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[HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Holden HSV Gen-F GTS

Here it is, folks. Right on schedule, Holden has revealed full details on its reborn range of HSV Gen-F models. The bulk of the new HSV machinery will go on sale next month, though the baddest of them all, the supercharged HSV GTS, will reportedly be delayed until September.

The GTS may well be worth the wait, however, as its 430kW supercharged V8 engine (known as the LSA, the engine makes 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque in the US-market Chevy Camaro ZL1) will make this the fastest Holden ever produced. Lower-level ClubSport models will come equipped with a 6.2-liter LS3 V8 with 317kW of power. A ClubSport R8 sedan with a 325kW version of the engine and a ClubSport SV with a 340kW engine will also be available.

Bodystyle choices range from a sedan to a wagon and, of course, an El Camino a Ute called the Maloo, since this is Australia after all. Long-wheelbase Grange model and an upscale Senator model will be offered with slightly more toned-down exterior looks for those who'd rather blend in to the crowd. Pricing has yet to be announced, but you're welcome to scroll down below to watch a video before checking out all the details from Holden here.

Continue reading HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video]

HSV unholsters Holden Gen-F lineup [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiagen-fholdenhsvhsv gen-fhsv gtsTue, 14 May 2013 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20568942/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/hsv-unholsters-holden-gen-f-lineup-w-video/20568942/article-detail.xml 20568942 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/holden-hsv-gts-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/holden-hsv-gts-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Holden HSV range coming next month]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/next-gen-holden-hsv-range-coming-next-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/next-gen-holden-hsv-range-coming-next-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/next-gen-holden-hsv-range-coming-next-month/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Holden HSV GTS

Holden Special Vehicles has something fun planned for next month. The company plans to yank back the sheets on the next generation of its HSV range, suitably named the Gen-F, on May 15. Holden had to do some quick stepping with its nomenclature this go around, and while names like "F Series" and "F1" dovetailed nicely with the 2013 VF Commodore, HSV had so skip those for obvious legal reasons.

HSV has been trying to keep details close to the chest until the official unveil, but the Australian sleuths at carsguide.com.au have unearthed a wealth of interesting information already. According to the report, the Gen-F will be the fastest and most powerful sedan ever sold in Oz, with 575 horsepower and 545 pound-feet of torque. That engine will be very closely related to the LSA mill found in the Chevy Camaro ZL1, which produces 580 horses in US trim.

Initial estimates put the 0-62 (0-100 kilometers per hour) run at "comfortably less" than 4.5 seconds, and top speed will reportedly be capped at 155 miles per hour. Expect high-tech wizardry in the suspension and electronics to keep the car planted, and expect a sticker price of around $95,000 in Australian dollars.

Australians can expect to see the cars hit the showroom by June 15, but reports indicate it won't be as outlandishly styled as the last-gen model seen above. Instead, expect a more subtle package for the Gen-F that lacks some of the scoops and wings seen in years past. More detail is available at the source link below for those interested in what may very well be the last super-powerful V8-powered factory Holden sedan in Australia.

Next-gen Holden HSV range coming next month originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiagen-fholdenholden special vehicleshsvhsv gen-fThu, 25 Apr 2013 18:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20549115/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/next-gen-holden-hsv-range-coming-next-month/20549115/article-detail.xml 20549115 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/holden-hsv-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/holden-hsv-628.jpg <![CDATA[Holden could get crossover based on Chevy Cruze]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



During a discussion of the next-generation Holden Commodore and the General Motors Zeta platform, the question of an Australian-built SUV came up. Dave Leone, GM's executive chief engineer for luxury and rear-wheel-drive cars, wouldn't go any further than to say "that could be very possible," but recent events at Holden only reinforce the notion that we won't have any idea what is and isn't possible at the Aussie branch until it's actually done.

If there were such an SUV in the Holden pipeline, speculation is that it could be built on the platform for the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze, and that it could send the Captiva - imported to Australia from Thailand - into retirement. That's a lot of coulds, but it's all Aussie-market watchers have as they try to figure out what Holden's going to do for the next nine years it has pledged to build cars in Oz. Alongside that Cruze, a next-generation VJ Commodore is also promised and a locally-built SUV might make sense as a third model.

Holden could get crossover based on Chevy Cruze originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiachevychevy captivachevy cruzed2xxholdenholden commodorezetaSun, 21 Apr 2013 10:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20545328/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/21/holden-could-get-crossover-based-on-chevy-cruze/20545328/article-detail.xml 20545328 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chevrolet-captiva-holden_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/chevrolet-captiva-holden.jpg <![CDATA[Holden announces 500 job cuts]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/holden-announces-500-job-cuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/holden-announces-500-job-cuts/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/holden-announces-500-job-cuts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Nearly 500 employees of Holden, GM's Australian outpost, will be without jobs as the company adjusts to the high dollar, fierce competition from foreign rivals and lagging Commodore (shown above) and Cruze sales. In 2005, Holden sold 66,794 Commodore models. But that number plummeted to just 30,532 units last calendar year, prompting the automaker to lay off 170 workers just five months ago. With this latest round, about 100 jobs will be cut in its Melbourne product development facility and another 400 will be slashed at its Elizabeth plant, in South Australia, as the company slows production from 400 units to 335 units per day.

The Australian government has invested more than $2.2 billion ($2.29 billion US dollars) of its own funds to help Holden over the years, and there are future subsidies on the line, but many are questioning the investments. When Holden managing director Mike Devereux was asked about the brand's future, he was far from optimistic. "I cannot predict the future... I can't control what central banks do ... I cannot control the value of other currencies that we compete with and I cannot predict what that will do to our business.''

Holden announces 500 job cuts originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaholdenholden australiaholden commodoreholden cruzeholden layoffmanufacturingTue, 09 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20534291/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/holden-announces-500-job-cuts/20534291/article-detail.xml 20534291 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/vf-calaisv-show-car-02-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/vf-calaisv-show-car-02-opt.jpg <![CDATA[The story of the 2014 Chevrolet SS: "Luxury, power, refinement, handling"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/the-story-of-the-2014-chevrolet-ss-luxury-power-refinement/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/the-story-of-the-2014-chevrolet-ss-luxury-power-refinement/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/the-story-of-the-2014-chevrolet-ss-luxury-power-refinement/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Not including the women and men who built it, the 2014 Chevrolet SS has only been seen in person by a piddling number of people - fewer humans than would fill the gymnasium at a high school volleyball game. Not including the men and women who built it, no one has driven it. Even so, it is already saddled with two controversies: the way it looks and the way it shifts.

First to that shifting. Did we love the last Americanized Holden, the awesomely sportsome Pontiac G8 GXP, and its six-speed manual? Of course. Do we wish the SS came with a six-speed manual? Of course. But we'd like a toboggan to come with a manual transmission. We'd put a manual transmission on a weasel if we could because we're just wired that way; if it moves, it should come with a stick and a clutch. Or at least the option.

Let's climb down off the ledge, though. We haven't driven the SS and we have no idea how good (or not) the automatic is. And the Hobson's Choice in transmissions when it comes to sport sedans like the BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG and Jaguar XFR-S and, oh yeah, cars-that-really-should-have-manuals like the Nissan GT-R and Porsche 918 and every single Lamborghini and Ferrari, for instance, hasn't stopped us from enjoying what is clearly the gruesome, dual-clutched demise of Western automotive civilization. Because in spite of our ululations at the dying of the six-speed light, we understand.

All we're saying is sure, we're disappointed, but let's drive it first - then we'll find out if this is something more than a philosophical tragedy. When we asked what were the chances of a manual we were thrown the bones of "it's a possibility down the line," and that's all we need to go to Optimism Level: Lloyd.

To that other, bigger controversy: the way it looks - it seems many of you were expecting more, or at least more different. However, as far back as 2009 it was acknowledged that the VF Holden Commodore would be an overhaul of the VE series, and mainly under the skin at that. There was neither the money nor the business case to create a brand new car. If there is an issue with the looks of the SS, it's our opinion that we might have discovered 90 percent of the cure in the sedan's trunk.

Continue reading The story of the 2014 Chevrolet SS: "Luxury, power, refinement, handling"

The story of the 2014 Chevrolet SS: "Luxury, power, refinement, handling" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet ss2014 holden commodorechevroletchevycommodoreholdenssvf commodoreThu, 07 Mar 2013 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20465250/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/07/the-story-of-the-2014-chevrolet-ss-luxury-power-refinement/20465250/article-detail.xml 20465250 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014ssdaytona_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014ssdaytona.jpg <![CDATA[Holden shows wagon and ute versions of new Commodore]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/holden-shows-wagon-and-ute-versions-of-new-commodore/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/holden-shows-wagon-and-ute-versions-of-new-commodore/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/22/holden-shows-wagon-and-ute-versions-of-new-commodore/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Holden VF Commodore wagon - rear three-quarter view, burgundy

Holden VF Commodore Ute - rear three-quarter view - orangeHolden isn't giving anything away when it comes to specs, but the Aussie outpost of General Motors has offered a few snapshots of the Sportwagon and ute versions of its brand-new VF Commodore. All the company will say for now is that the models are still being tested before final approval and that all three variants will go on sale at the same time later this year.

What are the chances we'll get either one of them - or both - here? Well GM did file to trademark both "El Camino" and "Nomad," but remember how it all ended in heartbreak last time we were so close to this? Let's get the Chevrolet SS here and on sale first, then assuming all goes well, we might dare to dream about rear-wheel drive Chevrolet wagons and car-based pickups again. We'd advise you to likewise keep your hopes in check as you read the press release below.

Continue reading Holden shows wagon and ute versions of new Commodore

Holden shows wagon and ute versions of new Commodore originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletcommodorecommodore sportwagoncommodore utegeneral motorsgmholdensportwagonssutevf commodoreFri, 22 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20473086/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/22/holden-shows-wagon-and-ute-versions-of-new-commodore/20473086/article-detail.xml 20473086 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holden-vf-commodore-wagon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holden-vf-commodore-wagon-628.jpg <![CDATA[This is your 2014 Chevrolet SS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/this-is-your-2014-chevrolet-ss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/this-is-your-2014-chevrolet-ss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/16/this-is-your-2014-chevrolet-ss/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Think you've waited long enough for this? If so, then you'll want to savor the high-res photos we've so far been given of the 2014 Chevrolet SS, the first rear-wheel-drive performance sedan from The Bowtie in 17 years.

We all know its our version of the brand new VF-model Holden Commodore, but what's under the hood that earns the appellation "performance?" A 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine producing 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. That's 35 hp and lb-ft less than the same engine is expected to produce in the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Corvette. Chevrolet says the sedan will get from 0-to-60 miles per hour "in about five seconds."

Shifting comes courtesy of a six-speed automatic with paddles on the steering wheel, while stopping arrive via four-piston Brembo calipers up front, a single sliding piston in back. The forged aluminum wheels are 19-inchers all around, each set supporting right around 50 percent of the sedan's weight, and the aluminum hood and trunk are meant to keep the center of gravity low.

Inside, leather seating surfaces, eight-way power front seats and a soft-touch dash are standard for a cabin said to fit five adults comfortably, along with a nine-speaker Bose sound system, a head-up display and safety tech like Lane Departure Warning and Side Blind Zone alert. A marquee option will be Automatic Parking Assist that can parallel and right-angle park; this is the technology's first appearance on a Chevrolet.

We're in Daytona now and we'll have live shots of the car shortly, along with photos of its NASCAR sibling rumbling through the Daytona 500. So stay tuned, and slake your thirst for what's coming with the gallery above and the press release below.

Continue reading This is your 2014 Chevrolet SS

This is your 2014 Chevrolet SS originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Feb 2013 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet ss2014 chevy ss2014chevysschevroletchevrolet sschevrolet ss 2013chevroletsschevroletss2013chevy sschevysscommodoredaytonadaytona 500holdenssSat, 16 Feb 2013 00:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20460589/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/16/this-is-your-2014-chevrolet-ss/20460589/article-detail.xml 20460589 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-ss-004-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2014-chevrolet-ss-004-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Holden's new Commodore ready to go racing in V8 Supercars [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/holdens-new-commodore-ready-to-go-racing-in-v8-supercars-w-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/holdens-new-commodore-ready-to-go-racing-in-v8-supercars-w-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/15/holdens-new-commodore-ready-to-go-racing-in-v8-supercars-w-vid/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



This is the new Holden Commodore dressed up for duty as a V8 Supercar. Revealed two days after the VF sedan broke cover, the Holden Racing Team unleashed the racing version on Facebook and YouTube (click the image above to enlarge). This one does away with the black and gold introductory livery but keeps the Holden lions.

And get ready for this weekend, when the standard Commodore sedan - not the Calais trim - gets revealed, as well as the Chevrolet SS and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class V8 Supercar from Erebus. While you wait, check out the video below to see the Commodore V8SC on the track.

Continue reading Holden's new Commodore ready to go racing in V8 Supercars [w/video]

Holden's new Commodore ready to go racing in V8 Supercars [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commodorecommodore v8 supercarholdenholden commodoreholden racing teamhrtv8 supercarsvideovideosyoutubeFri, 15 Feb 2013 08:43:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20459656/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/15/holdens-new-commodore-ready-to-go-racing-in-v8-supercars-w-vid/20459656/article-detail.xml 20459656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holdenv8sc2013_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holdenv8sc2013.jpg <![CDATA[Chevrolet SS previewed by Holden VF Commodore SS V show car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chevrolet-ss-previewed-by-holden-vf-commodore-ss-v-show-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chevrolet-ss-previewed-by-holden-vf-commodore-ss-v-show-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/chevrolet-ss-previewed-by-holden-vf-commodore-ss-v-show-car/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Holden VF Commodore SS V show car

It won't be long before we see the official, production-ready Chevrolet SS sedan (hint: it will be revealed this weekend). And to tide us over until all of the official details are released about the US-spec version, we have this: the Holden VF Commodore SS V show car, a performance-oriented brother to the Calais V that debuted earlier in the week.

What we really want to know about the SS V is what lies underhood, but General Motors' Australian arm is keeping that under wraps until the Chevy model breaks cover this weekend. Nevertheless, it's obvious that the SS V will be a serious performer, with all sorts of aggressive cues driving that home on the car's exterior. Take a look at those 20-inch billet aluminum wheels that hide big Brembo brake calipers up front, the sculpted hood and front fascia, the wide air intakes with LED running lights and the quad exhaust pipes out back. It's like the Pontiac G8 GXP never even left us.

Inside, there's a sporty-looking interior with aluminum accents that mix in with black leather and suede surfaces, all tied together in the middle with an eight-inch MyLink touchscreen infotainment system. It looks great, and again, while we don't know anything regarding powertrain details, it makes us oh-so happy to see a manual shifter smack dab in the middle of the center console.

Stay tuned for the whole kit and caboodle when the SS sedan is revealed this weekend. For now, scroll down to read Holden's press release and click through the attached gallery to see the shape of Chevy things to come.

Continue reading Chevrolet SS previewed by Holden VF Commodore SS V show car

Chevrolet SS previewed by Holden VF Commodore SS V show car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevycommodoregeneral motorsgmholdenssss vvf commodoreThu, 14 Feb 2013 10:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20462232/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/chevrolet-ss-previewed-by-holden-vf-commodore-ss-v-show-car/20462232/article-detail.xml 20462232 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-holden-commodore-vf-ssv-show-car-1360854412_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/001-holden-commodore-vf-ssv-show-car-1360854412.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #320]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/12/autoblog-podcast-320/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/12/autoblog-podcast-320/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/12/autoblog-podcast-320/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Chicago Auto Show, Holden VF Commodore, Top Gear USA Interview, Driving To The Arctic Circleautoblog podcast logo

Episode #319 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Chris Paukert and Jeff Ross talk about the Chicago Auto Show, the new Holden VF Commodore and Paukert's trip to the Arctic Circle with The List. Dan and Zach took time to have a chat with Adam Ferrara and Rutledge Wood from Top Gear, as well, and that's included in this week's action-packed podcast. We wrap with a couple of your questions, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #320:



Topics:


In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Honda Accord Coupe V6 6MT
2013 Range Rover Sport
2013 Volvo S60 T6 AWD R-Design


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Paukert, Jeff Ross


Runtime: 01:41:11

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #320

Autoblog Podcast #320 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda accord coupe2013 land rover range rover sport2013 volvo s60 t6 r-design2014 holden commodoreaccordadam ferraraautoblog podcast 320chicagochicago 2013chicago auto showcommodorefeaturedholdenhondaland roverpodcast 320range rover sportrutledge woods60s60 r-designtop geartop gear usavolvoTue, 12 Feb 2013 17:15:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #320Autoblog01:41:11 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20459048/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/12/autoblog-podcast-320/20459048/article-detail.xml 20459048 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #320 LIVE!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-320-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-320-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-320-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast graphic

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #320 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments regarding the rest of the week's news via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #320


[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #320 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 holden commodoreautoblogautoblog podcast topicschicago auto showcommodoreholdenpodcastpodcast topicsthe listtop geartop gear usaMon, 11 Feb 2013 17:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20457217/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/11/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-320-live/20457217/article-detail.xml 20457217 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Holden Commodore to live beyond 2016]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/holden-commodore-to-live-beyond-2016/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/holden-commodore-to-live-beyond-2016/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/11/holden-commodore-to-live-beyond-2016/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Holden Commodore

"There is another Commodore coming after this one," said Holden Chairman and Managing Director Mike Devereux while giving Australian press a preview of the 2014 VF Commodore, which is set to launch February 10th. It was a pretty effective way to de-emphasize the brand-new car, judging by the stunned expressions Australian press reports mention on the faces of his Holden deputies.

Really all this statement means is that there will be a car named Commodore even after the VF winds down in 2016. Devereux further explained that Holden's Adelaide facility will be assembling two GM global platforms, one of them we know to be the Cruze, and "one of them [that] will underpin the next Commodore."

Don't expect that next Commodore to be a rear-driver like the cars that have topped sales charts for the last 15 years. It'll more than likely be a port of a car we know here as a Buick, according to The Australian. While we wait for 2017, at least we can check out the VF Commodore that was just unveiled.

Holden Commodore to live beyond 2016 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 holden commodorecommodoreholdenholden vfvfvf commodoreMon, 11 Feb 2013 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20455195/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/11/holden-commodore-to-live-beyond-2016/20455195/article-detail.xml 20455195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holden-commodore-fascia_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/holden-commodore-fascia.jpg <![CDATA[New Holden Commodore bows, presages Chevy SS [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/new-holden-commodore-bows-presages-chevy-ss-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/new-holden-commodore-bows-presages-chevy-ss-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/10/new-holden-commodore-bows-presages-chevy-ss-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Holden Commodore Calais - front three-quarter studio view

2014 Holden Commodore Calais - rear three-quarter studio viewHolden has unveiled its redesigned VF Commodore sedan in Australia, and it's making no secret of the fact that its prized rear-wheel-drive sedan will be exported to the USA as the long-awaited Chevrolet SS.

While the Australian arm of General Motors has held back on details concerning the car's mechanicals and engines, we at least get to gaze upon the new exterior shape and interior design. The trim level Holden went with for the debut is the luxurious, upscale Calais V model.

What we see is an evolution of the current Commodore, the design of which was already well-liked by most. The long, low and wide sedan shape is still there, but with a few more creases in the hood, new fender vents, LED daytime running lamps below projector lamp headlights, and a new rear end with an integrated lip spoiler in the deck lid. What we see is a design different enough from the current car that even if the SS looks exactly like this, we won't be getting something that looks like Pontiac G8 wearing a Bowtie (like the police cruiser Caprice does).

The interior of the new VF Commodore, however, is a much bigger leap forward for the car, upgraded with a slicker design that incorporates the latest infotainment technologies. We're talking a big nav screen (featuring the automaker's MyLink system), electronic parking brake, high-res Heads-Up display and, wait for it, power window switches moved to the doors!

The Commodore will also be available with a host of the latest driver tech, including Reverse Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Alert, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning and Auto Park Assist. The latter actually takes semi-automated parking a step forward by not only assisting with parking of the parallel variety, but also working with 90-degree angle parks, as well.

Check out the new VF Commodore in our gallery above, and gander at what official info Holden did provide in the press release below.

Continue reading New Holden Commodore bows, presages Chevy SS [w/video]

New Holden Commodore bows, presages Chevy SS [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Feb 2013 00:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet ssaustraliacalais vchevrolet sscommodoregeneral motorsholdenholden vf commodore calais vssvf commodoreSun, 10 Feb 2013 00:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20455501/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/10/new-holden-commodore-bows-presages-chevy-ss-w-video/20455501/article-detail.xml 20455501 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/vf-calaisv-show-car-02-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/vf-calaisv-show-car-02-opt.jpg <![CDATA[El Camino revival hopes scuttled by Aussie dollar?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/el-camino-revival-hopes-scuttled-by-aussie-dollar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/el-camino-revival-hopes-scuttled-by-aussie-dollar/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/16/el-camino-revival-hopes-scuttled-by-aussie-dollar/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Holden Ute

Could Chevrolet sell a reborn El Camino in the United States? Let's ask an expert, General Motors International Operations boss Tim Lee, what he thinks. Speaking to the Aussies at CarPoint.com.au, Lee had this to say: "I think here in the US that vehicle has a tremendous amount of cache so if we could [import it] we would if it makes sense."

Great! So, we'll be getting a pickup car within the year, right? Well, not so much. Lee continues, "You tell me about what the Aussie dollar is going to do over the next 12 to 24 months and I'll tell you the export potential of cars like that." Obviously, nobody can say with certainty what the exchange rate between the US and Australia will be in two years, but as of right now, the Aussie dollar is worth a nickel more than a US dollar.

To quote Mr. Lee once again, "You can't make a business case of something like that." Indeed you cannot.

But what about the Chevrolet Caprice PPV, isn't that built in Australia? Indeed it is, and the upcoming Chevy SS performance sedan will be important from Oz as well. Thing is, Mr. Lee says the SS "will have to take a very premium price position" in order to be sold in the States, and that's apparently not in the cards for an El Camino.

Also not an option: Building the Australian Zeta-chassis machines in the US. Being that we've quoted Lee so many times already, here's one more to close out the discussion: "We will not be investing one penny to implement the Zeta architecture in the United States. I am the chief manufacturing officer of the company - that is written in stone."

El Camino revival hopes scuttled by Aussie dollar? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiacapricechevroletchevrolet el caminoel caminoholdenholden utessutezetaWed, 16 Jan 2013 10:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20430250/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/16/el-camino-revival-hopes-scuttled-by-aussie-dollar/20430250/article-detail.xml 20430250 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/holden-ute_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/holden-ute.jpg <![CDATA[Is the Holden Ute back on for the US?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/is-the-holden-ute-back-on-for-the-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/is-the-holden-ute-back-on-for-the-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/06/is-the-holden-ute-back-on-for-the-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



When not salivating over the prospect of the forthcoming C7 Corvette, GM Performance enthusiasts are busy speculating over the Chevrolet SS. The Holden Commodore-based performance sedan recently made its debut in NASCAR form, with the production model slated to launch on the weekend of the 2013 Daytona 500. Part of the rumor-mongering for this rear-wheel-drive V8 sedan was talks of US-bound translation of the Holden Ute - also the artist formerly know as the Pontiac G8 ST (pictured).

Australian outlet Adelaidenow.com cites GM Authority's findings that General Motors filed to renew its trademark the "El Camino" name. GM Authority also points to the recent filing of the "Nomad" name, connecting it to speculation that both ute and wagon variants of the SS would follow the sedan.

Holden spokesman Sean Poppitt was rather ambiguous about about the potential for a US Ute: "We haven't made a decision on the next generation Ute to its presence in export markets outside Australia," said Poppitt, "However there is the free trade agreement between the US and Australia which means we are not precluded from selling Australian-made light commercial vehicles in the US market."

So, while it is no confirmation of future product, one need only connect the dots, from the groundwork laid by the G8 ST, to the new SS, to this patent filing, and the possibility becomes very real that we could finally get the ute for which we've been pining on our shores.

Is the Holden Ute back on for the US? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroletchevrolet el caminochevy el caminoholdenholden commodoreholden utepontiac g8 stThu, 06 Dec 2012 15:46:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20395874/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/06/is-the-holden-ute-back-on-for-the-us/20395874/article-detail.xml 20395874 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/pontial-g8-st_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/pontial-g8-st.jpg <![CDATA[HSV testing supercharged V8... could Chevy SS performance model get Camaro ZL1 power?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/hsv-testing-supercharged-v8-could-chevy-ss-performance-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/hsv-testing-supercharged-v8-could-chevy-ss-performance-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/12/hsv-testing-supercharged-v8-could-chevy-ss-performance-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet SS spy shot

Chevrolet isn't hiding the fact that a new rear-wheel-drive performance sedan - called the SS and seen in full checkered-flag regalia above - is on its way to US shores, courtesy of GM's Australian division. Past its eventual existence, though, we've been kept in the dark. How much will the SS cost? Who, exactly, will it be marketed to? And, perhaps most importantly, what will power the 2014 Chevy SS?

As we all know, General Motors has a cornucopia of engine choices at its disposal, from standard four-cylinder engines to turbocharged four- and six-cylinder units and, of course, the classic V8. Not surprisingly, it's the upper-end of the V8 spectrum we're most curious about. According to the Aussie scribes at GoAuto.com, the SS may be getting the same rockin' and rollin' supercharged mill that so ably (over)powers the Camaro ZL1. Yes, please.

Backing up GoAuto's assertion are some engineering mules being tested by Holden that reportedly have the tell-tale whine of a supercharger underhood. Considering that both the SS and Camaro will be sharing the same basic Zeta underpinnings, the addition of the stupid-powerful V8 seems distinctly possible. Let's hope.

HSV testing supercharged V8... could Chevy SS performance model get Camaro ZL1 power? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Oct 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet sscamaro zl1chevroletholdenlsassss performancess superchargedFri, 12 Oct 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20347829/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/12/hsv-testing-supercharged-v8-could-chevy-ss-performance-model/20347829/article-detail.xml 20347829 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/0chevrolet-ss-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/0chevrolet-ss-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes E63 AMGs will race in Australia's V8 Supercar series next season, Holden debuts new Commodore race car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/mercedes-e63-amgs-will-race-in-australias-v8-supercar-series-ne/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/mercedes-e63-amgs-will-race-in-australias-v8-supercar-series-ne/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/mercedes-e63-amgs-will-race-in-australias-v8-supercar-series-ne/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG badge

Ford and Holden have, just the two of them, been holding down the V8 Supercars fort for years now. The introduction of the Car of the Future regulations, which puts carmaker body panels on top of a generic chassis, induced Nissan Australia to join the party in 2013 with four of its Altima sedans. Chrysler Group Australia recently said it would not be lining up. So did Mercedes-Benz Australia, but an acquisition and an international agreement between Erebus Motorsports, Stone Brothers Racing and AMG's Customer Sports Program run by HWA means E63 AMGs will be on the starting line for the first race of 2013.

SBR has been in V8SC since 1998, the entire time with Ford, and won three championships with The Blue Oval, while Erebus runs SLS AMG GT3 coupes in the Australian GT Championship. Erebus bought SBR and its two licenses and grandfathered the rights to the third license that SBR has a lease on, then worked out a deal with AMG to get factory support. That support will come via HWA, the company run by AMG co-founder Hans Werner Aufrecht, that also preps Mercedes DTM cars.

As with Nissan, which shrunk the displacement of its Nissan Motorsport VK56DE V8 from 5.6 liters to 5.0 liters to satisfy V8SC regs, the E63 AMG motor will be a 5.0-liter iteration of the 6.2-liter V8 from Erebus' SLS AMG GT3 racer. Final parity spec for the AMG engine is still being sorted out with the governing body, and even though other makers' cars have been unveiled and on the track, the AMG engine still hasn't made it to the dyno. Even so, the privately funded team has been provided the necessary millions to make it to the starting gate by Erebus owner Betty Klimenko, and SBR has proved that it knows how to build a car.

Swallowed up in all the changes coming to the sport had been Holden, but not anymore. The Holden Racing Team took the hullabaloo of the Erebus-SBR as an excuse to unveil its new matte black and gold Commodore, and you can watch the covers pulled back in the video below.

Continue reading Mercedes E63 AMGs will race in Australia's V8 Supercar series next season, Holden debuts new Commodore race car

Mercedes E63 AMGs will race in Australia's V8 Supercar series next season, Holden debuts new Commodore race car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgaustraliae63 amgerebusholdenhwamercedes-benzstone brothersv8 supercarsMon, 24 Sep 2012 09:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20329295/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/24/mercedes-e63-amgs-will-race-in-australias-v8-supercar-series-ne/20329295/article-detail.xml 20329295 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mbe63amg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/mbe63amg.jpg <![CDATA[PickupTrucks.com stages global shootout with new Ranger, Colorado, Hilux and Amarok]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/pickuptrucks-com-stages-global-shootout-with-new-ranger-colorad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/pickuptrucks-com-stages-global-shootout-with-new-ranger-colorad/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/30/pickuptrucks-com-stages-global-shootout-with-new-ranger-colorad/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Holden Colorado in the Pickuptrucks.com Global Shootout

PickupTrucks.com has turned to its friends in Australia for a look at a few of the most popular midsize pickups found Down Under. The result is the Global Pickup Shootout that pits the reigning-champion Toyota Hilux against the Holden Colorado, Volkswagen Amarok and the Ford Ranger. Each truck was faced with a battery of tests that included on-road and off-road performance as well as design and value evaluations.

How did the results shake out? The Toyota Hilux, which hasn't seen a significant update since 2005, is clearly starting to show its age. The truck consistently found itself at the back of the pack, which resulted in a fourth-place finish overall with 29 points. By comparison, the third-place Volkswagen Amarok performed well in the overall value and design segments, but fell behind elsewhere. The German pickup took home 34 points in the evaluation.

The real story here is just how close the first, second and third-place finishers were in the shootout. The Holden Colorado went home with just two more points than the Amarok, thanks largely to its first-place off-road performance, but fell to the Ford Ranger by just one point. That means that the Ranger, Colorado and Amarok were split by just three points in total. Head over to PickupTrucks.com to take a look at the very detailed comparison for more information.

PickupTrucks.com stages global shootout with new Ranger, Colorado, Hilux and Amarok originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amarokcoloradofordhiluxholdenpickuptrucks.comrangertoyotavolkswagenvwThu, 30 Aug 2012 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20311939/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/30/pickuptrucks-com-stages-global-shootout-with-new-ranger-colorad/20311939/article-detail.xml 20311939 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-global-shootout-1346332983_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-global-shootout-1346332983.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy SS prototype spotted wearing Pontiac G8 clothes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/chevy-ss-prototype-spotted-wearing-pontiac-g8-clothes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/chevy-ss-prototype-spotted-wearing-pontiac-g8-clothes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/28/chevy-ss-prototype-spotted-wearing-pontiac-g8-clothes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevy SS mule wearing Pontiac G8 bodywork

Do not adjust your computer screen, you are not seeing the rebirth of the Pontiac brand. General Motors has chosen to use a G8 to disguise a test mule for the latest prototype of the forthcoming Chevrolet SS. The G8 was closely related to the Holden Commodore and Vauxhall VXR, the platform upon which the new Chevrolet performance model will be based. It should come as little surprise, then, that GM has opted to use the cladding from the former G8.

Thought the front clip of this mule is pure Pontiac, note the vents immediately behind the front wheel. That is a distinctive design hallmark of the Vauxhall VXR. Also note that this vehicle is right-hand drive, as the Holden and its Chevy counterpart will be very closely related. That likely includes potential drivetrains. The spy photos of this mule also reveal very wide rear tires, and rear wheels that do not match the fronts.

Production of all three vehicles is set to begin in Australia in late 2013. Click below to check out the gallery of the test mule for Chevy's new rear-drive performance vehicle.

Chevy SS prototype spotted wearing Pontiac G8 clothes originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 chevrolet sschevroletchevyg8holdensssuper sportsupersportzetaTue, 28 Aug 2012 17:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20310939/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/28/chevy-ss-prototype-spotted-wearing-pontiac-g8-clothes/20310939/article-detail.xml 20310939 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/00-chevy-ss-mule-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/00-chevy-ss-mule-628.jpg <![CDATA[High tarriffs curb resurgent U.S. hopes for Holden Ute]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/high-tarriffs-curb-resurgent-u-s-hopes-for-holden-ute/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/high-tarriffs-curb-resurgent-u-s-hopes-for-holden-ute/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/high-tarriffs-curb-resurgent-u-s-hopes-for-holden-ute/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Holden Redline Ute - red, front three-quarter view

With the Holden Commodore sedan on its way back to the States as the Chevrolet SS, we were hoping that the El Camino-like, two-seat Ute wouldn't be far behind (after all, the halfbreed was supposed to be offered here as the Pontiac G8 Sport Truck before General Motors offed the brand altogether). Unfortunately, however, the Aussies have been informed that the Ute falls under our light commercial tariff rate of 35 percent - roughly three times the rate on passenger vehicle imports.

"We were hopeful at one stage, we thought we might be able to duck in under it, but it was ruled out," Holden executive director Richard Phillips tells the Herald Sun. "With the dollar where it is, exports can only be pursued that are niche... and profitable in this environment."

Bummer.

High tarriffs curb resurgent U.S. hopes for Holden Ute originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevrolet sscommodore uteg8 stholdenholden commodoreholden utepontiac g8 stssuteTue, 21 Aug 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20304972/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/21/high-tarriffs-curb-resurgent-u-s-hopes-for-holden-ute/20304972/article-detail.xml 20304972 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/redlinessv-023-opt628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/redlinessv-023-opt628.jpg -1 2