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[Brazil becoming a major world market for automakers... again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/brazil-becoming-a-major-world-market-for-automakers-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/brazil-becoming-a-major-world-market-for-automakers-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/brazil-becoming-a-major-world-market-for-automakers-again/#commentsFiled under: ,

Brazilian flag

Brazil is now the world's fourth-largest national automotive market.

If your image of Brazil has anything to do with "The Girl from Ipanema" played by 1,001 Strings, you may be a little out of date. The country that will host the 2016 Summer Olympics has come a long way since the dawn of the bossa nova craze a half century ago, though it still has plenty of nagging problems left to deal with.

The recent Sao Paulo Auto Show provided one clear clue as to how much things have changed in recent years. When I first visited Brazil 15 years ago, the vehicles available to Brazilian motorists were, for the most part, decades out of date - common practice among automakers like Ford, Volkswagen and General Motors, who would dump generations-old tooling into these backwater markets rather than anything close to new.

Today, however, Brazilians motorists are likely to get the latest and greatest. Indeed, October's Sao Paulo show gave local buyers - and the rest of the world - a look at a number of all-new offerings, some designed specifically for the Portugese-speaking nations, others for global markets, such as the next-generation Ford Fiesta sedan. Significantly, the new model will land in Brazilian showrooms well before it reaches dealers here in the States.

Paul EisensteinPaul A. Eisenstein is Publisher of TheDetroitBureau.com and a 30-year veteran of the automotive beat. His editorials bring his unique perspective and deep understanding of the auto world to Autoblog readers on a regular basis.

Continue reading Brazil becoming a major world market for automakers... again

Brazil becoming a major world market for automakers... again originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbrazilfordgmnissansao paulosao paulo auto showTue, 06 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20367878/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/06/brazil-becoming-a-major-world-market-for-automakers-again/20367878/article-detail.xml 20367878 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/dv269047c-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/dv269047c-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Troller R-X Concept is a Brazilian Ford Bronco for the new age]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/27/troller-r-x-concept-is-a-brazilian-ford-bronco-for-the-new-age/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/27/troller-r-x-concept-is-a-brazilian-ford-bronco-for-the-new-age/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/27/troller-r-x-concept-is-a-brazilian-ford-bronco-for-the-new-age/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Troller R-X Concept (Brazil)

Until Ford bought it in 2007, Troller was an independent Brazilian brand that made the T4 and the Pantanal pickup. The T4, still in production, looks like a Jeep Wrangler hooked up with an old Ssangyong Korando and a snorkel. With Ford blood coursing through its design offices, the TR-X concept shown off at the São Paulo Auto Show looks like a Wrangler hooked up with an old Bronco and Toyota FJ Cruiser behind one of the booths at SEMA.

The TR-X is said to symbolize the essence of Toller, and while it hasn't been approved for production, we have a feeling that an appropriate response from the Brazilian public could give it a chance of seeing daylight. There's a press release below, as well as a couple of high-res photos.

Continue reading Troller R-X Concept is a Brazilian Ford Bronco for the new age

Troller R-X Concept is a Brazilian Ford Bronco for the new age originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 27 Oct 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brazilfordsao paulosao paulo auto showtr-xtr-x concepttrollertroller tr-x conceptSat, 27 Oct 2012 14:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20362880/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/27/troller-r-x-concept-is-a-brazilian-ford-bronco-for-the-new-age/20362880/article-detail.xml 20362880 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/trollertr4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/trollertr4.jpg <![CDATA[Ford shows updated 2013 Fiesta sedan in Brazil]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/ford-shows-updated-2013-fiesta-sedan-in-brazil/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/ford-shows-updated-2013-fiesta-sedan-in-brazil/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/ford-shows-updated-2013-fiesta-sedan-in-brazil/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Very few cars showing up at this year's São Paulo Motor Show have relevance to the US market, but the refreshed 2013 Ford Fiesta sedan certainly does. The Paris Motor Show has already given us a look at the global styling of the 2013 Fiesta hatchback, and now we get to see what changes are in store for the four-door version of the car. Although this updated global design is for the 2013 model year, these changes will wait until the 2014 model year for the US-spec Fiesta.

As expected, the 2013 Fiesta gets a healthy dose of Ford's latest design language, the restyled car gets a very similar appearance to the 2013 Fusion starting with the narrowed headlights, powerdome hood and the Aston Martin-inspired grille. Ford also did some cosmetic work to the rear of the Fiesta sedan with reshaped taillights to go along with a new decklid and fascia design. There were no images released for the new sedan, but the 2013 hatchback received minor upgrades including a new gauge cluster, steering wheel and door panels.

Ford also failed to provide any press release for the new Fiesta sedan we can only imagine that it would have similar upgrades of the hatchback we saw in Paris last month. Some of these highlights include the new EcoBoost three-cylinder engine and Active City Stop crash mitigation technology. We would expect to see both versions of the revised US-spec Fiesta to debut early next year.

Ford shows updated 2013 Fiesta sedan in Brazil originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fiesta2013 ford fiesta sedanfiestafiesta sedanfordsao paulo auto showsao paulo motor showTue, 23 Oct 2012 16:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20358284/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/23/ford-shows-updated-2013-fiesta-sedan-in-brazil/20358284/article-detail.xml 20358284 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-ford-fiesta-sedan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2013-ford-fiesta-sedan.jpg <![CDATA[Renault shows DCross Concept in Brazil]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/renault-shows-dcross-concept-in-brazil/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/renault-shows-dcross-concept-in-brazil/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/renault-shows-dcross-concept-in-brazil/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The São Paulo Motor Show continues to heat up and bring us interesting new vehicle unveilings. Next year, we may have to tough it out and trek down to Brazil for the 28th edition of the auto show. The most recent development from São Paulo is the Renault DCross concept. In what appears to be a gussied-up Dacia Duster, the DCross gets a bright green and matte black paint scheme, a raised ride height, roof racks and a spare tire atop the concept. If off-roading is your thing, the DCross, at the very least, looks the part.

Little else is given in details other than what we can gather from the photos. The concept, which catches the eye far more in the live shots than in the OEM image, was joined on the Renault stand by the Fluence GT, Clio 2013, and Captur concept.

Will this concept predict the future for a Renault SUV/CUV? We're not sure, but its bullish looks seem ready for the Dakar Rally. The 2013 edition of Dakar is not until May of 2013, but the DCross already has us thinking of the grueling endurance race, held Peru, Chile and neighboring Argentina. Read up on Renault's debuts from Brazil in the press release below.

Continue reading Renault shows DCross Concept in Brazil

Renault shows DCross Concept in Brazil originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brazilcrossoverdakardcrossoff-roadrenaultrenault dcrosssao paulo auto showsuvTue, 23 Oct 2012 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20357863/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/23/renault-shows-dcross-concept-in-brazil/20357863/article-detail.xml 20357863 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/renault-dcross-concept-628-1351002764_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/renault-dcross-concept-628-1351002764.jpg <![CDATA[Acura NSX production car headed for Detroit debut?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/acura-nsx-production-car-headed-for-detroit-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/acura-nsx-production-car-headed-for-detroit-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/acura-nsx-production-car-headed-for-detroit-debut/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Acura NSX Show Car

Auto Express is reporting that Honda is set to unveil the production version of its upcoming Acura NSX at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show. The news comes courtesy of an unnamed "top exec" for Honda Brazil speaking at the Sao Paulo Motor Show. The concept version of the Japanese supercar is currently on display there. Interestingly enough, the same unnamed source claims the production iteration will remain aesthetically identical to the show car. You won't hear any qualms from us on that front.

Of course, the timing of the production debut is a little confusing. For starters, when Acura unveiled the concept last year, the company told the world it would be at least three years before production began. That would give the street-worthy model a 2014 or 2015 designation, the latter being cited more often in media accounts. Thus, we'll keep an eye out for the hybrid supercar in Motown, but we're going to stop short of holding our breath... it might be a while.

Acura NSX production car headed for Detroit debut? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto show2015 acura nsxacuraacura nsxdetroit auto showhondansxsao paulo auto showTue, 23 Oct 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20357824/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/23/acura-nsx-production-car-headed-for-detroit-debut/20357824/article-detail.xml 20357824 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/acura-nsx-show-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/acura-nsx-show-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo to reveal V60 Racing in 850 BTC racer tribute livery at São Paulo Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/volvo-to-reveal-v60-racing-in-850-btc-racer-tribute-livery-at-sa/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/volvo-to-reveal-v60-racing-in-850-btc-racer-tribute-livery-at-sa/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/23/volvo-to-reveal-v60-racing-in-850-btc-racer-tribute-livery-at-sa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Volvo V60 Racing teaser

Though its reputation here in the States has been built almost solely on its reputation for safety, Volvo has so much racing heritage that it can realistically create tributes to some of the most historic racing vehicles in its 85-year history. The latest competition-ready Volvo will be on display at the São Paulo Auto Show in Brazil on October 23rd.

Based on the Volvo V60 wagon, the imaginatively named V60 Racing will show off new livery in tribute to the classic 850 models that competed in the British Touring Car Championship in the 1990s. Though it's only being teased at this point, we're expecting a predominately blue and white paint job with a few splashes of yellow.

As cool as it may be, we don't expect to see any road-going V60 models wearing BTCC-inspired livery here in the States. That said, feel free to click on the image above for an enlarged view.

Volvo to reveal V60 Racing in 850 BTC racer tribute livery at São Paulo Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british touring car championshipbtccsao paulo auto showv60v60 racingvolvovolvo 850volvo v60 racingTue, 23 Oct 2012 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20356789/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/23/volvo-to-reveal-v60-racing-in-850-btc-racer-tribute-livery-at-sa/20356789/article-detail.xml 20356789 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/volvo-v60-racing-teaser_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/volvo-v60-racing-teaser.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy unveils Onix subcompact hatchback in Brazil]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/chevy-unveils-onix-subcompact-hatchback-in-brazil/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/chevy-unveils-onix-subcompact-hatchback-in-brazil/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/chevy-unveils-onix-subcompact-hatchback-in-brazil/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Chevrolet Onyx

The Sao Paulo Auto Show is in full swing, and General Motors has chosen the event to showcase the manufacturer's newest subcompact, the Onix. Penned specifically for the Brazilian market, the little creation rides on the same platform as the Chevrolet Sonic and Buick Encore. Buyers can look forward to sinking their teeth into a 1.4-liter, four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission as well as a MyLink infotainment system.

GM is on a war path to expand its B-segment offerings in South America, and the Onix is the latest fruit of those efforts. The manufacturer has shoveled $5 billion into Brazil since 2008, according to CEO Dan Akerson, and the Onix was entirely engineered and designed in the country. Brazil is the third largest market for GM products outside of the US and China.

Chevy unveils Onix subcompact hatchback in Brazil originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto showbrazilchevroletchevrolet onyxgeneral motorsgmonyxsao paulosao paulo auto showMon, 22 Oct 2012 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20356991/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/22/chevy-unveils-onix-subcompact-hatchback-in-brazil/20356991/article-detail.xml 20356991 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/chevrolet-onyx-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/chevrolet-onyx-628.jpg <![CDATA[VW shows Taigun small CUV at São Paulo motor show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/vw-shows-taigun-small-cuv-at-sao-paulo-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/vw-shows-taigun-small-cuv-at-sao-paulo-motor-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/vw-shows-taigun-small-cuv-at-sao-paulo-motor-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Volkswagen Taigun small crossover concept - front three-quarter view, blue

We didn't have to wait very long for recent reports of a new small Volkswagen crossover to come true... well, sort of. In a side note to our report on a seven-passenger VW CUV last week, we also mentioned the possibility of a new sub-Tiguan crossover, and we may have gotten our first look at such a vehicle courtesy of this Volkswagen Taigun Concept that is debuting at the São Paulo motor show.

Although the Taigun Concept suggests that VW has all but given up on imbuing its new vehicles with comprehensible names, this new softroader also looks to balance practicality and fuel economy. With a slightly smaller footprint than the current Golf, the Taigun actually has more interior space (including more front headroom), but it's the powertrain that could really make this B-segment CUV standout if it sees production. Using a small gasoline 1.0-liter direct-injected and turbocharged three-cylinder under the hood, the Taigun Concept still has pretty respectable small car numbers, generating 108 horsepower and 129 pound-feet of torque. However, the true beauty of this engine is that VW puts its fuel economy numbers at 4.7 liters per 100 kilometers - around 50 miles per gallon on the EU cycle.

Even the styling of the Taigun shows that VW's current design language looks good on just about any size, with its boxy shape and short overhangs, but the automaker says that it is using Brazil's emerging auto show to gauge interest for such a vehicle before making any decisions as to whether or not to put it into production.

For more info on VW's latest concept, check out the official press release below.

Continue reading VW shows Taigun small CUV at São Paulo motor show

VW shows Taigun small CUV at São Paulo motor show originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen taigun concept2012 vw taigun conceptconcept carssao paulosao paulo auto showtaigunvolkswagenvwMon, 22 Oct 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20356753/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/22/vw-shows-taigun-small-cuv-at-sao-paulo-motor-show/20356753/article-detail.xml 20356753 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/volkswagen-taigun-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/volkswagen-taigun-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan showing Extrem new crossover in São Paulo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/nissan-showing-extrem-new-crossover-in-sao-paulo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/nissan-showing-extrem-new-crossover-in-sao-paulo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/22/nissan-showing-extrem-new-crossover-in-sao-paulo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Nissan Extrem crossover concept - front three-quarter view

Less than a week ago, Nissan teased us with what it called a "high character" concept to be unveiled in São Paulo, Brazil this weekend. We were skeptical, suggesting the concept might be less than sporty considering the show's traditional emphasis on inexpensive workaday iron.

Well, look who's surprised! The Nissan Extrem concept is indeed a "high character" concept and, as the Japanese automaker says, "a radical concept car aimed squarely at young (and young-at-heart) car enthusiasts keen to make a statement."

"We call it Baby Beast," says Robert Bauer, senior design manager for the project at Nissan Design America. We see it as an urban rally car, a tough little street fighter that can handle the urban jungle with agility and confidence."

Wraparound glass and a "see-through" A-pillar reminiscent of Volvo's Safety Car Concept (circa 2001) are interesting features that could enhance safety, while overlapping body panels "create a feeling of layered armored toughness."

Such a vehicle could definitely compete with the similarly styled Veloster from Hyundai. But with its higher ground clearance and possible all-wheel-drive, the Extreme could offer a light-use off-road alternative. If anything, the Extrem is arguably most similar to Nissan's own Juke, albeit with fewer doors.

The Extrem concept is built on Nissan's V-platform, which is also used on its March supermini, albeit with larger dimensions. The Extrem is larger in every exterior dimension except wheelbase, as it retains the March's 96.4-inch track.

According to Nissan, power "would come" from the company's 1.6-liter, direct injection, turbocharged engine - an engine also seen in the Juke.

The company's press release (available below) cautions us not to expect the Extrem to make it into production any time soon, though.

Continue reading Nissan showing Extrem new crossover in São Paulo

Nissan showing Extrem new crossover in São Paulo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brazilextrem conceptnissannissan extremnissan extrem conceptsao paulosao paulo auto showMon, 22 Oct 2012 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20356718/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/22/nissan-showing-extrem-new-crossover-in-sao-paulo/20356718/article-detail.xml 20356718 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2012-extrem-concept-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/2012-extrem-concept-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan renders new concept car for Sao Paulo show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/nissan-renders-new-concept-car-for-sao-paulo-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/nissan-renders-new-concept-car-for-sao-paulo-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/nissan-renders-new-concept-car-for-sao-paulo-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Nissan has teased the automotive world with a "high-character" concept it will reveal later this month in Brazil.

The two fragments we get seem to show a look, sleek sports coupe or hatch with multiple openings in the lower front and behind the front fender. In back, the hint of a Veloster-like glass hatch is evident above wildly-styled taillights.

It's fun to imagine a small, sporty alternative to the Juke, but alas, keeping in mind the venue where it is to be unveiled, we expect a more pedestrian vehicle with economy, not handling, in mind.

In a press release (available below), Nissan's Senior VP and Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura says the concept will "dazzle."

"It is a genuinely new and exciting concept, and it will explode with energetic design and impressive color that fully express our impression toward the country." He continues, "When our designers arrived in Brazil to start work on the project, they loved the vibrancy and passion of the country but were a little surprised in the rather conservative colors of the cars on the streets... they all seemed to be monochrome - silver or black."

The Sao Paulo International Motor Show begins October 24 and runs through November 4.

Continue reading Nissan renders new concept car for Sao Paulo show

Nissan renders new concept car for Sao Paulo show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Oct 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nissannissan conceptsao paulo auto showWed, 17 Oct 2012 17:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20352538/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/17/nissan-renders-new-concept-car-for-sao-paulo-show/20352538/article-detail.xml 20352538 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/nissan-concept-brazil-2012-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/nissan-concept-brazil-2012-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Onix hatchback spotted ahead of S. American reveal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/chevy-onix-hatchback-spotted-ahead-of-s-american-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/chevy-onix-hatchback-spotted-ahead-of-s-american-reveal/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/03/chevy-onix-hatchback-spotted-ahead-of-s-american-reveal/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chevy Onix leaked image



General Motors Brazil is getting ready to introduce the all-new Chevrolet Onix later this month at the 27th São Paulo International Automobile Trade Show, and while GM released a few teaser images of the new hatchback, AutosSegredos managed to dig up some full images of the car. As pixilated and blurry as these pictures are, we do get a good look at what looks to be an attractive small hatchback that will almost certainly never be sold in the North America.

According to the article, the Onix rides on GM's Gamma II Global Small Vehicle platform (shared with Chevrolet Spark and Chevrolet Sonic), so we aren't really brokenhearted that we won't be seeing this car here. We can't help but note that the Onix also rides on a platform related to the one underneath the 2013 Chevrolet Trax, a cute ute we would rather see in America instead of its costlier counterpart, the Buick Encore. In terms of styling, we would put the Onix somewhere in between the goofy-looking Spark and the aggressive Sonic with a handsome design that is punctuated by diamond-shaped headlights and sharp lines starting with the hood and continuing along the sides of the body. The front view of the Onix is unmistakably Chevrolet, but the rear strikes us as a bit... Mazda2.

The Onix will help introduce Chevrolet's MyLink infotainment system and it will also be one of the few cars in its class to offer a six-speed automatic transmission.

To see more pictures of the new Chevrolet Onix, be sure to head over to AutosSegredos or check out GM Brazil's official teaser images in our gallery. Scroll down to read the press release (loosely translated by Google Translate), or if you're in São Paulo, the Onix will be on display at the auto show that runs from October 21 through Nov 4.

Continue reading Chevy Onix hatchback spotted ahead of S. American reveal

Chevy Onix hatchback spotted ahead of S. American reveal originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Oct 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 chevrolet onixchevroletchevychevy do brazilgeneral motors brazilgm brazilgm do brazilonixsao paulo auto showWed, 03 Oct 2012 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20339550/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/03/chevy-onix-hatchback-spotted-ahead-of-s-american-reveal/20339550/article-detail.xml 20339550 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/chevrolet-onix-brazil_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/chevrolet-onix-brazil.jpg <![CDATA[Renault unveils Sandero Stepway concept in Brazil]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/02/renault-unveils-sandero-stepway-concept-in-brazil/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/02/renault-unveils-sandero-stepway-concept-in-brazil/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/02/renault-unveils-sandero-stepway-concept-in-brazil/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Renault Sandero Stepway Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've ever heard of the Dacia Sandero, it's probably from Clarkson teasing James May about it on Top Gear. The no-nonsense, bare-bones hatchback - sold alternatively as a Renault in markets where its budget subsidiary Dacia doesn't exist - is a favorite of Captain Slow.

In South America, the Sandero also comes as a crossover version called the Stepway, and taller though it is, it's just as decidedly spartan. That didn't stop Renault from drumming up some excitement over the budget range, however, with the show car you see here.

Envisioned as a successor to the current model and closer to a junior Duster, the Sandero Stepway Concept dials up the glitz factor just a touch with a sporty body kit, three-tone paint scheme and enough blue LEDs to light up the trendiest of night clubs. Also, some flower decals... for some reason. The result is something akin to a futuristic cup of cappuccino, and you can check it out in further detail in the high-resolution image gallery below.


Gallery: Renault Sandero Stepway Concept


[Source: Renault]

Renault unveils Sandero Stepway concept in Brazil originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Fiat Uno Cabriolet Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've traveled overseas and seen the tiny Fiat Panda zipping around town, you'd probably scratch your head in bewilderment as to how much more "no frills" a car could get. Well, the Fiat Uno is your answer. Like the Fiat 500, the Uno is built atop the same chassis as the Panda, but unlike the retro-hatch with its cutesy charm, the Uno is all about getting back to basics. But even basic cars can get an added dose of excitement..."excitement" here being used as a relative term.

The Uno is built by Fiat's South American unit for the Brazilian market where the Italian automaker is, in more ways than one, a driving force. And for the Sao Paulo Auto Show currently under way there, Fiat unveiled two sporty(er) versions of the little economy car.

The more exciting of the two is the Uno Cabriolet, which receives modified bodywork in a roadster style with two seats, a molded cowl, an aggressive aero kit and 17-inch wheels. Under the hood resides a 1.4-liter turbo four producing 152 horsepower, which is a whopping figure for a car that looks like it could fit in your shirt pocket.

Unfortunately the Uno Carbio is strictly a showcar for the time being, but while they were at it, Fiat also took the occasion to introduce the new Uno Sporting, pictured at right. The new (production) trim level packs an 85-horsepower 1.4-liter engine, a sport suspension lowered by 20mm and it rides on 15-inch alloys. A special body kit, badges, interior trim and unique shade of orange paint round out the package, which you can see for yourself in the gallery below.


Gallery: Fiat Uno Cabriolet Concept


Gallery: Fiat Uno Sporting


[Source: Fiat]

Fiat boosts Uno with Cabriolet concept and Sporting trim in Sao Paulo originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brazilfiatfiat unofiat uno cabriofiat uno cabrio conceptfiat uno cabrioletfiat uno cabriolet conceptfiat uno conceptfiat uno sportingsao pauloSao Paulo Auto ShowunoThu, 28 Oct 2010 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19692937/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/28/fiat-boosts-uno-with-cabriolet-concept-and-sporting-trim-in-sao/19692937/article-detail.xml 19692937 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-1-unocab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-1-unocab.jpg <![CDATA[Rossin-Bertin Vorax guns for entry into supercar club with BMW V10 power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/25/rossin-bertin-vorax-guns-for-entry-into-supercar-club-with-bmw-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/25/rossin-bertin-vorax-guns-for-entry-into-supercar-club-with-bmw-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/25/rossin-bertin-vorax-guns-for-entry-into-supercar-club-with-bmw-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Rossin-Bertin Vorax
Rossin-Bertin Vorax - Click above for image gallery

Wiesmann may have been forced to switch from V10 power to the new twin-turbo V8 for their top-of-the-line MF5, but a Brazilian upstart apparently thinks it can secure an adequate supply of ten-cylinder BMW engines even after they're discontinued. That's what's powering the vehicle you see here.

The Rossin-Bertin Vorax is set to debut at the São Paulo Auto Show later this month. It features a carbon fiber body over an aluminum chassis, cradling the Bavarian ten-pot in two states of trim: naturally aspirated with 570 horsepower, or supercharged with 750. The former is said to be good for a 3.8-second 0-62 mph time and a 205 mph top end. The latter marginally improves the acceleration time to 3.6 despite its 180-horse boost, but supposedly raises the top end to 231 mph. Of course, those figures are likely theoretical, as the vehicle appears to exist only in renderings at the moment.

Bankrolled by meat industry scion Natolino Bertin, Jr. and realized by former General Motors designer Fharys Rossin, the Vorax coupe is targeted to hit the market late 2011 or early 2012. A convertible version is slated to follow a year later, with overall production targeted at 500-1000 units in all and prices hovering around $400k.


Gallery: Rossin-Bertin Vorax


[Sources: Argentina Auto Blog, Carscoop]

Rossin-Bertin Vorax guns for entry into supercar club with BMW V10 power originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bertinbrazilFharys RossinJrNatolino Bertinnatolino bertin jrrossinRossin-Bertin Voraxsao paulosao paulo auto showSão PaulovoraxMon, 25 Oct 2010 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19687639/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/25/rossin-bertin-vorax-guns-for-entry-into-supercar-club-with-bmw-v/19687639/article-detail.xml 19687639 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-rossin-bertin-vorax-1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/web630-rossin-bertin-vorax-1.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: GM debuts Chevy GPiX Concept in Sao Paulo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/officially-official-gm-debuts-chevy-gpix-concept-in-sao-paulo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/officially-official-gm-debuts-chevy-gpix-concept-in-sao-paulo/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/officially-official-gm-debuts-chevy-gpix-concept-in-sao-paulo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Chevy GPiX Concept

General Motors officially debuted the GPiX Concept, which we previewed for you last week, at the Sao Paulo Auto Show in Brazil yesterday. It was designed entirely by GM Design in Brazil but retains those corporate styling cues that make it instantly recognizable as a modern Chevy around the world. This two-door crossover has a bit of ground clearance for what GM calls "the types of roads and conditions found in emerging markets." We think that means no roads and poor conditions. There's no mention of what powers the GPiX concept, though we assume it's either A) not a runner, B) has a fictional super efficient prototype powertrain underhood or C) uses a four-cylinder gas motor capable of running on E100 ethanol. GM also says that the GPiX could be a potential new segment for the automaker in South America, but in these tough times we doubt it's really interested in developing a solo vehicle for a single market. You can check out more high-res pics of the GPiX concept in the gallery below and read GM's official press release after the jump.

Gallery: Chevy GPiX Concept


[Source: GM]

Continue reading Officially Official: GM debuts Chevy GPiX Concept in Sao Paulo

Officially Official: GM debuts Chevy GPiX Concept in Sao Paulo originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevy gpixchevy gpix conceptChevyGpixChevyGpixConceptgpixsao paolosao paulosao paulo auto showsao paulo motorshowSaoPaoloSaoPauloSaoPauloAutoShowSaoPauloMotorshowTue, 28 Oct 2008 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/1354695/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2008/10/28/officially-official-gm-debuts-chevy-gpix-concept-in-sao-paulo/1354695/article-detail.xml 1354695 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/10/00_gpixconcepta_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/10/00_gpixconcepta_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler/Nissan partnership bears fruit in South America: the Dodge Trazo C1.8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/chrysler-nissan-partnership-bears-fruit-the-dodge-trazo-c1-8/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/chrysler-nissan-partnership-bears-fruit-the-dodge-trazo-c1-8/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/28/chrysler-nissan-partnership-bears-fruit-the-dodge-trazo-c1-8/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Dodge Trazo C1.8

Early this year Chrysler and Nissan formed a partnership to share products. The big news at the time was that Nissan would be replacing its Titan pickup with a version of the Dodge Ram. But before that deal went down, the two automakers from different continents had already agreed on a partnership that would see the Nissan Versa sold in some South American markets as a Dodge. Today Dodge unveiled that vehicle at the Sao Paulo Auto Show in Brazil as the Trazo C1.8 sedan. It is a direct port of the Nissan Versa we know in the U.S. and the Tiida sold in Japan, though will only be offered as a sedan in South America and not as a five-door hatchback. As far as we can tell, not a body panel or interior appointment has been changed, save for new Trazo badging and slightly different black plastic grille. We couldn't even find a Dodge logo on the car's exterior. The Trazo's engine also appears to be the same 1.8L four-cylinder used in the Versa that's been made E100 ethanol-capable for South American markets. Reading the press release from Dodge after the jump is a bit trippy, as we've never heard one automaker speak so flowery about another automaker's product. If Chrysler thinks the Trazo is so good, should we buy the Versa instead of the Caliber in the U.S.?

Gallery: Dodge Trazo C1.8


[Source: Dodge]

Continue reading Chrysler/Nissan partnership bears fruit in South America: the Dodge Trazo C1.8

Chrysler/Nissan partnership bears fruit in South America: the Dodge Trazo C1.8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for high-res gallery of the Renault Sanderos Sand'up Concept

Renault has thankfully brought more to the Sao Paulo Auto Show than just an F1 edition of its inexpensive Dacia Sandero with racy decals and a bodykit. The other car in its display is another Sandero, but this one is much cooler. Called the Sandero Sand'up concept, it's a 2+2 beach runabout that can go from a closed hard-top coupe to a convertible pickup thanks to its modular design. While not the freshest idea to appear on a concept, the Sand'up is charming enough with its big wheel arches, satin nickel roof rail arches and see-through doors. The first concept by Renault to be designed entirely in South America, the Sand'up is not surprisingly powered by a 1.6L Hi-Flex engine that produces 107 hp on gasoline and 112 hp on ethanol, the latter of which is a more popular fuel below the equator than above at the moment.

Gallery: Renault Sandero Sand'up Concept


[Source: Renault]

Renault debuts Sandero Sand'up concept in Sao Paulo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 27 Oct 2008 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for gallery of the Chevy GPiX Concept

The Sao Paulo Auto Show is shaping up to be more interesting than we thought, but that's no surprise considering how important the South American market is to automakers. As such, Chevy will be revealing a new concept in Brazil called the GPiX that will reportedly inspire a new line of vehicles to replace the Corsa on sale there now. The new line will include sedan, hatchback and truck variants, as well as a small crossover not unlike the GPiX concept itself. While the rear end looks something like that of a Suzuki SX4, the front clip of the GPiX is all Chevy with the now familiar split corporate grille. We do, however, really like the vertical stack of LED lights that flank the long air intake on the lower bumper. We should have more details and high-res images of the GPiX concept after its official debut on Monday at the Sao Paulo Auto Show, so stay tuned.

Gallery: Chevy GPiX Concept


[Source: Motor Tips via World Car Fans]

Leakage: Chevrolet GPiX concept to debut in Sao Paulo originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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