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[Rumormill: Mini Coupe and Roadster could go on sale as early as 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/rumormill-mini-coupe-and-roadster-could-go-on-sale-as-early-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/rumormill-mini-coupe-and-roadster-could-go-on-sale-as-early-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/rumormill-mini-coupe-and-roadster-could-go-on-sale-as-early-as/#commentsFiled under: , ,

MINI Coupe and Roadster Concepts - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mini Coupe and Roadster concepts have been making their way around the auto show circuit since Frankfurt in September, and when we saw the two vehicles at the LA Auto Show we got the impression that the high end micros were near production ready. If a story from MotoringFile is to be believed, the next two Mini variants could be even closer to production than we thought.

The Mini-obsessed site is claiming that its sources tell them that engineering for the the Coupe and Roadster is well under way. Further, the final model could hit the assembly plant in Oxford by next June with full production commencing in October. If that time line holds true, the first Mini two doors could be hitting dealer showrooms in Europe by early 2011 at the latest, with models crossing the Atlantic soon after.


Gallery: LA 2009: MINI concepts and special editions


[Source: MotoringFile]

Rumormill: Mini Coupe and Roadster could go on sale as early as 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurt auto showFrankfurtAutoShowla 2009la auto showLa2009LaAutoShowmini coopermini coupemini roadsterMiniCooperMiniCoupeMiniRoadsterWed, 09 Dec 2009 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Want to see a production LF-Ch make it to American showrooms? Tell Lexus.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/want-to-see-a-production-lf-ch-make-it-to-american-showrooms-te/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/want-to-see-a-production-lf-ch-make-it-to-american-showrooms-te/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/want-to-see-a-production-lf-ch-make-it-to-american-showrooms-te/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Lexus LF-Ch Concept - click above image for hi-res gallery

Earlier this month at the Frankfurt Motor Show, we got our first glimpse at Lexus' LF-Ch, a five-door hatchback concept. The car is said to presage a premium hatchback model for Toyota's upscale line - but that model isn't likely to come to the U.S. - word is that the production model is being crafted with Europeans in mind. That's something of a pity considering how visually dynamic the LF-Ch is, but not unexpected considering the chilly sales reception premium hatchbacks have received in the States - Mini excepted.

In any case, if you're interested in seeing something like the LF-Ch in American Lexus showrooms, while we would normally suggest that your best course of action would be to inundate Lexus with pleading love letters, syrupy poetry, and, well, whatever else you care to cram into an email or phone call, this time, Lexus has set up a feedback channel of sorts for the LF-Ch on its website. It's actually a survey that asks rather generic questions like "Which angle of the car do you like best?" and "Do you like the exterior color?" Yet it also asks meatier questions, like whether the showcar's five-door bodystyle is an attribute or a demerit, or whether hybrid technology for a car like the LF-Ch would be a deal-maker or a deal-breaker.

Us? We're in favor of anything that might invigorate Lexus' traditionally safe-as-houses lineup. You refresh your memory by checking out our high-res below before clicking on the link below to tell Lexus how you feel.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Lexus LF-Ch Concept


Gallery: Lexus LF-Ch Concept

01-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high02-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high03-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high04-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high05-lexus-lf-ch-concept-high

[Source: Lexus]

Want to see a production LF-Ch make it to American showrooms? Tell Lexus. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showFrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowlexusLexus conceptlexus hatchbackLexusConceptLexusHatchbackLF-Chlf-Ch conceptLf-chConceptpremium hatchbackPremiumHatchbackToyotaTue, 29 Sep 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Up close and personal with the sensational Pagani Zonda R]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-up-close-and-person-with-the-sensational-pagani/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-up-close-and-person-with-the-sensational-pagani/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/frankfurt-2009-up-close-and-person-with-the-sensational-pagani/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Pagani Zonda R - Click above for high-res image gallery

A diamond in the rough? We'd hardly consider the plethora of exciting new vehicle debuts and revolutionary concept cars that is the currently ongoing Frankfurt Motor Show as "rough." But behind the Tesla and Mansory show stands in the Messe - that's the German name for the exhibition grounds, not a critique of its tidiness - we stumbled upon a real jewel of carbon fiber and exhaust tubing. Pagani calls it the Zonda R, and it was on display courtesy of the Italian exotic automaker's German distributor.

The ultimate incarnation of the eminently desirable supercar, itself due to be replaced shortly, the $1.8 million track-only Zonda R was unveiled back in February, but this was as close as we've gotten to the vehicle in the carbon yet. It costs about $1.8 million, is constructed out of a carbon-titanium weave, packs 739 horsepower and features Pagani's first sequential gearbox, delivering extreme performance, with a 0-60 mph run of three seconds flat and a 233 mph top end.

Pagani Deutschland had the Zonda R on display with the engine cover removed, and with good reason: the engine bay - really everything aft of the bulkhead - is a beautifully sculpted masterpiece of mechanical engineering, from the 6.0-liter hand-built Mercedes AMG V12 to the inboard F1-style shocks. Unfortunately, the comparatively small display of a local distributor (as opposed to an independent automaker) meant that we couldn't get the kind of beauty shots to which we'd hope you've become accustomed by now, but trust us when we say that in this case, you can bet the devil's in the details. Have a closer look in the gallery below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Pagani Zonda R


Frankfurt 2009: Up close and personal with the sensational Pagani Zonda R originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowpaganipagani zondapagani zonda rPaganiZondaPaganiZondaRsupercarzondazonda rZondaRMon, 21 Sep 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Geiger GTS: Crazy Germans modify Corvette ZR1 ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/geiger-gts-crazy-germans-modify-corvette-zr1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/geiger-gts-crazy-germans-modify-corvette-zr1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/18/geiger-gts-crazy-germans-modify-corvette-zr1/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 Geiger GTS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Geiger is back, and this time it's the vaunted Corvette ZR1 that gets the tuner touch. Dubbed the "Geiger GTS," this über ZR1 doesn't offer ridiculous power gains over its stock bruder, just some careful tweaks that net an additional 63 hp. Still, that brings the already prodigious power up to 710, with a similar bump in torque from 607 to 677 ft-lbs. That's good enough to register 3.6 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint, and a V-Max of 212.5 mph.

Geiger said they'd have the car in Frankfurt, but we somehow missed it. While the press release makes no mention of suspension tweaks, Ultraleggera O.Z. Racing wheels replace the GM originals, with the 10 x 19 fronts and 12 x 20 inch rears shod in 285/30ZR19 Michelins at the bow and 345/25ZR20s astern.

One thing that definitely has changed is the exterior. After all, this wouldn't be a Geiger special without some new body panels, and the GTS doesn't disappoint. The stock Corvette ZR1 nose and tail have been swapped out for some Geiger custom parts, and aggressive side sill extensions have been added. The whole thing is finished off in a trademark Geiger custom paintjob, this time three layers of color shifting mother of pearl white with black accents. It had us thinking of the Mansory Ferrari 599 Stallone although it's rather subdued compared to the louvered, lime-green Corvette Z06 biturbo that Geiger also offers. Follow the jump for the press release and check out the images in our high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Corvette ZR1 "Geiger GTS"


[Source: Geiger]

Continue reading Geiger GTS: Crazy Germans modify Corvette ZR1

Geiger GTS: Crazy Germans modify Corvette ZR1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corvettecorvette zr1CorvetteZr1frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowgeigergeiger carsGeiger CorvetteGeiger Corvette ZR1Geiger GTSGeigerCarsgeigercars.deGeigerCorvetteGeigerCorvetteZr1GeigerGtsFri, 18 Sep 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009 Wrap Up: We saw it all]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-wrap-up-we-saw-it-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-wrap-up-we-saw-it-all/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-wrap-up-we-saw-it-all/#commentsFiled under:

2009 Frankfurt Motor Show - Click above for complete list of vehicles covered

You're looking at a Porsche Panamera S with a trailer hitch. We're looking at an empty bottle of scotch and 11-hour plane rides. But never mind all that - what you really need to know is five hacks blogged over 60 posts and approximately ninety-billion photos in two days.

Why so many cars? We're thinking that the OEMs had a ton of new metal lined-up pre-Great Recession then got spooked by the economic meltdown. Frankfurt proved to be a dumping ground for all the new stuff - or at least it felt that way. But hey, what's better than new cars? For us and you, not a whole lot. Follow the jump for a list of every car we covered in Frankfurt and discover exactly how we felt walking back to the hotel after being (almost) forcibly removed from the media room. At least you can't accuse us of not trying. Also let us know what you think of Best of Show was in the comments. Auf wiedersehen, Germany!

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009 Wrap Up: We saw it all

Frankfurt 2009 Wrap Up: We saw it all originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowThu, 17 Sep 2009 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-toyota-auris-hsd-full-hybrid-concept-needs-a-sho/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

And now for your viewing pleasure, we bring you these live shots of the Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept (seriously, could Toyota have come up with a longer name?). Technically, the vehicle shown in our image gallery below is listed as a concept car, but every indication is that it's not all that different than what will be rolling out of Burnaston factory in England sometime during the second half of 2010.

We wouldn't necessarily count on the dash-mounted solar panels that feature trays to recharge your electronics - though, how cool would that be? - but the rooftop cells may make it into production to help keep the cabin cool on sunny days as a similar system already is optional on the 2010 Prius. In any case, Toyota's 1.8-liter four cylinder and Hybrid Synergy Drive ought to ensure stellar fuel economy and carbon emissions of below 100 g/km - both important considerations across the pond where gas is especially pricey and taxes are high.

Hit the jump to reread the press release and refresh your memory on all the little concept-appropriate details.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris Hybrid


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name

Frankfurt 2009: Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept needs a shorter name originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aurisauris hybridAurisHybridfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowgreentoyotatoyota auristoyota auris hybridToyotaAurisToyotaAurisHybridThu, 17 Sep 2009 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Opel Astra makes its debut under the lights]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-opel-astra-makes-its-debut-under-the-lights/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-opel-astra-makes-its-debut-under-the-lights/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-opel-astra-makes-its-debut-under-the-lights/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Opel Astra - Click above for high-res image gallery

By now, you've likely already seen official shots of the 2010 Opel Astra, both inside and out. Of course, catching a glimpse of a new shape under the harsh lighting of an auto show often brings a different point of view than the automaker's own glitzy press shots.

In the case of the latest Astra, though, the new car looks nearly as fetching caught with the lenses of our own DSLRs as it did in GM's official photography. We especially like the new Astra's interior furnishings, which are a major step up from the current model's rather boring and somber duds.

While the 2010 Astra won't be coming Stateside as a Saturn like the previous model, GM has promised to bring the latest Detla-based car to American shores (probably in sedan form) wearing the trademark Buick badge and chrome waterfall grille, and none of those plans are expected to change now that The General has offloaded a majority stake in Opel to Magna. Check out our high-res shots below of the 2010 Astra live from Frankfurt.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Opel Astra


Frankfurt 2009: Opel Astra makes its debut under the lights originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 astra2010 opel astra2010Astra2010OpelAstraastrafrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowopelopel astraOpelAstraThu, 17 Sep 2009 11:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Kia Venga is nice... and a little Fiesta-riffic to our eyes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-kia-venga-is-nice-and-a-little-fiesta-riffic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-kia-venga-is-nice-and-a-little-fiesta-riffic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-kia-venga-is-nice-and-a-little-fiesta-riffic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Kia Venga - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you're going to ape the design of another automaker's product, it's best to choose one that's attractive. Therefore, we give Kia kudo points for making its Venga look something like a smoothed-over Ford Fiesta, a car we've gone on record multiple times as admiring. In any case, the Kia Venga is a somewhat derivative but all-in-all attractive take on the single-box hatchback bodystyle.

If you're hoping to put a Venga in your driveway and you live in the United States, sorry to burst your bubble. While anything is possible, Kia has yet to give any indication that the Venga is headed Stateside. That being the case, feel free to gaze longingly at our gallery of live shots below. If you happen to live in Europe, all you need to do is wait a few months as the Venga is set to hit the showroom floor later this year.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Kia Venga


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Kia Venga is nice... and a little Fiesta-riffic to our eyes

Frankfurt 2009: Kia Venga is nice... and a little Fiesta-riffic to our eyes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowkiakia vengaKiaVengavengaThu, 17 Sep 2009 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell rids the show floor of tailpipe emissions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell - Click above for high-res image gallery

As promised, Mercedes-Benz trotted its hydrogen fuel cell-powered F-Cell in front of the crowds at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and we were on hand to snap off a series of images. It's easy to spot the B-Class sheetmetal and underpinnings of the compact hatch, which goes to show how well the German automaker was able to integrate its space-age hydrogen drivetrain.

A 100 kW electric motor provides motive force to the front wheels, and MB claims the F-Cell will have similar performance to a 2.0 liter gas engine while returning the equivalent of 86.6 mpg on the European combined cycle. Mercedes has promised to begin leasing its new hydrogen-powered five-door hatchback in early 2010, and it's reportedly coming to America to fulfill all our zero-emission fantasies. Now, if we could just get that pesky hydrogen infrastructure problem sorted out...


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell


Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell rids the show floor of tailpipe emissions originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-cellfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowgreenmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz f-cellmercedes-benzmercedes-benz f-cellMercedes-benzF-cellMercedesBenzMercedesBenzF-cellThu, 17 Sep 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: The Fraulein of Frankfurt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-the-frauleins-of-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-the-frauleins-of-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-the-frauleins-of-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under:

Frauleins of Frankfurt - Click above for high-res image gallery

Yes, that's a Lamborghini in the picture above. We think. Could be a bar stool.

As we do with every auto show, Autoblog is happy to present the one post that we're sure at least some of you have been waiting for since we touched down in Germany to cover the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. It's time to honor those women (and one dude in a furry suit) who are charged with keeping our attention focused on those vehicles they've been paid to lean against. These sirens of chrome (not our label, see here) are sometimes controversial (are the women objectified, do we need this service anymore, who does their hair?), but always a pleasure to behold. Check out the gallery below for our roundup of an admittedly smaller group of car models than years past (damn global recession!).


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: The Frauleins of Frankfurt


Frankfurt 2009: The Fraulein of Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt ladiesfrankfurt modelsfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt womenFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtLadiesFrankfurtModelsFrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtWomenWed, 16 Sep 2009 19:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Meet the 2010 Citroen C3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-meet-the-2010-citroen-c3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-meet-the-2010-citroen-c3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-meet-the-2010-citroen-c3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Citroen C3 - click above image for hi-res gallery

It's really a shame we can't buy Citroens in America anymore. Main reason is the awesome C6. Second reason is that all the small Citroens we poked our heads into at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show had sticks. By comparison, more than half the VWs were slushers. Moving on - check out this cute little guy! It's the new C3, complete with its "Zenith Windshield." As you may have noticed, the front piece of glass goes all the way to eleven. We like this, because as time moves on, safety concerns and styling trends are forcing more and more glass out of the cabin. It's getting so bad that you can't hardly see out of the new Chevy Camaro. Not so in this here Citroen C3. Forward visibility for the win. And the view from outside the car ain't so bad either. High style, low price - what's not to like? Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Citroen C3


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Meet the 2010 Citroen C3

Frankfurt 2009: Meet the 2010 Citroen C3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 C32010 Citroen C32010C32010CitroenC3CitroenCitroen C3CitroenC3FrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowWed, 16 Sep 2009 18:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot BB1 Concept is messing with our minds]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-bb1-concept-is-messing-with-our-minds/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-bb1-concept-is-messing-with-our-minds/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-bb1-concept-is-messing-with-our-minds/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Peugeot BB1 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

You know what the problem with Smart cars is? Not tough enough! Regardless, meet the Peugeot BB1. Yes, it is the logical result of a one night stand between a Subaru SVX and a Peel 50. What are we talking about? We don't even know what we're looking at. Feel free to read a rational account of the Peugeot BB1 at your leisure.

OK fine -- our editor is forcing us to tell you some facts about the BB1. Four wheels for sure. And the weirdly curved glass is all tilted forward before eventually morphing into solar panels on the roof. You steer it with moto-style handle bars. No word if you can opt for a set of ape-hangers, but why on earth not? Engine? Hey - it's a concept, you don't need no stinking engine. Uh.. oh! There are tiny rear-hinged doors with even tinier roll-down windows. So now you know what happens if you allow French automotive weirdness to go unchecked.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Peugeot BB1 Concept


Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot BB1 Concept is messing with our minds originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BB1BB1 ConceptBb1ConceptFrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowPeugeotPeugeot BB1Peugeot BB1 ConceptPeugeotBb1PeugeotBb1ConceptWed, 16 Sep 2009 16:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Citroen DS3 looks good, needs a new name]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-2010-citroen-ds3-looks-good-needs-a-new-name/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-2010-citroen-ds3-looks-good-needs-a-new-name/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-2010-citroen-ds3-looks-good-needs-a-new-name/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Citroen DS3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Seriously Citroen, what is up? We're all for premium small cars (think Mini Cooper, Audi A3) and pray nightly that more will start coming to our shores. But calling this C3-based hatchback a DS? For reals? Look, any new Citroen DS has some mighty big Louboutins to fill. Like, huge. And, well, come on now - who you fooling? End oleopneumatic-a-phile rant.

Hey hey - this is a nice looking little guy. Love the two-tone roof, the LED fog light surrounds, blackened wheels, the trick mirror and general demeanor. We're not totally sold on the B-pillar, but hey - viva la difference! In top trim the diminutive DS3 packs 150 hp and that gumption is controlled by a six-speed manual transmission (with a tres belle shift knob) before heading out to the front wheels. And don't worry you dieselheads - there are two oil burners to choose from. Also, there's some nonsense about themes called things like, "Daisy," "Zebra" and "Maori," but we'll just let you about that in the press release, located after the jump.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Citroen DS3


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Citroen DS3 looks good, needs a new name

Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Citroen DS3 looks good, needs a new name originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Citroen DS32010 DS32010CitroenDs32010Ds3CitroenCitroen DS3CitroenDs3DS3FrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowWed, 16 Sep 2009 16:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Bring us the 2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-bring-us-the-2010-opel-insignia-opc-sports-toure/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-bring-us-the-2010-opel-insignia-opc-sports-toure/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-bring-us-the-2010-opel-insignia-opc-sports-toure/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer - Click above for high-res image gallery

Remember this? "More wagons! More wagons!" Well, here's another. Meet the Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer. Salient facts: 325-horsepower turbocharged 2.8-liter V6, AWD, six-speed manual, eLSD torque vectoring and it's a station wagon. Oh, and get this -- it's built from off the shelf GM parts. Serious.

For instance, that fancy-pants eLSD torque vectoring system comes from the Saab Turbo X. All the rest of the pieces are General Motors parts bin. Ready for the best part? You can't have it! Ha ha ha. Of course neither could we. Would we totally rock a slightly larger, good looking EVO X-ish station wagon? Hell to the yeah. Which part is the good GM again?


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer


Frankfurt 2009: Bring us the 2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer2010OpelInsigniaOpcSportsTourerFrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowInsigniainsignia opcInsignia OPC Sports Tourerinsignia wagonInsigniaOpcInsigniaOpcSportsTourerInsigniaWagonOpelOpel InsigniaOpel Insignia OPCOpel Insignia OPC Sports Toureropel insignia wagonOpelInsigniaOpelInsigniaOpcOpelInsigniaOpcSportsTourerOpelInsigniaWagonWed, 16 Sep 2009 14:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot RCZ is our kind of French connection]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-rcz-is-our-kind-of-french-connection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-rcz-is-our-kind-of-french-connection/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-peugeot-rcz-is-our-kind-of-french-connection/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Peugeot RCZ - Click above for high-res image gallery

Some things are worth waiting for. Take the Peugeot RCZ, for example. French auto giant PSA has been talking about putting the RCZ into production since initially unveiling it as a concept car in this very hall back in 2007. And that day has finally arrived with the unveiling of the production-ready coupe here in Frankfurt.

The critics may say the styling is too close to the Audi TT, but to our eyes that's no bad thing. And while there are certainly some TT-esque design traits coming through, there is plenty to set this apart as uniquely Peugeot. Sporting a Zagato-style double-bubble roof and muscular wheel arches, the RCZ is easily the most stylish French car this side of a Bugatti.

Mechanically, it's based on the 308 hatchback, but the svelte coupe has dropped the numeric moniker on the road to production. Engines include 1.6-liter turbo fours with 156 or 200 horsepower and a 2-liter turbodiesel with 163 ponies. Also available with the oil-burning mill is a hybrid drivetrain supplemented by a 37-horsepower electric motor that matches the top gas engine's output while upping the ante with all-wheel-drive and environmental bragging rights. Have a closer look in the gallery below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot RCZ


Frankfurt 2009: Peugeot RCZ is our kind of French connection originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShow308308 rcz308Rczfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showfrankfurt motor show 2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtMotorShow2009peugeotpeugeot 308peugeot rczPeugeot308PeugeotRczrczWed, 16 Sep 2009 14:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Mansory Vitesse Rose is anything but pretty in pink]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-mansory-vitesse-rose-is-anything-but-pretty-in-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-mansory-vitesse-rose-is-anything-but-pretty-in-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-mansory-vitesse-rose-is-anything-but-pretty-in-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Mansory Vitesse Rose - Click above for high-res image gallery (if you must)

Opinions in the Autoblog media room here in Frankfurt are divided once again. Some of us think the Mansory Vitesse Rose is the ugliest thing on wheels, the most heinous thing ever done to a Bentley, while Lieberman just has no taste. Either way, we had trouble keeping it down while snapping the photos. Fortunately, there was some left-over Pepto hanging around the Mansory show stand for quick touch-ups.

The matte pink paint job, which we can only hope is a reversible vinyl wrap, is offset by matte carbon fiber trim and blacked out rims, chrome and logos. But while the exterior stood out, the clashing pink and purple interior - complete with purple-tinted carbon fiber trim - bridges the gap from "you've got to be kidding" to "you've got to be The Joker". But don't take our word for it; check it out for yourself in the gallery below. We just wouldn't recommend it for the weak of stomach.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Mansory Vitesse Rose - Bentley GTC


Gallery: Mansory Bentley Vitesse Rose


Frankfurt 2009: Mansory Vitesse Rose is anything but pretty in pink originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShowbentleybentley continentalbentley continental gtBentleyContinentalBentleyContinentalGtcontinentalcontinental gtContinentalGtfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowmansorymansory bentleymansory bentley continental gtmansory bentley continental gt vitesse rosemansory vitesse roseMansoryBentleyMansoryBentleyContinentalGtMansoryBentleyContinentalGtVitesseRoseMansoryVitesseRosevitesse roseVitesseRoseWed, 16 Sep 2009 13:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Brabus E V12 Black Baron is where light goes to die]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-brabus-e-v12-black-baron-is-where-light-goes-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-brabus-e-v12-black-baron-is-where-light-goes-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-brabus-e-v12-black-baron-is-where-light-goes-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Brabus E V12 Black Baron -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Fancy yourself as a real-life Bruce Wayne with the financial wherewithal to match? Have we got a workaday sedan for you. German tunemeisters Brabus have just lifted the sheet off their new E V12 Black Baron sedan, although we almost didn't notice, as the matte-black überBenz swallows all beams of light that dare go near its carbon fiber flanks.

Packing a twin-turbo'd 6.3-liter V12, this one-of-ten wonder spits out a tidy 800 horsepower and 1,047 pound-feet of torque (no, that's not a typo). So equipped, Brabus says the demon tweaked E-Class will lunge to 62 mph in 3.7 seconds and hit 124 mph in a sliver under ten ticks. Thanks to the axe murderer of a powerplant underhood and the aerodynamic-at-all-costs design, the Black Baron will reportedly top out at 230 mph - and when operated at saner speeds, it still manages to return 15 mpg. Won't your neighbors be pleased.

What price for Gotham glory? Check out our high-res gallery below and then check with your financial adviser about cutting a slush fund check for $875,000.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Brabus E V12 Black Baron


Gallery: Brabus E V12 Black Baron


[Source: Brabus]

Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Brabus E V12 Black Baron is where light goes to die

Frankfurt 2009: Brabus E V12 Black Baron is where light goes to die originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Black BaronBlackBaronbrabusBrabus E V12 Black BaronBrabusEV12BlackBarone V12E-classe-klasseEV12frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowMercedesWed, 16 Sep 2009 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Porsche 911 GT3 RS goes 180 mph before coming to the show [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-porsche-911-gt3-rs-goes-180-mph-before-coming-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-porsche-911-gt3-rs-goes-180-mph-before-coming-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-porsche-911-gt3-rs-goes-180-mph-before-coming-to/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS - click above image to watch the video

"You don't go from A to B -- you drive around in circles." So says Andreas Preuninger Manager of High Performance Cars at Porsche. First -- YES -- we want his job. Second, our buddy JF took a video camera into the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and went 180 mph on die Autobahn with Andreas at the wheel. This was Sunday Monday night. Then they turned around, washed it, put on some new tires and had it out on the show floor for all the world's automotive hacks journalists to see by Tuesday. We'll take two. Third, we want Herr Preuninger's job. For reals. Jealousy inducing video can be found after the jump.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS



Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Porsche 911 GT3 RS goes 180 mph before coming to the show [w/VIDEO]

Frankfurt 2009: Porsche 911 GT3 RS goes 180 mph before coming to the show [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 911 GT3 RS2010 GT3 RS2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS2010911Gt3Rs2010Gt3Rs2010Porsche911Gt3Rs911911 GT3 RS911Gt3RsFrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowGT3 RSGt3RsPorschePorsche 911Porsche 911 GT3 RSPorsche911Porsche911Gt3RsWed, 16 Sep 2009 12:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Yes, that is a mirror-finish Audi R8 5.2 V10]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/#comments
Mirror-Finish Audi R8 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Oh how they laughed when we suggested chroming an Audi R8. Of course, our plan was to use a couple of rattle cans and a few rolls of blue tape to git er done. Right before screaming, "Hey y'all, watch this!" and launching the R8 off a cliff. But we're a bunch of crude Americans, not nearly as stylish as our European pals that don ties to take a shower. Regardless, Audi went ahead and pulled the shiny metal trigger. The all Dubai'd-out R8 now joins the ranks of such notable taste-setters as the Bugatti Veyron Autostadt special edition, gold-mirror-finish Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Chrome SLR, etc. Yeah, we're talking smack. Partly out of jealousy, partly out of thinking what kind of a royal jackass would drive around in a mirrored car? A Kanye West-sized one, we'd think. Anyhow, "enjoy" the gallery.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Chrome Audi R8 5.2 V10


Frankfurt 2009: Yes, that is a mirror-finish Audi R8 5.2 V10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiAudi R8Audi R8 5.2 V10Audi R8 V10AudiR8AudiR85.2V10AudiR8V10Chrome Audi R8Chrome R8ChromeAudiR8ChromeR8DubaiFrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowMirrored Audi R8Mirrored R8MirroredAudiR8MirroredR8R8 V10R8V10Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Marussia B2 breaks cover, B1 Hybrid shown in new colors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-marussia-b2-breaks-cover-b1-hybrid-shown-in-new/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-marussia-b2-breaks-cover-b1-hybrid-shown-in-new/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-marussia-b2-breaks-cover-b1-hybrid-shown-in-new/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Marussia B2 and B1 Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we hear the phrase "Russian Supercar" we initially think of either a turbocharged tank or something made from wallpaper, powered by fictional hubris yet somehow still finished in mirrored chrome. Any of which would come with his and hers full length mink coats. However, the two Marussia models present something of a dilemma to this way of thinking. They are not awful. In fact, viewed from a distance, there's much to like. Sure, up close they're a tad rough (check out the exposed screws, lumpen metal over the door hinges and Pep Boys reflectors), but they're really not bad. Which is good, if you can pardon our Orwellian wording.

Our real gripe, besides not knowing bupkis about what's under the hood (some sort of Renault/Nissan V6 coupled to electronic components from... somewhere), is that the designs are a bit derivative. Aggressive as all get out, certainly, but we've seen them before. The B1 has the stance of a Pagani Zonda, while the B2 is a mix of Apollo Gumpert and Aston Martin Rapide with a smattering of Lamborghini Reventon tossed in for flavor. But as Woody Allen said, "Always be original. But if you must steal, steal from the best." Marussia is (predictably) a little mum on the details, but we can assume the same mystery motor in the B1 powers the B2. Now, about those panel gaps...


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Marussia B2 and B1 Hybrid


Frankfurt 2009: Marussia B2 breaks cover, B1 Hybrid shown in new colors originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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