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[Nearly 7,000 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart models recalled over fuel pipe crack concerns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/nearly-7-000-2008-2009-mitsubishi-lancer-evolution-ralliart-an/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/nearly-7-000-2008-2009-mitsubishi-lancer-evolution-ralliart-an/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/nearly-7-000-2008-2009-mitsubishi-lancer-evolution-ralliart-an/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart - Click above for high-res gallery

The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall of potentially 6,903 Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart vehicles fitted with 2.0-liter turbocharged engines falling between model year 2008 and 2009. According to the report, running the engine at certain speeds over time may cause a damaging vibration that could lead to a stress crack in the fuel pipe (the fuel return pipe is apparently improperly attached to the engine). If a crack does develop, the resulting fuel leakage could cause a fire.

Dealers will be instructed to replace the fuel pipe with a new component and add two new additional attachment brackets to lessen the effects of vibration. Of course, all of this work will be performed free of charge. Owners of the recalled Mitsubishi vehicles may contact the manufacturer at 1-888-648-7820, contact the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.safercar.gov regarding campaign ID 09V349000.


Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback Ralliart


[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Nearly 7,000 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart models recalled over fuel pipe crack concerns

Nearly 7,000 2008-2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ralliart, and Sportback Ralliart models recalled over fuel pipe crack concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008 Mitsubishi Lancer2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution2008 Mitsubishi Ralliart2008 Mitsubishi Sportback Ralliart2008MitsubishiLancer2008MitsubishiLancerEvolution2008MitsubishiRalliart2008MitsubishiSportbackRalliart2009 mitsubishi evolution x fq4002009 mitsubishi lancer ralliart2009 mitsubishi lancer sportback2009 Mitsubishi Ralliart2009MitsubishiEvolutionXFq4002009MitsubishiLancerRalliart2009MitsubishiLancerSportback2009MitsubishiRalliartEvoEvolutionFireFuelFuel PipeFuelPipeLeakageRalliartRecallSportbackTurbochargedThu, 17 Sep 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Saab 9-5 is proof there's still some flight left in the ol' Griffin]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2010-saab-9-5-is-proof-theres-still-some-flight/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2010-saab-9-5-is-proof-theres-still-some-flight/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-2010-saab-9-5-is-proof-theres-still-some-flight/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

To be honest, there have been points at which it felt like this new Saab 9-5 would never see the light of day. To say that the outgoing model had grown long in the tooth would be a colossal understatement, and in the hyper-competitive market that is the globe's entry-level premium segment, the 9-5 had become something of a placeholder, playing second fiddle to the automaker's newer, more dynamic 9-3. So with its own cheaper sibling playing the role of upstager and parent General Motors in the throes of bankruptcy, we didn't exactly have faith that Saab would ever launch this new sedan. But after an arduous development process and a new owner in the form of supercar maker Koenigsegg, the future looks - if not bright - at least markedly less dim.

If we sound like we're damning the 2010 9-5 with faint praise, we're not - after sitting in the car today at the Frankfurt Motor Show and talking extensively with members of Saab's team, we're actually rather optimistic that the perennially underweight automaker may yet emerge from its funk and put some rouge back in the 'ol Griffin. But until we drive it, we're going to reserve judgment before we break out the akvavit and reindeer steaks - we've been here before.

One thing's for sure - this new, larger 9-5 looks incredibly crisp in the metal. With clean flanks, a distinctive, cantilevered roofline paired with wraparound-look glass and handsome head- and tail lamp detailing, this is an attractive, cohesive design sans adornment - no gaping ducts, fender vents, or protruding aero addenda are in evidence anywhere. Very much in the Scandinavian mold, the 9-5 pulls design elements from the showstopping Saab Aero-X concept coupe and puts them in a real-world package. Similarly, like Scandinavian furniture, the design won't be to everyone's tastes.

Inside, there's gobs more space than in the outgoing car both front and rear, and the design has been tastefully updated in a driver-centric way that honors the marque's quirkiness (Night Panel button, eggcrate grid air vents, etc.) without becoming a caricature of Saabs past. Reinforcing the aeronautically-minded "Born From Jets" theme that had become something of a punchline with distractions like the 9-7x SUV, Saab has adopted new features like an optional heads-up display and a novel altimeter-like digital speedometer readout in case you aren't interested making use of the clear analogue gauges.

Click on the jump for more impressions and the official press release.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Saab 9-5


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Saab 9-5 is proof there's still some flight left in the ol' Griffin

Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Saab 9-5 is proof there's still some flight left in the ol' Griffin originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Saab2010Saab9 59-595Epsilon IIEpsilonIifrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowSaabSaab 9 5Saab 9-3Saab 9-5Saab9-3Saab9-5Saab95turboturbochargeturbochargedturbochargingTue, 15 Sep 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost delivers more than just a better engine]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/first-drive-2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-delivers-more-than-just-a-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/first-drive-2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-delivers-more-than-just-a-b/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/21/first-drive-2010-ford-flex-ecoboost-delivers-more-than-just-a-b/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just a year after the Ford Flex first appeared, the Blue Oval has revamped its lineup in ways that make the 2010 model quite different from its forebearer. First among the changes is the Blue Oval's EcoBoost engine, which packs 3.5 liters of displacement and a duo of turbochargers to produce V8 power with V6 fuel economy. Autoblog went to the Colorado hinterlands to spend some with with the Flex and its new powerplant, and as we found out, there's more to Ford's boxy crossover than boosted performance and fuel economy.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon R. Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost delivers more than just a better engine

First Drive: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost delivers more than just a better engine originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford flex2010FordFlexcrossovercuvecoboostfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveflexfordford flexford flex ecoboostFordFlexFordFlexEcoboostturboturbochargedtwin turbotwin-turboTwinTurbowagonTue, 21 Jul 2009 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford Fusion rumored to get 2.0-liter EcoBoost four in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/16/ford-fusion-rumored-to-get-2-0-liter-ecoboost-four-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/16/ford-fusion-rumored-to-get-2-0-liter-ecoboost-four-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/16/ford-fusion-rumored-to-get-2-0-liter-ecoboost-four-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2010 Ford Fusion Sport

We've known for almost a year that Ford's EcoBoost line of turbocharged engines would proliferate through the Blue Oval's lineup, beginning with the 3.5-liter V6 and then moving downward in displacement to include turbocharged 2.0- and 1.4-liter inline fours. When the wraps came off the 2010 Ford Fusion in LA, we were disappointed that Ford hadn't announced the availability of the 2.0-liter turbo, with horsepower and torque output similar to the blown four-pot offered by GM (260 hp, 260 lb-ft). We would've been happy to see the turbo'd 1.4-liter that our own John McElroy had the chance to sample in May, but alas, nothing.

Now, the Detroit News reports that a four-cylinder EcoBoost is likely to be available in the Fusion sometime in 2010, but Ford spokesperson Said Deep says it's too early to speculate on displacements. Offering the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine in both the Fusion and possibly the next evolution of the Explorer would do wonders for Ford's CAFE ratings, but according to our own sources, don't expect the new mill to make it to market until 2011.

Gallery: 2010 Ford Fusion Sport


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Ford Fusion Sport


[Source: Detroit News]

Ford Fusion rumored to get 2.0-liter EcoBoost four in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2 liter2.0-liter turbo2.0-literTurbo2010 ford fusion2010FordFusion2011 ford fusion2011FordFusion2LiterecoboostturbochargedTue, 16 Dec 2008 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz to introduce fully turbocharged lineup by 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/17/mercedes-benz-to-introduce-fully-turbocharged-lineup-by-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/17/mercedes-benz-to-introduce-fully-turbocharged-lineup-by-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/17/mercedes-benz-to-introduce-fully-turbocharged-lineup-by-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



When it comes to increasing fuel economy, turbochargers are the replacement for displacement. The combination of highly efficient snails and smaller engines provides the power people expect, while reducing the overall weight of the vehicle. Like other automakers that have realized that forced induction is a suitable stop-gap for improving fuel economy, Mercedes-Benz is in the process of developing turbo'd engines that will proliferate throughout its lineup in the next two and a half years.

Thomas Weber, a Daimler board member in charge of research and development told Automotive News, "All our vehicles will have turbocharged engines in series production by the end of 2010 at the latest."

Mercedes is joining BMW and Audi by investing heavily into forced induction, primarily to cope with new fuel economy standards in the U.S. and Europe. But turbos are only going to take them so far. Mercedes plans to introduce hybrids into its lineup towards the close of the decade, beginning with the S-class sedan in 2009. According to Weber, zero-emission vehicles are the automaker's long-term goal and Daimler intends to push heavily towards fuel-cells and electric-powered vehicle in the future, including an electric smart fortwo which will go into production sometime in 2010.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Mercedes-Benz to introduce fully turbocharged lineup by 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 13:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010electricmercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzsmart fortwoSmartFortwoturboturbochargeturbochargedThu, 17 Jul 2008 13:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford considering four-cylinder EcoBoost for F150]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/14/ford-considering-four-cylinder-ecoboost-for-f150/#commentsFiled under: ,



According to sources speaking with Pickuptrucks.com, Ford is considering offering an EcoBoost four-cylinder engine on its F-150 pickup in 2013. The boosted mill is expected to displace around 2.5-liters, produce 260 hp and 300 lb.-ft. of torque, and would only be available on the two-door Regular Cab F-150 4x2 and 4x4.

Ford's rationale for equipping its workaday pickup with a turbo'd four is partially due to the rising cost of gasoline, but is primarily fueled by new CAFE regulations that will require light trucks to average 28.6 mpg by 2015. Ford has already decided to drop its 4.2-liter V6 for the 2009 model year, only offering the 4.6-liter V8, which produces more power and more torque, while still offering similar fuel economy.

The EcoBoost range of engines are likely to find their way into several different models across Ford's line up, and according to Ford's director of powertrain research, Dan Kapp, EcoBoost engines could allow the automaker to reduce engine sizes by between 40- and 50-percent, so 3.0-liter V6s could be replaced by two-liter fours and a 2.5-liter four cylinder could be reduced to 1.5-liters.

Before the EcoBoost four-pot debuts on the 2013 F-150, Ford will launch a turbocharged V6 in the pickup in 2010. Displacement is expected to be around 3.5-liters, with output estimated at around 350 hp and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. Partnered with a new six-speed transmission, fuel economy should be around 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

And what of the rumored F-100 pick-up? It's conceivable that the range-topping version of the compact truck could be packing the same turbo'd four as its big brother, while a naturally aspirated version would power the entry level model.

[Source: Pickuptrucks.com]

Ford considering four-cylinder EcoBoost for F150 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 01:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingecoboostf-150f150fordford f-150ford f150FordF-150FordF150four cylinderfour-cylinderFourCylinderturbochargedMon, 14 Jul 2008 01:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Holden Commodore hybrid and turbo'd four under consideration]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/19/holden-commodore-hybrid-and-turbod-four-under-consideration/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/19/holden-commodore-hybrid-and-turbod-four-under-consideration/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/19/holden-commodore-hybrid-and-turbod-four-under-consideration/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Two separate reports out of Australia say that Holden is looking to maximize the Commodore's fuel efficiency in an effort to stoke sales. Both stories quote General Motor's Asia-Pacific vice president, Nick Reilly, but the separate reports, while sharing a common theme, come to decidedly different conclusions about how the General plans to proceed.

The first story from the Sydney Morning Herald (thanks Patrick!) cites Reilly as saying that Holden is looking into hybrid technology to power the Commodore. "[It] could be one of the first hybrids that you will see," but Reilly insists that a gasoline-electric Commodore is still a few years out.

The second report comes courtesy of Drive.com.au, who also spoke with Reilly and asked if a four-cylinder version of the Commodore was in the cards. "It makes a lot of sense," Reilly said, "and therefore we're probably looking at it, but I can't tell you when." While that's far from a confirmation that a turbocharged four is on the way, it coincides with earlier reports that the new Camaro, which shares its platform with the Commodore, might benefit from the same 260 hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter found in the Pontiac Solstice GXP and Saturn Sky Redline.

Both stories are somewhat devoid of hard details, but despite that, it may be proof that General Motors' operations Down Under are willing to look at a variety of solutions to address the Commodore's slipping sales.

[Sources: SMH, Drive.com.au]

Holden Commodore hybrid and turbo'd four under consideration originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 19 May 2008 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commodorefour cylinderFourCylindergeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmholdenholden commodore hybridHoldenCommodoreHybridturboturbochargeturbochargedMon, 19 May 2008 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[GM Europe launches two new fuel-sipping engines]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/16/gm-europe-launches-two-new-fuel-sipping-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/16/gm-europe-launches-two-new-fuel-sipping-engines/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/05/16/gm-europe-launches-two-new-fuel-sipping-engines/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

General Motors' European division has announced the development of three new engines that will provide the power consumers crave while returning higher fuel economy and lower emissions. Two turbocharged engines, ranging in output from 1.0- to 1.4-liters will between 120 hp and 129 lb.-ft. of torque, and 140 hp and 148 lb.-ft. of torque, while returning an eight-percent increase in fuel efficiency compared to their larger displacement counterparts. The duo of new engines will find their way into the new Astra and some European-market Chevys in 2010, although there's no word if either engine will make the trek across the Atlantic.

Hit the jump to read up on both engines and a new, 1.6-liter CNG-powered mill that GM plans to market in Germany and Italy.

Continue reading GM Europe launches two new fuel-sipping engines

GM Europe launches two new fuel-sipping engines originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 May 2008 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevroleteuropegeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmturbochargedFri, 16 May 2008 17:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Geneva '08 Preview: John Cooper Works MINI and Clubman]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/24/geneva-08-preview-john-cooper-works-mini-and-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/24/geneva-08-preview-john-cooper-works-mini-and-clubman/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/24/geneva-08-preview-john-cooper-works-mini-and-clubman/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for more hi-res pics of the John Cooper Works MINIs

Hitting the bull's-eye for enthusiasts, BMW's MINI brand is launching two hot new models next month at the Geneva Auto Show. Loaded with performance upgrades and new interior appointments, each race-bred model serves as the basis for the MINI CHALLENGE 2008 race car.

Based on the three-door MINI and the five-door MINI Clubman, the heart of each model is a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder massaged to 207 hp. Pedal to the floor, it should be good for a sprint to 60 mph in just under 6.5 seconds (the MINI Clubman, a bit heavier than the three-door, is a few tenths slower). Unique light alloy wheels, a new performance exhaust system, upgraded suspension, and a modified 6-speed manual transmission are just some of the mechanical upgrades. Aesthetically, the John Cooper Works models will be differentiated by their distinctive body kits and unique interiors. With a base price of under $30,000, get ready to storm your dealers when they're released in late summer. Follow the jump for MINI's endless press release.

Gallery: 2008 John Cooper Works MINI and Clubman


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Geneva '08 Preview: John Cooper Works MINI and Clubman

Geneva '08 Preview: John Cooper Works MINI and Clubman originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWbreakingClubmanCoopergeneva 08geneva 2008Geneva08Geneva2008John Cooper WorksJohnCooperWorksMINIPerformanceTurbochargedSun, 24 Feb 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #83]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/20/autoblog-podcast-83/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/20/autoblog-podcast-83/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/12/20/autoblog-podcast-83/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Autoblog Podcast #83 was judiciously held back until after the embargo cleared, but we can now talk freely. The biggest news this week is the official unveiling of the Corvette ZR-1/Blue Devil. Powered by the new LS9 supercharged small-block, the car's performance is sure to be astounding. After laying eyes on the un-camoflaged car, hood porthole and all, we have to ask: is it overwrought? From ridiculous speed to ludicrous wordsmithing, we talk about the Nissan FORUM concept mainly for the chance to bash the hilariously composed press release. Maybe it was written in Japanese and they just passed it through translation software before releasing the announcement.

While we're being scornful, we turn our gaze to the new Knight Rider. We've been keepig an eye on all the news, and let's just say we expect the show to fail. The new Mustang-based KITT, even in Attack guise, is no Super Pursuit Mode original KITT. We wrap up with some discussion of Hyundai's move toward a turbocharged 2.0-liter direct-inject engine (GEMA?) and take that off into a discussion about the expanded selection of good, inexpensive, and powerful coupes. The finale is some speculation about the rendering of a new McLaren supercar, as well as analyzing the absurdly high price of the BMW 1-series. 43 minutes will do it, see you next week!

SUBSCRIBE to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
LISTEN to the show now
ADD the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator

Autoblog Podcast #83 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 20 Dec 2007 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblogautoblog podcastAutoblogPodcastblue devilBlueDevilcorvettecoupeforumgenesisgenesis coupeGenesisCoupehyundaikittknight riderKnightRiderls9mclarennissanpodcastssturbochargedzr1Thu, 20 Dec 2007 16:22:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #83Dan Roth42:58<![CDATA[Hyundai RWD coupe coming to London motor show in '08]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/26/hyundai-rwd-coupe-coming-to-london-motor-show-in-08/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/26/hyundai-rwd-coupe-coming-to-london-motor-show-in-08/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/26/hyundai-rwd-coupe-coming-to-london-motor-show-in-08/#commentsFiled under: , ,



During an interview with BusinessCar, Hyundai UK's head Tony Whitehorn finally confirmed what's been rumored for going on a year: the automaker's new RWD coupe will replace the Tiburon. The coupe will take about 50- to 60-percent of the styling cues originally debuted on the Veloster concept and is set to make its world debut at the London Motor Show in July of 2008.

When the as-of-yet unnamed coupe goes on sale, expect power to be provided by the automaker's 260 HP 3.8-liter V6, with the possibility of a two-liter turbocharged mill finding its way underhood. Whitehorn goes on to eschew rumors of a V8 powerplant, as well as hybrid and diesel options. Doh!

[Source: BusinessCar via Motor Authority]

Gallery: Hyundai Veloster Concept

Hyundai RWD coupe coming to London motor show in '08 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Sep 2007 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupehyundaiinline fourInlineFourlondonlondon auto showlondon motor showLondonAutoShowLondonMotorShowrear wheel driverear-wheel driverear-wheel-driveRear-wheelDriveRearWheelDriverwdtiburontony whitehornTonyWhitehornturbochargedv6v8velostarWed, 26 Sep 2007 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Happy 50th Birthday Caterham: X330 Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/05/happy-50th-birthday-caterham-x330-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/05/happy-50th-birthday-caterham-x330-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/05/happy-50th-birthday-caterham-x330-concept/#commentsFiled under:


Click image for gallery

None of us at Autoblog HQ are knocking on the half-century mark yet, but we can only hope that we're saluted in the same way that Caterham decided to celebrate its 50th anniversary.

The X330 Concept is exactly that, but it foretells the destiny of future Caterhams. A 2.3-liter, turbocharged Ford Duratec produces the concept's namesake, sending 330 HP and 221 lb.-ft. of torque through a six-speed manual gearbox to the rear wheels. Carbon fiber makes up the majority of the body panels, while a lighter steel frame holds it all together. The resulting thrust makes the lack of windscreen a disturbing proposition.

Although the X330 isn't slated for production, those of you who were in attendance at the Donington Park event this past weekend, celebrating the 7's golden anniversary, were in for a show.

[Source: Caterham]

Gallery: Caterham X330 Concept

Continue reading Happy 50th Birthday Caterham: X330 Concept

Happy 50th Birthday Caterham: X330 Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>50 years50th anniversary50thAnniversary50Years7caterhamduratecfordseventurboturbochargedv6X330Tue, 05 Jun 2007 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: BMW 1-Series Convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/spy-shots-bmw-1-series-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , ,

BMW fans in the United States have long been clamoring for an opportunity to buy the 1-series, which until recently was thought to be a Europe-only car. Now that we know that a few two-door versions will be available in the U.S. in 2008, we're thrilled to see a convertible undergoing testing.

Brenda Priddy and company spied the 1-series convertible, and progress on the pint-sized droptop seems to be moving along nicely. We're likely to see similar engine offerings in the convertible as the coupe model, which will be unveiled with either the twin-turbo 3-liter or the naturally-aspirated inline-six. When the convertible will make its debut is up in the air, but expect it soon after its fixed-roof sibling.

[Source: Insideline]

Spy Shots: BMW 1-Series Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2007 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1-series125130135325330bmwconvertibledirect injectionDirectInjectionturbochargedTue, 15 May 2007 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Road & Track rumormill: Mazda RX-7 development underway]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/road-and-track-rumormill-mazda-rx-7-development-underway/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/road-and-track-rumormill-mazda-rx-7-development-underway/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/road-and-track-rumormill-mazda-rx-7-development-underway/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



When the newest issue of Road & Track arrived in our mailbox, we were impressed that the 60th anniversary issue was sport compactalicious. The cover sports the new Mitsubishi EVO X alongside a photochopped '08 Impreza STI, and the inevitable shootout consists of the Civic Si, MazdaSpeed3, MINI Cooper S, Sentra SE-R Spec V and the VW GTI.

What was more interesting was one of the subtitles proclaiming that a new RX-7 is in the works by Mazda and that Toyota is (finally) beginning to develop an honest-to-God sports car based off the Lexus IS platform.

As for the RX-7, R&T's inside sources say that due to slowing sales of the RX-8, the engineers at Mazda are hard at work improving the 13B rotary's output. If (when?) the new RX-7 debuts, it will be powered by this new and improved Renesis, supposedly sporting an electrically assisted supercharger, much like the one found on the RX-8 Hybrid that debuted in Tokyo in 2003.

Additionally, the rumored RX-7 will grab styling cues from the Kabura concept (pictured) that was unveiled at Detroit in 2006 and will be built on the platform that underpins the MX-5/RX-8. Whether or not the next gen. 7 will come in a 2+2 configuration remains to be seen, but regardless, don't expect anything until the end of the decade.

[Source: Road & Track]

Road & Track rumormill: Mazda RX-7 development underway originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Apr 2007 11:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mazdamx-5renesisroad and trackRoadAndTrackrotaryrx-7rx-8superchargedturboturbochargedMon, 30 Apr 2007 11:51:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day II: Bone stock 1992 GMC Typhoon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/ebay-find-of-the-day-bone-stock-1992-gmc-typhoon/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/ebay-find-of-the-day-bone-stock-1992-gmc-typhoon/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/05/ebay-find-of-the-day-bone-stock-1992-gmc-typhoon/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Produced for only two years, 1992-1993, the GMC Typhoon is still a relative unknown to those outside of the high performance community, but if you own or have ever raced one of the 4,697 unleashed on the street, you will remember what to watch out for.

This example found on eBay looks like one of the few that was not modified and driven to within an inch of it's life; a survivor if you will. The turbocharged and intercooled 4.3 liter V6, probably underrated at 280 horsepower, appears to be unmolested save for the requisite K&N air filter. Many of these trucks have topped 300 horsepower when dyno'd in stock configuration, and acceleration numbers vary from the high 4's to the low 5's in runs to 60 mph, continuing on to a high 13-second quarter-mile.

Check out what a Typhoon does to a C4 Corvette in the video after the jump!

[Source: eBay]

Continue reading eBay Find of the Day II: Bone stock 1992 GMC Typhoon

eBay Find of the Day II: Bone stock 1992 GMC Typhoon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Feb 2007 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1992 GMC Typhoon1992GmcTyphooneBaysycloneturbochargedtyphoonMon, 05 Feb 2007 17:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: Ford officially debuts TwinForce TT-V6]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-ford-officially-debuts-twinforce-engine-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-ford-officially-debuts-twinforce-engine-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-ford-officially-debuts-twinforce-engine-line/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Touted as a means to give V8-like horsepower with V6 fuel economy, the TwinForce V6 at this year's Detroit Auto Show stands as one of Ford's biggest announcements so far. Started with the Duratec 35 as a foundation, the engine's combination of turbocharging and direct injection yields a claimed 415 HP and 400 ft-lb of torque - more than enough to smoke any naturally-aspirated V8 currently offered by the Blue Oval here in the United States.

The engine also offers flex-fuel capabilities, with operation possible on either premium gasoline or E85. Ford also claims 15% better fuel economy than a 6.0L V8 of similar performance, so the tire-smoking can commence with reduced guilt. There's no word yet as to whether the new motor can take advantage of the superior knock resistance of ethanol to provide a horsepower bump, but this seems like an ideal platform on which to roll out such a feature. The horsepower junkies among us might also want to consider that an injector sized to flow enough E85 for 400+ HP will probably support at least 600 HP on gasoline, so the aftermarket should have a field day with turning up the wick on the TwinForce.

What do you say - should Ford put this thing into a Mustang, stuff a bulletproof drivetrain behind it, and continue in the V8-terrorizing tradition of the Buick GN and Toyota Supra? Just the thought of such a monster sends chills up our spine.

Click past the jump for the full press release and a general overview of the plumbing; meanwhile, we'll try to snap some live shots of the motor on the show floor.

Check out all the debuts and galleries from the Detroit Auto Show here.

Continue reading Detroit Auto Show: Ford officially debuts TwinForce TT-V6

Detroit Auto Show: Ford officially debuts TwinForce TT-V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Jan 2007 11:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>difidirect injectionDuratecE85flex fuelforced inductionFordintercooledturboturbochargedturbochargingTwinForceV6Sun, 07 Jan 2007 11:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: Chevrolet Volt Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-chevrolet-volt-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-chevrolet-volt-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/07/detroit-auto-show-chevrolet-volt-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


click on the image above to view AutoblogGreen's high-resolution gallery

GM's much-rumored electric vehicle introduction for the North American International Auto Show has indeed been revealed to be the Chevrolet Volt. Built on a new platform referred to as E-flex, the cute coupe spins the front wheels via a 161 HP electric motor and a lithium-ion storage pack with 16 kWh of capacity (a piece of technology that, by GM's own admission, is not yet ready for prime time). An Ecotec-branded turbocharged 71 HP three-banger sits under the hood to spin a 53 kW generator, which provides one method by which to charge the pack; the other consists of a pair of plugs (one on either side) that facilitate charging via a standard 110V connection. Six hours or so of charge time at home is good for 40 miles of range, after which the IE kicks in at a steady 1800 RPM to feed the packs. GM calls it an EV with "range extending capability", but to our eyes, it sure looks like a series hybrid. It also has us asking why a small diesel wasn't employed, as such an engine can provide wonderful efficiency when used at a steady speed and load (as former GM division Electromotive has proven with its locomotives over the past several decades).

AutoblogGreen has additional technical detail and analysis. Click here for a full gallery of pictures!

Check out all the debuts and galleries from the Detroit Auto Show here.

Detroit Auto Show: Chevrolet Volt Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 07 Jan 2007 00:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chevrolet, voltChevrolet,Voltecotecelectricevhybridionlithlith-ionlithiumlithium ionseriesturbochargedSun, 07 Jan 2007 00:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda may outfit Ridgeline and others with V6 diesel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/04/honda-may-outfit-ridgeline-and-others-with-v6-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/04/honda-may-outfit-ridgeline-and-others-with-v6-diesel/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/04/honda-may-outfit-ridgeline-and-others-with-v6-diesel/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

In an interview with Automotive News, Honda's CEO, Takeo Fukui said that the automaker's newly developed diesel technology will find its way into their light truck offerings of the future.

The vehicles identified by Fukui as being the likely recipients of a V6 diesel are the Ridgeline pickup, Pilot SUV and Odyssey minivan, with Acura's MDX also being a candidate for oil-burning power.

The V6 engine is currently under development and will likely debut sometime after Honda introduces their 2.2-liter diesel in 2009.

Another interesting tidbit from Fukui's interview with AN was his comment about the possibility of future Honda vehicles receiving turbocharged mills. He indicated that the introduction of the turbo'd Acura RDX did not mean that only the high-end automaker would benefit from the glories of forced induction. We'd like to see a factory-blown version of the Honda Remix come out by the end of the decade, but we're not going to start saving up yet.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Honda may outfit Ridgeline and others with V6 diesel originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Dec 2006 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acuradieselhondamdxodysseypilotrdxremixridgelinetakeo fukuiTakeoFukuiturboturbochargedv6Mon, 04 Dec 2006 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW 335i dyno numbers - round two]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/22/bmw-335i-dyno-numbers-round-two/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/22/bmw-335i-dyno-numbers-round-two/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/22/bmw-335i-dyno-numbers-round-two/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Last month, Automobile Mag generated some chassis dyno numbers with a turbocharged BMW 335i coupe that were a bit healthier than one would suspect, given the factory's rating of 300 HP at the crankshaft. In a follow-up, they're now stating that the 275 rear-wheel horsepower number that was reported was actually the lowest of four pulls; one even generated 283 ponies. And all of this was with 92 F ambient temps - the sort of air that usually kills the output of boosted engines.

The publication then strapped a second sample to the same dyno, but this time in 78 F weather. Three runs yielded an average of 285 RWHP, with the other two varying from that by a maximum of three HP. Such consistency in the static air environment of a dyno is downright amazing and attests to the effectiveness of the Bimmer's intercooler and engine management system.

[Source: Automobile Mag]

BMW 335i dyno numbers - round two originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Sep 2006 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>335iBMWdirect injectionDirectInjectiondynodynometerhorsepowerrear wheelturboturbochargedtwin turboFri, 22 Sep 2006 09:24:00 EST<![CDATA[More sick power for the street - a twin turbo Ford GT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/17/more-sick-power-for-the-street-a-twin-turbo-ford-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/17/more-sick-power-for-the-street-a-twin-turbo-ford-gt/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/17/more-sick-power-for-the-street-a-twin-turbo-ford-gt/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Even with Ford's GT making 550 HP (somewhat underrated) courtesy of a supercharger, of course we all know that there will still be owners out there who seek more power. Once the route of pulley swaps has been explored, where to go next? Stage 6 Motorsports thinks that it has the answer in the form of a twin-turbo kit.

The stock Eaton blower is replaced with a pair of Garrett GT35R scrolls from Precision Turbo, which are mounted behind the engine and inboard of the shock towers. Custom exhaust work brings up the hot gases from the low-mounted stock manifolds, and new downpipes dump the spent exhaust through the stock bodywork opening. A custom "hat" adapts a 95mm throttle body and routes compressed air through the stock intercooler (which is built into the intake manifold), and the OEM fuel system remains intact.

The video shows the car putting down over 830 HP on the dyno, and Stage 6 claims that this same vehicle has put down 1012 RWHP with further work. A kit involving fuel system upgrades and internal engine modifications is said to be under development, with potential for several hundred more HP.

While not all of us can identify the effort it takes to fabricate a twin-turbo install for a Ford GT in five days, the terse "I'm staying at the shop and won't be home until much later" phone call with a significant other that occurs at the 9:30 mark in the above video is something to which most of us can relate.

[Source: Streetfire.com; a hat tip to Dubbedinenglish]

Warning: a bit of NSFW language is sprinkled throughout the clip

More sick power for the street - a twin turbo Ford GT originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 17 Sep 2006 15:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketdynofordgtgt40intercoolerkitRWHPstage 1stage 6techtuningturboturbochargedturbochargingSun, 17 Sep 2006 15:49:00 EST