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[Paris 2010: Lotus Elan Concept stuns the crowds [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lotus-elan-concept-stuns-the-crowds/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lotus-elan-concept-stuns-the-crowds/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lotus-elan-concept-stuns-the-crowds/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lotus Elan Concept
2013 Lotus Elan Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

We didn't see this one coming. Lotus' five-car concept explosion at the Paris Motor Show is one of the most welcome surprises sprung on us in recent memory... and the biggest surprise of all may be this Elan. Lotus says its new Elan is slated for a debut in 2013, which makes us wonder what the future may have in store for the current Evora. Pricing for the 2013 Elan is set at $118,500 (£75,000).

In any case, the Elan is powered by a 450-horsepower supercharged 4.0-liter V6 engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox from Toyota, which offers enough gumption to scoot to 62 miles per hour in just 3.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 193 mph. Lotus also promises that a hybrid will be available using a Kinetic Energy Recovery System similar to those seen in Formula One a season ago.

Take a good look at the awesome cockpit of the 2013 Elan. Plenty of carbon fiber, plenty of high-tech goodies, even including a digital race track readout for track days. And could anything be better than that awesome flat-bottom and flat-top steering wheel? No, we didn't think so.

Weight comes in at 2,849 pounds and there is room for a driver and a passenger, but Lotus will also optionally deliver the Elan with two itty-bitty perches out back. Are we sensing that Lotus has the Porsche 911 in its sights? You betcha'. Check out the 2013 Lotus Elan in our high-res image gallery below.

UPDATE: Video added after the break and live shots added in second gallery below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Lotus Elan Concept


Gallery: Lotus Elan Concept

Lotus Elan ConceptLotus Elan ConceptLotus Elan ConceptLotus Elan ConceptLotus Elan Concept

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Lotus Elan Concept stuns the crowds [w/video]

Paris 2010: Lotus Elan Concept stuns the crowds [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 12:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 elan2013 lotus elanBreakingNewselanelan conceptlotuslotus elanlotus elan conceptparisparis 2010paris motor showThu, 30 Sep 2010 12:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655565/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/paris-2010-lotus-elan-concept-stuns-the-crowds/19655565/article-detail.xml 19655565 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/03lotuselanparisliveopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/03lotuselanparisliveopt.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Toyota Highlander shows up for America, gets new look and pricing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/2011-toyota-highlander-revealed-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/2011-toyota-highlander-revealed-pricing/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/2011-toyota-highlander-revealed-pricing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Toyota Highlander
2011 Toyota Highlander - Click above for high-res image gallery

As we have suspected for some time now, Toyota will update its popular mid-size crossover for the upcoming model year, and now we have the details about what's in store. The 2011 Toyota Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid, are getting a plethora of updates inside and out to completely freshen up the vehicle.

First seen at August's Moscow Motor Show, the 2011 Highlander has been updated thanks to an all-new hood, fenders, lights and front fascia. The hybrid features additional exterior elements, such as a unique grille and front bumper, which help set it apart from the standard Highlander.

On the inside, the Highlander now features three-row seating as a standard feature while amenity and tech options have been expanded throughout the lineup. SE and Limited trims will henceforth come standard with Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port and XM radio while these features are available optionally on the base model. The base Hybrid Highlander can now be outfitted with a Leather Package boasting heated front seats and a power moonroof.

Under the hood, the base 2.7-liter engine four-cylinder engine is now also available on the SE model, and it churns out 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque - good enough for highway fuel economy figure of 25 miles per gallon. The uplevel 3.5-liter six-cylinder has been tuned to deliver 270 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, but both the I4 and the V6 still make do with five-speed automatic transmissions. Interestingly, the Highlander Hybrid gets an all-new 3.5-liter V6 engine to replace the older 3.3-liter unit, and it's the most powerful powertrain in the range. The combined output of the new engine with the electric motor is 280 horsepower, yet the hybrid is expected to return 28 mpg in the city and on the highway.

Pricing for the 2011 Toyota Highlander lineup has also just been announced. Break out the wallet and start counting the bills...$27,390 gets you the base four-cylinder front-wheel drive model; the SE V6 FWD will be $33,150, while the Limited V6 with all-wheel drive will list for $36,345. The MSRP for Highlander Hybrid will range from $37,290 for the base model to $42,945 for the Limited model.

The full list of updates can be found in the press release after the jump and you can check out both the gasoline-only and hybrid Highlander models in the galleries below.

Gallery: 2011 Toyota Highlander

2011 Toyota Highlander2011 Toyota Highlander2011 Toyota Highlander2011 Toyota Highlander2011 Toyota Highlander

Gallery: 2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid2011 Toyota Highlander Hybrid


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading 2011 Toyota Highlander shows up for America, gets new look and pricing

2011 Toyota Highlander shows up for America, gets new look and pricing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Highlander2011 highlander hybrid2011 Toyota Highlander2011 toyota highlander hybrid2011 toyota hybridBreakingNewsHighlanderhighlander hybridtoyota highlanderToyota Highlander HybridFri, 24 Sep 2010 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19646277/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/24/2011-toyota-highlander-revealed-pricing/19646277/article-detail.xml 19646277 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/2011-toyota-highlander_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/2011-toyota-highlander.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari 599 SA APERTA drops its top for Paris]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/ferrari-599-sa-aperta-drops-its-top-for-paris/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/ferrari-599-sa-aperta-drops-its-top-for-paris/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/ferrari-599-sa-aperta-drops-its-top-for-paris/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Ferrari 599 SA Aperta profile
2011 Ferrari SA Aperta - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ferrari has pulled back the covers on its rumored topless 599 GTB Fiorano before the roadster's unveil at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. We've got bad news if you were hoping to sink your teeth into this particular convertible, though. The Prancing Horse is only planning to make 80 examples of its newest creation and each one has already been spoken for. The company is calling the drophead the SA Aperta in honor of none other than Sergio and Andrea Pininfarina. Their contribution to Ferrari design needs no introduction.

Ferrari says that the SA Aperta sits closer to the tarmac than just about any other of the company's products and that the creation is far more than some hacksaw version of the hardtop 599. While a simple cloth top will keep the rain off your back should the weather turn sour, Ferrari says that it has poured substantial effort into developing the chassis to maintain the same level of stiffness that the coupe version of the 599 enjoys. Those lucky enough to get their hands on the car will still find the same meaty V12 mounted up front. Hit the jump for the press release.


Gallery: 2011 Ferrari SA Aperta

2011 Ferrari SA Aperta

[Source: Ferrari]

Continue reading Ferrari 599 SA APERTA drops its top for Paris

Ferrari 599 SA APERTA drops its top for Paris originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Paris Motor Show2011 Ferrari SA Aperta599599 gtbapertabreakingnewsFerrariFerrari SA Apertaparis 2010paris motor salonParis Motor Showparis motor show 2010Paris2010ParisMotorSalonSA ApertaSaApertaFri, 24 Sep 2010 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19647259/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/24/ferrari-599-sa-aperta-drops-its-top-for-paris/19647259/article-detail.xml 19647259 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/2011-ferrari-599-sa-aperta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/2011-ferrari-599-sa-aperta.jpg <![CDATA[Audi TT RS headed to America after Facebook petition success]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/14/audi-tt-rs-headed-to-america-after-facebook-petition-success/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/14/audi-tt-rs-headed-to-america-after-facebook-petition-success/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/14/audi-tt-rs-headed-to-america-after-facebook-petition-success/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Audi TT RS black
Audi TT RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has just announced that it will begin importing the hottest version of its little sports car, the TT-RS, in the third quarter of next year.

The product move comes after Audi whipped up a Facebook petition page that gathered in excess of 11,500 signatures in just a month's time.

The move to import the 360-horsepower Porsche Boxster and Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG-fighter isn't much of a surprise - after all, Audi has been courting the media with test drives for months, and an Audi executive at last week's launch of the A7 Sportback in Sardinia hinted that a decision was to be revealed in a few days.

No word yet on what pricing or the options list will look like, but only the hard-hatted coupe will make it to these shores - the Roadster will remain forbidden fruit.


Gallery: Quick Spin: 2010 Audi TT RS


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 AOL

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi TT RS headed to America after Facebook petition success

Audi TT RS headed to America after Facebook petition success originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audi TTAudi TT RSAudiTtAudiTtRsbreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsTTTT RSTT-RSTTRSTue, 14 Sep 2010 12:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19633254/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/14/audi-tt-rs-headed-to-america-after-facebook-petition-success/19633254/article-detail.xml 19633254 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadaudittrsqs2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/04/leadaudittrsqs2010.jpg <![CDATA[Audi S7 likely headed for Paris, TT RS for U.S. decision imminent]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/10/audi-s7-likely-headed-for-paris-tt-rs-for-u-s-decision-imminen/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/10/audi-s7-likely-headed-for-paris-tt-rs-for-u-s-decision-imminen/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/10/audi-s7-likely-headed-for-paris-tt-rs-for-u-s-decision-imminen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2011 Audi A7 Sportback - Click above for high-res image gallery

Autoblog is driving the stunning new Audi A7 Sportback at its international media launch this week in Sardinia, and the scuttlebutt around the hotel bar is that a hotter performance variant, the S7, will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show in the coming weeks.

With garden-variety U.S. A7 five-door powered by the latest evolution of Audi's supercharged 3.0-liter TFSI six-cylinder engine backed by a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic, it will be interesting to see what the higher-performance S7 brings to the party. As is often the way with such things, Audi representatives here on the Mediterranean island are stopping just short of confirming the debut altogether, and they certainly aren't telling us what will lurk under in the engine bay of the all-wheel drive hatchback.

Like other German automakers, Audi has pledged to back down from the cylinder-count escalation wars that have marked the last decade of its performance products, so we certainly aren't expecting a further derivation of the Lamborghini-sourced 5.2-liter V10 engine found in the current S6. The company has also been veering away from its excellent 4.2-liter FSI engine as seen in the R8 and S5 coupe, so it's possible that this engine won't make it into the S7 as well. Sister brand Bentley has already confirmed that the 2011 Continental GT will be available with a V8 engine for the first time, and it's broadly suspected that the new engine will be a direct-injected 4.0-liter turbo, and an Audi-fied version of that powerplant is expected to filter down throughout the S6/S7/S8 range.

Even though North American A7s will funnel their 296 horsepower exclusively through a paddle-shift eight-speed automatic, the model range is available with a seven-speed S Tronic dual-clutch cogswapper in European markets, and it's likely that Audi would save this more sports-oriented gearbox for the higher-performance S7. A six-speed manual is also a possibility.

Will the sporty S7 slantback make it into our showrooms? Again, Audi of America reps won't confirm it, but they are clearly vying to receive the car, and with only one powertrain confirmed for the A7 bodystyle in our market, it would make sense that a second powertrain package like that of the S7 would join the stable. As the U.S. A7 will carry a 2012 designation and won't be available until late spring, don't look for the S7 to hit U.S. dealers any time soon.

As you'll likely remember, Audi USA has been aggressively lobbying its German counterparts for more performance models as of late, having only recently confirmed the white-hot RS5 coupe for the States. The RS5 won't show until 2012, sadly, but still on the table is the importation of the TT RS, and a decision on that model is likely to be handed down within the next few days. Further, you may recall that Audi of America actually went so far as to create an online petition on its Facebook page asking brand fans to urge for its importation, and it even tempted members of the U.S. media ('Hi!') with local test drives in California.

While we're all waiting for further word on the S7 and TT RS, there's at least a new high-res gallery of the A7 Sportback to keep us entertained. Check it out below.


Gallery: Audi A7

Audi S7 likely headed for Paris, TT RS for U.S. decision imminent originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 A7A7A7 sportbackA7SportbackAudibreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsParis 2010Paris Motor ShowParis Motor Show 2010Paris2010S7S7 sportbackTT RSTT-RSTtRsFri, 10 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19629481/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/10/audi-s7-likely-headed-for-paris-tt-rs-for-u-s-decision-imminen/19629481/article-detail.xml 19629481 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/audi-a7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/audi-a7.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Dodge Durango unveiled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/02/2011-dodge-durango-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/02/2011-dodge-durango-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/02/2011-dodge-durango-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Dodge Durango
2011 Dodge Durango - Click above for high-res image gallery

Chrysler has just pulled back the curtain on the 2011 Dodge Durango, and the newest iteration of the Auburn Hills brawler looks to have all of the bones it needs to be competitive in one of the industry's most crowded segments. For next year, the vehicle will ride on a new unibody platform wrapped in freshly-minted sheetmetal. More importantly for those looking to ferry their brood about town, it will also boast a full three rows of seating. Under the hood, buyers can look forward to picking between the company's new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 or a 5.7-liter V8 with 6,200- and 7,800-pounds of towing capacity, respectively. All-wheel drive is available with both power plants.

Chrysler hasn't provided any fuel-economy estimates just yet.

The interior was worked over by the same gurus responsible for the superb, hide-lined cabins in the Dodge Ram and Jeep Grand Cherokee, and judging by the one teaser photo the company released this morning, it looks like a fine place to whittle away the miles. There look to be a host of smaller, but equally important changes onboard the Durango as well, including an all-new Dodge emblem on the steering wheel. If you were waiting to see what the face of the new Chrysler would look like, search no more. It's here. Look for the Durango to hit dealer lots by late this year.

Hit the jump for the full press blast after checking out our high-res gallery below


Gallery: 2011 Dodge Durango

2011 Dodge Durango2011 Dodge Durango2011 Dodge Durango2011 Dodge Durango2011 Dodge Durango

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading 2011 Dodge Durango unveiled

2011 Dodge Durango unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 09:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Dodge Durango2011 Durango2011DodgeDurango2011Durangobreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsDodgeDodge DurangoDodgeDurangoDurangoThu, 02 Sep 2010 09:53:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19618546/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/02/2011-dodge-durango-unveiled/19618546/article-detail.xml 19618546 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/durango_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/durango.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Last look at 2012 Bentley Continental GT before internet reveal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/01/2012-bentley-continental-gt-spy-shots/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/01/2012-bentley-continental-gt-spy-shots/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/01/2012-bentley-continental-gt-spy-shots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Bentley Continental GT spy shots
2012 Bentley Continental GT spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's only a matter of days before Bentley officially debuts the 2012 Continental GT coupe on the internet. We've already seen two sets of spy shots and a teaser video, and now our trusty spy photographers have caught the big Conti out testing one last time. So much for keeping us in suspense.

Yes, by now we already have a very good idea of what the final Continental GT will look like, but we're still curious as to what changes lie under that shapely sheetmetal. What's more, we're sure that Bentley has a few tricks up its sleeve for new interior refinement (not that the current Conti has third-world accommodations, or anything).

ContinentalGT.com is the place to be at 10:00 AM EST on Tuesday, September 7 - that's where we'll see the official reveal and get full details on the new Conti. For now, scroll through the final set of spy shots, below.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 Bentley Continental GT


[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Last look at 2012 Bentley Continental GT before internet reveal originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 bentley continental gtbentlybreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewscontinental gtspy picsspy shotsWed, 01 Sep 2010 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19616658/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/01/2012-bentley-continental-gt-spy-shots/19616658/article-detail.xml 19616658 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/contigt630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/contigt630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Some say he's Ben sacked! BBC reportedly fires The Stig]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/29/some-say-hes-ben-sacked-bbc-reportedly-fires-the-stig/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/29/some-say-hes-ben-sacked-bbc-reportedly-fires-the-stig/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/29/some-say-hes-ben-sacked-bbc-reportedly-fires-the-stig/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Frank and The Stig

We saw this one coming; the BBC has apparently sacked The Stig. Britain's Daily Mirror tabloid reports that the Stig, a.k.a. Ben Collins, has been let go and that a new Stig has already replaced him on Top Gear. In fact, the Mirror says it already have pics of the new Stig at a Nürburgring track event, wearing the signature white coveralls and smoked visor helmet. How does the paper know it's not Collins in the photos? Simple: it had another photographer at Ben's house - 1,100 miles away - watching Collins play with his children at the same time.

The firing of the Stig comes a week after a battle erupted over Collins' autobiography, slated for release in September. Details about the Stig's true identity have been trickling out for some time, including the recent discovery that Collins Auto-Sport, a company owned and operated by Ben Collins, claimed income from "driving services for the BBC, mainly in the Top Gear programme."

Of course, this could still just be speculation, and TG may have hired another driver just for that one track event. If Collins has indeed been canned and the show follows form, a segment will be filmed showing the demise of the white Stig and the appearance of his replacement. At least that's what they did when the original black-clad Stig, Perry McCarthy, left the show. Wonder what colors the new Stig will fly...

[Source: The Daily Mirror]

Some say he's Ben sacked! BBC reportedly fires The Stig originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Aug 2010 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bbcben collinsben collins stigbreaking newsBreakingNewsstig firedthe stigthe stig firedthe white stigtop geartop gear stigtop gear the stigSun, 29 Aug 2010 09:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19612382/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/29/some-say-hes-ben-sacked-bbc-reportedly-fires-the-stig/19612382/article-detail.xml 19612382 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/stigncuz2opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/stigncuz2opt.jpg <![CDATA[Official: Toyota recalling 1.1M Corolla and Matrix models over stalling fears <i>*UPDATE</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/official-toyota-recalling-1-1m-corolla-and-matrix-models-over-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/official-toyota-recalling-1-1m-corolla-and-matrix-models-over-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/26/official-toyota-recalling-1-1m-corolla-and-matrix-models-over-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

toyota corolla
2005-2008 Toyota Corolla/Matrix - Click above for high-res image gallery

toyota matrixToyota has been in the hot seat this year for its high-volume safety recalls, has issued yet another action that covers its 2005-2008 model year Corolla sedans and Matrix hatchbacks. Approximately 1.13 million vehicles are affected by a problem which could cause the 1ZZ-FE 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine to stall. Three accidents have been reported thus far, though Toyota hasn't confirmed that these incidents were indeed caused by this engine stalling issue.

To fix this problem, Toyota will replace the engine control modules on the recalled vehicles starting in mid-September. Owners will be notified by mail in the coming weeks and the service will be provided at no charge.

This is not the first time this year that the Corolla and Matrix have been the subject of safety issues. In early 2010, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigated almost 750,000 2009 and 2010 model year vehicles for a potential steering issue, and Toyota provided a free fix for customers. An official recall was not issued, though, as Toyota maintains that this problem is not a safety concern.

Follow the jump to read Toyota's official press release.

*UPDATE: We mustn't forget that the Pontiac Vibe is built on the same architecture as the Corolla/Matrix, and General Motors has just issued a press release (available after the jump) stating that certain 2005-2008 model year Vibes are being recalled for this same issue.


Gallery: 2005-2008 Toyota Corolla/Matrix


[Sources: Toyota, AOL Autos, General Motors]

Continue reading Official: Toyota recalling 1.1M Corolla and Matrix models over stalling fears *UPDATE

Official: Toyota recalling 1.1M Corolla and Matrix models over stalling fears *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsCorollacorolla recallcorolla stallingCorollaRecallCorollaStallingMatrixmatrix recallmatrix stallingMatrixRecallMatrixStallingnhtsarecallRecallssafetytoyotatoyota corollatoyota corolla recallToyota Matrixtoyota matrix recalltoyota recalltoyota safetyToyotaCorollaToyotaCorollaRecallToyotaMatrixToyotaMatrixRecallToyotaRecallToyotaSafetyThu, 26 Aug 2010 14:54:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19609750/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/26/official-toyota-recalling-1-1m-corolla-and-matrix-models-over-s/19609750/article-detail.xml 19609750 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/corolla630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/corolla630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Reader Spy: 2011 Dodge Charger revealed on set of <i>The Fast and the Furious Five</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/21/reader-spy-2011-dodge-charger-revealed-on-the-set-of-the-fas/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/21/reader-spy-2011-dodge-charger-revealed-on-the-set-of-the-fas/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/21/reader-spy-2011-dodge-charger-revealed-on-the-set-of-the-fas/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Dodge Charger rear spy shot
Reader Spy: 2011 Dodge Charger on the set of 'The Fast and the Furious Five' - Click above for high-res image gallery

Thanks to Autoblog reader Jose Rosario, we can now put the speculation to rest - the 2011 Dodge Charger will indeed receive a new full-width taillamp treatment that echoes that of its two-door Challenger kin. Rosario informs us that these spy shots were taken in Puerto Rico on the set of The Fast and the Furious Five, the latest installment of the durable Vin Diesel street racing franchise.

According to Rosario, the filming appears to be using at least one prototype of the new Charger, "because it has the sides of the current model but has the new front and they added the new rear which light up all in LED lights." The film crew is also using more complete 2011 models, all of which are dressed up as police cars. The cars were used in a chase scene in which two current-model in a matte black finish pull a bank vault along the street, pursued by the Brazilian police cars (Even though the filming is taking place in Puerto Rico, the movie is set in Brazil). Rosario sadly reports that the last scene filmed the day these images were taken were of a current model Charger rear-ending a 2011 model.

Rosario managed to not only get shots of the new taillamps and well-integrated dual exhausts, but also some shots of the front end, which he says looks "more aggressive," including more snout-like grille, new hood, subtly but completely redone headlamps and a revised lower fascia.

As if that weren't enough, our man in PR also scored a shot of the 2011 model's interior, which reveals a much more cohesive look. A new three-spoke steering wheel with redundant audio controls beckons, as does what appears to be a start button. The gauge binnacle eschews the four nacelles of the current car for a more unified cluster that's marked out by a liberal helping of silvery trim and vertically oriented air vents bookend a new infotainment screen. Immediately below the screen, the Charger maintains its simple three-knob HVAC controls (albeit redone), and a step down from there is the CD slot. In the center console, a gated PRNDL surrounded by what looks like faux carbon-fiber trim. All-in-all, it looks like a massive improvement over the dour and workmanlike instrument panel of the outgoing Dodge.

What do you think - will the reborn Dodge Charger and its Chrysler 300 twin offer enough changes to rekindle your interest? Check out our images in the high-res gallery below, and then drop your fellow reader a line in Comments. Thanks for the pics, Rosario!


Gallery: Reader Spy: 2011 Dodge Charger

Reader Spy: 2011 Dodge Charger revealed on set of The Fast and the Furious Five originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Aug 2010 22:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Charger2011 Dodge Charger2011Charger2011DodgeCharger2012 Dodge Charger2012DodgeChargerbreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsChargerCharger police carChargerPoliceCarFast and furios fivefast and furiousfast and furious 5FastAndFuriosFiveFastAndFuriousFastAndFurious5Moparpolice carPoliceCarspy shotsSpyShotsvin dieselVinDieselSat, 21 Aug 2010 22:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19603148/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/21/reader-spy-2011-dodge-charger-revealed-on-the-set-of-the-fas/19603148/article-detail.xml 19603148 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/002-2011-dodge-charger-transformers-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/002-2011-dodge-charger-transformers-lead.jpg <![CDATA[BREAKING: General Motors files for IPO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/breaking-general-motors-files-for-ipo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/breaking-general-motors-files-for-ipo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/18/breaking-general-motors-files-for-ipo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

GM Renaissance Center Headquarters with Flags

General Motors, the largest automaker based in the United States, has officially filed paperwork with the Securities and Exchange Commission for an Initial Public Offering.

By offering preferred stock along with its IPO, GM is looking to allow the U.S. Treasury (and by extension, American taxpayers) the chance to reduce its stake in the automaker as much as possible. Unlike common stock, preferred stock carries both debt and equity, is rated by the world's credit rating companies and typically has priority over common stock in the event that the company goes into bankruptcy.

According to Bloomberg, the U.S. Treasury intends to sell a fifth of its 304 million common shares as part of the IPO, which will make the government a minority shareholder.

If GM raises the expected $16 billion in its IPO, it will rank as the second-largest in U.S. history behind Visa's $19.7 billion in 2008. The offering will be led by Morgan Stanley, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Bank of America Corp. and Citigroup Inc. Official GM fine print is available after the jump.

[Sources: General Motors, Bloomberg | Image: Associated Press/Paul Sancya]

Continue reading BREAKING: General Motors files for IPO

BREAKING: General Motors files for IPO originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsgeneral motorsgeneral motors ipogeneral motors stockGeneralMotorsGeneralMotorsIpoGeneralMotorsStockgenerla motors IPOGenerlaMotorsIpogmgm ipogm stockGmIpoGmStockinitial public offeringInitialPublicOfferingipoWed, 18 Aug 2010 16:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19599206/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/18/breaking-general-motors-files-for-ipo/19599206/article-detail.xml 19599206 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/gm-flags-ap-rencen-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/gm-flags-ap-rencen-630.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Saab 9-4X confirmed for LA debut in November]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2012-saab-9-4x-confirmed-for-la-debut-in-november/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2012-saab-9-4x-confirmed-for-la-debut-in-november/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/2012-saab-9-4x-confirmed-for-la-debut-in-november/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Saab 9-4X Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've been expecting this announcement to come sooner or later, though we didn't exactly count on it coming from the LA Auto Show's own Twitter page. But there it is anyway, straight from the horse's mouth: "Saab has confirmed that the 9-4X Crossover will make its world debut at the LA Auto Show this Nov."

We're also expecting some sort of official word that the new crossover 'ute, which will share its Theta Premium underpinnings with the Cadillac SRX, should hit the market sometime in the spring of 2011... perhaps around April.

While we're on the subject of expectations, we'd also imagine that Saab will offer its premium crossover with the same powerplants as the recently released 9-5, which means we could see a 2.0-liter turbocharged four and a 2.8-liter turbocharged six, both likely mated with a six-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. We'll apparently find out for sure soon enough.


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept


[Source: LA Auto Show's Twitter]

2012 Saab 9-4X confirmed for LA debut in November originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 la auto show2010LaAutoShow9-49-4 x9-4Xbreakingbreaking newsbreakingnewsla auto showla auto show 2010LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2010los angeles auto showlos angeles auto show 2010LosAngelesAutoShowLosAngelesAutoShow2010SaabSaab 9-4xSaab9-4xTue, 17 Aug 2010 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19597456/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/17/2012-saab-9-4x-confirmed-for-la-debut-in-november/19597456/article-detail.xml 19597456 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/saab-9-4x-new_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/saab-9-4x-new.jpg <![CDATA[Leaked! 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS peeks out before official debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/leaked-2011-mercedes-benz-cls-peeks-out-before-official-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/leaked-2011-mercedes-benz-cls-peeks-out-before-official-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/17/leaked-2011-mercedes-benz-cls-peeks-out-before-official-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS leaked shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Whoops! The men and women in Stuttgart weren't planning to unveil the new Mercedes-Benz CLS just yet, but the crew from eMercedesBenz snagged these leaked images showing the new four-door coupe in all its production-ready glory.

As expected, the new CLS takes a lot of its styling cues from Benz's Shooting Break concept (they're name, not ours) notably the upright grille and more aggressive front fascia. The sectioned-off headlamp design has also remained intact, and from these photo-realistic renderings, it looks like someone shot the CLS in the eyes with lemon juice. Still, we're eager to see how this mix of LEDs looks out on the road at dusk. The CLS also uses the more shapely rear hips of the Shooting Break concept, rounding out the revised rear end. It's certainly more stylish than the outgoing CLS, which says a lot.

Inside, the CLS continues to use its four-seat arrangement with a center console that extends the full length of the cabin, and we fully expect the overall refinement to fall somewhere between the E-Class and S-Class sedans. Plush stuff, we're sure.

When the CLS launches, eMercedesBenz reports that a new 3.5-liter direct-injected V6 will be offered, as well as a twin-turbocharged 4.6-liter V8 good for around 430 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Of course, an AMG version won't be far behind with the all-new 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 underhood.

Now that these leaked shots have hit the web, don't be surprised if the official images and details are published in the very near future. Stay tuned for the full smattering, and in the meantime, scroll through the attached gallery to see the high-res leaked images.


Gallery: 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS Leaked Shots


[Source: eMercedesBenz]

Leaked! 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS peeks out before official debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 cls-class2011 mercedes-benz cls2011Cls-class2011Mercedes-benzClsbreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsclscls-classleaked photosleaked picsLeakedPhotosLeakedPicsmercedesmercedes clsmercedes cls-classmercedes-benzMercedes-Benz CLSmercedes-benz cls-classMercedes-benzClsMercedes-benzCls-classMercedesClsMercedesCls-classTue, 17 Aug 2010 14:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19597276/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/17/leaked-2011-mercedes-benz-cls-peeks-out-before-official-debut/19597276/article-detail.xml 19597276 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/mbopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/mbopt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Toyota was aware of unintended acceleration claims by 2003, says lawsuit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/report-toyota-was-aware-of-unintended-acceleration-claims-by-20/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/report-toyota-was-aware-of-unintended-acceleration-claims-by-20/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/03/report-toyota-was-aware-of-unintended-acceleration-claims-by-20/#commentsFiled under: , ,



According to The Washington Post, attorneys working on a class-action lawsuit against Toyota claim that the company has known about issues of unintended acceleration in its vehicles since as early as 2003. The lawyers have reportedly discovered a field report written seven years ago by a technician that outlined an instance of unintended acceleration. The report allegedly called for immediate action due to how dangerous the problem could become and expressed concern about the potential frequency of the issue.

Earlier this year, the federal government hit Toyota with a $16.4 million fine for failing to recall vehicles afflicted by unintended acceleration quickly enough. At the time, it was believed that Toyota had known about the issue for about a month prior to alerting regulators - well beyond the single week that the law gives automakers to notify the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration of potential problems.

[Source: The Washington Post | Image: Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP/Getty]

Report: Toyota was aware of unintended acceleration claims by 2003, says lawsuit originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsClass Action lawsuitClassActionLawsuitNHTSAToyotaToyota Class Action Suittoyota lawsuittoyota pedaltoyota safetytoyota unintended acceleratonToyotaClassActionSuitToyotaLawsuitToyotaPedalToyotaSafetyToyotaUnintendedAcceleratonunintended accelerationUnintendedAccelerationTue, 03 Aug 2010 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19578927/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/03/report-toyota-was-aware-of-unintended-acceleration-claims-by-20/19578927/article-detail.xml 19578927 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/toyota-pedals-boots-afp-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/toyota-pedals-boots-afp-630.jpg <![CDATA[BREAKING: Toyota to recall 373,000 2000-2004 Avalon sedans in U.S. over faulty steering locks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/29/breaking-toyota-to-recall-373-000-2000-2004-avalon-sedans-in-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/29/breaking-toyota-to-recall-373-000-2000-2004-avalon-sedans-in-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/29/breaking-toyota-to-recall-373-000-2000-2004-avalon-sedans-in-u/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2003 Toyota Avalon XLS - click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota Motor Corporation's recall woes have resurfaced today with official word that the company will recall some 373,000 second-generation Toyota Avalon models built between the 2000 and 2004 model years.

According to the Japanese automaker, the full-size sedans' steering lock bars can crack, eventually leading to a break. If that failure occurs, the steering column interlock system can become difficult to unlock when parked, potentially disabling the vehicle. Worse, if the driver is in a right-hand turn with "sufficient lateral acceleration," under very specific conditions, the damaged lock bar can actually engage, locking the steering wheel and disabling steering control of the vehicle, a condition that increases the likelihood of an accident.

For its part, Toyota says it is unaware of any crashes stemming from the Avalon's steering interlock issue, and it will replace the steering column bracket in affected vehicles for free. The complete press release is available after the jump.


Gallery: 2003 Toyota Avalon XLS


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading BREAKING: Toyota to recall 373,000 2000-2004 Avalon sedans in U.S. over faulty steering locks

BREAKING: Toyota to recall 373,000 2000-2004 Avalon sedans in U.S. over faulty steering locks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 08:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2000 toyota avalon2000ToyotaAvalon2001 toyota avalon2001-2004 toyota avalon2001-2004ToyotaAvalon2001ToyotaAvalon2002 toyota avalon2002ToyotaAvalon2003 toyota avalon2003ToyotaAvalon2004 toyota avalon2004ToyotaAvalonavalonbreakingbreaking newsbreakingnewsnhtsasteering bracketsteering locksteering lock barSteeringBracketSteeringLockSteeringLockBartoyota avalontoyota recalltoyota safetyToyotaAvalonToyotaRecallToyotaSafetyThu, 29 Jul 2010 08:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19573152/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/29/breaking-toyota-to-recall-373-000-2000-2004-avalon-sedans-in-u/19573152/article-detail.xml 19573152 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2003-2005toyotaavalonxls003-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2003-2005toyotaavalonxls003-630.jpg <![CDATA[BREAKING: Porsche approves 918 Spyder for production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/report-porsche-approves-918-spyder-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/report-porsche-approves-918-spyder-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/report-porsche-approves-918-spyder-for-production/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Porsche 918 Spyder concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

As expected, the Porsche supervisory board has approved the development of the 918 Spyder concept into a series production model. The 918 debuted as a concept at this year's Geneva Motor Show with a plug-in hybrid powertrain claimed to provide 78 miles per gallon.

The concept used a 500-horsepower V8 along with a pair of electric motors with 109 hp each and a lithium ion battery that can provide 16 miles of emissions-free driving from grid energy. The powertrain is not expected to be changed much for production and Porsche has not announced when 918 will be available. There has been speculation that the production model could cost up to €500,000 (about $650,000 USD), although if it comes to the States, it should be eligible for a federal tax credit. Even with up to $7,500 it still makes the Chevrolet Volt look downright cheap.

Before you start looking in your couch cushions for a down payment, check out the official press release after the jump and our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Porsche 918 Spyder concept


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading BREAKING: Porsche approves 918 Spyder for production

BREAKING: Porsche approves 918 Spyder for production originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>918918 spyder918Spyderbreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsPorscheporsche 918porsche 918 hybridporsche 918 productionPorsche 918 Spyderporsche 918 spyder approved for productionporsche 918 spyder conceptPorsche 918 Spyder Hybridporsche conceptPorsche918Porsche918HybridPorsche918ProductionPorsche918SpyderPorsche918SpyderApprovedForProductionPorsche918SpyderConceptPorsche918SpyderHybridPorscheConceptWed, 28 Jul 2010 11:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19571842/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/28/report-porsche-approves-918-spyder-for-production/19571842/article-detail.xml 19571842 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/s100231a5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/s100231a5.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Jack Roush in serious but stable condition after (second) plane crash [w/ video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/report-jack-roush-in-serious-but-stable-condition-after-second/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/report-jack-roush-in-serious-but-stable-condition-after-second/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/28/report-jack-roush-in-serious-but-stable-condition-after-second/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jack Roush crash lands - Click above to watch video after the jump

NASCAR titan Jack Roush appears to have survived his second plane crash. Roush was piloting his company's Raytheon/Beechcraft Premier jet when something went wrong on the approach to Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin last night. According to reports, Roush's plane appeared to come in too low on landing approach, and a last-second correction caused the plane's nose to dip and touch the ground. On impact, the plane spun around and the tale section separated from the rest of the aircraft. Both Roush and a female employee, Brenda K. Strickland, were able to walk away from the crash, though they did sustain injuries. There was no one else onboard.

Roush, 68, was taken to a local hospital for injuries he sustained during the incident and was first listed in serious condition. Since then, his status has been downgraded to critical. However, according to Roush Fenway Racing, Roush is expected to make a full recovery, even though some surgery is expected as a result of his mishap.

This marks the second time in 10 years that Roush has run into trouble in the pilot's seat. In 2002, he crash-landed a small craft into a pond in Alabama. Hit the jump to see an ESPN report on the incident. Thanks for the tip, Martin B!

[Sources: The Northwestern, ESPN]

Continue reading Report: Jack Roush in serious but stable condition after (second) plane crash [w/ video]

Report: Jack Roush in serious but stable condition after (second) plane crash [w/ video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beechcraftbreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsbrenda k. stricklandBrendaK.StricklandCrashESPNJack RoushJack Roush Crashjack roush plan crashjack roush plane crashJackRoushJackRoushCrashJackRoushPlanCrashJackRoushPlaneCrashNASCAROshKoshPlane CrashPlaneCrashraytheonRoushroush fenway racingroush racingRoushFenwayRacingRoushRacingWed, 28 Jul 2010 08:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19571561/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/28/report-jack-roush-in-serious-but-stable-condition-after-second/19571561/article-detail.xml 19571561 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/roush-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/roush-630.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Chevrolet Volt priced at $41,000* or $350/month for three-year lease]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/27/2011-chevrolet-volt-priced-at-41-000-or-350-month-for-3-year-lease/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/27/2011-chevrolet-volt-priced-at-41-000-or-350-month-for-3-year-lease/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/27/2011-chevrolet-volt-priced-at-41-000-or-350-month-for-3-year-lease/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Chevrolet Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors' recently hired vice-president for sales and marketing Joel Ewanick took the stage at the Plug-In 2010 conference in San Jose, CA today and finally revealed that the 2011 Chevrolet Volt will have a base price of $41,000 (including a $720 destination charge) before federal and state tax incentives. While GM hasn't gone as aggressive as most people had hoped on the sticker price, the real deal appears to be the $350 per month for 36 months lease. That matches the monthly payment that Nissan is charging for the Leaf EV.

The effective purchase price of the Volt will be cut to $33,500 with a $7,500 federal tax credit (hence the asterisk in the title), but buyers will have to finance the $41,000 and get the credit back on their next tax return. Lease customers will have the credit factored in to their payment. The Volt lease requires a $2,500 down payment (vs $2,000 for the Leaf), but GM is including a clause in the lease contract that allows leasers to buy the car at the end of their term so that the automaker don't have another standoff with customers like it did with the all-electric EV1. Follow the jump to learn more about the Volt's price and how the order process will go, but first take our informal poll below.

View Poll




Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Volt

Continue reading 2011 Chevrolet Volt priced at $41,000* or $350/month for three-year lease

2011 Chevrolet Volt priced at $41,000* or $350/month for three-year lease originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 volt2011Voltbreakingbreaking newsbreaking+newsBreakingNewschevroletChevrolet Voltchevrolet volt pricechevrolet volt pricingChevroletVoltChevroletVoltPriceChevroletVoltPricingchevychevy voltchevy volt priceChevy-VoltChevyVoltChevyVoltPricejoel ewanickJoelEwanickplug-inpluginvoltvolt costvolt msrpvolt pricevolt pricingVoltCostVoltMsrpVoltPriceVoltPricingTue, 27 Jul 2010 12:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19569413/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/27/2011-chevrolet-volt-priced-at-41-000-or-350-month-for-3-year-lease/19569413/article-detail.xml 19569413 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2011chevyvoltnew000opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/2011chevyvoltnew000opt.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Audi A7 Sportback shows its shapely rump in Munich]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/26/2011-audi-a7-sportback-shows-its-shapely-rump-in-munich/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/26/2011-audi-a7-sportback-shows-its-shapely-rump-in-munich/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/26/2011-audi-a7-sportback-shows-its-shapely-rump-in-munich/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Audi A7 Sportback - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's a new automotive segment being born as we speak. Previewed by the Porsche Panamera, Aston Martin Rapide and BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo, modern four-door sportback sedans combine the functionality of a hatchback with seating for four or five, all wrapped in a shapely, sleek package. Audi previewed its own offering at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show by way of the Sportback concept, and now the production model has officially been unveiled in Munich.

From a design standpoint, it's obvious that the A7 Sportback was penned alongside the all-new flagship A8 sedan. Audi's signature LED running lamps are intact up front, in a more angular shape than what you'd see on the A4 or R8, and the chopped rear deck is not only a throwback to fastback sedans from many decades ago, but its design mimics that of the larger A8, as well. The most striking view, however, is the side profile, which looks to be one part shooting brake and one part coupe, though if we're honest, we wish the A7's front overhang were reduced just a bit. Interestingly, at one point, Audi refers to the A7 has having a boattail, which initially made us cringe, but staring at it a bit more, this notion makes a degree of sense.

Powertrain details are slim as of this writing, but Audi says that the A7 Sportback will debut with four different V6 offerings, two petrol and two diesel. Expect the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 from the S4, S5 and A6 to be on hand, as well as the 3.0-liter TDI V6 found in the Q7 SUV. Audi will offer the A7 in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the Multitronic CVT and seven-speed S-tronic transmissions being used, respectively. Interestingly, unlike the A8, the A7 will make use of electric power steering, so we hope Audi's boffins have done their homework on dialing in feel and linearity.

Inside, we expect the standard raft of Audi amenities, including the automaker's new MMI Touch infotainment interface. From there, the latest in Audi technology will be on hand, including wireless internet connectivity. The interior is very much akin to that in the new A8, and we fully expect that it will offer premium creature comforts while still being driver-focused.

No official confirmation for North American consumers just yet, but we expect an all-wheel drive model to make it to these shores - presumably with a gasoline and S-tronic gearbox only configuration.

Hit the jump to read the full details in Audi's press release, and click through the attached gallery for high-res shots. We fully anticipate that Audi will open the floodgates on further information and images in the near future, so stay tuned.


Gallery: 2011 Audi A7 Sportback


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading 2011 Audi A7 Sportback shows its shapely rump in Munich

2011 Audi A7 Sportback shows its shapely rump in Munich originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 A72011 a7 sportback2011 audi a72011 Audi A7 Sportback2011A72011A7Sportback2011AudiA72011AudiA7SportbackA7A7 SportbackA7SportbackaudiAudi A7Audi A7 SportbackAudi AGaudi sportbackAudiA7AudiA7SportbackAudiAgAudiSportbackbreakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsdebutfour-door coupeFour-doorCoupeluxuryMunichrevealrevealedsportbackMon, 26 Jul 2010 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19569070/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/26/2011-audi-a7-sportback-shows-its-shapely-rump-in-munich/19569070/article-detail.xml 19569070 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/au100657mediumopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/au100657mediumopt.jpg <![CDATA[BREAKING: General Motors to announce Chevy Volt pricing/ordering on Tuesday [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/26/breaking-general-motors-to-announce-chevy-volt-pricing-ordering/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/26/breaking-general-motors-to-announce-chevy-volt-pricing-ordering/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/26/breaking-general-motors-to-announce-chevy-volt-pricing-ordering/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery


The three-year-long wait for the 2011 Chevrolet Volt's official U.S. price tag will finally be over in less than 24 hours. At the Plug-In 2010 Conference in San Jose, California on Tuesday, GM VP of Marketing Joel Ewanick will announce pricing details and the ordering process for the Volt. Following the announcement, there will be a live online webchat with Volt Marketing Director Tony DiSalle.

While we're waiting for the official announcement, you can through to the jump for a brief press release and then take our poll below.


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Gallery: 2011 Chevy Volt


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: General Motors to announce Chevy Volt pricing/ordering on Tuesday [w/poll]

BREAKING: General Motors to announce Chevy Volt pricing/ordering on Tuesday [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2011ChevroletVoltbreakingBreaking newsBreakingNewschevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltchevy volt pricechevy volt pricingChevyVoltChevyVoltPriceChevyVoltPricingEVGMgreenjoel EwanickJoelEwanickplug-in 2010 conferencePlug-in conferencePlug-in2010ConferencePlug-inConferenceTony disalleTonyDisallevoltvolt EVVolt MSRPvolt pricingVoltEvVoltMsrpVoltPricingMon, 26 Jul 2010 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19568932/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/26/breaking-general-motors-to-announce-chevy-volt-pricing-ordering/19568932/article-detail.xml 19568932 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/chevy-volt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/chevy-volt.jpg -1 2