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[Detroit 2010: Revenge Verde Supercar adds mean to its green]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/12/detroit-2010-revenge-verde-supercar-adds-mean-to-its-green/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/12/detroit-2010-revenge-verde-supercar-adds-mean-to-its-green/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/12/detroit-2010-revenge-verde-supercar-adds-mean-to-its-green/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Revenge Verde Supercar - Click above for high-res image gallery

U.S.-based Revenge used the 2010 Detroit Auto Show to introduce the world to its Verde Supercar, and we were there with cameras in hand to capture the event on film memory cards. Honestly, we were impressed with the Verde's outer appearance, though we couldn't get close enough to see the interior or the car's underpinnings.

Speaking of which, Revenge claims that the Verde shares a good portion of its aluminum chassis with the dearly departed Ford GT. Powertrain options are, shall we say... interesting. We're certainly not complaining about the Roush-sourced Ford Racing V8 with 605 horsepower or the supercharged GM LS9 with 638 horses. It's the Hp2g Hybrid drivetrain option that we're a wee bit leery of... not that we wouldn't love to believe that the V8 engine puts out 400 horsepower while running on E85 and returning upwards of 100 miles per gallon, it's just that we need to see it for ourselves before we believe it.

Moving on, the bodywork is fashioned from aluminum and carbon fiber, which allows for a weight of 3,500 pounds. Performance estimates put the 0 to 60 time at between three and five seconds, depending on the powertrain chosen. Top speed will reportedly be over 200 miles per hour, with optional gearing that could potentially allow the Verde to hit 240 mph. Pricing is set at $190,000 and Revenge says it's planning to put cars in paying customer's hands later this year. We'll see.


Gallery: Detroit 2010: Revenge Verde Supercar

Detroit 2010: Revenge Verde Supercar adds mean to its green originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowhp2grevengerevenge verderevenge verde supercarRevengeVerdeRevengeVerdeSupercarverdeTue, 12 Jan 2010 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19313751/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/12/detroit-2010-revenge-verde-supercar-adds-mean-to-its-green/19313751/article-detail.xml 19313751 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/revenge-verde-live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/revenge-verde-live.jpg <![CDATA[Better Than Before: 2010 NAIAS welcomes return of Nissan and Porsche, 54 carmakers total]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/#commentsFiled under: , ,



For many auto enthusiasts, the 2009 North American International Auto Show was the official beginning of the US economic downturn. Nissan, Infiniti, Mitsubishi and Porsche didn't even bother to show up for the once-prestigious event and Honda chose not to unveil any new product. A couple months back, the NAIAS organizers gave us some hope for the 2010 extravaganza when they said that the show would be better attended this time around. Well it appears that the show will at least be marginally better.

NAIAS co-chair Doug Fox has reportedly told the Detroit Free Press that at least 54 automakers will take part in the show this year, up four from 2009. Fox also estimates that a couple more automakers may decide to join in on the fun, but nothing is official at this time. Also exciting is news that both Porsche and Nissan will participate in this year's show, though the extent of their presence isn't very clear. We do know that Nissan will, at the very least, participate in the Detroit show's 37,000-square-foot Electric Avenue exhibit, which features electric vehicles from 26 automakers. So far Porsche will only participate in a special event called "The Gallery," which will be held for holders of the American Express Centurion card. The invitation-only event will be held at the MGM Grand on January 10.

While it's nice to see that Porsche and Nissan are going to be active at NAIAS 2010, we're a bit disappointed at the level of participation. At least the show will top the down year that was NAIAS 2009, but it looks like we may still be a ways away from the grandeur of shows gone by.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Better Than Before: 2010 NAIAS welcomes return of Nissan and Porsche, 54 carmakers total originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroit 2009detroit 2010Detroit2009Detroit2010naiasnissannorth american international auto showNorthAmericanInternationalAutoShowporscheTue, 01 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19259108/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/12/01/better-than-before-2010-naias-welcomes-return-of-nissan-and-por/19259108/article-detail.xml 19259108 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/cobo-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/cobo-630.jpg <![CDATA[BREAKING: <i>Detroit News</i> says GM will build Cadillac Converj]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


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

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

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

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


Gallery: Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj


Gallery: Cadillac Converj concept


[Source: The Detroit News]

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob lutzBobLutzbreakingbreakingnewscaddycadillaccadillac conceptCadillacConceptconverjDetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowNAIASMon, 09 Nov 2009 12:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19229151/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/09/breaking-i-detroit-news-i-says-gm-will-build-cadillac-converj/19229151/article-detail.xml 19229151 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/cadillacconverjdd_09_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/cadillacconverjdd_09_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: The odds, the ends]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/20/detroit-2009-the-odds-the-ends/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/20/detroit-2009-the-odds-the-ends/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/20/detroit-2009-the-odds-the-ends/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of odds & ends from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show

Auto shows throw massive amounts of promotions, marketing, branding, communications and event planning brainpower into one little bowl. Everyone is trying to be distinctive, and sometimes they do it with the cars, sometimes with the merchandise, sometimes with lures that are meant to get you to their stand at all. Yet there are only so many positions in which to mount a car and so many ways to put a logo on a jacket, right? Inevitably, that means you come across a few nifty novelties, and you also discover a few more things that fell through the cracks and make you wonder "What is this... doing here?" These are few of those odds and ends we found at last week's 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: The odds, the ends

Detroit 2009: The odds, the ends originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best ofBestOfdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowmiscellaneousnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009odds and endsOddsAndEndsTue, 20 Jan 2009 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428627/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/20/detroit-2009-the-odds-the-ends/1428627/article-detail.xml 1428627 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/03_det_09_oae_opta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/03_det_09_oae_opta.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Hot Wheels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/17/detroit-2009-hot-wheels/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/17/detroit-2009-hot-wheels/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/17/detroit-2009-hot-wheels/#commentsFiled under:



Sure, there were a few brands missing from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, but we never got the feeling that things were bleak... until we went looking for ten cool wheels. After walking the floor twice, we were able to come up with nine. America's premiere auto show had left us walking in circles, one wheel short, debating whether an ugly wheel with internally-mounted calipers was cool enough to make the list. And it was then that the real tragedy of this show hit us: not the subtracted brand count, but the lack of concept cars. With money reduced to growing on tumbleweeds and not on trees, those big-dollar flights of fancy had been (mostly) grounded. Instead, there were some magnificent production vehicles (the humongous 2010 Ford Taurus FTW!), and hereby we present the best wheels we found among them.

Detroit 2009: Hot Wheels originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Jan 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best ofBestOfdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowfeaturednaiasnaias 2009Naias2009rimswheelsSat, 17 Jan 2009 12:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428623/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/17/detroit-2009-hot-wheels/1428623/article-detail.xml 1428623 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/09det_09_whls_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/09det_09_whls_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition is an excuse to issue a press release]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-saab-9-5-griffin-edition-is-an-excuse-to-issue-a-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-saab-9-5-griffin-edition-is-an-excuse-to-issue-a-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-saab-9-5-griffin-edition-is-an-excuse-to-issue-a-p/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition

We really feel for the folks at Saab, and not just because we love the 9-5 SportCombi and that we pined for a Turbo 900 with the Aero package for what seemed like all of the '80s. Yet look ahead 20 years - specifically to the 2009 Detroit Auto Show - and all we have to get excited about is the Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition. Frankly, the press release is more exciting.

The grille is spruced up with matte chrome. Besides the fact that it looks like plastic, doesn't a matte finish defeat the purpose of chrome? Inside, as always with Saab, the two-tone seats are terrific places to plop one's rear, and the things covered in leather have the look and feel you want in your quirky luxury sedan. Elsewhere... well, it's the same thing Saab owners have been looking at for years, but with some of the plastic in different places. It isn't bad. It's "Why?"

It comes with almost everything; the only options being metallic paint, ventilated seats and navigation. But when this is everything, and everything in sedan form costs $42,775, who's looking for this? Oh Saab, wherefore art thou? You can read the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition is an excuse to issue a press release

Detroit 2009: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition is an excuse to issue a press release originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-59-5 griffin edition9-5GriffinEditiondetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShownaiasnaias 2009Naias2009saabsaab 9-5saab 9-5 griffin editionSaab9-5Saab9-5GriffinEditionsedanspecial editionSpecialEditionWed, 14 Jan 2009 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428628/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-saab-9-5-griffin-edition-is-an-excuse-to-issue-a-p/1428628/article-detail.xml 1428628 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/00_griffindetroit_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/00_griffindetroit_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: First look at the production 2010 Chevy Camaro]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-first-look-at-the-production-2010-chevy-camaro/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-first-look-at-the-production-2010-chevy-camaro/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-first-look-at-the-production-2010-chevy-camaro/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS

It seems like eons since Chevy initially unveiled the Camaro concept in Detroit. Since then, we've seen so many camouflaged test mules and pre-production cars that we were starting to worry the design would feel too familiar before the Camaro hit dealerships. In reality, three years is a relatively short time for car to go from concept to reality, and from the reactions we saw on the show floor, the Camaro has nothing to worry about. Despite the focus on green cars, the Camaro was still one of the most popular vehicles at the Chevrolet display and we had to wait our turn to get a look inside. We are big fans of the overall design and love the retro look, but were somewhat disappointed with the overall feel and quality of materials used inside -- the 2010 Mustang easily trumps the Camaro in terms of interior quality. Still, the true test will come when we can fire up the LS3 V8 and take advantage of the 400 horsepower and six-speed transmission.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS


Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro RS


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

Detroit 2009: First look at the production 2010 Chevy Camaro originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Chevrolet Camaro2010 Chevrolet Camaro RS2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS2010ChevroletCamaro2010ChevroletCamaroRs2010ChevroletCamaroSsCamaroChevroletChevrolet CamaroChevroletCamaroDetroitDetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowNAIASWed, 14 Jan 2009 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428677/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-first-look-at-the-production-2010-chevy-camaro/1428677/article-detail.xml 1428677 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/camarossdetroit09_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/camarossdetroit09_lead.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T accessorized by Mopar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-accessorized-by-mopar/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-accessorized-by-mopar/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-accessorized-by-mopar/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Mopar-accessorized Dodge Challenger R/T

The Dodge Challenger remains by far one of the most exciting offerings in Chrysler's lineup, and in addition to the R/T Classic edition, Dodge had on display an R/T on display complete with the latest products from its Mopar catalog. The car you see here comes with Nostalgia wheels ($561 each), Go-Wing spoiler ($307), carbon fiber engine cover ($313), cold air intake ($359), cat-back exhaust system ($1,155), performance shifter ($680), coilover suspension kit ($1,704), Katzkin leather seats ($1,240), T/A hood, and more. Some of the parts seem a little expensive, but the Moparized Challenger looks absolutely retrotastic in a more subtle way than the aforementioned Classic R/T. Decide for yourself by browsing the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T with Mopar accessories


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

Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T accessorized by Mopar originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChallengerDetroitDetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowDodgeDodge ChallengerDodge Challenger Mopar accessoriesDodge Challenger RTDodgeChallengerDodgeChallengerMoparAccessoriesDodgeChallengerRtMoparNAIASWed, 14 Jan 2009 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428607/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-accessorized-by-mopar/1428607/article-detail.xml 1428607 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/moparchallengerdetroit_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/moparchallengerdetroit_lead.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009 MEGA POLL: Readers' Best of Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-mega-poll-readers-best-of-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-mega-poll-readers-best-of-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-mega-poll-readers-best-of-show/#commentsFiled under:



We were at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show in person. We covered every reveal, every new model and every new concept car. We even told you already what our Most Significant Vehicles of the Show were and why. Now it's your turn. After the jump is poll of mega proportions containing every car, truck and concept that graced these hallowed pages over the last three days. You can read about each by clicking on our Detroit Auto Show category. After you've got the winner in your head, follow the jump to make your voice heard so we can crown the Peoples' Choice for the 2009 North American International Auto Show. There are no directions here, just picked the vehicle, production or concept, that you liked best.

Continue reading Detroit 2009 MEGA POLL: Readers' Best of Show

Detroit 2009 MEGA POLL: Readers' Best of Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best of showBestOfShowdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showdetroit best of showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowDetroitBestOfShowfeaturedWed, 14 Jan 2009 12:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1429486/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-mega-poll-readers-best-of-show/1429486/article-detail.xml 1429486 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/megapoll_opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/megapoll_opt.png <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Post-Bailout Booth Tour - Chrysler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-post-bailout-booth-tour-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-post-bailout-booth-tour-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-post-bailout-booth-tour-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to begin the Chrysler booth tour

Yesterday, we gave you a guided tour of GM's first post-bailout NAIAS display. Today, we head across the hall to Chrysler, where the floundering automaker's dire financial straits are reflected on the show floor. Chrysler, once renowned for its lavish press conferences and known for its fancy display stands, has throttled back... big time. All three brands now share an open floorplan. No waterfall at Jeep, no giant Ram horns. Just cars and carpet. Taxpayer dollars now in the bank, the Pentastar is obviously trying to stretch them as far as it can while looking responsible in the process. The financial Grim Reaper has been shooed away for the moment, but don't worry about him; he'll definitely be back. The larger question after this year is, will Chrysler? Jump into the gallery below to begin the tour.

Note: The vehicles shown in the gallery were still in the process of being moved around when these photos were taken Monday night.

Live photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Post-Bailout Booth Tour - Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowdodgejeepnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009pos-bailout booth tourPos-bailoutBoothTourTue, 13 Jan 2009 19:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1426916/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-post-bailout-booth-tour-chrysler/1426916/article-detail.xml 1426916 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/ch_sebring_floor580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/ch_sebring_floor580.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: The top ten cars that still could not care less about fuel efficiency]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-the-top-ten-cars-that-still-could-care-less-about/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-the-top-ten-cars-that-still-could-care-less-about/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-the-top-ten-cars-that-still-could-care-less-about/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for a high-res gallery of the top ten anti-fuel efficient cars

With the dramatic fluctuation of fuel prices in recent years, auto shows and the automakers that frequent them have focused more on green cars and increased efficiency. Gone are the days of supercar concepts like the Cadillac Cien and Chrysler ME412, as they're replaced by fuel sipping hybrids and range-extended electric vehicles. Still, a few manufacturers dare to bring gas-guzzlers to the joy of those who still enjoy tire-shredding horsepower. Click on the link below to see the top ten vehicles of the 2009 Detroit Auto Show that relentlessly celebrate smokey burnouts and completely unnecessary top speeds.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Top Ten Anti-Fuel Efficient Cars

Mercedes-Benz McLaren SLR Stirling Moss2010 Ford Shelby GT500Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI2010 Jaguar XKRLamborghini Ad Personam

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

Detroit 2009: The top ten cars that still could not care less about fuel efficiency originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DetroitDetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowNAIASTue, 13 Jan 2009 18:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428525/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-the-top-ten-cars-that-still-could-care-less-about/1428525/article-detail.xml 1428525 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/detroit09antife_lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/detroit09antife_lead.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Eyes on Design Awards for best concept, best production vehicle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-eyes-on-design-awards-for-best-concept-best-produ/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-eyes-on-design-awards-for-best-concept-best-produ/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-eyes-on-design-awards-for-best-concept-best-produ/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


Click any image above for a high-res gallery

Each year, the Detroit Auto Show plays host to the Eyes on Design Awards, where a group of judges descend into the bowels of Cobo Hall to pick their favorite vehicles from the show. The nominees are predictably divided into two categories: Design Excellence for a Concept Vehicle and Design Excellence for a Production Vehicle.

This year's ceremony was MC'd by our very own John McElroy from Autoline Detroit, with judging duties handled by BMW design head Chris Bangle, Harley-Davidson chief styling officer Willy G. Davidson, and transportation design chair at the College for Creative Studies Larry Erickson. The two winners for production vehicle were the Audi R8 5.2 FSI and the 2010 BMW Z4, while Audi Sportback and Cadillac Converj took home the best concept awards. Check out all four vehicles in the galleries below and let the judges know your own picks in the comments.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Audi R8 V10 5.2 FSI


Gallery: Detroit 2009: BMW Z4


Gallery: Detroit 2009: Audi Sportback Concept


Gallery: Detroit 2009: Cadillac Converj

Detroit 2009: Eyes on Design Awards for best concept, best production vehicle originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 bmw z42010BmwZ4audi r8 5.2 fsiaudi sportback conceptAudiR85.2FsiAudiSportbackConceptcadillac converjCadillacConverjdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShoweyes on design awardeyes on design detroit 2009EyesOnDesignAwardEyesOnDesignDetroit2009naiasTue, 13 Jan 2009 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428629/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-eyes-on-design-awards-for-best-concept-best-produ/1428629/article-detail.xml 1428629 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/r8v10fsilive_02_280op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/r8v10fsilive_02_280op.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T Classic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic

For the most part, the lineup at the Chrysler stand here in Detroit is like an advertisement for Zoloft. There are a few exceptions, however. The blue Ram R/T is one, and here's another: the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic. As appearance packages go, this one's a winner. 20-inch Torq-Thrust replicas fill the wheel wells, old-school R/T stripes run down the flanks, and best of all, the classic script Challenger badge adorns each fender. Hey Chrysler -- they should all get this treatment. As you can see, the one parked on the Detroit floor is painted HEMI Orange. We'd order the B5 Blue. Ultimately, it's cool either way.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T Classic


Photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T Classic originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challengerchallenger rtchallenger rt classicChallengerRtChallengerRtClassicclassicdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showdetroit auto show 2009Detroit2009DetroitAutoShowDetroitAutoShow2009dodgenaiasnaias 2009Naias2009RTTue, 13 Jan 2009 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428646/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic/1428646/article-detail.xml 1428646 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/chal_classic_det10_580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/chal_classic_det10_580.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: 2010 Ford Taurus in depth [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-2010-ford-taurus-in-depth-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-2010-ford-taurus-in-depth-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-2010-ford-taurus-in-depth-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Ford Taurus has gained a reputation of being a very large, very safe, very sedate sedan. Ford wanted to add some adjectives, including attractive, modern, and contemporary, so the Blue Oval design team went back to the drawing board. The result? The 2010 Ford Taurus ditches the bulbous, boring sheetmetal for a thoroughly refreshing set of duds, and with the long awaited 3.5-liter, 355 hp Ecoboost engine finally coming... ladies and gentlemen... it's SHO time!

With our cameras rolling, we had the chance to talk with some of the people responsible for the all-new Taurus. Hit play above to see it for yourself, and if you want more details about Ford's new flagship sedan, hit our extensive preview by clicking here.

Gallery: 2010 Ford Taurus - LIVE

Detroit 2009: 2010 Ford Taurus in depth [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford taurus2010FordTaurusDetroit 2009Detroit2009ford taurusFordTaurusTue, 13 Jan 2009 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1426500/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-2010-ford-taurus-in-depth-w-video/1426500/article-detail.xml 1426500 <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Dodge Ram R/T Accessorized]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-ram-r-t-accessorized/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-ram-r-t-accessorized/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-ram-r-t-accessorized/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Dodge Ram R/T

Stuck among the largely forgettable production vehicles at the Chrysler, LLC display is this Mopar-enhanced Ram R/T. Originally shown at SEMA, B5 Blue (we think) covers its bodywork, which is very close to the ground thanks to a new set of springs and shocks. Kumho-shod, 22-inch forged wheels are stuffed into the cutouts. In front, the Challenger-style hood rocks a set of SRT stripes, the headlamp housings are blacked out, and a new front bumper with chin spoiler threatens to scrape against any obstacle taller than a praying mantis. Out back, a body-colored bed cover thwarts prying eyes, and a pair of fat polished exhaust tips pokes under the rear bumper. Inside, you'll find color-keyed inserts and R/T embroidery on the seats. Overall, this thing looks pretty mean, especially when its surrounded with your garden variety Dakotas and Durangos.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Dodge Ram R/T Accessorized


Photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Dodge Ram R/T Accessorized originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorizeddetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowdodge ramDodgeRammoparnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009ram rtRamRtTue, 13 Jan 2009 15:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1426917/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-ram-r-t-accessorized/1426917/article-detail.xml 1426917 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/ram_rt_acc_1_580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/ram_rt_acc_1_580.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Best automaker cutaway displays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-best-automaker-cutaway-displays/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-best-automaker-cutaway-displays/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-best-automaker-cutaway-displays/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of NAIAS cutaways

Cutaway displays have been a staple of auto shows for many years, but we're noticing that more and more automakers are devoting money and floor space to cutaway displays. Aside from being cool to look at, cutaways are an increasingly valuable tool for explaining today's advanced technologies -- particularly when it comes to the complex systems found in alternative-fuel vehicles. Check out the gallery below to see how different automakers are taking the hinges off for the viewing public at the Detroit Auto Show.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: The Cutaways

2010 Honda Insight Cutaway2010 Honda Insight Cutaway2010 Honda Insight CutawayHonda Accord Crash Test CutawayHonda Accord Crash Test Cutaway

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

Detroit 2009: Best automaker cutaway displays originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CoboDetroitdetroit 2009Detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowHonda InsightHondaInsightNAIASNAIAS 2009Naias2009Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1428402/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-best-automaker-cutaway-displays/1428402/article-detail.xml 1428402 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/honda-insight-cutaway_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/honda-insight-cutaway.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-volkswagen-touareg-lux-limited-sports-j-crew-col/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-volkswagen-touareg-lux-limited-sports-j-crew-col/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-volkswagen-touareg-lux-limited-sports-j-crew-col/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the VW Touareg Lux Limited Edition

The VW Touareg Lux Limited Edition is a 'ute that's been on a shopping spree to J. Crew and High Street, or at least a mainstream, aftermarket shop. Available on either the gasoline- or diesel-engined SUVs - and only in America - the Lux Limited gets side skirts and slightly tweaked front and rear aprons to differentiate it from the run-o-the-mill Touareg. The wheel selection is called Ayer's Rock (not "Uluru"?) and only available in the 20-inch variety.

VW took the color wheel out one night and got it drunk. Exterior hues for the Lux Limited are Biscay Blue, Campanella White, Galapagos Gray, and Black Magic Pearl Effect. The interior cricket leather is done up in one of two duo-tone color choices with complementary accents - like Latte Macchiato and St. Tropez white with poplar grain decor. And if anyone can tell us what "Engine Spin dark" decor looks like, we are all... eyes. So put on the Hootie, order some chablis and brie, have a look at the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors

Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowlimited editionLimitedEditionnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009suvtouaregtouareg 2touareg dieselTouareg2TouaregDieselvolkswagen touaregvolkswagen touareg lux limited editionVolkswagenTouaregVolkswagenTouaregLuxLimitedEditionvw touaregVwTouaregTue, 13 Jan 2009 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1427290/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-volkswagen-touareg-lux-limited-sports-j-crew-col/1427290/article-detail.xml 1427290 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/00_touaregdetroit_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/00_touaregdetroit_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Stile Bertone Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 11 is not the next Tumbler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-stile-bertone-alfa-romeo-b-a-t-11-is-not-the-next/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-stile-bertone-alfa-romeo-b-a-t-11-is-not-the-next/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-stile-bertone-alfa-romeo-b-a-t-11-is-not-the-next/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a gallery of high-res pics of the Bertone B.A.T. 11 from Detroit

We were saddened when we couldn't track down this Bertone B.A.T. 11 in Geneva last year and even sadder when we missed it in Los Angeles in November. Don't blame us. They stuck it in the basement for crying out loud. The B.A.T. 11 is an updated take on the B.A.T. 5, B.A.T. 7 and B.A.T. 9 concepts built by Nuccio Bertone in the '50s. BAT stands for Berlinetta Aerodinamica Tecnica (Aerodynamic Technical Coupe) and as you can see, this concept lives up to its name. While the original B.A.T. concepts have become some of the most coveted collector cars in the world, this new one is designed with a slightly different slant.

Based on a Maserati GT chassis, it is more of a sportscar for the new millennium. It has a Maserati V8 for propulsion and features Pirelli shod 21" wheels slowed by Brembo brakes. Although the mechanicals are Maserati, the badge is Alfa Romeo because of the exterior detailing -- specifically the traditional Alfa triangular shield and circulor crest. It also carries many of the same design cues as its predecessors, including the fared-in wheels and wrap-around tail fins. While the original BATs were designed to look aerodynamic, this one was actually wind-tunnel-tested in the Department of Aeronautics and Space Engineering at the Polytechnic institute of Torino.

It's such a striking car in person at over 16 feet in length, six feet wide and under four feet tall. The classic styling elements are joined by some 21st century tech, including electronically adjustable cooling foils and wheel coverings that automatically adjust to the optimal position for cooling, steering or drag-reduction. It's a fun concept, a treat to see in person and a great homage to Nuccio, especially painted up in his favorite green-gray color. Check out the press release after the jump and our high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Bertone Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 11dk


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Stile Bertone Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 11 is not the next Tumbler

Detroit 2009: Stile Bertone Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 11 is not the next Tumbler originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alfa BATalfa romeoalfa romeo bat 11AlfaBatAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoBat11BAT 11Bat11bertonebertone alfa romeo batbertone alfa romeo bat 11bertone bat 11BertoneAlfaRomeoBatBertoneAlfaRomeoBat11BertoneBat11detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShownaiasnaias 2009Naias2009stile bertoneStileBertoneTue, 13 Jan 2009 13:34:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1426820/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-stile-bertone-alfa-romeo-b-a-t-11-is-not-the-next/1426820/article-detail.xml 1426820 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/bertonealfabat11dk---02_580op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/bertonealfabat11dk---02_580op.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Top 25 Desktop Wallpapers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-top-25-desktop-wallpapers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-top-25-desktop-wallpapers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-top-25-desktop-wallpapers/#commentsFiled under:


Click above for the top 25 desktop wallpapers from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show

With most of the press conferences over and nearly all the debuts checked off our list, we like to do a once over of the showroom floor to try and catch many of the cars without the crowds of photographers and journalists. We've put together some of our best photos from the last two days in a mega high-res gallery created specifically to adorn your desktop. All of the photos are available in 1920x1275 (just click on the high-res button), as well as a description and a link to the full gallery if you want more pictures of the car. Enjoy!



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

Detroit 2009: Top 25 Desktop Wallpapers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Desktop WallpaperDesktopWallpaperDetroitDetroit 2009Detroit Auto ShowDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowNAIASTue, 13 Jan 2009 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1426501/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-top-25-desktop-wallpapers/1426501/article-detail.xml 1426501 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/detroitwallpaper09_02_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/detroitwallpaper09_02_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Hot Stoppers - Internally mounted calipers on Lincoln Concept C]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-hot-stoppers-internally-mounted-calipers-on-linc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-hot-stoppers-internally-mounted-calipers-on-linc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-hot-stoppers-internally-mounted-calipers-on-linc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



To some of us, at least, of the most visually annoying elements of many past concept cars has been the installation of huge wheels on cars with normal size brakes. The resulting product can end up looking ridiculous. As I was checking out the littlest Lincoln, the Concept C on the Cobo Hall show floor today, I noticed something interesting in the wheels. Take a close look at the brake caliper in the photo above. Typically, the brake rotor is attached to the wheel hub and the caliper grips the disk from the out edge. On the Concept C, the braking surface is attached to the inside edge of the wheel rim with caliper wrapping around the inside edge of the rotor. This basic idea has been tried before... mostly on concept cars.

An internal caliper mount has the advantage of allowing a larger effective radius for where the braking force is applied. Since torque is defined as a force applied at a distance from a pivot point, the greater the distance, the greater the braking force. Such a setup allows more brake force with a smaller caliper, which in turn can provide better brake feel since the fluid displacement is smaller. The downside is that changing wheels becomes a much more complicated matter since the brake hardware is mounted on the wheel.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Lincoln C Concept Live


Gallery: Lincoln Concept C


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Hot Stoppers - Internally mounted calipers on Lincoln Concept C originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowinternal brake caliperInternalBrakeCaliperTue, 13 Jan 2009 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1427660/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-hot-stoppers-internally-mounted-calipers-on-linc/1427660/article-detail.xml 1427660 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/lincoln-concept-c-brake-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/01/lincoln-concept-c-brake-580.jpg -1 2