Autoblog: News Thread

[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Ra-Roh! Mitsubishi unveils Concept-RA

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Coupes, Mitsubishi

click above for more high-res images of the Mitsubishi Concept-RA

It's a rare day when a concept makes us visibly wretch, but Mitsubishi did just that when it ripped the sheets off its Concept-RA. Maybe it was the ill-proportioned front fascia that took all the wrong cues from a Vector, or the generic styling of the rear three-quarter view, but overall, it left us cold, despite Mitsu's infinitely looped Daft Punk/Kanye West mashup.

Regardless, the Concept-RA uses some innovative materials (aluminum space frame and recycled plastic body panels) and we like the idea of an all-wheel-drive, diesel-powered sports coupe that sends 201 hp and 310 lb.-ft. of twist through Mitsubishi's S-AWC system. But beyond the powertrain underneath, we weren't impressed -- and the engine poking through the hood didn't help either.

Mitsubishi's press release plus video is posted in full after the jump and we've got our live gallery of images below.

Gallery: Mitsubishi Concept-RA

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Toyota A-BAT Concept revealed after dark

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Trucks/Pickups, Toyota

click above for more high-res images of the Toyota A-BAT Concept

After the first day of the 2008 Detroit Auto Show press days ended, some of us decided to take up Toyota on its invite to a reception at which we were greeted by the live reveal of the A-BAT concept hybrid pickup. Though images of the A-BAT were released some time ago and we know all about the unibody pickup's hybrid synergy drivetrain and Chevy Avalanche-like midgate, we were pleasantly surprised to find ourselves not hating the design as much as we thought we would. It's odd, for sure, but it's a concept and there's artistic license to be had there. The actual size of the A-BAT, however, is smaller than its chunky flanks and expanse of sheet metal suggest. It makes us long for the compact pickup segment to be revived with trucks that are actually, you know, compact. Like the new 2009 Dodge Ram, the A-BAT also features storage compartments in its bed rails, as well as a first-aid kit in the tailgate. Aside from the hybrid drivetrain, its green cred is further bolstered by solar panels embedded in the dash to drive the accessories. All good stuff, of course, but we just want a small pickup with one of those efficient yet torquey clean diesels everyone's talking about. Perhaps if Toyota hears our collective demand for such a vehicle, a version of the A-BAT might actually be produced.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Toyota A-BAT Concept - Live Reveal


Gallery: Detroit 2008: Toyota A-BAT Concept

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Toyota gets greener with new diesels, hybrids and PHEV test f

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, Green, Toyota
Toyota's turning up the heat on its already-boiling environmental image by putting more effort into sustainable programs. At a reception held for the media tonight after the first press day of the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe declared the automaker's continuing green push. Among the most imminent of the many initiatives mentioned, a new clean diesel V8 will be coming soon for the Tundra and Sequoia. Many have been clamoring for such a power source for those vehicles, though Toyota did not commit to an on-sale date. Toyota's also putting more effort into plug-in hybrids and will be expanding its PHEV test fleet.

Those aforementioned plug-ins will be equipped with lithium-ion batteries, and Toyota has begun planning with partner Panasonic to expand its battery operations to include an automotive li-ion production line. Throwing down the gauntlet, Watanabe closed the event by enticing the media to return to Detroit next year, where two new hybrids will be unveiled. The two new hybrid models, one for Lexus and one for Toyota, are part of the Japanese automaker's goal of selling one million hybrids per year within the next ten years. It's starting to look like the Green Arena is where the next smackdown is headed now that the unbridled horsepower race has been choked off by the ever-looming new CAFE regs.

[Source: AutoblogGreen]
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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Officially Official - It's the Lincoln MKT!

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Crossovers/CUVs, Ford, Lincoln

click above for more high-res images of the Lincoln MKT

We first saw spy photos of the Lincoln MKT concept only a week ago, and it's now here as a concept at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. Based on the fact that a development mule was spotted already, you can ignore Lincoln when it says the MKT is a potential new vehicle for the brand. It is a new vehicle for the brand. The new premium CUV is believed to be based on the platform of the Ford Flex and follows the Explorer America concept in being powered by one of Ford's new EcoBoost engines. Like its sedan sibling, the MKS, this one gets a turbocharged 3.5L V6 that allows you to choose between either E85 or premium grade petroleum-based gasoline. The premium requirement is the result of the engine being optimized for the higher octane ratings of the biofuel. The upside is that output jumps from 340 hp/340 lb-ft to 415hp and 400 lb-ft. All of that twisting force is transmitted through a six-speed automatic transmission and distributed to all four wheels for propulsion. The voluminous interior of the MKT has also been optimized for comfort and luxury with only four seats allocated for passengers. If a production version with a third-row bench arrives, this looks like the likely candidate to replace all those Town Cars in livery fleets. The body work incorporates more of the new Lincoln design cues that first turned up on last year's MKR concept but were too late for the MKS. That body work is formed from "upcycled" plastics produced by Sabic Innovative Plastics, the same people who produced the materials used on the Chevy Volt and Hyundai Qarmaq concepts.

Follow the jump for Lincoln's official press release with more details than we can muster at this late hour, and check back later today for live shots of the MKT from the floor of the Detroit Auto Show.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Detroit 2008: Officially Official - It's the Lincoln MKT!

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept to debut later this morning

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Coupes, Cadillac, GM

Hot off the wire is GM's surprise announcement that Cadillac will unveil a CTS Coupe Concept at its press conference later this morning. We've been expecting a CTS Coupe as part of the diversification of that model's offerings, and this concept should give us a great idea of what the probable production car will look like. Photos won't be released until closer to showtime, and we'll get them up as soon as they're released. Joining the CTS Coupe will be the Cadillac Myst, another hydrogen concept, and of course, you're already familiar with the CTS-V and Escalade Hybrid, which round out the Caddy contingent. Stay tuned for more.

[Source: GM]Continue reading Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept to debut later this morning

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept lands

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Green, Chrysler

click above for more high-res images of the Chrysler ecoVoyager Concept

One of three Pentastar concepts powered by some combination of cutting-edge technology, the Chrysler ecoVoyager continues the automaker's fascination with art-deco by resurrecting the Stout Scarab. Doing away with a conventional powertrain and installing a 45kW fuel cell allows the 268-horsepower electric motor to spin the wheels for 300 miles before refueling. The Li-Ion batteries give the concept a theoretical range of 40 miles before the fuel cell is called upon, and regenerative braking recovers some energy for the batteries, too.

The skateboard nature of the chassis and power systems allows for a very roomy cabin and low center of gravity, which aids handling. Weighing in at a modest 2,750 pounds, the ecoVoyager doesn't have a problem performing like the cars we know and love, either. 0-60 is dispatched in 8.8 seconds, and Chrysler's claiming a 12.9 second quarter mile, which we find astounding to the point of disbelief. A 13-second quarter mile seems too fleet, even for the eyeball-flattening torque delivery of electric motors. Nuts and bolts aside, Chrysler outfitted the ecoVoyager's interior to keep occupants connected, entertained, fed and watered. There's even dual strips of sunroof that don't look at all like toaster slots. The goal was to create the earth-bound experience that a Gulfstream jet offers in the air. The powertrain of the ecoVoyager certainly outpaces the mere jet-age ideas of a G5.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Chrysler ecoVoyager concept


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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Dodge Zeo takes green, adds mean

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, Green, Chrysler, Dodge

click above for more high-res pics of the Dodge Zeo concept

Chrysler is out to convince folks of its green cred here in Detroit, so it's offering up the Dodge Zeo to the fuel- and emissions-conscious masses. The 2+2 coupe features 64kWh of electric energy that's sent to the rear wheels via a 268-hp motor. Dodge claims that the 2,650-pound Zeo can amble along for 250 miles before it's due for a recharge, although we'd suspect that turning the massive 23-inch wheels might take a bite out of the Zeo's long-range cruising capabilities. The actual mechanicals are also, most likely, a figment of some product planner's imagination at the moment.

The design is typical concept car flare, with wheels pushed to the edges of the body and a steeply raked windshield that carries all the way to the rear of the vehicle, terminating in a tapered hatch that's accentuated by massive fender flares.

We don't expect the Zeo to come to fruition anytime soon if at all, but we approve of automakers at least entertaining the idea that being green doesn't need to overwhelm a vehicle's personality.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Dodge ZEO Concept

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Jeep Renegade Concept

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, SUVs, Green, Chrysler, Jeep

Click image for high-res gallery

Chrysler is showing three concepts that leverage the automaker's ENVI electric vehicle tech tech today in Detroit. The Chrysler ccoVoyager and Dodge ZEO concepts will be covered in separate posts, but they share their main electric drivetrains with Jeep's open-air concept. At the center of ENVI is a 200 kW (268 hp) electric motor with a 40 mile range that's powered by lithium ion batteries. The Renegade concept uses a pair of these -- one on each axle to create a proper 4X4 -- and adds a low gear mode, locking differentials, and a Bluetec diesel "range-extender" engine that gives it the equivalent of 110 mpg when combined with the electric motors. We see a little of the 1998 Jeepster Concept in the Renegade's front end, but beyond that, the little two-seater goes its own way, putting a modern spin on the Wrangler ethos that incorporates environmental sustainability into the overall equation without sacrificing the brand's off-road roots and identity. You can read Chrysler's full press release on the Renegade after the jump.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Jeep Renegade Concept

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: AutoblogGreen for 01.14.08

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, Green


Autoblog bloggers are doing all they can to bring you every last tidbit from the Cobo Hall floor. I know, as I'm right here in Detroit with them, helping to put the green side of the Detroit Auto Show story on AutoblogGreen. As you can see from the list below, there's no shortage of eco-friendly news items at NAIAS 2008. Check Autoblog and AutoblogGreen throughout the day for more car news than your boss wants you to see.

• Detroit 2008: Dodge ZEO BEV sports car
• Detroit 2008: GM and Coskata announce worldwide cellulosic ethanol partnership
• Detroit 2008: Chrysler ecoVoyager fuel cell RE-EV concept
• Detroit 2008: Saturn Flextreme E-Flex Concept
• Detroit 2008: Jeep Renegade diesel RE-EV
• Detroit 2008: Lincoln MKT w/ 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 and upcycled plastic body
• Detroit 2008: Toyota uveils the new A-BAT hybrid pickup concept
• Detroit 2008: Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe pops in at party with surprise announcements
• Detroit 2008: Johnson Controls shows off its lithium-ion battery technology
• Detroit 2008: Mercedes Vision GLK Freeside live reveal
• Detroit 2008: Chrysler will introduce a Dodge Ram hybrid in 2010
• Detroit 2008: Ferrari goes green, ethanol-fueled F430 to be announced!
• Detroit 2008: Hummer HX Concept live reveal
• Detroit 2008: GM press event with pictures, audio and video
• Detroit 2008: 2009 Ford F-150, diesel and EcoBoost coming, mpg increased
• Detroit 2008: Officially, Official Audi R8 V12 TDI concept
• Detroit 2008: Seven X-Prize teams to be on hand at Cobo Hall
• Detroit 2008: Ford VP Jim Farley on the new Verve sedan
• Detroit 2008: Saab 9-4X BioPower live reveal
• Detroit 2008: Bricklin and Electrovaya team on PHEV battery system
• Detroit 2008: Ford Verve Sedan concept brings "Kinetic design" to the U.S. for the first time
• Detroit 2008: Mazda CX-9 and Chevy Malibu win North American Car and Truck of the Year awards

Non-NAIAS news after the jump.
Continue reading AutoblogGreen for 01.14.08

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept: 2 doors is better than 4

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Coupes, Cadillac, GM

click above for more high-res live shots of the Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept

var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/autos/Cadillac_reveals_CTS_COUPE_PICS'; The grand finale of GM's Cadillac press conference was the moment everyone had been waiting for. After a brief introduction from Bob Lutz, who ziplined in from his secret lair in the RenCen, the hotly anticipated Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept rolled onstage, with design head Ed Welburn riding 'gun. The Coupe blends the CTS sedan's face with a new, wedge-shaped 2-door body that finishes off with what Ed described as a "hint of Cadillac fin" in the arrangement of the taillamps. The concept's rear had a single central exhaust outlet whose shape is a nod to the chevrons used to dress up the current CTS interior. Speaking of the interior, the CTS was dressed in black with maize-colored sueded accents and contrast stitching. In another departure from the sedan, the 2-door CTS has sportier, deeper seats. Welburn was intentionally vague abour powertrains, saying it could be powered by a number of existing ones (i.e. the ones in the CTS sedan) as well as a diesel. The car, according to him, was born out of the extra efforts of his design team, who penned the Coupe for fun after the sedan was finished and never stopped refining it. It got to a point where the a concept was approved, and though no mention of a production version was made, this looks like a sure thing in our opinion. Video of the live reveal is available after the jump.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept - Live Reveal


Gallery: Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept

Continue reading Detroit 2008: Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept: 2 doors is better than 4

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: BMW announces M3 pricing

Filed under: Car Buying, Detroit Auto Show, Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, BMW

Click the image above for plenty of high-res pics.

If you've got a hankering for a V8-powered, carbon fiber-roofed &uuml;ber 3-series, BMW has finally named its price for the M3 coupe and sedan. $57,275 will buy you entry into the M3 Coupe, and bargain hunters willing to settle for an extra pair of doors can get the M3 Sedan in their driveway for $54,575. The M3's come a long way since it's E30 homologation-special roots. The cylinder count has now doubled from that original car, the long serving six cylinders having been jettisoned in favor of a 414 horsepower V8. The interior of the new M3s is a level of luxury unknown to the E30, too. The optional wheel-mounted M-Drive control will allow the driver to customize engine and chassis responses, and iDrive shuffles media and navigation chores. These prices will likely be less than what typical M3s roll off the lot for, as most buyers will want to add some options, and in the world of BMW, options cost.

Press release after the jump.Continue reading Detroit 2008: BMW announces M3 pricing

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Kia Borrego arrives at the wrong time

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, SUVs, Kia

click above for more high-res live shots of the 2009 Kia Borrego

Perhaps the biggest news about the Kia Borrego is that it marks the introduction of a V8 to the Korean automaker's powertrain arsenal. On the other hand, maybe we're just power-addled. Lobbing an entry into the midsize-SUV arena, Kia has stuck with the traditional body-on-frame strategy that many other automakers are abandoning. Styling wise, the Borrego is familial with the Kia Sorento, and neither 'Ute is bad looking. Even when blinged out with the highest trim level, the Borrego will skim along under the radar pretty easily. Those wheels, however, look like they were lifted from an unattended concept car on the show floor. Coil springs hold up all four corners, and stability and traction control are standard. Playing in the dirt will be aided by twin hill-traversing systems; Downhill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill Assist Control (HAC). One's for going down, the other's for going up, we guess.

The aforementioned 4.6L V8 will serve up something north of 300 horsepower and be affixed to Kia's first six-speed autobox. Kia's stalwart snortalicious V6 will likely have to press all of its 264 horsepower into service just to haul the Borrego, but a five-speed automatic will help proceedings. Inside, three rows of seats provide places for seven posteriors, though the third row might be a little snug (aren't they all?). Kia's first navigation system is available, offering customers the option of a rearview camera, as well. In Kia fashion, we expect the equipment list of this 2009 model year offering to be lengthier and the dollar figure smaller than the competition. The Borrego goes on sale as a 2009 model later this year.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: 2009 Kia Borrego

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Lincoln MKT Concept is bold and bedazzled

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Crossovers/CUVs, Lincoln

click above for more high-res live shots of the Lincoln MKT

var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/autos/Lincoln_unveils_MKT_Bedazzler_s_stock_jumps_two_points'; Lincoln's next iteration of its "Bow-wave" grille comes in the form of the MKT concept; essentially a low riding CUV that might hint at an MKX replacement. What Peter Horbury is describing as a new take on the Grand Tourer, the MKT aims to be a long-distance cruiser with enough amenities to keep four urban adults comfortable and isolated from the world around them.

The MKT's styling picks up a few of MKZ-inspired cues, particularly the krill grille and sharp crease in the hood. The few elements that stand out (there aren't many) are the Lincoln emblem embedded behind the front wheels that strafes off into a character line, the chunky C-pillar and the steep slope of the hatch. The MKT carries some of the exterior's swoop inside, along with the unfortunate addition of Bedazzled sill plates and door handles. Power comes courtesy of Ford's EcoBoost 3.5-liter turbocharged and direct-injected V6, producing 415 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque.

Viewed next to the Edge-based MKX, the MKT makes Lincoln's current CUV look staid and antiquated in comparison. It might not be the best application of the new line of Lincoln design cues, but it's combination of power and cruising capabilities might be exactly what's need next in the Lincoln lineup. Video of the live MKT concept reveal is available after the jump.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Lincoln MKT Concept - Live Reveal


Gallery: Lincoln MKT Concept

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Dodge Caravan R/T Concept spotted!

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Minivans/MPVs, Dodge

click above for more images of the Dodge Caraven R/T Concept

var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/autos/Dodge_Caravan_R_T_sport_minivan_spotted_at_Detroit_Auto_Show'; Tucked away among its more pedestrian brethren was Dodge's Caravan R/T concept. We have no details on the powertrain or what else may lie beneath its skin, but the appearance changes are rather obvious. Sporting 20" forged Alcoa wheels and 245/45-20 Goodyear Eagle RS-A rubber, the fast family hauler sits just a bit lower to the ground, as well (we suggest telling your significant other that this feature makes it easier for the kids to get in and out of the vehicle). A scooped hood feeds air to whatever powerplant resides underneath, and a dual exhaust out back facilitates the removal of spent combustion gases. Inside, white-faced gages communicate information to the driver, and each occupant gets two-tone leather buckets with bright-red stitching.

We have no idea when such a vehicle might hit the showrooms, so direct your requests, complaints, and begging towards your nearest Chrysler representative.

Gallery: Dodge Caravan R/T concept


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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Fisker Karma draws a crowd, impresses

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Hybrids/Alternative, Green


Click either image above for more high-res pics of the Fisker Karma.

var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/environment/Volt_Prius_Nahh_Live_reveal_of_the_Fisker_Karma_PICS'; Fisker's premium hybrid sports sedan finally has a name: Karma. It is particularly apt since the coach builder's aim is to give customers a luxury sports sedan about which they can feel proud for what it does, or doesn't do, to the environment. The Karma is powered by what's being called Q-DRIVE, a system developed by Quantum Technologies that combines a four-cylinder engine sending power to a generator to propel the four-door sedan. Fisker claims that the Karma can run from zero to sixty in 5.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 125 mph.

There are two different modes available to drivers; the first, dubbed "Stealth Drive" is a pure electric mode which should allow the Karma to run off the lithium ion battery pack for 50 miles before the engine kicks into boost the juice. The second, a sports mode, integrates the four-banger for peak performance and, according to Fisker, makes the Karma sound like a combination of a jet fighter and an F1 car. The batteries themselves are placed smack dab in the middle of the vehicle, which lowers the car's center of gravity and improves weight distribution. Of course, the Karma is a luxury vehicle at heart and will include a navigation system and DVD player with headrest-mounted displays.

As for the design, it's unique and we're totally crushing on it. It's like a Maserati Quattroporte with more curves and character. Make no mistake, if you eventually own one you'll never see another on the road. If you're interested, however, you'll have to wait until late 2009 to take delivery, although we're certain Fisker wouldn't mind accepting a deposit before then. The first batch of 99 will be signed by the designer, Henrik Fisker, and coated in the same color as above. Price? $80,000.

Gallery: Fisker Karma


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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: MINI Cooper S Clubman makes it Stateside

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Wagons/Estates, MINI

Click image for live shots of the US-spec MINI Clubman

The U.S. version of the 2008 MINI Cooper S Clubman debuted at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit today. We saw the European Mini Cooper Clubman in Frankfurt in both base Cooper and the sportier "S" model, but here are some live shots of the American offering. Nothing surprising: same five doors, same cute styling. The Clubman will go on sale beginning February 16th, 2008 in both Cooper Clubman and Cooper S Clubman models. Base price for the MINI Cooper Clubman will be just $20,600, with the MINI Cooper S Clubman starting at $24,100.

The slightly stretched MINI with its right-hand suicide door and funky barn-door cargo ports out back has been getting pretty good reviews. We'll try to get our hands on one for the garage to confirm those feelings ourselves. While the concept of a "big" MINI is sacrilege to some, we tend to like the idea of actually being able to use that back seat and still have a little room for some baggage as well. Our one gripe? The naming. MINI Cooper Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman are a mouthful. We'll stick with the more natural sounding MINI Clubman and MINI Clubman S in casual conversation. You can read the MINI's press release after the jump, and don't forget to check out the gallery by clicking above or below.

[Source: MINI]

Gallery: 2008 Detroit: US MINI Cooper Clubman


Gallery: 2008 MINI Clubman

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Toyota Venza crossover to challenge Edge, Murano

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Crossovers/CUVs, Toyota

Click image for a high-res gallery of the Toyota Venza

var digg_url = 'http://digg.com/autos/2009_Toyota_Venza_crossover_combats_Murano_Edge'; Toyota just unveiled the Venza "crossover sedan," which is really another name for, you know, "crossover." With the Nissan Murano and Ford Edge obviously in its sights, the 5-passenger Venza neatly and stylishly fills the void left when the Highlander grew a third row and got bigger. Powered by either a 268-horsepower V6 or a 2.7L four-banger, the North America-designed and built Venza will be sold as a single trim level vehicle. The primary differences are that the six gets dual exhausts and 20-inch wheels, while the 2.7L has a single outlet and 19-inchers. Both engines are connected to a six-speed automatic with sequential shift, and the V6 has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, which exactly matches that of the Ford Edge and the current Nissan Murano. The front end clearly communicates Toyota's current styling themes while being Edgelike in its bright, large grille, and headlights that arc out towards the fenders. Inside, the Venza has an upscale, airy cockpit with niceties like contrast-piped leather seats. Storage is typical for vehicles in this class, and like its main competitors, it offers a panoramic glass roof. Pricing is to be announced, but if past performance is any indication, we expect to see a lot of Venzas filled with families on the road before long.
UPDATE: live video of the unveiling of the Toyota Venza is available after the jump.

Gallery: 2009 Toyota Venza LIVE


Gallery: 2009 Toyota Venza

Continue reading Detroit 2008: Toyota Venza crossover to challenge Edge, Murano

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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Maybach Landaulet arrives in style

Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Sedans/Saloons, Maybach, Lifestyle

click above for more high-res images of the Maybach Lanaulet

If you'd rather be driven by a chauffeur than get behind the wheel yourself, you might want to check out the Maybach Landaulet that made its North American debut in Detroit this week. The half sedan/half convertible allows for the driver's compartment to be completely closed while the passengers in the rear can enjoy open top motoring. The sky isn't the only luxury available - passengers are treated to supple white leather seating and a full entertainment system with a DVD player 6-disc CD changer, dual television screens, and even a compartment to hold a bottle of champagne and goblets. The rear seats also recline, meaning you can lie back, listen to some tunes, and enjoy the fresh air while you sip on your drink. We'd love a test drive ride, but in some place a little warmer than Detroit.
Gallery: Maybach Landaulet


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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: Audi TT-S makes 265 hp look so good

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Convertibles, Coupes, Sports/GTs

click above for more high-res live shots of the Audi TT-S

It's hard to imagine the Audi TT has been around for ten years, but the coupe has definitely come a long way. The TT-S is the first TT to be a part of Audi's 'S' series and will hopefully live up to the name with 265 horsepower and 258 lb-ft torque in U.S.-trim. Additional features include a slightly revised front fascia with larger intakes, quad tailpipes, an S-spec interior with Alcantara and leather sport seats, and upgraded brakes to handle the extra power. Buyers can opt for either 18-inch or 19-inch wheels, as well as a 6-speed manual or the S tronic dual-clutch automatic that reduces the 0-60 mph sprint from 5.4 to 5.2 seconds.
You can view new live shots in the gallery from the show floor in Detroit in addition to the press shots added earlier, or you can follow the jump for the official press release from Audi.
Gallery: Audi TT-S


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[monkeyboy]

Autoblog: Detroit 2008: The Return of ChengFeng!

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Economy, China, Crossovers/CUVs, Hatchbacks

click above to view more images of the ChengFeng Leopard and Kylin

ChengFeng Motors was here last year and made the familiar claim that its Chinese cars would soon be on sale in the U.S. The Chinese automaker made the pilgrimage to Detroit again this year and was welcomed with open arms by Carl Galeana, Chairman of the North American International Auto Show, and Wayne County Councilman Robert Ficano. The warm greeting between these officials and ChangFeng Chairman Li Jianxin is proof positive that Michigan is looking to China for a way out of its economic slump.

Big ups to Chairman Li who abandoned the comfort and familiarity of his native tongue to tackle a three-page speech in English, though it was unfortunately for naught as we couldn't understand a single word he said. Thankfully we happened upon a transcript of the speech so we could tell you about these two vehicles shown by ChengFeng at the show.

The first is the Leopard CS6, the design of which we actually like because it was not only designed by famed Italian firm Pininfarina, but it also bears a slight resemblance to a Hyundai Santa Fe, one of the prettier CUVs on the market. ChangFeng says it's built on the Pajero V Series platform, presumably sourced from Mitsubishi. We think it has all-wheel-drive or, as the Chinese translate it, a "full driven system". That gives the CS6 "the perfect combination of military industry performance and urban fashion." Indeed.

The other car shown by ChengFeng today was the Kylin, which is already on sale in Japan. The five-door wagon isn't very attractive, but it's chassis was tuned by Lotus, so it's got that going for it. Powered by a 1.8L Mitsubishi engine, the little car is economical and might actually be fun to drive if it were ever sold here.

There's the rub, though. Last year when ChengFeng debuted in Detroit it claimed it would be selling cars in the U.S. soon. Today we got the same speech, just one year later with little visible progress made in the interim.

Gallery: Detroit 2008: Changfeng Leopard and Kylin


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