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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #268 LIVEFiled under: Motorsports, Geneva Motor Show, Etc., Government/Legal, Marketing/Advertising, Earnings/Financials, Fiat
We record Episode #268 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and you can drop us your questions via our Q&A module below. Check out our discussion topics or chime in to help determine what else the crew chats about this evening. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.
Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #268
- Superbowl Ads
- Fiat 500L previewed
- Honda loses Civic Hybrid lawsuit
- Driverless cars in 24 hrs of LeMons
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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #268 LIVE originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 07-Feb-2012 00:00
Official: Skoda up!grades with five-door Citigo
Filed under: Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Skoda
On this side of the Atlantic, one Volkswagen division's new product may not have a significant impact on those of another. That's because the German auto giant's brands are kept quite separate in North America. Less so, however, back in Europe, where a new VW is likely to reappear in due time as a Seat or Skoda .
Case in point: the new Up ! city car, which is also sold overseas as the Seat Mii and Skoda Citigo . And, true to form, with the Volkswagen brand having enlarged its city car to a five-door, its Czech cousin has followed suit.
And so, starting in May (after its debut at the Geneva Motor Show ), European buyers will be able to get their hands on a five-door Citigo, offering the same 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine (in either 60- or 75-horsepower guise) as the Up, Mii and three-door Citigo. Details in the press release after the jump.
Continue reading Skoda up!grades with five-door Citigo
Skoda up!grades with five-door Citigo originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 23:45
2013 Mazda CX-5 Crossover Priced from $21,490
We've alreadyA driven the 2013 CX-5 , covered itsA technical specs and fuel economy , and nowA Mazda has released complete pricing info for its all-new crossover:A $21,490 to start.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 23:25
Video: Jay Leno upgrades his 1906 Stanley Steamer Vanderbilt Cup Racer
Filed under: Classics, Performance, Etc., Videos, Celebrities
Jay Leno has a special place in his heart for steam power. The comedian has a collection of vintage vehicles that have more in common with a classic train than a modern car, and of those, his 1906 Stanley Steamer seems to be one of his favorites.
In 2007, the Stanley suffered a bit of a catastrophic failure, and Leno and his team of steam mechanics have been working to get the vehicle back into ship shape ever since. Of course, in Leno's vocabulary, "ship shape" means better than ever. The Stanley now wears hydraulic drum brakes from a Jaguar XK120 instead of the manual drums found on the original Steamer.
The crew also worked in a set of electric fuel pumps and replaced the acetylene headlights and oil tail lamps with electric versions. The team also managed to bump up the horsepower. The Steamer originally cruised along with a 23-inch boiler, but Leno had a new 30-inch boiler made and installed. It took his shop 26 tries to design boiler baffles that could accurately and evenly spread heat across the full surface, but now Leno has the equivalent of a hot rod Steamer. Pure awesomeness. Hit the jump to check out the lengthy video for yourself.
Continue reading Jay Leno upgrades his 1906 Stanley Steamer Vanderbilt Cup Racer
Jay Leno upgrades his 1906 Stanley Steamer Vanderbilt Cup Racer originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 22:55
Triumph Bonnevile Speed Twin Concept is what two-wheel dreams are made of
Filed under: Concept Cars, Motorcycle, UK, Design/Style
We don't envy the designers who pen bikes for the likes of Triumph or Harley-Davidson . Machines like the Bonneville and Sportster are inherently popular for their nostalgic looks, and die-hard fans are the first to cry foul when the bikes wander too far from the original recipe. As the Triumph Bonneville Speed Twin Concept elegantly illustrates, that's a crying shame. As the brainchild of English designers Roy Norton and Tom Kasher, the Speed Twin is a modern take on the classic Bonneville. The two started with a Bonnie as a base platform and proceeded to update the machine's aesthetics accordingly.
The conceit began with the simple notion of what the Bonneville could have evolved into were it not so saddled with the nostalgia millstone. The two contacted Triumph while working for a design studio shortly after college, and Triumph Product Manager Simon Warburton gave the concept the go-ahead. The result is what you see here.
The concept uses a heavily modified Bonneville frame in conjunction with muscular-looking girder forks. Barbour cloth covers both the seats and the grips. With an 865cc engine, Thruxton brakes and unique gauges and levers, the Speed Twin is distilled awesome. Warburton is apparently pleased with the final result as well, and says some of the elements may make their way to future Triumph models. Head over to BikeExif for the full story.
Triumph Bonnevile Speed Twin Concept is what two-wheel dreams are made of originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 22:13
Video: If at first you don't succeed crashing through a store...
Filed under: Sedan, Etc., Videos, Motorcycle
If you've ever wondered what keeps small-business owners up at night, allow us to direct your attention to the video after the jump.
From what we can gather, the driver in the black sedan got into a fender bender in a parking lot outside of a motorcycle speed shop. Worried about what the long-arm of the law would have to say about the collision, the driver then proceeded to attempt to make a speedy getaway. Rather than throwing the vehicle in reverse, however, the operator opted for drive, sending the vehicle careening through the front glass, though untold merchandise and into the back wall. Then the driver does something a bit odd.
Rather than throwing in the towel, they go for the old wash-rinse-repeat by backing up, gathering speed and ramming the rear wall. Over and over. As far as we can tell, no one was seriously injured in the spectacle. We wish we could say the same for the bike on the showroom floor. Hit the jump to see the video, just skip ahead to 1:30 to save yourself some waiting.
Continue reading If at first you don't succeed crashing through a store...
If at first you don't succeed crashing through a store... originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 21:31
Ford regrets not having Super Bowl ad
Ford's marketing chief is having some Super Bowl regret. The automaker decided not to buy expensive television time for the Super Bowl, said Jim Farley.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 21:20
2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: January 2012
Stellar fuel efficiency is still the name of the game when it comes to our long-term Volkswagen Jetta TDI , as it's averaging well over its EPA-estimated 30 city and 42 highway miles per gallon in our hands.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 21:20
Name That Shifter, No. 62
It's Monday, and that means it's time to present this week's shifter. You'll have until mid-day Wednesday to identify the make and model of the vehicle from whence this shifter came.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 21:20
Long Term: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: January 2012
Filed under: Sedan, Volkswagen, Diesel, Long-Term Garage
Stellar fuel efficiency is still the name of the game when it comes to our long-term Volkswagen Jetta TDI , as it's averaging well over its EPA-estimated 30 city and 42 highway miles per gallon in our hands. In fact, with a deft throttle foot, it's not terribly difficult to crest the 50-mpg plateau on long, steady-state trips.
The oil-burning steed recently made the trek from Southern California to the Phoenix, Arizona area so that our resident photographer, Drew Phillips, could make sure we got all the right shots as we lead-footed our way around the Bondurant circuit with the Chevy Camaro ZL1 .
Parking the Jetta TDI next to the Camaro ZL1 was an interesting exercise - it's hard to imagine two vehicles more diametrically opposed than these. And, needless to say, moving directly from 580 supercharged horsepower in the ZL1 to just 140 horses in the VW took a bit of right-foot recalibration.
The good news is that, with 236 pound-feet of torque on tap, the Jetta TDI is fun to drive in its own right. Short-shifting the six-speed manual gearbox to keep the diesel mill in its sweet spot produces the most satisfying experience in the Jetta, and it allows you to feel the rush of torque as the turbocharger gets a hold of the spent diesel fumes, pushing your body into the seatback.
Continue reading 2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: January 2012
2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: January 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 21:00
Report: Mini accidentally names deadly European weather front after its cars
Filed under: Etc., Europe, Marketing/Advertising, Mini
The naming of a storm seems innocuous enough. After all, when some sort of weather event - be it a hurricane, tropical storm, blizzard or flood - comes along, we as human beings are going to talk about it, and having a name makes that a much easier process.
So, the marketing folk at Sassenbach, the ad agency used by Mini in its home country, probably thought it would be harmless and fun to buy the naming rights for an upcoming storm in Germany (as an aside... yes, you apparently can buy the naming rights to a storm in Germany!) to get people talking about Mini, even when not directly referencing their cars.
Harmless, though, it was not. As it turned out, Weather System Cooper spread snow, ice and freezing temperatures throughout all of Europe, claiming the lives of at least 100 people and sending thousands to the hospital to be treated for hypothermia and frostbite.
According to BBC News , both Mini and the ad agency have stopped commenting on the apparent flub, having previously stated that they didn't have direct control over which storm front would be named and couldn't know in advance how severe any specific storm may be.
While that's obviously true, we bet Mini and Sassenbach are praying to the god of good weather that Weather System Minnie - they bought the rights to two storms, presumably before the first turned into an unmitigated disaster - brings nothing worse than sunshine, rainbows and unicorns to the woebegone victims of Storm Cooper's swath of destruction.
Mini accidentally names deadly European weather front after its cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 20:29
Toyota Predicts Plug-in Prius Will Get 95 MPGe
The plug-in hybrid version of Toyota's best-selling Prius hybrid , which is debuting in the U.S. next month and will be commercially available in 14 states this Spring , was first supposed to be rated at around 87 MPG-equivalent. This alone would have been enough to put the plug-in Prius pretty high on the fuel-efficiency list, but after more ... (more)
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 20:15
Official: Nissan and NASA announce 350Z-based spec series
Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Nissan
Nissan is partnering with the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) to create an all new Spec Z Series that promises low costs and performance parity. The single classification series will feature 350Z models from 2003 to 2008, and prizes that part-time track warriors can really get behind.
At the regional level, podium finishers can earn up to $850 in prize money. Further, Nissan will pony up $6,500 in cash support for top Spec Z finishers at the 2012 NASA Championships. Further support will come from BFGoodrich, which will be the control tire for the series and will back a contingency price program for Spec Z.
Hit the jump to read over the Nissan press release, which includes a link that will provide still more information on the Spec Z series.
Continue reading Nissan and NASA announce 350Z-based spec series
Nissan and NASA announce 350Z-based spec series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 20:01
Official: Red Bull Racing going for the hat-trick with new RB8 [w/video]
Filed under: Motorsports, Videos, Racing
It might have seemed like a joke when an energy drink company bought the first of two F1 teams in 2004, but eight years and two world titles later, the only ones laughing are those inside the team. For 2012, Red Bull Racing returns as the force to be reckoned with as it aims to make it three in a row, and this is the car in which it aims to get there.
Red Bull hasn't released much in the way of details on how the RB8 differs from the hugely successful RB7 it replaces, but the most obvious change is the stepped nose design that is unfortunately becoming the defining trait of the 2012 grid. The engine is once again furnished by Renault , with KERS and DRS in place to help Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber get to the front of the field... and stay there. Sebastien Buemi joins the team this season as its official test driver, having been jettisoned from Scuderia Toro Rosso .
Follow the jump for a rather bizarre video clip of the RB8's online launch, check out the only two images released thus far in the gallery below, and watch this space for more as the pretenders to Red Bull's throne present their latest machinery.
Continue reading Red Bull Racing going for the hat-trick with new RB8 [w/video]
Red Bull Racing going for the hat-trick with new RB8 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 19:31
This Idea Might Save Thousands Of Lives From Death By Texting
No laws will change our capacity for stupidity behind the wheel. People will drive and text no matter what legislation is passed.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 19:15
New Kia model to debut in Chicago
Kia confirmed plans to debut a new spinoff of its best-selling Soul at the upcoming Chicago Auto Show.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 19:15
Japanese carmakers on the comeback trail
Japan's struggling auto sector is hoping to get a boost with a set of new releases aimed at revitalizing an industry that once dominated the global market.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 19:15
Official: Kia releases second Track'Ster teaser ahead of Chicago debut
Filed under: Chicago Auto Show, Concept Cars, Hatchback, Kia, Design/Style
Kia has officially dropped new teaser for its Chicago -bound Track'Ster concept . Word has it the new hatch will be based largely on the company's Soul five-door, though with a few notable tweaks . For starters, designers scrapped the rear doors for more of a hot hatch look. A new front fascia looks to be part of the recipe as well, and odds are the Track'Ster will rock suitably outrageous wheels befitting a true concept.
But will it come to production? It's hard telling. As you may recall, the Soul has been a go-to favorite as a concept platform in the past. Kia showed off the beach-going Soul'ster concept at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show , and while the vehicle generated enormous buzz, the economic slowdown put a stop to any production plans. Still, with corporate cousin Hyundai rocking the Veloster , there may be room in the Kia stable for a performance hatch.
The Track'Ster Concept will make its official debut later this week.
Kia releases second Track'Ster teaser ahead of Chicago debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 19:01
Video: OK Go plays "Needing/Getting" with the Chevy Sonic
Filed under: Budget, Videos, Hatchback, Chevrolet
Chevrolet alluded to it in its "Stunt Anthem" Super Bowl commercial for the Sonic , and during this weekend's Super Bowl, the genuine article appeared. As promised, the Sonic tests out its musical chops by playing OK Go's "Needing/Getting."
Two miles of instruments were laid out in the Southern California desert, lots of practice and planning to get it just right. Of course, that was after four months of preparation, during which time OK Go's lead singer had to learn how to stunt drive.
Follow the jump to check it out, and follow the source link to get more behind-the-scenes tidbits on what went into it.
Continue reading OK Go plays "Needing/Getting" with the Chevy Sonic
OK Go plays "Needing/Getting" with the Chevy Sonic originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 18:33
Evoque Demand Leaves Land Rover Dealers Clamouring For More
That's why dealers are pleading for more of the new compact Evoque three- and five-door SUV, which has an entry price with transportation of $43,995 for the five-door model and $44,995 for the three-door. Worldwide demand for the Evoque is high, and some U.S. dealers don't know when they'll get more.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 18:10
Poll: AdSpotting Super Bowl Edition: Grading the Ads
Filed under: Marketing/Advertising
Just like Super Bowl XLVI had to have a winner and a loser, so do the commercials. We've assembled every car commercial that aired during the big game after the jump, along with a poll allowing you to vote on your favorite.
To help you decide, we've graded the ads based on the opinions of our own AOL Autos Editor-in-Chief David Kiley. Having been marketing editor at BusinessWeek , an Adweek and Advertising Age columnist and reporter, and an ad executive at three agencies that worked on Mercedes-Benz , Mazda and Cadillac accounts, Kiley's judgment counts more than most in this sort of discussion.
Follow the jump to review our report card and vote for your favorite Super Bowl car commercial in our poll. The automakers are listening, so use your vote to tell them the ad you liked most, and just maybe you'll see more like it next year.
Continue reading AdSpotting Super Bowl Edition: Grading the Ads
AdSpotting Super Bowl Edition: Grading the Ads originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 17:57
Video: What happened to the Chrysler Super Bowl commercial?
The gritty Chrysler Super Bowl commercial starring Clint Eastwood may not have been as much of a shock - or as universally well-regarded - as last year's Eminem spot , but it's certainly going to have cube-dwellers trawling YouTube to catch another viewing. Problem is, Chrysler's YouTube channel ran into some problems this morning. Viewers attempting to watch the commercial instead got a message saying "This video is no longer available due to a copyright claim by NFL Properties LLC."
When we reached Chrysler spokeswoman Diana Gutierrez earlier today, she could only say, "We are investigating right now."
The video did become available on the Chrsyler YouTube channel by 11:00 AM Eastern time, though we are awaiting some explanation of what happened from Chrysler's PR team. As a stopgap measure while the Chrysler channel was still down, the ad was posted to another Chrysler YouTube page, PentastarVideo. Still, Chrysler's problems during a high-traffic part of the day means it must have missed plenty of eyeballs.
Watch the video after the jump.
Continue reading What happened to the Chrysler Super Bowl commercial?
What happened to the Chrysler Super Bowl commercial? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 17:29
More Good News On Car Plant Jobs
Last week, we told you how three aging plants from Detroit carmakers are finding new life.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 17:06
Official: 2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695*
Filed under: Car Buying, Crossover, Mazda
Mazda's attractive and fun-to-drive 2013 CX-5 goes on sale this month, and the automaker's North American arm has just announced that it will be priced from $20,695 (*not including $795 for destination). That's a higher base price than competitors like the Hyundai Tuscon , Kia Sportage and Subaru Forester , but the CX-5 boasts some of the best driving dynamics in the segment, not to mention the best fuel economy numbers in the class .
That $20,695 price point refers, of course, to the CX-5 Sport with the (remarkably good) six-speed manual transmission. Opting for the six-speed automatic will set you back an additional $1,400, and if you want to add all-wheel drive, be prepared to dish out another $1,250. Moving up, Touring models with either front- or all-wheel drive start at $23,895 and $25,145, respectively, and are only available with the six-speed automatic gearbox. Lastly, the range-topping Grand Touring comes in at $27,045 (FWD) and $28,295 (AWD), and with the $1,325 technology package added to the GT trim, you'll be looking at $29,620 for a fully loaded CX-5.
The 2013 CX-5 uses Mazda's brand new 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G gasoline engine, along with a host of other weight-saving technologies. We've driven the CX-5 on two different occasions, and while we're quite impressed with the steering, manual gearbox and suspension, we wish interior refinement were a bit better. Still, Mazda is positioning the CX-5 as the enthusiast's small crossover, and we're inclined to agree. Follow the jump for Mazda's official pricing release.
Continue reading 2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695*
2013 Mazda CX-5 priced from $20,695* originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 17:00
Report: Excellence in Energy Efficiency Act promises $1 billion prize for 100 MPG car
Filed under: Government/Legal
Are you a U.S. automaker? Do you want a billion dollars? Have we got a deal for you! Just build 60,000 cars that get 100 miles per gallon and the government will send a truckload of cash to your office doors (or, perhaps, mail a check).
H.R. 3872 - the Excellence in Energy Efficiency Act of 2012 - was just introduced by Representative Dan Lungren (R) of California's 3rd Congressional District. If passed, the legislation would have the Secretary of Energy "establish a program to award a prize in the amount of $1,000,000,000 to the first automobile manufacturer incorporated in the United States to manufacture and sell in the United States 60,000 mid-sized sedan automobiles which operate on gasoline and can travel 100 miles per gallon."
That's right, no cheating with subcompacts toys or fancy all-electrics, it's for adult-sized gasoline-burners only. It's unclear whether plug-in hybrids such as the Chevy Volt or upcoming Ford Fusion Energi might be eligible, but we doubt it since OpenCongress says the subtitle is, "To provide a prize to the first manufacturer of highly-efficient mid-sized automobiles powered by gasoline," and the Volt already comes in at 93 MPGe .
While established automakers couldn't be lured in by the measly $1 million offered by the Progressive X-Prize , we're sure they'd be more than happy to accept a check with the big B on it. The question this proposed law begs, though, is would they make an extra effort to achieve this sort of sky-high efficiency goal under other circumstances?
Excellence in Energy Efficiency Act promises $1 billion prize for 100 MPG car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 16:31
Official: Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video]
Filed under: Concept Cars, Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Technology, Hatchback, Nissan
Nissan is headed to the Geneva Motor Show in March with a brand new hatchback concept. Called Invitation, this five-door should give us an idea of what the Japanese manufacturer has planned for its next B-segment contender. The concept borrows a bit from the likes of the Honda Fit , though that's no bad thing. With a clean, athletic design, the Invitation is a refreshing break from some of the automaker's more questionable exteriors.
Nissan hasn't divulged any drivetrain details as of yet, though the company has said each of the Invitation derivatives will be eligible to wear the company's Pure Drive badge. That means the production-version Invitation will be among the most efficient and economical vehicles Nissan produces. We do know the hatch will boast the ever-cool around-view monitor system along with a full slate of tech goodies. Hit the jump for the full press release and be sure to keep an eye open for our Geneva show coverage of the concept's official unveiling.
Continue reading Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video]
Nissan Invitation Concept peeks out ahead of Geneva debut [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 16:01
Report: Why haven't you seen many new Chevy Caprice police cars? GM delays.
Filed under: Sedan, Etc., Work, Chevrolet, Police/Emergency, Australia
The sun has long since set on the Ford Crown Victoria and the big sedan's Police Interceptor variants, but many parts of the country still haven't seen the next-generation of pursuit vehicles take to the street. In the case of the Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle , that's because General Motors has hit a delay in providing the Holden-based sedans. According to the DuPont Registry, the delay is two-fold. Shipping from Australia is taking longer than expected, and Chevrolet dealers aren't outfitting the vehicles quickly enough to satiate demand.
The report quotes Deputy Chief Jeff Undestad of the Largo Police Department in Largo, Florida as saying his office waited more than eight months for GM to deliver their Caprice Patrol Vehicles to the dealer. Undestad should consider himself lucky. A neighboring department waited 10 months for its new patrol cars. Chrysler , meanwhile, usually takes two to three months to deliver its police-duty Dodge Charger models.
GM, meanwhile, says that the company is working to address the shipping issues. The company now has a pool of Caprice Patrol Vehicles at port, which should help trim the wait time.
Why haven't you seen many new Chevy Caprice police cars? GM delays. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 15:30
Official: Mini drums up yet another special edition, the Highgate
Filed under: Convertible, Mini, UK, Specialty
We are more used to seeing this in the six-figure realm of the automotive world: a carmaker putting out one special edition after another. But both Mini and UK buyers love their specializations, so Mini has provided another one called the Highgate. It follows the Baker Street and Baywater editions as the new hotness for 2012.
This one will be for the Cooper convertible (Baker Street and Bayswater were for the hardtops). The standard treatment is an Iced Chocolate exterior coat with Truffle stripes on the hood and a Silvertouched Truffle roof, but metallic options in Midnight Black and White Silver are also available.
Insid,e Dark Truffle Lounge Leather seats with blue piping meet a host of standard features such as Mini's cold-weather and Chrome Line Interior packages. It rides on 17-inch Double Cross wheels and gets a range of four engine options from that in the 122-horsepower Cooper to the 143-horsepower motor from the Cooper SD.
Prices start at £21,300 ($33,693 U.S., not that we'd ever get it here) on-the-road for the manual-transmission Cooper Highgate Convertible, to £26,050 ($41,206 U.S.) OTR for the Cooper SD Highgate Convertible with an auto. More information is in the press release after the jump and plenty of eye candy in the gallery of high-res photos.
Continue reading Mini drums up yet another special edition, the Highgate
Mini drums up yet another special edition, the Highgate originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 14:59
Maserati recalls 2008-10 Granturismo over potential taillamp failures
Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Government/Legal, Safety, Maserati, Luxury
Maserati has announced a recall of certain 2008-2010 Granturismo models over faulty tail lamps. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration , the coupes may have been assembled with a defective rear lamp assembly. The lights could then fail to illuminated, potentially causing an accident. NHTSA says Maserati will replace the units free of charge once the campaign begins this month. The recall covers 1,768 Granturismo models.
Last year , Maserati recalled 763 Quattraporte and Granturismo models over faulty tie-rod ends, which could have led to a total loss of vehicle control. Click past the jump for the full NHTSA recall report. Owners may contact Maserati or NHTSA for more information.
Continue reading Maserati recalls 2008-10 Granturismo over potential taillamp failures
Maserati recalls 2008-10 Granturismo over potential taillamp failures originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 14:28
Report: Audi to raise the roof on A1 with rolling cloth panel?
Filed under: Convertible, Europe, Hatchback, Audi
Audi is going to great lengths to steal territory away from arch-rival BMW and its Mini marque. But as you'd expect from any German automaker, the initial A1 three-door premium hatchback appears to be just the beginning. Since its launch, the A1 has bred the five-door A1 Sportback , there's a Q1 crossover based on the same platform reportedly in the works, and the A1 Quattro demonstrates the extent of the architecture's performance capabilities. But Ingolstadt is not about to stop there as reports come in of a convertible version as well.
Well, sort of. According to reports coming in from Germany, Audi is preparing to launch a version of the A1 with a rolling cloth roof panel. If the intel proves accurate, the open-air version would stop one step short of the pseudo-convertible Fiat 500C , in that the aperture would essentially be a giant fabric sunroof, but not roll down the back.
The measure would undoubtedly save Audi significant development costs, but also keep chassis rigidity in check without the need for significant additional structural bracing. Either way, we're not looking at getting any version of the A1 on this side of the Atlantic any time soon, so as far as American buyers are concerned, this is all rather academic.
Audi to raise the roof on A1 with rolling cloth panel? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 13:57
Watch a Corvette Z06 roast itself in the Netherlands [Video]
After a photo shoot in the Dutch city of Baarn last weekend this Corvette decided to prove it too wanted to be an exotic car and set its engine on fire.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 12:56
Ford tried to stop Chevrolet Silverado's Super Bowl ad
Ford, which already has the best-selling pickup, is protesting a commercial that it contends that the Chevrolet Silverado pickup is more dependable than the Ford F-Series. Chevrolet, in a statement, says it received a call from Ford executives on Saturday night asking that the ad be yanked.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 08:51
Ford Calls Foul On Chevy Super Bowl Ad
General Motors ignored a request from Ford Motor Co. and ran a humorous Chevrolet truck ad during the Super Bowl that takes a slap at Ford.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 05:47
This Is What Catrinel Menghia, The Hot Girl From Fiat's Super Bowl Ad, Is Saying [Video]
As we told you a few months back, Sports Ilustrated swimsuit model Catrinel Menghia is the hot, anthropomorphic incarnation of the Fiat 500 Abarth in the now-famous ad every auto enthusiast in the United States has fallen in love with.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 05:47
Chrysler's Clint Eastwood Super Bowl Spot Is The Best Political Ad Yet [Video]
Chrysler's newest "Imported From Detroit" ad - a campaign that started at last year's Super Bowl with an ad starring Eminem - stars Clint Eastwood in yet another pitch-perfect ad for the littlest of the Big Three.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 05:47
Video: Chrysler debuts "Halftime in America" Super Bowl ad
Filed under: Marketing/Advertising, Chrysler
How do you follow up a Super Bowl ad staring Eminem's music and one of 2011's most successful taglines? If you're Chrysler , you call in Clint Eastwood and revisit the city of Detroit's comeback story for a progress update.
Appropriately titled "Halftime in America," Chrysler's Super Bowl ad made its impactful debut immediately following the game's halftime show. Starring American icon Clint Eastwood, the ad's theme mimics the game itself, reminding Americans that even though times are tough, Detroit has proven that comebacks are possible.
Stirring? We think so. See for yourself after the jump and let us know in the comments if you think Chrysler has created a worthy follow up to last year's commercial.
Continue reading Chrysler debuts "Halftime in America" Super Bowl ad
Chrysler debuts "Halftime in America" Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 02:44
Video: Get pumped up with this 24 Hours of Le Mans historical highlight reel
Filed under: Motorsports
Even though Aston Martin's gone home and Audi won't have Peugeot to kick around at this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans, there's a heap to look forward to: a large field of entries that includes two Audi diesel R18s plus two more hybrid R18s , Toyota's TS030 LMP1 hybrid and LMP2 racers from Lotus and Morgan .
But it's the entire field that delivers the magic of Le Mans, and it's not like we need more reminders of the race's awesome history, but we're glad the ACO (Automobile Club de l'Ouest, the organizer) has given us one. You'll find all three minutes of it after the jump.
Continue reading Get pumped up with this 24 Hours of Le Mans historical highlight reel
Get pumped up with this 24 Hours of Le Mans historical highlight reel originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 02:00
Woman blames large breasts for failed field sobriety test [Car Crime]
We don't support drunk driving or any attempts to get out of an arrest for doing so, but we have give one Florida woman credit for a creative on the spot excuse when she was pulled over last weekend for speeding and swerving through traffic.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 01:42
Can you identify a 1973 AMC Matador? [Video]
If you find yourself asking "What's a Matador?" it appears you are not alone. From the looks of this self deprecating AMC commercial the company had accepted that even two years into the model run, people still didn't know what a Matador was.
Topix.net | 06-Feb-2012 01:42
Official: Volvo marks 30th anniversary of the 760
Filed under: Classics, Sedan, Volvo
When you think of old-school Volvos - you know, those boxy designs that pre-date the more curvaceous models of today - what do you picture? The 240? The 850? Or do you think of the ultimate in squared-off Swedish design, the 760?
The model credited with saving Volvo was introduced in February, 1982, making it 30 years old this month. Reflecting on the occasion, Volvo looks back at the 760's development, when it needed a car that would be reliable, efficient, durable, easily serviceable, quiet, somewhat attractive, and be a decent performer (in that order). The result was a rear-drive sedan four inches longer in wheelbase than the 240, yet a good 220 lbs lighter.
And that boxy design? That decision was as financial in nature as it was stylistic. After considering a number of design proposals, the final look was selected to be as cost-effective to produce as possible. In the end, those budgetary restrictions left us with a car that was, while not particularly exciting to behold, certainly an enduring icon of its time. Follow the jump to read the full retrospective, and flip through the images in the attached gallery.
Continue reading Volvo marks 30th anniversary of the 760
Volvo marks 30th anniversary of the 760 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 06-Feb-2012 01:02
Breaking: Ford asks Chevrolet, then NBC, to pull Silverado Super Bowl ad
Filed under: Truck, Government/Legal, Marketing/Advertising, Chevrolet, Ford
Chevrolet is having some pointed fun with its apocalyptic Super Bowl ad featuring the Silverado called "2012," only the fun is pointed directly at Ford , which finds it a little too sharp to be all that much fun. So on the eve of the big game, Ford sent Chevy a cease-and-desist letter to pull the ad and "pressured" NBC not to run the commercial, according to a report on Yahoo!'s Motoramic blog. Chevy has released a statement in response, which you can read after the jump, indicating that the ad will run despite Ford's protest.
Ford found no reason to chuckle at some of the commercial's claims, "particularly around durability." One in particular comes from a character that says of their now-deceased, F-150-driving pal, "Dave didn't drive the longest-lasting most dependable truck on the road. Dave drove a Ford."
Ford spokesman Mike Levine says his company has more trucks with 250,000-plus miles on the road than any other brand, which would appear to contradict the small print that appears in the "2012" ad that reads, "Dependability based on longevity: 1981-2011 full-size pickup registrations." Ford says its lawyers will decide what to do (if anything) after the ad airs during tonight's game, but Chevy's legal minions must have vetted the spot closely well before time.
Or Ford could take Chevy marketing honcho Joel Ewanick up on his offer and bide its time. Said Ewanick, "We can wait until the world ends, and if we need to, we will apologize."
Continue reading Ford asks Chevrolet, then NBC, to pull Silverado Super Bowl ad
Ford asks Chevrolet, then NBC, to pull Silverado Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 05-Feb-2012 23:55
Report: Jaguar to close museum, looking for new location
Jaguar's headquarters and production were located at Browns Lane in Conventry for more than fifty years. Part of the complex included the Jaguar Heritage Museum and its collection of 150 cars, so when the Browns Lane site was sold in 2007 to an Australian developer , the countdown began on the museum's remaining time.
Now comes the formal announcement that the collection will vacate its current spot in September, the tragedy being that it might not relocate to a publicly accessible location. Museum reps say that the collection will continue to be in circulation, either on the historical circuit like Goodwood or on loan to other museums. Even now the Jaguar Heritage Museum only has about 30 cars on-site .
Nevertheless, unless another location is secured you won't be able to just show up, buy a ticket and stroll among cars like the 1935 SS Airline AWR564, 1950 Jaguar XK 120 NUB120 or 1956 Jaguar D-type 'Long Nose' 393RW. You'll also miss Austin Powers' "Shaguar," if that's more your style.
Jaguar to close museum, looking for new location originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 05-Feb-2012 23:34
BMWism.com chronicles BMW designers through the eras
Filed under: Classics, Etc., BMW, Design/Style
Chris Bangle may be the name most recently associated with BMW design, but he's just one of many men and women who have sketched and sculpted automobiles for Bayerische Motoren Werke. BMW enthusiast website BMWism.com has gone all the way back to the beginning of the brand, when a BMW was a knockoff of an Austin 7. The names we all know show up in the chronology; giants of post-World War II automotive design world like Michelotti, Bertone, Gandini, Bracq, and of course, Hofmeister.
In addition to the Italian hired guns who sketched for BMW at one time or another, a few surprising names dot BMW's history. Josef Ganz , the largely unsung automotive engineer responsible for much of the original Volkswagen Beetle, also did contract work for BMW. Aerodynamicist Wunibald Kamm based his Kamm-Coupe on BMW 328 mechanicals. Raymond Loewy's mid-century lines were wrought upon at least one BMW 507, and Albrecht von Goertz was a colleague of Loewy's before he designed the 507.
In more recent years, it's intriguing to note the diversity of backgrounds. You've got Bangle, Henrik Fisker, current design chief Adrian van Hooydonk (the man actually responsible for the "Bangle Butt"), and Z4 designer Juliane Blasi. Perhaps the most understated of all BMW designers is Jojii Nagashima, the man responsible for the outgoing E90 3 Series, the iconic E39 5 Series, and, along with Boyke Boyer, the E36 3 Series. Taken as a whole, BMW has a pantheon of automotive design big-thinkers, a trend that doesn't look to be slowing anytime soon.
BMWism.com chronicles BMW designers through the eras originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 05-Feb-2012 22:01
Car Commercialism: The Making of OK Go's "Needing/Getting" Music Video - Feature
The Chevy Sonic and alt-rockers OK Go team up in the TV-on-demand, post-record-store, pre-paradigm, everything-all-the-time, viral-media age.
Topix.net | 05-Feb-2012 21:32
Official: Force India F1 team reveals 2012 VJM05
Filed under: Motorsports, Racing
Force India has come a long way. What started out as Jordan Grand Prix and changed hands (and names) several times before landing in the stewardship of Indian bazillionaire Vijay Mallya has become a solid mid-field contender on race days. In 2011, the team finished sixth in the constructors' standings, behind front-runners Red Bull , McLaren , Ferrari , Mercedes and Lotus Renault GP. In 2012, however, Force India aims to challenge Mercedes and Lotus for fifth place using the car shown above.
The VJM05 bears the same unfortunate stepped nose of the just-unveiled Ferrari F2012 and Caterham CT01 , a trend we expect to see across much of the field as teams deal with F1's technical regulations. Engine, transmission and KERS are again provided by Mercedes-Benz through a partnership with McLaren, and while former DTM champion Paul di Resta returns for another season in the cockpit. Adrian Sutil departs the team in the wake of his assault conviction , his seat now occupied by Nico Hulkenberg .
We'll be watching to see if the young duo can continue to move Force India up the F1 hierarchy. For now, you can check out the press release after the jump and photos from the car's unveiling - which included the first on-track session of any 2012 F1 cars revealed thus far - in the image gallery above.
Continue reading Force India F1 team reveals 2012 VJM05
Force India F1 team reveals 2012 VJM05 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Commentsautoblog.com | 05-Feb-2012 20:31
VIDEO: Super Bowl Sunday's Primetime Car Commercials - WHICH Gets Your Approval?
The New England Patriots are here to take on the New York Giants in a game that's likely to be a thriller.
Topix.net | 05-Feb-2012 20:28