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: Spyker takes the lead in the Saab bidding sweepstakes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/report-spyker-takes-the-lead-in-the-saab-bidding-sweepstakes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



General Motors appears on track to either close or sell the ailing Saab brand by 2010. If they do, in fact, sell Saab, they are reportedly stipulating the following: the buyer must be well versed in small scale car production and they should be interested in keeping production in Saab's homeland, Sweden. If you don't know, Spyker fits that particular bill nicely.

Saab appears to be believing the deal will happen. "There are signals everywhere showing we are well on track," says Saab spokesman Eric Greers. We heard last week that Spyker was interested in purchasing Saab, and today's news only confirms it. Of course this wouldn't be a Saab story without the threat of imminent disaster looming in the shadows.

The catch is that if GM and the prospective buyer can't get the deal done by 2010, General Motors is just going to wash its hands of the perennial money loser and shut Saab down and sell off its assets. However, if the talks are going well but no deal has been reached by January, GM might consider funding Saab a little longer. Maybe. For their part, Spyker seems unaware of any looming deadline, though perhaps they should be.

[Sources: Reuters, Autocar | Image: Torsten Silz/Getty]

REPORT: Spyker takes the lead in the Saab bidding sweepstakes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>General MotorsGeneralMotorsGMSaabSpykerSwedenThu, 10 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder proves the devil is in the details]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-is-the-devil-in-the-details/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-is-the-devil-in-the-details/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/la-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-is-the-devil-in-the-details/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Where to even start? Oh right - that interior! With the possible exception of a couple of British-ish cars (BMW-owned Rolls-Royce Phantom, Volkswagen-owned Bentley Mulsanne, Tata-owned Jaguar XJ), no interior even comes close. And frankly, being honest, those luxo-barges just pale in comparison to the blinged out old-world splendor of a Spyker cockpit. And the C8 Aileron Spyder ups that already pricey ante. And get this - all C8s are now built in Coventry, England, shaving about $9,000 off the asking price, which is somewhere south north of $200,000 depending on baubles options.

Normally, photographing cars at auto shows feels like a strange, exotic form of torture, at least for us writerly types. The bright lights, the bumrush, the awkward positions (you try crawling on your hands and knees between a posing CEO's knees to get a shot of a wheel) - it's not fun. But when photographing this car, we were overcome with a rush of (let's just say) endorphins. We could imagine ourselves winding up the California coast, fondling that leather-wrapped aluminum gear shifter for hundreds of breezy, dreamy miles. And get this - it's an automatic... and we don't care!

For you number junkies who choose to hastily look past the incredible innards, the C8 drop top is powered by a 4.2-liter Audi V8 good for 400 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. That medium-amount of gumption is routed to the rear-wheels via a 6-speed slushbox. Top speed is 187 mph and 0-60 happens in 4.5 seconds. Spyker claims that the car's strength is in the frame (stouter than a Ferrari F430, so they say) and therefor chopping off the roof has limited negative structural impact. Want more tech details? See our post from Monterey.



Let's get back to that interior. If you're into fancy cars (hi mom!) you've no doubt heard of special leather coming from "free range" cows raised without barbwire so as to ensure the leather is flawless. Well get this, the leather in the Aileron Spyder comes from a Dutch tannery that works with free range cold weather cows. Why cold weather? No mosquito bites. No, really. And you can get that interior in any of fourteen colors, most of which are (hopefully) equally eye-searing. Finally, anyone else as in love with the tonneau cover-mounted quilted leather briefcase as we are?


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

LA 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder proves the devil is in the details originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowAudiC8C8 Aileron SpyderC8 SpyderC8AileronSpyderC8SpyderLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowSpykerSpyker C8Spyker C8 AileronSpyker C8 Aileron SpyderSpykerC8SpykerC8AileronSpykerC8AileronSpyderFri, 04 Dec 2009 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Merbanco out, Spyker in as Saab bidding heats up. Was Fritz axed because he wanted Saab closed?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/merbanco-out-spyker-in-as-saab-bidding-heats-up-was-fritz-axed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/merbanco-out-spyker-in-as-saab-bidding-heats-up-was-fritz-axed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/merbanco-out-spyker-in-as-saab-bidding-heats-up-was-fritz-axed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

As General Motors suddenly finds itself in search for a new CEO to replace Fritz Henderson, it is also looking to secure a buyer for perennially troubled Saab. GM originally thought it had a new parent for the brand in Koenigsegg, but after that deal went sour, Detroit officials confirmed that it they would give themselves up until the end of the year to find a new buyer instead of simply shutting Saab down.

A number of parties have expressed interest in purchasing the brand since that time, and it has now been confirmed that the Swedish marque has another supercar-building pursuer: Spyker. The Netherlands-based exotic manufacturer has just issued a brief statement confirming that it - along with its shareholders at the Convers Group - has indeed "expressed an interest in Saab Automobile AB" (text available after the jump). Spyker has never been a brand short of ambition (remember its ill-fated Formula One effort?), but taking on Saab would be its most ambitious undertaking yet.

In related news, marque website Saab History is reporting that the US-based Merbanco group has not been chosen by GM as a possible purchaser. According to the SH, Merbanco CEO Christopher Johnston released a statement to the enthusiast group that says:

"As most of you know, we ride with the brand, the fit was good, and were up to the challenges ahead. It is now time for us to depart the field and support the company and its outstanding people.

We are grateful to all of you, fellow Saab enthusiasts and the Saab team for the support you have us. It will never be forgotten. Heartfelt thanks, Ryan and friends for your support."

(Saab History had previously conducted an interview with Johnston, the contents of which you can find here.)

Interestingly, UK buff book Autocar is reporting that yesterday's ousting of Fritz Henderson could stem from the exec's apparent desire to close Saab, a viewpoint that was evidently not shared by the rest of GM's board. We suspect there were a whole host of issues that led to Henderson's resignation, but it's likely that GM's trustees would prefer to offload the brand rather than incur substantial shutdown costs. Call it a "potential contributing factor," if you will.

Either way, do you think Saab will survive this tumult? Drop us a line in 'Comments.'


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Sources: Spyker; Saab History; Autocar; Automotive News]

Continue reading Merbanco out, Spyker in as Saab bidding heats up. Was Fritz axed because he wanted Saab closed?

Merbanco out, Spyker in as Saab bidding heats up. Was Fritz axed because he wanted Saab closed? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutocarChristopher JohnstonChristopherJohnstonFritz HendersonFritzHendersonGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMMerbancoSaabSaab historySaabHistorySpykerWed, 02 Dec 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Dutch Exodus: Spyker relocating vehicle assembly to the UK]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/dutch-exodus-spyker-relocating-vehicle-assembly-to-the-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/dutch-exodus-spyker-relocating-vehicle-assembly-to-the-uk/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/dutch-exodus-spyker-relocating-vehicle-assembly-to-the-uk/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder - Click above for a high-res image gallery

In these tough times automakers are doing everything they can to cut costs. For Spyker, that means moving its vehicle assembly from its home country of the Netherlands to Coventry, England. How does that save money, you ask? "With approximately half of our vehicles' parts and components sourced in the UK, and virtually all key suppliers being located there, moving closer to our suppliers and engineering partners will result in substantial savings and tangible efficiency improvements," according to Spyker CEO Victor R. Muller.

The assembly of the Spyker line, which includes various iterations of the C8 supercar, will move to CPP Manufacturing before the end of the year. CPP has worked with the Dutch manufacturer since its reincarnation in 2000, and even built Spyker's first prototype. Other portions of the company, such as engineering, marketing, and the race team will stay at the Zeewolde headquarters. Full details can be found in Spyker's press release after the jump.


Gallery: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder



[Source: Spyker]

Continue reading Dutch Exodus: Spyker relocating vehicle assembly to the UK

Dutch Exodus: Spyker relocating vehicle assembly to the UK originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>SpykerSpyker C8 AileronSpyker C8 Aileron SpyderSpykerC8AileronSpykerC8AileronSpyderFri, 20 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #142]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/autoblog-podcast-142/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/autoblog-podcast-142/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/autoblog-podcast-142/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

Episode #142 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, this week with the (not very) dynamic duo of Chris and Dan carrying the baton while seemingly the rest of the world is on vacation. We're certainly in the lull before auto show season swings into full effect, but there are still a few things to talk about. Pricing of the VW Golf TDI starts us off before moving on to cover the reportedly tight supply of Lexus HS250h hybrids, which may affect the car's U.S. launch. More excitingly, the possibility of a Lexus hatch is pondered before moving on from Toyota's fancy division. Last week, the podcast touched on the Spyker Aileron, and this week we went after the D8 Peking-to-Paris model in all its resplendent over-the-topness. Speaking of dramatic cars, we wrap up with the news that there may be three new Porsche models in the works to diversify that maker's line and increase volume. We fish through your questions before calling it a night a bit past the hour mark.

A hearty "thank you" goes out to our listeners for all of your great reviews - your efforts got us featured on iTunes this week, and we appreciate it. You can join in the fun (if you haven't already) by leaving a review at iTunes, filling out our survey, or emailing us with questions/comments at Podcast at Autoblog dot com. See you next week!

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #142

Autoblog Podcast #142 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 142AutoblogPodcastAutoblogPodcast142golf tdiGolfTdilexus hs250hlexus hybridlexus hybrid shortagelexus hybrid us launchLexusHs250hLexusHybridLexusHybridShortageLexusHybridUsLaunchpodcastpodcast 142Podcast142porsche modelsporsche winterkornPorscheModelsPorscheWinterkornspykerspyker d8spyker d8 peking to parisSpykerD8SpykerD8PekingToParisvw golfvw golf pricingvw golf tdi pricingVwGolfVwGolfPricingVwGolfTdiPricingwinterkornwinterkorn porscheWinterkornPorscheWed, 26 Aug 2009 10:40:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #142Autoblog69:20podcast, autoblog podcast, spyker d8, vw golf, golf tdi, porsche panamera, porsche winterkorn, porsche models, lexus, lexus hs250h, lexus hybrid, lexus hatch, <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris SSUV ready for production debut in Frankfurt?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/spy-shots-spyker-d8-peking-to-paris-ssuv-ready-for-production-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/spy-shots-spyker-d8-peking-to-paris-ssuv-ready-for-production-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/spy-shots-spyker-d8-peking-to-paris-ssuv-ready-for-production-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Exotics used to be confined strictly to sportscars, but not anymore. Porsche and Maserati have got four-door sedans on the market, and Aston Martin's is on the way. But in lucrative markets like the Middle East and Russia, demand is high for exotic SUVs, and automakers are stepping up to fill the gap left by the Lamborghini LM002 and currently occupied, with few other exceptions, by the Porsche Cayenne. Spyker wants itself a piece of that pie, and after years of preparation, its Peking-to-Paris "Super Sport Utility Vehicle" looks to be nearing production.

Apparently spied undisguised at Spyker's factory in the Netherlands, sources suggest that the SSUV is being prepared for its production debut at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The design has reportedly been updated to follow the lead of the new C8 Aileron, but the big question is what will sit underneath the hood. Expected to ditch the concept car's V12 in favor of a V8 - with an accompanying model designation change from D12 to D8 - the Spyker sport-ute was tipped to adopt American power (in the possible form of the Cadillac CTS-V's supercharged mill), though transplanting the company's existing Audi-sourced engine is always a possibility.

[Source: Autogespot - translated]

Spy Shots: Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris SSUV ready for production debut in Frankfurt? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiCTS-vfalsefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowpeking-to-parispeking-to-paris SSUVPeking-to-parisSsuvspiedspy shotsspykerspyker d12spyker d8spyker d8 peking to parisspyker d8 peking-to-paris SSUVspyker d8 SSUVspyker d8 suvspyker peking-to-parisspyker ssuvSpykerD12SpykerD8SpykerD8Peking-to-parisSsuvSpykerD8PekingToParisSpykerD8SsuvSpykerD8SuvSpykerPeking-to-parisSpykerSsuvSpyShotsMon, 24 Aug 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics & Details Aplenty: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/pics-and-details-aplenty-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/pics-and-details-aplenty-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/17/pics-and-details-aplenty-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Along came a Spyder, and we sat down beside her to snap some photos for your viewing enjoyment from Pebble Beach, where Spyker unveiled the convertible version of its new C8 Aileron. And to go with them, we've now got a series of studio shots along with official details on the new roadster from Holland's niche automaker.

The handcrafted Aileron features aircraft-inspired styling in a way its northern neighbor Saab can only dream of, with turbine-styled air scoops, Rotorblade wheels and little propellor emblems abound, all in a nod to Spyker's roots in early aviation. LEDs serve in the tail-lamps, front turning indicators and side repeaters, but it's inside where the attention to detail really shines. Upholstered in Royal Dutch Tannery Hulshof's quilted Litano leather available in 14 standard colors to compliment the 16 exterior tints and 8 soft-top choices, the cabin features a Chronoswiss dashboard and industry-first Kharma sound system, while an optional five-piece Louis Vuitton luggage set can be had for the trunk.

What separates the Spyder from its fixed-roof counterpart unveiled in Geneva this past March is the electric-hydraulic roof that saves weight with a manually-operated single central latch mechanism. The twin buttresses on the decklid are emblazoned with what has to be an industry first: the company's motto, in Latin: "Nulla Tenaci Invia Est Via" (for the tenacious, no road is impassable). A luggage rack milled from solid billet aluminum is mounted right behind, while underneath rests an all-aluminum, Audi-sourced, 4.2-liter V8 producing 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Mated to either a Getrag manual or ZF automatic, both with 6 ratios, that's enough to propel the Dutch roadster to 60 in 4.5 seconds en route to a claimed top speed of 300 km/h (187 mph). Lotus fine-tuned the suspension and AP Racing provides the stopping power with optional carbon-ceramic brakes.

The Aileron Spyder is scheduled to go into production in the first half of next year, but you can follow the jump now to read the full press release and check out the gallery of studio shots below and the live shots from Monterey below that.


Gallery: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder


Gallery: Monterey 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

01-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live02-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live03-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live04-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live05-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live

Live Photos Copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc. and Stefan Ammerlaan/Spyker Cars

[Source: Spyker]

Continue reading Pics & Details Aplenty: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

Pics & Details Aplenty: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aileronaileron spyderAileronSpyderc8 aileronc8 spyderC8AileronC8Spyderspykerspyker aileronspyker c8spyker c8 aileronspyker c8 aileron spyderspyker spyderSpykerAileronSpykerC8SpykerC8AileronSpykerC8AileronSpyderSpykerSpyderMon, 17 Aug 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Concept and Show Car roundup at Pebble Beach]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/monterey-2009-concept-and-show-car-roundup-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/monterey-2009-concept-and-show-car-roundup-at-pebble-beach/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/16/monterey-2009-concept-and-show-car-roundup-at-pebble-beach/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Concept Lawn at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Concept Lawn at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance is usually packed with new and nearly-new concept cars from a who's who list of international automakers. Although the best-of-the-best were still represented, this year's display was a little different. Rather than just showing recent concepts, the lawn was used to show off some recently unveiled production cars as well.

Among the cars on the putting green at The Lodge were some brand-new debuts along with a few that we've seen already this year. A visual jog around the main ring included the Bugatti Veyron Sang Bleu, Audi R8 V10, Infiniti Essence, Mercedes SLR McLaren Stirling Moss, Bertone Mantide, SMS Challenger 570, 2010 Lotus Evora, Fisker Karma Sunset, Spyker Aileron Spyder, Iconic rolling chassis, 2010 Jaguar XJ, Devon GTX, 2010 Morgan Aero SuperSports, and the Rolls-Royce 200EX. An adjacent patch had the Lincoln Concept C and the Aston Martin One-77.

The Bugatti, the Aston, the Mantide and the Essence seemed to be getting the most attention, but there were also quite a few folks checking out the Lincoln, Lotus, Fisker, Spyker, Devon and Jag. Heck, all of them were getting a lot of looks. Our personal favorites included the Infiniti, which is amazingly elegant and sporty for its size, the Mantide, which has a certain presence to it and a purposefulness that photos can't really convey, and the One-77 which has some truly beautiful detailing. Check out our high-res gallery below and let us know what your favorite is.


Gallery: 2009 Pebble Beach Concept Car Lawn


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Monterey 2009: Concept and Show Car roundup at Pebble Beach originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinAstonMartinAudiAudi R8AudiR8bugattidevonFiskerLincoln Concept CLincolnConceptCLotusMantidemonterey 2009Monterey2009one-77pebble beachPebbleBeachSpykerSun, 16 Aug 2009 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Monterey 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder debuts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/15/monterey-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/15/monterey-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/15/monterey-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Spkyer C8 Aileron Spyder - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Spyker deals in the ultimate four-wheeled fashion accessories, so it's fitting that the automaker debuted its next-generation droptop - the C8 Aileron Spyder - to the primped and bedazzled throngs in Monterey.

Based off the all-new Aileron that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year (replacing the original C8 after a successful nine-year run), the Spyder version stays true to its predecessor with a frameless windshield and a flowing profile that doesn't disrupt the more angular, aircraft-inspired theme of the coupe.

Ahead of the CNC-machined aluminum luggage rack and integrated roll-bars, a tonneau cover houses a soft-top (available in eight colors) and glass window that's deployed using an electric/hydraulic system and latched with a single mechanism.

Like the original C8, Spyker developed the Aileron to be a convertible from the onset, so little if any modifications have been made to ready the Spyder for drop-top duty. The chassis carries over unchanged, as does the drivetrain - an Audi-sourced 400+ hp 4.2-liter with a choice of either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox (with paddle shifters) - along with the massive AP brakes and 19-inch Aeroblade wheels. And if the inside of the Aileron wasn't enough of a masterpiece to begin with, Spyker has teamed up with ultra-high-end stereo purveyors Kharma to offer a new infotainment system that will add another level of excess to the already excessive interior. Expect sales to begin later this, with around 50 percent of all Spyders winding up on U.S. shores.


Gallery: Monterey 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

01-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live02-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live03-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live04-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live05-spyker-c8-aileron-spyder-live

Photos Copyright (C)2009 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc. and Stefan Ammerlaan/Spyker Cars

Monterey 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder debuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 15 Aug 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aileronc8montereymonterey 2009Monterey2009pebblepebble 2009pebble beachPebble2009PebbleBeachspyderspykerspyker c8 aileron spyderSpykerC8AileronSpyderSat, 15 Aug 2009 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Spyker D12 SSUV to get Cadillac CTS-V supercharged V8?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/report-spyker-d12-ssuv-to-get-cadillac-cts-vs-supercharged-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/report-spyker-d12-ssuv-to-get-cadillac-cts-vs-supercharged-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/report-spyker-d12-ssuv-to-get-cadillac-cts-vs-supercharged-v8/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



It's been two-and-a-half years since the Spyker D12 Peking-to-Paris SSUV debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, and although the recent spate of spy shots indicate work is well underway, Spyker won't make its self-imposed release date this year.

Instead, the high-speed luxo-'ute will likely appear at next year's Geneva expo and when it does, it will like drop its "D12" moniker for "D8" thanks to the supercharged V8 lying under its sculpted hood.

Coinciding with earlier reports, Spyker plans to utilize an American-sourced V8 to power the D8 SSUV, and if Autoblog.nl's sleuthing abilities are to be believed, it's none other than General Motor's supercharged 6.2-liter LSA - the mill that powers the Cadillac CTS-V.

The Dutch site caught the same Land Rover mule we saw earlier this year, and after investigating the prototype's license plate, discovered the engine met the same specifications as the LSA. That would mean at least 550 hp and 550 lb-ft of torque, which should allow the SSUV to hit 60 mph in around five seconds and max out around 174 mph. If all goes according to plan, we'll see the production version in Geneva this March with sales beginning later in 2010.


Gallery: Pre-Production Spyker D12 Peking-to-Paris


[Source: Autoblog.nl via GTSpirit]

REPORT: Spyker D12 SSUV to get Cadillac CTS-V supercharged V8? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genevageneva 2010geneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowspykerspyker d12spyker d8SpykerD12SpykerD8Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyker preparing to enter GT1 with competition-spec C8 Aileron?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/spyker-preparing-to-enter-gt1-with-competition-spec-c8-aileron/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/spyker-preparing-to-enter-gt1-with-competition-spec-c8-aileron/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/spyker-preparing-to-enter-gt1-with-competition-spec-c8-aileron/#commentsFiled under: ,

Spyker C8 Laviolette GT2-R - Click above for high-res image gallery

Spyker may have dropped out of Formula One, but they haven't lost that competitive spirit. Even before selling its F1 team to Kingfisher's Vijay Mallya, who rechristened the squad as Force India, Spyker was fielding the race-prepped sports cars in the GT2 category, The C8 Laviolette GT2-R (pictured above) has been their weapon of choice, in turn yielding the road-worthy LM85 which debuted at last year's Los Angeles show. But the niche Dutch automaker is reportedly preparing to step into the big leagues.

According to the latest reports from across the pond, Spyker's new GT1 racer will be based on the latest C8 Aileron, complete with aluminum body and chassis and powered by a race-tuned Audi V8. Fielding the GT2 car will fall to privateer teams while the Spyker Squadron focuses on GT1. Of course the Dutch team will have to step up its game if it's going to dice it with the big boys next season, and we'll enjoy watching them go at it.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: 2009 Spyker C8 Aileron


Gallery: Spyker C8 Laviolette GT2-R


[Source: motorsportblog.it]

Spyker preparing to enter GT1 with competition-spec C8 Aileron? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt1gt2le mansLeManslm gt1lm gt2LmGt1LmGt2spykerspyker c8spyker c8 aileronspyker c8 gt1spyker c8 gt2spyker c8 gt2-rspyker c8 laviolettespyker c8 laviolette gt2-rspyker c8 laviolette lm85spyker c8 lm85spyker gt1spyker gt2-rSpykerC8SpykerC8AileronSpykerC8Gt1SpykerC8Gt2SpykerC8Gt2-rSpykerC8LavioletteSpykerC8LavioletteGt2-rSpykerC8LavioletteLm85SpykerC8Lm85SpykerGt1SpykerGt2-rFri, 03 Jul 2009 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[New pics of production Spyker Aileron hit the interwebs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/new-pics-of-production-spyker-aileron-hit-the-interwebs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/new-pics-of-production-spyker-aileron-hit-the-interwebs/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/new-pics-of-production-spyker-aileron-hit-the-interwebs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Spyker C8 Aileron - Click above for image gallery

Boutique Dutch carmaker Spyker unveiled its elongated and streamlined C8 Aileron back in March in Geneva, and we saw its North American debut in New York a month later. Those were show car versions of the upcoming production model based on the concept car we had seen in Geneva and Pebble Beach the year before. We've seen the imposing coupes from every possible angle, inside and out. They are finely crafted, uniquely engineered, rolling works of art, like a plutocrat's timepiece on wheels. What we haven't seen is a production-spec Aileron in red.

A new batch of photos has just begun circulating out onto the 'net, showing a stunning red Aileron driving around Europe. A reliable source tells us this is the first pre-production car to hit the streets, so it is only a matter of time before we see one of these 400 horsepower, Audi 4.2-liter V8-powered rocketships in private hands. Click below to see our full gallery.


Gallery: Spyker Aileron in red


[Source: Spyker]

New pics of production Spyker Aileron hit the interwebs originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aileronspykerSpyker Aileronspyker c8spyker c8 aileronSpykerAileronSpykerC8SpykerC8AileronThu, 02 Jul 2009 15:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Spyker planning on introducing a Maserati Quattroporte killer?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/is-spyker-planning-on-introducing-a-maserati-quattroporte-killer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/is-spyker-planning-on-introducing-a-maserati-quattroporte-killer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/24/is-spyker-planning-on-introducing-a-maserati-quattroporte-killer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Spyker is -- once again -- talking about a new line of vehicles that will take on four-door sports sedans like the Maserati Quattroporte and Porsche Panamera. Two years ago Spyker mentioned an E-line with eight- and twelve-cylinder engines would join the C-line sports cars and D-line SUVs. With the trouble the company had simply surviving, those plans were left outside to die. Now with the D8 Paris-to-Peking SUV back in progress and cars like the LM85 to crow about, Spyker CEO Victor Muller believes now could be the time to resurrect the saloon. It's taken four years for the D8 to appear in close-to-production form so we wouldn't line up for the Spyker E yet. But as Adam Ant said, there's always room at the top, and the Dutch company is always good for an interesting variation on familiar themes.

[Source: Quotenet (translated) via Autoblog.nl (translated)]

Is Spyker planning on introducing a Maserati Quattroporte killer? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dutchgthollandsaloonsedansportsspykerspyker e12spyker e8SpykerE12SpykerE8the netherlandsTheNetherlandsFri, 24 Apr 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyker reportedly dropping V12 in Peking-Paris SUV for V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/19/spyker-reportedly-dropping-v12-in-peking-paris-suv-for-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/19/spyker-reportedly-dropping-v12-in-peking-paris-suv-for-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/19/spyker-reportedly-dropping-v12-in-peking-paris-suv-for-v8/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Spyker Peking-Paris concept - Click above for a high-res gallery

You might question whether the time is right for Spyker to unleash its $300,000 Peking-Paris SSUV on the global motoring public, but, as recent spy shots indicated, a recent influx of development money from Russia means the project is apparently very much still in the works. According to reports, plans for a V12 engine have officially been shelved in favor of a V8.

We're not certain who will supply the engine for the Spyker D8. Currently, the Dutch automaker gets its powerplants from Audi, including the 400-horsepower 4.2L V8 powering the C8, but past rumors have suggested that Spyker might instead use a good 'ol American V8 in the production SUV. If Cars UK is right about the D8 getting a supercharged 8-cylinder poweplant with at least 550 horsepower, we can think of a few excellent choices for Spyker to consider. We should find out soon enough - Spyker is reportedly prepping the D8 for a debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Thanks for the tip, John!


Gallery: Pre-Production Spyker D12 Peking-to-Paris



[Source: Cars UK]

Spyker reportedly dropping V12 in Peking-Paris SUV for V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 Apr 2009 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>spykerspyker d12spyker d12 pekingspyker d12 peking-to-parisspyker d12 ssuvspyker d12 suvspyker d8spyker d8 peking to parisspyker d8 peking-parisspyker d8 suvSpykerD12SpykerD12PekingSpykerD12Peking-to-parisSpykerD12SsuvSpykerD12SuvSpykerD8SpykerD8Peking-parisSpykerD8PekingToParisSpykerD8SuvSun, 19 Apr 2009 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[New York: Spyker C8 Aileron makes North American debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/10/new-york-spyker-c8-aileron-makes-north-american-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/10/new-york-spyker-c8-aileron-makes-north-american-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/10/new-york-spyker-c8-aileron-makes-north-american-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Spyker C8 Aileron

Dutch car manufacturer Spyker unveiled its updated version of the C8, the Aileron, last month in Geneva, but the U.S. is getting its first look at the quirky supercar in New York. While the car doesn't look like that much different than its predecessor, Spyker claims to have made some fairly significant changes including an all-new, lengthier space-frame chassis and more interior space. Power is once again sourced from Audi, coming in the form of a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V8 producing 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft torque. Hit the jump for more details in the press release from Spyker, and check out the new high-res photos (both exterior and interior) in the gallery below.


Gallery: New York 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc

Continue reading New York: Spyker C8 Aileron makes North American debut

New York: Spyker C8 Aileron makes North American debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audinew yorknew york 2009new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2009NewYorkAutoShownewyorkautoshow2009nyautoshowspykerspyker c8 aileronSpykerC8AileronFri, 10 Apr 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyker's owner shot in apparent assassination attempt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/spyker-owner-shot-in-apparent-assassination-attempt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/spyker-owner-shot-in-apparent-assassination-attempt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/18/spyker-owner-shot-in-apparent-assassination-attempt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Spyker C8 in Geneva

Reuters is reporting that Alexander Antonov, the owner of flamboyant Dutch supercar company Spyker, has been seriously wounded in an apparent assassination attempt while leaving his Moscow residence. The Russian billionaire, who is also the chairman of the board of the Konvers Group (a banking concern), was shot along with a bodyguard.

According to the news agency, Antonov has survived the attack and his injuries have been identified as non life-threatening, although he remains in intensive care after being shot five times in the stomach and losing a finger to another bullet. The security guard, shot in the leg, is also in intensive care but is expected to survive.

Moscow police are now investigating the crime, and though they have yet to make any arrests, they apparently suspect that the shooting is related to Antonov's business dealings.

Sources: Reuters; Autocar]

Spyker's owner shot in apparent assassination attempt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingBreaking NewsBreakingNewsDutchRussiaRussianSpykerWed, 18 Mar 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron gets a longer fuselage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-gets-a-longer-fuselage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-gets-a-longer-fuselage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/04/geneva-2009-spyker-c8-aileron-gets-a-longer-fuselage/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Spyker C8 Aileron

Stylish. Unique. Quirky. "Practical" isn't one of the words typically associated with Spykers, but apparently customers in the Dutch automaker's niche clientele found the C8's cabin, deliciously steampunk as it is, a tad cramped. Spyker has responded by stretching the supercar's wheelbase to offer a bit more interior space for all that retro switchgear and diamond-quilted leather to create the C8 Aileron, unveiled in concept form here last year and in the final production version this time 'round at the Geneva Motor Show.

Although the Aileron would ostensibly seem a simple stretch job, Spyker claims to have completely re-engineered the car from scratch, starting with the aluminum space-frame chassis. However you look at it, the Aileron is 155mm (5.9 inches) longer than the C8 Laviolette it replaces. A lengthened C8 Spyder is also in the works, and the more commodious version promises to help the troubled niche automaker branch into the lucrative North American market. Full details, including the Audi-sourced 400-hp V8, are enumerated in the press release after the jump, and you can view the new Aileron in all its machined aluminum, aircraft-inspired glory in the gallery below.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: 2009 Spyker C8 Aileron



Photos Copyright (C)2009 Noah Joseph / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron gets a longer fuselage

Geneva 2009: Spyker C8 Aileron gets a longer fuselage originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dutchgenevageneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowspykerspyker aileronspyker c8spyker c8 aileronspyker genevaSpykerAileronSpykerC8SpykerC8AileronSpykerGenevaWed, 04 Mar 2009 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyker C8 Aileron teased ahead of Geneva unveiling ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/20/spyker-c8-aileron-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/20/spyker-c8-aileron-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/20/spyker-c8-aileron-teased-ahead-of-geneva-unveiling/#commentsFiled under: , ,



At last year's Geneva Motor Show we got our first glimpse of the Spyker C8 Aileron, the stretched and stiffened coupe that could replace the C8 Laviolette later this year. In keeping with its promise to deliver a production version of the C8 Aileron in 2009, Spkyer has released a teaser of its newest hypercar ahead of its reveal in Geneva next month.

There's no doubt that the stylistic insanity of the concept will make its way to the production model, along with the Audi-sourced 4.2-liter V8, putting out 400 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. A choice of either a Getrag six-speed manual or ZF auto-box will deliver power to the rear wheels, and with a curb weight of just over 3,100 pounds, the Aileron will hit 60 in 4.5 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 187 mph.

Spyker's trademark interior trinkets, including its turned aluminum dash, will find their way inside, along with a Kharma stereo with GPS, Bluetooth integration and MP3 compatibility. Production is expected to begin in May, with sales starting in early summer, and expect a convertible variant to bow next year.

Gallery: Spyker C8 Aileron

Spyker C8 Aileron teased ahead of Geneva unveiling originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Feb 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aileronc8genevageneva 2009geneva motor showGeneva2009GenevaMotorShowspykerspyker c8 aileronSpykerC8AileronFri, 20 Feb 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyker by sea? Sylvestri Aquamotive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/spyker-by-sea-sylvestri-aquamotive/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/spyker-by-sea-sylvestri-aquamotive/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/spyker-by-sea-sylvestri-aquamotive/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Silvestris Sports Cabriolet

After Dutch designer Maarten de Bruijn bought the rights to Spyker name, the first prototype design he attached it to was the Spyker Silvestris. A couple of years later, he and partner Victor Mol had Spyker making cars again, but in 2005 de Bruijn left the company for other pursuits. That same year, he and two other partners founded Silvestris Haute Motive Concepts, with the first product being the 23-foot Silvestris Sports Cabriolet speedboat.

Using automotive build techniques - hence the name "Aquamotive" - aluminum panels are bonded and riveted to a tubular aluminum spaceframe. The cockpit features a tilt steering wheel and heaps of seawater-proof leather. The remotely-controlled rear hatch hides two more leather-shrouded thrones, and even the front compartment comes with a hatch (making for a markedly sleeker-looking craft when closed). There are six engines available, the uppermost being a 560 horsepower, 8.1-liter V8 good for 55 knots and more than a few envious looks. Check the Silvestris out in the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Silvestris Sport Cabriolet Speedboat


[Source: Classic Driver]

Spyker by sea? Sylvestri Aquamotive originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Dec 2008 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boatsetcmaarten de bruijnMaartenDeBruijnsilvestrisspeedboatspykerSat, 20 Dec 2008 15:19:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2008: Our Orange Crush is the Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-our-orange-crush-is-the-spyker-c8-laviolette-lm85/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-our-orange-crush-is-the-spyker-c8-laviolette-lm85/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/19/la-2008-our-orange-crush-is-the-spyker-c8-laviolette-lm85/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85

The Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85, which we'll call "Tiger," is officially out and about. Spyker has released more images of the Audi-engined, 400-hp, 6-speed manual Le Mans-inspired road car, and to our eyes it could be the best looking Spyker we've seen. The blacked-out mirrors do it a lot of favors and don't remind us any more of carry handles, and it has even retained 19-inch wheels secured with one lug nut and will apparently get you a combined 15 mpg on the EPA cycle. Not bad for a leathered up race car. Check out the press release after the jump and the galleries of high-res shots in our galleries below.

Gallery: LA 2008: Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85


Gallery: Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85


Live photos copyright (C)2008 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2008: Our Orange Crush is the Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85

LA 2008: Our Orange Crush is the Spyker C8 Laviolette LM85 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c8c8 laviolettec8 laviolette lm85C8LavioletteC8LavioletteLm85coupesla 2008la auto showla auto show 2008La2008LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2008sports carsSportsCarsspykerspyker c8 laviolettespyker c8 laviolette lm85SpykerC8LavioletteSpykerC8LavioletteLm85Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:32:00 EST