Autoblog

Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: <i>Top Gear</i> cooks up a Bugatti Galibier LM]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rendered-speculation-top-gear-cooks-up-a-bugatti-galibie/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rendered-speculation-top-gear-cooks-up-a-bugatti-galibie/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/rendered-speculation-top-gear-cooks-up-a-bugatti-galibie/#commentsFiled under: Motorsports, Sedan, Bugatti

As much as it dominated pre-war grand prix racing, Bugatti's is a heritage forged at Le Mans. Both the original concept and the subsequent production car which Bugatti built under its current ownership were named after Louis Chiron and Pierre Veyron, two of the most famous drivers from the marque's racing history. But it's been 70 years since Bugatti raced at Le Mans. The company's previous Italian owners took a race-prepped EB110 to Daytona, but that was about the extent of Bugatti's racing program in the modern era. But a few simple facts aren't about to stop the dreamers.

Over at Top Gear they've cooked up what a racing version of the new Galibier concept car would look like. Envisioned as some sort of touring car on speed and prepped for Le Mans, the Galibier LM features a massive front splitter and side skirts to match a giant rear wing and an exposed engine cover that displays the quad-turbo W16 like in the Veyron. Speaking of which, if Bugatti was going to return to racing, the outgoing super-coupe would have clearly been the better platform. But after seventy years of absence, we're not going to start splitting hairs... just imaginary lap times.

[Source: Top Gear]

Rendered Speculation: Top Gear cooks up a Bugatti Galibier LM originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti galibierbugatti le mansBugattiGalibierBugattiLeMansle mansLeMansrenderedrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationtop gearTopGearTue, 20 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Pondering what an electric Audi R4 roadster would look like]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/rendered-speculation-pondering-what-an-electric-audi-r4-roadste/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/rendered-speculation-pondering-what-an-electric-audi-r4-roadste/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/rendered-speculation-pondering-what-an-electric-audi-r4-roadste/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Audi, Electric

At last month's Frankfurt Motor Show, Audi board member Michael Dick confirmed that a production version of the electric eTron sports car concept would be produced by late 2012. Following the show, Audi NA president Johan de Nysschen confirmed that announcement and now AutoExpress has produced a rendering of a production model. However, there appears to be some details lost in the translation. The eTron is based on the aluminum space frame of the R8 while AE says the R4 will be a smaller roadster with a chassis shared with the next generation Porsche Boxster/Cayman.

An Audi R4 has been speculated for some time, with the rumors flaring up after VW showed off the concept BlueSport in Detroit this year. It's not clear if Audi will move ahead with the larger R8-based EV sportster or a smaller machine, or perhaps both. If they do, something like this rendering would be welcome, combining elements of the BlueSport, the eTron and even the top and flying buttresses of a Lotus Elise.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Rendered Speculation: Pondering what an electric Audi R4 roadster would look like originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiAudi E-TronAudi e-tron Conceptaudi electric vehicleaudi etronaudi evaudi r4Audi R4 RoadsterAudiE-tronAudiE-tronConceptAudiElectricVehicleAudiEtronAudiEvAudiR4AudiR4Roadsterrenderrendered speculationrendered-speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingrenderingsrendersWed, 14 Oct 2009 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered speculation: Jaguar XE roadster]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/rendered-speculation-jaguar-xe-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/rendered-speculation-jaguar-xe-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/01/rendered-speculation-jaguar-xe-roadster/#commentsFiled under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Jaguar

It's no secret Jaguar is working on a small roadster dubbed the XE, and according to AutoCar, the design staff at Jaguar are struggling to finalize the look of the BMW Z4-sized drop-top.

Apparently, the original plan was to give the XE an oval shaped grille handed down from the old D- and E-types. Now they're leaning toward a shape more like the XF and new XJ. The roadster is planned to be a front engine, rear drive car possibly based on the aluminum chassis of the XK, but part of the problem with finalizing the XE is the future direction of the XK. Some at Jaguar favor growing the XK to compete with the likes of the Maserati Gran Turismo to make room for the XE.

However, if the XK stays the same size, it could be problematic to make room for the XE and make it different. We vote for keeping the XK the same size and creating a smaller XE roadster.

[Source: AutoCar]

Rendered speculation: Jaguar XE roadster originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falsejaguarjaguar roadsterjaguar xeJaguarRoadsterJaguarXerendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingrenderingsroadsterxeThu, 01 Oct 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta gets a facelift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/rendered-speculation-2011-volkswagen-jetta-gets-a-facelift/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/rendered-speculation-2011-volkswagen-jetta-gets-a-facelift/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/14/rendered-speculation-2011-volkswagen-jetta-gets-a-facelift/#commentsFiled under: Sedan, Volkswagen

For 2010, Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagens in North America will get a new face courtesy of the MK VI Golf that will also debut here in a few weeks. The sedans, on the other hand, will keep the MK V-style oversize chrome grille for another year. Not everyone is enamored with the older and more audacious grille, and one reader at VWVortex broke out the Photoshop and went to work. Based on recent spy shots, next year's Jetta sedan will get the face and fanny lift and this image provides a hint as to what it might look like.

Overall, the front fascia is a no-brainer based on what we've seen of the Golf and Sportwagen. Where the sedan image is likely to be in error is the character line across the front fenders. As seen on the previous images of the wagon, the crease actually blends into the wheel arch lip at the top rather cutting so high across it. Either way, we'd guess many will think it's an improvement over the current style. Thanks to Kent for the tip!

[Source: VWVortex]

Rendered Speculation: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta gets a facelift originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Sep 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 volkswagen jetta sedan2011VolkswagenJettaSedanjettajetta sedanJettaSedanrenderrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingrenderingsrendersvolkswagenvolkswagen jettavolkswagen jetta sedanVolkswagenJettaVolkswagenJettaSedanvwvw jettavw jetta sedanVwJettaVwJettaSedanMon, 14 Sep 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ATS a good-looking Cadillac rendering, isn't it? Not so accurate, though...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/ats-a-good-looking-cadillac-rendering-isnt-it-not-so-accurate/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/ats-a-good-looking-cadillac-rendering-isnt-it-not-so-accurate/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/ats-a-good-looking-cadillac-rendering-isnt-it-not-so-accurate/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Sedan, Cadillac, Design/Style, Luxury

A few weeks back, we were among the group invited out to General Motors' design studios to have a look at the near future of the company's product portfolio. Among the many vehicles that we told you about after our visit were a pair of new Cadillacs to fill out the lineup. According to Cadillac sources, it's going to be some time in 2010 before the XTS and the smaller ATS are shown publicly. However, Motor Trend has had noted illustrator Mark Stehrenberger try his hand at rendering the ATS.

Unfortunately, the result doesn't look quite like the actual car we were shown. Starting at the front, the rendering actually looks a lot more like the late departed XLR roadster than the ATS. The styling buck we saw had a taller nose in keeping with modern pedestrian safety standards. Additionally, the grille of the ATS is of the same style as seen on the current CTS and SRX as opposed the egg-crate pattern shown on the illustration. One element that is accurate is drawing's headlights, which stretched well back along the top edge of the fender on the production-intent model we saw.

At the back, the ATS has a longer rear overhang and deck with proportions more like the current CTS sedan. The truncated rear end of the illustrations is completely wrong and the sharply creased edges all around are more reminiscent of early "Art and Science" Cadillac models like the XLR and first-gen CTS. The actual car has the same slightly softened look of the current CTS. A tip of the hat to Pierce!

[Source: Motor Trend]

ATS a good-looking Cadillac rendering, isn't it? Not so accurate, though... originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillaccadillac atsCadillacAtsrenderrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingrenderingsrendersThu, 03 Sep 2009 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA['Cause You Know It's Coming: Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder rendered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/cause-you-know-its-coming-ferrari-458-italia-spyder-rendered/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/cause-you-know-its-coming-ferrari-458-italia-spyder-rendered/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/30/cause-you-know-its-coming-ferrari-458-italia-spyder-rendered/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Performance, Ferrari, Luxury

Jon Sibal's rendering of the Ferrari 458 Spider -- Click above for high-res image

Now that the Ferrari 458 Italia has been let loose to glare at the world, it is only a matter of time before it's followed by a 458 Italia Spyder sibling. While we wait for Ferrari to provide us images of that car, computer rendering artist Jon Sibal has gone ahead and created his version of the newest droptop stallion.

It will be interesting to see how Ferrari intends to fit all of that roof into the severely tapering rear end. If they can keep it looking like the car above, then they'll have worked magic on this car twice.

Gallery: Ferrari 458 Spider Rendering

[Source: Jon Sibal via Sub5Zero]

'Cause You Know It's Coming: Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder rendered originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ferrari 4582010 ferrari 458 italia2010 ferrari 458 italia spider2010Ferrari4582010Ferrari458Italia2010Ferrari458ItaliaSpider458458 italia458 italia spider458 spider458Italia458ItaliaSpider458Spiderconvertibleferrariferrari 458ferrari 458 italiaferrari 458 italia spiderFerrari458Ferrari458ItaliaFerrari458ItaliaSpiderjon sibalJonSiballuxuryperformancerendered speculationRenderedSpeculationThu, 30 Jul 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: 2011 Alfa Romeo Giulia... will it be worth the wait? ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/rendered-speculation-2011-alfa-romeo-giulia-will-it-be-worth/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/rendered-speculation-2011-alfa-romeo-giulia-will-it-be-worth/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/rendered-speculation-2011-alfa-romeo-giulia-will-it-be-worth/#commentsFiled under: Sedan, Alfa Romeo, Design/Style

Motor Trend has posted its best guess of the Alfa Romeo Giulia (née 159). It isn't a bad looking car, but like a previous speculative take on the car, it look like the Mito nose has simply been pasted on another rear end - in this case, that of the Opel Insignia.

In MT's image, The commanding squarness of the current car, especially set off by the angry nose, have been forsaken for a rising, widening body that still offers a commanding stance aided by a giant set of wheels. We're fans of the convex rear, but the bluff sides of the mockup and the C-pillar's run into the haunches takes us back to the General Motors car.

The Giulia is due to go on sale in Europe in the latter half of 2011, so we probably won't see the real thing until later next year.

[Source: Motor Trend]

Rendered Speculation: 2011 Alfa Romeo Giulia... will it be worth the wait? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1592011 alfa romeo 1592011 alfa romeo giulia2011AlfaRomeo1592011AlfaRomeoGiuliaalfaalfa romeoalfa romeo 159alfa romeo giuliaAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeo159AlfaRomeoGiuliagiuliarendered speculationRenderedSpeculationsedanTue, 28 Jul 2009 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Jaguar XJ Coupe may be under consideration]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-jaguar-xj-coupe-may-be-under-consideration/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-jaguar-xj-coupe-may-be-under-consideration/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-jaguar-xj-coupe-may-be-under-consideration/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Jaguar, Rendered Speculation

The man behind the team that penned the new Jaguar XJ, Ian Callum, has let slip that his crews drawing instruments are again at work again, this time on an XJC. That would be a coupe version of the XJ, something not seen since 1978. In an interview with Motoring Sky during the new XJ's unveiling, Callum admitted that the English automaker hasn't just thought about it: "We've actually drawn one already, but who knows."

That's probably as solid an indication that buyers might get a crack at a coupe model as we're likely to get for some time. If the car Callum's posse draws looks anything like the rendering shown here, then we almost think it's worth buying the sedan just to be able to help Jag build the business case for the coupe.

In the interview, Callum also talks about the car's controversial blacked-out rear pillars and a series hybrid in the works. Click the link for the interview, and if you're keen on the idea of a XJC, then get your wallets out to cast your vote.

[Source: Motoring Sky]

Jaguar XJ Coupe may be under consideration originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 jaguar xj2010 xj2010JaguarXj2010Xjcoupejaguarjaguar xjjaguar xjcJaguarXjJaguarXjcrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationxjxjcMon, 13 Jul 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered speculation: 2011 Audi A6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/rendered-speculation-2011-audi-a6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/rendered-speculation-2011-audi-a6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/rendered-speculation-2011-audi-a6/#commentsFiled under: Sedan, Audi, Rendered Speculation

The next generation Audi A6 sedan is about a year away from its debut, but if this rendering is anything to go by, this year's Sportback concept will be the primary influence for Audi's redesigned mid-sizer. The Sportback provided the biggest evolution of Audi's design language since the debut of its massive shield grilles earlier in the decade.

The updated look includes more surface development in the nose and the possible production debut of a new hexagonal grille. The headlight clusters have a shape that's pinched toward the center of the car, in a similar fashion to the taillights on recent models like the A4 and Q5. At this point we don't know what the greenhouse will look like, but a change from the rounded shape of the last generation seems likely -- and overdue.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Audi Sportback Concept

Gallery: Audi Sportback Concept

[Source: AutoZeitung via AudiBlog.nl]

Rendered speculation: 2011 Audi A6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 audi a62011AudiA6renderrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingrenderingsrendersMon, 13 Jul 2009 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Mazda preparing sub-Miata MX-2?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/rendered-speculation-mazda-preparing-sub-miata-mx-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/rendered-speculation-mazda-preparing-sub-miata-mx-2/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/rendered-speculation-mazda-preparing-sub-miata-mx-2/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Mazda, Rendered Speculation

We've seen it happen a million times: a small car is successful, then the automaker ruins it by making it larger and heavier to satisfy what it thinks the average buyer is after. Fortunately, that hasn't been the case with the Mazda MX-5, which - retractable hardtop option notwithstanding - the Japanese automaker has always been careful not to spoil the core elements of the MX-5. So we'll take reports that Mazda is preparing an even smaller MX-2 with a grain of salt. But a small one.

According to the speculation, a future MX-2 would come in noticeably smaller than the full-size Miata, and therefore require smaller engines. Something between 700cc and 1.6-liter engines are reportedly in store, with a turbo at the top end delivering 160 horsepower. No word on layout, but we'd grudgingly expect a front-drive set-up when the purported MX-2 is unveiled as early as 2012.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rendered Speculation: Mazda preparing sub-Miata MX-2? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazdamazda miatamazda mx-2mazda mx-2 renderedmazda mx-5mazda mx2mazda mx5mazda renderingMazdaMiataMazdaMx-2MazdaMx-2RenderedMazdaMx-5MazdaMx2MazdaMx5MazdaRenderingmx-2mx-5mx2mx5renderedrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationTue, 30 Jun 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Is this the new Saab 9-5?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/#commentsFiled under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Spy Photos, Sedan, Wagon, Saab, Rendered Speculation

Saabs United procured some rendered versions of the coming Saab 9-5 that are purportedly from Saab itself. While computer renderings must be viewed with a few packets of salt sprinkled on the screen, if you compare the 9-5 sedan render with a spy shot of the rear end of the actual car, the similarities look promising.

The wagon rendering is simply too brutally sexy to be believed, and so -- only in order not to have our hopes dashed -- we refuse to believe it. If Saab did have the gumption to design such a car, and Koenigsegg does have the wherewithal to properly market it, then we might just have a proper Swedish car company on our hands again. The 9-5 sedan arrives at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show and goes on sale this year, with the wagon following next year.

[Source: Saabs United via Autoblog.nl]

Rendered Speculation: Is this the new Saab 9-5? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 saab2010 saab 9-52010Saab2010Saab9-59-5estatefrankfurt auto showFrankfurtAutoShowrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationsaabsaab 9-5saab 9-5 wagonSaab9-5Saab9-5Wagonsaloonsedanspy shotsSpyShotswagonMon, 29 Jun 2009 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Would an Audi A1 Targa look like this?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/rendered-speculation-would-a-audi-a1-targa-look-like-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/rendered-speculation-would-a-audi-a1-targa-look-like-this/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/rendered-speculation-would-a-audi-a1-targa-look-like-this/#commentsFiled under: Convertible, Performance, Audi, Rendered Speculation

The history of the Audi A1 is a great deal of talk and renderings capped by one confirmed sighting. We've seen the A1 Sportback and been told that an A1 Cabrio is coming, after which we were told that the A1 wouldn't be coming to the U.S. Now everyone is in on the game, with forum user The Pretender at RS6.com posting one idea of what a targa version of the A1 could be -- even though it seems much more in line with what an Audi version of the VW Bluesport could be.

Of course, if the A1 isn't coming to America, an A1 targa - a dedicated two-seater, mind you - would have to make a strong price case for itself against an A1 Cabrio, A3 Cabrio, a possible Bluesport Audi, bog standard versions of the TT, plus cross-country competition from the Mini convertible and BMW 1-Series (both four-seaters). But if we ignore all of that and simply consider the rendering above, the questions are: Do we need it and would it tempt you?

[Source: RS6.com]

Rendered Speculation: Would an Audi A1 Targa look like this? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a1audiaudi a1AudiA1convertiblerendered speculationRenderedSpeculationtargaWed, 10 Jun 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered (Again) Speculation: Yet another crack at Toyobaru]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/rendered-again-speculation-yet-another-crack-at-toyobaru/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/rendered-again-speculation-yet-another-crack-at-toyobaru/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/rendered-again-speculation-yet-another-crack-at-toyobaru/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Performance, Subaru, Toyota, Rendered Speculation

The Toyobaru deserves a place in the mythical creature pantheon with vampires and the Loch Ness Monster -- every official denial is followed by another sighting. The latest speculation on Toyota and Subaru's coupe project provides more details, suggesting specs of 200 hp and 145 lb-ft, MacPherson struts forward and a multilink suspension aft on a 2,700-pound vehicle.

Supposedly the car's mechanicals are Subaru's work; Subaru's 2.0-liter engine is mentioned, but not the Toyota-designed heads that have been mentioned before. The look of the car is on Toyota's shoulders and will come in two slightly different flavors for each marque to sell. The car should cost around $20,000, and expect it to arrive in 2011. Or not. Hat tip to Ben D.

[Source: Road & Track]

Rendered (Again) Speculation: Yet another crack at Toyobaru originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>couperendered speculationRenderedSpeculationsportssubarutoyobarutoyotaMon, 08 Jun 2009 07:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Lamborghini Murcielago successor not coming until 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/rendered-speculation-lamborghini-murcielago-successor-not-comin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/rendered-speculation-lamborghini-murcielago-successor-not-comin/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/01/rendered-speculation-lamborghini-murcielago-successor-not-comin/#commentsFiled under: Supercars, Lamborghini, Rendered Speculation

Lamborghini supercars tend to have a relatively long lifespan. The Countach stayed in production for sixteen years from its introduction in 1974 until the Diablo replaced it in 1990, which in turn anchored Sant'Agata's line-up for eleven years until the Murcielago was introduced in 2001. Now eight years in production, the steel-bodied Raging Bull has grown pretty long in the tooth, even if it can still hold its own against its contemporary competition.

In order to keep it fresh, the Murci has spawned a seemingly endless succession of variants, from the original through the LP640, 40th Anniversary and Versace editions, fixed roof and roadsters versions, the Reventón, LP650-4 Roadster and LP670-4 SuperVeloce. Lambo's done a good job of keeping its biggest, baddest fighting bovine with the times, but they know it's about time this aging bull be put to pasture. However if the latest reports are any indication, it may yet be a couple of years more before the Murci meets its replacement.

When it does come along, though, Auto Motor und Sport says we can expect the new flagship Lambo to ditch the Murci's outmoded steel chassis in favor of an aluminum one - likely based on the Audi R8's. Draped in aluminum and carbon fiber, the chassis will, in all likelihood, carry a revised version of the Bizzarrini-designed V12 that was the company's first engine and which has, with considerable modification, carried on in the company's supercars ever since. While the wheelbase is expected to carry over from the outgoing Murcielago, the front overhang is expected to shrink, while all-wheel-drive will continue to put the power down to the tarmac.

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport]

Rendered Speculation: Lamborghini Murcielago successor not coming until 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 lambo2012 lamborghini2012 lamborghini murcielago2012Lambo2012Lamborghini2012LamborghiniMurcielagolambolamborghinilamborghini murcielagoLamborghiniMurcielagorenderedrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationMon, 01 Jun 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Honda set to release Acura coupe in 2010?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/rendered-speculation-honda-set-to-release-acura-coupe-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/rendered-speculation-honda-set-to-release-acura-coupe-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/rendered-speculation-honda-set-to-release-acura-coupe-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Sedan, Acura, Honda, Rendered Speculation, Rumormill

Rumor on two continents - Germany in Auto Motor und Sport and Japan in Holiday - has it that Acura is developing a sleek four-door to join the lexicologically questionable segment known as "four-door coupes." The various translations equate to a car built on the forthcoming ZDX crossover's architecture, with reports suggesting that the new model will slot in between the TSX and the TL. Longer than the TSX by a few inches, the coupe is expected to also be wider, lower, and have a longer wheelbase than the small sedan.

Although one of the outlets mentioned a V8 and a FR layout, the consensus on a proposed engine is the 3.7-liter V6 paired up with Acura's SH-AWD and Motion Adaptive EPS. When might one expect to see this latter-day CL, if such a thing really does exist? Next year's Detroit Auto Show, with U.S. sales perhaps at the end of 2010. Hat tip to Nick!

[Source: Temple of VTEC]

Rendered Speculation: Honda set to release Acura coupe in 2010? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 May 2009 12:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraAcura CLAcuraClcoupefour-door coupeFour-doorCoupehondarendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrumormillsedanZDXMon, 25 May 2009 12:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Alfa Romeo Milano, the next 147]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/08/rendered-speculation-alfa-romeo-milano-the-next-147/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/08/rendered-speculation-alfa-romeo-milano-the-next-147/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/08/rendered-speculation-alfa-romeo-milano-the-next-147/#commentsFiled under: Frankfurt Motor Show, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Alfa Romeo, Rendered Speculation

Although Car magazine says the coming Alfa Romeo Milano (nee 147) is "quite different from the Mito mini," their rendering of the car makes it look an awful lot like a Mito with two more doors. Not that there's anything wrong with that, since it just means more of a good thing. Compared to its 147 predecessor, it will be longer and lower, although still relatively Golf-sized.

The Milano comes on the C-Evo architecture that will also be applied to the new Giulia (nee 159) and Fiat's other medium range cars - like the next Chrysler Sebring. The versatile building block will offer various lengths and widths in FWD and 4-wheel-drive versions, and propulsion will be courtesy of MultiAir engines. Unveiling of the 5-door hatchback is expected at either Frankfurt later this year, or Geneva in 2010.

[Source: Car]

Rendered Speculation: Alfa Romeo Milano, the next 147 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 May 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>147alfa romeoalfa romeo 147alfa romeo milanoAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeo147AlfaRomeoMilanoc-evofiathatchbackmilanomultiairrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationFri, 08 May 2009 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Is this the 2011 Renault Clio?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/26/rendered-speculation-is-this-the-2011-renault-clio/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/26/rendered-speculation-is-this-the-2011-renault-clio/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/26/rendered-speculation-is-this-the-2011-renault-clio/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Hatchback, Renault, Rendered Speculation

Click above for what could be renderings of the 2011 Renault Clio

Is this the next Renault Clio? A spy shot forum has posted grainy black-and-white renderings of what could be the basis of the 2011 hatchback. While the protruding nostrils raise eyebrows, from the front and rear 3/4-view the car has an engaging line, the Mazda-like upswept creases moving nicely from stem to stern, wavelike. From the side, however, it looks a little stretched out, less like a wave, more like taffy. We'll have to wait and see if these shots have anything to do with the actual Clio, but regardless, there are some interesting elements we wouldn't mind on the real car. You can check out the rest of the renderings and weigh in below.

Gallery: Rendered Speculation - 2011 Renault Clio

[Source: Car Spy Shots]

Rendered Speculation: Is this the 2011 Renault Clio? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 26 Apr 2009 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 renault clio2011RenaultClioeconomyhatchbackrenaultrenault clioRenaultCliorendered speculationRenderedSpeculationSun, 26 Apr 2009 13:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Yet another next-gen Ford Focus photoshop]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/05/rendered-speculation-yet-another-next-gen-ford-focus-photoshop/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/05/rendered-speculation-yet-another-next-gen-ford-focus-photoshop/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/05/rendered-speculation-yet-another-next-gen-ford-focus-photoshop/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Minivan/Van, Wagon, Crossover, Hatchback, Ford, Rendered Speculation

Ford's design language can be largely distilled to three words: "let it ride." 2005's Iosis Concept created the template for kinetic design, and ever since then Ford has cashed in a number of winning bets on that language. Next up is the 2010 Ford Focus, based on the Iosis Max concept, and all of the speculation so far hints at a fine-looking, capable performer.

Powering the Focus will be a range of EcoBoost engines ranging from an 89 hp 1.0-liter to a 1.6-liter with 197 hp. Look for the Europeans to also get a diesel lineup that that tops out with a 197-horsepower 2.0-liter oil-burner. The available powerplants are expected to be mated with either a manual transmission or a Powershift twin-clutch setup.

The car's handling and refinement will be improved, and options are are expected to include a panoramic glass roof, Ford's Human Machine Interface, and a reversing camera. The next Ford Focus is expected to go on sale later this year in China, then in the U.S. shortly thereafter along with the C-Max compact people mover.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rendered Speculation: Yet another next-gen Ford Focus photoshop originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford focus2010FordFocusc-maxecoboosteconomyfocusfordford c-maxford focusFordC-maxFordFocushatchbackmpvrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationSun, 05 Apr 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Volkswagen Golf VII already in the cards]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/25/rendered-speculation-volkswagen-golf-vii-already-in-the-cards/#commentsFiled under: Coupe, Hybrid, Green, Hatchback, Volkswagen, Rendered Speculation

The current Volkswagen Golf (a.k.a. "Rabbit"), which is a 2010 model, hasn't made it through the front nine, and already the next Golf is being teed up behind it. The new model is planned for 2012, two years earlier than planned, perhaps because VW wants to recast what the Golf represents with a return to frugal-yet-sporty motoring.

If these AutoExpress renderings are at all accurate, the reskin won't make your jaw drop, as there is little planned for the hatch's exterior save for a few tweaks. It is the philosophy of the car that takes a new stand, however: the Mk VII is rumored to ride on a smaller platform than the MkVI, borrow parts from the Polo, employ lightweight body panels, and get VW's Twin Drive plug-in diesel hybrid engines.

The focus on reduced weight will mean more punch from VW's smaller TDI engines. The Twin Drive, which is three electric motors mated to a 1.5-liter diesel, works on battery power alone at 31 miles-per-hour or below, and doubles the gas mileage of the 2.0-liter TDI. VW is also working on a Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) that ditches the spark plugs in a gas engine to give it the fuel efficiency of a diesel. If VW can bring all of those things together in a couple of years and keep the fun-to-drive factor, the MkVII Golf sounds like a clear winner.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Rendered Speculation: Volkswagen Golf VII already in the cards originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alternativecoupegolfgolf mkvigolf mkviigolf viGolfMkviGolfMkviiGolfVigreenhatchbackhybridrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationVeedubvolkswagenvolkswagen golfVolkswagenGolfvwvw golfvw golf mkvivw golf mkviiVwGolfVwGolfMkviVwGolfMkviiWed, 25 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyundai planning Toyota iQ rival]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/31/hyundai-planning-toyota-iq-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/31/hyundai-planning-toyota-iq-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/31/hyundai-planning-toyota-iq-rival/#commentsFiled under: Budget, Hatchback, Hyundai, Rendered Speculation

It is codenamed "green baby," and it is Hyundai's answer to the Toyota iQ. A Hyundai Europe insider hinted that the car could be funkier and "more basic and functional" than the iQ. The iQ Concept had a pretty neat interior, but there really isn't much space between it and the backstop of basic transportation - at least, not when it comes to anything you'd want to sit in.

Drivetrains and engines haven't been discussed, but the 12-valve 4-cylinder with 66 hp from the i10 would probably be in the cards. Hyundai has said that i10 is too small for the U.S., so the even smaller "green baby" will probably be offered only in Europe at first, and could be on sale by as soon as next year.

[Source: Autocar]

Hyundai planning Toyota iQ rival originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Jan 2009 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>economyhatchbackhyundaii10iqrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationsuperminitoyotatoyota iqToyotaIqSat, 31 Jan 2009 14:07:00 EST