Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mazda and Fiat to co-develop a roadster based on next-gen MX-5 Miata]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/23/mazda-and-fiat-to-co-develop-a-roadster-based-on-next-gen-mx-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/23/mazda-and-fiat-to-co-develop-a-roadster-based-on-next-gen-mx-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/23/mazda-and-fiat-to-co-develop-a-roadster-based-on-next-gen-mx-5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata

The next-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata will have a sibling, but it won't be a Mazda, it will be an Alfa Romeo. The Japanese automaker has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Alfa parent Fiat to co-develop a roadster based on the MX-5 platform that is expected to see production in Mazda's Hiroshima factory, with the Alfa version coming in 2015.

Pegged as "a successor to the MX-5," the production date will push the next-gen Miata's arrival back a bit. In 2010 it was predicted we'd see the new Miata this year, with its 2,200-pound weight target, 50/50 weight distribution and potential twin-backbone chassis structure. Obviously that isn't happening.

Whenever the new model and its Alfa mate do come, each brand will get "differentiated, distinctly styled, iconic and brand-specific light weight roadsters featuring rear-wheel drive," using in-house engines provided by their own brands.

The link-up is excellent news for Mazda, the small, independent company searching for just these kinds of "technology and product development alliances" to help rescue it from years of losses, and supporting CEO Takashi Yamanouchi's assertion that it's "partner or die." The negotiations also include further cooperation between the two brands in Europe.

Fiat head Sergio Marchionne's search for partnerships to provide scale is no secret, nor his desire to improve Fiat's position in Asia, which Mazda might also be able to assist with. And the idea of a properly sporting Alfa would be welcome round the world; with the loss of the Brera GT and Brera Spider in 2010, the Alfa line is down to two hatchbacks and a long-in-the-tooth sedan, none of them particularly sporty. With the 8C Spider beyond most budgets and the 4C still living in the ether, it's been almost 20 years since the then 33-year-old Alfa Spider represented (or was meant to, at least) the kind of purposeful, two-seater Alfa being announced here.

The final agreement should be finalized later this year, and you can scroll down to read the press release.

Continue reading Mazda and Fiat to co-develop a roadster based on next-gen MX-5 Miata

Mazda and Fiat to co-develop a roadster based on next-gen MX-5 Miata originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 May 2012 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeofiatmazdamazda mx-5 miatamiatamx-5mx-5 miataWed, 23 May 2012 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20243285/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/23/mazda-and-fiat-to-co-develop-a-roadster-based-on-next-gen-mx-5/20243285/article-detail.xml 20243285 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-mazda-mx-5-miata628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-2012-mazda-mx-5-miata628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Alfa-Romeo gets 4C trademarked in the U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/alfa-romeo-gets-4c-trademarked-in-the-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/alfa-romeo-gets-4c-trademarked-in-the-u-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/alfa-romeo-gets-4c-trademarked-in-the-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Alfa Romeos were meant to be on sale here after summer, but we all know that's not happening. Nevertheless, lentamente, Alfa Romeo's return to the U.S. progresses. According to a story in Automotive News, Fiat was earlier this month granted the U.S. trademark for "Alfa Romeo 4C" for the car and ancillaries. We can at least take that as certain; Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne's statement that the 4C will go on sale at the end of 2013 we'll take with a bit more caution.

Maserati is organizing production of the 4C in Italy, and the €45,000 ($59,310 U.S.) coupe is projected to go on sale in Europe early next year. Only 2,500 will be made per annum, and here they'll give Alfa a much needed halo car to entice less spendy buyers into showrooms and into giving other Alfa models - and the brand itself - a chance.

We know the 4C will eventually be joined by the Dodge-Dart based Giulia sedan and a crossover or two. As for when, well, you can circle late 2013 on your calendar. In pencil.

Alfa-Romeo gets 4C trademarked in the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4calfa romeoalfa romeo 4calfa romeo united statesalfa romeo usfiatFri, 20 Apr 2012 15:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20220290/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/20/alfa-romeo-gets-4c-trademarked-in-the-u-s/20220290/article-detail.xml 20220290 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/alfa4ctrademarked_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/alfa4ctrademarked.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati gearing up to produce Alfa 4C, new sedan in Italy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/maserati-gearing-up-to-produce-alfa-4c-new-sedan-in-italy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/maserati-gearing-up-to-produce-alfa-4c-new-sedan-in-italy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/13/maserati-gearing-up-to-produce-alfa-4c-new-sedan-in-italy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Production of the upcoming Maserati Kubang may be set for the Jefferson North plant where Chrysler builds the Jeep Grand Cherokee on which the high-riding Maserati will be based, but that doesn't mean that the Trident marque is giving up on production in its home country of Italy anytime soon.

According to statements made by union officials, Maserati is gearing up to produce a new four-door sedan at a facility on the outskirts of Turin - although whether that is the larger replacement for the Quattroporte or its upcoming baby brother remains unclear - but that's not all. Maserati, according to reports, has also been tasked with building the 4C sportscar for sister-brand Alfa Romeo, much like it had with the higher-end 8C Competizione that came before.

Between the two new sedans, the SUV, the ongoing production of the GranTurismo line and the Alfa 4C, Maserati sure seems to have its hands full - with a little game of musical factories - for a brand currently represented by two model lines.

Maserati gearing up to produce Alfa 4C, new sedan in Italy originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4c4c gtaalfa romeoalfa romeo 4calfa romeo 4c gtakubangmaseratimaserati kubangquattroporteFri, 13 Apr 2012 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20214438/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/13/maserati-gearing-up-to-produce-alfa-4c-new-sedan-in-italy/20214438/article-detail.xml 20214438 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/4c-live09_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/4c-live09.jpg <![CDATA[1968 Alfa Romeo T33/2 Daytona racing to the auction block in Monaco]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/1968-alfa-romeo-t33-2-daytona-racing-to-the-auction-block-in-mon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/1968-alfa-romeo-t33-2-daytona-racing-to-the-auction-block-in-mon/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/1968-alfa-romeo-t33-2-daytona-racing-to-the-auction-block-in-mon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1968 Alfa Romeo Tipo 33/2 Daytona

By the early 1950s, Alfa Romeo had grown tired of dominating (and spending huge sums of money on) grand prix racing, and shut down its program. Along with it, a program to develop a small-displacement two-liter V8 was aborted. But Alfa couldn't keep away from racing altogether for very long, and by the early 60s the factory noticed that its customers were competing in endurance sportscar races and set about fielding its own works effort.

Development of the high-revving 2.0-liter V8 picked up again, finding its way into a variety of prototypes and GTs, but this was arguably the most alluring. Shortly after its debut in 1967, the T33/2 scored an impressive 1-2-3 class finish (and 5-6-7 overall) in the 24 Hours of Daytona, giving the car its nickname. And while Alfa and its racing partner Autodelta kept notoriously sketchy historical records on their racing cars, chassis 75033.029 is believed to be one of the most successful.

The extensive history of the vehicle you see here - regarded as one of the most desirable of racing Alfas of an era that stretches from the 1960s through the 70s - includes victory at the 500 km of Imola in 1968, punctuating a series of races campaigned by the works Alfa/Autodelta team and various privateers that followed. You can read more about the Tipo 33/2 Daytona in the text after the jump ahead of its consignment to the RM Auctions event in Monaco next month, or you could let the pictures in the high-res image gallery speak for themselves.

Continue reading 1968 Alfa Romeo T33/2 Daytona racing to the auction block in Monaco

1968 Alfa Romeo T33/2 Daytona racing to the auction block in Monaco originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1968 alfa romeo daytona1968 alfa romeo t3321968 alfa romeo tipo 332 daytonaalfa romeoalfa romeo daytonaalfa romeo t332 daytonaalfa romeo tipo 332alfa romeo tipo 332 daytonadaytonamonacormrm auctionst332tipo 332Tue, 10 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172933/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/10/1968-alfa-romeo-t33-2-daytona-racing-to-the-auction-block-in-mon/20172933/article-detail.xml 20172933 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webalfa-33-2-daytona_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webalfa-33-2-daytona.jpg <![CDATA[Touring Superleggera Disco Volante Concept looks Alfa familiar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/touring-superlegerra-disco-volante-concept-alfa-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/touring-superlegerra-disco-volante-concept-alfa-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/touring-superlegerra-disco-volante-concept-alfa-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Touring Superleggera Disco Volante Concept live at Geneva

It's been 60 years since the 1952 Alfa Romeo C52 Disco Volante concepts lounged on the stages of the world's auto shows, and Touring Superleggera has taken to marking the occasion with a Disco Volante of its own, a striking coupe that has just debuted at this year's Geneva Motor Show.

The modern flying saucer pays homage to its ancestors with flat-top fenders and a split grille. Even so, it's hard to miss the vehicle's donor. Not surprisingly, the new Disco Volante is built on the bones of the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, and relies on the same 4.7-liter V8 found in that machine. As such, buyers can look forward to 443 horsepower pumped exclusively to the rear wheels.

That's right. We said "buyers." This Disco Volante will be available in limited quantities (the company isn't saying how limited), though expect to pay a pretty penny for each one. Touring Superleggera says each example will be coachbuilt to order. Look below for the full press release after checking out our high-res gallery.

Continue reading Touring Superleggera Disco Volante Concept looks Alfa familiar

Touring Superleggera Disco Volante Concept looks Alfa familiar originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 disco volante8c competizionealfa romeoalfa romeo 8c competizionedisco volantegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showsuperleggeratouringtouring superleggeratouring superleggera disco volanteTue, 06 Mar 2012 13:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186748/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/touring-superlegerra-disco-volante-concept-alfa-geneva-2012/20186748/article-detail.xml 20186748 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/touring-superleggera-disco-volante-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/touring-superleggera-disco-volante-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Carrozzeria Touring Disco Volante concept revealed early]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/carrozzeria-touring-disco-volante-concept-revealed-early/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/carrozzeria-touring-disco-volante-concept-revealed-early/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/02/carrozzeria-touring-disco-volante-concept-revealed-early/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Touring Disco Volante

Touring Disco VolanteThe string of early reveals in front of the Geneva Motor Show continues with bonafide auto-porn shots of the Carrozzeria Touring Disco Volante concept. And if it's true that sex sells, Alfa Romeo could seriously clean up if it put this hot hatch into production.

Coachbuilder Carrozzeria drew heavily from the Touring Disco concept it created for Alfa in 1952. The boattail-like rear window and tiny twin taillights are direct descendants of the 60-year-old muse. Same goes for the long hood, short rear deck proportions that just scream speed.

Beneath the sexy skin is an Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, including its 443-horsepower, 4.7-liter V8 and six-speed tranny.

Looking to add a Disco Volante to your harem of supercars? Get in line. Quickly. Carrozzeria says it will build only a few for the very wealthy who probably aren't you.

Carrozzeria Touring Disco Volante concept revealed early originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeocarrozeriacarrozzeria touring superleggeradisco volantegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showgeneva motor show 2012touring disco volanteFri, 02 Mar 2012 16:13:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20184695/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/02/carrozzeria-touring-disco-volante-concept-revealed-early/20184695/article-detail.xml 20184695 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/touringsuperleggeradiscovolante_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/touringsuperleggeradiscovolante.jpg <![CDATA[Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera preparing new Disco Volante concept for Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/carrozzeria-touring-superleggera-preparing-new-disco-volante-con/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/carrozzeria-touring-superleggera-preparing-new-disco-volante-con/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/15/carrozzeria-touring-superleggera-preparing-new-disco-volante-con/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Disco Volante concept teaser from Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera

Mention the names Disco Volante and Touring to connoisseurs of classic Italian automobiles and you're going to need to start handing out bibs.

The Disco Volante, for the uninitiated, is not a rave held inside a convertible Aston Martin, but one of the most beautiful Alfa Romeos ever made. Officially know as the C52, the 1950s-era Alfa prototype - of which only four were ever made - was named Flying Saucer (in Italian) because of its aerodynamic shape. It was based on the Alfa Romeo 1900 but rebodied to its streamlined shape by - you guessed it - Carrozzeria Touring.

That coachbuilder had long since disappeared into obscurity, but was more recently revived to give us some very alluring designs, from concept cars like the Gumpert Tornante and Maserati A8 GCS to coachbuilt conversions of existing vehicles like the Maserati Quattroporte Bellagio Fastback and - perhaps most enticing of all - the Bentley Continental Flying Star.

Now the reborn Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera is preparing to reinterpret the Disco Volante in modern form. The show car set to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month is reportedly based on the 8C Competizione (another one of the most beautiful Alfas ever made) so we're expecting the 450 horsepower, 4.7-liter V8 to carry over, though reportedly mated to a paddle-shift transmission.

What we're looking forward to, however, is the form that aims to modernize the design believed by many to have inspired the Jaguar E-Type. All we have to go on for now is the rendering above, but we'll be watching for more.

Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera preparing new Disco Volante concept for Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1952 alfa romeo 1900 c52 disco volantealfa romeoalfa romeo 1900 c52 disco volantealfa romeo c52 disco volantecarrozzeria touringcarrozzeria touring superleggeradisco volantegenevageneva 2012geneva motor showtouringWed, 15 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20172345/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/15/carrozzeria-touring-superleggera-preparing-new-disco-volante-con/20172345/article-detail.xml 20172345 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webcarrozzeriatouringsuperleggeradiscovolante20121_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/webcarrozzeriatouringsuperleggeradiscovolante20121.jpg <![CDATA[Watch this Alfa Romeo Giulietta play ice hockey]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/watch-this-alfa-romeo-giulietta-play-ice-hockey/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/watch-this-alfa-romeo-giulietta-play-ice-hockey/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/watch-this-alfa-romeo-giulietta-play-ice-hockey/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Alfa Romeo Giulietta on ice

After the culture clash between the Americans at Chrysler and the Germans at Daimler during the bad old DCX days, there has been concern that the latest European occupation of Auburn Hills could lead to similar friction. Granted, Fiat is not Mercedes-Benz, but Italian sensibilities can be quite dissimilar from those of most Detroiters.

So count us doubly impressed to happen upon this video, featuring an Alfa Romeo Giulietta "playing hockey." Never mind that it was Alfa's U.K. group that put together this amusing video to highlight the Giulietta's All Weather traction mode. We'd like to think that somebody from Hockeytown weighed in with some encouragement for the idea.

In fact, now that we think about it, maybe this whole hockey-playing-car thing could be the next extension of Chrysler's "Imported from Detroit" campaign. The new Dodge Dart is all Giulietta underneath, and the Chrysler 300 SRT8 would make one heck of a goon...

Click past the jump to see the Alfa on ice.

Continue reading Watch this Alfa Romeo Giulietta play ice hockey

Watch this Alfa Romeo Giulietta play ice hockey originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoalfa romeo giuliettaall weatherchryslerchrysler-fiatdartdetroitdodgedodge dartfiatfiat-chryslergiuliettahockeyhockeytownThu, 02 Feb 2012 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162738/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/watch-this-alfa-romeo-giulietta-play-ice-hockey/20162738/article-detail.xml 20162738 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/giulietta-on-ice-opt-1328192547_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/giulietta-on-ice-opt-1328192547.jpg <![CDATA[Did someone really order this Alfa Romeo 8C with a General Lee paint scheme?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/did-someone-really-order-this-alfa-romeo-8c-with-a-general-lee-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/did-someone-really-order-this-alfa-romeo-8c-with-a-general-lee-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/30/did-someone-really-order-this-alfa-romeo-8c-with-a-general-lee-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

General Lee Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione

Yup. Someone has apparently taken it upon themselves to slather the slinkiest of Alfa Romeo models with the bright orange paint and stars and bars of the General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard. Why? Because if you have enough cash to park an 8C Competizione in your expansive garage, you can paint it in whatever livery you damn well please. Details are scarce, but our source says the coupe is real, and it rocks the appropriate "01" numbering on each door. We're hoping there's a horn capable of whistling Dixie under the hood as well, and we'll award bonus points if the doors are welded shut and there's a cage inside.

We'd love to know who ordered up this particular color combination. Our source, John S., says this photo was clicked near Balocco in Northern Italy (presumably adjacent to Alfa's test track facility there), but for now, we'll just content ourselves by wondering how you say "Daisy Duke" in Italian.

Did someone really order this Alfa Romeo 8C with a General Lee paint scheme? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8c8c competizionealfa 8calfa romeoalfa romeo 8calfa romeo 8c competizionedukes of hazzardgeneral leegeneral lee 8c competizioneMon, 30 Jan 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20159709/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/30/did-someone-really-order-this-alfa-romeo-8c-with-a-general-lee-p/20159709/article-detail.xml 20159709 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/general-lee-8c-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/general-lee-8c-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler planning Dodge Avenger successor after all?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/chrysler-planning-dodge-avenger-successor-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/chrysler-planning-dodge-avenger-successor-after-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/chrysler-planning-dodge-avenger-successor-after-all/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2011 Dodge Avenger

Don't cry for the Dodge Avenger just yet. According to USA Today, Chrysler is set to introduce new midsized sedans to replace both the Chrysler 200 and the much-maligned Dodge Avenger. The vehicles will be built on a version of the same platform that underpins the 2013 Dodge Dart. That news runs contrary to word that the Avenger is headed to the great scrap pile in the sky after the current generation runs its course. Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is looking to shore up the company's small car efforts and spread the cost of platform development across as many models as possible.

Marchionne also made mention of introducing a new hybrid hatchback under the Chrysler 100 nameplate, though details are scarce at the moment.

USA Today reports the same platform may be used for the next-generation Jeep Liberty and Compass, which are slated to debut sometime in 2013. Marchionne says both vehicles will be trail-rated and capable of standing up to the kind of abuse Jeep buyers demand. Even so, the CEO says the vehicles will have their "origins in the architecture of a sports car."

Speaking of sports cars, Marchionne also made it clear Alfa Romeo is still coming to the States, though the Italian brand's strategy has shifted somewhat. The models headed to the U.S. market will be lightweight and powered by a turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine offering 300 horsepower. Certainly sounds good to us.

Chrysler planning Dodge Avenger successor after all? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100alfa romeoavengerchryslerdartdodgehatchbackjeepjeep compassjeep libertylibertypatriotsergio marchionneTue, 24 Jan 2012 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155601/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/chrysler-planning-dodge-avenger-successor-after-all/20155601/article-detail.xml 20155601 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2011-dodge-avenger-badge-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2011-dodge-avenger-badge-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler to replace Dodge Challenger with Barracuda?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/chrysler-to-replace-dodge-challenger-with-barracuda/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/chrysler-to-replace-dodge-challenger-with-barracuda/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/chrysler-to-replace-dodge-challenger-with-barracuda/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Plymouth Barracuda

Motor Trend reports that Chrysler may forsake the Dodge Challenger for a resurrected Barracuda. The magazine cites two unnamed sources as saying the nameplate will surface in time to celebrate the vehicle's 50th anniversary in 2014. If true, the Barracuda will ride on a new smaller and lighter platform that's more fit to compete with the likes of the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. The vehicle's bones will likely be shared with Alfa Romeo, which means a turbo four-cylinder may show up behind the Barracuda headlights as well as a fire-breathing V8. MT suggests the design may pull from the original fastback Barracuda, though a notch-back version would allow Chrysler to more effectively compete against the drop-top hardware from Ford and Chevrolet.

We have no doubt Chrysler and Fiat are currently investigating ways to breathe new life into the Challenger. The vehicle has been content to plod along as a distant third to its muscle-car rivals, but pulling the Barracuda name back into play seems unlikely. For starters, the Barracuda sailed under the long-dead Plymouth banner, and both Dodge and Chrysler have a long list of hallowed names from which to choose. Stay tuned.

Chrysler to replace Dodge Challenger with Barracuda? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeobarracudachallengerchevrolechryslerdodgedodge barracudamotor trendplymouthplymouth barracudaMon, 09 Jan 2012 08:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20143627/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/09/chrysler-to-replace-dodge-challenger-with-barracuda/20143627/article-detail.xml 20143627 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/barracuda-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/barracuda-628.jpg <![CDATA[Alfa Romeo 4C speeds into production with £45,000 price tag [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/alfa-romeo-4c-speeds-into-production-with-45-000-price-tag/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/alfa-romeo-4c-speeds-into-production-with-45-000-price-tag/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/alfa-romeo-4c-speeds-into-production-with-45-000-price-tag/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

Imagine your dream car. What might it include? Lightweight carbon-fiber construction, high-tech engine behind the seats, legendary Italian badge on the nose.... The thing is, that usually means a big fat price tag that runs well into the six figures, if not seven. But while this latest Italian sports car is set to include all those ingredients, its price point is set decidedly lower.

We're talking about the Alfa Romeo 4C, the nimble-looking little number that debuted in delicious matte red at the Geneva show last year, and in liquid-metal finish in Frankfurt just a few months ago. Rumors have been circulating of its imminent production ever since its debut, but now the blokes over at Top Gear say that have the final details on good authority.

According to the report, Fiat has crunched the numbers and figured out how it can produce the 4C while neither breaking the bank nor spoiling the formula. And so the supercar is set to begin testing in the new year and hit the market in the next. And the price? £45,000, according to TG, which equates to about $70K at today's exchange rates. To put that into perspective, consider that is the same starting price in the British market as the Porsche Cayman S - a model which starts here at $62K. UPDATE: Autocar now reports that the 45,000 figure is actually in Euros, not in British Pounds, which would price the 4C below the base Boxster, not the top Cayman.

The Cayman is an ambitious target, but the 4C promises to be both smaller and lighter. A new direct-injection turbo four will drive 230 horsepower to the rear wheels via a dual-clutch gearbox for a 4.5-second sprint to sixty, but is tipped to yield more powerful versions with as much as 300hp on tap and even a roadster version later on.

That last bit promises to be easier to pull off thanks to the carbon-fiber tub - engineered by Dallara - to which aluminum sub-frames will be attached front and rear. The Italian chassis constructor is best known for its racing cars, but also developed the KTM X-Bow, which could in and of itself give us the best idea of what to expect if and when the 4C assumes the place originally reserved for the 8C Competizione in finally heralding Alfa's return to the North American market.

Alfa Romeo 4C speeds into production with £45,000 price tag [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4calfaalfa 4calfa romeoalfa romeo 4calfa romeo 4c conceptFri, 16 Dec 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20129868/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/16/alfa-romeo-4c-speeds-into-production-with-45-000-price-tag/20129868/article-detail.xml 20129868 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/4c-live09_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/4c-live09.jpg <![CDATA[Romeo Ferraris and Autodelta team up for a supercharged goodbye to the Alfa Romeo Brera]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/romeo-ferraris-and-autodelta-team-up-for-a-supercharged-goodbye/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/romeo-ferraris-and-autodelta-team-up-for-a-supercharged-goodbye/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/romeo-ferraris-and-autodelta-team-up-for-a-supercharged-goodbye/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



We've seen Romeo Ferraris tune all manner of vehicles, but oddly none from the automaker with which it shares the first part of its name. That's all changing, but not with a current Alfa Romeo model. For their latest project, RF has turned its attention to the recently discontinued Alfa Romeo Brera.

Long considered one of the most beautiful designs mired by a substandard chassis, the Brera went out of production over a year ago. But to give it one last swan song, Romeo Ferraris has teamed up with venerable Alfa tuning firm Autodelta. Together, they've given the Brera's 3.2-liter V6 a supercharger, intercooler, custom exhaust and remapped ECU to boost power up by 97 horsepower for a more substantial 353 hp. That's tipped to drop the 0-62 time down to five seconds and the top end up to 162 mph.

Naturally a full body kit is also part of the package, as is an adjustable suspension and (we would hope) upgraded brakes as well. A fitting goodbye to one of the best-looking cars ever to grace the roads - and one that will hopefully keep it on them for years to come.

Romeo Ferraris and Autodelta team up for a supercharged goodbye to the Alfa Romeo Brera originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfaalfa breraalfa romeoalfa romeo breraautodeltabreraromeo ferrarisWed, 14 Dec 2011 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20126505/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/14/romeo-ferraris-and-autodelta-team-up-for-a-supercharged-goodbye/20126505/article-detail.xml 20126505 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/webalfa-romeo-ferraris-brera1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/webalfa-romeo-ferraris-brera1.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati orders up special batch of Alfa Giuliettas for dealer loaner vehicles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/maserati-orders-up-special-batch-of-alfa-giuliettas-for-dealer-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/maserati-orders-up-special-batch-of-alfa-giuliettas-for-dealer-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/maserati-orders-up-special-batch-of-alfa-giuliettas-for-dealer-l/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Alfa Romeo Giulietta Maserati edition

There's strength in numbers, particularly for a producer of high-end exotic automobiles. For a brand like Maserati, being linked to the Fiat Group not only means that it can offset its carbon emissions across a broader range of cars - something like the two-cylinder Fiat 500 TwinAir balancing out the GranTurismo MC Stradale - but also gives the company's dealer network a ready fleet of more affordable loaner cars at their disposal.

A couple years ago, Alfa Romeo and Maserati - which had just recently been realigned under common leadership - announced a special edition MiTo that had been made specially for Maserati dealers in Europe. Now they've followed up with the slightly larger and more powerful Giulietta.

The Maserati edition Giulietta starts out with the 235-horsepower turbo four from the top-of-the-line Quadrifoglio Verde (green cloverleaf) model, and further distinguishes itself with the same brown leather you'd expect to find in a Maserati, plus special 18-inch wheels, red brake calipers and special badges inside and out.

In other words, a suitable loaner to receive upon dropping off your Quattroporte for its regular servicing. And if the Ferrari edition Fiat 500 was anything to go by, Alfa dealers could be find themselves fielding referrals from their Maserati counterparts with eager customers waiting to place orders of their own.

Continue reading Maserati orders up special batch of Alfa Giuliettas for dealer loaner vehicles

Maserati orders up special batch of Alfa Giuliettas for dealer loaner vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfaalfa giuliettaalfa romeoalfa romeo giuliettadealerloanermaseratiWed, 14 Dec 2011 08:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20126456/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/14/maserati-orders-up-special-batch-of-alfa-giuliettas-for-dealer-l/20126456/article-detail.xml 20126456 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/webmaserati-giulietta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/webmaserati-giulietta.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Dodge Dart aims for center of compact sedan segment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/2013-dodge-dart-aims-for-center-of-compact-sedan-segment/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/2013-dodge-dart-aims-for-center-of-compact-sedan-segment/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/2013-dodge-dart-aims-for-center-of-compact-sedan-segment/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Dodge Dart Teaser

Don't call it a Hornet. Dodge has released a slew of shadowy teasers for its new compact sedan, the 2013 Dodge Dart. The company is planning a slow reveal, with snippets of the four-door's exterior and interior trickling out between now and the vehicle's full unveil at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show. Specifics are still murky at the moment, though we do know Dodge will grace the 2013 Dart with a variety of engine options, including a turbocharged version of the 1.4-liter four-cylinder Multiair engine found in the Fiat 500. If the Fiat 500 Abarth is any indication, that means we're looking at somewhere around 160 horsepower.

The 2013 Dodge Dart makes use of the same bones as the beautiful Alfa Romeo Giulietta, though the chassis has been both stretched and widened to accommodate the wider britches of American buyers. Chrysler says that a full 68 percent of the vehicle's architecture is comprised of high-strength steel, which means the 2013 Dart should retain much of the rigidity that's made the Giulietta a favorite among buyers and critics alike in the EU.

We're plenty excited to get our hands on the 2013 Dodge Dart to see how it stacks up against the likes of the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus, Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra among other winners in the segment. Hit the jump for the full press release and then mosey on over to the car's official teaser site.

Continue reading 2013 Dodge Dart aims for center of compact sedan segment

2013 Dodge Dart aims for center of compact sedan segment originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 detroit auto show2013 dodge dartalfa romeoalfa romeo giuliettadartdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showdodgedodge dartmultiairTue, 06 Dec 2011 10:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121693/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/06/2013-dodge-dart-aims-for-center-of-compact-sedan-segment/20121693/article-detail.xml 20121693 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2013-dodge-dart-teaser-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2013-dodge-dart-teaser-628.jpg <![CDATA[Watch a stunt driver pop 2,500 water balloons with an Alfa Romeo Mito]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/watch-a-stunt-driver-pop-2-500-water-balloons-with-an-alfa-romeo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/watch-a-stunt-driver-pop-2-500-water-balloons-with-an-alfa-romeo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/05/watch-a-stunt-driver-pop-2-500-water-balloons-with-an-alfa-romeo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Alfa Romeo MiTo waterballoon video screen capture

Alfa Romeo test driver Terry Grant has picked up a few records in his day. The hot shoe has picked up a total of 19 world records during his time behind the wheel, and now he can add one more: Grant has taken to the Alfa Romeo Mito to become the man to pop the most water balloons using a vehicle. The Italian automaker crafted a massive version of its iconic logo from a staggering 2,500 balloons and then unleashed Grant on the finished product in a Mito Quadrifoglio Verde. Fortunately Alfa fans, the company trained more than a few lenses on the stunt for some excellent slow-motion action.

Pointless? Probably, but we're never ones to shun a video of an attractive European hatchback sliding around on a skid pad in slow motion. Of course, seeing all those water balloons makes us miss summer in a powerful way. Hit the jump to check out the video for yourself, as well as the full press release.

Continue reading Watch a stunt driver pop 2,500 water balloons with an Alfa Romeo Mito

Watch a stunt driver pop 2,500 water balloons with an Alfa Romeo Mito originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoalfa romeo mitomitomito videoquadrifoglio verdequadrofoglio verdevideowater balloonwater balloonsworld recordMon, 05 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20120742/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/05/watch-a-stunt-driver-pop-2-500-water-balloons-with-an-alfa-romeo/20120742/article-detail.xml 20120742 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/alfa-romeo-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/alfa-romeo-628.jpg <![CDATA[Alfa Romeo planning lightweight Mazda MX-5 Miata rival]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/alfa-romeo-planning-lightweight-mazda-mx-5-miata-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/alfa-romeo-planning-lightweight-mazda-mx-5-miata-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/18/alfa-romeo-planning-lightweight-mazda-mx-5-miata-rival/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta concept by Pininfarina

Few rumors have circulated quite like the prospect of a new Alfa Romeo Spider. While the previous Brera-based model stands as one of the most beautiful cars ever made, dynamically speaking, most found it deeply flawed. But the Milanese automaker has long been rumored to be working on a more successful successor - even commissioning Pininfarina to create the sleek 2uettottanta concept pictured above. Now, the latest word on European streets is that Alfa has got its sights set on the Mazda MX-5 Miata.

That the next Alfa Spider will pack a turbocharged four-cylinder - likely the 1.7-liter unit from the Giulietta - is pretty much a given, but in order to take on the venerable Miata, Alfa will need to cut its weight down considerably. And considering how heavy some of the marque's most recent products have been, the carbon-fiber 4C concept notwithstanding, that'll prove to be no mean feat.

Alfa Romeo planning lightweight Mazda MX-5 Miata rival originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2uettottantaalfaalfa romeoalfa romeo spideralfa spideralfa-romeopininfarinaFri, 18 Nov 2011 08:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20105905/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/18/alfa-romeo-planning-lightweight-mazda-mx-5-miata-rival/20105905/article-detail.xml 20105905 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/pininfarina-24b_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/pininfarina-24b.jpg <![CDATA[Alfa Romeo announces new 1.8-liter turbo with up to 300 horsepower]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/alfa-romeo-announces-new-1-8-liter-turbo-with-up-to-300-horsepow/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/alfa-romeo-announces-new-1-8-liter-turbo-with-up-to-300-horsepow/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/alfa-romeo-announces-new-1-8-liter-turbo-with-up-to-300-horsepow/#commentsFiled under: ,

Alfa Romeo 4C Concept

If you were to design your own engine for today's automotive market, what features would it include? Aluminum construction? Direct injection? Turbocharging? Variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust? Small displacement but a high output? Try all of these features and you're looking at the latest powerplant developed by Alfa Romeo and Fiat Powertrain Technologies.

The 1.8-liter turbo four leverages the latest developments in engine technology for an output as high as 300 horsepower while still meeting the most stringent emissions standards on the horizon (including the upcoming U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 regulations, which bodes well for its eventual American application).

It's the engine that's expected to power the production 4C sportscar, and given that it's designed to be mounted either behind the cabin or in front, longitudinally or transversely, it will surely find its way into other Alfas as well. (Maybe a couple of future Dodge products, too) And when it does, we hope it won't lose much in output, because 300 galloping stallions and an Alfa Romeo badge on the nose sounds to us like a recipe for success.

Details in the press release after the jump, with fresh high-resolution images of the 4C in its original matte red finish added to the gallery for your viewing pleasure.

Continue reading Alfa Romeo announces new 1.8-liter turbo with up to 300 horsepower

Alfa Romeo announces new 1.8-liter turbo with up to 300 horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4c4c conceptalfaalfa 4calfa romeoalfa romeo 4calfa romeo 4c conceptfiatfiat powertrain technologiesWed, 05 Oct 2011 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20074307/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/05/alfa-romeo-announces-new-1-8-liter-turbo-with-up-to-300-horsepow/20074307/article-detail.xml 20074307 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/web4c-concept-front_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/web4c-concept-front.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat to develop 'Baby Jeep' in Italy, keep Compass/Patriot replacement in U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/fiat-to-develop-baby-jeep-in-italy-keep-compass-patriot-repla/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/fiat-to-develop-baby-jeep-in-italy-keep-compass-patriot-repla/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/04/fiat-to-develop-baby-jeep-in-italy-keep-compass-patriot-repla/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

jeep grille

The Fiat/Chrysler relationship has yet to spawn any post-marital offspring, but that will soon change. Automotive News reports that one of those vehicles could come in the size and shape of a "baby" Jeep that will be sold in Europe.

The B-segment Jeep, which we told you about back in August, will also be badged as a Fiat model. Two Fiat sources told AN that the vehicles will be built in Fiat's Minafiori plant in Turin, Italy, and there is a chance the vehicle could also be sold in the U.S.

Minafiori was originally pegged as the Euro plant of choice to build the successor to the Jeep Compass and Patriot models, but the Fiat sources say those plans have changed. The new plan reportedly calls for the Patriot/Compass replacement and an Alfa Romeo sibling to be built in the U.S.

A recent Fiat release revealed that the Minafiori plant will be rebuilt starting in 2012, and that a Jeep SUV will begin production in the second half of 2013.

Fiat to develop 'Baby Jeep' in Italy, keep Compass/Patriot replacement in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeobaby jeepfiatjeepmini jeepmirafioriplantsmall jeepTue, 04 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20072791/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/04/fiat-to-develop-baby-jeep-in-italy-keep-compass-patriot-repla/20072791/article-detail.xml 20072791 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/09-2011-jeep-compass-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/09-2011-jeep-compass-review.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Caliber's Alfa Romeo-based replacement spotted wearing crosshairs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/dodge-calibers-alfa-romeo-based-replacement-spotted-wearing-cro/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/dodge-calibers-alfa-romeo-based-replacement-spotted-wearing-cro/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/dodge-calibers-alfa-romeo-based-replacement-spotted-wearing-cro/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Dodge Hornet Prototype

When we first caught wind of the Fiat intention to get cozy with Chrysler, our first thoughts leapt to the slew of sexy Italian compacts that could conceivably make their way to the states. Of all the hardware that could potentially be Americanized, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta was the one hatch that had our loins stirring the most. Now our elite squad of spy photographers have nabbed a few photos of a four-door version of the hatch wearing a split crosshair grille. From the looks of things, these are full-production spec prototypes out for desert testing. The whispers kicking around the web lead us to believe that the car will be called the Hornet and should lock horns nicely with metal like the Ford Focus.

To say that we can't wait to usher the Caliber out the door is an understatement. Given that the compact segment has grown into a fiercely competitive slice of the market, Dodge needs hardware that can perform on style, efficiency and economy. Here's hoping the Hornet is up to the task.

While the vehicle in the image above was originally photographed with matte black vinyl covering its flanks, we've colorized the sheet metal to give us a better idea of what to expect from the sedan version of the car.

Dodge Caliber's Alfa Romeo-based replacement spotted wearing crosshairs originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoalfa romeo giuliettachryslerdodgedodge hornetdodge hornet spy shotsfiathornethornet spy shotsspy shotsFri, 23 Sep 2011 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20050620/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/23/dodge-calibers-alfa-romeo-based-replacement-spotted-wearing-cro/20050620/article-detail.xml 20050620 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/dodge-hornet-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/dodge-hornet-630.jpg -1 2