Autoblog

Are you the Dodge Dart SRT4?

Seyth Miersma — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 16:01:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Dodge, Rumormill

Dodge has just confirmed that it will be bringing its newest Dart variant, the Dart GT, to Detroit next week, but we're still in the dark about when we'll see a truly hotted-up SRT4 version. But now, by way of the rumormill anyway, we've got at least one proposed, potentially Dodge-based rendering to light our way.

Seen here is what would appear to be a design sketch of the SRT4 Dart. Obviously the image that has surfaced is of rather low-resolution, but there's at least some evidence to support that it may be legitimate. In the original picture, one can just make out the name Tim Doyle in the lower right corner. As it turns out, Tim Doyle's name is also watermarked on the final design image for the 2011 Dodge Durango Citadel Black & Tan, a model that was shown at SEMA in 2010.

Of course, even if this really is the work of Doyle, there's nothing to say that this image isn't one of a great many potential looks for the future SRT4. In fact, the departure of the cross-hair grille from the Dodge's nose seems like it could be a hard sell, though we do, naturally, dig the sleek hood scoop and the bulked up wheel/tire combination.

Whether or not a much-rumored Dart SRT4 materializes (let alone looks like this) is an open question, but we're still holding out hope that the car is fitted with the nearly 300-horsepower four-cylinder that has been rumored in the past.

Are you the Dodge Dart SRT4? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Next M3 may be lighter than expected, with lots more torque

George Kennedy — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 10:44:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Sedan, Performance, BMW, Rumormill

Few cars stir up the rumormill quite like the next BMW M3. To that end, BMW fan-site BimmerPost was able to track down a source, apparently tied to the development of the next M3 (and M4), who divulged a few juicy bits on power, weight and timing.

Horsepower in the F80 M3 and F82 M4 is said to be close to that of the E90/E92, which was rated at 414 hp. This contrasts with previous reports that had horsepower pegged closer to 450. It should also be noted that BMW has been known to underrate the horsepower values for its engines. That said, the new turbocharged straight-six will supposedly develop 100 more pound-feet of torque over the current generation, too. The 4.0-liter S65 V8 found in the E90/E92 M3 developed 295 lb-ft, putting the new engine's torque in the 395 lb-ft neighborhood. We can live with that.

An equally interesting development regards the proposed weight of the new Ultimate Driving Machine. Apparently BMW is targeting the curb weight of the E46 M3. That older-generation Bimmer clocked in at about 3,400 pounds, while the E90/E92 M3 had grown to over 3,700 pounds. The 300-pound weight savings should come as welcome news to M3 purists, critical of the progressive weight gains from generation to generation.

For those interested in the aesthetic of the next performance-Bimmer, the F80/F82 update of the M3 is claimed to feature a more aggressive look, highlighted by a power bulge hood and larger fenders. That styling direction should not come as much of a surprise, as the more aggressive appearance is customary to the M3 by now and matches what we've seen in spy shots.

According to source, the F80 M3 sedan will debut first and come to market in early 2014. It will be followed by the M4 coupe, though exact timing was not revealed.

Next M3 may be lighter than expected, with lots more torque originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Three-cylinder BMW 3 Series on its way?

Zach Bowman — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, Etc., Europe, Technology, BMW, Rumormill, Luxury

Peter Nefischer, head of engine development for BMW, has said the automaker is currently working on developing three-cylinder engines to be used across the company's vehicle line. The powerplants would likely be different than the one found in the BMW i8 and wouldn't be partnered with an electric motor. Instead, engineers would turn to forced induction to maintain acceptable power levels. Nefischer said engineers have gone as far as possible with current engine technology, and the next step is smaller, more powerful variants.

So, when can we expect to see a three-cylinder 3 Series hit the streets? According to the report, the vehicle could be here in two years. BMW has already demonstrated the sort of gains that can be made by dropping cylinder count. Just look at the F30 328i with the vehicle's impressive power and fuel economy as an example. Will BMW bring 3 Series to the table with half the cylinders of the tried-and-true I6? Stranger things have happened.

Three-cylinder BMW 3 Series on its way? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes' Maybach-replacing 600 Pullman details mooted

Zach Bowman — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:57:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Etc., Europe, Mercedes-Benz, Rumormill, Design/Style, Luxury

It'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.

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Next-gen Viper may get 8.7-liter V10

Zach Bowman — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Etc., Chrysler, Dodge, Rumormill

Word has it that Chrysler may be planning an increase in displacement for the 2013 Dodge Viper. According to the Dodge-obsessed crew at Allpar, the vehicle's V10 engine may jump from 8.4 liters to 8.7, making it the largest lump Chrysler has ever placed in a passenger car. Allpar doesn't say exactly where the report originates from, though upping the vehicle's displacement certainly fits the brash character of the Viper. We have to wonder what sort of tricks the company will employ to keep fuel consumption and emissions at reasonable levels, however.

The same report also repeats the fact that the vehicle will be manufactured in 2012 as 2013 model. That certainly runs contrary to those whispers we heard about the 2013 Viper receiving a clandestine unveil at a Florida charity event.

Next-gen Viper may get 8.7-liter V10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kia's rear-drive Frankfurt showcar to be called Veredus?

Zach Bowman — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Kia

Car and Driver is reporting that the new rear-wheel-drive sports sedan concept from Kia may be called the Veredus. The vehicle is set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, though the company has been mum on the project's name so far. Kia filed for a patent on the Veredus name not too long ago, and, as Car and Driver points out, the concept is the only vehicle in the company's short-term product plan without a name. Sounds like a pretty strong case to us. While the report reminds us that there are plenty of other future nameless Kia models, everything else in the near term has a moniker.

One of those future models just so happens to be a rear-wheel drive sedan (heretofore known as the K9) based on the Hyundai Genesis platform, and there's also word that the Hyundai Cadenza may show up soon as the Kia Cadenza. Either of those vehicles could snap up the Veredus name instead of the concept, however.

Kia's rear-drive Frankfurt showcar to be called Veredus? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Hyundai Elantra Coupe to show up at LA Show?

Zach Bowman — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Coupe, Hyundai, Rumormill

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

The crew at Inside Line reports that Hyundai is planning to unveil a new coupe version of its Elantra at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. The two-door compact would help the 40-mile-per-gallon Elantra compete more effectively against the rival Honda Civic, and as IL points out, the vehicle would also set the stage for an R-Spec offering, as well.

According to the whispers kicking around the web, Hyundai may show off a high-horsepower Elantra Coupe later down the line that packs a 208 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, but at first, buyers can expect the same 1.8-liter naturally aspirated four-pot found in the current Elantra Sedan to show up under the hood. Still, that engine delivers 148 horsepower and 131 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers beat out the Civic by 8 hp and 3 lb-ft of torque while delivering better fuel economy.

The addition of a two-door Elantra would see the nameplate's offerings grow to three body styles including the sedan and touring models. Head over to Inside Line to check out a swank rendering of the proposed coupe.

Hyundai Elantra Coupe to show up at LA Show? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buick Regal Coupe in the works?

Zach Bowman — Fri, 13 May 2011 10:31:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Europe, Vauxhall, Rumormill

Word from Auto Express is that General Motors has given Vauxhall the go-ahead on a new coupe project based on the Epsilon II platform. That may mean that a similar model is headed to the land of the free under the Tri-Shield badge. After all, wherever Vauxhall goes these days, Buick is sure to follow. In the old country, the upcoming coupe is rumored to pack a 2.8-liter turbo V6 under its pretty little bonnet, though there's no telling what a Buick version would rely on for power. Auto Express reports that Vauxhall plans to offer varying levels of boost depending on trim.

All topped out, the two-door would offer a little over 320 horses at all four wheels, and engineers are said to be working on improving the vehicle's handling dynamics by shortening the chassis. Design wise, the newcomer will borrow heavily from the GTC concept, though we would expect to see the corporate waterfall grille on any American iteration. Across the pond, the coupe will reportedly carry the Calibra moniker. Here in the States, we'd be satisfied with a big GNX badge on the rear deck should this sucker come to life.

Buick Regal Coupe in the works? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 May 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: 2012 BMW M5 to get manual tranny in U.S.

Aaron Richardson — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Europe, BMW, Rumormill, Luxury

2012 BMW M5 spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Contradictory to earlier rumblings, the upcoming F10 BMW M5 will reportedly be available with the option of a traditional manual transmission here in the United States. As with the E60 M5, we'd expect the stick-shift-equipped F10 to be slower than its automated sister, but we doubt it will amount to anything noticeable. Buyers will still be able to opt for the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission here in the States, if they so desire.

There's one option, however, that BMW won't be offering in our market. In Germany, buyers can opt to have the car's top speed raised to 189 miles per hour, provided they agree to enter an M5-specific driver training program. This will likely be a costly option - in addition to the price of the training program, buyers will have to shell out for upgraded engine management software, as well as a set of ZR-rated tires.

Gallery: 2012 BMW M5 Spy Shots

[Source: BMWBlog | Images: CarPix]

Rumormill: 2012 BMW M5 to get manual tranny in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Mar 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Limited Edition Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0L to bow in April?

Jeff Glucker — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 09:28:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Porsche, Rumormill

Porsche 911 GT3 RS - Click above for high-res image galley

We've been hearing quiet whispers for a while now of an upcoming super 911 GT3 RS from Porsche. Now more rumors are surfacing that say the monster coupe will show its face on April 7th. Word on the virtual street is that this super RS will be powered by a 4.0-liter engine producing 500-horsepower. That's 50 more than the currently-crazy 2011 GT3 RS.

The new car is also said to be lighter than the current RS. This means the extra power will push the car harder than our brains can comprehend. Expect a super price-tag to go along with this super sports car when it finally makes its entrance... assuming, of course, that this rumor is accurate.

Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

[Source: Auto Guide]

Rumormill: Limited Edition Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0L to bow in April? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Volkswagen greenlights Bulli for production

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:31:00 EST

Filed under: Minivan/Van, Volkswagen, Rumormill

Volkswagen Bulli Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

What did you think of Volkswagen's Bulli concept, which was just shown for the first time at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show? VW is apparently hoping you liked it, because rumor (via Autocar in the UK) has it that it's going into production.

The concept version is powered by a 113-horsepower electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, which can reportedly be charged in less than an hour. We don't know if the electric powertrain will make it into the production vehicle (our guess would be no, but who knows?), and there is no word on pricing. Still, how cool would it be to once again see a modern Volkswagen Microbus prowling the streets of America? The mind reels at the possibility.

Gallery: Volkswagen Bulli Concept: Geneva 2011

Photos copyright (C)2011 Steven J. Ewing / Damon Lavrinc / AOL

[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: Volkswagen greenlights Bulli for production originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Long-wheelbase Porsche Panamera coming in 2012

Jeff Glucker — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Porsche, Rumormill, Luxury

2010 Porsche Panamera - Click above for high-res image gallery

Is Porsche getting ready for Extenzify its Panamera sedan? According to Autoweek, the German automaker is currently developing a long-wheelbase Panamera for the North American and Chinese market to satiate demand for increased rear legroom.

The report states that Porsche is planning to increase the currrent 115-inch wheelbase by five inches, bringing the long-wheelbase Panamera out to - carry the one... - 120 inches. This means larger rear doors and a larger rear entryway will be fitted, making ingress and egress an easier task.

There has always been talk of further Panamera variations, which include a possible shooting-brake and four-passenger convertible. Anything other than the standard and long-wheelbase sedans have been put on hold until the Panamera enters a second generation around 2015.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Porsche Panamera

All Photos Copyright (C)2011 Michael Harley/AOL

[Source: Autoweek]

Report: Long-wheelbase Porsche Panamera coming in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Next Toyota Highlander to form basis for new Subaru Tribeca?

Zach Bowman — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 14:31:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Subaru, Toyota, Rumormill

2010 Subaru Tribeca - Click above for high-res image gallery

From the sound of things, Subaru and Toyota are getting cozier than ever. According to Motor Trend, the two companies are currently exploring ways to integrate platforms, and the fruit of that exploration may very well be the next Tribeca. MT is reporting that engineers are currently looking for ways to base the next-generation Subaru crossover on the bones of the Toyota Highlander. Both models are slated for replacement in 2014, and there's some indication that the two vehicles will share more than a few bolts when they debut.

According to MT, the project isn't without hiccups, however. As with the FT-86, both companies need to find a way to work around the Subaru 3.6-liter flat-six found in the nose of the current Tribeca. MT points out that the FT-86 avoided this issue by simply using the Subaru engine in the Toyota variant of the sports coupe, though at this point it's unclear how the Tribeca/Highlander will overcome that particular hurdle. In addition, the crossover platform will also need room for the Highlander hybrid model's battery packs, which may mean that Subaru will jump into the gas-electric game as well.

Gallery: 2010 Subaru Tribeca

[Source: Motor Trend]

Next Toyota Highlander to form basis for new Subaru Tribeca? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Jan 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Audi working on A9 super sedan?

Jeff Glucker — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 15:59:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Audi, Rumormill, Luxury

The updated A8 is already here and the new A7 is on its way, but could a new Audi super sedan be just around the corner? Folks in the homeland of the four-ringed automaker are speculating that a Porsche Panamera-derived range topper is on the horizon, and that it will be dubbed the Audi A9.

According to Germany's AutoZeitung, the A9 will be offered with a choice of either rear-wheel drive(!) or the familiar Quattro all-wheel drive setup, the Audi A9 would also be available as a gas-electric hybrid. The power output could climb to 500 horsepower.

This is all just rumor at this point, but it would certainly be interesting to if the surging Audi brand can successfully float this many high-dollar products. We've seen what it can do with the premium luxury sedan thanks to the wonderful new A8, and we're we're big fans of the R8 in all its flavors, but is there enough room at the top for an A9 as well? Check out the complete rendered image at AutoZeitung and then have your say in 'Comments.'

[Source: autozeitung.de (translated)]

Rumormill: Audi working on A9 super sedan? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Honda mulling CR-Z convertible?

Zach Bowman — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 19:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Hybrid, Japan, Honda, Rumormill

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

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.

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Rumormill: 2012 Porsche Cayman Clubsport headed for LA Auto Show

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Porsche, Rumormill

2010 Porsche Cayman S - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Porsche enthusiast site Planet-9.com, a hardcore version of the Cayman, dubbed CS or Clubsport, will be shown at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show in December. This isn't the first time we've heard rumblings of a lighter, more powerful Cayman, but now that Porsche has successfully launched the Boxster Spyder, it's only fitting that the same sort of package be offered on its harder-core hardtop sister.

Expect the Clubsport to produce around 333 horsepower from its 3.4-liter flat-six, an increase of 13 hp over the Cayman S. From there, lightweight 19-inch wheels will be standard, as will fabric door pulls, aluminum body components and a slightly revised front fascia that we've seen on the Boxster Spyder. Obviously, the real goal with a Clubsport model is lightness, and Planet-9 reports that the CS should be about 162 to 184 pounds lighter than the stock Cayman S.

If the LA Auto Show reveal stands true, the Cayman CS should be hitting the road sometime in 2011 as a 2012 model, priced from around $66,300. Fingers crossed, everyone.

Gallery: 2010 Porsche Cayman S

[Source: Planet-9]

Rumormill: 2012 Porsche Cayman Clubsport headed for LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Infiniti working on Euro-market front-drive hatch

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 14:43:00 EST

Filed under: Europe, Hatchback, Infiniti, Luxury

Infiniti Essence Concept - click above for high-res image gallery

Infiniti is reportedly set to follow Lexus into the premium compact hatchback segment with a new model for the European market. With Lexus about to launch its hybrid CT200h and the Europeans already well established with the likes of the Audi A3 and Citroen's new DS3, Infiniti apparently needs a hatch-shaped player to compete.

Autocar reports that the Infiniti will draw on the design of the Essence concept and feature a coupe-like profile. The new compact hatchback will be in addition to the Infiniti electric car that CEO Carlos Ghosn announced at the Tokyo Motor Show last fall. The Infiniti EV will share the platform and battery system of the Nissan Leaf, but may use a more powerful electric motor. There's no word on what platform this unnamed hatch will be based on, but Infiniti's corporate parents at Nissan have a host of front-wheel drive architectures to choose from and a range of engines to provide the new model with enough oomph.

Gallery: Infiniti Essence Concept

[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: Infiniti working on Euro-market front-drive hatch originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Jul 2010 14:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Audi considering A1 Allroad

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 11:33:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Audi, Rumormill

2007 Audi Cross Coupé concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Apparently not content to let Mini hog the small premium crossover segment with its new Countryman, Audi is reportedly working on an Allroad version of the A1.

The A1 three-door hatchback goes on sale this year with a five-door coming in 2011. A higher-riding crossover variant could come by 2013 and follow in the path of previous Audi Allroad editions with arch extensions, bigger wheel and tires and possibly even all-wheel drive. A quattro variant hasn't yet been confirmed, although Volkswagen is reportedly working on an all-wheel drive variant of the Volkswagen CrossPolo which shares its platform with the little Audi. Given Audi's 30-year commitment to quattro, we'd bet on both variants for the A1 Allroad - but of course, we were surprised when the A1 hatch arrived with only its front wheels driven...

Gallery: Audi Cross Coupe Quattro

[Source: AutoZietung (translated)]

Rumormill: Audi considering A1 Allroad originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Mini planning larger, seven-seat Countryman?

Steven J. Ewing — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:01:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Mini, Rumormill

When the 2011 Countryman goes on sale later this year, it will be the largest offering from Mini, boasting four doors, raised ground clearance and all-wheel drive. And while the Countryman proves that Mini isn't so, well, mini anymore, Auto Express is stirring the rumormill by reporting that the automaker is working on an even larger version of the Countryman, complete with a longer wheelbase that will accommodate a third row of seats out back.

Is there room for a seven-seat Mini crossover in the brand's portfolio? We doubt it - especially since we have yet to see how strong of a seller the standard Countryman is. Parent company BMW already has the pint-sized X1 on deck, and if we're honest, a seven-seat Countryman just doesn't make a whole lot of sense. (We don't even want to think about how cramped that third row of seats would be.)

Recently, the news broke that Mini is strongly considering a production version of the Beachcomber concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show - a show car that received relatively high levels of positive feedback from enthusiasts. Mini is already expanding its lineup with the addition of the Coupe and Roadster in the near future, and we think that until the brand is comfortable with producing a wider range of vehicles beyond the standard Cooper and Clubman offerings, a seven-seat Countryman is the last thing that anyone should be ruminating over.

[Source: Auto Express]

Rumormill: Mini planning larger, seven-seat Countryman? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: TVR on the comeback trail with American V8 power?

Jonny Lieberman — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:28:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Europe, Rumormill

TVR Speed 12 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hey you Anglophiles, looks like TVR is coming back. And really, it's a shame they went anywhere in the first place, but that's the British car industry for you. Nevertheless, a flurry of rumors and speculation has just cropped up, all of them seeming to indicate that a new TVR is coming very soon. Again.

The big news of course is that the new British sports car will have American power. What engine? We don't know, but it sounds like Russian owner Nikolai Smolenski understands that the U.S. market is the number one market for sports cars in the world, and that having an American power plant under the new car's look-at-me hood is the easy way to sell 'em to us Yanks. You may remember that the last crop of TVRs all featured completely bespoke, TVR-built engines and were not sold in the USA. Of course, using a Ford or Chevy (or hey, maybe Chrysler) crate engine will save Smolenski and TVR untold millions of rubles in development costs.

Also new is where the next TVR will be built. Traditionally, TVRs come from Blackpool, UK, but word is that a bunch of TVR parts were recently shipped to Germany where Smolenski has wanted to restart production for a couple of years. Moreover, TVR parts suppliers have reportedly been served with cease and desist notices, as TVR Motors Company (Smolenski's company) is officially the parts supplier to the UK. However, it seems like these kinds of letters have been sent before.

So, what's the same with this new TVR? The reports we're seeing claim that you can expect classic "TVR values" such as front-engine, rear-wheel drive, two seats and totally bonkers styling. Sounds as if the new car will be showing up with at least 500 horsepower, too. We're not sure when we'll see the new TVR, but it sounds as if the Goodwood Festival of Speed is the safest bet. Until then...

Gallery: 2000 TVR Speed 12

[Source: TVR Blog, Pistonheads]

Rumormill: TVR on the comeback trail with American V8 power? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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