Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> selling its road-tested roadsters [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/consumer-reports-selling-its-road-tested-roadsters-w-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/consumer-reports-selling-its-road-tested-roadsters-w-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/consumer-reports-selling-its-road-tested-roadsters-w-vid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



Here's a chance to acquire a celebrity-owned vehicles, and this time at a discount instead of a premium. So the celebrity in this case is Consumer Reports, that magazine that could be equally adored and abhored by car enthusiasts. CR buys all of its test vehicles and usually finds willing second owners within its own ranks, but its opening its small used-car lot to the public. On the forecourt are four roadsters: an automatic 2012 Audi TT 2.0 TFSI Quattro S-Tronic with 6,600 miles for $36,500, a manual 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i with 8,400 miles for $45,000, a manual 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK250 for $39,500 and a manual 2013 Porsche Boxster with 7,000 miles for $48,000.

Those numbers mean a savings of $9,000 to $10,000 before haggling - each car is listed with an "Asking price" so there could be some wiggle room if you show up with pockets full of dough and eyes full of serious intent. Since the money CR earns from the sales go back into the magazine's budget to buy more test cars, however, it probably won't take any oddball trades, so you can forget about getting any purchasing help from that track-day AMC Javelin project on blocks in the back yard.

The vehicles have been taken care of and spiffed up for sale; buyers will take delivery at the CR test track in East Haddam, Connecticut and get a tour of the facilities. While you're there they'll even take you on a lap around the track so you can feel how your car handles when driven by one of its testers. They will probably not help you with advice on which toaster and dehumidifier to buy - you'll still need to get a subscription for that. Have a look at the video below to see a day in the life of a CR test car.

Continue reading Consumer Reports selling its road-tested roadsters [w/video]

Consumer Reports selling its road-tested roadsters [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Jan 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audibmwboxsterconsumer reportsmercedes-benzporscheslkttvideovideosyoutubez4Thu, 31 Jan 2013 17:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20444388/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/31/consumer-reports-selling-its-road-tested-roadsters-w-vid/20444388/article-detail.xml 20444388 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/crtestcars_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/crtestcars.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Car and Driver</i> lists 10Best for 2013, same as it ever was]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/car-and-driver-lists-10best-for-2013-same-as-it-ever-was/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/car-and-driver-lists-10best-for-2013-same-as-it-ever-was/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/car-and-driver-lists-10best-for-2013-same-as-it-ever-was/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,



Forgive us for having the distinct feeling of déjà vu, but it certainly feels like we've been here before. By that we are referring Car and Driver and the announcement of its annual 10Best vehicles for 2013. To be sure, it's an impressive selection of cars that combine heart-pounding performance and frugal sensibilities, but it also represents something of a broken record on the part of C/D. We're not so sure that's a flaw, though, as the resulting list is tough to argue with.

Vehicles like the Ford Mustang, Porsche Boxster, and BMW 3 Series have maintained their high-horsepower spots on this list for several years now. Even on the more practical and nimble end, the Honda Accord, Honda Fit and Mazda Miata have not budged. These continued spots are even in light of redesigns for some vehicles such as the Accord, Boxster and 3 Series.

In fact, the only newcomer to the 10Best list this year are the Scion FR-S/Subaru BRZ twins, which knocked out the Cadillac CTS-V. We think it would have been a huge misstep to have excluded the FR-S/BRZ, even in light of the supercharged Caddy's lamentable departure from 10Best.

Without further ado, here are 2012 Car and Driver 10Best winners:

After perusing our gallery of the winners, bounce on over to Car and Driver to check out the full 10Best roundup, along with a collection of videos on each car. Be sure to let us know in Comments what you think of this year's list!

Car and Driver lists 10Best for 2013, same as it ever was originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 best10best3 seriesa6a7accordaudibmwboxsterbrzcar and drivercar and driver 10 bestfitfocusfocus stfordfr-sgolfgtihondamazdamiatamustangmustang boss 302mx-5 miatas6s7vw golfWed, 05 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20394696/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/05/car-and-driver-lists-10best-for-2013-same-as-it-ever-was/20394696/article-detail.xml 20394696 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-honda-accord-ex-l-sedan-1354717181_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-honda-accord-ex-l-sedan-1354717181.jpeg <![CDATA[<i>EVO</i> "2012 Car of the Year: The Track Battles" is a sports car salmagundi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/evo-2012-car-of-the-year-the-track-battles-is-a-sports/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/evo-2012-car-of-the-year-the-track-battles-is-a-sports/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/evo-2012-car-of-the-year-the-track-battles-is-a-sports/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

EVO video - 2012 Car of the Year: The Track Battles - rear of Pagani Huayra

EVO has come out with another gotta-watch-it video, throwing its 2012 Car of the Year contestants around the UK's 1.5-mile Blyton Park track. It's actually a 15-minute teaser for the full-length DVD detailing the magazine's Car of the Year selection, but the tease is worth every penny free second.

Tiff Needell and sports car racer Richard Meaden handle the wheel duties, the two driving five pairs of sports cars: Lotus Exige S vs. Porsche Boxster S, Morgan Three-Wheeler vs. Toyota GT86, BMW M135i vs. Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Black Series vs. Alpina B3 GT3, the marquee event pits the McLaren MP4-12C vs. the Pagani Huayra. After a head-to-head lap with commentary during drifts, Meaden takes each car out to set a representative lap time.

You'll find the verdicts, lots of tire smoke, and lines like "Anything you can do sideways I can do sideways" in the video below.

Continue reading EVO "2012 Car of the Year: The Track Battles" is a sports car salmagundi

EVO "2012 Car of the Year: The Track Battles" is a sports car salmagundi originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-series2012 car of the year911911 carreraalpinab3b3 gt3bmwboxsterc63 amg black seriesevoexige sfr-sgt 86gt86huayralotusm135imclarenmercedes-benzmorganmp4-12cpaganiporschescionthree-wheelertoyotavideoSun, 25 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20386757/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/25/evo-2012-car-of-the-year-the-track-battles-is-a-sports/20386757/article-detail.xml 20386757 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/evo2012test_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/evo2012test.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche Boxster S takes on 911 in possible patricidal throwdown]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/porsche-boxster-s-takes-on-911-in-possible-patricidal-throwdown/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/porsche-boxster-s-takes-on-911-in-possible-patricidal-throwdown/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/porsche-boxster-s-takes-on-911-in-possible-patricidal-throwdown/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Porsche Boxster vs 911 drag race

In the 2013 Boxster, Porsche has created a supremely fun, supremely capable sports car. But is it good enough that it has negated the purpose of the 911? To address such a debate, Car and Driver has pitted the iconic 911 against the Boxster S in the latest edition of "Car and Driver: Abroad."

The gestation of the Boxster is essentially encapsulated in the opening line of the video: "People used to say that the Boxster was a poor man's Porsche, an imitation of the iconic 911, but the latest model has really come of age. In fact, it might now be the best sports car in the Porsche range." While that notion has become the topic of much debate, C/D is doing more than pondering as both cars are taken to the limit on the dragstrip and the racetrack.

Which Porsche is faster in a straight line? Which car can more quickly and accurately navigate a racetrack? You're just going to have to watch to find out! Check out the Porsche-centric comparo video below.

Continue reading Porsche Boxster S takes on 911 in possible patricidal throwdown

Porsche Boxster S takes on 911 in possible patricidal throwdown originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche 9112013 porsche boxster911boxstercar and driverporscheFri, 05 Oct 2012 20:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20342878/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/05/porsche-boxster-s-takes-on-911-in-possible-patricidal-throwdown/20342878/article-detail.xml 20342878 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/boxster-911-race_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/boxster-911-race.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche's legends can't wait to play with new Boxster on the track]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/porsches-legends-cant-wait-to-play-with-new-boxster-on-the-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/porsches-legends-cant-wait-to-play-with-new-boxster-on-the-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/14/porsches-legends-cant-wait-to-play-with-new-boxster-on-the-tra/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Porsche Boxster ad screencap

Porsche has gathered topless legends from its history, and one notorious hardtop, to show off some of the metal that inspired the 2013 Porsche Boxster. Unfortunately, they sat in the garage on the first day of filming a promo at the Barber Motorsports Park because an all-day rainstorm also decided to enjoy the track.

On the second day the sky made nice, and the interlude gave Porsche its theme for the event: Rain is not forever, but a roadster is. It's a sentiment that plenty of drivers in the UK would wholeheartedly agree with, and you can see how Porsche brings it to life in the Boxster video below.

Continue reading Porsche's legends can't wait to play with new Boxster on the track

Porsche's legends can't wait to play with new Boxster on the track originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Sep 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxsterbarber motorsports parkboxsterboxster commercialporschevideoFri, 14 Sep 2012 15:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20322519/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/14/porsches-legends-cant-wait-to-play-with-new-boxster-on-the-tra/20322519/article-detail.xml 20322519 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/porscheboxsterrain_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/porscheboxsterrain.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #299]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/autoblog-podcast-299/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/autoblog-podcast-299/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/11/autoblog-podcast-299/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2013 Honda Accord, Volkswagen CUV, GM and Opel, Autoblog talks to Elon Musk

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Episode #299 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the 2013 Honda Accord, the suggestion by Morgan Stanley for GM to unload Opel, Autoblog Green's chat with Elon Musk, and the possibility of Volkswagen reviving the Microbus with a compact CUV. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #299:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Porsche Boxster S
2013 Lexus GS 350
2012 Chevrolet Sonic

Hosts: Dan Roth, Jeff Ross, Zach Bowman

Runtime: 01:24:33
Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

Review the show in iTunes

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #299

Autoblog Podcast #299 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordautoblog greenautoblog podcastautobog podcast 299boxsterbullichevroletelon muskgsgs 350hondalexusmicrobuspodcast 299porschesonicvolkswagenTue, 11 Sep 2012 17:59:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #299Autoblog01:24:33 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20321210/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/11/autoblog-podcast-299/20321210/article-detail.xml 20321210 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Seeking Porsche's Purest Sports Car

2013 Porsche Boxster S

In 1996 when Porsche only offered the 911 Carrera for sale, choosing its purest sports car was easy. But today, Porsche offers five different models and the answer is rather muddy. None of its high performance vehicles, from coupe to roadster and sedan to sport utility, are easily dismissed, as each is capable of shattering the 60 mph benchmark in under five seconds and topping out at over 170 mph.

On one hand, determining the quickest is easy (911 Turbo S). And it takes only a moment to calculate the most expensive (Panamera Turbo S) or the one with the greatest cargo capacity (Cayenne). But on the other hand, how does one determine the company's purest sports car - the least distilled embodiment of performance motoring and maneuverability?

To help answer that nagging question, we flew to Barber Motorsports Park to spend a full day behind the wheel of the company's all-new third-generation Porsche Boxster. (As you may recall, we had a first crack at the little roadster back in March in Europe, but we wanted to get our mitts on a North-American-spec car for local impressions).

Continue reading 2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video]

2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 May 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 boxster2013 porsche boxster sboxsterboxster first driveboxster reviewboxster snew porscheporscheWed, 30 May 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20247046/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/30/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review-video/20247046/article-detail.xml 20247046 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-porsche-boxster-s-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2013-porsche-boxster-s-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #282]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/autoblog-podcast-282/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/autoblog-podcast-282/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/autoblog-podcast-282/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Carroll Shelby's passing, BMW 3 Series Wagon, Porsche sub-Boxster/Pajun, Google car in public, BMW 2 Series
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Episode #282 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Chris, Dan and Zach chat about the passing of industry legend Carroll Shelby, the BMW 3 Series Wagon that's coming soon, Porsche and its rumored small five-door, Pajun (along with plans for a baby Boxster), Google's self-driving car getting the go-ahead to roam Nevada's streets, and the coming BMW 2 Series. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #282:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2012 Chrylser 300 AWD
2012 Honda Fit Sport
2012 Volkswagen Tiguan


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman
Runtime: 01:23:51
Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

Review the show in iTunes

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #282

Autoblog Podcast #282 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series2 series3 seriesautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 282bmw 2 seriesboxstercarroll shelbycarroll shelby diescarroll shelby passesfeaturedpanameraporsche pajunTue, 15 May 2012 16:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #282Autoblog01:23:51 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20238805/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/15/autoblog-podcast-282/20238805/article-detail.xml 20238805 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche says no baby Boxster, no rush on Pajun]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/porsche-says-no-baby-boxster-no-rush-on-pajun/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/porsche-says-no-baby-boxster-no-rush-on-pajun/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/14/porsche-says-no-baby-boxster-no-rush-on-pajun/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Porsche emblem

Just days after reporting that Porsche had plans to introduce the Pajun, a competitor for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class that would slot just below the Panamera, Automotive News quoted Porsche CEO Matthias Mueller saying the Pajun was not a done deal but could become reality in five or six years.

Automotive News was referencing an interview Mueller gave to German newspaper Stuttgarter Zeitung, in which he also says the company has no plans for an entry-level Porsche below the Boxster until at least 2014.

"We would do no good to the brand if we were to lose traditional Porsche customers," Mueller told the newspaper. In another interview with German business publication Wirtschaftswoche, Mueller said, "Possibly we need to wait until the next generation of customers before the idea of a small roadster will work for Porsche."

Porsche says no baby Boxster, no rush on Pajun originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby+boxsterbaby+porschebabyboxsterbabyporscheboxstermatthias muellerpajunpanameraporscheporsche+pajunporschepajunMon, 14 May 2012 11:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20237251/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/14/porsche-says-no-baby-boxster-no-rush-on-pajun/20237251/article-detail.xml 20237251 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/porsche-emblem-singer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/porsche-emblem-singer.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Porsche Boxster rated at 22/32 MPG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-porsche-boxster-rated-at-22-32-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-porsche-boxster-rated-at-22-32-mpg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/2013-porsche-boxster-rated-at-22-32-mpg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

porsche boxster

If you put us in charge of Porsche Boxster development, we'd have demanded more power, less weight and improved fuel efficiency. We now know that the new 265-horsepower, 2.7-liter boxer six is capable of producing 10 more ponies than the outgoing model, and overall tonnage was slashed by 55 pounds, so the base model is already two-thirds of the way toward our vision.

Car and Driver reports that the most affordable Porsche has completed the wish-list trifecta, announcing a significant fuel economy bump. The base 2013 Boxster will boast an EPA-estimated 22 miles per gallon in the city (up two mpg) and 32 mpg on the highway (up three mpg), but only when equipped with the PDK transmission. The manual-equipped Boxster will achieve still-impressive 20/30 numbers, up one mpg and three mpg, respectively.

Noticeably absent is any mention of Boxster S fuel economy. We're suspecting the 315-horsepower, 3.4-liter flat-six will also deliver significant fuel economy improvements, but perhaps a number shy of the 30-mpg mark.

2013 Porsche Boxster rated at 22/32 MPG originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxsterboxsterepafuel economyporscheWed, 09 May 2012 10:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20233295/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/2013-porsche-boxster-rated-at-22-32-mpg/20233295/article-detail.xml 20233295 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-porsche-boxster-52-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-porsche-boxster-52-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen to start building Porsches this fall]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/18/volkswagen-to-start-building-porsches-this-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/18/volkswagen-to-start-building-porsches-this-fall/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/18/volkswagen-to-start-building-porsches-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Volkswagen still has to go over the river and through the woods before it can close the deal to take over Porsche, but this fall it will begin building them. Primary Boxster production will commence this summer at Porsche's factory in Zuffenhausen, where the 911 is also built.

Overflow production will be handled by VW at its Osnabrück plant, which also handles assembly for the VW Golf Cabriolet and overflow Porsche Cayman production. The arrangement isn't unexpected, with plans for the Osnabrück option mentioned as far back as 2010.

Volkswagen to start building Porsches this fall originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxsterboxsterosnabrückporscheSun, 18 Mar 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20195291/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/18/volkswagen-to-start-building-porsches-this-fall/20195291/article-detail.xml 20195291 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/boxstervwbuild_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/boxstervwbuild.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Porsche Boxster S laps 'Ring in 7:58]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/2013-porsche-boxster-s-laps-ring-in-7-58/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/2013-porsche-boxster-s-laps-ring-in-7-58/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/15/2013-porsche-boxster-s-laps-ring-in-7-58/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



While the ink has barely dried on our 2013 Porsche Boxster S First Drive, the automaker has reportedly just divulged the roadster's official lap time around the famed Nürburgring circuit in Germany - the grueling racetrack that serves as a benchmark test for today's sports cars. According to Porsche, its new two-seat convertible crossed the start/finish line after delivering a 7:58 lap.

That time may seem a bit off the pace when compared to heavy-hitters like the 911 GT2 RS (7:18), Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (7:19) and Nissan GT-R (7:24), but it is plenty quick among its peers in the same horsepower range (the '13 Boxster features a 3.4-liter flat-six rated at 315 horsepower) and strong enough to take the checkered flag away from the Cadillac CTS-V and Chevrolet C6 Corvette. Much of the credit goes to Porsche's commitment to keeping weight off the roadster (its curb weight is just 2,910 pounds), widening its track and fitting the redesigned vehicle with its capable torque-vectoring system.

2013 Porsche Boxster S laps 'Ring in 7:58 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxster2013 porsche boxster sboxsterboxster snürburgringnurburgringporscheThu, 15 Mar 2012 13:34:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20194123/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/15/2013-porsche-boxster-s-laps-ring-in-7-58/20194123/article-detail.xml 20194123 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/boxsterring628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/boxsterring628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/12/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A Reminder To Drive



After five days in Europe, I'm finally able to count the number of hours I've slept on both my hands and feet. I've been stuck in this sort of schmoozing fugue state for the past few days, part hapless journalist, part aimless wanderer.

The Geneva Motor Show is over. Covered. Done. But my trip isn't even halfway through. There's one last thing to do and that's drive the all-new Porsche Boxster. That means another flight. Another shuttle. Another hotel. And yet another press conference. This one I actually care about. It's just too bad I can barely focus, let alone take notes.

Chassis codes, curb weights, gear ratios and torque figures fly through the air. I manage to catch a few and jot them down. I'm running below E, barely fueled by some post-show adrenaline, copious quantities of caffeine and the occasional upbeat of my flustered circadian rhythms.

But I'm keeping my eye on the prize. One day with the new version of one of my favorite rides in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.

Walter Röhrl flashes on the asymmetrical jumbotron towards the end of the over-the-top PowerPoint presentation. He's driving the Boxster. I desperately want to be him. Right now. And that's when I hear him say part of our drive route will be the Monte Carlo Special Stage of the World Rally Championship. Another night of partial insomnia is now guaranteed.

Continue reading 2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video]

2013 Porsche Boxster S [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 boxster s2012 porsche boxster sboxsterboxster sfirst driveFirstDriveporscheporsche boxsterporsche boxster sMon, 12 Mar 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20190860/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/12/2013-porsche-boxster-s-first-drive-review/20190860/article-detail.xml 20190860 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-2013-porsche-boxster-s-fd-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-2013-porsche-boxster-s-fd-opt.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Porsche Boxster is ready to be your summer fling]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2013-porsche-boxster-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2013-porsche-boxster-geneva-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/06/2013-porsche-boxster-geneva-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Porsche Boxster live in Geneva

Lighter. Faster. Efficient-er. These three adjectives are things you definitely want to hear when talking about a new sports car, and the 2013 Porsche Boxster embodies all three.

A new all-aluminum body reduces weight by 55 pounds across the model range, meaning the new base Boxster tips the scales at a scant 2,889 pounds, while the more powerful S weighs in at 3,043 pounds. The standard car is powered by a direct-injected 2.7-liter flat-six with 265 horsepower, while the Boxster S uses a DI 3.4-liter flat-six with 315 horsepower - gains of 10 and five horses versus the 2012 models, respectively. A six-speed manual comes as standard kit (sorry, no seven-speed stick here), but buyers can opt for Porsche's fancy PDK dual-clutch gearbox (that does have seven speeds, by the way).

Performance? The base Boxster with dual-clutch PDK gearbox is estimated to hit 60 miles per hour in just 5.4 seconds and the Boxster S will do that same jaunt in just 4.7. Of course, that's before you opt for the Sport and Sport Chrono packs that will surely knock a few tenths off of those numbers.

The 2013 Boxster officially hits North American showrooms this summer, priced from $49,500 ($60,900 for the S). We'll be getting our first stint behind the wheel shortly after the Geneva show wraps up, so stay tuned for a full report.

Continue reading 2013 Porsche Boxster is ready to be your summer fling

2013 Porsche Boxster is ready to be your summer fling originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxsterboxsterboxster sgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showporscheTue, 06 Mar 2012 08:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186625/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/06/2013-porsche-boxster-geneva-2012/20186625/article-detail.xml 20186625 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-porsche-boxster-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-porsche-boxster-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen Group previews its wares on eve of Geneva show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-group-geneva-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-group-geneva-preview/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/volkswagen-group-geneva-preview/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Lamborghini Aventador J live image

The Volkswagen Group is comprised of 11 brands producing 240 vehicles across 49 factories throughout the world. So the best way to show off the range of the VW family is to cram a few thousand journalists and VIPs into a massive makeshift stand to outline the Group's goals, what's in the pipeline and what you'll be able to buy later this year.

To that end, VW pulled out all the stops on the eve of the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, bringing along 10 vehicles from across the range. We'll be delving into the details of each over the next two days of show coverage, but before that happens, you can read all about what we saw tonight from the cheap seats after the break.

Continue reading Volkswagen Group previews its wares on eve of Geneva show

Volkswagen Group previews its wares on eve of Geneva show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a3amarokaudiaventadoraventador jbentleyboxsterbugattiexp 9 fgenevageneva 2012geneva motor showgiugiarojotalamborghiniporscheveyron grand sport vitessevolkswagenvw agMon, 05 Mar 2012 16:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20186221/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/volkswagen-group-geneva-preview/20186221/article-detail.xml 20186221 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/lamborghini-aventador-j_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/lamborghini-aventador-j.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche driver busted for using toothpaste to alter license plate]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/03/porsche-driver-busted-for-using-toothpaste-to-alter-license-plat/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/03/porsche-driver-busted-for-using-toothpaste-to-alter-license-plat/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/03/porsche-driver-busted-for-using-toothpaste-to-alter-license-plat/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toothpaste plate mod

A Chinese Porsche Boxster driver is in trouble for using toothpaste to avoid the law. The owner used the cavity-preventing goo to change the 1s on his license plates to 7s. This ended up attracting the attention of Qingdao police, who thought the 7s didn't look right.

The owner will be able to reflect on his mistake over some long walks: he was fined 2,200 yuan ($349 USD) and got six points taken off his licence. Since he only had six points left to give, he won't be driving for a while.

Porsche driver busted for using toothpaste to alter license plate originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxsterdrivers licenselicense plateporscheporsche boxsterSat, 03 Mar 2012 12:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20181446/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/03/porsche-driver-busted-for-using-toothpaste-to-alter-license-plat/20181446/article-detail.xml 20181446 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chinaporschetoothpaste_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/chinaporschetoothpaste.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche's sub-Boxster delayed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/porsches-sub-boxster-delayed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/porsches-sub-boxster-delayed/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/porsches-sub-boxster-delayed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

porsche logo

This isn't good. Not at all. Automotive News reports that Porsche CEO Matthias Mueller has cooled on the idea of a sub-Boxster Porsche model. Mueller reportedly told German publication Wirtschaftswoche that a vehicle priced under the Boxster could dilute the brand's image, adding that Porsche may need to "wait until the next generation of customers before the idea of a small roadster will work."

We've been hearing about a roadster that slots under the Boxster for years, and in February, Mueller told AN that such a vehicle could arrive as soon as 2014.

We'd be lying if we said we weren't disappointed by this development, as any new mid-engine Porsche sounds like a great idea to us. Porsche is, after all, still looking to launch the sub-Cayenne Cajun SUV next year. The Cajun should cost less than the base Boxster (the Cayenne is currently the lowest-priced Porsche), making it the lowest-priced vehicle in the lineup. We're just not sure why an entry-level mid-engine roadster would be a worse idea than a second Porsche SUV.

Porsche's sub-Boxster delayed originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxstercajunmatthias muellermid-enginemuellerporscheroadsterMon, 16 Jan 2012 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20149717/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/16/porsches-sub-boxster-delayed/20149717/article-detail.xml 20149717 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/porsche-crest-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/porsche-crest-630.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Porsche Boxster unveiled with more efficiency, performance and maturity [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-porsche-boxster-unveiled-with-more-efficiency-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-porsche-boxster-unveiled-with-more-efficiency-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/2013-porsche-boxster-unveiled-with-more-efficiency-performance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Porsche may have just unveiled its new 2012 911 Carrera Cabriolet at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this week, but the German automaker is wasting no time before showing off its next bit of overhauled hotness, the 2013 Boxster. The mid-engine roadster won't make its official debut until the Geneva Motor Show in March, but we've been given some preliminary details ahead of the new Box's primetime unveiling.

Much like the 911, the new Boxster's design is more evolution than revolution, and that's a-okay with us. The redesigned roadster is extremely handsome, and most of us on the Autoblog staff think it's the best-looking Boxster yet. We like the revised headlamps and more svelte running lamp/air intake setup, and the wider stance and longer wheelbase are nicely masked in the new design. The 2013 Boxster's all-aluminum skin also helps the new model shed a few pounds compared to its predecessor, which will not only make it that much more engaging out on the road, but also improve fuel economy.

But really, the Boxster is all about performance, and under the hood behind the seats are two flat-six engines with direct injection, thermal management and start/stop functionality. The base Boxster uses a 2.7-liter flat six, good for 265 horsepower (10 hp more than its predecessor) while the Boxster S is powered by a 3.4-liter six that produces 315 hp (an increase of 5 hp versus the 2012 model). The standard Boxster will run to 60 miles per hour in 5.4 seconds with the seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, while the Boxster S will do the same jaunt in just 4.7 seconds. A six-speed manual gearbox (what, no seven-speed?) is also available with either engine. Porsche will offer a Sport Chrono package that further enhances performance, adding things like dynamic transmission mounts and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV).

Look for the 2013 Boxster to hit United States showrooms this summer, priced from $49,500 for the base car or $60,900 for the Boxster S (not including $950 for destination). Now, about that Cayman...

Continue reading 2013 Porsche Boxster unveiled with more efficiency, performance and maturity [w/video]

2013 Porsche Boxster unveiled with more efficiency, performance and maturity [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche boxsterboxstergenevageneva 2012geneva motor showporscheWed, 11 Jan 2012 22:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146622/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/2013-porsche-boxster-unveiled-with-more-efficiency-performance/20146622/article-detail.xml 20146622 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-porsche-boxster-52-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/2013-porsche-boxster-52-opt.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Car and Driver</i> reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,



Each year, the scribes at Car and Driver go through every new vehicle on sale and pick the ten best cars available here in the United States. And while some major automotive awards are only shelled out to vehicles that are all-new or significantly updated for a certain model year, C/D's approach is to look at the full scope of cars currently on sale. After all, there are some cars that are simply perennial favorites, even if they haven't changed year over year.

For 2012, the Chevrolet Volt and Hyundai Sonata have fallen off the list to make room for the Audi A6/A7 and Ford Focus. The other eight vehicles that round out the 10Best list have carried over from the 2011 winners, but we can't say we're surprised. These ten cars indeed represent some of the best vehicles on sale today.

The 2012 Car and Driver 10Best winners are:
Head over to Car and Driver to read the full 10Best roundup, and follow the jump to see a video of this year's winning fleet, then check in to Comments to share your thoughts on C/D's list.

Continue reading Car and Driver reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video]

Car and Driver reveals its 2012 10Best cars [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10 best10best2012 10best3 seriesa7accordaudibmwboss 302boxstercadillaccar and drivercts-vfitfocusfordgolfgtihondam3mustangporscheten bestvolkswagenTue, 06 Dec 2011 14:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20121966/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/06/car-and-driver-reveals-its-2012-10best-cars-w-video/20121966/article-detail.xml 20121966 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/cd10best628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/cd10best628.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche wants to double sales by 2015]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/porsche-wants-to-double-sales-by-2015/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/porsche-wants-to-double-sales-by-2015/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/10/porsche-wants-to-double-sales-by-2015/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Volkswagen is on a role right now, and management in Wolfsburg hopes that winning streak results in the company becoming the largest automaker by volume by 2018 or sooner. Those ambitious sales goals stretch to VW's many brands as well, including Porsche.

The Detroit Bureau reports that Porsche is looking to double sales by 2015, with new products and emerging markets leading the charge. The numbers involved are taking last year's 97,000 vehicles sold worldwide and hitting a nice, round 200,000 by mid-decade. The new products that will help spur sales are the recently released 2012 911, the forthcoming Cajun mini ute and perhaps the sub-Boxster entry-level Porsche that we've been hearing about for years.

Those models would likely help improve sales here in the U.S., which is still the number one market for Porsche. But the performance and luxury car maker is also hoping to make inroads in the world's three biggest emerging markets: China, Russia and India. Those markets are clamoring for luxury autos right now, and Porsche is all too happy to help fill the void.

Porsche board member Wolfgang Hatz added at a preview of the new 911 that profitability will remain a major focus. Porsche has long boasted a ridiculously good 15 percent Return on Sales number, and Hatz and company want to keep that advantage as sales improve.

Porsche wants to double sales by 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911boxstercajunporschesalesvwThu, 10 Nov 2011 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20103013/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/10/porsche-wants-to-double-sales-by-2015/20103013/article-detail.xml 20103013 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/dvtogetty50338100-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/dvtogetty50338100-opt.jpg -1 2