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[Core-Toons breaks down the 2010 Chicago Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/17/core-toons-breaks-down-the-2010-chicago-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/17/core-toons-breaks-down-the-2010-chicago-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/17/core-toons-breaks-down-the-2010-chicago-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Field notes on the 2010 Chicago Auto Show - Click above for the series

Without doubt we have never come across a more comically true summary of the auto show experience. A nine-panel series on the experience of the Chicago Auto Show by the magnificently named Lunchbreath is so spot on that it's already giving us PTSD about the Geneva Motor Show, and Geneva hasn't even happened yet. From the camera phones to photo profiling to that guy in the Escalade, it's all in there. If you like the panels below, check out his Unsolicited Proposals to Detroit, and the Housewares Trade Show for something completely different.


Gallery: Lunchbreath's Field Notes on the 2010 Chicago Auto Show


[Source: Lunchbreath via Core77]

Core-Toons breaks down the 2010 Chicago Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cartoonchicagochicago 2010chicago auto showChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowcomicscore77lunchbreathWed, 17 Feb 2010 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19362570/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/17/core-toons-breaks-down-the-2010-chicago-auto-show/19362570/article-detail.xml 19362570 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/castoon_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/castoon.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Chevrolet rolls out Caprice Police Car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/12/chicago-2010-chevrolet-rolls-out-caprice-police-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/12/chicago-2010-chevrolet-rolls-out-caprice-police-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/12/chicago-2010-chevrolet-rolls-out-caprice-police-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chevrolet Caprice PPV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Late last year, General Motors announced that it would build a Zeta-based Police Car for North American duty. Though there was already a perfectly good Pontiac G8 available before GM decided to shutter the brand, this Zeta would be based on the longer version of that platform as used by the Holden Statesman and be known as the 2011 Chevrolet Caprice police patrol vehicle.

Well, what do you know. Chevy brought just such a vehicle to the Chicago Auto Show, and we managed to snap off a series of photos to share. According to the personnel manning the booth, the Caprice PPV is still in concept form, complete with a refurbished Toughbook panel from Panasonic attached to the center console.

Being a long-wheelbase Zeta, the Caprice PPV has plenty of room for a divided cockpit with what appears to be a plexiglass barrier protecting the driver and front passenger from whatever or whomever happens to be confined to the rear. Other interesting tidbits include a number of storage locations, including one for weapons between the two front seats.

We're sure the cops will appreciate the E85-compatible 6.0-liter V8 and the 355 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque it puts out. Now if only GM could find a way to put just such a Caprice (or, would that be a proper Impala SS?) in every single Chevrolet dealership around the country, they may really be on to something.


Gallery: Chevrolet Caprice PPV at Chicago Auto Show

Chicago 2010: Chevrolet rolls out Caprice Police Car originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevrolet capricechevrolet caprice police patrol vehiclechevrolet caprice ppvChevrolet Caprice PPV 2011chevrolet cruzeChevroletCapriceChevroletCapricePolicePatrolVehicleChevroletCapricePpvChevroletCapricePpv2011ChevroletCruzechevy cruzeChevyCruzechicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowpolicepolice carpolice carspolice interceptorPoliceCarPoliceCarsPoliceInterceptorFri, 12 Feb 2010 19:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19356070/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/12/chicago-2010-chevrolet-rolls-out-caprice-police-car/19356070/article-detail.xml 19356070 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/chicago-2010-caprice-police_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/chicago-2010-caprice-police.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Women of the Windy City]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-women-of-the-windy-city/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-women-of-the-windy-city/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-women-of-the-windy-city/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Spokesmodels of the Chicago Auto Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

This year's 2010 Chicago Auto Show is just about over, at least for us media types, and while a couple of significant vehicles were unveiled here, it's basically a repeat of Detroit - the industry has definitely scaled back. Although Chicago hasn't always been one of the pre-eminent events on the calendar, we usually get a lot out of our trip to the Windy City, and while that's generally new car debuts, there's plenty else to occupy our time here.

Thankfully one area where automakers seemingly didn't skimp again is booth professionals. Lots of models are positioned by the vehicles, quick with a smile or an answer to any question we had. As the auto show season marches along, the gals just seem to get prettier and friendlier at every event.

And as we pointed out in our booth babe post from Detroit, we're not being sexist, but rather consumers of a valuable service according to Sirens of Chrome, an entire book celebrating the culture of car models and their history on the auto show circuit. Check out the gallery below to keep the economy going.


Gallery: Women of the Windy City at Chicago Auto Show


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Chicago 2010: Women of the Windy City originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booth babesbooth professionalsBoothBabesBoothProfessionalschicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowmodelsThu, 11 Feb 2010 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19353774/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-women-of-the-windy-city/19353774/article-detail.xml 19353774 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/windycitywomen2010---00_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/windycitywomen2010---00.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Even civil servants appreciate a nice ride]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-even-civil-servants-appreciate-a-nice-ride/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-even-civil-servants-appreciate-a-nice-ride/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-even-civil-servants-appreciate-a-nice-ride/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Work vehicles at Chicago Auto Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to one of Chicago's most famous poets, Carl Sandburg, it's the City of the Broad Shoulders. There has been some debate about exactly what he meant by that, but we'd like to think it has something to do with the spirit of selflessness in its citizens. When there is public need, Chicagoans respond. It's no surprise then that the Chicago Auto Show always features lots of first response vehicles, military rides and other service organization transportation.

With so few big debuts to keep us busy this year, we found ourselves admiring the plethora of cars, trucks and "others," painted in fire engine red, black and white, or camo. We've assembled a gallery to show you what Chicagoans typically only get to see when there's a crisis. There are cop cars, fire engines, snow plows, military vehicles, quads, motorcycles and a lot else to check out in the gallery below.


Gallery: Work Vehicles at Chicago Auto Show


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Chicago 2010: Even civil servants appreciate a nice ride originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowfire engineFire enginesFireEngineFireEnginesfirst responderfirst respondersFirstResponderFirstRespondersmilitarymilitary vehicleMilitaryVehiclepolice carpolice carsPoliceCarPoliceCarsThu, 11 Feb 2010 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19353773/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-even-civil-servants-appreciate-a-nice-ride/19353773/article-detail.xml 19353773 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/chicagoworkvehicles---00_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/chicagoworkvehicles---00.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Hybrid chassis shows differences between old and new Silverado HD]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-hybrid-chassis-shows-differences-between-old-and-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-hybrid-chassis-shows-differences-between-old-and-n/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-hybrid-chassis-shows-differences-between-old-and-n/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Old and new Chevrolet Silverado HD chassis combined - Click above for high-res image gallery

No, Chevrolet's new Silverado HD will not be available as a hybrid. The hybrid we're talking about is this chassis on display at the Chicago Auto Show that is constructed of both the previous generation and the new 2011 Silverado HD. The combined chassis is split right down the middle and shows just how much the 2011 model has been improved from the previous model.

Starting with the front suspension, the 2011 Silverado HD receives beefier upper and lower control arms along with larger torsion bars and steering gear. The front axle can now handle up to 6,000 pounds of gross weight, which means that every HD model can bear the weight of a snow plow. Moving through the rest of the display, you can see the all new frame that utilizes 11 fully boxed assemblies that make sure of higher strength steel. The result is that the new chassis has five times more torsional strength than it did before and 92 percent better bending resistance.

At the rear, the Silverado HD benefits from a new, larger asymmetrical leaf spring design that offers improved handling and load capabilities. General Motors is quick to point out that the truck's maximum 6,335-pound payload and 20,000-pound towing capacity (using a fifth-wheel hitch) are both better than the Dodge Ram 3500 HD and the Ford F350 Super Duty.

Finally, the Silverado HD has been upgraded with 14-inch brake rotors both front and rear, a heavy-duty trailer hitch and a 36-gallon fuel tank that, when combined with the improved fuel economy, allows for 680 highway miles on a single tank. You can see the differences in detail in the high-res gallery below, or click here for even more details and photos of the 2011 Silverado HD.


Gallery: Old and new Silverado HD chassis combined


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Chicago 2010: Hybrid chassis shows differences between old and new Silverado HD originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet silverado2011 chevrolet silverado hd2011ChevroletSilverado2011ChevroletSilveradoHdchevroletchevrolet silveradochevrolet silverado hdChevroletSilveradoChevroletSilveradoHdchicagochicago 2010chicago auto showChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowheavy duty pickupHeavyDutyPickuppick-uppickuppickupssilveradosilverado hdSilveradoHdThu, 11 Feb 2010 16:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19354839/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-hybrid-chassis-shows-differences-between-old-and-n/19354839/article-detail.xml 19354839 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/lead2silveradohdhchassis_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/lead2silveradohdhchassis.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Volo shines the light on some famous movie cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-volo-shines-the-light-on-some-famous-movie-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-volo-shines-the-light-on-some-famous-movie-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-volo-shines-the-light-on-some-famous-movie-cars/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Volo Auto Museum collection at Chicago Auto Show - Click above for high-res image gallery

One of the most fun parts of the Chicago Auto Show every year is that Illinois is also host to the Volo Auto Museum. Volo is one of those museum/used car dealerships that always has some of the most entertaining and outrageous cars in its inventory. One of the things they are best known for is their collection of rolling Hollywood memorabilia, and at this year's show, they have rolled out about a dozen vehicles that show off their range of Tinseltown metal.

First up is the Mellow Yellow NASCAR racer that Tom Cruise piloted in Days of Thunder. They even have a monitor running movie clips featuring Cole Trickle beside the very seat he sat in for the filming - and no, it wasn't a booster seat. Next to that is Speed Racer's Mach 5, signed by Kustom Kar King George Barris. That sits alongside one of the General Lee Dodge Chargers from the Dukes of Hazzard movie and a really odd Buick Grand National. The GN is one of the cars that Vin Diesel drove in Fast and Furious 4. It is totally gutted inside and has a wild rear steering system that made us do a double-take.

Across from that is the villain car from The Great Race and the awesomely wacky Turtle Mobile from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. Our favorite star car, though - and the one that looks most at home here in Chicago - is the Blues Mobile, driven by one Joliet Jake and one Elwood Blues, a.k.a. "The Blues Brothers." It even has the comically oversized loudspeaker still strapped to the roof. All-in, the Volo display is fun attraction here in Chicago and an example of why this show is always so popular with the public.


Gallery: Volo Museum Hollywood cars at Chicago Auto Show


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

Chicago 2010: Volo shines the light on some famous movie cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blues BrothersBluesBrotherschicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowDays of ThunderDaysOfThunderfast and furiousFastAndFuriousgeneral leeGeneral Lee ChargerGeneralLeeGeneralLeeChargergeorge barrisGeorgeBarrisHollywoodmach 5Mach5Movie Carmovie carsMovieCarMovieCarsspeed racerSpeedRacerteenage mutant ninja turtlesTeenageMutantNinjaTurtlesThe Great RaceTheGreatRacetom cruiseTomCruiseVin DieselVinDieselVoloVolo Auto MuseumVoloAutoMuseumThu, 11 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19353770/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-volo-shines-the-light-on-some-famous-movie-cars/19353770/article-detail.xml 19353770 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/volohollywoodcars---00_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/volohollywoodcars---00.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Kia shows off new Forte Koup racecar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-kia-shows-off-new-forte-koup-racecar/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-kia-shows-off-new-forte-koup-racecar/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-kia-shows-off-new-forte-koup-racecar/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia Forte Koup Racecar - Click above for high-res image gallery

Kia has been making waves this past year or so with introductions like the Soul and the Forte Koup, and for 2010, they hope to be make an impact on the racetrack as well. Here at the Chicago Auto Show, Kia is displaying their new Forte Koup racecar that is competing in Grand-Am's Continental Sports Car Challenge series for 2010. The Korean manufacturer's first foray into motorsports will be managed by Georgia-based Kinetic Motorsports who will field a pair of cars in the Street Tuner (ST) class against cars like the Mazda3, BMW 330, and Volkswagen GTI.

The #10 car at the show was fresh off the truck from its debut at the Fresh From Florida 200 at Daytona Speedway last month, where it finished an underwhelming 31st in class. The #12 sister car fared a little better, ending the race in a respectable 19th place. You can watch both cars in action on SPEED Channel's tape-delayed broadcast of the race on February 13th at 7:00 pm EST. Until then, you can browse through our photos in the gallery below.


Gallery: Kia Forte Koup Racecar


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Chicago 2010: Kia shows off new Forte Koup racecar originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 kia forte koup2010KiaForteKoupchicagochicago 2010chicago auto showChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowforteforte koupForteKoupkiakia forte koupkia forte koup racecarKiaForteKoupKiaForteKoupRacecarThu, 11 Feb 2010 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19353058/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-kia-shows-off-new-forte-koup-racecar/19353058/article-detail.xml 19353058 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/leadfortekouprclive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/leadfortekouprclive.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Bad Timing Dept. - Prius <i>MotorWeek</i> Drivers' Choice winner; Toyota declines JDM award]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-bad-timing-dept-prius-i-motorweek-i-drivers/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-bad-timing-dept-prius-i-motorweek-i-drivers/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-bad-timing-dept-prius-i-motorweek-i-drivers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


2010 Toyota Prius - MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Award winner for Best of the Year

By February of each year, we are always right in the middle of awards season, and no, we're not talking about the Golden Globes, Grammys or Oscars. We are, of course, referring to Car and Truck of the Year awards, Ten Best lists and the like. A brace of trophies had already been handed out at the Detroit Auto Show and here at the Chicago Auto Show, a few more champions were crowned. As you might imagine, Toyota is usually an oft-mentioned brand during this time of year, but we figured this year might be a little different.

Coming on the heels of several high profile recall announcements by Toyota, one might expect the once-bulletproof Japanese carmaker to at least get more careful consideration when handing out the hardware. Well, even if they have gone through closer scrutiny, that hasn't stopped multiple outlets from still rewarding them for their products. Television show MotorWeek just announced their Drivers' Choice Award winners, and the Toyota Prius is their choice for best Eco-Friendly vehicle. It also claimed the title of Best of the Year overall, making it their top pick of the 2010 models.

Other category winners are listed below and there's a long press release after the jump that includes a statement by MotorWeek host and producer John Davis. While it was probably difficult to change their minds so late in the game, the statement by Davis explaining their rationale in choosing the Prius seems to have been written some time before Toyota started making so many headlines: "If you can only buy one car for your family, the 2010 Prius is the one," said Davis. "The Prius is a no-compromise vehicle that offers impressive efficiency, cutting edge technology, smart packaging and truly iconic styling."

While all of that might still apply, it's bad timing if nothing else to be handing out a top award to the Prius. In that spirit, Davis added an additional statement to clarify and defend the show's selection. In it he explained that while MotorWeek had two different Prius hybrids in their care for several months, nothing ever went wrong with them and that the show is confident that the problems will be satisfactorily addressed by Toyota.

MotorWeek was certainly not alone on that front however, as Toyota has recently been lauded by several other organizations as well. In Japan, for instance, Toyota was honored with a government energy efficiency award. Interestingly, the company chose to decline that award, though, saying that "the honor is not appropriate for a car hit by massive recalls," according to MSNBC.

Without further ado, here are the MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Award winners:
  • Best Small Car: Mazda3
  • Best Family Sedan: Ford Taurus
  • Best Luxury Sedan: Buick LaCrosse
  • Best Small Utility: Chevrolet Equinox
  • Best Large Utility: Honda Pilot
  • Best Pickup Truck: Ram 1500/2500/3500
  • Best Eco-Friendly: Toyota Prius
  • Best Sport Sedan: BMW 3-Series
  • Best Sport Coupe: Chevrolet Camaro
  • Best Performance Car: Audi S4
  • Best Convertible: Nissan 370Z Roadster
  • Best Dream Machine: Audi R8 5.2 FSI/Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Gallery: Review: 2010 Toyota Prius


[Sources: Motorweek via EarthTimes, MSNBC]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Bad Timing Dept. - Prius MotorWeek Drivers' Choice winner; Toyota declines JDM award

Chicago 2010: Bad Timing Dept. - Prius MotorWeek Drivers' Choice winner; Toyota declines JDM award originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Toyota2010 toyota prius2010Toyota2010ToyotaPrius3 series3-Series370 Z370Z3Seriesaudi r8 5.2 fsiAudi S4AudiR85.2FsiAudiS4bmw 3-seriesBmw3-seriesbuick lacrosseBuickLacrosseCamaroChevrolet CamaroChevrolet EquinoxChevroletCamaroChevroletEquinoxchicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowdodge ramDodgeRamEquinoxFord TaurusFordTaurushonda pilotHondaPilotLaCrossemazda3mercedes-benz sls amgMercedes-benzSlsAmgMotorWeekmotorweek drivers choice awardsMotorweekDriversChoiceAwardsNissan 370Z RoadsterNissan370zRoadsterpilotpriusprius recallPriusRecallR8RamRam 1500Ram 150025003500Ram1500Ram150025003500S4SLSSLS AMGSlsAmgtaurustoyotatoyota priustoyota recalltoyota recallsToyotaPriusToyotaRecallToyotaRecallsThu, 11 Feb 2010 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19353728/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/11/chicago-2010-bad-timing-dept-prius-i-motorweek-i-drivers/19353728/article-detail.xml 19353728 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/prius2010rev000opt-1265891312_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/prius2010rev000opt-1265891312.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: DeltaWing Indycar concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-deltawing-indycar-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-deltawing-indycar-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-deltawing-indycar-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As we speak, the IZOD IndyCar series is looking over a number of proposals for the next generation of open-wheel racecars. One of those, the design from Dallara, has already been shown. Today at the Chicago Auto Show, DeltaWing pulled the covers off its design proposal, and the machine looks completely different from anything we've yet seen circling the Brickyard.

At first glance, a couple of interesting features jump out, not the least of which are the giant vertical rear wing and super-skinny front track. The cars also seem much longer than current Indycars, though we'd need to see the two machines next to one another to come to any real conclusions on the matter.

In any case, DeltaWing has a pretty radical design on its hands. Plus, Chip Ganassi Racing's Ben Bowlby, who formerly led design at Lola, is behind the effort. See for yourself in our high-res image gallery below and make the jump for an animated video of the DeltaWing buzzing around Mid-Ohio.


Gallery: DeltaWing Indycar proposal at Chicago Auto Show

Continue reading Chicago 2010: DeltaWing Indycar concept

Chicago 2010: DeltaWing Indycar concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 20:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowdeltawingdeltawing indycarDeltawingIndycarindycarWed, 10 Feb 2010 20:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352970/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-deltawing-indycar-concept/19352970/article-detail.xml 19352970 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/chicago-deltawing-indy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/chicago-deltawing-indy.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Ford Transit Connect Taxi burns CNG, LPG and four acres of space]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-ford-transit-connect-taxi-burns-cng-lpg-and-four/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-ford-transit-connect-taxi-burns-cng-lpg-and-four/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-ford-transit-connect-taxi-burns-cng-lpg-and-four/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Ford Transit Connect Taxi - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hot on the (w)heels of the Ford Transit Electric, the Transit Connect Taxi drove onto the stage at the Chicago Auto Show today running on compressed natural gas (CNG). The clean-burning utility van - based on the gasoline-powered North American Truck of the Year winner - adds to Ford's taxi fleet options like the Crown Victoria (see: pretty much any taxi in any city in the U.S.) and the Ford Escape Hybrid. The new taxi van can also burn propane (LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas). Of course, regular Transit Connect buyers can also opt for Ford's engine prep package to be able to put the gasoline alternatives into the tank. Like its battery-powered cousin, the Transit Connect Taxi will be in dealerships later this year.

Ford product development vice president Derrick Kuzak said that there is "strong demand" for CNG and LPG vehicles among fleet operators. Kuzak also highlighted the small size of the Transit Connect in an odd way: if all of the taxis in Chicago were replaced with these vans, he said, it would free up approximately four acres. Um, OK. Now, what should we do with these extra acres?


Gallery: Ford Transit Connect Taxi at Chicago Auto Show


Photos by Drew Phillips, Sebastian Blanco / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Ford Transit Connect Taxi burns CNG, LPG and four acres of space

Chicago 2010: Ford Transit Connect Taxi burns CNG, LPG and four acres of space originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowfordford transitford transit connect taford transit taxiFordTransitFordTransitConnectTaFordTransitTaxitransit connectTransitConnectWed, 10 Feb 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352749/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-ford-transit-connect-taxi-burns-cng-lpg-and-four/19352749/article-detail.xml 19352749 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/transittaxichicago-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/transittaxichicago-630.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Kia Ray PHEV concept finally unveiled]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-kia-ray-phev-concept-finally-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-kia-ray-phev-concept-finally-unveiled/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-kia-ray-phev-concept-finally-unveiled/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Kia Ray PHEV concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

The time has come to move on from teaser images; Kia has finally pulled the covers off its new plug-in hybrid concept. As this is being written ahead of the official unveiling at the Chicago Auto Show, we know a few more details about the concept, but we are still largely in the dark about the technical nitty gritty. The Ray rides on the same 106.3 inch wheelbase as the Hyundai Blue-Will PHEV concept but the overall length is four inches greater.

The Kia design team under Peter Schreyer has put a lot of emphasis on the aerodynamics of this concept, giving it a longer tail and, thanks to a roof that's four inches lower, a smaller frontal area than the earlier Hyundai concept. The aero number will also benefit from narrower tires, with the Kia rolling on 195/50R20 tires compared to the 245/40R20 rubber on the Hyundai.

The debut of the Ray also marks the launch of Kia's new green sub-brand, EcoDynamics. Like Volkswagen's BlueMotion and Ford's Econetic, EcoDynamics will denote the most efficient variants of Kia's model line. We can expect to see the new badge showing up on Kia's in the near future.

Learn more about the powertrain after the jump.


Gallery: Kia Ray Concept at Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: Kia Ray PHEV Concept


Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Kia]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Kia Ray PHEV concept finally unveiled

Chicago 2010: Kia Ray PHEV concept finally unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowkiakia raykia ray conceptkia ray phev conceptkia ray plug in hybrid conceptKiaRayKiaRayConceptKiaRayPhevConceptKiaRayPlugInHybridConceptWed, 10 Feb 2010 14:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19348182/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-kia-ray-phev-concept-finally-unveiled/19348182/article-detail.xml 19348182 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/leadkiaraychicagolive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/leadkiaraychicagolive.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Ford Transit Connect Electric uses the "Force"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-ford-transit-electric-uses-the-force-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-ford-transit-electric-uses-the-force-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-ford-transit-electric-uses-the-force-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Ford Transit Connect Electric - Click above for high-res image gallery

As expected, Ford brought the latest (and greatest?) incarnations of the Transit Connect utility van to the Chicago Auto Show today. The battery-powered Transit Connect Electric was up first, perhaps because it fits so well into Ford's strategy of vehicle electrification (see also: Focus Electric coming next year, followed by a plug-in hybrid and a next-gen hybrid in 2012). At the very least, this is Ford's first battery-powered vehicle, said product development vice president Derrick Kuzak.

The practical and battery-powered delivery van (the standard version was named the North American Truck of the Year this year) uses a powertrain developed with help from Azure Dynamics Corporation. Called Force Drive, the 55 kW system uses a 28 kWh lithium ion battery pack from Johnson Controls-Saft, has a 75 mile per hour top speed and can drive up to 80 miles on a charge. Will these specs be enough for customers? Praveen Cherian, program manager for the Transit Connect Electric, said in a statement that:
We're excited about the potential for our electrified vehicles. People were a little hesitant about hybrid technology at first, but now they accept it and embrace it. We expect the same will be true of electric vehicles.
The Transit Connect Electric goes on sale in the U.S. later this year, so we'll find out soon. More details after the jump.


Gallery: Ford Transit Connect Eletric at Chicago Auto Show


Photos by Drew Phillips, Sebastian Blanco / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Ford Transit Connect Electric uses the "Force"

Chicago 2010: Ford Transit Connect Electric uses the "Force" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowfordford transitford transit connectFord Transit Connect Electricford transit connect evFordTransitFordTransitConnectFordTransitConnectElectricFordTransitConnectEvtransit connectTransitConnectWed, 10 Feb 2010 14:22:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352715/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-ford-transit-electric-uses-the-force-drive/19352715/article-detail.xml 19352715 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/transitelectricchicago01opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/transitelectricchicago01opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Honda Odyssey Concept gives clear glimpse of next-gen minivan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/honda-odyssey-concept-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/honda-odyssey-concept-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/honda-odyssey-concept-chicago-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Honda Odyssey Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda just unveiled a concept version of its next-generation Oddity Odyssey minivan at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show, and it was one of those rare instances where the media was actually seeing it for the first time, as God intended unveilings to be. Although billed as a concept, the 2011 Honda Odyssey Concept looks almost production ready... other than its door handles, lights and a few other details.

While the current third-generation van is the best selling minivan in America two years running, Honda decided not to play it safe with the redesign. The all-new fourth-generation Odyssey is a big departure for Honda. It's lower and wider, taking an almost Mercedes R-Class stance. Although they claim it's only one inch lower and 1.4 inches wider, it looked like a lot more than that. The 2011 Odyssey also features a "lightning bolt" lower greenhouse border that reminded us of the Nissan Quest a bit. Honda says it helps with rearward visibility.

The production version of this 2011 Honda Odyssey should be in dealerships this fall, and will likely look a lot like this concept. While no specifics were mentioned, it is said to have a V6 that will deliver slightly better fuel economy. The interior was completely blocked off so we aren't sure what they have in store for us inside, but Honda reps promised something big. One thing Honda did share was the fact that this Odyssey is all-American. From inspiration to target market, styling to assembly, this is truly a product of the U.S. of A. There's a press release after the jump and live and press galleries below.


Gallery: 2011 Honda Odyssey Concept at Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: Honda Odyssey Concept


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Frank Fiipponio/Wenlogs, Inc.

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Honda Odyssey Concept gives clear glimpse of next-gen minivan

Chicago 2010: Honda Odyssey Concept gives clear glimpse of next-gen minivan originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Honda2011 Honda Odyssey2011 Honda Odyssey Concept2011 Odyssey2011 Odyssey Concept2011Honda2011HondaOdyssey2011HondaOdysseyConcept2011Odyssey2011OdysseyConceptchicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowhondahonda odysseyHonda Odyssey ConceptHondaOdysseyHondaOdysseyConceptodysseyWed, 10 Feb 2010 13:53:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352462/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/honda-odyssey-concept-chicago-debut/19352462/article-detail.xml 19352462 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2011hondaodysseyconcept---opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2011hondaodysseyconcept---opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Refreshed Toyota Avalon "boldly redesigned" to look exactly like predecessor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-toyota-avalon-chicago-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-toyota-avalon-chicago-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-toyota-avalon-chicago-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Toyota Avalon - Click above for high-res gallery

Perhaps the only 'surprise' at this year's Chicago Auto Show thus far has been the appearance of Toyota's refreshed-for-2011 Avalon sedan. According to this morning's presentation, even the automaker itself debated postponing its introduction in light of its present woes.

Looking to make the best of a bad situation (and among a string of assurances about his company's commitment to quality and customers), Toyota's Group Vice President and General Manager, Bob Carter, was quick to point out that the full-size sedan will ship with an updated gas pedal and emergency shutoff provision. That housekeeping note done, Carter went on to explain that the full-size Avalon checks off the traditional list of mid-cycle refresh items including revised head- and taillamps (the latter with LED), a new grille, revamped fascias and new alloy wheel patterns.

The bigger story for the revamped Avalon is on the inside, where a handsome new center stack, latest-generation navigation system and added niceties like a standard in-mirror backup camera and Bluetooth streaming audio and telephony have been fitted.

As before, the Avalon is powered by Toyota's 24-valve 3.5-liter V6, tuned here to make 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and achieve 20 miles-per-gallon in the city and 29 on the highway. It arrives in dealerships this spring.


Gallery: 2011 Toyota Avalon at Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: 2011 Toyota Avalon


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Refreshed Toyota Avalon "boldly redesigned" to look exactly like predecessor

Chicago 2010: Refreshed Toyota Avalon "boldly redesigned" to look exactly like predecessor originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AvalonBob CarterBobCarterChicago 2010chicago auto showChicago auto show 2010chicago show 2010Chicago2010ChicagoAutoShowChicagoAutoShow2010ChicagoShow2010toyotatoyota avalonToyotaAvalonWed, 10 Feb 2010 13:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352430/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/2011-toyota-avalon-chicago-reveal/19352430/article-detail.xml 19352430 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2011-avalon-sheet-reveal-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/2011-avalon-sheet-reveal-630.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Scion tC Release Series 6.0 is present and accounted for]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/scion-tc-release-series-6-0-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/scion-tc-release-series-6-0-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/scion-tc-release-series-6-0-chicago-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Scion tC Release Series 6.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Take a good look at the Scion tC Release Series 6.0... it's kind of a big deal. Last year, Scion offered up 2,000 tC Release Series 5.0 models. This year, the new Release Series 6.0 will be almost twice as rare, with just 1,100 such models planned for production. Better get yourself in line now.

To recap, this special tC comes painted up in Speedway Blue, which looks even more like Chrysler's classic B5 Blue in person than it does in pictures, along with some very Challenger-esque flat black stripes. So, what we have here is obviously a pint-sized muscle car, right? Well, not exactly. With the same exact 161-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine as all the other tCs sharing roadways, muscle isn't really in this car's vocabulary.

It's not all bad news, though. The 200-watt Alpine audio system with iPod/USB jack and 4.3-inch GPS touch screen do come standard for the car's $18,620 (with a stick, or $19,420 with an automatic) asking price. Check out the high-res image gallery below and click past the break for the press release.


Gallery: 2010 Scion tC Release Series 6.0 at Chicago Auto Show


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Scion tC Release Series 6.0 is present and accounted for

Chicago 2010: Scion tC Release Series 6.0 is present and accounted for originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowscionscion tcscion tc release seriesScion tC Release Series 6.0Scion tC RS 6.0ScionTcScionTcReleaseSeriesScionTcReleaseSeries6.0ScionTcRs6.0tcWed, 10 Feb 2010 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352240/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/scion-tc-release-series-6-0-chicago-debut/19352240/article-detail.xml 19352240 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/scion-tc-rs-6_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/scion-tc-rs-6.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Aluminum-ized Ford Shelby GT500 treads lightly on show floor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-ford-shelby-gt500-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-ford-shelby-gt500-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-ford-shelby-gt500-chicago-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Ford Shelby GT500 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Like the 2011 Mustang GT at last month's Detroit Auto Show, the 2011 Shelby was unveiled here at the Chicago Auto Show with little fanfare. In fact, there wasn't an unveiling at all, as the new Shelby was sitting uncovered on the show floor as soon as we arrived. The car looks fantastic in person, especially with the optional Performance Package and its 19-inch forged aluminum wheels, and the thinner stripes look better than we expected.

The best part about the 2011 GT500, however, is underneath the hood. Ford has finally thrown out the heavy iron block in favor of an aluminum unit that contributed to a significant weight savings of 120 pounds. The GT500 still isn't a lightweight at 3,820 pounds, but we fully expect the handling to be improved over the 2010 model with all that weight removed from the nose. You can read even more details about the 2011 Shelby GT500 here, or you can view the new live photos from the show floor in the gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 at Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 with SVT Performance Package


Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Chicago 2010: Aluminum-ized Ford Shelby GT500 treads lightly on show floor originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford shelby gt5002011 shelby gt5002011FordShelbyGt5002011ShelbyGt500chicagochicago 2010chicago auto showChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowfordford shelby gt500FordShelbyGt500mustangshelbyshelby gt500ShelbyGt500Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352108/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/2011-ford-shelby-gt500-chicago-debut/19352108/article-detail.xml 19352108 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/gt50011chicagolead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/gt50011chicagolead.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: New Ford Edge becomes cutting edge CUV [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-ford-edge-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-ford-edge-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-ford-edge-chicago-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford rolled out its 2011 Edge, with a triad of engine choices, in Chicago this morning. As we mentioned earlier, the 2011 variant will offer the all-new EcoBoost 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The four-cylinder turbo, with direct-injection, promises 20-percent better fuel economy without sacrificing performance or suffering emission penalties (Ford has yet to release any specifics on horsepower, torque or fuel economy). The standard engine will be a 3.5-liter V6 (285 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque), while the Edge Sport (pictured above) is fitted with a 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6 (305 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque).

The front fascia is completely reworked with a new fresh look, while the rear is only slightly updated - the greenhouse appears untouched. Mechanically, the brake system has been upgraded with larger rear rotors, improved pad composition and a revised brake booster. The Edge SEL and Edge Limited wear standard 18-inch tires - now one-half inch wider, with 20-inch tires optional on both. The Edge Sport has (gulp!) 22-inch wheels standard, a class-exclusive says Ford.

Inside, the dashboard has been completely redesigned around the centerpiece MyFord Touch infotainment center. Standard on the Edge Limited and Edge Sport, the system utilizes a 8.0-inch full-color touch-sensitive LCD screen in the center console. Complementing the main display is the revised instrument panel with dual multi-tasking 4.2-inch information panels on each side of the speedometer that are operated via five-way spoke-mounted thumb switches on the steering wheel. With about a gazillion different features, including the ability to have your Edge welcome you by name when you enter the vehicle, the industry-leading MyTouch system keeps getting better and better - its revised application in the 2011 Ford Edge only serves to reinforce the message. Check out the video and press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge Sport at Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge


Gallery: 2011 Ford Edge Sport


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: New Ford Edge becomes cutting edge CUV [w/video]

Chicago 2010: New Ford Edge becomes cutting edge CUV [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Chicago Auto Show2011 ford edge2011ChicagoAutoShow2011FordEdgeAuto ShowAutoShowChicagochicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowEcoBoostEcoBoost 2.0LEcoboost2.0ledgeEdge LimitedEdge SportEdgeLimitedEdgeSportFordFord EdgeFordEdgeWed, 10 Feb 2010 12:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352110/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/2011-ford-edge-chicago-debut/19352110/article-detail.xml 19352110 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/leadedgesportchicago_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/leadedgesportchicago.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: <strike>Panther Pink</strike> Furious Fuchsia Challenger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-panther-pink-furious-fuchsia-chal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-panther-pink-furious-fuchsia-chal/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-panther-pink-furious-fuchsia-chal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Dodge Challenger R/T in Furious Fuchsia - Click above for high-res image gallery

We finally got a chance to see the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T in its new Furious Fuchsia paint scheme. For those complaining about Dodge not using "Panther Pink" for this new Challenger hue, let's clear it up before we do anything else. Panther Pink was a color that was licensed by Chrysler back in the day, named after the the cartoon feline of fiberglass insulation fame. On this go-around, we figured Chrysler may have chosen to avoid any trademark entanglements by choosing a different moniker, but after seeing the car in person...it ain't pink - it's Fuchsia. Or electric raspberry pink maybe. At any rate, it isn't even close to Pepto pink like we might have guessed from the photos. The color actually looks pretty good on the Challenger, especially parked in a corral that included yellow, green, orange and blue versions of Dodge's lineup. The white interior is so kitschy, but it works perfectly with the overall theme.

If the R/T's 376 horsepower just aren't enough for your tire-screeching needs, you can always upgrade to the SRT8 and its 6.1-liter Hemi V8, which offers up a willing 425 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque... but act fast as there's only 400 slated for production. Base price for the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T Classic in Furious Fuchsia Pearl Coat comes in at $35,140 with the SRT8 model at $45,150 (both prices include $725 destination) and cars will hit dealerships in March.


Gallery: Furious Fuchsia Dodge Challenger R/T at Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: Furious Fuchsia Dodge Challengers


[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Panther Pink Furious Fuchsia Challenger

Chicago 2010: Panther Pink Furious Fuchsia Challenger originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Dodge2010 Dodge Challenger2010 Dodge Challenger RT2010Dodge2010DodgeChallenger2010DodgeChallengerRtChallengerchallenger rtChallengerRtchicagochicago 2010chicago auto showChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowDodgedodge challengerDodge Challenger RTDodgeChallengerDodgeChallengerRtfuchsiafurious fuchsiaFuriousFuchsiapanther pinkPantherPinkpink pantherPinkPantherWed, 10 Feb 2010 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352104/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-panther-pink-furious-fuchsia-chal/19352104/article-detail.xml 19352104 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/furiousfuchsiachallengerrt---00_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/furiousfuchsiachallengerrt---00.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition unveiled with no added performance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-unveiled-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-unveiled-with/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-unveiled-with/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan just unwrapped a 40th Anniversary gift to itself at the 2010 Chicago Auto Show. More specifically, it's celebrating the 40th anniversary of one of its most iconic vehicles, the Z car, with a special edition version of the latest in a long line of formidable sportscars to wear that badge. The limited edition 2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary model is actually a bit late to the party since the original 240Z technically debuted in North America on October 22, 1969... but who's counting.

Whereas the 1970 240Z was a revolution in the affordable sportscar scene with a sticker at just $3,626, the 40th Anniversary Edition will start at $38,860. That represents a premium of about $1,200 over Touring Coupe with Sport Package on which it's based. So what do you get by checking off that 40th Anniversary box? Nothing under the hood, in case you were wondering.

That's okay, we guess, as the Touring is already a hot car and the Sport package adds SynchroRev Match for the six-speed stick, a front chin spoiler, rear spoiler, Nissan Sport Brakes, 19-inch Rays forged aluminum-alloy wheels and the limited-slip diff. Basically it's a sticker package with a unique "40th Graphite" paint job, red leather interior, a "high-luster smoke wheel finish," red brake calipers and 40th Anniversary badges on the rear hatch and the front shock tower brace. The gray color and smoked wheels do look great in person, though.

There are also additional changes inside, like red door panel inserts, 40th Anniversary logos in the seatbacks and on the floormats, red stitching on the center stack, shift boot and kneepads, red-stitched leather on the steering wheel and a 40th commemorative plaque. It even comes with a commemorative "premium satin car cover."

Beginning later this month, the 1,000 units will start making their way to dealer showrooms. You can read even more details in the press release after the jump, and see some live shots and the official high-res pics in the gallery below.


Gallery: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition at Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: 2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Chicago 2010: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition unveiled with no added performance

Chicago 2010: Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition unveiled with no added performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 370Z2010 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition2010 Nissan2010 nissan 370z2010 Nissan 370Z 40th Anniversary Edition2010370z2010370z40thAnniversaryEdition2010Nissan2010Nissan370z2010Nissan370z40thAnniversaryEdition370Z370Z 40th Anniversary Edition370z40thAnniversaryEdition40th Anniversary Edition40th Anniversary Edition 370Z40th Anniversary Edition Nissan 370Z40thAnniversaryEdition40thAnniversaryEdition370z40thAnniversaryEditionNissan370zAnniversary Edition 370ZAnniversary Edition Nissan 370ZAnniversaryEdition370zAnniversaryEditionNissan370zChicagoChicago 2010Chicago Auto ShowChicago2010ChicagoAutoShowNissanNissan 370ZNissan 370Z 40th AnniversaryNissan 370Z 40th Anniversary EditionNissan370zNissan370z40thAnniversaryNissan370z40thAnniversaryEditionWed, 10 Feb 2010 11:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19351976/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/chicago-2010-nissan-370z-40th-anniversary-edition-unveiled-with/19351976/article-detail.xml 19351976 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/370zanni000opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/370zanni000opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chicago 2010: Hyundai sneaks revised-for-2011 Azera into Windy City]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-hyundai-azera-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-hyundai-azera-chicago-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/2011-hyundai-azera-chicago-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Hyundai Azera - Click above for high-res image gallery

Things are looking good for Hyundai. Not only has the brand been named the most fuel efficient automaker in the country, but they are releasing lots of new-and-improved metal. In a market where product is king, that's a good thing. First we saw the 2010 Tuscon and the just about-to-be-released 2011 Sonata. This morning, despite no official Hyundai press conference here at the Chicago Auto Show, we get a freshened 2011 Azera.

The big news are its two engines. The mid-cycle Azera will still use either a 3.3-liter or 3.8-liter V6, just like the outgoing car. However, both Lambda engines now use DCVVT (Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing) instead of CVVT. Translation: instead of only the intake valves getting varied, the exhaust valves' timing can be manipulated, too. In English that means more power and better mileage.

The 3.3-liter V6 makes 260 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque while the big 3.8-liter V6 cranks out 283 ponies and 263 units of torque. Much more impressive than that are their mileage numbers. An Azera equipped with the 3.3-liter mill gets 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, increases of 11 and 8 percent, respectively. The 3.8-liter motor allows the Azera to achieve 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, increases of 12 and 4 percent.

Part of this frugality is no doubt assisted by Hyundai's all-new, built-in-house six-speed automatic transmission that we got to experience in the Tucson. On the outside, the Azera gets new headlights, taillights, a new grille, new fog lights, bumpers and wheels. Oh, and for those of you that doubted the accuracy our Kia Optima spy shots, the joke is on you. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Azera: Chicago Auto Show


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Azera - Chicago


Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Hyundai]

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