Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[LA 2009: MINI Coupe & Roadster Concepts are so LA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-mini-coupe-and-roadster-concepts-are-so-l-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-mini-coupe-and-roadster-concepts-are-so-l-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-mini-coupe-and-roadster-concepts-are-so-l-a/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


MINI Coupe and Roadster Concepts - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mini brought its birthday presents to itself out to the LA Auto Show for their North American debut today. The Cambden and Mayfair were there, but we spent a lot more time ogling the Coupe and Roadster. As you may recall, Mini created these two sports cars to celebrate its 50th anniversary and showed them off alongside the two special edition Coopers at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The changes are slightly less obvious on the open-top roadster, but you can definitely see that there's no back seat and the windshield is laid back a claimed 16 degrees over the standard Cooper. The backwards baseball cap on the coupe is a bit odd looking in pics and the real world view doesn't do much to change that impression.

None of the display vehicles sported any detail changes but it was still fun to see all of them packed into a booth the size of Toyota's Venza section. Ian Robertson of BMW did share a few more details about the future of MINI, with the "R60" 4-door-4-liter-4wd about to get a real name and even more models in the works. For now we have the Coopers and Clubmen and the coupe and roadster to keep us happy. Check out the gallery below.


Gallery: LA 2009: MINI concepts and special editions


[Source: MINI]

LA 2009: MINI Coupe & Roadster Concepts are so LA originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cooperLAla 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowminimini coopermini coupemini coupe conceptmini roadsterMINI Roadster ConceptMiniCooperMiniCoupeMiniCoupeConceptMiniRoadsterMiniRoadsterConceptWed, 02 Dec 2009 19:44:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/scion-xb-release-series-7.0-los-angeles-2009-live/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Scion xB Release Series 7.0 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Just yesterday we shared with you some pics of and specs on the latest Scion Release Series, the xB 7.0. It's a tradition of sorts for Scion to come out with a new Release at the LA Auto Show. For this go-around, Scion seems to have been indulging in some fermented grapes, as the bloody thing is painted Murasaki! That would be purple for those of us not fluent in Japanese. Well, we have just one thing to say now that we've seen it in person, we're glad it's going to be limited to just 2,000 units.

It's not so much the underlying xB, or the DAMD body kit, or the custom stitching on the interior. It's not the TRD springs for sure, and the new exhaust tips aren't that bad. It's just that when the whole thing is swathed in purple, we can't get past the color. In any case, you can check out the high-res gallery below and the press release after the jump and judge the 7.0 for yourself.


Gallery: LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0


Gallery: Scion xB Release Series 7.0


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Fillipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies

LA 2009: Scion xB Release Series 7.0 limited to 2,000 copies originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowRelease Series 7.0ReleaseSeries7.0scionscion releaseScion xBScion xB Release Series 7.0ScionReleaseScionXbScionXbReleaseSeries7.0special editionSpecialEditiontoyotaxBxB Release Series 7.0XbReleaseSeries7.0Wed, 02 Dec 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: Third-Gen 2011 Toyota Sienna is a rock star]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-toyota-sienna-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-toyota-sienna-at-2009-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/2011-toyota-sienna-at-2009-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Toyota Sienna live in LA - Click above for high-res image gallery

Toyota finally took the wraps off their new 2011 Sienna minivan and we have to say, it looks pretty good in person. Although Toyota sent out some teaser shots this morning, we just got back from the official unveiling at the LA Auto Show and have a whole batch of live shots and quite a few more media pics for you to browse. We were quite shocked by the size of the crowd at this press conference, perhaps showing that even though the minivan market may be shrinking, it still meets a sizable need.

We were also a bit surprised to run into Ford's J. Mays and Mark Fields, and they reminded us that you have to stay abreast of the competition lest you die. They would neither confirm nor deny the return of the Aerostar. Besides the top-level Limited model on stage, Toyota also showed off a pre-production SE, which sits a little lower on a stiffened suspension and 19-inch alloys. It also sports a body kit, a revised grille and carbon fiber in place of wood inside.

Also make sure you check out the 2011 Sienna's trick 16-inch LCD monitor for rear seat passengers and the reclining seats with extendable footrests, two features we've never seen in this segment before.


Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Toyota Sienna


Gallery: 2011 Toyota Sienna


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Fillipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2009: Third-Gen 2011 Toyota Sienna is a rock star originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 sienna2011 Toyota2011 toyota sienna2011Sienna2011Toyota2011ToyotaSiennala 2009la auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009LaShowSiennatoyotatoyota siennaToyotaSiennaWed, 02 Dec 2009 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[LA 2009: 2011 Toyota Sienna could wear a Lexus badge]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-2011-toyota-sienna-could-wear-a-lexus-badge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-2011-toyota-sienna-could-wear-a-lexus-badge/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/la-2009-2011-toyota-sienna-could-wear-a-lexus-badge/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Toyota Sienna SE - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the new third-generation 2011 Toyota Sienna shows up in dealerships next February, parents should head straight to their closest dealer after dropping the kids at soccer. Notice we didn't say "Moms." We said "parents." Although other minivan makers have attempted to butch up their people movers in the past, those efforts have been mostly lamentable. Toyota, on the other hand, has actually made a van (there's nothing mini about this new Sienna) that arguably looks sporty enough to chip away at the undeserved mommy-mobile stigma of the class. Don't let that purse tray dissuade you.

And if NASCAR dads drag their feet a bit before heading over to trade in the old Previa or Chevrolet Suburban, they may choose the sportier SE in the showroom come April. While even the base Sienna will boast a design theme that looks surprisingly assertive, the SE adds an aggressive body kit and 19-inch six-spoke wheels to go with its stiffer suspension and remapped transmission programming. There's also a different grille and clear tail lamps. Unfortunately, there won't be a TRD supercharger underhood or even a cold air intake or freer-flowing exhaust to up the power, but on looks alone, this thing might have what it takes to broaden the appeal of minivans to the XY set.

Debuting at the LA Auto Show today, the 2011 Sienna looks like a more macho 2009 Sienna cross-bred with Toyota's Venza crossover. The family resemblance is striking, particularly from the rear. Nifty details are to be found all around - things like the cleverly hidden high-mounted rear wiper. Toyota promises that this third-generation Sienna will also drive more like a sedan while still swallowing people and cargo with equal ease.

We've had an advanced in-person look at this model, and the seven or eight people who find themselves filling the seats inside this new Sienna figure to be impressed by the Lexus-like interior with its new three-tone color scheme, ample use of wood, and clever luxury touches. Particularly "wow" inducing are the wooden swoosh across the dash, the second row seats with their integrated retractable leg rests that slide a long way forward to grant access to the power-operated 60/40 Split & Stow third row, and the 16-inch dual view LCD screen for rear seat entertainment. Yes, sixteen.

Built on a revised version of the outgoing platform, the 2011 Sienna has the same wheelbase but is slightly shorter, lower and wider than its predecessor. It will be available in five different trim levels: Sienna grade, LE, SE, XLE and Limited. All-wheel-drive will still be available on V6-powered LE, XLE and Limited models. That V6 is the same 3.5-liter Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) unit available today, with 266 horsepower. The engine is stout enough to give the Sienna a 3,500-pound tow capacity while returning mileage of 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Also available in Sienna and LE will be the VVT-i 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horses and a slight bump in mileage to 19/26.

We'll have lots to say about this new Sienna after our first drive in a couple of weeks, but for now, you can read more about it in the press release we've pasted after the jump and check out high-res shots in our gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Toyota Sienna


[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading LA 2009: 2011 Toyota Sienna could wear a Lexus badge

LA 2009: 2011 Toyota Sienna could wear a Lexus badge originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 sienna2011 Toyota2011 toyota sienna2011Sienna2011Toyota2011ToyotaSiennaLA 2009LA autoshowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoshowlaautoshow2009LaShowminivanSiennatoyotaToyota minivanToyotaMinivanWed, 02 Dec 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Event Alert: December Calendar of Automotive Events]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/event-alert-december-calendar-of-automotive-events/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/event-alert-december-calendar-of-automotive-events/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/event-alert-december-calendar-of-automotive-events/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As we slowly emerge from our Thanksgiving food comas, we can start gearing up for more holiday food, family, and fun in December, with an automotive twist. We can also look forward to the real beginning of the auto show season with the first major American show, the LA Auto Show. There are also some smaller shows like the New England Auto Show in Boston, and the conclusion of the San Francisco International Auto Show at the Moscone Center.

All of the major motorsports seasons have concluded, but there will be plenty of silly season news to cover. There are small concours and special events going on in December as well -- The 2nd Spirit of Competition Awards Dinner at the Simeone Foundation Automotive Museum, East Coast Indoor Nationals at the Maryland State Fairgrounds, Gulf Coast Motor Sports Holiday Cruisin Southern Style, 8th Annual Kustom Kulture Show in Anaheim, CA, and the 4th Annual Family Picnic and carnival at The Petersen Automotive Museum in LA,

There will also be a slew of Toys for Tots-type charity car shows as we head into the Holidays. We'll be returning to two of our favorites, the 6th Annual Motor4Toys event, and the 6th Annual Toys for Tots Drive hosted by the Schnuerer family in Huntington Beach, CA, but there are many more such events going on all around the country. Check your local paper for more and if you come across any, feel free to post details and links in the comments.

If none of those events appeal to you, check out our Google Calendar after the jump for even more listings, all with detailed info and links. And please use the comments section to add or modify listings.

Continue reading Event Alert: December Calendar of Automotive Events

Event Alert: December Calendar of Automotive Events originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 la auto show2009LaAutoShowautoblog calendarAutoblog calendar of eventsAutoblog event calendarAutoblogCalendarAutoblogCalendarOfEventsAutoblogEventCalendarEast Coast Indoor NationalsEastCoastIndoorNationalsGulf Coast Motor Sports Holiday Cruisin Southern StyleGulfCoastMotorSportsHolidayCruisinSouthernStyleKustom Kulture ShowKustomKultureShowLAla auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowLaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeleslos angeles auto showLosAngelesLosAngelesAutoShowMotor4ToysNew England Auto ShowNewEnglandAutoShowpetersen automotive museumPetersenAutomotiveMuseumSan Francisco International Auto ShowSanFranciscoInternationalAutoShowSchnuererSimeone Foundation Automotive MuseumSimeoneFoundationAutomotiveMuseumSpirit of Competition AwardsSpiritOfCompetitionAwardsThe PetersenThe Petersen Automotive MuseumThe Petersen MuseumThePetersenThePetersenAutomotiveMuseumThePetersenMuseumtoys for totsToysForTotsWed, 02 Dec 2009 08:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Cars & Coffee: Chevy shocks the crowd, brings Volt]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/cars-and-coffee-chevy-shocks-the-crowd-brings-volt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/cars-and-coffee-chevy-shocks-the-crowd-brings-volt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/cars-and-coffee-chevy-shocks-the-crowd-brings-volt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Chevy Volt
2011 Chevrolet Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors shocked the crowd at Cars & Coffee this weekend by bringing out the 2011 Chevy Volt. Representatives on hand said this is the same car that will be on display at the LA Auto Show next week. They added that this is a pre-production model with a lot of development miles on it. For all that, it looked pretty good, especially given the wet conditions. We were disappointed that nobody faked an electric shock when touching the car in the damp lot.

Lack of hijinks aside, it seemed most people at the show liked the Volt, although several walked right past it, not realizing what it was. Good or bad, as important as this car is to GM, it looks pretty much like any other midsize sedan. On a day where Suzuki brought out all of their SEMA show cars and Tesla brought down a Roadster and Roadster Sport, the Volt and the Equinox fuel cell vehicle behind it still managed to draw a pretty big crowd. We snapped a few pics for our gallery, which you can check out below. We'll bring you more about the Volt and everything else worth noting at the LA Auto Show next week.


Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Volt at Cars & Coffee

Cars & Coffee: Chevy shocks the crowd, brings Volt originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Nov 2009 20:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 chevrolet volt2011 chevy volt prototype2011ChevroletVolt2011ChevyVoltPrototypechevroletChevrolet VoltChevroletVoltchevychevy voltChevyVoltla auto showLA Auto Show 2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009VoltSat, 28 Nov 2009 20:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus announces pricing for 2010 GX460 will begin at $51,970]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/lexus-announces-pricing-for-2010-gx460-will-begin-at-51-970/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/lexus-announces-pricing-for-2010-gx460-will-begin-at-51-970/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/lexus-announces-pricing-for-2010-gx460-will-begin-at-51-970/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Lexus GX460 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Adding one last bit of important information to the release they issued Sunday, Lexus today announced pricing for its second-generation 2010 Lexus GX460 SUV. As we told you yesterday, the 2010 GX460 will (for the first time) be available in two trim levels. The base model will start at an MSRP of $51,970, and the Premium will start at $56,765. Neither figure includes the obligatory $875 delivery, processing and handling fee. The public will get its first glimpse of the newest midsize luxury SUV next week at the 2009 LA Auto Show.

No pricing was given for options, which include two packages and several standalone extras, but you can read about some of the standard features in the press release we've pasted after the jump. We'll have our own first impression of this vehicle for you very soon and plenty more photos and thoughts when we see it next week in Los Angeles


Gallery: 2010 Lexus GX460


[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading Lexus announces pricing for 2010 GX460 will begin at $51,970

Lexus announces pricing for 2010 GX460 will begin at $51,970 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Lexus GX 4602010 lexus gx4602010LexusGx460GXGX 460gx460lexusLexus GX 460LEXUS GX460LexusGx460Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/video-justin-bell-shows-off-lexus-lfa-in-jay-lenos-garage/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Lexus LFA at California Speedway - Click above to view the video after the jump

The lease-only 2011 Lexus LFA supercar has been getting a lot of exposure lately. We had a chance to drive it a few weeks ago and just showed you some pics of the matte black car when it showed up at Cars & Coffee in Irvine this Saturday, but now we have something even better. LeMans-winner and Jay Leno Show racing coach, Justin Bell, heads out onto Fontana's California Speedway with this very same LFA, getting some instruction himself from fellow racer Scott Pruett before taking the better seat for a lap.

The segment was shot for the latest episode of Jay Leno's Garage, the Jay Leno webshow that highlights a different car every week, sometimes with Jay driving and sometimes with Justin doing the heavy lifting. Follow the jump to see the video for yourself and be sure to check out Jay's Garage regularly if you don't already. Listening to this thing rip up to 9,000 RPM is worth the nine-minute investment of your time, trust us. Thanks for the tip Gabriel!

[Source: Jay Leno's Garage]

Continue reading VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage

VIDEO: Justin Bell shows off Lexus LFA in Jay Leno's Garage originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Lexus2011 lexus lf-a2011 Lexus LFA2011Lexus2011LexusLf-a2011LexusLfacalifornia speedwayCaliforniaSpeedwayjay lenojay leno showjay lenos garageJayLenoJayLenosGarageJayLenoShowJustin BellJustinBelllexusLexus LF-Alexus lfaLexusLf-aLexusLfaLF-AlfaScott PruettScottPruettMon, 23 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Lexus introduces second-generation 2010 GX460]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2010-Lexus-GX460-introduced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2010-Lexus-GX460-introduced/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/23/2010-Lexus-GX460-introduced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2010 Lexus GX460 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Two steps forward and one step back seems to be the rally cry of the new 2010 Lexus GX460. This second-generation, three-row, mid-size, body-on-frame SUV from Lexus replaces the GX470, which, as its name implies, had a slightly larger engine. That 4.7-liter V8 engine, however, couldn't touch the combination of power and efficiency found in this new 4.6-liter V8. The new engine manages to pump out 301 hp and 329 lb.ft. of torque while returning 13 percent better fuel economy, now ringing in at 15/20 mpg. It also uses a second-generation frame and an all-new body with some class-leading features.

There's a lengthy press release after the jump with all the specifications and features of this new GX, but here are some of the highlights (take a deep breath): New standard power-folding third row, flip-forward second row slider for better third row access, rear swing gate with new pop-up glass for quick access, optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Driver Attention Monitor and Lane Departure Alert (LDA), full-time four-wheel drive, off- and on-road balancing Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) with available Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), 6,500-pound towing capacity, 18-inch alloy wheels, Crawl Control and Downhill Assist Control (DAC), ten standard airbags, Bluetooth, nine-speaker audio system with integrated iPod control and XM Radio receiver, rear back-up camera, optional Lexus Enform with Safety Connect, XM NavTraffic, XM NavWeather and XM Sports and Stocks by subscription. Got all that?

The 2010 Lexus GX460 will come in two different trim levels, base and Premium, identifiable by chrome strips surrounding the greenhouse and along the lower door contours. In addition to the features listed above, GX buyers can opt for a Convenience Package and a Comfort Plus Package. The Convenience Package adds power-retracting outside mirrors and Intuitive Parking Assist. The Comfort Plus Package includes semi-aniline leather, heated second-row outer seats, wood-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, and a three-zone automatic climate control system. Major standalone options include the next-gen hard disc drive (HDD) nav system, a Mark Levinson Premium Audio system, a Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system with two LCD screens, a three-zone automatic climate control system, and the Wide-view Front and Side Monitor, which debuted on the 2009 LX 570.

We recently had a chance to sample this new GX460 and we'll have a lot more to say about it in our upcoming First Drive, but for now, here are the full details and a massive gallery of pics for you to enjoy.


Gallery: 2010 Lexus GX460


[Source: Lexus]

Continue reading Lexus introduces second-generation 2010 GX460

Lexus introduces second-generation 2010 GX460 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 GX4602010 lexus2010 lexus gx4602010Gx4602010Lexus2010LexusGx460gx460lexusMon, 23 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Cars & Coffee: Lexus LFA shows up ahead of LA Auto Show]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/cars-and-coffee-lexus-lfa-shows-up-ahead-of-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/cars-and-coffee-lexus-lfa-shows-up-ahead-of-la-auto-show/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/21/cars-and-coffee-lexus-lfa-shows-up-ahead-of-la-auto-show/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Lexus LFA at Cars & Coffee - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Lexus LFA supercar might not be in dealerships for another year or more, but the two prototypes are getting quite a workout. After driving the car in Miami, we heard the white one was shipped off to Europe while the black one took up residence in its new home: a trailer. The car has made a few appearances around the country, most recently at SEMA and a private showing in the Los Angeles area. Next stop on the LFA tour appears to be the LA Auto Show, but apparently it couldn't stand to be cooped up too long.

Along with a handful of other Lexus show cars, it showed up at our favorite Saturday morning car meet. The handler fired it up several times so the crowd could marvel at that V10 shriek. Reactions were mixed, mainly where price was concerned. We heard more than one person say that if it had a Supra badge and sub-$100K pricetag, it would be a killer. At four times that price, the Lexus badge just doesn't seem to win as many people over. One thing almost everyone loved was that changeable display with the sliding center gauge.


Gallery: 2011 Lexus LFA at Cars & Coffee

Cars & Coffee: Lexus LFA shows up ahead of LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Nov 2009 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Lexus2011 lexus lf-a2011 Lexus LFA2011Lexus2011LexusLf-a2011LexusLfaCars CoffeeCarsCoffeelexusLexus LF-Alexus lfaLexusLf-aLexusLfaLF-AlfasupercarsupercarsSat, 21 Nov 2009 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[FerrariChat: P4/5 Competizione still aiming for Nürburgring 24]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/ferrarichat-p4-5-competizione-still-aiming-for-nurburgring-24/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/ferrarichat-p4-5-competizione-still-aiming-for-nurburgring-24/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/ferrarichat-p4-5-competizione-still-aiming-for-nurburgring-24/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Pininfarina Ferrari P4/5 Competizione - Click above for high-res image gallery

A few months ago, the internet started to rumble with rumors of a race car being built out of the incredible Pininfarina Ferrari 612 P4/5 that James Glickenhaus had commissioned at a staggering (but understandable) $4 million. A thread on Ferrari superforum FerrariChat.com put those rumors to rest -- Glickenhaus wasn't going to turn his P3/4 homage into a race car, he was going to build another car that he would take racing.

While the final product hasn't been revealed in full, the thread includes over 20 pages of Q&A between James and the rest of the F-Chat community giving several hints at what's to come. There are even several photo renderings depicting what the car might look like. What we do know is that this new P4/5 Competizione will not be Enzo/FXX/MC based -- it will be based on a Ferrari chassis and feature a Ferrari V8, with Glickenhaus saying that a V12 isn't practical because of fuel consumption.

Engineering has already begun on this dedicated racecar, which will hopefully get its maiden run at the Nürburgring 24 hour race next year. It will run in an open class that allows one-offs, as there are apparently no plans to homologate this retro-inspired racer. It's just Glick being Glick, building something for fun and bringing his teen memories of Ford vs. Ferrari back to life in endurance racing.

It could also be seen as a great opportunity for sponsors to get a ton of exposure. If the Competizione is anything like the road-going P4/5 in the publicity department, we'd say it's a safe bet you'll get a lot for your advertising dollars. We'll keep you posted as the car comes along, and we're already petitioning the higher-ups to include the Nürburgring 24 into our travel budget next year.


Gallery: Pininfarina P4/5 Competizione


[Source: FerrariChat]

FerrariChat: P4/5 Competizione still aiming for Nürburgring 24 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enzoFerrariFerrari 612 P45ferrari enzoFerrari612P45FerrariEnzoglickenhausNurburgringnurburgring 24nurburgring 24 hoursNurburgring24Nurburgring24Hoursp45pininfarinaPininfarina P45Pininfarina P45 CompetizionePininfarinaP45PininfarinaP45CompetizioneFri, 20 Nov 2009 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 Acura ZDX starts at $45,495 with plenty of kit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/acura-zdx-to-start-at-45-495/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/acura-zdx-to-start-at-45-495/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/acura-zdx-to-start-at-45-495/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Acura ZDX - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you're interested in picking up the 2010 Acura ZDX crossover, the bottom line begins at $45,495. There's a full press release with all of the details after the jump, but the main points are these: The ZDX will go on sale beginning December 15 with an MSRP of $45,495, plus destination and handling charge, which adds another $810.

The 2010 Acura ZDX will be available in three trim levels -- the base ZDX, ZDX with Technology Package, and ZDX with Advance Package. This being an Acura, even the base ZDX gets a ton of standard features, including premium items like the "world's longest panoramic glass roof," hand-stitched leather, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and that 300-hp 3.7-liter VTEC V6. And even with that much power on tap, Honda has figured out a way to give the ZDX class-leading fuel economy of 16/23 mpg.

For an extra $4,500, the Technology Package adds a 415-watt Acura/ELS Premium Audio System with 15-gig hard drive, a GPS-linked, solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start with Keyless Access, and Acura's Nav System with Voice Recognition, Real-Time Traffic, Real-Time Weather, a full VGA display and a new multi-view rear camera.

The Advance Package goes a step further by adding a blind spot information system (BSI), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Acura's Collision Mitigating Braking System (CMBS), an active suspension system, heated and ventilated front seats with Perforated Milano Premium Leather seating surfaces, premium brushed tricot headliner material and a sport steering wheel. All for another $6,050.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Acura ZDX


[Source: Acura]

Continue reading 2010 Acura ZDX starts at $45,495 with plenty of kit

2010 Acura ZDX starts at $45,495 with plenty of kit originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AcuraAcura pricingAcura ZDXAcuraPricingAcuraZdxzdxZDX pricingZdxPricingFri, 20 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Ferrari working on radical new door opening]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-ferrari-working-on-radical-new-door-opening/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-ferrari-working-on-radical-new-door-opening/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/report-ferrari-working-on-radical-new-door-opening/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As if scissor doors, gullwings, butterflies and those crazy Koenigsegg pivoters weren't enough to separate exotics from lesser cars, Ferrari is said to be working on another new door design that is both radical and practical. Go figure.

Autocar came across a patent filing showing a few diagrams depicting this unique door setup. What sets it apart is the fact that the new Ferrari door includes part of the front fender and hinges upward like the butterfly door from a LeMans racer. Apparently the opening is large enough and shaped in such a way that "occupants can place their foot directly behind the front wheel."

According to the patent application, that will make ingress and egress much easier for passengers in low-slung supercars, though the new door design is said to work just as well on front engined cars as it does for vehicles with their engines mounted aft or amidships. Even better, this design and its unique hinges are reported to be "easy and cost-effective to make," which should make it easier for the Dodge Chargers of SEMA circa 2012 to get in on the fun too.

We're still seeing an issue with the A-pillar and windscreen, but it looks interesting. We'll be sure to keep an eye out for any photos of these funky doors, but for now we're stuck wondering how hard it was for Ferrari engineers to use the supplied British sports car diagram in order to submit their application form.


Gallery: Ferrari's radical new doors


[Source: Autocar]

REPORT: Ferrari working on radical new door opening originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exoticexotic carexotic carsExoticCarExoticCarsFerrariFerrari doorFerrari doorsferrari patentFerrariDoorFerrariDoorsFerrariPatentreportsports carsports carssportscarsportscarssupercarsupercarsFri, 20 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Say it ain't so, Schu! The Daily Telegraph is reporting that seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher is close to signing on with the newly formed Mercedes Formula 1 team. Mercedes is the new name of the former Brawn GP team, the current Constructors Champion. After a stellar rookie season that saw this former Honda team clinch not just the Constructors Championship, but also the Drivers Championship for Jenson Button, they had a bit of a dropoff as Button bolted for rival McLaren.

That left a seat to fill at Mercedes and if BBC Sport's Eddie Jordan is to be believed, none other than Michael Schumacher is about to sign a one-year contract to return to racing in that very car. The deal, which would net Schumacher the same salary that Button turned down at Brawn GP in favour of McLaren, would finally see the German teaming up with Mercedes, who were in the past unsuccessful in their bids to lure him away from Ferrari.

Ferrari almost lured the retired champ back this season when Felipe Massa went down following the infamous spring incident in Hungary. The Champ's sore neck put a stop to that comeback, but apparently it got Schumi's juices flowing again. Signing with Mercedes would create something of a German dream team with Nico Rosberg in the other car. If the deal goes through, MS will be reunited with Brawn GP-namesake and current Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn, the man who guided Michael to all seven of his World titles.

Still just a rumor for the moment, the deal is said to give Schumacher the same salary Button turned down when he defected to McLaren. The Schumacher deal is just the latest volley in the silly season melee that has seen Kimi Raikkonen vacate his seat in order to make room for Fernando Alonso at Ferrari, which lost adviser Michael Schumacher as well. Whatever the future holds, it is only going to get more interesting. We'll keep you posted as things develop. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: The Daily Telegraph via Planet F1, BBC Sport | Image Source: Getty]

BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsF1Ferrariformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnemclarenmercedesmercedes-benzmichael schumacherMichaelSchumacherMSschumacherFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Range-topping Lamborghini Urus rumored anew]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/lamborghini-planning-new-range-topping-urus/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/lamborghini-planning-new-range-topping-urus/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/lamborghini-planning-new-range-topping-urus/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Lamborghini Reventón Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

So you like the Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SV, but you're struggling to justify the price. After all, it may be just as fast as the Reventón, but it only costs a third of that range-topping bull. You like that it's the latest limited-edition hypercar from Sant'Agata Bolognese, but will everyone think you're slumming by not getting the most expensive bull in the barn? Come to think of it, maybe you can hold out for the Reventón Roadster, which should easily surpass the coupe as the ne plus ultra in the Lambo lineup. Of course, you could just stick with your ordinary LP640-4 or LP650-4 Roadster a little longer and wait for the Murcielago replacement in a year or two.

When that so-called Jota finally debuts, it will bring with it a new carbon fiber chassis and an equally new direct-injected 6.0-liter V12 thought to be good for at least 700 horsepower. Yeah, that's probably the way to go. After all, the economy isn't exactly the best right now and plunking down $1.5M for a new car might make others unnecessarily envious. Haters. Of course, if you wait too long, you might find yourself debating waiting a little longer still for the Jota-besting halo car from Lamborghini, the rumored Urus.

CARS UK is quoting "a source close to Lamborghini" when they talk about this new halo vehicle, which is expected to take on all comers, especially that "FX70" Enzo-replacement coming out of Maranello. Using a modified Jota chassis, the Urus will go on an even stricter diet to make it a featherweight lighter heavyweight. It will drop the few bits of aluminum that are expected to be used on the Jota and go all carbon fiber. That, active aerodynamics, and a nearly 800 horsepower version of the Jota V12 in its engine bay should allow the Urus to challenge even the Bugatti Veyron with a sub-3-second 0-60mph time. The real question becomes -- Can you wait until 2012 for the Urus or will you buckle a year earlier and pop for the Jota in 2011? You know what, just get both.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Lamborghini Reventon Roadster


[Source: Cars UK]

Range-topping Lamborghini Urus rumored anew originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hypercarhypercarsJotaLamborghinilamborghini jotaLamborghini Jota UrusLamborghini LP670-4 SVlamborghini murcielagolamborghini murcielago lp670-4 svlamborghini reventonlamborghini reventon roadsterlamborghini urusLamborghiniJotaLamborghiniJotaUrusLamborghiniLp670-4SvLamborghiniMurcielagoLamborghiniMurcielagoLp670-4SvLamborghiniReventonLamborghiniReventonRoadsterLamborghiniUruslp670-4 svLp670-4Svreventonreventon roadsterReventonRoadstersupercarsupercarsurusFri, 20 Nov 2009 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Bugatti Bird-gate Followup: Driver identity revealed <b>[*UPDATE:</b> Now with actual crash video!]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/bugatti-bird-gate-update-driver-identity-revealed-gov-schwarz/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/bugatti-bird-gate-update-driver-identity-revealed-gov-schwarz/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/bugatti-bird-gate-update-driver-identity-revealed-gov-schwarz/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Bugatti Veyron of Andy House from Lufkin, Texas - Click above to view video

As we've already reported (stop tipping us on this!), yesterday a Texas man lost control of his Bugatti Veyron and ended up driving into the two-foot shallows of a nearby salt marsh. The driver claimed a kamikaze pelican that flew too low was to blame for the Veyron's bath. The Lufkin Daily News has now identified that driver as Andy House, the owner of Performance Auto Sales in Lufkin.

Perhaps too coincidentally, the company restores wrecked exotics for resale, which makes this whole situation seem like something akin to a mortician offing his own family members to drum up business. Unthinkable, for sure, and we hope it's not the case here as we'd hate to discover later that this Veyron was sacrificed as a publicity stunt.

Apparently a lot of people have been trying to reach Mr. House to discover exactly what happened. We're not sure what the connection is, but the group of interested callers is said to even include California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. We don't think the car has been terminated, but it might be a while before it's back.

*UPDATE: Now with incredible one-in-a-million video footage of the actual crash after the jump - and no, we don't see a pelican, either. However, we do hear explicit language, so this one is NSFW.

*UPDATE 2: Video working again.

[Sources: Lufkin Daily News; YouTube]

Continue reading Bugatti Bird-gate Followup: Driver identity revealed [*UPDATE: Now with actual crash video!]

Bugatti Bird-gate Followup: Driver identity revealed [*UPDATE: Now with actual crash video!] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Andy HouseAndyHousebugattibugatti veyronBugattiVeyronLufkinPerformance Auto SalesPerformanceAutoSalesveyronveyron crashVeyronCrashFri, 13 Nov 2009 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Inside McLaren: developing the MP4-12C - Click above to view the video after the jump

McLaren Automotive has just dropped a new video, the first in a series, that promises to show the story behind the company's upcoming MP4-12C supercar. This first episode gives us a peek at the car's development background, introduces us to some of the key players in the process, and even gives us a look at some of the key venues in the gestation of the new Lamborghini and Ferrari fighter from Woking.

This first short film, which you can find after the jump, is entitled: Inside McLaren: developing the MP4-12C. Pretty straightforward then, as is the dialogue. Technical Director Dick Glover takes us on a brief tour of McLaren's facilities - Racing, Electronics and Automotive, which he describes as the heart of the operation. He even points out the F1 simulator, where drivers and engineers have worked on race setups for the past 12 years. The MP4-12C team gets to play in there, too.

Next up is Chief Test Driver Chris Goodwin. He talks about the tracks and roads used in the development process, tracks like the Nürburgring Nordschleife and the Top Gear track at Dunsfold, which happens to be close to the McLaren facilities. Chris also gives us an idea of the extreme temperatures the 12C has been tested in, from the Arctic to Bahrain. Episode 1 wraps up with an introduction to some of the key engineers on the team, including Simon Andrew, Rob Tyers and Steve Hayes.

All of this is punctuated with glimpses of the 12C in action, which is why we're really all here in the first place. As cool as the McLaren facility is, the car is the star. Follow the jump for the video and full press release from McLaren.

[Source: McLaren]

Continue reading VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development

VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenMcLaren MP4-12CMcLaren p11MclarenMp4-12cMclarenP11MP4-12CvideoFri, 13 Nov 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA Scraps: 15-series tire from Nexen barely holds air]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/sema-scraps-15-series-tire-from-nexen-barely-holds-air/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/sema-scraps-15-series-tire-from-nexen-barely-holds-air/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/sema-scraps-15-series-tire-from-nexen-barely-holds-air/#commentsFiled under: ,


Nexen 365/15-24 tire - Click above for image gallery

While in Vegas for SEMA this year, we did our best to concentrate on the cars... and occasionally their hostesses. We deliberately stayed away from the thousands of individual products being introduced in order to spend more time on the cars, trucks, bikes and Snowbarus. Well, maybe we should have looked a little more closely at the products, or at the very least the wheels and tires. If we had spent more time in the lower level of the South Hall, we might have noticed a rather large crowd around the Nexen booth.

While the name might not be a household word, Nexen is a company with more than 50 years of tire-making experience under its steel belt. As impressive as that might be, it's not the reason everyone was standing around, mouths agape. The focus of their attention was a new tire by Nexen, one with an impressive 365 mm width and 24 inch diameter. As ridiculous as those numbers might be, they pale in comparison to the middle number in the equation.

You see, Nexen was showing off the very first 15-series tire. That's right, the world's first and only 365/15R24 tire. If you thought 35s looked like rubber bands wrapped around 19- and 20-inch wheels, this thing looks like a smear of black paint on that two-footer. We shudder to think of what the ride quality might be like, but we seriously doubt there will be any sidewall flex, mainly because there's no sidewall.


Gallery: Nexen 365/15R24 tire


[Source: Nexen via Consumer Reports]

SEMA Scraps: 15-series tire from Nexen barely holds air originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>15 series15 series tire15-series15Series15SeriesTire36515-2436515R24low-profileNexenNexen Inc.NexenInc.SEMAsema 2009Sema2009tiretiresFri, 13 Nov 2009 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[First Petty's Garage Challenger heading to Barrett-Jackson]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-pettys-garage-challenger-heading-to-barrett-jackson/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-pettys-garage-challenger-heading-to-barrett-jackson/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/first-pettys-garage-challenger-heading-to-barrett-jackson/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


2009 Petty's Garage Dodge Challenger - Click above for high-res image gallery

And with this official decree, let it be known that one custom 2009 Dodge Challenger, painted in a very familiar and regal blue shall be offered for sale to the highest bidder in Arizona in the year of our lord, 2010. The vehicle in question shall serve as a rolling tribute to Richard the 43rd. Long live the King!

Richard Petty was one of the winningest drivers in stock car history. With a record seven Daytona 500 trophies, 127 poles, 200 overall wins (including a record 27 -- and ten-in-a-row -- races in 1967), and seven championships in his 34-year, 1,185-race career, it's no wonder he's called The King. His legendary Chryslers, Fords and Plymouths bearing the number 43 were mostly built at his race shop in Level Cross, NC. Now all the king's men are working to build on his legacy under the newly formed banner of Petty's Garage.

The company plans to work on "museum-quality" restorations of vintage race cars, custom cars and high performance street machines. To kick off the new business, Petty's Garage has built a 2009 Challenger that will be sold in a Petty Family Foundation charity auction at B-J in January.

Painted in the trademark Petty Blue, it features a 585-hp Hemi 426, Pedders suspension upgrades, Brembo Gran Turismo brakes, a new center exit Corsa exhaust system, plus a Petty's Garage body kit consisting of custom front fascia, rear bumper cover, custom rocker panels and a rear spoiler. The inside gets the royal touch as well, with Petty's Garage branded seats and door panels. We saw the car at SEMA and it's a looker. You can read more details in the press release we've pasted in after the jump and check out the gallery from SEMA as well.


Gallery: Petty's Garage Dodge Challenger


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Petty's Garage Dodge Challenger

Continue reading First Petty's Garage Challenger heading to Barrett-Jackson

First Petty's Garage Challenger heading to Barrett-Jackson originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctionBarrett Jacksonbarrett-jacksonBarrettJacksoncharitycharity auctionCharityAuctiondodgeDodge ChallengerDodgeChallengerLevel CrossLevelCrossPetty Family FoundationPettyFamilyFoundationPettys GaragePettysGarageRichard Pettyrichard petty dodge challengerRichardPettyRichardPettyDodgeChallengerWed, 11 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Foreskin Removal: Dartz Prombron drops the whale penis]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/foreskin-removal-dartz-prombron-drops-the-whale-penis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/foreskin-removal-dartz-prombron-drops-the-whale-penis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/10/foreskin-removal-dartz-prombron-drops-the-whale-penis/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Dartz Prombron luxury SUV from Russia

You probably heard about the Dartz Prombron recently, the ultra-luxury armored SUV from Russia that would feature, among other ne plus ultra materials, leather pulled from whale penis foreskin. Why whale foreskin? Someone told them it was the best so they jumped on it. Unfortunately, the attraction didn't last very long. They have issued a release saying they will release the penis from their options list. Apparently the company has had a rethink on their choice of interior materials after receiving negative responses to their announcement from Greenpeace, the World Wildlife Fund, and even Pamela Anderson.

Personally, we think this might be more of a reaction to the new anti-whaling boat that the Sea Shephards have picked up for the upcoming season of Whale Wars: The newly rechristened Ady Gil, a 90 km/h semi-submersible tri-hull that holds the record for global circumnavigation. Whatever the reason, Dartz has Bobbitted the penis from the vehicle's spec sheet. In a brilliant press release that we couldn't possibly put into any better words, the company announced the change. Follow the jump to read the verbiage for yourself. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: Dartz via The Star, Jameslist]

Continue reading Foreskin Removal: Dartz Prombron drops the whale penis

Foreskin Removal: Dartz Prombron drops the whale penis originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DartzDartz KombatDartz PrombronDartzKombatDartzPrombronsea shephardsSeaShephardswhale foreskinwhale peniswhale warsWhaleForeskinWhalePenisWhaleWarsTue, 10 Nov 2009 18:28:00 EST