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[British Motor Show in trouble, could get moved]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/british-motor-show-in-trouble-could-get-moved/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/british-motor-show-in-trouble-could-get-moved/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/28/british-motor-show-in-trouble-could-get-moved/#commentsFiled under:



The British International Motor Show appears to be in trouble. The biennial show, which has seen its fair share of big debuts and publicity in its past two outings, might skip 2010 and instead next appear on the calendar in 2011. The show's profitability, a lack of manufacturer participation, and a possible conflict with the 2012 London Olympics are to blame. The organization that runs the show is known as The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), and they've admitted that skipping a year and shifting the normally biennial show to 2011 is a possibility. The SMMT's committee will meet in March to discuss the matter and come up with some strategies to attract more of the major automakers.

Last year's no-shows included Audi, BMW, Rolls-Royce and Volkswagen. Audi, for one, found it more effective to market themselves at the Goodwood Festival of Speed instead. We have to admit that we were grateful for that decision, as the Auto Union Type D, Le Mans-winning R10, and Sport Quattro S1 among others were amazing. Things might be getting even worse for 2010. Autocar is reporting that several manufacturers have already pulled out of the 2010 show, and that several others are considering similar action. While we hate to see any show cancelled, even the largest auto shows are hurting in this economy. Perhaps taking an extra year to regroup isn't such a bad idea.

[Source: Autocar]

British Motor Show in trouble, could get moved originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british international motor showbritish motor showBritishInternationalMotorShowBritishMotorShowgoodwoodgoodwood festival of speedGoodwoodFestivalOfSpeedWed, 28 Jan 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[London 2008: Honda OSM concept roadster says, "Cheerio!"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/london-2008-honda-osm-concept-roadster-says-cheerio/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/london-2008-honda-osm-concept-roadster-says-cheerio/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/22/london-2008-honda-osm-concept-roadster-says-cheerio/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Honda OSM

Honda says that the OSM roadster on display at the 2008 British Motor Show is merely a design study, but given that "design study" is frequently a euphemism for "future design language," we wonder if we're seeing the next iteration of Honda car styling. Frankly, we hope so, because this is worlds better than what we've seen from the automaker of late, from the Accord right on up to the bland and bloated Pilot. The OSM, short for Open Study Model, is a shapely two-seat convertible that we'd be happy to drive today. Well, maybe with headlamps that weren't lightsaber-sized. Other than that, we love the jaunty look, especially in back, where the taillamps sweep gently from one side of the car to the other. Since it's a styling exercise, there's no specific powertrain combination associated with it, but Honda assures us that the car is an indication that lightweight, low-emissions motoring needn't be boring. No kidding, guys. Inside, the cockpit basically evolves the two-tier instrument panel you'll find in the current Civic into a far more attractive driving environment that we hope to see in road cars sooner than later. While Honda says there's no plan to create a production sport/econo roadster like this anytime soon, somebody's obviously thinking about it. Future S2000 replacement, maybe? "Design studies" such as this don't happen by accident.

Gallery: Honda OSM Concept


[Source: Honda]

Continue reading London 2008: Honda OSM concept roadster says, "Cheerio!"

London 2008: Honda OSM concept roadster says, "Cheerio!" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bimsbreakingbritish international motor showBritishInternationalMotorShowconceptdesign studyDesignStudyhondalondon motor showLondonMotorShowopen study modelOpenStudyModelosmTue, 22 Jul 2008 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Bentley to release Continential Flying Spur Speed at British Int'l Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/08/bentley-to-release-continential-flying-spur-speed-at-british-int/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/08/bentley-to-release-continential-flying-spur-speed-at-british-int/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/08/bentley-to-release-continential-flying-spur-speed-at-british-int/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery.

Big, blocky, heavy, low - whatever. The one and only phrase you need to remember is "hellaciously fast." Bentley's Continental Flying Spur Speed, officially announced in June, is pretty much what it'd be like to strap an EMD powertrain from a freight locomotive into a car, without all the noise and industrial fumes. Set off by subtle cues, the Flying Spur Speed turns the burner up on the already hot Flying Spur, boosting horsepower out of the twelve cylinder powerplant to an even 600 hp from 552 hp. It's enough to hurtle this elegant block of English-cum-Germanic automobile to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, and filthy automotive types will be able to crawl all over this fine automobile at the British International Motor Show. In a mere 15 days, the special brightwork, rifled exhaust tips, and smooth as glass paint will be littered with fingerprints once the show opens to the public July 23rd at the ExCel London. Pardon us while we scour the intertubes for cheap airfare. Press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2009 Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed


[Source: Bentley]

Continue reading Bentley to release Continential Flying Spur Speed at British Int'l Motor Show

Bentley to release Continential Flying Spur Speed at British Int'l Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bentley continentalbentley continental flying spur speedBentleyContinentalBentleyContinentalFlyingSpurSpeedbritish international motor showbritish motor showBritishInternationalMotorShowBritishMotorShowcontiental flying spur speedContientalFlyingSpurSpeedcontinental flying spurContinentalFlyingSpurflying spurflying spur speedFlyingSpurFlyingSpurSpeedTue, 08 Jul 2008 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: 2009 Ford Focus RS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/04/officially-official-2009-ford-focus-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/04/officially-official-2009-ford-focus-rs/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/04/officially-official-2009-ford-focus-rs/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the new Focus RS

Yesterday brought the sneak peek, but today we've got the real deal. The new Ford Focus RS is is mean and green (we mean that in the literal sense, thanks to its killer-looking paint color), and it will make its debut at this month's London Motor Show. While the RS is still under development, the car being put on display isn't exactly a concept, either. Some details might change here and there before it reaches showrooms in 2009, but ultimately, what you see here is what European drivers are going to get. The wide, low-slung stance, intimidating fascia, racy dual exhaust, and requisite high-mount spoiler are all part of the package. Follow the jump for more

Gallery: 2009 Ford Focus RS (green)



Continue reading Officially Official: 2009 Ford Focus RS

Officially Official: 2009 Ford Focus RS originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Jul 2008 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300 ps300Ps410 nm410NmBMISbreakingbritish international motor showBritishInternationalMotorShoweuro focusEuroFocusfocus rsFocusRsfordford europeford focusFordEuropeFordFocuslondon motor showLondonMotorShowrevoknucklersFri, 04 Jul 2008 09:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Bizarre Lotus Eagle campaign uses weird, faceless people]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/03/bizarre-lotus-eagle-campaign-uses-weird-faceless-people/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/03/bizarre-lotus-eagle-campaign-uses-weird-faceless-people/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/03/bizarre-lotus-eagle-campaign-uses-weird-faceless-people/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Lotus has apparently hired Charlie X as its new director of marketing, and the unlucky sods who were ballsy enough to laugh at his ideas in team meetings have apparently been punished accordingly (as seen at the 40:23 mark here), handed black suits and Lotus pendants, and sent to wander amongst the general public and freak people out. It's all part of the Lotus Eagle's "Faceless People" campaign. If you visit the website, you get a timer counting down to the car's London unveiling, when "true character will emerge." Until then, however, it's more faceless nightmare fodder for British tots.

Gallery: Lotus Eagle - spy shots


[Source: Lotus via Jalopnik]

Bizarre Lotus Eagle campaign uses weird, faceless people originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmisbritish international motor showBritishInternationalMotorShoweaglefaceless peopleFacelessPeoplelondon motor showLondonMotorShowlotustrue characterTrueCharacterThu, 03 Jul 2008 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[You know, for the kids: <i>Cars</i> to appear at British motor show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/03/you-know-for-the-kids-i-cars-i-to-appear-at-british-motor-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/03/you-know-for-the-kids-i-cars-i-to-appear-at-british-motor-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/03/you-know-for-the-kids-i-cars-i-to-appear-at-british-motor-s/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for the Cars at BIMS in high-res

British kids are at least as into cars as American kids, and probably liked the Pixar movie just as much. But Route 66 is far away from old Blimey, as is the Cars-dedicated theme park which Disney is making at its California Adventure location. British parents will soon be able to pacify their octane-snorting Olivers when the British International Motor Show opens its doors in London, where a full Cars attraction will make its UK debut.

The highlight of the attraction will be a display of life-size Cars cast members, based on actual automobiles. Lightning McQueen will be there (based on a '78 Trans Am), along with Sally Carrera ('02 911) and Mack the Truck ('85 Mack Super-Liner), but British lads might relate best to Mater the buck-toothed tow-truck (based on a Chevy dually pick-up). Kids can also try out the special gaming pods and get their faces painted - though we doubt Ramone (voiced by Cheech) will be there to turn out the his custom schemes.

Gallery: Pixar's Cars at BIMS

[Source: BIMS]

You know, for the kids: Cars to appear at British motor show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british cars pixarbritish international motor showBritishCarsPixarBritishInternationalMotorShowcarspixars carsPixarsCarsThu, 03 Jul 2008 08:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Kia debuting all-new product at British Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/kia-debuting-all-new-product-at-british-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/kia-debuting-all-new-product-at-british-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/kia-debuting-all-new-product-at-british-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Kia Koup concept.

The PR talking points at the Kia both in New York focused on the automaker's plan to appeal to a younger demographic in the U.S. and abroad. Kia aims to be the youthful yin to Hyundai's more staid yang, with the introduction of the Koup concept in NY and the imminent arrival of the SOUL CUV (never mind that Hyundai was doing burnouts on the third floor of the Jacob Javits center while Kia took the wraps off its redesigned Optima).

Regardless, at this year's British International Motor Show (formerly known as the London Motor Show) Kia will be showing off five of the concepts that have graced the automaker's show stands over the last year, along with an announcement about a future Kia product. The automaker isn't releasing any details on what said vehicle will be, only saying that "this new and exciting car will give the clearest indication yet of the design future of the brand." The show gets under way July 23rd and Kia has announced that the mystery model will go on sale in the UK in 2009. What we're assuming is a Euro-only Kia will join 13 new or revised products in 2009 and 2010, all of which center around Kia's new slogan, "The Power to Surprise!" The exclamation point is theirs, not ours.

Hit the jump for Kia's press release.

[Source: Kia via CarScoop]

Continue reading Kia debuting all-new product at British Motor Show

Kia debuting all-new product at British Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 May 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british international motor showBritishInternationalMotorShowkiakia londonKiaLondonlondonlondon motor showLondonMotorShowTue, 20 May 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[1st Mini Cooper GP delivered at British Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/25/1st-mini-cooper-gp-delivered-at-british-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/25/1st-mini-cooper-gp-delivered-at-british-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/25/1st-mini-cooper-gp-delivered-at-british-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

First MINI GP delivered.Simon Baker of the UK comes from a family of MINI fans. Since '02, they have owned four of the little Anglo-Teutonic bundles of fun. Last week during the British Motor Show's press days, Mr. Baker himself took delivery of his family's fifth, the first MINI GP built for a customer. On hand to present the keys was John Cooper's son Mike, owner of the soon-to-be shuttered John Cooper Works Garage.

Mr Baker's car is actually the second GP. The first one is on display at the motor show and will head to the MINI museum afterwards. As such, the car he received is emblazoned with "GP 0002" on the roof over the driver's door. He reserved the car in 2005 based on rumor alone, and when the car was formally announced nine months later, he was #1 on the list. It pays to be proactive.

For his part, Mr. Baker says that he's looking forward to showing off the car to his friends and that we shouldn't expect to see it listed on eBay. As far as he's concerned, this one's a keeper.

(Press release after the jump)

[Source: MINI]

Continue reading 1st Mini Cooper GP delivered at British Motor Show

1st Mini Cooper GP delivered at British Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Jul 2006 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>British International Motor ShowBritish Motor ShowBritishInternationalMotorShowBritishMotorShowgp 0002Gp0002john cooper works gpJohnCooperWorksGpmike cooperMikeCooperMini GPMiniGpsimon bakerSimonBakerTue, 25 Jul 2006 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[META GALLERY: 2006 British Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/24/meta-gallery-2006-british-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/24/meta-gallery-2006-british-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/24/meta-gallery-2006-british-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: ,


UPDATE 2


The 2006 British Motor Show is going on in London's Excel Center on the banks of the River Thames, so we decided to assemble a meta gallery of shots from the show in case you don't happen to be in the neighborhood. Shots of interest include more angles of the Arash AF10, the woolen Ferrari of Lauren Porter, the Caparo T1 and the 1005-bhp Barabus TKR shown above.

Let us know in the comments if we're missing any good galleries of the 2006 British Motor Show out on the web.

WorldCarFans - not many but includes nice write up by Nick Hall, second collection promised soon
World Car Fans 2 - second gallery with Nick Hall commentary, contains 270-mph Barabus TKR supercar
PistonHeads 1 - not very many, but there's a second one below
PistonHeads 2 - again, not many but decent selection of supercars and oddities
Supercars.net - the largest collection, four pages of the best shots
PopularScience - 11-shot slideshow, many green machines

UPDATE 1 - added PopularScience
UPDATE 2 - added WorldCarFans 2

META GALLERY: 2006 British Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Jul 2006 03:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>British Auto ShowBritish International Auto ShowBritish International Motor Showbritish Motor ShowBritishAutoShowBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowBritishMotorShowMon, 24 Jul 2006 03:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Citroën C-P1NK, C1 Airplay not afraid to show their colors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/23/citro-n-c-p1nk-c1-airplay-not-afraid-to-show-their-colors/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/23/citro-n-c-p1nk-c1-airplay-not-afraid-to-show-their-colors/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/23/citro-n-c-p1nk-c1-airplay-not-afraid-to-show-their-colors/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Citroen C-P1NK

Well, you can't accuse Citroën of taking a conservative approach at this year's British Motor Show. The automaker has its full lineup on display, including some new special edition models and a few attention-grabbing show cars and concepts

The fuel-sipping (60 mpg!) C1 city car is well-represented, with special editions bowing in the form of the C1 Airplay and C1 Rhythm, and a garish new show car called the C-P1NK. The C1 Rhythm is a C1 3-door that benefits from a healthy infusion of additional standard equipment. Appearance-wise, there are no changes -- it looks like a regular C1.

The C1 Airplay, on the other hand, loosens up a bit. Available in black or red, the interior features either high-gloss red or chrome accents on the gauge rims, door panels, and shifter. (The exterior paint finish selection determines which cabin trim package is used.). In addition to those detail enhancements, the Airplay gets equipped with a 1GB iPod nano and dash-mounted dock. If you want to further personalize the car's look, the body can also be dressed up with optional side decals, but we're not so sure that's a great idea. The C1 has plenty of style as is -- no need to fix what isn't broken.

Finally, the C-P1NK is a pure show car that really assaults the senses. Fitted with an aero kit and a nice set of alloys, it takes its namesake color scheme and really runs with it. Not only is the bodywork finished in a garishly hot "passion pink," but it's also covered with custom airbrush designs on the hood and side panels. In back, the exhaust outlets are heart-shaped.

(Additional info and photos after the jump)

[Source: Citroën]

Continue reading Citroën C-P1NK, C1 Airplay not afraid to show their colors

Citroën C-P1NK, C1 Airplay not afraid to show their colors originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Jul 2006 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british international motor showbritish motor showBritishInternationalMotorShowbritishj auto showBritishjAutoShowBritishMotorShowc1c1 aorplayc1 p1nkc1 pinkc1 rhythmc1-p1nkC1AorplayC1P1nkC1PinkC1Rhythmcitroencitroen c1CitroenC1london auto showlondon international motor showlondon motor sowLondonAutoShowLondonInternationalMotorShowLondonMotorSowSun, 23 Jul 2006 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mitsubishi keeping an "i" on the British Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/22/mitsubishi-keeping-an-i-on-the-british-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/22/mitsubishi-keeping-an-i-on-the-british-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/22/mitsubishi-keeping-an-i-on-the-british-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mitsubishi i

An unlikely visitor made the trip from Japan to London for the British Motor Show. Joining the rest of Mitsubishi's lineup at ExCeL is one of Mitsubishi's "i" kei cars. Mitsubishi UK is in the final stages of a feasability study as to whether or not there's a market for the "i" in Britain.

The automaker is conducting surveys nationwaide to gauge demand, and if you're in London, you can make your voice heard at the Mitsu stand as well. In Japan, the "i" is equipped with a 600cc MIVEC DOHC 3-cylinder engine that's good for 64 horsepower. It's mated to either a 2WD or AWD drivetrain. Current speculation is that if the "i" is exported to the UK, it'll use that powerplant and be a 2WD-only vehicle.

Given that small city cars are very practical and popular in Europe, and that the "i" is a uniquely stylish little car, there's probably a good chance that our British friends will be seeing them on local roadways in due time.

(Press release after the jump)

[Source: Mitsubishi]

Continue reading Mitsubishi keeping an "i" on the British Motor Show

Mitsubishi keeping an "i" on the British Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Jul 2006 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british auto showbritish international auto showbritish international motor showbritish motor showBritishAutoShowBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowBritishMotorShowcity carCityCarkeikei carKeiCarlondon auto showlondon international auto showlondon international motor showlondon motor showLondonAutoShowLondonInternationalAutoShowLondonInternationalMotorShowLondonMotorShowminicarmitsubishi imitsubishi i minicarMitsubishiIMitsubishiIMinicarSat, 22 Jul 2006 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda F1 "View Suspended": The ultimate technical diagram]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/honda-f1-view-suspended-the-ultimate-technical-diagram/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/honda-f1-view-suspended-the-ultimate-technical-diagram/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/honda-f1-view-suspended-the-ultimate-technical-diagram/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Honda Racing F1 'View Suspended'
The Honda Racing F1 car is made up of 3,200 individual parts, and if you go the the British International Motor Show this week or next, you'll be able to see every single one. Literally.

That's because Dutch artist Paul Veroude has seemingly worked magic with his exhibit called "View Suspended," in which each and every part of the car is suspended from above, creating a living exploded technical diagram. As awed as we are by the photographs of the display, we can only imagine how impressive it looks in person. Everything down to the smallest little screw is hanging in suspended animation.

Manufacturers always strive to have interesting displays at autoshows, whether they be safety demonstrations, cutaways, or other imaginative ploys to generate visitor interest. With "View Suspended," it's a safe bet that Honda will be capturing the attention and imagination of every single person who walks by it. It's just that cool.

Click on any photo to enlarge it. It's the best way to get a sense of the painstaking effort and incredible attention to detail that went into this piece.

(Additional photos, info after the jump)

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Honda F1 "View Suspended": The ultimate technical diagram

Honda F1 "View Suspended": The ultimate technical diagram originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jul 2006 18:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british auto showbritish international auto showbritish international motor showbritish motor showBritishAutoShowBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowBritishMotorShowhonda racinghonda racing f1honda racing f1 view suspendedHondaRacingHondaRacingF1HondaRacingF1ViewSuspendedlondin international auto showLondinInternationalAutoShowlondon auto showlondon international motor showlondon motor showLondonAutoShowLondonInternationalMotorShowLondonMotorShowpaul veroudePaulVeroudeview suspendedViewSuspendedWed, 19 Jul 2006 18:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Arash AF10 shown in London]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/arash-af10-shown-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/arash-af10-shown-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/19/arash-af10-shown-in-london/#commentsFiled under: , ,



This week at the British Motor Show, Arash Farboud unveiled a mockup of his company's future supercar, the AF10. Farboud says he'll have a running prototype of the £170,000 exotic early next year. The shape you see here, however, has already been wind tunnel tested, so what you see is likely very close to the AF10's final form. Of the shape Farboud says, "If you're at a set of traffic lights and an Enzo, Carrera GT, Pagani Zonda, Koenigsegg and McLaren SLR all pull up, the AF10 should not look out of place."

The carbon fiber sports car will be powered a 7.0-liter Corvette Z06 engine hooked up with a six-speed Graziano transmission and be capable of 200+ mph. The rest of the car's development will now be done out in the open, with Farboud releasing details and accepting feedback on his supercar along the way.

[Source: PistonHeads]

Arash AF10 shown in London originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jul 2006 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AF10Arash CarsArash FarboudArashCarsArashFarboudBritish International Auto ShowBritish International Motor ShowBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowLondon Auto ShowLondon Motor ShowLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowWed, 19 Jul 2006 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[SEAT officially unveils the new Leon Cupra]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/seat-officially-unveils-the-new-leon-cupra/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/seat-officially-unveils-the-new-leon-cupra/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/seat-officially-unveils-the-new-leon-cupra/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

SEAT Leon Cupra
We brought you initial pics and details last week, and today, SEAT made it all official in London where factory Touring Car drivers James Thompson (WTCC) and Jason Plato (BTCC) pulled the checkered cover off the all-new Leon Cupra.

To refresh your memories, the Cupra is the latest tasty morsel from the Spanish automaker. The stylish hatch has VW's 2.0T FSI four-banger lurking underhood, tuned to produce 240 horsepower. So equipped, it makes the run from 0-62 in 6.4 seconds, topping out at an impressive 153 mph. Somehow through all this the Cupra (if you resist the urge to drop the hammer all the time) can average over 30mpg in fuel consumption along the way.

Distinguishable by its curvy body, tough aero kit, and 18" wheels, the Cupra also creates an inviting driving environment for it's pilot and passengers, with sport seats, contrast stitching, and a slick variation on the already-excellent VW-sourced dash and instrument cluster.

We wish we could get it here!

(Additional info and photos after the jump)

[Source: SEAT]

Continue reading SEAT officially unveils the new Leon Cupra

SEAT officially unveils the new Leon Cupra originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jul 2006 20:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0T FSI2.0tFsiBritish Auto Showbritish international auto showBritish International Motor ShowBritish Motor ShowBritishAutoShowBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowBritishMotorShowleonleon cupraLeonCupraLondon Auto Showlondon international auto showLondon International Motor ShowLondon Motor ShowLondonAutoShowLondonInternationalAutoShowLondonInternationalMotorShowLondonMotorShownew cupranew leon cupraNewCupraNewLeonCupraSEATSEAT Leon CupraSeatLeonCupraTue, 18 Jul 2006 20:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus launches GS 300 Limited Edition in London]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/lexus-launches-gs-300-limited-edition-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/lexus-launches-gs-300-limited-edition-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/lexus-launches-gs-300-limited-edition-in-london/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Lexus has unveiled a special U.K. market-only version of its GS300 sedan called simply, the GS300 Limited Edition. Based on the GS300 SE, the Limited Edition adds 18-inch five-spoke wheels, a rear decklid spoiler, extended side skirts and a front spoiler. Inside the cabin, Lexus adds grey perforated leather upholstery, dark wood accents and custom designed floor mats (woo-hoo!). There's also the full smattering of options that's too long to list here, but includes a DVD nav system, Bluetooth, HID headlamps and much more. The exterior is painted in Aleutian Grey metallic, while the interior of the Limited Edition is finished in Grampian Grey. Power comes from the brand's 245-bhp 3.0-liter V6 that will lead the Limited Edition from "naught" to 62 mph in 7.2 seconds. As with Jaguar's XJR Portfolio, the Lexus GS300 is just for the Brits and only 250 will be built for a price of £37,350.

(A full press release from Lexus can be found after the jump)

[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading Lexus launches GS 300 Limited Edition in London

Lexus launches GS 300 Limited Edition in London originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jul 2006 18:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british international auto showbritish international motor showBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowGS300GS300 Limited EditionGs300LimitedEditionlondon auto showlondon motor showLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowTue, 18 Jul 2006 18:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Jaguar XJR Portfolio revealed in London]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/jaguar-xjr-portfolio-revealed-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/jaguar-xjr-portfolio-revealed-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/jaguar-xjr-portfolio-revealed-in-london/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Jaguar XJR Portfolio is a direct descendant of the Concept Eight show car that was unveiled at the 2004 New York auto show and the Super V8 Porfolio based on the long-wheelbase XJR. Think of the XJR Portfolio as a standard-wheelbase version of the Super V8 Portfolio. As such, it maintains the visual cues of the Super V8 Portfolio that include the aluminum power vents, 20-inch Callisto alloy wheels and menacing Midnight black paint. It will be powered by the XJR's 400-bhp supercharged 4.2-liter V8 and gears will change hands thanks to a six-speed ZF automatic transmission. 60 mph will be achieved in a cool 5.0 seconds flat. The Jaguar XKR Portfolio is for the U.K. market only though, and as such only 100 examples will be produced for a street price of £62,040.

(More high-resolution shots and Jaguar's press release after the jump)

[Source: Jaguar]

Continue reading Jaguar XJR Portfolio revealed in London

Jaguar XJR Portfolio revealed in London originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jul 2006 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>British international auto showbritish international motor showBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowlondon auto showlondon motor showLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowTue, 18 Jul 2006 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Aston Martin shows off endurance with Project 30,000]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/aston-martin-shows-off-endurance-with-project-30-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/aston-martin-shows-off-endurance-with-project-30-000/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/aston-martin-shows-off-endurance-with-project-30-000/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Aston Martin Vantage Project 30,000

After a driver team led by Dr. Ulrich Bez drove a production-standard V8 Vantage to a top-25 finish at this year's Nurburgring 24 Hours, Aston Martin engineers kicked off another demonstration of the Vantage's endurance.

To commemorate the milestone of 30,000 cars produced, Aston Martin staffers were invited to spend a day in Germany, where day and night, the car would be driven on the Autobahn and local roads with the goal of accumulating 30,000 miles in 30 days. Providing support to the effort was Aston's new German dealership, Moll Sportwagen.

True to the form shown by the Nurburgring Vantage, the Project 30,000 car accomplished its mission. Now signed by every employee who took part in the 30-day thrashing, it is on display with the Nurburgring car at the British Motor Show.

These overt demonstrations of the Vantage's robustness continue to make us wonder how long it'll be until Aston Martin decides to go all the way and field a car in the Le Mans / ALMS GT2 class. Given the success the DBR9 is having, there's no reason to believe a Le Mans Vantage wouldn't wreak havoc as well.

(Additional info after the jump)

Source: Aston Martin

Continue reading Aston Martin shows off endurance with Project 30,000

Aston Martin shows off endurance with Project 30,000 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jul 2006 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Aston Martin V8 Vantageaston martin vantageAstonMartinV8VantageAstonMartinVantageBritish International Auto ShowBritish International Motor ShowBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowLondon Auto ShowLondon Motor ShowLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowproject 30,000Project30,000Tue, 18 Jul 2006 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Aston Martin to sell Nürburgring Vantage V8 in limited numbers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/aston-to-sell-n-rburgring-vantage-v8-in-limited-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/aston-to-sell-n-rburgring-vantage-v8-in-limited-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/aston-to-sell-n-rburgring-vantage-v8-in-limited-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Like a proud parent after a track meet, Aston knows that endurance races are as much about finishing as they are about winning. This would explain why the company is planning to put into limited production the exact same car that completed the recent 24 Hours of Nürburgring. The actual race car finished 24th overall at Nürburgring amidst a field of dedicated racing machines. That's quite an accomplishment considering Aston's entry was completely stock except for a safety cage, special fuel tank and fire system, a racing seat and built-in air jacks. The Nürburgring Vantage V8 will be identical to the car that competed at the actual Ring in June, which means customers will be able to drive their car to the track and on the track, just like Aston did with the actual race car. Aston has not said how many it will produce, nor what the Nurburgring Vantage V8 will cost, but considering the modifications aren't that extensive we're being told it shouldn't be much more than the standard production car's price of £82,800.

[Source: Aston Martin]

Aston Martin to sell Nürburgring Vantage V8 in limited numbers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jul 2006 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british international auto showbritish international motor showBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowlondon auto showlondon motor showLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowvantage v8VantageV8Tue, 18 Jul 2006 15:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet "ED", Kia's new European family car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/meet-ed-kias-new-european-family-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/meet-ed-kias-new-european-family-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/meet-ed-kias-new-european-family-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia

Today in London, Kia released photos of the new European-market family car that the company will debut later this year at the Paris auto show. Known only by the code name "ED," the five-door will do battle with C-segmant stalwarts like the Ford Focus, Renault Megane and Opel Astra.

"ED" stands for European design, and the car will be produced at Kia's Zilina, Slovakia plant. Underhood, "ED" will be available with three different gasoline engines and one diesel. A station wagon and 3-door variant are also in the cards. If you're outside Europe and want one, you're going to be disappointed. "ED" is a Europe-only effort.

Kia will keep the name under wraps until the car gets it's formal introduction in Paris this September. Whatever it's called, it looks like a nice little car. Too bad it's not in the company's North American plans.

(Additional info, photo after the jump)

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading Meet "ED", Kia's new European family car

Meet "ED", Kia's new European family car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jul 2006 13:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>British International Auto ShowBritish International Motor ShowBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowEDkia EDKiaEdLondon Auto ShowLondon Motor ShowLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowTue, 18 Jul 2006 13:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe Unveiled in London]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/mazda-mx-5-roadster-coupe-unveiled-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/mazda-mx-5-roadster-coupe-unveiled-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/07/18/mazda-mx-5-roadster-coupe-unveiled-in-london/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe

Mazda officially unveiled the MX-5 Roadster Coupe this morning at the British International Motor Show, and it has the makings of a big winner. In the Northeastern and Midwestern United States, where rough winters are enough to scare off some convertible shoppers, this car is going to find many friends. If you're willing to accept the weight penalty for the retractable hardtop -- the Roadster Coupe weighs 81.5 pounds more than the standard MX-5 Roadster -- you'll be hard-pressed to find a four-season roadster this good.

The folding hardtop looks simply fantastic when closed, and it retracts in just 12 seconds. Like the soft-top MX-5, the driver has to manually unlock the center-mounted latch on the windshield and then press a button to let the motors work the rest of the magic. At first glance, it looks pretty much like any other MX-5 on the road with the top down (there are subtle differences). The roof itself is ingenious, folding into 3 sections that stow behind the seats, leaving trunk space unaffected. Considering the MX-5's size and its limited trunk space to begin with, this is a packaging triumph, and it gives dealers a great selling point to work with beyond the obvious benefits of the hardtop itself.

(More info and photos after the jump - Now updated with Mazda's comprehensive press release)

{Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe Unveiled in London

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe Unveiled in London originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jul 2006 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>British International Auto ShowBritish International Motor ShowBritishInternationalAutoShowBritishInternationalMotorShowHard TopHardTopLondon Auto ShowLondon Motor ShowLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowMX-5MX-5 Roadster CoupeMx-5RoadsterCouperetractable hard topRetractableHardTopTue, 18 Jul 2006 12:24:00 EST