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We’re not sure if you’ve noticed, but we’ve officially entered the dog days of Summer. And while that means that temperatures have begun crawling their way to the triple digits in certain portions of the country, it also means that genuine auto industry news has slowed somewhat. Of course, that won’t stop the interwebs from generating a very unique brand of news that’s all its own. Where hard facts and quotes fail to materialize, the hallowed rumor will be more than happy to take over. In that spirit, Autocar is reporting that Volkswagen is mulling the creation of a long-roof version of its CC four-door coupe.

According to the UK publication, an unnamed source within the manufacturer leaked the plans for a CC wagon, and the company’s board will vote on whether or not to build the vehicle later this year. The reasoning behind the model seems stable enough – Autocar says that since Passat is on its way out in the U.S. and the car’s successor won’t be available in wagon trim, the company will need something to fill the void. But the CC? Really? Time will tell, we suppose, but call us skeptical on this one. If true, we’re fully expecting VW to claim that it is poised to build the world’s first five-door coupe – you know, if Mercedes-Benz doesn’t beat them to the punch.

[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: Volkswagen CC set to get wagon variant. Wait, wha?

Autoblog reader Geo happened to be cruising on I-275 in Detroit last week when he was passed by a convoy of Ford F-150 pickups. Snugged smack dab in the middle was none other than the upcoming F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew without a stitch of camouflage to cover those two extra doors. Geo did what any good enterprising AB reader would do and clicked a couple of photos as the desert-crushing truck blew by.

The prototype in the photos has ditched the outlandish graphics of its shorter brother, but it still looks just as mean, and it’s even slathered in silver paint, a color that isn’t currently available. If the badge on the fender is any indication, this particular example packs the same 411-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 mill we were fortunate enough to sample not too long ago, which means it should have no problem jumping over hill and dale. If ever there was a backyard party on four wheels, this is it.

Reader Spy: Ford F-150 SVT Raptor SuperCrew spotted naked and unashamed

Usually whenever we head out to a new vehicle press launch, we have to sit through exhaustive technical and marketing presentations before we get a chance to climb behind the wheel. However, General Motors put us straight into a dual-rear wheel GMC Sierra 3500 crew-cab diesel upon our arrival in Baltimore. On the docket? A 130-mile trek from Baltimore airport to Rocky Gap Lodge in the Allegheny mountains of western Maryland with Vehicle Line Executive Rick Spina sitting shotgun.

We actually appreciated this ‘backwards’ approach, because it gave us the opportunity to develop some ‘gut’ impressions of these new trucks even before we got the attendant sales pitch. For a two-hour, mostly highway jaunt, the duallie SLT proved to be a surprisingly amiable companion, but it was just the first of seven different trucks we would drive over the next couple of days. Read on past the jump find out what GM’s new heavy duty trucks are like when sampled in a range of real-world conditions.

Photos by Sam Abuelsamid, Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Heavy Duty trucks set new HD standard

First Drive: 2011 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Heavy Duty trucks set new HD standard

Hennessey has already divulged practically every piece of information we want to know about its 2011 Venom GT supercar. It’s built on a heavily molested Lotus Elise chassis and driven by one of three versions of the 6.2-liter LS9 V8 used in the Corvette ZR1. The base model is supercharged and produces 725 horsepower and 741 pound-feet of torque. The other two mills are both twin turbocharged and produce 1,000 hp and 1,200 hp, respectively. All three models use the same six-speed Ricardo transmission as the Ford GT. Weight: 2,548 lbs dry and 2,685 lbs loaded with fuel. Price: Somewhere north of $600,000 for the base supercharged model. Yeah, this is some serious stuff.

The Texas-based tuner (can we really call a company that builds something like this a tuner?) has finished the very first production Venom GT, and it’s a duesy. Chassis Number 01 is a top tier twin-turbo model, the same one clocked producing 933 rwhp a few weeks ago on a dyno.

As if the numbers don’t paint a pretty enough picture, Hennessey recently hired a photographer to snap some beauty shots of its Venom GT. The high-res image gallery below sports some 56 images, some of which are good, many of which could be better. May we offer up our own ace photog Drew Phillips? We’re quite sure he’d be happy to snap a pictorial starring the new Venom GT.

[Source: Hennessey Performance Engineering]

Continue reading 2011 Hennessey Venom GT glamor shots prove poison can be very pretty

2011 Hennessey Venom GT glamor shots prove poison can be very pretty

At first glance, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra heavy-duty pickup trucks don’t appear to have changed much compared to their 2010 counterparts. But don’t let their familiar faces fool you, because virtually all of the greasy bits have been substantially upgraded or replaced entirely. Like the competitive heavy-duty trucks from Ford and Dodge, General Motors offers its trucks in a huge array of configurations with varying passenger, payload and towing capacities and an array of gasoline and diesel engines.

We drove seven different variants over two days in the Allegheny mountains of western Maryland along with the latest models from Dodge and Ford for comparison’s sake. While the sales volume in the heavy-duty truck segment is smaller than it was at its peak a few years ago, it is still hugely profitable and comprises about 25 to 30 percent of all pickup sales. Follow the jump to learn more about what General Motors’ truck engineering team has done to help ensure those dollars keep rolling in.

Live photos by Sam Abuelsamid / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado Heavy Duty technical deep dive

First Drive: 2011 GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado Heavy Duty technical deep dive

As we get closer to seeing significant numbers of electric vehicles come to market, various standards are starting to emerge that cover things like how these vehicles are to be charged and how to measure range and equivalent mileage. One feature that remains up in the air is the sound signature of electric vehicles. For years, EV advocates have touted the silent operation of battery-powered vehicles as a bonus.

However, advocates for the blind and safety regulators are pushing for electric vehicles to produce some audible alert that indicates their presence. According to Just-Auto, beginning next week, Nissan will be bringing in 500 people including media, government officials and customers who have signed up to buy the Leaf to drive the car at its Oppama, Japan test track.

Among other things, they will be evaluating the “approaching vehicle sound” that will be used for the Leaf and Fuga (Infiniti M37) hybrid. Nissan is testing a system that produces external sounds that sweep across a range of frequencies to insure that almost anyone can hear it. The sound will also vary depending on whether the car is accelerating or decelerating. Follow the jump to hear a sample of what the Leaf will sound like, which to our ears is something like a robot whistling dixie. Top tip, Tohe!

[Source: Just-Auto]

Continue reading Nissan Leaf will break the EV silence with a digital whistle [w/video]

Nissan Leaf will break the EV silence with a digital whistle [w/video]

Over its 80 years of styling some of the world’s most beautiful automobiles, Pininfarina has earned its reputation for striking designs. But this one could be the most intricate, if not the most intriguing.

A collaboration with high-end Swiss watchmaker Bovet 1882, the Ottana Tourbillon by Pininfarina embraces some of the oldest and most complicated practices in watchcraft and blends them with thoroughly contemporary touches. The tourbillon movement, as any timepiece connoisseur will tell you, is a highly complex movement developed decades ago to counteract the effects of gravity on a watch’s accuracy.

Essentially, the entire movement rotates inside the case once per minute, obviating the need for a second hand in the process. To that, Bovet has added a large date indicator, power reserve meter (the watch can keep time for an impressive 80 hours sitting still) and a minute repeater. All told, the Calibre 16BA01 movement incorporates some 514 parts, most of them crafted from brass. They’re housed inside a jumbo 46mm case, available in either DLC-coated steel and titanium or titanium with white or rose gold.

The party trick? The case can be mounted on the strap either forwards or backwards, displaying the intricate movement through the skeletonized face or the caseback, which has an additional dial to display the time on the back. And apparently taking a cue from the dash-mountable watch, which Girard-Perregaux crafted for its Rolls-Royce Hyperion custom, Pininfarina’s own watch can be detached entirely from the Alcantara and calfskin leather strap and worn as a pocket watch or used as a desk clock. Impressive, but try not to like it too much. Only 80 examples will be made, each fetching around $300,000.

[Source: Bovet]

Pininfarina designs an exclusive Tourbillon for Bovet 1822

The first weekend in June is always circled on our calendar, because that’s when the annual Greenwich Concours d’Elegance goes down in tony Greenwich, CT. So, instead of catching some rays at the beach, or mowing the lawn, or tending to the vegetable garden, we drop the top and head down Interstate 95 to spend the better part of two days gawking at cars exotic and otherwise, always ready for whatever surprises are on hand to add a little variety. Follow the jump for a quick recap of this year’s show, after which you can hit the galleries to ogle the staggering variety of metal that the organizers assembled.

Continue reading Recap: 2010 Greenwich Concours d’Elegance

Recap: 2010 Greenwich Concours d’Elegance

What would Formula One be without Montreal? Not so fun, as we learned last season when the Canadian Grand Prix was excluded from the calendar, much to the disappointment of racing fans worldwide. In the wake of the demise of the United States Grand Prix at the Indy in 2007, the cancellation of the round in the French-Canadian metropolis left North America outside the premier racing series entirely. But following the announcement of the American round’s planned comeback – in Austin, Texas, of all places – F1 triumphantly returned to the Gilles Villeneuve circuit this weekend. And it couldn’t have been a more exciting race. Follow the jump to read how it went.

Continue reading 2010 Canadian Grand Prix was exactly what we’ve been waiting for [SPOILERS]

2010 Canadian Grand Prix was exactly what we’ve been waiting for [SPOILERS]

On Thursday, June 10, the Automobile Club de L’Ouest (ACO), which organizes the 24 Hours of Le Mans, held its annual press conference and announced new technical regulations for the 2011 event as well as the European Le Mans Series. The ACO has long encouraged a variety of powerplant configurations, which is what prompted first Audi and then Peugeot to develop diesel-powered prototypes. 2011 will bring the official introduction hybrid power to Le Mans racing in all of the new classes.

Next year the club will move even further in the direction already pioneered by the American Le Mans Series with its “green racing” initiatives. The top LMP1 class will adopt what are essentially the current LMP2 rules, with gasoline racing engines limited to 3.4 liters normally aspirated or 2.0 liters turbocharged. Diesels can displace no more than 3.7 liters. The current LMP1 cars will be allowed to compete in 2011, but performance will be restricted by as-yet-unannounced means that will likely include more weight and smaller air restrictors. Check out the rest of the changes after the jump.

[Source: Automobile Club de L'Ouest]

Continue reading More details on the 2011 Le Mans technical regulations, now with hybrid power

More details on the 2011 Le Mans technical regulations, now with hybrid power

One thing the organizers of the Greenwich Concours do well is ensure that motorcycle aficionados don’t feel left out. This year was no different, as Sunday featured row of bikes diverse in both chronology and purpose. No matter your interest, if two wheels were your thing, you were covered by a range of offerings that included everything from rarities like the Honda NR750 to a 1917 Harley-Davidson that pretty much embodied the definition of “patina.”

It was obvious that the majority of these bikes weren’t babied garage queens. Most appeared to see regular action, and their owners were eager to share them with the crowd. “C’mon, take a closer look!” was a common phrase uttered to anyone pausing to show interest in a particular bike. It’s that kind of camaraderie that makes Greenwich feel as accessible as any local enthusiasts’ gathering, even though it’s a serious Big Deal concours with million-dollar vehicles littering the grounds. Hit the gallery below for a look at the motorcycles and scooters that were on hand this year.

Photos by Alex Núñez / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Motorcycles at the 2010 Greenwich Concours

With this year’s enduro at Le Mans in the books, when better to break the news of a past winner going up for grabs? The racer in question is a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB Tour de France – class winner and third overall at the ‘59 24 Hours of Le Mans and winner of the 1000km of Nurburgring the same year.

The pristine example still sports its original race-winning red-and-orange livery bearing the number 11. Since 1959, it’s only changed hands a few times, and has been held by the same owner for decades.

Following a showcase on the Del Monte Golf Course, its first public showing since the early ’90s, chassis number 1321 will cross Mecum’s auction block at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Resort & Spa on August 13-14 during the Pebble Beach concours weekend, which is already shaping up to be one for the books. Details are in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Mecum]

Continue reading Le Mans-winning 1959 Ferrari 250 GT TdF on the block at Mecum Monterey

Le Mans-winning 1959 Ferrari 250 GT TdF on the block at Mecum Monterey

It’s the most important axiom of motorsports: If your car isn’t running at the checkered flag, it really doesn’t matter how fast you run. Nowhere is that more true than at Le Mans. The field that began with 55 cars gradually dwindled through the night. At the midway point, the #2 Peugeot led two of the Audis with the #1 car battling back from a mechanical malady. For those of you who aren’t planning to watch the race on your DVR, continue reading after the jump.

Continue reading Le Mans 2010: To finish first, first you must finish

Le Mans 2010: To finish first, first you must finish

As the cars raced into the night at Le Mans, attrition has begun to take its toll. Several of the fastest cars on the track have succumbed to accidents or mechanical failures. For those who are planning to watch on DVR, move along, the rest of you can get a recap of the first 12 hours after the jump.

Continue reading Le Mans 2010: Mid-race report 2

Le Mans 2010: Mid-race report 2

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class people-mover gets a fresh new exterior for the 2011 model year. Not only does it incorporate the automaker’s new corporate face, with the dinner-plate-sized logo in the middle of the grille, but the rear end has been smoothed out and the whole package looks a lot sleeker (as sleek as an R-Class can be, anyway). In all, we like the refreshed appearance, as it really tones down the bulgy proportions of the big R, and if you’re shelling out top dollar for a family hauler, you’ll certainly want to look your best while cruising to Costco.

Not much has changed underhood – Mercedes-Benz is still offering the naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 as well as the well-received 3.5-liter Bluetec turbodiesel. The interior gets a mild freshening, as well, and we must say, it looks like a wonderful place for long-distance cruises. Click through the gallery below to see over 100 high-res images of the 2011 R-Class.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Pics Aplenty: Mercedes-Benz releases onslaught of 2011 R-Class images

Sometimes, it’s the unlikely stuff that gets the best reactions. At a show where the supercar circle boasted the likes of a Schuppan 962CR and James Glickenhaus’ Ferrari P4/5, across the field, car of decidedly more modest origin was cultivating an equally-delighted group of fans for itself. Yes, it is the opposite of a supercar, but this ‘76 Volga GAZ-24 was easily one of the highlights of the show, if you ask us.

Wedged between a grey Facel Vega coupe and a delectable Citroen DS, the deep red Volga was beautifully turned out, with blinding whitewall tires, velour-accented seats, neat logo mudflaps, airbrushed hammer-and-sickle art on the hood, and probably the most appropriate vanity plates ever. The car was even wore its own fur hat.

When we asked the owner to open the hood for us so we could grab a quick photo, he apologetically said, “Oh, there’s not much to see,” as he lifted it to reveal the clean inline-four. “Besides, if I keep it open, no one can see the artwork!” Smiles all around as folks gathered to ogle this Cold War curiosity, which you’re just about as likely to see on the road as any of the exotics that were parked a few hundred feet away. In its own way, it’s every bit as cool.

Photos by Alex Núñez / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Immaculate Volga’s Cold War style elicits warm smiles

A little over a week ago, we brought you initial details and images of the Pagani Zonda Uno, a one-off special supercar commissioned by the Qatari royal family. Those first images barely gave us a sufficient glimpse, but a couple of fresh ones (with some sort of protective film apparently covering parts of the bodywork) and a trio of videos provide the closer look Zonda fans have been asking for.

An intrepid observer, apparently drawing no ire from the staff at the Pagani factory, managed to capture footage of the turquoise Cinque/R hybrid (as in, blending elements of both models, not a gasoline-electric drivetrain) kicking over and driving up and down the road by the plant. Follow the jump to check out the video footage, and click the thumbnails below for the fresh pair of images.

[Source: autoblog.it]

Continue reading Video: Pagani Zonda Uno one-off takes to the streets of Modena

Video: Pagani Zonda Uno one-off takes to the streets of Modena

If you thought Porsche was going to cool its jets after rolling out the Panamera, you’ve got another thing coming. A quick hit of information has crept out of a sales managers’ meeting that says we can expect a rash new models to head our way soon. Supposedly, Stuttgart is eying the creation of a new 911 Speedster with a $200,000 price tag and a 408 horsepower mill at the tail end. If true, the car will sport widebody sheetmetal and come equipped with the PDK and two-wheel drive.

There’s more. Early 2011 just might bring the 620-horsepower GT2 RS to the US. Buyers will have the option of equipping the car with carbon fiber fenders, but that will likely add to its $245,000 base price.

If that’s a little too rich for your blood, you can always opt for a widebody version of the Carrera called the GTS. With center-lug wheels, a sport exhaust and 408 horsepower, the coupe will set you back a still heady $103,100. Porsche also supposedly mulling a Cayman with the same sort of treatment given to the Boxster Spyder – less weight, more power – for around $65,300.

And what of the mighty 918 Spyder? According to the post, dealers haven’t heard word either way, but they expect a final answer by the time Pebble Beach rolls around later this summer. We’ve asked Porsche to verify the above claims, but have yet to hear back, so stay tuned.

Photos by Michael Harley / Copyright (C)2009 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Team Speed]

Alleged Porsche dealer meeting notes point to many new models

Artist Jeff Koons’ special paint scheme is now the only thing that makes the #79 BMW M3 GT2 Art Car look like it’s moving. Just after starting the sixth hour of the 24 hours of Le Mans, the BMW was crawling around the track for the third time. Andy Priaulx pulled off the course onto the grass and began swerving back and forth as though he was out of fuel. Unfortunately, it was to no avail as the M3 rolled to a stop for good. The marshals pushed the car behind the guardrail and Priaulx set off on foot for the pits.

Meanwhile in GT1, the all-female team of Natacha Gachnang, Cyndie Allemann and Rahel Frey have finished their race in the #61 Ford GT as well. At about the same time the BMW Art Car gave up the ghost, Gachnang pulled over right in front of the marshal’s stand at the Mulsanne corner with thick smoke pouring out of the Ford. Gachnang, who has been limping on crutches all week, was able to crawl out of the car just as the marshals arrived with fire extinguishers. At this point, we haven’t heard the cause of the fire.

[Source: Speed]

BMW Art Car and all-female Ford GT out of Le Mans

Just four hours into the 24 Hours of Le Mans, eight-time-winner Tom Kristensen’s race almost ended after contact with the BMW M3 GT2 Art Car. Audi R15 driver Kristensen was the lead Audi at the time, running a lap down in fourth overall when he went off into the gravel at Porsche curves after overtaking the Jeff Koons-liveried BMW.

The Art Car was limping back to the pits with a punctured left front tire and drifted wide in the right-hand sweeper when Kristensen arrived on the scene. TK had to make a quick choice at speed and opted for the outside, assuming the BMW would stay inside. Unfortunately, the BMW was unable to turn in, and the Audi ended up going across the gravel and backing into the wall.

Fortunately for Audi, Kristensen kept the engine running and got a push of out the gravel. Back in the pits, the car was taken into the garage, where the crew descended upon it with huge shop vacs to get the gravel out. After two and a half minutes, fresh rear bodywork and a new wing were attached and the R15 was on its way again, another lap down. The #7 Audi is now running seventh overall.

[Source: SPEED TV]

Lead Audi nearly taken out of Le Mans by BMW Art Car