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[New Peugeot 308 looks to be a big improvement]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/new-peugeot-308-looks-to-be-a-big-improvement/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/new-peugeot-308-looks-to-be-a-big-improvement/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/new-peugeot-308-looks-to-be-a-big-improvement/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Peugeot 308 - maroon - front three-quarter studio shot

As much as we applaud automakers for flexing their design muscles every now and then, we occasionally find ourselves raising our eyebrows at the "new family design language" that companies smatter across their products. For example: Have a look at pretty much everything Peugeot has put out in recent years. Funky stuff, to be sure, but not always the sort of vehicles that garner adjectives like "pretty" or "sleek." And the old 308 hatchback was perhaps one of the company's worst offenders.

But that changes, right now. Peugeot has taken the wraps off of the new 308 hatch, and from what we can see in these high-res images, it's decidedly better looking. The design follows in the footsteps of the recently launched 2008 crossover, boasting cleaner lines without that huge, gaping maw up front. Instead, there are slimmer, LED-capped headlamps and pronounced foglamps, topped off with a rakish hood. Strong body lines flow from front to back, where there's a clean rump and a thick, windowless C-pillar. Large, split-five-spoke wheels round out all four corners.

Peugeot has not released any technical data about this 308 just yet, only saying that the new generation is a full (and appropriate) 308 pounds lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the company's new modular EMP2 platform. Inside, the reworked interior features premium materials and a rather interesting design, with a 9.7-inch touchscreen interface in the center stack and an instrument panel that's set high on top of the dashboard. Pretty cool.

The 308 makes its official debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. For now, have a good glance at the much, much better-looking hatch in our gallery above, and be sure to glance below for all of the details in Pug's press blast.

Continue reading New Peugeot 308 looks to be a big improvement

New Peugeot 308 looks to be a big improvement originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 peugeot 308frankfurtfrankfurt 2013frankfurt motor showpeugeotpeugeot 308Mon, 13 May 2013 16:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20567121/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/new-peugeot-308-looks-to-be-a-big-improvement/20567121/article-detail.xml 20567121 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-peugeot-308628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-peugeot-308628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Range Rover Hybrid heading to Frankfurt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Land Rover Range Rover

Two years after the Range_E concept debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, thus previewing the coming Range Rover hybrid drivetrain and beginning the succeeding speculation, a company executive has confirmed the arrival of a hybrid Range Rover and Range Rover Sport later this year. The first time we'll see them is at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but Stuart Frith, chief program engineer for Range Rover Sport told Australian site Car Sales that the vehicles will be in showrooms before the year is over, as well.

As we wrote in our deep dive previewing the 2013 Range Rover, the diesel hybrid system uses a 3.0-liter V6 engine mated to a ZF eight-speed transmission with an integrated electric motor. The 1.7-kWh battery pack sits in the chassis floor, protected by a boron steel cradle, so cabin space is not compromised. The numbers we were given at the time were 333 horsepower, a sub-seven second run to 60 miles per hour in the big Range Rover and 45 imperial miles per gallon. The 2014 Range Rover Sport is expected to post the same horsepower number and battery placement. Neither of these models will be coming to the US.

The Range Rover Sport will also get a traditional diesel, the SDV8 being slotted into the engine bay, bringing 516 pound-feet of torque with it when it goes on sale later this year. Eventually, Frith said it will also get Land Rover's version of the 2.0-liter, 240-hp EcoBoost engine that propels the Evoque and the LR2 - the weight savings of the new model has made the four-cylinder a viable option.

Range Rover Hybrid heading to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 May 2013 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 frankfurt motor showfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showland roverland rover range roverland rover range rover hybridland rover range rover sportTue, 07 May 2013 19:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20559061/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/20559061/article-detail.xml 20559061 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/08-2013-land-rover-range-rover-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/08-2013-land-rover-range-rover-review.jpg <![CDATA[Honda Civic Tourer caught testing ahead of 2014 launch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/honda-civic-tourer-caught-testing-ahead-of-2014-launch/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/honda-civic-tourer-caught-testing-ahead-of-2014-launch/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/honda-civic-tourer-caught-testing-ahead-of-2014-launch/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda Civic Tourer spy shots - front three-quarter view, camouflaged

Honda showed off its Civic Tourer concept at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and at that time, we were told that a production version would be coming to market in the very near future. Obviously, the sleek lines of the concept car will be dumbed down slightly for consumers, but that doesn't mean the Civic wagon will be a bland machine. The Euro-spec Civic's angular front end looks like it will blend nicely with the rakish rump that we saw on the concept.

Our sources suggest that not only will the Civic Tourer be a class-leader in terms of cargo capacity, but it will likely be a pretty engaging car from behind the wheel, as well. Honda is hoping that the Tourer will account for roughly 20 percent of all European Civic sales after it goes on sale.

Expect to see the production car debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, with the first customers taking delivery in early 2014. In the meantime, have a look at the camouflaged swoopy wagon from all angles in our gallery above.

Honda Civic Tourer caught testing ahead of 2014 launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2013frankfurt motor showhondahonda civichonda civic tourerhonda civic wagonspy photosspy picsspy shotsMon, 08 Apr 2013 14:16:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20533591/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/08/honda-civic-tourer-caught-testing-ahead-of-2014-launch/20533591/article-detail.xml 20533591 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-honda-civic-tourer-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-honda-civic-tourer-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Mini interior ditching familiar center speedo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/next-gen-mini-interior-ditching-familiar-center-speedo/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/next-gen-mini-interior-ditching-familiar-center-speedo/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/next-gen-mini-interior-ditching-familiar-center-speedo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

IMAGE REMOVED AT REQUEST OF OWNER

A Reddit user has posted images of the 2015 F56 Mini Cooper, one each of the exterior and interior. As has been the case since the launch of the new Mini in 2001, the overall exterior shape underneath camouflage screams Mini, but insiders are still calling the coming F56 model "the most aggressively different new Mini yet." Inside, though, the two-door that defined premium hatchbacks has, according to its most devoted buyers, gone mainstream.

The giant ring atop the center console is there, but there's no longer a speedometer inside of it. Instead, in an integration that brings to mind words like "shoehorned," Mini designers have placed radio and telephone controls inside the bezel. According to the Mini experts at MotoringFile, the picture above is the base trim and one of four possible treatments - in the upper trims a larger screen for navigation takes up most of the space. The bezel itself is marked with mood lighting that supposedly "swirls around" when you start the car with the red toggle switch.

The speedo rests atop the steering column with a tachometer placed to its left. The BMW wheel pictured is just for the prototype - you can expect a familiar three-spoke Mini wheel when the car is revealed, and latest rumor is that the event will take place at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

Next-gen Mini interior ditching familiar center speedo originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 frankfurt motor show2015 mini cooperf56 minifrankfurtfrankfurt motor showminimini cooperFri, 29 Mar 2013 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20522880/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/29/next-gen-mini-interior-ditching-familiar-center-speedo/20522880/article-detail.xml 20522880 <![CDATA[BMW bringing M3 'concept' to Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/bmw-bringing-m3-concept-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/bmw-bringing-m3-concept-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/10/bmw-bringing-m3-concept-to-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

BMW M3 Spy Shots

Six months, 26 days. That's the countdown until we get our first live, in-person look at the next iteration of the BMW M3, according to AutoWeek.

The F80 M3 will be appear on the BMW stand at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show in "lightly veiled concept" form, according to the report, with the production car bowing at the Frankfurt show next fall. The performance sedan won't go on sale until the end of 2013 here in the U.S., with coupe and convertible versions and one of BMW's odd Gran Coupe models following in later years.

AutoWeek says the M3 will be a mix of steel with some aluminum body panels, powered by a turbocharged inline-six making about 450 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Although rumors of a 3.3-liter V6 based on BMW's larger V8 engine persist, the more shocking speculation involves the gearbox, which is said to be a dual-clutch with seven speeds. That's right, no manual transmission will be offered, according to the report.

Of course, BMW has attempted to make that move before with the M5. Fortunately, enough complaints from American customers caused the company to change its mind. So, car guy purists, start your grousing now, as the clock is already ticking.

BMW bringing M3 'concept' to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Aug 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 bmw m3bmwfrankfurt 2013Frankfurt Motor Showgeneva 2013Geneva Motor Showm3Manual TransmissionFri, 10 Aug 2012 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20298137/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/10/bmw-bringing-m3-concept-to-geneva/20298137/article-detail.xml 20298137 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bmw-m3-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/bmw-m3-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Translogic</i> drives Land Rover's Defender concept, samples its James Bondian tech]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/translogic-drives-land-rovers-defender-concept-samples/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/translogic-drives-land-rovers-defender-concept-samples/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/20/translogic-drives-land-rovers-defender-concept-samples/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



We were thrilled to see that Land Rover unveiled a pair of concept vehicles in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The two models; a drop-top and a more business-like fixed roof off-roader, signal a pair of possible directions of the next generation Defender. Both models are very attractive and they at least look off-road-ready, but since they're concept vehicles they're likely all show and no go, right?

Not so fast. Our sister publication Translogic actually got behind the wheel of the DC100 concepts, and there were no paved roads in sight.

Hit the jump to watch on as Bradley Hasemeyer scores some time with the hot-looking DC100 convertible. We don't see any 40-degree grades or serious rocks to traverse, but we do learn about some amazing off-road technology like Automatic Train Response and incredible-sounding spiked-on-demand tires.

Continue reading Translogic drives Land Rover's Defender concept, samples its James Bondian tech

Translogic drives Land Rover's Defender concept, samples its James Bondian tech originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc-100dc100defenderdefender conceptfrankfurt motor showland rovertranslogicvideoTue, 20 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20131492/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/20/translogic-drives-land-rovers-defender-concept-samples/20131492/article-detail.xml 20131492 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/land-rover-dc100-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/land-rover-dc100-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Could the Kia GT be produced with something other than a V6?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/could-the-kia-gt-be-produced-with-something-other-than-a-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/could-the-kia-gt-be-produced-with-something-other-than-a-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/06/could-the-kia-gt-be-produced-with-something-other-than-a-v6/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Kia GT Concept

AutoExpress recently took the time to sit down with Kia design guru Peter Schreyer for a chat about the company's GT Concept that debuted at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show. Schreyer is understandably keen to bring the front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sedan to market, though he isn't necessarily wedded to the 400-horsepower turbocharged V6 under the concept's hood. Schreyer said that any number of drivetrain options could conceivably work, including hybrid and smaller displacement powertrains. The designer believes that Kia could still produce an executive sedan with the performance that buyers want while still maintaining excellent fuel economy.

That would certainly help make a more solid business case for the range-topping model. Schreyer also made it clear that while the GT would likely be successful in the U.S. and Chinese markets, the design lends itself to global sales. This all sounds good to us, but it's worth noting that the ultimate fate of any production model based on the GT Concept rests in the hands of the decision makers at Kia.

Could the Kia GT be produced with something other than a V6? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt motor showgt conceptkiakia gt conceptpeter schreyerschreyerThu, 06 Oct 2011 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20075503/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/06/could-the-kia-gt-be-produced-with-something-other-than-a-v6/20075503/article-detail.xml 20075503 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/kia-gt-concpet-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/kia-gt-concpet-628.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche 911 found to be Frankfurt favorite]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/porsche-911-found-to-be-frankfurt-favorite/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/porsche-911-found-to-be-frankfurt-favorite/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/28/porsche-911-found-to-be-frankfurt-favorite/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 porsche 911

The coverage coming out of the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show was filled with vehicles that run the gamut of the automotive spectrum, but one vehicle in particular caught the eyes of journalists and readers alike. The 2012 Porsche 911 was the darling of the Frankfurt show, and the data backs it up.

According to browsing and social media data compiled by UK company Kantar Media Precis, the new 911 was the most (virtually) talked about machine in attendance. Websites, blogs and social media feeds were all abuzz, and it was the latest 911 that dominated all discussions.

We're guilty of falling in love with the German sports car as well. We spoke about both the standard 911 and the Carrera S, and are gearing up for another 50 or so variants set to debut in the next decade and a half.

Porsche 911 found to be Frankfurt favorite originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2011 frankfurt motor show2012 9112012 porsche 911911frankfurtfrankfurt motor showporscheporsche 911Porsche 991Wed, 28 Sep 2011 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20067635/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/28/porsche-911-found-to-be-frankfurt-favorite/20067635/article-detail.xml 20067635 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/11-2012-porsche-911-frankfurt-1317143390_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/11-2012-porsche-911-frankfurt-1317143390.jpg <![CDATA[What can Hyundai do silently and inexpensively that Volkswagen and BMW can't?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/what-can-hyundai-do-silently-and-inexpensively-that-volkswagen-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/what-can-hyundai-do-silently-and-inexpensively-that-volkswagen-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/26/what-can-hyundai-do-silently-and-inexpensively-that-volkswagen-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Martin Winterkorn in Hyundai i30

Someone at the Frankfurt Motor Show caught Volkswagen Group CEO Martin Winterkorn investigating a Hyundai i30 as if he was just like one would expect from an intrigued engineer at a rival company. It might be too much to infer that the Herr Doctor is impressed by what he finds, but there is no doubt that he's got some questions that will need answering when he leaves.

At about 1:45, while sitting in the cabin, he adjusts the steering wheel and begins to query his seconds on what he discovers. As far as our native German speaking helper could tell, Winterkorn wants to know how Hyundai managed to make an adjustment mechanism that doesn't make any noise, going so far as to say, "How do they do it? BMW can't do it, we can't do it... no clanging!" And then one of the gentlemen appears to answer, "We had a solution but it was too expensive..."

Follow the jump for the video and our best attempt to transcribe what Winterkorn says. Feel free to fill in the blanks in the comments, and we believe this officially means everyone is watching Hyundai. Closely.

Continue reading What can Hyundai do silently and inexpensively that Volkswagen and BMW can't?

What can Hyundai do silently and inexpensively that Volkswagen and BMW can't? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurt 2011Frankfurt Motor Showhyundai i30i30martin winterkornvideoyoutubeMon, 26 Sep 2011 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20066097/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/26/what-can-hyundai-do-silently-and-inexpensively-that-volkswagen-a/20066097/article-detail.xml 20066097 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/winterkorni30frankfurt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/winterkorni30frankfurt.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche looks into the future of motorsport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/24/porsche-looks-into-the-future-of-motorsport/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/24/porsche-looks-into-the-future-of-motorsport/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/24/porsche-looks-into-the-future-of-motorsport/#commentsFiled under: , ,

porsche video screenshot

Porsche is good at building race cars, and what the company learns on the track trickles down to its passenger vehicles. This is what makes driving them so rewarding.

In a new video, Hartmut Kristen, head of Porsche Motorsport, discusses the link between Porsche's track and street cars, and he also takes a look at the future of motorsports. Click past the jump to watch.

Continue reading Porsche looks into the future of motorsport

Porsche looks into the future of motorsport originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 24 Sep 2011 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurt motor showhartmut kristenporscheporsche motorsportvideoSat, 24 Sep 2011 16:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20050932/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/24/porsche-looks-into-the-future-of-motorsport/20050932/article-detail.xml 20050932 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/porsche_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/porsche.jpg <![CDATA[Ford channels Captain Obvious with new E-Bike Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/18/ford-channels-captain-obvious-with-new-e-bike-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/18/ford-channels-captain-obvious-with-new-e-bike-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/18/ford-channels-captain-obvious-with-new-e-bike-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ford E-Bike Concept

Ford model names have always been rather esoteric. Okay, so Model T was fairly straightforward, but just about everything since has been named to evoke an image of something else: Mustang. Explorer. Focus. Heck, even Taurus is more imaginative than calling it the Ford Rental Car. The Blue Oval's latest product, however, is considerably more straightforward. At least in name.

Dearborn's newest debut is an e-bike called... the E-Bike. And as you might have guessed, it's an electric bicycle. The lightweight frame, made of carbon-fiber and aluminum, incorporates a 340Wh lithium-ion battery pack that drives a 350W electric motor in the front wheel hub. The system is managed by state-of-the-art electronic sensors which, Ford is keen to point out, are derived from Formula One - although the company hasn't been active in the series since 2004.

The concept bike is being showcased at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but only after all the journalists have gone home. And though Ford admits it has no plans to put the two-wheeler into production, the E-Bike Concept is part of its ongoing research into alternative transportation. We'll be waiting for the Ford Bus Pass to debut sometime in the coming months. Read more about it in the press release after the break.

Continue reading Ford channels Captain Obvious with new E-Bike Concept

Ford channels Captain Obvious with new E-Bike Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 18 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurtbicyclee-bikefordford e-bikeford e-bike conceptfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showSun, 18 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20046096/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/18/ford-channels-captain-obvious-with-new-e-bike-concept/20046096/article-detail.xml 20046096 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/webforde-bikeconcept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/webforde-bikeconcept.jpg <![CDATA[Opel RAK e electric concept looks to the future of low-cost urban motoring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/opel-rak-e-electric-concept-looks-to-the-future-of-low-cost-urba/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/opel-rak-e-electric-concept-looks-to-the-future-of-low-cost-urba/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/opel-rak-e-electric-concept-looks-to-the-future-of-low-cost-urba/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Opel RAK e concept

Before we delve into the details of the RAK e electric concept, let's step back in time with a brief historical primer. The oldest industrial division within General Motors' current portfolio, Opel started as a sewing machine manufacturer way back in 1862. Evolving to the production of bicycles soon after, Opel's presence in wheeled transportation turned to automobiles in 1899. Now, at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, Opel looks to the future with its debut of the ultra-modern RAK e Concept.

Back in 1928, Opel captivated the media with its experimental rocket-powered RAK 2. Its streamlined shape and solid-fuel rocket propulsion system demonstrated Opel's vision of the future. Developed 83 years after the RAK 2, the RAK e tandem 1+1 concept projects Opel's take on personal urban mobility.

As an experimental design and technical platform, the RAK e is a narrow four-wheeler built around a steel space frame. Built with an eye toward inexpensive materials, the RAK e is a lightweight (838 pounds) concept presented as a vehicle that Opel says even the youngest of buyers could afford.

Propulsion for the RAK e comes from a 49-horsepower electric motor that draws juice from a five-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. Range is listed at up to 62 miles and operating costs are claimed to be only one euro per 100 kilometers ($2.19 per 100 miles).

Follow the jump to read over the complete press release from Opel and be sure to check out our live photos of the RAK e in the high-res image gallery.

Continue reading Opel RAK e electric concept looks to the future of low-cost urban motoring

Opel RAK e electric concept looks to the future of low-cost urban motoring originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frankfurtfrankfurt 2011frankfurt motor showopelopel conceptopel rakopel rak erak erak e conceptFri, 16 Sep 2011 10:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20042584/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/16/opel-rak-e-electric-concept-looks-to-the-future-of-low-cost-urba/20042584/article-detail.xml 20042584 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-opel-rak-e-concept.jpg <![CDATA[SsangYong shows production SUT-1 pickup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/ssangyong-shows-production-sut-1-pickup/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/ssangyong-shows-production-sut-1-pickup/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/ssangyong-shows-production-sut-1-pickup/#commentsFiled under: ,

ssangyong sut-1

We saw the concept at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, but the real thing showed up at the Frankfurt Motor Show. SsangYong used the German auto show stage to reveal its all-new production-ready SUT-1 quad-cab pickup truck. SsangYong refers to the SUT-1 as a Sports Utility Truck, hence the SUT name.

Available in rear or four-wheel-drive, the SUT-1 will be sold with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Either gearbox will pair up with the 153-horsepower 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder engine mounted under the hood.

A true body-on-frame pickup, the SsangYong SUT-1 features a double-wishbone suspension up front and a five-link rear out back. Four-wheel discs sit at each corner, and tuck in behind either 16 or 18-inch alloy wheels. Still, just because the outside conditions might get tough, it doesn't mean you have to feel it inside of the South Korean utility. Among the options list niceties? Power leather heated seats an audio system that supports Bluetooth connectivity and MP3 playback.

Continue reading SsangYong shows production SUT-1 pickup

SsangYong shows production SUT-1 pickup originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurtfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showssangyongssangyong pickupssangyong sut-1sut-1Fri, 16 Sep 2011 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20044167/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/16/ssangyong-shows-production-sut-1-pickup/20044167/article-detail.xml 20044167 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/000-ssangyong-sut-1-1316124114_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/000-ssangyong-sut-1-1316124114.jpg <![CDATA[We obsessively covered the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/we-obsessively-covered-the-2011-frankfurt-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/we-obsessively-covered-the-2011-frankfurt-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/we-obsessively-covered-the-2011-frankfurt-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Frankfurt Motor Show

Seventy-five. That's how many vehicles we managed to cover from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. And we're completely spent. Our men on the scene have boarded their jumbo jets and are finally on their way home.

While we take a short break from auto show coverage - at least until November, when SEMA, the LA Auto Show and the Tokyo Motor Show are all vying for space on our calendar - we suggest you revel in all that Frankfurt had to offer by reliving it all in our table of concepts and production cars below.

Maserati GranCabrio Fendi Aston Martin DBS Carbon
Techart GTStreet RS Hamann BMW M6 conv't
Rimac Concept One Audi A8L W12 Exclusive
VW Polo R WRC 2012 Opel Zafira Tourer
2012 Fiat Panda MB C-Class Coupe DTM
Peugeot 508 RXH 2012 Seat Exeo
VW Buggy Up! Concept Alfa Romeo 4C Concept 2012 Suzuki Swift Sport
Brabus E-Class Electric 2012 Opel Astra GTC

2012 Toyota Avensis
2012 Audi S6
Mercedes SLK55 AMG 2013 Mazda CX-5
Eterniti Hemera
Alpina B6 Biturbo Conv't
Kia GT Concept VW Beetle R Concept
Citroen Tubik Concept
Gallardo Super Trofeo
2012 Lotus Exige S Maserati Kubang
Ducati Diavel AMG
Mercedes-Benz F-125!

We obsessively covered the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scrapmetal Gullwing

There were plenty of curiosities to see art the Frankfurt Motor Show this year. City cars converted into beach buggies. Electric supercars. Exotics with trick folding roofs. Even a tuner Porsche crossover posing as a new vehicle. But few were as intriguing as what we found in one of the back halls of the Frankfurt Messe.

What you see here is a pile of scrap metal transformed by artistic vision into a full-scale replica of the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300SL "Gullwing." It's made entirely of reclaimed car parts and random pieces of scrap by German firm Giganten Aus Stahl, which roughly translates as Giants of Steel. It's just one of a number of creations the studio offers to those with enough, um, "scrap" to buy the unique creations.

Other projects have varied to include full-scale replicas of famous movie characters - from Peter Fonda in full Easy Rider glory to Aliens and Predators - as well as animals, athletes, even pieces of furniture. Of course we were most interested in the cars, and in addition to the Gullwing we found similar replicas of a classic Porsche Spyder and pre-war Auto Union grand prix racer.

You can check 'em out in our trio of high-resolution image galleries, but if you like what you see, don't expect them to come cheap: the Gullwing fetches a princely €69,000 ($96k), while the Porsche and Auto Union are available for €39,000 ($54k) and €54,000 ($75k), respectively. Head over to Classic-Sportwagen.de and Giganten-Aus-Stahl.de for more information.

Turning scrap metal into German classics is our kind of recycling program originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Touring car racing isn't big in the States, which could be in part due to the popularity of NASCAR. But whatever the reason, it's a bit of a shame, because the cars can be wicked cool. Like the new Audi A5 DTM.

Though powered by the same 460-horsepower V8, the racer internally dubbed R17 is set to replace the long-serving A4 DTM (and the V8 Quattro that preceded it) when the new regulations take effect next season. Then it will line up on grids across Germany alongside the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class DTM Coupe and the fresh M3 DTM entry from BMW in the German touring car series. But while development is still ongoing, we got a good look at the A5 DTM here in Frankfurt.

Follow the jump for the press release, and check out the car in the live gallery for a closer look, because while rumors are afloat of the series potentially making the U-Boat trip across the Atlantic, for the time being this is as close as we're likely to get.

Continue reading Audi A5 DTM makes us long for tin-tops that can also turn right

Audi A5 DTM makes us long for tin-tops that can also turn right originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe is going racing, and it has its eyes set on conquering the DTM series. That means the standard C-class Coupe gets the typical DTM outfit of a massive front splitter, seductively wide fender flares and a wing large enough on which to throw a party fit for Dance-centrum in Stuttgart.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe DTM AMG was introduced to the Frankfurt Motor Show crowds by racing greats Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg. It is a fitting reception considering the amount of wins Schumacher has, and just how German Rosberg is. The new C-Class DTM AMG racer will have to live up to both of those men on the racetrack, while also carrying on an impressive history set forth by Mercedes DTM cars of the past.

In 27 years, Mercedes DTM racecars have secured 84 victories in 156 races. Those wins also saw five driver's titles handed to the tri-star-backed teams. The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe DTM AMG begins defending its heritage in 2012.

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe DTM AMG OMG

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe DTM AMG OMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Seat Exeo

We know what you're thinking: This car looks an awful lot like an Audi A4. But it isn't. And it is.

Regular readers may be aware that Audi's Spanish sister-company Seat inherited the previous-generation A4 some time after it was replaced. They put some new badges on it and presto! A new flagship model for Seat.

Called the Exeo, it has now undergone a minor facelift that did nothing if not make it look even more like an Audi, if that were possible, and we got up close and personal with the new model here in Frankfurt. Check it out in our high-res gallery of live images from the show floor.

2012 Seat Exeo is Audi with the old, in with the new-ish originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurt2012 seat exeoa4audiaudi a4exeofrankfurtfrankfurt motor showseatseat exeoThu, 15 Sep 2011 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20043191/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/15/2012-seat-exeo-frankfurt-2011/20043191/article-detail.xml 20043191 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/08-2012-seat-exeoiaa2011-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/08-2012-seat-exeoiaa2011-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti shows us what winning looks like with Red Bull F1 mockup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/infiniti-red-bull-f1-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/infiniti-red-bull-f1-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/infiniti-red-bull-f1-frankfurt-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Red Bull F1 show car

To say that Red Bull has found success in Formula One would be a gross understatement. The energy drink concern bought its way into the pinnacle of motorsports and, after several seasons of building up the team that started life as Stewart Grand Prix and then became Jaguar Racing, has already secured itself both championship titles and is well on its way to repeating the feat.

That's the kind of success that Infiniti - whose sister company Renault provides Red Bull's engines - is keen to tap into. And tap into it they have, prominently sponsoring the team, recruiting its top driver Sebastian Vettel as brand ambassador and unveiling a special edition FX crossover here in Frankfurt. And just beside it sat this mockup of the current RB7 grand prix car.

Though it surely doesn't pack all the mechanical bits of the car with which Vettel and his wingman Mark Webber are winning race after race, you wouldn't know it from looking at the machine up close. See for yourself in our high-resolution gallery of live images.

Infiniti shows us what winning looks like with Red Bull F1 mockup originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurtfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showinfinitirb7red bullred bull racingred bull rb7Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20042754/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/15/infiniti-red-bull-f1-frankfurt-2011/20042754/article-detail.xml 20042754 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/14-red-bull-racing-demoiaa2011-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/14-red-bull-racing-demoiaa2011-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW Motorrad Concept E is zero-emission two-wheeled travel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/bmw-motorrad-concept-e-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/bmw-motorrad-concept-e-frankfurt-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/15/bmw-motorrad-concept-e-frankfurt-2011/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,




The BMW Motottad Concept E is an all-electric emissions-free scooter designed to deliver performance on-par with a 400-500cc commuter motorcycle. The 60-volt concept has a 60-mile range and can be completely recharged from a standard 110-volt outlet in just three hours.

As expected, the front of the scooter is fitted with a traditional telescopic front suspension while the rear features the automaker's signature single-sided swingarm.

The aerodynamic styling is unique, but not over-the-top, with neon green panels emblazoned with the concept's name on the side. The traditional rear-view mirrors are gone. Instead, they have been replaced by twin rear-facing video cameras that project images to twin LCD monitors in the cockpit. In addition to feeding live surrounding traffic information to the driver, the LCD monitors also deliver battery status, range and other essential vehicle information.

We can't help but like this two-passenger eco-scooter. It's hard to argue with something functionally stylish that offers a 60-mile range after a short three-hour charge. Bring it on BMW!

Continue reading BMW Motorrad Concept E is zero-emission two-wheeled travel

BMW Motorrad Concept E is zero-emission two-wheeled travel originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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