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[These are a few of my favorite (and least favorite) things]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/these-are-a-few-of-my-most-favorite-and-least-favorite-things/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/these-are-a-few-of-my-most-favorite-and-least-favorite-things/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/19/these-are-a-few-of-my-most-favorite-and-least-favorite-things/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

New Cars Continue To Amaze And Dismay

Ford Fusion reveal NAIAS

The Ford Fusion's sleek shape proves midsize cars need not be boring.

Automakers face a huge challenge in creating cars that have to meet a dizzying array of emission, safety and fuel economy regulations and at the same time meet or exceed the expectations of potential customers. Usually the makers who succeed are the ones who are able to surprise and delight drivers with unique designs, technology and features.

It's a hard job since some of these great ideas can simply amaze or, if poorly done, merely annoy. As cars become more uniform in performance and function, manufacturers will look even harder for that special something to stand out from the crowd.

So here are a few things in the current crop of new cars that have surprised, delighted, and yes, annoyed.

Matt DeLorenzo is the former editor-in-chief of Road & Track and has covered the auto industry for 35 years, including stints at Automotive News and AutoWeek. He has authored books including VW's New Beetle, Chrysler's Modern Concept Cars, and Corvette Dynasty.

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These are a few of my favorite (and least favorite) things originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>annoying car featureseditorialfavorite thingsfeaturedmatt delorenzoopinionWed, 19 Dec 2012 18:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20407470/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/19/these-are-a-few-of-my-most-favorite-and-least-favorite-things/20407470/article-detail.xml 20407470 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/ford-fusion-reveal_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/ford-fusion-reveal.jpg <![CDATA[First batch of Oprah VW Beetle giveaway cars on the way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/13/first-batch-of-oprah-vw-beetle-giveaway-cars-on-the-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/13/first-batch-of-oprah-vw-beetle-giveaway-cars-on-the-way/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/13/first-batch-of-oprah-vw-beetle-giveaway-cars-on-the-way/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 beetle new york

We've never won a free car, but we bet it would be one helluva good feeling. But waiting a year for that very new ride? That has to be plenty painful. A year has passed since Oprah gave away 275 2012 Volkswagen Beetle models during her final "Favorite Things" episode, but those audience members didn't drive off the lot with their new ride. Since the Beetle was still a year away from production, audience members didn't even get to see what their new car looked like.

But while the wait was likely difficult, those lucky audience member are finally getting their high-five-inducing Bug. The Car Connection reports that the first 25 deliveries are taking place at a VW dealership in Orland Park, IL, and Volkswagen of America CEO Jonathan Browning will be present to hand over the keys. The remaining winners will reportedly receive their Beetle within the next few weeks.

As an added kicker to those 275 soon-to-be new Bug owners, the cash to take care of taxes and fees are also going to be provided. We're guessing the wait will be well worth the reward.

First batch of Oprah VW Beetle giveaway cars on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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