Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Followup: Mystery Dodge Journey SRT R/T might be the real deal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/followup-mystery-dodge-journey-srt-r-t-might-be-the-real-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/followup-mystery-dodge-journey-srt-r-t-might-be-the-real-deal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/16/followup-mystery-dodge-journey-srt-r-t-might-be-the-real-deal/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T - Click above for high-res image gallery

We first informed you yesterday about an interesting looking Dodge Journey SRT R/T prototype that AB reader Nick Leonard stumbled upon in Saginaw, MI. With its manufacturer lincense plates, unique wheels, quad exhaust tips, road-hugging stance and a well-integrated new front fascia, we figured might be some kind of HiPo Mopar project that the company has kept close to its vest. We didn't know anything else about it other than the fact that we wanted to know more.

Well, today we have word of a secondhand account of the beast that would add fuel to the fire. Apparently, if a new LS1Tech thread is to be believed, this Journey is pretty darned quick. Forum member Outlaw55 tells the story:
Just got smoked by a white Dodge SUV thing! I was just out cruising back to work after grabbing a bite to eat and I got pumbled by some newer 4-door Dodge wagon/SUV looking thing. My 02 SS has been 12.90's with Drag Radials and now it has Blizzacs on the back but everything else was the same.

It was behind me and then beside at a stop light. I did not intend to race the guy but my lane ended about 10 yards ahead so I punched it when the light went green, his fender was at my door m so I banged second and went WOT and he friggin passed me. I merged in behind him and then my turn came up and I got off that road.

WTF. It wasn't a Cherokee SRT8 and it certainly wasn't V8 because it didn't sound like it. It had 5 star rims and quad exhausts..thing was white ?
Granted, this was on Michigan's cold winter streets and the Chevrolet Camaro in question was wearing Blizzaks, but either way, it would appear that this all-wheel drive Journey is packing some serious heat. Outlaw says he didn't think it was a V8, and it would be hard to believe a Hemi could be crammed into the Journey's engine bay, so if we had to guess, it might have a breathed-on SRT-4 powerplant in there. With the Caliber SRT-4 turbo mill underhood, it could be producing as much as 285 horsepower in stock configuration, possibly enough to humble the Camaro under very poor traction conditions. But who knows, perhaps it was secreting some extra boost? Thanks for the tip, Tracy!


Gallery: Reader Spy: SRT-prepped Dodge Journey R/T


[Source: LS1Tech]

Followup: Mystery Dodge Journey SRT R/T might be the real deal originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dodge JourneyDodge Journey RTDodge Journey SRTDodge Journey SRT RTDodgeJourneyDodgeJourneyRtDodgeJourneySrtDodgeJourneySrtRtjourneyJourney RTJourney SRTJourney SRT RTJourneyRtJourneySrtJourneySrtRtspy photosspy picsSpyPhotosSpyPicsSRTSRT-4SRT-6SRT4SRT6Wed, 16 Dec 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: First Nissan Qazana prototype caught testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/spy-shots-first-nissan-qazana-prototype-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/spy-shots-first-nissan-qazana-prototype-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/spy-shots-first-nissan-qazana-prototype-caught-testing/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Just when you thought Qashqai was about a weird a name as a car could get comes some spy shots of the Nissan Qazana. Mmmm... yeah, you're right. Qashqai is still weirder. However, the Qazana, which we first saw in Geneva, is weirder looking than the Qashqai. Or practically anything else, for that matter. But it's not bad-weird, just weird-weird. That said, sticking with the maxim that all SUVs (and cars that look like SUVs) want to either be WW2 Jeeps or lunar rovers, the Qazana isn't that odd. We quite like it.

The lads at AutoExpress just caught some spy shots of a Qazana prototype, complete with black trash-bag crypsis. Despite the budget camo, it does look like some of the show car's more novel elements are making it into production -- specifically, its large headlights. It even seems as though the highly-stylized grille will see the light of day.

AutoExpress claims that it doesn't stop there: The motorcycle-inspired (and highly whacked-out) interior will also allegedly make the final cut. In terms of where it fits in the lineup, the Qazana will slot below the larger Qashqai. Like the Qashqai, look for the Qazana to be built at Nissan's Sunderland, UK plant. Here's hoping Nissan chooses the bold path and brings out a Qazana that truly resembles the concept. Odds of it making to the US? We'd normally say "zilch," but we did just get the Cube, so who knows?


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Nissan Qazana


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Nissan Qazana


[Source: AutoExpress]

Spy Shots: First Nissan Qazana prototype caught testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 14:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>NissanNissan QashqaiNissan QazanaNissanQashqaiNissanQazanaQashqaiQazanaSpy PhotosSpy Photos Nissan QazanaSpy Photos QazanaSpy ShotsSpyPhotosSpyPhotosNissanQazanaSpyPhotosQazanaSpyShotsSun, 13 Dec 2009 14:13:00 EST<![CDATA[SPY VIDEO: 2011 BMW M5 prototype whines its way 'round the Nordschleife]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/spy-video-2011-bmw-m5-prototype-whines-its-way-round-the-nords/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/spy-video-2011-bmw-m5-prototype-whines-its-way-round-the-nords/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/12/spy-video-2011-bmw-m5-prototype-whines-its-way-round-the-nords/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Click above to view video after the jump

If you were disappointed by reports that BMW was planning to retire the award-winning, high-revving V10 engine from the current M5 in favor of a twin-turbo V8, well...we can't really blame you. It's one heck of an engine, and we'll all miss it dearly. But all is not lost. The Bavarian automaker is hard at work on the next 5 Series, and with it the next-gen M5. And now spy video footage of the uber-sedan lapping the Nurburgring has surfaced.

With all the swirly camouflage, it's hard to tell much about the car's styling. You can expect it to follow the lead set by the new 5 Series Gran Turismo, though. But the engine - well, just follow the jump, watch the video and tell us if you're not hearing that telltale turbo whine. Thanks for the tip, Paul!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading SPY VIDEO: 2011 BMW M5 prototype whines its way 'round the Nordschleife

SPY VIDEO: 2011 BMW M5 prototype whines its way 'round the Nordschleife originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 bmw m52011 bmw m5 turbo2011 bmw m5 turbo v82011BmwM52011BmwM5Turbo2011BmwM5TurboV8bmwbmw m5BmwM5spyspy photosspy shotsspy videoSpyPhotosSpyShotsSpyVideovideovideo footageVideoFootageMon, 12 Oct 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Abarth hatching plans for new hot hatches]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/11/spy-shots-abarth-hatching-plans-for-new-hot-hatches/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/11/spy-shots-abarth-hatching-plans-for-new-hot-hatches/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/11/spy-shots-abarth-hatching-plans-for-new-hot-hatches/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fiat's Abarth performance division only has two basic product lines, so how many revisions can it possibly have on the burner? Well, two, as reports emerging from Europe suggest.

Following hot on the heels of the 695 Tributo Ferrari unveiled in Frankfurt and the rally-spec R3T presented in Sanremo, come spy photos of an Abarth version of the ragtop Fiat 500C. Reports first emerged of an Abarth 500C a couple of months back, but what looks to be a working example has been spied at Abarth's Officine 83 Mirafiori facility. Sources expect a possible debut in March at the Geneva Motor Show.

Meanwhile, there are also more reports of an updated Punto Abarth. The hot hatch is expected to wear cosmetic modifications concurrent with the new Fiat Punto Evo, and the 170hp 1.4-liter MultiAir four from the Alfa Romeo MiTo Quadifoglio Verde is tipped to replaced the existing 155hp engine. Reports also suggest that the Abarth could be one of the first Fiat group products to showcase the company's new six-speed dual-dry-clutch transmission.

While the new Punto isn't expected to make it Stateside, there's a strong chance the Abarth 500 will. However there's no word yet as to if and when the 500 range might get the MultiAir engine and DSG.

[Sources: eurocarblog and jokeforblog]

Spy Shots: Abarth hatching plans for new hot hatches originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Oct 2009 18:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abarthabarth 500cabarth punto evoAbarth500cAbarthPuntoEvodsgfiat 500c abarthfiat abarthfiat dsgfiat puntofiat punto abarthfiat punto evofiat punto evo abarthFiat500cAbarthFiatAbarthFiatDsgFiatPuntoFiatPuntoAbarthFiatPuntoEvoFiatPuntoEvoAbarthmulti airMultiAirspiedspyspy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsSun, 11 Oct 2009 18:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy pics: Refreshed 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe spotted camo-free]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/spy-pics-refreshed-2010-hyundai-santa-fe-spotted-camo-free/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/spy-pics-refreshed-2010-hyundai-santa-fe-spotted-camo-free/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/spy-pics-refreshed-2010-hyundai-santa-fe-spotted-camo-free/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Hyundai Santa Fe - click above for high-res image gallery

On the way into the office the morning, this blogger sat at a red light, only to notice a new Hyundai Santa Fe pulling up behind. A glance at the grille revealed that this was not the current model at dealerships, but rather the refreshed iteration that should be debuting in the not-too-distant future. Thankfully, a handy camera phone was on hand to snap the images in the gallery below.

As you can see from the photo above, Hyundai's middle crossover offering is getting a new grille in keeping with the one we recently saw on the upcoming new Sonata. The bumper area is also re-contoured into a more subtle version of what is scheduled for the new Tucson coming to the Los Angeles Auto Show. The headlight clusters retain the same shape, but internal detailing has been revised. At the back, new taillights and re-shaping of the bumper area is also visible. No word yet on mechanical changes, although a new direct-injected four-cylinder has been rumored.


Gallery: 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe spy pics


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Spy pics: Refreshed 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe spotted camo-free originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 hyundai2010 hyundai santa fe2010Hyundai2010HyundaiSantaFehyundaihyundai santa fehyundai santa fe 2010hyundai sante feHyundaiSantaFeHyundaiSantaFe2010HyundaiSanteFesanta feSantaFespy photospy photosspy picspy picsSpyPhotoSpyPhotosSpyPicSpyPicsFri, 25 Sep 2009 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Next-gen Volvo S60 caught completely uncovered]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/spy-shots-next-gen-volvo-s60-caught-completely-uncovered/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/spy-shots-next-gen-volvo-s60-caught-completely-uncovered/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/spy-shots-next-gen-volvo-s60-caught-completely-uncovered/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The gestation period for a new Volvo model has always been rather languid. Back in the 1950s, when tailfins were making annual progress toward low earth orbit, Volvo was cranking out PV444 and 544s. Those cars spent a good part of a decade looking like 1940s Fords, and so it's gone with Volvo's models. The iconic 200 series was in production for nearly 20 years, so while the current S60 was first teased nearly ten years ago, the fact that it's still on sale isn't that surprising given the brand's history of model longevity.

All the way back to Volvo's original stylist Jan Wilsgaard, the Swedish automaker has had good looking cars that stand up over time. Of course, a glance at the latest S60 sales figures might indicate that the public is using the car as an illustration of "long in tooth." Most of Volvo's range has been recently refreshed, but its important bread and butter sedan has been soldiering on largely unchanged from its 2005 mid-cycle freshening. Until now, that is.

The next S60's production styling has been captured by spy photographers, and the new duds follow the styling themes laid out by the recent XC60. The front end is smoother and more chiseled at the same time, and the bodysides pick up a character line where the current car wears a smooth radius. We think it looks good, it's a nice evolution of the original S60's handsome and well-proven styling, and should make Volvo a more attractive purchase when Ford eventually relents and admits it's for sale. Follow the source to see the new S60 in full. Thanks for the tip, Casey!

[Source: Straightline, Photo: Brenda Priddy & Co.]


Spy Shots: Next-gen Volvo S60 caught completely uncovered originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 s602011 volvo s602011S602011VolvoS60falses60spy photospy photographyspy photosspy picspy picsspy shotsSpyPhotoSpyPhotographySpyPhotosSpyPicSpyPicsSpyShotsvolvovolvo s60volvo s60 conceptvolvo s60 spyvolvo spyvolvo spy photovolvo spy photosvolvo spy shotsVolvoS60VolvoS60ConceptVolvoS60SpyVolvoSpyVolvoSpyPhotoVolvoSpyPhotosVolvoSpyShotsWed, 09 Sep 2009 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour caught out again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/reader-spy-honda-accord-crosstour-in-the-metal-you-know-how-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/reader-spy-honda-accord-crosstour-in-the-metal-you-know-how-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/reader-spy-honda-accord-crosstour-in-the-metal-you-know-how-th/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Honda Accord Crosstour spy photos - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Reader Jackson De Oliviera dropped us a line this weekend to let us know he caught the highly-controversial Honda Accord Crosstour out in the wild and had posted the shots he took on his blog, DriveToEscape.com. Jackson was kind enough to allow us to reprint those photos in our gallery below. In short, Jackson's pics probably aren't about to change any minds regarding the Crosstour's looks.

In its coverage of the ongoing Crosstour Facebook debacle, Automotive News (posting to CNET's CarTech blog) notes the open revulsion the car has been met with on Honda's dedicated Facebook page, as well as in the comment sections of blogs like the one you're reading right now. AN also repeats the hastily-assembled Honda PR narrative that the negative reaction of "enthusiasts" is to be expected, and that market research indicates that the Crosstour will fare well with the "crossover intenders" that Honda views as the image buyers for the car.

This may well turn out to be true, but it wasn't so long ago that Honda's styling once had an inherent, universal appeal - to enthusiasts and casual observers alike. That, however, has given way to a stream of increasingly polarizing designs culminating with the Accord Crosstour. Polarizing can sell; just ask BMW. But judging by the peanut gallery's comments and many of our staffers murmurings over here, we'll take Honda's old-style elegance and understatement over seemingly forced weirdness any day. Designing the Crosstour specifically for "crossover intenders" may deliver a vehicle that niche buyer will happily pay for, but it all remains to be seen.


Gallery: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour Spy Photos


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jackson De Oliviera/DriveTo Escape.com. Used with permission.
[Source: CNET.com | Images: Drive To Escape]

Reader Spy: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour caught out again originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 honda accord crosstour2010HondaAccordCrosstouraccordcrosstourhondaspy photosSpyPhotosTue, 08 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 VW Jetta Sedan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/spy-shots-2011-vw-jetta-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/spy-shots-2011-vw-jetta-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/31/spy-shots-2011-vw-jetta-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2011 Volkswagen Jetta - Click above for a high-res image gallery

After spending time with the Jetta sedan last year, we came away mostly impressed by its performance and looks. V-Dub's bread-and-butter model is handsome enough to keep buyers interested, but every design gets stale and after wearing the same duds since 2004, VW is working on all-new sheetmetal for the 2011 model year.

KPG caught the new Jetta Sedan undergoing hot-weather testing in Arizona, and while most of the shots show little more than swaths of black camo, the heat and wind worked away at the adhesive to reveal crisper lines, a swoopier roof, a more angled rear side window and some snazzy looking taillights.

VW is calling the revised Jetta its "New Compact Sedan" and the Jetta name is in no danger of being changed. Expect the 2011 Jetta to take aim at the Civic and Corolla with a significant drop in its base price when it goes on sale late next year.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta

01-2011-jetta-kgp02-2011-jetta-kgp03-2011-jetta-kgp04-2011-jetta-kgp05-2011-jetta-kgp

Spy Shots: 2011 VW Jetta Sedan originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 31 Aug 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>spy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsvolkswagenvolkswagen jettaVolkswagenJettavwMon, 31 Aug 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: ABC features Brenda Priddy, International Spy Photog of Mystery]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/video-brenda-priddy-international-spy-photog-of-mystery/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/video-brenda-priddy-international-spy-photog-of-mystery/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/19/video-brenda-priddy-international-spy-photog-of-mystery/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

The news media has turned its empty head to the deeper world of automotive coverage, beyond the front lines of dismal sales numbers and Cash For Clunkers.

None other than spy photographer extraodinaire Brenda Priddy has now been on the receiving end of the gentle, semi-informative coverage mainstream news is so deft at cranking out. A quick package on ABC's flagship World News Tonight broadcast was but a precursor to a more in-depth piece on Nightline that blows Brenda's cover and profiles her hard work in the searing desert heat. Hit the jump to view both videos. Thanks for all your tips!

[Source: ABC News]

Continue reading VIDEO: ABC features Brenda Priddy, International Spy Photog of Mystery

VIDEO: ABC features Brenda Priddy, International Spy Photog of Mystery originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abcabc car spyabc newsabc news priddyabc news video clipabc nightlineAbcCarSpyAbcNewsAbcNewsPriddyAbcNewsVideoClipAbcNightlinebrenda priddyBrendaPriddyfalsenightlinenightline car spynightline priddyNightlineCarSpyNightlinePriddyspy photospy photographerspy photographyspy photosspy picspy picsSpyPhotoSpyPhotographerSpyPhotographySpyPhotosSpyPicSpyPicsvideoWed, 19 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mystery concept caught in Spain]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/spy-shots-mystery-concept-caught-in-spain/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/spy-shots-mystery-concept-caught-in-spain/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/23/spy-shots-mystery-concept-caught-in-spain/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mystery concept car in Barcelona -- Click above for image gallery

Autoblog Quiz of the Day: the minicar pictured above was spotted in Barcelona, Spain at Central del Poblenou Park, during what sounds like a photo or commercial shoot. Two people were caught driving it, the one in the sky blue outfit and hat looks to be a model/actress. The car, devoid of any logos or identifying marks, was accompanied by several trucks with French license plates - along with about ten people who didn't appreciate the person taking photos. Can anyone help us solve the mystery? Check out the image gallery below, and leave your guessses in 'Comments.'


Gallery: Mystery Concept Car in Barcelona


[Source: Autoblog Spanish (translated) | Photo credit: X15A]

Spy Shots: Mystery concept caught in Spain originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barcelonaconcept carConceptCareuropemicrocarminicarspainspy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsurban carUrbanCarThu, 23 Jul 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG Roadster?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-slc-amg-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-slc-amg-roadster/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/14/spy-shots-mercedes-benz-slc-amg-roadster/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren spun off more variants than you could shake a carbon-ceramic stick at, and and although its successor hasn't even reached the market, spy shots are already suggesting that the upcoming SLS could follow down the same path.

What we have here are the first shots of what is being billed once again as the Mercedes-Benz SLC. The name was previously entertained as the tentative nameplate for Merc's upcoming gullwing supercar until it was replaced by the SLS nameplate. But if these shots from Auto Express are any indication, a roadster version is likely in the works as well.

Rather than a folding hard-top like the SL, the droptop SLS looks like it will follow the path of the SLR McLaren (not to mention the original 300SL) with a canvas roof, and presumably it will offer full automatic operation and a glass rear window. Aside from the roof, the mechanics are anticipated to carry over unchanged from the specs that just hit the web earlier today, while minimal weight gain should mean that performance will closely mirror that of its fixed-roof counterpart.

[Source: Auto Express]

Spy Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLC AMG Roadster? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 BMW 5 Series - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The 2010 BMW 5 Series is due to hit the market early next year and these latest spy shots are a clear, if predictable, indication of what styling changes are on their way.

The front fascia adopts the upright nose, elongated twin-kidney grille and contoured headlamps (Dame Edna be gone!) originally shown on the 2009 7 Series, while the rear takes on a set of similarly styled tail lamps and looses the Bangled rump we've come to know and loathe.

The overall effect should tie in well with the recently revealed BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, and expect similar powertrain options to be available, including the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8, 3.0-liter inline-six and a host of diesel options offered abroad. Transmission choices will likely include a six-speed manual and an all-new eight-speed gearbox supplied by ZF. And then there's the 2011 M5 to look forward to.

Expect the next M-fettled 5er to pack the X6 M/X5 M's tweaked twin-turbo'd eight nestled within a revised chassis sure to use considerable amounts of aluminum and carbon fiber. It's obvious that development of the next 5 is well underway, and we wouldn't be surprised to see it unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, with the M5 appearing later in 2010.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2010 BMW 5 Series

Spy Shots: 2010 BMW 5 Series nearing completion originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Porsche 911 - Click above for a high-res image gallery of spy shots

With every iteration of the 911, Porsche makes incremental improvements to its iconic sports car and naturally, the next generation will be no exception.

This latest 911 prototype was caught at the Nurburgring sporting 997 sheetmetal, but it's what's on top and out back that deserves note. A double-bubble roof panel has been fitted, while underneath the rear camouflage is a sizeable wing and additional ducting. Look closely and you'll see a small sill at the base of the rear windscreen that's assumed to be feeding the rear-mounted flat-six - likely necessary keep the boxer cool while Porsche engineers figure out how the new contoured roof affects aerodynamics. If previous reports are to be believed, we can expect the next 911 to debut sometime in 2010, but we wouldn't rule out an appearance at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.


Gallery: Spy Shots: Porsche 911 with double-bubble roof

Spy Shots: Next-gen Porsche 911 sporting double-bubble roof originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 porsche 9112010Porsche91120112011 porsche 9112011Porsche911911998porscheporsche 911Porsche911spy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsFri, 03 Jul 2009 19:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Ferrari F450 test mules caught undisguised]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/spy-shots-ferrari-f450-test-mules-caught-undisguised/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/spy-shots-ferrari-f450-test-mules-caught-undisguised/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/spy-shots-ferrari-f450-test-mules-caught-undisguised/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Following hot on the heels of spy shots reportedly depicting a Ferrari 599 Spider, the boys over at CzechFerrari.cz have acquired a set of photos of what appears to be a government certification mule for the highly anticipated upcoming Ferrari F450.

Typically, Ferrari test mules run with the previous model's body panels, hiding the shape from the public eye and leaving us guessing at what lurks underneath. These shots are a different story altogether. Although missing the front and rear fascias, these test vehicles show most of the body, the aluminum frame, a bit of the interior and the engine bay - complete with twin-clutch transmission and high-mounted exhaust outlets - giving us what looks to be our closest glimpse at the upcoming replacement for the F430 we've seen yet.

The new V8 supercar is expected to debut at theFrankfurt Auto Show this coming September, with a hybrid variant potentially popping up at the Los Angeles show a few months later. In the meantime, follow the link to check out the photos for yourself. Thanks for the tip, Patrick!

[Source: CzechFerrari.cz]

Spy Shots: Ferrari F450 test mules caught undisguised originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>czech ferrariCzechFerrariczechferrari.czferrariferrari f450ferrari f450 spyferrari spy shotferrari test muleFerrariF450FerrariF450SpyFerrariSpyShotFerrariTestMulespyspy photosspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotsTue, 23 Jun 2009 16:32:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ferrari F450 test mule caught in two-minute spy footage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/ferrari-f450-test-mule-caught-in-two-minute-spy-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/ferrari-f450-test-mule-caught-in-two-minute-spy-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/30/ferrari-f450-test-mule-caught-in-two-minute-spy-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Ferrari F450 spy video - Click above to view the video after the jump

Catching a glimpse inside Ferrari's top-secret Fiorano test track in Maranello is a rare treat. Catching a developmental test mule for an upcoming supercar on video is another matter entirely. But as Ferrari prepares for the anticipated debut of the successor to its F430, the proverbial cat was bound to leap out of the bag.

You'll find the full video after the jump, where you'll be able to discern a few key differences between this and the F430 it replaces. We won't speculate on the cosmetics, as those will all have changed by the time the veil is lifted in Frankfurt, but there are a few mechanical giveaways worth noting. The big air intakes protruding from the rear end, along with the larger exhaust pipes, should help the enlarged, direct-injection V8 eclipse even the 430 Scuderia's 520-horsepower output. A redline approaching 10,000 rpm should also help the cause, which could be managed by the California's seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox to replace the F1-style robotized manual. Follow the jump to watch the footage for yourself.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ferrari F450 test mule caught in two-minute spy footage

VIDEO: Ferrari F450 test mule caught in two-minute spy footage originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrariferrari f430ferrari f450ferrari spyferrari videoFerrariF430FerrariF450FerrariSpyFerrariVideospyspy photosspy shotsspy shots ferrarispy videospy video ferrari f450SpyPhotosSpyShotsSpyShotsFerrariSpyVideoSpyVideoFerrariF450Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2011 Nissan GT-R spotted testing at Nürburgring?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/spy-shots-2011-nissan-gt-r-spotted-testing-at-nurburgring/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/spy-shots-2011-nissan-gt-r-spotted-testing-at-nurburgring/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/spy-shots-2011-nissan-gt-r-spotted-testing-at-nurburgring/#commentsFiled under: , ,

One way to win races is to bury the pedal and never lift. It would appear Nissan may be following the same plan with the development of its GT-R. Rather than sit around and let the car's development go cold, Nissan is continuing to refine its bargain supercar slayer.

Nürburgring watchers have noticed a seemingly base model GT-R lapping the track lately. There's camo on the front and rear fascias - somewhat strange for a car that's been released for public consumption - so the folks at gtrblog took a closer look.

While it may look innocuous enough, the latest GT-R o be snapped on its German vacation has aerodynamic pieces that are subtly different, leading gtrblog to come to the conclusion that this is probably thee 2011 version of Nissan's Godzilla. Thanks for the tip, Jim!


[Source: gtrblog.com]


Spy Shots: 2011 Nissan GT-R spotted testing at Nürburgring? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Speedster variants Porsche made out of its 911 range in the '80s and '90s went down as one of the most iconic in the company's history. But with the Boxster already in the line-up, making a 911 Speedster today would make about as much sense as, um.... mounting a flat six behind the rear axle. So what are they preparing instead? Well, if these spy shots are any indication, some sort of Boxster-based Speedster.

The mule captured in these photos is wearing an extensive amount of camouflage around the rear deck and roof, but sources suggest that underneath the disguise, this particular Boxster is wearing a more shapely rear hood, with Speedster-style moldings running from a pair of roll hoops aft of the seats down to the rear bumper. A chopped-down windscreen is also part of the package, while power is tipped to come from the 299hp version of the 3.4-liter six found in the Boxster S Porsche Design Edition 2. Hopefully, the chop-top Boxster could be getting ready for a debut at the automaker's home-market Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

[Source: Auto Express]

Spy Shots: Porsche working on Boxster Speedster? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxsterporscheporsche 911 speedsterporsche boxsterporsche boxster speedsterporsche speedsterporsche spyPorsche911SpeedsterPorscheBoxsterPorscheBoxsterSpeedsterPorscheSpeedsterPorscheSpyspeedsterspy photosspy shotspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyShotSpyShotsTue, 28 Apr 2009 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Volkswagen pickup prototype runs the 'Ring]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/spy-shots-volkswagen-pickup-prototype-runs-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/spy-shots-volkswagen-pickup-prototype-runs-the-ring/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/spy-shots-volkswagen-pickup-prototype-runs-the-ring/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Volkswagen has just sent out one of its latest models to tackle the Nürburgring. While that in and of itself is not necessarily newsworthy, the fact that it was their upcoming midsize pickup truck, is. While the firm's new Scirocco GT24-CNG is set to contest the 24 hour race at Germany's Nordschliefe, spotting their new production truck at the track was a bit of a shocker.

The track is a great test of a car's handling, power delivery and braking, spanning some 73 turns over its sinuous 18 miles, but the truck isn't expected to be offered in any performance versions as far as we know. Perhaps it was being used as a parts delivery vehicle?

Whatever the reason for its presence at the track, the shooters at Brenda Priddy and Co. caught it for our entertainment. When the truck goes on sale in South America, South Africa, Australia and Europe, it is likely to be called the Robust and will be built at the VW plant in Pacheco, Argentina. No times have been posted for this Green Hell Hauler, but we admit we're more than a little curious.

[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Spy Shots: Volkswagen pickup prototype runs the 'Ring originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>midsize pickup truckMidsizePickupTrucknurburgringspy photosspy picsspy shotsSpyPhotosSpyPicsSpyShotsvolkswagenVolkswagen midsize pickupVolkswagen midsize pickup truckvolkswagen pickupvolkswagen pickup truckVolkswagenMidsizePickupVolkswagenMidsizePickupTruckVolkswagenPickupVolkswagenPickupTruckTue, 21 Apr 2009 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Is this the next Porsche Cayenne?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/17/spy-shots-is-this-the-next-porsche-cayenne/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/17/spy-shots-is-this-the-next-porsche-cayenne/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/17/spy-shots-is-this-the-next-porsche-cayenne/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Porsche's Cayenne is starting to show its age. With the arrival of the Panamera, it's no longer the most controversial looking vehicle in the company's product portfolio, though its road-scorching edge remains undiminished in turbo form. A new Cayenne is coming in gas, diesel, and hybrid flavors, and a fresh spy shot has surfaced showing what may well be the reshaped keister of the next model.

It's got a bit of Volkswagen in it, maybe, but check those wheels and the way the lower valance is a diffusery thing - very Porsche-esque. If it is the Cayenne, this next generation might actually look okay while it continues to defy physics. Before we get too vitriolic, the Cayenne's volume has helped make 911s and Caymans possible - and for that, we say thank you.

[Source: GermanCarBlog]

Spy Shots: Is this the next Porsche Cayenne? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cayenne spycayenne spy photoCayenneSpyCayenneSpyPhotoporsche cayenneporsche cayenne spyporsche cayenne spy shotPorscheCayennePorscheCayenneSpyPorscheCayenneSpyShotspy photospy photosspy picspy picsspy shotspy shotsSpyPhotoSpyPhotosSpyPicSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsSUVTue, 17 Mar 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW X1 varies little from concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/spy-shots-bmw-x1-varies-little-from-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/spy-shots-bmw-x1-varies-little-from-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/spy-shots-bmw-x1-varies-little-from-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


BMW X1 spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW unveiled the X1 Concept at the 2008 Paris Motor Show to our bewildered eyes, and spy photographers have just surfaced with photos of the production version that do little to address our concerns for this littlest of soft roaders from Munich. As you can see, the production version will hardly differ at all from the concept, which means the swollen nose from the new 7 Series remains, along with all the surface pinching and odd details that we were so not fond of in Paris.

Styling aside, we question whether there's a market for another BMW sport or crossover utility vehicle, considering that the brand is already loaded with the X6, X5 and X3. The X1 also appears just plain redundant being so similar in size to the X3. That said, it will be built on the same platform as the 3 Series and offer a heaping helping of BMW gas and diesel engines, so it should be the Ultimate Driving Honda CR-V.

[Source: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: BMW X1 varies little from concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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