Report: Next Chevrolet Corvette to get 440-hp 5.5-liter small-block V8

75e38 stingray concept Report: Next Chevrolet Corvette to get 440 hp 5.5 liter small block V8

Chevrolet 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Motor Trend, which is citing unnamed sources within General Motors, the next-generation Corvette will come with a brand-new engine. Despite rumors to the contrary, it seems that Chevrolet’s halo vehicle will continue using its trademark V8 engine and not a V6. Still, the C7’s powerplant will be downsized from its current 6.2 or 7.0 liters.

It’s likely that this new engine will be the first application of GM’s next-gen small block family, and we’d expect it to sport direct injection, E85 capability and a new combustion system design. One thing not to expect, though: overhead cams. You can bank on the fact that The General will stick to its tried-and-true overhead valve design, which serves to lower manufacturing costs and allows for comparatively small overall engine dimensions.

All of these technologies should make the venerable V8 more fuel efficient and cleaner, but also sufficiently powerful to uphold its sportscar heritage. In fact, Motor Trend reports that the C7’s V8 will displace 5.5 liters while hammering out 440 horsepower. Though that significantly smaller in displacement, the power figure would actually be up from the current 430 ponies. We can hardly wait… but we’ll have to anyway. We don’t expect the next Corvette to bow before 2012 at the earliest.

Gallery: Chevrolet 50th Anniversary Corvette Stingray Concept revealed again

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[Source: Motor Trend]

Report: Next Chevrolet Corvette to get 440-hp 5.5-liter small-block V8

      



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    Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 6.29.10

    5953c u turn banner Daily U Turn: What you missed on 6.29.10

    5953c lead1alpinab7fd2011 thumbnail Daily U Turn: What you missed on 6.29.10

    First Drive: 2011 BMW Alpina B7 breaks the luxo-barge mold

    Alpina has made a business out of taking the best vehicles from one marque and making them substantially better than anything rolling off the assembly line. The Alpina B7 is easily the best 7 Series we’ve driven.

    5953c tesla model s 630 thumbnail Daily U Turn: What you missed on 6.29.10

    Tesla reportedly raises $226 million with IPO of 13.3M shares

    Tesla reportedly raised $226 million with its IPO, or 13.3 million shares at $17 per. The $226 mil total went above and beyond the high-end figure of $16 per share. *Update: Shares are now trading some 40% higher than initial price.

    Daily U-Turn: What you missed on 6.29.10

        



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      2013 Tesla Roadster to be completely built in-house

      7d859 45 living with tesla 630op 2013 Tesla Roadster to be completely built in house

      Tesla Roadster Sport – Click above for high-res image gallery

      We’ve been poring over Tesla’s IPO filing with the SEC and hidden within the indecipherable legalese is a little gem for those of us more interested in product then federal oversight.

      As reported previously, the Roadster’s reign is set to end in December of 2011, although Tesla will continue to take orders for the current Roadster into 2012 if its supply of “gliders” – the rolling chassis provided by Lotus and built on the same platform as the Elise/Exige – isn’t exhausted.

      Tesla has contracted Lotus for a total of 2,400 gliders and if the price is right, it could extend that contract to meet demand.

      More importantly, Tesla confirms that the next Roadster won’t arrive until production of the Model S begins in 2012, so a revised Roadster isn’t in the cards until 2013 – at the earliest. Interestingly, the upstart EV automaker says that it intends to build the “next generation Tesla Roadster entirely in our own facilities.” Which leads us to believe that an all-new platform could underpin the next generation model, possibly based on the Model S’ architecture and shared by a range of new products. How much of the current Roadster carries over remains to be seen, but if Tesla wants to continue to assert its independence, it’s fair to assume that it won’t be sourcing its next chassis from another automaker.

      Gallery: Review: 2010 Tesla Roadster Sport

      7d859 01 living with tesla thumbnail 2013 Tesla Roadster to be completely built in house7d859 02 living with tesla thumbnail 2013 Tesla Roadster to be completely built in house7d859 03 living with tesla thumbnail 2013 Tesla Roadster to be completely built in house7d859 04 living with tesla thumbnail 2013 Tesla Roadster to be completely built in house7d859 05 living with tesla thumbnail 2013 Tesla Roadster to be completely built in house

      Photos by Damon Lavrinc / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

      [Source: SEC]

      2013 Tesla Roadster to be completely built in-house

          



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        Lucky 14: Workers at Dodge Viper plant win Powerball jackpot

        70c15 viper production05 Lucky 14: Workers at Dodge Viper plant win Powerball jackpot

        Dodge Viper assembly line workers in Detroit – Click above for high-res image gallery

        It’s not every day that someone actually wins the lottery, but that day has come for nineteen American factory workers. And it’s come in a big way as two lottery clubs have claimed multi-million-dollar jackpots in the Powerball and Mega Millions drawings, scoring a jaw-dropping $96.6 million and $36 million respectively.

        What does this have to do with cars, you ask? This is an automotive news site, after all, so we’ll tell you: the “Lucky 13 Plus One” lottery club that won the nearly $100M Powerball jackpot is comprised of workers at the Chrysler’s Jefferson North Assembly plant in Detroit that reports claim builds the Dodge Viper. (The Viper’s actually built at Connor Avenue, while Jefferson builds Jeeps, so clearly something’s amiss here, but we digress.) The Mega Millions jackpot, meanwhile, will be split between five factory workers in Kalamazoo whose names and employer remain unpublished.

        As for the winning Viper crew, might we suggest either buying the rights to the car you build to either ensure its survival or farm them out to Devon Motorworks. Or maybe buying back the Mercedes SLS program and turning it back into the next-gen Viper. Of course, there is a certain group of automotive journalists who’d be happy to help you invest, so be in touch, won’t you?

        Gallery: Dodge Viper ACR-X Begins Production

        70c15 viperacrxproduction01 thumbnail Lucky 14: Workers at Dodge Viper plant win Powerball jackpot70c15 viperacrxproduction02 thumbnail Lucky 14: Workers at Dodge Viper plant win Powerball jackpot70c15 viperacrxproduction03 thumbnail Lucky 14: Workers at Dodge Viper plant win Powerball jackpot70c15 viperacrxproduction04 thumbnail Lucky 14: Workers at Dodge Viper plant win Powerball jackpot70c15 viperacrxproduction05 thumbnail Lucky 14: Workers at Dodge Viper plant win Powerball jackpot

        [Source: The Detroit News]

        Lucky 14: Workers at Dodge Viper plant win Powerball jackpot

              



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          MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR

          543e0 mv agusta 1090rr MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR

          2010 MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR – Click above for high-res image gallery

          When we recently got the chance to take the latest 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 990R for a spin, we didn’t find the naked bike lacking for power. With 998cc of inline-four goodness cranking itself merrily away under the rider, measuring 139 horsepower and 78 pound-feet of torque when measured at the crankshaft, the new Brutale has plenty of oomph.

          If you find yourself in need for more horses, though, MV Agusta will gladly sell you the enlarged 1090RR version with 144 horsepower. And if that’s still not enough? A head examination may be in order – this is a naked bike after all – but there’s always the newly announced Cannonball Kit to feed your insatiable lust for power.

          According to the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, the combination of new ECU, cylinder head, camshafts, valves and titanium exhaust system will add an additional 21 horses to the 1090RR, putting total output at 165 horsepower. It all sounds good, except for the fact that the kit is not certified for road use and we don’t know of too many Brutale owners that ride their bikes exclusively on the track…

          Gallery: 2010 MV Agusta Brutale 1090RR

          543e0 mv agusta 1090rr large 16 thumbnail MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR543e0 mv agusta 1090rr large 05 thumbnail MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR543e0 mv agusta 1090rr large 08 thumbnail MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR543e0 mv agusta 1090rr large 01 thumbnail MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR543e0 mv agusta 1090rr large 09 thumbnail MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR

          [Source: Asphalt & Rubber]

          MV Agusta announces Cannonball Kit for 2010 Brutale 1090RR

                



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            Report: GMC Granite approved for production [w/poll]

            5fe05 gmcgraniteconcept000 Report: GMC Granite approved for production [w/poll]

            GMC Granite concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

            When General Motors debuted the GMC Granite concept at this year’s Detroit Auto Show, it was a huge hit with both the media and public in attendance. A small hatchback like this would shake up GMC’s legacy of only building trucks and crossovers, but it would be a good way to expand the brand’s lineup and better establish it as a core part of GM.

            Now, the folks at Motor Trend report that the Granite has been given the green light for production, though The General is still in the process of figuring out if it can keep those nifty rear-hinged doors intact. The Granite shares the same architecture as the Chevrolet Orlando which will be produced for other markets and will likely be powered by GM’s new 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-four, possibly mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission.

            It’s still unclear when we’ll actually see a production version of the Granite concept, but we wouldn’t be surprised if a few test mules start popping up outside of GM’s proving grounds within the next year. Can a tall Scion xB-like hatch exist under the GMC nameplate? Be sure to give us your opinion in the poll below.

            View Poll

            Gallery: GMC Granite Concept

            5fe05 gmcgraniteconcept000 thumbnail Report: GMC Granite approved for production [w/poll]5fe05 gmcgraniteconcept001 thumbnail Report: GMC Granite approved for production [w/poll]5fe05 gmcgraniteconcept002 thumbnail Report: GMC Granite approved for production [w/poll]2a74e gmcgraniteconcept003 thumbnail Report: GMC Granite approved for production [w/poll]2a74e gmcgraniteconcept004 thumbnail Report: GMC Granite approved for production [w/poll]

            [Source: Motor Trend]

            Report: GMC Granite approved for production [w/poll]

                  



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              Abarth to tune Alfa Romeos?

              7685c abarth500essesse3 Abarth to tune Alfa Romeos?

              Anyone who’s spent time in a desert climate knows all to well how fast a scorpion can move, and the same can be said of the reborn marque that bears the scorpion as its badge. Not just in terms of the vehicles it produces, but the busy pace which Fiat’s tuning division keeps.

              With only two core models in its line-up, Abarth always seems to have something new in the works. The latest debuts were hot versions of the Fiat Punto Evo and 500C. A new purpose-built roadster is reportedly in the works again. And now reports have it that the recently revived tuning studio is preparing to branch out beyond Fiat’s own catalog and take on some offerings from Alfa Romeo.

              The development follows the unification of the two Fiat Group brands under common management, a move which has already bred the Maserati edition Alfa MiTo. No word yet on exactly which Alfa models could get the Abarth treatment, but while the MiTo might seem a logical starting point, reports suggest that – with the Quadrifoglio Verde (Cloverleaf) model already on the market and a GTA still rumored to be in the works – the stylish little hatch will be immune to the scorpion’s sting.

              [Source: Autocar]

              Abarth to tune Alfa Romeos?

                    



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                Autoblog Podcast #184 – IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi horsepower

                a8522 autoblog podcast 3 Autoblog Podcast #184   IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi horsepower

                Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!

                Chris Shunk rejoins Sam, Alex and Dan for Episode #184 of the Autoblog Podcast. Topics we mull are Tesla’s actual IPO and General Motors‘ apparently impending public offering. Gordon Murray’s T.25 city car makes the cut before we do a 180 and talk about the possibility of a 480-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT8 and a manlier minivan. It ends with your feedback, a tidy hour and ten minutes. See you next week!

                Autoblog Podcast #184 – IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi Horsepower


                In the Autoblog Garage:

                Infiniti G37x Coupe
                Honda CR-Z
                Nissan Altima V6

                News:


                Hosts:
                Dan Roth, Sam Abuelsamid, Alex Nunez, Chris Shunk

                Runtime: 71:22



                Get the podcast:
                [iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
                [RSS] Add the Joystiq Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
                [MP3] Download the MP3 directly

                Feedback:

                Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com
                Voicemail: 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763)

                Review the show in iTunes
                and take our survey

                Autoblog Podcast #184 – IPOs, Manly Minivans, City Cars and Hemi horsepower

                      



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                  Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL smiles for the camera

                  33570 mb sl 2opt Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes Benz SL smiles for the camera

                  2012 Mercedes-Benz SL spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

                  With all the hype surrounding the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, it’s easy to forget that the SL and SLK roadsters are still a crucial part of the automaker’s lineup. We’ve seen the next generation of the baby SLK out testing, and now our spies have caught a larger 2012 SL mule out and about.

                  Up front, the more upright fascia with the dinner plate-sized Three-Pointed Star logo is the biggest change, as are the revised headlamps, which seem to be less angular than the ones found on the current SL. Looking below, we can see that LED running light strips have been fitted at the lower air intakes (something that’s quickly becoming standard equipment across the automaker’s portfolio), and out back, the triangular taillamps have been smoothed out a bit.

                  Our crafty spy photographers have also managed to get a glimpse inside the new SL. A new sport steering wheel is in place, and even though we don’t have the photographic proof, we’re told that the rest of the interior (center console, etc.) is akin to the new design found in the SLS AMG. Fine by us.

                  Click through the gallery below to see the full set of high-res Mercedes-Benz SL spy shots.

                  Gallery: Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL

                  33570 mb sl 2 thumbnail Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes Benz SL smiles for the camera33570 mb sl 1 thumbnail Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes Benz SL smiles for the camera33570 mb sl 3 thumbnail Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes Benz SL smiles for the camera33570 mb sl 4 thumbnail Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes Benz SL smiles for the camera33570 mb sl 5 thumbnail Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes Benz SL smiles for the camera

                  [Source: CarPix]

                  Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL smiles for the camera

                      



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                    Pikes Peak 2010: Ducati takes top honors in the "big boy" class aboard stock Multistrada

                    bceea two multi peak Pikes Peak 2010: Ducati takes top honors in the "big boy" class aboard stock Multistrada

                    Its all uphill from here for the new Multistrada – Click above for high-res image gallery

                    When it comes to proving a point on a motorcycle, there are two good ways to get it done. The first thing to do is keep your mouth shut and let your results speak for themselves. The second is to repeat the process as often as possible! If Ducati was out to prove the point that their all-new Multistrada was capable of taking on the biggest, baddest bikes on the planet, in one of the most respected and feared formats on or off the pavement, than we must say… mission accomplished.

                    Ducati’s freshman effort racing the Multistrada 1200S at “The Peak” in the 1205-or as we like to call it, the Big Boy-class was a great success as not one, but two Multistradas took the high and low position on the podium, locking up fist and third. Of interest was winning pilot Greg Tracy’s comments about his victorious factory Ducati: “This is my first year on a factory motorcycle and I’ll tell you that bike was box-stock. It had some carbon, and few tweaks and that was it.” From what we can see, other than a few bolt-on items, suspension tweaks and special paint, it appears that Mr Tracey is telling the truth.

                    Although all of this leaves us very impressed, wanting nothing more than to get our hands on a shiny new Muti and head for the nearest fourteener, it must be mentioned that the win comes in a class lacking some of the major competitors who traditionally show up to send a beast up the hill (including BMW). But hey, maybe Ducati will have so much confidence leaving Colorado they can challenge BMW to a head-to-head Mini versus Porsche type shootout? For now, we’ll just say congratulations to Ducati, Greg Tracey and Alexander Smith for some fine work. Hit the break to read the full press release straight from the horse’s mouth.

                    [Source:Ducati]

                    Continue reading Pikes Peak 2010: Ducati takes top honors in the “big boy” class aboard stock Multistrada

                    Pikes Peak 2010: Ducati takes top honors in the “big boy” class aboard stock Multistrada

                        



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                      Spy Shots: Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 caught towing

                      fbdb9 jeep grand cherokee f34 thumb 717x477 Spy Shots: Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 caught towingThe last generation Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 was always one of our favorite high-performance SUVs and its 6.1-liter Hemi V8 lunacy never failed to delight. Thankfully, with the brand-new Grand Cherokee now entering showrooms, a new SRT8 is apparently on the way as well.

                      A low-riding, big-tired, deep-chinned Jeep has been spotted out testing with a trailer, and it looks to be the SRT8 successor. The new model will likely be powered by an upgraded Hemi that’s punched out to 6.4-liters with an output boosted to 480 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.

                      The prototype dispenses with the central exhaust tips on the old model in favor of more typical outboard pipes, which at least makes it easier to rig up a tow hitch. While this could change back for production, the fact that the prototype is toting a trailer could be a sign that Jeep wants to improve its utility beyond the 3,500 pounds of the outgoing model.

                      [Source: InsideLine]

                      Spy Shots: Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 caught towing

                          



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                        Report: GM and SAIC gearing up to take on Tata Nano

                        d45f9 chevrolet sail 630 Report: GM and SAIC gearing up to take on Tata Nano

                        2011 Chevrolet Sail

                        General Motors has saddled up with Chinese automaker SAIC in an attempt to bring a Nano-fighting value car to the Indian market. GM says that it will rely on SAIC mostly for its low cost manufacturing techniques instead of parts or components due to hefty tariffs on goods imported from China. That also means The General may also be able to skip out on some of the quality woes associated with the Chinese automotive universe by relying on the pool of parts already available in India.

                        The car is supposed to be smaller than the current Spark and hit the market at around $5,000. That’s on the north end of how much Tata asks for the Nano, but GM still feels it can compete against the world’s most affordable car. According to Gasgoo, the pint-sized econobox may actually borrow elements from the Chevrolet Sail. Evidently, the car has already spent its fair share of time under the baleful glare of Indian focus groups.

                        If it does take off, the GM/SAIC creation will be India’s very first joint-venture vehicle.

                        [Source: Gasgoo]

                        Report: GM and SAIC gearing up to take on Tata Nano

                            



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                          Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in

                          2d98c 23114hdren2010renaultwindfcb10bc6 copy Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in

                          2011 Renault Wind – Click above for high-res image gallery

                          Renault debuted its all new Wind coupe-convertible at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and now that summer is here, it’s time for it to hit the streets. At just over 12.5 feet long, the Wind’s closest competitor is likely to be the upcoming Mini Roadster and Coupe. Like so many other European automakers, Renault has gone with a hardtop, but not the type of complex, folding multi-piece unit found on so many others. Similar to the late Ferrari 575 SuperAmerica, the roof panel simply rotates back 180 degrees and stows flat under the rear deck.

                          The relatively simple top design allows the Wind to retain 9.5 cubic feet of trunk space, even with the top down. The only real downside is the huge sail panels that mean over-the-shoulder visibility looks to be all but non-existent.

                          The front wheels are spun by a choice of inline-four cylinder engines. The TCe 100 is a 1.15-liter turbocharged unit that delivers 100 horsepower and 112 pound-feet of torque while the 1.6-liter normally aspirated mill cranks out 133 hp and 118 lb-ft. The two powerplants (if that isn’t too strong a word in this case) deliver 37.3 and 33.6 miles per gallon (U.S.) respectively. With a mass under 2,500 pounds this could be a fun little machine regardless of the output.

                          Gallery: 2011 Renault Wind

                          3b02d 21895hdren2010windefaaa1df thumbnail Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in3b02d 21896hdren2010wind22c4838d thumbnail Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in3b02d 21897hdren2010wind807645aa thumbnail Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in3b02d 21898hdren2010windb398ec71 thumbnail Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in3b02d 21899hdren2010wind0b6c814c thumbnail Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in

                          [Source: Renault]

                          Continue reading Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in

                          Pics Aplenty: 2011 Renault Wind convertible blows in

                              



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                            Autoblog Long-Term Garage Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

                            0f171 01jettitdicupltintroopt 1277767767 Autoblog Long Term Garage Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

                            2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition – Click above for high-res image gallery

                            We hinted at it in our review, but it’s time to make it official. Welcome the newest entrant to the Autoblog Long-Term Garage: the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition.

                            So why, with the all-new Jetta right around the corner, would we bring the TDI Cup into the hallowed halls of Autoblog Towers? Simple. We want to get intimate with diesel. Not only do we want to reap the high-mileage benefits of ultra-low sulfur dino-juice, we want to see if something with a TDI badge can, in fact, be an entertaining drive over the long haul.

                            We explored the Cup’s backroad prowess in our review, but how will it fare at the track? Will a new set of tires and wheels make a world of difference? How about some upgraded brake pads? In stock form, does it have what it takes to compete with the latest and greatest in the new fuel-conscious sporty car segment? How will it hold up after thousands of miles, a few road trips and stints across the country with our editors? All these questions and more will be answered over the course of a year.

                            We’ll be keeping you updated on the TDI’s progress with weekly and monthly posts, highlighting the finer points and questioning the logic of others. More importantly, we’re interested in what you want to know about the Jetta TDI Cup Edition. Tell us in Comments and we’ll get cracking.

                            Additionally, we’ve set up a specific page to follow the TDI’s progress, complete with updates, specs and other useful info. Check it out and follow us on Twitter at TheRealAutoblog for 140-character morsels of insight tagged #ablongterm.

                            The fun is about to begin, and the only question now is: What’s first?

                            Gallery: Review: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

                            0f171 01jettitdicupltintro thumbnail Autoblog Long Term Garage Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition0f171 02jettitdicupltintro thumbnail Autoblog Long Term Garage Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition0f171 03jettitdicupltintro thumbnail Autoblog Long Term Garage Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Editiond0fed 04jettitdicupltintro thumbnail Autoblog Long Term Garage Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Editiond0fed 05jettitdicupltintro thumbnail Autoblog Long Term Garage Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

                            Autoblog Long-Term Garage Introduction: 2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Edition

                                



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                              Mercedes developing BMW X6-style Geländecoupé crossover?

                              4335a glc rend Mercedes developing BMW X6 style Geländecoupé crossover?Witness two pervasive trends in the German auto industry especially: First, the proliferation of sport-utes and crossovers. Second, the blurring of traditional market segments with increasingly bizarre bodystyles. Mercedes-Benz, in particular, has been a pioneer of sorts in both, ballooning its SUV and crossover lineup to no fewer than five models, and kicking off the segment-busting craze with the CLS four-door coupe. Now, the two may come together in a new product, if emerging reports prove accurate.

                              According to the ever-churning rumormill, the marque of the Three-Pointed Star is currently developing a new model to be called the GLC – short-hand for Geländecoupé. Now before you protest that the long-serving Geländewagen (or G-Class for short) has already bred a two-door model, the GLC will share nothing with the inimitable off-roader. Instead it is tipped to be a crossover, with a sloping roofline like the BMW X6 but in a smaller package that may even be offered with two-wheel drive as standard. Sources expect the GLC to hit the road sometime around 2014, but as yet, there’s no word yet on how Mazda feels about all this.

                              [Source: AutoZeitung via eMercedesBenz]

                              Mercedes developing BMW X6-style Geländecoupé crossover?

                                    



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                                Video: Dangers of auto-induced hyperthermia illustrated

                                a3273 hyperthermia 12 Video: Dangers of auto induced hyperthermia illustrated
                                Auto-induced hyperthermia – Click above to watch the video after the jump

                                The statistics are startling. On average, 30 to 40 children die each year in the U.S. due to hyperthermia from being left in a hot car for too long. There have been 462 deaths since 1998, and there were seven deaths between June 13 and June 20 of this year alone.

                                General Motors is working with Safe Kids USA to increase awareness of the potentially deadly problem. According to experts, the ambient temperature of a vehicle on an 80-degree day can reach over 110 degrees Fahrenheit in just 20 minutes. On a really hot, sunny day the temperature can soar beyond 130 degrees in a matter of minutes. And since a child’s body temperature rises at three-to-five times the rate of the typical adult, a child can succumb to heat stroke in a matter of minutes. As you’d expect, the problem is especially prevalent in warm weather states – Texas has the most hyperthermia deaths since 1998 with 64, followed by Florida with 50 casualties.

                                Most deaths occur because the driver simply forgets that their child is in the car, leaving them in a parking lot while they go to work or shopping. GM and Safe Kids USA have several useful tips to prevent leaving your child in the car. Among the best ideas are leaving a briefcase or phone in the back seat, setting a reminder with your email or phone to drop a child off at daycare and ask the daycare provider to contact you in the event that a child doesn’t arrive at a scheduled time. And of course, if you see a child left alone in a hot car, call #911 immediately. Hit the jump to read GM’s press release, which includes plenty of information on how to prevent a tragic situation from happening to you. There is also a short video after the jump that shows just how quickly a car can heat up.

                                [Source: General Motors]

                                Continue reading Video: Dangers of auto-induced hyperthermia illustrated

                                Video: Dangers of auto-induced hyperthermia illustrated

                                    



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                                  Terrafugia Transition flying "car" gets special FAA exemption, sees clear skies ahead?

                                  054dd 01 terra 630 Terrafugia Transition flying "car" gets special FAA exemption, sees clear skies ahead?

                                  Terrafugia Transition – Click above for high-res image gallery

                                  Another day, another flying car, right? According to The Daily Telegraph, the FAA has just awarded the Terrafugia Transition an exemption which will allow the 1,440-pound car/aircraft hybrid to fly under a “light sport” designation, even though it hits the scales at a hefty 120 lbs. more than the rules allow. A light sport pilot license only requires 20 hours of seat time – far less than what a full license would demand.

                                  Designed to be a viable piece of transportation that’s just as happy in the air as it is on the ground, the Transition comes loaded with all of the safety goodies of your standard economy car – airbags and crumple zones come standard. While Terrafugia hasn’t exactly said what kind of top speed the Transition can carry on terra firma, it does say the craft gets around 30 mpg when scooting around town.

                                  Should the weather turn sunny and the skies grow clear, however, the Transition can lower its wings, fire up a rear-mounted propeller and take to the air where it can carry a top speed of around 115 mph with a range of 460 miles. Not too shabby. The little carplane only requires an air strip of around 1/3 of a mile, and with its wings folded, can comfortably fit in any garage. Final MSRP is expected to be around $194,000.

                                  Gallery: Terrafugia Transition Flying Car

                                  054dd 05 terra thumbnail Terrafugia Transition flying "car" gets special FAA exemption, sees clear skies ahead?054dd 01 terra thumbnail Terrafugia Transition flying "car" gets special FAA exemption, sees clear skies ahead?054dd 02 terra thumbnail Terrafugia Transition flying "car" gets special FAA exemption, sees clear skies ahead?054dd 03 terra thumbnail Terrafugia Transition flying "car" gets special FAA exemption, sees clear skies ahead?054dd 04 terra thumbnail Terrafugia Transition flying "car" gets special FAA exemption, sees clear skies ahead?

                                  [Source: The Daily Telegraph Images: Terrafugia]

                                  Terrafugia Transition flying “car” gets special FAA exemption, sees clear skies ahead?

                                      



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                                    Spy Shots: Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera Spyder caught testing?

                                    5dd63 lambo630opt Spy Shots: Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera Spyder caught testing?

                                    Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera Spyder spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

                                    Obvious lengthy name jokes aside, the Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera is one heck of a performance machine. It’s all about saving weight when it comes to this car (”Superleggera,” after all, means “super light”), so it strikes us as something of a surprise to see this prototype of a Spyder version out testing on the Nürburgring.

                                    Most noticeably, the hardtop Superleggera’s rear wing is gone, but the large front spoiler and rear diffuser make it clear that this Gallardo means business. Besides, Lamborghini has been known to keep weight under control with its Erector Set roof assemblies, so we’d expect the Superleggera Spyder to generate the same sort of super lightweight thrills with a whole lot more wind in your hair.

                                    Expect to see the Lamborghini Gallardo LP570-4 Superleggera Spyder (now that’s a mouthful) at the Paris Motor Show later this year. For now, click through our gallery below for the full raft of high-res spy shots.

                                    Gallery: Spy Shots: Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera Spyder

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                                    [Source: CarPix]

                                    Spy Shots: Lamborghini Gallardo Superleggera Spyder caught testing?

                                        



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                                      PSA: Ford Mustang to make NASCAR Nationwide debut Friday night

                                      dba45 2010 nationwide ford mustang opt PSA: Ford Mustang to make NASCAR Nationwide debut Friday night
                                      2010 Ford Mustang NASCAR Nationwide Race Car – Click above for high-res image gallery

                                      All of you who have been anxiously awaiting the debut of the Ford Mustang in what we loosely refer to as modern-day stock car racing, take note: The original Pony Car will see its first action this Friday night at the Subway Jalapeno 250 at Daytona International Speedway.

                                      To help build excitement for the Mustang’s entrance into the Nationwide Series, Ford has just announced that it will offer a brand-new 2011 Mustang GT – powered by the excellent 5.0-liter V8, no less – to anyone that wins the race… provided they do so in a Ford-branded race car, of course.

                                      For what it’s worth, Friday’s event will be the second straight race where a new 2011 Ford Mustang GT will serve as the pace car. In other words, those in attendance for the festivities would be witnesses to an All Mustang, All The Time Show if it weren’t for the fact that Dodge will also be showing up with its new Challenger-based entry. ‘Stang vs. Challenger? Sounds like fun.

                                      Gallery: 2010 Ford Mustang NASCAR Nationwide Series race car

                                      dba45 2010nationwidemustang thumbnail PSA: Ford Mustang to make NASCAR Nationwide debut Friday nightdba45 mtangnationwide2 thumbnail PSA: Ford Mustang to make NASCAR Nationwide debut Friday nightdba45 mtangnationwide3 thumbnail PSA: Ford Mustang to make NASCAR Nationwide debut Friday nightdba45 mtang unationwide1 thumbnail PSA: Ford Mustang to make NASCAR Nationwide debut Friday night

                                      [Source: Ford]

                                      Continue reading PSA: Ford Mustang to make NASCAR Nationwide debut Friday night

                                      PSA: Ford Mustang to make NASCAR Nationwide debut Friday night

                                          



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                                        Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by EVO’s Chris Harris

                                        87b2b 599 gto Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by <i>EVO</I>s Chris Harris

                                        EVO reviews the Ferrari 599 GTO – Click above to watch video after the jump

                                        Ah yes, the Ferrari 599 GTO – the sinister odd duck in the Ferrari stable. It goes without saying that any one of us would give any number of appendages for a shot at the flappy paddles in this particular Prancing Horse. You probably already know that the car gets its grunt from a 6.0-liter V12 distilled from the same mill that powers the mighty Enzo, though in the right hands, the 599 GTO is actually quicker than the discontinued Ferrari supercar. You’re likely also aware that the chassis is a whopping 430 pounds lighter than the more pedestrian 599 GTB.

                                        That’s all fine and good, but we’re betting our britches that you don’t know what the car sounds like as it gets flung around the Italian countryside. For that, we turn to the ever-talented Chris Harris at EVO. The guy was lucky enough to get some seat time in the barely road-legal 599 GTO and took along a few cameras to share his experience. You can hop the jump for the full show, but if you’re looking for your own personal moment of Zen, we suggest you skip ahead to around 2:30. You can thank us later. Thanks for the tip, Michael!

                                        Gallery: Ferrari 599 GTO

                                        87b2b 100042car thumbnail Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by <i>EVO</I>s Chris Harris87b2b 100038car thumbnail Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by <i>EVO</I>s Chris Harris87b2b 100039car thumbnail Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by <i>EVO</I>s Chris Harris87b2b 100040car thumbnail Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by <i>EVO</I>s Chris Harris87b2b 100041car thumbnail Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by <i>EVO</I>s Chris Harris

                                        [Source: EVO via YouTube]

                                        Continue reading Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by EVO’s Chris Harris

                                        Video: Ferrari 599 GTO reviewed in all its glory by EVO’s Chris Harris

                                            



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