Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As you can see from the image above depicting Osamu Suzuki, chairman and CEO of Suzuki Motor Corp. and Martin Winterkorn, his counterpart at Volkswagen AG, the two auto companies have agreed to link arms. Volkswagen has properly announced that it has "reached a common understanding to establish a close longterm strategic partnership" with Suzuki Motor Corporation. The union means VW will buy 19.9% of Suzuki, then Suzuki will spend half the money they just received from Volkswagen reciprocating by buying VW shares.

Beyond that, Suzuki gains access to VW technology and the comforting warmth of a hugely profitable big brother. Volkswagen gets a nearly turn-key solution to boosting its small car development and piggybacks on Suzuki's presence in India and Southeast Asia. Suzuki, and of course, VW, will remain independent, but unofficial word suggests that VW might increase its stake to 33% or more at some point down the road, which could shift the balance of power.

VW's press release is after the jump, and there will be a press conference and webcast (you'll need a user name and password to watch) at 5 p.m. with more details.

[Source: Volkswagen | Image: Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP/Getty]

Continue reading Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot

Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingOsaumu SuzukiOsaumuSuzukishare exchangeShareExchangesuzukisuzuki motor corporationsuzuki volkswagenSuzukiMotorCorporationSuzukiVolkswagentechnology exchangeTechnologyExchangetie uptie-upTieUpvolkswagenvolkswagen AGVolkswagenAgvwvw suzukiVwSuzukiwinterkornWed, 09 Dec 2009 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning <b>[UPDATE: Confirmed]</b>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Having just been appointed interim CEO at General Motors earlier this week, ex-AT&T man Ed Whitacre isn't wasting any time in exercising his newfound authority. According to The Wall Street Journal, Whitacre is to announce a number of management changes this morning, including moving Vice Chairman Bob Lutz from his role in marketing to a more product planning-focused role. Whitacre is also expected to promote some of the company's younger managers to new positions, although it has not yet been revealed who is targeted.

According to the WSJ, Whitacre "drew up the new management blueprint in a matter of four hours," suggesting to us that he already had a number of changes in mind. Further, he is also expected to combine GM's sales and marketing divisions

While Whitacre has only been on the job since Tuesday and he is technically only considered an interim appointment at this time, the search for a new CEO is thought likely to take months, if not a year. From the looks of things, Whitacre isn't looking at himself as simply a placeholder, though, and we wouldn't be surprised to see more changes as the weeks and months roll by.

*UPDATE: Changes confirmed: GM has issued a press release (viewable after the jump). Among the moves, Bob Lutz will be an 'advisor' on design and global product - he will retain his title of vice chairman. Other changes include Mark Reuss named as president of GM North America, Susan Docherty appointed VP, vehicle sales, service, and marketing operations. For a full list of changes, click past the jump for the release.

[Source: The Wall Street Journal I Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Continue reading BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning [UPDATE: Confirmed]

BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning [UPDATE: Confirmed] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bob LutzBobLutzbreakingbreakingnewsEd WhitacreEdWhitacreGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGM CEOGmCeomanagement changesmanagement shakeupManagementChangesManagementShakeupmark reussMarkReusssusan dochertySusanDochertyWhitacreFri, 04 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Mitsubishi Colt <i>is</i> coming to America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Mitsubishi Colt - Click above for high-res image gallery

Buried deep within Mitsubishi's (re)presentation of its PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid concept from the Tokyo Motor Show was a line about a global small car that Mitsubishi will be bringing to the US in 2010. That's it, one line. We didn't think too much of the announcement until Mitsubishi's Product Communications Manager Moe Durand walked up and said, "In case you missed it, the small car is the Colt." Dang!

Dang because we really like the new EVO-nosed Colt, especially in Ralliart trim. Additionally, now is a wonderful time to bring over a small car. Don't believe us? Just ask Ford (Fiesta) and Mazda (Mazda2). The Colt will be going up against some pretty hefty (albeit lightweight) competition in the form of established B-segmenters like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa.

And while we haven't driven the new Colt, the stats aren't exactly overwhelming - in top trim, a 1.5-liter MIVEC four-cylinder spits out 104 hp and 104 lb-ft of torque. Routed through a CVT transmission that's probably plenty of grunt for day to day small car activities. And odds are Mitsubishi will drop a slightly buffer mill into the Colt for US duty. But just picture this - what if Mitsubishi gives us the Ralliart Colt? Maybe with a turbo. We, for one, would really be in favor of that (hint, hint). Either way, here comes the Colt.


Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Colt

BREAKING: Mitsubishi Colt is coming to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingColtLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowMitsubishiMitsubishi ColtMitsubishi Small CarMitsubishiColtMitsubishiSmallCarWed, 02 Dec 2009 20:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Alfa Romeo Giulietta - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been a long time in the making. It has changed names several times along the way. But it's finally here. Well, almost. It's the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, and it's coming to the Geneva Motor Show this March to coincide with its phased market launch across Europe next year to coincide with the marque's centenary.

Positioned just above the MiTo in Alfa's lineup (and, tellingly, below the anticipated upcoming 159-succeeding Giulia), the Giulietta replaces the 147 as Italy's answer to the Volkswagen Golf. Since Alfa's parent company Fiat already targets the Golf with its own Bravo, though, some might consider this more of an aggressively-priced competitor to the Audi A3. The hatchback takes its styling cues from the sumptuous 8C Competizione, but carries it off in a decidedly more aggressive way than implemented on the MiTo. Plenty of glass also make the cabin more airy, with a body-colored panel running across the dashboard.

A range of transverse four-cylinder engines - both gasoline and diesel - will be on offer, producing between 120 and 170 horsepower until a 230 hp Quadrifoglio Verde model comes along. They've all got start-stop engine management and Alfa's DNA adjustable suspension system as standard equipment. Fiat's cutting-edge MultiAir valve-actuation system will eventually find its way into all of the engines, while the selection of five- and six-speed manual gearboxes is set to be joined by a new dual-clutch transmission as well.

The new Giulietta marks a pivotal product launch for Alfa Romeo, as the company is hoping to make this its volume offering the most prolific model in its history - with production targeted for an ambitious 100,000 units annually. Check out the trifecta of images in the gallery below and the press release after the jump for full details.


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Giulietta


[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta

Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1492010 geneva2010 geneva auto show2010 geneva motor show2010Geneva2010GenevaAutoShow2010GenevaMotorShowalfaalfa 149alfa giuliettaalfa milanoalfa romeoalfa romeo 149alfa romeo giuliettaalfa romeo milanoAlfa149AlfaGiuliettaAlfaMilanoAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeo149AlfaRomeoGiuliettaAlfaRomeoMilanobreakinggenevageneva 2010geneva auto showgeneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaAutoShowGenevaMotorShowgiuliettamilanoWed, 02 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: GM CEO Fritz Henderson steps down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/breaking-gm-ceo-fritz-henderson-steps-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/breaking-gm-ceo-fritz-henderson-steps-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/breaking-gm-ceo-fritz-henderson-steps-down/#commentsFiled under: ,



Well, that was quick. Fritz Henderson, the recently appointed CEO of General Motors, is stepping down. Company chairman of the board Ed Whitacre (remember the "Satisfaction Guaranteed" commercials, that's the guy) is set to act as the interim CEO until a permanent replacement is found.

This marks the second CEO that beleaguered automaker General Motors has lost this year, the first being Rick Wagoner, who was asked to resign by the Obama Administration's Task Force for Autos. Over the last few months, deals that GM had made to offload Opel, Saturn and Saab have all fallen through, and some have reported on clashing styles between Whitacre and Henderson.

General Motors has just confirmed the news via a press conference being held as we speak. Stay tuned for more as we learn it.

UPDATE: Official Statement from Ed Whitacre, GM's new interim CEO, added after the jump.

[Source: Free Press, GM | Image: Philippe Lopez/Getty]

Continue reading BREAKING: GM CEO Fritz Henderson steps down

BREAKING: GM CEO Fritz Henderson steps down originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsEd WhitacreEdWhitacrefritz hendersonFritzHendersongeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgm ceoGmCeoTue, 01 Dec 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Cruze - click above for high-res image gallery

More than a year after first showing us a styling buck and nearly as long since launching it overseas, General Motors is finally showing off the production Chevy Cruze for North America. Set to be shown publicly this week at the LA Auto Show, the Cruze is still a good eight or nine months away from arriving in U.S. showrooms.

When it does finally arrive, the Cruze should be a huge step forward from the Chevy Cobalt, and GM hopes it will be an able competitor to the next-generation Honda Civic and Ford Focus, which are slated to arrive not long afterward. The Cruze is slightly larger than the Cobalt, but will be powered by downsized engines, including a new 1.4-liter turbocharged four cylinder with 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, as well as a 1.8-liter normally-aspirated unit with similar power but less torque. All Cruze models will get six-speed gearboxes - either manual or automatic. The turbo Cruze is expected to score an impressive 40 mpg EPA highway rating.

Based on our brief experience driving a Chevy Volt powertrain mule (Cruze and Volt share common DNA), the Chevrolet Cruze should be more refined than the outgoing Cobalt by an order of magnitude, with a roomier interior and much better-executed passenger cabin. We'll see it in person later this week in L.A., and in the meantime, you can check out the first official images from GM in the gallery below. The official press release follows after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim

LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 chevrolet cruze2011 chevy cruze2011ChevroletCruze2011ChevyCruzebreakingchevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevychevy cruzechevy cruze interiorchevy cruze lordstownChevyCruzeChevyCruzeInteriorChevyCruzeLordstowncruzela auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowla2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeles 2009LosAngeles2009Sun, 29 Nov 2009 09:14:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Toyota has announced that it will recall some 3.8 million cars and trucks to reshape and/or replace their accelerator pedals. The action is the result of fears that loose floormats may cause the accelerator pedal to stick, increasing the risk of an accident. The recall will be the largest in the Japanese automaker's history, and it will cover a wide range of vehicles from the 2004 model year through 2010 - a complete list is available after the jump. The move comes after an earlier action where Toyota announced it would recall 3.8 million vehicles to only swap floor mats.

Working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Toyota will effect the recall by sending letters to owners of its Avalon, Camry, and Lexus ES 350 models by year's end. Five other models, including the Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS 250/IS 350 will receive similar notices sometime in 2010.

The plan includes training dealer service representatives to reshape gas pedals, and Toyota will develop and ship redesigned gas pedals beginning in April. Those customers who have elected to have their pedals initially reshaped will still be able to have the pedal replaced when the updated unit becomes available. Vehicles fitted with Toyota or Lexus-made all-weather floor mats will also receive a new set of redesigned front mats.

Interestingly, Toyota will also install a a brake override system that will turn off the engine if both the accelerator and the brake are depressed simultaneously. According to Automotive News, this update will occur on "involved Camry, Avalon, and Lexus ES 350, IS 350 and IS 250 models 'as an extra measure of confidence.'" This action appears to be limited to vehicles that employ Toyota's push-button start system, but interestingly its hybrid-only Prius has apparently been excluded.

For its part, Toyota says the cost of the action will come entirely from its dedicated recall fund, a $5.6 billion dollar stash, and therefore, the recall will have "no effect" on its business. The news come on the heels of yesterday's announcement that Toyota will recall 2000-2003 Tundra pickups over frame rust issues.

A complete list of vehicles covered under the action and both NHTSA and Toyota's official press releases are available after the jump.

[Sources: Reuters; Automotive News; NHTSA; Toyota]

Continue reading BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals

BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsCamryfloor matfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallfloormatsfloormats recallFloormatsRecallLexus ISLexus IS 250Lexus IS 350Lexus IS250Lexus IS350LexusIsLexusIs250LexusIs350PriustoyotaToyota AvalonToyota CamryToyota PriusToyota TacomaToyota TundraToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaPriusToyotaTacomaToyotaTundratoyta recallToytaRecallWed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

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

After riding in on a white horse, Koenigsegg Group AB has pulled out of negotiations to buy Saab from General Motors, leaving the Swedish automaker's future very much in doubt. In a brief statement issued by GM (available after the jump), president and CEO Fritz Henderson says that the company is "very disappointed with the decision to pull out of the Saab purchase."

It is unclear what will happen to the brand now, but if Saab fans can hold on to any hope, GM says it will "take the next several days to assess the situation and will advise on the next steps next week." It is worth noting that this is different from the brief announcement that GM issued when Roger Penske's group pulled out from buying Saturn - GM immediately announced that they would begin "winding down" the brand. There was at least one other serious bidder interested in purchasing Saab previous to Koenigsegg becoming the preferred purchaser, but it isn't immediately clear if they are still interested, or if their financial backing checked out to begin with.

We suspect that even if Saab is unable to survive as a brand, someone will step in and purchase the assets to the already tooled-up forthcoming 9-5 sedan - perhaps the Chinese - and potentially the newish 9-3/9-3X as well.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air

BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-5breakingFritz HendersonFritzHendersonGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsKoenigseggSaabSaab 9-5Saab9-5Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[First official shots of new BMW 5 Series leaked online]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 BMW F10 5-Series - Click above for image gallery

BMW's official unveiling ceremony isn't until Monday, but a few authentic shots of the all-new "F10" BMW 5 Series are floating around cyberspace. These three low resolution images only give us a frontal glimpse of the upcoming 5 Series sedan, apparently as it does a dress rehearsal for its big show at the beginning of the week.

Our first sans-camouflage observation says it looks much like the 5 Series GT, its close sibling (nobody was expecting any radical styling departure anyway). Thanks to its "sport sedan" role, the new 5 Series four-door sports a slightly more aggressive flair to its front facade and side styling. In case you were wondering, the little black buttons just ahead of the front wheels are side view cameras, just like those found on the 7 Series. We'll reserve further judgment until Monday, when they pull the rest of the tarp off. Thanks for the tip, Brandon!

UPDATE: Full official gallery of shots from BMW added.

Gallery: 2010 BMW 5 Series F10 Official Pics


Gallery: 2011 BMW 5 Series sedan


[Source: 5post.com]

First official shots of new BMW 5 Series leaked online originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 5 Series2010 BMW2010 BMW 5 Series2010 F1020105Series2010Bmw2010Bmw5Series2010F105 Series5SeriesbreakingF10F10 5 SeriesF105SeriesPreviewSneak PeekSneakPeekSpiedSpottedSpy ShotSpyShotSun, 22 Nov 2009 08:49:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Say it ain't so, Schu! The Daily Telegraph is reporting that seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher is close to signing on with the newly formed Mercedes Formula 1 team. Mercedes is the new name of the former Brawn GP team, the current Constructors Champion. After a stellar rookie season that saw this former Honda team clinch not just the Constructors Championship, but also the Drivers Championship for Jenson Button, they had a bit of a dropoff as Button bolted for rival McLaren.

That left a seat to fill at Mercedes and if BBC Sport's Eddie Jordan is to be believed, none other than Michael Schumacher is about to sign a one-year contract to return to racing in that very car. The deal, which would net Schumacher the same salary that Button turned down at Brawn GP in favour of McLaren, would finally see the German teaming up with Mercedes, who were in the past unsuccessful in their bids to lure him away from Ferrari.

Ferrari almost lured the retired champ back this season when Felipe Massa went down following the infamous spring incident in Hungary. The Champ's sore neck put a stop to that comeback, but apparently it got Schumi's juices flowing again. Signing with Mercedes would create something of a German dream team with Nico Rosberg in the other car. If the deal goes through, MS will be reunited with Brawn GP-namesake and current Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn, the man who guided Michael to all seven of his World titles.

Still just a rumor for the moment, the deal is said to give Schumacher the same salary Button turned down when he defected to McLaren. The Schumacher deal is just the latest volley in the silly season melee that has seen Kimi Raikkonen vacate his seat in order to make room for Fernando Alonso at Ferrari, which lost adviser Michael Schumacher as well. Whatever the future holds, it is only going to get more interesting. We'll keep you posted as things develop. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: The Daily Telegraph via Planet F1, BBC Sport | Image Source: Getty]

BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsF1Ferrariformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnemclarenmercedesmercedes-benzmichael schumacherMichaelSchumacherMSschumacherFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Buick Regal live unveiling - Click above for high-res image gallery

Trivia Time: When was the last time a U.S. market Buick was available with a manual transmission? Honestly, we can't recall anything more recent than a buddy in high school having a hand-me-down mid-Eighties Somerset coupe with a stubby, workmanlike five-speed. Even back then its presence in our friend's hooptie was a genuine curiosity and a source of perpetual amusement.

Naturally, we posed this same question to a few Buick PR-types this morning at a first drive event upon learning from vehicle line executive Jim Federico that the reborn 2011 Regal will receive a six-speed manual transmission option (mated to a blown 2.0-liter four, no less). The answer? Shoulder shrugs and sheepish looks. Curiously, nobody even tried to answer our query with a red herring like the ill-fated Reatta coupe (it only came with a four-speed automatic).

So we now know when a Buick will next feature God's Own Gearbox (probably in the third quarter of 2010), but we still can't crack this historical chestnut - so we beseech thee, Autoblog Nation... what year was the last Buick built with a DIY transmission - and what car was it in? Hit us with your best shot in Comments.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal Live Unveiling


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

BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Buick2011 Regal2011Buick2011RegalbreakingbreakingnewsBuickBuick RegalBuickRegalJim FedericoJimFedericomanual transmissionManualTransmissionRegalstick shiftstick-shiftStickShiftThu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/#comments

If anybody is still wondering whether Aptera, despite the recent commotion, will deliver one of their flightless wonders by Christmas, they can officially cease speculating. They're not, and the release date has now been pushed back to some undefined time in 2010. Hopefully, the delay won't be a full year as it was the last time they announced delivery postponement. According to the company, fundraising efforts didn't keep pace with vehicle development, so they're taking measures to slow the cash burn. One of those unfortunate actions involved laying off an unspecified number of employees, though one of them, co-founder Steve Fambro, has said he will resume his role next year. Addressing the situation he said:
Right now my advanced work is a lower priority for Aptera. We've got to be wholly focused on funding and getting the first 2e on the road. Paul's leadership and (chief engineer) Tom Reichenbach's talent have led to changes in the vehicle that are spot-on. They've made the vehicle safer, it's better handling and more comfortable. Once we get through this stage, we'll begin mass producing the 2e - the most aerodynamic and efficient vehicle in the world.
Sounds reasonable to us, and it's no doubt reassuring for patiently waiting customers to receive official communication from the firm. However, one can't help but wonder why they didn't head this chaotic episode off at the pass by making this announcement in a more timely fashion. The emotional investment of nearly 4,000 reservation-holding fans might be just as important as seeking further financial investment. In any event, the official press release awaits after the break.

[Source: Aptera Motors]

Continue reading Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010

Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Aptera2010ApteraApteraAptera 2eAptera2ebreakingproduction delayProductionDelaySteve FambroSteveFambroThu, 19 Nov 2009 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Jenson Button joins Hamilton for twin-champ McLaren "super team"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/breaking-jenson-button-joins-hamilton-for-twin-champ-mclaren-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/breaking-jenson-button-joins-hamilton-for-twin-champ-mclaren-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/breaking-jenson-button-joins-hamilton-for-twin-champ-mclaren-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's not every day that you see two World Champions teamed up together - especially not the two most recent. In fact, that bit has never happened before in Formula One history, but that's exactly what we'll see next year as McLaren has announced the teaming of Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton as its drivers for next season and beyond.

Button's move to McLaren has been long rumored, fueled recently by a visit by the World Champion together with his managers to the team's headquarters in Woking. Negotiations had been ongoing with the Brawn team with which he won his championship this year and which he'll now be departing, but even with Mercedes' injection of cash, the small team apparently couldn't afford the rate which the newly crowned champ was commanding on the open market.

The announcement will undoubtedly be greeted enthusiastically by British racing fans, placing two British drivers behind the wheel of an entirely British team - and the first pairing of two British World Champions since 1968 when Graham Hill and Jim Clark drove for Lotus. Less so for the newly-christened Mercedes Grand Prix team, which is losing both the drivers that brought Brawn GP the championship.

The move also leaves Heikki Kovalainen without a ride and further confirms fellow Finn Kimi Raikkonen's lucrative sabbatical. But now that Button's future is settled and McLaren has confirmed its drivers, the rest of the grid should fall into place shortly, so stay tuned. Details in the press release after the jump.

[Source: McLaren | Image: Paul Gilham/Getty]

Continue reading BREAKING: Jenson Button joins Hamilton for twin-champ McLaren "super team"

BREAKING: Jenson Button joins Hamilton for twin-champ McLaren "super team" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingBreakingNewsbuttonbutton hamiltonbutton mclarenButtonHamiltonButtonMclarenf1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnehamilton buttonHamiltonButtonheikki kovalainenHeikkiKovalainenjenson buttonjenson button mclarenJensonButtonJensonButtonMclarenmclarenmclaren-mercedesvodafone mclaren mercedesVodafoneMclarenMercedesWed, 18 Nov 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Fusion wins <i>Motor Trend</i> Car of the Year award]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/ford-fusion-car-of-the-year-motor-trend/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/ford-fusion-car-of-the-year-motor-trend/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/17/ford-fusion-car-of-the-year-motor-trend/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Ford Fusion Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

For the first time ever, Motor Trend announced the winner of its annual Car of the Year award this afternoon live via webcast. Though the field of 23 contenders was highly competitive this year (follow the jump for a complete list), we guessed immediately that the winner was a Ford as soon as the webcast came online. How'd we know? The fact they were broadcasting the announcement from Ford World Headquarters in Detroit was a not-so-subtle clue. The Fusion, Taurus and Mustang were all in the running, but it was Ford's redesigned mid-size sedan, the Fusion, that took home the coveted Golden Calipers.

In retrospect, the choice is a solid one and not all that surprising. The Fusion was extensively reworked for the 2010 model year and features a new exterior design, new models and new powertrains. Ford offers a four-cylinder model, two strong V6 options and a full-on parallel hybrid variant, which means buyers should have no trouble finding a Fusion that fits their needs. And indeed they have, as the Fusion has already broken its own yearly sales record - with two months left to go.

Like MT, we're big fans of the Fusion here at Autoblog, and even have high hopes that one day it could be the domestic car that knocks the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord from atop their perches as the best selling cars in the States. That said, this Ford still has a long way to go. Toyota has sold nearly twice as many Camry models as the Fusion so far this year, and the Accord and Nissan Altima are still flashing their taillights at Ford's CoTY winner. It's not just demand, as Ford doesn't even have the production capacity at the moment to match Camry sales, and it doesn't help that the Mercury Milan siphons off a few potential Fusion customers, as well.

Nevertheless, this is less about what the Fusion could be in the future than what it is today: the 2010 Motor Trend Car of the Year. Congrats to Ford and the Fusion team.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Fusion Sport


Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Fusion SE 6MT


Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

2010fordfusionhybrid_review0002010fordfusionhybrid_review0012010fordfusionhybrid_review0022010fordfusionhybrid_review0032010fordfusionhybrid_review004

[Source: Motor Trend]

Continue reading Ford Fusion wins Motor Trend Car of the Year award

Ford Fusion wins Motor Trend Car of the Year award originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford fusion2010FordFusionbreakingcar of the yearCarOfTheYearcotyfordford fusionford fusion cotyFordFusionFordFusionCotyfusionfusion car of the yearfusion cotyfusion hybridfusion sportFusionCarOfTheYearFusionCotyFusionHybridFusionSportmotor trendmotor trend car of the yearMotorTrendMotorTrendCarOfTheYearTue, 17 Nov 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/lexus-gx460-to-debut-in-china-at-auto-guangzhou-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Lexus GX 470
2009 Lexus GX470: Its days are numbered

The arrival of the 2010 Toyota 4Runner meant that a luxury-badged cousin would soon follow. Sure enough, Toyota has announced that the new 2010 Lexus GX460 will be among the array of vehicles to be shown next week at China's Auto Guangzhou 2009 show. As the nomenclature would suggest, the next-gen GX will be powered by a 4.6-liter V8, which is rumored to make 300 horsepower in the GX460, a 37-hp bump over the 4.7-liter V8's output in the current vehicle (shown above).

According to scuttlebutt posted to ClubLexus.com following last year's New York City dealer meeting, we should look for the new GX to arrive in January 2010 with styling that borrows heavily from the full-sized LX570 SUV and electrically-folding third row seating. We'll keep our eyes peeled for photos and additional info, but in the meantime you can check out Toyota's brief PR after the jump.

Continue reading Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009

Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 lexus gx4602010LexusGx460breakingGuangzhouGuangzhou 2009Guangzhou Auto ShowGuangzhou2009GuangzhouAutoGuangzhouAutoShowgx460lexuslexus gxLexusGxnew lexus gxNewLexusGxMon, 16 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: GM to begin repaying $6.7 billion in U.S. loans next month]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/breaking-gm-to-begin-repaying-6-7-billion-in-us-loans-next-mon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/breaking-gm-to-begin-repaying-6-7-billion-in-us-loans-next-mon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/breaking-gm-to-begin-repaying-6-7-billion-in-us-loans-next-mon/#commentsFiled under: , ,



General Motors will announce later today plans to repay the U.S. government some $6.7 billion in loans ahead of its initial due date of July 2015. The payments are expected to begin as early as next month, with $1 billion paid each quarter until the full sum is paid - although that doesn't cover the total $50 billion the taxpayers have "invested" in the automaker after it declared bankruptcy earlier this year.

However, as the Washington Post points out, the amount the government will get back from GM depends on the value of the General's stock. With $6.7 billion in debt, $2.1 billion preferred stock and a 61 percent stake in the automaker, the $50 billion total is a long way off from being paid in full. And when GM reports its financial results tomorrow, it's not expected to show a profit, although the overall picture could be slightly better than anticipated.

[Sources: Washington Post, Detroit News | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

BREAKING: GM to begin repaying $6.7 billion in U.S. loans next month originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bankruptcybreakinggeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgm repay loansGmRepayLoansrepay loansRepayLoansus governmentUsGovernmentMon, 16 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In a surprise move, Ford has announced that it will pursue the development of an all-new Police Interceptor model. The move comes on the heels of General Motors' announcement that it plans to challenge the Crown Victoria's law enforcement dominance with its own heavy-duty Chevrolet Caprice sedan.

Details are slim, but Ford says the forthcoming PI will arrive in 2011 and it will sport durability, safety, and performance parameters that are superior to that of the Jurassic Panther-platform Crown Vic. Given the relatively tight timeframe and durability targets, we have to assume that the replacement cop car could be based on the rear-drive Australian-market Ford Falcon shown above. The Blue Oval promises that the car will be engineered and built in America, so it could also be an Ecoboost version of the Ford Taurus (as seen in the SHO), but front-drive cars have had trouble meeting the durability and cost requirements of police duty in the past, making this something of an open question. In an official release posted after the jump, Ford says it will disclose full vehicle specs in the first quarter of 2010, which should give enough time for both law enforcement and police vehicle equipment manufacturers to prepare for the changeover.

Ford says it presently shifts about 45,000 of the 60,000 police cars sold in the States each year, so it makes sense that Dearborn would not be willing to cede this market to Chevy's Caprice and the already established Dodge Charger.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011

BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalbreakingbreakingnewsCrown Viccrown victoriaCrownVicCrownVictoriaFordFord FalconFordFalconlaw enforcementLawEnforcementpanther platformPantherPlatformpolicepolice carpolice interceptorPoliceCarPoliceInterceptorFri, 13 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/2011-buick-regal-returns-with-four-cylinder-only-engine-lineup/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

Once up a time in the '80s, it was fashionable in Detroit to create so-called Euro-sedans by taking conventional mainstream grandma-mobiles and painting all the chrome black, dispensing with the white walls and installing overly stiff springs. Fortunately, those dark days are gone and General Motors and Ford at least have gotten their heads around how to build the kind of cars they sell in Europe. Just bring over European cars.

When bankrupt GM decreed that Buick would survive as one of the company's four core brands, it quickly became clear that Buick would need more models to flesh out its showrooms alongside the LaCrosse and Enclave. It wasn't long before it became obvious that the next addition would be a new Regal. The Regal is already available in Buick's biggest market of China and it's coming back to North America in 2010 as a 2011 model. Anyone familiar with the Opel Insignia will immediately recognize the Regal as the same car with the brand's trademark waterfall grille swapped in. Read on after the jump for more information.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading 2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup

2011 Buick Regal returns with four-cylinder only engine lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 buick2011 buick regal2011Buick2011BuickRegalbreakingbuickbuick regalBuickRegalregalWed, 11 Nov 2009 18:12:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: <i>Detroit News</i> says GM will build Cadillac Converj]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


2009 Cadillac Converj concept - click above for high-res gallery

After much hemming and hawing, General Motors will reportedly build a version of the Cadillac Converj, the gorgeous but awkwardly named extended-range coupe concept first shown at last year's Detroit Auto Show. According to The Detroit News, the Converj will probably take a few years to reach dealer showrooms, as GM will first direct its efforts on launching the Chevrolet Volt, the more affordable sedan with which it is likely to share much of its Voltec drivetrain architecture.

From where we sit, the Converj seems like a natural move for GM, as Cadillac's higher margins should help offset the research, development, and production costs of everything from the Volt's lithium ion batteries to its motors and control modules. For its part, however, Cadillac is still declining to comment on the story, and the DetNews story doesn't name a source.

Either way, GM vice chairman Bob Lutz has previously gone on record as a champion of a production Converj, and he has said that a serial version would look very similar to the 2009 showcar - in much the same way that the Camaro evolved from concept to production. As the concept was gorgeous, we're down with that - we only hope it doesn't take as long to build as the Bowtie's broad-shouldered muscle car.


Gallery: Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj


Gallery: Cadillac Converj concept


[Source: The Detroit News]

BREAKING: Detroit News says GM will build Cadillac Converj originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob lutzBobLutzbreakingbreakingnewscaddycadillaccadillac conceptCadillacConceptconverjDetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowNAIASMon, 09 Nov 2009 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford unveils industry's first* production inflatable seat belts [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/inflatable-seat-belts-ford/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/inflatable-seat-belts-ford/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/inflatable-seat-belts-ford/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford's Inflatable Seat Belts - Click above for high-res image gallery

They started out in our steering wheels before taking up residence across the dash. They then migrated to the side of our vehicles and grew to be full-sized curtains. Automakers seem to stick them everywhere, so where else can airbags go to protect our fleshy, organic bodies when metal meets metal in an accident? Ford has the answer: seatbelts.

Today Ford is introducing the auto industry's first* inflatable seat belts, which are scheduled to enter production in 2010 on the next-generation Ford Explorer before being offered across its global lineup. They're designed for rear-seat occupants only (front passengers already have a plethora of airbags) and, in the event of a frontal or side impact, will inflate the belt across a passenger's chest in 40 milliseconds. When expanded, the belt cover five times more surface area of the body than a normal seat belt, which helps better distribute the forces of a crash.

The mechanics of Ford's inflatable belt system use cold compressed gas to inflate the bags, unlike traditional airbags that rely on a heat-generating chemical reaction. The seat belt bags also inflate slower and to a lower pressure than a traditional airbag, mainly because they don't have to cover the distance between the passenger and an object (steering wheel, dash).

This isn't the first time we've heard about Ford's inflatable seat belts. The automaker has been working on the idea for several years and revealed their intentions right before the 2006 Detroit Auto Show. Unfortunately, Ford may not be the first to market with the idea. The Lexus LFA, also set to enter production next year, features an SRS seatbelt airbag as well. We don't know if the next-gen Explorer will beat the LFA to dealer showrooms yet, but Ford can at least take pride in knowing that its technology will be protecting more than just 500 lives.

UPDATE: Videos added after the jump.


Gallery: Ford's Inflatable Seat Belts


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Ford unveils industry's first* production inflatable seat belts [w/VIDEO]

Ford unveils industry's first* production inflatable seat belts [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingexplorerfordford explorerford inflatable seat beltFordExplorerFordInflatableSeatBeltinflatable seat beltinflatable seatbeltInflatableSeatBeltThu, 05 Nov 2009 11:56:00 EST