Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png 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/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Baby not keen on Volkswagen's stop/start tech]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/vw-stop-start-ad-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/vw-stop-start-ad-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/vw-stop-start-ad-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Volkswagen Stop Start Ad

Babies and cars go together like screaming blobs of insomnia and sleep machines. New parents quickly find that nothing soothes an irritable newborn quite like a quick drive around the block, and Volkswagen employed that truth in the company's newest ad for its stop/start technology. The spot follows one new dad as he tries to lull his child to sleep with the burble and purr of his Tiguan TDI. Unfortunately, his efforts are thwarted by the machine's start/stop system at each stop light.

While the video does a great job of explaining how the start/stop system works and what it does for the buyer, Volkswagen took a bit of a gamble by having the system wake a sleeping baby. Automakers spend plenty of time trying to convince the world that their stop/start gear is as smooth as possible, and while this wee Volkswagen enthusiast falls asleep the moment the diesel engine wakes up, the implication is that the system isn't exactly imperceptible.

Check out the video clip for yourself.

Gallery: Top 5 Forgotten Failures in Car Technology

Talking CarNuclear-Powered EnginesAutomatic Seat BeltsTurbine-Powered Production CarAir Grabber Hood-Scoop

Continue reading Baby not keen on Volkswagen's stop/start tech

Baby not keen on Volkswagen's stop/start tech originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 14 May 2013 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> adcommercialstop startvideovwvw tiguanvw tiguan tdi Tue, 14 May 2013 12:44:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20565389/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/vw-stop-start-ad-video/20565389/article-detail.xml 20565389 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-stop-start-ad-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/vw-stop-start-ad-628.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen still considering small roadster]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/volkswagen-still-considering-small-roadster/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/volkswagen-still-considering-small-roadster/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/volkswagen-still-considering-small-roadster/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Volkswagen BlueSport Roadster

Despite the on-again, off-again rumours surrounding a small Volkswagen roadster, it would appear that a small droptop two-seater is still on track. CarScoops, citing a report in Germany's Auto Motor und Sport magazine, states that there are many people within Volkswagen who still believe that this sort of vehicle would be good for the brand.

"I'm not the only one in our company who is convinced that a small roadster wouldn't be the worst thing for Volkswagen," the automaker's design chief, Walter de Silva, told AMS, according to CarScoops. "This is a vehicle that we particularly like, and we always have in mind."

Volkswagen showed the BlueSport concept (pictured above) at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, but the project was quickly put on hold, with earlier reports stating that there simply wasn't a business case for the car. Those reports were contradicted early last year, and it's good to hear that spokespeople within the company are still looking to move forward with the project.

The BlueSport concept debuted with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, good for 177 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. According to Volkswagen, the BlueSport would hit 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph), and able to hit fuel economy numbers as efficient as 4.7L/100 km (54.7 mpg). Of course, a small turbocharged gasoline engine could also work in this application, and CarScoops states that this sort of vehicle could also find homes within the Audi and Porsche brands, as well.

Click here for a video on the Volkswagen BlueSport Concept and judge it for yourself.

Gallery: Top 30 Concept Cars Gallery

Lexus LF-LCBMW i8 SpyderAudi E-TronLamborghini - Italdesign CalaBMW M1 Hommage





Continue reading Volkswagen still considering small roadster

Volkswagen still considering small roadster originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 07 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bluesportconceptconcept carvolkswagenvwvw bluesportvw bluesport conceptvw roadster Tue, 07 May 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20559619/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/volkswagen-still-considering-small-roadster/20559619/article-detail.xml 20559619 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/00vwroadster_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/00vwroadster.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 Bluetec 4Matic

We got our first taste of the refreshed 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK lineup last summer, once again affirming our belief that it's easy to fall in love with the littlest Benz CUV. There's something sort of charming about the boxy, rugged-looking luxury crossover, and while it won't set the world on fire in terms of driver engagement, it's a solid front-runner in the segment.

In addition to the GLK350 - in both rear- and all-wheel-drive forms - Mercedes-Benz has now launched this GLK250 BlueTEC model, packed with a brand new 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel engine and offered exclusively with the automaker's 4Matic all-wheel drive. With improved fuel economy and torque-tastic diesel characteristics, this oil-burning GLK could easily be the star child of the company's small CUV lineup. We hit the roads northwest of Ann Arbor, MI to find out.

Hit the jump for a look at our full driving notes and additional photos of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC.

Continue reading 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK250 BlueTEC 4Matic originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 06 May 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 mercedes glk250 bluetec 4maticmercedesmercedes glk-classmercedes glk250 bluetecmercedes glk250 bluetec 4maticquick spinquickspin Mon, 06 May 2013 14:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20559530/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/2013-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-review/20559530/article-detail.xml 20559530 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-1367414589_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-mercedes-benz-glk250-bluetec-4matic-quick-spin-1367414589.jpg <![CDATA[Audi supercar not yet approved, R4 not quite dead, still room for an MPV]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/audi-supercar-not-yet-approved-r4-not-quite-dead-still-room-fo/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/audi-supercar-not-yet-approved-r4-not-quite-dead-still-room-fo/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/audi-supercar-not-yet-approved-r4-not-quite-dead-still-room-fo/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Audi V12 TDI engine bay

According to a report by Autocar, all we thought we knew of the in-development Audi supercar we might not actually know. A piece in Car and Driver, not even a month old, said the diesel-hybrid halo car was in the design stages, would get the engine from the R18 E-Tron Quattro and its carbon fibre tub. Now we get word that that while the coupe is indeed being designed, it hasn't yet been signed off and there's no business case for it yet. Said business case, whenever it is built, is also dubious of the diesel aspect of the car at the moment - diesels aren't known for creating Pavlovian purchase responses in buyers in the key markets of North America and China.

The report suggests that instead of a diesel, the 2014 Le Mans regulations changes "could swing the favour back towards petrol models," which would give the so-called Scorpion a better tie to racing technology. Of course, that also assumes that Audi would contest next year's Le Mans with a gas-powered car. If so, that would be an about-face on the original reasons for the halo sportscar in the first place.

In other news, seems Audi also believes it can slot another sportscar below the R8, it just needs to get the financials sorted. The R4 - a Porsche Boxster-sized roadster - that has been chattered about for years is still in on the table but appears a long way off. Company R&D chief Wolfgang Durheimer said it would need to be mid-engined and bring plenty of tech to separate itself from the TT, but mass-market price point is the catch as is the focus on other segments in the portfolio.

The least sexy side of the Audi pool, but apparently the most important, is boiling with plans for new utility vehicles and possibly an MPV. What Car? quotes Durheimer at the Shanghai Motor Show saying "SUV products are a first priority," which would fit into what we've been hearing about the brand's design overhaul, the products in question a Q above the Q7 and another below the Q3. A people mover is also said to be under consideration assuming Audi can create something that hauls six or seven while maintaining brand values.

Click through to watch our Audi Quattro concept first drive.

Gallery: Audi Quattro Concept: Quick Spin

Continue reading Audi supercar not yet approved, R4 not quite dead, still room for an MPV

Audi supercar not yet approved, R4 not quite dead, still room for an MPV originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi q2audi q3audi q7audi r18audi r20audi scorpionaudi supercarr20supercarwolfgang durheimer Sat, 27 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20549036/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/audi-supercar-not-yet-approved-r4-not-quite-dead-still-room-fo/20549036/article-detail.xml 20549036 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/audiscorpion_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/audiscorpion.jpg <![CDATA[Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Cummins Li'l Red Express

The Dodge Li'l Red Express is one awesome quandary of the late '70s. Back then, Dodge had taken to building all sorts of oddball trucks and vans with strange equipment packages, but the Li'l Red Express was something entirely different.

Engineers crammed a honkin' 360 V8 yanked from the company's police interceptor line and plopped the four-barrel-fed block between the fenders, inadvertently creating the world's first sport truck in the process. Bolted as it was to a 727 Torqueflight automatic transmission and a 3.55:1 rear axle, the truck was the quickest vehicle Car and Driver tested in the 0-100 sprint in 1978. Dodge said the engine put out 225 horsepower. It lied.

Max Kirtley took one look at the Li'l Red Express, yanked that magical V8 from behind the grille and plopped one wild Cummins 6BT turbo diesel inline-six in its place. Sucking down 100-pounds-per-square-inch worth of boost, the 12-valve rocks a Hamilton cylinder head and cam as well as a water injection system and two nitrous injection systems. Kirtley says the truck now puts down closer to 1,000 horsepower and 1,500-1,700 pound-feet of torque.

We don't think he's lying. Check out a video of this Cummins Li'l Red Express hopping down the quarter mile during a few test runs below.


Gallery: SEMA 2012 Truck & Offroad Hall & Outdoor Lot

Continue reading Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower

Dodge Li'l Red Express drag truck packs 100 PSI, 1,000 horsepower originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cumminscummins lil red expressdieseldodge lil red expressdrag racinglil red expressvideo Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20549302/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/dodge-lil-red-express-drag-truck-packs-100-psi-1-000-horsepowe/20549302/article-detail.xml 20549302 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cummins-lil-red-express-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/cummins-lil-red-express-628.jpg <![CDATA[Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



Mazda has a long motorsports history, and one that is peppered with fascinating cars. The latest chapter in Mazda's racing story has just been written, as Joel Miller and Andrew Carbonell have driven the Visit Florida Racing Mazda6 Skyactiv-D to the car's first ever victory at the Rolex Grand-Am GX race at Road Atlanta. The win marks the first ever for Mazda's diesel-burning, production-car based Skyactiv-D racer, and the first win for a diesel-powered car in a Grand-Am event.

In fact, it was a particularly good day for the Mazda Motorsports team, as a Mazda6 also picked up the third finishing spot at Road Atlanta. Director of Mazda Motorsports, John M. Doonan, said of the racecar, "We've always said that the best street cars make the best racecars, and, with more than half of the components in the race engine being shared with the street engine, this program is a solid proof-point."

SpeedSource Engineering, which helped to build the Mazda6 racer, was greatly heartened by the car's performance in just it's fourth-ever race. Owner Sylvain Tremblay called the victory, "a tribute to the thousands of hours of hard work over many months," continuing, "The normal plan with a new car is to spend the first year in development, the second year seeking race wins, and challenging for a championship in year three. We are already at our year-two status after four races. We can't wait to get to the Belle Isle course in Detroit for round five."

Scroll down to read the victorious press release, then watch a video showing the launch of the civilian Mazda6 diesel at the LA Auto Show earlier this year.

Gallery: 2014 Mazda 6 Skyactiv diesel






Continue reading Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta

Mazda6 Skyactiv-D racecar gets first win at Road Atlanta originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> andrew carbonellgrand amjoel millermazdamazda mazda6racecarroad atlantaskyactiv-d Tue, 23 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20547523/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/23/mazda6-skyactiv-d-racecar-gets-first-win-at-road-atlanta/20547523/article-detail.xml 20547523 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda6-skyactiv-d-road-atlanta-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mazda6-skyactiv-d-road-atlanta-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi's diesel-electric supercar is codenamed 'Scorpion']]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/audis-diesel-electric-supercar-is-codenamed-scorpion/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/audis-diesel-electric-supercar-is-codenamed-scorpion/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/23/audis-diesel-electric-supercar-is-codenamed-scorpion/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,



Speculation continues as to the final nature of the diesel-hybrid Audi supercar said to arrive in 2016 or 2017. A previous report in Automobile had the halo coupe, based closely on the R18 etron quattro endurance racer, codenamed R20 and pegged to look like a Le Mans winner for the street with around 700 horsepower and 737 pound-feet of torque from a twin-turbo V6. Now Car and Driver has updated the gossip with a report that the car is internally called "Scorpion," and it will be even closer to the R18 than supposed.

CD says the heart of the car will use the R18 etron quattro's carbon fibre tub and its engine will be "taken directly" from the race car. That means a 3.7-litre V6 with a single turbo that, in ACO-spec restricted form, outputs 500 hp and 625 lb-ft - CD suspects production output could get to 600 hp - and drives the rear wheels, aided by hybrid motors driving the front wheels. And remember, at Le Mans the R18's hybrid motors can't kick in until they're above a certain speed in order to prevent Audi from getting an advantage coming out of slow corners. A street car wouldn't face that restriction.

The Scorpion would be a fulsome and undiluted example of the technologies Audi has created during its return to sports car racing. Its exterior design hasn't been finalized, with CD citing either the convoluted concept of "a retro take on the future of racing" or packaging that would adhere to the R18's looks. To make sure it is properly appreciated and sells well, production could be limited to the same 333 units as the R8 GT and A1 Quattro.

Click through to watch us unwind an Audi R8 V10 on windy California roads.

Gallery: 2014 Audi R8 V10 Plus: First Drive







Continue reading Audi's diesel-electric supercar is codenamed 'Scorpion'

Audi's diesel-electric supercar is codenamed 'Scorpion' originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> audiaudi r18 e-tron quattroaudi r20audi r8audi supercarconceptconcept carconcept carsle manslemansmotorsportr8scorpionsupercarsupercars Tue, 23 Apr 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20544733/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/23/audis-diesel-electric-supercar-is-codenamed-scorpion/20544733/article-detail.xml 20544733 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/r18-sports-car-scorpion_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/r18-sports-car-scorpion.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe concept sketches leaked ahead of Shanghai]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-concept-sketches-leak-out-ahead-of-sh/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-concept-sketches-leak-out-ahead-of-sh/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-concept-sketches-leak-out-ahead-of-sh/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe Concept

A handful of sketches of the Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe concept have leaked onto the web ahead of its official debut at the Shanghai Motor Show this week. The sketches show a small crossover from the German brand that could likely rival the Mercedes-Benz GLA that was also revealed this week. The leakage comes courtesy of German magazine Auto Motor und Sport, and follows in the footsteps of the larger, three-row CrossBlue concept that debuted in Detroit earlier this year.

The Coupe, however, will likely ditch the CrossBlue's third row of seats, and if the larger Volkswagen concept is supposed to hint at the next-generation Touareg, perhaps this smaller, swoopier concept is our first look at the smaller Tiguan successor. All we know is that it's based on Volkswagen's flexible MQB small car architecture, and a lot of its elements could work its way across the VW lineup in the future.

Under the hood is reported to be a turbocharged V6 paired with two electric motors, good for a combined output of 409 horsepower. The CrossBlue Coupe concept can apparently sprint to 100 km/h (62 miles per hour) in just 5.9 seconds, has an all-electric range of about 32 km (20 miles), and will reportedly achieve 3 L/100km (78 mpg). Impressive.

We'll have more details on the CrossBlue Coupe concept later this week, so stay tuned for all the official goods, as well as live impressions direct from Shanghai.

Click through to watch a video of the VW CrossBlue concept launch.

Continue reading Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe concept sketches leaked ahead of Shanghai

Volkswagen CrossBlue Coupe concept sketches leaked ahead of Shanghai originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 shanghai motor showautoshow 2013autoshow2013shanghaishanghai motor showvwvw crossblue coupevw crossblue coupe concept Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20544830/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/18/volkswagen-crossblue-coupe-concept-sketches-leak-out-ahead-of-sh/20544830/article-detail.xml 20544830 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/crossblue628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/crossblue628opt.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel gets 5.1 L/100km (46 mpg)]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2014-chevrolet-cruze-diesel-gets-46-mpg/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2014-chevrolet-cruze-diesel-gets-46-mpg/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/2014-chevrolet-cruze-diesel-gets-46-mpg/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel

General Motors has announced the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel will return 5.1 L/100km (46 mpg) highway based on Environmental Protection Agency estimates, besting original projections. As GM points out, the figure is better than "any non-hybrid passenger car in America," including the Volkswagen Passat TDI at 5.4 L/100km (43 mpg) and the Volkswagen Jetta TDI at 5.6 L/100km (42 mpg). The Toyota Prius, meanwhile, still bests the Cruze Diesel thanks to the hybrid's 4.9 L/100km (48 mpg) highway rating.

Still, Chevrolet should be proud of its four-door. The car's turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivers 148 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission. Drivers will also enjoy an overboost function that can crank the engine to 280 lb-ft of torque for brief stints. This all means that the Cruze will be able to travel 1,126 km (700 miles) on a single tank of fuel, while achieving a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of 8.6 seconds.

You can check out the full press release below for more information, then be sure to watch the 2014 Chevy Cruze Diesel launch at the Chicago Auto Show.

Gallery: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel: First Drive






Continue reading 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel gets 5.1 L/100km (46 mpg)

2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel gets 5.1 L/100km (46 mpg) originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 chevy cruze dieselchevy cruzechevy cruze dieselcruzecruze dieseldieselenvironmental protection agencyepafuel economyfuel milagempg Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20544799/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/18/2014-chevrolet-cruze-diesel-gets-46-mpg/20544799/article-detail.xml 20544799 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-cruze-clean-turbo-diesel-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-cruze-clean-turbo-diesel-628.jpg <![CDATA[Next Mercedes-Benz C-Class to get diesel, hybrid versions]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,

Mercedes-Benz C-Class spy shots

Mercedes-Benz is planning a more aggressive product strategy for its next-generation C-Class range. "We were fighting the 3 Series with two arms tied behind our back, and now we will change that," Steve Cannon, the automaker's US CEO, told Automotive News in a recent interview.

In addition to offering more body styles of the new C-Class, AN reports that the revamped Mercedes will also be offered here with hybrid and diesel powertrains. Currently, the C-Class comes in coupe and sedan variants, with only gasoline engines. The BMW 3 Series, however, is available as a sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon, and offers buyers the choice of gasoline, diesel (the upcoming 328d) or hybrid power.

Mercedes-Benz will show the next-generation C-Class at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show, with sales of the US-built sedan following in August. Coupe, convertible and hybrid models will follow in early 2015, and while diesel and all-wheel-drive versions are planned, no specific timetable has been released regarding availability.

Automotive News reports that Mercedes will not be bringing over the wagon version of the C-Class, and we won't be getting any sort of funky crossover-ish things to rival the BMW 3 Series GT. Furthermore, AN states that we will also not be getting any sort of low-cost entry-level C-Class to rival the new BMW 320i, as Mercedes-Benz will offer the swoopy CLA-Class to those looking for a cheaper entry into the brand.

Click through to watch a video showing the 2013 C-Class interior.

Gallery: 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe DTM AMG: Frankfurt 2011

2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe DTM AMG: Frankfurt 2011





Continue reading Next Mercedes-Benz C-Class to get diesel, hybrid versions

Next Mercedes-Benz C-Class to get diesel, hybrid versions originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> c classc-classdieselhybridmercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz c-class Wed, 17 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20543448/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/17/next-mercedes-benz-c-class-to-get-diesel-hybrid-versions/20543448/article-detail.xml 20543448 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-mercedes-benz-c-class-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Audi design getting big overhaul?]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/audi-design-a4-a6-a8-r8/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/audi-design-a4-a6-a8-r8/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/audi-design-a4-a6-a8-r8/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Car and Driver has an update on the design shuffle in Ingolstadt that will ultimately bring more differentiation to Audi products. Last November, Audi design chief Wolfgang Egger spoke of the need to do "something new without breaking from tradition" in Audi design, but talk at the time focused on how the Crosslane Coupe Concept would influence the new looks of the brand's Q cars. The most recent moves appear focused on passenger cars, with designers from Volkswagen Group kin like Bentley and Seat moving to Audi, and outsiders from Alfa Romeo moving in.

While Egger decreed the end of "scalable design" to CD, last November's report said there would be more technology and "greater visual cohesion" between interior and exterior design. We still have no idea what all this means nor when we'll see visible changes in production, but at least we know there's something being done behind the scenes.

Scroll down to watch the Audi RS 7 launch at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

Gallery: Audi Crosslane Coupe Concept




Continue reading Audi design getting big overhaul?

Audi design getting big overhaul? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> a4a5a6a7a8audiaudi crosslane coupe conceptautomotive designautomotive designercar designcar designercrosslane coupe conceptdesigndesign languagers4rs5rs6rs7RS7 sportbacks4s5s6s7s8stylingwolfgang egger Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:59:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20542395/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/audi-design-a4-a6-a8-r8/20542395/article-detail.xml 20542395 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/audi-crosslane-coupe-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/audi-crosslane-coupe-concept.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Audi A8 TDI diesel coming to Canada as oil-burner popularity grows]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/audi-a8-diesel-coming-to-canada-as-oil-burner-popularity-grows/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/audi-a8-diesel-coming-to-canada-as-oil-burner-popularity-grows/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/12/audi-a8-diesel-coming-to-canada-as-oil-burner-popularity-grows/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Diesel fanatics rejoice, as this year marks the launch of four popular and torque-happy Audi models scheduled to arrive at dealerships across Canada. It's been a just four quick months since the LA auto show, which is where Audi first confirmed plans to bring four new TDI diesel models to North America.

According to Audi Canada the Audi A8, A7, and A6 sedans along with the Q5 crossover are joining the already available Q7 TDI in the 2014 vehicle line-up. Best of all, each of them will be powered by the brand's proven 3.0-litre TDI engine offering up 240 horsepower and juicy 406 pound-feet of torque, delivering up to 30 per cent better fuel economy compared to their current gasoline engine options.

Official fuel figures haven't been confirmed just yet, but we've been told the Audi A8 TDI flagship is expected to be the first to arrive this spring (followed closely by the A6, A7 and Q5 TDI models) and should be capable of an estimated 9.8 L/100km (24 mpg EPA) in the city and 6.5 L/100km (36 mpg EPA) on the highway with a 0-60 mph (96 km/h) time of 6.4 seconds. Not bad for the large luxury sedan.

Reports say that Audi Canada is seriously considering bringing the A4 diesel to Canada too, but offers no timetable on when that could happen. Given the popularity of the Audi A4 and its strong sales in Canada, this could prove to be a very smart move with an all-new A4 set to arrive in 2014.

Click here for a closer look at the new Audi TDI family in the video below and be sure to check out our full photo gallery of the new Audi A8L TDI and the official press release below.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz Diesel Test Mule in Toronto

Continue reading 2014 Audi A8 TDI diesel coming to Canada as oil-burner popularity grows

2014 Audi A8 TDI diesel coming to Canada as oil-burner popularity grows originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20132014audiaudi A8Audi A8 Dieselaudi dieseldieseldiesel luxury Fri, 12 Apr 2013 17:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20531574/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/12/audi-a8-diesel-coming-to-canada-as-oil-burner-popularity-grows/20531574/article-detail.xml 20531574 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2014-audi-a8l-tdi-la_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/01-2014-audi-a8l-tdi-la.jpg <![CDATA['80s Vixen RV is the 'first driver's motor home']]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/80s-vixen-rv-is-the-first-drivers-motor-home/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/80s-vixen-rv-is-the-first-drivers-motor-home/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/80s-vixen-rv-is-the-first-drivers-motor-home/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Vixen RV - video screencap - front three-quarter view, white

There is no class of vehicles that drives worse than RVs. Period. Who would of have thought strapping a house worth of furniture, appliances, carpeting and plumbing to a bus would have detrimental effects on a machine's drivability? It turns out there was one machine in the '80s that promised to rethink the modern RV. The Vixen was designed and built in Pontiac, Michigan to be everything the rigs of the day were not. Powered by a BMW turbodiesel engine and wearing an aerodynamic body, the Vixen was low enough to fit in most standard garages, had a top speed of 160 km/h and could net around 8 L/100km (30 mpg).

It also happened to look like a suppository. While critics praised the Vixen for its clever packaging, which allowed a six-foot tall individual to stand up inside without ducking, the public didn't quite rush to take these things home. According to some reports, the Vixen Motor Company only managed to sell 300 original turbodiesel models, and though other variations showed up to attempt to lure in customers, a total of just 587 units were moved over three years, from 1986 to 1989. That makes it something of a novel curiosity today, as evidenced by the fact that the kitschy factory-produced video below has only just now gone viral.

Check it out in the video below.


Gallery: Megaspeed 2013

Continue reading '80s Vixen RV is the 'first driver's motor home'

'80s Vixen RV is the 'first driver's motor home' originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> motor homemotor homesmotorcoachrecreational vehiclesrvrvsvideovixenvixen motor homevixen rv Mon, 08 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20534060/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/08/80s-vixen-rv-is-the-first-drivers-motor-home/20534060/article-detail.xml 20534060 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/vixen-rv-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/vixen-rv-628.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler 300 diesel could get green light]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/chrysler-300-diesel-could-get-green-light/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/chrysler-300-diesel-could-get-green-light/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/03/chrysler-300-diesel-could-get-green-light/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2012 Chrysler 300 S

Word has it Chrysler is keen to shove its new turbo diesel V6 into a range of models. Wards Auto reports Chrysler President and CEO Saad Chehab has made it clear the automaker is investigating the possibility of using the 3.0-litre oil-burner in the 300 sedan. While speaking at an Automotive Press Association luncheon, Chehab said, "It's a matter of how much the customer is willing to pay for that premium. That's the only issue with it."

The Chrysler 300 is sold as the Lancia Thema in Europe complete with a diesel of its very own, and since the Jeep Grand Cherokee is now available with the diesel V6 here in North America, it only makes sense that the engine could potentially show up on the 300 order sheet. Opting for the 3.0 V6 in the Jeep Grand Cherokee will set you back an additional couple grand, however.

Chehab also said the engine could make an appearance in the next-generation Chrysler 200, which is set to debut next year.


Gallery: 2013 Toronto Auto Show - Top 10 Fuel Friendly Debut

Continue reading Chrysler 300 diesel could get green light

Chrysler 300 diesel could get green light originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chryslerchrysler 300chrysler 300 dieseldieseldiesel chrysler 300 Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20529343/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/03/chrysler-300-diesel-could-get-green-light/20529343/article-detail.xml 20529343 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-chrysler-300-s-628-1365016634_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2012-chrysler-300-s-628-1365016634.jpg <![CDATA[New York Auto Show displays 2014 BMW 328d, marque's first 4-cylinder diesel sold in NA]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-bmw-328d-new-york-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-bmw-328d-new-york-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/2014-bmw-328d-new-york-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2014 BMW 328d

We brought you coverage of BMW's new 328d bowing at the Vancouver Auto Show yesterday, and today we bring you another photo gallery of Munich's latest diesel-sipping sport sedan. Unfortunately, the company remains vague on the price, but we did hear dig up a few facts in Vancouver. We have confirmed that the 328d will be packing a variation of BMW's N47 engine which powers the European-spec 320d. We can expect to see 180 hp, 280 pound-feet of torque, and fuel economy at the 4.5L/100km mark on the highway. The New York Times obtained an estimated fuel economy of approximately mid-30 mpg (6.7 L/100km) in the city. If the engine isn't detuned for our market we can expect peak torque to roll in at 1,750 rpm, and holding solid to just shy of 3000 to propel the vehicle to a mid-7-second 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time.

We regret that the 2.0-litre TwinPower turbocharged and direct injected engine will not be available with a manual, but if we're forced to drive an auto-box, BMW's eight-speed ZF unit is a sweet one. As we noted earlier, the 328d will be available with every option and trim level - like all-wheel drive - that other 3-Series models have in Canada (transmission excepted) and should start just above $40,000 when it goes on sale this fall.

Officially, the 328d will be able to accept biodiesel blends up to B5 (or, just maybe B7), which is standard diesel with five (seven) per cent biofuel.

Can't get enough of BMW's latest uber-efficient 3-series? We were the first to post the 328d breaking cover at the Calgary Auto Show, you can find the corresponding photo gallery here. Click through to watch a diesel 3-series Touring in action.

Gallery: 2013 BMW 328d at Vancouver Auto Show

Continue reading New York Auto Show displays 2014 BMW 328d, marque's first 4-cylinder diesel sold in NA

New York Auto Show displays 2014 BMW 328d, marque's first 4-cylinder diesel sold in NA originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 new york auto show328dautoshow2013bmwbmw 3 seriesbmw 328dbmw 328d sedanbmw dieseldieselfour-cylindernew yorknew york auto show Thu, 28 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20521636/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/2014-bmw-328d-new-york-2013/20521636/article-detail.xml 20521636 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-bmw-328d-new-york_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2014-bmw-328d-new-york.jpg <![CDATA[2014 VW Golf brings storied hatchback's seventh generation to North America]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-vw-golf-brings-storied-hatchbacks-seventh-generation-to-no/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-vw-golf-brings-storied-hatchbacks-seventh-generation-to-no/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/27/2014-vw-golf-brings-storied-hatchbacks-seventh-generation-to-no/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2015 VW Golf, GTI and Golf TDI

The seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf officially debuts at the 2013 New York Auto Show. The new model is the first VW in the States to ride on the company's MQB architecture, and as such, it makes use of plenty of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel to keep weight down. All told, the new shell is 23.6 kilos (51 pounds) lighter than the outgoing generation, despite the fact that the finished car is a full 56 mm (2.2 inches) longer and 13 mm (.5) inches wider than the 2013 model.

Buyers can expect to find a base model powered by a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine (blue car above) with 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. That means the powerplant delivers the same horsepower as the old naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder while weighing less and producing seven extra pound-feet of torque. TDI (silver car above) buyers, meanwhile, will enjoy a new 2.0-litre turbo diesel four-cylinder mill. VW says the engine yields 10 more horsepower than the old lump, which means the Golf TDI now boasts 150 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque.

GTI (red car above) buyers will now get their hands on a revised 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with approximately 210 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque - Volkswagen hasn't finalized power numbers for that machine. We're happy to see that the GTI still features its trademark plaid seats. Volkswagen says the new Golf and GTI will go on sale as a 2015 model, but doesn't say when the car will actually hit dealerships.

Check out the press release below for more information.

Continue reading 2014 VW Golf brings storied hatchback's seventh generation to North America

2014 VW Golf brings storied hatchback's seventh generation to North America originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 new york auto show20142014 vw golf2015 vw golf2015 vw golf tdi2015 vw gtinew yorknew york auto showve golf 2014 tdivolkswagenvwvw golfvw golf tdivw gti Wed, 27 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20519544/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/27/2014-vw-golf-brings-storied-hatchbacks-seventh-generation-to-no/20519544/article-detail.xml 20519544 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2015-vw-golf-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2015-vw-golf-opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 328d xDrive diesel pops up in Calgary beating New York Auto Show debut]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/bmw-328d-xdrive-diesel-pops-up-in-calgary-beating-new-york-auto/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/bmw-328d-xdrive-diesel-pops-up-in-calgary-beating-new-york-auto/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/15/bmw-328d-xdrive-diesel-pops-up-in-calgary-beating-new-york-auto/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



We recently published a post about BMW's 328d making its highly anticipated diesel debut at the 2013 New York Auto Show. Well, it seems that the vehicle has just appeared at the Calgary Auto Show, thus beating the New York debut by a couple of weeks. It isn't often that a Canadian auto show will feature cars before a major US show, unless it is maybe Toronto Auto Show or the Montreal Auto Show.

What we found here at the Calgary Auto Show is in fact the 2014 BMW 328d oil-burner on display. You might notice that the trunk is partially debadged but the display placard reveals more of the truth. But not the whole truth considering it has bullet points like "1 powerful Turbo" and leaves out information like fuel economy and even horsepower! It does however mention that the 2.0L turbo diesel cranks out 280 lb-ft of torque and lets consumers know that's more than the petrol engine. We do know from other sources that the turbo-4 diesel will be 180 hp.

As for fuel economy and performance, the BMW 328d should be decent. The rear-wheel drive version will hit 0-100 km/h in 7.2 seconds, so the xDrive should hook better for more solid performance. The fuel economy is expected to exceed 5.9 L/100km (40mpg) but no official Canadian numbers have been announced.

Hit the jump for a closer look at BMW's diesel products.

Continue reading BMW 328d xDrive diesel pops up in Calgary beating New York Auto Show debut

BMW 328d xDrive diesel pops up in Calgary beating New York Auto Show debut originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20132013 bmw 328d328dautoshow2013bmwBMW dieselCalgaryCalgary Auto Showcanadadieseldiesel sedannew york auto show Fri, 15 Mar 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20505934/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/15/bmw-328d-xdrive-diesel-pops-up-in-calgary-beating-new-york-auto/20505934/article-detail.xml 20505934 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/image1363366040266958-1363366940_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/image1363366040266958-1363366940.jpg <![CDATA[BMW 328d to relaunch diesel power at New York Auto Show]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/bmw-328d-confirmed-for-new-york-debut/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/bmw-328d-confirmed-for-new-york-debut/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/14/bmw-328d-confirmed-for-new-york-debut/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

2012 BMW 335i - front three-quarter view, white

Late last year, some of BMW's future diesel plans for the North American market were leaked, and we learned that a diesel-powered version of the 3 Series sedan (pictured above in 335i guise) would be coming in the first quarter of 2013. That report appears to be holding true, as BMW has just confirmed the debut of the oil-burning 328d sedan as part of the company's New York Auto Show plans.

Similar to its 335d predecessor, the new BMW 328d will be powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine good for 180 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The rear-wheel-drive sedan will hit 60 miles per hour in 7.2 seconds and fuel economy numbers could "well exceed" 5.9 L/100km (40 mpg). (Official EPA numbers will be released closer to the car's launch.)

Elsewhere on BMW's New York stand, the company will show off the 3 Series Gran Turismo that debuted at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month, as well as the Concept Active Tourer that we first saw in Paris last fall. Scroll down for the official press blast.


Gallery: BMW 328i Touring

Continue reading BMW 328d to relaunch diesel power at New York Auto Show

BMW 328d to relaunch diesel power at New York Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 bmw 328d3 series3+series3-series328dbmwbmw dieseldieselnew yorknew york 2013new york auto show Thu, 14 Mar 2013 18:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20502532/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/14/bmw-328d-confirmed-for-new-york-debut/20502532/article-detail.xml 20502532 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/01-2012-bmw-335i-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/01-2012-bmw-335i-review.jpg <![CDATA[2015 Volkswagen Golf and GTI to finally debut in New York]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/2015-volkswagen-golf-and-gti-to-finally-debut-in-new-york/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/2015-volkswagen-golf-and-gti-to-finally-debut-in-new-york/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/12/2015-volkswagen-golf-and-gti-to-finally-debut-in-new-york/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf is hardly new to us. In fact, we've already driven it. And elsewhere in the world, the new Golf is already winning awards. Even so, we still have yet to see the North American-spec version of the car, though that won't be the case much longer. As part of the New York Auto Show festivities later this month, Volkswagen will finally show off the 2015 Golf models destined for our shores.

Three different versions of the Golf will debut under the lights of New York City's Javits Center: the turbocharged TSI, oil-sipping TDI and hotter GTI. The first model in that list uses Volkswagen's new 1.8-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, replacing the outgoing 2.5-litre naturally aspirated inline five-cylinder. The latter two models use familiar engines: the 2.0-litre TDI diesel and 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, respectively.

Even though the new Golf officially debuts later this month, it won't go on sale until the first quarter of 2014. We'll be waiting patiently.


Gallery: 2014 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Continue reading 2015 Volkswagen Golf and GTI to finally debut in New York

2015 Volkswagen Golf and GTI to finally debut in New York originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Diesel is seeing a huge surge in demand, and ExxonMobil says that jump will eventually lead the fuel to become the number one choice for transportation worldwide in just seven years. The move away from gasoline is being propelled by an increase in light-duty engine efficiency and an expansion in commercial transportation globally. All told, diesel represents some 70 per cent of all growth in transportation fuel demand through 2040. That's according to Outlook For Energy: A View to 2040, a report by ExxonMobil.

While the company predicts gasoline demand will stay fairly flat for the next few decades, the diesel-powered heavy duty vehicle segment is expected to swell by 65 per cent over the next 27 years. Meanwhile, developing nations will experience an 80 per cent increase in commercial transportation.

Where, exactly, do hybrids fit into this equation? ExxonMobil projects the cars will become less expensive by 2025, which should precipitate a jump in popularity. Full hybrids will make up about 40 per cent of the global vehicle fleet by 2040, though electric and plug-in hybrids will still be just five per cent of the market by that time.

You can take a look at the full report here.


Gallery: 2013 Toronto Auto Show - Top 10 Fuel Friendly Debut

Continue reading Study says diesel to surpass gas as global transportation fuel of choice by 2020

Study says diesel to surpass gas as global transportation fuel of choice by 2020 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dieselexxonmobilgasoline Mon, 11 Mar 2013 18:31:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20497777/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/11/study-says-diesel-to-surpass-gas-as-global-transportation-fuel-o/20497777/article-detail.xml 20497777 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/dvtogetty19805000_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/dvtogetty19805000.jpg -1 2