Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Official: 2012 Singapore Grand Prix lights up the night [spoilers]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/2012-singapore-grand-prix-lights-up-the-night-spoilers/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/2012-singapore-grand-prix-lights-up-the-night-spoilers/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/24/2012-singapore-grand-prix-lights-up-the-night-spoilers/#comments2012 Singapore Grand Prix

Though you might call the Singapore Grand Prix one of the newer expansion races on the Formula One calendar, its roots actually trace back to 1966 when it was run as part of the (long since defunct) Formula Libre. It came back in 2008 as part of the Formula One World Championship, though, and its first night race at that.

In the four years it's been run prior to today, Fernando Alonso won twice, and Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel each won once under the massive flood lamps at Marina Bay. Would one of these champions win it again, or would a new race winner be crowned? Keep reading to find out.

Continue reading 2012 Singapore Grand Prix lights up the night [spoilers]

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2012 Singapore Grand Prix lights up the night [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 24 Sep 2012 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 singapore grand prixf1formula 1formula onegrand prixmarina baysingaporesingapore grand prixMon, 24 Sep 2012 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Taming Monza at the 2012 Italian Grand Prix [spoilers]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/taming-the-monza-at-the-2012-italian-grand-prix-spoilers/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/taming-the-monza-at-the-2012-italian-grand-prix-spoilers/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/taming-the-monza-at-the-2012-italian-grand-prix-spoilers/#comments2012 Italian Grand Prix

F1 tracks come and F1 tracks go, but F1 wouldn't be F1 without Monza. It's one of the oldest circuits on the grand prix calendar, it's also one of the fastest. It has the chicanes and hairpins and long straights that make it one of the most exciting tracks in the sport. It's also the spiritual home of motor racing in Italy, which despite a dearth of drivers currently in the series, remains one of the most ardent fan bases for Formula One in the entire world. So with twelve out of twenty races completed thus far this season, the circus rolled in to Monza for the 2012 Italian Grand Prix. Read on to see how it went.

Continue reading Taming Monza at the 2012 Italian Grand Prix [spoilers]

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Taming Monza at the 2012 Italian Grand Prix [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 italian grand prixf1formula 1formula onegrand prixitalian grand prixmonzaMon, 10 Sep 2012 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Lapping it up at the 2012 Hungarian Grand Prix [spoilers]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/lapping-it-up-at-the-2012-hungarian-grand-prix-spoilers/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/lapping-it-up-at-the-2012-hungarian-grand-prix-spoilers/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/lapping-it-up-at-the-2012-hungarian-grand-prix-spoilers/#comments2012 Hungarian Grand Prix

Monaco. Italy. Canada. Japan. There are a handful of grand prix host countries that Formula One could not do without, so central they are to the character of the sport. But Hungary?

The Hungarian Grand Prix actually dates back to the pre-war era when the legendary Tazio Nuvolari won its first running for Alfa Romeo, and the race has been held every year without fail at Budapest's Hungaroring since 1986.

McLaren has won it more times than any other team, but which would emerge as this year's winner? Keep reading for the breakdown of yesterday's race.

Continue reading Lapping it up at the 2012 Hungarian Grand Prix [spoilers]

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Lapping it up at the 2012 Hungarian Grand Prix [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 hungarian grand prixf1formula 1formula onegrand prixhungarian grand prixhungaryMon, 30 Jul 2012 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[First Drive: 2012 Campagna T-Rex 14R [w/video]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/2012-campagna-t-rex-14r-first-drive-review-video/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/2012-campagna-t-rex-14r-first-drive-review-video/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/13/2012-campagna-t-rex-14r-first-drive-review-video/#commentsCar-Bike Genetic Mashup Still Fearlessly Roams The Canadian Countryside

2012 Campagna T-Rex 14R

As much (or as little) as our conscience might drive us to applaud initiatives to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions - and thereby, our compatriots at AutoblogGreen tell us, prevent us all from going the way of the dinosaur - deep down, the real car nuts inside and among us love cars that tend to consume the most fossils. Naming a car after a dinosaur, however, is another matter.

When Ford's Special Vehicle Team wanted to distinguish its rip-roaring off-road pickup from the workaday F-150, they called it the Raptor. When Saleen designed a conceptual successor to the S7 supercar, it also chose the name Raptor. But back in the day when both those teams of Ford performance specialists were still hot-rodding the Fox-body Mustang, a small outfit in the Canadian province of Quebec was already building its own dino-named tribute, a three-wheeler called the T-Rex.

Having driven its newer, more Harley-like stablemate the V13R last summer, we returned to Montreal to take the T-Rex out for the day to answer the lingering question on our minds: Namely, is the T-Rex named after a dinosaur because it's been on the market for decades and should, by all accounts, be long since extinct? Or is it so named because it's an irreverent monster that will bite your head off and consume everything in its path?

Hit the jump to find out!

Continue reading 2012 Campagna T-Rex 14R [w/video]

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2012 Campagna T-Rex 14R [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 13 Jul 2012 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 campagna t-rex 14rcampagnafeaturedfirst driveFirstDrivet-rext-rex 14rtrikeFri, 13 Jul 2012 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Chasing gold at Silverstone for the 2012 British Grand Prix [spoilers]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/08/chasing-gold-at-silverstone-for-the-2012-british-grand-prix-spo/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/08/chasing-gold-at-silverstone-for-the-2012-british-grand-prix-spo/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/08/chasing-gold-at-silverstone-for-the-2012-british-grand-prix-spo/#comments2012 British Grand Prix

The British Grand Prix could be considered the sport's home race. That's why Silverstone, as behind the times as it may be, is still on the calendar, and why so many elements within the sport are keen on having a race in London. Because while other races come and go, F1 could not do without a British Grand Prix in some form or another.

This year's came hot on the heels of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, where several drivers were on hand to demonstrate Formula One machinery old and new. From there it was on to Silverstone where the real action took place today, taking a season jam-packed with action one step closer to the halfway mark. Keep reading to see how it went down.

Continue reading Chasing gold at Silverstone for the 2012 British Grand Prix [spoilers]

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Chasing gold at Silverstone for the 2012 British Grand Prix [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 08 Jul 2012 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>british grand prixf1formula 1formula onegrand prixsilverstoneSun, 08 Jul 2012 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: SsangYong Rodius called into duty as off-road ambulance]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/ssangyong-rodius-called-into-duty-as-off-road-ambulance/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/ssangyong-rodius-called-into-duty-as-off-road-ambulance/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/02/ssangyong-rodius-called-into-duty-as-off-road-ambulance/#commentsSsangYong Rodius ambulance

There are many vehicles sold overseas that we wish we could order in Canada. The SsangYong Rodius isn't one of them. But at least the Korean automaker has found a use for the awkwardly proportioned crossover.

Based on the four-wheel-drive Rodius EX, SsangYong has launched an ambulance version in the UK. The first example was developed specifically for a paramedic who specializes in off-road sporting events where an all-wheel-drive ambulance could make the difference between life and death for a competitor. The Rodius' low load floor, high roof and capacious interior were also at the top of the specification list, but so was its cost-effectiveness. And at the end of the day, you can say what you will about the Rodius - it does offer a high versatility-to-price ratio.

Prices for the base model start at £14,995. But even the top-of-the-line Rodius 270 EX on which the ambulance was based still only comes in at £20,995 while packing a 2.7-litre diesel with all-wheel drive and a Mercedes-Benz-sourced five-speed automatic. All the bells and whistles are included, as well, along with enough room to lay even the tallest patient down in the back, plus all the medical equipment required for the job.

Click here for full details.

News Source: SsangYong

Continue reading SsangYong Rodius called into duty as off-road ambulance

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SsangYong Rodius called into duty as off-road ambulance originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulancerodiusssangyongssangyong rodiusssangyong rodius ambulancessangyong rodius exMon, 02 Jul 2012 07:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: McLaren previews new MP4-12C Spider [w/video]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/mclaren-previews-new-mp4-12c-spider-w-video/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/mclaren-previews-new-mp4-12c-spider-w-video/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/29/mclaren-previews-new-mp4-12c-spider-w-video/#commentsMcLaren MP4-12C Spider

July 3 is going to be a bad day to be a Ferrari 458 Spider or a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder. That's because on that day one week from now, McLaren will be releasing a Spider of its own.

Seeing as how McLaren Automotive currently only makes on model, you have doubtlessly surmised by now that we're speaking of a MP4-12C convertible. The long-anticipated Spider version is coming fast around the bend - but it's a good thing the Woking-based racing-team-turned-exotic-automaker didn't opt to release it at Goodwood, seeing as how the entire country is flush with rain at the moment.

McLaren isn't saying much about its new roadster, only that it's essentially the same as the coupe, albeit with an open roof. We're expecting a rather innovative take on the folding hard-top when the 12C Spider takes its first bow on the third.

In the meantime, click here to check out the video and press release.

News Source: McLaren

Gallery: McLaren Toronto - Grand Opening Event

Continue reading McLaren previews new MP4-12C Spider [w/video]

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McLaren previews new MP4-12C Spider [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 29 Jun 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren mp4-12cmclaren mp4-12c spidermp4-12cmp4-12c spidermp412cFri, 29 Jun 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: McLaren Automotive looks back on its first year]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/mclaren-automotive-looks-back-on-its-first-year/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/mclaren-automotive-looks-back-on-its-first-year/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/mclaren-automotive-looks-back-on-its-first-year/#commentsMcLaren MP4-12C in Abu Dhabi

It's been one heck of a first year for McLaren Automotive. Since setting up shop twelve months ago, the Formula One team's new sportscar-making unit has sold over 1,000 examples of the MP4-12C supercar, but that's not the sum total of its achievements.

To get there, McLaren set up a global network of 38 brand-spanking-new dealerships in a total of 22 countries, including those in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia-Pacific and right here in Canada!

The newest British automaker orchestrated it all from its new facility in Woking, right next door to the F1 team's headquarters, which was officially opened by the British prime minister. And while it was at it, McLaren also set up the Special Operations division to build even more unique versions of its supercars like the High Sport, as well as its own racing division to handle the MP4-12C GT3 that's taking on racing series around the world. Oh, and Macca rolled out an upgrade of the 12C while it was still in its infancy as well.

Not bad for a year's work, and we can't wait to see what next year brings. Recent rumors have included a roadster version of the 12C and even a supposed shooting brake of some sort in the works, but the biggest splash will be made when the successor to the mighty McLaren F1 jumps into the pool. Watch this space.

News Source: McLaren

Continue reading McLaren Automotive looks back on its first year

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McLaren Automotive looks back on its first year originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren automotivemclaren mp4-12cmp4-12cThu, 28 Jun 2012 15:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Giles Taylor succeeds Ian Cameron as head of Rolls-Royce design]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/giles-taylor-succeeds-ian-cameron-as-head-of-rolls-royce-design/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/giles-taylor-succeeds-ian-cameron-as-head-of-rolls-royce-design/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/28/giles-taylor-succeeds-ian-cameron-as-head-of-rolls-royce-design/#commentsGiles TaylorBack in the day, a Rolls-Royce looked pretty much the same as a Bentley, but with a different grille. Once BMW took over Rolls-Royce, however, it was faced with the challenge of visually separating itself from its former sister brand. And most would agree that it did so pretty well. But its cars have looked pretty much the same ever since. What Rolls-Royce needs, then, is a bit of a design shake-up. And that's just what this latest appointment could bring.

After a baker's dozen years as design director at Rolls-Royce (and twenty years designing for the BMW Group altogether), Ian Cameron is retiring from his post. In his place, Rolls-Royce has named Giles Taylor as its new director of design. In his new capacity, Taylor will report directly to BMW Group chief designer Adrian van Hooydonk, and be responsible for all design matters related to the Rolls-Royce brand and its products.

Taylor was promoted to the role from his previous position as head of exterior design for the marque, a position he's held for barely more than a year. We'll be eagerly watching to see what the veteran British car designer has in store for the future of Rolls-Royce. In the meantime you can read the full announcement after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Rolls-Royce Ghost

Continue reading Giles Taylor succeeds Ian Cameron as head of Rolls-Royce design

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Giles Taylor succeeds Ian Cameron as head of Rolls-Royce design originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 28 Jun 2012 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw groupcamerondesigndesign directorgiles taylorian cameronrolls-roycetaylorThu, 28 Jun 2012 09:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Bugatti looking into hybrid tech for next-gen Veyron?]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/bugatti-looking-into-hybrid-tech-for-next-gen-veyron/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/bugatti-looking-into-hybrid-tech-for-next-gen-veyron/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/bugatti-looking-into-hybrid-tech-for-next-gen-veyron/#commentsBugatti Veyron Grand Sport - silver - dead-on overhead studio view

Fast. Powerful. Opulent. There are any number of descriptors one could use to describe the Bugatti Veyron. But along with them is "heavy" - including heavy on fuel consumption. That's just the way it goes when you're dealing with a sixteen-cylinder, quad-turbo beast of a supercar. But that could change, if the latest output from the rumormill proves accurate.

According to a report from Auto Express, Bugatti is keen to improve its image in the eyes of a tree-hugging world, so it is looking at ways to make the successor to the Veyron more fuel efficient. One way would be to make the car lighter, something that shouldn't be all that difficult considering that the current model weighs in at over 1,800 kg (4,000 pounds). One such method of trimming the fat reportedly revolves around carbon-fiber wheels, something that's been done before but far from widely adopted.

At the other end of the spectrum, Bugatti is also reportedly evaluating the prospect of hybrid propulsion - something that would not reduce weight but could help fuel consumption figures while keeping the power up. If the Molsheim automaker were to go that route, we'd expect something closer to what Ferrari is working on for the Enzo successor than an upmarket Toyota Prius.

AE also predicts that the next-generation Veyron will carry on the name rather than switch to another nameplate. One way or another, it will likely join the upcoming Galibier sedan a few years down the line, thereby expanding the marque's range from one model line to two.

News Source: Auto Express

Image Credit: Bugatti

Gallery: 2011 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport

Continue reading Bugatti looking into hybrid tech for next-gen Veyron?

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Bugatti looking into hybrid tech for next-gen Veyron? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 27 Jun 2012 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti hybridbugatti veyronhybridveyronveyron 16.4Wed, 27 Jun 2012 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Noble hints at possible Roadster version of M600 supercar]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/noble-hints-at-possible-roadster-version-of-m600-supercar/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/noble-hints-at-possible-roadster-version-of-m600-supercar/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/noble-hints-at-possible-roadster-version-of-m600-supercar/#commentsNoble M600 Roadster

Performance purists should be familiar with the name Lee Noble. The chassis guru has worked his magic on a whole slew of small-batch supercars, including the Ultima GTR, Ascari Ecosse, Salica GT, the Fenix and, of course, those bearing his own name.

At the top of the Noble totem pole sits the M600, a mid-engined supercar powered by a twin-turbo version of Yamaha's 4.4-litre V8 found in the Volvo XC90, but with as much as 650 horsepower on tap. A 3.5-second sprint to 60 (96 km/h) and a top speed of 362 km/h (225 mph) can be had for roughly £200,000 - or about $255k if it were available here.

Now Noble has released a solitary image of an M600 roadster which it says is purely a concept car for the time being. The British niche automaker will, however, undoubtedly be watching for reactions to the idea of putting it into production. That decision, according to reports, could come down specifically to the Chinese market in which - like most automakers - Noble is eager to make its mark.

News Source: Autocar

Gallery: Noble M600


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Noble hints at possible Roadster version of M600 supercar originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 27 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lee noblem600noblenoble m600noble m600 roadsterWed, 27 Jun 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Radical introduces new entry-level SR1]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/radical-introduces-new-entry-level-sr1/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/radical-introduces-new-entry-level-sr1/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/radical-introduces-new-entry-level-sr1/#commentsRadical SR1 on track at speed - white with red and blue livery

Their models may not be for everyone, but at the end of the day, Radical has a winning formula: make an LMP race car for consumers. In fact, the formula is so successful that Caterham and Lola essentially replicated it with the SP/300.R.

Radical aims to further its model with a new closed-roof model, but before it does, the British manufacturer is taking the formula to a new price point more accessible to the common buyer.

The new SR1 takes a similar approach to the more expensive SR3 that set records at the Nurburgring, but coming in at £29,850 (before taxes, or about $38k at today's exchange rates including Value Added Tax), is a more affordable proposition that further entrenches Radical's goal of trouncing supercars costing twice its price or more. The Suzuki-souced 1.3-litre, four-cylinder motorbike engine has been tuned by Radical in this application to deliver 210 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque. But considering its low weight, that's still tipped to be enough to propel the racecar-for-the-road to 60 (96 km/h) in just 3.6 seconds.

A Quaife ATB limited-slip differential and 240-millimeter ventilated disc brakes help keep things under control and an FIA-approved roll cage and integrated fire supression system are there in case they can't. Buyers can have racing slicks, rain tires or road rubber fitted according to their needs. So while the SR1 may be intended for track use, it can be driven to the track instead of stored or towed there and driven back home at the end of the day... all for less than you'd pay (in the UK) for even a base Porsche Boxster.

Check out the high-res gallery above along with the press release below for the full skinny.

News Source: Radical

Continue reading Radical introduces new entry-level SR1

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Radical introduces new entry-level SR1 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 27 Jun 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lmpradicalradical sr1sr1track cartrack day cartrackdaytrackday carWed, 27 Jun 2012 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Nissan Leaf aims to take world record in reverse at Goodwood]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/nissan-leaf-aims-to-take-world-record-in-reverse-at-goodwood/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/nissan-leaf-aims-to-take-world-record-in-reverse-at-goodwood/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/27/nissan-leaf-aims-to-take-world-record-in-reverse-at-goodwood/#comments

When Nissan wants to set a speed record, you'd expect it to use the mighty GT-R to get there. Or maybe one of its myriad racing cars - it does, after all, power the bulk of the LMP2 racers on the grid at Le Mans, not to mention the experimental DeltaWing. But the Leaf? Sure, maybe for emissions-free motoring, but not for speed.

Yet it's the Leaf in which Nissan will attempt to set a new Guinness World Record at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed. And not the Nismo RC version, either, though that will be on hand for the festival as well. No, Nissan will attempt a world record in a bone-stock electric Leaf... in reverse.

Because EVs like the Leaf power their wheels directly from their electric motors, they should - in theory at least - be able to drive just as fast in reverse as they do moving forward. To test that theory, Nissan is brining the Leaf to Goodwood where its stunt driver Terry Grant (the same guy who drove a Juke on two wheels up the hill at the event last year) will attempt to drive the entire course backwards.

In the process, Nissan hopes that Grant and the Leaf will set a new record for the fastest time over a distance of one mile (1.6 km) in reverse. And considering the twist, turns, peaks and dips of the Goodwood circuit, that likely won't prove too easy. But we sure look forward to seeing how it turns out. Read more in the press release below.

Hit the jump for our gallery of the Leaf racing in reverse.

News Source: Nissan

Continue reading Nissan Leaf aims to take world record in reverse at Goodwood

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Nissan Leaf aims to take world record in reverse at Goodwood originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 27 Jun 2012 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>goodwoodgoodwood festival of speedguinnessguinness book of world recordsguinness world recordland speed recordleafnissannissan leafreverse speed recordspeed recordterry grantworld recordWed, 27 Jun 2012 09:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Tauro puts Spanish flavor, Corvette engine into Pontiac Solstice]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/tauro-puts-spanish-flavor-corvette-engine-into-pontiac-solstice/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/tauro-puts-spanish-flavor-corvette-engine-into-pontiac-solstice/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/tauro-puts-spanish-flavor-corvette-engine-into-pontiac-solstice/#commentsTauro Sport Auto V8 Spider - red - front three-quarter view, top-down

While it may have had its fans, we have to say we don't much miss the roadster family which General Motors based on its Kappa platform. Sold alternately as the Pontiac Solstice, Saturn Sky, Opel GT and Daewoo G2X (depending largely on the market), the roadster as much about style as substance, and it was summarily discontinued in 2009 as GM's domestic brands faltered. But now a company in Spain has given the two-seat roadster a new lease on life.

That company is called Tauro Sport Auto, and its version - called, simply enough, the V8 Spider - is a fairly comprehensive rework. As you might have discerned from the name, it replaces the four-cylinder engine with a V8 also from the GM parts bin: the 6.2-litre LS3 Corvette engine, which it offers in 440, 480 and bonkers 650 horsepower states of tune with the addition of new cylinder heads and a supercharger.

How the chassis is able to handle that much power is another matter, but the interior unfortunately appears to carry over largely unchanged from the Pontiac. Pricing, though, starts at a very un-Solstice-like €100,000, or about $128k at today's rates. Which strikes us as about right for a Latin-flavored eight-cylinder roadster, but a tad much for a Kappa convertible.

News Source: Tauro Sport Auto

Continue reading Tauro puts Spanish flavor, Corvette engine into Pontiac Solstice

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Tauro puts Spanish flavor, Corvette engine into Pontiac Solstice originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daewoo g2xopel gtpontiac solsticesaturn skyskysolsticetaurotauro sport autotauro sport auto v8tauro sport auto v8 spidertauro v8tauro v8 spiderTue, 26 Jun 2012 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Lamborghini working on four-seat Aventador GT?]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/lamborghini-working-on-four-seat-aventador-gt/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/lamborghini-working-on-four-seat-aventador-gt/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/lamborghini-working-on-four-seat-aventador-gt/#commentsLamborghini Aventador LP700-4 - orange - profile studio photo

Lamborghini is keen to expand its product range with its upcoming Urus utility vehicle. But that doesn't mean the marque is done developing its top-of-the-line supercar. In fact, there are rumors flying around of numerous derivatives of the new Aventador. But few are as surprising as the speculation surrounding a possible four-seat version.

According to Motor Trend, the Bolognese automaker is preparing a concept version of the Aventador with a longer wheelbase, a pair of small rear-hinged suicide doors (think: Mazda RX-8) and an extra pair of seats in the back. It wouldn't be the first time Lamborghini has presented a four-seat model - there are, after all, several in its back catalog, including the aforementioned Urus, the LM002 SUV that preceded it and the Estoque concept as well - but a mid-engined 2+2 is still a bit of a rarity in the industry.

The anticipated Aventador GT concept is tipped to be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, but that's not all Sant'Agata is said to have in the pipeline. A roadster version is tipped to debut this January at the Detroit Auto Show with a more usable form than the Aventador J one-off displayed in Geneva last March. And a hardcore SuperVeloce model is tipped to arrive within a couple of years with as much as 800 horsepower.

Getting away from the Aventador line, the lightweight, Sesto Elemento concept could be ready for (limited) production by next year. Lambo's volume model, the Gallardo, is reportedly due for another facelift scheduled to debut at September's Paris Motor Show before its replacement (based on the next-generation Audi R8) arrives at the Frankfurt Motor Show one year later.

News Source: Motor Trend

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Lamborghini working on four-seat Aventador GT? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aventadoraventador gtfour-door lamborghinilamborghinilamborghini aventadorlamborghini aventador gtlamborghini aventador lp700-4Tue, 26 Jun 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Toyota 4Runner still drives after being crushed by tree [w/video]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/toyota-4runner-still-drives-after-being-crushed-by-tree-w-video/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/toyota-4runner-still-drives-after-being-crushed-by-tree-w-video/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/26/toyota-4runner-still-drives-after-being-crushed-by-tree-w-video/#commentsToyota 4Runner crushed by a tree

Disaster can strike just about anywhere, but the likelihood - and severity - often increases the further you are from civilization. That's what one couple in Washington State found out when they went camping with their Toyota 4Runner along the Barlow Pass in the northern Cascade mountains.

When a storm approached they sought shelter, but fortunately didn't hide inside their Toyota. A hundred-foot-tall hickory tree fell on it, crushing the back portion of the SUV. With emergency and park services apparently refusing to help, it took them a while to get a few friends out their with chainsaws to cut the tree away from the Toyota. But once they did, they were astonished to find the truck not only started, but drove them back into town where they were able to call for a tow.

Of course, the truck was virtually irreparable, but the very fact that it got them to safety after being crushed by a giant tree has the owners looking at another 4Runner - and with good reason. Are we surprised by the Toyota's fortitude? After that now-legendary Top Gear Hilux abusefest, nothing surprises us.

Click here to watch a video of the crumpled Toyota in action, then follow the link to the forum for more images.

Continue reading Toyota 4Runner still drives after being crushed by tree [w/video]

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Toyota 4Runner still drives after being crushed by tree [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4runnercar treecascadecascade mountainscrushedtotalledtoyotatoyota 4runnertoyota reliabilitywashingtonwashington stateTue, 26 Jun 2012 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Lancia contemplating Chrysler 300-based Thema coupe?]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/lancia-contemplating-chrysler-300-based-thema-coupe/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/lancia-contemplating-chrysler-300-based-thema-coupe/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/lancia-contemplating-chrysler-300-based-thema-coupe/#comments2012 Lancia Thema

Head overseas and you may run into a Chrysler 300 wearing a distinctly foreign badge: that of Lancia. The awkward stepchild of the Fiat group rebadges Chrysler vehicles as their own and gives them nameplates from their own back-catalog. Lancia calls its rebadged 300 the Thema, but aside from the handle, it's pretty much the same. But could Chrysler's Italian cousin prompt the development of a coupe version?

According to the latest churn of the rumormill, yes, it could. Chrysler has already used the platform for the two-door Dodge Challenger, a vehicle that isn't officially offered in Europe. When Auburn Hills wanted to offer the Dodge Magnum in Europe, it gave the low-slung power-wagon bodystyle to the 300, but with that model out of the way, why not a two-door?

The question for us, of course, is - were Lancia to go ahead with such a development - could it make it back over to North America? An Italian-designed American two-door might satisfy a market (however small) that was last filled in the late 1980s Chrysler TC by Maserati and the Pininfarina-designed Cadillac Allanté.

Click here for a short video on the Lancia Thema.

News Source: Autoblog.nl

Continue reading Lancia contemplating Chrysler 300-based Thema coupe?

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Lancia contemplating Chrysler 300-based Thema coupe? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300chryslerchrysler 300chrysler 300 coupelancialancia themalancia thema coupeMon, 25 Jun 2012 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Official: Ansar Ali replaced as CEO of Caterham]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/ansar-ali-replaced-as-ceo-of-caterham/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/ansar-ali-replaced-as-ceo-of-caterham/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/ansar-ali-replaced-as-ceo-of-caterham/#commentsAnsar Ali

Years ago Caterham was just another kit-car company making "continuation" examples of the Lotus Seven. Now it's got its own LMP-style track car on the market, a new road car on the way, its own Formula One team, a composites division and an engineering consultancy. So who do you credit for the transformation? Ansar Ali. But he's on his way out.

Ali took over as managing director of Caterham in 2005 after he and his partners bought out the founders, and proceeded to expand the operation into the burgeoning conglomerate it is now. Last year, however, the company was taken over by Tony Fernandes, who paired it with what was then known as the Lotus F1 team (now branded as Caterham).

Despite Ali and Fernandes appearing to work well together since the change in ownership, Caterham has announced Ali's departure - ostensibly "by mutual consent", according to the announcement below. In his place, former CFO Graham Macdonald steps up as chief executive.

News Source: Caterham

Continue reading Ansar Ali replaced as CEO of Caterham

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Ansar Ali replaced as CEO of Caterham originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliansaransar alicaterhamgraham macdonaldmacdonaldMon, 25 Jun 2012 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Ferrari raises $2.3M for earthquake relief]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/ferrari-raises-2-3m-for-earthquake-relief/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/ferrari-raises-2-3m-for-earthquake-relief/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/ferrari-raises-2-3m-for-earthquake-relief/#commentsFerrari 599XX Evo charity auction

In the wake of the devastating earthquakes that rocked northern Italy in late May, Ferrari announced an auction to raise money towards relief efforts. That online auction is now in the books, with benefactors giving generously to help the afflicted victims while netting some prize-worthy collectibles.

The biggest-ticket item is a 599XX track car (pictured above) that went to an American bidder at 1.4 million euros - equivalent to nearly CAD$1.8M . The car will be signed by Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo and F1 drivers Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, who will deliver the car to its new owner personally at the Italian Grand Prix.

A nose cone from an F60 (Scuderia Ferrari's 2009 F1 car) sold for 23,000 euros (approx. CAD $30K), an engine from the constructors' championship-winning F2008 racer went for nearly twice its reserve price at 80,000 euros (~ CAD$100K), with other items including helmets used by Alonso and Massa and a racing suit worn by Giancarlo Fisichella.

Click past the jump for more info.

Continue reading Ferrari raises $2.3M for earthquake relief

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Ferrari raises $2.3M for earthquake relief originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 24 Jun 2012 19:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>599xx599xx evo599xx evoluzioneauctionearthquakeemilia-romagnaferrariferrari 599xxferrari 599xx evoferrari 599xx evoluzioneonline auctionreliefSun, 24 Jun 2012 19:03:00 EST<![CDATA[2012 European Grand Prix takes the cake in Valencia [spoilers]]]>http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/2012-european-grand-prix-takes-the-cake-in-valencia-spoilers/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/2012-european-grand-prix-takes-the-cake-in-valencia-spoilers/http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/24/2012-european-grand-prix-takes-the-cake-in-valencia-spoilers/#comments2012 European Grand Prix

Never has there been a season in Formula One as hotly contested as this one. Not only does the field contain an unprecedented six world champions -- accounting for a whopping fourteen titles between them -- but each of the seven grands prix so far this year has been won by a different driver. And each time the leaders play leap-frog in the standings.

The question has been how much longer this could possibly go on. Surely one driver would emerge as the clear frontrunner take a second checkered flag home on Sunday. Right? Keep reading to find out.

Continue reading 2012 European Grand Prix takes the cake in Valencia [spoilers]

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2012 European Grand Prix takes the cake in Valencia [spoilers] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 24 Jun 2012 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 european grand prixeuropean grand prixf1formula 1formula onegrand prixvalenciaSun, 24 Jun 2012 17:31:00 EST