Autoblog

Spy Shots: Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge redesigns caught nearly naked

John Neff — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln

Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge spy shots - Click above or below for high-res image galleries

Ford and Lincoln's crossover offerings are plentiful, but all attention is being paid nowadays to the boxy-yet-practical Flex and hit-by-the-ugly-stick MKT. What about the Edge and MKX? This duo was launched years before the automaker's polarizing pair of three-row CUVs arrived.

Well, their due for redesigns. Or at least, according to these spy shots, refreshenings of their front and rear ends. In the Edge's case, that means making the already handsome people mover look a bit more windswept, though it appears things will stay largely the same between the A- and D-pillars.

The changes look more substantial for the MKX, which launched before Lincoln debuted its increasingly ubiquitous doubled-winged grille design. That punum looks pretty okay on the MKS sedan and like a baleen whale on the oversized MKT. It looks just right on the MKX to us.

Ford and Lincoln may have other news about the Edge and MKX for us - powertrain and infotainment upgrades most likely - at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show in early January, which is when we expect to see these new looks formally trotted out on stage.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Lincoln MKX

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Ford Edge

[Images: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Lincoln MKX and Ford Edge redesigns caught nearly naked originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've been all but assured that a convertible version of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG was on the way, and now we've got photographic proof of the de-gullwinged drop-top weathering the wintery climes before its reveal in 2010.

Although Mercedes officials haven't divulged much about the SLS cabrio, it's likely to be fitted with a retractable soft-top rather than a folding hard-top in a bid to keep weight in check and retain some of the trunk's capacity. Naturally, the chassis will be fortified to increase rigidity, but considering the SLS AMG was designed from the onset to be both a coupe and a convertible, we suspect the extent of the modifications to be limited and the weight penalty to be minimal.

Some reports indicate that the SLS AMG Roadster could debut as early as the Geneva Motor Show in March, but if we were betting gentlemen, we'd suspect the convertible SLS to debut later in 2010, likely at the Paris Motor Show.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Reader Spy: SRT-fettled Dodge Journey R/T spotted

Chris Paukert — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Minivan/Van, Wagon, Crossover, Dodge

SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've always been intrigued by the notion of a higher performance people carrier, from back before Car and Driver magazine's Ford Windstar-based SHOStar to various shadetree high-strung turbocharged Chrysler minivans and outright lunacy like Renault's Espace-bodied F1 car.

Of course, that isn't what you're looking at here: it's what appears to be an SRT-tweaked Dodge Journey R/T, a vehicle that we want to like for its useful size and packaging, but can't because of its indifferent drivetrains and tragic interior materials and ergonomics.

Now, normally we wouldn't get too excited about something like this, in part because private owners often add badges from other vehicles in order to make them seem more impressive (we just saw an i-VTEC Chevrolet Beretta the other day), but these spy shots sent in from reader Nick Leonard appear to be the real deal - not only does the Journey in question boast a well-integrated new front fascia, but also unique wheels, a lowered stance and a quad-outlet rear exhaust surrounded by a different valance. The clincher? Michigan manufacturer licence plates.

Nick says notes that he came upon the car in the parking lot of a Best Buy in Saginaw, Michigan, and he only noted a laptop bag and a jacket in the passenger seat - no sign of any further testing equipment or interesting things on the dashboard. He further instructs that there was an AWD badge on the car (not pictured).

Now, it isn't at all clear that this is a production-intent vehicle, especially considering that R/T and SRT are usually mutually-exclusive designations in the House of Pentastar. This vehicle might be something that bored engineers cooked up for their own entertainment, for a SEMA reveal, or perhaps for a customer clinic - but who knows? It could be something, right? If so, let's hope there's some genuine chutzpah under the sheetmetal, otherwise we're looking at the decline and dilution of the SRT-branded vehicles as we know it.

Check out our gallery of images below... and thanks for the shots, Nick!

Gallery: Reader Spy: SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T

Reader Spy: SRT-fettled Dodge Journey R/T spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: First Nissan Qazana prototype caught testing

Jonny Lieberman — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 14:13:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Nissan

Just when you thought Qashqai was about a weird a name as a car could get comes some spy shots of the Nissan Qazana. Mmmm... yeah, you're right. Qashqai is still weirder. However, the Qazana, which we first saw in Geneva, is weirder looking than the Qashqai. Or practically anything else, for that matter. But it's not bad-weird, just weird-weird. That said, sticking with the maxim that all SUVs (and cars that look like SUVs) want to either be WW2 Jeeps or lunar rovers, the Qazana isn't that odd. We quite like it.

The lads at AutoExpress just caught some spy shots of a Qazana prototype, complete with black trash-bag crypsis. Despite the budget camo, it does look like some of the show car's more novel elements are making it into production -- specifically, its large headlights. It even seems as though the highly-stylized grille will see the light of day.

AutoExpress claims that it doesn't stop there: The motorcycle-inspired (and highly whacked-out) interior will also allegedly make the final cut. In terms of where it fits in the lineup, the Qazana will slot below the larger Qashqai. Like the Qashqai, look for the Qazana to be built at Nissan's Sunderland, UK plant. Here's hoping Nissan chooses the bold path and brings out a Qazana that truly resembles the concept. Odds of it making to the US? We'd normally say "zilch," but we did just get the Cube, so who knows?

Gallery: Geneva 2009: Nissan Qazana

[Source: AutoExpress]

Spy Shots: First Nissan Qazana prototype caught testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 14:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Honda CR-Z brochure leaks out, production specs revealed

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:58:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, Japan, Hatchback, Honda

2011 Honda CR-Z Brochure - Click above for high-res image gallery

The variable valve-timing obsessives at the Temple of VTEC have scored a leaked brochure of the 2011 Honda CR-Z, and in addition to getting a glimpse of the production version of the hybrid hatch, some specs and trim details were included in the document.

We finally have hard figures on the 1.5-liter engine's output (in JDM spec), with the diminutive four-cylinder putting out 112 horsepower (at 6,000 rpm) on its own and another 14 hp from its electric motor. Just as importantly, the engine creates 107 lb-ft of torque (at 4,800 rpm) with the Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system boosting that by another 57 lb-ft at an oh-so-low 1,000 rpm. Coupled with either a six-speed manual or CVT gearbox, the CR-Z nets a relatively uninspiring 0 to 62 mph time of 9.7 seconds.

The dimensions haven't changed much from the "concept" we saw at the Tokyo Motor Show earlier this year, with a 160.6-inch overall length, 68.5-inch width, 54.9-inch height and a wheelbase that spans 95.9 inches. Unfortunately, no word on curb weight.

Since efficiency is the name of the game, the CR-Z will benefit from LED daytime running lights and turn signal indicators in the mirrors, along with three driving modes - Eco, Normal and Sport - each controllable from a dash mounted switch and with a different color surrounding the gauges based on the mode.

Check out the pics in the gallery below for more and get the full story in our CR-Z post from Tokyo.

Gallery: 2011 Honda CR-Z Brochure

[Source: Temple of VTEC]

Honda CR-Z brochure leaks out, production specs revealed originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Next-generation Mercedes-Benz ML caught winter testing

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

2012 Mercedes ML spy shots -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The next iteration of the Mercedes ML-class has been caught braving the European cold and snow for some testing as it gets ready for its debut.

There will probably be plenty of subtle stylistic changes to distinguish it from the current model, but the biggest news about the coming SUV is that it will be smaller. Of course, it's hard to tell from the cloak of darkness camouflage on the prototype pictured, but it does look slightly less imposing than the current hauler. Early indications are that the various engine offerings in the next ML will focus on efficiency over performance, but we suspect it won't be a slouch dynamically.

We can expect it to appear in the middle of 2011 as a 2012 model.

Gallery: 2012 Mercedes ML Spy Shots

Spy Shots: Next-generation Mercedes-Benz ML caught winter testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Baby Buick sedan caught in Germany

Chris Paukert — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:27:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Buick

Buick small sedan prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yesterday, we showed you the first official rendering of Buick's forthcoming small car, a shrunken LaCrosse lookalike that is expected to be based on the European market Opel Astra. The image was flashed on the screen during General Motors' presentation of the new 2011 Buick Regal at this week's LA Auto Show, and judging by these latest spy shots from our friends at CarPix, it would appear that the rendering gives us a very good look at the upcoming sedan.

As we saw in an earlier batch of shots, the Delta-II platform-based model (known as the Excelle in China) will retain Buick's signature waterfall grille, yet unlike the Regal, it will have a set of horizontally-mounted ventiports to add a bit of the marque's characteristic flash. In the past, the number of ventiport holes indicated the number of cylinders of the engine lurking beneath the sheetmetal, but in this case, we don't expect for the as-yet-unnamed U.S. sedan to carry more than four cylinders.

With the Regal and this forthcoming small sedan, GM is clearly making a big push to lower the average buyer age of its Buick division by injecting a bit of sport and perhaps a greater measure of affordability. Is this the right strategy for the brand, or is The General at risk of revisiting the same brand perception (and brand overlap) issues it had in the Eighties with smaller cars like the Somerset and Century? Be sure to check out our high-res gallery below and then hop into Comments to let us know what you think.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Baby Buick caught in Germany

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Baby Buick sedan caught in Germany originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: BMW M3 caught with new LED taillamps

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, BMW, Luxury

2010 BMW M3 -- Click above for image gallery

Just a couple of years into its run, this is your slightly revised BMW M3, free of camo save for the taillights. The photog on the scene said there is nothing we should expect from the next Munich mauler save for new LED lamps in back and an updated interior. We speculate that cabin changes will include upgraded materials and lines that bring it closer to its recently unveiled siblings higher up the food chain. And that should be enough to keep everyone happy while BMW and M3 mavens focus on the M3 GTS.

Gallery: BMW M3 caught with new LED taillamps

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW M3 caught with new LED taillamps originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Elise, Exige, Esprit? Lotus tests new model

Jonathon Ramsey — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 13:03:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, Lotus, Luxury

When it comes to the successor to the Lotus Esprit, the specs -- and even the name -- are still up in the air. There is, however, a mule undergoing testing on the ground. Autocar has pics of an Exige with a seriously modified rear end, leading to speculation that the new Esprit's powertrain lives underneath.

This time engine talk centers on "a version of" the Lexus lump in the IS F, but with 275-325 bhp per ton as the goal, that could mean an engine which is quite close or quite far from its source material. Knowing Lotus, we won't doubt the power -- what we really can't wait to see are the looks. The Esprit V8 was the last of the gee-willikers rip-snorters from the house of Chapman, but it was the design of the earlier s4s that made us go "Oh yeah." Please, Lotus, give us that lovin' feelin' again...

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: Elise, Exige, Esprit? Lotus tests new model originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: New BMW 6 Series cabrio caught, reveals no more flying buttresses

Sam Abuelsamid — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:56:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, BMW, Luxury

It looks like the lakes around Arvidsjaur Sweden have frozen early this year and the engineers from Munich have hit the ice already. The current generation BMW 6 Series has been one of the company's more controversial designs of the past decade, along with the previous-generation 7 Series and Z4. Like most of the rest of the lineup, it will be getting a re-work in the not-too-distant future, and judging from some new photos, it will be following a similar design direction to other recent introductions.

It looks like the bustle back trunk lid (a.k.a. "The Bangle Butt") is being given the heave-ho, although the convertible that was spotted looks like it might be sporting a two-piece rear lid similar to the 5 Series Gran Turismo. It also appears as though there are two cut-lines, the lower one being the one that goes along the side to open for the top to go up and down. The second smaller one higher up might be just for cargo access.

Another element that some will be to see go are the flying buttresses on the top. Thankfully, it appears that BMW has decided to avoid the unnaturally long rear deck that would come with a hard top and retained the fabric variety. At the front, the 6 gets a more vertical grille and headlights that look much like the Z4.

Underhood, the current 4.8-liter V8 will probably be replaced by the newer 4.4-liter twin-turbo and the six-cylinder will probably be the new 300-horsepower single turbo unit just announced for the 5 Series.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Spy Shots: New BMW 6 Series cabrio caught, reveals no more flying buttresses originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Mini working on diesel "S" versions of Cooper, Clubman?

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:42:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Mini, Diesel

Mini Cooper and Clubman S Diesel - Click above for high-res image gallery

Spy shooters posted outside Mini's testing facility in Germany snagged a duo of prototypes heading out for testing, but something seemed amiss. Both models -- a standard Cooper and a mildly camo'd Clubman -- sported the tell-tale exterior elements found on the S versions, specifically a central-mounted dual exhaust on the Cooper and the twin-tips and hood scoop on the Clubman. However, the exhaust note was decidedly diesel, causing us to wonder: Is Mini working on hotted-up S versions of its oil-burners?

If they are -- and we're not convinced either way -- then a Cooper S and Clubman S diesel would need to benefit from more than a few design tweaks and an uprated suspension. Considering that the standard Mini D puts out around 90 horsepower and the Cooper D boasts another 20 bhp, then these S-ified models could be packing upwards of 140 to 150 hp and, more importantly, over 200 lb.-ft. of torque from their 1.6-liter turbodiesels. If they do make it to dealers, we'd expect them to debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with sales beginning in Europe late next year.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mini Cooper and Clubman S Diesel

Spy Shots: Mini working on diesel "S" versions of Cooper, Clubman? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Next-gen Buick Excelle for China snapped

John Neff — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:33:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, China, Buick, Chevrolet

Next-gen Buick Excelle for China - Click above for high-res image gallery

Soon Buick will have an entire lineup of competitive vehicles with the Enclave, all-new LaCrosse and soon-to-arrive-from-Europe Regal. Since the latter model is basically a direct port of the Opel Insignia, its success may help General Motors decide whether or not to snag a fourth model from another overseas market. The likely candidate is this car, the next-gen Buick Excelle that is currently sold only in China.

Recently snapped by spy photographers while undergoing testing with very little camouflage, the next-gen Excelle will adopt GM's Delta II small car platform that also underpins the new Chevy Cruze and Opel Astra. It's more closely related to later, however, as previous generations have been not much more than rebadged Astras. Just because Buick could sell the Excelle in the U.S., however, doesn't mean it should. Would the market really accept a Buick this small, especially when the Cruze is on sale across the street? Time will tell but you can let GM know what you think now in the comments.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Next-gen Buick Excelle for China

[Photos: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Next-gen Buick Excelle for China snapped originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: First look at the 2011 Chevy Aveo

Sam Abuelsamid — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 12:04:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Budget, Hatchback, Chevrolet, GM

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

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

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

[Source: The Detroit News]

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series hybrid spotted in Munich

Sam Abuelsamid — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:33:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hybrid, Europe, Hatchback, BMW

BMW 1 Series Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

At the launch of the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid, officials acknowledged the automaker would be producing several additional hybrid models in the near future. Rumors have been floating around that the new 5 Series - due to launch in 2010 - will get the same mild hybrid system going into the ActiveHybrid 7 and its crossover counterpart, but what about BMW's smaller offerings?

Testing near Munich, a BMW 1 Series mule was caught wearing "Hybrid Test Vehicle" badging, proving that BMW's hybrid system won't be used exclusively on its larger models. Given the small size of the 1, this will undoubtedly use a version of the same mild hybrid system, a modular setup that has the motor/generator sandwiched between the engine and transmission with a compact lithium ion battery in the rear.

The 1 Series hybrid will take on the production version of the Lexus LF-Ch concept recently shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show when it hits the market in late 2011 or early 2012. The Lexus is similar in size to the 1er, but will only be offered as a hybrid, while the 1 will retain conventional powertrain options. There's no word whether the Lexus or the 1 Series Hybrid will make it onto U.S. shores, but if both automakers plan to recoup development expenses, sales in North America are almost assured.

Gallery: Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series Hybrid

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: BMW 1 Series hybrid spotted in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee out testing in Detroit

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:56:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Jeep, Luxury, Off-Road

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee - Click above for high-res image gallery

A little lawsuit isn't going to keep Chrysler from getting the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee ready for production. The next generation family-sized Jeep was spotted on Michigan roads. Looking rather spiffy in a matte black coat, from the side the SUV is a Cherokee with just a bit of a twist. However, the revisions to the rear and front, as well as its stance, appear to give it more European feel than any Jeep has ever had. Especially from the back it is heavily scented with an X5 influence.

If it gets an old world luxury interior to match, then who knows - the 2011 Grand Cherokee could be all growed up. You can have a look at it for yourself in the gallery of photos below. Hat tip to Peter.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

[Source: Jeep Garage via Accelerating Perspective]

Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee out testing in Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: More LA-based pics of the mystery psychedelic-wrap Audi

Jonny Lieberman — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Performance, Europe, Audi, Luxury

Mystery Audi - Click above for high-res image gallery

"Whatever it may be, I like it!" So says Autoblog commenter P.V. concerning a mysterious series of camoflaged Audis that have been popping up all over the place (this one was caught again in Southern California). We tend to agree. In fact, we feel this way about most new Audis -- especially since Walter de'Silva took over the design reins. While it may not be beautiful, there's no denying the R8's curb appeal. Subtler, but far sexier, are the understated lines of the A5/S5 -- no small feat to pull off with a three-box coupe. And while the Q7 looks like some sort of prehistoric giant sloth (hey -- even Hank Aaron had his off at bats), we're still with P.V. 100%.

So, is this the new A8? Hard to say. The C-pillar fits the part but the rear glass really is radically sloped. And that trippy tape job really does mask the mule's size. Could it be the new A6? Again, yes, sure, but... There's almost something too daring about the shape to be such a meat and/or potatoes ride. How about this -- it might be the long-rumored A7. You know, the swoopy "four-door coupe" set to compete against cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLS. That makes much more sense. Take a long look at the rear glass and thick C-pillars in this spy shot. We thinks we may be on to something. Especially if you stare long and hard at the tail lights -- the outer ones appear real and taped off, while the inner lights appear to be fake pieces of reflective tape. A design that conforms to the blurry A7 shots we've seen. Hmmm... Thanks to Chris for the pics!

Gallery: Mystery So Cal Audi

[Source: Black Not Black]

Spy Shots: More LA-based pics of the mystery psychedelic-wrap Audi originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: Next generation BMW 3 Series pops up swathed in swirlies

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, BMW

2012 BMW 3-series prototype - Click above for high-res image gallery

This morning we get our first "clear" look at the next generation BMW 3 Series as one of our intrepid spy photographers captured one sitting on a trailer somewhere in Germany. The newest version of BMW's mainstream model is expected to debut sometime in 2011 as 2012 model. Judging from these shots, it does not appear that the size of the new 3 will change much, although we can expect BMW to implement some weight reduction measures in order to help meet new fuel efficiency and emissions standards. The overall proportions look pretty similar to today's car, but the profile shot indicates a more upright grille stance similar to the new Z4 and 5 Series GT.

The next 3 is also expected to adopt some new powertrains including a new turbocharged and direct-injected three-cylinder engine. When the new 3 arrives here in the U.S., it will likely also mark the return of four-cylinder engines to the brand's U.S. lineup, to which we say, bring on the fuel savings. Thanks to Annie and Andrus for the tips!

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 BMW 3 Series

[Photos: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Next generation BMW 3 Series pops up swathed in swirlies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: First longer-wheelbase Ferrari 612 Scaglietti replacement spotted

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:14:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, Ferrari, Luxury

Ferrari 612 replacement test mule - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ferrari is reportedly currently working on the three V12 cars that will replace its comparable current offerings: the 612 Scaglietti, 599 GTB, and Enzo. The 612's follow-on will be the first one to arrive, likely in early 2012, and another mule has been spotted out and about. It still sports the hood scoop (bigger engine with more power, anyone?) and California-style stacked tailpipes, and it looks like it might have a longer wheelbase to boot.

Rumor has it that the new direct-injected V12 will be 40 percent less polluting and get 40 percent better gas mileage than the 5.7-liter V12 presently in use, even as it's expected to get a slight 7-horsepower bump to 540. The fuel economy increase would provide a very respectable 16 MPG - not bad for a car that ought to hustle to 60 MPH in about 4.5 seconds. Check out a host of new spy photos in our gallery below. In case you're curious, the sticker on the steering wheel boss which reads "Betrieb nur mit geschlossener Motorhaube" is an instruction telling drivers that the engine should only be started with the hood closed.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Ferrari 612 Scaglietti replacement mule

[Image: CarPix]

Spy Shots: First longer-wheelbase Ferrari 612 Scaglietti replacement spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A8 coming with four-cylinder turbodiesel, new V12 under development

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Audi, Luxury

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

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

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

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

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A8

[Source: L'Automobile]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series coupe and convertible get mild rhinoplasty

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Coupe, BMW, Luxury

The 3 Series coupe and convertible have had a little surgery done and been caught post-op. The actual changes aren't monumental, but up front appear to have quite an effect on the looks. We'll wait to see the uncovered version without the tape over the headlights before final judgments are issued, but from the three-quarter view the increased sweep, the changes to the kidney grille, and the drawn headlights makes the front look a little -- forgive us for saying -- vintage Grand Am.

In back the car gets revised taillights and a bumper massage. Inside expect slightly upgraded ergonomics and iDrive. The sedan and touring are rumored to get this look as well, and should appear next year.

[Source: Carscoop]

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series coupe and convertible get mild rhinoplasty originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments