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[BMW 4 Series cabrio caught with its top down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/bmw-4-series-cabrio-caught-with-its-top-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/bmw-4-series-cabrio-caught-with-its-top-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/bmw-4-series-cabrio-caught-with-its-top-down/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 BMW 4 Series cabrio

BMW did quite a bit to differentiate the new 3 Series from the old one, but arguably the biggest development in that department is the splitting of the model line. Because the new 3 Series is only the sedan and wagon. The coupe and cabrio are branching off as the 4 Series, similar to the 6 Series (as distinct from the 5 Series), the old 8 Series (separate from the 7 Series) and what's expected to emerge of the 2 Series from the new 1 Series.

Following earlier spy shots of the 4 Series convertible with its roof up in the rain and in the snow, this is our first look at the upcoming new model being driven the way it's meant to be driven: with its top down and the sun shining.

Unfortunately our view is a little obscured by all the swirly camouflage, so we'll have to wait until its anticipated debut sometime next year to see the whole package. But you can check out the spy shots now for a sneak preview.

BMW 4 Series cabrio caught with its top down originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4 series4 series convertiblebmwbmw 4 seriesspiedspy photosspy shotsThu, 10 May 2012 17:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20235758/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/bmw-4-series-cabrio-caught-with-its-top-down/20235758/article-detail.xml 20235758 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw4cabweb_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/bmw4cabweb.jpg <![CDATA[McLaren spotted testing successor to the legendary F1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mclaren-spotted-testing-successor-to-the-legendary-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mclaren-spotted-testing-successor-to-the-legendary-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/mclaren-spotted-testing-successor-to-the-legendary-f1/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

McLaren F1 successor prototype caught testing - front three-quarter view

Rumors and conjecture will only get you so far, particularly when we're talking about the stratosphere of supercardom where speculation can disappear back into the ether from whence it came as quickly as it emerged in the first place. What we need to really anticipate the arrival of a new record-breaking hypercar is concrete evidence. And concrete evidence, ladies and gentlemen of the jury, is what we have here before us today.

The car we're talking about is the long-awaited successor to the legendary McLaren F1. Considering how thoroughly that bolide smashed all preconceived notions of what a car could do when the original hit the streets in 1992, its successor is something worth anticipating indeed. It's expected to have nearly 700 horsepower on tap, challenge the Bugatti Veyron for straight-line pace and emerge as a de-facto challenger to the Enzo replacement Ferrari is working on.

The styling is expected to take greater advantage of the skills of one Frank Stephenson, father of the modern Mini Cooper, BMW X5, Fiat 500 and countless Ferrari and Maserati models. His arrival at McLaren Automotive is said to have been a little late for him to truly leave his mark on the MP4-12C - its big brother expected to be his first clean-sheet design since moving in at Woking.

From the spy shots, we can see some distinctive common stylistic elements to the existing MP4-12C, tempered with some references to the original McLaren F1 - particularly in the shape of the greenhouse that packs a windshield that looks like it was lifted from a glass-bottom boat. A rooftop hood vent also appears to be popping up through the camouflage, with a giant exhaust pipe protruding high up through the rear (like a Pagani), with what looks like the biggest underbody diffuser we've seen yet.

The overall shape also looks longer than the MP4-12C, presumably to accommodate an engine packing 50% more cylinders than its eight-pot kid brother. With the V12 F1 expected to arrive around the same time as the Ferrari F70, it looks like Maranello and Woking are gearing up for once heck of a high-stakes grudge match.

McLaren spotted testing successor to the legendary F1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren automotivemclaren f1spiedspy photosspy shotsTue, 24 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222745/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/mclaren-spotted-testing-successor-to-the-legendary-f1/20222745/article-detail.xml 20222745 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webmclaren-spy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webmclaren-spy.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari Enzo successor had better look better than this test mule]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/ferrari-enzo-successor-had-better-look-better-than-this-test-mul/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/ferrari-enzo-successor-had-better-look-better-than-this-test-mul/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/18/ferrari-enzo-successor-had-better-look-better-than-this-test-mul/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ferrari F70 Enzo test mule

The arrival of any new Ferrari is bound to be anticipated eagerly by legions of fans around the world, but few more keenly than the successor to the famed Enzo.

Following in a line that dates back to the 288 GTO, through the F40, the F50 and most recently the Enzo, the new top-of-the-line hypercar from Maranello is now well on the road to readiness. We're told to expect its arrival in less than a year from now at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, but while endless speculation has filled the void until now, we've now got our first batch of spy shots showing - to some extent, anyway - what Ferrari is working on.

While the widened 458 test mule in these spy shots is wearing a hideously humorous hodgepodge of sheetmetal and body cladding evidently thrown together in a back room in Maranello (with the lights off), we're told this is not an actual prototype for the Enzo successor - sure to wear a different name, but referred to internally as project F70 - but rather a rolling test bed for components that will make up the finished product.

That is expected to include an uprated (and backwards-turned) version of Ferrari's new 6.2-liter V12 from the F12 Berlinetta, producing more power and augmented by a hybrid electric assist. Despite the added hybrid bigs, the F70 is still said to be light in weight, and it will be sent gunning for the Bugatti Veyron with a targeted 0-60 run in under 2.5 seconds and a top speed in excess of 250 mph.

Ferrari Enzo successor had better look better than this test mule originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enzof70ferrariferrari enzoferrari f70spiedspy photosspy shotstest muleWed, 18 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20218564/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/18/ferrari-enzo-successor-had-better-look-better-than-this-test-mul/20218564/article-detail.xml 20218564 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webferrari-enzo-mule-apr12priddy1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webferrari-enzo-mule-apr12priddy1.jpg <![CDATA[McLaren MP4-12C Spyder caught on camera with its top down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/mclaren-mp4-12c-spyder-caught-on-camera-with-its-top-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/mclaren-mp4-12c-spyder-caught-on-camera-with-its-top-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/26/mclaren-mp4-12c-spyder-caught-on-camera-with-its-top-down/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

McSpyder SpyIf you're going to make a mid-engined supercar, you've got to make a roadster version. You simply have to, and that's all there is to it. Ferrari does with the 458 Spider, just as it did with the F430, 360, 355 and 348 before it. Lamborghini does with the Gallardo. Audi does with the R8. And soon McLaren will with the MP4-12C. We know it will - it's just a matter of time. And now it appears that time is coming up soon.

Caught by in spy shots by Britain's Car magazine, the MP4-12C Spyder carries a folding solid roof mechanism - not unlike that found in the 458, but unlike the Ferrari's, does not hide the engine. That's because the system is more of a targa top. It's reportedly being built for McLaren by Webasto and - intriguingly enough - Lotus, made of aluminum and plastic, and can deploy or retract in about 17 seconds while rolling at up to five mph.

Otherwise it's expected to be mechanically identical to the fixed-roof version, complete with twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 pumping 592 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. Expect the 12C Spyder to roll out some time later this year - in time for the summer, if McLaren's as smart and quick about it as it is with most things.

McLaren MP4-12C Spyder caught on camera with its top down originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren mp4-12cmclaren mp4-12c spydermp4-12cmp4-12c spyderspiedspyspy shotsThu, 26 Jan 2012 08:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20156878/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/26/mclaren-mp4-12c-spyder-caught-on-camera-with-its-top-down/20156878/article-detail.xml 20156878 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mcspyderspy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/mcspyderspy.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche Cajun prototype caught wearing Audi duds in Sweden]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/porsche-cajun-prototype-caught-wearing-audi-duds-in-sweden/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/porsche-cajun-prototype-caught-wearing-audi-duds-in-sweden/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/14/porsche-cajun-prototype-caught-wearing-audi-duds-in-sweden/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Porsche Cajun test mule

'Tis the season, or so they say. But we're not talking about the holidays. We're talking about the season for cold-weather testing of new prototypes up in northern Sweden. After our intrepid shutter-bugs snapped an updated Mercedes-Benz GLK taking its licks in the snow way up there near the arctic circle, now they've caught this Audi Q5 test mule.

Only appearances can be deceiving. Because while this may look like a Q5 - or even a high-performance Q5-RS - what we're actually looking at is a prototype for the upcoming Porsche Cajun.

The highly anticipated baby brother to the Cayenne will benefit from the synergies of belonging to the Volkswagen Group, hence the Q5 platform and - until we see otherwise - the Q5's sheetmetal. The major difference is in the wheel wells: bigger alloys, bigger brakes, and a wider track than the existing Audi.

The running gear (read: powertrain) is expected to be fine-tuned by Porsche engineers for a sportier attitude. We're expecting hybrid and even three-door versions (the latter to target the Range Rover Evoque), but for now we'll just have to gaze upon a wolf in sheep's clothing. Check it out in the high-res image gallery from the frozen tundra - you won't even have to put on your parka.

Porsche Cajun prototype caught wearing Audi duds in Sweden originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi q5cajuncold weather testingcold-weather testingporscheporsche cajunq5spiedspy picsspy shotsswedenWed, 14 Dec 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20127358/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/14/porsche-cajun-prototype-caught-wearing-audi-duds-in-sweden/20127358/article-detail.xml 20127358 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/web1-cajun-q5-sweden_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/web1-cajun-q5-sweden.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari developing hotter California?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/ferrari-developing-hotter-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/ferrari-developing-hotter-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/15/ferrari-developing-hotter-california/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ferrari California spy shot

Ferrari has worked hard over the past several years at differentiating its products from each other. Where its lineup once consisted principally of mid-engined supercars of different sizes, today's range includes as well a front-engined GT, an all-wheel-drive shooting brake and a 2+2 hardtop cabriolet. The latter is known as the California, and while it certainly serves a purpose in Maranello's catalog, it's hardly the most heart-pumping Prancing Horse on offer.

That's where these spy shots come in. Following reports that Ferrari was preparing to update the cabrio with a combination of increased engine output and reduced weight, we've now got the spy shots to prove it.

This test mule seen driving Ferrari's private Fiorano test track and the vicinity, aside from sporting a rather garish red and black color paint and wrap job, has its hood all carved up like a pumpkin. There's a pair of NACA ducts on the nose, some strange bulbous protrusion on the passenger side, and the whole hood doesn't seem to want to close. The question is, what's that modified hood hiding?

According to our paparazzi on the scene, the prototype had a distinctive turbo wail. If that's the case, this would be the first time Ferrari's used forced induction on a road car since the F40. Whether the upgrades will feature on a straightforward update for the California or breed a more hard-core version along the lines of the 430 Scuderia or 599 GTO remains to be seen, but Ferrari obviously has something up its sleeve for its most sedate model.

Ferrari developing hotter California? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaferrariferrari californiamaranellospiedspy shotsTue, 15 Nov 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20106522/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/15/ferrari-developing-hotter-california/20106522/article-detail.xml 20106522 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/webfcal-spy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/webfcal-spy.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche Cajun mule spied wearing Audi Q5 skin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/porsche-cajun-mule-spied-wearing-audi-q5-skin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/porsche-cajun-mule-spied-wearing-audi-q5-skin/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/porsche-cajun-mule-spied-wearing-audi-q5-skin/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Audi Q5/Porsche Cajun test mule

Well well well, what do we have here? Looks like an Audi Q5. But what of those black fender flare extensions? Are we looking at a Q5-S or even a Q5-RS? Considering that it was snapped entering the Porsche test facility at the Nürburgring, our sources suggest what we're actually looking at is a very early development mule for the new Porsche Cajun.

The baby Cayenne is slated to be based, after all, on the Audi crossover. And while these spy shots don't give us any indication of what the final styling will look like, it is the first glimpse we've gotten at the Porsche crossover altogether, even if could still pass as an Audi.

Once finalized, we're expecting a more aggressive shape from the Cajun, packing a variety of engines and transmissions underneath. It may be a while until we see the finished product, but at least we know Porsche is working on it. Probably.

Porsche Cajun mule spied wearing Audi Q5 skin originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiaudi q5audi q5 rsaudi q5 scajunporscheporsche cajunq5q5 rsq5 sspiedspy photosspy shotsThu, 18 Aug 2011 15:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20020904/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/18/porsche-cajun-mule-spied-wearing-audi-q5-skin/20020904/article-detail.xml 20020904 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webq5-cajun_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webq5-cajun.jpg <![CDATA[Jaguar XFR-S snapped gunning for M5 territory at the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/jaguar-xfr-s-snapped-gunning-for-m5-territory-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/jaguar-xfr-s-snapped-gunning-for-m5-territory-at-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/18/jaguar-xfr-s-snapped-gunning-for-m5-territory-at-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jaguar XFR-S

When is a Jaguar XFR not a Jaguar XFR? When it's an XFR-S, that's when. So while this vehicle may look like your standard supercharged Jaguar sedan, it's actually a British rocket aimed - in a bit of role reversal - squarely at Germany.

Spied undergoing development work at Jaguar's test center near the Nürburgring, this test mule looks pretty much like the XFR you can already get from your local Jag dealer. But our sources on the ground tell us it sounds more like the XKR-S, the 550-horsepower super-coupe seen running alongside it.

Though the prototype pictured lacks the exterior visual cues that would go along with the anticipated engine swap, the telltale exhaust bellow tells us the likes of the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG had better take notice.

Jaguar XFR-S snapped gunning for M5 territory at the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Aug 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jaguarjaguar xfjaguar xfrjaguar xfr-sspiedspy photosspy shotsxfxfrxfr-sThu, 18 Aug 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20020903/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/18/jaguar-xfr-s-snapped-gunning-for-m5-territory-at-the-ring/20020903/article-detail.xml 20020903 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webjagxfr-s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webjagxfr-s.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Dodge Viper mule caught wearing new front end]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/14/next-gen-dodge-viper-test-mule-packs-a-new-front-end/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/14/next-gen-dodge-viper-test-mule-packs-a-new-front-end/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/14/next-gen-dodge-viper-test-mule-packs-a-new-front-end/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 Dodge Viper spy shot

It's one thing to quietly anticipate the arrival of something exciting. It's quite another when you can actually see it coming, so here's a batch of spy shots showing the next-generation Dodge Viper under development.

Don't get too excited, though, because there's little to see from this early test mule. It's largely wearing the bodywork from the last Viper, and what's new is heavily disguised. What we can tell is that the headlights stretch back farther over the hood than the previous model, above the updated crosshair grille now in use across the Dodge model range. The placement of the air scoops and hood louvers appear different, and from what we can see at least, the front end seems to be more refined than its brutish predecessors.

Of course, it's what's behind that new front end that counts. It may be too early to say if the V10 will return of whether regulatory restrictions will force Chrysler to go with something slightly more "responsible," but you can bet it'll have more electronic nannies in place, and if the rapidly-integrating Fiat/Chrysler empire plays its cards right, Dodge's Italian sisters could bring some experience to bear. And that can't be a bad thing.

Next-gen Dodge Viper mule caught wearing new front end originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 14 Aug 2011 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 dodge viperdodgedodge viperspiedspyspy shotsviperSun, 14 Aug 2011 11:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20017143/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/14/next-gen-dodge-viper-test-mule-packs-a-new-front-end/20017143/article-detail.xml 20017143 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webviper01kgped_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/webviper01kgped.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Honda CR-V caught testing again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/2012-honda-cr-v-caught-testing-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/2012-honda-cr-v-caught-testing-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/2012-honda-cr-v-caught-testing-again/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Honda CR-V spy shot

A couple of months ago, we brought you a solitary spy shot of a virtually undisguised prototype of the next-generation Honda CR-V undergoing testing right here in the U.S. of A. And now, in a solid indication that development is proceeding despite setbacks in Japan, another pair of test mules has popped up.

What we can tell from the full batch of spy shots is that Honda appears to have taken a few pages out of the Volvo design book for the new CR-V - particularly around its rear quarters. And that's no bad thing, seeing as how the XC60 is one of the slickest crossovers on the market right now.

While still unconfirmed, the shape also seems to confirm rumors of a newly instituted third row of seats for seven-passenger capacity, a feature which is being demanded more and more by crossover buyers in order to justify the genre's large form.

Expect the 2.4-liter VTEC four to get a slight bump in both power and efficiency when it goes into production in Ohio and Ontario before the winter sets back in.

2012 Honda CR-V caught testing again originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda cr-vcr-vcrvhondahonda cr-vspiedspy photosspy shotsMon, 18 Jul 2011 11:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19993546/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/18/2012-honda-cr-v-caught-testing-again/19993546/article-detail.xml 19993546 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/webcrvspy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/webcrvspy.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac XTS draws closer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/cadillac-xts-draws-closer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/cadillac-xts-draws-closer/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/cadillac-xts-draws-closer/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Cadillac XTS spy shot
Cadillac XTS spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Work is well underway on Cadillac's upcoming new flagship. The XTS is slated to replace both the STS and DTS, and while this isn't the first time we've seen a test mule out in the open, it could be our best glimpse yet.

The new sedan is said to be riding on an extended version of General Motors' Epsilon II platform - the same architecture that underpins the Buick Regal and LaCrosse, the next Chevrolet Malibu and the new Saab 9-5. Power is expected to come in naturally-aspirated and turbocharged V6 forms, driving either the front wheels or all four depending on specification, when it comes along likely sometime late next year as a 2013 model. A turbocharged four has also been rumored, and of course we'd love to see a high-output XTS-V.

Our intrepid paparazzi say the XTS prototypes are wearing very similar camouflage to the much smaller ATS - which was beefed up to disguise its form under development. Very clever, GM, but not clever enough. Take a look at the spy shots in our gallery for a closer look.

Cadillac XTS draws closer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 cadillac xtscadillaccadillac xtsspiedspyspy photosspy shotsxtsMon, 13 Jun 2011 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19965539/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/06/13/cadillac-xts-draws-closer/19965539/article-detail.xml 19965539 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web03-cadillac-xts-spyshots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/web03-cadillac-xts-spyshots.jpg <![CDATA[Is this 2012 Honda CR-V test mule packing a third row of seats?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/is-this-2012-honda-cr-v-test-mule-packing-a-third-row-of-seats/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/is-this-2012-honda-cr-v-test-mule-packing-a-third-row-of-seats/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/is-this-2012-honda-cr-v-test-mule-packing-a-third-row-of-seats/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Honda CR-V spy shot
2012 Honda CR-V spy shot - Click above for high-res image

While Honda may have to delay rolling out the successor to the current CR-V crossover, a shortage of parts resulting from the crisis in Japan doesn't mean it isn't still working on the project. And while we hadn't seen any prototypes running before, we've now received our first glimpse.

The test mule in this solitary spy shot is wearing a bra over the front end and some taping around the hind quarters, but is otherwise fairly naked for all to see. So what are we looking at? Heavily revised styling for a start, with tail-lights that extend up the D-pillar like the current model but with a rather Volvo-like shape to them. Our intrepid auto spies also suggest the extended rear end could be making room for a third row of seats (wonder what that D-pillar tape job is hiding?), but from where we sit, it looks mighty cramped.

Beyond the design, we can expect a slightly more powerful and more efficient version of the current model's 2.4-liter VTEC four. Expect production to begin in Ohio and Ontario before winter rolls back around.

Is this 2012 Honda CR-V test mule packing a third row of seats? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 May 2011 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 honda cr-vcr-vhondahonda cr-v third rowspiedspyspy shotspy shotsthree-row cr-vWed, 18 May 2011 13:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19943975/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/18/is-this-2012-honda-cr-v-test-mule-packing-a-third-row-of-seats/19943975/article-detail.xml 19943975 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/whondacrvrwmay11priddy1-opt630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/whondacrvrwmay11priddy1-opt630.jpg <![CDATA[De Tomaso's new Pantera spied leaving Modena factory]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/05/de-tomasos-new-pantera-spied-leaving-modena-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/05/de-tomasos-new-pantera-spied-leaving-modena-factory/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/05/de-tomasos-new-pantera-spied-leaving-modena-factory/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

De Tomaso Pantera
De Tomaso Pantera prototype - Click above to watch the video after the jump

There are some things in this world that, no matter how many there are, we can never get quite enough. Like sleep. Or Victoria's Secret lingerie models. (Or ideally, a combination of the two.) And of course, mid-engined Italian supercars.

The next expected to join the fold is De Tomaso. The long-dormant marque has been revived by former Fiat executive Gian Mario Rossignolo, but as for its first debut - the Deauville crossover - let's just say it's not what we were looking forward to most. No, that role will be filled by the revival of De Tomaso's most iconic model: the Pantera.

The new supercar is expected to debut in the fall at the Los Angeles Auto Show, which means development must be well under way by now. Exhibit A: the video after the jump, which shows a barely-disguised prototype rolling out of De Tomaso's headquarters in Modena, Italy. It looks the part and certainly sounds it, as well. But don't take our word for it - follow the jump to watch the short spy clip for yourself.

Continue reading De Tomaso's new Pantera spied leaving Modena factory

De Tomaso's new Pantera spied leaving Modena factory originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 May 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>de tomasopanteraspiedspyspy videovideoThu, 05 May 2011 13:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19932607/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/05/de-tomasos-new-pantera-spied-leaving-modena-factory/19932607/article-detail.xml 19932607 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/pantera-spy-vidcap1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/pantera-spy-vidcap1.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Chrysler Town & Country nip/tuck spotted]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/23/spy-shots-2011-chrysler-town-and-country-nip-tuck-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/23/spy-shots-2011-chrysler-town-and-country-nip-tuck-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/23/spy-shots-2011-chrysler-town-and-country-nip-tuck-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Toyota and Honda may be improving the images of their minivans, but we mustn't forget about the company that started it all: Chrysler. The very first Dodge Grand Caravan went on sale 27 years ago, and through all of the ups and downs that the automaker has faced over the years (especially in recent times), the Grand Caravan and Town & Country twins have always been a mainstay.

The current pair of minivans was introduced for the 2008 model year, so it's only fitting that a slight mid-cycle refresh is on deck, and the folks at The Detroit News have snagged some spy shots of a Town & Country prototype out testing. In addition to modest exterior updates that include things like LED taillamps and a reworked rear bumper, expect Chrysler's new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 to be slotted under the hood. Combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, this should account for a healthy improvement in fuel economy, not to mention power.

What's most important for minivan shoppers, though, is interior refinement, and the 2011 T&C is expected to get a host of cabin upgrades. More comfortable seats, higher-quality materials and an integrated center console will be on hand, and we'd expect the nifty Stow 'N Go and Swivel 'N Go seating configurations to carry over, as well. Look for similar improvements to make their way into the Dodge Grand Caravan, as well. Thanks for the tip, Aaron!

[Source: The Detroit News]

Spy Shots: 2011 Chrysler Town & Country nip/tuck spotted originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jul 2010 11:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chrysler town and country2011 dodge grand caravan2011 town and country2011ChryslerTownAndCountry2011DodgeGrandCaravan2011TownAndCountrychryslerchrysler town and countryChrysler Town CountryChryslerTownAndCountryChryslerTownCountrydodgedodge grand caravanDodgeGrandCaravanGrand caravanGrandCaravanspiedspy photosspy picsspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyPicsSpyShotstown and countrytown countryTownAndCountryTownCountryFri, 23 Jul 2010 11:34:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19565054/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/23/spy-shots-2011-chrysler-town-and-country-nip-tuck-spotted/19565054/article-detail.xml 19565054 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/chryslertcdn-250op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/chryslertcdn-250op.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Aston Martin planning more Vantage upgrades?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/spy-shots-aston-martin-planning-more-vantage-upgrades/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/spy-shots-aston-martin-planning-more-vantage-upgrades/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/11/spy-shots-aston-martin-planning-more-vantage-upgrades/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

With Aston Martin busy releasing the Rapide, preparing the Cygnet city car, running the One-77 flat out, gearing up for a fresh assault on Le Mans and toying again with the whole Lagonda project, it's been a while since we've heard anything about the Vantage.

The entry-level model in Aston's range received some upgrades for the 2010 model year, including updated lights, sills, wheels, stereo and a cut to its carbon emissions. Now a crop of spy shots has been circling the intertubes showing another Vantage undergoing cold-weather testing.

Sources can't pinpoint whether this is a V8 or V12 model. Judging by the lack of louvres on the hood, installed on the V12 Vantage to keep the big engine breathing in such a tight space, our money's on the slant eight. If that's the case, the V8 Vantage could be getting the diffuser from the V12 model. The rear lip spoiler has also grown, but it's hard to tell much more than that.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Spy Shots: Aston Martin planning more Vantage upgrades? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astonaston martinaston martin v12 vantageaston martin v8 vantageaston martin vantageaston vantageAstonMartinAstonMartinV12VantageAstonMartinV8VantageAstonMartinVantageAstonVantagecold weather testingColdWeatherTestingspiedspy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsv12 vantageV12Vantagev8 vantageV8VantagevantageThu, 11 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352249/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/11/spy-shots-aston-martin-planning-more-vantage-upgrades/19352249/article-detail.xml 19352249 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/vantage-spy-diff_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/vantage-spy-diff.jpg <![CDATA[The Emperor's New Clothes: Pagani C9 prototypes snapped in South Africa with fresh sheet metal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/the-emperors-new-clothes-pagani-c9-prototypes-snapped-in-south/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/the-emperors-new-clothes-pagani-c9-prototypes-snapped-in-south/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/10/the-emperors-new-clothes-pagani-c9-prototypes-snapped-in-south/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

There's only so much testing that an automaker can undertake behind closed gates before the prototypes need to hit the open road. Consequently, automakers continue to devise all manner of camouflage and body cladding to keep prying eyes from seeing what they're working on. Horacio Pagani, however, seems to have a different approach. The independent Italian-Argentine purveyor of top-shelf supercars simply slaps the old bodywork on the new prototype and - presto! - nothing to see here. That is, until these shots came along.

Up until now, the prototypes for the Zonda's replacement that we've seen in spy shots have been all but completely indistinguishable from the existing model. But these shots - snapped in Johannesburg, South Africa - show entirely different bodywork around the rear end.

The big, protruding rear wing is gone, for starters. The tail-lamps, which were horizontal, rectangular units mounted low down on the existing Zonda, have been replaced by three-light clusters higher up. The squared-off mesh grille has been ditched in favor of an elliptical opening and the high-mounted barrel of exhaust tips, missing from recent prototypes, is back on this one. And that snorkel of an intake likewise protruding from previous prototypes is gone here, replaced by a more form-fitting vent behind the rear windscreen.

Unfortunately the snapper couldn't seem to get ahead to snap the front end, but the bodywork along the side flank appears more curvaceous as well, as does the greenhouse. The pair of test mules were apparently being escorted by a pair of Mercedes SLS AMGs, as the Benz performance division will once again be providing the Pagani's motivation.

[Source: World Car Fans]

The Emperor's New Clothes: Pagani C9 prototypes snapped in South Africa with fresh sheet metal originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amgc9johannesburgpaganipagani c9pagani zondaPaganiC9PaganiZondasouth africaSouthAfricaspiedspyspy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotszondaWed, 10 Feb 2010 17:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19352269/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/10/the-emperors-new-clothes-pagani-c9-prototypes-snapped-in-south/19352269/article-detail.xml 19352269 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/wcf-zonda-spy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/wcf-zonda-spy.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Ferrari 599 GTO, is that you?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/08/spy-shots-ferrari-599-gto-is-that-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/08/spy-shots-ferrari-599-gto-is-that-you/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/08/spy-shots-ferrari-599-gto-is-that-you/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Few letters hold the same lore for Ferrari fans as G-T-O. Pontiac muscle-cars aside, the letters were first used on the iconic '60s-era 250 GTO. The 288 GTO followed two decades later and laid the ground for the F40, the first in the modern age of Ferrari supercars. Now the name is set to come back again on an extreme version of the 599 GTB

Bridging the gap between the roadgoing 599 GTB Fiorano and the track-bound experimental 599XX - and filling the hole left by the Enzo - the 599 GTO promises epic levels of performance (and extreme exclusivity) worthy of the GTO moniker. The prospect first broke cover back in November when internal documents referred to a "599 GTO Limited Edition," and was followed up with more speculative details - including a 700-horsepower output figure - early last month. Now an intrepid observer in Maranello with a camera handy appears to have snapped a camouflaged prototype out in the wild.

Aside from the yards of white vinyl and black tape telling you something's up, this 599 test mule is wearing big black alloys, a blacked-out roof (like that of the 599XX, albeit sans the extra winglets), a monster rear diffuser and Prova-style factory plates. Beyond that there's little to tell, but this is the first evidence we have beyond rumors and conjecture as to what Maranello is up to next.

[Source: alVolante.it]

Spy Shots: Ferrari 599 GTO, is that you? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>599599 gtb599 gtb fiorano599 gto599Gtb599GtbFiorano599Gtoferrariferrari 599ferrari 599 gtbferrari 599 gtb fioranoferrari 599 gtoFerrari599Ferrari599GtbFerrari599GtbFioranoFerrari599Gtofioranogtb fioranoGtbFioranogtosoy shotsSoyShotsspiedspy photosspy shotSpyPhotosSpyShotMon, 08 Feb 2010 17:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19347947/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/08/spy-shots-ferrari-599-gto-is-that-you/19347947/article-detail.xml 19347947 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/599gto-spy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/599gto-spy.jpg <![CDATA[First official shots of new BMW 5 Series leaked online]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 BMW F10 5-Series - Click above for image gallery

BMW's official unveiling ceremony isn't until Monday, but a few authentic shots of the all-new "F10" BMW 5 Series are floating around cyberspace. These three low resolution images only give us a frontal glimpse of the upcoming 5 Series sedan, apparently as it does a dress rehearsal for its big show at the beginning of the week.

Our first sans-camouflage observation says it looks much like the 5 Series GT, its close sibling (nobody was expecting any radical styling departure anyway). Thanks to its "sport sedan" role, the new 5 Series four-door sports a slightly more aggressive flair to its front facade and side styling. In case you were wondering, the little black buttons just ahead of the front wheels are side view cameras, just like those found on the 7 Series. We'll reserve further judgment until Monday, when they pull the rest of the tarp off. Thanks for the tip, Brandon!

UPDATE: Full official gallery of shots from BMW added.

Gallery: 2010 BMW 5 Series F10 Official Pics


Gallery: 2011 BMW 5 Series sedan


[Source: 5post.com]

First official shots of new BMW 5 Series leaked online originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 5 Series2010 BMW2010 BMW 5 Series2010 F1020105Series2010Bmw2010Bmw5Series2010F105 Series5SeriesbreakingF10F10 5 SeriesF105SeriesPreviewSneak PeekSneakPeekSpiedSpottedSpy ShotSpyShotSun, 22 Nov 2009 08:49:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19249432/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/19249432/article-detail.xml 19249432 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/bmw_f10_630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/bmw_f10_630.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Infiniti QX getting the FX treatment]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/spy-shots-infiniti-qx-getting-the-fx-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/spy-shots-infiniti-qx-getting-the-fx-treatment/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/spy-shots-infiniti-qx-getting-the-fx-treatment/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Next-gen Infiniti Qx - Click above for high-res image gallery of spy shots

Based on the gargantuan Nissan Armada, the Infiniti QX56 is one big beast of an SUV. Especially next to the svelte FX, and even more so now that the EX has joined the line-up. Keeping such a goliath of a truck looking fresh is a challenge unto itself, but Nissan's luxury division is apparently working on it.

The biggest thing to hit Tempe since Super Bowl XXX, this QX test mule was spied by one of our intrepid readers while apparently undergoing hot weather testing around the Phoenix suburb. The vehicle in question, as you can see, is wearing heavy camo, but appears to carry the same pronounced grille as the current model, albeit with more angular headlights to mimic its little brothers. The rear end appears to be undergoing a restyling as well, while the C-pillar-mounted rear door handle - a hallmark of Nissan sport-utes in the Pathfinder family - have apparently moved to the more conventional position. That's about all we can surmise about the behemoth hiding underneath that Michelin Man suit, but you can have a look for yourself in the exclusive gallery of spy shots below. Thanks for sending these in, Justin!


Gallery: Spy Shots: Next-gen Infiniti QX

Spy Shots: Infiniti QX getting the FX treatment originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arizonainfinitiinfiniti qxinfiniti qx56infiniti spyInfinitiQxInfinitiQx56InfinitiSpynissan armadaNissanArmadaqxqx56spiedspyspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotstempeTue, 20 Oct 2009 12:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19202468/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/20/spy-shots-infiniti-qx-getting-the-fx-treatment/19202468/article-detail.xml 19202468 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/infinitiqxspy000_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/infinitiqxspy000_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW resurrecting the M3 CSL?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/bmw-m3-csl-spy-shots-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/bmw-m3-csl-spy-shots-1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/bmw-m3-csl-spy-shots-1/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

We're not sure what to believe anymore. A bit over a year ago, reports surfaced that BMW was planning a successor to the E90-generation M3 CSL, a highly coveted, track-focused version of its legendary sports coupe. Within a month, the Bavarian automaker had announced that it was canceling the program. And then these photos show up.

This M3 test mule was seen lapping the Nürburgring with a host of modifications and little in the way of camouflage. Knowing full well that the Nordschleife is swarming with more papparazi than Lindsay Lohan's front lawn, the Bavarians had to know we'd start asking questions. The car in question appears to be sporting a big front splitter, giant rear wing, a wider track housing bigger wheels and semi-slick tires. Underneath, reports suggest the 4.0-liter V8 benefits from new valves and a carbon-fiber airbox to deliver some 470 horsepower.

Call it an M3 CSL or a roadgoing M3 GT4, but with Audi's upcoming RS5 just around the corner, the smart money's on BMW putting up a fight of some kind.

[Source: NextAutos]

Spy Shots: BMW resurrecting the M3 CSL? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw cslbmw m3bmw m3 cslbmw m3 gt4bmw m3 gt4 streetBmwCslBmwM3BmwM3CslBmwM3Gt4BmwM3Gt4Streetcslm3m3 cslm3 gt4m3 gt4 streetM3CslM3Gt4M3Gt4StreetNordschleifeNurburgringNurburgring nordschleifeNurburgringNordschleifespiedspyspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsTue, 20 Oct 2009 10:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19201687/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/10/20/bmw-m3-csl-spy-shots-1/19201687/article-detail.xml 19201687 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/bmwm3csl_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/bmwm3csl_opt.jpg -1 2