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[VIDEO: 2010 Jaguar XJ out for joy ride in London]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-2010-jaguar-xj-out-for-a-joy-ride-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-2010-jaguar-xj-out-for-a-joy-ride-in-london/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-2010-jaguar-xj-out-for-a-joy-ride-in-london/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Jaguar XJ - Click above to watch videos after the jump

It's one thing to judge the new 2010 Jaguar XJ based on official images and heavily produced videos. It's altogether something else to watch it drive by on the street and let a waft of soundwaves from the car's 5.0-liter V8 enter your ears. The blokes over at PistonHeads.com were fortunate enough to catch the new XJ out driving on the streets of London after its launch party, despite not being invited to the launch itself it seems. They got the last laugh, however, as the 400 VIPs who were at the party didn't get to see the car on the road.

Follow the jump for a few quick vids of the new 2010 Jaguar XJ just driving around the posh streets of London. More snap shots of the new XJ caught curbside can be found at PistonHeads.com, as well.


Gallery: 2010 Jaguar XJ


[Source: PistonHeads.com]

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Jaguar XJ out for joy ride in London

VIDEO: 2010 Jaguar XJ out for joy ride in London originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 jaguar xj2010JaguarXjjaguarjaguar xjJaguarXjxjFri, 10 Jul 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Jay Leno confirms <i>Top Gear</i> appearance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-jay-leno-confirms-i-top-gear-i-appearance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-jay-leno-confirms-i-top-gear-i-appearance/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-jay-leno-confirms-i-top-gear-i-appearance/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Jay Leno and The Stig - Click above to watch video after the jump

Those previously unconfirmed rumors of Jay Leno making an appearance on Top Gear? Consider them now confirmed, courtesy of The Man himself. According to Jay Leno's Garage, the popular American late-night comedian, talk show host and all around cool guy did in fact visit Jeremy Clarkson, The Stig and the rest of the crew to film a piece for the show's Star in a Reasonably Priced Car segment.

From the sound of things, Leno had lots of fun in the U.K. and he specifically calls Top Gear his favorite show on television. With due respect to Conan, we'd have to agree. In addition to filming a few teaser shots of his trips around the TG Test Track, the comedian takes us into the Top Gear Production Office - and let's just say its pretty much exactly as you'd expect from a bunch of car-obsessed men. Click past the break to watch the video. Thanks for the tip, Stephen!

[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]

Continue reading VIDEO: Jay Leno confirms Top Gear appearance

VIDEO: Jay Leno confirms Top Gear appearance originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jay lenojay leno top gearjay lenos garageJayLenoJayLenosGarageJayLenoTopGearstar in a reasonably priced carStarInAReasonablyPricedCarthe stigTheStigtop gearTopGearFri, 10 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Nissan GT-R files down 'Ring time to 7:26.70]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-nissan-gt-r-files-down-ring-time-to-7-26-70/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-nissan-gt-r-files-down-ring-time-to-7-26-70/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/10/video-nissan-gt-r-files-down-ring-time-to-7-26-70/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

We're starting to get the feeling Nissan is a permanent fixture at the Nürburgring, as the duo of GT-R and driver Toshio Suzuki keep coming up with new times at the famed German racetrack. Back in April, the former F1 driver took a revised GT-R through the 'Ring in 7:27:56, prompting Porsche to call Balderdash, saying that a stock GT-R isn't nearly that fast. Now Suzuki and a right-hand drive Godzilla teamed up to produce an even better time of 7:26.70, and taped it all nice and official so they can show the world.

After the jump is video proof of the speed and agility of the infamous GT-R, being driven by one of the 'Ring's few true masters. The video contains the full 7:26.70 of Suzuki going full-tilt with what looks like just enough fuel to get across the finish line, and an engine constantly in the 6,000-7,000 RPM range from start to finish.

If you think you've seen one too many 'Ring laps, take it from us that the last 30 seconds is incredible. Suzuki goes all-out to get the best time possible, and from the vantage point of the in-car camera, we feel like we're right there next to him -- except we find ourselves feeling for the brake while Suzuki keeps his foot on the gas.

[Source: Carscoop]

Continue reading VIDEO: Nissan GT-R files down 'Ring time to 7:26.70

VIDEO: Nissan GT-R files down 'Ring time to 7:26.70 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 09:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7:26.70nissan gt-rNissanGt-rnurburgringtoshio suzukiToshioSuzukiFri, 10 Jul 2009 09:34:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: 2010 Jaguar XJ in motion, interior and interviews + expanded gallery and pricing!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/video-2010-jaguar-xj-in-motion-interior-and-interviews-expan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/video-2010-jaguar-xj-in-motion-interior-and-interviews-expan/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/video-2010-jaguar-xj-in-motion-interior-and-interviews-expan/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to watch videos after the jump

The all-new 2010 Jaguar XJ has finally been revealed, and it's a big departure for the Leaping Cat crew from Coventry. Sure, it shares a number of outward similarities with the already-available XF, but benefits from being designed after the drop dead gorgeous C-XF concept (unlike the production XF). And it certainly doesn't look like anything like the outgoing XJ, which may only be around seven years old but visually it comes off as much older.

If you haven't already read about our time spent with the new XJ in England last month, go do that first. Afterwards, you can follow the jump to view nine videos just released by Jaguar about its new large car. Included are general driving and beauty shots, footage of the interior and interviews with Ian Callum and other top Jaguar execs. Plus, we've expanded our high-res gallery below with official photos from today's launch event... just why is a dapper looking Jay Leno smiling so wryly? Finally, if you're wondering how much you need to raid your 401k and couch cushions for, you'll want to check out Jag's official pricing by clicking here.


Gallery: 2010 Jaguar XJ

Continue reading VIDEO: 2010 Jaguar XJ in motion, interior and interviews + expanded gallery and pricing!

VIDEO: 2010 Jaguar XJ in motion, interior and interviews + expanded gallery and pricing! originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 jaguar xj2010JaguarXjelle mcphersonElleMcphersonjag xjjaguarjaguar xjJaguarXjJagXjjay lenoJayLenovideovideosxjThu, 09 Jul 2009 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: The 'Nunrunner' V10-powered eight-door Dodge Dart Limowagon [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/ebay-find-of-the-day-the-nunrunner-v10-powered-eight-door-dodge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/ebay-find-of-the-day-the-nunrunner-v10-powered-eight-door-dodge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/ebay-find-of-the-day-the-nunrunner-v10-powered-eight-door-dodge/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


1962 Dodge Dart limo 'Nunrunner' - Click above for high-res image gallery

And now for something completely different. We can't recall ever seeing another vehicle quite like this 1962 Dodge Dart, which was converted into a limo wagon that was supposedly intended for the Vatican and later sold to a Catholic Church in Kentucky - and that's probably for the best.

As scary as the beast may be to look at, the team from Wicked Rides Inc. reports that it's actually a trouble-free driver thanks to the modern V10 engine yanked from a Dodge Ram and T56 six-speed manual transmission from a Viper it was blessed with when converted into The Nunrunner - reliable enough, in fact, to have taken part in the last Hot Rod Power Tour with nary a breakdown.

Underneath the rusty outer shell sits a chassis that's been fortified with the K-frame and suspension bits from a 2004 Corvette Z06, though we doubt it handles anything like the pilfered sportscar from which those bits came. To fully take in all that the Nunrunner has to offer, we suggest you amble through our photo gallery below and click past the break for a couple of drag racing videos where the eight-door contraption lines up against a Shelby Cobra (real or knockoff, we're not sure) for a trip down the 'ole 1320.

Interested in making this unique vehicle your own? Click here for the actual eBay auction. Current bid: $1,075 (reserve not yet met). Thanks for the tip, Richard!


Gallery: 1962 Dodge Dart limo 'Nunrunner'


[Source: eBay]

Continue reading eBay Find of the Day: The 'Nunrunner' V10-powered eight-door Dodge Dart Limowagon [w/VIDEO]

eBay Find of the Day: The 'Nunrunner' V10-powered eight-door Dodge Dart Limowagon [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1962 dodge dart1962 dodge dart nunrunner1962DodgeDart1962DodgeDartNunrunnerdodge dartdodge dart limododge ramdodge viperDodgeDartDodgeDartLimoDodgeRamDodgeViperdrag racedrag racingDragRaceDragRacinghot rod power tourHotRodPowerTournunrunnershelby cobraShelbyCobravaticanviperwicked ridesWickedRidesThu, 09 Jul 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoline After Hours with John McElroy, Jason Vines, and Peter DeLorenzo]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/autoline-after-hours-with-john-mcelroy-jason-vines-and-peter-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/autoline-after-hours-with-john-mcelroy-jason-vines-and-peter-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/autoline-after-hours-with-john-mcelroy-jason-vines-and-peter-d/#commentsFiled under: ,



In this week's episode of Autoline After Hours, John McElroy, newly minted Christian publishing mogul Jason Vines and Peter "The Autoextremist" DeLorenzo gather for another unusually frank discussion about the motoring industry's ups and downs.

You can even join in by submitting questions to the panel at viewermail -at- autolinedetroit.tv (put "AAH QUESTION" in the subject line) to be answered on-air tonight during the show's Rapid Fire segment. Follow the jump to watch it live beginning at 7 PM EST.

Continue reading Autoline After Hours with John McElroy, Jason Vines, and Peter DeLorenzo

Autoline After Hours with John McElroy, Jason Vines, and Peter DeLorenzo originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autolineautoline after hoursAutolineAfterHoursautolinedetroitautolineonautoblogjason vinesJasonVinesjohn mcelroyJohnMcelroypeter delorenzoPeterDelorenzoThu, 09 Jul 2009 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Vauxhall trying to bring back roller skating? Groovy.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/video-vauxhall-trying-to-bring-back-roller-skating-groovy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/video-vauxhall-trying-to-bring-back-roller-skating-groovy/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/video-vauxhall-trying-to-bring-back-roller-skating-groovy/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Vauxhall skate party -- Click above to watch video

Vauxhall is rolling out the retro cool by holding an invitation-only roller skating event in North London on July 29. As part of the festivities, the General Motors division has reportedly commissioned bespoke sets of Vauxhall Corsa roller boots (seriously), and the event will even feature a "pit-stop themed hair salone with free styling from a 'huge name' in celebrity hairdressing." The secret party doesn't look to have a name, but it's got the kind of vibe that doesn't need one: "'70s disco meets Knight Rider on roller skates." If only the Knight Rider show had thought of that, perhaps it would still be on the air.

You can check out the details at www.tiny.cc/vauxhallskate, and you can get into the groove with video of a young lady doing her thing wearing Vauxhall Corsa skates after the jump. Hat tip to Clarence.

[Source: Event magazine]

Continue reading VIDEO: Vauxhall trying to bring back roller skating? Groovy.

VIDEO: Vauxhall trying to bring back roller skating? Groovy. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>corsaeventslifestylelondonpartyroller skatesRollerSkatesukvauxhallvauxhall corsaVauxhallCorsavideoThu, 09 Jul 2009 15:59:00 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[VIDEO: Tight Fit: Japanese bus company makes the most of its parking lot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/video-tight-fit-japanese-bus-company-makes-the-most-of-its-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/video-tight-fit-japanese-bus-company-makes-the-most-of-its-par/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/video-tight-fit-japanese-bus-company-makes-the-most-of-its-par/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

Here in the States, unless you live in a city like New York, Chicago or Boston, chances are that on any given day, parking isn't one of your bigger challenges. In smaller, more densely populated countries like Germany or the U.K., finding a spot can be a big issue, and the solution often costs a lot of money.

One motor coach company in Japan is skipping the big cash solution, and instead, it is just driving its buses over the edge. Well, at least a significant portion of them. The company has installed special rear-view cameras in their vehicles so drivers can get a terrifying inch-by-inch update on their progress as they back up to the edge of their parking lot's precipice. A small metal ridge embedded in the asphalt is the last line of defense keeping the tour buses from falling down a very steep embankment. Talk about your nerves of steel parking jobs. Hit the jump to view the video of these massive motor coaches coming inches from taking the Nestea plunge. Hat tip to Musouka!

Source: Japan Probe]

Continue reading VIDEO: Tight Fit: Japanese bus company makes the most of its parking lot

VIDEO: Tight Fit: Japanese bus company makes the most of its parking lot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>busbusesbussesjapanparkingtour busTourBusWed, 08 Jul 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Optimus Prime hiding in plain sight [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/ebay-find-of-the-day-optimus-prime-hiding-in-plain-sight-w-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/ebay-find-of-the-day-optimus-prime-hiding-in-plain-sight-w-vid/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/ebay-find-of-the-day-optimus-prime-hiding-in-plain-sight-w-vid/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


1997 Peterbilt dressed as Optimus Prime - Click above for image gallery

With Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen holding the number box office spot for two weeks, there couldn't be a better time for this ardent Autobot fan to be flogging his truck on eBay. Done up thoroughly enough to qualify as an Optimus Prime replica, this 1997 Peterbilt 379 wears custom PPG paint and clearcoat, along with hand-applied pinstripes.

If you do actually want to haul things, under that extended hood - just like Prime has - there's a 475 horsepower Caterpillar running through a ten-speed Eaton Fuller transmission. Bidding is up to $20,300 at time of writing, but you've got nine days left to get your bid in and make room in your back yard... and then you can retrieve the Allspark.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Optimus has been showing up all sorts of odd places lately, including a guest appearance on The Light Show With David Letterman last night. The booming Autobot leader led his vocal talents to the program's trademark Top 10 list, and you can check out how he did by watching the video after the jump. Hat tip to 94 Taurus owner!


Gallery: Optimus Prime Peterbilt 379


[Sources: eBay; YouTube]

Continue reading eBay Find of the Day: Optimus Prime hiding in plain sight [w/VIDEO]

eBay Find of the Day: Optimus Prime hiding in plain sight [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auction actionAuctionActiondavid lettermanDavidLettermanebayLate ShowLateShowlettermanmoviesOptimusoptimus primeOptimusPrimepeterbiltTop 10Top10transformerstransformers 2transformers revenge of the fallenTransformers2TransformersRevengeOfTheFallentrucksTue, 07 Jul 2009 19:55:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Toyota dealer employees caught snooping through customer vehicle, watching porn]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-toyota-dealer-employees-caught-snooping-through-customer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-toyota-dealer-employees-caught-snooping-through-customer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-toyota-dealer-employees-caught-snooping-through-customer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

Have you ever had the feeling that the service guy at your local dealership is rummaging through your things? Perhaps even a few quarters are missing. A guy named Jason knows all too well about dealership employees going through his stuff - on two different occasions, Jason noticed that things were missing from his Toyota Tundra after getting it serviced at Hampton Toyota of Lafayette. One time, over $10 in quarters were reportedly stolen, and the next time, Jason says about half his quarters were gone.

After complaining about his problems to dealership management, he received no response. So he rigged a digital video camera to the passenger side door and recorded his Tundra's next service appointment. What he saw from the video footage was priceless. In one video clip, the technician rummages through his pills, even licking the medicine's residue on his hand. He also takes some quarters from the truck. Videos that were later removed from YouTube reportedly shows one man watching what sounds like pornography on a diagnostic computer.

Instead of again complaining to dealership management, this time Jason took the DVD to the local media, and sent a copy to the owner of the dealership, along with a letter detailing what happened to him. Consumerist reports that the dealer's owner immediately fired the three workers caught on video, along with the service manager that ignored his complaints. Jason also received an extended warranty on his truck for his troubles. Hit the jump to view the videos showing the technician rummaging through Jason's things. Hat tip to FaLex!

[Source: Consumerist]

Continue reading VIDEO: Toyota dealer employees caught snooping through customer vehicle, watching porn

VIDEO: Toyota dealer employees caught snooping through customer vehicle, watching porn originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>service managerServiceManagertechniciantoyota dealershiptoyota tundraToyotaDealershipToyotaTundraTue, 07 Jul 2009 19:28:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Obligatory Michael Jackson Post - Rare Suzuki Love commercials]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-obligatory-michael-jackson-post-rare-suzuki-love-commerc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-obligatory-michael-jackson-post-rare-suzuki-love-commerc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/video-obligatory-michael-jackson-post-rare-suzuki-love-commerc/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


1982 Suzuki Love commercials featuring Michael Jackson -- Click above to watch the videos

Michael Jackson's memorial service is being held today in Los Angeles (apparently sponsored by local Land Rover dealers). For a reminder of who the man was pre-Thriller and where all of this got started, few things could be better than some Suzuki Love scooter commercials that MJ did in way back in 1982.

In trademark Japanese commercial fashion, the spots don't all make linear sense, but they are fun to watch and there's even a making-of film. Better yet, the advertisements end with a line Jackson would still approve of: "Love is my message." Follow the jump to watch the videos.

[Sources: Japanese Nostalgic Car; TMZ]

Continue reading VIDEO: Obligatory Michael Jackson Post - Rare Suzuki Love commercials

VIDEO: Obligatory Michael Jackson Post - Rare Suzuki Love commercials originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celebritycommercialjapanjapanese commercialJapaneseCommercialmichael jacksonMichaelJacksonMJmopedsuzukisuzuki loveSuzukiLoveTue, 07 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Forever in Blue Jeans: Fiat scion's denim Ferrari 599 [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/forever-in-blue-jeans-fiat-scions-denim-ferrari-599-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/forever-in-blue-jeans-fiat-scions-denim-ferrari-599-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/forever-in-blue-jeans-fiat-scions-denim-ferrari-599-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Lapo Elkann's Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano - Click above for image gallery

What do you do when you're heir to an enormous industrial empire? Well, pretty much anything you want. Like order up a Ferrari made to match your favorite pair of jeans.

Nope, this isn't the latest splurge by Paris Hilton; the car you see here is reportedly owned by one Lapo Elkann, grandson of the late billionaire industrialist and Fiat chairman Gianni Agnelli. Evidently not satisfied with a Diesel-edition Fiat 500, the notorious playboy ordered up his latest ride from the family-owned company decked out in a custom two-tone matte paint job. The body is painted in baby blue, the roof, mirrors and pentagram wheels contrast in a darker shade. Inside, the party continues with denim upholstery replacing the usual sumptuous leather. Taste being subjective and all, if you're retching at the site of this kitchy ride, just remember: it could be worse. This guy could be running the company - and Chrysler along with it. Come to think of it, perhaps this is some sort of perverse keep-it-in-the-family nod to the AMC Gremlin X Levi's Edition?

Check out the images in the gallery below and the video after the jump. Thanks for the tip, Patrick!


Gallery: Lapo Elkann's baby blue Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano


[Source: Autogespot]

Continue reading Forever in Blue Jeans: Fiat scion's denim Ferrari 599 [w/VIDEO]

Forever in Blue Jeans: Fiat scion's denim Ferrari 599 [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agnelliblue jeansBlueJeansdenimelkannferrariferrari 599ferrari 599 gtbferrari 599 gtb fioranoFerrari599Ferrari599GtbFerrari599GtbFioranofiatgianni agnelliGianniAgnellijeanslapolapo elkannLapoElkannTue, 07 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Robert McNamara, father of the Ford Falcon, dead at 93 [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/robert-mcnamara-father-of-the-ford-falcon-dead-at-93/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/robert-mcnamara-father-of-the-ford-falcon-dead-at-93/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/07/robert-mcnamara-father-of-the-ford-falcon-dead-at-93/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

Former Ford President Robert McNamara passed away in his sleep yesterday at the age of 93. McNamara joined the Blue Oval in 1946 and quickly ascended the ranks, becoming the General Manager of the Ford Division in 1955.

During McNamara's tenure, the Ford brand bested Chevrolet in U.S. sales for the first time in 22 years. McNamara's biggest success was the 1960 Ford Falcon, which sold 500,000 units in its first year. McNamara also made the decision to convert the sexy two seat Thunderbird into the less attractive but more salable four-seat version. As unattractive as that decision seemed at the time, Thunderbird sales increased four-fold after the change.

After only one month as President of Ford Motor Company, McNamara went to Washington to be the Secretary of Defense for John F. Kennedy. He held the position until 1968. After his time in politics, McNamara spent 12 years as the head of the World Bank. Hit the jump to watch a commercial touting the 1960 Ford lineup, including the introduction of the Falcon.

[Sources: Mustang Monthly; Autoweek]

Continue reading Robert McNamara, father of the Ford Falcon, dead at 93 [w/VIDEO]

Robert McNamara, father of the Ford Falcon, dead at 93 [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford falconFordFalconjohn f kennedyJohnFKennedymcnamararobert mcnamaraRobertMcnamarasecretary of defenseSecretaryOfDefensethunderbirdTue, 07 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ken Block works it out on <i>Top Gear</i> with Captain Slow in tow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-ken-block-works-it-out-on-i-top-gear-i-with-captain-slow-in-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-ken-block-works-it-out-on-i-top-gear-i-with-captain-slow-in-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-ken-block-works-it-out-on-i-top-gear-i-with-captain-slow-in-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

If there had been awards handed out to the preeminent forces in online automotive video over the past few years, surely Top Gear and rallyist Ken Block would have been shortlisted for the honor. Naturally, you'd expect that pairing the two Internet institutions would result in an amazing bit of film... and you'd be entirely correct.

What follows in the video posted after the jump is 6 minutes and 45 seconds of gobsmacking automotive artistry and top-flight production, with Block's 380-horsepower Subaru WRX STI drilling in and around an airport in California with a bug-eyed James May cinched into the passenger seat. Did we mention the appearance of Ricky Carmichael, perhaps the winningest motocross racer of all time? Click through the jump to witness the gorgeously controlled display of mechanical mayhem. Hat tip to absolutely everybody!

[Source: Top Gear via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ken Block works it out on Top Gear with Captain Slow in tow

VIDEO: Ken Block works it out on Top Gear with Captain Slow in tow originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>captain slowCaptainSlowD.C. ShoesD.c.ShoesDC ShoesDcShoesjames mayJamesMayKen BlockKenBlockRicky CarmichaelRickyCarmichaelSTISubaruSubaru STISubaru WRXSubaru WRX STISubaruStiSubaruWrxSubaruWrxStitop gearTopGearWRX STIWrxStiMon, 06 Jul 2009 19:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Worst crash test ever will definitely leave a mark]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-worst-crash-test-ever-will-definitely-leave-a-mark/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-worst-crash-test-ever-will-definitely-leave-a-mark/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-worst-crash-test-ever-will-definitely-leave-a-mark/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

We've shown you crash test footage that we thought was the worst we've ever seen, but anything seen here in the past has nothing on the crash of what appears to be a 1978 Holden Commodore VB. After the jump is video of said sedan hitting a cement barrier and collapsing like an accordion. The Commodore was reportedly crashed at 62 mph back in 1992 to to test the vehicle's drive system, and not the car itself.

For the record, most of America's crash tests are performed at closer to 35 mph, so if the 62 mph figure is correct, the speed of this test collision is far greater than what we're used to seeing. Regardless, the carnage of the accident is far to great not to see.

Just for fun, we have also added post-jump footage of a Volkswagen T3 combi hitting a cement barrier at an unknown and presumably high rate of speed. The crash was so severe that the chances of anything larger than a cockroach surviving is pretty much zero. Which impact is worse? You be the judge by watching them both after the jump.

[Source: YouTube via TTAC]

Continue reading VIDEO: Worst crash test ever will definitely leave a mark

VIDEO: Worst crash test ever will definitely leave a mark originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1978 holden commodore1978HoldenCommodoreholden commodore vbHoldenCommodoreVbvw microbusVwMicrobusMon, 06 Jul 2009 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Fesler Camaro taking shape, smoking tires [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/fesler-camaro-taking-shape-smoking-tires-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/fesler-camaro-taking-shape-smoking-tires-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/fesler-camaro-taking-shape-smoking-tires-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Click above to watch video after the jump

High end tuner Fesler has created its own 2010 Fesler Moss Camaro; a tuned-up version of the hot-selling coupe that's been designed as an homage of sorts to General Motors' 1969 Bowtie. For about $55,000, you can get features like an adjustable coilover suspension, special 22-inch wheels and tires, as well as stainless steel struts. Bump the price up to $90k, and you'll get a supercharger that bumps the power quotient to an even 600 ponies. The fully loaded model stickers for a stout $150,000, and includes more equipment than we can reasonably add here. Fesler is even offering a package that includes a matching 1969 model(!) if you've got the garage space and the financial wherewithal.

Hit the jump to watch video of the supercharged version of the car in action. As you can probably guess on your own, the video includes burnouts and donuts. We wouldn't have it any other way.

[Source: Fesler]

Continue reading Fesler Camaro taking shape, smoking tires [w/VIDEO]

Fesler Camaro taking shape, smoking tires [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 chevy camaro2010ChevyCamarofesler moss camaroFeslerMossCamarosuperchargertunerMon, 06 Jul 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: <i>Top Gear</i> takes on the Mercedes SL 65 AMG Black Series]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-i-top-gear-i-takes-on-the-mercedes-sl-65-amg-black-ser/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-i-top-gear-i-takes-on-the-mercedes-sl-65-amg-black-ser/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/06/video-i-top-gear-i-takes-on-the-mercedes-sl-65-amg-black-ser/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above to watch video after the jump

When Jeremy Clarkson has the keys to a 660 hp supercar, you know you're in for a heck of a ride. The affable BBC host took the reigns of twin-turbo V12-powered Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG Black Series, and we're pretty sure the Top Gear team needed to change its rather expensive tires at some time during the shoot.

The SL 65 AMG Black Series tore up the tarmac and even took on the company's own (much more expensive) McLaren SLR, but did Clarkson like it? Lets just say that he compared seat time in this super Benz to sitting on a pile of stones. It seems having 740 lb-ft of torque at your beckoning call isn't always a good thing, either. Oh, the horror. Hit the jump to watch for yourself.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Top Gear takes on the Mercedes SL 65 AMG Black Series

VIDEO: Top Gear takes on the Mercedes SL 65 AMG Black Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AMGBenzBlack SeriesBlackSeriesClarksonjeremy clarksonJeremyClarksonMercedesMercedes BenzMercedesBenzSL65 amg black seriesSl65AmgBlackSeriestop gearTopGearMon, 06 Jul 2009 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: What goes into German engineering - Audi's TechDay Quality]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/what-goes-into-german-engineering-audis-techday-quality/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/what-goes-into-german-engineering-audis-techday-quality/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/05/what-goes-into-german-engineering-audis-techday-quality/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Audi's TechDay Quality philosophy -- Click above to watch video

Why are German luxury cars so expensive? Because of German engineering. And what is this whole "German engineering" thing all about? That's the question Audi tries to explain once a year when it takes outsiders through its quality processes during its factory TechDay.

According to the Audi, the automaker's three main tenets are Value, Precision, and Fascination, and they all add up to Quality. This encompasses processes that go into making processes like reworking the fit of the gas tank cap to adjust for parallax error, using a scanning electron microscope for surface analysis, and an olfactory team to make sure things like leather smell right.

The video shows you what Audi does to get you that quality... and frankly, it looks like a lot more fun than the engineering bits. You can see the video and read a Joycean-length string of press releases after the jump. A host of high-res photos, including more shots of the A5 Sportback, are in the gallery below.


Gallery: Audi TechDay Quality 2009


[Source: Auto Scout (translated) via German Car Blog]

Continue reading VIDEO: What goes into German engineering - Audi's TechDay Quality

VIDEO: What goes into German engineering - Audi's TechDay Quality originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Jul 2009 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiengineeringlifestylequalitysafetytechnologyvideoSun, 05 Jul 2009 16:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/04/spy-shots-first-ever-in-the-fiber-shots-of-devon-gtx-supercar-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/04/spy-shots-first-ever-in-the-fiber-shots-of-devon-gtx-supercar-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/04/spy-shots-first-ever-in-the-fiber-shots-of-devon-gtx-supercar-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Brenda Priddy's long-lens outfit has captured the first shots off the Devon Motor Works GTX supercar during aerodynamics testing.

The butterfly-doored coupe looks very promising in bare carbon fiber, as is word that the prototype was spotted at Willow Springs raceway with British Le Mans champion Justin Bell behind the wheel for testing duties.

This GTX mule certainly has some interesting details to it, including the aforementioned up-and-forward doors, as well as a U-shaped vented hood, center-exit exhaust, a big (and likely temporary) adjustable wing, and funky contrasting fender treatments which may or may not see production.

It isn't altogether clear what engine will be powering this beastie, but Priddy's people reportedly overheard the engineers talking of extracting 650 horsepower out of the drivetrain. California-based Devon, you may recall, was the sole bidder Chrysler reported for its Viper franchise, and it's certainly conceivable that despite the failed bid attempt, the car seen here would still feature a certain 8.4-liter V10 underhood. Indeed, given that Devon continues to tout its creation as "America's next great supercar," that scenario seems rather likely.

The GTX is slated to make its first appearance at next month's Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance (we'll be sure to grab some live photos), and the coupe is tipped to go on sale in the U.S. first in 2010, with other markets to follow. Check out the gallery of renderings below as well as a video of the teasers after the jump.


Gallery: Devon Motor Works GTX renderings


[Source: The Detroit Bureau]

Continue reading Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge

Spy Shots: First-ever in-the-fiber shots of Devon GTX supercar emerge originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brenda PriddyBrendaPriddyDevonDevon GTXDevon Motor WorksDevonGtxDevonMotorWorksGTXJustin BellJustinBellLe MansLeMansPebble BeachPebble Beach ConcoursPebbleBeachPebbleBeachConcoursspy shotspy shotsSpyShotSpyShotsWillow springsWillowSpringsSat, 04 Jul 2009 13:40:00 EST