Autoblog

Autoblog Podcast #279

Dan Roth — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:40:00 EST

Filed under: Podcasts, BMW, Infiniti, Lamborghini, Mini, Scion, Beijing Motor Show, Diesel

Lamborghini Urus, Beijing Motor Show, Scion xB and xD dropped, diesel vehicle sales up

Episode #279 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Chris, Dan, and Chris Paukert are joined by the phenomenon that is Jim Hall of 2953 Analytics to chat about the Lamborghini Urus, the Beijing Motor Show, the end of the Scion xB and xD, and the uptick in diesel vehicle sales. Your questions and comments power the end of the 'cast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #279:

In the Autoblog Garage
2012 Infiniti G37XS Coupe
2012 BMW 328i
Long-Term 2011 Mini Cooper S Countryman

Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Chris Paukert

Runtime: 01:50:38

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #279

Autoblog Podcast #279 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Pandora integration comes to the 2012 Scion xB

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Technology, Hatchback, Scion, Infotainment

The 2012 Scion xB will begin rolling into dealerships next month, and while there's not much in the way of upgrades to the exterior, interior or powertrain, two new stereo options are included in the boxy package.

The standard xB's Pioneer head unit is now equipped with HD Radio, allowing stations to broadcast multiple audio feeds over one frequency. If nothing's playing to suit your tastes, standard Bluetooth audio streaming is included in the package, along with hands-free phone connectivity and USB audio support for iPods, iPhones and other MP3 players.

If you opt for the new 200-watt Pioneer Premium audio system, the standard OEL screen is replaced with a 5.8-inch LCD touchscreen equipped with iTunes tagging and the ability to stream Pandora internet radio directly from your iPhone.

Pricing for the 2012 xB is set at $16,300 for the five-speed manual version and $17,250 for the four-speed automatic (not including the $720 destination fee) - an increase of $300 for the manual model and $300 for the automatic. Full details in the press blast after the break.

Continue reading Pandora integration comes to the 2012 Scion xB

Pandora integration comes to the 2012 Scion xB originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Consumer Reports picks best used cars for teens [w/video]

Aaron Richardson — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedan, Safety, Videos, Acura, Ford, Hyundai, Mazda, Volkswagen

2011 Consumer Reports best cars for teens - Click above for high-res image gallery of the picks

Letting a 16-year-old loose on the world behind the wheel of a couple of tons of metal is a terrifying thought. Statistically, teens are more likely to die in a car accident than by any other means, and, most of the time, those accidents are avoidable.

To make picking a car for your teen easier, Consumer Reports has come up with a list of relatively new, relatively cheap options to keep your kids safe while they ~~bomb around with five of their friends~~ make the commute between school, work and home.

As you may imagine, CR recommends a family sedan that packs in as many modern safety features as you can afford, including stability control, ABS, traction control and side curtain air bags. They eschew trucks and SUVs due to their comparatively poor handling, high centers of gravity and bad gas mileage. Don't even go there with sports cars.

Consumer Reports prime choices are as follows: the Acura TSX, the 2009 and up Ford Focus, the 2007 and up Hyundai Sonata or Hyundai Elantra, 2007 and up Mazda3, 2008 and on Scion xB, and both the 2007 and up Volkswagen Jetta and Rabbit/Golf. Click past the jump for a video of CR's choices.

Gallery: 2011 Consumer Reports best cars for teens

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Consumer Reports picks best used cars for teens [w/video]

Consumer Reports picks best used cars for teens [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 dabbles in Voodoo

Jeff Glucker — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:27:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Wagon, Crossover, Scion, Toyota

LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just as the sun always sets in the west, we can always count on a limited-edition Scion xB to pop up at a North American auto show. This year, that honor falls on the 2010 LA Auto Show and the Scion in question is the 2011 xB Release Series 8.0. Surprise!

Standing out on the show floor thanks to its brilliant VooDoo Blue paint job, the 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 is the latest in a line of low-run examples of the boxy, compact wagon. Scion is producing just 2,000 units of the xB RS 8.0, and all of them feature an aggressive front fascia and RS 8.0 logos throughout the interior. The TRD wheels are also available but as an optional extra.

Pricing is set at $18,405 for the manual transmission-equipped xB or $19,355 for the auto gearbox. That price also features a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, which, along with the VooDoo Blue paint, is not available on the standard xB. Check out our high-res image gallery of live shots below and the full set of details after the break.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeff Glucker / AOL

[Source: Scion]

Continue reading LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 dabbles in Voodoo

LA 2010: 2011 Scion xB Release Series 8.0 dabbles in Voodoo originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Nov 2010 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion's 2010 SEMA lineup: Sneak Peek

Jeff Glucker — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 19:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Etc., Scion, Design/Style

Scion previews its 2010 SEMA Lineup - Click above for high-res image gallery

Scion invited us to its art gallery in Culver City, California last night, for a chance to preview part of the lineup it's bringing to SEMA this year. Parked out front was an xB that was transformed into a limo by Cartel Customs. The concept of a Scion xB limo sounds ridiculous, but in person it's ridiculously awesome. Rear suicide doors open to a comfortable environment outfitted with a large television, bar and wrap-around sofa. It's far cooler than your run-of-the-mill Town Car. The limo was just the beginning, though, because inside four more vehicles were waiting.

A Scion xB-turned-mobile DJ booth, which we had seen a year earlier at the 2009 SEMA show, was the perfect custom vehicle to see of the mood inside the Scion Gallery. Two sporty 2011 tCs were parked near each other, one by GReddy and the other by Crawford Performance, while another xB was parked across the room. This Scion xB is called the Salty Dog and it was customized by the U.S. Navy, as part of Scion's Battle of the Builds. The Marines, Army and Navy all put together cars and the winner will be crowned in Vegas.

This collection represents just a portion of what Scion has in store for us at SEMA. We have information on the entire product lineup they will be showcasing, as well as shots from the event and a gallery of all the cars for you after the jump.

Gallery: Scion SEMA 2010 Preview Event

Gallery: 2010 Scion SEMA Lineup

[Source: Scion]

Continue reading Scion's 2010 SEMA lineup: Sneak Peek

Scion's 2010 SEMA lineup: Sneak Peek originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 29 Oct 2010 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree?

Zach Bowman — Mon, 24 May 2010 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Sedan, Crossover, Hatchback, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Mitsubishi, Suzuki

Kelley Blue Book Top 10 Cars for under $18k - Click above for high-res image gallery

Being in the market for a cheap new car used to mean resigning yourself to time bombs like the Chevrolet Citation or windups like the Geo Metro or Ford Aspire, but the times, they are a-changin', and the good folk at Kelley Blue Book have worked up their very own top 10 list of cool cars for under $18,000.

Not surprisingly, the 2011 Ford Fiesta nabbed a mention thanks to its 28 mpg city, 40 mpg highway EPA rating and mile-long standard feature list. Likewise, the new 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring received a spot on the list. The Korean automaker's new long roof manages 23 city and 30 ~~mph~~ mpg highway thanks to its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

The base Mitsubishi Lancer also made the cut - another 2.0-liter bruiser, the baby brother of the Evolution nabs 22 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Suzuki also got some love on the KBB list with its SX4. When optioned with the five-speed gearbox, the car walks away with 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Rounding out the list is the ever lovable 2010 Honda Fit. Just like the Suzuki, if you want a few more miles per tank, you'll need to opt for the manual transmission. Thusly equipped, the little Honda can 28 mpg city and up to 35 mpg highway.

Want to see what else made the list? Hit the jump or visit KBB for the whole list.

Gallery: Kelly Blue Book Top 10 Cool Cars

[Source: Kelley Blue Book]

Continue reading KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree?

KBB names coolest cars under $18k... do you agree? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 May 2010 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Scion creates online web reality series challenging contestants to 'Reinvent the Wheels'

Zach Bowman — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:19:00 EST

Filed under: Budget, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hatchback, Scion, Humor, Design/Style

Scion Reinvent the Wheels - Click above to watch the first episode after the break

Scion has waded into the reality TV kiddie pool with a new Web series called Reinvent the Wheels. Think of it as Pimp My Ride meets Top Chef. Six contestants were chosen from a pool of hundreds of entrants, all vying for a chance to modify a Scion xB into the perfect car to further their career goals. Two film makers, two DJs a special-effects makeup artist and a pastry chef all presented their designs to a panel of judges in episode one, and will commence to build their visions over the next few shows.

Is it riveting internet entertainment? We'll leave that for you to decide, but we will say we can't wait to see some of the finished products come to life. While we're down with a remote-controlled camera jib and in-dash film-editing software, the thought of a karaoke bar on wheels is enough to leave us pining for some of Xzibit's creations. Hop the jump for a look at the first episode.

[Source: Reinvent the Wheels]

Continue reading Video: Scion creates online web reality series challenging contestants to 'Reinvent the Wheels'

Video: Scion creates online web reality series challenging contestants to 'Reinvent the Wheels' originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Hatchback, Scion

2011 Scion xB - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Scion brand's poster car, the boxy xB, gets a freshened face for the 2011 model year, as well as some minor interior upgrades. Overall, the exterior changes give the econobox a more aggressive appearance - a good thing, since the second-generation xB wasn't appealing to the young, hipster crowd nearly as much as the automaker would have hoped. (We much prefer the first-generation car, for what it's worth.)

Up front, the revised fascia features slightly redesigned headlamps, as well as a honeycomb grille and larger outer vents on the bumper. Around back, the single rear backup lamp has been integrated into the taillamps, which cleans up the car's back end rather nicely. Other cosmetic changes include the addition of two new metallic paint colors - Army Rock and Elusive Blue.

Moving inside, the xB's front seats have been given more bolstering for better overall comfort and support. Additionally, a new center console has been added that offers better storage solutions, as well as a sliding armrest, and the steering wheel now offers with both tilt and telescope adjustments (a simple feature that we wish were standard fare on every make and model).

Pricing for the new xB starts at $16,000 for the manual transmission model and $16,950 if you prefer a conventional automatic - increases of $150 over the 2010 car. The 2011 xB will make its way to a Scion dealer near you later this month. Hit the jump to read Toyota's official press release, and click through our attached gallery to see dozens of high-res shots of the new xB.

Gallery: 2011 Scion xB

[Source: Scion]

Continue reading Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011

Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: Scion to get stronger Stateside focus, two new models

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Scion

2009 Scion tC - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite the fact that Scion is a uniquely American invention for Toyota, only one of its current models - the rapidly aging tC coupe - was actually designed here in the States. Perhaps it shouldn't come as too big a surprise, then, that U.S. Scion sales are down by 49-percent compared to 2008 levels.

According to Automotive News, Yoshi Inaba, president of Toyota Motor North America, says that's all set to change in the near future as the youth-oriented Japanese brand draws up two new models that will be heavily influenced by American tastes. We certainly hope that doesn't mean bigger and unnecessarily bloated like the second-generation xB.

A redesigned tC model will reportedly come first, followed by the Scionized version of the mini-me Toyota iQ. Inaba didn't give any sort of timetable on new model launches and even said that the automaker hasn't yet determined what new vehicles will come after what's currently scheduled.

Whatever comes our way, it seems that we should expect Scion to continue marketing to a young audience. To that end, the company will continue to focus on innovative new technologies that will boost "connectivity," though that could have a number of differing meanings. We'll see what Toyota has in mind soon enough, as the redesigned tC is scheduled to go on sale later this year.

Gallery: 2009 Scion tC

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

Report: Scion to get stronger Stateside focus, two new models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Hatchback, Scion

Scion xB Release Series 7.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just yesterday we shared with you some pics of and specs on the latest Scion Release Series, the xB 7.0. It's a tradition of sorts for Scion to come out with a new Release at the LA Auto Show. For this go-around, Scion seems to have been indulging in some fermented grapes, as the bloody thing is painted Murasaki! That would be purple for those of us not fluent in Japanese. Well, we have just one thing to say now that we've seen it in person, we're glad it's going to be limited to just 2,000 units.

It's not so much the underlying xB, or the DAMD body kit, or the custom stitching on the interior. It's not the TRD springs for sure, and the new exhaust tips aren't that bad. It's just that when the whole thing is swathed in purple, we can't get past the color. In any case, you can check out the high-res gallery below and the press release after the jump and judge the 7.0 for yourself.

Gallery: LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0

Gallery: Scion xB Release Series 7.0

Continue reading LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies

LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion unveils $18,320 xB Release Series 7.0, will debut in LA

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:30:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Hatchback, Scion

Scion xB Release Series 7.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

As we've come to expect, Toyota will roll out a special edition Scion model at the upcoming LA Auto Show. As has typically been the case with these special editions, the xB Release Series 7.0 will sport a standard body kit and an unmistakable color palette inside and out.

For numero 007, Toyota has chosen a four-piece DAMD body kit that includes front and rear lower lips plus a set of side skirts. It's certainly not the best looking body kit available, but the real kicker is the color. The hue is called Murasaki, which means "purple" in Japanese. Yep, purple.

Inside, black fabric seats will be highlighted with more matching purple insets and a leather-wrapped RAZO GT Formula Spec shift knob. Suspension bits are upgraded with TRD lowering springs and a new exhaust system features a sportier sound and twin center-mounted tail pipes. For what it's worth, there's an optional rear spoiler but no alloy wheels.

Those with a hankering for a Grimace-inducing-and-recalling Scion will be able to get one of the 2,000 planned models for $18,320 with a manual transmission or $19,270 with an automatic (plus a $670 shipping and handling fee) starting this month. See the high-res gallery below and hit the jump for the press release.

Gallery: Scion xB Release Series 7.0

[Source: Scion]

Continue reading Scion unveils $18,320 xB Release Series 7.0, will debut in LA

Scion unveils $18,320 xB Release Series 7.0, will debut in LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2009: A quintet of concept Scions leaves us hungry for more

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:22:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Coupe, Performance, Work, Hatchback, Scion, Specialty

2009 SEMA Scion xB DJ 2.0 Concept by Five Axis - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just like last year, Scion had a group of tuners develop a whole range of models for SEMA 2009. Clustered in one corner of the Central Hall, the group included the Brandon Leung pickup and 0-60 Rally xD we showed you earlier, as well as another handful of tricked out Toyota lites.

First up was the Epic Cartel tC, the only tC in the group and a unique take on open-air motoring and completes what they are calling the Trilogy/Cartel Open Air Collection.

Next up was the xB DJ 2.0 by Five Axis (above). With its widened track and massive contrasting wheel arches it looked like it was ready for some Touring Car duty, but the real purpose was what lay inside: A full mobile DJ set-up. Sadly, it was locked up when we went by for a peek.

Eneri Abillar did up an xB for the xB Tuner Challenge, with a fairly straightforward tuner look and some blazing red-orange paint. Suspension, brakes and engine upgrades made this a runner too.

It was similar to the xB done by Peter Colello, although his was blue, didn't have the Greddy turbo, opting for a BullsEye Power T04B instead. The inside was a wild mix of alcantara, speakers, roll cage and gauges.

The one we had wanted to see the most, however, was the Scion xD by MV Designz. When we saw the name of it in the preview, we had hoped we'd finally get to taste the elusive, underground, Korean BBQ from Kogi. When closed up, the xD looks a lot like any other Scion runabout. When opened, it transforms into a mobile kitchen, complete with fridge, sink, cutting board and grill! Sadly, it was closed for business when we stopped by so no Kogi once again. We promise to check back regularly though.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: The Scions of SEMA

SEMA 2009: A quintet of concept Scions leaves us hungry for more originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2009: Brandon Leung's Scion xB channels Bonneville circa 1955

Frank Filipponio — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:40:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, SEMA Show, Truck, Scion, Specialty

Scion xB Challenge entry by Brandon Leung - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we look at a Scion xB we tend to think of a lot of things, few of which are very flattering. One thing we definitely don't think of is a Bonneville Salt Flats bike hauler from the '50s, until now. That's probably why we're bloggers and not designers. Fortunately for us there is Brandon Leung, who transformed this second gen. xBox into a super sweet retro ride, complete with custom matching BOWLS bike in the bed.

That's right, this former hatchback now has a bed. A wood-lined bed at that. It has a great low stance, low and wide, a perfectly nostalgic green and cream paint scheme, and full-on Moonie-like billet aero wheels to complete the look. The changes are more than skin deep too, with engine, suspension and brake upgrades to complete the package. You can see the full breakout of changes in the gallery.

Gallery: SEMA 2009: Scion xB Tuner Challenge by Brandon Leung

SEMA 2009: Brandon Leung's Scion xB channels Bonneville circa 1955 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion brand finally headed to Canada next September

Jonathon Ramsey — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:18:00 EST

Filed under: Scion, Toyota, Canada

It's official: Scion is headed to the land of Bob and Doug. Toyota's sub-brand will arrive in 45 dealerships in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver ten months from now, in September 2010. Scion's full model range will be offered -- xB, xD, and tC -- and dealers will present them in a "store within a store" concept, which makes it sound like passwords, burlesque, and moonshine will be involved.

To give you Canuck Scion mavens something to do for the next eleven months, there's a Canadian Scion website. It's a little barren right now, but after you take a quick survey it'll let you know things like the Scion badge was "created to symbolize non-conformity, authenticity and personal style." And then there are links to other Scion content, such as an interview with Motörhead, because what Scion owner doesn't love Lemmy? Canadians rejoice. Eh. Hat tip to Luc!

[Source: Auto123]

Scion brand finally headed to Canada next September originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 14:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Once again, the Nissan Cube proves that it's hip (for older folks) to be square

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:57:00 EST

Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Crossover, Hatchback, Honda, Kia, Nissan, Scion

2009 Nissan Cube Krom - Click above for high-res image gallery

Apparently, those with graying temples are attracted to cars that automakers had originally intended for younger audiences. This trend was most recently noticed with Honda Element and Scion xB, which featured heavily youth-slanted marketing schemes but were often purchased by those with a bit more experience under their belts.

By now, it's clear that trend is here to stay. According to USA Today, each automaker that offers a box-it-came-in mobile here in the United States - a list that includes the Honda Element, Kia Soul, Nissan Cube and Scion xB - reports that the average buyer is over the age of 40 and brings home over $60,000 per year.

Not surprisingly, it's not just the looks of these cars that attracts older buyers. Experts from AutoPacific and Edmunds suggest that the practical nature of such a design and its low price are key components of the genre's success. Just as long as somebody is buying them, we're pretty confident the boxy-but-cheap segment is here to stay.

Gallery: 2009 Nissan Cube Krom

[Source: USA Today]

REPORT: Once again, the Nissan Cube proves that it's hip (for older folks) to be square originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Great Wall Coolbear chillin' out

Frank Filipponio — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 19:01:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Minivan/Van, China, Scion

Click above for a gallery of the Great Wall Coolbear spy pics

A while back we told you about China's Great Wall Motors (GWM) and how they planned to get into the small car market, namely by Xeroxing the Scion xA and xB. Well, now we have some spy pics of the production GWM Coolbear, and it's the spitting image of the concept we saw in Shanghai a couple of years ago. Admittedly, the mirrors are less show car and more road car, but other than that, it's remarkably unaltered. The Coolbear should help Great Wall Motors expand from their truck-building roots, assuming Toyota doesn't have greater success than other carmakers have been suing China's automakers for copyright infringement. The Coolbear is expected to use a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, just like the Scion, but we don't know if it will have a similar VVT-i stamp on it. Check out the gallery below, and if you think we were kidding about this being a copy, check out the taped-over-badges on the silver car used for 'inspiration' in the studio.

Gallery: GWM Coolbear spy pics

[Source: China Car Times]

Spy Shots: Great Wall Coolbear chillin' out originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scion bringing xB Release Series 6.0 to Detroit

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 15:31:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Hatchback, Scion, Specialty

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Scion xB Release Series 6.0

Scion will continue its habit of offering tweaked versions of its wares as "Release Series" models at next week's Detroit Auto Show where the Scion xB Release Series 6.0 will be revealed. As is de rigeur for these special editions, the R.S. 6.0 will get its own paint color, "Absolutely Red" (it's a standard color for the Yaris), along with a unique front grille and wheel covers (seriously, wheel covers?). Inside, a new Pioneer Audio Visual Navigation system is included on the R.S., along with matching red accents on various trim pieces and seat fabric, as well as four-color interior lighting.

Want one? Only 2,500 copies will be produced, so act fast and be prepared to drop an extra $1,743 over the base xB's price of $15,750. Add an extra $950 for an automatic transmission (if you must) and an extra $320 for a color-matched rear spoiler.

Gallery: Scion xB Release Series 6.0

Continue reading Scion bringing xB Release Series 6.0 to Detroit

Scion bringing xB Release Series 6.0 to Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Leave it at home: Subaru Dex

Dan Roth — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 08:01:00 EST

Filed under: Japan, Scion, Subaru, Toyota

The JDM market is apparently enamored with vehicles that look like they're stuck in the shipping crate. We saw the first generation Toyota bB here as the Scion xB before it went on an eating binge and lost all its charm. That original bB went on to another generation, and has its own scions in form of some Daihatsu models. Subaru inked a deal back in April to share models between Toyota and Daihatsu, and this hideous little box with the star-motif badges is the result. There are three trim levels, and the Dex will relieve you of $15,000-$20,000. And here we thought even Subaru had relinquished its weird years ago. Turns out it was there all along, and the Dex is the ballcap-shaped box of contrived quirk that proves it.

[Source: Inside Line]

Leave it at home: Subaru Dex originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Nov 2008 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA 2008: Scion concepts aplenty

Frank Filipponio — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:30:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Tuners, Scion

Click above for high-res gallery of the Scion SEMA cars

This is Scion's fifth year as a SEMA attendee, and it's arguably their best. Being the younger, hipper, tunier Toyota it makes sense they show up here with six concepts to spark customers' imaginations. To that end, they've brought several fun and outrageous customs from designers such as Mark Arcenal, Eddie Hahm (above), Drag Cartel, John Pangilinan, Rogue Status, MV Designz, Raging Bull, Blaine Fontana, Kenton Parker, Jeff Soto, and Christian Rado.

There are three xBs, an xD and a few tCs in the official booth alone. Scion distributed three tCs to customizers for the 2008 Scion Tuner Challenge, with the winner to be announced during SEMA. Our absolute favorite is the one done up by Eddie Hahm of "Fast Eddie's Garage" fame. He took it retro and created an homage to a time when hot rodding meant more than mounting dubs and a bodykit. Fatlace founder Mark Arcenal dreamt up a DTM racer, while John Pangilinan made an even more butch looking tC with his widebody design. Personally, we really enjoyed the most elaborately detailed model, the Ruthless Cartell xD with its completely chopped roof, but it's strictly for show. The trucklet xDt was pretty novel too. Check out the gallery and pick out your favorite. There's a full rundown of each after the jump and lots of pics of most of them in the gallery.

Gallery: SEMA 2008: Scion concepts

Gallery: Scion at SEMA 2008

Continue reading SEMA 2008: Scion concepts aplenty

SEMA 2008: Scion concepts aplenty originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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SEMA Preview: Scion bringing a six pack

Dan Roth — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 09:57:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Tuners, Scion

Click above for galler of all six Scion SEMA cars

Scion's been a perennial SEMA attendee for the last five years, with customization being a central tenet of the brand. This year, the cool-seeking Toyota nameplate is bringing a sextet of vehicles, three each of tCs and xBs, all customized. The xBs were sent out to customizers to get thematic treatments. The three art cars embody different ideas; one's a camper in the vein of Westfalia Volkswagens, another's been chopped and dropped to create a lakebed hot rod, while our favorite is an ersatz Roach Coach. Blaine Fontana was responsible for the camper conversion, while Jeff Soto whipped up the salt flats car, and Kenton Parker decided to celebrate the xB's non-curvy shape with the foodservice conversion.

Bonneville speed trial cars serve as inspiration for one of the customized tCs, as well. Scion distributed three tCs to customizers for the 2008 Scion Tuner Challenge, with the winner to be announced during SEMA. Eddie Hahm of "Fast Eddies Garage" fame took it retro and created an homage to a time when hot rodding meant more than mounting dubs and a bodykit. Fatlace founder Mark Arcenal dreamt up a DTM racer, while John Pangilinan made an even more butch looking tC with his widebody design. These six cars are sure to be just some of the Scions at SEMA. Indeed, there will be several other custom Scion models at the brand's booth, like an xD with its top chopped. We'd be down with some of these customs, even if underneath it all, they're still Scions.

Gallery: Scion at SEMA 2008

[Source: helloscion]

SEMA Preview: Scion bringing a six pack originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Oct 2008 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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