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[Report: Audi building business case for limited-edition Quattro concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/08/report-audi-building-business-case-for-limited-edition-quattro/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/08/report-audi-building-business-case-for-limited-edition-quattro/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/08/report-audi-building-business-case-for-limited-edition-quattro/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Audi Quattro Concept
Audi Quattro Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi stunned us at this month's Paris Motor Show when it unveiled the Quattro concept - an homage to the original Ur-Quattro that pioneered the automaker's now-signature all-wheel-drive system. It shares its underpinnings with those found on the hot RS5 coupe, packs 408 horsepower and weighs less than 3,000 pounds. Talk about impressive.

We certainly wouldn't be opposed to a production version, and according to Autocar, that dream may become a reality. Audi has reportedly been advancing plans for a limited production run of the Quattro, assembled on a dedicated line at parent company Volkswagen's newly acquired design firm, Italdesign. Stefan Reil, head of development at Audi's Quattro Gmbh division, told Autocar that the automaker is "rethinking standard processes to make it possible," and that Audi "know[s] how to engineer it already."

If the Quattro concept gets the green light, power would likely come from a tuned version of the turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-five found in the TT RS, producing somewhere around 350 horsepower. It's not the 408 that Audi originally quoted, but if the sub-3,000-pound weight is kept in order, it should still make for one heck of an interesting performer.

Hurry up and build it, Audi. We'll have our BMW 1M ready for the comparison test.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Audi Quattro Concept

Audi Quattro Concept front 3/4Audi Quattro Concept rear 3/4Audi Quattro Concept rear 3/4Audi Quattro Concept front 3/4Audi Quattro Concept

Gallery: Audi Quattro Concept

Audi Quattro ConceptAudi Quattro ConceptAudi Quattro ConceptAudi Quattro ConceptAudi Quattro Concept

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Zach Bowman / AOL

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Audi building business case for limited-edition Quattro concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 parisaudiaudi conceptaudi quattroaudi quattro conceptItaldesignparisparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Quattroquattro conceptstefan ReilFri, 08 Oct 2010 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19666030/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/08/report-audi-building-business-case-for-limited-edition-quattro/19666030/article-detail.xml 19666030 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/06-quattro-concept-1285846952_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/06-quattro-concept-1285846952.jpg <![CDATA[Of Course They Are: Jaguar reportedly investigating C-X75 production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/07/jaguar-c-x75-concept-production-possible/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/07/jaguar-c-x75-concept-production-possible/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/07/jaguar-c-x75-concept-production-possible/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Jaguar C-X75 concept in Paris
Jaguar C-X75 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Remember the Jaguar C-X75 Concept at the Paris Motor Show? Of course you do. The company repeatedly said it was "a pure concept" that wouldn't ever learn what the word "production" meant. Well, along with Galileo, Jaguar is reportedly joining the list of those who took it all back - well, almost - by admitting it's studying the production feasibility of what would become the X-75.

The stats again: Two 96-horsepower micro gas turbines powering batteries which in turn feed a quartet of 195-hp electric motors at the wheels for a shuddering 780 hp and 1,187 pound-feet, a 3.4-second run to 62 miles per hour, a top speed of 205 mph, an electric range of 68 miles and a range-extended blast of 560 miles. Autocar says that although Jag is studying only making 1,000 or 2,000 per year and could charge a fortune for every one of them, it's those turbines that could decide - or more likely, terminate - the car's fate.

See, Jag doesn't want to stick a plain old combustion engine in it. Otherwise it would have to be redesigned because the turbines' small footprint don't allow room for what would need to be a very powerful V8 or a large V12. Even though the company says developing the turbines for production would cost less than doing so for an ICE, it will take up to eight years to get them ready - for even a low-volume item. Of course, we can't imagine Jaguar is going to stand up at the 2016 Paris Auto Show and declare "The six-year-old concept car you loved in 2010 will be here in two more years! Get ready!" As far as we're concerned, we're happy to imagine gas turbines coming in some kind of Jaguar at some kind of date, whenever it is.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Jaguar C-X75 Concept


Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Autocar]

Of Course They Are: Jaguar reportedly investigating C-X75 production originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 parisc-x75c-x75 conceptCX75greenjaguar c-x75jaguar c-x75 conceptparis 2010paris motor show 2010turbineThu, 07 Oct 2010 09:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19664530/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/07/jaguar-c-x75-concept-production-possible/19664530/article-detail.xml 19664530 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/jaguarcx75product_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/jaguarcx75product.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 1M Coupe stops by Paris, doesn't even stay for the show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/06/bmw-1m-coupe-stops-by-paris-doesnt-even-stay-for-the-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/06/bmw-1m-coupe-stops-by-paris-doesnt-even-stay-for-the-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/06/bmw-1m-coupe-stops-by-paris-doesnt-even-stay-for-the-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BMW 1M coupe striptease in Paris
BMW 1M Coupe teasers - Click above for image gallery

Between the 6 Series Coupe concept, the 5 Series Touring wagon and the new X3 crossover, BMW had plenty to show us this year at the Paris Motor Show. But the real surprise, as it turns out, may have been in the French capital during the show, it wasn't even put on display. Instead, the Bavarian automaker took its currently-in-progress 1M Coupe out onto the city's famous tree-lined boulevards, covered up and disguised, but did a suitably Parisian burlesque striptease to give us a glimpse at what to expect.

Aside from the silhouette, all we can see are the front fender, headlamp (which is now taped-up in Zorro-esque fashion for some reason) and part of the air dam - all of which we saw before in the last teaser video - along with a newly-revealed section of the rear bumper and quad-pipe exhaust, plus the wheels protruding from the flared arches. If previous reports prove accurate, there will only be 2,700 examples on offer, so this may be the best look we'll get for some time... better check it out in the gallery below. Thanks for the tip, Jason!


Gallery: BMW 1M Coupe teasers


[Source: BMW M-Power via 1Addicts]

BMW 1M Coupe stops by Paris, doesn't even stay for the show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 m1 m coupe1 series1 series m1 series m coupe1M1Series2010 paris2010 paris motor show2010Paris2010ParisMotorShowbmwbmw 1 seriesbmw 1 series mbmw 1 series m coupebmw 1m coupeBmw1SeriesMMparisparis 2010paris motor show 2010Paris2010ParisMotorShow2010teaserWed, 06 Oct 2010 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19663168/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/06/bmw-1m-coupe-stops-by-paris-doesnt-even-stay-for-the-show/19663168/article-detail.xml 19663168 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-1m-tease4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-1m-tease4.jpg <![CDATA[We obsessively covered the...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/we-obsessively-covered-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/we-obsessively-covered-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/we-obsessively-covered-the/#commentsFiled under:

Paris Motor Show

The final count, for those keeping track: 39 production car debuts and 21 concept car debuts. That's a total of 60 new vehicles for us to obsess over. Take a look at each and every one of them below. Each image is a link that will take you to our high-res image gallery and brief writeup for that vehicle. Enjoy!

Production Cars
Concept and Race Cars

We obsessively covered the... originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>parisparis 2010paris auto salonparis auto showparis auto show 2010paris autoshow 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19657794/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/we-obsessively-covered-the/19657794/article-detail.xml 19657794 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/2010-paris-motorshow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/2010-paris-motorshow.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Ferrari California featuring HELE system]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ferrari-california-featuring-hele-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ferrari-california-featuring-hele-system/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ferrari-california-featuring-hele-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ferrari California with HELE System
Ferrari California with HELE System - Click above for high-res image gallery

One theme we have seen so far at this years Paris Motor Show, is automakers showing off vehicles which don't seem to flow with past company history. Ferrari just added a vehicle to the growing list. Have a look at the Ferrari Calfornia fitted with the HELE System. HELE stands for High Emotion Low Emissions and is a system designed to reduce C02 emissions without taking away from the joy of driving a Ferrari.

The HELE System works by utilizing a variety of technical measures including a start/stop function that can restart the car in 230 milliseconds, intelligent engine fan and fuel pump control, electronically controlled variable displacement air-conditioning technology and adaptive gear shifts. The result is a 23 percent reduction in C02 emissions.

We joke about automakers moving away from their traditional vehicles, but it's these types of cars that allow them to continue to build the ones we love. There probably would be no Porsche GT2 RS without the Cayenne, for example. The Ferrari California fitted with the HELE System shows that the purveyor of the Prancing Horse understands the world is constantly changing - and Ferrari is doing its best to continue to build the cars it's known for while staying in tune with the current climate of the world.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Ferrari California with HELE System

Paris 2010: Ferrari California with HELE SystemParis 2010: Ferrari California with HELE SystemParis 2010: Ferrari California with HELE SystemParis 2010: Ferrari California with HELE System

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: Ferrari California featuring HELE system originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrariferrari californiaferrari california hele systemheleparisparis 2010paris auto salonparis auto showparis auto show 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656635/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ferrari-california-featuring-hele-system/19656635/article-detail.xml 19656635 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadferraricaliforniahelelive_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadferraricaliforniahelelive.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Ford pondering bringing five-door C-Max to U.S. [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ford-studying-bringing-five-door-c-max-to-u-s-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ford-studying-bringing-five-door-c-max-to-u-s-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ford-studying-bringing-five-door-c-max-to-u-s-w/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Ford C-Max five-door
2011 Ford C-Max - Click above for high-res image gallery

Following the second press day at the Paris Motor Show at a drive event in Southern France, Ford's global vice president of marketing, Jim Farley, let slip to Autoblog that Dearborn decisionmakers are mulling over whether to import the C-Max to the U.S. As you'll recall, Ford has already committed to bringing over the C-Max's larger line mate, the seven-seat Grand C-Max, a vehicle that Farley tells us won't hit American soil until early in calendar 2012 (likely as a 2013 model).

Unlike its bigger brother, the C-Max has conventional front-hinged rear doors (the Grand has a pair of sliders) along with a more aggressive roofline and rear graphic to complement its shorter wheelbase. Think of it as more of a pent-roof Focus wagon and less of a smallish minivan in the mold of the Mazda5 and you've got it.

Interestingly, Farley maintains that Ford won't necessarily wait until the Grand C-Max goes on sale in the U.S. to determine whether or not to bring the model to America, and it will actively solicit feedback from both journalists and consumers to see if there's a business case to be made. While such language is common among PR folks looking to assuage media members always clamoring for the importation of forbidden automotive fruit, Farley sounded quite optimistic. Further, he reminded us that there was "absolutely no plan" initially to market the next-gen five-door Focus in the States, but that all changed after the 2007 Verve concept was met with an enthusiastic response from media members and show goers. A few years ago, we probably would have discounted such talk, but with CEO Alan Mulally and product chief Derrick Kuzak pushing the One Ford agenda globally, who knows? It might just make it Stateside after all.

If Ford does decide to bring the C-Max to America, it may have a minor naming conundrum to deal with. At the moment, the Grand C-Max moniker is expected to be shortened to just 'C-Max' when it goes on sale in the U.S., or the MPV might take on the name 'Focus C-Max,' though a final decision has not yet been made. As the Blue Oval won't sell both models with the same name, the five-door model would ostensibly need a different name.

Do you think the short-wheelbase C-Max would sell? Check out our high-resolution galleries of both models and then be sure to vote in our poll below. We'll have firsthand drive impressions of the European-spec C-Max range to share with you next week, so stay tuned.


Gallery: 2011 Ford C-Max


Gallery: 2011 Ford Grand C-Max

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View Poll

Paris 2010: Ford pondering bringing five-door C-Max to U.S. [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c-maxfordford cmaxFordCmaxgrand c-maxGrandC-maxjim farleyJimFarleyparisparis 2010Paris motor show 2010Paris2010ParisMotorShow2010Fri, 01 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19657878/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-ford-studying-bringing-five-door-c-max-to-u-s-w/19657878/article-detail.xml 19657878 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/ford-cmax-5-seat-630-main_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/ford-cmax-5-seat-630-main.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat Punto Evo Abarth EsseEsse is one fierce Scorpion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-fiat-punto-evo-abarth-esseesse-is-one-fierce-sc/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-fiat-punto-evo-abarth-esseesse-is-one-fierce-sc/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-fiat-punto-evo-abarth-esseesse-is-one-fierce-sc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Arbath Punto Evo esseesse
2011 Fiat Punto Evo Abarth EsseEsse - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you like the Fiat Punto, you'll love the Punto Evo. And if you love the Evo, the Abarth Punto Evo will make you quiver. So we're not exactly sure what this Abarth Punto Evo EsseEsse is going to do to you - you may just faint. First shown at this year's Geneva Motor Show, the Abarth-tuned version of the Punto Evo debuted, offering a bit more oomph, more aggressive styling and even better handling and braking. At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the Scorpion brand brought us even hotter versions of both, and we're very glad it did.

Wearing a Campovolo Gray paint scheme with white accents - and carrying that EsseEsse tag - this Punto gets a slight boost in power and a variety of upgrades to match. Output is now a full 180 horsepower, which is enough for a 7.5-second dash to 62 miles per hour. Additionally, top speed rises to 134 miles per hour.

That gray color might look familiar to you if you've ever seen an Italian warplane. The color is named after the airfield across the road from the company's historic headquarters in Turin. Inside, the EsseEsse gets "Abarth Corse by Sabelt" seats in black leather and Blue&Me sat-nav. The Punto also features an array of upgrades to the suspension, brakes, rolling stock and more. Full details can be found in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Arbath Punto Evo esseesse

Paris 2010: Arbath Punto Evo esseesseParis 2010: Arbath Punto Evo esseesseParis 2010: Arbath Punto Evo esseesseParis 2010: Arbath Punto Evo esseesseParis 2010: Arbath Punto Evo esseesse

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat Punto Evo Abarth EsseEsse is one fierce Scorpion

Paris 2010: 2011 Fiat Punto Evo Abarth EsseEsse is one fierce Scorpion originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abarthabarth puntoabarth punto evoabarth punto evo esseesseAbarthPuntofiatfiat puntofiat punto abarthparisparis 2010paris auto salonparis auto showparis auto show 2010paris autoshow 2010paris motor showpuntoPunto Evopunto evo abarthpunto evo esseesseFri, 01 Oct 2010 20:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656894/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-fiat-punto-evo-abarth-esseesse-is-one-fierce-sc/19656894/article-detail.xml 19656894 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadarbathpuntoevoesseessecparis_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadarbathpuntoevoesseessecparis.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Saab 9-3 ePower signals one way for ward for the Swedes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-saab-9-3-epower-signals-one-way-for-ward-for-the-swe/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-saab-9-3-epower-signals-one-way-for-ward-for-the-swe/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-saab-9-3-epower-signals-one-way-for-ward-for-the-swe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Saab 9-3 ePower
Saab 9-3 ePower - Click above for high-res image gallery

Unlike so many other electric vehicles introduced at the Paris Motor Show and throughout the year, the Saab 9-3 ePower doesn't look like its vanity plate should read "Buck Rogers," and it isn't powered by dark matter or black holes or Neptunian vapor. It's a 9-3 SportCombi with a plug in the back. That's all.

But that means a lot for Saab. The ePower is a testbed for a 70-car fleet that will be evaluated next year in Sweden in preparation for a production electric vehicle. The aim is a 120-mile range in a car that provides real-world wagon convenience. Up front is a 184-horsepower electric motor, 26 hp less than the ICE in the production 2.0T, powered by a 35 kW lithium-ion battery pack. That gets the estate from zero to 62 miles per hour in 8.5 seconds and on to a 90-mph top speed.

Trials in Sweden will put the air-cooled batteries' 30-degree Celsius operating temperature to the test, which Saab claims is ten degrees colder than other battery packs can manage. The 70 families invited to drive the car over the next two years will put its other attributes to the test. If all goes well, Saab wants to turn the knowledge it gains into a high-performance electric vehicle. There's more to know in the press release after the jump, and plenty of high-res images in the gallery below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Saab e-Power


Photos copyright (C)2010 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Saab 9-3 ePower signals one way for ward for the Swedes

Paris 2010: Saab 9-3 ePower signals one way for ward for the Swedes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3 epowerparisparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010saabsaab 9-3 epowerFri, 01 Oct 2010 20:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656768/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-saab-9-3-epower-signals-one-way-for-ward-for-the-swe/19656768/article-detail.xml 19656768 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01-saab-e-power-paris-liveopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01-saab-e-power-paris-liveopt.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Renault Latitude ready to carry the flag for French automaker]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-latitude-ready-to-carry-the-flag-for-french/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-latitude-ready-to-carry-the-flag-for-french/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-latitude-ready-to-carry-the-flag-for-french/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Renault Latitude
2011 Renault Latitude - Click above for high-res image gallery

Earlier this year, the 2011 Renault Latitude was unveiled at the Moscow International Auto Show. The European version has now made its debut in front of the crowd at the Paris Motor Show. The Latitude is considered a business-class saloon and Renault is positioning it to become the automaker's flagship vehicle.

The styling of the Renault Latitude somehow evokes images of the Chyrsler Sebring, new Volkswagen Jetta and any Lexus vehicle - yet it's done in a stylish manner. When it launches in Russia, the Latitude will be available with either a 139-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT or a 2.5-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic that's good for 177 hp. The four-cylinder unit is rated at 34 miles per gallon while the V6 gets just under 30 mpg. As the car expands into other markets, it will feature an expanding lineup of engine and gearbox choices.

Inside, the Renault Latitude is all about comfort. The power-adjustable driver's seat features a massaging function with five pneumatic rollers and four different settings. In order to keep everyone else happy, the Latitude has a climate control system with triple-zone adjustability.

The 2011 Renault Latitude hit dealer showrooms in September 2010, in Morocco and Algeria. It then starts popping up in Russia and the Ukraine before being made available throughout Africa. The European model will follow after that.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Renault Latitude

Paris 2010: Renault LatitudeParis 2010: Renault LatitudeParis 2010: Renault LatitudeParis 2010: Renault LatitudeParis 2010: Renault Latitude

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: Renault Latitude ready to carry the flag for French automaker originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 renault latitudelatitudeparisparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010renaultrenault latitudeFri, 01 Oct 2010 19:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656967/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-latitude-ready-to-carry-the-flag-for-french/19656967/article-detail.xml 19656967 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadrenaultlatitudeparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadrenaultlatitudeparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Is the Venturi America EV Dune Buggy another awesome EV we'll never see?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-is-the-venturi-america-ev-dune-buggy-another-awesome/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-is-the-venturi-america-ev-dune-buggy-another-awesome/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-is-the-venturi-america-ev-dune-buggy-another-awesome/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Venturi America EV Dune Buggy
Venturi America EV Dune Buggy - Click above for high-res image gallery

Venturi was last seen in America a couple of months ago, blasting across the white crystals at the Bonneville Salt Flats in the guise of the Buckeye Bullet. At the Paris Motor Show, the Monegasque company revealed a different kind of terrain-blasting machine called the America EV Dune Buggy - a jacked-up, 300-horsepower, rear-wheel-drive electric sports car as open and free as the great land it's named after.

The interior would be admirably minimal if things hadn't got cluttered up around the console screen, but the center tunnel buttons are a chunky, metallic pleasure to behold. The single display in front of the driver will hopefully present information clearly enough to keep your eyes on the road and your hair in the wind. And we aren't sure what kind of stereo is involved, but based on the speakers it looks pretty serious.

As for actually getting behind the wheel and exploring the roadster's namesake country, a retail source for Venturis has just landed in Columbus, Ohio, which means we might one day see something from the automaker outside of a blog post. But that's the future, folks - for now, there's a press release in its familiar place and a gallery of high-res photos below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Venturi America EV Dune Buggy


Photos copyright (C)2010 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Is the Venturi America EV Dune Buggy another awesome EV we'll never see?

Paris 2010: Is the Venturi America EV Dune Buggy another awesome EV we'll never see? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>america ev dune buggydune buggyDuneBuggyparisparis 2010paris auto showparis auto show 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010venturiventuri adnventuri america ev dune buggyFri, 01 Oct 2010 19:41:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19657707/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-is-the-venturi-america-ev-dune-buggy-another-awesome/19657707/article-detail.xml 19657707 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/venturi-america-live-paris_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/venturi-america-live-paris.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Citroën Lacoste Concept is a fashion buggy for the white belt set]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/pais-2010-citroen-lacoste-concept-is-a-fashion-buggy-for-the-wh/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/pais-2010-citroen-lacoste-concept-is-a-fashion-buggy-for-the-wh/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/pais-2010-citroen-lacoste-concept-is-a-fashion-buggy-for-the-wh/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Citroen Lacoste Concept at the 2010 Paris Motor Show
Citroën Lacoste Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

This is the Citroën Lacoste concept, which the automaker describes as "an emblem for a state-of-mind" - that particular mental state probably including sun, sand, bikinis and Speedos. The open buggy-like four-seater with floating headrests is the opposite of "always more," powered by a three-cylinder engine that will make its pace as relaxed as its occupants.

Fashion and four-wheelers combine all around, with the golf-ball wheels outside and bench seats with a polo-shirt-like weave inside. The dash that's as wide as the car goes in another direction entirely, with readouts in giant pixels popping up and running along its length akin to a Times Square news ticker. And although we probably won't see it on the roads beaches soon, there is a chance we could see it or something like it: Frédéric Banzet, managing director of Citroën, has said he'd like to bring it to production. Ok then.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Citroen Lacoste Concept


Photos copyright (C)2010 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Citroën Lacoste Concept is a fashion buggy for the white belt set

Paris 2010: Citroën Lacoste Concept is a fashion buggy for the white belt set originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroencitroen lacoste conceptlacoste conceptparisparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656791/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/pais-2010-citroen-lacoste-concept-is-a-fashion-buggy-for-the-wh/19656791/article-detail.xml 19656791 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/05-lacoste-concept-liveopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/05-lacoste-concept-liveopt.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Hyundai ix20 is neat, nifty, compact]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-hyundai-ix20-is-neat-nifty-compact/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-hyundai-ix20-is-neat-nifty-compact/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-hyundai-ix20-is-neat-nifty-compact/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Hyundai ix20
2011 Hyundai ix20 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hyundai's fluidic design language makes a little car quite handsome, and the ix20 MPV at the Paris Motor Show is the latest to benefit from the rhinoplasty. To our American eyes, it's a tiny piece of kit to be called an MPV, but the market for European B-segment people-carriers is robust.

Aimed at Continental families, the wheels pushed out to the corners provides a pleasantly roomy interior for a car with its dimensions. Four powerplants can be placed under the hood, two gas engines and two oil-burners ranging from 75 to 122 horsepower. Hyundai has also found room for plenty of safety features, with ESP, ABS, and Hill Start Assist making the list of standard kit.

Hyundai is hoping any further worries will be allayed by the five-year, unlimited mile warranty, and wants to sell 55,000 units of the ix20 annually. There's a press release on Hyundai's European charge after the jump, and a high-res gallery of photos below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Hyundai ix20


Photos copyright (C)2010 Jonathon Ramsey / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: 2011 Hyundai ix20 is neat, nifty, compact

Paris 2010: 2011 Hyundai ix20 is neat, nifty, compact originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 18:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hyundai ix20hyundai ix20 mpvix20ix20 mpvparisparis 2010paris auto showparis auto show 2010paris motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 18:39:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19657031/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-hyundai-ix20-is-neat-nifty-compact/19657031/article-detail.xml 19657031 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/hyundai-ix20-paris-live_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/hyundai-ix20-paris-live.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Toyota Verso-S is a small MPV with big features]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-toyota-verso-s-is-a-small-mpv-with-big-features/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-toyota-verso-s-is-a-small-mpv-with-big-features/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-toyota-verso-s-is-a-small-mpv-with-big-features/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Toyota Verso-S
2011 Toyota Verso-S - Click above for high-res image gallery

The mini-MPV segment is quite popular outside of the United States, and Toyota has just unveiled its newest member of that market - the 2011 Toyota Verso-S. We didn't know much about it earlier in the year, but the secrets have been spilled at the Paris Motor Show.

The Toyota Verso-S takes the stage as the shortest entrant into the B-MPV segment. However, the interior volume is on par with that of rivaling C-segment vehicles. It is the first car in this category to offer a multimedia, touchscreen system in the center stack. Down the line, an optional Navi-Box feature will be made available which boosts the multimedia capability but it also greatly enhances the navigation system features. The system can display speed camera warnings, sign posts on roadways and allows users to access numerous Google-based connected services. Points of Interest can be downloaded from the internet and entered as destinations. Also, the Navi-Box can display fuel prices, news and weather reports.

The 2011 Toyota Verso-S will go on sale in February 2011. Two engines will be made available; one diesel and one standard gasoline-burner. The diesel unit is a 1.4-liter diesel engine that produces 90 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque between 1,800 and 2,800 rpm. The 1.3-liter gasoline engine produces 99 hp and 93 lb-ft of torque. The gasoline engine is rated at nearly 43 miles per gallon while the diesel unit can hit 55 mpg. Both engines come standard with a six-speed manual transmission however the 1.3-liter can be paired with a seven-speed sequential unit and the 1.4-liter can be fitted with a six-speed automated manual. Click through our gallery of live shots to see the funky little MPV for yourself.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Toyota Verso-S

Paris 2010: Toyota Verso-SParis 2010: Toyota Verso-SParis 2010: Toyota Verso-SParis 2010: Toyota Verso-SParis 2010: Toyota Verso-S

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: 2011 Toyota Verso-S is a small MPV with big features originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 toyota verso-sparisparis 2010paris auto salonparis auto showparis auto show 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010toyotatoyota versoToyota Verso-SversoVerso-SFri, 01 Oct 2010 18:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656941/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-toyota-verso-s-is-a-small-mpv-with-big-features/19656941/article-detail.xml 19656941 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadtoyotaversosparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadtoyotaversosparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Mini Scooter E Concept can whisk us away any day]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-mini-scooter-e-concept-can-whisk-us-away-any-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-mini-scooter-e-concept-can-whisk-us-away-any-day/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-mini-scooter-e-concept-can-whisk-us-away-any-day/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mini Scooter E Concept
Mini Scooter E concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Squaring off, in a way, against the escooter that Smart unveiled yesterday at the Paris Motor Show, is Mini's entry in the fanciful all-electric scooter category, the Scooter E. There are more differences here than just where you put the "e," most specifically, how each scooter boils the essence of their four-wheeled cousins onto a platform smaller than half the size.

You can see the escooter in detail here, then compare it to the Scooter E, which manages to put a lot of what makes a Mini look like a Mini onto just two wheels. We think the bold yellow stripe around the leg opening, up to the headlight and around the seat is a nice touch. Considering that the Mini E and the Scooter E are both battery powered, perhaps the stripe is supposed to lightly mimic the yellow on that iconic car? We like what we see, and, apparently, Mini is paying close attention to what it hears in Paris to decide if the Scooter E gets put into production. Got an opinion?


Gallery: Paris 2010: Mini Scooter E Concept

Paris 2010: Mini Scooter E ConceptParis 2010: Mini Scooter E ConceptParis 2010: Mini Scooter E ConceptParis 2010: Mini Scooter E ConceptParis 2010: Mini Scooter E Concept

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: Mini Scooter E Concept can whisk us away any day originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini scooter eparis 2010paris auto salonparis auto showparis auto show 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Fri, 01 Oct 2010 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656867/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-mini-scooter-e-concept-can-whisk-us-away-any-day/19656867/article-detail.xml 19656867 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadminiscooterparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadminiscooterparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: First factory-built Fisker Karma hits the stage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-first-factory-built-fisker-karma-hits-the-stage/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-first-factory-built-fisker-karma-hits-the-stage/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-first-factory-built-fisker-karma-hits-the-stage/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

First Factory-Built Fisker Karma
First Factory-Built Fisker Karma - Click above for high-res image gallery

Staying true to its concept form, the factory-built Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid that hit the stage at the Paris Motor Show retains the concept's massive 22-inch wheels (Fisker says it'll be the first production car equipped with standard 22s), sensuous styling, 403-plus horsepower rating and the company's promise of achieving 100-plus miles per gallon in regular use. So, what's exactly different about the factory-built version? Well, the most notable exterior modification is the addition of a (blacked-out) B-pillar, which was apparently required to increase the vehicle's structural rigidity.

Aside from the added pillar, we can't really pick out any differences between the gorgeous concept that we laid eyes on a few years ago and this production-ready version that hit the stage in Paris. Fisker still lists a base price of $88,000 and anticipates that deliveries will begin early next year, or so it says. We hope to get up close and personal with the Karma at the upcoming LA Auto Show, but for now, hit up that high-res gallery of live shots that just came in from Paris and hop the jump for more info from Fisker.


Gallery: Paris 2010: First Factory-Built Fisker Karma

Paris 2010: First Factory-Built Fisker KarmaParis 2010: First Factory-Built Fisker KarmaParis 2010: First Factory-Built Fisker KarmaParis 2010: First Factory-Built Fisker KarmaParis 2010: First Factory-Built Fisker Karma

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: First factory-built Fisker Karma hits the stage

Paris 2010: First factory-built Fisker Karma hits the stage originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factory built fiskerfiskerFisker Automotivefisker karmafisker karma hybridfisker karma productionkarmakarma plug inparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Fri, 01 Oct 2010 15:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19657015/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-first-factory-built-fisker-karma-hits-the-stage/19657015/article-detail.xml 19657015 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadfiskerkarmaparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadfiskerkarmaparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Renault Twizy charges the stage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-twizy-charges-the-stage/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-twizy-charges-the-stage/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-twizy-charges-the-stage/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Renault Twizy
Renault Twizy - Click above for high-res image gallery

Believe it or not, Renault says the car you see above, known - seriously, we're not making this stuff up - as the Twizy, is a production vehicle. We hesitate to call it a car, or a motorcycle, or a scooter... it's really sort of a four-wheeled covered scooter, and it's powered by an electric drivetrain.

There will apparently be two different versions of the Twizy available, one sporting nine horsepower that can hit a top speed of 28 miles per hour and one with 20 horses that can hit 47 mph. A three-and-a-half-hour charge will result in 60 miles of range from the onboard lithium ion battery pack.

Renault is currently taking pre-orders on the Twizy, along with two other electric vehicles, and it will have the vehicle on the market in Europe by the end of 2011. Pricing is expected to be similar to the Piaggio MP3, and the rental charges for the battery pack will be covered in the Twizy's payment. Check it out in our high-res image gallery of live shots below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Renault Twizy

Paris 2010: Renault TwizyParis 2010: Renault TwizyParis 2010: Renault TwizyParis 2010: Renault TwizyParis 2010: Renault Twizy

Photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: Renault Twizy charges the stage originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>parisparis 2010paris motor showrenaultrenault twizyrenault twizy productionRenault Twizy ZEtwizyTwizy ZEFri, 01 Oct 2010 14:22:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656929/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-renault-twizy-charges-the-stage/19656929/article-detail.xml 19656929 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadrenaulttwizyparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadrenaulttwizyparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Orlando offers frill-free utility]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-chevrolet-orlando-offers-frill-free-utility/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-chevrolet-orlando-offers-frill-free-utility/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-chevrolet-orlando-offers-frill-free-utility/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Orlando at the 2010 Paris Motor Show
2011 Chevrolet Orlando - Click above for high-res image gallery

Chevrolet has debuted its Orlando people mover here at the Paris Motor Show, and while we were originally a bit nonplussed at being promised the car in the U.S. only to have General Motors later recant, we're no longer upset at its absence. Inexpensive and frumpy smallish MPVs still manage to find an audience in many European markets, but having fiddled with the Orlando today, we suspect that it probably wouldn't have fared that well Stateside.

Our first impression is that the Orlando is rather Dodge Journey-esque, albeit a bit smaller (it's Cruze-based, but bigger than it looks). Still, it shares the Dodge's seven-seat configuration and value-oriented bent, though it makes use of a range of smaller, Euro-friendly powerplants, including a 141-horsepower 1.8-liter gasoline four-cylinder and a pair of diesel fours offering 131 hp or 163 hp.

The interior is basic yet functional, with a much better resolved dashboard and center stack than the aforementioned Dodge. That said, the Orlando is built to be an inexpensive offering and it very much feels that way, with a nondescript crossover-like exterior (disappointing after the much better looking concept) and a competent but character-free interior. The three-row stadium seating is a nice touch, but as with most vehicles of this size, the 'way back' will be reserved for short trips, particularly as there's almost zero space for cargo when the rearmost seats are deployed.

Orlando production is slated to begin this month, with the first deliveries slated for early next month.

Judge for yourself by perusing our gallery below and check out Chevy's official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Chevrolet Orlando

Paris 2010: Chevrolet OrlandoParis 2010: Chevrolet OrlandoParis 2010: Chevrolet OrlandoParis 2010: Chevrolet OrlandoParis 2010: Chevrolet Orlando

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Chevrolet]

Continue reading Paris 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Orlando offers frill-free utility

Paris 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Orlando offers frill-free utility originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevy orlandochevrolet orlandochevychevy orlandoorlandoparisparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656783/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-chevrolet-orlando-offers-frill-free-utility/19656783/article-detail.xml 19656783 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01chevyorlandoparis2010opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01chevyorlandoparis2010opt.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: 2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS simply begs to be flogged]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-gt2-rs-simply-begs-to-be-flogged/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-gt2-rs-simply-begs-to-be-flogged/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-gt2-rs-simply-begs-to-be-flogged/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS
2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we look at the 2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS, it's hard not to slip away to daydreams of blasting around the Nürburgring channeling Walter Röhrl the whole time. After all, this is Porsche's most powerful 911 yet (that's still street legal!), boasting 620 horsepower from its twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter flat-six. Getting to 60 miles per hour takes just 3.4 seconds and you'll be doing 205 mph flat out.

All of this goodness plus some matte carbon fiber bodywork and a red Alcantara interior can be yours for $245,000. The line forms to the right.

Check out our live gallery of high-res photos direct from the Paris Motor Show, below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RS

Paris 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RSParis 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RSParis 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RSParis 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RSParis 2010: Porsche 911 GT2 RS

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Paris 2010: 2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS simply begs to be flogged originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris motor show2011 porsche 911 gt2 rs911 gt2 rsparisparis 2010paris motor showporscheporsche 911 gt2 rsFri, 01 Oct 2010 13:19:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656979/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/paris-2010-2011-porsche-911-gt2-rs-simply-begs-to-be-flogged/19656979/article-detail.xml 19656979 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01911gt2rsparis2010-1285940791_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/01911gt2rsparis2010-1285940791.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Chevrolet Aveo is ready for global B-segment battle]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-aveo-paris-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-aveo-paris-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/chevrolet-aveo-paris-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Chevrolet Aveo
Chevrolet Aveo show car - Click above for high-res image gallery

My, what big eyes you have.

The Chevy Aveo might look a little awkward from certain angles, but it's sure to be a wholly better machine than its predecessor. Still, the new design is a big step forward for General Motors, and we like certain cues like the rear door handles being integrated into the C-pillar and the mean, Spark-inspired taillamps. This Aveo you see here is actually a "show car" for the time being, as the production car will receive minor tweaks and changes depending on the market in which it's sold.

When it goes on sale in America next year, the new Aveo will more than likely be powered by The General's 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine good for 115 horsepower, though Europeans will have up to four engines from which to choose including a 1.3-liter diesel. Along with a huge interior refresh, the Aveo should now be better poised to compete with offerings like the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit. Have a look for yourself in our high-res gallery of live shots direct from the Paris Motor Show.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Chevrolet Aveo

Paris 2010: Chevrolet AveoParis 2010: Chevrolet AveoParis 2010: Chevrolet AveoParis 2010: Chevrolet AveoParis 2010: Chevrolet Aveo

Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Aveo


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Chevrolet Aveo is ready for global B-segment battle

Paris 2010: Chevrolet Aveo is ready for global B-segment battle originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 paris2010 paris auto show2010 paris motor showaveochevroletchevrolet aveochevy aveoparisparis 2010paris motor showFri, 01 Oct 2010 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19656858/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/01/chevrolet-aveo-paris-2010/19656858/article-detail.xml 19656858 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadchevyaveoparis2010_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/leadchevyaveoparis2010.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Mastretta MXT stakes a claim for Mexican elemental performance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/mastretta-mxt-paris-2010-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/mastretta-mxt-paris-2010-mexico/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/01/mastretta-mxt-paris-2010-mexico/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Mastretta MXT
2011 Mastretta MXT: Click above for high-res image gallery

Mexico may be known as a hub for automotive production in the Americas, but it isn't typically identified as a hotbed of design or engineering. The folks at Mastretta are out to change that with their new MXT sports car.

Powered by a Ford-sourced 2.0-liter Duratec I4 engine mounted amidships and plumbed with a turbo for 250 horsepower and 257 pound-feet of torque, the MXT is a simple, lightweight proposition designed to resonate with the Colin Chapmans and Gordon Murrays of this world.

Mastretta MKT at 2010 Paris Motor Show, rear viewThe overall shape of the car is perhaps derivative but quite appealing in person, with better-than-expected fit and finish for a small-volume prototype, though the interior still needs some modest refining (even for an elemental track day car). The aluminum semi-monocoque construction features a carbon fiber belly pan and a steel subframe, and suspension is via double wishbones front and rear. The body is comprised of fiberglass reinforced plastic, which should help with both ease of manufacturing and updating.

Thanks to Mexico's low labor costs, the folks at Mastretta (a company that cut its teeth building kit cars and commercial buses) are optimistic that they can sell the 2,050-pound MT for just $50,000-$60,000 for European audiences, with the goal of eventually bringing the car north to the States. That strikes us as an ambitious target for a car with over 1,800 unique pieces and a handful of major carbon fiber components, but with virtually no costly electronics to develop (there's no stability control, ABS, or what have you) and no airbags (at least in this prototype stage), it's possible that they could be on to something.

Mastretta officials we spoke with are going for UK certification shortly in order to sell the MXT across Europe. Plans for any U.S. sales will require passing a more stringent homologation process, however, so the company will likely need to build sales momentum before it attempts to set a foot in the North American market. Volume targets are modest at present, with initial production plans calling for one car a week, ramping quickly to about 150 units per year, with a longer-term goal being 500 units.

Check out our high-res gallery from the show floor below, and then hop the jump for the official press release.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Mastretta MXT

Paris 2010: Mastretta MXTParis 2010: Mastretta MXTParis 2010: Mastretta MXTParis 2010: Mastretta MXTParis 2010: Mastretta MXT

Gallery: Mastretta MXT


Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

[Source: Mastretta]

Continue reading Paris 2010: Mastretta MXT stakes a claim for Mexican elemental performance

Paris 2010: Mastretta MXT stakes a claim for Mexican elemental performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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