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[VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-helicopter-chases-two-lamborghini-gallardos-around-los-an/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-helicopter-chases-two-lamborghini-gallardos-around-los-an/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/05/video-helicopter-chases-two-lamborghini-gallardos-around-los-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Gallardo fun and frolic, with unfortunate rock soundtrack
Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos - click above to watch the video

While not quite as in your groin face as Samuel L. Jackson's Snakes on a Plane, the following video is as honest in its title to content ratio. Yes, a camera crew in a helicopter follows two Lamborghini Gallardos (one hardtop and one Spyder) up and down Pacific Coast Highway and through some of the Southland's best canyon roads. Nearly perfect, right?

Well, there's an issue or two. First is the thumping, blasting "butt-rock" soundtrack. Second, that soundtrack is annoying and obscures the glorious fury of the Gallardo's 5.2-liter V10 -- a motor that can make a four-year-old to burst into tears when cranked from a cold start (true story -- we saw it happen in person). Truly, a beast of an engine.

Had it been our video then, we would've killed the royalty-free-Nickelback soundtrack and instead stuck mics on the Lambos as if they were pincushions. Then we'd have tailed the two blue bulls to Kanan Dume Road. Why Kanan? Tunnels -- three of them. Not to get all David E. Davis on you, but you really haven't lived until you've heard Lambo's V10 at 8,250 rpm in a confined space. Glorious. With that said, make the jump to watch the video.

Continue reading VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles

VIDEO: Helicopter chases two Lamborghini Gallardos around Los Angeles originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Kana Dume RoadKanaDumeRoadKananLamborghiniLamborghini Galladro SpyderLamborghini GallardoLamborghini Gallardo LP560-4LamborghiniGalladroSpyderLamborghiniGallardoLamborghiniGallardoLp560-4Los AngelesLosAngelesLP560-4MalibuV10Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-audi-a3-tdi-green-car-of-the-year-los-angeles-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Audi A3 TDI - Click above for high-res image gallery

At the LA Auto Show this morning, the Audi A3 TDI was crowned the 2010 Green Car of the Year, wresting the title away from last year's winner, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI. Even though three hybrids made this year's list of finalists, the A3's win marks the second year in a row that a TDI diesel car took top honors in the Green Car Journal competition.

The judges selection kind of meshes with AutoblogGreen readers, who overwhelmingly picked the VW Golf TDI from the list of five finalists. The other contenders were the Honda Insight, the Mercury Milan Hybrid (we still don't get why this car beat out the better-selling and nearly identical Ford Fusion Hybrid) and the Toyota Prius.

Each year, Green Car Journal picks the five finalists and then hands over selection duties to celebrity jurors (Jay Leno, Carroll Shelby, and the Sierra Club's Carl Pope, to name a few). During the award ceremony, Green Car Journal editor Ron Cogan said that the five finalists are notable because they are all mainstream vehicles that are available today. They exist because that's what the market is asking for. Whaddya think? Is the A3 TDI this year's rightful Green Car of the Year?


Gallery: Audi A3 TDI - 2010 Green Car of the Year


[Source: Green Car Journal]

Continue reading LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat

LA 2009: Audi A3 TDI named 2010 Green Car of the Year in diesel repeat originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShow2010 audi A32010 Audi a3 tdi2010AudiA32010AudiA3Tdia3a3 tdiA3Tdiaudiaudi a3audi a3 tdiaudi dieselAudiA3AudiA3TdiAudiDieseldieselgreen cargreen car journalgreen car of the yearGreenCarGreenCarJournalGreenCarOfTheYearla 2009la auto showla showla2009LaAutoShowLaShowlos angeleslos angeles 2009LosAngelesLosAngeles2009tdiThu, 03 Dec 2009 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Land Rover brings Autobiography package to 2010 Range Rover Sport]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-range-rover-sport-autobiography-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-range-rover-sport-autobiography-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/2010-range-rover-sport-autobiography-los-angeles-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Range Rover Sport Autobiography - Click above for high-res image gallery

We can't figure out exactly what the name Autobiography is supposed to convey, but Land Rover seems to think it's a fitting name to put on its top-of-the-line Range Rover models. Last year, they pulled the wraps off the Range Rover Autobiography at the British Motor Show, and this week at the LA Auto Show the Range Rover Sport Autobiography has just made its official debut.

Most of the appeal of the package is inside. All of the seating surfaces are covered in beautiful two-tone leather, and the Autobiography logo can be found in the wood door inserts and the embossed headrests. The exterior gets a few special touches as well, including body-colored lower door panels, an extended roof spoiler, and special 20-inch alloy wheels.

Just 250 examples of the Range Rover Sport Autobiography will be built, all in Santorini Black with the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 as standard. Pricing is listed as an imposing $88,545, but we can see that in its exclusive circle, enough Land Rover buyers will likely be willing to cough up a $14,000 premium to have their own Autobiography, even if it's only a leather, wheel, and trim package. Hit the jump for full details, or check out our high-res gallery of live shots below.


Gallery: 2010 Range Rover Sport Autobiography


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Land Rover brings Autobiography package to 2010 Range Rover Sport

LA 2009: Land Rover brings Autobiography package to 2010 Range Rover Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 LA Auto Show2009LaAutoShow2010 Range Rover Sport2010 Range Rover Sport Autobiography2010RangeRoverSport2010RangeRoverSportAutobiographyautobiographyLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA showla show 2009La2009LaAutoShowLand RoverLandieLandRoverLaShowlashow2009los angeleslos angeles 2009los angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngeles2009LosAngelesAutoShowRange RoverRange Rover SportRange Rover Sport AutobiographyRangeRoverRangeRoverSportRangeRoverSportAutobiographyRR SportRRSRrSportThu, 03 Dec 2009 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway wows us]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-lexus-lfa-wireframe-cutaway-wows-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-lexus-lfa-wireframe-cutaway-wows-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/la-2009-lexus-lfa-wireframe-cutaway-wows-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway - Click above for high-res image gallery

Wow. Lexus brought their new LFA supercar to the LA Auto Show this year. That might not seem particularly wow-worthy, but it definitely becomes more surprising when you hear that they actually brought an LFA and a half. While a white LFA was happily humming along, spinning slowly on a rotating platform in the middle of the booth, another LFA-like creature lay motionless a few feet away.

It seems Lexus had an extra drivetrain they wanted to display, but instead of just parking the engine, transaxle and other mechanical bits on a stand, they decided to make it something of a cutaway. Rather than chopping up one of those exquisitely woven carbon fiber bodies, thankfully, they supported the running gear in a wireframe cutaway of sorts that mimics the overall shape of the production car. It was even done up in white just like the real thing on the other side of the stand. While some saw it as a novel way to display the internals, we think this might be a sneak peek at the cheaper, simpler Lexus LFA we had hoped for. Or, you know, not.

Check out the gallery below, and do yourself a favor - Take a few extra seconds to ogle that engine.


Gallery: LA 2009: Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2009: Lexus LFA wireframe cutaway wows us originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowlexusLexus LF-Alexus lfalexus supercarLexusLf-aLexusLfaLexusSupercarLF-Alfalos angeleslos angeles 2009LosAngelesLosAngeles2009Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:31:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-r8-spyder-is-shown-again-this-time-in-red/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-r8-spyder-is-shown-again-this-time-in-red/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-audi-r8-spyder-is-shown-again-this-time-in-red/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Audi R8 Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

This isn't the first time we've seen the drop-top Audi R8 Spyder. Images were leaked in early September, and we were there in Frankfurt for its official debut. That said, its unveiling at the LA Auto Show was less than climactic... other than the fact the Spyder was sporting a flashy bright-red bodywork.

New hue aside, the new convertible variant is a looker from its carbon-fiber mirrors to polished aluminum wheels. The blades are gone and it has gained 476 pounds in the transformation, but the standard Lambo-derived 525-hp V10 will still rip it to 60 mph in about four seconds flat. For the details (again), we've posted the press release after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Audi R8 Spyder


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red

LA 2009: Audi R8 Spyder is shown again, this time in red originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowaudiaudi r8audi r8 convertibleaudi r8 spyderaudi spyderAudiR8AudiR8ConvertibleAudiR8SpyderAudiSpyderauto showAutoShowla 2009la auto showla showla2009laautoshowlashowlashow2009los angelesLosAngelesr8r8 spyderR8Spyderspyder convertibleSpyderConvertibleWed, 02 Dec 2009 21:27:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/volkswagen-new-beetle-final-edition-los-angeles-2009/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Volkswagen New Beetle - Click above for high-res image gallery

Signifying the end of what has been a long run, Volkswagen has introduced "Final Edition" models of the New Beetle coupe and convertible. Each will be limited to a run of just 1,500 units. Under the hood is VW's familiar 2.5-liter inline-fine (rated at 150 horsepower) sending power to the front wheels through a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission - nothing new there. However, the German automaker has fitted a full sport suspension and unique 17-inch alloy wheels to each of the New Beetles to add a touch more driving excitement.

Cosmetically, the Final Edition models feature Aquarius Blue paint. The hardtop version breaks up the color with a black roof and integrated fog lights, while the convertible model has a two-tone Aquarius Blue/Campanella White paint scheme and a white top. Special badging is found on the front quarter panel and on the steering wheel. The hatchback version hits showrooms with a base MSRP of $20,240 and the convertible starts at $27,170. Press release after the jump.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2010 Volkswagen Beetle


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models

LA 2009: Volkswagen shows off "Final Edition" New Beetle models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugconverible bugConveribleBugfinal editionFinalEditionlala2009laautoshowlast yearLastYearlimited editionLimitedEditionlos angelesLosAngeleslosangelesautoshownew beetlenew beetle convertibleNew Beetle CoupeNewBeetleNewBeetleConvertibleNewBeetleCoupeWed, 02 Dec 2009 16:58:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: 2011 Hyundai Sonata debuts with style, four-cylinder only and less weight]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-hyundai-sonata-at-2009-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Hyundai Sonata SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

Cheap and inexpensive are not necessarily synonymous. Inexpensive is generally considered a positive thing. Cheap? Not so much. Hyundai automobiles have always been relatively inexpensive compared to their direct competitors. In recent years, the Korean company has worked extremely hard to rid itself of any talk of cheapness by improving quality, introducing an unprecedented 10-year/100,000 mile warranty and engaging in some remarkably clever marketing campaigns.

It wasn't always so. Way back in 1983, Hyundai first entered the North American market when the Pony hatchback went on sale in Canada. Two years later, the replacement for the Pony, dubbed "Excel" went on sale in the United States. To say that the launch did not go well would be the understatement of the decade. While those early Hyundai models were indeed cheap, the company nearly met the same fate in this market as Yugo.

Unlike the abysmal Yugo, Hyundai persevered. The company kept redesigning its cars, making each subsequent generation better than the last and extending its warranties to generate confidence in its products. More than two decades later, Hyundai is introducing its latest challenger, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, into what is arguably the most fiercely contested segment in the U.S. market - that of the family sedan. Check out our high-res galleries below, and then click through to the jump to read more of our impressions and check out Hyundai's press release and specifications.


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata


[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading LA 2009: 2011 Hyundai Sonata debuts with style, four-cylinder only and less weight

LA 2009: 2011 Hyundai Sonata debuts with style, four-cylinder only and less weight originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 hyundai sonata2011 Sonata2011HyundaiSonata2011SonatahyundaiHyundai SonataHyundaiSonatala 2009la auto showla showLA2009LA2009hyundaiLA2009hyundaisonataLAAutoshowLAAutoshow2009LaShowLos AngelesLos Angeles Auto ShowLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowSonataWed, 02 Dec 2009 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Event Alert: December Calendar of Automotive Events]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/event-alert-december-calendar-of-automotive-events/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/event-alert-december-calendar-of-automotive-events/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/event-alert-december-calendar-of-automotive-events/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As we slowly emerge from our Thanksgiving food comas, we can start gearing up for more holiday food, family, and fun in December, with an automotive twist. We can also look forward to the real beginning of the auto show season with the first major American show, the LA Auto Show. There are also some smaller shows like the New England Auto Show in Boston, and the conclusion of the San Francisco International Auto Show at the Moscone Center.

All of the major motorsports seasons have concluded, but there will be plenty of silly season news to cover. There are small concours and special events going on in December as well -- The 2nd Spirit of Competition Awards Dinner at the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum, East Coast Indoor Nationals at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, Gulf Coast Motor Sports Holiday Cruisin Southern Style, 8th Annual Kustom Kulture Show in Anaheim, CA, and the 4th Annual Family Picnic and carnival at The Petersen Automotive Museum in LA,

There will also be a slew of Toys for Tots-type charity car shows as we head into the Holidays. We'll be returning to two of our favorites, the 6th Annual Motor4Toys event, and the 6th Annual Toys for Tots Drive hosted by the Schnuerer family in Huntington Beach, CA, but there are many more such events going on all around the country. Check your local paper for more and if you come across any, feel free to post details and links in the comments.

If none of those events appeal to you, check out our Google Calendar after the jump for even more listings, all with detailed info and links. And please use the comments section to add or modify listings.

Continue reading Event Alert: December Calendar of Automotive Events

Event Alert: December Calendar of Automotive Events originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowautoblog calendarAutoblog calendar of eventsAutoblog event calendarAutoblogCalendarAutoblogCalendarOfEventsAutoblogEventCalendarEast Coast Indoor NationalsEastCoastIndoorNationalsGulf Coast Motor Sports Holiday Cruisin Southern StyleGulfCoastMotorSportsHolidayCruisinSouthernStyleKustom Kulture ShowKustomKultureShowLAla auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowMotor4ToysNew England Auto ShowNewEnglandAutoShowpetersen automotive museumPetersenAutomotiveMuseumSan Francisco International Auto ShowSanFranciscoInternationalAutoShowSchnuererSimeone Foundation Automotive MuseumSimeoneFoundationAutomotiveMuseumSpirit of Competition AwardsSpiritOfCompetitionAwardsThe PetersenThe Petersen Automotive MuseumThe Petersen MuseumThePetersenThePetersenAutomotiveMuseumThePetersenMuseumtoys for totsToysForTotsWed, 02 Dec 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/la-preview-mazda2-to-make-its-north-american-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Mazda2 - click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda has finally made it official this morning: it will be bringing its B-segment Mazda2 to the North American market late next year. As you are likely aware, the current generation Mazda2 has been sale in Europe and elsewhere for two years, but we'll be seeing it here for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show in a couple of weeks. The Mazda2 shares its platform with the Ford Fiesta which will also make its U.S. production-spec debut at the West Coast show.

Mazda hasn't revealed any other details yet about powertrains or where the car will be sourced from. We expect a 1.6-liter four-cylinder to will be the primary engine. Judging by the teaser shot they released above, we can certainly expect to see the car at least in five-door hatchback form, but given that this is sedan-loving America, we would also expect a four-door with a trunk to show up in Mazda stores, although perhaps not at the LA Auto Show.


Gallery: 2007 Mazda2


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut

LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowmazdaMazda 2mazda2mazda2 north americamazda2 usMazda2NorthAmericaMazda2UsWed, 18 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: Porsche reveals new lightweight Boxster Spyder [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-preview-porsche-reveals-new-lightweight-boxster-spyder-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-preview-porsche-reveals-new-lightweight-boxster-spyder-w-vi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/05/la-preview-porsche-reveals-new-lightweight-boxster-spyder-w-vi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Porsche Boxster Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're less than a month away from the LA Auto Show, which means that automakers are starting to dribble out some of what we'll be seeing there. The gang from Zuffenhausen will be rolling out a new lightweight edition of the Boxster dubbed "Spyder" especially for those who live where the sun shines and the roads twist. Like the classic 550 Spyders of the Fifties, the top mechanism in this new Boxster is merely a formality - rather than providing fully enclosed driving is more of a sun-shade than anything else.

Overall, Porsche's engineers have pared off about 176 pounds from the Spyder, bringing it down to 2,811 pounds. Propulsion comes via a direct-injected 3.4-liter boxer six with a 10 horsepower boost over the Boxster S for a total of 320. With the automaker's seven-speed PDK dual clutch gearbox, the Spyder gets to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and manages a combined 25.3 mpg (US) on the EU drive cycle.

In Porsche's time-honored "less is more" (money) world, the Boxster Spyder goes on sale in February 2010 with a base price $61,200. We're quite sure your local Porsche dealer will happily offer to put back some additional weight in your car in the form of options, but, hey - at least your wallet's heft will be pared back significantly to help offset the difference. For the rest of you dreamers, be sure to check out our high-res gallery below along with the some videos and the press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder


[Source: Porsche]

Continue reading LA Preview: Porsche reveals new lightweight Boxster Spyder [w/VIDEO]

LA Preview: Porsche reveals new lightweight Boxster Spyder [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 porsche boxster2011 porsche boxster spyder2011PorscheBoxster2011PorscheBoxsterSpyderla auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowPorscheporsche boxsterPorsche Boxster SpyderPorscheBoxsterPorscheBoxsterSpyderThu, 05 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Crooked valet attendants caught in Los Angeles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/video-crooked-valet-attendants-caught-in-los-angeles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/video-crooked-valet-attendants-caught-in-los-angeles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/video-crooked-valet-attendants-caught-in-los-angeles/#commentsFiled under: ,

Click above to watch the video after the jump

It's tough to find a parking spot in Los Angeles, but luckily there are plenty of valets to park your ride for you. The cost ranges from just a few bucks to $20 or more, but when there are places to go, people to see and deadlines to meet, the cost of parking is often better than spending the better part of your afternoon looking for a spot yourself. The problem is, more and more locations have been designated as loading zones and the public parking spaces have been shrinking. The interesting part about this is that the city of Los Angeles itself hasn't been adding the zones - but a bunch of unscrupulous valets have been.

NBC Los Angeles spent a year digging up dirt, and the investigative reporting of the network's Ana Garcia found valets who got into accidents with cars, shuttled co-workers to other spots in customer cars and put up cones and signs illegally. The local NBC affiliate also had cameras rolling as valets parked in front of expired meters, received tickets and didn't tell the car owners. In all, NBC LA and the city's Department of Transportation found over 80 fraudulent loading zone signs, and even after some of the signs were removed, they were back up the next night.

Hit the jump to watch the seven minute video. The investigative journalism is excellent, and the expressions on the faces of the valet workers as they are caught up in lie after lie are priceless. The only bummer is that NBC LA didn't put some cameras in the cars to see if the valets swiped things from people's cars.

[Source: NBC Los Angeles via Consumerist]

Continue reading VIDEO: Crooked valet attendants caught in Los Angeles

VIDEO: Crooked valet attendants caught in Los Angeles originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conciergecrooked valetCrookedValetLA ParkingLaParkinglos angelesLosAngelesnbcnbc laNbcLaparking serviceparking servicesParkingServiceParkingServicesvaletvalet parkingvalet standValetParkingValetStandFri, 02 Oct 2009 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster grows up at the expense of its groove]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/13/first-drive-2009-bmw-z4-grows-up-at-cost-of-its-groove/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/13/first-drive-2009-bmw-z4-grows-up-at-cost-of-its-groove/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/13/first-drive-2009-bmw-z4-grows-up-at-cost-of-its-groove/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 BMW Z4 - Click above for high-res image gallery
The all-new 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster is the eagerly anticipated replacement to both the Z4 Convertible and Z4 Coupe. Adding to this pressure, the two-seater is also tasked with satisfying the enthusiasts who enjoyed the high-performance M variants, both of which are discontinued - at least for the moment. Autoblog just spent a long day behind the wheel of the multi-role Z4, dissecting the Roadster's styling, ergonomics, chassis, powerplant and handling. How does the Z4 masquerade as four different models? Is it a credible replacement for one, or all? Most importantly, will the Z4 appease the enthusiast? Find out after the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: 2009 BMW Z4


Photos copyright (C)2009 Michael Harley / Weblogs, Inc

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster grows up at the expense of its groove

First Drive: 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster grows up at the expense of its groove originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 May 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 BMW2009BmwBMW RoadsterBMW Z2BMW Z3BMW Z4 RoadsterBMW Z8BmwRoadsterBmwZ2BmwZ3BmwZ4RoadsterBmwZ8FeaturedFirst DriveFirst TestFirstDriveFirstTestLos AngelesLosAngelesPreviewRoadsterWed, 13 May 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Supercars make charity toy run in L.A.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/22/supercars-make-charity-toy-run-in-l-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/22/supercars-make-charity-toy-run-in-l-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/22/supercars-make-charity-toy-run-in-l-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Photos courtesy Speed and Motion
It's not often you see this many sports cars chasing a police cruiser, but this was for a good cause. To help get things kicked off for the 5th Annual Motor4Toys charity toy drive event, a bunch of participants followed a police escort over to a local Toys "R" Us to start buying toys for the December 7th event. The Motor4Toys group has been collecting gifts for needy children since 2004, and to date has donated more than 38,000 toys. The unique thing about this organization is that it is all centered around cars.

Motor4Toys taps into the Southern California car community and turns a huge car meet into one of the largest charity toy drives around. Car guys and gals from all over the Southwest show up with their sports cars, exotics, muscle cars, race cars and museum rides to help this worthy cause. Organizers expect to see over 5,000 cars at the event's new home this year, The Anthem Building in Woodland Hills. Entrance to the event is free for everyone, just bring along at least one new, unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more. If you're in the Los Angeles area that weekend, make sure you stop by between 9am and 1pm. And for those who can't make it, PayPal donations are also accepted. Hope to see you there, and remember, every kid deserves a toy! Complete details including maps to the new location and mandatory insurance waivers can be found on the Motor4Toys website. More photos of the drive can be found at Speed and Motion, who provided a video from last year's event that we have posted after the jump.

Continue reading VIDEO: Supercars make charity toy run in L.A.

VIDEO: Supercars make charity toy run in L.A. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Nov 2008 18:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitycharity eventCharityEventlos angelesLosAngelesmotor4toystoy driveToyDriveSat, 22 Nov 2008 18:33:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2008: People watching in the city of angels]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-people-watching-in-the-city-of-angels/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-people-watching-in-the-city-of-angels/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-people-watching-in-the-city-of-angels/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Well, it was only a matter of time before we got around to posting our people gallery from the auto show. Models were pretty scarce this year in Los Angeles, but they were definitely still worth the effort to stop and photograph. We also had a few celebrity sightings again, although none at the press conferences and only one got caught on camera. California's own Governator made it over for his annual tour, but we missed him. The lone celeb in our gallery was Jerry Seinfeld, who showed up at the Porsche news conference with gorgeous blue 550 Spyder in tow.

Gallery: LA 2008: People watching


Live photos copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2008: People watching in the city of angels originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showla auto show 2008LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2008los angelesLosAngelesFri, 21 Nov 2008 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2008: Random sights from the show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-random-sights-from-the-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-random-sights-from-the-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/la-2008-random-sights-from-the-show/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click image at right for high-res gallery of some random sights from Los Angeles.

While we did a lot of coverage of the LA Auto Show this week, there are always some interesting things at the convention center that just don't make into a post of their own. We've collected a bunch of photos that we thought were worth sharing and decided to just dump them into a gallery so you could experience it for yourself. Click on the gallery and you'll see performers that helped Infiniti launch the new G37 Convertible (above), the Mazda3 designer's colorful choice of footwear, Tony Hawk's dream Jeep, a lemon chiffon Rolls-Royce, an unfortunate quality control issue at Maybach, Hell freezing over (for some) at Toyota, and just a bunch of random interesting cars that we've seen before perhaps, but that happened to catch our eyes in LA. We hope you enjoy our farewell to Los Angeles. We can hardly wait for Detroit in January.

Gallery: LA 2008: random sights


Live photos copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2008: Random sights from the show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showla auto show 2008LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2008los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowFri, 21 Nov 2008 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2008: Saab 25th Anniversary 9-3 Cabrio ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-saab-25th-anniversary-9-3-cabrio/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-saab-25th-anniversary-9-3-cabrio/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-saab-25th-anniversary-9-3-cabrio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the Saab 9-3 Cabrio 25th Anniversary Edition
A couple of days ago we told you about this special edition 25th Anniversary Saab 9-3 Cabrio. It's a sure sign that there's not much happening when automakers launch these specials in lieu of any real new models. Saab is guilty of this right now. This is the second limited edition of the 9-3 convertible alone this year. At least this one isn't as colorful as the Yellow edition that came out this summer. This latest special edition 9-3 Convertible is meant to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the very first Saab convertible. Believe it or not that was way back in 1983.

To celebrate the model, this special edition takes some cues from the Turbo X, like the design of the front bumper and steering wheel plus carbon fiber interior finishes and black floor mats with special piping. Also, like the Aero, it sports dual exhaust pipes and an anthracite gray bumper insert out back. Five-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels will be standard and you can choose Jet Black, Carbon Grey and the new Bright Champagne (above) for the exterior. The standard Saab 2.0L turbo with 210 hp is the only engine. All of that for "just" $46,725. Oh, and those big BioPower stickers on the sides? It apparently can run on E85.

Gallery: LA 2008: 25th Anniversary Saab 9-3 Cabrio


Live photos copyright (C)2008 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2008: Saab 25th Anniversary 9-3 Cabrio

LA 2008: Saab 25th Anniversary 9-3 Cabrio originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showla auto show 2008LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2008los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowSaab 25th Anniversay 9-3 Cabriosaab 9-3saab 9-3 convertibleSaab25thAnniversay9-3CabrioSaab9-3Saab9-3ConvertibleThu, 20 Nov 2008 18:02:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2008: Lotus Evora makes it to the States]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-lotus-evora-makes-it-to-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-lotus-evora-makes-it-to-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/20/la-2008-lotus-evora-makes-it-to-the-states/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the Lotus Evora live

The "mostly" U.S. version of the "midsize" Lotus Evora was shown today at the LA Auto Show and it looks exactly like the one that debuted at the 2008 British Motor Show back in June. It's just missing its side marker lights. The Evora follows the '70s Lamborghini Urraco, Maserati Merak, Ferrari 308GT4 and its follow-up the Ferrari Mondial in being a mid-engine 2+2 sports car. It's arguably the best looking of that quintet, though.

Two adult American males fit up front and there's still room in back for a couple of kids, while power comes from a Toyota-sourced 3.5L V6 producing 276 hp. With a curb weight of just 2,976 lbs., that should be plenty to scoot this puppy along. Expect 0-60 in 5 seconds, a top speed of 160+ and 30 mpg.

As cool as all of that is, the interior is what will blow you away, especially if you've ever served time in an Elise or Exige. There's leather all around, a proper nav system, an advanced touch-screen multi-media system and, get this, actual human beings can get in and out of it without requiring ridiculous flexibility. The Evora will be built on a new assembly line in Hethel at the rate of 2,000 annually for worldwide consumption. To Lotus's credit, they designed it from the get-go to meet safety and emissions requirements around the world so all they have to do is put the steering wheel on the proper side.

Talk of a supercharged S model and an even larger Esprit-successor is likely true. And Lotus executives have confirmed that a convertible variant with a power-retractable roof is in the works. Production of the standard Evora will begin in October of 2009, with sales in the U.S. beginning in late November or early December. Six-speed manual-equipped models will be available in the beginning, with an automatic (with paddle shifters) coming to market in April of 2010. But for now, we're happy with just the Evora. Twice as stiff as an Elise and a little extra room for passengers and cargo sounds just about perfect. One additional note: Although this upsized Elise went by the codename Eagle during development, there's apparently no truth to the rumors that the upcoming convertible version will be called the Bald Eagle.

Gallery: LA 2008: Lotus Evora


Gallery: Lotus Evora


[Source: Lotus]

Continue reading LA 2008: Lotus Evora makes it to the States

LA 2008: Lotus Evora makes it to the States originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la auto showla auto show 2008LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2008los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowlotuslotus evoraLotusEvoraThu, 20 Nov 2008 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New Nissan Cube teaser vid shows... nothing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/12/new-nissan-cube-teaser-vid-shows-nothing/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/12/new-nissan-cube-teaser-vid-shows-nothing/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/12/new-nissan-cube-teaser-vid-shows-nothing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to view video after the jump

Go figure. Nissan's playing the debut of the revised and now U.S.-bound Cube very, very close to the vest. We say this because there are photos of the new 370Z all over the place -- released by Nissan, no less. The Cube? Not so much. We posted leaked imagery, and were subsequently forced to pull them down, so we know they were accurate. (No worries, scraped copies of that post are all over the web. Click away.) Aside from that, the only other views of the redesigned Cube came courtesy of Tomica's new die-cast. So it was with excitement that we opened this new Cube teaser video released by Nissan (view after the jump), only to find that it shows absolutely nothing except the logo. We're waiting like everyone else for the car's debut next week at the LA Auto Show. In the interim, you can pass the time by reading our review of the current JDM model.

Gallery: 2010 Nissan Cube Die-Cast


Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2008 Nissan Cube


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading New Nissan Cube teaser vid shows... nothing

New Nissan Cube teaser vid shows... nothing originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 l.a auto show2008L.aAutoShowcubel.a. auto showL.a.AutoShowlos angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShownissannissan cubeNissanCubeteaserus cubeUsCubeWed, 12 Nov 2008 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW X1, 7 Series hybrid headed to Paris; Z4 to debut in LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/bmw-x1-7-series-hybrid-headed-to-paris-z4-to-debut-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/bmw-x1-7-series-hybrid-headed-to-paris-z4-to-debut-in-la/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/bmw-x1-7-series-hybrid-headed-to-paris-z4-to-debut-in-la/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW Z4Inside Line has the skinny on BMW's new product unveils for the upcoming show season. Paris and L.A. are the headliners, with the City of Light chosen as the backdrop for the official public debuts of the all-new 7 series (including an ActiveHybrid variant) and facelifted 3 Series. While those cars will get their fair share of attention, all eyes will likely to be on the concept X1, which will also make its world debut in Paris.

The baby ute should be to the X3 what the 1 Series is to the 3. As for its "concept" status, if Bimmer concepts in recent years are any indication (think M5, Z4 Coupe, and M3), the X1 show car and production vehicle should be essentially one and the same. The next major unveiling involving a roundel-wearing car will take place this November in Los Angeles, where the redesigned Z4 will be introduced. According to Inside Line, it'll go on sale in January. As for the X1? Time will tell. Details on if and/or when it'll be offered in the States aren't available yet.

[Source: Inside Line]

BMW X1, 7 Series hybrid headed to Paris; Z4 to debut in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 BMW z42009BmwZ4bmwlos angelesLosAngelesparissuvx1z4Thu, 28 Aug 2008 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Nissan 370Z shows off its redesigned rump]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/spy-shots-nissan-370z-shows-off-its-redesigned-rump/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/spy-shots-nissan-370z-shows-off-its-redesigned-rump/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/spy-shots-nissan-370z-shows-off-its-redesigned-rump/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



A forum member at VWVortex caught a mildly disguised Nissan 370Z on the freeway, and the two shots give us clearer glimpse of what to expect when the new Z debuts in Los Angeles this November.

It's been widely reported that the 2010 370Z will be shortened by four inches and will ride on a slightly widened track, but without a profile shot, it's hard to tell. The rear three-quarter view shows reworked rear windows that are slightly smaller, with the bottom edge angling steeply towards the roofline. The rear glass of the hatch is sunken in, and incorporates a small spoiler into the trunk lid, while the fenders appear wider than the outgoing model and the tail lamps are equipped with LEDs.

Up front, the restyled headlamps are obscured by the camouflage, but the redesigned front fascia is easily identifiable, as is the tweaked hood, which features a slight power bulge flanked by two accent lines stretching from the windshield to the bumper.

It's nothing radical, but it should be interesting to see how Nissan implements some of its new styling cues from the Maxima and GT-R into new Z.

Thanks for the tip Ross!

[Source: VWVortex]

Spy Shots: Nissan 370Z shows off its redesigned rump originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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