 New York: 2013 Ram 1500 ups the pickup ante with new V6, less weight
 05.04.2012 18:55  8150134 views  0 comments
Tags: Auto, York, New York, Vice, Sean, General, Three, While, Ford, Please, ConnectFrom:
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Filed under: New York Auto Show, Truck, Work, Ram 
Ram is out to make both Ford and General Motors sweat with the Dearborn automaker's newest pickup, the 2013 1500. Debuting at the 2012 New York Auto Show, the half-ton pickup bows with less weight, an efficient new 3.6-liter V6 option and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Chrysler projects the V6 alone should help yield 20 percent better fuel economy over the old 3.7 lump, thanks in part to a start/stop system. While there are no solid EPA numbers as of yet, our estimations put the vehicle at around 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Throw in aerodynamic tweaks like an active shutter system that uses the standard air-ride suspension to lower the vehicle by as much as 1.2 inches for better efficiency, easier loading and load leveling and you have a force to be reckoned with.
The Pentastar churns out 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, besting the 3.7-liter V6 in the Ford F-150 by around three ponies. Chrysler has also increased the output of the optional 5.7-liter V8, from 390 hp to 395 and 407 lb-ft of torque. Engineers managed to free up the extra grunt by using an electronic power steering system in place of the old belt-driven unit. Interestingly enough, the V8 will also boast 20 percent better fuel economy thanks to an eight-speed automatic.
In addition, the new 1500 features a tweaked interior, complete with the company's excellent 8.4-inch UConnect touch screen interface. We love the system in vehicles like the Dodge Charger, and the tech should be right at home on the big pickup.
Chrysler also managed to trim a significant amount of weight from the 2013 Ram 1500. In V6 guise, the truck now uses aluminum control arms, an aluminum hood, a new bed and frame design as well as lighter bumpers for a combined weight savings of 173 pounds over the previous generation. V8 models get away with a more modest 97-pound trimming. Hit the jump for the full press release.Continue reading 2013 Ram 1500 ups the pickup ante with new V6, less weight 2013 Ram 1500 ups the pickup ante with new V6, less weight originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| New York: 2013 Toyota Avalon looks to shed geriatric image
05.04.2012 18:12 8744223 views 0 comments
Tags: United, Auto, Show, York, New York, When, That, Vice, Florida, Sean, While, From, Grand, Click, Inside, Sport, PleaseFrom:
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Filed under: New York Auto Show, Sedan, Toyota 
When we read through the press materials for the new 2013 Toyota Avalon, we had to double-check... had we downloaded the release for the wrong car? Because right here it says, "In Sport mode, throttle response is enhanced and steering effort is weighted... to offer a sportier character." And what's this about paddle shifters? This is the Avalon, the car that replaced the Mercury Grand Marquis in the hearts, minds and garages of Florida retirees.
But yes, we had the right car. Apparently Toyota is serious about developing more interesting and youthful products, and it's off to a good start with the Avalon, based on what we have heard and seen at the New York Auto Show today. The car was developed, styled and engineered in the United States, and it will be built here too, at Toyota's Georgetown, KY, plant. While that doesn't mean much without a product that can deliver the goods, we like most of what we see. From the A-pillar on back, the new Avalon looks long and sleek and seems to have a lot of BMW inspiration in its design. The front grille, however, has way too much Hyundai Genesis Coupe in it for our tastes. Inside the Avalon, we see what looks to be a pretty stunning instrument panel design, and we're intrigued by the capacitive touch controls Toyota has included.
While Toyota is declining to say anything about what powers the new Avalon other the fact that the engine will have six cylinders, we can't imagine it will be anything other than a version of its corporate 3.5-liter. The big question is how much horsepower this new, sportier Avalon might be packing. The current car has 268 horses, though another derivative of the engine in the Lexus GS boasts 306. The 2013 Avalon goes on sale late this year, and we must admit, this is the first Avalon we might actually be excited to drive. Click past the jump to read the full press release.Continue reading 2013 Toyota Avalon looks to shed geriatric image 2013 Toyota Avalon looks to shed geriatric image originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Official: Infiniti LE Concept will spawn production electric sedan within two years
05.04.2012 17:35 6500651 views 0 comments
Tags: President, Auto, York, New York, American, Vice, Vice President, Sean, Alps, According, PleaseFrom:
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Filed under: New York Auto Show, Sedan, Infiniti, Electric, Luxury 
Yes, Infiniti has indeed made a habit of teasing the masses with exotic and eco-friendly concepts at some of the world's largest auto shows over the past few years, notably with the Emerg-E and Essence Concepts. But, unlike those rolling showcases, the automaker claims its latest reveal, known rather cryptically as the LE Concept, will hit dealerships within the next two years in nearly unchanged form.
According to Infiniti, the LE Concept boasts a 24kWh lithium-ion battery made up of 192 cells, positioned under the passenger compartment floor. For those keeping track, this sounds like the same battery used in the Nissan Leaf. The 100kw electric motor, however, is upsized for this application. The LE's 134 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque represent increases of 24 horses and 30 lb-ft over its less powerful sibling.
Infiniti is quick to point out that the LE Concept is not a small car. At 186.4 inches, its length is roughly the same as Infiniti's G sedan. Atop the EV platform sits a highly streamlined body, which pays dividends with a .25 coefficient of drag that ought to help the LE reach its estimated 100-mile range (the latter being the same as the Leaf).
 Inside, Infiniti uses words and phrases like double-wave and "Hamon" (ripple) design to describe the LE's purposeful cabin. Ahead of the driver sits both analog and digital readouts showing speed, distance remaining and even the location of available EV chargers in the vicinity, all powered by an Intel Atom processor.
There's plenty of technology packed into the LE Concept, including what the automaker calls Infiniti Connection, which includes Infiniti's Personal Assistant 24-hour concierge service, navigation, and POI search. Also on the menu is a wireless charging system in addition to the standard DC 50 kW quick charger.
Infiniti Americas Vice President Ben Poore says the company expects the LE to "be the first home-based wireless charging system if adapted for the production version." Yes, we noticed the 'if,' too. Guess we'll have to wait and see about that bit. In any case, feel free to read all about the LE Concept in the press release below and to check out our high-res image galleries.Continue reading Infiniti LE Concept will spawn production electric sedan within two years Infiniti LE Concept will spawn production electric sedan within two years originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Official: 2013 Chevrolet Spark to start at $12,995*
05.04.2012 17:20 7890693 views 0 comments
Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Hatchback, Chevrolet, GM 
General Motors is taking a big gamble in a little way with its 2013 Chevrolet Spark. The Detroit automaker is betting that high fuel prices and an increased awareness of one's ecological footprint will mean more consumers are willing to entertain a new car with an even smaller err... footprint. The Spark will join other minicars like the Fiat 500, Scion iQ and Smart ForTwo, none of which have met with significant sales volume. On the other hand, its big brother, the Sonic has performed well in the early going. In addition, the Spark offers more physical volume than its peers - as well as a set of rear doors - so practicality appears to be solidly in favor of Camp Chevy.
The five-door Spark will test America's appetites for small car life with a starting price of just $12,995 (*including delivery) when it arrives in Chevrolet showrooms later this year. Available in a trio of trims, the lineup will start with the well-equipped LS model that includes a whopping 10 airbags, air conditioning, power windows, OnStar and 15-inch alloys.
Stepping up to the 1LT trim will cost $14,495, but it adds an audio system with seven-inch color touchscreen, USB connectivity and satellite radio. Additional features include keyless entry, power mirrors, cruise control, Bluetooth ("for select phones") and mundane items like visor mirrors and floor mats. The range-topping 2LT ($15,795) will be distinguished by a unique set of 15-inch wheels, sportier body-color fascias, fog lamps and additional exterior brightwork. Inside, heated, leatherette-covered seats and a leather-wrapped wheel spruce up the cabin.
Regardless of which trim spec is selected, buyers will find a 1.2-liter Ecotec four-cylinder underhood, and a five-speed manual is standard equipment, though a four-speed automatic can be substituted for $925.
GM announced back in October that it will also bring a Spark EV to "select markets" in the U.S. sometime in 2013, though it has yet to announce pricing or an on-sale date for the pure electric runabout.Continue reading 2013 Chevrolet Spark to start at $12,995* 2013 Chevrolet Spark to start at $12,995* originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| New York: Delorean Electric surprises in New York, will cost $95,000 in 2013
05.04.2012 17:01 8628006 views 0 comments
Tags: With, Auto, Electric, York, New York, These, First, Vice, Tour, Sean, Prime, Back, Company, Where, Right, Please, FlexFrom:
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Filed under: New York Auto Show, Classics, Hatchback, Electric 
First announced last October, the reborn, all-electric Delorean has made a surprise appearance at the New York Auto Show this year. It's a surprise because not even Delorean Motor Company president Stephen Wynne knew he was going to be here until a few weeks ago, when show organizers called with an invite.
With a prime spot near the EV ride along track - the DMCev is sadly not involved - Wynne said he's been getting good attention, even though said track is in the basement. We asked Wynne what's been going on with the car since last fall's announcement and the short answer is that this is one EV concept that's going into production.
The target date for fans to buy the DMCev is early 2013, but a lot has to happen between now and then. Right now, all the company has is the converted DMC-12 to show off the technology. To create this, the designers had to add 200 pounds of stuff, and the production version is going to be either the same weight as the gas version, or a few pounds less, in order to improve both performance and range. The car is powered by a 32-kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack and has a 125 mile per hour top speed with a range of 100 miles. Published specs claim a 0-60 time of 4.9 seconds, but Wynne said the target is now under six seconds. Price for all this fun? $95,000.
DMC will assemble the car in Houston, TX with a lot of help from Louisiana's Epic EV, the company working on the Torq and Amp vehicles (not the Amp conversions). These two companies are testing different motor/inverter combinations for the electric Delorean, and Wynne said they are looking for a "proven product" from a company that has at least "several hundred" units on the road. The current prototype also uses a DC motor, but the production will use AC for better range, performance and regenerative braking ability. The old-school dashboard is also due for an upgrade
Those are the details we could glean in New York. Can you believe we made it through this entire post without a Back To The Future reference? The DMCev can't do it, though, with a license plate that reads "Gas? Where we're going we don't need gas" and a battery that carries the "Flux Power" nickname. For more, you can watch a video of Translogic going for a ride in the DMCev down below, where you'll also find a related press release.Continue reading Delorean Electric surprises in New York, will cost $95,000 in 2013 Delorean Electric surprises in New York, will cost $95,000 in 2013 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Official: 2013 Subaru BRZ priced from $25,495* [w/poll]
05.04.2012 16:41 8213803 views 0 comments
Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Subaru 
Subaru announced today that the starting price of its much anticipated BRZ sports car will be $25,495 when it goes on sale. We don't have an exact date, but Subaru says it will arrive in dealerships "this spring."
The starting price of $25,495 does include a destination charge of $750* and will get you the BRZ Premium with a six-speed manual transmission. Choosing a six-speed automatic will add $1,100 for a new total of $26,595. That price of admission does, however, include a touchscreen navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity and HID headlamps.
Those who require more pampering can step up to the BRZ Limited with a base price of $27,495 for the manual-equipped model. Adding the automatic again bumps the price by $1,100 to $28,595. Limited models also get heated seats with Alcantara inserts and leather bolsters, heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, fog lights, keyless entry/start and a body-color rear spoiler. The last and most expensive configuration comes when opting for seats fully covered in leather, which raises the starting price to $27,495 for the manual model and $28,595 for the automatic.
Even fully loaded, the 2013 Subaru BRZ appears to come in safely under $30,000, thought it is more expensive than its sibling, the 2013 Scion FR-S, which starts at $24,200 but doesn't come with a nav system or leather as an option. Based on our experience driving the car, that's a reasonable price to pay for such a high level of rear-wheel-drive handling. What do you think? Take our poll and send a Subaru a message about whether or not they have priced the BRZ correctly.
View Poll Continue reading 2013 Subaru BRZ priced from $25,495* [w/poll] 2013 Subaru BRZ priced from $25,495* [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| New York: 2013 SRT Viper coils up to take a bite out of ALMS with GTS-R competition model
05.04.2012 16:20 5933199 views 0 comments
Tags: Auto, Show, York, New York, American, Vice, Sean, German, Made, Hills, Ryan, Into, PleaseFrom:
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Filed under: Motorsports, New York Auto Show, Coupe, Dodge, Racing 
Arguably the biggest news of the New York Auto Show for enthusiasts is the debut of the new SRT Viper. But as the high-performance arm of Chrysler has pointed out, the street-legal Viper "isn't the only high-performance snake making a triumphant return" here at Javitz.
No, Auburn Hills hasn't missed a beat in releasing the new super-musclecar's racing counterpart, the SRT Viper GTS-R, alongside the production version. Picking up where previous competition-spec Vipers left off - including three successive GTS class one-two victories at Le Mans, a landmark win in the Rolex 24 at Daytona and numerous international GT championships - the new Viper GTS-R is gearing up to take on the American Le Mans Series already this year.
Two of these bad boys will be fielded in ALMS, driven by Indy race winner Ryan Hunter-Reay, German driver and Rolex 24 veteran Dominik Farnbacher, Le Mans vet Marc Goossens of Belgium and Viper racer Kuno Wittmer of the great racing town of Montreal. But before these guys get to turn a wheel in anger, their new ride is on show here in New York, and we've got the gallery of high-resolution photos for your viewing pleasure. (Scroll down as well for more info in the press release.)Continue reading 2013 SRT Viper coils up to take a bite out of ALMS with GTS-R competition model 2013 SRT Viper coils up to take a bite out of ALMS with GTS-R competition model originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Spy Shots: Audi R8 facelift reveals evolutionary change
05.04.2012 16:00 6261565 views 0 comments
Filed under: Spy Photos, Performance, Audi 
Audi told us a new R8 was coming, and now our spy shooters have caught it testing. The good news is that the car still looks stunning. The bad news is that's because the original R8 design has aged so well.
What we're seeing in these photos doesn't indicate much has changed outside of minor tweaks to the front fascia that seem mostly designed to accommodate new headlights with a different LED pattern. The rear fascia and taillights are similarly reconfigured, with round twin tailpipes like the R8 GT, but without the side ducting.
When they sent us the images, KPG Photography also speculated that this forthcoming R8 update will ditch the R-tronic sequential automatic transmission for a dual-clutch gearbox. That's in line with rumors we've heard for the next-generation R8, which indicate that the DSG will be the only transmission available.
We've got shots of both the coupe R8 and the R8 Spyder, including some taken at night where it's easier to see the new LED designs. Check out all the high-res images in our gallery.Audi R8 facelift reveals evolutionary change originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| New York: Premium Leaf: Infiniti LE concept presents itself early
05.04.2012 15:40 6176368 views 0 comments
Filed under: Concept Cars, New York Auto Show, Sedan, Infiniti, Design/Style, Electric
We'll be able to share full details on the electric LE Concept from Infiniti when the embargo lifts later today, but our ace photographer Drew Phillips happened to be on the automaker's New York Auto Show stand when officials uncovered the shiny showcar while conducting a practice run-through of their presentation.
The four-door LE concept is broadly believed to presage an upscale pure electric production model based on Nissan Leaf mechanicals for the Infiniti marque. Our man on the scene indicates that the LE is a fairly striking bit of work, with a front end that fits in well with the brand (though the chrome-edged pinched grille is a bit much). The hood line incorporates bulges along its edges, presumably for aerodynamic purposes like those on Leaf. Phillips also remarked that the rear three-quarter view looks a bit like the Hyundai Elantra, a similarity we can see but don't imagine Infiniti designers will necessarily appreciate.
We can't talk specs yet, but for pointers, the Leaf's electric powertrain generates 107 horsepower and 208 pound-feet of torque and it features a 100-mile range. Stick with us and we'll have the full skinny around noon.Premium Leaf: Infiniti LE concept presents itself early originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Official: Volkswagen Up! named 2012 World Car of the Year
05.04.2012 15:20 6775442 views 0 comments
Tags: With, United, United States, States, Auto, York, New York, Laos, Global, Fish, Vice, World, Sean, Europes, Green, Ford, Yelp, Full, Large, Please, Volkswagen, DesignFrom:
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Filed under: New York Auto Show, Coupe, Crossover, Hatchback, Ford, Land Rover, Porsche, Volkswagen, Electric 
As is tradition, Day Two of the 2012 New York Auto Show kicked off with the annual World Car of the Year awards. Global entries competed for honors in four different categories, and from the initial list of 34 contenders, the final four were selected this morning.
The big winner was the 2012 Volkswagen Up! subcompact, which takes home the honor of World Car of the Year, beating out its other finalists, the BMW 3 Series and Porsche 911. We've had a chance to drive VW's tiny runabout and, while it would be hard for the automaker to justify offering something this small in the United States (right now), we'd gladly welcome its tossable city dynamics and efficiency here on our shores. With a small bump in power, it could certainly show the Fiat 500 who's boss.
But the Up! wasn't the only car praised in New York this morning. The new 991-series Porsche 911 was named World Performance Car of the Year, besting other nominees like the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 and McLaren MP4-12C. Stiff competition, for sure, but you just can't match the 911's razor-sharp precision, not to mention that this new 991 model is easily the best 911 yet.
Moving on to a different sort of performance, the Ford Focus Electric took top honors for its eco-performance, securing the World Green Car of the Year award. In this segment, the other two finalists were the European Mercedes-Benz 250 CDI BlueEfficiency and Peugeot 3008 Hybrid greenlings.
Lastly, the WCOY jury selected the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque for the World Car Design of the Year - not really a surprise, seeing as how the baby Range Rover has been praised for its styling ever since the day it launched. Our condolences to the Citroën DS5 and Volkswagen Up! - you guys just aren't pretty enough.
See all of the World Car winners in our attached high-res galleries, and stay tuned for more details about this year's awards later today.
Full disclosure: Author is a juror and co-chair of the World Car of the Year Awards.Volkswagen Up! named 2012 World Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| New York: Land Rover brings expedition-minded DC100 concept and LR4 special edition to NY
05.04.2012 14:58 8891705 views 0 comments
Tags: With, Auto, York, New York, Laos, Vice, Sean, Blow, Luxury, Limited, Please, EditingFrom:
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Filed under: New York Auto Show, SUV, Land Rover, Luxury 
Not that we don't like the Land Rover DC100 Concept or anything, but this is the third version of the next-gen Defender that Land Rover has trotted out at an auto show in the space of seven months. (Never mind that it looks like they just repainted the Heritage Blue one from the L.A. show.) Forgive us, then, for wishing Land Rover would get on with it and announce that it's going into production.
 But no. Instead, we get this: The Land Rover LR4 Luxury Limited Edition. With a mere 2,000 available worldwide, Land Rover seems serious about the limited part. A long list of unique trim pieces including "HSE Luxury" badging on the tailgate and interior finishes borrowed from the Range Rover should take care of the rest of the equation.
If you'd like all the details about things like "satin chrome" and "Havana" (that's a color, by the way), the full press release on the special LR4 is after the jump.
Better yet, check out the episode of Translogic where our sister site drives the DC100 - also available after the jump.Continue reading Land Rover brings expedition-minded DC100 concept and LR4 special edition to NY Land Rover brings expedition-minded DC100 concept and LR4 special edition to NY originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Report: Improving Chevy Volt sales leads GM to shorten summer shutdown
05.04.2012 14:30 6987775 views 0 comments
Tags: President, North, United, Auto, York, New York, March, Mike, Vice, News, Sean, April, Just, America, General, Made, Detroit, Meet, Chevy, PleaseFrom:
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Filed under: Hybrid, Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchback, Chevrolet, UAW/Unions, Electric 
Just the other day, we heard that General Motors might extend its traditional two-week summer shutdown to three weeks for the Chevrolet Volt. But, after record Volt sales last month, we wonder how the calendar looks in Hamtramck now. We wonder because we are hearing reports that the current shutdown - originally scheduled to run for five weeks, from March 19 to April 23 - will be shortened by a week. GM originally decided on the hold to reduce supply that had grown too large because of soft demand.
Don LaForest, the chairman of the United Auto Workers bargaining committee at the Hamtramck plant where the Volt is made, told Talking Points Memo that GM is "adding a week of production back in." The Detroit News reports that GM President of North America Mark Reuss said the same thing Wednesday during the New York Auto Show. Reuss said, "We're doing it because we sold a lot."
Increasing sales numbers (GM sold 2,289 Volts in March - well over double February's 1,023-unit total) come at a time when some of the right-wing attacks on the plug-in hybrid appear to have calmed down. LaForest told TPM that his union workers have been confused about these criticisms. "I don't think Newt or Mitt have said a single negative thing about the Nissan Leaf," he said. "They're attacking our car to get at the President. But our car is going to change the way America does business. It's a breath of fresh air."Improving Chevy Volt sales leads GM to shorten summer shutdown originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Ford honored most by 2012 KBB Brand Image Awards
05.04.2012 13:58 6495359 views 0 comments
Tags: Best, Japanese, Vice, Sean, Over, Awards, Ford, Blow, Most, Luxury, Brain, Image, Please, Design, ComfortFrom:
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Filed under: Etc., BMW, Cadillac, Ford, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche 
Kelley Blue Book has issued its 2012 Brand Image Awards and Ford took home four of the 12 honors.
The Blue Oval was recognized as the Most Family-Friendly Brand, Best interior Design Brand, Non-Luxury, Best Exterior Design Brand, Non-Luxury, and Most Rugged Truck Brand. Cadillac was the only other U.S. marque to win awards. It took the Best Interior Design Brand, Luxury and Best Comfort Brand.
The usually dominant Japanese brands were scarce, with Honda the only representative. Honda took the Most Trusted Brand and Best Value Brand.
The remaining four categories all went to Germany. BMW took Best Exterior Design Brand (somewhere Chris Bangle is smiling), Porsche took Coolest Brand and Best Performance Brand. Mercedes-Benz, for the fifth year in a row, was named the Most Prestigious Brand.Ford honored most by 2012 KBB Brand Image Awards originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Official: 2013 Ram 1500 unveiled with eight-speed auto, start/stop, air suspension [w/videos]
05.04.2012 6:01 8727112 views 0 comments
Tags: Auto, York, New York, American, Vice, Help, Sean, Jets, Made, Grand, PleaseFrom:
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Filed under: New York Auto Show, Truck, Ram 
The Ram 1500 will receive a significant refresh for the 2013 model year, and the majority of the changes are indeed more than skin-deep. That's because the 2013 Ram will hit the showroom floor with a host of powertrain upgrades, including features that have never been offered on American pickup trucks until now.
Chrysler promises that the new 3.6 will improve fuel efficiency by "at least 20 percent."
Many of the Ram's new technologies speak to its fuel-saving nature, including an eight-speed automatic transmission for both six- and eight-cylinder models, stop-start, improved aerodynamics, electric power steering, grille shutters and an auto-adjusting air suspension. The air suspension is essentially a version of the setup used in the Jeep Grand Cherokee and features an Aero Mode, lowering the ride height by 1.2 inches to help cut through the wind more efficiently. Ram will also offer the Chrysler Group's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 as the base powerplant, delivering 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. For reference, Ford rates the 2012 F-150 pickup's naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 at 302 hp and 278 lb-ft.
Chrysler promises that the new 3.6 will improve fuel efficiency by "at least 20 percent" compared to the old 3.7-liter unit. Another 20 percent added to 20 miles per gallon on the highway and 14 mpg in the city equates to a class-leading 24 mpg highway and 17 mpg city.
Of course, V8 power is available, courtesy of Chrysler's tried-and-true 5.7-liter Hemi, which now delivers 395 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque. That's five more horsepower compared to the 2012 model, and that improvement comes courtesy of the new electronic power steering system. The most impressive part is that the Hemi-equipped model will also boast 20 percent better fuel economy, thanks largely to the fact that the eight-speed automatic is also fitted to this eight-pot mill. Chrysler will announce official fuel economy numbers closer to the Ram's on-sale date.
 
The Ram 1500 can achieve these substantial efficiency gains because of the aforementioned fuel-sipping technologies, but engineers have also cut considerable weight. The V6 powertrain is an amazing 76 pounds lighter than the outgoing 3.7-liter, and the TorqueFlite eight-speed and Hemi combine for a 30-pound reduction in the 5.7-liter model. Other weight savings come from an aluminum hood (26 pounds), chassis with more high-strength steel (up to 30 pounds), new floor cross-members in the bed (seven pounds), new front bumper (four pounds) and the electronic steering system (four pounds).
Additional improvements include upgraded exterior styling, a richer-looking cabin and a stiffer chassis that promises decreased noise, vibration and harshness. The Ram will also feature improved available infotainment tech, including an 8.4-inch navigation screen and a configurable seven-inch thin-film transistor screen that is standard on Sport, Laramie and Laramie Longhorn models.
Scroll down to read over the Chrysler press release, which includes a ton more information. You can also watch a few videos that highlight some of the new features.Continue reading 2013 Ram 1500 unveiled with eight-speed auto, start/stop, air suspension [w/videos] 2013 Ram 1500 unveiled with eight-speed auto, start/stop, air suspension [w/videos] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Video: Scion puts bikini models and donuts in iQ to spin up some sales
05.04.2012 2:01 8318453 views 0 comments
Filed under: Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hatchback, Scion, Humor 
We're speechless.
Well, maybe not... but, at the very least, we're surprised by Scion's latest marketing campaign for its iQ minicar. There are a lot of reasons to be interested in the iQ - its small size makes for easy parking, it's not terribly expensive and it's nicely fuel efficient - but its ability to do donuts with four full-size occupants isn't one of them.
Not just four occupants. How about four bikini models? Not your style? There's four dudes, four bikers and four police officers, too, each in their own video. They're all eating donuts and drinking milk while being driven around in backward smoky burnouts and reverse donuts.
And suddenly, we're leaning toward speechless yet again.
You can see all four videos below, but we warn you, it's all complete and utter nonsense.Continue reading Scion puts bikini models and donuts in iQ to spin up some sales Scion puts bikini models and donuts in iQ to spin up some sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Confirmed: Hyundai Veracruz to end production "around November," replaced by Santa Fe
05.04.2012 1:31 8940194 views 0 comments
Tags: Auto, Show, York, New York, Vice, Sean, John, America, From, International, Please, SantaFrom:
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Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Hyundai 
Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik confirmed Wednesday that the all-new seven passenger 2013 Santa Fe will replace the Veracruz model.
"The Veracruz is going away," Krafcik told Autoblog. "It ends production around November."
Hyundai debuted the Santa Fe Wednesday at the New York International Auto Show in both five-passenger and seven-passenger configurations.
The seven-passenger Veracruz was a new nameplate for Hyundai when it rolled out in 2007. It never gained much acceptance in the U.S., so Hyundai has found a new way around that problem.
"It's hard to establish a new brand name," Krafcik said. "It can take $50 to $100 million dollars. Santa Fe is a golden nameplate for us, it's a great product, and now it will be much more efficient in my marketing spend."
Indeed. It will also be more efficient producing a five- and seven-passenger Santa Fe than two different vehicles. From the B-pillar forward, there will only be minor differences between the two Santa Fe models.
Furthermore, the new design of the Santa Fe moves it into Hyundai's stylized fluidic design theme, something that has been very successful with the compact Elantra and midsize Sonata. The Veracruz, which still included many of Hyundai's older design elements, just didn't fit in with everything else.
Now, or at least in the coming months, it will be no more.Hyundai Veracruz to end production "around November," replaced by Santa Fe originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| Exclusive: Jaguar confirms F-Type coupe, AWD coming within two years
05.04.2012 0:59 9080957 views 0 comments
Filed under: New York Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Jaguar 
Shortly after Jaguar announced that the production F-Type will be coming to market in mid-2013, we sat down with Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar Global Brand Director, to discuss some of the finer points of the new sub-XK sports car. The F-Type is more or less the production version of the C-X16 concept that debuted at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, but instead of sticking to the concept's coupe body style, Jaguar said that the production F-Type will launch as a two-seat roadster. But that doesn't mean a coupe isn't coming.
Jaguar "certainly won't stick to just a convertible. If you get a convertible right, it's easy to do a coupe."
"C-X16 was a vision car," Hallmark stated. The intent of C-X16 was to show off a new design language, and it's easier to completely realize the full capacity of a new styling direction on a coupe body style rather than on a roadster. But when we asked Hallmark about the possibility of a hardtop F-Type, his response was that Jaguar "certainly won't stick to just a convertible. If you get a convertible right, it's easy to do a coupe."
Jaguar's director of design, Ian Callum, added that there are no plans to offer a folding hardtop version of the F-Type roadster - it will use a standard soft top. A folding hardtop "would ruin the shape of the car," Callum told us.
As we reported earlier, the F-Type will use a new powertrain family, possibly previewed by the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 and electric motor combination found under the hood of the C-X16 concept. Hallmark stated that in terms of driver involvement and performance, the F-Type "will start where the XKR-S finishes, even with less power." In other words, the F-Type will be more of a focused sports car rather than a luxury GT. As for pricing, Hallmark stated that the F-Type will be priced below the XK but above competitors like the Porsche Boxster/Cayman, BMW Z4 and Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Moving away from the F-Type, Hallmark spoke briefly about plans to add all-wheel drive into the Jaguar lineup. "We're very interested in all-wheel drive," he stated, later adding that the company will likely offer it in its next-generation products rather than fitting it to the vehicles that are currently available. Hallmark assured us that it will be "not more than two years" until we see an all-wheel-drive Jag, and that prototype vehicles are already in the on-road testing phase.Jaguar confirms F-Type coupe, AWD coming within two years originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| New York: Volkswagen brings Passat Alltrack "concept" from overseas
05.04.2012 0:31 9028233 views 0 comments
Tags: United, United States, States, Auto, York, New York, American, Live, Vice, November, Sean, Take, Tokyo, Please, VolkswagenFrom:
www.autoblog.com
Filed under: Concept Cars, Wagon, Crossover, Volkswagen, Design/Style 
A Passat used to be a Passat, and that was that. But these days, things have gotten more complicated. Like Honda does with the Accord, the Passat that Volkswagen builds and offers in the United States is an entirely different vehicle from the one it offers overseas. And while we used to have a Passat wagon at our disposal in American showrooms, that one stayed on the opposite shore when the model was split.
And then there's the Alltrack. Taking a similar approach to what Volvo took to make its V70 into the XC70, what Subaru does to its Legacy to turn it into an Outback and what (perhaps most pertinently) sister-brand Audi does to its A6 to make it the Allroad, the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack production model was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show back in November with a higher suspension and some rugged-looking lower body cladding.
Although the Alltrack - or for that matter, the Passat wagon altogether - is not currently available in the United States, Volkswagen has brought the overseas model to the New York Auto Show (as a "concept", mind you) in an effort to gauge reaction. If it drums up enough support - and over 80 percent of you have supported in our informal poll so far - VW could opt to offer it to American customers as a more cost-effective alternative to the Audi Allroad range. The showcar seen here is fitted with a TDI diesel engine, but presumably if it came to the States, it would be offered with a gasoline engine as its main powerplant. Take a closer look in our gallery of high-resolution live images from the show floor and the official release below and decide for yourself.Continue reading Volkswagen brings Passat Alltrack "concept" from overseas Volkswagen brings Passat Alltrack "concept" from overseas originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| New York: 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek finally arrives Stateside
05.04.2012 0:06 9686919 views 0 comments
Filed under: New York Auto Show, Crossover, Hatchback, Subaru 
If the orange Subaru XV you see here looks familiar, it's because we've seen it before. Not only that, we've driven it. So why, then, would Subaru choose to unveil its high-riding Impreza yet again here at the 2012 New York Auto Show? It's coming to America, that's why. And the car displayed here in the Big Apple is the official U.S. model.
The XV Crosstrek is, essentially, a lifted Impreza that speaks to the Outback Sport models that came before it. It boasts a surprising 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Subaru states that its engineers have made quite a few tweaks to the body and chassis to make the XV substantially more rugged than its Impreza kin.
Power comes from the same 2.0-liter boxer four that's found in the standard Impreza, putting out 148 horsepower and mated to either a five-speed manual or Continuously Variable Transmission. Naturally, all-wheel drive is standard, and because the XV is capable of achieving up to 33 miles per gallon on the highway, Subaru touts that it's the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive CUV on the market.
The XV Crosstrek goes on sale this fall and official pricing will be announced closer to that time, but we're guessing it'll start off somewhere in the neighborhood of the 2011 Outback Sport's $20,720 price of entry. Scroll down for Subaru's press release.Continue reading 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek finally arrives Stateside 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek finally arrives Stateside originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 18:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
| New York: 2013 BMW X1 becomes America's most affordable Bavarian CUV
04.04.2012 23:46 9533683 views 0 comments
Tags: North, Auto, Show, York, New York, When, That, American, Vice, Sean, Europes, PleaseFrom:
www.autoblog.com
Filed under: New York Auto Show, Crossover, BMW, Luxury 
Opinions found at the Autoblog table of most auto show press rooms are usually in concert, but every once in a while, we fail to come to a consensus. This 2013 BMW X1 is one such cause of discord, you see, as some of us think it belongs only on European streets, while others insist it will find enough homes here in North America.
The smallest of Bavarian crossovers has been available in overseas markets for a while now, but with its unveiling here at the New York Auto Show, BMW is preparing to launch it in the North American market. And along with it, the tallish wagon has received a facelift and interior rework.
When deliveries begin at American BMW showrooms this coming September, buyers will be able to choose between two twin-turbo engines - the 245-horsepower sDrive28i (in rear-wheel-drive) or all-wheel-drive xDrive28i, and the 306-hp X1 xDrive35i. The first and last are U.S. exclusives.
Pricing? Glad you asked. The X1 sDrive28i will carry a $31,545 price tag - including $895 in delivery fees. The churns-at-all-fours xDrive28i commands $33,245, and the 306-hp xDrive35i can be yours for $39,345.Continue reading 2013 BMW X1 becomes America's most affordable Bavarian CUV 2013 BMW X1 becomes America's most affordable Bavarian CUV originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Apr 2012 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments Read more »
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