Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Merry Christmas from Autoblog!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/25/merry-christmas-from-autoblog/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/25/merry-christmas-from-autoblog/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/25/merry-christmas-from-autoblog/#commentsFiled under: ,

1966 Ford Galaxie 500 Convertible custom Lego by Lino M.
Custom Lego 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 Convertible by Lino M. Click here to see additional shots.

All of us here at Autoblog would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas. We hope that Santa treated everybody well, and that you all have a great day catching up with family and friends. Have fun and drive safe.

If you're bored during your travels, we highly recommend you fire up your smartphones and check out additional shots of the latest masterpiece from Lego mastermind Lino M. - the '66 Ford Galaxie 500 convertible shown above. As you can see, Santa and his Russian mail-order bride, Natasha, roll in style. (We wonder what Mrs. Claus thinks.) Check out the full set of photos of this killer custom Lego build at Lino M.'s Flickr stream.

[Image: Lino M./Flickr]

Merry Christmas from Autoblog! originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Dec 2009 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009breakingchristmaslegoLegoslino mLinoMmerry christmasMerryChristmasFri, 25 Dec 2009 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Ford says it has come to terms with Geely on Volvo sale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/breaking-ford-says-it-has-come-to-terms-with-geely-on-volvo-sal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/breaking-ford-says-it-has-come-to-terms-with-geely-on-volvo-sal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/breaking-ford-says-it-has-come-to-terms-with-geely-on-volvo-sal/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Ford Motor Company has just announced that all major terms relating to the sale of Volvo have been settled between Ford and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company Limited. That doesn't mean that all the Ts have been crossed on the deal, but it does indicate that Geely has met all of Ford's terms for the sale to be complete. Ford has issued a press release stating that a definitive sale agreement will be signed in the first quarter of 2010, while the final sale won't take place until Q2.

Earlier in the month, former Volvo executives sent a letter to Ford Chairman Bill Ford, Jr. voicing their concern that Geely doesn't have the necessary resources to support Volvo. Not so, according to Ford's press release. The Blue Oval states "the prospective sale would ensure Volvo has the resources, including the capital investment, necessary to further strengthen the business and build its global franchise." And even though Ford will likely soon be handing over the keys to Volvo to a Chinese automaker, the company still intends to work closely with the Swedish automaker post-sale. That makes sense considering the fact that all Volvo products share platforms and components with Ford-branded cars and crossovers.

The sale will also go far in achieving Ford's goal of divesting itself of its non-core assets so the Dearborn, MI-based automaker can concentrate on matters closer to the Blue Oval's heart. Follow the jump to study Ford's brief press release. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading BREAKING: Ford says it has come to terms with Geely on Volvo sale

BREAKING: Ford says it has come to terms with Geely on Volvo sale originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewschinaford volvo saleFordVolvoSalegeelyvolvo geelyvolvo saleVolvoGeelyVolvoSaleWed, 23 Dec 2009 09:33:00 EST<![CDATA[He's Back: Schumacher reportedly signs with Mercedes-Benz F1 for 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/hes-back-schumacher-signs-with-mercedes-benz-f1-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/hes-back-schumacher-signs-with-mercedes-benz-f1-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/hes-back-schumacher-signs-with-mercedes-benz-f1-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: ,



All clearances given, the BBC is reporting that Michael Schumacher is officially a driver for the Mercedes-Petronas F1 team. The deal is understood to be a one-year agreement, with Schumacher being paid £6.2 million ($9.82M U.S.) and having an open door at the end of the year to carry on if it all works out.

Mercedes is said to have its eye on Sebastian Vettel when his contract is up in 2012. Theoretically then, if Michael remains Michael behind the wheel, he could drive for the Three-Pointed Star and collect trophies, and perhaps Championships, until then. That's an immense theoretical, however: Prost and Lauda took time off, came back, and won the whole show again; Jacques Villeneuve, well, not so much.

And as much as Ferrari respects the times it had with Schumacher, we have a feeling Luca di Montezemolo has already called Alonso to tell him, "You know what you have to do..." On the other hand, if Alonso doesn't work out at Ferrari, and Michael does well and only has a one-year deal with Mercedes...

[Source: BBC | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

He's Back: Schumacher reportedly signs with Mercedes-Benz F1 for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsf1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnemercedes f1MercedesF1michael schumacherMichaelSchumachermotorsportsWed, 23 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[NSX no more: Honda HSV-10 GT ready to race in SuperGT]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/nsx-no-more-honda-hsv-10-gt-ready-to-race-in-supergt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/nsx-no-more-honda-hsv-10-gt-ready-to-race-in-supergt/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/nsx-no-more-honda-hsv-10-gt-ready-to-race-in-supergt/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Honda HSV-10 GT - Click above for high-res image

The Honda NSX might be gone, but it's set to live on as the HSV-10 GT in Japan's SuperGT championship.

Although we don't have an official release or specs yet, we do have the image above and some preliminary details on the HSV-10 GT or Velocity Sports Honda. Built to the 2010 GT500 regulations, the new front/mid-engine racer from Honda is packing a 500+ hp, 3.4-liter V8 and sending power through the same Ricardo sequential manual gearbox fitted to the 2010 SuperGT cars from Nissan and Toyota. Underneath all that glorious carbon fiber is the same chassis Honda's been working on (originally as an NSX replacement) for the last two years. The SuperGT season opener is scheduled for March 20 and 21 of 2010, but we expect more details and a host of high-res images to hit soon. Stay tuned...

UPDATED with press release after the jump.

[Source: LeBlogAuto]

Continue reading NSX no more: Honda HSV-10 GT ready to race in SuperGT

NSX no more: Honda HSV-10 GT ready to race in SuperGT originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 22:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakinggt500hondahonda hsv-10 gthonda supergthonda supergt500HondaHsv-10GtHondaSupergtHondaSupergt500hsv 10 gthsv-10 gtHsv-10Gthsv10gtsupergtMon, 21 Dec 2009 22:39:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Ex-Microsoft CFO Chris Liddell named CFO of General Motors]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/breaking-ex-microsoft-cfo-chris-liddell-named-cfo-of-general-mo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/breaking-ex-microsoft-cfo-chris-liddell-named-cfo-of-general-mo/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/breaking-ex-microsoft-cfo-chris-liddell-named-cfo-of-general-mo/#commentsFiled under: ,

In the search for an auto industry outside, General Motors has announced that Chris Liddell will become the automaker's vice chairman and CFO in 2010.

Set to replace Ray G. Young -- a 20-year veteran of GM -- Liddell, the former Chief Financial Officer for software giant Microsoft, will report to GM's chairman and acting CEO Ed Whitacre and use his financial expertise to right the General's ship after one of the worst years in the automaker's history.

Liddell, an engineering and philosophy major, oversaw Microsoft's global acquisitions, accounting and reporting while leading its financial team, and will depart from the software colossus on December 31. More details on this corporate breath of fresh air in the press release after the break.

[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: Ex-Microsoft CFO Chris Liddell named CFO of General Motors

BREAKING: Ex-Microsoft CFO Chris Liddell named CFO of General Motors originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 11:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewscfochris liddellchris liddell general motorschris liddell gmChrisLiddellChrisLiddellGeneralMotorsChrisLiddellGmgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmrightvice chairmanViceChairmanMon, 21 Dec 2009 11:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyker Tries Again: Submits 11th-hour, 11-point bid for Saab]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/20/spyker-tries-again-submits-11th-hour-11-point-bid-for-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/20/spyker-tries-again-submits-11th-hour-11-point-bid-for-saab/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/20/spyker-tries-again-submits-11th-hour-11-point-bid-for-saab/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Spyker's motto, written on all of its cars in Latin, is "Nulla tenaci invia est via." Translation: "For the tenacious, no road is impassable." And so here the Dutch company is, tenaciously chasing Saab, announcing in a press release that they have submitted a renewed offer to General Motors that addresses what are said to be eleven sticking points that scuttled an earlier agreement.

To be clear, we don't know what each of those eleven issues are. According to a report in a Swedish paper (translated), GM's man-in-Europe, Nick Reilly, called off the sale Friday morning, citing intellectual property fears regarding Spyker's Russian backer, and the desire for GM's board to be decisive on the matter of what would become of Saab. Spyker's statement mentions the need to receive approval for a European Investment Bank loan by the end of the year, but says it has found a solution to that need. One wonders how it could possibly address its Russian support, from Vladimir Antonov's Conven Group, in a way that might make GM happy. Either way, we should know soon whether the new proposal works, as Spyker has set a deadline of 5pm Eastern on Monday as its drop-dead date.

On a side note, Norway's Bard Eker has begun to share his take on what prevented Koenigsegg's attempt to purchase Saab (translated). Two of his points were that GM had made Saab too difficult to extract from the parent company and that Koenigsegg couldn't get GM to set prices for Saab parts. As the deal looked increasingly likely to go through, Eker says that GM wanted more money. This, however, happened before Whitacre, Jr. took the helm and apparently before indecisiveness became so frowned up by The General's leaders.

In the meantime, the Swedish government is reportedly conferring with GM reps to see what else might be done to prevent Saab from flat-lining for good. Is this an attempt by Spyker and/or the Swedish government to save face, or does this proposal truly eviscerate previous sticking points and clear the way for a reborn Saab? We're not sure, but while you (re)buckle your seatbelts, be sure to read Spyker's complete statement after the jump. Thanks to everyone for the tips!


Gallery: Saab- A History in Pictures


[Source: Spyker]

Continue reading Spyker Tries Again: Submits 11th-hour, 11-point bid for Saab

Spyker Tries Again: Submits 11th-hour, 11-point bid for Saab originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Dec 2009 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmsaabsaab spykerSaabSpykerspykerspyker saabSpykerSaabswedenSun, 20 Dec 2009 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/18/breaking-swedish-patient-succumbs-deal-for-saab-is-dead-on-th/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After a protracted saga that has seen bidders drop in-and-out and old model tooling and assets sold off to the Chinese, the enigmatic brand known as Saab is dead. In a press release issued this morning, General Motors announced that the "intended sale of Saab Automobile AB would not be concluded." GM had been in talks with Dutch exoticmakers Spyker Cars after pursuing a number of other buyer leads (including the aborted sale with Koenigsegg), but The General says that in the course of due diligence, the resolution of certain unspecified issues became impossible in the time frame that they had set for themselves.

As such, GM will immediately begin the "wind down" of the much-loved yet perpetually unprofitable cult brand, but says it will continue to honor warranties and provide spare parts and service - presumably through other GM brand dealers - as Saab dealers go offline. Officials note that this is not a bankruptcy or forced liquidation situation, so outstanding creditors should still expect to receive payment.

It is not clear what will happen to the production-ready 2010 9-5, nor the current 9-3/9-3X model and almost-ready 9-4X. Official death certificate available after the jump, historical slide show of the brand in photographs viewable below.


Gallery: Saab- A History in Pictures


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand

BREAKING: Swedish Patient Succumbs - Deal for Saab is dead on the table, GM to wind down brand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Saab 9-32010 Saab 9-3x2010 Saab 9-52010Saab9-32010Saab9-3x2010Saab9-59-39-4x9-5brand closingBrandClosingbreakingbreakingnewsGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMsaabSaab 9-3Saab 9-4xSaab 9-5Saab9-3Saab9-4xSaab9-5spykerwind-downwinddownwindownFri, 18 Dec 2009 09:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: 2011 Ford Mustang GT to offer 412-horsepower 5.0-liter V8]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/2011-ford-mustang-gt-to-offer-412-horsepower-5-0l-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/2011-ford-mustang-gt-to-offer-412-horsepower-5-0l-v8/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/2011-ford-mustang-gt-to-offer-412-horsepower-5-0l-v8/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Ford Mustang GT - Click above for high-res image gallery

Thanks to a loose-lipped Facebookian that couldn't help sharing insider information and a quick follow-up post from Inside Line, we can now confirm the return of the iconic 5.0-liter Mustang GT for 2011. Even better news is the fact that the Mustang GT's new mill will crank out an impressive 412 horsepower.

By way of comparison, the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS has a 6.2-liter V8 with as much as 422 horses when mated to a six-speed manual and the 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 has a 6.1-liter Hemi that offers 425 ponies. And remember, both of those rivals are considerably heavier than the Mustang.

As much as we'd like to unload more goods on the 2011 Mustang, you'll just have to wait until Ford's good and ready. Or someone blows another embargo, whichever comes first.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Ford Mustang GT


[Source: Inside Line]

Confirmed: 2011 Ford Mustang GT to offer 412-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 20:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford mustang2011 ford mustang 5.02011 Ford Mustang GT2011 mustang2011 Mustang GT2011FordMustang2011FordMustang5.02011FordMustangGt2011Mustang2011MustangGt5.0breakingfordford mustangford mustang gtFordMustangFordMustangGtmustangmustang 5.0Mustang GT500 Super SnakeMustang5.0MustangGt500SuperSnakeThu, 17 Dec 2009 20:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/officially-official-vw-and-suzuki-tie-the-knot/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As you can see from the image above depicting Osamu Suzuki, chairman and CEO of Suzuki Motor Corp. and Martin Winterkorn, his counterpart at Volkswagen AG, the two auto companies have agreed to link arms. Volkswagen has properly announced that it has "reached a common understanding to establish a close longterm strategic partnership" with Suzuki Motor Corporation. The union means VW will buy 19.9% of Suzuki, then Suzuki will spend half the money they just received from Volkswagen reciprocating by buying VW shares.

Beyond that, Suzuki gains access to VW technology and the comforting warmth of a hugely profitable big brother. Volkswagen gets a nearly turn-key solution to boosting its small car development and piggybacks on Suzuki's presence in India and Southeast Asia. Suzuki, and of course, VW, will remain independent, but unofficial word suggests that VW might increase its stake to 33% or more at some point down the road, which could shift the balance of power.

VW's press release is after the jump, and there will be a press conference and webcast (you'll need a user name and password to watch) at 5 p.m. with more details.

[Source: Volkswagen | Image: Kazuhiro Nogi/AFP/Getty]

Continue reading Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot

Officially Official: VW and Suzuki tie the knot originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingOsaumu SuzukiOsaumuSuzukishare exchangeShareExchangesuzukisuzuki motor corporationsuzuki volkswagenSuzukiMotorCorporationSuzukiVolkswagentechnology exchangeTechnologyExchangetie uptie-upTieUpvolkswagenvolkswagen AGVolkswagenAgvwvw suzukiVwSuzukiwinterkornWed, 09 Dec 2009 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning <b>[UPDATE: Confirmed]</b>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/04/breaking-whitacre-reportedly-to-announce-management-shakeups-at/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Having just been appointed interim CEO at General Motors earlier this week, ex-AT&T man Ed Whitacre isn't wasting any time in exercising his newfound authority. According to The Wall Street Journal, Whitacre is to announce a number of management changes this morning, including moving Vice Chairman Bob Lutz from his role in marketing to a more product planning-focused role. Whitacre is also expected to promote some of the company's younger managers to new positions, although it has not yet been revealed who is targeted.

According to the WSJ, Whitacre "drew up the new management blueprint in a matter of four hours," suggesting to us that he already had a number of changes in mind. Further, he is also expected to combine GM's sales and marketing divisions

While Whitacre has only been on the job since Tuesday and he is technically only considered an interim appointment at this time, the search for a new CEO is thought likely to take months, if not a year. From the looks of things, Whitacre isn't looking at himself as simply a placeholder, though, and we wouldn't be surprised to see more changes as the weeks and months roll by.

*UPDATE: Changes confirmed: GM has issued a press release (viewable after the jump). Among the moves, Bob Lutz will be an 'advisor' on design and global product - he will retain his title of vice chairman. Other changes include Mark Reuss named as president of GM North America, Susan Docherty appointed VP, vehicle sales, service, and marketing operations. For a full list of changes, click past the jump for the release.

[Source: The Wall Street Journal I Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Continue reading BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning [UPDATE: Confirmed]

BREAKING: Whitacre to shakeup GM management, put Lutz in product planning [UPDATE: Confirmed] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bob LutzBobLutzbreakingbreakingnewsEd WhitacreEdWhitacreGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsGMGM CEOGmCeomanagement changesmanagement shakeupManagementChangesManagementShakeupmark reussMarkReusssusan dochertySusanDochertyWhitacreFri, 04 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Mitsubishi Colt <i>is</i> coming to America]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/mitsubishi-colt-is-coming-to-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2009 Mitsubishi Colt - Click above for high-res image gallery

Buried deep within Mitsubishi's (re)presentation of its PX-MiEV plug-in hybrid concept from the Tokyo Motor Show was a line about a global small car that Mitsubishi will be bringing to the US in 2010. That's it, one line. We didn't think too much of the announcement until Mitsubishi's Product Communications Manager Moe Durand walked up and said, "In case you missed it, the small car is the Colt." Dang!

Dang because we really like the new EVO-nosed Colt, especially in Ralliart trim. Additionally, now is a wonderful time to bring over a small car. Don't believe us? Just ask Ford (Fiesta) and Mazda (Mazda2). The Colt will be going up against some pretty hefty (albeit lightweight) competition in the form of established B-segmenters like the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa.

And while we haven't driven the new Colt, the stats aren't exactly overwhelming - in top trim, a 1.5-liter MIVEC four-cylinder spits out 104 hp and 104 lb-ft of torque. Routed through a CVT transmission that's probably plenty of grunt for day to day small car activities. And odds are Mitsubishi will drop a slightly buffer mill into the Colt for US duty. But just picture this - what if Mitsubishi gives us the Ralliart Colt? Maybe with a turbo. We, for one, would really be in favor of that (hint, hint). Either way, here comes the Colt.


Gallery: 2009 Mitsubishi Colt

BREAKING: Mitsubishi Colt is coming to America originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingColtLA 2009LA Auto ShowLA ShowLa2009LaAutoShowLaShowMitsubishiMitsubishi ColtMitsubishi Small CarMitsubishiColtMitsubishiSmallCarWed, 02 Dec 2009 20:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/02/alfa-romeo-previews-stylish-new-giulietta/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Alfa Romeo Giulietta - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's been a long time in the making. It has changed names several times along the way. But it's finally here. Well, almost. It's the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, and it's coming to the Geneva Motor Show this March to coincide with its phased market launch across Europe next year to coincide with the marque's centenary.

Positioned just above the MiTo in Alfa's lineup (and, tellingly, below the anticipated upcoming 159-succeeding Giulia), the Giulietta replaces the 147 as Italy's answer to the Volkswagen Golf. Since Alfa's parent company Fiat already targets the Golf with its own Bravo, though, some might consider this more of an aggressively-priced competitor to the Audi A3. The hatchback takes its styling cues from the sumptuous 8C Competizione, but carries it off in a decidedly more aggressive way than implemented on the MiTo. Plenty of glass also make the cabin more airy, with a body-colored panel running across the dashboard.

A range of transverse four-cylinder engines - both gasoline and diesel - will be on offer, producing between 120 and 170 horsepower until a 230 hp Quadrifoglio Verde model comes along. They've all got start-stop engine management and Alfa's DNA adjustable suspension system as standard equipment. Fiat's cutting-edge MultiAir valve-actuation system will eventually find its way into all of the engines, while the selection of five- and six-speed manual gearboxes is set to be joined by a new dual-clutch transmission as well.

The new Giulietta marks a pivotal product launch for Alfa Romeo, as the company is hoping to make this its volume offering the most prolific model in its history - with production targeted for an ambitious 100,000 units annually. Check out the trifecta of images in the gallery below and the press release after the jump for full details.


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Giulietta


[Source: Alfa Romeo]

Continue reading Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta

Alfa Romeo previews stylish new Giulietta originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1492010 geneva2010 geneva auto show2010 geneva motor show2010Geneva2010GenevaAutoShow2010GenevaMotorShowalfaalfa 149alfa giuliettaalfa milanoalfa romeoalfa romeo 149alfa romeo giuliettaalfa romeo milanoAlfa149AlfaGiuliettaAlfaMilanoAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeo149AlfaRomeoGiuliettaAlfaRomeoMilanobreakinggenevageneva 2010geneva auto showgeneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaAutoShowGenevaMotorShowgiuliettamilanoWed, 02 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: GM CEO Fritz Henderson steps down]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/breaking-gm-ceo-fritz-henderson-steps-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/breaking-gm-ceo-fritz-henderson-steps-down/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/01/breaking-gm-ceo-fritz-henderson-steps-down/#commentsFiled under: ,



Well, that was quick. Fritz Henderson, the recently appointed CEO of General Motors, is stepping down. Company chairman of the board Ed Whitacre (remember the "Satisfaction Guaranteed" commercials, that's the guy) is set to act as the interim CEO until a permanent replacement is found.

This marks the second CEO that beleaguered automaker General Motors has lost this year, the first being Rick Wagoner, who was asked to resign by the Obama Administration's Task Force for Autos. Over the last few months, deals that GM had made to offload Opel, Saturn and Saab have all fallen through, and some have reported on clashing styles between Whitacre and Henderson.

General Motors has just confirmed the news via a press conference being held as we speak. Stay tuned for more as we learn it.

UPDATE: Official Statement from Ed Whitacre, GM's new interim CEO, added after the jump.

[Source: Free Press, GM | Image: Philippe Lopez/Getty]

Continue reading BREAKING: GM CEO Fritz Henderson steps down

BREAKING: GM CEO Fritz Henderson steps down originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsEd WhitacreEdWhitacrefritz hendersonFritzHendersongeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmgm ceoGmCeoTue, 01 Dec 2009 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/la-preview-2011-chevy-cruze-finally-unveiled-in-u-s-market-tri/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Cruze - click above for high-res image gallery

More than a year after first showing us a styling buck and nearly as long since launching it overseas, General Motors is finally showing off the production Chevy Cruze for North America. Set to be shown publicly this week at the LA Auto Show, the Cruze is still a good eight or nine months away from arriving in U.S. showrooms.

When it does finally arrive, the Cruze should be a huge step forward from the Chevy Cobalt, and GM hopes it will be an able competitor to the next-generation Honda Civic and Ford Focus, which are slated to arrive not long afterward. The Cruze is slightly larger than the Cobalt, but will be powered by downsized engines, including a new 1.4-liter turbocharged four cylinder with 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, as well as a 1.8-liter normally-aspirated unit with similar power but less torque. All Cruze models will get six-speed gearboxes - either manual or automatic. The turbo Cruze is expected to score an impressive 40 mpg EPA highway rating.

Based on our brief experience driving a Chevy Volt powertrain mule (Cruze and Volt share common DNA), the Chevrolet Cruze should be more refined than the outgoing Cobalt by an order of magnitude, with a roomier interior and much better-executed passenger cabin. We'll see it in person later this week in L.A., and in the meantime, you can check out the first official images from GM in the gallery below. The official press release follows after the jump.


Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim

LA Preview: 2011 Chevy Cruze finally unveiled in U.S.-market trim originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 chevrolet cruze2011 chevy cruze2011ChevroletCruze2011ChevyCruzebreakingchevroletchevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevychevy cruzechevy cruze interiorchevy cruze lordstownChevyCruzeChevyCruzeInteriorChevyCruzeLordstowncruzela auto showLA Auto Show 2009LA autoshowla2009LaAutoShowLaAutoShow2009los angeles 2009LosAngeles2009Sun, 29 Nov 2009 09:14:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/breaking-toyota-to-recall-3-8m-vehicles-to-reshape-and-replace/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Toyota has announced that it will recall some 3.8 million cars and trucks to reshape and/or replace their accelerator pedals. The action is the result of fears that loose floormats may cause the accelerator pedal to stick, increasing the risk of an accident. The recall will be the largest in the Japanese automaker's history, and it will cover a wide range of vehicles from the 2004 model year through 2010 - a complete list is available after the jump. The move comes after an earlier action where Toyota announced it would recall 3.8 million vehicles to only swap floor mats.

Working with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Toyota will effect the recall by sending letters to owners of its Avalon, Camry, and Lexus ES 350 models by year's end. Five other models, including the Prius, Tacoma, Tundra, and Lexus IS 250/IS 350 will receive similar notices sometime in 2010.

The plan includes training dealer service representatives to reshape gas pedals, and Toyota will develop and ship redesigned gas pedals beginning in April. Those customers who have elected to have their pedals initially reshaped will still be able to have the pedal replaced when the updated unit becomes available. Vehicles fitted with Toyota or Lexus-made all-weather floor mats will also receive a new set of redesigned front mats.

Interestingly, Toyota will also install a a brake override system that will turn off the engine if both the accelerator and the brake are depressed simultaneously. According to Automotive News, this update will occur on "involved Camry, Avalon, and Lexus ES 350, IS 350 and IS 250 models 'as an extra measure of confidence.'" This action appears to be limited to vehicles that employ Toyota's push-button start system, but interestingly its hybrid-only Prius has apparently been excluded.

For its part, Toyota says the cost of the action will come entirely from its dedicated recall fund, a $5.6 billion dollar stash, and therefore, the recall will have "no effect" on its business. The news come on the heels of yesterday's announcement that Toyota will recall 2000-2003 Tundra pickups over frame rust issues.

A complete list of vehicles covered under the action and both NHTSA and Toyota's official press releases are available after the jump.

[Sources: Reuters; Automotive News; NHTSA; Toyota]

Continue reading BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals

BREAKING: Toyota to recall 3.8M vehicles to reshape and replace pedals originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreakingnewsCamryfloor matfloormatfloormat recallFloormatRecallfloormatsfloormats recallFloormatsRecallLexus ISLexus IS 250Lexus IS 350Lexus IS250Lexus IS350LexusIsLexusIs250LexusIs350PriustoyotaToyota AvalonToyota CamryToyota PriusToyota TacomaToyota TundraToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaPriusToyotaTacomaToyotaTundratoyta recallToytaRecallWed, 25 Nov 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/24/breaking-koenigsegg-backs-out-of-saab-purchase-brand-future-up/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

After riding in on a white horse, Koenigsegg Group AB has pulled out of negotiations to buy Saab from General Motors, leaving the Swedish automaker's future very much in doubt. In a brief statement issued by GM (available after the jump), president and CEO Fritz Henderson says that the company is "very disappointed with the decision to pull out of the Saab purchase."

It is unclear what will happen to the brand now, but if Saab fans can hold on to any hope, GM says it will "take the next several days to assess the situation and will advise on the next steps next week." It is worth noting that this is different from the brief announcement that GM issued when Roger Penske's group pulled out from buying Saturn - GM immediately announced that they would begin "winding down" the brand. There was at least one other serious bidder interested in purchasing Saab previous to Koenigsegg becoming the preferred purchaser, but it isn't immediately clear if they are still interested, or if their financial backing checked out to begin with.

We suspect that even if Saab is unable to survive as a brand, someone will step in and purchase the assets to the already tooled-up forthcoming 9-5 sedan - perhaps the Chinese - and potentially the newish 9-3/9-3X as well.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5


[Source: General Motors]

Continue reading BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air

BREAKING: Koenigsegg backs out of Saab purchase, brand future up in the air originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>9-5breakingFritz HendersonFritzHendersonGeneral MotorsGeneralMotorsKoenigseggSaabSaab 9-5Saab9-5Tue, 24 Nov 2009 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[First official shots of new BMW 5 Series leaked online]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/first-official-shots-of-new-bmw-5-series-leaked-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 BMW F10 5-Series - Click above for image gallery

BMW's official unveiling ceremony isn't until Monday, but a few authentic shots of the all-new "F10" BMW 5 Series are floating around cyberspace. These three low resolution images only give us a frontal glimpse of the upcoming 5 Series sedan, apparently as it does a dress rehearsal for its big show at the beginning of the week.

Our first sans-camouflage observation says it looks much like the 5 Series GT, its close sibling (nobody was expecting any radical styling departure anyway). Thanks to its "sport sedan" role, the new 5 Series four-door sports a slightly more aggressive flair to its front facade and side styling. In case you were wondering, the little black buttons just ahead of the front wheels are side view cameras, just like those found on the 7 Series. We'll reserve further judgment until Monday, when they pull the rest of the tarp off. Thanks for the tip, Brandon!

UPDATE: Full official gallery of shots from BMW added.

Gallery: 2010 BMW 5 Series F10 Official Pics


Gallery: 2011 BMW 5 Series sedan


[Source: 5post.com]

First official shots of new BMW 5 Series leaked online originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 5 Series2010 BMW2010 BMW 5 Series2010 F1020105Series2010Bmw2010Bmw5Series2010F105 Series5SeriesbreakingF10F10 5 SeriesF105SeriesPreviewSneak PeekSneakPeekSpiedSpottedSpy ShotSpyShotSun, 22 Nov 2009 08:49:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



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

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

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsF1Ferrariformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnemclarenmercedesmercedes-benzmichael schumacherMichaelSchumacherMSschumacherFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-to-come-with-manual-tra/#commentsFiled under: ,

2011 Buick Regal live unveiling - Click above for high-res image gallery

Trivia Time: When was the last time a U.S. market Buick was available with a manual transmission? Honestly, we can't recall anything more recent than a buddy in high school having a hand-me-down mid-Eighties Somerset coupe with a stubby, workmanlike five-speed. Even back then its presence in our friend's hooptie was a genuine curiosity and a source of perpetual amusement.

Naturally, we posed this same question to a few Buick PR-types this morning at a first drive event upon learning from vehicle line executive Jim Federico that the reborn 2011 Regal will receive a six-speed manual transmission option (mated to a blown 2.0-liter four, no less). The answer? Shoulder shrugs and sheepish looks. Curiously, nobody even tried to answer our query with a red herring like the ill-fated Reatta coupe (it only came with a four-speed automatic).

So we now know when a Buick will next feature God's Own Gearbox (probably in the third quarter of 2010), but we still can't crack this historical chestnut - so we beseech thee, Autoblog Nation... what year was the last Buick built with a DIY transmission - and what car was it in? Hit us with your best shot in Comments.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal Live Unveiling


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Buick2011 Regal2011Buick2011RegalbreakingbreakingnewsBuickBuick RegalBuickRegalJim FedericoJimFedericomanual transmissionManualTransmissionRegalstick shiftstick-shiftStickShiftThu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/19/officially-official-aptera-production-pushed-back-to-2010/#comments

If anybody is still wondering whether Aptera, despite the recent commotion, will deliver one of their flightless wonders by Christmas, they can officially cease speculating. They're not, and the release date has now been pushed back to some undefined time in 2010. Hopefully, the delay won't be a full year as it was the last time they announced delivery postponement. According to the company, fundraising efforts didn't keep pace with vehicle development, so they're taking measures to slow the cash burn. One of those unfortunate actions involved laying off an unspecified number of employees, though one of them, co-founder Steve Fambro, has said he will resume his role next year. Addressing the situation he said:
Right now my advanced work is a lower priority for Aptera. We've got to be wholly focused on funding and getting the first 2e on the road. Paul's leadership and (chief engineer) Tom Reichenbach's talent have led to changes in the vehicle that are spot-on. They've made the vehicle safer, it's better handling and more comfortable. Once we get through this stage, we'll begin mass producing the 2e - the most aerodynamic and efficient vehicle in the world.
Sounds reasonable to us, and it's no doubt reassuring for patiently waiting customers to receive official communication from the firm. However, one can't help but wonder why they didn't head this chaotic episode off at the pass by making this announcement in a more timely fashion. The emotional investment of nearly 4,000 reservation-holding fans might be just as important as seeking further financial investment. In any event, the official press release awaits after the break.

[Source: Aptera Motors]

Continue reading Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010

Officially Official: Aptera production pushed back to 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Aptera2010ApteraApteraAptera 2eAptera2ebreakingproduction delayProductionDelaySteve FambroSteveFambroThu, 19 Nov 2009 07:58:00 EST