tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87047569307047657002024-03-14T00:53:26.146-07:00Nissan Qazanaindohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-82350431786608333442014-10-10T08:00:00.000-07:002014-10-10T08:00:04.181-07:00Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa<img style="width: 530px; height: 337px;" alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/massa-garage.jpg" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="4" /><br /> <br /> Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa could be back in the saddle as early as Monday. Massa hasn't been in an F1 car since July's Hungarian Grand Prix, when a spring from another car flew up and hit him above his eye, fracturing his skull.<br /> <br /> The first time he has even been back on track was last week when he took the wheel of a kart. Because of testing bans in place this season in F1, Massa can't drive the current car he was running until Hungary. As he gets back up to speed, the FIA has granted him permission to drive a 2007-spec car fitted with GP2 tires.<br /> <br /> Massa has also spent time on Ferrari's racing simulator. Word has it he's already mastered Barcelona and is working hard at beating the Interlagos circuit now. Before taking the wheel of the 2007 car, he still needs to pass an examination, but once he's cleared, he could be on track in Italy by Monday. This will be testing only as the driver isn't expected to compete for Ferrari any more this season.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-58585895219154014622011-04-19T00:43:00.000-07:002011-04-19T00:44:12.861-07:00Shanghai Motor Showthe Shanghai Convention Center was little more than a rice paddy, but this week, the sprawling facility will play host to what has rapidly become one of the world's most important auto shows.<br />By a quirk of the calendar, this year's big Chinese car show not only overlaps but threatens to overwhelm the New York Auto Show and its ability to garner valuable media time – a development that echoes the rapidly transformation occurring in the global automotive business.<br />Michael Dunne, the founder of Automotive Resources Asia – today a part of J.D. Power and Associates – recalls his first trip to China, barely two decades ago, when the roads were ruled by bicycles, motorbikes and buses, and the sight of an automobile was enough to draw everyone's attention.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-50148210550099463282011-03-29T00:40:00.000-07:002011-03-29T00:42:23.136-07:00Nissan Juke SL Review<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4K6BZpflS84/TZGNVVXGyTI/AAAAAAAAAOg/7XVMdXxbjn8/s1600/Nissan%2BJuke%2BSL%2BReview.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 128px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4K6BZpflS84/TZGNVVXGyTI/AAAAAAAAAOg/7XVMdXxbjn8/s320/Nissan%2BJuke%2BSL%2BReview.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589404010194323762" border="0" /></a><br />Beauty is objective. Great minds from Plato to Kant had it right. Need proof? The Nissan Juke. It is not, in any sense of the word, beautiful. In fact, one can definitively say it is the opposite.<br /><br />FAST FACTS<br />1. The Juke is powered by a turbocharged 1.6L direct-injection 4-cylinder that makes 188-hp and 177 lb-ft of torque.<br /><br />2. The Juke sits below the Rogue in Nissan’s crossover lineup.<br /><br />3. With a 7.0 second 0-60 mph time, it also gets as much as 27/32-mpg.<br /><br />If there’s a philosopher out there with an objective theory of fun, well, that’s where the Juke fits in. It is, without a doubt, a thoroughly enjoyable driving machine. Many, many crossovers promise car-like driving dynamics. The Juke delivers and then some. In fact, it might be the first instance where the crossover version has less body roll than the sedan it’s based on – with the Juke sharing its underpinnings with the wallowy Versa.<br /><br />Now do your best to ignore you ever read the word ‘Versa’ because even the remotest of comparisons between that oversized sub-compact and the Juke will create preconceived notions in your head about this SportCross that should not be there.<br /><br />With a thoroughly solid chassis, a 3,000-lb curb weight, some big 17-inch wheels and 188-hp of turbocharged goodness, the Juke will have you tackling on-amps with serious speed and not even a hint of tippyness. Sure there’s understeer, but that’s pretty much unavoidable in modern cars – especially our front-drive tester.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-85103589281704787172010-10-06T19:24:00.000-07:002010-10-06T19:26:31.801-07:00It's been over three years since the start of Stepneygate<div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><img style="width: 494px; height: 242px;" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/30.jpg" alt="" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="0" /></strong><br />It's been over three years since the start of Stepneygate. But while the matter was supposedly closed a year ago, it's only now that the namesake perpetrator has been sentenced in criminal court.<br />The scandal, for those unfamiliar, centered around one Nigel Stepney, a British engineer who defected from Ferrari to McLaren in 2007. Stepney stood accused – and now convicted – of taking trade secrets with him from Maranello to Woking, while sabotaging Ferrari's team in the process.<br />The scandal resulted in McLaren being fined $100 million and then disqualified from that year's championship. Meanwhile, the FIA banned Stepney (along with his chief cohort Mike Coughlan) from any series it supervises (which is pretty much all of them) as Ferrari initiated legal proceedings against Stepney.<br />Those proceedings have now drawn to a close, Italian courts reportedly sentencing Stepney to 20 months in prison and – wait for it – a 600-euro fine. However, sources anticipate that due to the nature of the Italian legal system the sentence will likely be suspended and that Stepney won't actually spend a single night behind bars.</div>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-34924225397729118232010-09-26T22:18:00.001-07:002010-09-26T22:18:50.522-07:00Hyundai Sonata being recalled for steering issues<img style="width: 488px; height: 324px;" alt="Hyundai Sonata" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/sonata-630-1285511031.jpg" align="top" border="1" hspace="0" vspace="4" /> <div style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><small>2011 Hyundai Sonata being recalled for steering issues – Click above for high-res image gallery</small></strong></em></div><br />It looks like the Hyundai Sonata is officially taking its place near the top of the midsize car category. We already told you how it has moved into third place in the sales race, and now it moves up the charts again... but on a much less desirable list. Hyundai has issued a recall of 139,500 Sonatas over steering issues.<br /><br /><br />The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report at safercar.gov identifies the issue says "the steering column intermediate shaft universal joint connections may have been either improperly assembled or insufficiently tightened." The consequence could be "a complete separation or compromised attachment of the connections, such that the driver could experience a loss of, or reduction in, steering capability increasing the risk of a crash."<br /><br />The recall affects MY 2011 Hyundai Sonata sedans built between December 11, 2009 and September 10, 2010. Dealers should begin sending out recall notices in October. They will inspect and re-torque the assembly, and update the steering software too, at no charge.<br /><br />In the meantime, owners can contact the Hyundai Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-633-5151, or the NHTSA vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153). <em>Hat tip to Ralph!</em>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-73921792336772457142010-07-20T21:36:00.000-07:002010-07-20T22:03:40.498-07:00Toyota FJ Cruiser<img src="http://www.autoweek.com/storyimage/CW/20100719/CARREVIEWS/307199999/AR-307199999.jpg?ref=AR&maxw=340" alt="The 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser" title="A picture of The 2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser" border="0" /><br />I had this for several days, and I only wish I could have this vehicle on my planned vacation in Colorado--this would be perfect for mountain passes. I felt a little bad about having this for so long and not being able to challenge it off-roading. But I did drive it to and from work.<br /><br />First of all, I think its styling is very retro and the black matte hood sticker adds even more of a throwback look. Then, after taking a closer look, you see the meaty tires and heavy-duty suspension and you realize this vehicle could be a whole lot of fun. The outside might be a little too busy for some, but I think most will dig it.<br /><br />On the inside, I was not surprised too much by the looks. It's simple with floors that look as if they can be hosed down if needed. The gauges were rounded, and Toyota throws in a little plastic with the exact same exterior color in the middle. They have some faux metal-looking material inside, giving it a feeling of toughness. But the radio sounded tinny to me, even after adjusting all the settings. The seats were comfy, which is good if you get moved around a lot on an off-road excursion.<br /><br />On the highway, you can tell this vehicle was set up more for the two tracks. Straight line felt fine, but going around corners obviously isn't as smooth as most vehicles and had a tugging feeling. Off the line, there isn't a ton of punch from the V6, but once up to speed it's fine. There is plenty of room for hauling, and it would be way cooler to bring the kids to a soccer game in this instead of a humdrum SUV.<br /><br />Overall, I like this, and if I lived near the mountains this would be on my shopping list. But since I live near Detroit and don't get to go off-roading enough, I probably would pass on this FJ Cruiser because I would be tossing money out the window on these pricey upgrades and not be able to use them often enough.<br /><br />NEWS EDITOR GREG MIGLIORE: I liked this FJ Cruiser from my first turn of the key. The retro looks are quirky and cool, though this really seems like something that would have been a great H4 for Hummer.<br /><br />But I digress. The engine has plenty of power, and I had no trouble passing on the expressway. Takeoffs from launch on wet pavement were also fun, and these big BF Goodrich tires offer plenty of traction and fun. Plus, stopping this ute is not an issue with the solid brakes. The steering has a satisfying weight to it, too.<br /><br />I liked the safari interior. The colors looked sharp, and the plastics and materials felt pleasing. The white gauges have a bit of a green hue at night and light up brightly. Plus there's a big compass on the dash. Kind of cool, I think. The back seat is a bit uncomfortable, but this is hardly a minivan.<br /><br />Outside, this ute is marked by the prominent circular headlights and the giant tire on the back. It's a fun package for a reasonable price. I could have some serious fun in this.<br /><br />2010 Toyota FJ Cruiser<br /><br />Base Price: $26,070<br /><br />As-Tested Price: $33,363<br /><br />Drivetrain: 4.0-liter V6; 4WD, five-speed automatic<br /><br />Output: 259 hp @ 5,600 rpm, 270 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm<br /><br />Curb Weight: 4,295 lb<br /><br />Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 19/17.3 mpg<br /><br />Options: Trail Teams special-edition package with Sandstorm exterior, hood blackout, blackout mirrors, bumper ends, door handles and grille, TRD beadlock-style alloy wheels with BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, trail-tuned Bilstein shock absorbers, active traction control, locking rear differential, rock rails, premium sound, auxiliary audio jack, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls, remote keyless entry system, cruise control, power outside mirrors with illuminated markers, rear privacy glass, rear wiper, backup camera linked to mirror with integrated backup camera monitor, 115V AC power outlet, exterior color-keyed door-trim inserts and instrument panel, fabric seat inserts, multi-information display, floating ball type (inclinometer, compass, temperature), daytime running lights, wheels locks, trail teams badge ($6,695); towing hitch and wire harness ($3,49); passenger-side armrest ($125); courtesy delivery ($75); stainless-steel exhaust tip ($49)indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-71994966400471486072010-06-02T20:35:00.000-07:002010-06-02T20:43:08.192-07:00Das neue Motorrad<img alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/das-neue.jpg" align="top" border="0" vspace="4" hspace="0" /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><small>Germany's "new motorcycle" – Click above for high-res image gallery<br /></small></strong></em></div><br />Emerging from behind a veil of secrecy, we were recently introduced to a new motorcycle manufacturer based out of the über cool home of Oktoberfest. With the promise of German engineering galore, this little-known company seems to have an heir of legitimacy behind them thus far. After all, it would seem that the country largely believed responsible for the "birth of the motorcycle" would have more than a single marquee brand in cycles, adding diversity to the current state of Roundel dominance in Bavaria.<br /><br />Das Neue Motorrad – meaning "the new motorcycle" – is the only name identifying the company at this time, embodying a statement while providing a title in one swoop. The road leading to the bike's official worldwide release has been marked out by breadcrumbs in the form of small bits of information being released in five stages... until finally, on June 15, it will be unleashed on the masses. What little bit we do know is that the project has been years in the making, and was birthed from an unlikely collaboration between riding enthusiasts with a vision for greatness.<br /><br />The most recent tidbit of news centers on the bike's proposed powerplant. Addressing the speculation of electric motivation, the company says its design is based on "a very efficient combustion platform," even indicating multiple cylinders but leaving the exact number as a mystery for now. Added to this was the promise, "Our engine concept is based on one currently found nowhere in the motorcycle world." We cannot help but be left with an almost giddy anticipation, coupled with the potential to be thoroughly disappointed if this claim is not substantiated. Stay tuned for updates as the countdown progresses and "the new motorcycle" comes to life.<br /><br /><br /><div class="postgallery" id="gallery-das-neue-motorrad"><h3 class="clearfix"><span>Gallery:</span> Das neue Motorrad</h3><ul class="thumbs"><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/das-tank_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/das-engine_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/das-rods_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/das-exhaust_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/das-neue-1274471327_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li></ul></div>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-91549013976354847572010-05-11T09:44:00.000-07:002010-05-11T09:52:46.790-07:00Škoda Fabia RS to debut at Wörthersee<img style="width: 508px; height: 339px;" alt="Skoda Fabia RS show car" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/skodaconceptsworthersee.jpg" vspace="4" align="top" border="1" hspace="0" /><br /><br />It's no secret that we're fans of the Škoda Fabia S2000 rally car. The good news for <strike>us</strike> Europeans is that VW's Czech brand has decided to integrate some of that racing DNA (at least appearance-wise) into a Fabia RS model scheduled to debut at Wörthersee 2010.<br /><br />This is Škoda's first visit to the big GTI gathering, and they've obviously come prepared. A green roof and alloys aping those used on the S2000 racer are the Fabia RS's showcase elements, along with a brutal lower front lip, smoked glass all around, darkened chrome work, a rear spoiler, and side skirts. The Fabia RS joins Volkswagen goodies like the Golf GTI Adidas, which will also be formally unveiled, and it will be on display from May 14-16.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-78233656254552728182010-03-17T19:51:00.001-07:002010-03-17T19:51:29.421-07:00Nissan Leaf priced at U.S. $ 38,500 + in Japan<span style="font-weight: bold;">Nissan Leaf - Click above for high-res image gallery</span><br /><br />Interest in, and "pre-orders" for, the Nissan Leaf remains high, but a report from the Japanese newspaper the Mainichi Shimbun might put a damper on things. Apparently, the price for the all-electric car in Japan will be somewhere between 3.5 million and 4 million yen, Which is about $ 38,667 to $ 44,191 U.S. at today's exchange rates. Granted, even if these prices are accurate, they certainly do not automatically equal the MSRP for the U.S. market, but they are higher than what we've been expecting - ie, under $ 30,000 after the $ 7,500 federal tax credit. We went and looked at the prices for a couple of other cars in Japan, to see how the Leaf's 3.5 million compares. The Toyota Prius runs between 2.0 and 3:27 million yen ($ 22k-36k USD). The Honda Insight? From 1.89 to 2.2 million <span style="font-weight: bold;">($ 21k-24.4K USD).</span><br /><br />We suspect that Nissan's going to have to do better than this to beat the Chevrolet Volt. Yes, yes, we know the powertrains are quite different, but a lot of people are going to learn about these cars at the same time (late this year), and we believe that the pure electric will need to be quite a bit cheaper than The plug-in hybrid to hold its own.<br /><br />Of course, all of these numbers should be taken with several grains of salt. We reached out to Nissan, and they reminded us that "the article out of Japan is speculative, and we have no comment. As you know, we have yet to Disclose Nissan Leaf pricing in the U.S. or in any global market." Thanks to Scott W. for the tip!indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-35047481349437521692010-01-17T22:32:00.000-08:002010-01-17T23:29:16.159-08:00the sporty 335is variants with a tweaked 3.0-liter twin-turbo churning out 322HP<p><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 442px; height: 239px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JTSZEZWHI/AAAAAAACbPw/X9n6V4t7eOo/s800/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427492076366944370" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">A little after a leaked brochure gave us our first taste of the lightly refreshed 2011 3-Series Coupe and Convertible models, BMW rushed out an official release and a whole bunch of pictures. For the 2011 model year, the Bavarian automaker's bread-and-butter coupe and cabriolet models receive some minor cosmetic touches and updated powerplants.<br /></span></p><p><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 120px; height: 76px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JTNPHm9BI/AAAAAAACbPo/jE1yn5DGT8o/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-21.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491987796718610" border="0" /><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The most notable - that is, if you're a hardcore bimmer fan- changes on the outside concern the widened kidney grille, reshaped LED headlamps, front and rear bumpers with restyled lower fascias, new exterior mirrors and finally, reworked tail light cluster with a new color scheme.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">According to BMW, these modifications slightly extend the front and rear overhangs by 1.14 and 0.12 inches respectively.<br /></span></p> <span class="fullpost"> <p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The only change in the cabin concerns the convertible models and the use of sun-reflective technology to mitigate temperatures on leather seating, armrest surfaces, headrests, and gear shifter. BMW says that this new treatment is able to reduce surface temperatures on dark interior colors by up to 20 Celsius degrees (36 Fahrenheit degrees) and by as much as Celsius degrees (27 Fahrenheit degrees)on light-colored upholstery.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">In North America (we'll bring you details on the Euro spec models shortly), the 2011 3-Series Coupe and Convertible models will be offered once again in two flavors, the 328i and 335i.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">As noted in our previous post, the 2011 335i is fitted with BMW's new twin scroll single turbocharged 3.0-liter straight six, designated N55, that replaces the previous model's N54 twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight six.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">BMW says that even though output has remained the same as before at 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, the new single turbo engine is more responsive, more fuel efficient, and cleaner-running than its predecessor.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The rear-wheel drive 335i Coupe and Convertible accelerate from 0 - 60 mph (96km/h) in just 5.3 (5.5 coupe automatic) seconds and 5.5 (5.7 cabrio automatic) seconds, respectively, when equipped with a six speed manual gearbox.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The all-wheel drive 335i xDrive coupe is slightly faster at 5.2 seconds (5.3 sec for the automatic model).<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">The 328i's 230 horsepower, 200 lb-ft, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine has been carried over unchanged from the 2010 model.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">No word yet on the sporty 335is variants with a tweaked 3.0-liter twin-turbo churning out 322HP that were mentioned in the leaked sales leaflet (click here for details).<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Verdana;">In the U.S. and Canada, the 2011 3 Series Coupe and Convertible models will go on sale in Spring 2010, with pricing set to be announced closer to the on-sale date.</span></p><p><br /></p><p><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSxRwVN1I/AAAAAAACbPg/NWrgwA_fXcc/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-69.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491507468056402" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSxGSSR6I/AAAAAAACbPY/O_vkNM14hqU/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-68.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491504389244834" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSwyOMsEI/AAAAAAACbPQ/CoShvDKF_Os/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-67.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491499003392066" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSwS99ouI/AAAAAAACbPI/iv7FTMZSdBI/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-66.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491490613797602" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSwHTD3DI/AAAAAAACbPA/_wx819Gg8Es/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-65.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491487481060402" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSwDG6r2I/AAAAAAACbO4/GmMXhArRPyQ/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-64.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491486356385634" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSv29HNJI/AAAAAAACbOw/4Nbcq_6kBOY/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-63.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491483094037650" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSvmvHr8I/AAAAAAACbOo/CJGukJ3Q-Ls/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-62.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427491478740381634" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; 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float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSLhUFAoI/AAAAAAACbJA/8dqpXHe5K_0/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-16.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427490858809492098" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSLf0mv5I/AAAAAAACbI4/fQusUOuhK0Q/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-15.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427490858409050002" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSK5eSFTI/AAAAAAACbIw/H_Hk1Ko-Vpo/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-14.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427490848114873650" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSKxY2ZSI/AAAAAAACbIo/bUmyCF-T_o8/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-13.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427490845944603938" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSKqWsrFI/AAAAAAACbIg/TnnHb-0_bso/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427490844056530002" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSKe-gTDI/AAAAAAACbIY/4zCTzIUBLeM/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427490841002265650" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSKBEUxiI/AAAAAAACbIQ/C0IrTvzQtC8/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427490832973612578" border="0" /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 78px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_FoXyvaPSnVk/S1JSJkYSAlI/AAAAAAACbII/7LFhhQsuIgU/s200/2011-BMW-3-Series-Coupe-Convertible-9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427490825272689234" border="0" /><br /><br /></p></span>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-22949597836322575332010-01-17T21:22:00.000-08:002010-01-17T22:16:10.546-08:00BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible LCI that was unveiled yesterday<span id="intelliTXT">With every new model launched or redesigned, comes another photos comparison. </span><span id="intelliTXT">the week revolves around the 2011 BMW 3 Series Coupe and Convertible LCI that was unveiled yesterday and which will go on sales this Spring.<br /><br />Judging by the photos and information released, the general consensus is that BMW is looking to align some of its models to the current design language, and features like “angel eyes” are starting to become standard across the line-up. LED taillights are also becoming the norm at BMW and the new 3 Series LCI comes to emphasize that.<br /><br />Exterior:<br /><br />Regarding the exterior of the car – BMW, like they did with the pre-LCI E92, have managed to make the E92 continue to look much more expensive than it actually is. The facelifted E92 continues to give a strong balance between prestige and performance purely in appearance alone.<br /><br />Additionally, at front and rear, while the revisions appear minimal, the proof is in the details. At the business end of the 3 Series Coupe, the head lamps have grown slightly with added contours to the bottom line of the head lamp assembly. A thin “eyebrow” can now be found running along the top of each assembly which is lit by LEDs – a design cue taken straight from the E90 LCI, F01 7 Series and F10 5 Series.<br /><br />Dropping just below the head lamps, the lower bumper is the most heavily modified part of the E92 LCI, losing the struts that flowed with the cut lines of the nose of the car. In its place, BMW have added a slim cut straight across the center of the lower grill, only being broken up by the area just below the larger, wider double kidney grill. Overall, the appearance of the E92 LCI now looks more succinct with the rest of the now more modern BMW line-up.<br /><br />Moving to the rear of the car, the lower portion of the bumper receives a larger, purposeful crease along the valence just above the exhaust. The L-shaped tail lamps also receive a mild facelift with a more opaque cover to the LEDs when compared to the pre-LCI E92.<br /><br />Additionally, the pattern of the rear lamp LEDs has two stacked sets of LEDs to provide better visibility at night while also providing a distinctly BMW look. By comparison, the LCI E92 now looks much brighter and contoured over its predecessor.<br /><br />The side design goes through some changes as well, the E92 LCI features longer overhangs and subtle changes to the side skirts, giving the facelift an overall more aggressive, masculine look.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="infoLink" style="font-weight: bold; padding-left: 3px;">Read Article</span></span> <div class="articleImage"> <img src="http://www.autospies.com/images/users/BMWBlog/main/e92-lci-vs-pre-lci-04.jpg" alt="Photo Comparison: E92 Coupe facelift vs. pre-facelift" style="border: 2px solid rgb(255, 204, 0); width: 500px;" /> </div>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-86626559793173292352010-01-07T19:30:00.000-08:002010-01-07T19:48:44.356-08:00<img style="width: 512px; height: 342px;" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/japanese-car-shopper.jpg" alt="" vspace="4" border="0" hspace="0" /><br /><br />Like everywhere else on the planet, new car sales are down in Japan (17 percent versus 2008 levels, to be exact). And, like a number of other countries, Japan has decided to spur automobile sales by creating a cash-for-clunkers-style program at a cost of $3.7 billion. Unlike similar programs from other countries, including the one that ended late last year in the U.S., Japan has drafted a set of rules that strongly favors its own automakers – in effect precluding American cars from qualifying for sales incentives of up to $2,830 per vehicle. Eighty-seven percent of all Japan's domestic models qualify.<br /><br /> By way of comparison, there were multiple C4C bills considered by U.S. policymakers, and the program that eventually went into effect allowed any and all sufficiently fuel efficient vehicles to qualify for its incentives, regardless of their country of origin. After it was all said and done, 319,300 out of a total of 677,000 (just about half) of all C4C sales were Japanese cars.<br /><br /> According to the <em>Detroit News</em>, a number of American lawmakers, including Rep. Betty Sutton, D-Ohio, have called Japan's program "discriminatory and fundamentally unfair... unacceptable and outrageous." To highlight her displeasure over Japan's insular auto market – to wit, imports make up less than five percent of all new car sales in Japan – Sutton has introduced a bill this week urging President Obama to attempt to force Japan into including American automobiles in its C4C program. What are the chances of it passing? Something about snowballs comes to mind...indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-29821388710214317672010-01-03T22:13:00.000-08:002010-01-03T22:39:41.923-08:00new edition of their Razor GTR based on Audi R8<p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.motorward.com/wp-content/images/2009/12/ppi-carbon-r8-1.jpg" alt="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber ppi carbon r8 1" title="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber photo" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>At this year’s Dubai Motor Show Audi tuner PPI Automotive Design revealed a new edition of their Razor GTR based on <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD2">Audi R8</span>, in which every panel of the body is made of unpainted carbon fiber , just like Mansory’s Aston Martin Cyrus. This feature alone is super cool, and now with the Razor Widebody kit, it’s just outstanding.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong>Razor’s kit includes a new front bumper, <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD4">front spoiler</span>, front bonnet, front fenders, sideskirts, sideblades (or as PPI now calls them, Aeroblades), rear fenders, rear bumper, rear diffuser, rear spoiler, and a new rear engine cover with air channels that can be fitted with a Polycarbonate, scratch-resistant and UV coated glass in solid or slotted form. The best thing about is that due to use of carbon fiber and other lightweight materials, the car becomes much lighter (250 Kg) than the standard R8.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">PPI also offers various performance upgrades for both V8 and V10 models. As for the V8s, there are two stages which add either 40 or 200 hp. And for the V10 engine, they can increase 60 or 80hp in stage 1 and 2, but there’s also a stage 3 in which they have no boundaries and will extract as much horsepower as you want out of that engine!</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The most powerful variant can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of over 323 km/h.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">They also offer a bespoke package for the interior. You get very fine black leather upholstery with sport seats, sport steering wheel and lots of carbon fiber on hand-brake lever, <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD3">door sill protectors</span>, driver and radio console surround, door trim, center console inserts, kneepad trim.</p> <p style="text-align: left;">The car also comes with with 9 x 19 and 11 x 20 forged aluminum wheels, with 265/35 19, and 335/30 20 Michelin Pilot Sport 2, but you may as well order special <span class="IL_AD" id="IL_AD1">carbon fiber wheels</span> (9 x 19″ and 12 x 20″) which are custom-tailed to drivers driving-style!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.motorward.com/wp-content/images/2009/12/ppi-carbon-r8-2.jpg" alt="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber ppi carbon r8 2" title="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber photo" /><br /><img src="http://www.motorward.com/wp-content/images/2009/12/ppi-carbon-r8-3.jpg" alt="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber ppi carbon r8 3" title="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber photo" /><br /><img src="http://www.motorward.com/wp-content/images/2009/12/ppi-carbon-r8-4.jpg" alt="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber ppi carbon r8 4" title="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber photo" /><br /><img src="http://www.motorward.com/wp-content/images/2009/12/ppi-carbon-r8-5.jpg" alt="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber ppi carbon r8 5" title="PPI Razor GTR Audi R8 in visible carbon fiber photo" width="440" height="288" /></p>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-48435071969489397992009-12-08T16:34:00.000-08:002009-12-08T16:45:38.020-08:00Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey<img style="width: 514px; height: 378px;" alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/ford_sync_use-630op.jpg" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="0" /><br /><br />Not only does Ford rank number one on J.D. Power and Associate's 2009 navigation system survey, it ranks number two as well. The top ranking system, according to Power's study, is the one found in the Lincoln MKS, followed by a nearly identical system (if not 100% identical) in the Ford Flex. And get this, Ford took down <em>five</em> of the top ten spots with the F-150 coming in fourth and the Escape and Edge taking seventh and eighth place, respectively.<br /><br />To anyone that's driven a modern Sync-equipped Ford with navigation, these survey results probably won't come as any sort of shock, as FoMoCo has been making some of the best systems in the business ever since they released Sync with Sirius Travel Link. Here's what Ford user interface design engineer Jason Johnson had to tell us about why Ford got ranked tops:<br /> <blockquote> <div><em>"I think what really makes our system stand out is the fact it's designed with the user in mind. Yes, it has all the features you'd expect from a high-level navigation system -- the 3-D maps, the digital jukebox, the customizable home screens, and of course we pride ourselves on SYNC and SIRIUS Travel Link -- but it's more than that. This system is easy to use. It's intuitive. The buttons are where you'd expect them to be, the grouping is logical and the graphics are bright and easy to read. Everything is integrated, so it all works together, simply and easily."</em></div> </blockquote> Non-Ford top ten nav-system finishers include the Acura TL (third), Porsche 911 (fifth), Cadillac CTS (sixth), Hyundai Genesis (ninth) and Infiniti FX-series (tenth). Interestingly, Ford is the only non-luxury/premium brand to make it into the top ten. If you were wondering, seven of the bottom ten nav-systems were made by Toyota, with the Avalon finishing dead last. Complete results list and official press release available after the jump.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-56597327993594167322009-12-08T16:24:00.000-08:002009-12-08T16:32:25.772-08:00Danica Patrick NASCAR Nationwide Series team in 2010<img style="width: 460px; height: 294px;" alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/12/88074108-630op.jpg" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="0" /><br /><br />More Danica Patrick news and this time, it's actually racing related. Last week came a report that Ms. Patrick had inked a multi-year deal with the recently restructured Andretti Autosport, putting to rest the rumors that the sometime-swimsuit model was headed to NASCAR. Well, <em>Sporting News</em> is now reporting that the gun might have been jumped on that conclusion. It seems that the GoDaddy pitchwoman is about to announce a deal to drive for Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s NASCAR Nationwide Series team in 2010.<br /><br /> <em>SN</em> is reporting that Danica will run the full IndyCar calendar and a limited Nationwide schedule, with GoDaddy sponsoring her stock car. According to the GoDaddy website, the formal announcement will come at 1 PM ET Tuesday, December 8. We'll be sure to watch for that announcement and update as needed.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-13268084848362929372009-11-06T16:06:00.000-08:002009-11-06T16:14:02.678-08:00Mid-engined Ghepardo is one part Corvette, one part Camaro<img style="width: 517px; height: 344px;" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardo.jpg" alt="" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="4" /> <div style="text-align: center;"><strong><em><small>Caccia Custom Cars Ghepardo - click above image for high-res gallery</small></em></strong></div> <br /> Here's what we know: Caccia Custom Cars took a 2002 Chevy Camaro and a 2002 Chevy Corvette and created the Ghepardo. The car uses the Camaro's frame and the Corvette's motor and suspension. The motor is mounted amidships, albeit backwards (note the throttle body). And the House of Kolor paint is called Pagan Gold. Also, you should not confuse this SEMA all-star Ghepardo with the 2006 Bizzarrini Ghepardo concept.<br /><br /> As for this Ghepadro... it's not that bad looking. In fact, the longer we stare at the exterior, the more we like what we see. Obviously we can't get past the gaudy chainmail armor covering up every single vent and opening. And we'd prefer if the five-slot wheels weren't chromed. That said, in profile, it's a nice looking mid-engine coupe and the rear is quite muscular. The front even has a touch of new Lexus, which while sacriligious for a Chevy-on-Chevy mashup like this, ain't bad at all.<br /><br /> The interior, on the other hand, is a house of horrors. Everything is covered over in prison-grade Alcantara or carbon fiber-<em>look</em> fiberglass. Even the fire extinguisher!! Also, we're pretty sure a 15/16" cutting tool isn't the smartest Dremel attachment to use for a show car. In fact, in this Autoblogger's mind, the Ghepardo is now in the running neck-and-neck with the Masonry Vitesse Rose for having the <strong><em>worst interior ever</em></strong> – quite a distinction! Additionally, the Ghepardo fills our minds with the delightful image of Corvette and Camaro fans/owners beating each other to pulps with giant oversized cartoon hammers. Perhaps that's just the food around here talking...<br /><br /><br /> <div class="postgallery"><h3 class="clearfix"><span></span>Ghepardo by Caccia Custom Cars</h3><ul class="thumbs"><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardosema_01_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardosema_02_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardosema_03_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardosema_04_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardosema_05_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardosema_06_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardosema_07_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ghepardosema_08_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li></ul></div>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-11358543465347722522009-11-06T15:57:00.000-08:002009-11-06T16:03:21.296-08:00Toyota execs deny cover-up after feds rebuke automaker over runaway car investigation<div style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 493px; height: 329px;" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/toyota-execs-go-team-rah-630.jpg" alt="" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="4" /></div> <br /> Remember Toyota's massive 3.8 million unit unintended acceleration recall that was attributed to pesky floor mats? It appears defective floor mats doesn't tell the whole story, as the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration declared in a statement that "this (unintended acceleration) matter is not closed," adding "removal of the floor mats is simply an interim measure, not a remedy of the underlying defect in the vehicles."<br /><br /> Up to 2,000 Toyota customers claim to have experienced a sudden surge of acceleration, and some reportedly told <em>ABC News</em> that they didn't even <em>have</em> the recalled floor mats in their vehicles. Even more disturbing are the results of an <em>ABC News </em>investigation that reportedly found "hundreds" of accidents and up to 16 deaths as a result of unintended acceleration.<br /><br /> Four of those deaths occurred in August when an off-duty California Highway Patrol Officer, traveling with his wife, daughter and brother in-law, were killed after their Lexus accelerated uncontrollably. The driver's brother in-law called 911 and said that the brakes didn't work before the vehicle reached an intersection, struck another car, went into a ditch and caught fire. Some Toyota owners feel there is an electronic glitch in the system that controls the throttle and the ABC report shows that there is some anecdotal evidence which illustrates that incidents rose after the system was put into place in 2002, but so far, NHTSA has found no evidence to support those claims after six investigations.<br /><br /> <em>ABC News</em> caught up with Toyota Vice President Yukitoshi Funo (pictured second from left) and asked him if Toyota was covering anything up. Funo replied "It is not part of the Toyota culture and Toyota way to cover up anything," adding that the Japanese automaker is working with NHTSA to come up with an agreement on how to proceed going forward.<br /><br /> If you own a Toyota or Lexus and you are concerned about this issue, it appears that there is little that will be done in the short term other than tie down or remove the floor mats. If you do experience the acceleration issue, Consumer Reports suggests shifting your vehicle into neutral, pressing the brake and holding it down in an effort to bring your vehicle to a stop. This post and video from CR demonstrates how to effectively resolve the situation, and the risks of pumping the brakes. Turning off your vehicle could be a bad idea, as turning off the engine will also result in the loss of power steering and power brakes.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-56614775418172407432009-11-06T15:34:00.000-08:002009-11-06T15:56:12.505-08:00Rev for iPhone reaches 2.0, includes data-logging [w/ VIDEO]<img style="width: 459px; height: 301px;" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/img_9375-630op.jpg" alt="" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="0" /><br /><br /> Since there are approximately one trillion iPhones in the world and about ten-times as many apps, it's not hard to find a program to suit your needs. But in the automotive sphere, there aren't nearly as many quality applications and even fewer that can deliver the information most gearheads crave. Thankfully, DevToaster has answered the call with Rev, and putting out the 2.0 release of its popular diagnostic and performance program.<br /><br /> <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/img_9370-280op.jpg" alt="" vspace="4" align="right" border="1" hspace="4" />In addition to offering code-reading and clearing features, along with OBD metrics for everything from coolant temp to throttle position (full features here), Rev includes built-in metrics for lateral and forward acceleration to calculate horsepower and torque, saved vehicles, GPS tracking and data-logging. In a bid to make the program more user friendly on the fly, it's reworked its interface to make it easier to edit the visual representations for the virtual (and customizable) gauges and graphs.<br /><br /> Although it's $39.99 App Store price seems like a deal considering its capabilities, the steep price of the company's wireless OBD-II controller ($149.99, pictured at right) is slightly harder to swallow. However, DevToaster is working on bringing the cost of the unit down in the near future and hopes to bring out both a series of "fun," "green" utilities and has talked with Google about developing a version for Android phones. Look for a full review of the 2.0 software soon.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-50551065445760347472009-11-06T15:25:00.000-08:002009-11-06T15:34:28.060-08:00Champion's Champions Crowned at 2009 Race of Champions<div style="text-align: center;"><em><strong><img style="width: 438px; height: 292px;" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/roc09_12.jpg" alt="" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="4" /><br /><small>2009 Race of Champions – Click above for high-res image gallery</small></strong></em></div> <br /> Every year, around the world, drivers compete wheel to wheel in all manner of racing series, from rally to F1, touring cars to Le Mans and everything in between. It gives racing fans plenty of varied action to follow, but it leaves one question ultimately unanswered: who is the world's best driver? That's where the Race of Champions comes in.<br /><br /> The event has been held every year since 1988 at the end of the regular racing season, giving the world's best from all manner of racing series the world over a chance to compete against one another on equal footing and common ground. And this year's Race of Champions was no less decisive. Follow the jump to read who claimed victory as the champion of champions.<br /><br /><br /> <div class="postgallery"><h3 class="clearfix"><span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></span>Race of Champions 2009</h3><ul class="thumbs"><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/img_1060_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/yo6o4224_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/rq7m0511_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/rq7m1132_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/roc09_02-1257378626_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/rq7m0359_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/yo6o4331_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li><li><span class="thumb"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/5dii4746_thumbnail.jpg" alt="" title="" /></span></li></ul></div>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-59630322802324025252009-10-10T07:15:00.000-07:002009-10-10T07:39:55.134-07:00Introduction to Karting - Part 2 2009<div style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 528px; height: 353px;" alt="" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/karting-logo-20091002-620-1.jpg" vspace="4" border="1" hspace="4" /></div> <br /> Welcome to the second installment of our <em>Introduction to Karting</em> series. Hopefully the first piece piqued your interest with tales of tiny machines pulling 3 g in the corners then hitting 60 in under three seconds on their way up to over 140 MPH. (Well over, as it turns out; one commenter indicated he hit an indicated 156 this season.) That kind of performance is unequaled outside of top-level formula motorsport, yet is available to anyone with some disposable income and a passion for going quick.<br /><br /> However, karting isn't for everyone so suitably endowed. The physical demands placed on a kart racer are hard to comprehend until you're in a fast turn, holding your breath because you can't inhale, feeling like your head is going to fly off and land somewhere in the pits. Chances are it won't, but whether or not you can withstand that while maintaining a good racing line <em>and</em> keeping an eye on a swarm of opponents is an important thing to find out before breaking out the charge card. The best way is, of course, to try it, and given the big up-front cost to buy a kart, a rental is the way to go.<br /><br />To get our first real experience we signed up for an afternoon's racing school. We walked the track, worked with multiple instructors, got a lot of advice, had an impromptu race, and stuck it out for way more seat time than was probably advisable for a newbie. How'd we do? Read on to find out, and see some videos of our on (and, occasionally, off) track antics.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-65504920158538157932009-06-05T23:58:00.000-07:002009-06-06T00:10:00.686-07:00GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas 2009<a href="http://www.autoblog.com/Users/sam/downloads/images/mark%20laneve%20c-span.png"><img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autobloggreen.com/media/2009/06/mark-laneve-c-span.png" alt="" align="right" border="0" hspace="4" vspace="4" /></a>Over the last several years, we've heard a lot of excuses from many auto executives as to why their companies aren't offering diesel engines in their American market cars. Yesterday, General Motors' Mark LaNeve, the company's vice president of sales and marketing, made an appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. The final question of the segment came from a viewer wondering why GM has failed to offer U.S. consumers the chance to buy some of the high-mileage diesel cars it offers in Europe.<br /><br />It would appear that LaNeve might have done better to take a pass on the question. Instead of talking about the cost of making those diesels meet U.S. emissions regulations or the difficulty in helping Americans overcome the misconceptions about the fuel, he claimed that no one has successfully cracked the diesel passenger nut in the U.S. (<a href="http://www.autobloggreen.com/2009/06/03/vw-clean-diesels-have-best-sales-month-since-launch-in-june/">which based on VW's May sales appears to be wrong</a>). More startlingly, LaNeve went on to claim that diesel is $1.25 a gallon more expensive than gasoline. According to the Energy Information Agency, the national average for <a href="http://tonto.eia.doe.gov/dnav/pet/pet_pri_gnd_dcus_nus_w.htm">diesel this week is $2.35 / gallon</a> while regular gas is $2.52 or $0.17 more than diesel. Admittedly, the fact that diesel is now cheaper than 87 octane gas is a recent development (a trend that nobody is sure how long it will last), but – going on national television and quoting outdated fuel prices as a reason for your bankrupt company's business decisions... well, that doesn't strike us as a terribly hot idea.<br /><br />You can hear the question <a href="http://www.c-span.org/Watch/Media/2009/06/04/Economy/A/19419/Mark+LaNeve+General+Motors+Sales+Marketing+Vice+President.aspx">and response at 20:30 into the video replay over at C-SPAN</a>.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-65937492610899690922009-03-31T01:27:00.006-07:002009-03-31T01:34:09.376-07:00Nissan Qazana Car News - BBC Top GearNissan has released today the first Nissan Qazana teaser image showing a headlight of the show car that will be premiered at this year's Geneva Motor Show. The Nissan Qazana previews a new compact model that will be built at the company's Sunderland plant from 2010. The company describes the Nissan Qazana as being a five-door small Crossover. The press release also mentions that the Nissan Qazana will feature suicide doors. <img src="http://www.zercustoms.com/news/images/Nissan-Qazana-b.jpg" alt="Nissan Qazana teaser" title="Nissan Qazana teaser" style="border-color: rgb(51, 51, 51);" border="1" /> <span class="article"><b>Gallery: </b></span><span class="readmore">Nissan Qazana teaser</span><br /><br />The Nissan Qazana has been designed in Britain and represents a 57 million pounds investment that will create around 1,100 jobs.<br /><br />The Nissan Qazana price has not been announced yet.<br />Nissan Press Release:<br /><br />Qazana Show Car<br /><br />The star of the Nissan stand will be Qazana, a show car providing a good indication of the, as yet unnamed, compact car that will be produced at the Nissan Sunderland plant from 2010, safeguarding around 1,100 jobs.<br />Best described as a small Crossover, Qazana has been conceived to challenge conventional wisdom about what buyers of small five-door cars should expect.<br /><br />The striking design is dominated by large, wide wheel arches and a lower shape which gives a feeling of strength, while the upper body is dynamic, assertive and sporty. Qazana is a five-door, with the rear doors opening forwards once the front doors have been opened, in the style of ‘suicide doors’.<br /><br />Qazana will reinforce Nissan’s position as a Nissan Qazana teaser Gallery: Nissan Qazana teaser<br />pioneer of Crossovers, building on the success of Qashqai and the recently introduced Qashqai+2.<br /><br />Trial builds of the production car will begin in early 2010 before its introduction on the Micra/Note line. There it will take up manufacturing capacity created when production of the current version of Micra ends later that same year.<br /><br />The new model has been designed and developed in the UK and represents around £57m of investment.<br /> Its arrival takes the total investment by Nissan in the Sunderland plant to around £2.5b since 1984.<br /><br />Trevor Mann, Nissan Senior Vice President for Manufacturing in Europe, commented: “The difficulties currently facing the car industry have been widely documented, and Nissan has not been immune. As a result we have had to make some difficult decisions, but the reason we have done so is to secure a long and positive future for the plant. Qazana points the way to that future and gives an indication of the unique and exciting car we will be producing in Sunderland next year.”indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-71315344460418669902009-03-31T01:27:00.005-07:002009-03-31T01:33:54.452-07:002009 Nissan Qazana Concept - Images, Specifications and Information<img src="http://photos.evo.co.uk/images/front_picture_library_UK/dir_602/car_photo_301474_7.jpg" alt="Nissan Qazana" class="coverpicmainarticle" /> <a name="review"></a> <span name="intelliTxt" id="intelliTXT"><p>Nissan looks set to have a fairly busy Geneva motor show. Top of the bill will be the new Qazana. It’s a compact crossover, and along the lines of a scaled-down Qashqai. The latter has been a hugely successful model for Nissan, the SUV/hatch helping the company post some respectable sales figures in the current climate.<br /><br />Little else is known, other than that the Qazana is an all-UK effort. Its design and development have all took place in Britain while the car will replace Micra production at Nissan’s factory in Sunderland from 2010. That safeguards 1100 jobs at the North East plant that has recently seen its first major job cuts.<br /><br />Also on Nissan’s Geneva show stand will be the 370Z, getting its first European public appearance, and the Cube which comes to Europe for the first time in November. It has been a bit of an icon in its Japanese homeland for years and has attracted a bit of a hardcore fanbase over here. It will finally be available officially with a 109bhp 1.6-litre petrol and 105bhp 1.5-litre diesel on offer.</p><p>Come back to evo.co.uk from March 3 to get the latest live stories from Geneva, including the unveil of the Qazana concept.</p></span>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-37828862029429503082009-03-31T01:27:00.004-07:002009-03-31T01:33:24.984-07:00Nissan Qazana Concept: What If Apple Designed A Beach Buggy<p><img src="http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/jalopnik/2009/03/Nissan-Qazana-Concept.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; width: 444px; height: 324px;" />The five-door <span class="autolink">Nissan Qazana</span> crossover concept is supposedly a study of what a small crossover of the future would look like. Instead, it sorta looks like a Murano that ate a pufferfish and a Jeep.</p> <p> </p><div class="GalleryPreview"> <h3>Nissan Qazana - Pufferfish Murano</h3> <div id="AjaxImagePosts" class="gallery-thumb-wrapper"> <ul id="gallery-thumbs"><li><img src="http://cache-foo.jalopnik.com/gawker/assets/images/gallery/12/2009/03/smallish_3324794401_4f15164708_o.jpg" longdesc="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" alt="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" title="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" /></li><li><img src="http://cache-foo.jalopnik.com/gawker/assets/images/gallery/12/2009/03/smallish_3324794309_be6ccd6f2f_o.jpg" longdesc="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" alt="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" title="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" /></li><li><img src="http://cache-foo.jalopnik.com/gawker/assets/images/gallery/12/2009/03/smallish_3324794177_241a6062b7_o.jpg" longdesc="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" alt="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" title="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" /></li><li><img src="http://cache-foo.jalopnik.com/gawker/assets/images/gallery/12/2009/03/smallish_3325631410_8ca194737c_o.jpg" longdesc="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" alt="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" title="Geneva Motor Show: Nissan Qazana Concept" /></li></ul> </div> <hr class="clearer"> </div> <blockquote> <p><strong>NISSAN CROSSOVER DESIGN CONCEPT DEBUTS AT <span class="autolink">GENEVA MOTOR SHOW</span></strong></p> <p>At a glance</p> <p>* Crossover concept reinvents small five-door<br />* Inspired by motorbikes and beach buggies<br />* Compact design – sporty, yet rugged<br />* Designed in Europe</p> <p>The Nissan Qazana makes its first ever appearance at the Geneva Motor Show today. Inspired by a simple desire to have fun behind the wheel, Qazana shows that mind-numbing motoring could be a thing of the past.</p> <p>Officially it's a showcar, a study into how a small car of the future could look. But with the announcement that a small crossover – a baby brother to Qashqai – will be built at the company's Sunderland factory in the UK, Qazana's significance should not be underestimated.</p> <p>"The Qazana concept is an intelligent, all-wheel drive crossover which is masculine, agile, lean, and designed for the tough city streets. Our team at Nissan Design Europe in London realised this image with the motif of a modern day beach buggy and four-seat motor-bike," explains Atsushi Maeda, Studio Chief Designer, Nissan Design Europe.</p> <p>According to Matt Weaver, project lead designer at NDE, Qazana was designed to be sophisticated but fun. "It's a hugely optimistic car, which is no bad thing in these difficult times. Had it been created in the 1960s, it would have counted camper vans, bikes and buggies as its rivals. Infused with that same spirit, there's nothing quite like it available today."</p> <p>Challenges tradition<br />In the same way that Nissan re-wrote the rule-book when it introduced Qashqai two years ago, so Qazana is ready to do it again. By approaching the small car market from a totally different direction, Qazana invigorates, stimulates and rejuvenates the traditional town runabout.</p> <p>Compact dimensions<br />Compact overall dimensions (4060mm in length, 1570mm tall, 1780 wide and a wheelbase of 2530mm) mean Qazana would be ideally suited to the urban environment. Yet its advanced specification and energetic styling suggest an ability that goes far beyond the city walls.</p> <p>By mixing SUV and sports car styling cues, NDE's design team has created a highly individual Crossover quite unlike anything else on the road. The tall stance, truncated rear styling and short front and rear overhangs underscore its feeling of robustness and strength, but the low roof line, assertive side window graphic and broad shoulders hint at a sporting ability absent in traditional all-wheel drives.</p> <p>At the same time, rounded elements – notably the wheel arches and bonnet – evoke a friendly ambiance and provide a link with existing Nissan Crossovers. Indeed, Qazana has the signature Crossover design detail in the rising window line at the rear, also found on Murano and Qashqai.</p> <p>Says Weaver: "Qazana follows in Qashqai's wheel tracks by challenging convention. Externally Qazana adds a number of existing Nissan design cues – including a variation on the 'boomerang' rear light theme from 370Z – to a highly distinctive shape that's unlike anything else in the company's current design portfolio."</p> <p>Crossover styling<br />The profile is dominated by the prominent wheel arches and by the body's high waistline, which combine to give an impression of strength and which contrast vividly with the slim side windows. Echoing a style first seen on Mixim, Nissan's high performance electric coupé concept shown at the 2007 Frankfurt Show, the glasshouse resembles a crash helmet visor.</p> <p>Although it appears at first glance to be a two-door coupé, Qazana has a further pair of rear-hinged half doors to ease access to the rear compartment. All the doors are electrically operated and for safety reasons the rear pair can only be activated once the fronts have been opened. With no conventional B-pillar, access to the interior couldn't be easier.</p> <p>One notable feature of the roof-line is the virtually straight cant rail above the doors which adds further to the strength of the profile. The roof itself has a pair of thin glass inserts running the full length of the roof which allow slithers of natural light into the cabin.</p> <p>This contrast between sporty performance and all-terrain potential is underlined by the venturi-style skid plate at the rear of the vehicle, Qazana's extended ground clearance and the soft rubber spats which edge the wheel arches and help to disguise the vehicle's long suspension travel. The graphite coloured spats contrast vividly with the bold exterior colour, a unique shade called White Titanium, and the strikingly styled<br />20 inch black chrome alloy wheels.</p> <p>Distinctive frontal aspect<br />The car's face is dominated by four headlamps. Two lower circular lamps set within the bumper contrast with a pair of daylight running strips mounted high on the wings on either side of the bonnet: the look is of a rally car preparing for a night stage.</p> <p>While the full width grille, dominated by Nissan's centrally mounted badge, is an interpretation of current Nissan styling, its construction is not. A one-piece acrylic moulding, no cooling air can pass through the grille. Instead, the lower portion of the bumper, finished in a contrasting graphite colour, is dominated by a number of large holes for air to reach the radiator. See-through acrylic mouldings are also used for the door mirrors.</p> <p>The interior has been designed as an extension of the exterior thanks to a clever interplay between hard and soft materials. Rather than being completely enveloped in leather for example, elements of the lightweight carbon fibre seat structure are on permanent view, appearing to have 'broken through' the covering. The centre portion of the backrests features a mesh material, allowing fresh air to circulate around the occupants.</p> <p>Like the seats, the metal sections of the centre console seem to have forced their way through the leather covering while the internal door-frame is part exposed so that the door pull appears to be hewn from solid metal.</p> <p>Motorcycle inspired interior<br />Adding further to the mechanical feel of the interior, the shape of the centre console and armrest has been inspired by the fuel tank and seat of a sports motocycle. Paul Ray, senior interior designer at NDE, is a keen rider. "I enjoy the sensation of being at one with my bike and wanted to capture that feeling in Qazana," he says.</p> <p>"The way the structure appears through the fabric of the interior also reflects motorcycle design and construction."</p> <p>Accentuating the practical side of the car, Qazana has 'floating' seats centrally mounted over a one-piece rubberised floor covering, creating an openness in the cockpit. Grooves cut in the flooring are replicated on the seats themselves.</p> <p>The dashboard is dominated by a centrally mounted screen. As well as doubling as a navigation display, it will deliver vital information relating to Nissan's next generation fully electronic ALL MODE four-wheel drive with torque vectoring system and other advanced technical processes found on board, including integrated communications systems. Using an intuitive touch-screen interface, the driver will be able to adjust the air-conditioning and other key vehicle settings.</p> <p>Alfonso Albaisa, Vice President, Nissan Design Europe, says: "When it comes to design, Nissan has developed a reputation for constantly delivering something different. The global success of Qashqai has proven that the car buying public is fed up with the conventional... but we are not prepared to sit on our laurels. Qazana might seem a radical solution but important elements of the concept do point to a future Nissan production vehicle.</p> <p>"Watch this space!"</p> </blockquote>indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8704756930704765700.post-6990027669647830212009-03-31T01:27:00.003-07:002009-03-31T01:32:39.393-07:00Nissan Qazana, X-over wallpaper dan Nissan Qazana, X-over<img style="width: 454px; height: 303px;" src="http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/03/01-nissan-qazana_580op.jpg" alt="" border="1" hspace="4" vspace="4" /><br /><br />We're just back from checking out the Nissan Qazana, and we're happy to report that it's every bit as zany as it looks in the stock images we saw seen earlier. In fact, it almost looks Gallic, like something from Citroen or Peugeot, or perhaps something reverse-engineered from a Paris-Dakar rally special. We're not entirely sure if (and/or how) the big-fendered, narrow-greenhouse look will translate to Nissan's planned production compact crossover, and we're quite sure that the rear-hinged suicide doors won't see showrooms when the Qashqai receives a kid brother. For now, we're enjoying its novel lighting (including the pair of crazy large front driving lamps and the fender-ridge daytime-running lamps, along with well-integrated boomerang taillamps) and red-velvet cake interior.indohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09163968648265370947noreply@blogger.com