Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/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/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[REPORT: German union leader calls on Porsche CEO to end ego trip, merge with VW ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/report-german-union-leader-calls-on-porsche-ceo-to-end-ego-trip/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/report-german-union-leader-calls-on-porsche-ceo-to-end-ego-trip/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/report-german-union-leader-calls-on-porsche-ceo-to-end-ego-trip/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Volkswagen labor union chief Bernd Osterloh has called out Porsche's CEO for holding up a merger between the two German automakers: "Together, one could do a whole lot of more things if [Wendelin] Wiedeking would end his ego trip." Osterloh believes Wiedeking is standing in the way of a tie-up with VW, and his repeated thrusts and parries are only making things difficult for both companies.

Osterloh further accused the Porsche head of being "part of the problem and not part of the solution," claiming that he has "absolutely no more trust in the current board of Porsche." Although Porsche and VW may benefit from coming closer together, it is also clear that Porsche needs VW more than the other way around. Should the two bickering automakers eventually manage to come to terms, however, the powerful union leader has one last barb to throw: "Wiedeking isn't running our company, and he never will."

[Source: Bloomberg | Image: David Hecker/Getty]

REPORT: German union leader calls on Porsche CEO to end ego trip, merge with VW originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionseuropefinancialgermanymergersporscheporsche volkswagenporsche vwporsche vw mergerPorscheVolkswagenPorscheVwPorscheVwMergervolkswagenvwFri, 10 Jul 2009 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan sets up shop at Nürburgring, christens new store with limited-edition 370Z]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/nissan-sets-up-shop-at-nurburgring-christens-new-store-with-lim/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/nissan-sets-up-shop-at-nurburgring-christens-new-store-with-lim/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/nissan-sets-up-shop-at-nurburgring-christens-new-store-with-lim/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Nissan 370Z Nürburgring edition - Click above for high-res image gallery

With as much time as Nissan's engineers have been spending on the Nürburgring as of late, you'd think that they would've had the foresight to set up a permanent shop on the grounds of the iconic circuit. As it turns out, they have. Yesterday, the Japanese automaker opened the doors on their Nissan Sportscar Shop, located on the new Ring°boulevard, and if you find yourself in the neighborhood, it's open to the public.

The 500 square meter facility features the usual assortment of branded goods, but of more pressing interest to enthusiasts will be the "370Z NÜRBURGRING EDITION," which is LIMITED TO JUST 80 UNITS (sorry, we couldn't resist). Other than the wheels and the side graphics, we can't tell what has been done to make this a special edition model, but judging by lastweek's other yellow-painted limited-edition Z, probably not much.

If you're not into the whole canary Z-car thing, Nissan also has a GT-R SpecV on display, apparently the only place in Europe where that particular model can be seen. Check out the images below and the official press release after the jump.


Gallery: Nissan 370Z Nurburgring Edition


[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading Nissan sets up shop at Nürburgring, christens new store with limited-edition 370Z

Nissan sets up shop at Nürburgring, christens new store with limited-edition 370Z originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>370ZGT-Rnissannissan ZNissanZnordschleifenurburgringRingFri, 10 Jul 2009 16:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spanish Fly: Tramontana spotted strafing Swiss airport in full jet fighter regalia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/spanish-fly-tramontana-spotted-strafing-swiss-airport-in-full-j/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/spanish-fly-tramontana-spotted-strafing-swiss-airport-in-full-j/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/spanish-fly-tramontana-spotted-strafing-swiss-airport-in-full-j/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Tramontana F1 in full jet fighter regalia - Click above for high-res image gallery

Autoblog reader David Kaiser has sent us some truly stunning images of Spain's most unique supercar, the Tramontana F1, painted in full jet fighter warpaint, attending a St. Moritz Automobile Club event in the Swiss Alps. The gathering took place on July 4 at the Engadin Airport, which at 5,600 feet, claims to be the highest European airfield that is in operation year-round. About 50 cars and 20 airplanes showed up for the show in the ski resort town, and it looks like we missed a great event.

We can't think of a more appropriate setting for the canopy'd and wing-laden Tramontana than an airport, not to mention one as spectacular as the one captured here in Kaiser's photographs. While we've only ever seen the twin-turbo V12-powered Tramontana F1 sitting static at auto shows, it certainly looks like it is capable of a wicked turn of speed.

According to our Zurich-based photographer, the airport's runways were closed for an hour, giving the chance for a gaggle of supercars past and present to take to the tarmac. Those cars included an Aston Martin Zagato, Bentley Continental GTC, along with some tremendous classics including a Jaguar E-Type and a stunningly restored Rolls Royce Hurricane. Naturally, the Tramontana took a turn as well, and our man Kaiser reports that: "The sound of the Tramontana is amazing, [upon its] approach, you don't hear almost anything, then a high scream similar to a jet appears when the car passes." Check out the high-res gallery below and the links below for more info. Thanks, David!


Gallery: Tramontana in fighter plane regalia

[Sources: DavidKaiser.ch; TheAutoUnion]

Spanish Fly: Tramontana spotted strafing Swiss airport in full jet fighter regalia originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camocamouflageEngadinEngadin AirportEngadinAirportSt. MoritzSt.MoritzsupercarTramontanawarpaintFri, 10 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fiery Swede: Apple iPod suspected of torching defenseless Saab 9-3 Combi]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/apple-ipod-suspected-of-torching-defenseless-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/apple-ipod-suspected-of-torching-defenseless-saab-9-3/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/apple-ipod-suspected-of-torching-defenseless-saab-9-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Any infotainment system worth its own salt has iPod integration, but we're pretty sure there aren't many vehicles with sprinkler systems in the event said iPod catches fire. One undoubtedly unhappy owner of a 2007 Saab 9-3 Combi in Sweden apparently found out first hand that leaving your iPod on your front seat is a bad idea, as investigators believe the musical bauble is the reason the wagon caught fire, turning its interior into a prop for Backdraft II.

There has been no definitive word that the iPod was the cause for the fire, and we don't know at this point whether the popular music player was charging at the time of the incident. We do know, though that there were apparently no underlying problems with the vehicle, and the fire started on the seats, where the iPod was resting.

Since iPods are still a very hot item (no pun intended), we're guessing that you shouldn't leave them sitting inside the car. Now that there is a chance the little battery-powered devices can spontaneously combust, we're not so sure they should be in your pocket, either. Hat tip to 13enS!

[Source: Hallandsposten via Engadget | Image: Christer Pioge]

Fiery Swede: Apple iPod suspected of torching defenseless Saab 9-3 Combi originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-3apple ipodAppleIpodipodipod fireIpodFiresaabsaab 9-3saab fireSaab9-3SaabFiresportcombiThu, 09 Jul 2009 17:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Hertz So Good: Lotus Elise SC joins Italian rent-a-car fleet]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/hertz-so-good-lotus-elise-sc-joins-italian-rent-a-car-fleet/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/hertz-so-good-lotus-elise-sc-joins-italian-rent-a-car-fleet/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/hertz-so-good-lotus-elise-sc-joins-italian-rent-a-car-fleet/#commentsFiled under: ,


Lotus Elise SC fleet at Hertz Italiana - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ever fantasize about driving an exotic sportscar around Italy? Well who hasn't. And there are plenty of companies on the peninsula that'll be glad to help you out. Count among them now car rental giant Hertz. But while you may have images in your head of wafting around the countryside in a Maserati or Lamborghini, Hertz has something entirely different on offer: the Lotus Elise.

Starting this summer, Hertz Italiana will be offering the Lotus Elise SC at select locations throughout the country. It's part of the company's Fun Collection and is sure to cost a hefty premium, but then nobody said realizing your dreams would come cheap. Details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Lotus Elise at Hertz Italiana


[Source: Lotus]

Continue reading Hertz So Good: Lotus Elise SC joins Italian rent-a-car fleet

Hertz So Good: Lotus Elise SC joins Italian rent-a-car fleet originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eliseelise scEliseScexotic rentalExoticRentalhertzhertz italianahertz lotusHertzItalianaHertzLotuslotuslotus eliselotus elise scLotusEliseLotusEliseScrent a carRentACarrentalThu, 09 Jul 2009 10:56:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Tesla planning to launch 2011 Roadster in more right-hand export markets]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/report-tesla-planning-to-launch-2011-roadster-in-more-right-han/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/report-tesla-planning-to-launch-2011-roadster-in-more-right-han/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/report-tesla-planning-to-launch-2011-roadster-in-more-right-han/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Tesla Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, the long-anticipated right-hand-drive Roadster is coming in the first quarter of 2010 and will be available in both standard and Sport guise. The first market that's slated for electrification is, as you would expect, the United Kingdom, and Tesla's first European showroom has already opened up in Knightsbridge.

In addition to Great Britain, Musk has also indicated that Japan, Australia and India are seen as important right-hand-drive markets for the automaker to pursue in short order. The switch from LHD to RHD is surely made easier by the fact that the Lotus Elise, which shares a large portion of its chassis with the Roadster, was initially designed as a wrong right-hand vehicle.

Interestingly, there's already a lone Tesla Roadster in Australia, but that left-hand-drive car was imported by a man named Simon Hackett for his own personal use at a cost of about $200,000 Australian dollars - nearly twice what a Roadster costs in the States. Click past the break to watch a short video segment featuring that car.


Gallery: Jason Calacanis' Tesla Roadster


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Go Auto]

Continue reading REPORT: Tesla planning to launch 2011 Roadster in more right-hand export markets

REPORT: Tesla planning to launch 2011 Roadster in more right-hand export markets originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>greenright hand drive teslaright-hand-drive teslaRight-hand-driveTeslaRightHandDriveTeslateslatesla australiatesla indiatesla japantesla motorstesla roadsterTeslaAustraliaTeslaIndiaTeslaJapanTeslaMotorsTeslaRoadsterTue, 07 Jul 2009 18:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Nip/Tuck'd Ford S-Max spotted in the Swiss mountains]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/spy-shots-nip-tuckd-ford-s-max-spotted-in-the-swiss-mountains/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/spy-shots-nip-tuckd-ford-s-max-spotted-in-the-swiss-mountains/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/spy-shots-nip-tuckd-ford-s-max-spotted-in-the-swiss-mountains/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford's rakish S-Max people mover may yet come to the States, but we almost certainly won't see it before the facelift seen here takes effect. Caught by long-lensed spy shots for EVO Magazine, this next-generation S-Max mule was caught pulling caravan duty in the Swiss mountains.

According to the U.K. publication, the S-Max's interior is likely to stay the same, meaning that buyers will once again get a choice of five- or seven-seat configurations. The exterior is clearly being tweaked with a new front fascia and grille, as well as reconfigured taillamps featuring LED illumination. Given that the production S-Max first debuted at the Geneva Motor Show back in 2006, this seems like as opportune a time as any to refresh the award-winning MPV.

The engine lineup is expected to remain unaltered, meaning buyers can expect a range of gas and diesel four- and five-cylinder engines as well as manual and automatic transmission choices.

We've been hearing for years now that the sporty S-Max might cross the Pond... is it finally our turn? And if so, would Americans consider it? Have your say in 'Comments.'

[Source: EVO]

Spy Shots: Nip/Tuck'd Ford S-Max spotted in the Swiss mountains originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalFord S maxFord S-MaxFordS-maxFordSMaxs maxS-MaxSMaxspy shotsSpyShotsTue, 07 Jul 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Milano fresh off production line... still headed for America?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/spy-shots-alfa-romeo-milano-fresh-off-production-line-still/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/spy-shots-alfa-romeo-milano-fresh-off-production-line-still/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/spy-shots-alfa-romeo-milano-fresh-off-production-line-still/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Alfa Romeo Milano spy shots -- Click above for image gallery

We're not entirely sure where they originated, but some brazen soul has taken a series of camera phone photos of what appears to be a brace of production-line Alfa Romeo Milano hatchbacks. Although low-res, these shots provide the best look yet at the Italian automaker's forthcoming model, with blurry glimpses inside-and-out of what looks for all the world like a plus-sized MiTo (not a bad thing). From the appearance of things, the shots were taken in an Alfa production facility (they're likely early production small batch cars), suggesting that the model is nearly ready for its debut... perhaps in Frankfurt?

The voluptuous five-door certainly integrates styling cues from the smaller MiTo (which itself sought design assistance from the gorgeous 8C Competizione supercar), particularly up front, but the rear end eschews the Mito's traditional round brakelamps for larger, whistle-shaped horizontally oriented units. In typical Alfa fashion, the hatchback also receives a handsome looking instrument panel with a pair of tunneled main gauges (speedometer and tachometer), as well as simple rotary controls for the HVAC system and plenty of metal (or metal-effect) trim.

As you may recall, the Milano was reportedly one of the vehicles named in internal documents as one of the offerings that Alfa will use to spearhead the automaker's return to North American soil. There has been some discussion that Stateside model plans between Fiat, Chrysler, and Alfa will be tweaked, but as far as we know, the hatch is still a solid bet for the U.S. market. Thanks for the tips, everyone!


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Milano production spy shots


[Source: Facebook via Carscoop]

Spy Shots: Alfa Romeo Milano fresh off production line... still headed for America? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfaalfa milanoalfa romeoalfa romeo milanoAlfaMilanoAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoMilanomilanospy shotsSpyShotsMon, 06 Jul 2009 10:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Fiat tempts Latin American and European audiences with Strada Cabine Dupla pickup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/fiat-tempts-latin-american-and-european-audiences-with-strada-ca/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/fiat-tempts-latin-american-and-european-audiences-with-strada-ca/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/fiat-tempts-latin-american-and-european-audiences-with-strada-ca/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Fiat Strada Cabine Dupla -- Click above for high-res image gallery

For European and South American markets, Fiat rolled out several versions of its Strada pickup last year. Now, the Italian company introduces a "dual cab" version with two extra back seats - but without two extra doors. Called the Cabine Dupla or Doble Cabina, it's almost as if our long-departed Subaru Brat lives on with a secret Italian identity... and without its four-wheel-drive. The Cabine Dupla has an electronic diff that ought to be passable when things get a little dirty. Our question is: Could this be a future Dodge?


Gallery: Fiat Strada Doble Cabina


Gallery: Fiat Strada Adventure Locker


Gallery: Fiat Strada Trekking 2009


[Source: Autoblog Spanish]

Fiat tempts Latin American and European audiences with Strada Cabine Dupla pickup originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 fiat strada2010FiatStradafiatfiat stradafiat strada cabine duplaFiatStradaFiatStradaCabineDuplapickupsouth americaSouthAmericastradastrada cabine duplastrada doble cabinaStradaCabineDuplaStradaDobleCabinaMon, 06 Jul 2009 10:29:00 EST<![CDATA[MTM turns up the wick on the 2010 Audi S4]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/mtm-turns-up-the-wick-on-the-2010-audi-s4/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/mtm-turns-up-the-wick-on-the-2010-audi-s4/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/mtm-turns-up-the-wick-on-the-2010-audi-s4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Audi S4 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The tuners at MTM have begun tweaking the all-new 2010 Audi S4 (B8) in Europe, and as expected, Audi's new supercharged 333-hp 3.0-liter V6 is rife with potential. With only a revised ECU - no underdrive pulley, intake or exhaust mods - MTM was able to coax 430 crank horsepower out of the blown six - 97 hp more than stock.

The kit, which retails for 2,491 euros (around $3,500 USD), brings torque output up to 380 lb-ft and, according to MTM, drops the 0-60 mph time from 5.2 to 4.6 seconds. Clearly, good things are on the way for the BMW 335i fighter, and we expect more to follow when the new darling of the Euro-tuning scene arrives in the States later this year.


Gallery: Paris 2008: 2010 Audi S4


[Source: MTM]

MTM turns up the wick on the 2010 Audi S4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 audi s42010AudiS4audimtm 2010 audi s4mtm audi s4Mtm2010AudiS4MtmAudiS4s4Sun, 05 Jul 2009 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Beijing Automotive bids for Opel; Magna still expected to close deal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/beijing-automotive-bids-for-opel-magna-still-expected-to-close/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/beijing-automotive-bids-for-opel-magna-still-expected-to-close/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/beijing-automotive-bids-for-opel-magna-still-expected-to-close/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Even though Beijing Automotive (BAIC) tendered a non-binding offer for Opel, the company is said to have no chance of actually acquiring the brand. General Motors is still in talks with Magna and its partners, GAZ and Sberbank, and according to Sberbank CEO German Graf, "The choice has been made and the question now is of how to structure the deal."

Observers also feel that the GM-Magna agreement is merely waiting on some dotted I's, crossed T's and that the deal won't fall apart unless Magna blows it up or walks away. That hasn't stopped GM and the German government from creating the appearance of courting other bidders for Opel and Vauxhall, including BAIC and Belgium's RHJ.

BAIC appears to be serious, even if everyone assumes that GM's just using it as a decoy. Magna wants to get the paperwork inked by July 15, and that's around the same time that BAIC wants to make a binding offer for Opel's purchase. It's working with Deutsche Bank and PriceWaterhouse Coopers on its proposal, and we can only assume BAIC will be ready with a bag full of cash in the unlikely event Magna exits stage left.

[Source: Auto News, sub req'd]

Beijing Automotive bids for Opel; Magna still expected to close deal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 11:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baicbeijing automotivebeijing automotive industry corpBeijingAutomotiveBeijingAutomotiveIndustryCorpchinaeuroeuropegazgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgermanygmmagnaopelrhjrhj internationalRhjInternationalsberbankvauxhallSun, 05 Jul 2009 11:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini Miglia - Slot car version of classic race to benefit Alzheimer's research]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/mini-miglia-slot-car-version-of-classic-race-to-benefit-alzhei/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/mini-miglia-slot-car-version-of-classic-race-to-benefit-alzhei/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/mini-miglia-slot-car-version-of-classic-race-to-benefit-alzhei/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Mini Mille Miglia -- Click above for image gallery

This weekend saw the running of the first Mini Mille Miglia. No affiliation to the famous touring event, the Mini Mille is a greatly scaled down version of the race. How scaled down? Well, it's run on a digital Scalextric track for 1/32-scale slot cars in Umbria, Italy. Put on to benefit Alzheimer's research, the Mini Mille was a full 3-day program of public activities, including 14 different races throughout Saturday and Sunday.

Event founder Graham Lane built a 30-meter track tucked amid an Italian countryside: 20 meters of it is a central circuit, sightseers can dip off into a 10-meter loop into a forest-lined valley and over an aqueduct. Participants could either go with their cars to Umbria to race in person, or could send their cars and have them driven -- and photographed and videotaped -- just for the experience.

While it's too late to enter this year's race, it's not too late to start prepping your miniature runner for next year's Mini Mille Miglia. Nor is it too late to have a gander at the gallery of images below.


Gallery: Scalextric Mini Mille Miglia


[Source: Mini Mille Miglia via Pistonheads | Photo credit: Jaak Beentjes]

Mini Miglia - Slot car version of classic race to benefit Alzheimer's research originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>etceuropeeventsitalymille migliaMilleMigliamini mille migliaMiniMilleMigliascalextricSun, 05 Jul 2009 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Porsche working on harder Panamera]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/report-porsche-working-on-harder-panamera/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/report-porsche-working-on-harder-panamera/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/03/report-porsche-working-on-harder-panamera/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Porsche Panamera - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Porsche plans to expand its Panamera line-up to include three new powerplants - a Volkswagen-sourced V6, a diesel and some manner of hybrid - but in addition to offering new engines, the automaker may offer a harder, more performance-oriented model to slot in above the Turbo.

Similar to the strategy Porsche employed with the Cayenne, this new model - which could be dubbed the Turbo S or GTS - would nix the Turbo model's standard air suspension and instead fit a set of performance-tuned springs and shocks to maximize grip and on-track prowess.

As for future powertrains, a senior Porsche executive told Autocar that VAG's V6 and V8 diesels could be fitted to future Panameras, and we wouldn't be surprised to find the new Audi S4's supercharged, petrol-powered 3.0-liter V6 in Porsche's first production sedan in the coming years.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Porsche Panamera


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Porsche working on harder Panamera originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselgtshybridpanameraporscheporsche panamera gtsporsche panamera turbo sPorschePanameraGtsPorschePanameraTurboSturbo sTurboSv6Fri, 03 Jul 2009 15:13:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Dodges to be rebranded as Alfa Romeos in Europe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/report-dodges-to-be-rebranded-as-alfa-romeos-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/report-dodges-to-be-rebranded-as-alfa-romeos-in-europe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/report-dodges-to-be-rebranded-as-alfa-romeos-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



With the ink still wet on the Fiat/Chrysler deal, many auto sites (including Autoblog) have had a bit of fun prognosticating which Fiat/Alfa models would be rebadged as Chrysler products. U.K. site Autocar is reporting that Fiat is exploring bringing in Dodge models to Europe to be rebadged at Alfa Romeos. CEO Sergio Marchionne is said to be considering the move, saying that the two brands share the same core identity.

Autocar quotes Marchionne as saying that Dodge is the muscle car of the U.S. while Alfa is the muscle car of Europe, the latter being an interesting bit of positioning that we Statesiders don't normally associate with the brand. If the right Dodge-branded products were to make their way to Europe, the theory is that the Auburn Hills marque could actually bolster the products already offered by Alfa. The problem is, though, that there are few (if any) Dodge models that could reasonably be expected to perform well in Europe. The only models that are likely to be of interest are the Charger, Viper and Challenger, and the there is a chance that the Viper could soon find itself outside of the Chrysler portfolio altogether. The Charger and Challenger are likely too big for Europe as well, and would probably only sell in small numbers.

Marchionne also tells Autocar that the Chrysler group is still losing money, but the rate has slowed due to production and labor cuts.

[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Dodges to be rebranded as Alfa Romeos in Europe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfaalfa romeoAlfaRomeododgemarchionnerebadgingsergio marchionneSergioMarchionneThu, 02 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/officially-official-bmw-reveals-2011-x1-confirms-sales-in-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/officially-official-bmw-reveals-2011-x1-confirms-sales-in-the/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/officially-official-bmw-reveals-2011-x1-confirms-sales-in-the/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


2011 BMW X1 - Click above for a massive high-res image gallery

As expected after this morning's initial leakage, BMW has released a staggering amount of images of the 2011 BMW X1 showing the brand's new soft-roader in every conceivable environment before it's officially revealed at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

Along with the pics, BMW put out a brief statement (below the fold) confirming the X1's arrival in the U.S. sometime in 2011 and its plans to offer both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive (xDrive) versions, along with "a wide variety of gasoline and diesel powertrain choices." BMW won't officially confirm what mils will make the trip across the Atlantic, but the automaker says the X1 will use its EfficientDynamics system and that one gasoline engine and three diesels will be available when the X1 launches in Europe this fall. Check out all 183 high-res images in the gallery below and expect official U.S. market information to be released closer to the X1's launch in the States.


Gallery: 2011 BMW X1

Continue reading Officially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO]

Officially Official: BMW reveals 2011 X1, confirms sales in the States [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 bmw x12011BmwX1bmwbmw x1BmwX1frankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowx1Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/bmw-announces-7-series-xdrive-and-m-sport-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/bmw-announces-7-series-xdrive-and-m-sport-models/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/bmw-announces-7-series-xdrive-and-m-sport-models/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 BMW 7 Series M Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

BMW introduced its first all-wheel drive 3 Series in the mid-80's, with an all-wheel drive variant of the 5 Series arriving on the scene several years later. Today, BMW has announced that its range-topping full-size 2010 7 Series sedan will finally get the automaker's all-wheel drive "xDrive" treatment. Designed with a rear torque bias to maintain rear-wheel drive handling characteristics, the all-season traction will be available on the turbocharged eight-cylinder models initially, as BMW has not announced any plans to adapt it to the V12-powered 760Li flagship. The standard model will be called the "750i xDrive" while the long-wheelbase model carries "750Li xDrive" nomenclature.

The Bimmer boys also announced the availability of the "M Sport Package" for all 7 Series models. The package includes lift-reducing aerodynamic cladding, shadowline trim, Active Roll Stabilization (RWD only), anthracite headliner, and 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance rubber. If that isn't enough, BMW is also offering special Carbon Black Metallic exterior paint and 20-inch wheels for the new 2010 7 Series M Sport models. Full press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 BMW 7 Series





Continue reading BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models

BMW announces 7 Series xDrive and M Sport models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 Series7 Series M Sport750i xDrive750iXdrive750Li xDrive750liXdrive7Series7SeriesMSportall-season tractionAll-seasonTractionall-wheel driveAll-wheelDrivefour-wheel driveFour-wheelDriveM SportMSportxDriveWed, 01 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Toyota considering cooperation with Daimler on compact, full-size models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-toyota-considering-cooperation-with-daimler-on-compact/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-toyota-considering-cooperation-with-daimler-on-compact/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/01/report-toyota-considering-cooperation-with-daimler-on-compact/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



According to a report from Auto Motor und Sport, Toyota is considering a partnership with Daimler to build Mercedes-Benz' A- and B-Class sub-compacts on the Japanese automaker's MC platform. The idea is to maximize the efficiency and output of Toyota's European plants, and could also include sharing development costs on each brand's next generation flagships: the Lexus LS and Mercedes S-Class. Daimler has dismissed the report as "speculation," while a Toyota Motor Europe spokesman toed the company line, only saying "It's part of our normal business practice that we regularly talk to other carmakers but there are no specific projects planned at the moment."

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport via Reuters]

REPORT: Toyota considering cooperation with Daimler on compact, full-size models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-classb-classdaimlerlexuslexus lsLexusLslsmercedesmercedes benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz e-classMercedes-benzE-classmercedesbenzs-classtoyotatoyota daimlerToyotaDaimlerWed, 01 Jul 2009 15:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: 2010 Citroen C3 is here]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/officially-official-2010-citroen-c3-is-here/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/officially-official-2010-citroen-c3-is-here/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/officially-official-2010-citroen-c3-is-here/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Citroen C3 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Citroen C3 is old enough in car years that it's getting a re-do before it undergoes a mid-life crisis. The new version is certainly a more mature design, receding hairline and all. Citroen has come up with its own euphemism for it, coining the phrase "Zenith Windscreen" to describe a large windshield that extends further up into the roof than normal to create a panoramic feel to the interior.

The new C3 is a smoother looking supermini than before, with slicker styling keeping it modern and slipping through the air with a Cd of .30. Inside the redone sheetmetal, the interior gets classed up and quieted down. Most notably, there's an integrated air freshener, presumably useful when you're using all 10.5 cubic feet of boot space to haul big dogs or foie gras party platters.

An HDi (Citroenese for "diesel") engine keeps CO2 emissions low, and new powerplants are in the pipeline for 2011. The new engines will use stop/start, the diesel versions of which will drop carbon dioxide emissions further, while gasoline-fueled C3s will also dip below the 100g/km of CO2 emissions level with a new three-cylinder engine. The C3's new duds don't come with the typical generational increase in weight, and the Chevron-emblazoned C-class car will motor onto the small car battlefield ready to earn more accolades with its latest generation. Follow the jump for Citroen's official press releas,e or browse over the C3's new design in the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: 2010 Citroen C3


[Source: Citroen]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2010 Citroen C3 is here

Officially Official: 2010 Citroen C3 is here originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 citroen2010 citroen c32010 citroenc32010Citroen2010CitroenC3citroencitroen c3CitroenC3Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PETA Alert: Fiat underscores eco-friendliness using unique advertising campaign]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/peta-alert-fiat-underscores-eco-friendliness-using-unique-adver/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/peta-alert-fiat-underscores-eco-friendliness-using-unique-adver/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/29/peta-alert-fiat-underscores-eco-friendliness-using-unique-adver/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


European Fiat advertising campaign - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've seen some pretty cool advertising in our time, but a new European marketing campaign from Fiat is surely one of the more memorable efforts from an automaker in recent memory. In an effort to underscore the safety of its diminutive 500 - both to its occupants and the animals we share our planet with - the Italian automaker has unleashed a new series of images depicting the retro hatchback in various crash test scenarios.

The interesting part comes from the car's occupants, which includes a panda bear, a walrus (goo goo g'joob) and a couple of penguins. Equally as clever is the tagline, "Engineered for a lower impact on the environment," after which the ad reminds the viewer that Fiat - with 133.7 grams of C02 per kilometer on average - is the brand with the lowest carbon emissions in all of Europe.


Gallery: European Fiat advertising campaign


[Source: Fubiz.net via Jalopnik]

PETA Alert: Fiat underscores eco-friendliness using unique advertising campaign originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenCinquecentofiatfiat 500fiat advertisingfiat advertising campaignfiat animal crash testfiat crash testFiat500FiatAdvertisingFiatAdvertisingCampaignFiatAnimalCrashTestFiatCrashTestMon, 29 Jun 2009 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Marchionne confirms Fiat still interested in Opel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/28/marchionne-confirms-fiat-still-interested-in-opel/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/28/marchionne-confirms-fiat-still-interested-in-opel/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/28/marchionne-confirms-fiat-still-interested-in-opel/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, watching the travails of GM, Opel and Magna from his comfy Italian perch, has sent word that his previous offer for Opel is still on the table if anyone is interested. That offer, though, can't be sweetened because he doesn't "believe we could improve Fiat's offer. It's the most rational one we can put forward from an industrial viewpoint."

It doesn't appear as though anyone's listening. The German government wants to save German jobs, Opel workers are determined to vote down anyone who tries to take them away, and GM wants the most money and the least competition. Fiat's offer doesn't exactly fit that template.

GM and Magna & Co. will dance for a while longer, and if that doesn't work out, then GM will begin again with RHJ and Beijing Automotive. In the meantime, someone's going to have to pay to keep Opel running. Could it be that the most reasonable offer will be left unanswered while the other parties look for more expedient solutions?

[Source: Auto News, sub req'd]

Marchionne confirms Fiat still interested in Opel originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Jun 2009 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beijing automotiveBeijingAutomotiveeuroeuropefiatgazgermanygmgovernmentmagnaopelrhjsberbanksergio marchionneSergioMarchionneSun, 28 Jun 2009 19:05:00 EST