Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ford: Falcon to be first RWD four-cylinder EcoBoost car. Translation? No such Mustang until 2011... if at all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/ford-falcon-to-be-first-rwd-four-cylinder-ecoboost-application/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/ford-falcon-to-be-first-rwd-four-cylinder-ecoboost-application/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/24/ford-falcon-to-be-first-rwd-four-cylinder-ecoboost-application/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Ford FG Falcon G-Series - Click above for image gallery

Ford made news this week when it officially announced its four-cylinder EcoBoost engine; an engine that promises V6 performance with four-banger efficiency. The company's twin-turbo technology is expected to infiltrate almost every part of its lineup within the next few years, and it'll be available just about everywhere on earth, including Australia.

To that end, Ford has just announced that it will be adding the 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine to Australia's Falcon lineup. The new engine will give Australian customers a more fuel efficient option in the popular sedan, while also packing nearly the same punch as the V6-powered Holden Commodore. Ford says the Falcon will be the first rear-drive vehicle to receive an EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which means the Mustang won't receive the 2.0-liter turbo until late 2011 at the earliest (and possibly never).

Ford is investing $230 million overall to improve the efficiency of its Australian lineup, with the EcoBoost 2.0-liter, a 2.7-liter diesel unit for its Territory crossover, and a new LPG engine for its fleet offerings. The Australian government is pitching in, too, as they are giving Ford $42 million as part of the nation's Green Car Innovation Fund. Local Victoria government officials are also pitching in an unspecified amount of money, helping ease costs for the Blue Oval.

Ford has also announced that it will not build the next-generation Focus in Australia, opting instead to import the popular small car from Thailand. Ford Australia was planning to build 45,000 Focuses a year, with 15,000 units destined for export. Ford says no jobs will be affected by the change of plans. Hit the jump to review the company's officla press release.


Gallery: Ford FG Falcon G-Series


[Source: Ford, Drive]

Continue reading Ford: Falcon to be first RWD four-cylinder EcoBoost car. Translation? No such Mustang until 2011... if at all

Ford: Falcon to be first RWD four-cylinder EcoBoost car. Translation? No such Mustang until 2011... if at all originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford falcon2011FordFalconecoboostford falconford focusFord MustangFordFalconFordFocusFordMustangfour-cylinderfuel efficiencyFuelEfficiencyMustangturboFri, 24 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Four Play: GM confirms 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be available with 2.4-liter Ecotec I4]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/four-play-gm-confirms-2010-buick-lacrosse-will-be-available-wit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/four-play-gm-confirms-2010-buick-lacrosse-will-be-available-wit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/four-play-gm-confirms-2010-buick-lacrosse-will-be-available-wit/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Buick LaCrosse - Click above for a high-res image gallery

General Motors has announced that its new 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be available with its fuel-sipping 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder. Equipped with the direct injected engine and paired with the sedan's standard six-speed automatic, GM says the combination should deliver 30 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg in town.

It will be interesting to see if the 182 horsepower, 172 pound-foot of torque inline-four will be able to effectively motivate a car of the LaCrosse's size, but either way, plugging the capable engine in the Buick ought to give GM a unique selling point against V6-only competitors like the Lincoln MKZ.

Buick says it expects about 25% of LaCrosse buyers will check the four-cylinder box at purchase time. Check out the official press verbiage after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse - LIVE


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading Four Play: GM confirms 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be available with 2.4-liter Ecotec I4

Four Play: GM confirms 2010 Buick LaCrosse will be available with 2.4-liter Ecotec I4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BuickBuick LaCrossebuick sedanBuickLacrosseBuickSedanEcotechfour-cylinderGMLacrosseMon, 22 Jun 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW and Mercedes-Benz reportedly considering four-cylinders in US, pending new fuel economy standards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/bmw-and-mercedes-benz-considering-four-cylinders-in-us-pending/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/bmw-and-mercedes-benz-considering-four-cylinders-in-us-pending/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/bmw-and-mercedes-benz-considering-four-cylinders-in-us-pending/#commentsFiled under: ,



With new CAFE regulations looming on the horizon, BMW and Mercedes-Benz are considering bringing four-cylinder models back to the States. BMW's development of new four-pots have been widely reported over the last year, with the automaker confirming work on a direct injected, twin-turbocharged four, likely to be fitted on the next generation 1 and 3 series, due to arrive in 2012. The new mill is also slated to be equipped on the X1 and X3, and according to the automaker, the powerplants will deliver the same output as the current in-line sixes, but with better fuel economy and lower emissions. However, the development of an all-new engine is expensive, and BMW will pass along the cost to consumers, despite BMW's claim that buyers aren't willing to pay for advanced technology.

As for Mercedes-Benz, aside from the 2.2-liter four-cylinder turbo-diesel that debuted on the E250 Bluetech concept, little is known about the automaker's plans for four-bangers in the States. Although the concept, unveiled at the New York Auto Show, was equipped to an E-Class, don't expect a gasoline-powered four to be fitted on a future E - the new engine will likely find a home in the C-Class and GLK CUV sometime in the next few years.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

BMW and Mercedes-Benz reportedly considering four-cylinders in US, pending new fuel economy standards originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Apr 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwfourfour cylinderfour-cylinderFourCylindermercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzmercedesbenzMon, 27 Apr 2009 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Beyond Redline dissects Hyundai Genesis Coupe's new 2.0T motor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/beyond-redline-dissects-hyundai-genesis-coupes-new-2-0t-motor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/beyond-redline-dissects-hyundai-genesis-coupes-new-2-0t-motor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/09/beyond-redline-dissects-hyundai-genesis-coupes-new-2-0t-motor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Hyundai Genesis Coupe's 2.0T engine

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is already winning praise from the motoring press, and enthusiasts are itching to get their hands on the RWD Korean 2+2. While some are seeking out the uplevel 300-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 model, many tuners are itching to get their hands on the entry 2.0T powerplant. At 211-hp, the base model isn't going to win many street races, but countless mods promise to produce tremendous amounts of power with less weight.

Tuner Beyond Redline took apart the 2.0T to see exactly what Hyundai gave tuners to work with. For starters, the block is evidently sourced from the Mitsubishi Ralliart, which is different from the more structurally sound EVO X block. Beyond Redline expects the engine's sturdy components and 86mm stroke and bore to make 400 wheel-horsepower and rev to 8,000 RPM with the proper mods and a stock block. While the 2.0T gives modders plenty of room for overclocking, the engine's open deck block means that too much boost could warp the cylinders. Block guards can be used to reinforce the cylinder walls, but that means additional work and cash to really kick the 2.0T into high gear. Hat tip to Andrew.


Gallery: Hyundai Genesis 2.0T Teardown


[Source: Genesis Driven]

Beyond Redline dissects Hyundai Genesis Coupe's new 2.0T motor originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Mar 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0 turbo genesis coupe2.0TurboGenesisCoupebeyond redlineBeyondRedlinefour-cylindergenesis coupegenesis coupe tunerGenesisCoupeGenesisCoupeTunerhyundaihyundai genesis coupehyundai modsHyundaiGenesisCoupeHyundaiModstunerturboMon, 09 Mar 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Preview: 2010 Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/23/detroit-preview-2010-saab-9-5-griffin-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/23/detroit-preview-2010-saab-9-5-griffin-edition/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/23/detroit-preview-2010-saab-9-5-griffin-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click to enlarge

As the current Saab 9-5 heads into the waning days of its life-cycle, General Motors' Swedish brand will be launching a new limited edition model at the Detroit Auto Show.

This time around, the 9-5 Griffin is set to do duty as the most luxurious Saab yet. While one might expect the most premium edition of the 9-5 to use a six cylinder engine like the 2.8-liter turbo from the Turbo-X, it actually uses a 260-horsepower version of the corporate 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo. The Griffin receives matte chrome trim in the front, unique five-spoke 17-inch alloys, a rear spoiler and special badging.

The interior receives minimal changes, including gloss trim, piping on the carpets, and accent-colored stitching on the steering wheel, hand brake pull, and standard leather seats.

The Griffin will be available with either two- or three-pedal transmission configurations and four door sedan or wagon ("SportCombi") body styles.

The big question remains is that at $42,775 for the sedan and $44,045 for the Sportcombi, will anyone outside of Saab's most faithful really care? GM has already acknowledged that the Swedish brand is under review and the possibility of sale or shutdown looms large.

Click on the jump for Saab's official press release.

Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5 Griffin


[Source: Saab]

Continue reading Detroit Preview: 2010 Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition

Detroit Preview: 2010 Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowEstate carEstateCarfour-bangerfour-cylinderSaabsaab 9-5 griffenSaab9-5GriffenSportCombiStation WagonStationWagonSwedenSwedishturboTue, 23 Dec 2008 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford considering four-cylinder EcoBoost for F150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/#commentsFiled under: ,



According to sources speaking with Pickuptrucks.com, Ford is considering offering an EcoBoost four-cylinder engine on its F-150 pickup in 2013. The boosted mill is expected to displace around 2.5-liters, produce 260 hp and 300 lb.-ft. of torque, and would only be available on the two-door Regular Cab F-150 4x2 and 4x4.

Ford's rationale for equipping its workaday pickup with a turbo'd four is partially due to the rising cost of gasoline, but is primarily fueled by new CAFE regulations that will require light trucks to average 28.6 mpg by 2015. Ford has already decided to drop its 4.2-liter V6 for the 2009 model year, only offering the 4.6-liter V8, which produces more power and more torque, while still offering similar fuel economy.

The EcoBoost range of engines are likely to find their way into several different models across Ford's line up, and according to Ford's director of powertrain research, Dan Kapp, EcoBoost engines could allow the automaker to reduce engine sizes by between 40- and 50-percent, so 3.0-liter V6s could be replaced by two-liter fours and a 2.5-liter four cylinder could be reduced to 1.5-liters.

Before the EcoBoost four-pot debuts on the 2013 F-150, Ford will launch a turbocharged V6 in the pickup in 2010. Displacement is expected to be around 3.5-liters, with output estimated at around 350 hp and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. Partnered with a new six-speed transmission, fuel economy should be around 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

And what of the rumored F-100 pick-up? It's conceivable that the range-topping version of the compact truck could be packing the same turbo'd four as its big brother, while a naturally aspirated version would power the entry level model.

[Source: Pickuptrucks.com]

Ford considering four-cylinder EcoBoost for F150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 01:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingecoboostf-150f150fordford f-150ford f150FordF-150FordF150four cylinderfour-cylinderFourCylinderturbochargedMon, 14 Jul 2008 01:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai Santa Fe to get four-cylinder in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/hyundai-santa-fe-to-get-four-cylinder-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/hyundai-santa-fe-to-get-four-cylinder-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/hyundai-santa-fe-to-get-four-cylinder-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In a trend that is sure to prove popular, Hyundai will add a less powerful and more fuel efficient four-cylinder to the available engine lineup on its Santa Fe model when it is redesigned for 2010. As of today, the four-door crossover is available with a choice of either a 2.7-liter or a 3.3-liter six-cylinder powerplant mated to four- or five-speed automatics (a five-speed manual is optional on the smaller engine). Both are rated at 24 mpg highway in the current model. The next-gen Santa Fe will offer a new six-speed automatic with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder that is currently powering the 2009 Hyundai Sonata. Under the hood of the lighter Sonata sedan (and mated to a five-speed automatic), the second-generation Theta engine squeezes out 32 mpg on the highway. While we don't think the Santa Fe will pull a number that impressive, fuel economy in the high-20's shouldn't be out of the question.

[Source: Autoweek]

Hyundai Santa Fe to get four-cylinder in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Hyundai Santa Fe2010HyundaiSantaFeAll-new modelAll-newModelfour-cylinderFuel economyFuelEconomyHyundai Santa FeHyundaiSantaFeMon, 07 Jul 2008 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW/PSA engines to be used in more than just the MINI, 7-series hybrid coming]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/bmw-psa-engines-to-be-used-in-more-than-just-the-mini-7-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/bmw-psa-engines-to-be-used-in-more-than-just-the-mini-7-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/06/bmw-psa-engines-to-be-used-in-more-than-just-the-mini-7-series/#commentsFiled under: ,



BMW and PSA teamed up to produce the 1.6-liter four-cylinder currently found in the R56 MINI Cooper, but according to an interview with BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer, the four-pot will also find its way into the BMW 1-series. The pre-release of his interview in the Frankfurter Allegemeine Zeitung didn't divulge which models would benefit from the four-cylinder engine, whether it will be available in both naturally aspirated or turbocharged guise or what markets in which it will be sold.

Reithofer also mentioned that the next generation 7-series, due to be released later this year, would be equipped with a new hybrid drivetrain. No timeframe was outlined as to when the hybrid 7 would be released, but when it is (likely next year), it's expected to be the mild-hybrid, co-developed with Daimler, originally shown on the X5 Vision EfficientDynamics concept.

[Source: Forbes]

BMW/PSA engines to be used in more than just the MINI, 7-series hybrid coming originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 May 2008 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-series4 cylinder4Cylinderbmwfour-cylinderminipeugeotpsaTue, 06 May 2008 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[EU calls on F1 to switch to four-cylinders, bio-fuels and hybrids]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/eu-calls-on-f1-to-switch-to-four-cylinders-bio-fuels-and-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/eu-calls-on-f1-to-switch-to-four-cylinders-bio-fuels-and-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/01/16/eu-calls-on-f1-to-switch-to-four-cylinders-bio-fuels-and-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The European Parliament has called for Formula One to adopt more environmentally-friendly engine alternatives, and the FIA seems to be all for it.

The CARS 21 report, passed with 607 EU legislators in favor, 76 against and 14 abstentions, praised the FIA's actions to make F1 greener, but called on the sanctioning body to do more. The report concluded by calling on the FIA to revise its formula to include "environmentally friendly technologies like bio-fuels, four-cylinder engines or hybrid". FIA president Max Mosley, who has been vocal in his desire to make F1 greener, subsequently issued a statement supporting the EU report.

Several racing series - including A1GP, ALMS, Champ Cars and IndyCars - are now running on bio-fuels, and Formula One has been toying with electric hybrid regenerative braking technologies. As we reported earlier, the moratorium on engine development in F1 was shortened from ten years to five, and the FIA is preparing to launch a new engine formula within the next couple of years. If regulatory bodies like the EU and the FIA get their way, F1 cars in a few years could be powered by four-cylinder electric-ethanol hybrids.

[Source: Autosport]

EU calls on F1 to switch to four-cylinders, bio-fuels and hybrids originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bio-fuelenvironmentaleueuropeanfiafour-cylindergreenhybridparliamentunionWed, 16 Jan 2008 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[On again, off again: BMW and Daimler may enter engine partnership]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/27/on-again-off-again-bmw-and-daimler-may-enter-engine-partnershi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/27/on-again-off-again-bmw-and-daimler-may-enter-engine-partnershi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/27/on-again-off-again-bmw-and-daimler-may-enter-engine-partnershi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



It's been rumored for some time and the newest comments from BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer is further proof that the propeller people are looking to get in bed with other automakers to cut the high costs of engine development and production.

This isn't a first for BMW, which partnered with PSA/Peugeot-Citroen on the engine for the current crop of MINI models, but this newest endeavor could involve one of Bimmer's biggest rivals, Daimler. Mercedes is in need of small, four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines for its next line of A- and B-class vehicles, and the MINI's mill could be a good fit. The talks aren't exclusive with BMW, however, as Daimler is also sitting down with unnamed Japanese manufacturers to provide petrol and diesel powerplants.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

On again, off again: BMW and Daimler may enter engine partnership originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Nov 2007 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4 cylinder4Cylinderbmwdaimlerdieselengine developmentEngineDevelopmentfour cylinderfour-cylinderFourCylindergasolinemercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzTue, 27 Nov 2007 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Expanding Infiniti: Three new models under development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/27/expanding-infiniti-three-new-models-under-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/27/expanding-infiniti-three-new-models-under-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/27/expanding-infiniti-three-new-models-under-development/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Shiro Nakamura, Nissan's global design chief, revealed that plans to expand the Infiniti lineup could include a small vehicle to slot in below the current G, a two-door high-powered flagship and some form of people mover that would fill the gap left by the EX and FX CUVs.

Since the GT-R will find its way to U.S. shores sporting a Nissan badge (and rightfully so), Nakamura maintains that a halo car, either a coupe or convertible, would fit well into the Infiniti lineup. Although details are scarce, the idea of installing a modified version of the GT-R's twin-turbo V6 into Infiniti's flagship shouldn't be out of the question.

On the other side of spectrum lies an entry-level model that would sport a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in favor of the 3.5-liter or 3.7-liter V6s that populate the majority of Infiniti's models. It stands to reason that the 200 HP QR25DE four-pot powering the Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec-V would be a good fit, and if Infiniti decides to continue with a focus on RWD vehicles, we smell a sales sensation.

Nakamura is quick to point out that, "These are just ideas we are thinking about." But if Carlos Ghosn's optimism for the brand is matched with the right amount of R&D dollars, there's little doubt that good things could be on the horizon.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Expanding Infiniti: Three new models under development originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Aug 2007 07:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>four-cylindergt-rinfinitinissanse-rsentrashiro nakamuraShiroNakamuraskylineMon, 27 Aug 2007 07:53:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hyundai engine plant in 'Bama will build four-cylinder GEMA engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/new-hyundai-engine-plant-in-bama-will-build-four-cylinder-gema/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/new-hyundai-engine-plant-in-bama-will-build-four-cylinder-gema/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/new-hyundai-engine-plant-in-bama-will-build-four-cylinder-gema/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Earlier this week Hyundai announced it would be adding an engine plant to its sole U.S. production facility in Montgomery, Alabama. We didn't know at the time exactly what engine the new facility would produce, but in the back of our minds assumed it would be a V6 since the Montgomery plant builds the Sonata and Sante Fe, the latter of which is only available with a six-cylinder.

Turns out we were wrong, as Automotive News is reporting the new plant will build four-cylinder engines instead, about 200,000 to 300,000 annually. Not only that, it will build 2.4L four-cylinder engines, which means that the plant will be the sixth factory in the world to produce engines developed by the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance. GEMA is comprised of DaimlerChrysler, Mitsubishi and Hyundai, with versions of GEMA four-cylinders currently being produced for vehicles like the Dodge Caliber, upcoming 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer and various Hyundais and Kias like the Sonata and Optima. Of course, the main purpose of Hyundai's new plant will be to supply motors for the Sonata, over 60% of which are ordered with four-cylinders, and feed engines to Kia's new collossal assembly plant currently being built in Georgia.

[Source: Automotive News]

New Hyundai engine plant in 'Bama will build four-cylinder GEMA engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Mar 2007 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>engine plantEnginePlantfour-cylinderFri, 16 Mar 2007 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2008 Lotus Esprit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/24/spy-shots-2008-lotus-esprit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/24/spy-shots-2008-lotus-esprit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/24/spy-shots-2008-lotus-esprit/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Another mule has been caught lapping the Ring in Germany, and this time it's the forthcoming revival of the lightweight Lotus Esprit supercar. The new Esprit is expected use a BMW V8 for power, and while eight cylinders is no surprise, we have to admit that we enjoyed the old Esprit's identity as the "four-cylinder supercar".

Near the end of the Esprit's last run it was fitted with a Lotus-developed, compact twin-turbo 3.5L V8 that developed 350 hp, but it seemed out of place to us in a supercar that made its mark by chasing down more powerful cars with nothing more than a four-banger and a prayer. These days, however, the Lotus Elise is having no trouble filling its older brothers shoes as the company's resident "four-cylinder supercar".

[Source: Inside Line via Winding Road]

Spy Shots: 2008 Lotus Esprit originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 24 Jun 2006 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eliseespritexotic carExoticCarfour-cylindergermanylotusmulenurburgringprototypespy picSpyPicsupercartestingthe ringTheRingSat, 24 Jun 2006 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[No, it doesn't have a Hemi - Chrysler to expand use of new four-banger]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/18/no-it-doesnt-have-a-hemi-chrysler-to-expand-use-of-new-four/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/18/no-it-doesnt-have-a-hemi-chrysler-to-expand-use-of-new-four/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/06/18/no-it-doesnt-have-a-hemi-chrysler-to-expand-use-of-new-four/#commentsFiled under: ,

Faced with the effect of rising fuel costs and blessed with a capable new line of four-cylinder "World Engines", Chrysler has stated that it will expand its offerings of vehicles with smaller motors - a drastic departure from the Hemi proliferation that has brought the automaker showroom success.

Currently, the automaker offers I4s in four vehicles, with another two on the way by the end of this year, but Chrysler is said to be considering adding an option for one in other models that now offer nothing smaller than a V6. One such model may be the 2007 Jeep Wrangler, which is currently available in the US with only a V6 despite a long history of offering a standard I4. Chrysler also limited four-banger availability in its minivan line-up.

[Source: Bloomberg via Detroit News]

No, it doesn't have a Hemi - Chrysler to expand use of new four-banger originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Jun 2006 06:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ChryslerDCXDodgefour-cylinderGEMAJeepWorld EngineSun, 18 Jun 2006 06:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Pontiac unveils Red Bull Solstice GXP drifter to replace GTO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/28/pontiac-unveils-red-bull-solstice-gxp-drfiter-to-replace-gto/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/28/pontiac-unveils-red-bull-solstice-gxp-drfiter-to-replace-gto/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/28/pontiac-unveils-red-bull-solstice-gxp-drfiter-to-replace-gto/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

UPDATE: GM RELEASED PICS FINALLY (click for high rez)


With the Goat about to go bye-bye again, Pontiac needed to cough up another car for its championship drifter Ryhs Millen to pilot in this year's Formula D circuit. Fortunately the 2007 Pontiac GXP makes a perfect choice thanks to its RWD layout and potent 2.0L ECOTEC engine. The ECOTEC four-cylinder has been pumped up to over 1,400 hp in drag racing applications, so the fact that it will provide Millen's right foot with 500 hp is no surprise. And the darn thing runs on E85! Live Green, Go Yellow, Burn Rubber we always say.

Domestics have dominated the Formula D circuit since its inception a few years ago, with either Millen in his GTO or Samuel Hubinette in his Dodge Viper taking top honors at nearly every competition. Hubinette will also be trading in his Viper this season for something a little more accessible to John Q drifter... a Dodge Charger drifting sedan.

The first competition of the 2006 season has already taken place, and we're not surprised that Hubinette, the 2004 Champion, is in the lead with Millen, last year's champion, following close behind in points.

We put in a call to Pontiac for an actual pic of the Red Bull Solstice GXP drifter and are awaiting a reply.

Follow the jump for GM's official release that includes more details on the Red Bull racer.

[Source: GM]

Continue reading Pontiac unveils Red Bull Solstice GXP drifter to replace GTO

Pontiac unveils Red Bull Solstice GXP drifter to replace GTO originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 28 Apr 2006 11:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dodge ChargerDodge ViperDodgeChargerDodgeViperdriftdriftingFormula DFormulaDfour-cylinderPontiac GTOPontiacGtoRhys MillenRhysMillenRWDSamuel HubinetteSamuelHubinetteFri, 28 Apr 2006 11:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan revises down Versa fuel economy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/09/nissan-revises-down-versa-fuel-economy/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/09/nissan-revises-down-versa-fuel-economy/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/04/09/nissan-revises-down-versa-fuel-economy/#commentsFiled under: , ,



In a short-but-sweet press release Nissan announced that it is revising downward the estimated EPA combined city/highway gas mileage for its Xtronic CVT-equipped Versa sub-compact. The original estimate was 38 mpg, which has now fallen to 33 mpg. Nissan offered no explanation for the adjustment. All Versa models are powered by a 122-hp, 1.8L four-cylinder engine.

 [Source: Nissan]

Nissan revises down Versa fuel economy originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 09 Apr 2006 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CVTfour-cylinderfuel economyfuel mileageFuelEconomyFuelMileagemileagemiles per gallonMilesPerGallonmpgNissansub-compactVersaSun, 09 Apr 2006 15:00:00 EST