Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Ford Fiesta sedan facelift spotted wearing squiggles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/ford-fiesta-sedan-facelift-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/ford-fiesta-sedan-facelift-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/30/ford-fiesta-sedan-facelift-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Ford Fiesta Sedan Spy Photos

While the sedan is hardly our favorite Fiesta - that would be the forthcoming, Europe-only ST - as long as Ford still feels the need to sell a four-door sedan we suppose it's only fair that it get the same updates as the hatchback. We saw spy shots of the hatch back in March, but now we've got images of the sedan as well.

Our spy shooters caught the Fiesta near the Nürburgring, and it looks to be sporting the same new headlights with integrated LEDs, new fascias, and a different hood design, just like the hatch. We're still hearing the same rumors about the Fiesta getting Ford's new 1.0-liter, three-cylinder EcoBoost.

Check out all the high-res images in our gallery.

Ford Fiesta sedan facelift spotted wearing squiggles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 May 2012 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fiestafiestafiesta sedanfiesta stfordspy photosspy shotsWed, 30 May 2012 15:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20247831/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/30/ford-fiesta-sedan-facelift-spotted/20247831/article-detail.xml 20247831 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ford-fiesta-sedan-spy-photos-001-1338402732_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/ford-fiesta-sedan-spy-photos-001-1338402732.jpg <![CDATA[M3-fighting Volvo S60 Polestar spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/m3-fighting-volvo-s60-polestar-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/m3-fighting-volvo-s60-polestar-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/25/m3-fighting-volvo-s60-polestar-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volvo S60 Polestar spy shots

If news of a more powerful Volvo S60 sounds familiar, it's because we just reported on this subject earlier in the week. Now, though, a reader of the same Swedish site that initially broke the news has fired back with a set of spy photos, and we can clearly see that Volvo is indeed making improvements to the S60.

As for what exactly those improvements are, your guess is as good as ours. As we reported before, Polestar - the tuning firm that now offers power upgrades for the current range of Volvo products - is said to be handling the more potent S60, with horsepower slated to be somewhere in the 350 to 400 range. Volvo could use a version of the Yamaha-sourced V8 from the XC90, but in this day and age, a boosted version of the turbocharged inline-six sounds more realistic.

Of course, a hotter S60 will need more than just power to make it truly competitive with the likes of the BMW M3 and Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. We're sure that Polestar has many a trick up its sleeve, and we're indeed interested to see how the whole project pans out. Stay tuned.

M3-fighting Volvo S60 Polestar spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 May 2012 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>polestars60spy photosspy picsspy shotsvolvoFri, 25 May 2012 17:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20245503/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/25/m3-fighting-volvo-s60-polestar-spotted-testing/20245503/article-detail.xml 20245503 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-volvo-s60-polestar-spy-shots628opt1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-volvo-s60-polestar-spy-shots628opt1.jpg <![CDATA[Audi R8 facelift comes into focus]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



These are spy shots of the facelifted Audi R8 that we expect to see later this year. You'll need to look very closely at the front to see where the lifting and tucking has been done: new LED headlights inside a slightly reworked grille. Around back are round tailpipes like those on the R8 GT.

This is a refreshed model that will hold us until the 2015 Audi R8 arrives - the one with the carbon and aluminum chassis, more power and no manual transmission on offer. That last fact is tragic enough because we still love sports cars with sticks, but descends into the catastrophic since the six-speed manual available now is outstanding. We're sure the next-gen coupe will be awesome, but we'll enjoy this one while we have it. Check it out in the high-res gallery of spy shots above.

Audi R8 facelift comes into focus originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 audi r8audiaudi r8r8spy photosspy shotsTue, 22 May 2012 17:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242490/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/audi-r8-facelift-comes-into-focus/20242490/article-detail.xml 20242490 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/audir8facelift2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/audir8facelift2.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz S-Class ain't no bag lady]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/mercedes-benz-s-class-aint-no-bag-lady/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/mercedes-benz-s-class-aint-no-bag-lady/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/mercedes-benz-s-class-aint-no-bag-lady/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've seen weirder camouflage. But despite the fact that this next-generation Mercedes-Benz S-Class prototype looks like it drove through a garbage bag warehouse, we now have a very clear glimpse at some of the new car's details - namely, the shapely front fascia.

Merc's new flagship takes many of its new design cues from the F700 concept that debuted back in 2007, specifically the larger, more upright grille and the redesigned headlamps that now incorporate LED running lights (just like what we've seen on the new SL and GL models). The big sedan's overall shape doesn't change too much from the car that's currently on sale, though things seem to be a little swoopier for this new generation.

Under the hood, we can expect Mercedes' latest engines to be on tap, including the 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 as well as some V6 options. Naturally, an AMG model will follow suit, likely using the new 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 in the S63 AMG.

Look for the redesigned S-Class to officially bow later this year.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class ain't no bag lady originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 May 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedes-benzs-classspy photosspy picsspy shotsTue, 22 May 2012 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20242893/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/mercedes-benz-s-class-aint-no-bag-lady/20242893/article-detail.xml 20242893 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/sclassspyshots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/sclassspyshots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet caught topless]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-caught-topless/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-caught-topless/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-caught-topless/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Our trusty spy photographers have caught the upcoming Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet with its top down and its tail up on a stroll through German streets. To our eyes, the extended length and wheelbase are accentuated in the rear-end packaging, but it's still a looker.

Some reports say that motivation will come from a twin-turbo 3.8-liter flat-six, others say there will be three turbos affixed for immediate low-end action. Horsepower ratings are also a muddle for now, with various reports suggesting 515 horsepower or thereabouts, making for a 15-hp increase over the current Turbo, and that would be followed by a Turbo S with somewhere around 550 hp, a 20-hp bump on the present Turbo S. Other reports say the regular turbo will go straight for the 550-hp jugular, leaving the S to haunt the neighborhood of 600 hp.

What we do know is that it will pack all-wheel drive, a seven-speed transmission in traditional stick or PDK, and every electro-bauble in Porsche's arsenal when it finally is revealed. For now, catch what you can in the high-res gallery of spy photos.

Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet caught topless originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 porsche 911 turbo cabriolet911911 turbo911 turbo cabioletporscheporsche 911 turbo cabrioletspy photosspy shotsMon, 21 May 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20241488/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/21/porsche-911-turbo-cabriolet-caught-topless/20241488/article-detail.xml 20241488 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/porsche991turbocab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/porsche991turbocab.jpg <![CDATA[Next Land Rover Range Rover reveals more of its lighter body]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/next-land-rover-range-rover-reveals-more-of-its-lighter-body/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/next-land-rover-range-rover-reveals-more-of-its-lighter-body/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/21/next-land-rover-range-rover-reveals-more-of-its-lighter-body/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Land Rover Range Rover spy shot

This isn't the first (or second, or third) time we've caught the next-generation Big Daddy Range Rover out testing, but this latest set of spy photos gives us our best look yet at some of the SUV's new exterior details. (Sidenote: We have to commend Jaguar Land Rover for having some of the coolest camouflage patterns in the world.)

As you might expect, the Range Rover's shape hasn't changed too much from the current generation, though we can clearly see a sleeker front fascia with headlamps that seem to incorporate new LED running lights, as well as a slightly sleeker roofline. But the big news for this next-generation vehicle is the huge reduction in weight that's supposedly on tap - reports have estimated that as much as 800 pounds have been shed from the SUV's body. This weight savings is largely due to an all-new aluminum platform, as well as widespread use of lightweight materials throughout the body.

Mum's the word on what's going to be found underhood, but we'd expect the usual range of eight-cylinder engines to be offered here in the United States. Murmurs of a hybrid powertrain have also been spinning 'round the rumormill, so don't rule out the possibility of some electric boost being on tap, as well. Click through the above gallery to see the full slate of spy shots for yourself.

Next Land Rover Range Rover reveals more of its lighter body originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 May 2012 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>land roverrange roverspy photosspy picsspy shotsMon, 21 May 2012 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20241657/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/21/next-land-rover-range-rover-reveals-more-of-its-lighter-body/20241657/article-detail.xml 20241657 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-land-rover-range-rover-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-land-rover-range-rover-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Supercharged Jaguar F-Type R spotted testing?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/supercharged-jaguar-f-type-r-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/supercharged-jaguar-f-type-r-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/supercharged-jaguar-f-type-r-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jaguar F-Type R Spy Shots

Our spy photographers appear to have grabbed the first glimpse at Jaguar's upcoming F-Type R. Judging by the not-so-subtle "F" camouflage and quad exhaust outlets, odds are this is the more high-strung version of the next convertible from Jaguar. What exactly is under the hood? That remains to be seen, though early reports suggest its something other than the tried-and-true blown 5.0-liter V8 we've come to know and love. The base F-Type will get along with a turbocharged V6, and the brawnier R model will likely bow with something packing eight cylinders and power figures in the neighborhood of 500 horsepower.

So, when can we get our hands on this creation? A final launch date is murky at best, though there is some indication Jaguar could hold onto the V8 F-Type until later in the model's lifecycle, but doesn't quite dovetail with the fact that Jaguar is already road-testing the machine. Chances are we'll see the F-Type R earlier than expected.

Supercharged Jaguar F-Type R spotted testing? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-typef-type photosf-type rjaguarjaguar f-typejaguar f-type photosjaguar f-type rjaguar f-type r photosspy photosspy shotsWed, 16 May 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239515/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/supercharged-jaguar-f-type-r-spotted-testing/20239515/article-detail.xml 20239515 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/jaguar-f-type-r-1-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/jaguar-f-type-r-1-628.jpg <![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[Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake reveals more of its rakish rump]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/mercedes-benz-cls-shooting-brake-reveals-more-of-its-rakish-rump/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/mercedes-benz-cls-shooting-brake-reveals-more-of-its-rakish-rump/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/mercedes-benz-cls-shooting-brake-reveals-more-of-its-rakish-rump/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Last time we saw the non-AMG skin of the Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake it was bathed in red paint and caked in Arctic snow and grime. Warmer times have brought new shots of a black car - which we'll christen The Scarab - on standard wheels wearing nothing but a shine and a wisp of camo. Its shape has found a way to divide opinion, as the CLS-Class has always done, and we'll admit that yes, perchance there's something faintly Romulan about it, but we're totally sold on the looks.

Right now, there's nothing left to the imagination but the aft-most sliver of window - that final angle of chrome is an application. We expect all blanks to be filled in come the Paris Motor Show in September, which should see the reveal of the CLS550 and CLS63 AMG versions of the sleekest wagon this side of Rigel 5. The high-res gallery is above, and you should check it out.

Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake reveals more of its rakish rump originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cls shooting brakecls-classmercedes-benzshooting brakespy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 09 May 2012 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234331/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/mercedes-benz-cls-shooting-brake-reveals-more-of-its-rakish-rump/20234331/article-detail.xml 20234331 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/clsspyblack_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/clsspyblack.jpg <![CDATA[Porsche Macan CUV takes shape]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/porsche-macan-cuv-takes-shape/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/porsche-macan-cuv-takes-shape/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/09/porsche-macan-cuv-takes-shape/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Porsche Macan Spy Shot

Our spy photographers have given us our first clear glimpse at the upcoming Porsche Macan. While the test machine we see here wears some Cayenne camouflage, there's little hiding the small CUV's roof line.

Based on the Audi Q5, the Macan will boast plenty of suspension tweaks by the minds at Porsche to put the crossover more in line with the sports car maker's stable. Likewise, while the Macan will borrow a host of gasoline and diesel powerplants from the Volkswagen parts bin, each one will be tuned for more horsepower than we've seen so far.

There's also some indication that Porsche may lift the hybrid system from the Q5 into the Macan's bones, as well. That means buyers would see a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder coupled to a 44-horsepower electric motor.

Porsche may also look to offer a more athletic three-door version of the Macan later down the line to more effectively compete with the likes of the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque.

Porsche Macan CUV takes shape originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 May 2012 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macanporschespy photosspy picsspy shotsWed, 09 May 2012 11:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20234519/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/09/porsche-macan-cuv-takes-shape/20234519/article-detail.xml 20234519 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-porsche-macan-spy-shots-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/01-porsche-macan-spy-shots-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mini <strike>Paceman</strike> Countryman Coupe spotted testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/mini-paceman-countryman-coupe-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/mini-paceman-countryman-coupe-spotted-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/mini-paceman-countryman-coupe-spotted-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mini Countryman Coupe spy shots

Mini will launch its seventh model - a two-door version of the Countryman crossover - at the Paris Motor Show later this year, and our trusty spy photographers recently spotted this prototype out testing. Many sources have stated that the car will be dubbed Countryman Coupe when it hits the market, but we've also heard rumors that the vehicle will wear the Paceman name that was given to the original concept that debuted at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show.

Whatever it ends up being called, the two-door Countryman formula is pretty simple. The rear doors have been removed, allowing for a more swept-back roofline that integrates into an updated rear fascia. The rear end design - as previewed in these spy shots, anyway - is immediately reminiscent of the Land Rover Evoque, the Countryman's main competitor.

Mum's the word on powertrain choices, though we'd expect the four-door Countryman's range of naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines to carry over largely unchanged, mated to both front- and all-wheel drive. Stay tuned for the car's official unveiling in Paris later this year.

Mini Paceman Countryman Coupe spotted testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 May 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>countrymancountryman coupeminipacemanparisparis 2012paris motor showspy photosspy picsspy shotsThu, 03 May 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20230029/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/03/mini-paceman-countryman-coupe-spotted-testing/20230029/article-detail.xml 20230029 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/paceman628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/paceman628.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[2013 SRT Viper looking fly in yellow?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/2013-srt-viper-looking-fly-in-yellow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/2013-srt-viper-looking-fly-in-yellow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/23/2013-srt-viper-looking-fly-in-yellow/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2013 SRT Viper spy shot in yellow

We've already seen the production-ready 2013 SRT Viper. In fact, we named it Best In Show after it officially debuted at the 2012 New York Auto Show earlier this month. But what we haven't seen is the full color palette that will be offered, and our spy photographers recently caught a Viper prototype out testing sporting a fresh coat of yellow paint, as well as some new, more sedate wheels.

As for that color, we aren't sure how we feel about it just yet, granted, we'll want to see it in person and without all of the hastily bolted-together panel gaps of this prototype. Moreover, we'd like to see how the new SRT looks in a proper GTS white/blue paint job. Be sure to let us know what you think of the new yellow paint in the comments.

The don't-call-it-a-Dodge Viper officially launches this year, boasting 640 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque from its monstrous 8.4-liter V10. We're eagerly awaiting our first stint behind the wheel, but for now, this new batch of high-res photos will have to suffice.

2013 SRT Viper looking fly in yellow? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 srt viperdodge viperdodge viper srt10spy photosspy picsspy shotssrtviperviper srt10Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20222240/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/23/2013-srt-viper-looking-fly-in-yellow/20222240/article-detail.xml 20222240 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-str-viper-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-2013-str-viper-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW M135i caught in a 'Ring fling]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/bmw-m135i-caught-in-a-ring-fling/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/bmw-m135i-caught-in-a-ring-fling/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/20/bmw-m135i-caught-in-a-ring-fling/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Remember the rumors of BMW working on a hot 1 Series hatch just below the 1 Series M? The evidence trail was so faint that we called it "the most speculative sort of specualtion" when we posted on it six months ago. The trail and the car just got a lot hotter now that the very three-door hatch in question, the M135i, has been spotted burning serious gas around the Nürburgring.

Juice will come from BMW's N55 inline-six cylinder with somewhere around 320 horsepower, and we're told there will in fact be an all-wheel-drive version to follow. This will put BMW at ground zero of the small luxury hot hatch battle alongside the 350-horsepower Mercedes-Benz A25 AMG and 340-horsepower Audi RS3. That gives us one more thing to remember: even if the Benz comes in at 340 hp there'll be 1,000 horsepower between just these three cars in a segment best known for frugal luxury, which means the good old days in this segment are still on the way.

BMW M135i caught in a 'Ring fling originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw m135im135ispy photosspy shotsFri, 20 Apr 2012 16:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20220590/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/20/bmw-m135i-caught-in-a-ring-fling/20220590/article-detail.xml 20220590 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/bwwm135ihatchspy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/bwwm135ihatchspy.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[Audi testing new RS6 Avant at the Nürburgring... so what's under the hood?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/audi-testing-new-rs6-avant-at-the-nurburgring-so-whats-under/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/audi-testing-new-rs6-avant-at-the-nurburgring-so-whats-under/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/audi-testing-new-rs6-avant-at-the-nurburgring-so-whats-under/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Audi RS6 Avant spy shots from the 'Ring

When a company like Audi debuts a new model line, enthusiasts know it brings with it the promise of a high-performance muscle-beast to follow. And so is the case with the A6 leading to the RS6.

The first RS6 packed a twin-turbo V8 good for 444 horsepower, and the second-generation model had a 571-horse V10. As is the general trend with German muscle, the new model pictured in these spy shots - snapped at the Nürburgring with telltale RS4-style intakes and widened fender flares - will likely downsize back to a twin-turbo eight. The smart money's on Quattro GmbH taking the 4.0 TFSI from the S8 and the Bentley Continental GT, but tweaking it to its own specifications. Output is likely to hover around that of its predecessor, trading two cylinders for as many turbo spools.

As with past models, the new RS6 is likely to come first in Avant wagon form before the sedan comes along soon thereafter. Whether any RS6 models makes it Stateside, however, remains to be seen, but we can certainly hope.

Audi testing new RS6 Avant at the Nürburgring... so what's under the hood? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 audi rs62013 audi rs6 avant2014 audi rs62014 audi rs6 avanta6audi a6audi rs6audi rs6 avantrs6rs6 avantspy photosspy shotsTue, 17 Apr 2012 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20217505/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/17/audi-testing-new-rs6-avant-at-the-nurburgring-so-whats-under/20217505/article-detail.xml 20217505 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webaudi-rs64_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/webaudi-rs64.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac spotted testing bigger next-gen CTS]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/cadillac-spotted-testing-bigger-next-gen-cts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/cadillac-spotted-testing-bigger-next-gen-cts/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/17/cadillac-spotted-testing-bigger-next-gen-cts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Cadillac CTS spy shots - front three-quarter view

There's an old newspaper adage that dictates: "Dog bites man" is not news. "Man bites dog," now that's news. In other words, the subversion of the usual order of things is what sells papers. And you might say the same about Cadillac. A Caddy getting bigger, by that logic, is hardly news, but a Caddy getting smaller sure is.

That's what makes the new ATS such a big step for the top-end of the General Motors brand portfolio. Occupying the place once taken by the Catera (which led to the CTS), that model now has to kick up a size to make room for its new baby brother. And so it appears to be doing.

These spy shots show what our intrepid auto paparazzi say is the next-gen CTS, applying the same Art & Science design language to a slightly larger form that's expected to switch from the Sigma II platform to a stretched version of The General's new rear-drive Alpha architecture.

In between the camouflage we can make out a new grille, projector headlamps with LED daytime runners, with radar sensors aplenty and dual exhaust tips around the back. Sources expect a 2.0-liter turbo four to come in with 270 horsepower as the base engine in the new CTS, with the 3.6-liter V6 also expected to be on offer as well as a turbo six sometime after production kicks off at Lansing Grand River Assembly in September 2013.

Cadillac spotted testing bigger next-gen CTS originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 cadillac ctscadillaccadillac ctsctsspyspy photosspy shotsTue, 17 Apr 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20217435/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/17/cadillac-spotted-testing-bigger-next-gen-cts/20217435/article-detail.xml 20217435 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/web2014-cadillac-cts-spy01_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/web2014-cadillac-cts-spy01.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Lexus IS mule caught circulating]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/next-gen-lexus-is-mule-caught-circulating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/next-gen-lexus-is-mule-caught-circulating/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/next-gen-lexus-is-mule-caught-circulating/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



For a car that still hasn't donned its new body yet, not even under copious camouflage, there's been chatter about the 2014 Lexus IS for an awful long time. We saw the first mule 18 months ago, and it was about that time that intel predicted Lexus' next-generation small sport sedan would run on a four-door version of the Scion FT-86 chassis and be followed by a coupe.

The snappers at CarPix caught a modern mule out on test, the only change so far from 2010 being the panels obscuring the front intakes and a roll of packing tape applied to some panel gaps. The car we eventually see will continue the sportification of the Lexus brand in both appearance and capability. As well, the IS-F begat by this IS, having been planned for and developed from the beginning, should really show us what an M3-fighting Lexus can do.

Next-gen Lexus IS mule caught circulating originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 lexus iscarpixislexuslexus isspy photosspy shotsMon, 16 Apr 2012 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20216451/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/16/next-gen-lexus-is-mule-caught-circulating/20216451/article-detail.xml 20216451 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/lexusismule_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/lexusismule.jpg <![CDATA[AMG-fettled Mercedes-Benz A-Class caught testing]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/amg-fettled-mercedes-benz-a-class-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/amg-fettled-mercedes-benz-a-class-caught-testing/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/16/amg-fettled-mercedes-benz-a-class-caught-testing/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz A-Class AMG prototype caught testing

The Mercedes-Benz A25 AMG has disrobed almost completely compared to the last time we saw it. It makes minimal changes to the A-Class form, just a fiercer set of wheels and, under the last remaining camo, a brace of larger air intakes in front and a restyled diffuser in back. We'd also expect those oval pipe finishers to be swapped for trademark AMG quad pipes come production time.

The engine is what will make the real difference, with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder rumored to be rated as high as 350 horsepower and sending that glory to all four wheels through a dual-clutch gearbox. Those specs mean the A25 AMG is a shoo-in for heaps of comparos with the all-wheel drive, 340-horsepower Audi RS3, the driving prowess of the 256-horsepower Volkswagen Golf R and the rumored 320-horsepower BMW 135i hatch. Check it out in our gallery of high-res spy photos.

AMG-fettled Mercedes-Benz A-Class caught testing originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 mercedes-benz a-classa-classa-klassea25 amgamgmercedes-benzmercedes-benz a25 amgspy photosspy shotsMon, 16 Apr 2012 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20216369/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/16/amg-fettled-mercedes-benz-a-class-caught-testing/20216369/article-detail.xml 20216369 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/m-ba-classamg_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/m-ba-classamg.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Insignia facelift spotted... will Buick's Regal get one too?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/opel-insignia-facelift-spotted-will-buicks-regal-get-one-too/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/opel-insignia-facelift-spotted-will-buicks-regal-get-one-too/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/12/opel-insignia-facelift-spotted-will-buicks-regal-get-one-too/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Opel Insignia spy shots

It's no secret that the Buick Regal is an Americanized version of the Opel Insignia, and Buick even uses this fact to try and persuade the public that the car is a European sport sedan rather than just a way to try and make some profit from the black-ink-challenged Opel unit. The Opel Insignia is headed for a mid-cycle facelift very soon, and camoflaged test cars have been snagged by spy photographers.

While the models in the photographs are a European-spec hatchback and a wagon, there's clearly a new grille in the works, and the headlights and tail lamps will be changed, plus some other minor nips/tucks. The Insignia will debut the changes first, and we'd expect the Regal to pick them up soon after.

Opel Insignia facelift spotted... will Buick's Regal get one too? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>buickinsigniaopelregalspy photosspy picsspy shotsThu, 12 Apr 2012 13:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20213802/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/12/opel-insignia-facelift-spotted-will-buicks-regal-get-one-too/20213802/article-detail.xml 20213802 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/insignia-fl-2-1334245519_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/insignia-fl-2-1334245519.jpg -1 2