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[Detroit 2009: The odds, the ends]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/20/detroit-2009-the-odds-the-ends/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/20/detroit-2009-the-odds-the-ends/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/20/detroit-2009-the-odds-the-ends/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of odds & ends from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show

Auto shows throw massive amounts of promotions, marketing, branding, communications and event planning brainpower into one little bowl. Everyone is trying to be distinctive, and sometimes they do it with the cars, sometimes with the merchandise, sometimes with lures that are meant to get you to their stand at all. Yet there are only so many positions in which to mount a car and so many ways to put a logo on a jacket, right? Inevitably, that means you come across a few nifty novelties, and you also discover a few more things that fell through the cracks and make you wonder "What is this... doing here?" These are few of those odds and ends we found at last week's 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: The odds, the ends

Detroit 2009: The odds, the ends originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sure, there were a few brands missing from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, but we never got the feeling that things were bleak... until we went looking for ten cool wheels. After walking the floor twice, we were able to come up with nine. America's premiere auto show had left us walking in circles, one wheel short, debating whether an ugly wheel with internally-mounted calipers was cool enough to make the list. And it was then that the real tragedy of this show hit us: not the subtracted brand count, but the lack of concept cars. With money reduced to growing on tumbleweeds and not on trees, those big-dollar flights of fancy had been (mostly) grounded. Instead, there were some magnificent production vehicles (the humongous 2010 Ford Taurus FTW!), and hereby we present the best wheels we found among them.

Detroit 2009: Hot Wheels originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Jan 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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It's time for Episode #111 of the Autoblog Podcast! It's a post NAIAS wrapup, as Chris, Sam, John, and Dan sit down and contemplate what went down in Cobo at the Detroit Auto Show. We kick the ball around about what we thought was significant at the show, and then Editor Neff reveals some very special news later on in the show. Next week, we're going to try to do an all-questions show, so ping us at Podcast at Autoblog Dot Com with your submission, maybe it'll make the show! See you next week

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Autoblog Podcast #111 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Jan 2009 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastautoblog podcast 111autoblog podcast detroit auto showautoblog podcast episode 111AutoblogPodcastAutoblogPodcast111AutoblogPodcastDetroitAutoShowAutoblogPodcastEpisode111detroit auto showDetroitAutoShownaias 2009Naias2009podcastThu, 15 Jan 2009 16:59:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #111Autoblog66:00<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition is an excuse to issue a press release]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-saab-9-5-griffin-edition-is-an-excuse-to-issue-a-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-saab-9-5-griffin-edition-is-an-excuse-to-issue-a-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/14/detroit-2009-saab-9-5-griffin-edition-is-an-excuse-to-issue-a-p/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition

We really feel for the folks at Saab, and not just because we love the 9-5 SportCombi and that we pined for a Turbo 900 with the Aero package for what seemed like all of the '80s. Yet look ahead 20 years - specifically to the 2009 Detroit Auto Show - and all we have to get excited about is the Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition. Frankly, the press release is more exciting.

The grille is spruced up with matte chrome. Besides the fact that it looks like plastic, doesn't a matte finish defeat the purpose of chrome? Inside, as always with Saab, the two-tone seats are terrific places to plop one's rear, and the things covered in leather have the look and feel you want in your quirky luxury sedan. Elsewhere... well, it's the same thing Saab owners have been looking at for years, but with some of the plastic in different places. It isn't bad. It's "Why?"

It comes with almost everything; the only options being metallic paint, ventilated seats and navigation. But when this is everything, and everything in sedan form costs $42,775, who's looking for this? Oh Saab, wherefore art thou? You can read the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition is an excuse to issue a press release

Detroit 2009: Saab 9-5 Griffin Edition is an excuse to issue a press release originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-59-5 griffin edition9-5GriffinEditiondetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShownaiasnaias 2009Naias2009saabsaab 9-5saab 9-5 griffin editionSaab9-5Saab9-5GriffinEditionsedanspecial editionSpecialEditionWed, 14 Jan 2009 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Post-Bailout Booth Tour - Chrysler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-post-bailout-booth-tour-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-post-bailout-booth-tour-chrysler/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-post-bailout-booth-tour-chrysler/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to begin the Chrysler booth tour

Yesterday, we gave you a guided tour of GM's first post-bailout NAIAS display. Today, we head across the hall to Chrysler, where the floundering automaker's dire financial straits are reflected on the show floor. Chrysler, once renowned for its lavish press conferences and known for its fancy display stands, has throttled back... big time. All three brands now share an open floorplan. No waterfall at Jeep, no giant Ram horns. Just cars and carpet. Taxpayer dollars now in the bank, the Pentastar is obviously trying to stretch them as far as it can while looking responsible in the process. The financial Grim Reaper has been shooed away for the moment, but don't worry about him; he'll definitely be back. The larger question after this year is, will Chrysler? Jump into the gallery below to begin the tour.

Note: The vehicles shown in the gallery were still in the process of being moved around when these photos were taken Monday night.

Live photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Post-Bailout Booth Tour - Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 19:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowdodgejeepnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009pos-bailout booth tourPos-bailoutBoothTourTue, 13 Jan 2009 19:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T Classic]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-challenger-r-t-classic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic

For the most part, the lineup at the Chrysler stand here in Detroit is like an advertisement for Zoloft. There are a few exceptions, however. The blue Ram R/T is one, and here's another: the Dodge Challenger R/T Classic. As appearance packages go, this one's a winner. 20-inch Torq-Thrust replicas fill the wheel wells, old-school R/T stripes run down the flanks, and best of all, the classic script Challenger badge adorns each fender. Hey Chrysler -- they should all get this treatment. As you can see, the one parked on the Detroit floor is painted HEMI Orange. We'd order the B5 Blue. Ultimately, it's cool either way.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T Classic


Photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Dodge Challenger R/T Classic originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challengerchallenger rtchallenger rt classicChallengerRtChallengerRtClassicclassicdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showdetroit auto show 2009Detroit2009DetroitAutoShowDetroitAutoShow2009dodgenaiasnaias 2009Naias2009RTTue, 13 Jan 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Dodge Ram R/T Accessorized]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-ram-r-t-accessorized/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-ram-r-t-accessorized/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-dodge-ram-r-t-accessorized/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a hi-res gallery of the Dodge Ram R/T

Stuck among the largely forgettable production vehicles at the Chrysler, LLC display is this Mopar-enhanced Ram R/T. Originally shown at SEMA, B5 Blue (we think) covers its bodywork, which is very close to the ground thanks to a new set of springs and shocks. Kumho-shod, 22-inch forged wheels are stuffed into the cutouts. In front, the Challenger-style hood rocks a set of SRT stripes, the headlamp housings are blacked out, and a new front bumper with chin spoiler threatens to scrape against any obstacle taller than a praying mantis. Out back, a body-colored bed cover thwarts prying eyes, and a pair of fat polished exhaust tips pokes under the rear bumper. Inside, you'll find color-keyed inserts and R/T embroidery on the seats. Overall, this thing looks pretty mean, especially when its surrounded with your garden variety Dakotas and Durangos.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Dodge Ram R/T Accessorized


Photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Dodge Ram R/T Accessorized originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessorizeddetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowdodge ramDodgeRammoparnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009ram rtRamRtTue, 13 Jan 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Best automaker cutaway displays]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-best-automaker-cutaway-displays/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-best-automaker-cutaway-displays/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-best-automaker-cutaway-displays/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of NAIAS cutaways

Cutaway displays have been a staple of auto shows for many years, but we're noticing that more and more automakers are devoting money and floor space to cutaway displays. Aside from being cool to look at, cutaways are an increasingly valuable tool for explaining today's advanced technologies -- particularly when it comes to the complex systems found in alternative-fuel vehicles. Check out the gallery below to see how different automakers are taking the hinges off for the viewing public at the Detroit Auto Show.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: The Cutaways

2010 Honda Insight Cutaway2010 Honda Insight Cutaway2010 Honda Insight CutawayHonda Accord Crash Test CutawayHonda Accord Crash Test Cutaway

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

Detroit 2009: Best automaker cutaway displays originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CoboDetroitdetroit 2009Detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowHonda InsightHondaInsightNAIASNAIAS 2009Naias2009Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-volkswagen-touareg-lux-limited-sports-j-crew-col/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-volkswagen-touareg-lux-limited-sports-j-crew-col/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-volkswagen-touareg-lux-limited-sports-j-crew-col/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the VW Touareg Lux Limited Edition

The VW Touareg Lux Limited Edition is a 'ute that's been on a shopping spree to J. Crew and High Street, or at least a mainstream, aftermarket shop. Available on either the gasoline- or diesel-engined SUVs - and only in America - the Lux Limited gets side skirts and slightly tweaked front and rear aprons to differentiate it from the run-o-the-mill Touareg. The wheel selection is called Ayer's Rock (not "Uluru"?) and only available in the 20-inch variety.

VW took the color wheel out one night and got it drunk. Exterior hues for the Lux Limited are Biscay Blue, Campanella White, Galapagos Gray, and Black Magic Pearl Effect. The interior cricket leather is done up in one of two duo-tone color choices with complementary accents - like Latte Macchiato and St. Tropez white with poplar grain decor. And if anyone can tell us what "Engine Spin dark" decor looks like, we are all... eyes. So put on the Hootie, order some chablis and brie, have a look at the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors

Detroit 2009: Volkswagen Touareg Lux Limited sports J. Crew colors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowlimited editionLimitedEditionnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009suvtouaregtouareg 2touareg dieselTouareg2TouaregDieselvolkswagen touaregvolkswagen touareg lux limited editionVolkswagenTouaregVolkswagenTouaregLuxLimitedEditionvw touaregVwTouaregTue, 13 Jan 2009 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Stile Bertone Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 11 is not the next Tumbler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-stile-bertone-alfa-romeo-b-a-t-11-is-not-the-next/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-stile-bertone-alfa-romeo-b-a-t-11-is-not-the-next/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/13/detroit-2009-stile-bertone-alfa-romeo-b-a-t-11-is-not-the-next/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a gallery of high-res pics of the Bertone B.A.T. 11 from Detroit

We were saddened when we couldn't track down this Bertone B.A.T. 11 in Geneva last year and even sadder when we missed it in Los Angeles in November. Don't blame us. They stuck it in the basement for crying out loud. The B.A.T. 11 is an updated take on the B.A.T. 5, B.A.T. 7 and B.A.T. 9 concepts built by Nuccio Bertone in the '50s. BAT stands for Berlinetta Aerodinamica Tecnica (Aerodynamic Technical Coupe) and as you can see, this concept lives up to its name. While the original B.A.T. concepts have become some of the most coveted collector cars in the world, this new one is designed with a slightly different slant.

Based on a Maserati GT chassis, it is more of a sportscar for the new millennium. It has a Maserati V8 for propulsion and features Pirelli shod 21" wheels slowed by Brembo brakes. Although the mechanicals are Maserati, the badge is Alfa Romeo because of the exterior detailing -- specifically the traditional Alfa triangular shield and circulor crest. It also carries many of the same design cues as its predecessors, including the fared-in wheels and wrap-around tail fins. While the original BATs were designed to look aerodynamic, this one was actually wind-tunnel-tested in the Department of Aeronautics and Space Engineering at the Polytechnic institute of Torino.

It's such a striking car in person at over 16 feet in length, six feet wide and under four feet tall. The classic styling elements are joined by some 21st century tech, including electronically adjustable cooling foils and wheel coverings that automatically adjust to the optimal position for cooling, steering or drag-reduction. It's a fun concept, a treat to see in person and a great homage to Nuccio, especially painted up in his favorite green-gray color. Check out the press release after the jump and our high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Bertone Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 11dk


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

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Stile Bertone Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 11 is not the next Tumbler

Detroit 2009: Stile Bertone Alfa Romeo B.A.T. 11 is not the next Tumbler originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Jan 2009 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alfa BATalfa romeoalfa romeo bat 11AlfaBatAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoBat11BAT 11Bat11bertonebertone alfa romeo batbertone alfa romeo bat 11bertone bat 11BertoneAlfaRomeoBatBertoneAlfaRomeoBat11BertoneBat11detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShownaiasnaias 2009Naias2009stile bertoneStileBertoneTue, 13 Jan 2009 13:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Motor City guys and dolls....but mostly dolls]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-motor-city-guys-and-dolls-but-mostly-dolls/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-motor-city-guys-and-dolls-but-mostly-dolls/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-motor-city-guys-and-dolls-but-mostly-dolls/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a gallery of high-res pics of some of the faces from Detroit '09
There are lots of people here in Detroit for the NAIAS, and there are lots of moments that have little to do with the cars themselves. So we figured we'd do a roundup gallery to show you some of the personal moments from this year's Detroit Auto Show. Some of the faces you'll undoubtedly recognize, while others you'll probably hope to get to know better. Check out the gallery and you'll see sports announcers, execs, kids, even a model or two. As always, we appreciate the tireless work of the booth professionals who have to stand in heels all day and pretend to be happy to see another camera shoved in their faces. Many have mentioned that they are fans of Autoblog, but we suspect they say that to everyone. Still, we know some will be viewing this post so please be civil and keep your comments clean.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Detroit people gallery


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

Detroit 2009: Motor City guys and dolls....but mostly dolls originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booth babesbooth professionalsBoothBabesBoothProfessionalsdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowmodelsnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009north american international auto showNorthAmericanInternationalAutoShowMon, 12 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 hatch just as happy as the sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-2010-mazda3-hatch-just-as-happy-as-the-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-2010-mazda3-hatch-just-as-happy-as-the-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-2010-mazda3-hatch-just-as-happy-as-the-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Mazda3 five-door hatchback from Detroit

Mazda took the wraps off the five-door hatchback version of the redesigned Mazda3 at the Bologna Motor Show last month, but here in Detroit, we saw the car for ourselves at its North American debut. As you can see in the gallery of high-res pics below, the Mazda3 five-door gets the same swoopy sheetmetal as the sedan we saw in Los Angeles, including the comic smiley face front end. What's new is the lengthened roofline that drops down at a steeper angle to create a wagon-esque profile. Some of the D-pillar design cues remind us of the Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix, but it also resembles the old Mazda3 hatch more than the new sedan. While we prefer the five-door to its four-door counterpart, we know customers want both, so this makes sense for Mazda.

Mazda3i models are still fitted with the MZR 2.0L engine, putting out 148 hp at 6500 rpm and 135 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm and controlled by either a manual or automatic five-speed. The Mazda3 MZR is packing the newly up-sized 2.5-liter four, providing 167 hp at 6000 rpm and 168 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, with a choice of either a five-speed auto or a six-speed manual. And naturally, we're looking forward to the next Mazdaspeed model, preferably in hatch form. Check out the official press release after the jump for more details and the gallery below for plenty of high-res pics.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 five-door


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

Continue reading Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 hatch just as happy as the sedan

Detroit 2009: 2010 Mazda3 hatch just as happy as the sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mazda3 5-door2010 mazda3 five door2010 mazda3 hatchback2010Mazda35-door2010Mazda3FiveDoor2010Mazda3Hatchbackdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowmazda3mazda3 five doormazda3 hatchbackMazda3FiveDoorMazda3Hatchbacknaiasnaias 2009Naias2009Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S is a mouthful]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-maserati-quattroporte-sport-gt-s-is-a-mouthful/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-maserati-quattroporte-sport-gt-s-is-a-mouthful/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-maserati-quattroporte-sport-gt-s-is-a-mouthful/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S

Maserati says that its new Quattroporte Sport GT S "sets another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury sedan segment," and it also appears to be trying to set a record for one car's syllable allotment. Suitable then that it takes more than just a couple of changes to be able to append that "S" to the regular Quattroporte Sport GT.

Torque remains the same, but the 4.8-liter V8 is cranks out 433 hp, eight ponies over the regular model. And you get that horsepower a tad later - the engine's rev limit is 7,200 rpm, but you won't get every one of those ponies in action until 7,000 rpm. The transmission software has also been recalibrated for more engaging shifts in three different modes. The suspension has been lowered, stiffened, and imbued with passive damping for higher cornering speeds and improved response. And the sport exhaust has pneumatic valves that render a "deep, throaty, and captivating sound" through large, twin-oval tailpipes.

Aesthetically, the Maser's big black snout gets concave vertical fins and a trident with red trim, the headlights are finished in metallic titanium, and the door handles are body-colored. Inside, new M-design seats come in perforated leather paired with Alcantara, and a standard trim called Titantex, which must have come from the marketing department. Slightly cheesy, but definitely beautiful. The entire package sits on 20-inch wheels. You can read all about it in the press release after the jump, and check out the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S is a mouthful

Detroit 2009: Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S is a mouthful originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowmaseratimaserati quattroportemaserati quattroporte smaserati quattroporte sport gt sMaseratiQuattroporteMaseratiQuattroporteSMaseratiQuattroporteSportGtSnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009quattroportequattroporte squattroporte sport gt sQuattroporteSQuattroporteSportGtSsedansports carSportsCarMon, 12 Jan 2009 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: 2010 Lincoln MKT adds flexibility to the lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-2010-lincoln-mkt-adds-flexibility-to-the-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-2010-lincoln-mkt-adds-flexibility-to-the-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-2010-lincoln-mkt-adds-flexibility-to-the-lineup/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for live, high-res images of the new 2010 Lincoln MKT
We already gave you details about the new 2010 Lincoln MKT this morning, but Lincoln just wrapped up its press conference and now we have live impressions and photos to share. After showing us the MKT concept here last year, the production version is a more realistic interpretation of the 7-passenger CUV. While it resembles everything from a GM Lambda to an Audi Q7 in profile, the nose and tail are all Lincoln. It's a tasteful vehicle that looks classy and upscale, as it should for Ford's premium brand. Unfortunately, it's being launched at a time when this class of vehicle seems in remission.

Built on the same D4 platform that underpins the Ford Flex, this new suit of clothes suits the Lincoln well. The interior, in particular, is rather handsome with excellent materials and fit and finish that was exemplary for a show car. Good quality leather, wood used sparingly but effectively and elegant satin-finish metal accents abound. The seats are comfy and the cargo hold looks like they've made good use of that extra length compared to the Flex. The MKT will also feature Ford's twin-turbocharged, direct-inject EcoBoost 3.5L V6 as an option, giving it the best horsepower (355) and fuel economy in its class. The standard engine will be a 3.7-liter V6 with 268 hp and 267 lb.-ft. of torque. That should keep it in the hunt with the Acura MDX and Audi Q7, which Lincoln have tabbed as the MKT's major competition.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Lincoln MKT live


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

Detroit 2009: 2010 Lincoln MKT adds flexibility to the lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res live images of the 2010 Jaguar XFR

The Jaguar XFR is a saber-toothed tiger of feline badness. The supercharged, direct-injection V8 is good for a jungle-canopy-shaking 510 horsepower - 125 hp up on the naturally aspirated V8 - and 0-to-60 bolt that takes but 4.7 seconds. Further up in the range, getting from 50 mph to 70 mph takes - get this - 1.9 seconds. And even better, the gas mileage stays the same compared to the previous-generation 4.2-liter V8.

Inside, Jaguar's theatrics are upped by the addition of a dark mesh aluminum finish in the fascia and door panels, the latter of which are for the screaming 14-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The navigation system gets turn-by-turn instructions in the message center, and there's an acoustically laminated windscreen for quieter motoring. Perhaps the best part is that the XFR seats hug with a vengeance and look the business in two-tone. Check out the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Jaguar XFR


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

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Jaguar XFR makes us purrrrr... really, really fast... [w/VIDEO]

Detroit 2009: Jaguar XFR makes us purrrrr... really, really fast... [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for a high-res image gallery of the new MINI Cooper Convertible

We'll be straight with you. We missed the MINI press conference. We know, we know... the horror. Anyway, you didn't exactly need to be Kojak to figure out what happened. The 2009 MINI Convertible drove out of a simulated ice block with a couple made up all frozen-like in the front seats. As for the car, well, it's pretty self explanatory. Available in March, it finally ditches the last-gen engines for the NA and turbocharged 1.6L fours available in the hardtop Cooper and Cooper S. Other changes? The trunk's roomier, the interior gets brought up-to-date, and the rollbar becomes a pop-up unit, significantly improving rearward visibility and giving the Cooper a much cleaner top-down profile. Finally, cute-gimmickry overload is fully achieved with the addition of the "Openometer," an add-on gauge that tracks the amount of time spent motoring with the top down. Adorable, right? Chicks are gonna dig it.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: MINI Cooper Convertible Live


Gallery: 2009 MINI Cooper Convertible


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: MINI Cooper Convertible chills out originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for live images of the Ad Personam Lamborghini's from Detroit
Lamborghini debuted the new Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder in L.A., and the rumored LP670-4 SV is still a ways off, so the Italian supercar manufacturer decided to show off some of their non-automotive offerings in Detroit. Specifically, Lambo brought examples of its Ad Personam personalization program. A white 560 Spyder was flanked by a satin blue LP640-4 and LP560-4 coupe that were both simply mesmerizing. We're huge fans of these new satin paints, because aside from lending an air of understated luxury to the Lambo's lascivious lines, they're remarkably easy to photograph. They reflect light beautifully, while providing translucent reflections that minimize glare and extraneous objects from the car's surface. Lamborghini refers to it as a matte-luster paint finish, we'll just call it matte-sex.

Both of the personalized cars here in Detroit are painted in Lamborghini's new matte blue, although there's no truth to the rumor that anyone showing a birth certificate that says their name is Matt Blue will get a free Lambo. Besides the new blue hue, Lamborghini announced that three more colors are now permanently available in the Ad Personam program: Nero Nemesis (matte-luster black), Bianco Canopus (matte white), and Marrone Apus (matte brown). But don't let that limit you. Lamborghini will do just about anything the customer can dream up. And if you can't get what you want from the factory, you can always go the aftermarket route and get yourself an Ed Hardy special. There's a full press release after the jump and galleries of live and media pics are available by clicking any image below.

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

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Lamborghini Ad Personam


Gallery: Lamborghini Ad Personam Detroit

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Lamborghini ups the personalization options

Detroit 2009: Lamborghini ups the personalization options originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 17:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click image above for live photos of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse from Detroit

While the outgoing Buick LaCrosse featured one distinct superpower -- invisibility -- the 2010 iteration could be a savior for the brand. With classy sheetmetal that will probably remind you of the Buick Invicta concept, vastly improved interior materials, and an all-new powertrain, the 2010 LaCrosse should compete better with cars like the Lexus ES350 and the Lincoln MKS. Powered by either a 260 hp, 3.0L direct injected V6 or a 280-hp 3.6L, it should offer performance to match its portholed good looks.

We actually took a close look at this new LaCrosse a couple of weeks ago, and you can see that video and review by clicking here, but for now we've added a new live gallery from Detroit and posted the press release after the jump. There's also some new video to see of the unveiling. Hit the jump to view the live press video for yourself, and if you'd like to read our extensive preview of Buick's newest sedan, click here.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


Gallery: 2010 Buick LaCrosse


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

Continue reading Detroit 2009: 2010 Buick LaCrosse [w/VIDEO]

Detroit 2009: 2010 Buick LaCrosse [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 16:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 buick lacrosse2010 lacrosse2010BuickLacrosse2010Lacrossebuick lacrosseBuickLacrossedetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShownaiasnaias 2009Naias2009Sun, 11 Jan 2009 16:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: The 2010 Chevy Equinox [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-the-2010-chevy-equinox-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-the-2010-chevy-equinox-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/11/detroit-2009-the-2010-chevy-equinox-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to live shots of the 2010 Chevy Equinox from Detroit

The 2010 Chevy Equinox showed its new face alongside the 2010 Cadillac SRX in Detroit today, and it was a tossup as to which looked better. Regardless of where you stand on the Equinox' appearance, the new CUV is a far more sophisticated vehicle than the crossover it replaces. Power will be provided by a choice of two direct injection engines, with the four-cylinder model able returning 30 mpg on the highway and the new 3.0L V6 packing 255 horsepower. It also features a gorgeous interior that should look familiar to anyone who's looked inside a Malibu or Traverse.

While this is an evolution of the Theta architecture, the dimensions are almost identical to the old one and shared with the Saturn Vue. It still manages to look tidier than the outgoing model. The 2010 Equinox is still a unibody crossover with either front- or all-wheel drive and the same basic suspension layout as before. The styling is more contemporary, with prominent wheel arches and the obligatory Chevy twin-port grille. As expected of any new model these days, the full array of USB audio, Bluetooth and DVD entertainment systems are also now available. The full details are in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox


Gallery: LIVE: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox


Gallery: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox


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

Continue reading Detroit 2009: The 2010 Chevy Equinox [w/VIDEO]

Detroit 2009: The 2010 Chevy Equinox [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 16:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for a high-res gallery of the Kia Soul'ster

The Kia Soul has people talking. Specifically, you. Kia's media presentation here in Detroit highlighted feedback from the Autoblog commentariat. No, we didn't know in advance, but you won't hear us complaining either. However, the star of the show for Kia wasn't the Soul -- it's a new concept derived from the boxy people-mover.

After some dancing fanfare involving large placards, the Kia Soul'ster drove onstage. Put simply, it's cool. The two-door design study looks like a pickup from the side, but the "cab" is open-air, much like the old Isuzu Amigo. Pretty much everything on the car is manual: the gearbox, the window cranks, and the two-piece canvas roof. Other details set it apart from its wagonoid brother, such as a slightly chopped roofline and dual exhausts with carbon fiber sleeves. The roof lamps integrated into the roll bars are a nice touch, too. Cantilevered seats mounted off the center console free up storage room beneath them, and there's a small cargo space aft of the second row. The Soul'ster's meant to be an economical four-cylinder, tarmac-only, front-wheel-drive plaything whose primary mission is fun. It sure looks the part, so now the ball's in Kia's court. Do they have the stones to actually follow through and build something like this? Tell them what you think below. One thng's certain: they'll be reading.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Kia Soul'ster Live


Gallery: Kia Soul'ster Concept


Photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Kia Soul'ster guns for fun and frolic originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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