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[Ken Block does his thing with the Ford Fiesta ST]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ken-block-does-his-thing-with-the-ford-fiesta-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ken-block-does-his-thing-with-the-ford-fiesta-st/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ken-block-does-his-thing-with-the-ford-fiesta-st/#commentsFord Fiesta ST Ken Block Video

Ken Block recently headed to Budapest to take some fans on a ride around an ice rink in the Ford Fiesta ST. Shockingly, there were cameras on hand to capture the whole event. Don't expect to see the caliber of antics we're usually accustomed to from everyone's favorite stunt driver, though - Block was left to wield a bone-stock Fiesta ST on a slushy cone course, which means the clip is about as entertaining as watching your average autocrosser sprint around a parking lot. Still, we won't turn down any chance to watch someone beat on the Fiesta ST.

With 180 horsepower shoved into a tiny three-door, the car is every shade of hilarious. Our own Steven J. Ewing recently got his hands on the hot hatch in its native environment, and you can head here to refresh your memory on that particular experience. Be sure to check out Block's best effort in the video below.

Continue reading Ken Block does his thing with the Ford Fiesta ST

Ken Block does his thing with the Ford Fiesta ST originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blockfiesta stfordford fiesta stken blockvideoWed, 10 Apr 2013 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20536350/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/10/ken-block-does-his-thing-with-the-ford-fiesta-st/20536350/article-detail.xml 20536350 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/fiesta-st-ken-block-ice-rink-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/fiesta-st-ken-block-ice-rink-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Fiesta ST GRC Racecar is hungry for podiums in 2013]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/ford-fiesta-st-grc-chicago-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/ford-fiesta-st-grc-chicago-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/ford-fiesta-st-grc-chicago-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Fiesta ST GRC Racecar

As we reported earlier, the Chicago showing of this plucky Ford Fiesta ST GRC racer points to bigger and brighter days for Global RallyCross. For the upcoming season, you can expect to see Ken Block and Tanner Foust both driving the Ford racecar, and if last season's results are any indication, you can anticipate quite a few podium appearances, as well.

The Fiesta seen here was built by the Swedes at OlsbergsMSE, and will be driven in anger by Foust in 2013. Modifications are, as you'd expect, extensive, and include an engine, exhaust and braking upgrades, a racing style short-throw shifter and a limited-slip differential. As you can see, the car has been fully stripped out and caged for maximum speed and safety, too.

Refresh your memories with the details of the car, in the press releases below. And if you head out to the Chicago Auto Show this year, don't forget to drop by the Ford stand to have a look.

Continue reading Ford Fiesta ST GRC Racecar is hungry for podiums in 2013

Ford Fiesta ST GRC Racecar is hungry for podiums in 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford fiesta stchicagochicago 2013chicago auto showfiestafiesta stfiesta st grcfordken blocktanner foustThu, 07 Feb 2013 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20452749/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/07/ford-fiesta-st-grc-chicago-2013/20452749/article-detail.xml 20452749 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ford-fiesta-st-grc-racecar-chicago_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/ford-fiesta-st-grc-racecar-chicago.jpg <![CDATA[Ford reveals Fiesta ST race car, points at road ahead for bigger things in Global RallyCross]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/ford-reveals-fiesta-st-race-car-points-at-road-ahead-for-bigger/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/ford-reveals-fiesta-st-race-car-points-at-road-ahead-for-bigger/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/ford-reveals-fiesta-st-race-car-points-at-road-ahead-for-bigger/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Ford Fiesta ST race car - front three-quarter view

The 2014 Ford Fiesta ST doesn't go on sale until this summer, but fans of Global RallyCross will be able to catch the car in action before then. Announced ahead of the Chicago Auto Show, the Fiesta ST will be the car run by Ford GRC teams this season, and the model on display in Chicago will be the racecar built by Swedish tuner OlsbergsMSE driven by Tanner Foust and Brian Deegan. Ken Block and his newly renamed Hoonigan Racing Division will also be competing in the Fiesta ST.

The 2013 GRC season has not been announced yet, but the venues will also include the summer X Games events in Brazil, Spain, Germany and, of course, Los Angeles. Ford announced that it will be the sole automotive sponsor of this year's summer X Games, and it will be looking to bring home a gold medal this year after Block placed silver last year.

In other Ken Block- and Ford-related news, another Chicago debut will be a tuned Focus ST called the TrackSTer project. Built in cooperation with Block, Ford and automotive tuner fifteen52, the TrackSTer will get plenty of styling, performance and handling upgrades. Some of the add-ons include a performance exhaust and short-throw shifter from Ford Racing, a rebuilt engine, upgraded components such as the limited-slip differential, intercooler, engine controller and clutch as well as upgraded brakes.

Scroll down for press releases on both the GRC Fiesta ST and the TrackSTer project.

Continue reading Ford reveals Fiesta ST race car, points at road ahead for bigger things in Global RallyCross

Ford reveals Fiesta ST race car, points at road ahead for bigger things in Global RallyCross originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 ford fiesta st2014 ford focus stchicagochicago 2013Chicago Auto Showfiestafiesta stfifteen52focusfocus stfordford racingglobal rallycrossken blockproject trackstertanner foustx gamesWed, 06 Feb 2013 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20449562/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/06/ford-reveals-fiesta-st-race-car-points-at-road-ahead-for-bigger/20449562/article-detail.xml 20449562 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-grc-ford-fiesta-st-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2013-grc-ford-fiesta-st-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block rally cars go blue in the face (and everywhere else)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/ken-block-rally-cars-go-blue-in-the-face-and-everywhere-else/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/ken-block-rally-cars-go-blue-in-the-face-and-everywhere-else/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/23/ken-block-rally-cars-go-blue-in-the-face-and-everywhere-else/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Well at least we now know why Ken Block "just ain't care" about smashing up his Ford Fiesta rally car recently. It's because he's getting a full brand makeover including a new team name, new paint scheme and even a new headquarters. Formerly known as Monster World Rally Team, Block and his Fiesta will now be competing under the Hoonigan Racing Division name, which is based out of a new 12,000 square foot facility located in Park City, UT.

As you can tell in the image above, Hoonigan Racing will replace the familiar black, white and green paint scheme with a more colorful design featuring plenty of blue, purple and red; the Monster Energy logo retains some of the car's green. The new paint scheme was inspired by Block's love of skateboard graphics from the '80s and early '90s as well as "Miami Vice-era" speedboats.

Block will continue to compete in multiple rally racing series such as Global RallyCross, World Rally Championship and X Games. The new headquarters features office space on one side and a shop for the cars on the other side. The building features plenty of stuff you'd expect from a company designed around Ken Block, including a massive gaming station for racing video games, recycled shipping containers used throughout the facility and a black bear.

Block also hints at the next Gymkana on the Hoonigan Racing blog:

I can't comment too much on it at this point, but we're taking a very different approach to it for this year. That's all I'm going to say right now!"


So, we guess we'll be looking forward to that, then.

Ken Block rally cars go blue in the face (and everywhere else) originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiestafordhoonigan racing divisionken blockmonster world rally teamrallycrossworld rally championshipx gamesWed, 23 Jan 2013 18:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20436863/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/23/ken-block-rally-cars-go-blue-in-the-face-and-everywhere-else/20436863/article-detail.xml 20436863 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ken-block-2013-ford-fiesta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/ken-block-2013-ford-fiesta.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block ain't got a care about ruining his wheels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/ken-block-aint-got-a-care-about-ruining-his-wheels/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/ken-block-aint-got-a-care-about-ruining-his-wheels/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/22/ken-block-aint-got-a-care-about-ruining-his-wheels/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ken Block damages rear wheels while drifting his Ford Fiesta - video screencap

During a drifting session at Irwindale Speedway in California, Ken Block made a boo-boo that would send a number of drivers immediately back to the infield. But there's an answer to "What do you do when you bash the wall while drifting and your wheel explodes?" and there's completely different answer when the question begins with the phrase, "When you're Ken Block..."

Instead of us telling you how Block handled the calamity in his Ford Fiesta competition car, you can watch it happen in the video below. You can probably also guess what it is - but it's more fun to watch.

Continue reading Ken Block ain't got a care about ruining his wheels

Ken Block ain't got a care about ruining his wheels originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fiestadriftingfiestafordirwindaleken blockvideoTue, 22 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20433880/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/22/ken-block-aint-got-a-care-about-ruining-his-wheels/20433880/article-detail.xml 20433880 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/blockwheelexplode_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/blockwheelexplode.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block and Co. belatedly release Gymkhana 5 making-of]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/ken-block-and-co-belatedly-release-gymkhana-5-making-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/ken-block-and-co-belatedly-release-gymkhana-5-making-of/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/21/ken-block-and-co-belatedly-release-gymkhana-5-making-of/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Gymkhana 5 was released in early July, but we're only just getting the obligatory behind-the-scenes video of the DC Shoes and Ken Block extravaganza now. A BTS video on a Hollywood production is usually "This is how we got this shot right," whereas in this kind of video, it's often "This how many way potential ways we might get this shot wrong."

There's plenty of both as Block and crew show how the stunts around San Francisco were executed, including the scenes at Russian Hill, Potrero Hill, Twin Peaks, Battery Street, the Bay Bridge and the barge in the bay. You can also watch Travis Pastrana working the rust out of his bike-handling skills and getting hit by Block during a stunt. All the sideways-sliding Ford Fiesta rally car action is in the video below.

Continue reading Ken Block and Co. belatedly release Gymkhana 5 making-of

Ken Block and Co. belatedly release Gymkhana 5 making-of originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Dec 2012 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fiestadc shoesfiestafordgymkhanagymkhana 5ken blockrallycrosstravis pastranavideoFri, 21 Dec 2012 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20409012/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/21/ken-block-and-co-belatedly-release-gymkhana-5-making-of/20409012/article-detail.xml 20409012 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/gymkahan5bts_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/gymkahan5bts.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block and Vaughn Gittin Jr. race Focus ST and GTI through abandoned neighborhood]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ken-block-and-vaughn-gittin-jr-race-focus-st-and-gti-through-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ken-block-and-vaughn-gittin-jr-race-focus-st-and-gti-through-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/31/ken-block-and-vaughn-gittin-jr-race-focus-st-and-gti-through-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Ford Focus ST racing 2013 VW GTI around abandoned neighborhood - video screencap

Ken Block and Vaughn Gittin, Jr. are two of the masters of artistically abusing automobiles, so you know a video with both men in it is going to be a good one. In the fourth installment of the Focus ST Sessions series from Ford, Gittin and Block are given the keys to a 2013 Focus ST and a Volkswagen GTI, and then let loose in an abandoned neighborhood.

While the stunts in this video are nowhere near what either man is capable of performing in their respective racecars, it is essentially a two-minute-long Ford commercial showing the Focus ST's advantages over VW's standard bearer for the hot hatch class. The two cars tear through the deserted streets, allowing the Focus ST to show its strong off-the-line acceleration and slaloming ability through some construction barrels.

It's a pretty predictable video but still amusing to watch, so be sure to check it out below.

Continue reading Ken Block and Vaughn Gittin Jr. race Focus ST and GTI through abandoned neighborhood

Ken Block and Vaughn Gittin Jr. race Focus ST and GTI through abandoned neighborhood originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Oct 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford focus st2013 volkswagen gtifocusfocus stfordgtihot hatchken blockvaughn gittin jrvolkswagenvwWed, 31 Oct 2012 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20362410/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/31/ken-block-and-vaughn-gittin-jr-race-focus-st-and-gti-through-a/20362410/article-detail.xml 20362410 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/focus-st-vw-gti_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/focus-st-vw-gti.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Top Gear</i> revisits Deadly 720, this time on two wheels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/top-gear-revisits-deadly-720-this-time-on-two-wheels/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/top-gear-revisits-deadly-720-this-time-on-two-wheels/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/top-gear-revisits-deadly-720-this-time-on-two-wheels/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Top Gear revisits

The crew from Top Gear has just ridden off with its latest entry in the Guinness Book of World Records by being the first to complete a double loop on a motorcycle in front of a live audience without practicing. As you may recall, the show recently pulled off the same stunt with a four-wheeled buggy in South Africa. This time around, a stunt rider Gary Hoptrough tackled the double loop on a KTM dirt bike. Even more impressive, the show went off without bloodshed or bodily harm.

The video below shows just how well the stunt went, though it looks as if Hoptrough required a bit of a course correction after the second loop. With commentary from Ken Block and Jeremy Clarkson, the clip is well worth a look. Check it out.

Continue reading Top Gear revisits Deadly 720, this time on two wheels

Top Gear revisits Deadly 720, this time on two wheels originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deadly 720double loopjeremy clarksonken blockktmloop the looploop-de-loopmotorcyclemotorcycle stuntstunttop geartop gear 720videoMon, 29 Oct 2012 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20363177/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/top-gear-revisits-deadly-720-this-time-on-two-wheels/20363177/article-detail.xml 20363177 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/top-gear-bike-720-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/top-gear-bike-720-628.jpg <![CDATA[Think Rally and Rallycross are similar? Ken Block's car begs to differ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/06/think-rally-and-rallycross-are-similar-ken-blocks-car-would-be/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/06/think-rally-and-rallycross-are-similar-ken-blocks-car-would-be/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/06/think-rally-and-rallycross-are-similar-ken-blocks-car-would-be/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ken Block Fiesta transformation

If you've ever wondered about the "hybrid" in Ken Block's Ford Fiesta H.F.H.V. (Hybrid Function Hoon Vehicle), then this video is definitely worth watching. After winning the Olympus Rally near Shelton, Washington, Block's Fiesta headed to Las Vegas for the fifth round of Global Rallycross (GRC). The same car is used in both racing series. As you'd imagine, racing on narrow dirt back roads Washington is very different than running on the mostly paved course at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

Aside from the chassis and most of the body components, the Ford Fiesta that raced on Sunday September 23 is almost completely different from the car that practiced on Thursday September 26. The entire powertrain gets swapped in favor of a setup making over 600 horsepower, and the front-mounted radiator is moved aft for the GRC event. To ensure proper air flow to it, different side vents and a vented liftgate are installed. The GRC car also gets bigger brakes and the proper wheel/tire combo. After three days of disassembly and reassembly, this Fiesta is ready for Rallycross.

Sure, it'd probably be easier to just have a second, dedicated GRC car, but where's the fun in that? Scroll down to watch the video of what it takes to transform Block's Fiesta from a gravel-spewing Rally America car to a ramp-jumping Global Rallycross car.

Continue reading Think Rally and Rallycross are similar? Ken Block's car begs to differ

Think Rally and Rallycross are similar? Ken Block's car begs to differ originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Oct 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiestafordford fiesta hfhvford fiesta hybrid function hoon vehicleford fiesta rally carford racingglobal rallycrossken blockrallycrossSat, 06 Oct 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20342160/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/06/think-rally-and-rallycross-are-similar-ken-blocks-car-would-be/20342160/article-detail.xml 20342160 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ken-block-fiesta-hfhv_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/ken-block-fiesta-hfhv.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block suing former co-producers of Gymkhana vids]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/ken-block-suing-former-co-producers-of-gymkhana-vids/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/ken-block-suing-former-co-producers-of-gymkhana-vids/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/21/ken-block-suing-former-co-producers-of-gymkhana-vids/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ken Block with Ford gymkhana racer

When we say "gymkhana," what comes to mind? If it's the drift maestro Ken Block, then you understand the crux of a lawsuit by Block against the former producers of his popular video series. If you go to Gymkhana.com, you'll find all sorts of photos, videos, and links related to the sport. What you'll find very little mention of, is Ken Block, himself. Why? Because Block does not own the website's URL, even though he officially owns the trademark.

According to a Jalopnik interview with the stunt driver, Block learned of the site when a colleague was approached by its owners, Mad Media, who were hoping to sell advertising. Mad Media is the crew who produced a few of Block's early (and insanely popular) drifting videos, and the Ford Fiesta pilot says he was very surprised to find out that they owned the Gymkhana URL. When Block reached out to Josh Martelli of Mad Media, Block says he was basically told to go pound sand.

Martelli was also interviewed for the story, and he notes, "The automotive sport of gymkhana has been around since the 1900s... no one has the right to prevent the public from using the word gymkhana to report on, discuss, or promote the sport - especially on a website."

While he may be a little off-base on his history (in the 1900s, gymkhana was an equestrian sport), Martelli brings up an interesting point. The name and the driving discipline of gymkhana very much predates the Internet, but on the other hand, no 4-H video has ever garnered 160 million views on YouTube. Additionally, no single person is as strongly associated with the success of the sport as Block, and the relevance of Mad Media in this arena can largely be attributed to the vision of Block and his unique skill set.

For now, it looks like both sides are willing to drag out a costly lawsuit for the URL rights. Both will likely cite lofty causes for rallying around this flag, but at the end of the day, there is a decent amount of ad revenue to be made from the site, too.

Ken Block suing former co-producers of Gymkhana vids originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Aug 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gymkhanaken blockken block lawsuitlawsuitmad mediaTue, 21 Aug 2012 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20305661/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/21/ken-block-suing-former-co-producers-of-gymkhana-vids/20305661/article-detail.xml 20305661 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ken-block-gymkhana-sue_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/ken-block-gymkhana-sue.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block's Gymkhana 5 has arrived]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/ken-blocks-gymkhana-5-has-arrived/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/ken-blocks-gymkhana-5-has-arrived/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/ken-blocks-gymkhana-5-has-arrived/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Ken Block Gymkhana 5 screencap - Fiesta leaping in San Francisco

Ken Block has officially released Gymkhana 5. This time, everyone's favorite shoe-salesman has unleashed his 650-horsepower Ford Fiesta on the quiet streets of San Francisco. How's that for an impressive venue? Cleared of traffic, the hilly terrain makes for a perfect playground. The video spends plenty of time getting up close and personal with the city's famous trolleys before moving to the Port of San Francisco. There's also an impressive bit of hotshoeing on a barge in the bay as well. This time, Block has brought along a special friend to help him send tires to their smoky graves.

Travis Pastrana has hopped on a bike for the first time since his massive crash at the X Games a year ago, and the two proceed to craft a mechanized ballet for everyone to enjoy. That's cool and all, but we enjoyed watching Block vault the Fiesta for some serious air time. Check out the video below for yourself. It's ten minutes of insanity.

Continue reading Ken Block's Gymkhana 5 has arrived

Ken Block's Gymkhana 5 has arrived originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc shoesfiestaford fiestagymkhanagymkhana 5ken blockken block gymkhana 5rallycrossvideoMon, 09 Jul 2012 11:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20274082/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/09/ken-blocks-gymkhana-5-has-arrived/20274082/article-detail.xml 20274082 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/ken-block-gymkhana-5-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/ken-block-gymkhana-5-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block releases barge-tastic Gymkhana 5 trailer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/ken-block-releases-barge-tastic-gymkhana-5-trailer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/ken-block-releases-barge-tastic-gymkhana-5-trailer/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/ken-block-releases-barge-tastic-gymkhana-5-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Ken Block Gymkhana 5 teaser

Ken Block is a talented man, no doubt about it. Though we wish - and we're sure he'd wholeheartedly agree - that his talents led to a few major race wins, Block is nothing if not an effective marketer of his own brand. And, as any budding internet video machine (over 140 million YouTube views for Block's Gymkhana series) can tell you, a web video is hardly a web video unless it's first been teased.

And so we bring you the video below. Yes, it's a teaser for Block's upcoming Gymkhana 5 video. Yes, it stars Ken Block and his Ford Fiesta H.F.H.V. rally car. And, if you couldn't tell from the screen capture above, it all takes place on a barge in San Francisco Bay. If you don't care about any of that, perhaps you'll be swayed to watch when we tell you it's all set to the glorious tunes of Europe's "The Final Countdown."

The video is waiting for your prying eyes below. It's 37 seconds long, and only about 10 of those show Block's car in motion. So, um... enjoy? And stay tuned for the whole shebang on July 9.

Continue reading Ken Block releases barge-tastic Gymkhana 5 trailer

Ken Block releases barge-tastic Gymkhana 5 trailer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gymkhanagymkhana 5gymkhana 5 teasergymkhana videoken blockken block videoMon, 25 Jun 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20265864/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/25/ken-block-releases-barge-tastic-gymkhana-5-trailer/20265864/article-detail.xml 20265864 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/block-gym-5-teaser_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/block-gym-5-teaser.jpg <![CDATA[Watch Hoonigan thank us all for doing what we do best]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/watch-hoonigan-thank-us-all-for-doing-what-we-do-best/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/watch-hoonigan-thank-us-all-for-doing-what-we-do-best/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/watch-hoonigan-thank-us-all-for-doing-what-we-do-best/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hoonigan Video - Drifting Rolls-Royce

Say what you will about Ken Block. The guy knows how to have some fun. He's also pretty good at selling clothing. The hotshoe's latest move to sling t-shirts flies under the Hoonigan banner, where vehicular antics of every sort can safely gather. The crew has worked up a best of compilation video stitching together some of the internet's most infamous cases of drivers behaving badly. Even better, the clips are set to Motorhead's gasoline-fueled "Ace of Spades." Hammer down, ladies and gentlemen.

Now, we enjoy marketing about as much as we like flossing with a ball peen hammer, but if we absolutely have to be peddled future shop rags, it might as well be like this. So, go forth and hoon. Just do it without being stupid or killing anyone. Who knows, maybe your video will show up in the next compilation. Check out the full video for yourself by scrolling below.

Continue reading Watch Hoonigan thank us all for doing what we do best

Watch Hoonigan thank us all for doing what we do best originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car stuntcar videodriftinghoonhooniganhoonigan videohooningken blockstunt videovideoMon, 18 Jun 2012 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20261068/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/18/watch-hoonigan-thank-us-all-for-doing-what-we-do-best/20261068/article-detail.xml 20261068 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/hoonigan-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/hoonigan-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block's San Francisco-shot Gymkhana 5 to debut on July 9]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/ken-blocks-san-francisco-shot-gymkhana-5-to-debut-on-july-9/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/ken-blocks-san-francisco-shot-gymkhana-5-to-debut-on-july-9/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/18/ken-blocks-san-francisco-shot-gymkhana-5-to-debut-on-july-9/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Ken Block with Ford Fiesta rallycross racer in San Francisco

Ken Block is YouTube gold, that much we know. Having accumulated 140+ million views for his Gymkhana videos over the years, the man can clearly attract some eyeballs with his behind-the-wheel shenanigans. The last installment, the fourth in the series so far, was by far his biggest and boldest production, sporting a Hollywood theme with special effects and musical numbers. Some felt it strayed too far from the highly skilled hooning that got him where he is today, which was the likely reason his team recently released a re-edited version (scroll down to watch) with less of the Hollywood glam and glitz.

It also might be why Gymkhana 5 will take place in the vertically diverse city of San Francisco, CA. The location itself will be a co-star of Block's latest video venture, which will debut on the DC Shoes YouTube channel on July 9. Block's Ford Fiesta H.F.H.V. rally car will be again be his ride of his choice, and we're told the video will feature a surprise special guest and a few world records, as well. Block is no doubt hoping he can enjoy the premier with X Games gold in his hands, as he'll be competing in the Rallycross competition against the world's best - names like Travis Pastrana, Tanner Foust and current Rallycross points leader Marcus Grönholm - on July 1.

Continue reading Ken Block's San Francisco-shot Gymkhana 5 to debut on July 9

Ken Block's San Francisco-shot Gymkhana 5 to debut on July 9 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiestafordford fiestagymkhanagymkhana 5ken blockrallyrallycrosssan franciscox gamesx games viiiMon, 18 Jun 2012 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20260941/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/18/ken-blocks-san-francisco-shot-gymkhana-5-to-debut-on-july-9/20260941/article-detail.xml 20260941 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/kbgym5-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/kbgym5-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block's Gymhkhana: The Infographic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/ken-blocks-gymhkhana-the-infographic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/ken-blocks-gymhkhana-the-infographic/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/07/ken-blocks-gymhkhana-the-infographic/#commentsFiled under:



We shouldn't have to wait much longer to officially declare that the Ken Block Gymkhana franchise has gone from viral to pandemic. With more than 134 million views for the four videos in the series, it feeds off itself now and has ejected its spores into fashion, toys and an entity called "Extreme Entertainment."

Block's DC Shoes crew has put together an infographic of the phenomenon, laying out everything from comparative viewership - his 135 million versus the NBA's 21.3 million during the entire 2011 season, for instance, to the meaning of his livery to how many tires it takes to capture five digitized minutes of Gymkhana action. If you've been bit by Gymkhana and you're looking for more hair of the dog, you'll find it all in the infographic.

Ken Block's Gymhkhana: The Infographic originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jun 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dc shoesdriftinggymkhanainfographicken blockken block gymkhahaThu, 07 Jun 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20251657/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/07/ken-blocks-gymhkhana-the-infographic/20251657/article-detail.xml 20251657 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/gymkhanainfo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/gymkhanainfo.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block's Gymkhana 4 re-edited with less "Hollywood"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/ken-blocks-gymkhana-4-re-edited-with-less-hollywood/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/ken-blocks-gymkhana-4-re-edited-with-less-hollywood/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/ken-blocks-gymkhana-4-re-edited-with-less-hollywood/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The fourth installment of Ken Block's Gymkhana series was aptly subtitled "The Hollywood Megamercial." We know Ken needs to sell some DC Shoes apparel to pay for these lavish drifting productions, but the sales pitch stole the spotlight from the action in Gymkhana 4. Ever wonder what the video would have been like without the special effects and clothing commercials?

It took them the better part of a year, but DC Shoes has finally released a bonus edit that removes the "Hollywood" parts of the video, leaving just the gymkhana parts that we all clicked Play to watch in the first place.

Cutting out the special effects and infomercial aspects shortens the video from a weighty 9:16 to a lithe and focused 5:11. The difference between the two vids is most apparent by comparing when the Ford Racing rally Focus leaves the starting line. Original video: 1:25. New edit: 0:09. Over a minute was saved just by cutting the clip of Ken Block on fire and nixing the opening credits for his wardrobe. Another two minutes was saved at the end by leaving the Bollywood dance on the cutting room floor.

Scroll down to watch the new bonus edit that lets the viewer better appreciate the skill required to perform such stunts, as well as the original version. You can also click here to watch a YouTube Doubler of the videos playing side-by-side.

Continue reading Ken Block's Gymkhana 4 re-edited with less "Hollywood"

Ken Block's Gymkhana 4 re-edited with less "Hollywood" originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>focusfordford racinggymkhanagymkhana 4hollywoodken blockrallyrally focusvideoTue, 22 May 2012 12:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242653/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/ken-blocks-gymkhana-4-re-edited-with-less-hollywood/20242653/article-detail.xml 20242653 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ken-block-gymkhana-4-edit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ken-block-gymkhana-4-edit.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block's latest Gymkhana vid goes small scale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/ken-blocks-latest-gymkhana-vid-goes-small-scale/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/ken-blocks-latest-gymkhana-vid-goes-small-scale/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/ken-blocks-latest-gymkhana-vid-goes-small-scale/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



If you've been waiting for someone to combine R/C cars and Ken Block's brand of gymkhana, you'll want to pay a visit to Hot Wheels. The toy maker has produced a replica of Block's rallying Ford Fiesta, and after you load the required eight AA batteries you'll be drifting it around corners WRC-style in much less time than it took Block to learn his craft.

We won't mention the center-mounted wheel under the car that makes it all a bit easier. Instead, you can scroll down to see a video of Ken Block writ small for yourself.

Continue reading Ken Block's latest Gymkhana vid goes small scale

Ken Block's latest Gymkhana vid goes small scale originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiestaford fiestahot wheelsken blockken block rc carmattelradio controlradio controlledrc carvideoFri, 20 Apr 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20220320/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/20/ken-blocks-latest-gymkhana-vid-goes-small-scale/20220320/article-detail.xml 20220320 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/kenblockhotwheelscar_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/kenblockhotwheelscar.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Dart Rallycross stars in first Ken Block-style vid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/dodge-dart-rallycross-stars-in-first-ken-block-style-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/dodge-dart-rallycross-stars-in-first-ken-block-style-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/04/dodge-dart-rallycross-stars-in-first-ken-block-style-vid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Once Dodge announced its intent to race the SRT-built Dart in the U.S. season of Global RallyCross Championship with ESPN, the only logical thing to do next was hand it over to Travis Pastrana for brutal treatment around Chrysler's Chelsea Proving Grounds.

Sadly, the performance of the Dart you'll be able to buy soon is just a tiny bit down on the 600-horsepower, all-wheel-drive sedan in the video below. But knowing such a beast lurks inside the Dart is - kind of - entertaining enough.

Continue reading Dodge Dart Rallycross stars in first Ken Block-style vid

Dodge Dart Rallycross stars in first Ken Block-style vid originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 dodge dartdartdodgedodge dartespnglobal rallycross championshipken blockrallyrallycrosstravis pastranax gamesx-gamesxgamesWed, 04 Apr 2012 11:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20208279/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/04/dodge-dart-rallycross-stars-in-first-ken-block-style-vid/20208279/article-detail.xml 20208279 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/screen-shot-2012-04-04-at-10.17-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/screen-shot-2012-04-04-at-10.17-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ken Block goes over the river and through the 100 Acre Wood in latest rally video]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/ken-block-gets-ready-to-go-over-the-river-and-through-the-100-ac/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/ken-block-gets-ready-to-go-over-the-river-and-through-the-100-ac/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/ken-block-gets-ready-to-go-over-the-river-and-through-the-100-ac/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

block rally 100 acre

Rally racing is amazing to watch, and it's no doubt a blast from behind the wheel. But while we'd love some time behind the wheel of a genuine rally car, we're guessing that the sport is a lot harder than it looks. Then again, dirt racing looks really easy when Ken Block is behind the wheel.

Block and his seemingly ever-present camera crew hit the 100 Acre Wood course for some practice time before his attempt at a sixth consecutive victory, and the proof is in the video shown here. As you might've guessed, there is a lot of high-speed drifting of his Ford Fiesta, some gratuitous high-definition slow-motion awesomeness and some bonus Alex Gelsomino on the mic. Hit the jump to watch for yourself.

Continue reading Ken Block goes over the river and through the 100 Acre Wood in latest rally video

Ken Block goes over the river and through the 100 Acre Wood in latest rally video originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100 acre woodfiestafordford fiestaken blockrallyrallyingvideoFri, 24 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20178662/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/24/ken-block-gets-ready-to-go-over-the-river-and-through-the-100-ac/20178662/article-detail.xml 20178662 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/block-rally_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/block-rally.jpg <![CDATA[Latest Ken Block video is drift-free, full of laughs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/19/latest-ken-block-video-is-drift-free-full-of-laughs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/19/latest-ken-block-video-is-drift-free-full-of-laughs/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/19/latest-ken-block-video-is-drift-free-full-of-laughs/#commentsFiled under: ,

ken block spoof

Ken Block might not be the world's best World Rally Championship driver, but he might be the sport's best entertainer. The Gymkhana superstar knows how to rack up YouTube views with jaw-dropping stunts and a panache that most of us can only dream of.

Beyond the jump is the latest Ken Block production, but instead of the real KB, we get funnyman Nick Swardson dressed up in full Block gear. Swardson pokes fun of Block just about every way imaginable, and the real Block sits in disguised as the interviewer.

It's hilarious, and you can watch it after the jump. We'd watch it again, but we're too busy looking for Ken-chantment cologne on Amazon.

Continue reading Latest Ken Block video is drift-free, full of laughs

Latest Ken Block video is drift-free, full of laughs originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiestagymkhanaken blockspoofswardsonwrcSun, 19 Feb 2012 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20174886/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/19/latest-ken-block-video-is-drift-free-full-of-laughs/20174886/article-detail.xml 20174886 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/block-spoof_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/block-spoof.jpg -1 2