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[Large car market withering away... will it survive?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/24/large-car-market-withering-away-will-it-survive/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/24/large-car-market-withering-away-will-it-survive/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/24/large-car-market-withering-away-will-it-survive/#commentsFiled under: ,

1963 Chevrolet Impala bench seat with period famale model

To look at automakers' lineups these days, it would appear that America's large car market is enjoying something of a resurgence. After all, Chevrolet has invested in a new Impala, Toyota has its new Avalon, Hyundai fielded an all-new Azera for 2012, and Nissan is presently working on a next-generation Maxima.

Yet, according to the industry forecasters at Polk, the market for mainstream big sedans is cratering. According to Polk's data, the large mainstream sedan segment has plunged from a 5.8-percent share of the US car market in 2008 to just 3.5 percent in 2012. That sales drop is enough to put this most American of car bodystyles behind the minivan segment, a market whose own sales slide has been comparatively well documented.

According to Polk, part of the reason for the shift is America's increasing appetite for smaller and more efficient vehicles, along with increased automaker emphasis on the midsize sedan segment, where more frequent redesigns and new technologies are becoming commonplace. In fact, Polk hypothesizes that at some point, family sedans like the Ford Fusion and Honda Accord may be subject to "re-definition" as America's largest non-luxury automobiles.

Despite the grim outlook, the firm's analysts believe that the "large car category will survive in the near term" thanks to forthcoming entries like the Chevrolet SS, Kia Cadenza and Volkswagen Phaeton, which Polk expects to return in 2015. On the premium side of the street, the picture looks somewhat better, with the number of big luxury players staying pretty much the same. Even so, sales of cars in the class from automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz has slipped from .76-percent to .46-percent of the total US sales market.

Large car market withering away... will it survive? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Mar 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car buyingcar marketcar saleslarge carsedanSun, 24 Mar 2013 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20514540/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/24/large-car-market-withering-away-will-it-survive/20514540/article-detail.xml 20514540 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/1963-chevy-impala-bench-seat_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/1963-chevy-impala-bench-seat.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla curbs forecast due to Model S issues, losses total $864.9M]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/tesla-curbs-forecast-due-to-model-s-issues-losses-total-864-9m/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/tesla-curbs-forecast-due-to-model-s-issues-losses-total-864-9m/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/tesla-curbs-forecast-due-to-model-s-issues-losses-total-864-9m/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2013 Tesla Model S - black - front three-quarter view

It ain't easy creating a brand-new automaker from scratch. The fact that Elon Musk and Tesla have actually been able to bring not one, but two cars to market is in itself quite impressive. That said, the road has not been without its bumps, and Tesla is feeling some of the setbacks that come with being a fledgling automaker.

To that end, Tesla has revealed that it expects $400 million to $440 million in full-year revenue, or roughly $160 million less than its prior 2012 revenue forecasts. In a Securities and Exchange Commission filing on Monday, the electric carmaker said "We have methodically increased our Model S production at a slower rate than we had earlier anticipated," leading to the company figuring they'll fall short of the $560 million to $600 million they originally forecasted. Tesla also revealed a net cumulative loss of $864.9 million through June 30 of this year - Tesla has yet to break even as an automaking entity, but it remains something of a startup, so the fact that it has lost money to this point shouldn't be a major surprise - building cars is expensive, and learning how to do so is even more expensive. Following the disclosure, Tesla shares fell about 8.5 percent this morning in trading.

Tesla cites delays in suppliers for its Model S production shortcomings. The California automaker says it is working with suppliers to speed up deliveries and internally, it is adding shifts and automation to its manufacturing processes. With little more than half of the 5,000-vehicle target expected to be built by year's end, Tesla says it is four to five weeks behind its delivery goals.

Meanwhile, reservations are on the rise. 11,500 Model S units were spoken for at the end of June, and that number has risen to 13,000 as of September 23 (not counting vehicles already delivered). While reservations increased, so did cancelations.

The first several thousand reserved customers were asked to configure their vehicles for delivery, lest they lose their places in line.

Tesla curbs forecast due to Model S issues, losses total $864.9M originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Sep 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 tesla model selectric carelon muskmodel splug-insecsec filingsecurities and exchange commissionsedanteslaTue, 25 Sep 2012 19:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20332984/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/25/tesla-curbs-forecast-due-to-model-s-issues-losses-total-864-9m/20332984/article-detail.xml 20332984 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2012-tesla-model-s-fd_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2012-tesla-model-s-fd.jpeg <![CDATA[2013 Honda Accord: First official images released]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/2013-honda-accord-first-official-images-released/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/2013-honda-accord-first-official-images-released/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/08/08/2013-honda-accord-first-official-images-released/#commentsFiled under: ,



If Honda's words are to be believed, what you're looking at here is "the most sculpted Accord ever." The camouflage has been pulled away and we're now getting our first glimpse at the production 2013 Accord sedan.

Now, let's dissect that "most sculpted Accord" statement for a moment. Historically, Honda has never been known to break design barriers with its decidedly likable midsize sedan. But when you're competing with the likes of the best-selling Toyota Camry in one of the most competitive and highly shopped segments in the industry, sex doesn't always sell. And to that extent, yes, this is the most sculpted Accord we've seen - certainly more attractive than the current sedan - but it won't set the world on fire. And that's fine, because conservative, handsome styling sells.

Conservative and handsome it definitely is. We like the strong character line that sweeps along the belt line and fades off just before the C pillar, and elements like the attractive 10-spoke wheels, LED running lamps, headlamps and taillamps keep it looking modern. From the rear, we won't fault you for mistaking the Accord for a Hyundai Genesis, and we'll really have to see the car in person before making final design judgments. It's not Sonata sleek, but it certainly doesn't look bad.

That's all we know for now, though Honda does say that the 2013 Accord sedan is "bigger on the inside and smaller on the outside." We'll have more details when the car officially debuts in the fall. In the meantime, peruse the two high-res images in our attached gallery and scroll down for Honda's press blast.

Continue reading 2013 Honda Accord: First official images released

2013 Honda Accord: First official images released originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Aug 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 honda accordaccordhondasedanWed, 08 Aug 2012 07:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20295818/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/08/08/2013-honda-accord-first-official-images-released/20295818/article-detail.xml 20295818 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2013-honda-accord-sedan_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/08/01-2013-honda-accord-sedan.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Malibu dons Holden badge for Australia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/chevy-malibu-dons-a-holden-badge-for-australia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/chevy-malibu-dons-a-holden-badge-for-australia/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/chevy-malibu-dons-a-holden-badge-for-australia/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The Chevrolet Malibu will wear a Holden badge when it arrives in Australia next year, General Motors announced. Engineers have begun testing the Holden Malibu to provide it with unique suspension tuning and transmission calibrations for Australian drivers. Testing is taking place in Lang Lang, Victoria.

It's common for any global car to include regional tuning ranging from ride harshness to acceleration expectations.

Judging by the photos released, the right-hand drive Malibu looks nearly identical to the American Chevrolet version.

Hopefully, Australians will have to adjust to the power button on the stereo being in the wrong place, something Americans had to deal with when the Holden Commodore arrived on U.S. shores as the Pontiac G8.

Scroll down to read the press release.

Continue reading Chevy Malibu dons Holden badge for Australia

Chevy Malibu dons Holden badge for Australia originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiachevroletgeneral motorsgmholdenmalibumidsize sedansedanvictoriaTue, 24 Jul 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284787/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/24/chevy-malibu-dons-a-holden-badge-for-australia/20284787/article-detail.xml 20284787 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/holden-malibu-0724-01-1343147240_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/holden-malibu-0724-01-1343147240.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac XTS to become Opel flagship sedan?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/cadillac-xts-to-become-opel-flagship-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/cadillac-xts-to-become-opel-flagship-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/cadillac-xts-to-become-opel-flagship-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



According to Auto-News.de, Opel is considering using Cadillac's all-new big sedan, the XTS, as the base for its new flagship car, which would likely carry the name Omega.

WorldCarFans.com speculates that Opel could use GM's 3.6-liter direct-injection V6 that generates 304 horsepower or, possibly, a 2.8-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that creates 321 horsepower to power the vehicle. The European automaker could even use a 195-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine in this application - fine, since many of Europe's largest sedans are powered by smaller, more efficient engines.

Regardless of power, the Omega could arrive at dealerships by the end of 2013.

Cadillac XTS to become Opel flagship sedan? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillaccadillac xtseuropeflagshipgeneral motorsgmluxuryluxury sedanopelopel omegasedanTue, 24 Jul 2012 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20284788/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/24/cadillac-xts-to-become-opel-flagship-sedan/20284788/article-detail.xml 20284788 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-cadillac-xts-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-cadillac-xts-fd.jpg <![CDATA[What's a Qoros? Apparently this is...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/whats-a-qoros-apparently-this-is/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/whats-a-qoros-apparently-this-is/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/05/whats-a-qoros-apparently-this-is/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Qoros sedan spy shots - front three-quarter view, disguised

... Qoros?

Let us explain. Qoros is a Chinese automaker co-owned by Chery and the Israeli Israel Corporation, reportedly working on bringing a handful of models to Europe. The company's vice chairman, former Volkswagen executive Volker Steinwascher, says that Qoros vehicles aim to "combine German design quality and craftsmanship with Japanese convenience and functionality."

The first of Qoros' products, the C11, has just been caught testing by our spy shooters in southern Europe. The car is said to be about the same size as a Volkswagen Jetta - fine, since that's the class of car it will be competing against. The sedan appears to use a rather conservative design scheme, though we'll wait for the zebra paper to be peeled away before making final judgments. What's more, former Mini designer Gert Hildebrand is understood to be leading the styling direction at Qoros, so at least this sedan shouldn't look as, shall we say, "patched together" as many other Chinese autos tend to do.

Power is expected to come from a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four sourced from Chery, mated to either a six-speed manual or a dual-clutch transmission.

After the launch of the C11 sedan, Qoros will reportedly launch a hatchback version, as well as a crossover and full-on utility vehicle. We'll definitely be keeping our eyes peeled.

What's a Qoros? Apparently this is... originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jul 2012 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c11chinagert hildebrandqorosqoros c11quorossedanspy photosspy picsspy shotsvolker steinwascherThu, 05 Jul 2012 15:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20272349/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/05/whats-a-qoros-apparently-this-is/20272349/article-detail.xml 20272349 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-qoros-sedan-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-qoros-sedan-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan debuts first barrage of Altima ads]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/nissan-debuts-first-barrage-of-altima-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/nissan-debuts-first-barrage-of-altima-ads/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/20/nissan-debuts-first-barrage-of-altima-ads/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Nissan has plenty to be proud of with its all-new 2013 Altima. The sedan promises to average 38 miles per gallon on the highway, which is best-in-class for a non-hybrid. The new Altima also boasts a lighter and stronger frame, increased power and quicker acceleration among its many improvements.

As you'll see below, crafting an ad campaign is that much easier when you have so much to be proud of. Scroll down to watch the first four commercials that Nissan has lined up to introduce its new Altima to America.

In the first two, Nissan plays it straight with a raft of back-patting and a couple of jabs at the competition from Honda and Toyota. The second two spots aim for the funny bone while also pointing out new technology and hammering away at those all-important fuel economy numbers.

We're especially fond of the last commercial, which cleverly points out that the horn will honk when the tires have been filled to the optimum level. Funny stuff.

Continue reading Nissan debuts first barrage of Altima ads

Nissan debuts first barrage of Altima ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20132013 nissan altimaadaltimacommercialnissansedanspotWed, 20 Jun 2012 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20262181/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/20/nissan-debuts-first-barrage-of-altima-ads/20262181/article-detail.xml 20262181 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/screen-shot-2012-06-20-at-11.40-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/screen-shot-2012-06-20-at-11.40-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche plans E-Class competitor, codename Pajun]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/porsche-plans-e-class-competitor-codename-pajun/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/porsche-plans-e-class-competitor-codename-pajun/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/porsche-plans-e-class-competitor-codename-pajun/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



German car magazine Auto Bild reports Porsche is planning build a sedan that will slot below the Panamera and compete directly with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Citing no sources (so a grain of salt is recommended), the magazine claims the four-door, codenamed Pajun, will cost no less than $84,000 and be ready for production no later than 2017.

In September 2011, Car claimed the Pajun could spawn coupe, convertible and even a shooting brake variant. Back then, rumors swirled about powertrain options that included a 550-horsepower V6, 600-hp V8, plug-in hybrid and an Audi-sourced diesel.

Hopefully, Porsche is also working expeditiously to find a better name than Pajun, which in Korea is a seafood pancake, in Finnish it means willow, and, according to Google's translation, in Welsh it means - wait for it - Cajun. That's the name Porsche was using to refer to its smaller-than-Cayenne SUV before changing it to Macan in February. Clever coincidence.

Porsche plans E-Class competitor, codename Pajun originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e-classmercedes-benzpajunpanameraporschesedanThu, 10 May 2012 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235485/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/porsche-plans-e-class-competitor-codename-pajun/20235485/article-detail.xml 20235485 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2010panamera05-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2010panamera05-628.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan Versa named IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/nissan-versa-named-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/nissan-versa-named-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/08/nissan-versa-named-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Nissan Versa sedan crash test

We may not have found much to like about the redesigned 2012 Nissan Versa sedan when we test drove it, but here's something in its favor: A Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

While the old Nissan subcompact never made it to the top of the IIHS rankings, the new sedan earned its award by scoring "good" ratings in front, side, rollover, and rear tests and coming equipped with standard stability control, according to the IIHS. The 2011 and earlier Versas only scored "acceptable" in side impact and roof strength tests.

Keep in mind that the Top Safety Pick only applies to the new sedan, as a redesigned version of the hatchback has not yet launched. The 2012 Versa hatchback is the same design that's been on sale since the 2007 model year.

See below for a video of the IIHS side impact test on the Versa sedan.

Continue reading Nissan Versa named IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video]

Nissan Versa named IIHS Top Safety Pick [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan versacrash testiihsinsurance institute for highway safetynissansedantop safety pickversaversa sedanvideoThu, 08 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20189251/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/08/nissan-versa-named-iihs-top-safety-pick-w-video/20189251/article-detail.xml 20189251 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/versa-iihs-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/versa-iihs-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lincoln MKZ Concept looks to kickstart brand renaissance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/lincoln-mkz-concept-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/lincoln-mkz-concept-detroit-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/10/lincoln-mkz-concept-detroit-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lincoln MKZ Concept live in Detroit

Lincoln isn't inspiring many purchase decisions these days, as the luxury make sits in dead last in sales. That could change with the introduction of a few key products, starting with the 2013 Lincoln MKZ.

Ford marketing boss Jim Farley introduced the MKZ Concept at the Detroit Auto Show, and we very much like what we see. The concept, which should look a whole lot like the production model that goes on sale later this year, really pops on the elevated turn table. The rakish, full-length glass roof retracts so all four passengers can enjoy open air. We heard the word "bespoke" a few too many times during the presentation, but Lincoln promises a more individualized purchase and ownership experience.

Lead designer Max Wolff poured over the details of the luxurious interior, including unique stitching, individualized seating for four, push-button gear selector and a floating center stack that was inspired by modern suspension bridges. Wolff also pointed out that future Lincoln models will be designed at the automaker's new design studio in Dearborn, which employs 180 dedicated designers and engineers.

We don't have any information on powertrains, but we're expecting the production car to be released with all the info at the New York Auto Show. Hit the jump to read over the Lincoln press release, and feel free to peruse the high-resolution images from the Detroit Auto Show.

Continue reading Lincoln MKZ Concept looks to kickstart brand renaissance

Lincoln MKZ Concept looks to kickstart brand renaissance originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 09:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptdetroitdetroit 2012detroit auto showlincolnmkzmkz conceptsedanTue, 10 Jan 2012 09:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20144928/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/10/lincoln-mkz-concept-detroit-2012/20144928/article-detail.xml 20144928 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lincoln-mkz-concept-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/lincoln-mkz-concept-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M3 Sedan being worked out on the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/bmw-m3-sedan-being-worked-out-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/bmw-m3-sedan-being-worked-out-on-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/bmw-m3-sedan-being-worked-out-on-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Now that we have a clear glimpse of the 2012 BMW 328i and 335i, it's time for us to set our sights on the next chapter of the 3 Series story: the M3. Our trusty spy photographers caught this prototype doing its thing on the Nürburgring, and though there's still lots of swirly camouflage, it's pretty easy to see how the new 3 Series' design will adapt to the bulgier M shape.

What's still unknown, however, is exactly what's powering the next M3. It's no secret that BMW will be dropping the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V8 in favor of a turbocharged six-cylinder setup, but we've heard reports that the automaker's traditional inline-six may be nixed in favor of a brand new V6 configuration. Either way, expect the new M hotness to pack somewhere around 450 horsepower, and by using a forced induction setup, there should be substantially more torque on tap than the current car's seemingly puny 295 pound-feet.

BMW M3 Sedan being worked out on the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwm3sedanspy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 19 Oct 2011 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20085755/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/19/bmw-m3-sedan-being-worked-out-on-the-ring/20085755/article-detail.xml 20085755 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-bmw-m3-spy-shots628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/01-bmw-m3-spy-shots628.jpg <![CDATA[2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/05/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Decent Fuel Economy, Better Looks, Solid Value

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The auto show transition seemed to happen in a flash. One year, automakers were jockeying for dealer traffic with high horsepower, rear-wheel-drive retro rides, and the next year, each one of them ushered in a hybrid or electric vehicle. The paradigm shift was a welcome sight for car buyers wanting to shrink their carbon footprint and save money on fuel, but the majority of those products were years from production. Fast-forward to 2011, and the variety of fuel efficient transportation on offer in the industry has improved quite a bit, including this sleekly styled mid-size offering from Hyundai.

The Sonata Hybrid may have taken longer than expected to hit the market, but its lithium-polymer battery pack and host of fuel-saving features have given Hyundai 35 miles per gallon city and 40 mpg highway fuel economy numbers to flash before consumers. And the Sonata Hybrid isn't battling the competition on fuel economy alone. It also features attractive styling that sharply differentiates it from non-hybrid Sonata models, while also carrying an MSRP thousands of dollars less than the Toyota Camry Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid.

We spent a week with a modestly equipped Sonata Hybrid, but rather than going light on the pedal to gather up as many Eco points as possible, we drove it like we would any mid-sized sedan to see if it could hang with the daily drudgery of suburban life.

Continue reading 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Oct 2011 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 hyundai sonata hybridautoblog garageblue motionfeaturedhybridhyundailithium ionreviewreviewssedansonatasonata hybridWed, 05 Oct 2011 11:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20073828/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/05/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review/20073828/article-detail.xml 20073828 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2011-hyundai-sonata-hybrid-review.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan, Mitsubishi confirm plans to share Fuga sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/nissan-mitsubishi-confirm-plans-to-share-fuga-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/nissan-mitsubishi-confirm-plans-to-share-fuga-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/23/nissan-mitsubishi-confirm-plans-to-share-fuga-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Earlier this week, reports out of Japan stated that Nissan would be lending a version of its Fuga sedan to Mitsubishi. The Fuga, better known in the United States as the Infiniti M, would serve as Mitsubishi's new flagship sedan in the Japanese market. Now, the two automakers have released a statement confirming plans for Nissan to supply the Fuga to Mitsubishi, beginning in the summer of 2012. At this time, it is still unclear whether or not we'll see a Mitsubishi-baged Fuga here in the U.S. Hit the jump for the official release.

Continue reading Nissan, Mitsubishi confirm plans to share Fuga sedan

Nissan, Mitsubishi confirm plans to share Fuga sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fugainfinitimmitsubishinissansedanFri, 23 Sep 2011 16:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20051030/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/23/nissan-mitsubishi-confirm-plans-to-share-fuga-sedan/20051030/article-detail.xml 20051030 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-nissan-fuga-hybrid-press-1316806323_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/02-nissan-fuga-hybrid-press-1316806323.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti releases sketch of upcoming EV sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/infiniti-releases-sketch-of-upcoming-ev-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/infiniti-releases-sketch-of-upcoming-ev-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/13/infiniti-releases-sketch-of-upcoming-ev-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Infiniti is using its presence here at the Frankfurt Motor Show to not only show off its newest goodness (more on that later today), but to give us a glimpse of what's to come. The Japanese automaker released this sketch of what we're told is a five-seat zero-emissions vehicle set to launch sometime in 2014.

Those are the only details we have about the EV sedan as of this writing, but Infiniti promises us that it will stand true to the brand's promise of "inspired performance." Infiniti's incredibly brief, official statement is yours for the reading after the jump.

Continue reading Infiniti releases sketch of upcoming EV sedan

Infiniti releases sketch of upcoming EV sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurtconceptevfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showinfinitisedanTue, 13 Sep 2011 08:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20041331/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/13/infiniti-releases-sketch-of-upcoming-ev-sedan/20041331/article-detail.xml 20041331 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/infiniti628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/infiniti628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Nissan Altima taking shape]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/2013-nissan-altima-taking-shape/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/2013-nissan-altima-taking-shape/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/25/2013-nissan-altima-taking-shape/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 Nissan Altima Spy Shots

Now that we've seen the updated Toyota Camry and Chevrolet Malibu, not to mention the already-on-fire Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima, it's time for the rest of the mid-size sedan players to freshen up their offerings. Nissan looks to follow suit later this year with the all-new 2013 Altima, which our spy photographers recently caught testing with a very revealing camouflage treatment.

Up front, the new headlights and grille take a swoopier shape, as do the foglights below. (Squint, and you may see a bit of Hyundai Genesis in that front end - just sayin'.) Out back, the taillights get a similar dose of rakishness, probably akin to what we've been seeing on Nissan's latest designs - the Maxima, 370Z and Juke.

Reports have indicated that Nissan will offer a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the Altima, and if so, it's unclear whether or not the older, 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four will stick around. Expect the 3.5-liter V6 to still be the range-topping powerplant, with six-speed transmissions (manual and CVT) to be offered throughout the range.

2013 Nissan Altima taking shape originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 nissan altimaaltimanissansedanspy photosspy picsspy shotsThu, 25 Aug 2011 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20026732/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/25/2013-nissan-altima-taking-shape/20026732/article-detail.xml 20026732 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2013-nissan-altima630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/01-2013-nissan-altima630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Nissan details 2012 Altima pricing and package tweaks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/nissan-details-2012-altima-pricing-and-package-tweaks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/nissan-details-2012-altima-pricing-and-package-tweaks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/23/nissan-details-2012-altima-pricing-and-package-tweaks/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Nissan Altima Sedan
2012 Nissan Altima Sedan - Click above for high-res image gallery

The fourth-generation Nissan Altima continues to sell moderately well after five years of production, and Nissan is hoping that will hold true for 2012. This sixth year of existence will come with few changes, except for a slightly higher MSRP and one very affordable technology package.

Nissan says that the new Altima Sedan 2.5 CVT will now start at $20,410 plus destination, up $140 from 2011 numbers. The 2.5 S CVT is also up $140 with a base price of $22,570, while the top trim 3.5 SR CVT will now set you back $25,430, or $320 more than the 2011 model.

The Altima Coupe also received new pricing: $30,760 for the Altima Coupe 3.5 SR with a six-speed manual transmission. That's $210 more than 2011, and $2,330 more than the Altima Coupe 3.5 SR with CVT transmission. That's right, you'll be paying up for a stick-shift.

That new tech pack we were telling you about? The appropriately named Value Package costs $490, and includes Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and auto headlights. Hit the jump to read over the Nissan press release.

Continue reading Nissan details 2012 Altima pricing and package tweaks

Nissan details 2012 Altima pricing and package tweaks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 nissan altimaaltimacoupenissanpricingsedanThu, 23 Jun 2011 18:21:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19974145/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/23/nissan-details-2012-altima-pricing-and-package-tweaks/19974145/article-detail.xml 19974145 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/v22012nissanaltima13630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/v22012nissanaltima13630opt.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Volkswagen Passat configurator powers up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/2012-volkswagen-passat-configurator-powers-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/2012-volkswagen-passat-configurator-powers-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/11/2012-volkswagen-passat-configurator-powers-up/#commentsFiled under: ,

2012 passat configurator

The Volkswagen Passat has gotten a big makeover for 2012, with all-new styling and a lower price tag starting at $19,995. Now we know exactly what to expect for under $20k, thanks to VW's the new online configurator. For starters, the base Passat has the 170-hp 2.5-liter five-cylinder mated to a five-speed manual. It also gets an eight-speaker sound system, Bluetooth and dual-zone climate control.

Move up to the Passat TDI and the price of entry jumps to $25,995. The big pull is, of course, the 2.0-liter turbodiesel, which is rated at 31 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. The range-topper is the Passat V6, which produces 280 horsepower and has a six-speed DSG. The $3,955 V6 SEL package adds navigation, a 30GB hard drive, leather seats with Dynamica inserts and Autumn Nut Burl interior trim, bringing the MSRP to $32,950.

The Passat configurator site is maddeningly confusing and not at all intuitive, but if you click the right buttons you may actually build the Passat of your dreams. Pick the wrong selection, like when you choose the "no cost leatherette" on a base Passat, and you'll be asked to upgrade to the 2.5 SEL 2 model for another $9,900. Because why wouldn't pleather seatsalso necessitate adding nav and a Fender sound system?

2012 Volkswagen Passat configurator powers up originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Jun 2011 14:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 volkswagen passatclean dieselconfiguratorsedantdi dieselvolkswagenSat, 11 Jun 2011 14:08:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19963432/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/11/2012-volkswagen-passat-configurator-powers-up/19963432/article-detail.xml 19963432 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-vw-passat-configurator_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/2012-vw-passat-configurator.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Kia Rio sedan confirmed for New York Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/2012-kia-rio-sedan-confirmed-for-new-york-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/2012-kia-rio-sedan-confirmed-for-new-york-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/31/2012-kia-rio-sedan-confirmed-for-new-york-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2012 Kia Rio
2012 Kia Rio - Click above for high-res image gallery

Our man Jeremy Korzeniewski is attending a Kia event in Phoenix, Arizona this week, and during a press briefing this morning, JK learned that the Korean automaker will be unveiling its 2012 Rio sedan at the 2011 New York Auto Show. The four-door Rio will complement the hatchback bodystyle that bowed at the Geneva Motor Show in early March.

Four powertrains will be available on the Rio overseas - two gas and two diesel - and while mum's the word on which engine(s) will be available here in the United States, we're putting our money on the 1.4-liter gasoline four. This mill produces 108 horsepower and 100 pound-feet of torque, mated to either a six-speed manual or four-speed(!) automatic transmission.

In other news, Kia also let slip that the KV7 concept from this year's Detroit Auto Show previews what's in store for the next-generation Sedona minivan. We hinted at this after a conversation with Michael Sprague, Kia's vice president of marketing, though it's still unclear exactly what elements from the KV7 will be incorporated into the next-gen Sedona. The concept focused on a more traditional conversion van setup rather than the family-centric Sedona that currently graces our streets.


Gallery: 2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio2012 Kia Rio

2012 Kia Rio sedan confirmed for New York Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Mar 2011 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 new york2012 kia riokiakia+rio+2011kia+rio+2012kiario2011kiario2012new yorknew york auto showriorio sedansedanThu, 31 Mar 2011 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19898980/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/31/2012-kia-rio-sedan-confirmed-for-new-york-auto-show/19898980/article-detail.xml 19898980 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/rio34frontbstatic-1301593737_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/rio34frontbstatic-1301593737.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2012 Ford Focus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/31/2012-ford-focus-first-drive-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/31/2012-ford-focus-first-drive-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/31/2012-ford-focus-first-drive-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Proves It Can Build A Compact With A Pulse

2012 Ford Focus2012 Ford Focus - Click above for high-res image gallery

We should no longer be surprised by the notion of a compact car with big-sedan features and eye-popping fuel economy. New creations like the Hyundai Elantra and Chevrolet Cruze have gone about making the compact segment one of the most hotly contested arenas in the market, rankling the chains of long-time fighters like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla in the process. But while the Cruze and Elantra have proven that big content can come in small packages with smaller price tags, there's a growing sense that the fun-to-fling small car may be on its way out in favor of commuters that have inherited the soft-riding genes of their bigger brethren.

In a way, the change was all but inevitable. Whereas the compact segment once served up a cornucopia of rides that were low on power but big on handling, the market has proven that above all else, buyers in this neck of the woods want value. In an effort to pinch every last copper cent, both Hyundai and Chevrolet have scrapped the independent rear suspension in their respective compacts in favor of the considerably cheaper torsion-beam design.

So when Ford announced that American buyers would finally be able to get their hands on the global Focus, our ears perked up. The last Euro-Focus had built a reputation for being a smart handler, and if this latest version could make it across the pond without becoming too watered down in the process, compact buyers would once again have a vehicle that's as fun to drive as it is responsible to own. Now we get to find out if Ford pulled it off.

Continue reading...


Gallery: 2012 Ford Focus: First Drive

2012 Ford Focus2012 Ford Focus2012 Ford Focus2012 Ford Focus2012 Ford Focus

Photos copyright (C)2011 Zach Bowman / AOL

Continue reading First Drive: 2012 Ford Focus

First Drive: 2012 Ford Focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 focus2012 ford focusfeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivefocusfocus hatchbackfocus sedanfordhatchbacksedanMon, 31 Jan 2011 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19821235/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/31/2012-ford-focus-first-drive-review-road-test/19821235/article-detail.xml 19821235 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/lead1-2012-ford-focus-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/lead1-2012-ford-focus-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Congrats, Mazda! Two millionth Mazda6 rolls off the line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/10/two-millionth-mazda6-rolls-off-the-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/10/two-millionth-mazda6-rolls-off-the-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/10/two-millionth-mazda6-rolls-off-the-line/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Mazda Mazda6
2011 Mazda6 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Milestones and goals are great things to strive for in life. Mazda just reached a pretty impressive one with their mid-size Mazda6. The two millionth example has just rolled off the assembly line. It took the Japanese automaker eight years and six months to get here.

Production began on the first generation Mazda6 back in 2002 and it served to give the Zoom-Zoom campaign a major push. That first-gen car was redesigned in 2007 (the changes arrived in the US in 2009) and a third generation will be arriving soon.

Take a look at the gallery and you can see that the why-so-serious mug has been toned down. The style is more mature without losing the subtle aggressiveness found in the rest of the lineup. The future looks bright for the Mazda6. Now if we can just get them to bring over the wagon and the Mazdaspeed6 we could push them to three million units even faster.


Gallery: 2011 Mazda Atenza/Mazda6


[Source: Mazda]

Continue reading Congrats, Mazda! Two millionth Mazda6 rolls off the line

Congrats, Mazda! Two millionth Mazda6 rolls off the line originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Sep 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 mazda66atenzamazdamazda 6mazda sedanMazda6MazdaSpeedmazdaspeed6sedanwagonZoom-ZoomFri, 10 Sep 2010 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19627038/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/10/two-millionth-mazda6-rolls-off-the-line/19627038/article-detail.xml 19627038 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/01-2011-mazda-atenza-mazda6_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/01-2011-mazda-atenza-mazda6.jpg -1 2