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: Camaro, Le Mans-style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/rendered-speculation-camaro-le-mans-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/rendered-speculation-camaro-le-mans-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/rendered-speculation-camaro-le-mans-style/#commentsFiled under:


Concept Le Mans Camaros rendered by Vizualtech -- Click above for image gallery

Ah, it's the Swedes again. Never content to sit around when there's a perfectly good car you could mod, a gent named Bo Zolland at Viztech has rendered what he thinks a Le Mans or ALMS Camaro could look like, and there are a couple of no-good drifters in there as well. Of course this doesn't mean that there will be a Camaro in either series, but it's fun to play, no? However, if any of these cars did come to life, we'd take the red SS with the white stripes and front-side-exit exhaust. Sideways. Have a look at Zolland's work in the gallery of photos below.


Gallery: Vizualtech Rendered Le Mans Camaros


[Source: Vizualtech]

Rendered Speculation: Camaro, Le Mans-style originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bo zollandBoZollandcamaroetcrenderingvizualtechTue, 10 Nov 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: More Porsche 928 noise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/rendered-speculation-more-porsche-928-noise/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/rendered-speculation-more-porsche-928-noise/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/rendered-speculation-more-porsche-928-noise/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Brits at AutoExpress (essentially The Sun of car-related sites) have rendered Porsche's supposed 928 successor, and as expected, their report is rife with speculation, innuendo and conjecture.

According to AE, the big sports car would basically be a two-door Panamera positioned above the 911 because it hauls more luggage. Put another way, this reborn 928 would be an actual grand tourer and compete with the likes of other GTs. Think of it as a Ferrari 599 more than a 458 Italia. Naturally -- and with the big turbocharger not so naturally -- all of the Panamera's engine choices will be present. The range topper gets AWD just like the high end Panamera Turbo. And a hybrid powertrain using an Audi supercharged V6 and an electric motor will also be available. Hey -- why not?

One thing AutoExpress can't answer is what Porsche will call the car. 928 might seem nice and logical to us, but remember what Porsche has been doing since the Boxster -- using actual names. Boxster, Cayenne, Carrera GT, Cayman and lastly Panamera. So it goes to figure that only the 911 will be retaining it's numeric naming convention should a new car come to pass. We're going to go ahead and suggest Soldado, especially if they're sticking with the Spanish theme (Cayenne, Panamera). Again, hey, why not?

[Source: AutoExpress]

Rendered Speculation: More Porsche 928 noise originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PanameraPorschePorsche 928Porsche PanameraPorsche928PorschePanameraRenderingThu, 29 Oct 2009 14:27:00 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: , ,

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: , , ,

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: ,


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: , , , ,

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[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: , ,

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[GRID Iron: Honda S2000 successor independently rendered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/grid-iron-honda-s2000-successor-independently-rendered/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/grid-iron-honda-s2000-successor-independently-rendered/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/28/grid-iron-honda-s2000-successor-independently-rendered/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Lars Martensson's Honda S2000 concept - click above for a high-res gallery

Late yesterday, we showed you the handiwork of 3D rendering guru Lars Martensson (a.k.a. 'GRID'), who had applied his skills to a future vision of a new Subaru WRX STI. Today, we bring you the skilled Swede's take on what a next-generation Honda S2000 roadster might look like.

While this concept has no basis in reality (and rumors of an S200 successor have thus far amounted to nothing), as with the Subie, we find a lot of merit in what we see. Click on the gallery below to see if you don't agree.


Gallery: Martensson Honda S2000 Concept


[Source: 3DLuvr]

GRID Iron: Honda S2000 successor independently rendered originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 May 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d rendering3dRenderingHonda S2000HondaS2000lars MartenssonLarsMartenssonrenderingS2000Thu, 28 May 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/subaru-hire-him-next-gen-wrx-sti-is-independently-rendered-awe/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Lars Martensson's Subaru Impreza WRX STI concept - click above for a high-res gallery

It's fair to say that Subaru has enjoyed a run of strong product in recent years, as well as an exponential credibility increase in enthusiast's eyes, essentially ever since the automaker began shipping over the Impreza WRX back in 2001. Those considerable achievements aside, it's likewise fair to say that Subaru has yet to well-and-truly crack the aesthetics portion of the modern carbuilding equation, having produced some daring (if ungainly) entries like the origina B9 Tribeca and a series of aggressive yet unpretty Impreza variants. And while we applaud originality, we think the folks at Fuji Heavy Industries could use a consistent design force, a man (or woman) with a mission that's out in the public eye as something of a known quantity. Think: General Motors' Ed Welburn, former Mazda-turned-Tesla wunderkind Franz von Holzhausen, former BMW lightning rod Chris Bangle, etc.

All of this is not to say that the man behind the WRX STI rally car renderings shown here has the answers, but we know one thing: When passing these images around Autoblog's (virtual) offices, we all couldn't help but say something to the effect of: "Oooooh, damn that's hot!" - a phrase we can't remember associating with Subaru, much as we love driving the vehicles themselves. In any case, these images come courtesy of one Lars Martensson (apparently better known on the interwebs by his handle 'GRID)', a man who spends his days crafting 3D renderings for videogames (Rallisport Challenge 2 for xBox, Battlefield 2 for PC). To us, this Swede has a handle on what the STI needs to be: Squat, mean, and purposeful. Okay, so perhaps the cut-down greenhouse wouldn't leave much room for taller folks (much less a helmet), but if one of these were parked in our driveway, well... we'd happily squat a little.

Check out the high-res image gallery below, and click on the jump for the video.


Gallery: Martensson Subaru WRX STI Concept


[Source: 3dluvr.com via Jalopnik]

Continue reading Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO]

Hire Him: Next-gen Subaru WRX STI is privately rendered awesomeness [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Battlefield 2Battlefield2Fuji HeavyFujiHeavyImprezaImprezzaRallisport challengeRallisportChallengerenderingSTISubaruSubieWRCWRXWRX STIWrxStiWed, 27 May 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Remember your Roots: Lamborghini Toro tractor concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/remember-your-roots-lamborghini-toro-tractor-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/remember-your-roots-lamborghini-toro-tractor-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/remember-your-roots-lamborghini-toro-tractor-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lamborghini Toro concept - Click above for a gallery

Most automakers try desperately to hold on to their roots. Just look at all the anniversaries we've been celebrating lately and you'll know what we mean. Lamborghini, on the other hand, seems keen to leave them behind. That's probably because Lamborghini's roots are actually in agriculture. As any sportscar aficionado worth his salt will tell you, Ferruccio Lamborghini started out building tractors and only got into the sportscar business to piss off Enzo Ferrari. The gap between its tractors and sportscars was bridged only by the LM002 sport-ute, known as the Rambo Lambo. But one aspiring designer is keen to resoil Lamborghini's past and present into one vehicle, and you're looking at it right here.

Called the Lamborghini Toro, it's the brainchild of aspiring Canadian designer Jason Battersby. Taking cues from Lambo's own agricultural equipment and its supercars, the Toro cuts a mean profile to envision what an integrated product would look like. Of course it's just a series of conceptual renderings, which you can view in the gallery below. But a small town farm boy can dream, can't he?


Gallery: Lamborghini Toro tractor concept


[Source: JBDesign via eGMCarTech]

Remember your Roots: Lamborghini Toro tractor concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 May 2009 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battersbyconceptjason battersbyJasonBattersbylambolambo torolamborghinilamborghini conceptlamborghini renderinglamborghini torolamborghini tractorlamborghini tractorsLamborghiniConceptLamborghiniRenderingLamborghiniToroLamborghiniTractorLamborghiniTractorsLamboTororenderingWed, 06 May 2009 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[First "official" images of Aston Martin Rapide... or not]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/first-official-images-of-aston-martin-rapide-or-not/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/first-official-images-of-aston-martin-rapide-or-not/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/30/first-official-images-of-aston-martin-rapide-or-not/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to see gallery of "official" Aston Martin Rapide renderings

Autocar has what it says are official renderings of the new Aston Martin Rapide. If Autocar has it right, however, the Rapide's front and rear aspects are closest to the Vantage V8, not the DBS or DB9. The front air dam features just one lower intake, the trunk valance is flush with the car, and the tailpipes flank the rear diffuser area. Those are all Vantage cues.

The 5-meter long car will get the firm's 6.0-liter V12, but slot exactly in between the DB9 and DBS in output with 480 hp. Autocar suggests this will get the car to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, but that could be optimistic - those 30 additional horses over the DB9 have to pull 286 more pounds, which will make it a challenge to outrun the middle sibling.

Not that it's really meant to. The Rapide is Aston luxury for four, so it is taller than the DBS in order to provide more rear headroom for the "young adults" that can fit back there. The rear doors open wider than the front for ease of entry and the front seats have been raised to make room for the feet of back seat passengers. It even has a wagon-like folding rear bulkhead and parcel shelf. The Rapide will be appearing in Autumn when, with all hope, a better buying climate awaits it.

UPDATE: First four official renderings of the production Rapide courtesy of Aston Martin added to gallery.

Gallery: "Official" Aston Martin Rapide renderings

astonmartinrapidene_647766a

[Source: Autocar]

First "official" images of Aston Martin Rapide... or not originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jan 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinaston martin rapideAstonMartinAstonMartinRapidegtrapiderendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingsaloonsedansportsspy shotsSpyShotsFri, 30 Jan 2009 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Kia's big VG]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/rendered-speculation-kias-big-vg/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/rendered-speculation-kias-big-vg/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/02/rendered-speculation-kias-big-vg/#commentsFiled under: , ,

So the Kia VG mule that has kept spy photographers busy the last few weeks has now been given a computer animated face and body. It's a nice looking ride, though has a surprising amount in common with the Hyundai Genesis... which means we also see, well, a lot of other cars in it. But that's not a bad thing, really, because the result is a tasty little creation, especially coming from Kia. The lines are a touch more forceful than those on the Genesis, which goes along with Kia being the sporting brand, or so they say. If the final version looks even close to this rendering, and they give it performance to match... well, then Kia will have taken a giant leap forward. Thanks for the tip, miha!

[Source: Kia World]

Rendered Speculation: Kia's big VG originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia luxury sedankia vgKiaLuxurySedanKiaVgluxury carluxury carsluxury sedanLuxuryCarLuxuryCarsLuxurySedanrenderrenderingrenderingsrenderssedansedansTue, 02 Sep 2008 17:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Another guess at Aston Martin's One-77]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/26/rendered-speculation-another-guess-at-aston-martins-one-77/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/26/rendered-speculation-another-guess-at-aston-martins-one-77/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/26/rendered-speculation-another-guess-at-aston-martins-one-77/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click to view in high resolution

It's not every day that a new supercar is announced. But those are the good days, and for when they roll around, Jon Sibal is ready. The gifted illustrator who has already brought us renderings of the upcoming Mercedes SLR McLaren Speedster and a race-prepped Lexus LF-A has now taken a stab at the upcoming Aston Martin One-77.

The new flagship supercar from Aston Martin was announced earlier this month and accompanied by a few teaser renderings from the factory. Those were followed by a rather uninspired speculative conception of what form the carbon-fiber supercar would take, and though we're not sure what to make of Sibal's take on the subject, it does appear to be rather accurate. We just hope the One-77 looks better in the flesh, as we've come to expect more from the company that brought us the DBS and the V8 Vantage.

[Source: JonSibal.com]

Rendered Speculation: Another guess at Aston Martin's One-77 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Aug 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>177aston martinaston martin one 77aston martin one-77AstonMartinAstonMartinOne-77AstonMartinOne77jon sibaljon sibal aston martinJonSibalJonSibalAstonMartinone 77one-77One77rendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingsibalTue, 26 Aug 2008 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spied & Rendered: Alfa Romeo 149]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/spied-and-rendered-alfa-romeo-149/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/spied-and-rendered-alfa-romeo-149/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/15/spied-and-rendered-alfa-romeo-149/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

As Alfa Romeo prepares to launch its next all-new model, dubbed the 149, test mules have been spotted, details have come into focus and speculations have been rendered.

The five-door hatchback will join the MiTo in replacing the aging 147. Sources suggest that the 149 moniker could be dropped before the car is unveiled next year, only a few telling months after the Volkswagen Golf VI is due for its debut. Borrowing styling cues from the 8C Competizione and MiTo, the Alfa 149 is expected it to include a new three-arm rear suspension and Alfa's trick Q2 differential, with the eventual availability of Q4 all-wheel-drive remaining a question mark. Diesel and gasoline engines are anticipated to range between 120 and 250 horsepower, and the 149 is tipped to be complying with the upcoming six-star EuroNCAP safety rating, and more tellingly, new U.S. crash requirements as well.

Some still maintain that the Alfa hatch will be based on the same platform that underpins the Fiat Bravo and Lancia Delta, although Alfa representatives have asserted that the 149 will spearhead its own unique platform. Either way, the platform could underpin the replacement for the 159 sedan and wagon, as well as the replacements for the Brera and Spider, while Alfa executives continue to deliberate over the possibility of a crossover model as well.

[Sources: Autocar and Projetto 940]

Spied & Rendered: Alfa Romeo 149 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Aug 2008 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfaalfa 147alfa 149alfa romeoAlfa147Alfa149AlfaRomeorenderedrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingspiedspy shotsSpyShotsFri, 15 Aug 2008 07:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: 2010 Honda S2000 replacement]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/rendered-speculation-2010-honda-s2000-replacement/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/rendered-speculation-2010-honda-s2000-replacement/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/07/rendered-speculation-2010-honda-s2000-replacement/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Honda S2000 has been on the US market since 1999, and although it's long in the tooth, the rev-happy two-seater still brings joy to drivers with its well-balanced RWD goodness. We're looking forward to an all-new S2000, and according to a few Japanese magazines, we can expect to see the S2K's replacement in 2010. One mag commissioned the above rendering, which incorporates clean, angular lines, similar to those found on recent concepts from Honda and Acura. The topless rendering also exhibits an improved rendition of the aesthetically questionable Honda grille, along with some US-centric chrome rims.

The next generation S2000 is rumored to be powered by a choice of four- or six-cylinder engines, with the four still packing 2.4 liters, but producing around 250 hp, and the a larger 3.5-liter unit putting out around 350 ponies. While a modestly enhanced 2.4 makes sense as the base engine, we're unsure if a larger, heavier V6 is a good call for a vehicle that prides itself on its 50/50 weight distribution and 8,300 rpm redline. Adding a turbocharger would help to keep weight issues at bay, while still providing the added pop enthusiasts crave.

[Source: Carscoop]

Rendered Speculation: 2010 Honda S2000 replacement originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupeHonda S2000HondaS2000RenderingroadsterMon, 07 Jul 2008 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: 2010 Mazda9]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/12/rendered-speculation-2010-mazda9/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/12/rendered-speculation-2010-mazda9/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/06/12/rendered-speculation-2010-mazda9/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Mazda 929 from the '90s was a rear-wheel-drive technological marvel that was ultimately unsuccessful because of its hefty price tag and Americans' infatuation with the SUV. Times have changed and big cars are cool again, with just about everybody on the market offering a large sedan. Mazda, however, is an obvious exception. The artists over at CGI Automotive decided to render out a future Mazda9 just for fun, and while it looks a bit awkward, the overall idea is pretty solid.

Out front, the blue rendering holds true to the design of the upcoming Mazda6, but Audi-like jewelry has been added to the headlamps and the lower air dams look aggressive and sporty. The bulging wheel arches borrow from the Mazda6 and RX-8, and the roof-line is tapered to give it the four-door coupe look. The one thing that would have to change is the hatchback, which might be OK on smaller Mazdas, but is unattractive for a large flagship sedan. Would we like to see a Mazda9 flagship sedan? Hell yes, the more Zoom Zoom the better. But it would have to be more distinctive and less hatch-like, or it'd suffer the same fate as the 929 of years gone by.

[Source: CGI Automotive via Carscoop]

Rendered Speculation: 2010 Mazda9 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4 door coupe4DoorCoupefordlarge sedanLargeSedanMazda6mazda9renderingRX-8Thu, 12 Jun 2008 16:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Fiat Topolino]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/rendered-speculation-fiat-topolino/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/rendered-speculation-fiat-topolino/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/23/rendered-speculation-fiat-topolino/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Earlier this month we brought you news of Fiat's acquisition of Zastava and the Italian automaker's plans to use the retooled Serbian plant to produce a new city car reviving the old Topolino nameplate. Auto Express has brought its resources to bear and cooked up a pair of renderings of what form it thinks the new micro-car could take.

Looking something like a cross between a 500 and a new Renault Twingo, the Topolino rendering suggests a melding of the 500's retro touches with more modern lines. Although the car is expected to be based on the Panda platform, Auto Express suggests the Topolino will have a rear-engine/rear-drive layout, along the lines of the Smart ForTwo, Volkswagen up! and Toyota iQ, three models which the little Fiat would go up against in the marketplace. Innovative seating is tipped to help maximize its compact interior dimensions. Fiat has a wide array of compact engines that could appear in the Topolino, including the upcoming 0.9-liter two-cylinder gasoline engine previewed by the Panda Aria concept. With a DSG and start-stop system, the Topolino would help Fiat lower its range-wide carbon footprint.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rendered Speculation: Fiat Topolino originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 May 2008 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>design fiat topolinoDesignFiatTopolinofiat topolinofiat topolino zastav...FiatTopolinoFiatTopolinoZastav...rendered speculationRenderedSpeculationrenderingrendering fiat topolinoRenderingFiatTopolinotopolinoFri, 23 May 2008 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Way out there Mazda RX-9]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/rendered-speculation-way-out-there-mazda-rx-9/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/rendered-speculation-way-out-there-mazda-rx-9/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/20/rendered-speculation-way-out-there-mazda-rx-9/#commentsFiled under: , ,


click above to enlarge

The photo above looks too cool not to be a future RX-8 incarnation, but the rendering merely represents one Mazda fan's interpretation of the next Rotary-powered sports coupe. Forum poster Rhoadwh over at Fomoconews concocted the sweet-looking coupe after picking up on the most sensible parts of the Taiki and Furai concepts from this past year's auto circuit. Rhoadwh chose the front engine layout of the Taiki and the overall design theme of the completely badass Furai to make a race-ready RX-9 for the future.

Sure, this rendering is just one guy having fun, but we're with him in hoping that Mazda takes into account the outstanding design language used in the Taiki concept, and even more so the Furai. It's amazing what someone with Photoshop and a healthy dose of talent can do. Thanks for the tip, Mbuku!

[Source: Fomoconews]

Rendered Speculation: Way out there Mazda RX-9 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 May 2008 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mazda FuraiMazdaFuraiRenderingRX-8RX-9TaikiTue, 20 May 2008 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Design Exercise: Ferrari Concept 2008]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/15/design-exercise-ferrari-concept-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/15/design-exercise-ferrari-concept-2008/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/15/design-exercise-ferrari-concept-2008/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click the image above for more hi-res pics of the Ferrari Concept 2008

We realize that not everyone will agree with us on this one -- passions seem to run highest over the cars that the fewest number of people will drive -- but if the Ferrari California looked like this concept, we'd put down a deposit right now. Once someone else gave us the money to do so.

Sure, from the A-pillar forward is pure Maserati, and there's no way a front intake like that could or should make it onto a Ferrari. Still, it's a good looking front end, and we don't mind design elements going up as well as down. Besides, a couple of keystrokes can get a proper Ferrari nose in place.

But from the A-pillar to the rear... those are the kind of aggressive, subtle lines we like in our Ferraris. Which is not to say we don't like the California -- we just like this a little better... A coupe, please. That color.

Gallery: Ferrari Concept 2008 by Sefsdesign


[Source: Sefsdesign]

Design Exercise: Ferrari Concept 2008 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 May 2008 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptconcept carconcept carsConceptCarConceptCarsferrarirenderingrenderingssefsdesignThu, 15 May 2008 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Mazda6 coupe, convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/14/rendered-speculation-mazda6-coupe-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/14/rendered-speculation-mazda6-coupe-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/14/rendered-speculation-mazda6-coupe-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Mazda's 6 is having a tough time finding love in its home market where it goes by the Atenza moniker. 7Tune is reporting that Mazda's going to flip the script and introduce three new variants of the Atenza; a coupe, a convertible, and a high performance version called the Mazdaspeed Atenza for JDM consumption. Mazda looked to the holy-grail BMW 3 series for inspiration, though that car is rear-wheel-drive, and hopes to achieve the same build quality with its Atenza line.

The vehicles in 7Tunes renderings are more conservatively styled than the current 3-Series, though that's hardly a bad thing. We think the renderings are easy on the eyes, with clear RX-8 influences, though all suffer from a basket-handle spoiler tacked on to the trunklid. It's tough to imagine the Mazdaspeed Atenza amounting to anything other than a tasty snack for the monstrous M3, though we're sure the Mazda will comport itself sportily. If any of this conjecture rings true, it's tough to go wrong benchmarking the icon of the segment.

[Source: 7tune]

Rendered Speculation: Mazda6 coupe, convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atenzaatenza convertibleatenza coupeAtenzaConvertibleAtenzaCoupejdm mazdaJdmMazdamadza jdmMadzaJdmmazda 6mazda 6 cabrioletmazda 6 convertiblemazda 6 coupeMazda6Mazda6CabrioletMazda6ConvertibleMazda6Coupemazdaspeedmazdaspeed6renderingspy shotsSpyShotsMon, 14 Apr 2008 12:55:00 EST