Official: Ferrari unveils new step-nosed F2012… snow be damned [w/video]

bffde ferrari f2012web1 Official: Ferrari unveils new step nosed F2012... snow be damned [w/video]

Few things can stand between a Ferrari and the finish line. Not rain, not sleet and certainly not snow. So while the latter fell in prodigious quantities on Maranello, where Ferrari was planning to unveil its latest F1 challenger yesterday, that didn’t stop the Scuderia from showing it off to the world, through the magic of this newfangled invention they’re calling the “internet”.

The F2012 you see here is the fifty-eighth F1 car built by Ferrari, comprising a chassis and powertrain developed and produced entirely in-house: a rarity among F1 teams, particularly in these past few years since major manufacturers like Honda, Toyota and BMW withdrew from the sport.

The most prominent change to the car’s form over the F150˚ Italia it replaces is the rather aesthetically challenged but aerodynamically-optimized stepped nose, which (like the one on the Caterham CT01 and expected to follow on several more) conforms to revised FIA regulations while allowing sufficient air to pass underneath the nosecone to allow the underbody aerodynamics to do their thing. The rear section is also more tapered, leading to the rear wing with the Drag Reduction System that returns from last season.

That’s all well and good, of course, but what really matters is how the F2012 is going to stack up against the competition – particularly from the returning champions at Red Bull and longtime rivals at McLaren. Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa will wring out all the F2012 it has to offer, but only time will tell if they’ll be able to add another trophy to the cabinet in Maranello. In the meantime you can check out their new ride in the high-res image gallery above and follow the jump for the full press release, technical details and video footage.

Continue reading Ferrari unveils new step-nosed F2012… snow be damned [w/video]

Ferrari unveils new step-nosed F2012… snow be damned [w/video]

    



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    Official: 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI revealed ahead of Chicago Auto Show

    2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI

    Volkswagen has released details on the upcoming 2013 Beetle TDI before the vehicle gets an official unveil at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. The vehicle will bow with the same turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel engine found in the Jetta TDI and Passat TDI, and Volkswagen projects the engine should help the oil-burning 2013 Beetle net 39 miles per gallon highway and 29 mpg city.

    Those numbers aren’t quite as lofty as we’d expect, especially given how well our long-term Jetta TDI has performed with the same engine under the hood. While we’re still waiting on Environmental Protection Agency numbers, our guess is real-world drivers will see significantly better out of the latest diesel Bug, which, for what it’s worth, is the first oil-burning Beetle since 2006.

    With 140 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, the vehicle shouldn’t be a slouch to drive, either. Buyers may choose either a six-speed manual or dual-clutch gearbox. Otherwise, the Beetle TDI remains aesthetically similar to its gasoline counterparts. Expect to see the vehicle hit the market in mid-2012 as a 2013 model. In the meantime, stay tuned for our Chicago Auto Show coverage and hit the jump for the full press release.

    Continue reading 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI revealed ahead of Chicago Auto Show

    2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI revealed ahead of Chicago Auto Show

        



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      Report: Volkswagen BlueSport roadster still on-track after all?

      Volkswagen BlueSport Concept

      The on-again, off-again Volkswagen BlueSport roadster is, well, on again according to EVO Magazine. The publication reportedly spoke with Uli Hackenberg, head of engineering with Volkswagen, who said the company’s dealers are mistaken when they say there won’t be a market for a vehicle like the BlueSport. Hakenberg said that the rise of hardware like the Toyota GT 86 and Subaru BRZ, alongside the upcoming next-generation Mazda MX-5 suggests buyers are once again willing to put down cash on an entry-level sports car. Throw in the fact that the dollar is regaining strength and European vehicles start to look even more competitive in the Land of the Free. Despite this, recent reports have indicated that the BlueSport’s planned sibling at Porsche has been delayed, and its other planned sibling, the Audi R4, is understood to have been canceled back in May.

      As a result, Volkswagen is reportedly going to ask its dealers to once again gauge demand for a mid-engine convertible. The roadster will need to see sales estimates of at least 50,000 units worldwide in order to get the go-ahead from corporate. Even if that happens, it will likely be a good three years before we see the production model touch down. Maestro, cue up the sad trombone if you would be so kind.

      Volkswagen BlueSport roadster still on-track after all?

          



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        Official: BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning

        Senner Tuning BMW Z8

        The 2001-2003 Z8 is one of the more graceful designs to slip from the BMW design studios in recent memory. With the droptop’s classic roadster lines and plenty of performance on tap, the Z8 may not have sold like gangbusters when it was in production, but its slow-burn appeal has ensured that it has plenty of fans and impressive resale value. Despite a very limited production run of just 5,703 units, Senner Tuning has belatedly turned its attention toward modifying this convertible, which is quickly becoming a classic.

        The company’s engineers got started with a new sports air filter and easy breathing exhaust, including low-restriction catalytic converters. Throw in a mild ECU reflash and the vehicle is good for 450 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. Senner Tuning says those figures should be good enough to get the Zed to around 186 mph.

        Thankfully, the folks at Senner haven’t messed with the Z8’s aesthetics too much. A set of slick 19×9-inch Work Schwert SC1 wheels ride up front while 19×10-inch rollers out back take care of putting power to the pavement. Senner also spent some time with the vehicle’s suspension. A new coilover suspension with adjustable rebound, new strut bar and reinforced shock mount are all part of the package. If you like the sound of this recipe, Senner Tuning will rework your Z8 for the princely sum of just under $25,000 at current conversion rates. Hit the jump for the full press release.

        Continue reading BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning

        BMW Z8 freshened courtesy of Senner Tuning

            



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          Video: 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet gets unique power wind deflector

          08c31 autoblog shortcuts porsche 911 cabrio Video: 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet gets unique power wind deflector

          Automakers have been integrating wind deflectors into convertibles for years now, though in many cases, they’re a do-it-yourself, manual affair. The idea is to disrupt the wind enough to eliminate that obnoxious swirling effect that kills conversations and hairstyles in equal measure.

          That said, we’re not surprised that Porsche has fitted its 2012 911 Carrera Cabriolet with just such a device, but we like the car’s unique power execution here (manually erecting or folding a wind deflector can be a chore and eat into storage space). The 911 Cabrio’s new assembly is massive, which might not do the car’s aesthetics any favors, but the size should help it be more functional.

          Hit the jump to watch the 911 Cabriolet drop its top in only 12 seconds, followed by the big wind deflector that arrives on the scene in the blink of an eye.

          Continue reading 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet gets unique power wind deflector

          2012 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet gets unique power wind deflector

              



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            Official: Toyota l’eggos updated Aygo

            2012 Toyota Aygo front three-quarter view

            The 2012 Toyota Aygo is here with better looks, better fuel economy and emissions and better equipment. It’s the supermini’s first serious overhaul since it was introduced in 2005, and it borrows some of its aesthetic chops from the recently unveiled 2012 Yaris. A bulldog-y stance is emphasized with a jutting lower front bumper with a wide trapezoidal opening, while the lines above have been slenderized.

            The carryover 1.0-liter, three-cylinder engine has been tweaked for efficiency; its 67 horsepower and 69 pound-feet of torque remain the same, but rowing the five-speed manual will now get you 65.7 Imperial (54.7 U.S.) miles per gallon combined. You’ll also hear less of it and the transmission due to increased sound deadening.

            Trim options will include new hubcaps, seven exterior hues, a new unified finish on the instrument panel, and a new steering wheel backed by paddle shifters. It might look like just another tiny Eurocar, but the previous Aygo still earned the title of The previous Stig’s favorite car, and that’s a recommendation not to be trifled with. Pricing and other details will follow closer to its on-sale date, for now, there’s a press release after the jump with more info.

            Continue reading Toyota l’eggos updated Aygo

            Toyota l’eggos updated Aygo

                



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              Detroit: Nissan e-NV200 Concept makes up for its looks with utility [w/video]

              Nissan e-NV200 Concept

              Before we go any further, let’s just acknowledge the obvious: The Nissan e-NV200 Concept has a face only its mother could love. As far as styling goes, what we see is basically the Japanese automaker’s NV200 with the fascia of the electric Leaf grafted on up front. To top it all off, the e-NV200 is painted in the Leaf’s familiar shade of Aqua Blue.

              06a3c nissan env 200 concept stock 03 opt Detroit: Nissan e NV200 Concept makes up for its looks with utility [w/video]Inside, the e-NV200 features two foldable rows of seating for passengers. The driver is treated to a unique instrument cluster that Nissan calls a flat C-cluster display. There are also some so-called EV Meters, which we assume must bean battery gauges and telematics.

              Moving past its unfortunate exterior aesthetics, we see plenty of good in the electric van’s conceptual design. Nissan says that the e-NV200’s laminated 24 kWh lithium-ion battery will provide similar range as the Leaf. That means an estimate of between 47 and 105 miles. Like the Leaf, the e-NV200 is powered by an 80kW electric motor that’s rated at 207 pound-feet of torque.

              Because it’s based on the NV200, there’s plenty of room inside for passengers, cargo or both. Nissan figures its electric van would be suitable for both commercial and passenger use in large metropolitan areas. The fact that Nissan’s small van is also slated for taxi use in New York offers one potential usage scenario. Under that kind of scenario, the fact that it doesn’t burn gasoline could turn into significant cost savings.

              Though the e-NV200 is being shown in concept form at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, Nissan is calling the electric van a potential mass-production vehicle. Check out all the images in our high-res gallery above, and be sure to click past the break for a video and the official press release.

              Continue reading Nissan e-NV200 Concept makes up for its looks with utility [w/video]

              Nissan e-NV200 Concept makes up for its looks with utility [w/video]

                  



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                Official: Mopar bringing Chrysler 200 Super S, Dodge Charger Redline to Detroit Auto Show

                9f1b0 01 chrysler 200 super s628opt Official: Mopar bringing Chrysler 200 Super S, Dodge Charger Redline to Detroit Auto Show

                The 2013 Dodge Dart is a big deal for Chrysler, so it makes sense that the majority of the company’s attention at the Detroit Auto Show will be focused around the new C-segment sedan. But since the automaker doesn’t want to blow its whole show presence on just one vehicle, its Mopar tuning arm has stepped in to create two new vehicles for show-goers to ogle – the Chrysler 200 Super S and Dodge Charger Redline.

                In its stock form, the Chrysler 200 certainly isn’t going to win any design awards, but we’ll admit it: Based on these pics, the Super S looks good, at least from the front. The Super S Stage One kit adds visual flare in the form of a front chin spoiler, satin chrome fog light trim, satin chrome grille surround and a new mesh grille design. What’s more, there are new side sills, black chrome badges and bespoke 18-inch “S” alloy wheels, a trunk lid spoiler, satin chrome rear light bar and a matte black lower diffuser with integrated exhaust openings.

                Want some performance to back up that new look? There aren’t any real power upgrades for the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, but the Stage Two kit adds a coil-over suspension, cold air intake and cat-back exhaust. Chrysler says Super S packages will be available on 200S models starting sometime later this year.

                9f1b0 03 dodge charger redline250opt Official: Mopar bringing Chrysler 200 Super S, Dodge Charger Redline to Detroit Auto ShowMoving on up, the Charger Redline shows off three different Mopar tuning kits that will also be available later in 2012. Stage One adds a full-width carbon fiber chin spoiler to the Charger’s aggressive front fascia, 20-inch Black Envy wheels, carbon fiber door scoops, a three-piece carbon fiber rear spoiler (pictured, right) and a roof graphic in matte black. We’ve had a chance to see the Charger Redline in person, and truth be told, we don’t find it terribly attractive – especially the tacked-on side vents and spoiler. Though it traces its look to the anything-goes 1970s Mopar models, we’d prefer to just leave the decidedly handsome Charger alone, at least, aesthetically speaking.

                The Stage Two and Stage Three performance upgrades, on the other hand, we’ll take. Stage Two incorporates a cat-back performance exhaust, a front-tower cross-brace and tower brace caps, along with high-performance Mopar brake linings. But what we really want is Stage Three, which includes a high-output version of the 426 Hemi V8 crate engine – designed for racing use only. In addition to delivering 590 horsepower – 220 more than the standard V8 Charger – the engine weighs 100 pounds less than the standard cast-iron crate version. Too bad this setup isn’t approved for use on public roads.

                See both the 200 Super S and Charger Redline in our galleries below and follow the jump for Chrysler’s official release.

                Continue reading Mopar bringing Chrysler 200 Super S, Dodge Charger Redline to Detroit Auto Show

                Mopar bringing Chrysler 200 Super S, Dodge Charger Redline to Detroit Auto Show

                    



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                  Report: Dodge Caliber euthanized

                  2012 Dodge Caliber Heat

                  According to The Detroit News, the Dodge Caliber has finally stumbled out of production.

                  When the Caliber first rolled onto the scene for the 2007 model year, we didn’t quite know what to make of it. Replacing the long-serving Neon, the Caliber sported polarizing styling, available all-wheel drive and a taller-than-average ride height. To some, it looked like an aggressively styled tonic to the frankly outdated and somewhat cutesy Neon, while others remained suspect of the car’s quasi-SUV aesthetic and intrinsic goodness.

                  It didn’t take long for the reviewers to pile on, however. Pundits argued that the Dodge delivered a lackluster driving experience thanks to an unsorted chassis co-developed with Mitsubishi, an unlovable Jatco-sourced CVT and a coarse interior that was later freshened but never truly fixed. In the end, the doubters appear to have won out, as the Belvidere, Illinois-built compact garnered little critical or popular praise. While the Caliber opened to reasonably strong sales traffic, yearly totals quickly collapsed despite steep discounting and the introduction of a powerful SRT-4 performance variant.

                  As part of its arrangement with new parent company Fiat, Chrysler has developed the Alfa-Romeo-based Dart as the Caliber’s replacement, and expectations are running high ahead of its Detroit Auto Show debut next month. The Dart will need to be excellent, as it faces a veritable murderers’ row of competitors, ranging from strong new models like the Chevrolet Cruze, Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra to well-sorted mainstays like the Mazda3 – not to mention perennial sales darlings including the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.

                  Dodge Caliber euthanized

                      



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                    New art reimagines U.S. road network system as a subway map

                    Cameron Booth's U.S. Routes

                    Cameron Booth, U.S. Routes - Florida focusAs a graphic designer for nearly 20 years, Cameron Booth credits his deep and abiding love for transit maps to his dad’s obsession with trains. The Australian-born, Portland, Oregon-based artist has adapted the infographic aesthetic of subway maps to America’s road networks, creating some beautiful new artwork in the process.

                    We think Booth’s work serves well as both information and art, particularly his brand-new U.S. Routes map, which includes a number of thoughtful touches (e.g. historical roads hidden as thinner route lines “beneath” current main road networks.

                    Booth tells Autoblog that the experience of creating this map has been an enlightening one:

                    “Applying a transit map template to a road network makes us look at a familiar system in a new way: Instead of the familiarity and detail of a geographically accurate road map, we’re instead presented with simplified routes, connections and bright colors. It also could be interpreted as a reflection on America’s love affair with cars.”

                    The U.S Routes project was quite a challenge – far more than Booth’s previous maps, which includes the less involved but equally striking Interstate Highway graphic. Taking over a year to complete, Booth admits that this is probably his toughest-ever undertaking.

                    The artist is now taking prepaid orders for U.S. Routes prints in various sizes, but the holidays and a need to get a print run together will mean that those orders probably won’t be processed until some time in early January. Check out more detailed shots of U.S. Routes, as well as his work (including some great photography) at his website, www.cambooth.net, and if you’re interested in ordering one of his prints, click here.

                    New art reimagines U.S. road network system as a subway map

                        



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                      Official: AMP to bring electrified American SUV to Detroit

                      Amp Electric Vehicles

                      Amp Electric Vehicles is headed to the Detroit Auto Show next month with a new electric vehicle. The company is keeping the specifics of the model to itself at the moment, but we do know that the next battery-operated offering from the company will make use of an “iconic American SUV” as its platform. If we were the betting types, we’d put our hardly-earned dollars on the company pulling the sheets back on a Jeep Grand Cherokee EV. Amp has already unveiled an electrified Mercedes-Benz ML, and the two heavyweight bruisers share a common ancestry.

                      AutoblogGreen recently sat down with Amp CEO Jim Taylor, who said that the move to create another SUV stemmed from the fact that some fleet managers simply couldn’t afford the more expensive Mercedes-Benz. In addition, the company wanted to be able to offer a domestic vehicle after abandoning plans for a Chevrolet Equinox conversion.

                      The company says that the final product will offer 100 miles of electric range or more while delivering buyers the same aesthetics and capability as its internal combustion sibling. Visitors to the 2012 Detroit Auto Show will be able to hop in and go for a ride as part of the show’s Ride & Drive track. Hit the jump to see the full press release for yourself.

                      Continue reading AMP to bring electrified American SUV to Detroit

                      AMP to bring electrified American SUV to Detroit

                          



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                        2013 Ford Mustang redefines "badge engineering" with logo projector

                        2013 Ford Mustang projector logo

                        Most car marques can be easily recognized by their emblems. But some model lines have their own emblems, too. The Mustang stands out as a clear example, and now Ford is projecting that image even further. And we mean that quite literally.

                        For the new 2013 Mustang, Ford has fitted a tiny projector lamp into the side mirror that casts the shape of the galloping horse logo onto the ground beside the vehicle when the driver unlocks the doors. This illuminated “Easter egg” seems simple enough, but apparently it took Dearborn’s engineers quite a while to get it just right, going through six or seven designs before managing to get it to work.

                        The result was apparently so captivating that it shut down Ford’s Flat Rock assembly line when one of the auto workers hit the button and everyone came to look. We’ll be interested to see it for ourselves when we get our hands on the new model. It might be purely aesthetic and almost entirely without function, but something tells us this could be one of those new gimmicks – like, say, illuminated sill plates or ambient cabin lighting – that we may see proliferating across the industry.

                        2013 Ford Mustang redefines “badge engineering” with logo projector

                            



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                          Video: Fiat 500 Abarth visits Jay Leno’s Garage

                          Jay Lenos Garage

                          Joe Grace, Fiat Vehicle Line Executive, swung by Jay Leno’s garage with the brand’s new 500 Abarth for a little history lesson and a quick walk around. Here in the States, it’s easy to forget that Karl Abarth, the man behind the Fiat tuning division, was as driven as they come when pushing the performance envelope. Abarth got his start racing motorcycles before turning his eye to four-wheeled prototypes and aftermarket performance, and his list of lifelong achievements is as lengthy as it is varied. Abarth was our kind of guy.

                          Grace took the time to show Leno exactly what makes the 500 Abarth so different from the comedian’s own pint-sized hatchback, including its turbocharged, 1.4-liter four-cylinder good for 160 horsepower, along with its unique aesthetics and performance-oriented suspension and exhaust. Is the 500 Abarth cool? Sure. Is it as cool as Karl Abarth racing a steam locomotive with a sidecar motorcycle? We think not. Hit the jump to check the video for yourself.

                          Continue reading Fiat 500 Abarth visits Jay Leno’s Garage

                          Fiat 500 Abarth visits Jay Leno’s Garage

                              



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                            Tokyo: Honda AC-X Concept PHEV is ready to move you

                            dccf0 honda acx 1 concept lead Tokyo: Honda AC X Concept PHEV is ready to move you

                            Honda is bringing a whole range of transportation solutions to the Tokyo Motor Show, from this plug-in hybrid sedan concept to folding scooters and pod cars. Dubbed AC-X for Advanced Cruiser eXperience, this streamlined sedan draws heavily from the FCX Clarity fuel cell sedan’s aesthetics, applying its design language to a plug-in hybrid electric showcar.

                            Powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder and a pair of electric motors, the four-seat AC-X features a super-slippery .21 cD thanks to active aero bits (front bumper, side skirts and rear diffuser) and transparent full wheel covers that remain stationary when the car is in motion.

                            Just as interestingly, the AC-X explores autonomous control, with “Automatic Drive Mode Support,” which folds the control yoke ‘wheel’ into the dashboard, reclines the front seat and presents an ottoman for the driver’s legs, all while safely delivering its passengers to their destination.

                            Despite such future-think technologies, the AC-X’s powertrain seems remarkably near-term, with a realistic EV-only cruising range of 50 kilometers and a maximum electric-only top speed of 100 kph (62 mph). Check out more in our gallery live from the show floor.

                            Honda AC-X Concept PHEV is ready to move you

                                



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                              Teased: Gumpert teases new model to debut in Geneva

                              Gumpert Geneva Motor Show teaser

                              Gumpert looks to be making a habit of unveiling new models at the Geneva Motor Show. The company pulled the sheets back on the Tornante during this year’s exhibition, and a new teaser hints that the automaker has something special planned for 2012.

                              The boutique automaker has dropped a shadowy image of what’s likely to be the company’s next supercar. Don’t expect too much in the way of details, however. Currently, Gumpert is only revealing that the vehicle will boast an “unmistakable sound” and that it recently spent some time at the Altenburg Airport for an impromptu photo shoot.

                              Beyond that, all we know is what we can suss from the photo. The vehicle looks to be based on the company’s Apollo heathen, as we can clearly see the pronounced fender arches, short hood and roof-mounted air intake, though the headlights look to have received some attention. Whatever the aesthetics, the vehicle is likely to bring plenty of power to the table… Gumpert isn’t exactly known for its subtlety.

                              Gumpert teases new model to debut in Geneva

                                  



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                                Official: Subaru bringing more powerful WRX STI S206 to Tokyo

                                Subaru WRX STI S206

                                Subaru has unveiled the latest addition to the company’s line of S series performance vehicles. The WRX STI S206 comes equipped with an even higher level of go fast equipment than the base STI. Bilstein shocks, a flexible strut tower bar up front as well as a flexible draw stiffener all help the vehicle hustle around your favorite road course, as do the standard Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires on all four corners. Subaru has also taken the time to rework the vehicle’s turbocharged 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine with a balanced crank, pistons and connecting rods. Combined with a ball bearing turbo and a new ECU, the lump is now good for 316 horsepower. That’s a significant nudge over the 305 horsepower available in the standard STI.

                                The vehicle also offers a range of aesthetic tweaks inside and out. Those looking for even more exclusivity can dive into the NBR Challenge Package, which includes a carbon fiber roof and rear wing among other goodies. The WRX STI S206 with the NBR Challenge Package is designed to pay tribute to the Subaru class win at this year’s 24 Hours of Nürburgring. Unfortunately, that beast has already sold out.

                                Both vehicles are only available in Japan, so unless you know a guy who knows a guy who can rob a guy, you’re out of luck on this side of the globe.

                                Continue reading Subaru bringing more powerful WRX STI S206 to Tokyo

                                Subaru bringing more powerful WRX STI S206 to Tokyo

                                    



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                                  Los Angeles: 2012 Jeep Wrangler and Liberty Arctic Editions chill out in sunny SoCal

                                  2012 Jeep Wrangler Arctic Edition

                                  Jeep may not have anything big to show us here in Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean the automaker has arrived empty-handed. New for 2012, Jeep has released special Arctic Editions of both the Wrangler and Liberty SUVs, and the icy duo make their debut here at the LA Auto Show.

                                  On both models, the Arctic package adds semi-gloss wheels – the Wrangler receiving 17-inch rollers while the Liberty makes due with 16s – as well as special paint, Arctic badging and a decidedly tacky Yeti footprint decal. Inside, there are some minor aesthetic tweaks, including white accent fabrics, orange piping on the seats and, of course, more badging. Check out both of the special Jeeps in our attached high-res image gallery.

                                  2012 Jeep Wrangler and Liberty Arctic Editions chill out in sunny SoCal

                                      



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                                    Teased: 2013 Ford Mustang teaser leaked

                                    2013 Ford Mustang teaser image

                                    Ford is set to reveal its updated 2013 Mustang at the 2011 LA Auto Show on Tuesday, but the automaker has released a teaser image via the company’s Facebook page depicting a handful of the changes to the model. Those include new head- and taillights, as well as the Track App display. The spy shots we’ve seen so far have indicate that the 2013 Ford Mustang GT will borrow plenty of aesthetic cues from the current Shelby GT500 model, which means buyers should be able to look forward to more aggressive styling all around.

                                    Some of those exterior tweaks likely have aerodynamic origins, including a new chin splitter and rear spoiler. We like what we’ve seen so far, and we can’t wait to hear what Ford has planned for the 2013 GT500 when that vehicle bows. With the arrival of the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, the top-dog Mustang finally has some muscle car competition, which is always good news for fans of the pony car genre.

                                    2013 Ford Mustang teaser leaked

                                        



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                                      Official: U.S. Chevy Spark revealed ahead of Los Angeles show

                                      883e2 2013 chevroley spark Official: U.S. Chevy Spark revealed ahead of Los Angeles show

                                      On Wednesday, the 2013 Chevrolet Spark will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The small hatchback has been tweaked for the North American market, and the hope is that the Spark takes off like wildfire with buyers. Chevrolet thinks the Spark will find favor with buyers living in cities, as well as first-time purchasers.

                                      To that end, the entry-level Spark has been designed carefully. Obvious forethought went into the packaging of the virtually hidden rear passenger doors (not unlike its larger cousin, the five-door Sonic), and color choices with names like Salsa, Jalapeno, Denim, Lemonade, and Techno Pink are clearly aimed at a customer looking for something imaginative. Unique to our Spark will be a redesigned front fascia with distinct foglamp housings and airdam. The grille stretches further down the nose, too, and out back there are taillamps and bumper designs specific to the United States and Canadian markets.

                                      Beyond the aesthetic alterations, important Spark details include a 1.2-liter dual-overhead cam four cylinder that spins 15-inch alloy wheels with 85 hp through a standard five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic. Chevrolet MyLink is available in the Spark with a seven-inch touchscreen. Mylink features Bluetooth phone integration, and Pandora or Stitcher can be piped through your smartphone and directly into Mylink. Standard air conditioning and power windows, along with a motorcycle-inspired gauge cluster (there’s that Sonic influence again) and color coordinated interior serve to spiff things up. It seems the message has sunk in that small cars don’t have to be brutally decontented.

                                      Check out the press release after the jump, and stay tuned to our full-court-press coverage of the LA show, where we’ll get a chance to climb in and around the 2013 Chevrolet Spark and give you our firsthand impressions.

                                      Continue reading U.S. Chevy Spark revealed ahead of Los Angeles show

                                      U.S. Chevy Spark revealed ahead of Los Angeles show

                                          



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                                        Video: Take a closer look at the Hyundai Genesis Hurricane SC

                                        53891 genesis hurricane sc Video: Take a closer look at the Hyundai Genesis Hurricane SC

                                        There are few things in this realm or the next that can’t be cured with the judicious application of forced induction. Just ask the engineers at the Hyundai Technical Center. They were able to take the Hyundai Genesis Coupe and wring more than 450 horsepower from the vehicle’s 3.8-liter V6 engine. The result is the Genesis Hurricane SC we saw at this year’s SEMA show, and Hyundai has turned out a new video of the high-performance coupe to show off every last detail.

                                        As you may recall, the Hurricane SC is more than a blower. The vehicle features a liquid-to-air intercooler, Bilstein monotube shocks coupled to adjustable ride control springs and Brembo six-piston calipers squeezing cross-drilled rotors. The vehicle also received a full aesthetic makeover to go with its impressive innards: a new front bumper, grille, hood and side skirts.

                                        If you like what you see, you’re in luck. Hyundai says that Rhys Millen is planning to produce a range of aero pieces for the Genesis Coupe similar to what’s on the Hurricane SC. Follow the jump to check out the video.

                                        Continue reading Take a closer look at the Hyundai Genesis Hurricane SC

                                        Take a closer look at the Hyundai Genesis Hurricane SC

                                            



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