Autoblog

Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Watch the Jeep Mighty FC concept crawl all over Moab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/watch-the-jeep-mighty-fc-concept-crawl-all-over-moab/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/watch-the-jeep-mighty-fc-concept-crawl-all-over-moab/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/10/watch-the-jeep-mighty-fc-concept-crawl-all-over-moab/#commentsFiled under: Concept Cars, SUV, Truck, Videos, Jeep, Specialty, Off-Road

Jeep has a knack for creating some of the concept world's most lustworthy creations, and they are made all the more desirable by their functionality. This year, the star of the Easter Jeep Safari was the company's Mighty FC Concept. Penned as tribute to the old Willys Forward Controls of yore, the Mighty FC boasts high-dollar portal axles and a cab-forward design.

Motor Trend caught up with the big blue machine as it lumbered around the desert this year with Mark Allen, head of Jeep design, behind the wheel. Allen took the time to explain some of the challenges behind bringing the Mighty FC to life as well as the origins of some of the components on board.

As it turns out, Jeep used a snowboard bag for the seat inserts and arm rests. With a cab lifted straight from a standard Wrangler, engineers had to come up with some steering trickery to make sure the vehicle drove like a standard SUV instead of a school bus.

MT even found an old-school Forward Control to bomb around in for a spell as well. Very cool. Hit the jump to see the video for yourself.

Continue reading Watch the Jeep Mighty FC concept crawl all over Moab

Watch the Jeep Mighty FC concept crawl all over Moab originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>easter jeep safarifc conceptforward controljeepjeep mighty fc conceptmighty fc conceptmotor trendTue, 10 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST

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20212510 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/mighty-fc-concept-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/mighty-fc-concept-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> pits Cadillac CTS-V vs Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG in wagon-off]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/motor-trend-pits-cadillac-cts-v-vs-mercedes-benz-e63-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/motor-trend-pits-cadillac-cts-v-vs-mercedes-benz-e63-amg/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/21/motor-trend-pits-cadillac-cts-v-vs-mercedes-benz-e63-amg/#commentsFiled under: Performance, Wagon, Videos, Cadillac, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

Cadillac CTS-V wagon versus E63 AMG wagon

Station wagons, as pointed out by ex-Autoblogger Jonny Lieberman, are boring. "It's the penalty you pay for falling in love and having children," he says.

Sure, just so long as your children like to go fast, at least when the chosen conveyance to move those booster seats from Point A to Point B is either the wagon version of the Cadillac CTS-V or Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, as tested by Motor Trend in the video you'll see after the break.

Without spoiling any of the salient details, we'll say that one car was a wee bit quicker, crossing the finish line a scant 79 feet ahead of its rival after a half-mile of acceleration to speeds surpassing 150 miles per hour, while the other was deemed the overall better car for enthusiast drivers.

Which was which? See the video below for all the answers you crave, along with some brilliant exhaust notes from these two rare wagon-shaped beasts.

Continue reading Motor Trend pits Cadillac CTS-V vs Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG in wagon-off

Motor Trend pits Cadillac CTS-V vs Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG in wagon-off originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20198310 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/cts-v-wagon-vs-e63-amg-wagon_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/cts-v-wagon-vs-e63-amg-wagon.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Hot Rod</i> tackles the Alaska Highway in 1968 Ford Ranchero Baja 1000 clone]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/17/hot-rod-tackles-the-alaska-highway-in-1968-ford-ranchero/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/17/hot-rod-tackles-the-alaska-highway-in-1968-ford-ranchero/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/17/hot-rod-tackles-the-alaska-highway-in-1968-ford-ranchero/#commentsFiled under: Videos

Roadkill, Episode 2

Last time Roadkill took a trip it inolved a $1,500 budget, a 1972 Pontiac Catalina and a trip from El Paso to Los Angeles. This time their adventures point northward to Alaska, and their chariot will be a clone of the 1968 Ford Ranchero that Hot Rod used to take a class win in the first Baja 1000. It is, naturally, called "Viva Raunchero."

Ice racing in America's largest state is the goal. But the real action ends up taking place far away from Arctic latitudes as co-pilots David Freiburger and Mike Finnegan get to enjoy hours of freezing temps when the Ranchero throws repeated tantrums in Vail, Colorado and Utah. You'll find another lesson in road tripping the Hot Rod way in the video after the jump.

Continue reading Hot Rod tackles the Alaska Highway in 1968 Ford Ranchero Baja 1000 clone

Hot Rod tackles the Alaska Highway in 1968 Ford Ranchero Baja 1000 clone originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Mar 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20195350 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/rancheroroadkill_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/rancheroroadkill.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> picks their Best Driver's Car of 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/motor-trend-picks-their-best-drivers-car-of-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/motor-trend-picks-their-best-drivers-car-of-2011/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/24/motor-trend-picks-their-best-drivers-car-of-2011/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Videos

Motor Trend 2011 Best Driver's Car

It's been a long while since the guys at Motor Trend went through the trouble of picking the best driver's car, and for good reason. In order to pull off an actual test with any merit, the publication would need to wrangle some of the most impressive pieces of automotive engineering together on the same track on the same day. When we're talking about vehicles like the Lexus LFA, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, Lotus Evora, Ferrari 458 Italia and the like, that can be a daunting feat, even for a rag of MT's swagger.

The stars aligned, however, and the crew managed to collect the hardware above as well as heathens like the Nissan GT-R, Porsche 911 GT3 RS, Porsche Cayman R, Audi R8 GT, Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Z07 and the Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca. All told, the collection was worth more than $1.5 million, and Motor Trend took the time to put them all through a battery of grueling performance tests before handing over the keys to a pro driver for a few quick laps at Laguna Seca. Rough times, guys.

The decision-making process has been split into three parts, and Part 1 is after the jump. Enjoy.

Continue reading Motor Trend picks their Best Driver's Car of 2011

Motor Trend picks their Best Driver's Car of 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>458 italia911911 gt3 rsbest drivers carcaymancorvettedrivers carevoragt-rlaguna secalfamotor trendmotor trend 2011 best drivers carmustang boss 302r8videoz06Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:58:00 EST

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20178893 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/motor-trend-drivers-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/motor-trend-drivers-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac denies ATS Coupe development halted [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/cadillac-denies-ats-coupe-development-halted-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/cadillac-denies-ats-coupe-development-halted-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/03/cadillac-denies-ats-coupe-development-halted-w-video/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Videos, Cadillac, GM, Rumormill, Luxury

Wide Open Throttle

Motor Trend launched its new "Wide Open Throttle" news program on YouTube with a bombshell: "Cadillac Puts Hold on ATS Coupe." While it certainly gave us reason to click play, there's just one problem. The report - claiming that not just the coupe, but multiple ATS variants have been delayed or cancelled - may not be accurate.

Cadillac spokesman David Caldwell gave us the usual manufacturer disclaimer about not commenting on future product, but he did tell us, "There has been no recent radical shift in strategy" for the ATS. Reading between the lines, that either means an ATS coupe hasn't gotten past the idea stage, or that GM is still working hard at bringing us a two-door version of Caddy's BMW 3 Series fighter.

"On either end of the spectrum the reporting is inaccurate," Caldwell said, referring to those who have opined that Cadillac will launch several variants of the ATS sedan that comes to market later this year, including a coupe, a convertible, a wagon, and a shooting brake.

"We do plan to do variants," Caldwell told us. "We haven't yet called our shot of how we're going to execute that."

So what do we make of all this? We're pretty sure that we'll still see an ATS-V sedan, and perhaps that could be it for ATS models if the standard sedan is not well received. If sales take off, however, don't be surprised if Cadillac does move forward with at least one new bodystyle.

Click past the jump to watch the premiere episode of "Wide Open Throttle."

Continue reading Cadillac denies ATS Coupe development halted [w/video]

Cadillac denies ATS Coupe development halted [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac atsatsats convertibleats coupeats wagonats-vcadillaccadillac ats variantsgeneral motorsgmmotor trendwide open throttleFri, 03 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST

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20163786 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/wot-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/wot-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler to replace Dodge Challenger with Barracuda?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/chrysler-to-replace-dodge-challenger-with-barracuda/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/chrysler-to-replace-dodge-challenger-with-barracuda/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/09/chrysler-to-replace-dodge-challenger-with-barracuda/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Etc., Chevrolet, Dodge, Alfa Romeo, Rumormill, Fiat

Plymouth Barracuda

Motor Trend reports that Chrysler may forsake the Dodge Challenger for a resurrected Barracuda. The magazine cites two unnamed sources as saying the nameplate will surface in time to celebrate the vehicle's 50th anniversary in 2014. If true, the Barracuda will ride on a new smaller and lighter platform that's more fit to compete with the likes of the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. The vehicle's bones will likely be shared with Alfa Romeo, which means a turbo four-cylinder may show up behind the Barracuda headlights as well as a fire-breathing V8. MT suggests the design may pull from the original fastback Barracuda, though a notch-back version would allow Chrysler to more effectively compete against the drop-top hardware from Ford and Chevrolet.

We have no doubt Chrysler and Fiat are currently investigating ways to breathe new life into the Challenger. The vehicle has been content to plod along as a distant third to its muscle-car rivals, but pulling the Barracuda name back into play seems unlikely. For starters, the Barracuda sailed under the long-dead Plymouth banner, and both Dodge and Chrysler have a long list of hallowed names from which to choose. Stay tuned.

Chrysler to replace Dodge Challenger with Barracuda? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeobarracudachallengerchevrolechryslerdodgedodge barracudamotor trendplymouthplymouth barracudaMon, 09 Jan 2012 08:03:00 EST

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20143627 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/barracuda-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/barracuda-628.jpg <![CDATA[How Montezemolo revolutionized Ferrari after Enzo's death]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/how-montezemolo-revolutionized-ferrari-after-enzos-death/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/how-montezemolo-revolutionized-ferrari-after-enzos-death/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/how-montezemolo-revolutionized-ferrari-after-enzos-death/#commentsFiled under: Performance, Etc., Europe, Earnings/Financials, Ferrari, Luxury

Luca Cordero di Montezemolo sitting in new Ferrari

Finding one's self at the helm of a storied automaker like Ferrari must be equal parts amazing and terrifying. While you have the power to steer the company in any direction you so please, you're also saddled with serving the high expectations of the world. Luca Cordero di Montezemolo knows all about those pressures. The Piedmontese aristocrat took the helm of Ferrari nearly 20 years and has largely been responsible for the company's transformation in that time. Motor Trend recently took the time to sit down with Montezemolo for a brief chat about his time with the automaker to learn a little more about how things changed after company founder Enzo Ferrari passed away in 1988.

In addition to increasing the company's revenue from a modest €230 million in 1993 (around $300M USD) to €2 billion ($2.59B) last year, Montezemolo ensured 17 to 20 percent of the company's earnings were rolled into research and development each year. The CEO was also instrumental in guiding the company to becoming "The Best Workplace in Europe" as named by London's Financial Times. Each Ferrari worker has access to free school books for their children, free family medical checkups and a low home mortgage rate.

Head over to Motor Trend for a fascinating look at how Montezemolo worked to craft Ferrari into the global performance and marketing powerhouse it is today... and who knows, you just might be learning more about Italy's next prime minister.

How Montezemolo revolutionized Ferrari after Enzo's death originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Auto execs

Rankings in this business usually revolve around cars themselves, but every year our friends over at Motor Trend put together a Top 50 list of another kind: MT's annual Power List ranks the people behind the cars. Their placement reflects not only their actions in the past and vision for the future, but also the success of the companies they lead.

This year's list has just hit the interwebs, and while some of its contents (and the order in which they appear) may come as expected, others hold some surprises. At the top of the list: one Sergio Marchionne, CEO of the Fiat and Chrysler groups and architect of their increasing synergization. Right behind him is Hyundai chairman Chung Mong Koo. But while Volkswagen chief Martin Winterkorn may not have advanced from last year's fourth place ranking, that his chairman and design chief are up there in the top ten along with him speak volumes about the company's success.

A few other notables: Even in semi-retirement, Bob Lutz still holds a place on the list, albeit at the bottom. Energy drink guru Dietrich Mateschitz is up at 18th place for steering the Red Bull Racing team to consecutive World Championships. And those searching for gender equity in a largely male-dominated industry will find just two women on the list: Ford's European VP Barb Samarszich at 33rd place, and General Motors product development vice president Mary Barra at 41. Follow the link to scope out the rest.

Motor Trend ranks the industry's best and brightest with annual Power List originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto executivesautomotive power listChung Mong KooChung Mong-Koomotor trendpower listsergio marchionneTue, 20 Dec 2011 18:58:00 EST

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20131086 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/auto-execs_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/auto-execs.jpg <![CDATA[Ford F-150 named 2012 <i>Motor Trend</i> Truck of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/ford-f-150-named-2012-motor-trend-truck-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/ford-f-150-named-2012-motor-trend-truck-of-the-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/ford-f-150-named-2012-motor-trend-truck-of-the-year/#commentsFiled under: Truck, Ford

2012 Ford F-150 Patinum

The next in the never-ending list of 'OTYs comes courtesy of Motor Trend and the buff book's crowning of the 2012 Ford F-150 as its Truck of the Year.

Aside from the expansive list of standard and optional features, the F-150's general fitment and polish, and Ford's claim that you can spec your workhorse in one of 650,000 different varieties, what seemed to win over the Motor Trend crew more than anything else was its drivetrain. And one engine in particular.

While the 5.0-liter V8 was a favorite, after all the judges sampled a Platinum EcoBoost SuperCrew variant fitted with the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, the vote was unanimous. The combination of 365 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, along with commendable - if not world-beating - fuel economy and 11,300-pound towing capacity was enough to put the EcoBoost over the top. Read all about the magazine's testing and assessment in its official pronouncement and check out a related video after the jump.

Continue reading Ford F-150 named 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year

Ford F-150 named 2012 Motor Trend Truck of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20126221 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/12f150platinslhr-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/12f150platinslhr-628.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volkswagen Passat named <i>Motor Trend</i> 2012 Car of the Year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/2012-volkswagen-passat-named-motor-trend-2012-car-of-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/2012-volkswagen-passat-named-motor-trend-2012-car-of-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/16/2012-volkswagen-passat-named-motor-trend-2012-car-of-the/#commentsFiled under: LA Auto Show, Budget, Sedan, Volkswagen, Diesel

2012 Volkswagen Passat

Motor Trend has named the 2012 Volkswagen Passat its 2012 Car of the Year at the 2011 LA Auto Show today. The publication has been handing out the honor for 62 years now, and says that all of the eligible vehicles were submitted to a battery of tests that include on-track and real-world driving evaluations. In the end, the 2012 Passat came out on top because it fulfills six specific criteria: advancement in design, engineering excellence, efficiency, safety, value and performance of intended function. Motor Trend specifically cited the vehicle's roomy interior and wide range of powertrain options as reasons that it won the top nod.

Amazingly enough, this is only the second time in the history of the award that Volkswagen has taken home the Motor Trend Car of the Year trophy. The last time was in 1985 for the GTI.

This is a big nod for a vehicle that many feared would lose its German quality in its Americanization. Built in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the 2012 Passat is a suitable rival for long-reigning models like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Follow the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading 2012 Volkswagen Passat named Motor Trend 2012 Car of the Year

2012 Volkswagen Passat named Motor Trend 2012 Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 la auto show2012 car of the year2012 volkswagen passatcar of the yearlala 2011la auto showmotor trendmotor trend car of the yearpassatvolkswagenWed, 16 Nov 2011 15:26:00 EST

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20108005 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012-volkswagen-passat-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/2012-volkswagen-passat-628.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> visits Norway, looks for lineage in Audi R8 Spyder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/motor-trend-visits-norway-looks-for-lineage-in-audi-r8-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/motor-trend-visits-norway-looks-for-lineage-in-audi-r8-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/motor-trend-visits-norway-looks-for-lineage-in-audi-r8-s/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Performance, Etc., Videos, Audi, Luxury

When Motor Trend tecnical director Frank Markus decided he needed to get away, you should know that his 'time out' wouldn't merely be a weekend at the local hot springs or camping down by the river. The MT crew has made fine work of taking glorious trips in glorious cars - and a Subaru Outback - and Markus would keep it up, tracing Viking routes and his own heritage in an Audi R8 V10 Spyder along Norway's Atlantic Road.

We'd love to tell you about it but we'd be remiss - the story is worth the read and the video, after the jump, is even moreso worth the watch. To Markus and his steed, we say "skaal!"

Continue reading Motor Trend visits Norway, looks for lineage in Audi R8 Spyder

Motor Trend visits Norway, looks for lineage in Audi R8 Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Nov 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20102259 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/markusr8norway_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/markusr8norway.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque named <i>Motor Trend</i> SUV of the Year [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/2012-land-rover-range-rover-evoque-named-motor-trend-suv-of-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/2012-land-rover-range-rover-evoque-named-motor-trend-suv-of-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/25/2012-land-rover-range-rover-evoque-named-motor-trend-suv-of-the/#commentsFiled under: Crossover, Land Rover

2011 is quickly nearing its end (already!), which means it's time for big awards to be given out to the best new cars to hit the market over the past twelve months. First up, Motor Trend has officially announced that the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque is its SUV of the Year, stating that the compact crossover "transcends conventional perceptions of a sport/utility vehicle; seamlessly combining sporty styling and agility, with off-road prowess and utility."

During its testing, Motor Trend found the Evoque to be ahead of the pack in terms of style, engineering and refinement. Specific areas of praise include the sloping roofline that still allows for plenty of headroom, as well as the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the well-sorted, adaptable suspension.

The Evoque is also a candidate for the North American Truck of the Year award, which will be presented at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show in January. Read more about MT's reasoning here, and follow the jump for a video and Motor Trend's official release.

Continue reading 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque named Motor Trend SUV of the Year [w/video]

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque named Motor Trend SUV of the Year [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 land rover range rover evoqueevoqueland rovermotor trendrange rover evoquesuv of the yearTue, 25 Oct 2011 12:31:00 EST

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20089980 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2012-range-rover-evoque-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-2012-range-rover-evoque-fd.jpg <![CDATA[The women of <i>Motor Trend</i> tell us which cars catch their eyes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/the-women-of-motor-trend-tell-us-which-cars-catch-their-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/the-women-of-motor-trend-tell-us-which-cars-catch-their-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/23/the-women-of-motor-trend-tell-us-which-cars-catch-their-e/#commentsFiled under: Etc.

In spite of believing we have a decent idea about what the fairer sex really wants, we're frequently faced with correction: "You thought that's what we wanted, but we actually want this other thing..." It's happened again courtesy of female staffers at Motor Trend, who've laid out six "Cars that catch girls' eyes."

The piece is headed by a pic of the Porsche 911 GT3 4.0, but that's not on the list. The Subaru Outback pictured above, however, is. Yes, it gets weirder from there. And while the list might, like Maroon 5, make you wonder, the comments are not to be missed. Any article that can elicit "gunna run out and git me an accord so i's can fetch me a lady !!!" deserves a look, no?

The women of Motor Trend tell us which cars catch their eyes originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20088156 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/mtwomenpicks_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/mtwomenpicks.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari 458 Italia named MT's best driver's car of 2011, participates in 11-way exotic drag race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/ferrari-458-italia-named-best-drivers-car-of-2011-participates/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/ferrari-458-italia-named-best-drivers-car-of-2011-participates/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/ferrari-458-italia-named-best-drivers-car-of-2011-participates/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Videos, Ferrari

Motor Trend 2011 Best Driver's Car Competition

Today, Motor Trend announced the winner of its 2011 Best Driver's Car competition. The Ferrari 458 Italia took the top honors, beating out the other ten cars in the field. The annual roundup takes into account several factors, including lapping at California's Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, instrumented testing and street driving.

Interestingly, the 458 Italia didn't have the quickest lap time, nor did it record the best straight-line numbers. A Chevrolet Corvette Z06 with the Z07 suspension package and barely street-legal tires managed a blistering 1:34.43 second lap at Laguna Seca, beating the 458 Italia by nearly two seconds. The 458 Italia also fell short of winning the acceleration tests, losing out to the 2012 Nissan GT-R and its all-wheel-drive.

So why did it win? You'll have read the full article over at MotorTrend.com, or hit the jump to see a video of all eleven contenders drag race simultaneously at the El Toro Marine base.

Continue reading Ferrari 458 Italia named MT's best driver's car of 2011, participates in 11-way exotic drag race

Ferrari 458 Italia named MT's best driver's car of 2011, participates in 11-way exotic drag race originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20040243 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/motortrend-2011-best-drivers-car_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/motortrend-2011-best-drivers-car.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> lines up stock and tuned CTS-V wagons at dragstrip]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/motor-trend-lines-up-stock-and-tuned-cts-v-wagons-at-drag/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/motor-trend-lines-up-stock-and-tuned-cts-v-wagons-at-drag/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/15/motor-trend-lines-up-stock-and-tuned-cts-v-wagons-at-drag/#commentsFiled under: Aftermarket, Performance, Wagon, Videos, Cadillac, Luxury

D3 Cadillac CTS-V Battlewagon

Yes, the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V is fast. So fast it makes our heads spin just thinking about it. So fast that lesser cars go home and cry to their mommies. So fast it's gone plaid. Better still, it can be purchased in sedan, coupe and, our particular favorite, wagon bodystyle.

But what happens when you take the CTS-V Wagon-shaped dial and turn it up to 11? To find out, current Motor Trend scribe and Autoblog alumn Jonny Lieberman turned to the tuners at D3, who served up a healthy dose of its so-called Battlewagon.

Fitted with a host of goodies like a new pulley driving the supercharger, a larger intercooler and a reflashed computer, the D3-tuned CTS-V makes 675 horsepower (or more...) and is therefore expected to be more than a hair bit quicker than its stock counterpart. But just how much faster is it?

Click past the break to see a stock Cadillac CTS-V Wagon line up against one with $14,000 of modifications that boost horsepower.

Continue reading Motor Trend lines up stock and tuned CTS-V wagons at dragstrip

Motor Trend lines up stock and tuned CTS-V wagons at dragstrip originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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20018258 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/d3-cts-v-drag_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/d3-cts-v-drag.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> gets sideways with Lexus LFA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/motor-trend-gets-sideways-with-lexus-lfa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/motor-trend-gets-sideways-with-lexus-lfa/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/motor-trend-gets-sideways-with-lexus-lfa/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Lexus, Luxury

Drifting Lexus LFA

We can always rely on the good people at Motor Trend to stir up some genuine jealousy thanks to their excellently crafted videos. The team recently got their hands on the Lexus LFA and took the V10 monster out to an abandoned Marine base for a little frolicking in the wide-open spaces. They were kind enough to bring the video crew along for the ride, and the finished result is a lengthy clip that features plenty of sideways action without any prattling voice overs. Unfortunately, we don't get to hear that sinister engine wail or the tires beg for mercy. The whole shindig instead gets set to an impressively dramatic soundtrack.

Still, we'll never complain at the chance to watch the LFA turn its high-dollar wheels in anger. Odds are we'll get another look at the car and find out what the MT gurus thought soon enough. Hit the jump to check out the video clip for yourself in all of its high-definition glory.

Continue reading Motor Trend gets sideways with Lexus LFA

Motor Trend gets sideways with Lexus LFA originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19994879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mt-lexus-lfa_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mt-lexus-lfa.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini ditching manual transmissions]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/lamborghini-ditching-manual-transmissions/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/lamborghini-ditching-manual-transmissions/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/08/lamborghini-ditching-manual-transmissions/#commentsFiled under: Etc., Lamborghini

lamborghini center cap

Lamborghini is apparently chomping at the bit to say arrivederci to the manual transmission. Motor Trend had a chance to speak with Maurizio Reggiani, Lamborghini's R&D director, and it appears that a manual gearbox doesn't fit into the automaker's plans for the future. The immediate future.

Per Reggiani, only one to two percent of the vehicles produced at the Sant'Agata factory come equipped with a row-your-own setup - a shockingly low percentage. Lamborghini's customers want fast cars, and the best way to ensure it delivers is by removing the human element from the gearchange equation.

A Gallardo replacement is expected next year, and Reggiani tells Motor Trend that it will be available only with an automated gearbox of some sort (the new Aventador makes use of an automated single-clutch seven-speed unit).

Has the manual transmission run its course, or is there still life left for those who hunt for the perfect heel-toe downshift? If the rumormill is correct, Porsche seems to think there is, but other automakers have been mum on development plans for three-pedal setups. What do you think? Mull it over and then sound off in Comments.

Lamborghini ditching manual transmissions originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automatic only lamborghiniautomatic transmissiongallardo replacementlamborghinilamborghini gallardomanualmanual transmissionmaurizio reggianimotor trendFri, 08 Jul 2011 10:31:00 EST

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19986010 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/lambo-center-cap_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/lambo-center-cap.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> revisits the 1963 Indy 500, drives Parnelli Jones' Ol' Calhoun]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/04/motor-trend-revisits-the-1963-indy-500-drives-parnelli-j/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/04/motor-trend-revisits-the-1963-indy-500-drives-parnelli-j/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/04/motor-trend-revisits-the-1963-indy-500-drives-parnelli-j/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Videos

angus mackenzie drives ol' calhoun

Motor Trend's Angus MacKenzie drives Ol' Calhoun - Click above to watch video after the jump

Angus MacKenzie has driven cars that many men and women dream about even catching a glimpse of. But what is the Motor Trend editor in chief's dream ride? Nothing less than the car Parnelli Jones drove to victory at the 1963 Indianapolis 500: Ol' Calhoun.

Jones drove Ol' Calhoun at Indy for four consecutive years. In 1961 he came close to winning the race, but the car let him down. In '62, Jones used Ol' Calhoun to become the first driver to qualify at over 150 miles per hour, yet he still finished the race in seventh. Victory came in 1963, when Jones led for 167 of the 200 laps. Still, Ol' Calhoun nearly put an end to that thanks to a cracked oil reservoir. Luckily, race officials didn't black flag Jones for the leaking oil, and he continued on to take the checkered flag.

For MacKenzie, that car has been an object of affection ever since he was a boy, and this year, he finally got opportunity to drive his childhood love on the hallowed grounds at Indy. Motor Trend filmed the event, creating a 22-minute video that also includes the history of the car and a chat with Parnelli Jones himself. Follow the jump to watch Angus MacKenzie meet the legend and his race car.

Continue reading Motor Trend revisits the 1963 Indy 500, drives Parnelli Jones' Ol' Calhoun

Motor Trend revisits the 1963 Indy 500, drives Parnelli Jones' Ol' Calhoun originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Jun 2011 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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19956573 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/motor-trend-ol-calhoun_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/motor-trend-ol-calhoun.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> polls readers to find Top Five Motoring Annoyances]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/motor-trend-polls-readers-to-find-top-five-motoring-annoy/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/motor-trend-polls-readers-to-find-top-five-motoring-annoy/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/02/motor-trend-polls-readers-to-find-top-five-motoring-annoy/#commentsFiled under: Etc.

angry driver

Driving shouldn't be a stressful experience. Too often, however, piloting a motor vehicle can turn any driver into a raging psychopath, spewing forth creative expletives that would make even the most hardened construction worker blush. What are the top pain points for motorists? Motor Trend wanted to find out, and the buff book polled its readers to compile a list of the top five sources of irritation on the road:

1. Being stuck behind slow drivers - 43.5%
2. Inattentive drivers texting and talking on cell phones - 23.2%
3. Drivers that do not use turn signals - 16.1%
4. Aggressive drivers cutting through traffic - 10%
5. Drivers who refuse to turn right on red - 7.2%

Those results are pretty clear. Slow drivers are the scourge of our roadways, and we're curious how many of the people in group four are created as a result of being in group one. Click past the jump to read the full press release from Motor Trend.

Continue reading Motor Trend polls readers to find Top Five Motoring Annoyances

Motor Trend polls readers to find Top Five Motoring Annoyances originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angry driverdistracted drivingdriving irritationsmotor trendmotor trend readers pollslow driversThu, 02 Jun 2011 17:32:00 EST

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19955522 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/angry-driver_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/angry-driver.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Motor Trend</i> pits Panamera against X6 M, CTS-V Wagon in wild three-way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/video-motor-trend-pits-panamera-against-x6-m-cts-v-wago/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/video-motor-trend-pits-panamera-against-x6-m-cts-v-wago/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/26/video-motor-trend-pits-panamera-against-x6-m-cts-v-wago/#commentsFiled under: Performance, SUV, Wagon, Etc., Videos, Hatchback, BMW, Cadillac, Porsche

2011 Porsche Panamera Turbo

2011 Porsche Panamera Turbo - Click above to watch video after the jump

Motor Trend has amassed three of the automotive world's black sheep for a little throw-down on the quarter mile. The 2011 Porsche Panamera Turbo lurks in one corner, complete with its 550-horsepower, forced-induction 4.8-liter V8. What could possibly serve as a fitting combatant to such a lump of angry metal? The 2011 BMW X6 M is up to the challenge. With a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that kicks out ~~555~~ 500 horsepower, the gangly SUV should have the cajones to give the bad Porsche a run for its schnitzel.

Of course, where's the fun in watching two German heavyweights go around the ring? In order to add a little spice to this mix, the guys from MT threw in the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon. Now it's a party.

How does it turn out? We won't spoil it for you. Hit the jump to check out the video for yourself. If you look really closely, you might even see a familiar face that used to haunt these halls. Word has it that we can expect a more mouth-watering video with these three amigos to show up later this week.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Motor Trend pits Panamera against X6 M, CTS-V Wagon in wild three-way

Motor Trend pits Panamera against X6 M, CTS-V Wagon in wild three-way originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 bmw x6 m2011 cadillac cts-v wagon2011 porsche panamera turbobmwbmw x6 mcadillaccadillac cts-v wagoncts-v wagonmotor trendpanamera turboporscheporsche panamera turbovideox6 mTue, 26 Apr 2011 12:32:00 EST

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