Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mercedes mulling baby G-Wagon off-roader]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/mercedes-mulling-baby-g-wagon-off-roader/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/mercedes-mulling-baby-g-wagon-off-roader/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/mercedes-mulling-baby-g-wagon-off-roader/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Car reports Mercedes-Benz may be considering expanding its G-Class line to include a new, smaller model. The so-called GLG would serve as a competitor for the upcoming, next-generation Land Rover Defender. Internally, the smaller G wears the code name X156 and will be based on the A-Class architecture. Expect to see styling lifted straight from the larger G, complete with a horizontal roof line and near-vertical back hatch. Car also insists Mercedes-Benz will retain the A-Class front-wheel drive layout for two-wheel drive models, while 4MATIC models will also be available.

Under the hood, the company plans to serve up a range of engines, including a 1.6-liter gasoline mill good for 122 horsepower as well as a 2.0-liter unit with anywhere from 156 to 211 hp on hand. Four diesel variants will also show up in the EU, the most powerful of which will displace 2.1 liters and pump out 204 hp. Car also suggests AMG will get its hands on the pint-sized bruiser. The product of that union should serve up 345 hp, a seven-speed automatic gearbox and beefier brakes.

That seems like an awful lot of detail for a model Mercedes-Benz executives haven't even signed off on yet, though the report says the vehicle could get the green light at any moment.

Mercedes mulling baby G-Wagon off-roader originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>g-classglg-classmercedes-benzmercedes-benz g-classmercedes-benz glg-classrumorWed, 17 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20350501/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/17/mercedes-mulling-baby-g-wagon-off-roader/20350501/article-detail.xml 20350501 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/mercedes-benz-g-class-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/mercedes-benz-g-class-628.jpg <![CDATA[Hyundai pondering creation of SR performance brand for Australia?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/hyundai-pondering-creation-of-sr-performance-brand-for-australia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/hyundai-pondering-creation-of-sr-performance-brand-for-australia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/14/hyundai-pondering-creation-of-sr-performance-brand-for-australia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Hyundai won't confirm it's plans to introduce an SR performance badge to Australia, but GoAuto.com.au says it's coming.

The Veloster SR Turbo is on its way and, now, there's speculation more performance-oriented cars could make their way Down Under. GoAuto says a performance version of i30 hatch could be announced as soon as October, when additional SR concept vehicles are shown.

Of course, all of this talk of souped-up front-wheel-drive small cars has us thinking selfishly thinking about U.S. comparos between an Elantra SR, a MazdaSpeed3, a Volkswagen GTI and Honda Civic Si.

However, Hyundai remains tight lipped on the possibility. When we contacted them, Hyundai wouldn't officially comment on anything, saying that there's already been speculation on an R-Spec version of the Veloster Turbo coming to America.

"You do know how we like to 'never say never' at Hyundai," one official said in an email. He was likely smiling when he said it.

Our guess is that Hyundai will continue to push select performance models in the future, whether they're called SR, RS, or R-Spec doesn't really matter.

Hyundai pondering creation of SR performance brand for Australia? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaElantrahyundaii30performancerumorSR badgeveloster turboTue, 14 Aug 2012 08:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20295312/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/14/hyundai-pondering-creation-of-sr-performance-brand-for-australia/20295312/article-detail.xml 20295312 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2013-hyundai-veloster-turbo-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche Macan to get 370-horsepower turbo model?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/porsche-macan-to-get-370-horsepower-turbo-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/porsche-macan-to-get-370-horsepower-turbo-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/porsche-macan-to-get-370-horsepower-turbo-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Porsche Macan Sketch

Rumor has it Porsche may produce a performance version of the upcoming Macan. Autocar reports the German manufacturer is working on a Macan Turbo that may be good for as much as 370 horsepower thanks to an all-new twin-turbo V6 engine. The article suggests the 3.0-liter mill will borrow heavily from the 3.6-liter unit found in the base Panamera and Cayenne. That would mean the cylinders will be arranged in a 90-dergree V configuration. Torque output would likely be in the neighborhood of 400 pound-feet.

Autocar also hints that the vehicle will be available with either a seven-speed PDK gearbox or a new seven-speed manual transmission converted from the piece found in the 911. We certainly like the idea of a row-your-own crossover, but we're not entirely sure how that will work given that the Macan rides on the Volkswagen large front-wheel drive platform. Even with a Torsen differential shuttling power to the rear wheels, that's a significantly different configuration than the company's rear-engine sports car.

Of course, all of these whispers come without so much as a hint of a source attached to them, so it remains to be seen exactly how much is true. Look for the Macan to touch down in October.

Porsche Macan to get 370-horsepower turbo model? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macanmacan turboporscheporsche macanporsche macan turborumorTue, 17 Apr 2012 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20216698/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/17/porsche-macan-to-get-370-horsepower-turbo-model/20216698/article-detail.xml 20216698 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/porsche-macan-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/porsche-macan-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus LF-LC super coupe concept pondered for production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/lexus-lf-lc-super-coupe-concept-pondered-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/lexus-lf-lc-super-coupe-concept-pondered-for-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/lexus-lf-lc-super-coupe-concept-pondered-for-production/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Lexus LF-LC

Autocar reports Lexus may be mulling a production version of the company's LF-LC Concept. After receiving a near universally positive reception following its unveiling at the Detroit Auto Show this year, Karl Schlicht, head of Lexus product planning, reportedly gave the vehicle a 50-50 shot at hitting dealers sometime in the future. Those aren't great odds, but it is a change of tone from when the vehicle first hit the stage. Back in January, Toyota made it very clear the LF-LC was strictly a concept. As you may recall, the vehicle is a 2+2 coupe with a hybrid drivetrain and a low-slung presence.

According to Schlicht, the vehicle would have never even been considered for production if it had merely been submitted as a design proposal. With a physical concept backed by chorus of positive reviews, the company's decision makers have evidently been prompted to give the LF-LC a second look.

Schlicht himself is set to become the head of product planning for Toyota and Lexus starting on April 1.

Lexus LF-LC super coupe concept pondered for production originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lexuslexus conceptlexus lf-lc conceptlexus lf-lc productionlf-lclf-lc conceptlf-lc productionrumorMon, 26 Mar 2012 16:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20201236/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/26/lexus-lf-lc-super-coupe-concept-pondered-for-production/20201236/article-detail.xml 20201236 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/lexus-lf-lc-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/lexus-lf-lc-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar's new "radical crossover" rendered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/jaguars-new-radical-crossover-rendered/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/jaguars-new-radical-crossover-rendered/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/22/jaguars-new-radical-crossover-rendered/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jaguar CrossoverJaguar has let it slip that the company may be working on a new crossover, and Autocar has gone through the trouble of rendering the machine. According to the report, the company is under pressure to expand into niches traditionally outside of its scope, much as sister company Land Rover has done with the Evoque. That may translate into a new high-riding hatchback based off of an upcoming compact sedan. That's right. Autocar claims Jaguar is out to launch six other "significant" new products over the next two years, and that's excluding the "radical crossover" seen here.

Needless to say, the project hasn't gotten the go-ahead from corporate just yet, but if it does, expect to see it built on the company's new modular aluminum "Premium Lightweight Architecture" originally penned for its large vehicles. Jaguar could also borrow the bones of the previously mentioned Evoque for this little science experiment. Those two options present a disparate view of the would-be utility Jaguar. Of course, the model is a very, very long way from becoming reality. Head over to Autocar to see the full rendering.

Jaguar's new "radical crossover" rendered originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crossoverjaguarjaguar crossoverrumorThu, 22 Mar 2012 09:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20198214/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/22/jaguars-new-radical-crossover-rendered/20198214/article-detail.xml 20198214 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/jaguar-crossover-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/jaguar-crossover-250.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes' Maybach-replacing 600 Pullman details mooted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/mercedes-maybach-replacing-600-pullman-details-mooted/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/mercedes-maybach-replacing-600-pullman-details-mooted/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/12/mercedes-maybach-replacing-600-pullman-details-mooted/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz S600 Pullman RenderingIt's open season on rumors concerning the upcoming Mercedes-Benz S600 Pullman. With Maybach deader than disco, the German automaker is undoubtedly searching for a suitable ultra-luxury competitor to the likes of Bentley and Rolls-Royce, and we've already head that may translate into the resurrection of the legendary Pullman name.

Autobild reports the vehicle will span a little over 21 feet in length and get its power from a smooth 650-horspower V12 engine. The publication isn't calling out any sources at the moment, but the article claims there will be a total of six versions of the Pullman when the model debuts and that each of them will ride on the Mercedes-Benz rear-wheel architecture.

Buyers who don't need enough power to pull down a house will be able to purchase a four-cylinder turbo-diesel variant with a more modest 204 horsepower, and Autobild reports Mercedes-Benz is currently working on two hybrid variants, as well. Of course, with no sources names in the article and the Pullman so far from production, we'd advise taking everything here with a land-yacht sized grain of salt. Head over to Autobild for a look at a rendering of the vehicle.

Mercedes' Maybach-replacing 600 Pullman details mooted originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedes-benzmercedes-benz pullmanmercedes-benz s600 pullmanpullmanpullman renderingrenderingrumorrumormillMon, 12 Dec 2011 09:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20124552/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/12/mercedes-maybach-replacing-600-pullman-details-mooted/20124552/article-detail.xml 20124552 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/mercedes-benz-pullman-rendering-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/mercedes-benz-pullman-rendering-250.jpg <![CDATA[Maserati getting twin-turbo Pentastar V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/maserati-getting-twin-turbo-pentastar-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/maserati-getting-twin-turbo-pentastar-v6/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/09/maserati-getting-twin-turbo-pentastar-v6/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Maserati Gran Turismo MC Stradale
Maserati Gran Turismo MC Stradale - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you aren't happy with a Ferrari-sourced 4.7-liter V8 under the hood of your Maserati, we'd keep that sentiment to yourself, less your brand be saddled with a somewhat less inspired powerplant in the near future. According to Inside Line, shadowy sources at the Italian automaker claim that in the near future, a twin-turbocharged version of the 3.0-liter, twin-turbocharged Pentastar V6 (you know, from Chrysler) may replace the thirsty eight-pots.

Don't get us wrong. The Pentastar is a fine engine and it's done much for the entire Chrysler lineup, but converting the engine from its everyman roots into a fire breather capable of lighting the tires of a Maserati is something entirely different.

IL is also reporting that Ferrari is working on shying away from naturally aspirated engines. The Prancing Horse is supposedly hard at work on a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 good for 750 horsepower. That miracle mill is slated to power the next iteration of the company's FXX.

Maserati getting twin-turbo Pentastar V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchyrslerferrarimaseratipentastarpentastar V6rumortwin turbo pentastarThu, 09 Jun 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19962789/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/09/maserati-getting-twin-turbo-pentastar-v6/19962789/article-detail.xml 19962789 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/maserati-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/maserati-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Saab to use new modular platform for next 9-3]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/report-saab-to-use-new-modular-platform-for-next-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/report-saab-to-use-new-modular-platform-for-next-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/16/report-saab-to-use-new-modular-platform-for-next-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Saab 9-3

According to Autocar, Saab is itching to go modular. The company is apparently walking away from plans to significantly update its plan to run a much-modified General Motors Epsilon I architecture in favor of a new strategy that includes a clean-sheet design. Autocar cites unnamed sources inside the company's headquarters who have indicated that engineers are currently whittling away on a versatile platform that will form the basis of everything form a diminutive 9-2 to a lengthy 9-7 and everything in between. That includes the confirmed-for-production 9-3, 9-5 and 9-4x. Autocar believes that the rumored 9-1 will use different bones.

That all sounds good, but the news runs completely against the grain of everything we've heard about the company's production plans so far. Victor Muller, the company's CEO, has previously told Autoblog that the 9-3 successor will be based on a much-modified version of the Epsilon I architecture that's so thoroughly altered that Saab will be able to claim the chassis as its own intellectual property. As the next 9-3 is part of Saab's fully funded business plan, we have trouble seeing the Swedish automaker going to the considerable added expense of developing an all-new, from-scratch platform - particularly when global sales of the firm's current range have been slow to take off.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Saab to use new modular platform for next 9-3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 saab 9-39-3epsilon irumorsaabsaab 9-3saab platformWed, 16 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19881542/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/16/report-saab-to-use-new-modular-platform-for-next-9-3/19881542/article-detail.xml 19881542 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/9-3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/9-3.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Toyota FT-86 could get hybrid option]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/10/rumormill-toyota-ft-86-could-get-hybrid-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/10/rumormill-toyota-ft-86-could-get-hybrid-option/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/10/rumormill-toyota-ft-86-could-get-hybrid-option/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Toyota FT-86 Concept
Toyota FT-86 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota may have a few more changes in store for the FT-86. The company recently unveiled a second swipe at the car's exterior at the Geneva Motor Show, but from the sounds of things, a new front fascia won't be the only surprise when the car touches down. Auto Express is reporting that the Japanese automaker is open to the possibility of a hybrid FT-86 at some point in the distant future. The company's engineers specifically reworked the vehicle's front fascia and windshield to be more aerodynamic - a trait that would be more than handy on a hybridized version of the vehicle.

As of right now, though, the FT-86 is supposed to arrive with a Subaru-sourced powerplant under its swooping hood. There's some indication that the production version of the vehicle will debut later this year at the Tokyo Motor Show, and that Subaru will yank the sheets back on its own version of coupe at the same time. We're guessing that all of drivetrain and styling questions will be answered as we get closer to that event.


Gallery: Toyota FT-86 II Concept: Geneva 2011

Toyota FT-86 II Concept: Geneva 2011Toyota FT-86 II Concept: Geneva 2011Toyota FT-86 II Concept: Geneva 2011Toyota FT-86 II Concept: Geneva 2011Toyota FT-86 II Concept: Geneva 2011

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: Toyota FT-86 could get hybrid option originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FT-86ft-86 hybridhybridrumortoyotatoyota ft-86toyota ft-86 concepttoyota ft-86 hybridThu, 10 Mar 2011 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19875590/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/10/rumormill-toyota-ft-86-could-get-hybrid-option/19875590/article-detail.xml 19875590 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/ft-86-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/ft-86-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Report: VW readying seven-passenger SUV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/report-vw-readying-seven-passenger-suv/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/report-vw-readying-seven-passenger-suv/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/20/report-vw-readying-seven-passenger-suv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volkswagen Touareg

It looks like a few more details have shown up on the rumored addition to the Volkswagen SUV family. According to Auto Express, the newcomer will have its sights set dead on the American market and will boast seating for seven. It will also carry a slimmer price tag than the current Touareg, all of this courtesy of VW America guru Jonathan Browning.

Auto Express is also reporting that the new crossover/SUV will most likely be built here in the U.S. at the company's Chattanooga, Tennessee manufacturing facility alongside the new Passat.

The German automaker has made no secret of the fact that it wants nothing more than to carve out a larger chunk of the American auto market, and doing so will require a portfolio of vehicles that caters more specifically to Yankee tastes. By 2018, VW wants to sell 800,000 vehicles in the land of the free. Last year the company managed to move 256,830 units.

[Source: Auto Express]

Report: VW readying seven-passenger SUV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rumorsuvvolkswagenvolkswagen suvvwvw suvThu, 20 Jan 2011 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19805679/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/20/report-vw-readying-seven-passenger-suv/19805679/article-detail.xml 19805679 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/vw-touareg-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/vw-touareg-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Volkwagen Twincharger could be killed]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/report-volkwagen-twincharger-could-be-killed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/report-volkwagen-twincharger-could-be-killed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/19/report-volkwagen-twincharger-could-be-killed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volkswagen 1.4-liter twincharged engineAutocar is reporting that Volkswagen may soon drop the axe on its twin-charged gasoline engine. Why? The automaker seems to have come to the shocking revelation that the 1.4-liter mill is too complex and expensive to produce. In other news, researchers have discovered that water is still, in fact, wet.

The engine combines both a turbocharger and supercharger to decrease the effect of turbo lag and increase drivability. Moving forward, the people's automaker is said to be interested in pursuing a turbocharged engine that can produce similar horsepower and fuel economy at a much lower production cost. If it's good enough for the Chevrolet Cruze, we're guessing that Volkswagen's engineers think that it's good enough for the company's products.

VW netted several awards for its 1.4-liter, twincharged four-cylinder engine, including the Engine of the Year award in 2009 and 2010. Whether or not the rumors dusting up from Autocar about the lump's demise are true or not remains to be seen. Stay tuned.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Volkwagen Twincharger could be killed originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rumortwinchargervolkswagenvwvw twincharged 1.4 liter four cylinderWed, 19 Jan 2011 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19803938/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/19/report-volkwagen-twincharger-could-be-killed/19803938/article-detail.xml 19803938 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/twincharged-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/twincharged-250.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Porsche confirms work on four-cylinder]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/report-porsche-confirms-work-on-four-cylinder/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/report-porsche-confirms-work-on-four-cylinder/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/18/report-porsche-confirms-work-on-four-cylinder/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Porsche Badge

Autocar reports that Porsche is hard at work on whipping up a new four-cylinder to power everything from the oft-rumored small Porsche as well as the Boxster, Cayman and potentially even the 911. While speaking at the Detroit Auto Show, Wolfgang Durheimer, the head of research and development for the automaker, said that Porsche was already slaving over the four-pot and that it could potentially be applied to models outside of the upcoming sub-Boxster model.

There was some indication that the smaller Porsche would borrow bits from a sister car built by Volkswagen and Audi, and while that route would certainly cut down on development costs for all three cars, Porsche seems to be bent on powering its version with a beating heart designed and developed in house.

If you're still reeling from the thought of a four-cylinder 911, breathe easy. Durheimer said that for the time being, Porsche plans to keep to the flat-six for its bread-and-butter sports machine, though there's no telling what the far-off future could bring.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Porsche confirms work on four-cylinder originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby porschefour cylinderporscheporsche four cylinderrumorsmall porscheTue, 18 Jan 2011 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19805316/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/18/report-porsche-confirms-work-on-four-cylinder/19805316/article-detail.xml 19805316 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/porsche-shield-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/porsche-shield-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Future Mitsubishi models may each get their own EV variant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/21/report-future-mitsubishi-models-may-each-get-their-own-ev-varia/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/21/report-future-mitsubishi-models-may-each-get-their-own-ev-varia/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/21/report-future-mitsubishi-models-may-each-get-their-own-ev-varia/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2008 Lancer Evolution

Word on the web is that Mitsubishi is bracing for the electrification of the automobile in a big way. According to Motor Trend, the Japanese automaker is in the midst of developing all of its future products so that they easily support an EV drivetrain or an internal combustion get up. That line of thinking seems to mesh well with the rumors of the upcoming hybrid crossover from Mitsubishi. The lumbering beast will supposedly take plenty of cues from the PX-MiEV that showed up at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show, with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine working in conjunction with a pair of electric motors.

Additionally, Motor Trend seems to think that the current Montero is a likely platform to adopt a battery pack. The SUV may have died off from the American market, but it's still alive and kicking in Asia and Europe, and a little help from an electric motor would go a long way toward inching the vehicle's fuel economy down to more manageable levels.

And what of our beloved Lancer Evolution? From the sounds of things, even it might show up with electron-power in the near future, with the gasoline engine kicking at the rear tires and the front axles spun by a motor or two.

[Source: Motor Trend]

Report: Future Mitsubishi models may each get their own EV variant originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Dec 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evhybridmitsubishimitsubishi evmitsubishi hybridrumorTue, 21 Dec 2010 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19770688/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/21/report-future-mitsubishi-models-may-each-get-their-own-ev-varia/19770688/article-detail.xml 19770688 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/lancer-evolution-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/lancer-evolution-630.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Porsche to collaborate with Bentley?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/25/rumormill-porsche-to-collaborate-with-bentley/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/25/rumormill-porsche-to-collaborate-with-bentley/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/25/rumormill-porsche-to-collaborate-with-bentley/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Porsche Bentley mash-up logo

Porsche and Bentley are related under the Volkswagen Group umbrella, and a new rumor suggests that the two might become kissing cousins. Autocar had a chance to speak with Porsche CEO Matthias Müller, and the head honcho of the German sports car vehicle brand says that a collaboration with Bentley could help push future Panamera variants foward. Per Müller,
"I think we have to discuss with Bentley whether we can put together our performance, our engineers. It should be possible."
He goes on to state that sticking to just a four-door sports car is boring. The Panamera should be revised into a handful of iterations, and Müller uses terms like "van", "combi" and "longer." If you are a Porsche loyalist, we'll give you a minute to restart your heart.

One variant we hope the Brits and the Germans can breathe life into? A Porsche 928. There have been rumors and speculation for years now, so perhaps this inter-brand teamwork is just what the doctor (would have) ordered.
[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: Porsche to collaborate with Bentley? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Nov 2010 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>928bentleymatthias müllerporscheporsche 928rumorvolkswagen groupThu, 25 Nov 2010 16:38:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19732662/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/25/rumormill-porsche-to-collaborate-with-bentley/19732662/article-detail.xml 19732662 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/porsche-bentley_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/porsche-bentley.jpg <![CDATA[Report: KTM X-Bow will underpin mid-engine Abarth]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/12/report-ktm-x-bow-will-underpin-mid-engine-abarth/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/12/report-ktm-x-bow-will-underpin-mid-engine-abarth/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/12/report-ktm-x-bow-will-underpin-mid-engine-abarth/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

KTM X-Bow R
2011 KTM X-Bow R - Click above for high-res image gallery

It looks like the fiends at Abarth and KTM are looking to shack up. Road & Track is reporting that the two speed-bent names are joining forces for the creation of the much-rumored mid-engine two-seater from Abarth. At the heart of the program will the chassis from the KTM X-Bow, though in place of the turbo Volkswagen 2.0-liter, Fiat plans to drop in its own MultiAir 1.8-liter turbo mill. That means that the whole kit and caboodle will scoot down the road with somewhere between 180 and 190 horsepower.

This new rumor runs contrary to the previous murmurings that had Abarth courting Lotus for the use of the Elise chassis. According to Road & Track, those bones were just a little too expensive for Abarth to justify, so the factory tuners began to look elsewhere. Supposedly, we can expect the Italian machine to be a low-volume creation, with annual sales projected to hit no more than 2,000 units. Expect the price tag to land around $80,000 when it debuts in 2013. Start saving your pennies, kids.


Gallery: 2011 KTM X-Bow R


[Source: Road & Track]

Report: KTM X-Bow will underpin mid-engine Abarth originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AbarthFiatKTMKTM X-BowRumorX-BowTue, 12 Oct 2010 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19668121/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/12/report-ktm-x-bow-will-underpin-mid-engine-abarth/19668121/article-detail.xml 19668121 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/xbow_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/xbow.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Honda mulling CR-Z convertible?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/report-honda-mulling-cr-z-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/report-honda-mulling-cr-z-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/24/report-honda-mulling-cr-z-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Honda CR-Z - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Road & Track, Honda may have its heart set on cranking out a new droptop sports car to keep the brand alive in the hearts and minds of enthusiasts. Unfortunately, the new racer isn't likely to be anything like the much-loved S2000. No, instead, R&T's sources point to a convertible version of the CR-Z. The recipe calls for the platform to retain its front-wheel-drive layout, though a more powerful drivetrain would likely be fitted to lug around the additional weight of bracing and a folding top.

We've heard worse ideas, but we can't remember when.

If the car made it to production, it would theoretically go toe to toe with the long-reigning Mazda MX-5 in a battle that we can only assume would be over before either car got to the track. Should the CR-Z-based car prove successful, Honda would then look into building a more potent, rear-wheel drive hybrid sports car. You know, what the CR-Z should have been all along.

Road & Track has worked up a rendering, and the curious/stout of stomach can check it out over at their site.


Gallery: 2011 Honda CR-Z: Review


Photos Copyright (C)2010 Steven J. Ewing / AOL

[Source: Road & Track]

Report: Honda mulling CR-Z convertible? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 cr-z2011 honda cr-zcr-zcr-z convertiblecr-z-hybridhondahonda cr-zhonda cr-z convertiblehonda cr-z hybridrumorrumormillFri, 24 Sep 2010 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19647900/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/24/report-honda-mulling-cr-z-convertible/19647900/article-detail.xml 19647900 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/hondacrz2011---01_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/hondacrz2011---01.jpg <![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Jaguar's 3 Series rival]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/14/rendered-speculation-jaguars-3-series-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/14/rendered-speculation-jaguars-3-series-rival/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/14/rendered-speculation-jaguars-3-series-rival/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jaguar RenderingThere's a pretty hefty rumor claiming Jaguar is aiming to take on the BMW 3 Series with a new mid-sized fighter of its own. According to Auto Express, the suits at the big cat's parent company, Tata, have already given the project the go-ahead. The new machine will serve as a suitable replacement for the long-dead X-Type and sit below the XF in the Jaguar chain of command. Beyond that, there are few details in terms of what to expect if and when it hits production.

But that hasn't stopped Auto Express from putting forth a few possibilities. According to the site, it's entirely possible that the baby Jaguar could get its power from either a turbocharged, Ford-sourced four-cylinder gasoline engine or a more potent turbo-diesel six-cylinder hybrid drivetrain.

Hey, dreaming is free.

Behind either miracle mill would be a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox. We'll supposedly know more about the car sometime soon as AE reports the new Jaguar will be in dealer lots as soon as 2012.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rendered Speculation: Jaguar's 3 Series rival originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JaguarJaguar RenderingJaguarRenderingRumorRumorsTue, 14 Sep 2010 10:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19631655/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/14/rendered-speculation-jaguars-3-series-rival/19631655/article-detail.xml 19631655 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/baby-jag-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/baby-jag-250.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Lotus Esprit to use LFA V10, V8 in lesser spec]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/27/rumormill-lotus-esprit-to-use-lfa-v10-v8-in-lesser-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/27/rumormill-lotus-esprit-to-use-lfa-v10-v8-in-lesser-spec/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/27/rumormill-lotus-esprit-to-use-lfa-v10-v8-in-lesser-spec/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lexus LFA engine

Now this is a rumor. According to the crafty crew at Inside Line, Lotus is set to release details on its planned resurrection of the long-dead Esprit at this year's Paris Motor Show. Even better? There's some indication that the top-of-the-line model may pack the same heavenly V10 found in the current Lexus LFA. Oh yes, we're excited. Inside Line spoke with someone at Lexus who's cozy with the deal who hinted that the 552-horsepower 10-pot would find its way into the car in order to help it better compete with the likes of Ferrari. That's right, kids; Lotus is movin' on up.

There's also word that lower-rung trims will receive the same 5.0-liter V8 found in the Lexus IS-F. With 416 horsepower, that lump is no slouch. Both engine choices would seem to dovetail with the close partnership we've seen between Lotus and Lexus parent company Toyota in the past, and with new Lotus CEO Dany Bahar (formerly of Ferrari) clamoring for ever more powerful, upscale models, all of the puzzle pieces seem to be falling into place.

Still, that's almost way too much awesome for most manufacturers to handle. Fortunately, the Paris show is just a handful of weeks away, so we should know which parts of this rumor are solid in short order.

[Source: Inside Line]

Rumormill: Lotus Esprit to use LFA V10, V8 in lesser spec originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EspritLexusLexus LFAlexus supercarLexusLfaLexusSupercarLF-ALFALotusLotus EspritLotusEspritRumorFri, 27 Aug 2010 16:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19611275/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/27/rumormill-lotus-esprit-to-use-lfa-v10-v8-in-lesser-spec/19611275/article-detail.xml 19611275 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/lexus-lfa-engine-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/lexus-lfa-engine-630.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Toyota considering RWD hatch to commemorate Naruse]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/10/report-toyota-considering-rwd-hatch-to-commemorate-naruse/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/10/report-toyota-considering-rwd-hatch-to-commemorate-naruse/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/10/report-toyota-considering-rwd-hatch-to-commemorate-naruse/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



We see plenty of rumors crop up on the interwebs, but we've rarely wanted any of them to come true as badly as this particular juicy morsel. The crew at Autocar reports that Toyota wants to build a new model to honor its former chief test driver, Hiromu Naruse. Naruse recently passed away in an a collision while testing the Lexus LFA at the Nürburgring. If the whispers are true, the car won't be a badge-job for the Camry. According to reports, Naruse always wanted to see Toyota produce an inexpensive, rear-wheel drive coupe that was affordable enough for the little guys of the world to be able to hop into the driver's seat.

If you're thinking there's no way that Toyota will suddenly jump into the small rear-wheel drive market with not one, but two new products, think again. Autocar reports that the inexpensive two-door will slot below the sexy FT-86 and will be based off of the GRMN Aigo Hot Hatch Concept we saw at this year's Tokyo Auto Salon. That particular concept got its grunt from a Daihatsu 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. More importantly, it rocked a double-wishbone rear suspension and swapped its front-wheel drive layout for a rear-driven arrangement. If the rumors are to be believed, we could see the car in 2012, just slightly ahead of the FT-86.

[Source: Autocar]

Report: Toyota considering RWD hatch to commemorate Naruse originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AigoGRMNHot Hatch ConceptHotHatchConceptRumorToyotaToyota GRMN Aigo Hot Hatch ConceptToyotaGrmnAigoHotHatchConceptTue, 10 Aug 2010 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19587559/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/10/report-toyota-considering-rwd-hatch-to-commemorate-naruse/19587559/article-detail.xml 19587559 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/aigo-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/aigo-630.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Smart Roadster to make a comeback]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/23/rumormill-smart-roadster-to-make-a-comeback/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/23/rumormill-smart-roadster-to-make-a-comeback/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/23/rumormill-smart-roadster-to-make-a-comeback/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



The internets are abuzz with word that the recent partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Renault may allow the the long dead Smart Roadster to be revived. The folks at Autocar report that a source within Smart says the company has had its eyes on bringing the roadster back to market for awhile now. Evidently, the purveyor of pint-sized transportation is interested in branching out from its city car roots - something that the recent partnership with Renault just might facilitate. Renault has a host of experience producing inexpensive small cars that Smart just might be able to capitalize on.

Autocar doesn't say exactly which Renault model Smart would use as the basis for the reborn Roadster, but there is some indication that other products may be part of the company's plans as well. The article even made mention of a potential Mini Countryman competitor, meaning that Smart is eying jumping into the CUV fray. Either way, any new blood in the Smart portfolio is bound to help. With fuel prices down, American buyers aren't interested in making the kind of sacrifices that the ForTwo requires, but an ultra-compact convertible? That has some potential.

[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: Smart Roadster to make a comeback originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CountrymanForTwoMercedes-BenzMiniMini CountrymanMiniCountrymanRenaultRoadsterRumorSmartSmart ForTwoSmart RoadsterSmartFortwoSmartRoadsterFri, 23 Jul 2010 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19566482/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/23/rumormill-smart-roadster-to-make-a-comeback/19566482/article-detail.xml 19566482 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/smart-roadster-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/smart-roadster-630.jpg -1 2