Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2009 Audi A4 to offer new 2.0 TFSI, revised 3.2 FSI V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/2009-audi-a4-to-offer-new-2-0-tfsi-revised-3-2-fsi-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/2009-audi-a4-to-offer-new-2-0-tfsi-revised-3-2-fsi-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/25/2009-audi-a4-to-offer-new-2-0-tfsi-revised-3-2-fsi-v6/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Audi A4 Avant.

Wagon lovers rejoice! Audi's new 2009 A4 Avant has made its official North American debut at the New York Auto Show. The press release, after the break, introduces us to the newest 2.0 liter TFSI four cylinder engine, variants of which have won "Engine of the Year" trophies three times. Coming in at 211 horsepower along with 258 lb.-ft. of torque, the A4's base engine is reportedly capable of propelling the car to sixty in 6.5 seconds.

The impressive output of Audi's new four-banger almost makes up for their decision not to offer the sedan's 3.2 liter FSI V6 in the Avant. That engine features the newest version of the patented Audi Valvelift Technology (AVS) and offers up 265 horsepower. Six-speed transmissions will be offered in both the A4 sedan and Avant -- no mention of Quattro systems or the new 7-speed DSG. It seems like Audi's been holding back the new A4 for so long that we can hardly believe that we'll see it in dealerships this October, but we'll continue to sate your appetites with pictures until then.

Gallery: 2009 Audi A4 Avant


Gallery: New Audi A4


[Source: Audi]

Continue reading 2009 Audi A4 to offer new 2.0 TFSI, revised 3.2 FSI V6

2009 Audi A4 to offer new 2.0 TFSI, revised 3.2 FSI V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Mar 2008 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2.0 tsfi2.0-tsfi2.0Tsfiaudiaudi a4audi a4 avantaudi-a4audi-a4-avantAudiA4AudiA4Avantnew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowTue, 25 Mar 2008 08:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1147936/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/25/2009-audi-a4-to-offer-new-2-0-tfsi-revised-3-2-fsi-v6/1147936/article-detail.xml 1147936 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/02/09_audi_a4_avant_p2_01_450-_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/02/09_audi_a4_avant_p2_01_450-.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Top debuts of the show (w/ Poll)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/new-york-2008-top-debuts-from-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/new-york-2008-top-debuts-from-new-york/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/new-york-2008-top-debuts-from-new-york/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



The 2008 New York Auto Show press preview is in the books, and now it's the public's turn to roam the floor in the Javits Center. After thinking things over, we thought we'd put together a video of our top five most significant introductions from the show. New York served as a launching pad for exciting new vehicles like the Hyundai Genesis Coupe and Saleen S5S Raptor, so there were some winners to choose from. Click play on the video above to see our picks for the most significant debuts, and follow the jump to check out the high-res shots from the show floor and place your vote for which ride you think deserves the number one spot.

Continue reading New York 2008: Top debuts of the show (w/ Poll)

New York 2008: Top debuts of the show (w/ Poll) originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Auto ShowAutoblog 5Autoblog5AutoShowHyundai Genesis CoupeHyundaiGenesisCoupeKia KoupKiaKoupNew York 2008NewYork2008pollpollsPontiac Solstice CoupePontiacSolsticeCoupeSaleen S5S RaptorSaleenS5sRaptorSuzukiSat, 22 Mar 2008 20:55:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1146570/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/22/new-york-2008-top-debuts-from-new-york/1146570/article-detail.xml 1146570 <![CDATA[Hyundai launches site for Genesis Coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/hyundai-launches-site-for-genesis-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/hyundai-launches-site-for-genesis-coupe/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/hyundai-launches-site-for-genesis-coupe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We dug the hot new Genesis Coupe at the New York Auto Show, but not everybody can head out to Gotham to see Hyundai's future tuner de force. Hyundai knows it has a good thing on its hands, and has now shared it with the world in web form. The Genesis Coupe's official site includes everything from technical specifications and available equipment to photo galleries and videos. That ought to help you kill the year-or-so wait for the Genesis Coupe's arrival in dealer showrooms. We noticed that Hyundai hasn't gotten around to posting video of the car's smoke-laden intro in New York, so we've added ours after the jump. Thanks for the tip, Mike!

Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe


Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe - Live Reveal


[Source: Hyundai]

Continue reading Hyundai launches site for Genesis Coupe

Hyundai launches site for Genesis Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Hyundai Genesis CoupeHyundaiGenesisCoupeKoreaNew York 2008New york AutoshowNewYork2008NewYorkAutoshowRWDSat, 22 Mar 2008 14:35:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1146134/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/22/hyundai-launches-site-for-genesis-coupe/1146134/article-detail.xml 1146134 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/genesis-coupe-site_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/genesis-coupe-site.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: The Mitsubishi i is A-OKei]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/new-york-2008-the-mitsubishi-i-is-a-okei/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/new-york-2008-the-mitsubishi-i-is-a-okei/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/22/new-york-2008-the-mitsubishi-i-is-a-okei/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click image for a high-res gallery of the turbocharged Mitsubishi i

I'm the resident kei car obsessive here at Autoblog. That means I'm the guy who actually thinks, "That is awesome," when he reads the (Google translated) announcement of yet another Suzuki Wagon R variant. Hell, I did two posts on the one-off Hello Kitty Mitsubishi i. Keis are cool. So, you can imagine how happy I was to see that Mitsubishi brought along a small fleet of its i minicars to the New York Auto Show this year.

Foreground: i MiEV, Background: i TurboMitsubishi's focus at the show was squarely on the the all-electric i MiEV, which goes on sale in Japan next year and will be tested in North America this fall. The gasoline-powered version was on hand, too, though. I drove the i MiEV for AutoblogGreen, and was a passenger in a black i Turbo. Head over to AutoblogGreen for driving impressions of the i MiEV, and note that many of the observations there apply to both the electric and gasoline-powered cars.

The i Turbo you see here is powered by a 660cc 3-cylinder that delivers around 64 horsepower. It's got around half the torque of the electric i MiEV and it's buzzier-sounding (obviously), but it felt just as well-suited to city driving in New York as its battery-powered counterpart. It can comfortably transport four adults and a bit of cargo, too. Try doing that in a smart.

Mitsubishi is monitoring public reaction to the cars this week, so if you go to the show and like what you see, make sure to let them know. Me? I'll happily take one in black -- with a DAMD kit for optimum not-exactly-badassedness.

Head to AutoblogGreen for a full i MiEV review and video.

Gallery: Mitsubishi i Turbo - Live in NY


Gallery: Mitsubishi i MiEV - Live in NY


All photos Copyright (C) 2008 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

New York 2008: The Mitsubishi i is A-OKei originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog greenautobloggreeni mievIMievkei carkei carsKeiCarKeiCarsmievmitsubishi iMitsubishiInew yorknew york 2008NewYorkNewYork2008nyiasnyias 08nyias 2008nyias08nyias2008Sat, 22 Mar 2008 13:10:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1146563/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/22/new-york-2008-the-mitsubishi-i-is-a-okei/1146563/article-detail.xml 1146563 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/i_turbo_nyias_lv03_450_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/i_turbo_nyias_lv03_450.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: NYC oddities and side splitters]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/21/new-york-2008-nyc-oddities-and-side-splitters/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/21/new-york-2008-nyc-oddities-and-side-splitters/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/21/new-york-2008-nyc-oddities-and-side-splitters/#commentsFiled under:



We were extremely busy while trying to cover the snot out of the New York Auto Show this past week at the Jacob Javits Center. Even when we were running across the show floor to make a press conference and get a good seat, we still had our fingers on the trigger of our many DSLR cameras. At times we caught some interesting and downright funny things that just didn't fit into any other gallery except one devote to the odd and slightly hilarious. Check them out in the gallery below, complete with captions that add some context and extra chuckles.

Gallery: From the NY Auto Show floor

New York 2008: NYC oddities and side splitters originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Mar 2008 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowFri, 21 Mar 2008 19:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1145386/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/21/new-york-2008-nyc-oddities-and-side-splitters/1145386/article-detail.xml 1145386 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/01_nyrandom_450-op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/01_nyrandom_450-op.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Audi Forum hosts debut of Hunt Slomen custom-painted A5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/21/new-york-2008-audi-forum-hosts-debut-of-hunt-slomen-custom-pain/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/21/new-york-2008-audi-forum-hosts-debut-of-hunt-slomen-custom-pain/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/21/new-york-2008-audi-forum-hosts-debut-of-hunt-slomen-custom-pain/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to view more high-res shots

This past Wedneday evening, the Audi Forum in New York City hosted a gala party attended by celebrities and the weary automotive press in town to cover the New York Auto Show. The beautiful people on hand included Tom Brady (celebrity status: A), Tyson Beckford (celebrity status: B), Will Arnett (celebrity status: A-), Denise Rich (celebrity status: ?) and members of the Gossip Girl cast (according to my fiance, celebrity status: better than Tom Brady). Though Autoblog was not in attendance (thus reducing the list of A list celebrities), Audi was kind enough to send us pics of the special A5 it revealed that night (and Tom Brady sitting in the R8 TDI Le Mans concept from the Geneva Motor Show). Custom-painted by New York artist Hunt Slomen, the coupe features a swath of art that flows from the car's hood and down across the driver-side door. The artwork is abstract, but we can make out white birds, which our single semester of Art History 101 tells us represents doves, which in turn represents peace. Or it could represent the jobless rate of carrier pigeons in this age of digital e-mail. The custom-painted A5 will be donated to Denise Rich's G&P Foundation for Cancer Research and auctioned after it tours the country for a bit.

[Source: Audi, Photos by wiredimages]

New York 2008: Audi Forum hosts debut of Hunt Slomen custom-painted A5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Mar 2008 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>denish richDenishRichhunt slomenhunt slomen audihunt slomen audi a5HuntSlomenHuntSlomenAudiHuntSlomenAudiA5new yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowtom bradyTomBradyFri, 21 Mar 2008 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1146069/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/21/new-york-2008-audi-forum-hosts-debut-of-hunt-slomen-custom-pain/1146069/article-detail.xml 1146069 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/zatmosphere2_031908_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/zatmosphere2_031908_opt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Gotham gals]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-gotham-gals/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-gotham-gals/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-gotham-gals/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above image for high-res pics of the models from New York

There were lots of lovely models here in New York, quick with a smile and a come hither look, enticing us into the booths to check out the cars. Of course we had to oblige. We don't want them losing their jobs due to our lack of attention, so like we do at most shows, we snapped a few pics. Funny how many of our team members feel the charitable call when this kind of post comes around. And remember, if you can't think of something nice to say, don't say anything at all.

Gallery: New York 2008: Gotham Gals

New York 2008: Gotham gals originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowThu, 20 Mar 2008 20:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1144811/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-gotham-gals/1144811/article-detail.xml 1144811 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/gothamgals_450_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/gothamgals_450.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Milner Motors AirCar lands in Javits Center]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-milner-motors-shows-flying-electric-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-milner-motors-shows-flying-electric-car/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-milner-motors-shows-flying-electric-car/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the flying car from Milner

Our environmentally-attuned brethren at AutoblogGreen pointed us into the lower hall of the Javits Center to check out something they knew we'd love. After wading through the trucks and specialty makers on hand, we reached the Milner Motors booth. To one side was the Milner Motors ElectriCar. Across from it was the Milner Motors AirCar, which was what we came to see. Essentially the same as its electric vehicle, the flying car adds a set of wings and twin engine nacelles that theoretically supply enough thrust and lift for 1,000 miles of flight at 200 MPH. When earthbound, the wing package folds up and the car's 40-hp electric motor powers it up to 85 mph thanks to its light weight and great aerodynamics (the cd is only .209). This particular one is a non-functioning prototype, but we think we'll toss it off the roof of the Empire State building to test its glide prowess. We can only guess how much fun this thing might be if we could figure out a way to use those jet engines and their extra 300 hp to power this 1,800 lb. missle on the ground.

Gallery: Milner Motors AirCar

New York 2008: Milner Motors AirCar lands in Javits Center originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flying carflying carsFlyingCarFlyingCarsmilner motorsMilnerMotorsnew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowThu, 20 Mar 2008 14:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1144986/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-milner-motors-shows-flying-electric-car/1144986/article-detail.xml 1144986 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/milnerelectricar_450_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/milnerelectricar_450.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Mitsubishi Ralliart Sportback a definite maybe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-mitsubishi-ralliart-sportback-a-definite-mayb/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-mitsubishi-ralliart-sportback-a-definite-mayb/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-mitsubishi-ralliart-sportback-a-definite-mayb/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Mitsubishi Prototype-S.

Mitsubishi's revised strategy for the U.S. market was outlined last month in its "Step Up 2010" business plan that seeks to renew the automaker's focus on competing with the major players in North America. The one bit of information that caught out eye in Mitsu's press release was a plan to offer a hatchback Lancer into its range. While the Prototype-S whet our appetite, there was no definitive confirmation that the Ralliart drivetrain in the concept would be fitted to the five-door when it makes its production debut, likely sometime next year. According to a Mitsubishi spokesperson we talked to here in New York, the wagon is coming, and when asked if it would be equipped with the 235-hp turbocharged four and all-wheel-drive system, his response was, "Probably Ralliart. But you can only speculate on that." Good enough for us, but from what we've heard ourselves, a U.S.-market Sportback is past the speculation stage already..

Gallery: Mitsubishi Prototype S

New York 2008: Mitsubishi Ralliart Sportback a definite maybe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lancermitsubishimitsubishi lancer ralliart hatchbackmitsubishi lancer ralliart sportbackMitsubishiLancerRalliartHatchbackMitsubishiLancerRalliartSportbacknew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowralliartThu, 20 Mar 2008 13:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1145176/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-mitsubishi-ralliart-sportback-a-definite-mayb/1145176/article-detail.xml 1145176 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/img_1165_prototypes_1_450-op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/img_1165_prototypes_1_450-op.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Gurney still battling Parnelli]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-gurney-still-battling-parnelli/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-gurney-still-battling-parnelli/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-gurney-still-battling-parnelli/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click image above for high-res gallery of the Saleen Gurney Mustang

We just reported on the Gurney Signature Edition Saleen Mustang, but now we've seen it in person and wanted to share some pics. Presented by company President Paul Wilbur and the man himself, the special 'Stang was rolled out in a deep blue that mimics Gurney's 1970 Trans-Am ride. Dan pointed out how his is faster and better handling, at a similar price to the Parnelli Jones Edition. Wilbur noted that they better get on with things so as not to reignite the flames of that old rivalry any further. Wilbur also noted that Saleen will sell just 300 of these special rides: 100 in red, 100 in white, and 100 in the roll-out blue. As we pointed out yesterday, this latest Mustang is powered by a Saleen-supercharged 4.6-liter V8 producing 465 horsepower, and handles curves better thanks to Saleen's Racecraft suspension and Pirelli Corsa tires. The interior features custom two-tone seats and Gurney's signature on the dash. No word on pricing yet, but whatever they ask they'll probably get. It just oozes retro muscle attitude when you are standing near it. Maybe we were just so pleased to be in Dan's presence. The legend even took the time to sign a stack of commemorative posters for anyone who wanted them. That ended up being everyone around.

Follow the jump for the press release from Saleen and check out more high-res pics in the gallery below.

Gallery: Saleen Gurney Signature Edition Mustang

Continue reading New York 2008: Gurney still battling Parnelli

New York 2008: Gurney still battling Parnelli originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dan gurneydan gurney mustangDanGurneyDanGurneyMustangnew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowsaleenThu, 20 Mar 2008 13:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1145145/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-gurney-still-battling-parnelli/1145145/article-detail.xml 1145145 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/saleengurneyedition_450_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/saleengurneyedition_450.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: MDI Air Car spotted uncovered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-mdi-air-car-spotted-uncovered/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-mdi-air-car-spotted-uncovered/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-mdi-air-car-spotted-uncovered/#commentsFiled under: ,



Our colleagues at AutoblogGreen happened upon the MDI Air Car uncovered in the lobby of the Jacob Javits Center just now, and were surprised at what they saw. Powered by compressed air stored under pressure in carbon fiber tanks, the Air Car on the floor in New York looks absolutely nothing like prototypes and sketches we've seen in the past. This previous rendering promised a fully-enclosed, Yaris-like cocoon, and even the original prototype at least had a solid roof over your head. Not this one. The body appears to be comprised entirely of injected-molded plastic that was color-keyed to my grandmother's bed spread, and crash protection looks to be on par with the Cozy Coupe. Our crew at ABG will be interviewing the team from MDI later today, so we'll find out more about the MDI Air Car and its many personalities soon.

[Source: AutoblogGreen]

New York 2008: MDI Air Car spotted uncovered originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mdimdi air carmdi aircarmdiaircarnew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowThu, 20 Mar 2008 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1145073/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-mdi-air-car-spotted-uncovered/1145073/article-detail.xml 1145073 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/mdi-air-car-uncovered_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/mdi-air-car-uncovered.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Suzuki unveils Kizashi 3 concept, coming in 2010 [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-suzuki-unveils-kizashi-3-concept-coming-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-suzuki-unveils-kizashi-3-concept-coming-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-suzuki-unveils-kizashi-3-concept-coming-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view high-res gallery of the Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept

Suzuki has been teasing us over the last few months with its duo of highly stylized concepts, the Kizashi and Kizashi 2. While it was obvious that cues found on both those concepts are going to inspire the styling of future models, it wasn't clear how Suzuki would implement some of the more extreme features of this design language. Today in New York, Suzuki showed what elements were making the cut with the unveiling of the Kizashi 3 concept.

Sporting a toned-down version of the gaping maw found on the first two concepts, deeply drawn headlights and recessed fog lamps, the fascia has made the successful transition from design exercise to down-to-earth concept. While the profile and rear end is a little less dramatic than the view up front, the 21-inch wheels add a healthy amount of visual weight down below. Underneath the hood is a 300-hp, 3.6-liter V6 that drives all four wheels through Suzuki's intelligent AWD system.

Suzuki made it very clear that the Kizashi 3 is a close representation of the production model that will arrive in the U.S. by 2010. It's a serious step to shore up market share in a segment rife with competition, but if the Kizashi is executed as well as the concept, there could be another serious contender coming out of Japan.

Gallery: Suzuki Kizashi 3 Concept - Live Reveal

Continue reading New York 2008: Suzuki unveils Kizashi 3 concept, coming in 2010 [w/VIDEO]

New York 2008: Suzuki unveils Kizashi 3 concept, coming in 2010 [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingconceptkizashi 3Kizashi3new yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowsuzuki kizashi 3suzuki kizashi 3 conceptSuzukiKizashi3SuzukiKizashi3ConceptThu, 20 Mar 2008 12:25:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1145114/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-suzuki-unveils-kizashi-3-concept-coming-in-2010/1145114/article-detail.xml 1145114 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/02_kizashi3live_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/02_kizashi3live_opt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Saleen S5S Raptor is all claw [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-the-saleen-s5s-raptor-is-all-claw/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-the-saleen-s5s-raptor-is-all-claw/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-the-saleen-s5s-raptor-is-all-claw/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Saleen S5S Raptor

This very blogger wrote a post yesterday about the Saleen S5S Raptor. I didn't mention the cars I thought the Raptor looked like, but a fair number of commenters did. This is what you should know: in person, the car looks like nothing else but the S5S Raptor, and it looks better than any car you think it might look like. It is, to put it plainly, all kinds of hot. Even in yellow, which is this blogger's least favorite car color, I'd still pay for it. Saleen CEO Paul Wilbur said the Raptor is a concept, and he wanted the media's feedback on building it. Mr. Wilbur: yes. Today. Like, now. Check out the hi-res pics and let Mr. Wilbur know what you think.

Gallery: Saleen S5S Raptor


Gallery: Saleen S5S Raptor - Live Reveal

Continue reading New York 2008: Saleen S5S Raptor is all claw [w/VIDEO]

New York 2008: Saleen S5S Raptor is all claw [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnew yorknew york 2008new york auto shownew york auto show 2008NewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowNewYorkAutoShow2008raptors5ss5s raptorS5sRaptorsaleensaleen s5ssaleen s5s raptorSaleenS5sSaleenS5sRaptorThu, 20 Mar 2008 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1145091/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-the-saleen-s5s-raptor-is-all-claw/1145091/article-detail.xml 1145091 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/01_saleens5s_live_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/01_saleens5s_live_opt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Porsche GT2 dressed to kill in red with black rims]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-porsche-gt2-dressed-to-kill-in-red-with-black-rim/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-porsche-gt2-dressed-to-kill-in-red-with-black-rim/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-porsche-gt2-dressed-to-kill-in-red-with-black-rim/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of dressed-to-kill GT2

We've already chronicled the debut of the Porsche GT2, and shown you pics of it from the Frankfurt Motor Show, but the red one on display here at the New York Auto Show looks hotter than any other we've seen. We think it's those new factory-option black rims, but there's definitely something special about this hottest 997 offering. 530 HP from a twin-turbo version of the automaker's famous flat-six, 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, a 204-mph top speed, and 18.8 mpg makes a nice cherry on top, too. Check out the gallery and see what you think.

Gallery: New York 2008: Porsche GT2 hotness

New York 2008: Porsche GT2 dressed to kill in red with black rims originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowporsche gt2PorscheGt2Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1144951/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-porsche-gt2-dressed-to-kill-in-red-with-black-rim/1144951/article-detail.xml 1144951 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/porschegt2red_450_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/porschegt2red_450.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: World Car of the Year Awards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-world-car-of-the-year-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-world-car-of-the-year-awards/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-world-car-of-the-year-awards/#commentsFiled under:



The fireworks are cold, the confetti cartridges are spent, and the 2008 World Car of the Year Awards have come to an end. Based on standards of merit, value, safety, environmental responsibility, significance, and emotional appeal, the three finalists were the Volvo Ford Mondeo, Mazda2/Demio and Mercedes C-Class. Don't read any further if, for some reason, you don't want to know what the 2008 World Car of the Year is and you haven't seen the photo above: the Mazda 2/Demio. What we earlier called the squat hatch with the aggressive wedge shape and swooping beltline showed its well-proportioned rump (also our term, and Mazda, feel free to quote us) to worthy competition.

In the other categories, the BMW 118d with Efficient Dynamics took home the World Green Car of the Year Award. In what should have been a surprise to no one, the Audi R8 walked off with trophies from both categories in which it was entered: World Performance Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year. Having taken the awards in both categories last year as well (with the RS4 and TT), Audi knowS how to get the judges on its side. Now if it can get one million buyers on its side this year, that will really be a trophy it can brag about.

New York 2008: World Car of the Year Awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazda demiomazda2MazdaDemionew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowwcotyworld car of the yearWorldCarOfTheYearThu, 20 Mar 2008 10:36:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1144946/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-world-car-of-the-year-awards/1144946/article-detail.xml 1144946 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/mazda2_wcoty_winner_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/mazda2_wcoty_winner.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Kia debuts 2009 Optima]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-kia-debuts-2009-optima/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-kia-debuts-2009-optima/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-kia-debuts-2009-optima/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Kia Optima.

The most exciting thing at Kia's press conference today was undoubtedly the KOUP Concept, but sharing the stage and as an automotive wall flower was the redesigned 2009 Kia Optima. The last-gen Optima, not all that old itself, was derided by some for being blandly designed. Kia claims to have corrected this for '09, but dipped into the derivative styling bin to do it. Though all the sheetmetal is new, the '09 Optima still looks as interesting as white bread. New for next year, however, is a "sport" model designated the SX (no innuendos please). Slotted above the entry-level LX and top-end EX trims, the SX model gets a sportier suspension, black-bezeled grille and headlamps, LED turn indicators in the sideview mirrors, fog lights, and "hyper-silver-finished" 17-inch wheels. Powering the new Optima will be a new 2.4L four-cylinder producing 175 horsepower and 169 pound-feet or torque, which is up 13 hp compared to the prior four-cylinder, and an updated version of the current Optima's smallish 2.7L V6 that's now up to 190 hp and 184 pound-feet. That's still underpowered in our book compared to other mid-sizers that have been offering 3.5L+ V6 engines producing 250 horsepower for some time. The Optima also gets a tweaked interior with more ways to plug into your consumer electronics (USB, MP3 player plug, etc.) and a revised color palette. All in all, the 2009 Kia Optima just isn't daring enough, whether you're talking about its new lines or the engines underhood.

Gallery: 2009 Kia Optima


[Source: Kia]

Continue reading New York 2008: Kia debuts 2009 Optima

New York 2008: Kia debuts 2009 Optima originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20092009 kia optima2009KiaOptimakianew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowoptimaThu, 20 Mar 2008 10:17:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1144982/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-kia-debuts-2009-optima/1144982/article-detail.xml 1144982 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/02_09kiaoptima_450-op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/02_09kiaoptima_450-op.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Kia KOUP Concept comes out]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-kia-koup-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-kia-koup-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-kia-koup-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Kia KOUP concept.

We were able to get a sneak peak of Kia's newest concept last night, but the wraps finally came off the KOUP at 9:40AM this morning, and the concept offers a design study that will most certainly influence the automaker's future offerings. The KOUP is a cab-forward two-door in a similar vein as the Honda Civic, but fortunately or unfortunately, that's not where the similarities end. The front fascia is a nice amalgamation of the Euro-Civic, with a few cues that are strikingly similar to Mitsubishi's current gaping maw. The beltline, beginning beneath the carbon fiber wing mirrors, plummets to define the slightly sculpted sides and terminates into a Lancer-like rear end. Naturally, Kia saw fit to outfit the KOUP with a handful of typical concept elements, including a panoramic glass roof, carbon fiber diffusers (front and rear) and Brembo calipers with cross-drilled rotors.

While the exterior design is handsome enough -- in a watered-down, mashup kind of way -- the real interesting bit is under the hood. Kia has outfitted the concept with a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged engine with direct injection that's putting out (according to the automaker) 290 hp and 289 lb.-ft. of torque beginning at 2,000 rpm. That theoretical grunt is sent to the front wheels that are suspended by a MacPherson strut setup, while out back a dual-link arrangement balances ride quality and handling. The KOUP is also equipped with Continuous Damping Control (CDC), which should keep things composed and comfortable when the going gets sporty.

Overall, the KOUP concept proves that Kia might finally be getting its stylistic act together, despite some of the derivative design cues that this too-close-to-production two-door is sporting.

Gallery: Kia KOUP concept

Continue reading New York 2008: Kia KOUP Concept comes out

New York 2008: Kia KOUP Concept comes out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingkiakia koupkia koup conceptKiaKoupKiaKoupConceptkoupnew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowThu, 20 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1143842/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-kia-koup-concept/1143842/article-detail.xml 1143842 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/01_kia_koup_live_450-op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/01_kia_koup_live_450-op.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Lamborghini LP560-4 makes American debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-lamborghini-lp560-4-makes-american-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-lamborghini-lp560-4-makes-american-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-lamborghini-lp560-4-makes-american-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for more high-res images of the Lamborghini LP560-4

Seems like yesterday when we first saw the new Lamborghini LP560-4 debut in Geneva, but we were glad it was here at the New York Auto Show today too for its North American debut. Rather than bring three variations on the theme like the Italian exotic automaker did in Switzerland, Lamborghini simply uncovered the matte white pearl version with the shiny black LP640-like rims. It still looks incredibly hot. All of the changes seem to have made the car crisper and immediately more current, especially out back where the car now appears lower and wider, which it needed. About that LP560-4 name... as Lamborghini's Stephen Winkelmann pointed out that it means "longitudinal posteriore" for the rear longitudinal engine position, 560 for the ponies that the new 5.2L V10 generates, and "-4" for the number of driven wheels. The cosmetic and name changes don't begin to delineate the numerous alterations made under the skin though. It's essentially a new car, with a highly revised chassis, all-new suspension and engine, as well as a new interior. We guess "Lamborghini New Gallardo" just doesn't have the right ring to it even though it fits corporate overlord Volkswagen's naming scheme a little better.

All the official details from Lamborghini are available after the jump and we've assembled a high-res gallery of live and press images below.

Gallery: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4

Continue reading New York 2008: Lamborghini LP560-4 makes American debut

New York 2008: Lamborghini LP560-4 makes American debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Mar 2008 07:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lamborghini gallardoLamborghiniGallardolp560-4new yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowThu, 20 Mar 2008 07:53:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1144802/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/20/new-york-2008-lamborghini-lp560-4-makes-american-debut/1144802/article-detail.xml 1144802 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/lamborghini560_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/lamborghini560.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Dan Gurney gives stamp of approval for new Signature Edition Saleen Mustang]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-dan-gurney-gives-stamp-of-approval-for-new-signat/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-dan-gurney-gives-stamp-of-approval-for-new-signat/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-dan-gurney-gives-stamp-of-approval-for-new-signat/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Saleen Gurney Signature Edition

Saleen doesn't seem to be missing a beat in its first year without Steve Saleen at the helm. It has released several new Mustangs including the Patriot Edition, Sterling Edition, H302 Supercharged and 620-hp S302 Extreme that we sampled in the Autoblog Garage. Now, alongside the S5S Raptor Concept being unveiled in New York tomorrow, its latest Mustang offering is the Gurney Signature Edition. It features a paint scheme recalling Gurney's 1969 Trans Am car, as well as a unique hood and front and rear spoilers. Power comes from a Saleen-supercharged 4.6-liter V8 producing 465 horsepower, and Saleen's Racecraft suspension and Pirelli Corsa tires keep the car planted on the road or track. The interior features custom two-tone seats and Gurney's signature on the dash. No word on pricing yet, but only 300 are scheduled to be produced. That means if you haven't already purchased one of the numerous limited edition Mustangs on the market, then you'd better jump on this one. Follow the jump for the press release from Saleen and check out more high-res pics in the gallery below.

Gallery: Saleen Gurney Signature Edition Mustang


[Source: Saleen]

Continue reading New York 2008: Dan Gurney gives stamp of approval for new Signature Edition Saleen Mustang

New York 2008: Dan Gurney gives stamp of approval for new Signature Edition Saleen Mustang originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 22:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dan Gurney MustangDanGurneyMustangNew YorkNew York 2008New York Auto ShowNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowSaleenSaleen Dan Gurney MustangSaleen Gurney Signature Edition MustangSaleen MustangSaleenDanGurneyMustangSaleenGurneySignatureEditionMustangSaleenMustangWed, 19 Mar 2008 22:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1144607/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-dan-gurney-gives-stamp-of-approval-for-new-signat/1144607/article-detail.xml 1144607 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/dangurneymustang01_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/dangurneymustang01_opt.jpg <![CDATA[New York 2008: Late Night in NYC with the Kia KOUP concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-late-night-in-nyc-with-the-kia-koup/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-late-night-in-nyc-with-the-kia-koup/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-late-night-in-nyc-with-the-kia-koup/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click the image above for a high-res, albeit very red, gallery of the Kia KOUP.

Kia was kind enough to invite us (and the rest of the media types braving a monsoon in NYC) down to an art gallery this evening to check out this newest concept before its official unveiling tomorrow morning. The KOUP (we're unsure if it's pronounced "coupe" or "coup") is the next major step for Kia to evolve its current design language into something more palatable than what we've been endured in recent months (ahem, Kee Coupe Concept). From the details we saw in the awkwardly lit gallery, it looks like the designers could be on the right track, but we'll have to wait for the official reveal at 9:40 AM EST tomorrow to be sure.

Gallery: Kia Koup - Late Night Tease

New York 2008: Late Night in NYC with the Kia KOUP concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 20:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingconceptkiakia koupkia koup conceptKiaKoupKiaKoupConceptkoupnew yorknew york 2008new york auto showNewYorkNewYork2008NewYorkAutoShowWed, 19 Mar 2008 20:51:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1144590/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/03/19/new-york-2008-late-night-in-nyc-with-the-kia-koup/1144590/article-detail.xml 1144590 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/01_kia_koup_early_450-op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/03/01_kia_koup_early_450-op.jpg -1 2