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[Rolls-Royce gives up the Ghost... performance numbers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/rolls-royce-gives-up-the-ghost-performance-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/rolls-royce-gives-up-the-ghost-performance-numbers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/rolls-royce-gives-up-the-ghost-performance-numbers/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Rolls-Royce Ghost - Click above for high-res image gallery

The official numbers for the Rolls-Royce Ghost have been revealed, and as expected, you won't need to worry about getting embarrassed. The 6.6-liter, twin-turbo V12 is rated at 563 hp and 575 lb-ft, that latter number, in typical Rolls fashion, being available practically at idle - just 1,500 rpm.

The run to 60 mph takes 4.8 seconds in North America (but 4.7 elsewhere for some reason), which is a couple of tenths behind the BMW 760i and about a second quicker than the company's own Phantom. For a car once derided as "the baby Rolls," its performance looks as if it will be pleasantly adult. It will go on sale later this year for £165,000 in the U.K. (that's $271K U.S.). You can check out our high-res gallery below and the official Rolls-Royce press release after the jump.


Gallery: Hands-On: Rolls-Royce Ghost


[Source: Rolls-Royce]

Continue reading Rolls-Royce gives up the Ghost... performance numbers

Rolls-Royce gives up the Ghost... performance numbers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 rolls-royce ghost2010Rolls-royceGhostghostluxuryRollerrolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce ghostRolls-royceGhostRollsRoycesaloonsedansilver ghostSilverGhostTue, 21 Jul 2009 09:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Double-size gallery of 2010 Jaguar XJ images]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/pics-aplenty-double-size-gallery-of-2010-jaguar-xj-images/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/pics-aplenty-double-size-gallery-of-2010-jaguar-xj-images/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/16/pics-aplenty-double-size-gallery-of-2010-jaguar-xj-images/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The 2010 Jaguar XJ -- Click above for larger high-res image gallery

For any of you looking to get an even better look - or perhaps just additional looks - at the 2010 Jaguar XJ, we've added about 40 new photos to our gallery.

If you want to get an early gander at the car in person and you're in London next week, Jag's top cat will be at the Gulf Luxury Fair at the InterContinental Hotel on Park Lane. The event caters to the luxury crowd that Jaguar would like to reacquaint itself with, and takes place from July 25-27. For the rest of us, there is the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2010 Jaguar XJ


[Source: Jaguar]

Pics Aplenty: Double-size gallery of 2010 Jaguar XJ images originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 jaguar xj2010 xj2010JaguarXj2010Xjjaguarjaguar xjJaguarXjphotossaloonsedanxjThu, 16 Jul 2009 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz E-Class commercial features malfunctioning car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/video-mercedes-benz-e-class-commercial-features-malfunctioning/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/video-mercedes-benz-e-class-commercial-features-malfunctioning/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/video-mercedes-benz-e-class-commercial-features-malfunctioning/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mercedes wardrobe commercial malfunction -- Click above to watch video

The voiceover for Mercedes' "Ignite" commercial for the new E-Class starts with "It is, quite simply, the most advanced automobile we have every created." However, during the start-up sequence before that voiceover, the actual commercial begins with a warning light: when the driver turns the car on, the message "Front Right SRS Malfunction Service Required" appears in the dash - not the type of message you expect to see when your car fires up and does its system check. Still, knowing how these things work, we suspect this commercial was probably filmed early on in a pre-production prototype with an inactive airbag - a common enough occurrence with these sorts of vehicles.

In any case, to watch the commercial and check out Mercedes' official response to the flub, hit the jump. Hat tip to Wai.

UPDATE: Mercedes-Benz USA blocked access to video of the commercial on YouTube, but they didn't get rid of all the copies. Follow the jump for a salvaged excerpt of the commercial.


Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class


[Source: YouTube, Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz E-Class commercial features malfunctioning car

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz E-Class commercial features malfunctioning car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingcommercialcommercialsidiot lampidiot lightIdiotLampIdiotLightmarketingmercedesmercedes benzmercedes e classmercedes e-classmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesE-classMercedesEClasssaloonsedanservice lampservice lightServiceLampServiceLightvideoyoutubeMon, 13 Jul 2009 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: BMW M boss Segler says no M7 model is forthcoming]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-bmw-m-boss-segler-says-no-m7-model-is-forthcoming/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-bmw-m-boss-segler-says-no-m7-model-is-forthcoming/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-bmw-m-boss-segler-says-no-m7-model-is-forthcoming/#commentsFiled under: ,


BMW 7 Series M Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

In an Automotive News interview given to coincide with the launches of the X5 M and X6 M, when asked about an M7 BMW's M division head Kay Segler replied, "We've looked at that and decided not to do it. The 760 with awd is a very strong offer. The M sales would be too small for our total investment." That means that the M Sport version (pictured) is the closest you'll get to a super 7. If you don't mind the lack of an "M" badge, the 507-hp Alpina B7 is an M in all but name.

For those of you at the other end, Segler says he needs a year to look into a M version of the 1-Series, but that an X1 won't be finding its way into the M house yet. Of course, there was a time when BMW said there would be no M versions of any of their so-called "Sports Activity Vehicles," saying they wouldn't fit the brand...


Gallery: BMW 7 Series M Sport


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

REPORT: BMW M boss Segler says no M7 model is forthcoming originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw 7 seriesbmw 7-seriesbmw 760ibmw 760libmw mbmw m divisionBMW MotorsportsBmw7-seriesBmw760iBmw760liBmw7SeriesBmwMBmwMDivisionBmwMotorsportskay seglerKaySeglerm divisionMDivisionsaloonsedanMon, 13 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hot Shot: Another (official) pic of the New Grand Bentley]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/hot-shot-another-official-pic-of-the-new-grand-bentley/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/hot-shot-another-official-pic-of-the-new-grand-bentley/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/hot-shot-another-official-pic-of-the-new-grand-bentley/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The New Grand Bentley - Click above for high-res image gallery

Car magazine has been keeping up on the story of the New Grand Bentley, aided by someone at Crewe who's been snapping illicit shots of the vehicle. This is Bentley's next official photo, however, and unless the British automaker has thrown a MacGuffin into the plot, it appears to contradict one of Car's assertions when speaking of its own spy shots: "It's not clearly visible on these shots, but the rear door handles will be hidden...." Have a look at the high-res photo and you'll see the opposite of a hidden door handle.

According to Car, the "Project Kimberley" Bentley will get a version of the company's long serving 6.75-liter V8 that's "been given a thorough makeover" and all-wheel-drive, but no long-wheebase version. According to us, while it is impossible to be sure, it looks like the trailing edge of the C-pillar might extend beyond the rear window, which would be appealingly Euro-gangster if true.

And if you're keeping track, four of the nine movies are now available for viewing at www.newgrandbentley.com. Remember, though, that we're only about halfway through the marathon tease, so don't expect to see much. You can read more about the car's unveiling at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance next month after the jump.


Gallery: New Grand Bentley


[Source: Bentley]

Continue reading Hot Shot: Another (official) pic of the New Grand Bentley

Hot Shot: Another (official) pic of the New Grand Bentley originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arnagebentleybentley arnageBentleyArnagenew grand bentleyNewGrandBentleypebble beachpebble beach concours delegancePebbleBeachPebbleBeachConcoursDeleganceproject kimberleyProjectKimberleysaloonsedanWed, 08 Jul 2009 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Is this the new Saab 9-5?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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

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

[Source: Saabs United via Autoblog.nl]

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 saab2010 saab 9-52010Saab2010Saab9-59-5estatefrankfurt auto showFrankfurtAutoShowrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationsaabsaab 9-5saab 9-5 wagonSaab9-5Saab9-5Wagonsaloonsedanspy shotsSpyShotswagonMon, 29 Jun 2009 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: The barely there Jaguar XJ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/spy-shots-the-barely-there-jaguar-xj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/spy-shots-the-barely-there-jaguar-xj/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/spy-shots-the-barely-there-jaguar-xj/#commentsFiled under: , ,

A Jaguar XJ mule was trapped on a ferry from Dover and became the unwitting subject of a thorough photo shoot. However, the new flagship sedan from Jag was protected by so much cladding that there isn't much we can glean from the shots except these three things: it has a beautifully crafted, nicely dished three-spoke steering wheel; the Jaguar Drive is finished in the same way as in the XF; and it has a new taillight design.

The All New XJ site also revealed that the sedan will have the "most amazing" Bowers & Wilkins audio system in the world. For more than that, we're going to have to wait until July 9, when the car is officially revealed. In the meantime, check out the spy shots by clicking the image on the right.

[Source: Spyshots.nl]

Spy Shots: The barely there Jaguar XJ originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 jaguar xj2010JaguarXjjaguarjaguar xjJaguarXjsaloonsedanspy shotsSpyShotsxjMon, 22 Jun 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: This is your Aston Martin Rapide]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/spy-shots-this-is-your-aston-martin-rapide/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/spy-shots-this-is-your-aston-martin-rapide/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/20/spy-shots-this-is-your-aston-martin-rapide/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A Car magazine reader has photographed the Aston Martin Rapide looking like it could have come off a dealer lot. The snapper also peeped the inside, which he said has a full-length console a la the Mercedes CLS to create four distinct seating positions. Aston has, however, said that those rear seats are for "children or two adults on shorter journeys." The slinky black number also sports a serious set of pipes out back that we expect to put out a beautiful soundtrack. And thank goodness the car has a hatch like the Vantage, which means -- in a first for current Aston Martins -- it could have a proper trunk. Like the kind you can actually put things in.

[Source: Car]

Spy Shots: This is your Aston Martin Rapide originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Jun 2009 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 aston martin rapide2010AstonMartinRapideaston martinaston martin rapideAstonMartinAstonMartinRapidegtrapidesaloonsedansportsspy shotsSpyShotsSat, 20 Jun 2009 17:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz S-Class mule with PRE-SCAN technology spotted?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-s-class-mule-with-pre-scan-technology-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-s-class-mule-with-pre-scan-technology-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-s-class-mule-with-pre-scan-technology-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

At the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz revealed its F700 concept. In addition to being a big sedan with a tiny gas engine, it also wore a version of Mercedes' PRE-SCAN predictive suspension system. The technology scans the road ahead with a set of lasers mounted next to the headlights, and then optimizes the suspension settings to soak up what's coming.

An S-Class mule in Stuttgart has been caught wearing something that spies suggest could be an evaluation version of the PRE-SCAN system, hinting that a production system is in the not-too-distant future. The spotter said that you could put a glass of wine on the car and drive 50 km/hr and not spill a drop. If true, that would be fantastic. If, at the very least, it made the next S-Class as smooth as the Citroen C6 around a horse track, Mercedes would have another solid achievement on its hands. Hat tip to Paul!


Gallery: Frankfurt 2007: Mercedes-Benz F700 Concept


[Source: Spyshots.nl (translated)]

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz S-Class mule with PRE-SCAN technology spotted? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f700mercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzpre-scansaloonsedanspy shotsSpyShotstechtechnologyMon, 15 Jun 2009 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz ESF S400 Concept's "Braking Bag" in action]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/video-mercedes-benz-esf-s400-concepts-braking-bag-in-action/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/video-mercedes-benz-esf-s400-concepts-braking-bag-in-action/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/14/video-mercedes-benz-esf-s400-concepts-braking-bag-in-action/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mercedes-Benz ESF 2009 - Click above for a high-res gallery. Follow the jump for video.

Mercedes-Benz has built an S400 Hybrid called the Experimental Safety Vehicle (ESF in German) as a rolling jack-in-the-box of the company's safety technology. One of those tech highlights is the braking bag -- the panel under the car in the picture above -- which operates both as an air brake and a support in the event of an accident.

When the PRE-SAFE system detects a crash is imminent, it will deploy an airbag located in the vehicle floor above the front axle carrier. This action will thrust a panel to the ground that, in its most simple form, slows the car down fractionally due to aerodynamic and friction drag.

But the panel is also thrust down forcefully enough to raise the car up 8 centimeters, reducing dive and possibly helping to prevent the car from submarining under an obstacle in front of it. The Mercedes-Benz ESF S400 will be displayed at the Enhanced Safety of Vehicles conference on June 15 in Stuttgart. To learn all about it right now, check out the gallery below, then follow the jump to watch three videos and read MB's excruciatingly-long press release.


Gallery: Mercedes ESF 2009



[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz ESF S400 Concept's "Braking Bag" in action

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz ESF S400 Concept's "Braking Bag" in action originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 14:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept carsConceptCarsmercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzsafetysaloonsedantechtechnologySun, 14 Jun 2009 14:09:00 EST<![CDATA[The house of the Winged B teases the New Grand Bentley [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/the-house-of-the-winged-b-teases-the-new-grand-bentley/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/the-house-of-the-winged-b-teases-the-new-grand-bentley/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/the-house-of-the-winged-b-teases-the-new-grand-bentley/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The New Grand Bentley - Click above for high-res image

Aspiring Thomas Crowns have been waiting for a brand new Bentley to replace the Arnage for too long. Grab your monocles and have a look, chaps - what you see above is an initial taste of "the height of British luxury motoring" and "the purest expression of the Bentley spirit." Simply called the New Grand Bentley, this is what will replace the long-serving Arnage (and its 50-year-old V8?) as Brahmin at the top of the Bentley caste.

What can we discern from this shadowy glimpse? Unless the Photoshopped lighting effects deceive us, the bonnet goes from being a trap hood to a clamshell affair; the fenders lose one of their detail lines; and if the perspective is accurate, we are loving the swept grille. For you purist Anglophiles, be proud: the car has been designed and engineered in Crewe, and will be built there to boot.

Anything more than that will have to wait for the car to debut this summer. In the meantime, you can also visit www.NewGrandBentley.com (which will probably be a glamorous tease served on a silver tray), scrutinize a high-res version of the photo above, and check out a 19-second video clip after the jump.


Gallery: New Grand Bentley


[Source: Bentley]

Continue reading The house of the Winged B teases the New Grand Bentley [w/VIDEO]

The house of the Winged B teases the New Grand Bentley [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arnagebentleybentley arnageBentleyArnagesaloonsedanspy shotSpyShotvideoWed, 10 Jun 2009 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kia recalling 2001-2004 Optima sedans in rust-prone states over subframe corrosion]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/kia-recalling-2001-2004-optima-sedans-in-rust-prone-states-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/kia-recalling-2001-2004-optima-sedans-in-rust-prone-states-over/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/kia-recalling-2001-2004-optima-sedans-in-rust-prone-states-over/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The 2001-2004 Kia Optima is being recalled in several states for corrosion of the front subframe. The recall covers some 36,538 examples sold in the U.S. in the following states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia - all areas typically noted for being high rust threats due to their difficult winters and use of road salt.

According to the recall, internal corrosion of the front subframe can weaken the mounting points near the lower control arm, leading to everything from irregular tire wear to abnormal stress levels in the system that may contribute to a cras.

The recall begins this month, but neither Kia nor NHTSA have outlined a potential fix in the recall notice posted after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Kia recalling 2001-2004 Optima sedans in rust-prone states over subframe corrosion

Kia recalling 2001-2004 Optima sedans in rust-prone states over subframe corrosion originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kiakia optimaKiaOptimanhtsaoptimarecallrustsafetysaloonsedantsbTue, 09 Jun 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Acura TSX V6 offers more power, performance... more car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/first-drive-2010-acura-tsx-v6-offers-more-power-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/first-drive-2010-acura-tsx-v6-offers-more-power-performance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/first-drive-2010-acura-tsx-v6-offers-more-power-performance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Acura TSX V6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Acura has a good thing going in the luxury segment. Unlike Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi - but like Lexus - Acura's best selling car is not its entry-level model: Acura moves more TLs than anything else in its line-up. And unlike those other brands, Lexus included, all of Acura's offerings carry five-star safety ratings from NHTSA, are rated as top safety picks by the IIHS, and the Automotive Lease Guide has declared that Acura offerings have the best resale value among luxury brands. Now, Honda's premium division has grown by one with the addition of the TSX V6, and Autoblog was invited to find out if the new, more powerful sedan could keep the brand's good thing going. Follow the jump to find out.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Acura TSX V6


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.
Shot with a Nikon D70 and Nikon 18-200 lens

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Acura TSX V6 offers more power, performance... more car

First Drive: 2010 Acura TSX V6 offers more power, performance... more car originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuraacura tsxacura tsx v6AcuraTsxAcuraTsxV6Featuredfirst driveFirstDrivesaloonsedantsxtsx v6TsxV6Tue, 09 Jun 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Jaguar UK launches new police package for XF]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/jaguar-uk-launches-new-police-package-for-xf/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/jaguar-uk-launches-new-police-package-for-xf/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/27/jaguar-uk-launches-new-police-package-for-xf/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The long arm of the law now has a cat to stroke with Jaguar's creation of a high performance police pursuit vehicle. It hasn't been commissioned by forces yet, but is apparently under evaluation by UK authorities across the country. The model in question is the new twin-turbo XF Diesel S, a 3.0-liter unit pumping out 275 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque, while still returning 42 British mpg.

The police version XF gets a "police pack" electronics package to power equipment, the radio, and enough lights for several Heathrow runways: a roof-mounted light bar with 3600 light elements, side alley lights, blue and white strobing LEDs in the grille and blue flashing LEDs along the side of the car, along with blue and red flashing LED lights in the rear light clusters. If you ask us, this beats a Ford Crown Vic any day of the week.

[Source: Jaguar]

Jaguar UK launches new police package for XF originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 May 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jaguarpolicesaloonsedanukWed, 27 May 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mercedes <strike>delaying</strike> <i>not delaying</i> E-Class convertible, wagon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/report-mercedes-delaying-e-class-convertible-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/report-mercedes-delaying-e-class-convertible-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/report-mercedes-delaying-e-class-convertible-wagon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

UPDATE: Mercedes wrote us to say that the report of E wagon and cabrio delays is inaccurate, and "the cars are on schedule as planned."



There's a financial swine flu making its way through the car industry. Chrysler caught it and it proved terminal. Porsche was on intensive care for a moment but should recover. And now Mercedes, it turns out, has a runny nose and a little cough. The home of the three-pointed-star is delaying the introduction of the E-Class convertible and wagon in order to save money on development and marketing.

The E-Class convertible was due to be shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this year, but a report states we won't see the car unveiled until the Geneva Motor Show in 2010. In addition to the cash savings, it will also let Mercedes reveal the car much closer to convertible buying season. The E-Class wagon, described as a shooting brake and more design-driven wagon, won't bow until 2012.

The moves will allow Mercedes to stash money from E-Class sedan and coupe sales. It also lets Mercedes focus 2010 on the new CLS, its plans for the V6 Bluetec hybrid and, according to Auto Motor und Sport, a four-cylinder diesel replacement for the S-Class.

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport (translated)]

REPORT: Mercedes delaying not delaying E-Class convertible, wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 May 2009 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>convertiblecoupee-classe-class convertiblse-class coupee-class sedane-class wagonE-classConvertiblsE-classCoupeE-classSedanE-classWagonestatemercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz e-classMercedes-benzE-classsaloonsedanwagonTue, 26 May 2009 09:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Rolls-Royce to double workforce ahead of Ghost production]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/rolls-royce-to-double-workforce-ahead-of-ghost-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/rolls-royce-to-double-workforce-ahead-of-ghost-production/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/21/rolls-royce-to-double-workforce-ahead-of-ghost-production/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Rolls-Royce 200EX Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost will not only mean more sales for the company, it will mean more workers. Rolls is adding 300 production workers to the payroll, bringing its Sussex workforce to 900. The majority of new positions will be in the wood, leather and paint shops, but there will be assembly positions opening up as well since the Ghost gets its own line. It might not be the best time to bring a top-end luxury sedan to market, but it is a very good time to apply for a job, and Rolls wants to fill them over the next few months. If you have a luxurious way with wood, leather, or paint (or all three), you can peruse the job openings on the Rolls-Royce site, www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Rolls-Royce 200EX concept

Rolls-Royce to double workforce ahead of Ghost production originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 May 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britainenglandhiringmanufacturingplantsrolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce silver ghostRolls-royceSilverGhostRollsRoycerr4saloonsedansilver ghostSilverGhostukThu, 21 May 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: Hyundai Equus takes to U.S. streets]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/11/reader-spy-the-hyundai-equus-takes-to-u-s-streets/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/11/reader-spy-the-hyundai-equus-takes-to-u-s-streets/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/11/reader-spy-the-hyundai-equus-takes-to-u-s-streets/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Hyundai Equus - Click above for a high-res gallery

This is the new Hyundai Equus in the steel and on U.S. roads, courtesy of Autoblog reader Alex. Depending on dealer reaction to the car, Hyundai could-maybe-possibly-might bring it to America. If so, we would then find out if Hyundai could do what Volkswagen was incapable of doing with its Phaeton: Charge top-tier money for a top-tier product wearing a lower to (now) mid-market badge.

As for the luxury sedan itself, being fans of the underdog, the Equus makes us go "Hooray, but hmmm..." We understand the need to lure unfamiliar buyers with familiar luxury themes, but we have to chide the Korean automaker for its reliance on Lexus' styling playbook. This is particularly true at the rear, where the taillight line jinks twice and runs to the wheel well, mimicking Lexus' L-Finesse language. Further, the rump wears a copy of Lexus' exhaust pipes and the car is badged the VS 460, which strikes us as a bit too close for comfort.

With Hyundai at least enjoying early signs of success with its upmarket Genesis sedan, perhaps there's room for an even more expensive offering, but early warnings point to a much higher sticker price than the automaker's reigning North American Car of the Year, and it's too soon to analyze the Genny's long-term prospects for success. What do you think... is Hyundai threatening to jump the gun, or is it headed in the right direction?

Gallery: More Hyundai Equus


[Source: Flickr]

Reader Spy: Hyundai Equus takes to U.S. streets originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 May 2009 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 hyundai equus2010HyundaiEquusequushyundaihyundai equusHyundaiEquusLexusluxury carluxury sedanLuxuryCarLuxurySedansaloonsedanMon, 11 May 2009 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class still a solid bet with excellent returns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/05/first-drive-2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-still-a-solid-bet-with-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/05/first-drive-2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-still-a-solid-bet-with-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/05/first-drive-2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-still-a-solid-bet-with-e/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class - Click above for high-res image gallery

With eight generations and 12 million units sold over the last 62 years, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class' longevity represents a profound run of intelligent bets for a premium sedan sold in premium quantities. That makes Las Vegas an appropriate background for last week's introduction of the E-Class sedan, Sin City being home to numerous examples of remarkable endurance. Having been outsold by the BMW 5 Series for the last couple of years in the U.S., Mercedes went all-in on the new E, from design to fabrication to luxury to - of course - technology. To find out what we thought of the gamble, hit the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class still a solid bet with excellent returns

First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class still a solid bet with excellent returns originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 May 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mercedes-benz e-class2010Mercedes-benzE-classe classe class coupee-classe350e550EClassEClassCoupefeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivemercedesmercedes benzmercedes e classmercedes e coupemercedes e-classmercedes e-class coupemercedes e350mercedes e550mercedes e63 amgmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesE-classMercedesE-classCoupeMercedesE350MercedesE550MercedesE63AmgMercedesEClassMercedesECoupesaloonsedanTue, 05 May 2009 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Re-Spec Yourself: Porsche Panamera configurator appears]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/re-spec-yourself-porsche-panamera-configurator-appears/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/re-spec-yourself-porsche-panamera-configurator-appears/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/27/re-spec-yourself-porsche-panamera-configurator-appears/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The 2009 Porsche Panamera - Click above for a high-res gallery

With the launch of the Porsche Panamera configurator, you can finally build the sedan from Stuttgart to your own specs. Starting with an untouched 500 hp, $132,600 Turbo model that scoots to sixty in just four seconds, we came up with the $181,170 Mahogany Metallic example above. Even though we left a great many options unchecked and some imaginary money in our imaginary wallet, we're sure it will still perform impressively. Sadly, though, there was no button marked "Make the backside pretty." Hat tip to Evan.


Gallery: Porsche Panamera Tech Briefing and First Ride

Re-Spec Yourself: Porsche Panamera configurator appears originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Apr 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>configuratorgtpanamerapanamera configuratorPanameraConfiguratorporscheporsche panameraporsche panamera configuratorPorschePanameraPorschePanameraConfiguratorsaloonsedansportsMon, 27 Apr 2009 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Audi Q7 V12 TDI versus BMW M5]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/25/video-audi-q7-v12-tdi-versus-bmw-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/25/video-audi-q7-v12-tdi-versus-bmw-m5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/25/video-audi-q7-v12-tdi-versus-bmw-m5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click above to watch the Audi Q7 V12 TDI take on the BMW M5

Autocar decided to find out which was faster among two unlikely bedfellows sharing one common trait: 500 horsepower. In one lane you've got the BMW M5, with ten petrol-powered cylinders. In the adjacent lane there's the Q7 V12 TDI, with twelve oil-burning cylinders. The M5 is much lighter. The Q7 has Quattro. And being England, of course it's wet. Follow the jump to see who won and by how much.

Continue reading VIDEO: Audi Q7 V12 TDI versus BMW M5

VIDEO: Audi Q7 V12 TDI versus BMW M5 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 25 Apr 2009 12:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi q7 v12 tdiAudiQ7V12Tdiautocarbmwbmw m5BmwM5drag raceDragRaceetcm5q7 v12 tdiQ7V12TdisaloonsedansportssuvukvideoSat, 25 Apr 2009 12:24:00 EST