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[VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/video-yes-the-2010-audi-s4-can-drift/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Click above to view the video after the jump

When we drove the 2010 Audi S4, we praised the sedan's trick electronic rear differential for its ability to shuffle torque between the rear wheels to give the sensation, if not the exact effect, of oversteer. Unfortunately, our track time was spent in an e-diffless model, so we didn't get to fully exploit its potential around Infineon. However, hot-shoe Ignacio Perez did just that at Spain's Jarama circuit.

After the jump you can watch Perez putting the new S4 into full-on drifts around the track with one nervous front seat passenger and his camera-wielding companion in tow. Although getting the S4 sideways isn't too difficult (we did it a few times in the standard model), you can see in the video that speed drops off precipitously at corner the exit. Regardless, modern-day Audis are no longer relentlessly pushing, nose-heavy beasts and, what's more, Perez was wagging his tail in an S4 Avant, the five-door version we can't get in the States... dammit.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Audi S4


[Source: Fourtitude]

Continue reading VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift

VIDEO: Yes, the 2010 Audi S4 can drift originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 audi s42010 audi s4 avant2010 audi s4 wagon2010AudiS42010AudiS4Avant2010AudiS4WagonaudiavantdriftingIgnacio PerezIgnacioPerezs4videowagonThu, 19 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: C/D says Lutz confirms Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-c-d-says-lutz-confirms-cadillac-cts-v-sport-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-c-d-says-lutz-confirms-cadillac-cts-v-sport-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/16/report-c-d-says-lutz-confirms-cadillac-cts-v-sport-wagon/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Between the Buick Regal GS, front-wheel drive (and possible hybrid) Chevrolet Impala and the rumored Caprice SS, Bob Lutz has managed to release a scad officially unofficial details on General Motors' future product plans over the last two days. And now comes this.

Speaking with Car and Driver, Maximum Bob went into Maximum Bloviation mode when discussing the Buick Regal wagon, and then ostensibly confirmed that the Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon has been given the green light by saying, "You'll be able to get the CTS-V any way you want." Meaning: the CTS-V will be available in both coupe and five-door variants.

Naturally, anything that jumps out of Lutz' mouth should be taken with an extra helping of NaCl, as his past off-hand announcements haven't always come to fruition. Regardless, creating the duo of CTS-Vs is damn easy and we're hoping to see both in production form next year.

[Source: Car and Driver]

REPORT: C/D says Lutz confirms Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 cadillac cts-v coupe2011 cadillac cts-v wagon2011CadillacCts-vCoupe2011CadillacCts-vWagonbob lutzBobLutzcadillaccadillac cts-vcadillac cts-v coupecadillac cts-v wagonCadillacCts-vCadillacCts-vCoupeCadillacCts-vWagoncoupects-vwagonMon, 16 Nov 2009 16:49:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Ford widens cruise control recall by 4.5M vehicles - now biggest in company history]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-recall-cruise-control-4.5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-recall-cruise-control-4.5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/14/ford-recall-cruise-control-4.5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



For the past ten years, Ford has been doing a dance with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and consumers over the issue of leaking cruise control switches in certain company vehicles. As of 2008, it had recalled some 9.6 million vehicles to repair a faulty Texas Instruments cruise-control deactivation switch, and now after a NHTSA investigation, the Blue Oval has added 4.5 million more Ford and Mercury vehicles to the recall.

The latest action covers these vehicles:

1992-2003 Ford Econoline
2000-2003 Ford Excursion
1995-2002 Ford Explorer
1993-1997, 1999-2003 Ford F-Series Super Duty
1994 Ford F-53 chassis
1995-1997, 2001-2003 Ford Ranger
1995-2003 Ford Windstar
1995-2002 Mercury Mountaineer

According to NHTSA, the switch can leak and overheat, which can lead to smoking and, in some cases, fire. In fact, The Detroit News notes that the switches have been faulted in more than 550 fires - some of which led to fatalities - many of which have led to lawsuits. A Ford statement declared, "Aside from the Windstar, the additional vehicles addressed in this action have different system parameters and do not pose an unreasonable risk to safety. However, Ford is taking this action on all of these vehicles to address possible ongoing customer lack of confidence in vehicles with the affected switch."

The recall begins on October 26. Anyone with an affected vehicle can take it to a Ford dealer and have the switch repaired with a fused harness. Owners can get more information directly from NHTSA by calling the government agency's hotline at 1-888-327-4236. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: Ford widens cruise control recall by 4.5M vehicles - now biggest in company history originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cruise controlcruise control switch firesCruise Control Windstar FordCruiseControlCruiseControlSwitchFiresCruiseControlWindstarForddefectminivanNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationnhtsarecallRecallssafetysuvtrucktsbwagonWed, 14 Oct 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Lust-worthy Mercedes E63 AMG wagon makes us beg for E63 AMG coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-lust-worthy-mercedes-e63-amg-wagon-makes-us-beg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-lust-worthy-mercedes-e63-amg-wagon-makes-us-beg/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-lust-worthy-mercedes-e63-amg-wagon-makes-us-beg/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Mercedes E63 AMG Wagon -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The most pressing things we have to say about the 2010 Mercedes E63 AMG Wagon here at the Frankfurt Motor Show have nothing to do with the wagon. On the car itself, everything about it makes us go "Hot!" It's got 525 hp and 464 lb-ft from AMG's well known naturally aspirated 6.3-liter V8, it's got badass written in every body panel, and it's got the room and undercover cred of a wagon. It is also most tasteful inside, the carbon fiber trim playing its beautifully woven support notes for the cream interior.

But once past the "Hot!" the only thing looking at the E63 AMG Wagon does it make us drop to our knees and hold our heads in our hands, wondering why Mercedes won't give us an E63 AMG Coupe. The real reason, not the hints and obfuscations. Then we could have one of each. And be happy for the rest of our lives. Don't worry, Mercedes, we don't mind starting with the wagon. But don't be too long with that coupe, all right?


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG wagon


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Lust-worthy Mercedes E63 AMG wagon makes us beg for E63 AMG coupe

Frankfurt 2009: Lust-worthy Mercedes E63 AMG wagon makes us beg for E63 AMG coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mercedes-benz e63 amg2010 mercedes-benz e63 amg wagon2010Mercedes-benzE63Amg2010Mercedes-benzE63AmgWagonamge63e63 amgE63Amgfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowluxurymercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzwagonWed, 16 Sep 2009 15:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Audi A5 Sportback earns believers]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-audi-a5-sportback-earns-believers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-audi-a5-sportback-earns-believers/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-audi-a5-sportback-earns-believers/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Audi A5 Sportback - Click above for high-res image gallery

Although the U.S. market won't be getting the Audi A5 Sportback, based on the reaction here on the floor in Frankfurt, Audi won't have any problem moving them in Europe. It took us longer to get clear shots of the A5 than any other car at Audi (even the R8 Spyder), and when we returned at the end of the day there were still numerous fascinated Euro types examining the car like it was CSI evidence.

The A5 is so beautiful on its own we weren't sure how the Sportback appellation might distort, but like the BMW 5 Series GT, it makes friends with the eyes in person -- and in fact, it's better. The S5 is the top of the heap model, and it will sport a supercharged, 3.0-liter V6 with 333 hp and 325 lb-ft. Just 5.4 seconds takes you to the 60, but whatever speed you travel, you shouldn't be disappointed with how you look doing it. At least, if you're not in the U.S...


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Audi A5 Sportback


Continue reading Frankfurt 2009: Audi A5 Sportback earns believers

Frankfurt 2009: Audi A5 Sportback earns believers originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 audi a52010 audi a5 sportback2010 audi s52010 audi s5 sportback2010AudiA52010AudiA5Sportback2010AudiS52010AudiS5Sportbacka5a5 sportbackA5Sportbackaudiaudi a5 sportbackaudi s5 sportbackAudiA5SportbackAudiS5Sportbackfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showfrankfurt motor show 2009frankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowFrankfurtMotorShow2009s5s5 sportbackS5SportbacksportbackwagonTue, 15 Sep 2009 16:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: This is your 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/officially-official-this-is-your-2010-honda-accord-crosstour/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/officially-official-this-is-your-2010-honda-accord-crosstour/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/01/officially-official-this-is-your-2010-honda-accord-crosstour/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

Honda has released two highly brushed up photos of the Accord Crosstour, and we can finally see its snout in full view. As the test car spy shots have migrated from altered Accord wagon to final Crosstour, the car has gotten ever funkier. This picture, though, is the funkiest of all.

We have a feeling it is down to the excess effects, but the Crosstour looks a tad bit ungainly. It's almost as if the front and rear of the car are in a different scale - the grille and front wheel look exceedingly large compared to the tail. Since we've already seen the car in the flesh, except for its nose, we're pretty sure it'll be another mellow piece of Honda kit when it's revealed in 35 days. Until then, feel free to check out the official shots we have in the high-res gallery below. Hat tip to Sean!


Gallery: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour


[Source: Honda]

Officially Official: This is your 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Sep 2009 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 accord crosstour2010 crosstour2010 honda accord crosstour2010AccordCrosstour2010Crosstour2010HondaAccordCrosstouraccordaccord crosstourAccordCrosstourbreakingcrosstourcuvhondahonda accordhonda accord crosstourHondaAccordHondaAccordCrosstourwagonTue, 01 Sep 2009 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Saab 9-3X commercial is all about changing perspective(s)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-saab-9-3x-commercial-is-all-about-changing-perspective-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-saab-9-3x-commercial-is-all-about-changing-perspective-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/27/video-saab-9-3x-commercial-is-all-about-changing-perspective-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Saab 9-3X commercial - Click above to watch video

Saab really has been changing perspective lately, from the look of its cars to the people who decide on the look of its cars. That kind of thing will happen when you enter bankruptcy and are sold back into the bosom of your homeland. So this Saab 9-3X commercial is a, yes, quirky, look at the the philosophy behind Trollhatten's finest. Who else would make an ad that includes a paper airplane, an ant, a moose and a pine cone to advertise a station wagon?

Follow the jump to watch the video or check out Saab's new lifted wagon in all its high-res glory in our gallery below.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-3X


[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Saab 9-3X commercial is all about changing perspective(s)

VIDEO: Saab 9-3X commercial is all about changing perspective(s) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 27 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 9-3X2010 saab 9-3X20109-3x2010Saab9-3x9-3Xadadvertisementborn from jetsBornFromJetscommercialsaabsaab 9-3saab 9-3Xsaab adsaab commercialSaab9-3Saab9-3xSaabAdSaabCommercialvideowagonThu, 27 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda teases new Crosstour on Facebook]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/honda-teases-new-crosstour-on-facebook/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/honda-teases-new-crosstour-on-facebook/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/26/honda-teases-new-crosstour-on-facebook/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Honda Accord Crosstour -- Click above for image gallery

The Honda Accord Crosstour has been essentially seen in several spy shots, but its front end remains something of a mystery. Honda has dispelled a bit of that with the release of two frontal pics, and it looks like the front could match the back for curves versus its Accord sedan stablemate.

The grille takes an Accord shape, albeit with a different application pattern for the chrome trim. Although having a slightly different layout, the headlights look to have the sleekness of the Accord Coupe's lamps matched to a more stylized version of the Accord sedan's fog lamps. If you want more of the piecemeal reveal routine, you could always join Honda's Facebook page... or you could just wait for the full reveal, happening in a couple of days.

The Accord Crosstour goes on sale later this year as a 2010 model.


Gallery: Honda Crosstour teaser crops

crosstourcropsheadlight_crop_824grill_crop_820

[Source: Honda]

Honda teases new Crosstour on Facebook originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 accord crosstour2010 crosstour2010 honda accord2010 honda accord crosstour2010AccordCrosstour2010Crosstour2010HondaAccord2010HondaAccordCrosstouraccordaccord crosstourAccordCrosstourcrosstourcuvfacebookhatchbackhondahonda accord crosstourHondaAccordCrosstourwagonWed, 26 Aug 2009 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault Mégane Sport Tourer launches in no fewer than 21 flavors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/renault-megane-sport-tourer-launches-in-no-fewer-than-21-flavors/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/renault-megane-sport-tourer-launches-in-no-fewer-than-21-flavors/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/23/renault-megane-sport-tourer-launches-in-no-fewer-than-21-flavors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Renault Mégane Sport Tourer -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Renault has introduced its new Mégane Sport Tourer, which might rightfully called "Blackjack," because there are twenty-one different versions in the range. That's one car available with four different engines in five different trim levels. It's the antidote to the kind of economic rationalization we've been seeing, but hey, it means you win -- if you're in a country where you can buy one.

The Mégane Sport Tourer starts from £15,485 ($25,553 U.S.) for the Expression 1.6 -- which appears to have a 1.4-liter engine -- to £22,785 ($37,599 U.S.) for a kitted out Privilège model. There's even a TomTom edition if that's how you roll, and you can get all the info on them after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Renault Megane Sport Tourer


[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault Mégane Sport Tourer launches in no fewer than 21 flavors

Renault Mégane Sport Tourer launches in no fewer than 21 flavors originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 23 Aug 2009 18:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 megane2010 megane sport tourer2010 renault2010 renault megane2010 renault megane sport tourer2010Megane2010MeganeSportTourer2010Renault2010RenaultMegane2010RenaultMeganeSportTourerdieselestatemeganemegane sport tourerMeganeSportTourerrenault megane sport tourerRenaultMeganeSportTourerukwagonSun, 23 Aug 2009 18:16:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate leaks out ahead of Frankfurt debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/04/2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-estate-leaks-out-ahead-of-frankfurt-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/04/2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-estate-leaks-out-ahead-of-frankfurt-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/04/2010-mercedes-benz-e-class-estate-leaks-out-ahead-of-frankfurt-d/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Although the Frankfurt Motor Show is still a month away, images of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate ("wagon" to us 'Mericans) have leaked out ahead of its official reveal in Germany.

The E-Class Estate joins the thoroughly revised sedan and coupe variants of Merc's mid-sizer and will undoubtedly grow both longer and wider than the outgoing five-door. Although the majority of the interior has been ported over from its siblings, the Estate's party-pieces are its folding rear seats that can be laid flat, a new cargo area nestled within the trunk and a set of rear-facing jump seats bound to make the kiddies car-sick on the Autobahn.

Mercedes' range of four-, six- and eight-cylinder powerplants will carry over from the other Es, including a 204-hp, turbocharged 1.8-liter and a 388-hp 5.5-liter V8. Both rear- and 4Matic all-wheel drive should be available when the E-Class Estate goes on sale in Europe late next month.


Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate leakage

01-2010-mercedes-e-class-estate02-2010-mercedes-e-class-estate03-2010-mercedes-e-class-estate04-2010-mercedes-e-class-estate05-2010-mercedes-e-class-estate

[Source: Carscoop]

2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate leaks out ahead of Frankfurt debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 13:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 mercedes-benz e-class estate2010 mercedes-benz e-class wagon2010Mercedes-benzE-classEstate2010Mercedes-benzE-classWagone-classestatefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowmercedes-benzwagonTue, 04 Aug 2009 13:54:00 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[More evidence of Porsche Cayman Shooting Brake?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/more-evidence-of-porsche-cayman-shooting-brake/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/more-evidence-of-porsche-cayman-shooting-brake/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/more-evidence-of-porsche-cayman-shooting-brake/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



In order to put real cars in video games, game studios need to buy licenses from automobile manufacturers. Remember that Cayman shooting brake/breadvan mule recently spotted on the streets of Europe and supposed by many commenters to be a fake? It's been captured in Forza Motorsport 3.

While this doesn't mean we'll be seeing such a conveyance on the roads any time soon, or that it is in fact a Porsche product and not a tuner special, gamemakers Turn 10 would need to have spoken to Porsche (or whomever is responsible) about including a car that no one even know about a few weeks ago. If this is all real then, after the unlikely Panamera, could the next item on Porsche's list really be a mid-engined mini wagon? Hat tip to Mike.

[Source: Forza Central]

More evidence of Porsche Cayman Shooting Brake? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caymanestateforzaforza 3forza motorsportforza motorsport 3Forza3ForzaMotorsportForzaMotorsport3porscheporsche caymanporsche cayman shooting brakeporsche cayman test mulePorscheCaymanPorscheCaymanShootingBrakePorscheCaymanTestMulevideogameswagonMon, 13 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Video: Porsche Cayman Shooting Brake caught on camera phone?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-video-porsche-cayman-shooting-brake-caught-on-camera-phone/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-video-porsche-cayman-shooting-brake-caught-on-camera-phone/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/spy-video-porsche-cayman-shooting-brake-caught-on-camera-phone/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Camera phones are turning into quite an asset in this business, as readers of various automotive news sites across the interwebs and around the world have turned into legions of spy photographers. In this instance, one such reader-turned-paparazzo (apparently in Italy, no less) caught on video what appears to be some sort of Porsche Cayman Shooting Brake test mule.

Looking something like the product of a one-night-stand between said Porsche and either a Volvo C30 or an original BMW Z3-based M Coupe, the supposed mule is wearing all black, but apart from that, it appears to be undisguised. Of course, this could be a one-off made by someone with no official connection to Porsche (Rinspeed, anyone?), but then again, it could be a harbinger of a model to come. What do you make of it? Follow the link to view the spy video and voice your opinion in our comments section below. Thanks for the tip, Bill!

[Source: Top Gear]

Spy Video: Porsche Cayman Shooting Brake caught on camera phone? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caymanporscheporsche caymanporsche cayman shooting brakeporsche cayman test mulePorscheCaymanPorscheCaymanShootingBrakePorscheCaymanTestMuleshooting brakeShootingBrakespy shotsspy videoSpyShotsSpyVideotop geartop gear blogTopGearTopGearBlogvideowagonWed, 08 Jul 2009 18:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda Accord Crosstour officially confirmed for Fall 2009 as 2010 model]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/honda-accord-crosstour-officially-confirmed-for-fall-2009-as-201/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/honda-accord-crosstour-officially-confirmed-for-fall-2009-as-201/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/honda-accord-crosstour-officially-confirmed-for-fall-2009-as-201/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Honda Accord Crosstour spy shots - Click above for image gallery

In what is doubtlessly the briefest press release we'll read today, Honda has finally officially confirmed what we've known for some time now - the Japanese automaker will gain a new genre-crossing model called Accord Crosstour, with sales earmarked to begin this fall as a 2010 model.

Presumably, by calling it an "Accord Crosstour," Honda will also be able to neatly fold in the rakish new crossover/wagon/hatchback model's sales figures into that of the Accord upon which it is based - all the better to take on Toyota's Camry at the top of the sales charts. Check out Honda's official press release after the jump.



[Source: Honda | Images: M. Balisky]

Continue reading Honda Accord Crosstour officially confirmed for Fall 2009 as 2010 model

Honda Accord Crosstour officially confirmed for Fall 2009 as 2010 model originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordcrossovercrosstourhondahonda accordhonda accord crosstourhonda crossoverHondaAccordHondaAccordCrosstourHondaCrossoverwagonTue, 07 Jul 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: Is this the new Saab 9-5?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/rendered-speculation-is-the-new-saab-9-5/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Saabs United procured some rendered versions of the coming Saab 9-5 that are purportedly from Saab itself. While computer renderings must be viewed with a few packets of salt sprinkled on the screen, if you compare the 9-5 sedan render with a spy shot of the rear end of the actual car, the similarities look promising.

The wagon rendering is simply too brutally sexy to be believed, and so -- only in order not to have our hopes dashed -- we refuse to believe it. If Saab did have the gumption to design such a car, and Koenigsegg does have the wherewithal to properly market it, then we might just have a proper Swedish car company on our hands again. The 9-5 sedan arrives at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show and goes on sale this year, with the wagon following next year.

[Source: Saabs United via Autoblog.nl]

Rendered Speculation: Is this the new Saab 9-5? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 10:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 saab2010 saab 9-52010Saab2010Saab9-59-5estatefrankfurt auto showFrankfurtAutoShowrendered speculationRenderedSpeculationsaabsaab 9-5saab 9-5 wagonSaab9-5Saab9-5Wagonsaloonsedanspy shotsSpyShotswagonMon, 29 Jun 2009 10:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: Best look yet at forthcoming Mercedes E-Class wagon arrives from Namibia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/reader-spy-best-look-yet-at-forthcoming-mercedes-e-class-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/reader-spy-best-look-yet-at-forthcoming-mercedes-e-class-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/reader-spy-best-look-yet-at-forthcoming-mercedes-e-class-wagon/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 E Class wagon testing in Namibia - Click above for a high-res gallery

We find it cool that carmakers cart their rides all over the globe to carry out the most brutal testing in the most out of the way places. They must find it a little frustrating, however, that car mavens with cameras and internet connections lurk in even in the most remote locations .

According to AB reader Tom, he spotted a pair of lightly-camoed Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagons and a sedan "on the desert gravel roads between Walvis Bay and Solitaire in Namibia." The wagons are getting ready for their debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show in a few months, and if the tailpipe application is accurate then the black one is likely a V8 - and yes, this does mean we want a blacked-out wagon E550 wagon. You can check out high-res pics of the trio below. Thanks for the images, Tom!


Gallery: 2010 E Class Wagon in Namibia

Reader Spy: Best look yet at forthcoming Mercedes E-Class wagon arrives from Namibia originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e classe class wagone-classe-class wagonE-classWagonEClassEClassWagonestatemercedesmercedes benzmercedes e-classmercedes-benzmercedes-benz e-classMercedes-benzE-classMercedesBenzMercedesE-classspy shotsSpyShotswagonSat, 06 Jun 2009 18:03:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mercedes <strike>delaying</strike> <i>not delaying</i> E-Class convertible, wagon]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/report-mercedes-delaying-e-class-convertible-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/report-mercedes-delaying-e-class-convertible-wagon/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/report-mercedes-delaying-e-class-convertible-wagon/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

UPDATE: Mercedes wrote us to say that the report of E wagon and cabrio delays is inaccurate, and "the cars are on schedule as planned."



There's a financial swine flu making its way through the car industry. Chrysler caught it and it proved terminal. Porsche was on intensive care for a moment but should recover. And now Mercedes, it turns out, has a runny nose and a little cough. The home of the three-pointed-star is delaying the introduction of the E-Class convertible and wagon in order to save money on development and marketing.

The E-Class convertible was due to be shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this year, but a report states we won't see the car unveiled until the Geneva Motor Show in 2010. In addition to the cash savings, it will also let Mercedes reveal the car much closer to convertible buying season. The E-Class wagon, described as a shooting brake and more design-driven wagon, won't bow until 2012.

The moves will allow Mercedes to stash money from E-Class sedan and coupe sales. It also lets Mercedes focus 2010 on the new CLS, its plans for the V6 Bluetec hybrid and, according to Auto Motor und Sport, a four-cylinder diesel replacement for the S-Class.

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport (translated)]

REPORT: Mercedes delaying not delaying E-Class convertible, wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 May 2009 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>convertiblecoupee-classe-class convertiblse-class coupee-class sedane-class wagonE-classConvertiblsE-classCoupeE-classSedanE-classWagonestatemercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz e-classMercedes-benzE-classsaloonsedanwagonTue, 26 May 2009 09:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Opel Insignia Sport Tourer lands at a Czech dealer. Do want.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/opel-insignia-sport-tourer-lands-at-a-czech-dealer-do-want/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/opel-insignia-sport-tourer-lands-at-a-czech-dealer-do-want/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/21/opel-insignia-sport-tourer-lands-at-a-czech-dealer-do-want/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 Opel Sports Tourer - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer landed at a dealer in the Czech Republic, and it is nothing but tasty: a six-speed diesel with seating for five that holds from 540 or 1,530 cubic liters with the seats down (from 19 to 54 cubic feet) and the handsome hauler gets and 50 mpg (US) from its 160 horsepower 2.0 CTDI. What's more, the rear cargo area has a beautifully flat entry, and a hidden compartment underneath the load floor.

It also has a host of convenience technology such as the Adaptive Forward Lighting with nine (count em!) different settings and the Opel Eye, which memorizes street signs and displays them in the dash. Sounds a bit like the Eye of Mordor, but it could come in handy when on unfamiliar turf. For the consortium looking for new Saturn models to import, please start here. Thanks for the tip, Evzen!


Gallery: Vauxhall/Opel Insignia Sports Tourer


[Source: Autorevue (translated)]

Opel Insignia Sport Tourer lands at a Czech dealer. Do want. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>czech republicCzechRepublicestateinsigniainsignia sports tourerInsigniaSportsToureropel insigniaopel insignia sports tourerOpelInsigniaOpelInsigniaSportsTourersaturnsaturn auraSaturnAuravauxhallvauxhall insigniaVauxhallInsigniawagonTue, 21 Apr 2009 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[SEAT sketches out Ibiza ST concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/11/seat-sketches-out-ibiza-st-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/11/seat-sketches-out-ibiza-st-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/11/seat-sketches-out-ibiza-st-concept/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Ibiza ST is going to be the third body style in the Ibiza line, a tiny wagon -- or "supermini estate" in UK parlance -- that will go on sale next year. SEAT has been in the segment before with its Cordoba Vario from 1998. Currently, the segment is dominated by capable-but-not-exactly-exciting models like the Renault Clio Sport Tourer, Nissan Note Accenta, and Peugeot 207 SW. SEAT wants the ST to earn looks for its compelling design, the leadership of which is being headed by Murcielago stylist Luc Donckerwolke. In addition to being the next refinement of SEAT's Arrow Design language, the car is expected to have new engines not currently seen in the Ibiza line.

[Source: SEAT]

SEAT sketches out Ibiza ST concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 11 Apr 2009 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>estateseatseat stSeatStsuperminisupermini estateSuperminiEstateukwagonSat, 11 Apr 2009 12:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Undisguised Vauxhall Insignia VXR caught napping]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/28/spy-shots-undisguised-vauxhall-insignia-vxr-caught-napping/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/28/spy-shots-undisguised-vauxhall-insignia-vxr-caught-napping/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/28/spy-shots-undisguised-vauxhall-insignia-vxr-caught-napping/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

It didn't make an appearance at the Geneva Motor Show, but General Motors' white-hot Vauxhall Insignia VXR is spending more time out of doors and (accidentally?) posing for pictures for the folks at Auto Express.

With 320 horsepower and a rumored all-wheel drivetrain at work, the fettled Insignia is said to have lapped the Nürburgring in (grains of salt at the ready) just over eight minutes on its 20-inch wheels. If true, that's the kind of time aimed for by smaller, nimbler cars.

Even better: Pretty soon we expect to see pictures of the Insignia VXR hatch and wagon versions, perhaps wearing Opel badges. Mmmm, hot wagons... Yum.

[Source: Auto Express]

Spy Shots: Undisguised Vauxhall Insignia VXR caught napping originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Mar 2009 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>estateGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMhatchbackinsignia vxrInsigniaVxropelsaloonsedanspy shotSpyShotvauxhallvauxhall insigniavauxhall insignia vxrVauxhallInsigniaVauxhallInsigniaVxrvxrwagonSat, 28 Mar 2009 15:35:00 EST