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[SAIC-owned MG launches MG 6, first all-new car in 14 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/saic-owned-mg-launches-mg-6-first-all-new-car-in-14-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/saic-owned-mg-launches-mg-6-first-all-new-car-in-14-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/saic-owned-mg-launches-mg-6-first-all-new-car-in-14-years/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 MG 6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The last new MG was the MGF sportscar way back in 1995, and oh, what a difference 14 years makes. The MG6 is the first new MG by the company's new owner, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp. (SAIC), and they've chosen a four-door liftback for their coming out party. About the size of a VW Golk/Skoda Octavia, the MG6 will be powered by either a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre four-cylinder with 133 brake horsepower and 135 pound-feet of torque, or a turbocharged 1.8-liter with 160 bhp and 158 lb-ft. Shifting is said to be via five-speed automatic.

The MG 6 will go on sale in China first, but it has reportedly been engineered to meet global safety standards and is expected to be exported. SAIC hasn't given any numbers or even locations for export yet, but the company president said they plan to produce it in the UK by the end of next year.


Gallery: 2010 MG6


[Source: Autoblog China (translated)]

SAIC-owned MG launches MG 6, first all-new car in 14 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mg62010Mg6chinaGuangzhouGuangzhou 2009Guangzhou Auto ShowGuangzhou2009GuangzhouAutoShowhatchbackMGMG 6mg6saicMon, 23 Nov 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Next Nissan Micra spotted?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/spy-shots-next-nissan-micra-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/spy-shots-next-nissan-micra-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/spy-shots-next-nissan-micra-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Images of the next generation Nissan Micra have plopped onto the interwebs, and they have brought with them a revelation we are a little ashamed to have come to so late. First, let us say that we really, really dig the Nissan Micra as it is. Sure, we delight most in its hardcore version, but even the gutless four-door variants have that design going for them: the Micra is wonderfully visually compelling.

The revelation is this: when it comes to Nissan, the phrase "This car is coming to the U.S." looks to actually mean "a bloated kind of melty looking version of this car is coming to the U.S." We saw it first with the Cube, and the same sort of globular travesty has apparently been perpetrated on the Micra. Forget the oh-so-sexy sketch from a month ago. If this is the car we're getting, look for the Micra with its thumb stuck its thumb in its grille and puffed-out cheeks.

When the new Micra bows as a 2011 model, it will reportedly be built in four-door, five-door, and MPV flavors, all of which will supposedly be powered by a three-cylinder engine. What isn't clear, however, is which Micra bodystyles we'll see in America.

[Source: Joke for Blog]

Spy Shots: Next Nissan Micra spotted? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 micra2011 nissan2011 nissan micra2011Micra2011Nissan2011NissanMicrabudgethatchbackmicrampvnissannissan micraNissanMicraWed, 11 Nov 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Suzuki Alto Concept tries to be a cooler kei]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-suzuki-alto-concept-tries-to-be-a-cooler-kei/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-suzuki-alto-concept-tries-to-be-a-cooler-kei/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-suzuki-alto-concept-tries-to-be-a-cooler-kei/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Suzuki Alto Concept -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Suzuki Alto concept is The Kei You Would Never Suspect: unassuming looks belie the fact that this is car Suzuki is going to use to reach a wider audience. The exterior - which, frankly, looks like a ton of other itty bitty already plying on Japan's streets -- has been subtly tweaked to subtly lure in male and female buyers in a wider age group than the current car attracts.

According to the company, the Alto concept "points to the future of the minivehicle by combining newly honed performance with minivehicle economy and user-friendliness," with "styling that appeals to people regardless of age and gender."

Although officially labeled as a concept, the three-cylinder Alto is expected on the roads next year and an all-wheel-drive version is also on the way. Decide on the Alto for yourself with the help of the high-res gallery below and the press release after the break.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Suzuki Alto Concept


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tokyo 2009: Suzuki Alto Concept tries to be a cooler kei

Tokyo 2009: Suzuki Alto Concept tries to be a cooler kei originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternative energyAlternativeEnergyalto conceptAltoConceptbudgetconcept carConceptCarhatchbacksuzuki altoSuzuki Alto ConceptSuzukiAltoSuzukiAltoConcepttokyotokyo 2009tokyo auto showTokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoAutoShowTokyoMotorShowThu, 22 Oct 2009 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Daihatsu Tanto Exe and Tanto Exe Custom are boxy and... custom boxy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-daihatsu-tanto-exe-and-tanto-exe-custom-are-boxy-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-daihatsu-tanto-exe-and-tanto-exe-custom-are-boxy-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-daihatsu-tanto-exe-and-tanto-exe-custom-are-boxy-and/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Daihatsu Tanto Exe and Tanto Exe Custom -- Click above for high-res image gallery

A "tanto" is a short Japanese sword or dagger, which means the only thing it has in common with the Daihatsu Tanto Exe and Tanto Exe Custom is the descriptor "short" and the additional epithet, "light." Both the Tanto Exe and Exe Custom are "lighter and more fuel efficient versions of the Tanto" which, compared to most other cars, is still no heavyweight.

We could put the Tanto in our own words, but Daihatsu's marketers have hit a hyperbole home run so we'll go with their phrasing: "both vehicles feature expansive interiors at the top levels in their classes," "the sophisticated interiors allow adults to enjoy the pleasure of driving," and "the exteriors express both quality and vitality." Oh, we can say that the Custom has a Momo steering wheel. As for the rest, have a look at both vehicles in the gallery of high-res images below and decide for yourselves.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Daihatsu Tanto Exe Custom


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Daihatsu Tanto Exe


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Tokyo 2009: Daihatsu Tanto Exe and Tanto Exe Custom are boxy and... custom boxy originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DaihatsuDaihatsu Tanto ExeDaihatsu Tanto Exe CustomDaihatsuTantoExeDaihatsuTantoExeCustomhatchbacktanto exetanto exe customTantoExeTantoExeCustomtokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowWed, 21 Oct 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: WRX STi Carbon gets a weave]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-wrx-sti-carbon-gets-a-weave/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-wrx-sti-carbon-gets-a-weave/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/21/tokyo-2009-wrx-sti-carbon-gets-a-weave/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Subaru WRX STi Carbon -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Most people we talked with don't seem to understand the point of the Subaru WRX STi Carbon unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show - but it's a JDM-only car, and frankly, there are a lot of things that outsiders don't understand about the Japanese market.

The carbon-roofed A-Line will come with two choices of engine, but since the model isn't earmarked for America, we probably don't need to worry about it. That said, the powerplants are as intriguing as the car: a 2.5-liter turbo with 296 horsepower, and a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo with 305 hp. Both will operate through the only tranny on offer: a five-speed automatic. If you got past that last sentence, there's also suede inside. So you'll be more comfortable shifting... your automatic. Have a look at it in the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: Subaru WRX STi Carbon


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Tokyo 2009: WRX STi Carbon gets a weave originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awdhatchbackperformancerally carRallyCarScoobySubarusubaru wrx stiSubaru WRX STI CarbonSubaruWrxStiSubaruWrxStiCarbonSubietokyotokyo 2009Tokyo Motor ShowTokyo2009TokyoMotorShowWRCWRX STiWRX STI CarbonWrxStiWrxStiCarbonWed, 21 Oct 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Citroën using cool interactive "augmented reality" tech to pitch new DS3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/video-citroen-using-interactive-augmented-reality-tech-to-pit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/video-citroen-using-interactive-augmented-reality-tech-to-pit/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/video-citroen-using-interactive-augmented-reality-tech-to-pit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Citroën DS3 in augmented reality -- Click above to watch video

Citroën is using the latest in video technology to promote its newest compact, the DS3. First, you go to Citroën's augmented reality website and print out the interactive pages. Then, after you enter the augmented reality area of the site, you hold those interactive pages in front of your webcam, and what you'll get is a DS3 placed in various situations that you can control with the piece of paper in your hands.

Of course, you shouldn't take our word for it - check out the video after the jump and then hop over to Citroën's site to have a go for yourself.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Citroen DS3


[Source: Citroën]

Continue reading VIDEO: Citroën using cool interactive "augmented reality" tech to pitch new DS3

VIDEO: Citroën using cool interactive "augmented reality" tech to pitch new DS3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budgetcitroencitroen ds3CitroenDs3compactds3hatchhatchbacktechtechnologyvideoMon, 12 Oct 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Fiesta U.S.-spec gets caught in Mexican factory]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ford-fiesta-u-s-spec-gets-caught-in-mexican-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ford-fiesta-u-s-spec-gets-caught-in-mexican-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/ford-fiesta-u-s-spec-gets-caught-in-mexican-factory/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ford Fiestas being built in Mexico -- Click above for high-res image gallery

What is reported to be the coming U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta has been photographed during assembly in Mexico, and the minor changes we can glean so far center around the grille. Compared to its European counterpart, the American version gets a much chunkier front end which has pushed the leading edge of the hood back. The Ford emblem is now completely surrounded by the front clip.

Below that, the central opening is larger, ringed with chrome, and the bisecting bar on the Euro version has been moved up and fitted with a U.S. license plate holder. Outside, the single fog light has been reworked into a giant, glass covered alien eye. Make no mistake - it's still hot, and we still can't wait to see it when it's unveiled at the LA Auto Show next month.


Gallery: Dummies Ford Fiesta americano


[Source: Autoblog Spanish (translated)]

Ford Fiesta U.S.-spec gets caught in Mexican factory originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 fiesta2010 ford2010 ford fiesta2010Fiesta2010Ford2010FordFiestabudgetfiestafordford fiestaFordFiestahatchbackla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009La2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009manufacturingmexicoplantsspy shotsSpyShotsMon, 12 Oct 2009 15:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Citroen C-Cactus leaked]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/spy-shots-citroen-c-cactus-leaked/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/spy-shots-citroen-c-cactus-leaked/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/spy-shots-citroen-c-cactus-leaked/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Images assumed to be the final take on the Citroen C-Cactus have found their way online, and there is a whole lotta ugly going on up front. When we heard Citroen was actually going to make a production car based on the concept we wrote "let's just hope they don't keep too much of the melted-candle look." Thankfully, they didn't.

But what they did was squash the front end of the Citroen GT, add some Nissan-esque headlights and enough curvy shut lines to confuse a protractor, then topped it off with some Klingon forehead bulges running from hood to fenders. Then they gave it a tiny body and rested the package on little wheels. If nothing else, it is arresting.

Touted as a city car, the C-Cactus -- about the size of a Sandero -- would offer three powerplants: a 1.0-liter, 3-cylinder gas engine with 90 hp; a 1.4-liter diesel hybrid; and an electric car. This car could also be the first in Citroen's Essentielle sub-brand of Eco cars which are, according to latest reports, due to roll out in 2012.

[Source: Auto Internationaal via Euro Car Blog]

Spy Shots: Citroen C-Cactus leaked originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budgetc-cactuscitroencitroen c-cactuscitroen c-cactus conceptcitroen c-cactus productionCitroenC-cactusCitroenC-cactusConceptCitroenC-cactusProductiondieselelectricessentielleeuropefalsehatchbackhybridThu, 01 Oct 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: SEAT Leon Cupra R makes a fine Green Goblin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/frankfurt-2009-seat-leon-cupra-r-makes-a-fine-green-goblin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/frankfurt-2009-seat-leon-cupra-r-makes-a-fine-green-goblin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/20/frankfurt-2009-seat-leon-cupra-r-makes-a-fine-green-goblin/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Seat Leon Cupra R - Click above for high-res image gallery

What you have here is one of the coolest little 4-door hot hatches that looks like a 2-door hatch. The 2010 SEAT Leon Cupra R gets 265 hp from its VW-battle-tested 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, making it the most powerful SEAT... ever. The front wheels can pull the car to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, and if you're not beating it up you'll get something like 29 mpg (35 mpg imperial).

Outside, along with R badges everywhere, the sizzling Cupra gets 19-inch wheels with low-profile tires, bigger brakes, and special trim for the instrument dials and alcantara-lined interior. Read up on the details in the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Seat Leon Cupra R


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: SEAT Leon Cupra R makes a fine Green Goblin

Frankfurt 2009: SEAT Leon Cupra R makes a fine Green Goblin originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 leon2010 leon cupra2010 leon cupra r2010 seat2010 seat leon cupra r2010Leon2010LeonCupra2010LeonCupraR2010Seat2010SeatLeonCupraRbudgetcupra rCupraRfalsefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowhatchbackleonleon cupraleon cupra rLeonCupraLeonCupraRseatseat leonseat leon cupraseat leon cupra rSeatLeonSeatLeonCupraSeatLeonCupraRSun, 20 Sep 2009 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Kia c'eed spiffs up basic transportation]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-kia-ceed-spiffs-up-basic-transportation/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-kia-ceed-spiffs-up-basic-transportation/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-kia-ceed-spiffs-up-basic-transportation/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Kia c'eed -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Kia c'eed has come in for a voluminous number of changes, all of which are explained in the massively massive press release after the jump. The short of it is a restyled exterior, new interior elements, new mechanical structures such as a revised subframe for better NVH performance, the addition of hill-assist, a new diesel engine among the 5-engine range... see what we mean? This is not the Kia c'eed you knew...

What you really need to know about the new c'eed is that it takes a rightful place among the lead group of entry-level hatches in Europe. Sometimes you get in a cheap car and it looks cheap and feels cheap. That isn't the Kia c'eed - a little car that gives you a 6-speed manual to make the most of what power it offers. As has been the case with Hyundai and Kia lately, this one's probably going to be another good one.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Kia c'eed


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Kia c'eed spiffs up basic transportation

Frankfurt 2009: Kia c'eed spiffs up basic transportation originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ceed2010 kia2010 kia ceed2010Ceed2010Kia2010KiaCeedbudgetceedfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowhatchhatchbackkiakia ceedKiaCeedWed, 16 Sep 2009 17:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Lexus LF-Ch shows its face]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/07/frankfurt-preview-lexus-lf-ch-shows-its-face/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/07/frankfurt-preview-lexus-lf-ch-shows-its-face/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/07/frankfurt-preview-lexus-lf-ch-shows-its-face/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Lexus LF-Ch Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Lexus has apparently released this new front-end shot of the Frankfurt Motor Show-bound LF-Ch hybrid concept car, now making the rounds on the Internet. The hatchback is quite a looker, especially coming from Lexus, whose present lineup is relatively staid in appearance. Unfortunately, the body style is likely to be a Europe-only thing, where the eventual production version will cross swords with the likes of premium-compact rivals like the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series. It sure wouldn't hurt if Lexus decided to migrate that more assertive face to some of its U.S.-market cars, though. As it stands, this has a lot more visual appeal than the Lexus HS250h we get in these here parts. Stay tuned for a lot more on this car as it makes its formal debut in Frankfurt later this month. We'll be there, as always, to bring you all the details.


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: Autoblog Spanish]

Frankfurt Preview: Lexus LF-Ch shows its face originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowhatchbackLexus hatchbacklexus lf-chlexus lf-ch hybridLexusHatchbackLexusLf-chLexusLf-chHybridMon, 07 Sep 2009 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Going for Gold: Toyota dealers reportedly price gouging on 2010 Prius]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/going-for-the-gold-toyota-dealers-reportedly-price-gouging-on-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/going-for-the-gold-toyota-dealers-reportedly-price-gouging-on-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/going-for-the-gold-toyota-dealers-reportedly-price-gouging-on-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Toyota Prius - Click above for high-res image gallery

The last time we heard about gouging on the Toyota Prius was, oh, just last summer when gas prices put the frugal flyer at the top of shopping lists. Things were so bad then that used Priuses were going for more than new models because dealers couldn't keep the fresh stuff in stock.

Cash-for-Clunkers appears to have had the same affect on some Toyota dealers this summer. Even though cars like the Ford Fusion and Toyota Corolla grabbed the top slots and headlines, the Prius was so popular as a swap-car that dealers again ran short on inventory. Daily Tech reports that the tight supply llead some dealerships to start adding a Market Value Adjustment (MVA) to the MSRP of up to $5,000.

It wasn't all Toyota dealers that took to making dough while the sun shone, of course - and the gist of the story appears to be that if you really want a Prius, shop around for MSRP and you'll probably find it. In the long run, until the Prius gets some real competition for the mantle of Greenest Thing on Earth, be ready to hear this story again.


Gallery: 2010 Toyota Prius


[Source: Daily Tech]

Going for Gold: Toyota dealers reportedly price gouging on 2010 Prius originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car buyingCarBuyingdealerdealersdealershipgougegouginghatchbackhybridmarket valuemarket value adjustmentMarketValueMarketValueAdjustmentprice gougingPriceGougingpriustoyotatoyota dealertoyota dealerstoyota dealershiptoyota priusToyotaDealerToyotaDealersToyotaDealershipToyotaPriusWed, 26 Aug 2009 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda teases new Crosstour on Facebook]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/honda-teases-new-crosstour-on-facebook/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/honda-teases-new-crosstour-on-facebook/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/honda-teases-new-crosstour-on-facebook/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Honda Accord Crosstour -- Click above for image gallery

The Honda Accord Crosstour has been essentially seen in several spy shots, but its front end remains something of a mystery. Honda has dispelled a bit of that with the release of two frontal pics, and it looks like the front could match the back for curves versus its Accord sedan stablemate.

The grille takes an Accord shape, albeit with a different application pattern for the chrome trim. Although having a slightly different layout, the headlights look to have the sleekness of the Accord Coupe's lamps matched to a more stylized version of the Accord sedan's fog lamps. If you want more of the piecemeal reveal routine, you could always join Honda's Facebook page... or you could just wait for the full reveal, happening in a couple of days.

The Accord Crosstour goes on sale later this year as a 2010 model.


Gallery: Honda Crosstour teaser crops

crosstourcropsheadlight_crop_824grill_crop_820

[Source: Honda]

Honda teases new Crosstour on Facebook originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 accord crosstour2010 crosstour2010 honda accord2010 honda accord crosstour2010AccordCrosstour2010Crosstour2010HondaAccord2010HondaAccordCrosstouraccordaccord crosstourAccordCrosstourcrosstourcuvfacebookhatchbackhondahonda accord crosstourHondaAccordCrosstourwagonWed, 26 Aug 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/2010-suzuki-sx4-sportback-takes-more-to-the-streets-less-to-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/2010-suzuki-sx4-sportback-takes-more-to-the-streets-less-to-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/2010-suzuki-sx4-sportback-takes-more-to-the-streets-less-to-the/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've praised Suzuki's SX4 Crossover in these pages before. With its quasi-softroader abilities, surprisingly direct steering, segment-exclusive all-wheel drive and generous equipment levels, the cheap n' cheerful hatchback has carved out a unique niche for itself in the U.S. marketplace. What it has always needed, however, was a bit more power and better fuel economy.

For 2010, Suzuki has given it exactly that - but only just. An all-new, 16-valve, 2.0-liter four-cylinder has taken up residence under the hood, and it now achieves 150 horsepower (@ 6,200 rpm) and 140 pound-feet of torque (@ 3,500 rpm). Those figures represent increases of 7 hp and 4 lb-ft of torque, increases that we presume would be difficult for most drivers to detect without other changes to go along with them. Thankfully, Suzuki has also spent a few shekels on the SX4's gearbox range, and the standard-fit manual transmission gains an extra ratio (for a total of six), while the three-pedal averse will get a new paddleshift CVT - both units with rejiggered ratios to improve acceleration times as well as mileage scores. About that - Suzuki claims the SportBack manual will get 22 mpg city/30 highway, while the CVT will net 23/30. While these figures represent improvements, they still trail classmates like the Honda Fit and Chevrolet Aveo, though the Suzuki does offer more power.

On the outside, the SportBack has been dropped onto 17-inch, 50-series Dunlops, with a lowered, KYB-controlled suspension setup, and there's a new bumper and grille to go along with the car's revamped aero package that includes new side skirts, a rather meek front spoiler, and a tweaked rear spoiler. Interestingly, Suzuki claims that the 2010 alterations actually make the SportBack perform better than its own well-regarded Swift in various handling disciplines, including steering and yaw performance, skidpad, as well as braking. Light-duty off-roaders take note - the SportBack is really just a conventional compact, as it isn't available with all-wheel drive like its Crossover stablemate.

Inside, the Sportback gets an updated navi system that includes 3D graphics, lane guidance, as well as collateral information like weather mapping and airline arrivals/departures, and there's a new instrument cluster as well.

No word yet on pricing, but by way of guidance, the 2009 model-year SX4 Crossover (with its extra pair of driven wheels) commands $16,099. You can check out the full press release after the jump and the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack


[Source: Suzuki]

Continue reading 2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields

2010 Suzuki SX4 SportBack takes more to the streets, less to the fields originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all-wheel driveAll-wheelDriveawdcrossoverCUVhatchbacksportbackSuzukisuzuki carsSuzukiCarsSX4SX4 SportbackSx4SportbackMon, 24 Aug 2009 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[The all-wheel drive Mini has arrived... sorta [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/the-all-wheel-drive-mini-has-arrived-sorta-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/the-all-wheel-drive-mini-has-arrived-sorta-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/the-all-wheel-drive-mini-has-arrived-sorta-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The Mini Tec AWD Mini - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you want a chunky Mini CUV, you don't need to wait for the Mini Countryman - you can have this Frankenstein'd love child of a vintage Mini and a Honda engine and all-wheel drive powertrain instead. The folks at Mini Tec have bolted a Honda B20 engine up front, and then they went and built a custom subframe to house all-wheel-drive gubbins blagged from a CR-V.

The result is a stripped-out, widened Mini that rockets off the line and can even do tricks in the snow on Yokohama slicks. If you're interested in buying one, you need to provide the Honda guts and Miata parts - and the Mini. The rest - the custom fabricated subframe, body panels and A-arm suspension will run you $2,695. Check out the high-res gallery below and a video after the jump.


Gallery: Mini Tec AWD Mini


[Source: Super Fast Minis via Speedhunters]

Continue reading The all-wheel drive Mini has arrived... sorta [w/VIDEO]

The all-wheel drive Mini has arrived... sorta [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketawdb20b20 engineB20EnginecooperCR-Vhatchbackhonda all-wheel driveHonda B20honda b20 engineHonda CR-VHondaAll-wheelDriveHondaB20HondaB20EngineHondaCr-vminimini coopermini tecMiniCooperMiniTectunervtecTue, 28 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[<strike>Ad aims to put butts in seats</strike> Ad puts naked butts in Seat Altea]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/strike-ad-aims-to-put-butts-in-seats-strike-ad-puts-naked-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/strike-ad-aims-to-put-butts-in-seats-strike-ad-puts-naked-but/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/17/strike-ad-aims-to-put-butts-in-seats-strike-ad-puts-naked-but/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The NSFW Seat Altea print ad campaign -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Seat wants to make sure that people in the U.K. don't equate a family car with being boring, and what better more Latin way to do it than by using happy naked people? The print campaign for the Seat Altea features two "parents" hopping out of their Seat and frolicking on their way to a skinny dipping session. This kind of behavior is apparently called "Seattitude," and you'll be brimming with it if you own an Altea (Spanish models not included).

You can read the press release after the jump and have a gander at the high-res gallery below. Keep in mind that the ads are probably Not Safe For Work... unless looking at naked Spaniards is an acceptable thing to do at your workplace.


Gallery: Racy Seat Altea Print Ad


[Source: Seat]

Continue reading Ad aims to put butts in seats Ad puts naked butts in Seat Altea

Ad aims to put butts in seats Ad puts naked butts in Seat Altea originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingalteahatchbackmarketingnsfwnudistnudityseatseat alteaSeatAlteaskinny dipskinny dippingSkinnyDipSkinnyDippingstreakingukFri, 17 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 BMW 1 Series gets two new engines abroad, additional trim levels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/2010-bmw-1-series-gets-two-new-engines-abroad-additional-trim-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/2010-bmw-1-series-gets-two-new-engines-abroad-additional-trim-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/25/2010-bmw-1-series-gets-two-new-engines-abroad-additional-trim-l/#commentsFiled under: ,


2010 BMW 1-Series - Click above for high-res image gallery

The BMW 1-Series is a much bigger deal in Europe than it is here in the States. In the US, we can choose among the 128 and 135, and both options come standard with a six-cylinder engine. Overseas, you can pick up the 1 with two, three, four or five doors, and with a wide variety of four cylinder gasoline and diesel powertrains.

To keep the good times rolling, team Bimmer is again expanding the 1-Series lineup for 2010. Two new models, the Lifestyle and Sport models, will offer RWD performance in a three- or five-door package beginning this September. The Lifestyle model offers special edition Marrakesh Brown Metallic paint, unique brown body color interior components, chrome-tipped exhaust and 17-inch light aluminum rims. The Sport model includes the M Sports Package, with a sports tuned suspension, unique dual spoke aluminum rims, stainless steel pedals, and an M steering wheel and gearshift lever.

On the engine front, a pair of 2.0-liter engines find their way under the bonnet of a 1-Series. The petrol engine utilizes direct injection tech and packs 170 ponies to go along with 155 lb-ft. With the gas-powered 2.0-liter engine, the 1-Series can hit 60 in 7.8 seconds, and it carries a top speed of 149 mph.

The diesel variant packs 143 hp and 221 lb-ft, helping to propel the 118d to 60 in nine seconds. The story of merit is fuel economy and CO2 emissions, where where it achieves 4.5 liters/100 kilometers (about 52 mpg US) and a CO2 emission rating of 119 grams per kilometer. Hit the jump for more info from BMW's painfully detailed press release.


Gallery: 2010 1-Series Sport, Lifestyle

Continue reading 2010 BMW 1 Series gets two new engines abroad, additional trim levels

2010 BMW 1 Series gets two new engines abroad, additional trim levels originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 BMW 1-Series2010Bmw1-seriesBMW 1-SeriesBmw1-seriesdieseldirect injectionDirectInjectioneurohatchbacklifestylesportThu, 25 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mugen Civic Type R hatchback restores former glory [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/mugen-civic-type-r-hatchback-restores-former-glory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/mugen-civic-type-r-hatchback-restores-former-glory/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/mugen-civic-type-r-hatchback-restores-former-glory/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mugen Honda Civic Type-R hatch - Click above for high-res image gallery

Honda's Euro-market Civic Type R hatchback has been called out for being a successor that hasn't exactly succeeded. Seems a bit of the thrill is gone from the new car compared to the old one. Enter tuning firm Mugen, whose modifications to the Type R hatch should make it even better than it once was.

Not much is known about the changes in store. However, based on changes made for Mugen's Japan-spec Civic Type RR 4-door sedan, these pictures, and the fact that this car might take on the Renault R26.R, you can expect much: upgraded suspension and 18-inch wheels, giant front splitter and rear wing, huge exhaust, and a powerplant putting out 237 bhp and 160 lb-ft.

If the pictures don't lie, however, it looks like the bigger Brembo brakes might not appear, and the back seats will remain in place. You can check out the details for yourself in the high-res gallery below. Thanks to Ryan for the video


Gallery: Mugen Civic Type R Hatch


[Source: 4 Wheels News]

Continue reading Mugen Civic Type R hatchback restores former glory [w/VIDEO]

Mugen Civic Type R hatchback restores former glory [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Jun 2009 16:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>civiccivic type rcivic type r hatchCivicTypeRCivicTypeRHatchhatchbackhondahonda civicHondaCivicmugenmugen civic type rmugen civic type r hatchmugen civic type rrMugenCivicTypeRMugenCivicTypeRHatchMugenCivicTypeRrtunersvideoSat, 20 Jun 2009 16:39:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Kia Soul aces Euro NCAP crash tests]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/video-kia-soul-aces-euro-ncap-crash-tests/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/video-kia-soul-aces-euro-ncap-crash-tests/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/video-kia-soul-aces-euro-ncap-crash-tests/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to watch the Kia Soul's Euro NCAP crash tests

There is no rating yet for the Kia Soul in the U.S., but in Europe the car did the business: the Soul scored five stars on the NCAP frontal offset, side impact and pole crash tests, doing no worse than "marginal" in just two areas. In the frontal offset test the windshield doesn't crack and there is only minor cosmetic damage aft of the front door's front shut line. It's a big result for a little car, and if it has the reliability to match it should do very, very well. Thanks for the tip, GenGT!


Gallery: Kia Soul Euro NCAP Test



[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Kia Soul aces Euro NCAP crash tests

VIDEO: Kia Soul aces Euro NCAP crash tests originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 May 2009 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crashcrash testCrashTesteuroeuro ncapEuroNcapeuropehatchbackkiakia soulKiaSoulncapratingratingssafetysoulvideoSat, 30 May 2009 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Is this the 2011/2012 BMW 1 Series?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/spy-shots-is-this-the-2011-2012-bmw-1-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/spy-shots-is-this-the-2011-2012-bmw-1-series/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/spy-shots-is-this-the-2011-2012-bmw-1-series/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Fresh pics of what looks to be the next generation BMW 1 Series have been snapped in Germany. If it is the rumored 2011/2012 model, it adheres to the trend of nearly every new car, as it appears to be simultaneously bigger and brawnier all over. It isn't the forthcoming X1 crossover, since a quick look at those two cars side-by-side reveals different ride heights and rooflines, among other things.

One of 1Addict's forum commenters said he has had his current 1 Series next to the new one and he confirms that the new one is larger. If this five-door hatch really is longer and wider, with a longer wheelbase than the current car then BMW appears to removed this car from the plan to reduce 1 Series curb weights. Hat tip to Andrew.

[Source: 1Addicts]

Spy Shots: Is this the 2011/2012 BMW 1 Series? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 May 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series1-Series128i135i1Seriesbimmerbmwbmw 1 seriesBmw1Serieshatchbackspy shotsSpyShotsThu, 28 May 2009 18:27:00 EST