year. You'll need to look very closely at the front to see where the lifting and tucking has been done: new LED headlights inside a slightly reworked grille. Around back are round tailpipes like those on the R8 GT.

This is a refreshed model that will hold us until the 2015 Audi R8 arrives - the one with the carbon and aluminum chassis, more power and no manual transmission on offer. That last fact is tragic enough because we still love sports cars with sticks, but descends into the catastrophic since the six-speed manual available now is outstanding. We're sure the next-gen coupe will be awesome, but we'll enjoy this one while we have it. Check it out in the high-res gallery of spy shots above.

Audi R8 facelift comes into focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 audi r8audiaudi r8r8spy photosspy shotsTue, 22 May 2012 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242490/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/20242490/article-detail.xml 20242490 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/audir8facelift2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/audir8facelift2.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz S-Class ain't no bag lady]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/mercedes-benz-s-class-aint-no-bag-lady/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/mercedes-benz-s-class-aint-no-bag-lady/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/mercedes-benz-s-class-aint-no-bag-lady/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've seen weirder camouflage. But despite the fact that this next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class prototype looks like it drove through a garbage bag warehouse, we now have a very clear glimpse at some of the new car's details - namely, the shapely front fascia.

Merc's new flagship takes many of its new design cues from the F700 concept that debuted back in 2007, specifically the larger, more upright grille and the redesigned headlamps that now incorporate LED running lights (just like what we've seen on the new SL and GL models). The big sedan's overall shape doesn't change too much from the car that's currently on sale, though things seem to be a little swoopier for this new generation.

Under the hood, we can expect Mercedes' latest engines to be on tap, including the 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 as well as some V6 options. Naturally, an AMG model will follow suit, likely using the new 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S63 AMG.

Look for the redesigned S-Class to officially bow later this year.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class ain't no bag lady originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedes-benzs-classspy photosspy picsspy shotsTue, 22 May 2012 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242893/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/mercedes-benz-s-class-aint-no-bag-lady/20242893/article-detail.xml 20242893 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/sclassspyshots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/sclassspyshots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet caught topless]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-caught-topless/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-caught-topless/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-caught-topless/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Our trusty spy photographers have caught the upcoming Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet with its top down and its tail up on a stroll through German streets. To our eyes, the extended length and wheelbase are accentuated in the rear-end packaging, but it's still a looker.

Some reports say that motivation will come from a twin-turbo 3.8-liter flat-six, others say there will be three turbos affixed for immediate low-end action. Horsepower ratings are also a muddle for now, with various reports suggesting 515 horsepower or thereabouts, making for a 15-hp increase over the current Turbo, and that would be followed by a Turbo S with somewhere around 550 hp, a 20-hp bump on the present Turbo S. Other reports say the regular turbo will go straight for the 550-hp jugular, leaving the S to haunt the neighborhood of 600 hp.

What we do know is that it will pack all-wheel drive, a seven-speed transmission in traditional stick or PDK, and every electro-bauble in Porsche's arsenal when it finally is revealed. For now, catch what you can in the high-res gallery of spy photos.

Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet caught topless originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche 911 turbo cabriolet911911 turbo911 turbo cabioletporscheporsche 911 turbo cabrioletspy photosspy shotsMon, 21 May 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20241488/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/21/porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-caught-topless/20241488/article-detail.xml 20241488 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/porsche991turbocab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/porsche991turbocab.jpg <![CDATA[Next Land Rover Range Rover reveals more of its lighter body]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/next-land-rover-range-rover-reveals-more-of-its-lighter-body/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/next-land-rover-range-rover-reveals-more-of-its-lighter-body/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/next-land-rover-range-rover-reveals-more-of-its-lighter-body/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Land Rover Range Rover spy shot

This isn't the first (or second, or third) time we've caught the next-generation Big Daddy Range Rover out testing, but this latest set of spy photos gives us our best look yet at some of the SUV's new exterior details. (Sidenote: We have to commend Jaguar Land Rover for having some of the coolest camouflage patterns in the world.)

As you might expect, the Range Rover's shape hasn't changed too much from the current generation, though we can clearly see a sleeker front fascia with headlamps that seem to incorporate new LED running lights, as well as a slightly sleeker roofline. But the big news for this next-generation vehicle is the huge reduction in weight that's supposedly on tap - reports have estimated that as much as 800 pounds have been shed from the SUV's body. This weight savings is largely due to an all-new aluminum platform, as well as widespread use of lightweight materials throughout the body.

Mum's the word on what's going to be found underhood, but we'd expect the usual range of eight-cylinder engines to be offered here in the United States. Murmurs of a hybrid powertrain have also been spinning 'round the rumormill, so don't rule out the possibility of some electric boost being on tap, as well. Click through the above gallery to see the full slate of spy shots for yourself.

Next Land Rover Range Rover reveals more of its lighter body originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 May 2012 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>land roverrange roverspy photosspy picsspy shotsMon, 21 May 2012 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20241657/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/21/next-land-rover-range-rover-reveals-more-of-its-lighter-body/20241657/article-detail.xml 20241657 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-land-rover-range-rover-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-land-rover-range-rover-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Supercharged Jaguar F-Type R spotted testing?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/supercharged-jaguar-f-type-r-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/supercharged-jaguar-f-type-r-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/supercharged-jaguar-f-type-r-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jaguar F-Type R Spy Shots

Our spy photographers appear to have grabbed the first glimpse at Jaguar's upcoming F-Type R. Judging by the not-so-subtle "F" camouflage and quad exhaust outlets, odds are this is the more high-strung version of the next convertible from Jaguar. What exactly is under the hood? That remains to be seen, though early reports suggest its something other than the tried-and-true blown 5.0-liter V8 we've come to know and love. The base F-Type will get along with a turbocharged V6, and the brawnier R model will likely bow with something packing eight cylinders and power figures in the neighborhood of 500 horsepower.

So, when can we get our hands on this creation? A final launch date is murky at best, though there is some indication Jaguar could hold onto the V8 F-Type until later in the model's lifecycle, but doesn't quite dovetail with the fact that Jaguar is already road-testing the machine. Chances are we'll see the F-Type R earlier than expected.

Supercharged Jaguar F-Type R spotted testing? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-typef-type photosf-type rjaguarjaguar f-typejaguar f-type photosjaguar f-type rjaguar f-type r photosspy photosspy shotsWed, 16 May 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239515/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/supercharged-jaguar-f-type-r-spotted-testing/20239515/article-detail.xml 20239515 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/jaguar-f-type-r-1-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/jaguar-f-type-r-1-628.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Mini Cooper gets mellow in yellow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Mini Cooper Spy Shots

Given the spate of new models Mini has introduced in the past few years, from the Clubman to the Countryman to the Coupe to the Roadster, it sometimes seems like BMW has forgotten about the original model, the plain old Mini Cooper hardtop. It was last redesigned for the 2007 model year, which seems like a long time ago because, well, it is. Which is why Mini will shortly introduce an all-new hardtop Cooper, which our camera spies have captured testing in Europe.

We're told that the new model is codenamed F56, but more importantly, its underpinnings are said to be shared with the next-generation BMW 1 Series. While Mini will continue to put four-cylinder engines underhood, there's presumably a three-cylinder in the works as well, though we're not sure whether that model will make it to our shores.

While we've seen some spy shots of the 2014 Mini Cooper before, these seem to confirm that the car will grow a bit in size, both length and width. We are told that the longer hood and greater front overhang may be the result of fake front body panels, but the new front and rear glass appears to accurately represent the forthcoming production car, which will have a more raked angle to its windshield and rear window.

BMW is expected to start production of the 2014 Mini Cooper early next year.

2014 Mini Cooper gets mellow in yellow originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series2014 mini cooperbmwcoopercooper sminispy shotsWed, 16 May 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239287/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/20239287/article-detail.xml 20239287 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2014-mini-cooper-spy-shots-001-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2014-mini-cooper-spy-shots-001-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mercedes-benz-e-class-facelift-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mercedes-benz-e-class-facelift-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/mercedes-benz-e-class-facelift-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz Spy Shots

There can be no argument that the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a handsome sedan, but some changes are underway to make the 2013 model more striking. Our spy shooters caught this wagon, which despite having its front end heavily cloaked, gives up at least a few details.

New headlights are hiding beneath all that masking, which will integrate the current model's separate daytime running lamps. Out back, the taillights will retain the same shape, but get a slightly different look.

Also absent from these photos will be a new design to the rear fenders, as we're told that Mercedes will be changing the rear doors to remove the "Ponton-style" bulge. The interior will be updated, as well, with some improved safety equipment being added to the E-Class order sheet.

Check out all of the high-res images in our gallery.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mercedes-benz e-classe-classmercedesmercedes-benzspy shotsMon, 14 May 2012 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20237656/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/mercedes-benz-e-class-facelift-spotted/20237656/article-detail.xml 20237656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-mercedes-benz-e-class-spy-photos-01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-mercedes-benz-e-class-spy-photos-01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 4 Series cabrio caught with its top down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/bmw-4-series-cabrio-caught-with-its-top-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/bmw-4-series-cabrio-caught-with-its-top-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/bmw-4-series-cabrio-caught-with-its-top-down/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 BMW 4 Series cabrio

BMW did quite a bit to differentiate the new 3 Series from the old one, but arguably the biggest development in that department is the splitting of the model line. Because the new 3 Series is only the sedan and wagon. The coupe and cabrio are branching off as the 4 Series, similar to the 6 Series (as distinct from the 5 Series), the old 8 Series (separate from the 7 Series) and what's expected to emerge of the 2 Series from the new 1 Series.

Following earlier spy shots of the 4 Series convertible with its roof up in the rain and in the snow, this is our first look at the upcoming new model being driven the way it's meant to be driven: with its top down and the sun shining.

Unfortunately our view is a little obscured by all the swirly camouflage, so we'll have to wait until its anticipated debut sometime next year to see the whole package. But you can check out the spy shots now for a sneak preview.

BMW 4 Series cabrio caught with its top down originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4 series4 series convertiblebmwbmw 4 seriesspiedspy photosspy shotsThu, 10 May 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235758/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/bmw-4-series-cabrio-caught-with-its-top-down/20235758/article-detail.xml 20235758 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw4cabweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw4cabweb.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake reveals more of its rakish rump]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/mercedes-benz-cls-shooting-brake-reveals-more-of-its-rakish-rump/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/mercedes-benz-cls-shooting-brake-reveals-more-of-its-rakish-rump/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/mercedes-benz-cls-shooting-brake-reveals-more-of-its-rakish-rump/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Last time we saw the non-AMG skin of the Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake it was bathed in red paint and caked in Arctic snow and grime. Warmer times have brought new shots of a black car - which we'll christen The Scarab - on standard wheels wearing nothing but a shine and a wisp of camo. Its shape has found a way to divide opinion, as the CLS-Class has always done, and we'll admit that yes, perchance there's something faintly Romulan about it, but we're totally sold on the looks.

Right now, there's nothing left to the imagination but the aft-most sliver of window - that final angle of chrome is an application. We expect all blanks to be filled in come the Paris Motor Show in September, which should see the reveal of the CLS550 and CLS63 AMG versions of the sleekest wagon this side of Rigel 5. The high-res gallery is above, and you should check it out.

Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake reveals more of its rakish rump originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cls shooting brakecls-classmercedes-benzshooting brakespy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234331/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/mercedes-benz-cls-shooting-brake-reveals-more-of-its-rakish-rump/20234331/article-detail.xml 20234331 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/clsspyblack_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/clsspyblack.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo XC40 spotted testing in Arizona]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/vovlo-xc40-spotted-testing-in-arizona/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/vovlo-xc40-spotted-testing-in-arizona/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/vovlo-xc40-spotted-testing-in-arizona/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Volvo XC40 Spy Shot

A keen-eyed reader managed to snag a few photos of what looks to be the upcoming Volvo XC40 ahead of the vehicle's debut at the Paris Motor Show. Like most manufacturers, Volvo is keen to offer buyers the small crossovers they demand. With a taller ride height, more ground clearance and a more aggressive front fascia than the V40, the XC40 should do just that.

Drivetrain details are still a bit murky at the moment, but we wouldn't be surprised to see everything from a new diesel to turbocharged gasoline five-cylinder under the hood. The latter of those two should be good for around 254 horsepower.

If the V40 is any indication, the crossover will also boast start-stop technology and brake-energy regeneration in either manual or automatic transmission configurations. Expect to see both front and all-wheel drive variants as well.

The machine above was spotted in Flagstaff, Arizona while out for a little hot-weather testing, though we're told the XC40 isn't destined for the U.S. market. That seems a bit odd to us. The small crossover seems to be a perfect fit for Americans who can't get enough stylish crossovers.

Volvo XC40 spotted testing in Arizona originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>parisparis 2012paris motor showspy shotsv40volvovolvo v40volvo xc40volvo xc40 spy shotsxc40Wed, 09 May 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234770/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/vovlo-xc40-spotted-testing-in-arizona/20234770/article-detail.xml 20234770 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-volvo-spy-shot-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-volvo-spy-shot-628.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche Macan CUV takes shape]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/porsche-macan-cuv-takes-shape/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/porsche-macan-cuv-takes-shape/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/porsche-macan-cuv-takes-shape/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Porsche Macan Spy Shot

Our spy photographers have given us our first clear glimpse at the upcoming Porsche Macan. While the test machine we see here wears some Cayenne camouflage, there's little hiding the small CUV's roof line.

Based on the Audi Q5, the Macan will boast plenty of suspension tweaks by the minds at Porsche to put the crossover more in line with the sports car maker's stable. Likewise, while the Macan will borrow a host of gasoline and diesel powerplants from the Volkswagen parts bin, each one will be tuned for more horsepower than we've seen so far.

There's also some indication that Porsche may lift the hybrid system from the Q5 into the Macan's bones, as well. That means buyers would see a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder coupled to a 44-horsepower electric motor.

Porsche may also look to offer a more athletic three-door version of the Macan later down the line to more effectively compete with the likes of the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.

Porsche Macan CUV takes shape originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macanporschespy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 09 May 2012 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234519/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/porsche-macan-cuv-takes-shape/20234519/article-detail.xml 20234519 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-porsche-macan-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-porsche-macan-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini Aventador Roadster to use removable roof panel?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/lamborghini-aventador-roadster-to-use-removable-roof-panel/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/lamborghini-aventador-roadster-to-use-removable-roof-panel/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/lamborghini-aventador-roadster-to-use-removable-roof-panel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Forget cloth, the upcoming Lamborghini Aventador Roadster will use a removable two-piece carbon fiber hardtop, according to the Italian magazine Quattroruote.

The weight-cutting measure means the convertible won't have to stack on the pounds just to include al fresco driving. The carbon fiber roof will weigh less than a cloth top and its underlying metal frame. It also means that the entire rear section of the car won't change from the hardtop model, Quattroroute reports.

We first saw the hardtop in spy photos published in February, though we weren't sure of Lamborghini's plans for the 700-horsepower V12 racer at the time. Lamborghini is expected to debut the roadster at the Paris Motor Show this fall.

Lamborghini Aventador Roadster to use removable roof panel? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 May 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aventadorlamborghiniparisparis 2012paris motor showroadsterroofspy shotsMon, 07 May 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20232475/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/07/lamborghini-aventador-roadster-to-use-removable-roof-panel/20232475/article-detail.xml 20232475 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/04-aventador-roadster-1336401931_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/04-aventador-roadster-1336401931.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M6 Gran Coupe caught running the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-caught-running-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-caught-running-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/07/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-caught-running-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

BMW M6 Gran Coupe caught at Nurburgring

Ah yes, the Nürburgring. Where else would you expect to find the forthcoming BMW M6 Gran Coupe? Well, other than on the BMW stand the Paris Motor Show in September or Cobo Hall next January.

While we've already seen spy photos of the big 560-plus-horsepower sedan, 6post.com has snagged footage of the M6 Gran Coupe squealing tires and clipping apexes with some of its siblings on everyone's favorite German road.

Scroll down to watch the full video.

Continue reading BMW M6 Gran Coupe caught running the 'Ring

BMW M6 Gran Coupe caught running the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 May 2012 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwm6m6 gran coupenurburgringspy shotsvideoMon, 07 May 2012 12:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20232727/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/07/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-caught-running-the-ring/20232727/article-detail.xml 20232727 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw-m6-gran-coupe-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mini <strike>Paceman</strike> Countryman Coupe spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/mini-paceman-countryman-coupe-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/mini-paceman-countryman-coupe-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/mini-paceman-countryman-coupe-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mini Countryman Coupe spy shots

Mini will launch its seventh model - a two-door version of the Countryman crossover - at the Paris Motor Show later this year, and our trusty spy photographers recently spotted this prototype out testing. Many sources have stated that the car will be dubbed Countryman Coupe when it hits the market, but we've also heard rumors that the vehicle will wear the Paceman name that was given to the original concept that debuted at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

Whatever it ends up being called, the two-door Countryman formula is pretty simple. The rear doors have been removed, allowing for a more swept-back roofline that integrates into an updated rear fascia. The rear end design - as previewed in these spy shots, anyway - is immediately reminiscent of the Land Rover Evoque, the Countryman's main competitor.

Mum's the word on powertrain choices, though we'd expect the four-door Countryman's range of naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines to carry over largely unchanged, mated to both front- and all-wheel drive. Stay tuned for the car's official unveiling in Paris later this year.

Mini Paceman Countryman Coupe spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 May 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>countrymancountryman coupeminipacemanparisparis 2012paris motor showspy photosspy picsspy shotsThu, 03 May 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20230029/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/03/mini-paceman-countryman-coupe-spotted-testing/20230029/article-detail.xml 20230029 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/paceman628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/paceman628.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Adam a.k.a. Junior a.k.a. Allegra caught on the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/opel-adam-a-k-a-junior-a-k-a-allegra-caught-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/opel-adam-a-k-a-junior-a-k-a-allegra-caught-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/opel-adam-a-k-a-junior-a-k-a-allegra-caught-on-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The new Opel minicar has been so long in gestation that it has worn three names (so far). From the Junior and Allegra, we are now being told that it will now be called the Opel Adam, no doubt a nod to company founder Adam Opel.

Still clothed in enough camo to hide a barn, we can't tell much about how it looks, but with the latest spy shots we do know its sporting chops have been tested at the Nürburgring. That's a necessity since a longer version of the Adam's platform will go under the next Opel/Vauxhall Corsa. Beyond that, we aren't sure what will power it at launch but three-cylinder engines co-developed with SAIC are in the product pipeline. The electric version, however, has reportedly been canned.

At 3.70 meters, the Adam extends 15 cm beyond the Volkswagen Up! but is smaller than the Opel Agila. It is expected to go on sale in the Spring of 2013 for a base price of under €10,000 (Roughly $13,000 USD). If it does, that would be a turnabout from last year when former Opel chief Nick Reilly said the "Junior" would be an upscale mini and cost more than the larger Agila, which currently lists at €10,600 ($14k), but still wouldn't be a competitor to the Mini Cooper.

Stay tuned, for those and other mysteries will begin to be solved on May 8, which is when Opel will officially announce the car. So the rumors say. The showcase reveal will come at this year's Paris Motor Show.

Opel Adam a.k.a. Junior a.k.a. Allegra caught on the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 opel adamadamjuniornurburgringopelopel adamopel allegraopel juniorspy shotsvauxhallFri, 27 Apr 2012 13:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20225634/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/27/opel-adam-a-k-a-junior-a-k-a-allegra-caught-on-the-ring/20225634/article-detail.xml 20225634 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/opeljuniorspy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/opeljuniorspy.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 E-Tron test mule does quick but quiet hot laps on Nürburgring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/audi-r8-e-tron-test-mule-does-quick-but-quiet-hot-laps-on-nurbur/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/audi-r8-e-tron-test-mule-does-quick-but-quiet-hot-laps-on-nurbur/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/audi-r8-e-tron-test-mule-does-quick-but-quiet-hot-laps-on-nurbur/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Audi R8 E-Tron caught lapping at the Nürburgring

Imagine you're a spy shooter at the Nürburgring. You've got your ancient Ford Scorpio parked nearby, but you've hoofed it up to the top of a hill in the hopes of getting the perfect angle on the track. Three heavy cameras are strung about your body like you're a contestant in The World's Strongest Man competition. It's early and you are tired. And cold. The morning temperature was in the single digits Celsius, and while you're not exactly sure what that translates to in the Fahrenheit scale, this certainly ain't Miami.

Your job is boring. Boy racers driving all manner of would-be performance cars squeal by, inexpertly holding a line that betrays their inexperience. "Go back to your video games, kids," you think as you nurse your cramped and sore legs. You shift your position and the wait resumes. Sport bikes zip by and the wail hurts your ears. You get up and stretch before resuming your regimen. A momentary break in the traffic causes you to do a mental rehearsal, double-checking your gear.

Then you hear it: The tires, disembodied from the roar of an engine, but creating their own telltale sound. You reach for the camera with the longest lens and barely get it up to your eye as the electric sports car whooshes towards you, followed by the loud rumble of something more internally combusted. The camera is now firing on all cylinders as you expertly track the car's pace for the few seconds it's in your field of vision. A Porsche enters the viewfinder and you exhale, lowering the camera and turning your back to the track.

The Audi R8 E-Tron will take just one lap of the Nürburgring that day, but you were there to capture it. It may not surface again before it goes on sale next year, but you don't care about that. You need to hustle back to the car to download the images, so the world can see what an R8 without exhaust pipes looks like, so the fanboys can obsess about the extra cooling vents in the hood for the batteries and the blacked-out rear window.

You will e-mail the photos across the Continent, across the ocean, back home. You'll get a few bucks deposited in your German bank for your trouble, but that won't happen for a while yet. By then you will have taken more photos and sent more e-mails.

And drank countless lagers. It is still early, but you think of the cliche about it being noon somewhere and head off home. Nobody will be in your favorite expat bar at this time, but you think there must be at least one bottle left in your refrigerator.

Audi R8 E-Tron test mule does quick but quiet hot laps on Nürburgring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 audi r82014 audi r8 etronaudie-tronetronnürburgringr8r8 e-tronr8 etronspy shotsWed, 25 Apr 2012 16:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20223879/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/25/audi-r8-e-tron-test-mule-does-quick-but-quiet-hot-laps-on-nurbur/20223879/article-detail.xml 20223879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/audi-etron-lapping-nurburgring-spy-shots-001-opt-1335371641_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/audi-etron-lapping-nurburgring-spy-shots-001-opt-1335371641.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan GT-R 24h Nürburgring race car caught testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/nissan-gt-r-24h-nurburgring-racecar-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/nissan-gt-r-24h-nurburgring-racecar-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/25/nissan-gt-r-24h-nurburgring-racecar-caught-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Nissan GT-R Nurburgring Racecar

Nissan announced earlier in the month that it would be fielding a factory team in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, piloting a 2012 GT-R. The car is reportedly a Club Track Edition, a race-ready derivative sold in Japan, and our spy shooters have spotted it out in the wild.

The car is only lightly camouflaged, with coverings over parts of the the front fascia, hood, and rear windows. We will admit that your guess is as good as our as to what might lie beneath the wrapping, but given that Nissan has said the only changes from production car to race car are some added downforce in the front and a new rear wing, we'll just go with "nothing" as our answer.

Nissan GT-R 24h Nürburgring race car caught testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan gt-rgt-rnissannissan gt-r track club editionnurburgringnurburgring 24spy shotsWed, 25 Apr 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20223072/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/25/nissan-gt-r-24h-nurburgring-racecar-caught-testing/20223072/article-detail.xml 20223072 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/nissan-gt-r-nurburgring-racecar-spy-shots-01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/nissan-gt-r-nurburgring-racecar-spy-shots-01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[McLaren spotted testing successor to the legendary F1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mclaren-spotted-testing-successor-to-the-legendary-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mclaren-spotted-testing-successor-to-the-legendary-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mclaren-spotted-testing-successor-to-the-legendary-f1/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

McLaren F1 successor prototype caught testing - front three-quarter view

Rumors and conjecture will only get you so far, particularly when we're talking about the stratosphere of supercardom where speculation can disappear back into the ether from whence it came as quickly as it emerged in the first place. What we need to really anticipate the arrival of a new record-breaking hypercar is concrete evidence. And concrete evidence, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, is what we have here before us today.

The car we're talking about is the long-awaited successor to the legendary McLaren F1. Considering how thoroughly that bolide smashed all preconceived notions of what a car could do when the original hit the streets in 1992, its successor is something worth anticipating indeed. It's expected to have nearly 700 horsepower on tap, challenge the Bugatti Veyron for straight-line pace and emerge as a de-facto challenger to the Enzo replacement Ferrari is working on.

The styling is expected to take greater advantage of the skills of one Frank Stephenson, father of the modern Mini Cooper, BMW X5, Fiat 500 and countless Ferrari and Maserati models. His arrival at McLaren Automotive is said to have been a little late for him to truly leave his mark on the MP4-12C - its big brother expected to be his first clean-sheet design since moving in at Woking.

From the spy shots, we can see some distinctive common stylistic elements to the existing MP4-12C, tempered with some references to the original McLaren F1 - particularly in the shape of the greenhouse that packs a windshield that looks like it was lifted from a glass-bottom boat. A rooftop hood vent also appears to be popping up through the camouflage, with a giant exhaust pipe protruding high up through the rear (like a Pagani), with what looks like the biggest underbody diffuser we've seen yet.

The overall shape also looks longer than the MP4-12C, presumably to accommodate an engine packing 50% more cylinders than its eight-pot kid brother. With the V12 F1 expected to arrive around the same time as the Ferrari F70, it looks like Maranello and Woking are gearing up for once heck of a high-stakes grudge match.

McLaren spotted testing successor to the legendary F1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren automotivemclaren f1spiedspy photosspy shotsTue, 24 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222745/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/mclaren-spotted-testing-successor-to-the-legendary-f1/20222745/article-detail.xml 20222745 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webmclaren-spy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webmclaren-spy.jpg -1 2