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[Top Ten Stolen Vehicles of 2008]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/top-ten-stolen-vehicles-of-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/top-ten-stolen-vehicles-of-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/top-ten-stolen-vehicles-of-2008/#commentsFiled under:



Thanks to modern technologies like ignition keys with embedded chips and factory installed security immobilizers, it's getting harder and harder to steal new cars. As a result, the number of cars and trucks stolen in the United States dropped by 13.1 percent in 2008 compared to 2007, a trend that has been continuing for five years. Total thefts for the year could actually end up under 1 million for the first time in 20 years.

Owners of older cars on the other hand aren't so lucky. One of the main driving factors behind car thefts is to strip the vehicles and sell the parts. The main market for those parts is older, high volume vehicles, so the same vehicles are the ones that tend to get stolen. The top ten stolen vehicles for 2008 includes a couple of surprises and a bunch of perennial hits. Check out the whole list by clicking the image above.

[Source: SmartBrief | Photo by stephenyeargin | CC 2.0]

Continue reading Top Ten Stolen Vehicles of 2008

Top Ten Stolen Vehicles of 2008 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredtop tentop ten listtop ten liststop ten stolen carsTopTenTopTenListTopTenListsTopTenStolenCarsMon, 31 Aug 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 Most/Least Expensive Vehicles To Insure]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/top-10-most-least-expensive-vehicles-to-insure/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/top-10-most-least-expensive-vehicles-to-insure/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/top-10-most-least-expensive-vehicles-to-insure/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for Most Expensive ------------------------------- Click above for Least Expensive

There are lots of variables to consider when shopping for your next new car. Obviously, the initial purchase price is a big part of the decision, but that's certainly not the only sum to factor in. For instance, the cost of gas and insurance need to be added in to figure out the final monthly expenditure. This being the case, we're all keenly interested to know how vehicles compare when it comes to these ancillary charges.

Thankfully, there are experts paid to do this tedious work for us. Researchers from Insure.com compiled a list of nearly 300 vehicles available in 2009 and has broken them out in order of average insurance costs. For the most part, the list plays out pretty much as you'd expect to see. There are a few surprises, though. For instance, coming in as the eleventh most expensive vehicle to insure - and therefore the first vehicle not appearing on our list of the most expensive cars to insure - is the Chevy Cobalt SS. That means the littlest Super Sport in the Bowtie stable costs more to insure than cars like the Jaguar XKR, BMW M3 and Audi R8. Who'da thunk?

Want to know more? Take a moment to follow us along as we take a brief look at both ends of the insurance cost spectrum. First, click here to see the Top 10 Most Expensive Cars to Insure. Finished? Perfect, as an interesting counterpoint, click here to see the Top 10 Least Expensive Cars to Insure. Remember, the prices quoted by Insure.com are averages, so your actual insurance premiums may vary widely.



[Source: Insure.com, Main image by limonada | CC2.0]

Top 10 Most/Least Expensive Vehicles To Insure originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto insuranceAutoInsuranceautomobile insuranceAutomobileInsurancefeaturedinsurance costsInsuranceCoststop 10top 10 carstop 10 least expensive carstop 10 listtop 10 most expensive carstop tentop ten carstop ten insurancetop ten least expensive carstop ten listtop ten liststop ten most expensive carsTop10Top10CarsTop10LeastExpensiveCarsTop10ListTop10MostExpensiveCarsTopTenTopTenCarsTopTenInsuranceTopTenLeastExpensiveCarsTopTenListTopTenListsTopTenMostExpensiveCarsTue, 09 Jun 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 Animated Cars Of All Time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/top-10-animated-cars-of-all-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/top-10-animated-cars-of-all-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/05/top-10-animated-cars-of-all-time/#commentsFiled under: ,



We love cars here at Autoblog, and we've been inflicted with this particular disease for our entire lives - even back when we were but young little tykes. Like most of you, we have fond memories of plopping ourselves in front of the television to watch Saturday morning cartoons - especially the shows that prominently featured automobiles in one form or another. In fact, that appreciation for all things automotive lives with us to this day, and we still get a kick out of animated features that focus in on our favorite subject in the world.

With all of this in mind, follow along with us today as we recount our favorite Top 10 Animated Cars Of All Time. To make it on our list, a vehicle had to be prominently featured on an animated show on either the small or big screen. Hopefully, there's something for everybody on today's list, as it stretches from before many of us were born right on through to today.


Top 10 Animated Cars Of All Time originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Jun 2009 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredtop 10top 10 animated carstop 10 animated cars of all timetop 10 listtop tentop ten animated carstop ten carstop ten listtop ten listsTop10Top10AnimatedCarsTop10AnimatedCarsOfAllTimeTop10ListTopTenTopTenAnimatedCarsTopTenCarsTopTenListTopTenListsFri, 05 Jun 2009 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 7 Good Cars From "Bad GM"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/top-7-good-cars-from-bad-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/top-7-good-cars-from-bad-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/03/top-7-good-cars-from-bad-gm/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,



General Motors makes more than a few world-class automobiles. As true as that statement may be, that alone wasn't enough to stall the automaker's steady decline - fueled as it may have been by the global economic downturn - into Chapter 11 bankruptcy. To expedite GM's return to viability, the Obama Administration plans to split the giant automaker into two parts, a so-called "Good GM" made up of GM's best assets and "Bad GM," which is what we're examining in today's Top Ten list.

In case you're not aware, Bad GM happens to include the entire lines from HUMMER, Pontiac, Saab and Saturn. Instead of dwelling on the oft ignored, underdeveloped and stagnant vehicles in Bad GM's lineup, we're taking a look at the best that Bad GM has to offer. Try as we might to make this into a true Top Ten list, we were only able to come up with seven suitable vehicles to lament - which admittedly does tell us something. Some were obvious, a few not so much. That said, follow along as we pick the Top 7 Good Cars from Bad GM.

Top 7 Good Cars From "Bad GM" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bad gmBadGmfeaturedgeneral motorsgeneral motors bankruptcyGeneralMotorsGeneralMotorsBankruptcygm bankruptcyGmBankruptcytop 7top 7 good cars from bad gmtop seventop tenTop7Top7GoodCarsFromBadGmTopSevenTopTenWed, 03 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten LeMons Contenders... in 2029]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/top-ten-lemons-contenders-in-2029/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/top-ten-lemons-contenders-in-2029/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/29/top-ten-lemons-contenders-in-2029/#commentsFiled under:



The drive from Autoblog's South Bay outpost to Reno-Fernley raceway gave Justice Lieberman and I some time to wax poetic on the 24 Hours of LeMons. Peppered between discussions about the race, the field of competitors and the finer points of officiating the world's fastest growing motorsport (we're pretty sure), I asked the question: what cars are going to dominate LeMons 20 years from now? Some were obvious, so were absurd and others were dismissed out of hand.

So when we got back, I listed off the most credible contenders that came up during our discussion. In order to be qualified for the list, the vehicle had to meet certain criteria. First, it has to be on sale today and available in sufficient numbers. That means niche vehicles are generally out. Secondly, it can't be one of the front-runners currently dominating LeMons, so the BMW 3 Series, Mazda MX-5 and Civic aren't included on the list, although they'll undoubtedly have a presence during the 2029 LeMons season. Third, they had to have some amount of aftermarket support, so replacements and performance parts could be had in the junkyards of tomorrow. What'd we come up with? Click below to start the list.


Continue reading Top Ten LeMons Contenders... in 2029

Top Ten LeMons Contenders... in 2029 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 May 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>24 hors of lemons24HorsOfLemonslemonslemons 2029Lemons2029top tenTopTenFri, 29 May 2009 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten Forgotten Convertibles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/top-ten-forgotten-convertibles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/top-ten-forgotten-convertibles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/20/top-ten-forgotten-convertibles/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Since the advent of the automobile, automakers have always been compelled to go topless with a variety of cars, and occasionally, trucks. For a brief period in the late 1970s, after rollover safety standards threatened our wind-in-the-hair, sun-loving ways, it was nearly impossible to find a real convertible to buy in America. Instead, automakers introduced alternatives like the targa and T-top that maintained a modicum of protection from a vestigial roof.

All that changed as the '80s approached and the convertible once again took its rightful place in the line-ups of nearly every automaker doing business in America. This resurgence gave way to a host of new drop-tops on the market, and who can forget the throngs of Chrysler LeBaron convertibles or the game-changing Mazda Miata?

Today, though, we're taking a stroll through memory lane with some of the least popular convertibles we could dredge up from our quickly fading memory banks. To qualify for this particular list, the car had to be a true convertible, which excluded such gems as the Suzuki X90, Nissan Pulsar NX and Daihatsu Rocky. Without further ado, then, we bring you the Top Ten Forgotten Convertibles of the past 30 years.

Top Ten Forgotten Convertibles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>top 10top 10 convertiblestop 10 forgotten convertiblestop 10 listtop tentop ten carstop ten convertiblestop ten forgotten convertiblestop ten listtop ten listsTop10Top10ConvertiblesTop10ForgottenConvertiblesTop10ListTopTenTopTenCarsTopTenConvertiblesTopTenForgottenConvertiblesTopTenListTopTenListsWed, 20 May 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 Forgotten Hatchbacks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/top-10-forgotten-hatchbacks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/top-10-forgotten-hatchbacks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/12/top-10-forgotten-hatchbacks/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The annals of U.S. automobile history may be littered with the occasional hatchback success story, but for every Volkswagen Golf or Toyota Prius, there are dozens of failed three- and five-door hatches that, for whatever reason, fizzled out shortly after hitting the American market. In fact, this particular Top 10 list could easily have been fleshed out into a Top 20 if we had the patience, but cars like the Toyota FX, Plymouth Laser, and Nissan NX failed to meet our tough standards for relative obscurity, and thus they will have to be reserved for future lists.

That said, follow along with us as we take a guided tour of some of the most obscure hatchbacks from the last three decades. Don't sweat it if you don't recall a few of the forgotten machines on our list - most of us - with at least one glaring exception *cough, Paukert, cough* - had to delve deep into our rapidly fading memory banks just to remember the names of these unloved glassbacks.

Top 10 Forgotten Hatchbacks originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 May 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredhatchbackhatchbacksobscure hatchbacksObscureHatchbackstop tentop ten carstop ten forgotten hatchbackstop ten hatchbackstop ten listtop ten listsTopTenTopTenCarsTopTenForgottenHatchbacksTopTenHatchbacksTopTenListTopTenListsTue, 12 May 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten features vanishing from modern-day automobiles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/top-ten-features-vanishing-from-modern-day-automobiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/top-ten-features-vanishing-from-modern-day-automobiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/01/top-ten-features-vanishing-from-modern-day-automobiles/#commentsFiled under: ,



Time marches on. It's an undeniable truth in all industries, and the car making business is no different. For most, this is an exceedingly good thing, as it means today's automobiles are packed with more features and technology than ever before. Modern-day cars are faster, quieter, cleaner and safer now than in any other point in history.

Unfortunately for the minority that prefers cars the way they were, it seems highly unlikely that the ten things in the following list will stay around much longer. To make our list, an item must still be available somewhere in today's marketplace, so don't expect to see things like tail fins or push-button automatic transmissions on the following pages.

With that in mind, take a few moments to reminisce with us as we take a look at the top ten features vanishing from modern-day automobiles.

Top Ten features vanishing from modern-day automobiles originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 May 2009 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>top tentop ten carstop ten listTopTenTopTenCarsTopTenListFri, 01 May 2009 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 Mid-Engined Hatchbacks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/top-10-mid-engined-hatchbacks/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/top-10-mid-engined-hatchbacks/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/31/top-10-mid-engined-hatchbacks/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to start Top 10 Best Mid-Engine Hatchbacks

There are few concoctions in the automotive industry as bonkers as the mid-engine hatchback. The concept takes the most exotic layout and wraps it in the bodywork of the most mundane and commonplace, creating a paradoxical sub-segment that makes you wonder what their designers were smoking. (Turns out it was rubber, incidentally.) And while incarnations of the mid-engined hatch are a bit of a rarity, the years have produced a considerable number of these most insane of auto types. We're celebrating the holidays with our ten favorites, and invite you to come along in our gallery by clicking on the image below.

Top 10 Mid-Engined Hatchbacks originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Dec 2008 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredmid-engine hatchmid-engine hatchbackmid-engined hatchMid-enginedHatchMid-engineHatchMid-engineHatchbacktop 10top 10 mid-engined hatchbackstop tentop ten mid-engine hatchTop10Top10Mid-enginedHatchbacksTopTenTopTenMid-engineHatchWed, 31 Dec 2008 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 Cars That Don't Deserve Their Engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/top-ten-cars-that-dont-deserve-their-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/top-ten-cars-that-dont-deserve-their-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/29/top-ten-cars-that-dont-deserve-their-engines/#commentsFiled under: ,



The engine is the crown jewel of any automobile and can make or break a car in the eyes of an automotive enthusiast. No matter how sweet a car's handling or how neutral its balance, a limp-wristed engine can completely kill the machine's ability to put a smile on your face. Conversely, nothing screams buzzkill quite like a glorious engine cooped up in a dowdy package. Such is the case with the ten vehicles that made their way on our Top Ten Cars That Don't Deserve Their Engines list. Unfortunately, the powerplants under the hoods of these ten cars are forever destined to mediocrity. Some may consider these cars sleepers due to their often unassuming wrappers, but we maintain these engines would rather live a life free of their humble trappings; free to ingest the atmosphere with reckless abandon and exhale their burnt offerings to the gods of a good time.

Top 10 Cars That Don't Deserve Their Engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Dec 2008 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredslow sportscarsSlowSportscarstop 10 cars that dont deserve their enginestop tentop ten carstop ten listtop ten listsTop10CarsThatDontDeserveTheirEnginesTopTenTopTenCarsTopTenListTopTenListsweak sportscarsWeakSportscarsMon, 29 Dec 2008 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 10 Least Stolen Vehicles in 2008]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/top-10-least-stolen-vehicles-in-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/top-10-least-stolen-vehicles-in-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/top-10-least-stolen-vehicles-in-2008/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to start the list of Top Ten Least Stolen Vehicles in 2008

Yesterday we showed you the Top Ten Most Stolen Vehicles in 2008 based on thefts per number of insured models. While many of you pointed out that these were, in fact, not the most stolen vehicles overall, most of you agreed that they weren't worth risking time in the clink over, either. Even the most stolen vehicles overall like the Honda Civic, Accord and Toyota Camry don't really seem worth the trouble unless you run a chop-shop. So what can you do to keep your daily commuter parked safe and sound in the driveway? Perhaps drive one of these.

Again using new data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and Highway Loss Data Institute, we've assembled a new list of the Top Ten Least Stolen Vehicles in 2008. Not all of them are undesirable, some just have very good protective devices. Others are just so popular that their owners don't let them out of their sight. We make no promises about whether or not your particular car will be stolen, but we do know that the IIHS says these vehicles generate the fewest insurance-claim reports related to theft. As before, the figures are reported in number of claims filed for every 1,000 vehicles insured each year, and this most recent report covers vehicles made and sold between 2005 and 2007. So follow the banner to find out what the least stolen cars of 2008 are.

Top 10 Least Stolen Vehicles in 2008 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredleast stolen vehiclesLeastStolenVehiclestop 10top 10 listtop tentop ten least stolen vehicles 2008top ten listTop10Top10ListTopTenTopTenLeastStolenVehicles2008TopTenListTue, 09 Dec 2008 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[The Top 10-ish Orphan Car Brands]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/01/the-top-10-ish-orphan-car-brands/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/01/the-top-10-ish-orphan-car-brands/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/01/the-top-10-ish-orphan-car-brands/#commentsFiled under:



In this era of automakers on the brink of extinction, it's worth recalling that car companies going belly up is not a new phenomenon. Henry Ford himself started up two other brands that failed before Ford Motor Co. finally caught on. Start-up companies are not something that was invented in Silicon Valley and among all start-ups, failure is much more likely than success. In the early part of the 20th century, as the car was just gaining traction, there were literally thousands of automakers, most of whom have been long since lost to history. In the next couple of years we will almost certainly see more brands disappear and consolidate, so let's look back at some of the more memorable examples that are already gone while we wait for others to go. For those interested in seeing some of these orphans in person, we recommend checking out the annual Orphan Car Show every June in Ypsilanti, MI. Most of the gallery photos were shot there.

The Top 10-ish Orphan Car Brands originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredorphan car brandsorphan car showorphan carsOrphanCarBrandsOrphanCarsOrphanCarShowtop tentop ten listtop ten liststop ten orphan car brandsTopTenTopTenListTopTenListsTopTenOrphanCarBrandsMon, 01 Dec 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Ten Things Autoblog is Thankful For]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/27/top-ten-things-autoblog-is-thankful-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/27/top-ten-things-autoblog-is-thankful-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/27/top-ten-things-autoblog-is-thankful-for/#commentsFiled under:



The industry that we know and love is facing hard times right now. Guess what? We're not going to talk about it. No, instead of spending time dwelling on the negative, which we can't really do anything about at the moment anyway, we're training our sights on the positives. There's plenty to be happy about in autodom, whether you are a fan of classic Detroit iron, forcefully-aspirated four-bangers and just about anything in between. Besides the mechanical bits that we constantly obsess over, there's also the joy of driving, though that may be the last thing on your mind in your tryptofan-induced coma. To commemorate our love of all things automotive, we've decided that a Top Ten list enumerating all the things for which Autoblog is thankful is in order. So, without further ado...

Top Ten Things Autoblog is Thankful For originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 13:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog top tenAutoblogTopTenthankfulthanksgivingthanksgiving dinnerThanksgivingDinnertop tentop ten listtop ten liststop ten things autoblog is thankful forTopTenTopTenListTopTenListsTopTenThingsAutoblogIsThankfulForThu, 27 Nov 2008 13:11:00 EST<![CDATA[duPont Registry's 11 "Best of" cars set horsepower, price records]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/dupont-registrys-11-best-of-cars-set-horsepower-price-record/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/dupont-registrys-11-best-of-cars-set-horsepower-price-record/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/09/dupont-registrys-11-best-of-cars-set-horsepower-price-record/#commentsFiled under: ,



The duPont Registry has listed the best cars in eleven categories, and taking the cake for 2009 Car of the Year is the Bugatti Veyron Gran Sport. Other winners, like the ZR1 for Bang for the Buck and Continental Flying Spur Speed for Performance Sedan, make up the usual murderers' row of marques and models. What isn't usual is that in just one year, the total price of all the cars jumped 200% to $4.5 million because of a certain Bug and a Koenigsegg, and that the total horsepower climbed 57%, from 4,276 to 6,723.

Oddly, though, duPont says that the era of hi-po supercars may have peaked, and things could be going green - but neither the list nor the facts on the ground bear it out. Of the eleven cars, only the Tesla and the Ronn Motors Scorpion could be considered green, and one of them doesn't even exist yet. As for the rest, we don't know what the opposite of green is, but none of the nine other cars are expected to have less horsepower in their follow-up guises. Which means there's still time to get some thrills in, as long as you've got at least $110,000 to spend... Check out the full press release after the jump.

[Source: duPont Registry]

Continue reading duPont Registry's 11 "Best of" cars set horsepower, price records

duPont Registry's 11 "Best of" cars set horsepower, price records originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dupont registryDupontRegistryexotic carsExoticCarslistssupercarstop tentop ten listsTopTenTopTenListsThu, 09 Oct 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Freep names 10 cars that will redefine the industry... like the Camaro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/13/freep-names-10-cars-that-will-redefine-the-industry-like-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/13/freep-names-10-cars-that-will-redefine-the-industry-like-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/13/freep-names-10-cars-that-will-redefine-the-industry-like-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



The Detroit Free Press laid out ten industry-redefining cars, and we're, well, a little perplexed. This is the definition, in the paper's own words: "a handful of new vehicles that debut over the next 12 months may shape the future of automakers around the world. They come in all shapes and sizes. Some break new ground for their manufacturers. Others aim to reassert companies' dominance in market segments they created."

We don't believe they are ranked in any order, but first up is the Audi A4, with a "beautifully balanced chassis" and bargain price that could put the shakes into everyone from BMW to Acura. The Chevy Traverse might outsell the GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook, and Buick Enclave combined. The new Dodge Ram will be ultra smooth, the new Ford F-150 will be more frugal. And so on...

While all of these are worthy accomplishments, none of them -- not even the 2010 Prius nor the 2010 Lincoln MKT -- appears to have any claim to redefining the industry. But follow the link and see for yourself. Maybe we missed something.

[Source: Detroit Free Press via Chevy Traverse Forum]

Freep names 10 cars that will redefine the industry... like the Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 13 Sep 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>listliststop tentop ten listtop ten listsTopTenTopTenListTopTenListsSat, 13 Sep 2008 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder wins for Most Toxic New Car Smell]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/mitsubishi-eclipse-spyder-wins-for-most-toxic-new-car-smell/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/mitsubishi-eclipse-spyder-wins-for-most-toxic-new-car-smell/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/30/mitsubishi-eclipse-spyder-wins-for-most-toxic-new-car-smell/#commentsFiled under: , ,



That envious "new car" smell, the unique scent that makes all of your friends jealous as they check out your new ride, is actually quite toxic. The potent brew of freshly released bromine, chlorine, lead, and other heavy metals are responsible for a variety of acute and long-term health concerns that adults, and especially children, should be concerned about. That being the case, the Ecology Center has released its annual consumer guide to the most toxic (and cleanest) new cars on the market. Taking the tallest podium as the worst offender is the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spider GT. Following in second is the Suzuki Reno, while the BMW 128i Convertible lands third. The least offensive new vehicle, as researched by the Center, is the Acura RDX SH-AWD. The Smart Pure Coupe and Chevrolet HHR LT take second and third cleanest, respectively. While the Ecology Center is quick to point out that the offenders aren't as bad as last year's group, they offer little information as to how consumers can limit their exposure... short of not buying a new car.

[Source: HealthyCar via The Car Connection]

Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder wins for Most Toxic New Car Smell originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ecology CenterEcologyCenterharmful smellHarmfulSmelllistnew car smellNewCarSmelloffenderstop tenTopTentoxictoxic carstoxic chemicalsToxicCarsToxicChemicalsWed, 30 Jul 2008 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Forbes names Top 10 Guilt-Free Luxury Cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/26/forbes-names-top-10-guilt-free-luxury-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/26/forbes-names-top-10-guilt-free-luxury-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/26/forbes-names-top-10-guilt-free-luxury-cars/#commentsFiled under: ,



In today's economy of high gas prices, luxury automobiles get a bad rap. However, Forbes points out, some luxury sedans and SUVs are frugal in their fuel consumption, and even retain a healthy amount of their residual values. Based on those two main factors, Forbes.com has named their Top Ten list of "guilt-free luxury cars".

As you'd expect, the bulk of the list is constituted of German and Japanese luxury automobiles for their resale values, and hybrids for their fuel economy. But some of their selections may surprise you. While the Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec, Lexus RX400h and LS460h seem like natural choices, other Mercedes SUVs - namely the M-Class and GL-Class - were also nominated. More surprisingly, the Jaguar XF is on there, as is the flame-snorting Lexus IS-F. The rest of the list is rounded out with the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6 and Infiniti M35. Check out Forbes.com to find out what makes these ten vehicles so "guilt-free".

[Source: Forbes.com]

Forbes names Top 10 Guilt-Free Luxury Cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Employing research that they certainly did not get from AOL Autos, Forbes is at it again with a list of the Top 10 Fastest Fictional Cars. One of the things we find odd about the list is that there are a number of cars included that you can actually buy or make pretty easily, like James Bond's Aston Martin DBS or the General Lee. That, and a lot of cars for sale today are as fast or faster than some fictional ones on the list.

Yet the strangest thing on the list has to be that Lightning McQueen, he of Cars fame, has a 750-horsepower V8 but takes 4.5 seconds to get from 0-to-60. Disney, come on. It's no wonder Lightning had self-esteem issues.

We won't tell you what No. 1 is, but it goes 800-MPH and runs on Energon, which, sadly, Chevron doesn't carry. Click the link for the full rundown, and check out the list of honorable mentions as well, which includes the Gran Torino from Starsky & Hutch and the G-6155 Interceptor from the Spy Hunter video game. Thanks for the tip, Benjamin!

[Source: Forbes]

Forbes lists the Top 10 Fastest Fictional Cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 May 2008 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fictional carsFictionalCarsforbesforbes.comforbesmagazinelistliststop tentop ten listtop ten listsTopTenTopTenListTopTenListsThu, 15 May 2008 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Paris Redux: MSN picks the Paris Motor Show's top 10]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/10/paris-redux-msn-picks-the-paris-motor-shows-top-10/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/10/paris-redux-msn-picks-the-paris-motor-shows-top-10/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/10/paris-redux-msn-picks-the-paris-motor-shows-top-10/#commentsFiled under: , ,

While our guys really liked the Peugeot 908 RC and Nissan Qashqai and thought the Audi R8 was a little overrated (check out the Autoblog Podcast recapping the show), the editors of MSN Autos have come back with their list of favorites from the Paris Show with picks that were a little more predictable. Kicking it off is a car that, at least visually, would grab almost anybody's attention -- the Audi R8. MSN Autos praises the vehicle's styling, speed and customary implementation of Audi's quattro system, along with the not-so-customary engine placement behind the passenger compartment, which should add up to world-class handling dynamics.

Second up is the Peugeot 908 RC, which MSN liked for its high-riding windshield, rear-placement 700 hp V12 and presence, followed by the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, which was credited for being the claws by which the Alfa cat plans to pull itself back onto U.S. turf. So as not to upset the tuner crowd, the guys at MSN also gave kudos to the Volkswagen IROC for its powerful yet efficient twin-charged engine, and the "wild" Chevrolet WTCC that may foreshadow a hot Chevy hatch yet to come. Other concepts (more like production one-offs) on their list include the Renault Twingo and Hyundai Arnejs, along with Citroen's study in environmental respondibility, the C-Métisse. They thankfully didn't forget some important production vehicles like the big-selling Ford Mondeo and the heavily upgraded Mercedes-Benz SLR 722.

[Source: MSN Autos]

Paris Redux: MSN picks the Paris Motor Show's top 10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Oct 2006 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>editors' picksEditors'Picksmsn autosMsnAutosparis auto showParisAutoShowtop tenTopTenTue, 10 Oct 2006 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[What are the Top 10 things you must have in your car?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/06/what-are-the-top-10-things-you-must-have-in-your-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/06/what-are-the-top-10-things-you-must-have-in-your-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/06/what-are-the-top-10-things-you-must-have-in-your-car/#commentsFiled under:

What are those items that you always bring with you on an inaugural ride in a brand new car, or those things that you transport from one vehicle to the next that you can't live without? Automotoportal posted a list of the Top Things You Must Have in Your Car and for the most part we wholeheartedly disagree with the choices (the full list can be found after the jump). Lip balm? A Candy bar? Those hardly make the cut of must have items for motoring in our book.

We did agree with the inclusion of the American Map 2007 U.S. Road Atlas, although we'd prefer a portable sat-nav system to the old ink and parchment. The meager pen is also a must have for scribbling missives while tooling along or penning a good-bye letter when stranded in a snow drift. Sure, a first-aid kit is a good idea, but don't spend your own money on that, let your mother buy it as a Christmas or Chanukah present. And a flashlight? I always have two of them with me when driving; they're called the left and right headlights. Joking aside, if you're going for essentials then where's the bottled water, extra quart of oil, blanket and road flares?

Missing from the list entirely is spare change, and lots of it. And we're not talking about pennies here, we mean quarters. Quarters are about ten times more valuable inside a car than out because you can hardly ever find one when it's time to pay the piper his toll fee. Kudos to the first company who installs a portable mint in the glovebox to produce quarters on demand, we'd take that over heated and cooled cup holders any day. The Automotoportal list also doesn't include any tuneage. At this point I'd rather listen to silence while driving than local radio, so if there's no iPod or satellite radio handy than we need to inform Houston we have a problem.

What items do you need with you at all times in the car? If you answer lip balm, you will be made fun of.

[Source: Automotoportal]

Continue reading What are the Top 10 things you must have in your car?

What are the Top 10 things you must have in your car? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Oct 2006 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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