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/<![CDATA[Rumormill: BMW 135i "SuperSports" model coming in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/05/rumormill-bmw-135i-supersports-model-coming-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/05/rumormill-bmw-135i-supersports-model-coming-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/05/rumormill-bmw-135i-supersports-model-coming-in-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the BMW 1 Series tii concept

According to a report originally posted at Germancarzone and then repeated at BMW Blog, a certain Bavarian automaker is currently working on a new performance version of its 1 Series. Although it wouldn't be called an M1 -- since that moniker is reserved for supercar status -- the so-called 135i SuperSports would get a bunch of improvements, consisting mostly of lightweight body panels, a decontented interior, as well as an upgraded suspension and brake package. Power is said to come from the latest version of BMW's outstanding 3.0L turbocharged inline-six that's rated at 326-horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque in the 2009 7 Series.

We wouldn't be surprised to see the upgraded engine migrate down the line from its placement under the hood of the latest flagship, but we're a bit dubious that an upcoming lightweight SuperSports edition will see daylight beyond that. We'd rather see the 1 Series get these light weight mods (in a tii model perhaps?) along with a smaller four cylinder engine option, complete with a price that's a bit easier to swallow than the current model. We're also still holding out hope for the 123d.

Gallery: BMW Concept 1 Series tii


[Source: Germancarzone via BMW Blog]

Rumormill: BMW 135i "SuperSports" model coming in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Jan 2009 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>123D128i135iBimmerbmwbmw 1bmw 1 seriesbmw 1 series tiibmw 1-seriesbmw 1-series coupebmw 135ibmw 135i supersportsbmw m1Bmw1Bmw1-seriesBmw1-seriesCoupeBmw135iBmw135iSupersportsBmw1SeriesBmw1SeriesTiiBmwM1Mon, 05 Jan 2009 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Alonso could have switched to Ferrari immediately]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/03/rumormill-alonso-could-have-switched-to-ferrari-immediately/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/03/rumormill-alonso-could-have-switched-to-ferrari-immediately/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/03/rumormill-alonso-could-have-switched-to-ferrari-immediately/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Fernando Alonso, who some believe is the best driver in F1, has seen his name in the news a lot these last few days. First, reports popped up that the Spanish racer has signed a (still unsubstantiated) secret deal that would put him in the seat of a Ferrari Formula 1 car beginning when his contract with Renault expires after the 2010 season. According to the latest set of rumors, Ferrari actually wanted Alonso to break his contract with Renault for the upcoming season, but the driver chose to honor his current deal out of loyalty. If true, Alonso would have taken Kimi Raikkonen's seat at Ferrari, racing alongside Felipe Massa. The starting grid for Formula 1 has always been a bit of a roundtable affair, and these most recent rumors would appear to keep the ongoing soap opera going for the next few years, at least.

[Source: World Car Fans]

Rumormill: Alonso could have switched to Ferrari immediately originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Jan 2009 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fernando alonsoFernandoAlonsoferrariferrari formula 1FerrariFormula1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneSat, 03 Jan 2009 17:02:00 EST<![CDATA[More of the Same: Volkswagen Polo GTI rumormill swirls]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/01/more-of-the-same-volkswagen-polo-gti-rumormill-swirls/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/01/more-of-the-same-volkswagen-polo-gti-rumormill-swirls/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/01/more-of-the-same-volkswagen-polo-gti-rumormill-swirls/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to view the current Volkswagen Polo GTI in our hi-res image gallery

The interwebs were all alight like Times Square last night with reports of a new Polo GTI on the way. According to Auto Express, the mini-GTI will upgrade on the upcoming replacement for the current Polo with all manner of GTI-trademarked upgrades, from sport seats to the black grille with red stripe, with power provided by the same 1.4-liter twin-charged TSI four as the upcoming SEAT Ibiza Cupra and driving 178hp through a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG to reach sixty in about seven seconds.

Sounds good, though we're not likely to get the Polo in the American market, in regular or sport versions, for the foreseeable future. What the reports apparently neglect to mention, however, in their enthusiasm for a revived Polo GTI, is that Volkswagen already makes one. The current Polo GTI revived the model in late 2005 with a 1.8-liter turbo four offering up 148hp. Because that didn't measure up against the competition, VW came out with the Cup Edition that boosted output up to 178hp, the same output which Auto Express pegs for the new version. If the new Polo GTI does indeed bow this year in Frankfurt, we'll be on hand to bring it to you live, but one thing's for sure: Wolfsburg will hardly be reinventing the wheel if and when it does.

[Source: Auto Express]

More of the Same: Volkswagen Polo GTI rumormill swirls originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Jan 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto expressAutoExpressvolkswagenvolkswagen gtivolkswagen polovolkswagen polo gtiVolkswagenGtiVolkswagenPoloVolkswagenPoloGtivwvw gtivw polovw polo gtiVwGtiVwPoloVwPoloGtiThu, 01 Jan 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Toyobaru delayed until 2012 or later]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/report-toyobaru-delayed-until-2012-or-later/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/report-toyobaru-delayed-until-2012-or-later/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/22/report-toyobaru-delayed-until-2012-or-later/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The rumors of the sports car that Toyota and Subaru were working on have been replaced by rumors that the car has been put on hold. Earlier news had posited a rear-wheel-drive sports car with "wonderful style," based on the current Subaru Legacy platform, with a boxer engine putting out around 200 hp through a six-speed manual. Originally due in 2011, now, according to Nikkei, the car has been pushed back to at least 2012. If things get worse before they get better, we have a feeling that 2012 will also come and go without Toyota fielding another dedicated sports car entrant. So move along, folks, there's nothing to see here, please return to your Camrys and cue up Queen: another one bites the dust...

[Source: Bloomberg]

Report: Toyobaru delayed until 2012 or later originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuji heavy industriesFujiHeavyIndustriesjapanrumormillsports carSportsCarsubarusubaru sports carsubaru toyotaSubaruSportsCarSubaruToyotatoyotatoyota sports carToyotaSportsCarMon, 22 Dec 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: <strike>VW kills Passat sedan?</strike>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/rumormill-vw-kills-passat-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/rumormill-vw-kills-passat-sedan/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/20/rumormill-vw-kills-passat-sedan/#commentsFiled under: , ,



UPDATE: Thanks to commenters Mike, ebm14, and dosahut, all of whom explain that the verbiage in the post at VWvortex simply indicates the point at which the standard Passat sedan switches from an '08 to an '09, and the end of production for the model. So basically, the lineup stays as is with the two Passats and the CC. Or, put more plainly, never mind.

UPDATE 2: VW confirms that the Passat's back for '09. Nothing to see here. Move along...

When VW unveiled the Passat CC at Detroit last January, a lot of us wondered whether it ought to simply be theVWvortex forums has posted what's reportedly a list of product changes for the upcoming year. Most of them are completely mundane, but for the Passat sedan, the change listed says, "Updated End of Production Date - wk 51/08." We read that as being the 51st week of 2008, which is this coming week. Assuming it's all on the level (we've got an email in to VW for confirmation), come 2009, the Passat Wagon's counterpart in U.S. showrooms will be the CC. Makes sense to us. Thanks for the tip, Jay!



[Source: VWvortex]

Rumormill: VW kills Passat sedan? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Dec 2008 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ccpassatpassat ccpassat sedanpassat sedan killedPassatCcPassatSedanPassatSedanKilledvolkswagenvwSat, 20 Dec 2008 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Cadillac Volt coming to Detroit?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumomill-cadillac-volt-coming-to-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumomill-cadillac-volt-coming-to-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumomill-cadillac-volt-coming-to-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Cadillac Provoq Concept

Through some circumstantial evidence, "rumblings" and tea leave-reading, Autoweek has come to the conclusion that General Motors may unveil a new Cadillac model at the Detroit Auto Show powered by the Chevrolet Volt's range-extending hybrid powertrain.

Rumors of a Caddy-badged Volt have been circulated since earlier this year, with Bob Lutz and other GM execs hinting at the possibility of new hybrid model joining the Cadillac line-up. Lutz told reports back in September that "there's definitely room" for an eco-conscious Caddy and that "there's going to have to be some kind of dramatic environmental statement" from GM's luxury brand. So what form could it take?

Opel and Vauxhall versions of the Volt are already planned, but a Cadillac variant would likely be a small- to mid-size crossover. Just such a vehicle is slated to arrive in the second quarter of 2009 - the next generation SRX -- inspired by the Provoq concept unveiled earlier this year. While the Volt is supposed to carry a price tag of around $40,000, the range-extended, plug-in hybrid CUV from Cadillac would be priced significantly higher, and that could help GM recoup some of the costs associated with the Volt's advanced drivetrain development. We'll know for sure in a few weeks time.

Gallery: Cadillac Provoq Fuel Cell Concept


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Cadillac Provoq concept - Live Reveal


[Source: Autoweek]

Rumormill: Cadillac Volt coming to Detroit? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 cadillac srx plug-in hybrid2010CadillacSrxPlug-inHybridcadillaccadillac srx plug-in hybridcadillac voltCadillacSrxPlug-inHybridCadillacVoltchevrolet voltChevroletVoltchevy voltChevyVoltprovoqsrxvoltThu, 18 Dec 2008 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Lamborghini working on two rear-wheel-drive cars for 2009 ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumormill-lamborghini-working-on-two-rear-wheel-drive-cars-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumormill-lamborghini-working-on-two-rear-wheel-drive-cars-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/rumormill-lamborghini-working-on-two-rear-wheel-drive-cars-for/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the Lamborghini Murcielago SV

Those who have been praying for a two-wheel drive Lamborghini, your wishes may have been granted twofold. De Telegraaf is reporting that Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann has confirmed not one, but two different rear-drive-only Lambos for 2009. First up will be a Murciélago LP640-2 with 640 HP coming from its mid-mounted longitudinal V12. The "2" at the end of the moniker signifies two-wheel-drive, separating it from the current LP640-4 equipped with AWD. It's still possible this model will be dubbed SV for Super Veloce. It's no Diablo SVTT or Murcielago R-GT, but it'll do.

Next up will be the a new Superleggera Gallardo LP560-2, as in Superlight Gallardo, with a longitudinal 560 HP engine in back, also driving the rear wheels. That should keep the Gallardo neck-and-neck with the Scuderia from arch-nemesis Ferrari. The elimination of the AWD equipment should save quite a few kilos and make the driving experience a bit hairier for anyone intent on stepping up to wrestle these bulls. Expect to see them late next year, possibly as 2010 models.

Gallery: Lamborghini Murcielago SV - spy shots


[Source: Autotelegraaf.nl]

Rumormill: Lamborghini working on two rear-wheel-drive cars for 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gallardoGallardo LP560-2gallardo superleggeraGallardoLp560-2GallardoSuperleggeraLamborghini rear wheel driveLamborghini rwdLamborghiniRearWheelDriveLamborghiniRwdmurcielagoMurcilago LP640-2MurcilagoLp640-2rear wheel driverear wheel drive LamborghiniRearWheelDriveRearWheelDriveLamborghinirwd lamborghiniRwdLamborghiniThu, 18 Dec 2008 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[AM General says it's not interested in HUMMER]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/am-general-says-its-not-interested-in-hummer/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/am-general-says-its-not-interested-in-hummer/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/17/am-general-says-its-not-interested-in-hummer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Any rejoicing over General Motors finding a possible buyer for the HUMMER brand may have been a bit premature. A spokesperson for AM General (the South Bend, Indiana, HMMWV manufacturer) has told a local TV station that rumors of its interest in Hummer are simply not true.

NBC affiliate WNDU was also told that there have been no talks between AM General and China's Hunan Changfeng Motor Co. about a joint deal to acquire GM's HUMMER brand, a statement that stands in contrast to earlier reports attributed to Changfeng.

Looks like if GM intends to keep their goal of selling HUMMER by 2009, they'll need to quickly renew that Craigslist ad, offer a big rebate to the buyer, or throw in cheap gas for a year. Or all three.

[Source: WNDU]

AM General says it's not interested in HUMMER originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Dec 2008 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>changfengchangfeng hummerChangfengHummerhummerhummer for saleHummerForSaleWed, 17 Dec 2008 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Aston Martin back up for sale?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/15/aston-martin-back-up-for-sale/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/15/aston-martin-back-up-for-sale/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/15/aston-martin-back-up-for-sale/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage

It's been a busy few years for Aston Martin. Back in May of 2007, the British sportscar company was sold by Ford to a consortium of investors, including Kuwaiti firm Investment Dar and its partner Adeem Investment Company. Ever since, the grapevine has swirled regarding the future of Mr. Bond's favorite automaker, with the rumormill hitting a fever-pitch as of late with whispers that up to 20% of Dar's stake is available for bidding.

Aston Martin's future product chips all seem to be on the table already, with thr new four-door Panamera-fighting Rapide, Lagonda uber-luxury sedan and One-77 supercar all waiting in the wings. Of course, all of that development work is expensive, and times are already tough. If an agreement is struck, Dar would be looking to either profit from selling a portion of Aston or for an instant infusion to its current stable of technology. We wonder if Mercedes-Benz, which has both cash and engineering expertise, may be involved in any potential deal.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage


[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Aston Martin back up for sale? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aston martinaston martin saleAstonMartinAstonMartinSaleinvestment darInvestmentDarMon, 15 Dec 2008 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Fiat and PSA Peugeot/Citroën to merge?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/15/fiat-and-psa-peugeut-citroen-to-merge/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/15/fiat-and-psa-peugeut-citroen-to-merge/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/15/fiat-and-psa-peugeut-citroen-to-merge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Two storied European nameplates might combine operations as rumors are flying that Fiat and PSA Peugeot/Citroën may find the road to future profits easier to travel together. The first rumblings of potential trouble at Fiat came when its CEO Sergio Marchionne suggested his company's future looked bleak without a major partner and that there was only room for six global automakers in his estimation. Now, according to Italian newspaper Milano Finanza, leaders of both Italy and France have discussed a possible tie-up between the two companies.

Both countries are said to be considering offering financial aid packages to their respective home-grown automakers, and a merger may be seen as another way of ensuring their future viability. Although the two automakers specialize in small cars and therefore have many overlapping products, the only joint-ventures currently shared between them are for commercial vehicles and MPVs. If the two Euro giants were to merge, the resulting company would roughly match the size of Nissan/Renault and Volkswagen.

[Source: Reuters]

Fiat and PSA Peugeot/Citroën to merge? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>citroenfiatfiat citroen peugeotFiatCitroenPeugeotmergerpeugeotpsapsa peugeot citroenPsaPeugeotCitroenMon, 15 Dec 2008 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan likely to dump Quest, Armada and Infiniti QX56]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/nissan-likely-to-dump-quest-armada-and-infiniti-qx56/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/nissan-likely-to-dump-quest-armada-and-infiniti-qx56/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/12/nissan-likely-to-dump-quest-armada-and-infiniti-qx56/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for a high-res image gallery of the Nissan NV2500

In what seems like a foregone conclusion to us, intraweb rumors suggest that Nissan is strongly considering dumping its Quest minivan and Armada full-size SUV along with Infiniti's version of the behemoth 'ute, the QX56. The NV2500 light commercial vehicle will take the place of the Titan pickup at Nissan's plant in Canton, Mississippi, so, putting together the trail of crumbs, it's easy to speculate that Nissan is merely getting ready to phase-out the Titan truck and its platform-mates in preparation for a new Ram-based pickup from Dodge. Although the Quest doesn't share the same underpinnings, it has consistently been an under-performing nameplate when sales figures are tallied up, so its loss from the lineup won't be terribly missed.

Considering the sorry state of affairs that full-size sport utility vehicles see themselves in, we wouldn't bet on any Ram-based replacement for the Armada and QX56 either. If a minivan replacement ever rears its head in the U.S. from Nissan, it would likely have much more in common with the NV200 concept from the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show than the current Quest, minus the sweet sliding guts, naturally.

Gallery: Nissan NV2500 Concept


[Source: Motor Trend]

Nissan likely to dump Quest, Armada and Infiniti QX56 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Dec 2008 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infiniti qx56InfinitiQx56nissannissan armadanissan nv200nissan nv200 vannissan nv2500nissan nv2500 conceptnissan questnissan titannissan vanNissanArmadaNissanNv200NissanNv200VanNissanNv2500NissanNv2500ConceptNissanQuestNissanTitanNissanVanFri, 12 Dec 2008 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz considering A-Class roadster for the States]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/mercedes-benz-considering-a-class-roadster-for-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/mercedes-benz-considering-a-class-roadster-for-the-states/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/mercedes-benz-considering-a-class-roadster-for-the-states/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for high-res gallery of the Mercedes-Benz SLA Concept

Rumors that the Mercedes-Benz A-Class may come to America have been swirling around for years. The question revolves around whether or not the car is consistent with the image in the U.S. that MB has worked so hard to cultivate for years. As an economy car, the A-Class clashes with the rest of the brand's upscale line-up and doesn't seem appropriate to put in the same dealership where upper-crusters are shopping for the latest S-Class. One possible remedy could be reducing the number of seats and the losing the car's top, an idea first broached by the SLA Concept (above) that debuted in 2000. A roadster would make sense for the German automaker, as BMW, its main rival, is rumored to be thinking hard about launching a similarly-small Z2 roadster based on its 1 Series platform. Although production plans have already been considered, no decisions have been made. The next redesign of the A- and B-Class from Mercedes is scheduled for 2012, so there's still plenty of time to get it all sorted.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLA Concept


[Source: Autoweek]

Mercedes-Benz considering A-Class roadster for the States originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a-class roadsterA-classRoadstermercedesmercedes a classmercedes a-classmercedes slamercedes-benzmercedes-benz a-classmercedes-benz slaMercedes-benzA-classMercedes-benzSlaMercedesA-classMercedesAClassMercedesSlaFri, 05 Dec 2008 15:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Subaru considering FWD Impreza for Europe, turbocharged 1.5-liter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/rumormill-subaru-considering-fwd-impreza-for-europe-turbocharg/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/rumormill-subaru-considering-fwd-impreza-for-europe-turbocharg/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/05/rumormill-subaru-considering-fwd-impreza-for-europe-turbocharg/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2008 Subaru Impreza

Autoweek.nl is spreading a rumor that Subaru is considering offering a two-wheel-drive version of the Impreza in Europe in an attempt to offer a budget alternative to the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla. The entry-level Impreza would make use of the 107 hp, 1.5-liter boxer four-cylinder and possibly the new 150 hp diesel engine, putting fuel economy above all else. There's also talk of a turbocharged version of the 1.5-liter mill that would slot in between the naturally aspirated variant and Subaru's turbocharged 2.5-liter.

Although Subaru has offered FWD versions of its models in the past, its recent raison d'être of being the all-wheel-drive automaker would be harmed if a FWD variant was added to its lineup. That's why we doubt it will come to fruition and that we'll never seen a FWD Subaru in the States. A rear-wheel-drive Subaru on the other hand...

Gallery: 2008 Subaru Impreza


[Source: Autoweek.nl - Google-translated]

Rumormill: Subaru considering FWD Impreza for Europe, turbocharged 1.5-liter originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>front wheel driveFrontWheelDrivefwdimprezasubaru impreza front wheel driveSubaruImprezaFrontWheelDriveFri, 05 Dec 2008 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus F range could expand to include LS F]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/04/lexus-f-range-could-expand-to-include-ls-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/04/lexus-f-range-could-expand-to-include-ls-f/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/04/lexus-f-range-could-expand-to-include-ls-f/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Lexus may be throttling back its plans to attack the performance side of its German rivals, but that doesn't mean it won't expand its F-badged lineup in the future. Hirokazu Koga, general manager of the Lexus Development Center and one of the men behind the IS F, told Autoblog that if the automaker goes forward with plans to create a GS F, an LS F could be in the cards.

Renderings and rumors of the GS F have been circulating since last year, but word came down in August that Lexus planned to delay the introduction of the 500+ hp sedan due to the economic downturn and the (then) high price of fuel. Add that to the possible cancellation of the LF-A, and things aren't looking good for Lexus' foray into the world of high performance.

If an LS F model would come to market, only a few drivetrains could be fitted to the hulking sedan to give it the level of performance necessary to carry the F badge. If Toyota does decide to build the LF-A, its V10 powerplant would be a great candidate for the LS F to provide motivation and defer some of the costs of the supercar.

According to two Lexus execs we spoke to, the IS F outsold both the Mercedes-Benz C63 and BMW M3 Sedan last month (we can't confirm, since Lexus doesn't break down sales of the IS by model), but if consumers are accepting the idea of a high-performance Lexus, than other models will surely follow.

Lexus F range could expand to include LS F originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 20:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lexuslexus ls flexus ls-fLexusLs-fLexusLsFls fls-fLsFThu, 04 Dec 2008 20:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: 2009 BMW Z4 rumored to debut next month, Z2 on the way]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/25/rumormill-2009-bmw-z4-rumored-to-debut-next-month-z2-on-the-wa/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/25/rumormill-2009-bmw-z4-rumored-to-debut-next-month-z2-on-the-wa/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/25/rumormill-2009-bmw-z4-rumored-to-debut-next-month-z2-on-the-wa/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



One of the vehicles that was teased in the run-up to the LA Auto Show, but never made it to the floor, was the redesigned 2009 BMW Z4. Rumors of the Z4's impending arrival have been circulating for months, and according to a source inside BMW, the automaker might reveal the restyled coupe and convertible next month.

Drivetrain choices will include either a naturally aspirated or twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, found in the 328i and 335i, respectively, with an M version packing the M3's V8 and a carbon fiber roof. In addition to new front and rear fascias, a lower roofline and a ducktail spoiler, BMW is expected to employ a handful of stylistic differences to separate the Z4 coupe from its folding hardtop sibling. For 2009, BMW is expected to drop the soft-top Z4 and only offer the folding hardtop.

The rumored Z2 is currently in the works and could be available in both coupe and cabrio variants, and equipped with some form of BMW's EfficientDynamics system. The 1-series-based two-door is expected to be powered by either a naturally aspirated or turbocharged 2.0-liter four, and there's also talk of a hybrid version utilizing BMW's eDrive system.

UPDATE: BMW has put together a Dexter-inspired teaser site for a new model set to be revealed in 19 days. We'll know what's up on December 14th.

Gallery: BMW Z4 and 7 series - spy shots


[Source: GermanCarZone via BMWBlog]

Rumormill: 2009 BMW Z4 rumored to debut next month, Z2 on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 bmw z42009BmwZ42010 bmw z42010BmwZ4bmw z2bmw z4BmwZ2BmwZ4Tue, 25 Nov 2008 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Nissan GT-R will do 3.9-second 0-60 <em>without</em> Launch Control]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/nissan-gt-r-will-do-3-9-second-0-60-em-without-em-launch-cont/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/nissan-gt-r-will-do-3-9-second-0-60-em-without-em-launch-cont/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/nissan-gt-r-will-do-3-9-second-0-60-em-without-em-launch-cont/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Nissan GT-R is slap-your-mama fast, which has led to some dustup on the internet surrounding voided warranties when using the included Launch Control. Contrary to a previous report that Nissan intends to drop Launch Control from the 2010 GT-R, Motor Trend's blog is reporting that no decision has been made yet and we've heard the same thing from Nissan itself. The bigger point that MT goes on to make is that even without Launch Control, the GT-R is still brutally fast. When the magazine got its first crack at the R35, testers did an acceleration run just for giggles with all the electronics aids active except for Launch Control. The result? 3.9 seconds to 60 mph by just mashing the skinny pedal all the way down. That's enough speed to keep the GT-R running in the same pack with which it's already been lumped, and with the computers doing the work, there's no risk of stalling at launch and getting smoked by a '93 Duster. So what've we learned? Without risking a $20,000 transmission replacement, the GT-R is still a rocket.

Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2009 Nissan GT-R


[Source: Motor Trend]

Nissan GT-R will do 3.9-second 0-60 without Launch Control originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt r launch controlgt-r launch controlGt-rLaunchControlgtr launch controlGtrLaunchControlnissan gt rnissan gt-rnissan gt-r nurburgringnissan gtrnissan gtr launch controlnissan launch controlNissanGt-rNissanGt-rNurburgringNissanGtrNissanGtrLaunchControlNissanLaunchControlMon, 24 Nov 2008 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Enter the Rumormill: Harley-Davidson quietly launches XR1200 in US?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/enter-the-rumormill-harley-davidson-quietly-launches-xr1200-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/enter-the-rumormill-harley-davidson-quietly-launches-xr1200-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/24/enter-the-rumormill-harley-davidson-quietly-launches-xr1200-in/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for high-res image gallery of the Harley-Davidson XR1200

We haven't yet gotten any official word from Harley-Davidson regarding the imminent U.S. launch of its XR1200, a thoroughly modern take on the old XR750 made famous on various dirt tracks across the United States. Oddly, despite this profound racing heritage in America, HD at first decided to send the revived XR to European dealerships only while suggesting that the U.S. may also get the bike at some point if demand proved strong. It seems that enough Americans were interested for the company to investigate its home market further, as rumors now indicate that an initial run of 750 XRs are being set aside for U.S. consumption. If you want one of these first XRs, you'll need to have your order in by December 15.

We have not been able to confirm this launch with the powers-that-be at HD, but at least one dealership in Westminster California is taking deposits for orange XR1200s with a price of $11,179 and a due date before the end of the year. Black and silver models will apparently be made available early next year. We made a quick call to Westminster Harley-Davidson and got confirmation that an email was sent just yesterday informing dealers of the news. Still, until we see an official announcement from Harley, which certainly wouldn't be entirely unexpected, this one's not quite officially official. Stay tuned... we may finally get the chance to ride the Sportster as God and Mr. Davidson himself intended.

Gallery: Harley Davidson XR 1200


[Source: Chopper Daves]

Enter the Rumormill: Harley-Davidson quietly launches XR1200 in US? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsbreaking-newsBreakingNewsharleyharley davidsonharley davidson xr 1200harley-davidsonharley-davidson xr1200harley-davidson xr750Harley-davidsonXr1200Harley-davidsonXr750HarleyDavidsonHarleyDavidsonXr1200us xr1200UsXr1200xr1200xr1200 americaXr1200AmericaMon, 24 Nov 2008 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Mid-engine Audi R4 back on the table?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/12/mid-engine-audi-r4-back-on-the-table/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/12/mid-engine-audi-r4-back-on-the-table/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/12/mid-engine-audi-r4-back-on-the-table/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Audi made it clear last March that the baby R8 was dead. Despite numerous rumors that Audi would get its own version of the upcoming Porsche Boxster/Cayman replacement, the decision was made to nix plans to create the mid-engine Audi R4 over fears that it would cannibalize sales from its Porsche-badged brethren. An Audi spokesperson went so far as to say that, "It was never in our product planning." Well, AutoExpress is reporting that tales of the R4's demise have been a bit premature.

Apparently the new mid-engined R4 is a go. It will occupy a slot in the Audi lineup above the TT and below the R8, with prices starting around £35,000. Like the R8 it will be a two-seater only, available as either a coupe or roadster. AutoExpress even has an image of the car showing a strong familial resemblance to the big-brother R8. To distinguish it from its Porsche siblings, the Audi is said to be getting Quattro AWD and aluminum construction. Powerplants should include the full range of TFSI engines, from the 2.0L turbo, all the way up to the new supercharged and turbocharged 335-hp 2.5L five-cylinder from the TT RS. A high-performance diesel and a gas V6 are also said to be in the mix. Expect a traditional six-speed manual as standard and a seven-speed, S-tronic twin-clutch, semi-automatic as an option.

The R4 won't appear until 2011 at the earliest, allowing Porsche time to launch the Boxster/Cayman first. If that's not enough good news for Audi fans, AE is also reporting that the company is planning an R6 to go head-to-head with the Jag E-Type replacement as well as the Porsche 911. The R10 has also been green-lit, giving Audi a full range of R-badged sports cars for just about any budget. However, AE failed to mention anything about the supposed R3 and its Volkswagen counterpart.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Mid-engine Audi R4 back on the table? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audi r4AudiR4baby R8BabyR8mid-engine AudiMid-engineAudiWed, 12 Nov 2008 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Next-gen Scion tC will be Subaru-co-developed RWD coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/rumormill-next-gen-scion-tc-will-be-subaru-co-developed-rwd-cou/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/rumormill-next-gen-scion-tc-will-be-subaru-co-developed-rwd-cou/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/11/rumormill-next-gen-scion-tc-will-be-subaru-co-developed-rwd-cou/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Carscoop is reporting that Toyota has finally confirmed what many have long suspected: The next Scion tC will be a variant of the upcoming Subaru-Toyota rear-wheel-drive coupe project. At a press conference back in April, Toyota CEO Katsuaki Watanabe had confirmed that his company was jointly developing a pair of rear-wheel-drive sports cars with Subaru. Each brand would get its own version of the car, which would each be powered by one of Subaru's boxer engines.

It looks like that powerplant will be around 2.0L in size and put out around 200 horsepower. Based on an all-new RWD platform, the affordable coupe should show up Stateside by the end of 2010, or possibly early 2011. That new tC will probably be joined by a version of the iQ minicar in Scion dealerships as well, also according to Carscoop's Toyota insiders. A reborn, rebadged Celica and a Smart-fighter could be a compelling pair for Toyota's youth brand. As always, we'll keep you posted.

[Source: Carscoop]

Rumormill: Next-gen Scion tC will be Subaru-co-developed RWD coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>scion rwdscion rwd coupescion tcScionRwdScionRwdCoupeScionTcsubaru rear wheel drive sports carsubaru rwdsubaru rwd coupesubaru toyotaSubaruRearWheelDriveSportsCarSubaruRwdSubaruRwdCoupeSubaruToyotatoyota rear wheel drive sports cartoyota rwdtoyota rwd coupetoyota subaruToyotaRearWheelDriveSportsCarToyotaRwdToyotaRwdCoupeToyotaSubaruTue, 11 Nov 2008 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Nissan working on 600 hp GT-R LM]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/10/rumormill-nissan-working-on-600-hp-gt-r-lm/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/10/rumormill-nissan-working-on-600-hp-gt-r-lm/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/10/rumormill-nissan-working-on-600-hp-gt-r-lm/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Rumors have been circulating for almost a year that Nissan plans to campaign the GT-R in several different series outside of SuperGT, including the Grand Am championship and the 24 Hours of LeMans. Japan's Best Car magazine supposedly has it on good authority that Nissan is developing a road-going model of the LeMans competition car that will carry an "LM Edition" badge and be sold in limited numbers.

According to the Japanese pub, the twin-turbo, 3.8-liter V6 will be putting out approximately 600 hp and will be equipped with upgraded brakes, lightweight wheels, a beefed up transmission and reworked suspension components, in addition to a new aero kit to increase downforce.

Nissan has produced several limited edition models of each generation of the Skyline GT-R before, including an LM Edition of the R33 that campaigned in LeMans in the late 90s. One good turn deserves another, and with 600 hp under the hood, things are bound to get interesting both on the track and on the street.

[Source: BestCar via Carscoop]

Rumormill: Nissan working on 600 hp GT-R LM originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gt-rle mansLeManslmnissannissan gt-r lemansnissan gt-r lmnissan gt-r lm editionNissanGt-rLemansNissanGt-rLmNissanGt-rLmEditionr35Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:29:00 EST