Autoblog

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[Is Spyker's new B6 Venator merely a reskinned Artega GT?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/is-spykers-new-b6-venator-merely-a-reskinned-artega-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/is-spykers-new-b6-venator-merely-a-reskinned-artega-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/18/is-spykers-new-b6-venator-merely-a-reskinned-artega-gt/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, Europe, Design/Style, Luxury, MISC

Spyker B6 Venator vs Artega GT - profiile views of both

If you thought the recently unveiled Spyker B6 Venator held a few familiar lines, you aren't alone. The keen-eyed crew at AutoBild noticed the new Swedish sportscar looks an awful lot like the new defunct Artega GT. The German manufacturer went bankrupt last year and may have sold off the GT platform to pay off its debts. Given the fact that the B6 Venator cropped up fairly quickly, critics assumed Spyker grabbed the machine's platform from some outside source rather than build the car's bones in house. Putting two and two together doesn't take a sleuth, but Spyker is remaining tight-lipped about the situation.

Autoblog reached out to Spyker for a comment, but company spokesperson Ali Gogarty simply said, "I apologize that I can't be more help, but at this time it is just too early to comment on any specific details beyond what is in our press release."

That's pretty far from an outright denial, but it's also well short of a confirmation, too. The similarities between the B6 Venator and the Artega GT could be more than just skin deep, however. Both creations make use of a V6 engine mounted amidships, and while Spyker has yet to say where the six-cylinder engine in the B6 hails from, Artega used Volkswagen powerplants.

Is Spyker's new B6 Venator merely a reskinned Artega GT? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20507753 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/venator-v-gt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/venator-v-gt.jpg <![CDATA[Kia to green-light GT and Provo for production?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/kia-to-green-light-gt-and-provo-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/kia-to-green-light-gt-and-provo-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/kia-to-green-light-gt-and-provo-for-production/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Kia

Kia GT Concept - front three-quarter view, live on auto show stand

Kia is looking to inject a bit more performance life into its brand, and according to Auto Express, the company is looking at creating sporty models based on two of its recent concept cars, the GT four-door from the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show (shown above) and the Provo hybrid hatchback that debuted in Geneva last week (inset, right).

"The GT is close to being approved and going into production, but, as with all our cars, they have to be developed on a sound financial footing," Benny Oeyen, Kia Europe's VP of marketing and product planning, told Auto Express. When it debuted, the GT four-door was powered by a turbocharged 3.3-liter V6, reportedly good for 389 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Kia Provo Concept - front three-quarter view at Geneva Motor Show reveal

The Provo, on the other hand, could stand as a sort of halo car for the company's B-segment offerings. It would ride on the same front-wheel-drive platform as the Rio compact, though Kia says it's eager to keep the concept's gasoline-electric powertrain intact. "Our brand is currently rational, but there's space for a B-coupe," says Oeyen. Of course, the company would indeed have to look at different naming possibilities for its B-segment coupe, since the week-old Provo is already stirring up some controversy.

Kia has not disclosed any sort of timeline for when the cars may officially get the green light or when they would arrive in production form. From where we sit, some sporty Kias sound good to us, and if anything, the GT and Provo concepts certainly seem like promising building blocks for new products.

Kia to green-light GT and Provo for production? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gtgt conceptkiakia gtkia gt conceptprovoprovo conceptTue, 12 Mar 2013 11:01:00 EST

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20498702 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/kia-gt-concept-frankfurt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/kia-gt-concept-frankfurt.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Oakley test out its flask's durability with a parade of pricy cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/watch-oakley-test-out-its-flasks-durability-with-a-parade-of-pr/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/watch-oakley-test-out-its-flasks-durability-with-a-parade-of-pr/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/27/watch-oakley-test-out-its-flasks-durability-with-a-parade-of-pr/#commentsFiled under: Performance, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos

Black Ford GT tethered to Oakley / Macallan flask - video screencap

Do you like to drink in public, where big, fragile glass bottles full of expensive booze are a hassle and a liability? Do you ever drink so hard that your very drinking vessel - even a sturdy one like a metal flask - just isn't extreme enough? Do you like Scotch whisky? Do you like to drive in circles and listen to white guy blues?

If you answered "yes" to any or all of the questions above, and if you've got about $900 burning a hole in your pocket, Oakley and The Macallan have got a flask to sell you. Made from "food-grade steel, carbon fiber and aerospace-grade aluminum" we can't think of even one compelling reason to plunk down 600 pounds sterling for the flask. But hey, the completely over-the-top commercial that sells the thing has got a bunch of high-dollar sports cars, a helicopter and a naked lady in a bathtub... watch it below, and try not to drink and drive.

Continue reading Watch Oakley test out its flask's durability with a parade of pricy cars

Watch Oakley test out its flask's durability with a parade of pricy cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mercedes-benz sls amggtm3macallanoakleyoakley flaskshelbysls amgsuperformancethe flaskthe macallanvideoWed, 27 Feb 2013 15:28:00 EST

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20481192 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/oakley-macallan-flask-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/oakley-macallan-flask-628.jpg <![CDATA[Galpin announces plans for Ford GT-inspired supercar]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/galpin-announces-plans-for-ford-gt-inspired-supercar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/galpin-announces-plans-for-ford-gt-inspired-supercar/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/03/galpin-announces-plans-for-ford-gt-inspired-supercar/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Ford, Design/Style

Galpin Auto Sports GTR-1

Galpin Auto Sports has announced that it is hard at work on a new project. The concept is to create a vehicle that embodies all the Ford GT could have been had Ford not axed the supercar back in 2006. Called the GTR-1, the car will boast more than 1,000 horsepower as well as the buyer's choice of a body hewn from either aluminum or carbon fiber. That skin will get stretched over a standard Ford GT.

Each example will feature an interior built to the customer's specifications, though drivetrain and suspension details remain murky. From what we can tell, Galpin will release more details as we get closer to the GTR-1 launch early next year. Galpin has a long history of selling performance Ford products. It was the first dealer in history to sell Shelby Cobra models in the '60s, and hasn't hesitated to stand behind all manner of go-faster Mustang models over the past 50-plus years. You can check out the brief press release on the GTR-1 below.

Continue reading Galpin announces plans for Ford GT-inspired supercar

Galpin announces plans for Ford GT-inspired supercar originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford gtgalpingalpin auto sportsgalpin gtr-1gtgtr-1Mon, 03 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST

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20393090 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/01-galpin-gtr-1-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/01-galpin-gtr-1-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Gran Turismo</i> Awards crowns Best of Show from SEMA, will include in game]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/gran-turismo-awards-crowns-best-of-show-from-sema-to-incl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/gran-turismo-awards-crowns-best-of-show-from-sema-to-incl/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/gran-turismo-awards-crowns-best-of-show-from-sema-to-incl/#commentsFiled under: SEMA Show, Volkswagen, Design/Style

Part of the blinged-out pomp and circumstance that surrounds SEMA is the presentation of the Gran Turismo Awards, which recognizes best car design and innovations in six categories, as well as an overall Best in Show. This year's winner was David Eckert and his 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 40, which also won the award for Best Hot Rod.

Other winners included the Toyota DragQuoia for Best Truck/SUV, the 2013 Ford Mustang RTR for Best Domestic Car, the Scion Evasive FR-S for Best Asian Import and the 500-horsepower VWVortex Super Beetle won for best European Import.

But it was the Mach 40 that apparently captured the interest of judges, which included Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi. David Eckert's team created a clever combination of Mustang Mach 1 styling and massive power, using the powertrain from the Ford GT. That means this 'Stang was fitted with a mid-mounted supercharged 5.4-liter V8, producing 600 to 850 horsepower, modulated using an "adjustable horsepower dial." Interestingly, the custom project rides on a C6 Corvette suspension.

The notoriety of the Mach 40 will last well after this year's show, as the car is being included in the Gran Turismo franchise, and will be seen by the millions that play the popular driving simulator. You may never get to drive the Mach 40, but now you may know what driving this car feels like in virtual reality, which for the David Eckert's team, must feel pretty darn cool.

Gran Turismo Awards crowns Best of Show from SEMA, will include in game originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 09:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>customfordford gtford mustanggran turismogtmustangTue, 06 Nov 2012 09:16:00 EST

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20370898 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01-ford-mach-40-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/01-ford-mach-40-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Watch the World's Tiniest Police Chase]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/watch-the-worlds-tiniest-police-chase/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/watch-the-worlds-tiniest-police-chase/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/watch-the-worlds-tiniest-police-chase/#commentsFiled under: Classics, Coupe, Performance, Etc., Videos, Ford, Police/Emergency

World's Tiniest Police Chase

One would think that with all the technology at modern society's disposal, we would have come up with solutions to the world's persistent troubles by now. Famine would be a thing of the past. War nothing but a dark spot on our history and disease just a whisper of recollection. Sadly, that just isn't the case.

Instead, manufacturers have been happy to supply the masses with wave after wave of gadgets and gizmos that do little beyond entertain us for a few quick seconds. Film-making duo The Theory decided to make the best of one of those gadgets, the Micro Vision projector, by crafting a clever police chase scene.

The quick film follows a convict as he busts out and heads for the hills, or at least the hallway. After a short foot chase, the newly freed con takes to a Ford GT in an effort to escape the long arm of the law. While it's no solution to the world's woes, the clip is clever enough to paint a smile on our faces. That's good enough for us. Check it out for yourself.

Continue reading Watch the World's Tiniest Police Chase

Watch the World's Tiniest Police Chase originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crown victoriafordford gtgtpolicepolice chasespeed of light videovideoworlds tiniest police chaseTue, 05 Jun 2012 19:28:00 EST

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20251625 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/worlds-tiniest-police-chase-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/worlds-tiniest-police-chase-628.jpg <![CDATA[Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/03/aston-martins-dbs-successor-revives-vanquish-moniker/#commentsFiled under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, Aston Martin, Luxury

2013 Aston Martin Vanquish

A week ago, Aston Martin showed off the new AM310 concept at Villa d'Este. Now we know what the DBS replacement will be called when the production version arrives, thanks to the snoops at CAR magazine: Vanquish.

The resurrected moniker, last used on the V12 GT flagship that Aston retired in 2007, is plainly visible on the decklid of the car shown above, whose rear-end styling exactly matches that of the AM310 Concept.

Whether the transporter carrying the new Vanquish was left open by genuine mistake or "accidentally" by design, CAR's video of the discovery, posted below, leaves no doubt as to the next Aston Martin's identity. And we have some tidbits of our own to add to the developing story.

We've heard some rumblings that more concrete information will become available later this month, and that if you want to see the Vanquish in person, you should keep Pebble Beach weekend open. As indicated by the AM310, the Vanquish looks to the ultra-exotic One-77 for some styling cues, but that's not all. Expect the Vanquish to outperform the DBS, with more power from the latest version of Aston's familiar 6.0-liter V12 and less weight thanks to carbon fiber bodywork. Lighter, quicker and faster? Our attention is piqued. U.S. buyers should be able to get their hands on the Vanquish sometime in early 2013.

Continue reading to watch video of the 2013 Aston Martin Vanquish sitting in its transporter, and compare its styling to that of the AM310 in an accompanying second clip.

Continue reading Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut

Aston Martin's DBS successor resurrects Vanquish moniker, with likely Pebble Beach debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013am310aston martincoupegtnew vanquishv12vanquishSun, 03 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST

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20250326 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/vanquish-badge_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/vanquish-badge.jpg <![CDATA[Hennessey Ford GT hits 212.9 mph in the standing half-mile]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/hennessey-ford-gt-hits-212-9-mph-in-the-standing-half-mile/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/hennessey-ford-gt-hits-212-9-mph-in-the-standing-half-mile/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/hennessey-ford-gt-hits-212-9-mph-in-the-standing-half-mile/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Etc., Videos, Ford

Hennessey Ford GT

Mark Heidaker's Hennessey Ford GT is back to work snagging records. Sean Kennedy once again took to the wheel of the machine at the Houston Half Mile Shootout, and just as before, the duo didn't disappoint. Kennedy was able to pilot the wicked GT to an astonishing 212.9 miles per hour in a mere half mile, successfully snagging the world record in the process. Not too shabby.

As you may recall, this same team walked away with the standing mile world record back in March. At that time, Kennedy shot the GT to 257.7 mph in the allotted distance. We have to wonder what these guys have up their sleeves for the next stunt. Click Scroll down to check out the understandably quick half mile video for yourself.

Continue reading Hennessey Ford GT hits 212.9 mph in the standing half-mile

Hennessey Ford GT hits 212.9 mph in the standing half-mile originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford gtgthennessey ford gthennessey gthennessy ford gt world recordmojave milestanding half milevideoworld recordworld record standing half mileTue, 15 May 2012 15:00:00 EST

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20238502 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/hennessey-ford-gt-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/hennessey-ford-gt-628.jpg <![CDATA[Shelby considering new halo sports car, Focus and Fusion models for the future]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/shelby-considering-new-halo-sports-car-focus-and-fusion-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/shelby-considering-new-halo-sports-car-focus-and-fusion-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/shelby-considering-new-halo-sports-car-focus-and-fusion-models/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Performance, Ford

If Ford actually comes to market with a new GT, then we'll be right there with them.

With the debut of its audacious 1000 horsepower GT500 at the New York Auto Show earlier this month, you might be wondering what direction Shelby will be headed in the future. After all, they can't just keep adding more horsepower to the Mustang. Can they?

Shelby president John Luft tells us that while they will continue producing post-title Mustang packages (they have a product plan for the pony car through 2020), the company is also considering branching out to other vehicles in the Ford lineup.

"Our plans include everything from the Mustang to looking at future development of the EcoBoost motor," he told us. "There could be a Focus or Fusion development in our future."

The plans don't stop there, though. Luft revealed to us that Shelby is considering producing another halo sports car like they did in the late 1990s with the Series 1.

"We always pose the 'what if'. If you remember when the Series 1 was developed, that was a purpose-built halo sports car for the Shelby brand. We always put those things in the plan because maybe down the road we would want to readdress a purpose-built Shelby sports car. It doesn't mean we'll build it, but we always want to challenge ourselves to put it on the table and talk about the practicality of it."

Keep reading for more insights into Shelby's plans for the future.

Continue reading Shelby considering new halo sports car, Focus and Fusion models for the future

Shelby considering new halo sports car, Focus and Fusion models for the future originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford gtgtjohn luftshelbyshelby 1000shelby focusshelby ford gtshelby fusionshelby series 1Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:58:00 EST

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20217504 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/shelby-logo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/shelby-logo.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Hyundai Elantra GT is one handsome hatch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-is-one-handsome-hatch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-is-one-handsome-hatch/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/08/2013-hyundai-elantra-gt-is-one-handsome-hatch/#commentsFiled under: Chicago Auto Show, Budget, Hatchback, Hyundai

When you intend to go up against cars like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and Mazda3, it doesn't matter how softly or loudly you speak, your stick had better be impressive. Hyundai believes it has just the thing in the 2013 Elantra GT, which is the updated moniker for the Elantra Touring (and a throwback to five-door Elantras of yore).

The GT is the U.S. version of the European i30, and it's quite a looker if you're a fan of Hyundai's Fluidic Sculpture design language. Under the hood, you'll find the same 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder as the sedan, sending 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque to the ground via either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. That puts it in the thick of a competitive set that, for Hyundai, also includes the Subaru Impreza and Toyota Matrix, but gives it the best power-to-weight ratio of them all. That's because the Elantra GT is 57 percent ultra high- and high-tensile steel, which helps keep its weight down to a lightest-in-segment 2,784 pounds when equipped with the automatic transmission.

Fuel economy is the beneficiary, with the automaker estimating an EPA rating of 28 miles per gallon in the city and 39 mpg on the highway (32 combined). Hyundai says this is good for a cruising range up to 448 miles.

Driving pleasure will be attended to with a sport-tuned suspension that uses MacPherson struts up front aided by a stabilizer bar, and a torsion bar setup out back. The real pleasures, though, are claimed on the inside, where the Elantra GT is said to provide more cargo room than the aforementioned competition and even the Nissan Juke. The mod-cons are prodigious and include, as standard, a cooled glovebox, heated front seats, 10-way power driver's seat, leather seating surfaces, automatic headlights, Bluetooth and seven airbags.

The 2013 Elantra GT goes on sale this summer. Have a read of the press release after the jump and stay tuned for live pics from our team at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

Continue reading 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT is one handsome hatch

2013 Hyundai Elantra GT is one handsome hatch originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 hyundai elantra gtchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showelantraelantra gtgthyundaiWed, 08 Feb 2012 01:01:00 EST

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20162000 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/elantragt628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/elantragt628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford GT designer takes his creation to artful zenith]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/ford-gt-designer-takes-his-creation-to-artful-zenith/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/ford-gt-designer-takes-his-creation-to-artful-zenith/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/12/ford-gt-designer-takes-his-creation-to-artful-zenith/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Ford, Design/Style

Remember this chromed Buick Regal? At the time of publication, we said there were some cars that looked better in chrome than others, and this is what we had in mind.

A specialist aftermarket firm called GT Guy LLC solicited the talents of Camilo Pardo - the designer of the Ford GT - to create the one-of-a-kind supercar you see here. To create Merkury 4, the team started with a solid red Ford GT and gave it a Mirrachrome paint job with a black-bordered fluorescent orange stripe. Then they tweaked the supercharger to deliver a whopping 725 horsepower to the rear wheel. They painted the valve covers, smoothed out the clamshell intakes behind the doors, fitted ceramic-coated pipes, bolted on a fresh set of HRE wheels wearing Michelin rubber and more.

The result, as you can see from the photos in the gallery, is quite stunning - as if the stock Ford GT wasn't already a looker on its own.

Ford GT designer takes his creation to artful zenith originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camilo pardofordford gtford gt merkury 4gtgt40merkury 4the gt guythe gt guy llcThu, 12 Jan 2012 14:29:00 EST

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20146722 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webfordgt-chrome2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/webfordgt-chrome2.jpg <![CDATA[Kia considering coupe, wagon versions of GT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/23/kia-considering-coupe-wagon-versions-of-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/23/kia-considering-coupe-wagon-versions-of-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/23/kia-considering-coupe-wagon-versions-of-gt/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, Coupe, Sedan, Wagon, Luxury

Kia GT Concept

According to a report from Inside Line, Kia is considering creating a number of variants of its GT Concept, including both a coupe and a wagon. If true, that could mean Kia is aiming to create a family of vehicles capable of competing with German luxury automakers like BMW and Audi.

The Korean manufacturer has made it clear that a production version of the four-door will likely make its way to market in 2013 as an affordable alternative to hardware like the Audi A7, and Kia has made waves about wanting a budget sports car in its stable in the past.

Variants of the incredibly attractive GT would seem perfect for slotting into all of the above spots. With a turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 good for 390 horsepower, the GT should be capable of keeping up with brawny hardware from its European competition.

Kia considering coupe, wagon versions of GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20133955 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/kia-gt-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/kia-gt-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota GT 86 lets new boxer engine rev in latest vid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-gt-86-lets-new-boxer-engine-rev-in-latest-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-gt-86-lets-new-boxer-engine-rev-in-latest-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/01/toyota-gt-86-lets-new-boxer-engine-rev-in-latest-vid/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Videos, Toyota

toyota gt 86

Toyota is an auto sales juggernaut, but when it comes to sports cars, the Japanese automaker tends to come up exceptionally short. That should change with the introduction of the Toyota GT 86 in Europe and Scion FR-S in North America, both of which promise rear-drive fun and a reasonable price tag. So far we've seen the 86 in person and we've snapped plenty of pics, but we haven't had the chance to hear the 2.0-liter boxer engine rev.

That changes all changes thanks to a three-minute video that is big on CGI and funky techno music. Hit the jump to watch the animated 86 in action. You'll see the boxer four assembled out of mid air, wrapped in 86 sheet metal and driven to the virtual limit. The video is very Forza meets Gran Turismo and the music a bit overpowering, but the sound of the new boxer engine makes it a must-watch.

Continue reading Toyota GT 86 lets new boxer engine rev in latest vid

Toyota GT 86 lets new boxer engine rev in latest vid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 scion fr-s86boxer fourcoupeenginefr-sgtgt 86sciontoyotavideoThu, 01 Dec 2011 12:32:00 EST

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Now that Kia has proven itself to be a true leader in terms of automotive design (thanks for that, Peter Schreyer), it's time for the Korean automaker to evolve its styling language to new types of vehicles. Every new Kia design has been created for a front-wheel-drive platform, but now, Schreyer and his team have expanded to the world of the rear-wheel-drive architecture, previewed here with the GT concept, making its debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

"We wanted to create something similarly graceful, athletic and confident, but not aggressive or overbearing," says Gregory Guillaume, Kia's European design chief. Those of you with keen eyes will note that the GT concept is a sort of evolution from Kia's Kee concept, first seen in Frankfurt back in 2007. The swoopy, four-door coupe shape works well with the Kee's original design direction, though we must admit, we feel like we've seen that front fascia before. (Aston Martin One-77, anyone? Or how about the GT by Citroën race car?)

We're not quite sure if we love the exterior design, but one thing's for sure - what's under the hood is sure to impress. The GT concept is powered by a 3.3-liter turbocharged V6, producing 389 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Inside, the GT concept uses single-piece seats floating on arched supports, as well as a glass instrument panel with three layers of organic LED lights. This glass panel not only gives an interesting, 3D view of the information display, but allows the center console to be freed up of its usual buttons and displays, allowing for a cleaner, more spacious feel.

Hit the jump for Kia's own words about the GT concept, and stay tuned for live shots direct from the Frankfurt Messe.

Continue reading Kia GT Concept puts a familiar face on a rear-wheel-drive platform

Kia GT Concept puts a familiar face on a rear-wheel-drive platform originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 05:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurtconceptfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showgtkiakia conceptkia gtkia gt conceptTue, 13 Sep 2011 05:34:00 EST

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2010 FIA GT1 World Championship

There's a lot of changes going on in the world of sports car racing, the bulk of them resulting from the rekindled friendship between the ACO (which organizes Le Mans and its related series) and the FIA (which until now governed just about every other form of motorsport). However, the FIA's own GT racing championships have also had their own fluctuations over the past few years.

What started out as the FIA GT Championship then split into the GT1 World Championship, GT3 European Championship and GT4 European Cup. The classes are set to rejoin next year, though, as the SRO which organizes them on the FIA's behalf has announced the formation of the new FIA GT World Championship.

Rather than have a variety of cars competing in different classes, SRO and the FIA are working to equalize the performance of existing cars to have them all fighting for the same prize. As a result, organizers are expecting a bigger grid. Teams representing Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini and Nissan are all expected to return from the current GT1 series, while talks are also underway to bring Mercedes-Benz, Alpina and Chevrolet teams to the grid. With all these challengers lining up, we'd be surprised not to see any Porsches jumping in, too.

The series is expected to return to circuits across Europe, Asia and South America next season, however discussions are underway to expand to such locations as Australia, Russia and even North America in the near future.

So what's the difference between the reformatted FIA GT Championship and the new FIA World Endurance Championship also starting next year? In two words, race length. While the latter will go with the ACO's format of round-the-clock racing, the former will stick with the current series' one-hour sprint-race format.

Teams lining up for new FIA GT World Championship originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiafia gt racingfia gt world championshipgtsroMon, 01 Aug 2011 14:29:00 EST

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20005265 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/10fiagtwc2010preview_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/10fiagtwc2010preview.jpg <![CDATA[1965 Ford GT40 Roadster crossing the block at Villa d'Este]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/03/ford-gt40-roadster-crosses-the-block/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/03/ford-gt40-roadster-crosses-the-block/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/03/ford-gt40-roadster-crosses-the-block/#commentsFiled under: Classics, Auctions, Europe, Ford, Racing

1965 Ford GT Roadster

1965 Ford GT Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

A one-of-five 1965 Ford GT40 Roadster will be auctioned off at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in Cernobbio, Italy on May 21. The car was built in 1965 as a prototype by Ford's Advanced Vehicle Operations center in England, and is one of four surviving examples.

The Linden Green example crossing the block was raced by John Whitmore and Bob Bondurant in the 1965 Targa Florio, running as high as third before it was forced to quit after being damaged. The car, chassis GT/111 was lost after the Targa Florio, waiting to resurface until 2006.

The car was authenticated and restored in 2007, and has made vintage race appearances around the world, starting with the 2007 Goodwood Revival. Given the car's rarity, blue-chip name and Whitmore/Bondurant prestige, the GT Roadster will no doubt fetch some serious bank when it rolls across the block.

Gallery: 1965 Ford GT Roadster

1965 Ford GT Roadster

1965 Ford GT Roadster

1965 Ford GT Roadster

1965 Ford GT Roadster

1965 Ford GT Roadster

[Source: Top Gear | Images: Top Gear]

1965 Ford GT40 Roadster crossing the block at Villa d'Este originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 Apr 2011 14:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1965 Ford GT Roadsterfordgtgt40targa florioSun, 03 Apr 2011 14:03:00 EST

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19900995 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/ford-gt-roadster-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/ford-gt-roadster-lead.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Audi R8 GT to start at $196,800]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/2012-audi-r8-gt-to-start-at-196-800/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/2012-audi-r8-gt-to-start-at-196-800/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/2012-audi-r8-gt-to-start-at-196-800/#commentsFiled under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Audi, Specialty

2011 Audi R8 GT

2011 Audi R8 GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has announced that the 90 examples of the 2011 R8 GT slated to come to this country will carry price tags starting at $196,800. The R8 GT packs a version of the 5.2-liter FSI V10, but cranked up to 560 horsepower, mated to Audi's R-Tronic sequential transmission. Backing up the transmission is a four-wheel-drive system with a locking rear differential.

The R8 GT is built using more aluminum and carbon fiber than the standard car, which translates to a 180-pound weight loss. The rear hatch, spoiler and front splitter on the GT are all carbon-fiber pieces.

The weight savings, power increase, and sequential gearbox team up to scoot the R8 GT to 60 miles per hour in 3.6 seconds, and a up to a 199-mph top speed.

Gallery: 2011 Audi R8 GT

2011 Audi R8 GT

2011 Audi R8 GT

2011 Audi R8 GT

2011 Audi R8 GT

2011 Audi R8 GT

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading 2012 Audi R8 GT to start at $196,800

2012 Audi R8 GT to start at $196,800 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Audi R8 GTAudiGTR8r8 gtr8 gt pricingWed, 16 Mar 2011 17:20:00 EST

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19881889 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/r8gt1-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/r8gt1-lead.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Ford GT coming back as a hybrid?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/rumormill-ford-gt-coming-back-as-a-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/rumormill-ford-gt-coming-back-as-a-hybrid/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/rumormill-ford-gt-coming-back-as-a-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Ford, Rumormill

Geiger Ford GT

Rumors surrounding the notion of a hybrid Ford GT successor are getting thicker by the moment. Auto Express has taken to stoking those fires with a report that says that the next-generation car will boast a supercharged V8 engine along with an electric motor. Drivers will supposedly be able to command an extra boost from the batteries with a push of a button, should they so desire.

Interestingly enough, Auto Express is under the impression that while the forced-induction V8 will be left to put power to the rear wheels, the front tires will be spun by the electric motor only.

That would mean, in effect, that the next GT would be an all-wheel-drive beast - something that would work against the grain of the vehicle's legacy. If the report is to be believed, total power will sit north of 600 ponies, giving the GT successor the teeth it needs to tango with the likes of the McLaren MP4-12C, Lamborghini Gallardo and Ferrari 458 Italia.

The only problem with this line of thought is that by the time the rumored GT arrives, those cars will all be anywhere from two to three years old. Our guess is that it'd be worth taking AE's insights with a supercharged grain of salt.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: Ford GT coming back as a hybrid? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric ford gtfordford gtgthybrid ford gtnext-generation ford gtThu, 03 Feb 2011 08:28:00 EST

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19825776 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/ford-gt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/ford-gt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Ford's Kuzak hints that GT successor may be in the cards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/13/report-fords-kuzak-hints-that-gt-successor-may-be-in-the-cards/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/13/report-fords-kuzak-hints-that-gt-successor-may-be-in-the-cards/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/13/report-fords-kuzak-hints-that-gt-successor-may-be-in-the-cards/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, Ford, Rumormill

Ford GT

Ford GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Now here's a juicy rumor we can get excited about: According to the crew over at Automobile, Ford may be considering another shot at the legendary Ford GT. The news comes courtesy of Derrick Kuzak, Ford's head of global product development. After being questioned about the possibility of a GT successor, Kuzak chose his words very carefully by admitting that there are certain things in the four-year product plan that the company isn't comfortable with discussing. While that's not an out-and-out confirmation that the Blue Oval wants to see another mid-engine, high-horsepower machine in its stable, the overly diplomatic response does indicate that the thought may have crossed more than a few minds in Dearborn.

Is this a thin thread to cling to? Absolutely, but the talking heads of the industry typically site pesky issues like a vehicle's high expense and looming CAFE standards as perfect reasons against building a new halo car. Considering that none of that rhetoric showed up this time around and the fact that we've heard rumors about a hybrid GT successor, it wouldn't seem to be too much of a stretch to think that we just might see a new version of the car in a few short years. Consider our fingers crossed.

Gallery: Ford GT

[Source: Automobile]

Report: Ford's Kuzak hints that GT successor may be in the cards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Jan 2011 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>derrick kuzakfordford gtford gt supercargtgt 40gt40kuzakThu, 13 Jan 2011 10:27:00 EST

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19799736 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/ford-gt-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/ford-gt-630.jpg <![CDATA[Tuner wrecks customer's Ford GT, situation devolves from there]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/20/tuner-wrecks-customers-ford-gt-situation-devolves-from-there/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/20/tuner-wrecks-customers-ford-gt-situation-devolves-from-there/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/20/tuner-wrecks-customers-ford-gt-situation-devolves-from-there/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Government/Legal, Safety, Ford

Wrecked customer Ford GT

Anyone who's ever been hesitant to hand over their keys to another driver, or conversely to get behind the wheel of someone else's car - exotic or otherwise - will want to take note of the following story currently being played out on the internet's extensive web of car enthusiast forums.

The story revolves around a Ford GT - one of the finest exotics ever produced by an American automaker - its customization, and its unfortunate demise. The car - in classic Gulf baby blue and orange heritage livery and outfitted with twin turbochargers - belongs to one Ray Hofman, who wanted to have some modifications carried out to make it more drivable in advance of a Ford GT rally event. Having struck out with other tuners, Ray turned to Bill Knobloch of Discovery Automotive, better known to forum members as Shadowman. Bill agreed to carry out the tuning Ray was looking for, handed over the keys, and from there things went downhill in more ways than one. Follow the jump to read on.

[Sources: Bimmerboost, Ford GT Forum]

Continue reading Tuner wrecks customer's Ford GT, situation devolves from there

Tuner wrecks customer's Ford GT, situation devolves from there originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill knoblochcrashdiscoverydiscovery automotivefordford gtgtGulf liveryinsuranceray hofmanraymond hofmanwilliam knoblochWed, 20 Oct 2010 11:29:00 EST

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