Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[AdSpotting Super Bowl Edition: Grading the Ads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/adspotting-super-bowl-edition-grading-the-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/adspotting-super-bowl-edition-grading-the-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/adspotting-super-bowl-edition-grading-the-ads/#commentsFiled under:



Just like Super Bowl XLVI had to have a winner and a loser, so do the commercials. We've assembled every car commercial that aired during the big game after the jump, along with a poll allowing you to vote on your favorite.

To help you decide, we've graded the ads based on the opinions of our own AOL Autos Editor-in-Chief David Kiley. Having been marketing editor at BusinessWeek, an Adweek and Advertising Age columnist and reporter, and an ad executive at three agencies that worked on Mercedes-Benz, Mazda and Cadillac accounts, Kiley's judgment counts more than most in this sort of discussion.

Follow the jump to review our report card and vote for your favorite Super Bowl car commercial in our poll. The automakers are listening, so use your vote to tell them the ad you liked most, and just maybe you'll see more like it next year.

Continue reading AdSpotting Super Bowl Edition: Grading the Ads

AdSpotting Super Bowl Edition: Grading the Ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adspottingfeaturedpollsuper bowlsuper bowl adssuper bowl commercialsMon, 06 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20159830/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/adspotting-super-bowl-edition-grading-the-ads/20159830/article-detail.xml 20159830 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/nflsuperbowlspansb583.62e4978ac1204d73bddc9bcb67460ab9-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/nflsuperbowlspansb583.62e4978ac1204d73bddc9bcb67460ab9-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Jeremy Clarkson voted worst off-road trip partner in UK survey]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/jeremy-clarkson-voted-worst-off-road-trip-partner-in-uk-survey/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/jeremy-clarkson-voted-worst-off-road-trip-partner-in-uk-survey/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/02/jeremy-clarkson-voted-worst-off-road-trip-partner-in-uk-survey/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If you're about to embark on an off-road driving expedition, you're going to need the right co-pilot. Someone with good knowledge of how a car works, good survival skills and - most important of all - a good sense of humor.

This according to a recent study carried out in the UK by Continental Tires ahead of the launch of the Conti 4x4 Trophy, in which respondents ranked humor as an over-arching qualifying trait for the right person to ride shotgun.

So who did the British respondents choose? The blokes went with a pretty face in glamor model Kelly Brook, while the ladies elected Robert Pattinson of Twilight fame. But it's the least favorite picks that caught our attention.

According to the study, the worst person to have riding shotgun on such an off-road trip would be Jeremy Clarkson. Joining Jezza in the top ten least favorite co-pilots in the study were Katie Price (another "glamor model" like the aforementioned Kelly Brook who goes by the name Jordan), Prime Minister David Cameron, fashion model Kate Moss, TV show hostesses Carol Vorderman and Christine Bleakley, parliamentarian Nick Clegg, pop idol Madonna, Idol host Simon Cowell and F1 driver Lewis Hamilton.

For our part, we're not sure the Top Gear host (or for that matter the McLaren driver) would be at the very top of our list, but he certainly wouldn't be at the bottom. This after a similar study placed Jezza as the top choice for a house-sitter, one of the top five Brits that men would like to have a date with, and, most contradictingly, the country's top pick for a passenger on an on-road trip.

Continue reading Jeremy Clarkson voted worst off-road trip partner in UK survey

Jeremy Clarkson voted worst off-road trip partner in UK survey originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainclarksonconti 4x4 trophycontinentaljeremy clarksonpollstudysurveyThu, 02 Feb 2012 10:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20162165/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/02/jeremy-clarkson-voted-worst-off-road-trip-partner-in-uk-survey/20162165/article-detail.xml 20162165 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/clarkson1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/clarkson1.jpg <![CDATA[Survey says U.S. drivers want red light cameras]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/survey-says-u-s-drivers-want-red-light-cameras/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/survey-says-u-s-drivers-want-red-light-cameras/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/07/survey-says-u-s-drivers-want-red-light-cameras/#commentsFiled under:

red light photoHaving written a number of pieces on red light cameras, we have come across surveys that showed a group of people being in favor of the intersection sentinels, but we have never come across a survey in which a majority of people in a particular city actually lobbied for the automated ticket generators. A poll taken by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety changes that. In a survey of people in 14 cities that have had "long-standing" red-light cameras, it found that a majority of people in all but one city were in favor of them. Only Long Beach, CA came in below the cut, at 48 percent. Washington, D.C. topped the 'yea'-ers with 78 percent.

The IIHS characterizes the results as "Two-thirds of drivers in 14 big cities with longstanding red light camera programs support their use." Now, we're not saying they're wrong, but we would like to see a larger sampling. The release states that "More than 3,000 people in the 14 study cities were interviewed by cellphone and landline between Feb. 19 and March 29," including folks in Chicago, Phoenix and San Diego. Those three hamlets boast 5,488,632 people, meaning that the survey includes less than a tenth of a percent of the population of those three cities alone, much less the entire 14.

Follow the link for the particulars. But, as Consumer Reports notes, with the IIHS saying 56 percent of Houstonians are in favor of cameras, but 53 percent of Houstonians rejecting red light cameras, we'll go with the voters and not the respondents for now.

Survey says U.S. drivers want red light cameras originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Jul 2011 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iihsInsurance Institute for Highway Safetypollred light camerared light photosurveyThu, 07 Jul 2011 09:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19983037/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/07/survey-says-u-s-drivers-want-red-light-cameras/19983037/article-detail.xml 19983037 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/red-light-photo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/red-light-photo.jpg <![CDATA[Poll: 2011 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Dodge Durango - What's your pick?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/02/poll-2011-ford-explorer-vs-2011-dodge-durango-whats-your-pi/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/02/poll-2011-ford-explorer-vs-2011-dodge-durango-whats-your-pi/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/02/poll-2011-ford-explorer-vs-2011-dodge-durango-whats-your-pi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Explorer vs. Dodge Durango

The SUV is dead. Long live the SUV!

The 2011 Dodge Durango and Ford Explorer are big departures from the models that they replace. Aside from the usual styling and refinement differences, the biggest changes for these vehicle are that they both ditch the traditional body-on-frame sport-utility vehicle DNA in favor of unibody constructions. By our definition, these once-SUVs are now CUVs, though their respective parent companies continue to brand them as being traditional sport-utes through and through.

Both the Durango and Explorer offer available seating for seven and all-wheel drive, but that's where the similarities start to taper off. Each vehicle offers a choice of two different powertrains, but while Dodge has opted to go a more traditional route with by fielding the Durango with both 3.6-liter V6 and 5.7-liter V8 engines, Ford has gone in the opposite direction by equipping the Explorer with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four and a 3.5-liter V6. There are pros and cons for each - the Explorer may prove to be more fuel-efficient, but the Durango ought to tow more.

Each of these new crossovers tries to stay true to the traditional SUV mindset, just in different directions. Ford's Terrain Management system will surely come in handy for people who need more off-road prowess, though the end result remains that the Explorer is arguably more of a tall wagon than an honest SUV. The Durango keeps things a bit more and has a strong, presence that we suspect will still be well-received by people who prefer honest-to-goodness sport-utility vehicles.

We could debate the pros and cons of each vehicle all day, and indeed, we're still waiting for the Full Monty-worth of details and specifications, but we still want to know: What do you think? If you had to choose either the Explorer or Durango, which would get your pick? Cast your vote in the poll below and be sure to sound off with your thoughts in Comments.

View Poll




Gallery: 2011 Dodge Durango

2011 Dodge Durango2011 Dodge Durango2011 Dodge Durango2011 Dodge Durango2011 Dodge Durango

Gallery: 2011 Ford Explorer

Poll: 2011 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Dodge Durango - What's your pick? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 dodge durango2011 durango2011 ford explorer2011DodgeDurango2011Durango2011FordExplorerdodgeDodge DurangoDodgeDurangodurango explorerdurango vs explorerDurangoExplorerDurangoVsExplorerexplorerexplorer vs. durangoExplorerVs.DurangofordFord Explorerford explorer 2011FordExplorerFordExplorer2011pollpollsreader pollReaderPollThu, 02 Sep 2010 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19619160/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/02/poll-2011-ford-explorer-vs-2011-dodge-durango-whats-your-pi/19619160/article-detail.xml 19619160 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/explorango630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/explorango630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Shocking Study: Researchers find that men and women don't want the same thing (in cars)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/27/shocking-study-researchers-find-that-men-and-women-dont-want-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/27/shocking-study-researchers-find-that-men-and-women-dont-want-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/27/shocking-study-researchers-find-that-men-and-women-dont-want-t/#commentsFiled under: , ,



This just in: early reports inform us that water is, in fact, still wet. Also, the clever minds at CNW Market Research have discovered that an individual's personal tastes in a vehicle varies greatly depending on gender and age. Shocking, we know. According to the data, women typically base their purchases on rear visibility, cost, front visibility, remote side mirrors and side air bags, in that order. Well, the last three are tied, but pretty much in that order.

And what about guys? Brace yourself for some life-altering revelations. According to CNW, styling, horsepower, engine design, front visibility and the vehicle's sound system are the top five priorities for men. At least we can agree on that whole 'being able to see out of the front of the car' bit. And, judging from the photo above, perhaps we can all agree that the Shelby Cobra is pretty dang desirable.

Of course, the data does help to refute the notion that women are typically more emotional shoppers than men. Clearly, according to the CNW's data, testosterone is doing nothing to help us guys make well-informed automotive purchases. Why is that? According to AOL Autos, the answer may have plenty to do with guys simply trying to keep up with their friends in terms of, er, displacement. In an unrelated story, the sky may also be blue, researchers have discovered.

[Source: AOL Autos | Image: SI.com]

Shocking Study: Researchers find that men and women don't want the same thing (in cars) originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Jul 2010 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Car Buyingcar shoppingCarBuyingCarShoppingCNW Market ResearchCNW Marketing ResearchCnwMarketingResearchCnwMarketResearchMennew carnew car buyersnew carsNewCarNewCarBuyersNewCarsPollResearchStudyWomenTue, 27 Jul 2010 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19565999/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/27/shocking-study-researchers-find-that-men-and-women-dont-want-t/19565999/article-detail.xml 19565999 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/danica-cobra_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/danica-cobra.jpg <![CDATA[New study suggests that women drive dirtier than men - at least in Britain [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/new-study-suggests-that-women-drive-dirtier-than-men-at-least/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/new-study-suggests-that-women-drive-dirtier-than-men-at-least/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/22/new-study-suggests-that-women-drive-dirtier-than-men-at-least/#commentsFiled under: ,

We'll be the first to admit that we're not the most fastidious folks when it comes to a clean vehicle. It's not that we don't pride ourselves in having a clean-as-can-be car, it's just that there are more pressing things on our schedule most days. The good news is, we're not alone. According to research worked up by Autoquake - an online vehicle retailer in the UK - nearly half of drivers surveyed clean their vehicle in intervals of six months or more. Hey, even we aren't that bad. Even more interestingly, the poll found that women are more likely to leave their ride dirty than men.

Around 56 percent of the women in the study said that they leave their vehicle unwashed for six months or more while 44 percent of men said the same. Granted, leaving half a year's worth of grime to eat away at your vehicle's bodywork is bad, but it gets worse: Four percent of those surveyed said that they never clean their vehicle.

This lead us to wonder - how often do give your vehicle the once-over? Come clean in our poll below, and don't forget to check out the full press release from Autoquake after the jump.


View Poll



[Source: Autoquake]

Continue reading New study suggests that women drive dirtier than men - at least in Britain [w/poll]

New study suggests that women drive dirtier than men - at least in Britain [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Jul 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto cleanerAutoCleanerautoquakecar cleanerCar WashCarCleanerCarWashClean CarsCleanCarscleaning carsCleaningCarsDirty CarDirtyCarPollwashing carwashing carsWashingCarWashingCarsThu, 22 Jul 2010 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19562717/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/22/new-study-suggests-that-women-drive-dirtier-than-men-at-least/19562717/article-detail.xml 19562717 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/car-wash_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/car-wash.jpg <![CDATA[Study: Most in-car arguments are over directions. No they aren't. Yes they are.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/study-most-in-car-arguments-are-over-directions-no-they-arent/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/study-most-in-car-arguments-are-over-directions-no-they-arent/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/21/study-most-in-car-arguments-are-over-directions-no-they-arent/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Here's a handy piece of information to keep in mind the next time you hop into the car with your significant other. According to a study commissioned by Halfords - a UK car accessory company - 70 percent of those polled admitted to having an argument in a vehicle at least once a month. The biggest cause of friction behind the wheel? Navigation. More than 33 percent of responses said that directions, or the lack there of, are a regular point of contention between couples behind the wheel. A hefty 85 percent of those surveyed said that the clashes began when the driver refused to stop and ask for directions.

The solution? Pick up a GPS device, of course. The New York Times says that in a separate study in which 502 people were surveyed, around a quarter of women said that they weren't confident in their sense of direction. Only nine percent of guys said the same, even though 58 percent of men in the study admitted to using personal GPS. Take away the technological aid, mix in a little insecurity, a stressful situation and voila! Instant domestic discord. So cut your partner some slack during this road trip season - they just might repay the favor the next time you're at the helm.

[Source: The New York Times]

Study: Most in-car arguments are over directions. No they aren't. Yes they are. originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Jul 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArgumentArgumentsDirectionsgpsgps navigationGpsNavigationNavigationPollStudyWed, 21 Jul 2010 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19561670/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/21/study-most-in-car-arguments-are-over-directions-no-they-arent/19561670/article-detail.xml 19561670 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/tomtom-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/tomtom-250.jpg <![CDATA[Study: Adults admit to texting while driving more than teens]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/25/study-adults-admit-to-texting-while-driving-more-than-teens/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/25/study-adults-admit-to-texting-while-driving-more-than-teens/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/25/study-adults-admit-to-texting-while-driving-more-than-teens/#commentsFiled under: ,



A poll by Pew Internet, part of the Pew Research Center, has found that 27% of American adults admit to texting while driving. If the teenagers who answered the poll were all telling the truth, that means that more adults are guilty of TWD than teens, who came in at 26%. Even more damning for the Do As I Say, Not As I Do crowd: 44% percent of adults claimed to have been riding with drivers who became dangerous while using cell phones, and 17% of drivers admitted to hitting something or someone while using their cell phones. So let's put down the Blackberry's people, work can wait 'till you get there.

[Source: Pew Internet | Image: Corbis]

Study: Adults admit to texting while driving more than teens originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Jun 2010 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cell phonecellphonepew internetpew internet and american life projectpew research centerPewInternetPewInternetAndAmericanLifeProjectPewResearchCenterpollstudyteensTextingTexting while drivingTextingWhileDrivingFri, 25 Jun 2010 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19523624/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/25/study-adults-admit-to-texting-while-driving-more-than-teens/19523624/article-detail.xml 19523624 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/42-21638358opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/42-21638358opt.jpg <![CDATA[The $16,000 Question: Jetta, Cruze or Focus? [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/15/the-16-000-question-focus-cruze-or-jetta-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/15/the-16-000-question-focus-cruze-or-jetta-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/15/the-16-000-question-focus-cruze-or-jetta-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Just after we flip our calendars to the year 2011, we'll have three new sedans on the street, all poised to compete against one another and priced from around the $16,000 mark - the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and 2012 Ford Focus. Each car has a lot of positives and we're sure the automotive media will be lining up comparison tests as soon as each are ready. But right now, we want to know what you, the reader, thinks has the makings of the best $16,000 sedan. Read the details and vote for your pick below.

2011 Volkswagen Jetta
  • Dimensions (inches): length: 182.7, width: 70.1, height: 57.1
  • Engines: 2.5-liter inline-five with 170 horsepower, 177 pound-feet of torque; 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four with 140 hp, 236 lb-ft; 2.0-liter turbocharged four with 200 hp, 207 lb-ft; six-speed automatic, dual-clutch and manual transmissions will be available
  • Fuel economy: Over 40 mpg for TDI diesel models
  • Available features: Navigation, Bluetooth, 60/40 split rear seat
2011 Chevrolet Cruze
  • Dimensions (inches): length: 181.0, width: 70.7, height: 58.1, wheelbase: 105.7
  • Engines: 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four with 138 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque; 1.4-liter turbocharged four with 138 hp and 148 lb-ft; six-speed manual and automatic transmissions available
  • Fuel economy: 40 mpg for Eco models
  • Available features: Bluetooth, USB connectivity, OnStar support
2012 Ford Focus
  • Dimensions (inches): length: 179, width: 72, height: 58, wheelbase: 104
  • Engines: 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four with 155 horsepower, 145 pound-feet of torque, mated to a five-speed manual or six-speed dual-clutch automatic; 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four reportedly in the works with 240-plus hp and a six-speed manual
  • Fuel economy: 40 mpg highway targeted for base 2.0-liter model
  • Available features: SYNC, active park assist, navigation

View Poll



Note: Official specifications for the 2011 Jetta and 2012 Focus have not been released as of this writing, but these are the details that Autoblog has learned through industry sources.


Gallery: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta


Gallery: Quick Spin: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze


Gallery: 2012 Ford Focus

The $16,000 Question: Jetta, Cruze or Focus? [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Jun 2010 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet cruze2011 volkswagen jetta2011ChevroletCruze2011VolkswagenJetta2012 ford focus2012FordFocuschevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzecruzefocusfordford focusFordFocusjettapollpollsvolkswagenVolkswagen JettaVolkswagenJettaTue, 15 Jun 2010 19:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19517585/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/15/the-16-000-question-focus-cruze-or-jetta-w-poll/19517585/article-detail.xml 19517585 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/jettacruzefocusopta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/jettacruzefocusopta.jpg <![CDATA[Buick Regal five-door possible, wagon unlikely [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/07/buick-regal-five-door-possible-wagon-unlikely-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/07/buick-regal-five-door-possible-wagon-unlikely-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/07/buick-regal-five-door-possible-wagon-unlikely-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Opel Insignia hatch (left) Buick Regal sedan (right)

When the new Buick Regal goes on sale in the U.S. later this month, it will only be available as a four-door sedan. However, the Regal's German twin, the Opel Insignia, is available as either a five-door hatchback or a station wagon, dubbed the "sports tourer." During our recent jaunt to Germany, we spoke with Buick officials about offering alternate body styles, and were particularly enamored by the Insignia OPC Sports Tourer with its 325 turbocharged V6 and all-wheel drive.

Alas, Buick sales and marketing manager Craig Bierley told us that chances of the wagon making it to America are slim (but not impossible). What's more likely to make it to the U.S. is the five-door. Buick thinks the hatch has a better chance of success in the States because it doesn't look like a hatchback. In fact, aside from slighter shorter rear decklid and more raked rear glass, it's difficult to distinguish from the sedan while still offering the extra utility of the large cargo opening. If the Regal proves successful in the States, the hatch variant could arrive in a year or two. The question is, what do you want?


View Poll



Gallery: Opel Insignia Sports Tourer


Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Buick Regal in Germany

Buick Regal five-door possible, wagon unlikely [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 07 May 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BuickBuick Regalbuick regal hatchbackbuick regal wagonBuickRegalBuickRegalHatchbackBuickRegalWagonopelopel insigniaOpel Insignia Buickopel insignia buick regalopel insignia hatchbackOpel Insignia OPC Sports TourerOpel Insignia Sports TourerOpelInsigniaOpelInsigniaBuickOpelInsigniaBuickRegalOpelInsigniaHatchbackOpelInsigniaOpcSportsTourerOpelInsigniaSportsTourerpollregalregal hatchbackregal wagonRegalHatchbackRegalWagonstation wagonstation wagonsStationWagonStationWagonsFri, 07 May 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19467459/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/07/buick-regal-five-door-possible-wagon-unlikely-w-poll/19467459/article-detail.xml 19467459 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/regal-sedan-hatch_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/regal-sedan-hatch.jpg <![CDATA[Poll: Foose/Deere 4020 vs John Deere 620 Orchard]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/07/poll-foose-deere-4020-vs-john-deere-620-orchard/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/07/poll-foose-deere-4020-vs-john-deere-620-orchard/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/07/poll-foose-deere-4020-vs-john-deere-620-orchard/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Foose/Deere 4020 vs John Deere 620 Orchard Model
Which one would you choose? The Chip Foose John Deere 4020 or a John Deere 620 orchard model? Vote after the jump!

Chip Foose's John Deere 4020 is pretty kickass, but the reality is this: You needn't enlist the services of a famous pro rodder to get a slick-lookin' John Deere tractor. Take, for instance, the John Deere 620 orchard model shown above. Standard-issue 620s have a traditional tractor look to them, but the ones fitted with the additional orchard equipment have a streamlined appearance that looks like it's a set of giant-sized moon caps away from making a land speed record run at Bonneville.

In fact, all that extra bodywork has nothing to do with aerodynamics or improved performance; its shielding designed to let the tractor operate in an orchard without the tires causing damage to the the tree branches. So, not only does this 620 look great, it does so for totally functional reasons.

And so, we come to tonight's poll: Which one of these tractors would you rather have? Follow the jump and declare your Deere.

[John Deere 620 image via TractorClocks.com]

Continue reading Poll: Foose/Deere 4020 vs John Deere 620 Orchard

Poll: Foose/Deere 4020 vs John Deere 620 Orchard originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Mar 2010 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chip fooseChipFoosejohn deerejohn deere 4020john deere 620JohnDeereJohnDeere4020JohnDeere620orchard modelOrchardModelpollSun, 07 Mar 2010 20:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19386656/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/07/poll-foose-deere-4020-vs-john-deere-620-orchard/19386656/article-detail.xml 19386656 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/foosevsorchard_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/foosevsorchard.jpg <![CDATA[POLL: Do you care about the Indy 500?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/23/poll-do-you-care-about-the-indy-500-anymore/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/23/poll-do-you-care-about-the-indy-500-anymore/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/23/poll-do-you-care-about-the-indy-500-anymore/#commentsFiled under:



The 93rd running of the Indianapolis 500 will take place tomorrow at noon. ABC will provide the usual live coverage, and viewers will watch to see if pole-sitter Helio Castroneves manages to do his Spider-Man thing at the race's conclusion. Or if Danica makes history. Or maybe you're just looking for a race - and a finish - as exciting as the spectacular ending to the 2006 Indy 500.

Or maybe you don't care anymore.

Maybe you tuned out after the nasty CART/IRL split and never looked back.

So here we are, into the second season of the freshly-reunited Indy Racing League, hours away from its signature event - the most storied race in American motorsports. The starting grid boasts plenty of fast drivers. Young ones, too. Some are scions of Indy legends. But the variety pretty much ends there. Everyone's running a Dallara chassis with a Honda engine. Fast as hell, to be sure-Helio qualified with an average speed of 224.824 mph. But still, to many, the 500 now almost feels more like a habitual event instead of the massively-important, "Capital-E" Event it was prior to 1996.

So here's where we toss it to you. Do you care about Indy anymore? Did you ever? Are you planning to watch the 500? Vote after the jump, and comment away.

[Image: Jamie Squire/Getty]

Continue reading POLL: Do you care about the Indy 500?

POLL: Do you care about the Indy 500? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 23 May 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 indy 5002009Indy500indianapolis 500Indianapolis500indy 500Indy500pollSat, 23 May 2009 18:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1554725/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/05/23/poll-do-you-care-about-the-indy-500-anymore/1554725/article-detail.xml 1554725 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/indy-super-fan-500-580_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/05/indy-super-fan-500-580.jpg <![CDATA[Fast & Furious franchise framers feeling fine for fifth film? [w/POLL]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/fast-and-furious-franchise-framers-feeling-fine-for-fifth-film-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/fast-and-furious-franchise-framers-feeling-fine-for-fifth-film-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/15/fast-and-furious-franchise-framers-feeling-fine-for-fifth-film-w/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to see a gallery of stills from The Fast and The Furious 4

Amazing what a huge opening weekend at the box office can do. After debuting with a record-breaking $72.5 million haul in its first few days, the fourth installment, Fast & Furious tapered off a bit last week at $28 million, but that hasn't slowed the franchise one little bit.

In an interview on Friday with Los Angeles radio station 104.3MYfm, star Paul Walker said that a fifth installment is practically a sure thing now: "This was supposed to be it - but without question, Vin and I will be coming back, we're making the fifth one and we're going to Brazil." We hate to say we told you so, but... well, we did.

Based on the results of our previous poll, we're guessing that most of you will be up for another go assuming the trailers and buzz show it to be at least as good as the current film. But what do you think? Is a fifth installment with some Brazilian flair worth doing? Will you see it if they make it? Take our poll after the jump and let us know.

[Source: MSNBC]

Continue reading Fast & Furious franchise framers feeling fine for fifth film? [w/POLL]

Fast & Furious franchise framers feeling fine for fifth film? [w/POLL] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box officeBoxOfficefast and furiousfast and furious 4fast and the furiousFastAndFuriousFastAndFurious4FastAndTheFuriouspaul walkerPaulWalkerpollreporttfatftfatf 4tfatf4vin dieselVinDieselWed, 15 Apr 2009 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1517198/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/04/15/fast-and-furious-franchise-framers-feeling-fine-for-fifth-film-w/1517198/article-detail.xml 1517198 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/image003_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/image003.jpg <![CDATA[STUDY: 76% of Americans believe economy can survive without GM]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/study-76-of-americans-believe-economy-can-survive-without-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/study-76-of-americans-believe-economy-can-survive-without-gm/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/study-76-of-americans-believe-economy-can-survive-without-gm/#commentsFiled under: , ,



According to The Detroit Free Press, Rasmussen Reports called 1,000 people and asked them if they believed "the economy could recover without General Motors in business." The results were clear: 76% of respondents said "Yes, it can." The sentiment against any more taxpayer money being used to assist automakers was clear as well: 62% said neither GM nor Chrysler should receive any more loans.

Just as interestingly, the public appears to expect failure from one of the two companies: Fully 59% said that it was "very likely" or "somewhat likely" that GM or Chrysler will go out of business in the next few years.

Yet while the results of this survey are clear, it could be that the first question itself is slightly misleading: The economy could recover without a lot of companies, including AIG and Citibank. After all, you can't really kill an economy as long as there are people left to exchange goods and services, right? The real issue is whether people are prepared and willing to deal with the fallout from such companies going out of business.

[Source: Detroit Free Press]

STUDY: 76% of Americans believe economy can survive without GM originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsfinancialsgmgm bailoutgm bankruptcygm bridge loanGmBailoutGmBankruptcyGmBridgeLoanpollsurveyThu, 02 Apr 2009 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1505413/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/04/02/study-76-of-americans-believe-economy-can-survive-without-gm/1505413/article-detail.xml 1505413 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/gm_bk_ok_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/04/gm_bk_ok.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Detroit News</i> web poll asks if buying a foreign car is un-American]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/16/i-detroit-news-i-web-poll-asks-if-buying-a-foreign-car-is-un/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/16/i-detroit-news-i-web-poll-asks-if-buying-a-foreign-car-is-un/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/16/i-detroit-news-i-web-poll-asks-if-buying-a-foreign-car-is-un/#commentsFiled under:



It's really hard to figure what's dumber here: the Detroit News "CyberSurvey" that asks, in the wake of the vandalism (four cars) that took place in the Detroit area over the weekend, "Is buying a foreign car un-American?" or the fact that 60% of respondents answer it in the affirmative. Good grief. A quick refresher for everyone: the American thing is to buy whatever car you like. That's one of the nice things about living here, having the freedom to make that choice without it becoming a litmus test on your patriotism. Expect more stuff like this as the histrionics regarding the Detroit bailout climb to new heights with each passing day that doesn't include a White House press conference making it official.

[Source: The Detroit News via TTAC]

Detroit News web poll asks if buying a foreign car is un-American originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buying americanbuying foreignBuyingAmericanBuyingForeigndetroit newsDetroitNewsforeign carsForeignCarspollvandalismTue, 16 Dec 2008 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1402938/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/12/16/i-detroit-news-i-web-poll-asks-if-buying-a-foreign-car-is-un/1402938/article-detail.xml 1402938 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/detnews_import_unamerican_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/12/detnews_import_unamerican.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[Online voters name upcoming Alfa hatch "Furiosa"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/21/online-voters-name-upcoming-alfa-hatch-furiosa/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/21/online-voters-name-upcoming-alfa-hatch-furiosa/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/21/online-voters-name-upcoming-alfa-hatch-furiosa/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Furiosa. That's what the new hatchback from Alfa Romeo will be called, by virtue of an international competition to choose the car's name.

The Italian automaker is getting farther away from the Alfa-numeric (pun intended) nomenclature and giving its models more emotive nameplates instead. The web contest offered online voters a choice of twelve names, and Furiosa got the most votes, beating out Agea, Enos, Everson, Fira, Milo, Mod, Nevo, Solea, Sparvo, Velvetta and Ventura. While some proposals had merit, some of the rejected names were a little cheesy (try to figure out which).

So we can stop calling it the Alfa Junior. The Furiosa is anticipated to make its debut at the Geneva show in March. We're so there.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Online voters name upcoming Alfa hatch "Furiosa" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4calfacontestfuriosahatchjunioronlinepollromeovotewebsiteWed, 21 Nov 2007 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1042671/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/11/21/online-voters-name-upcoming-alfa-hatch-furiosa/1042671/article-detail.xml 1042671 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/alfa-junior-sketch-rear_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/alfa-junior-sketch-rear.jpg <![CDATA[Aw Snap! Poll reveals most Germans want speed limit on Autobahn]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/aw-snap-poll-reveals-most-germans-want-speed-limit-on-autobahn/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/aw-snap-poll-reveals-most-germans-want-speed-limit-on-autobahn/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/16/aw-snap-poll-reveals-most-germans-want-speed-limit-on-autobahn/#commentsFiled under:



Three days ago we scoffed at an EU official's suggestion that a speed limit should be applied to the remaining sections of Germany's famous Autobahn that remain free to speed. While reports indicated that speed-loving Germans were up in arms over the idea, a recent poll shows that two in three believe a speed limit should be instituted. Whaa? Conducted by ZDF television, the poll showed that 54% of those surveyed favor an 80 mph speed limit, while 10% would like a limit even lower. There were still around 35% of the respondents, which would thankfully include German Transport Minister Wolfgang Tiefensee if he were polled, who don't want a speed limit at all.

The controversy over speed limits on the Autobahn stems from suggestions that an over excited right foot leads to lots of wasted energy, which obviously ain't too good for the environment. Interestingly, the survey also showed that 56% of those polled think flights should be taxed more because of their negative impact on the environment. Yeah, that's right! Cap our cars, we'll tax your planes!

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Aw Snap! Poll reveals most Germans want speed limit on Autobahn originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Mar 2007 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobahnEUEuropean UnionEuropeanUnionpollspeed limitspeed limitsSpeedLimitSpeedLimitssurveyFri, 16 Mar 2007 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/854169/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/03/16/aw-snap-poll-reveals-most-germans-want-speed-limit-on-autobahn/854169/article-detail.xml 854169 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/03/autobahnab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/03/autobahnab.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Falcon XR Ute Rip Curl Edition challenges Renault's Rip Curl Clio for surf-brand supremacy (with Poll!)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/07/ford-falcon-xr-ute-rip-curl-edition-challenges-renaults-rip-cur/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/07/ford-falcon-xr-ute-rip-curl-edition-challenges-renaults-rip-cur/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/07/ford-falcon-xr-ute-rip-curl-edition-challenges-renaults-rip-cur/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click photo to enlarge

Sure, this week's all about Geneva, but there are still some stragglers left over from Melbourne that we want to make mention of. Take the above, for example -- it's Ford Australia's Falcon XR Ute Rip Curl Edition. As you might surmise, the neo-Ranchero is adorned with Rip Curl decals, advertising the tie-in with the surf gear manufacturer. It's also equipped with options like Rip Curl-logoed waterproof seat covers, an uplevel audio system, Momo steering wheel, and nice-looking 18" wheels. Engine choices include gasoline inline-6es both NA and turbocharged, a V8, and even an LPG six.

Renault Rip Curl ClioNow, in case you missed it the first time around, this isn't the only Rip Curl-branded ride we've written about in recent weeks. Back on Feb 12th, we showed you Renault's Rip Curl Clio, a similar branding exercise for the European market.

This, of course, begs the question: if you had to pick one, which would it be? We've set up a poll in which you can vote for your fave. Don't surf? Who cares! It's all in non-scientific good fun, as many of you likely reside in North America, where the closest we'll get to either car is the enclosed photos. One thing's for sure: we're all armed with opinions. Clio or Falconchero? Make your voices heard! We'll post the results tomorrow.

Which Rip Curl-edition vehicle would you rather drive to the beach?
Ford Australia's Falcon XR Ute Rip Curl Edition
Renault's Rip Curl Clio

[Source: Ford Australia]

Ford Falcon XR Ute Rip Curl Edition challenges Renault's Rip Curl Clio for surf-brand supremacy (with Poll!) originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2007 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falcon xr uteFalconXrUteford falcon uteFordFalconUtepollrenaultrip cirlrip curl cliorip curl editionRipCirlRipCurlClioRipCurlEditionWed, 07 Mar 2007 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/846290/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/03/07/ford-falcon-xr-ute-rip-curl-edition-challenges-renaults-rip-cur/846290/article-detail.xml 846290 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/03/falconute_ripcurl_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/03/falconute_ripcurl.jpg <![CDATA[POLL: Should Pontiac change its logo?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/13/poll-should-pontiac-change-its-logo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/13/poll-should-pontiac-change-its-logo/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/13/poll-should-pontiac-change-its-logo/#commentsFiled under: ,



Seems like more than a few automakers still believe that little tweaks can have a big impact. Consider all the hoopla over Ford reviving the Taurus and Sable names. Likewise, Pontiac actually unveiled a new concept logo at the Chicago Auto Show last week that could be found between the nostril-like grilles of the new G8 sedan. Unlike the current logo that's been around for as long as we can remember, the new one is monochromatic with a bezel of chrome that surrounds a textured silver inlay. Pontiac says the logo on the G8 is technically a concept, and that reaction to it by the public will be gauged to determine whether or not a change is called for. No doubt some will decry the lack of that passtionate red in the logo's center that has been Pontiac's unofficial-official color. Unfortunately, the red never made Pontiac any more passionate of a brand, so perhaps clinging to it for sentimental reasons is a bit silly. So we want to know (and we're sure Pontiac does, too) whether or not you like the new logo.

Do you dig Pontiac's concept logo?
Yeah, it's time for a change!
No, where's the red?

POLL: Should Pontiac change its logo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Feb 2007 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>badgelogopollpontiacTue, 13 Feb 2007 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/753404/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2007/02/13/poll-should-pontiac-change-its-logo/753404/article-detail.xml 753404 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/02/x08pn_g8006a_450_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/02/x08pn_g8006a_450.jpg -1 2