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[Jaguar F-Type Coupe proves sexy can't be disguised]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/jaguar-f-type-coupe-proves-sexy-cant-be-disguised/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/jaguar-f-type-coupe-proves-sexy-cant-be-disguised/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/19/jaguar-f-type-coupe-proves-sexy-cant-be-disguised/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Jaguar F-Type Coupe spy shots

Jaguar's new F-Type is a pretty potent little pouncer. And while we do love a good roadster, many of us at Autoblog are perhaps more excited about the upcoming hardtop version of Jag's stylish new entry-level sports car. Why? Because even here in heavily camouflaged prototype form, the thing looks really, really good - the sleek roofline blending rather nicely into the F-Type's shapely rump, allowing for better distinction of its pronounced hips over the rear wheel wells.

Mechanically speaking, the F-Type Coupe should be identical to its droptop sibling. That means the supercharged 3.0-litre V6 and 5.0-litre V8 engine lineup should carry over unchanged, though we've heard rumours about a four-cylinder application as well. There's also talk of hotter R, R-S or R-S GT models coming down the pipeline, and based on what we've experienced in things like the XKR-S, we certainly can't deny the allure of such a model.

It's unclear exactly when Jaguar will show the production F-Type Coupe (at the Frankfurt Motor Show, perhaps?), but the car is expected to go on sale sometime in 2014. Check it out in our latest spy gallery, above.

Continue reading Jaguar F-Type Coupe proves sexy can't be disguised

Jaguar F-Type Coupe proves sexy can't be disguised originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 19 Jun 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 jaguar f-type coupejaguarjaguar f-typejaguar f-type coupespy photosspy picsspy shots Wed, 19 Jun 2013 13:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20627879/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/19/jaguar-f-type-coupe-proves-sexy-cant-be-disguised/20627879/article-detail.xml 20627879 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/ftype628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/ftype628.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini Cabrera spotted, ready to fill Gallardo shoes]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-cabrera-spotted-ready-to-fill-gallardo-shoes/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-cabrera-spotted-ready-to-fill-gallardo-shoes/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-cabrera-spotted-ready-to-fill-gallardo-shoes/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Lamborghini Cabrera

Facebook user Marchettino spotted the successor to the Lamborghini Gallardo throne out and about on public streets and was kind enough to snap a few photos of the machine. Word has it the newest supercar will bow at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show this September under the Cabrera name. As you've likely already heard, the model is said to ride on the second-generation Audi R8 platform, complete with a composite aluminum and carbon fibre construction to reduce weight as much as possible. How light will will the Cabrera be? Lamborghini is reportedly shooting for a curb weight of around 1,495 kilograms (3,300 pounds).

Power will likely come from a massaged version of the 5.2-litre V10 in the current Gallardo. Expect around 600 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.

The vehicle in these photos looks to have abandoned some of the Gallardo's angles in favour or more organic lines, though it's possible body cladding is hiding the car's true design. Murcielago SV-style sills and side air intakes serve up quite a bit of aggression and the quad exhaust looks properly menacing as well. We can't wait to see the finished product.

Continue reading Lamborghini Cabrera spotted, ready to fill Gallardo shoes

Lamborghini Cabrera spotted, ready to fill Gallardo shoes originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> lamborghini cabreralamborghini cabrera photoslamborghini cabrerar spy shotsspy photosspy shots Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:01:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20625755/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/18/lamborghini-cabrera-spotted-ready-to-fill-gallardo-shoes/20625755/article-detail.xml 20625755 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/lamborghini-cabrera-01-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/lamborghini-cabrera-01-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lamborghini to show Gallardo replacement concept in Frankfurt]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-to-show-gallardo-replacement-concept-in-frankfurt/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-to-show-gallardo-replacement-concept-in-frankfurt/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/18/lamborghini-to-show-gallardo-replacement-concept-in-frankfurt/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Lamborghini will give us a big clue as to the look and feel of the impending replacement for its Gallardo model at this September's Frankfurt Motor Show. According to a report by Autocar, the Italian supercar maker will have a concept car in Frankfurt that will preview a 2015 replacement for the current Gallardo (pictured above).

While nothing is set in stone, the word is that Lamborghini is still considering "Cabrera" as the Gallardo-successor's name. We didn't know the company had so many Tigers fans, but the Autoblog Detroit office is stoked.

The same report tells us that the new Lamborghini, currently going by the internal designation LP724, will be based on the same platform as the second-generation Audi R8, rather than on the more exotic Aventador underpinnings. That means a modular spaceframe, aluminum and carbon fibre construction and a reduction in curb weight as a result - the target is less than 1,495 kilograms (3,300 pounds). Even with the diet, the next Gallardo will be slightly longer than the current car, but about the same height and width.

The svelte Lamborghini will draw power from an updated version of the current 5.2-litre V10, which should be good for more than 600 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Autocar also indicates that both a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission will be optional on the new Gallardo, replacing the existing six-speed E-gear automated manual. Standard cars will offer all-wheel drive, but rear-drive models will be available at some point as well. Bring on Frankfurt, we're ready to see this one in the metal.

Continue reading Lamborghini to show Gallardo replacement concept in Frankfurt

Lamborghini to show Gallardo replacement concept in Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> frankfurt motor showlamborghinilamborghini cabreralamborghini gallardo Tue, 18 Jun 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20624925/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/18/lamborghini-to-show-gallardo-replacement-concept-in-frankfurt/20624925/article-detail.xml 20624925 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-lamborghini-gallardo-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/2013-lamborghini-gallardo-628.jpg <![CDATA[Audi A8 facelift on the way]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/02/audi-a8-facelift-on-the-way/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/02/audi-a8-facelift-on-the-way/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/06/02/audi-a8-facelift-on-the-way/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Refreshed Audi A8 caught testing under camouflage - front three-quarter view

The coming Audi A8 has already been spotted in camouflage on public roads at earthly elevations, and now our snappers have caught it at elevation in the Alps. The evolution will entail modified head- and taillights, different sculpting for the grille and a new bumper profile said to be more in line with the A6 S Line.

Inside, there might also be adjustments made to input controls like the gesture touchpad and the MMI infotainment system that include behind-the-scenes improvements like new Nvidia Tegra chips, but such revisions are expected to be minor. With the S8 and the TDI just having been launched, don't be surprised if engine outputs also remain the same. The prevailing sneaking suspicion is that we'll see the car unveiled at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

Click here to watch a video on the 2013 Audi A8.

Continue reading Audi A8 facelift on the way

Audi A8 facelift on the way originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 02 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 audi a8audiaudi a8frankfurtfrankfurt 2013frankfurt motor showspy shots Sun, 02 Jun 2013 10:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20581867/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/02/audi-a8-facelift-on-the-way/20581867/article-detail.xml 20581867 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/audi-a8-facelift_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/audi-a8-facelift.jpg <![CDATA[2015 Mazda3 interior spied for the first time]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/2015-mazda3-interior-spied-for-the-first-time/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/2015-mazda3-interior-spied-for-the-first-time/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/2015-mazda3-interior-spied-for-the-first-time/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2015 Mazda3 spy shot

In terms of exterior appearance, not much has changed from the last time we spotted the next-generation Mazda3 out testing. Oh, sure - we can see plenty of details that clearly show the new Kodo design influence (that front end reminds us a whole lot of the sleek new Mazda6), but these latest round of spy shots don't really show us anything we haven't seen before. Oh, wait, yes they do - the interior!

2015 Mazda3 interiorFeast your eyes on the 2015 Mazda3's insides, showing a vastly reworked interior that also takes cues from the automaker's most recently refreshed products. We can see that there's a simple, clean center stack with a slim row of heating and cooling functions, and up top there's a large, presumably touchscreen display, with redundant controls found just aft of the shifter.


We expect that the 2015 Mazda3 will debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, packing both petrol and diesel engines. A sedan variant is also in the works, and should debut shortly after the hatchback. Click here for a closer look at our latest spy shot images and then watch a video on Mazda's Kodo design, below.

Gallery: 2015 Mazda3 Spy Shot

Continue reading 2015 Mazda3 interior spied for the first time

2015 Mazda3 interior spied for the first time originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 18 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 mazda3mazdamazda3spy photosspy picsspy shots Sat, 18 May 2013 14:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20562303/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/2015-mazda3-interior-spied-for-the-first-time/20562303/article-detail.xml 20562303 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-mazda3-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/001-2015-mazda3-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Range Rover Hybrid heading to Frankfurt]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/08/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2013 Land Rover Range Rover

Two years after the Range_E concept debuted at the Geneva Motor Show, thus previewing the coming Range Rover hybrid drivetrain and beginning the succeeding speculation, a company executive has confirmed the arrival of a hybrid Range Rover and Range Rover Sport later this year. The first time we'll see them is at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but Stuart Frith, chief program engineer for Range Rover Sport told Australian site Car Sales that the vehicles will be in showrooms before the year is over, as well.

As we wrote in our deep dive previewing the 2013 Range Rover, the diesel hybrid system uses a 3.0-litre V6 engine mated to a ZF eight-speed transmission with an integrated electric motor. The 1.7-kWh battery pack sits in the chassis floor, protected by a boron steel cradle, so cabin space is not compromised. The numbers we were given at the time were 333 horsepower, a sub-seven second run to 60 mph (96 km/h) in the big Range Rover and 45 imperial miles per gallon (roughly 5.2L/100km). The 2014 Range Rover Sport is expected to post the same horsepower number and battery placement. Neither of these models will be coming to North America.

The Range Rover Sport will also get a traditional diesel, the SDV8 being slotted into the engine bay, bringing 516 pound-feet of torque with it when it goes on sale later this year. Eventually, Frith said it will also get Land Rover's version of the 2.0-litre, 240-hp EcoBoost engine that propels the Evoque and the LR2 - the weight savings of the new model has made the four-cylinder a viable option.

Gallery: 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport: New York 2013

Continue reading Range Rover Hybrid heading to Frankfurt

Range Rover Hybrid heading to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 08 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 frankfurt motor showfrankfurtfrankfurt motor showland roverland rover range roverland rover range rover hybridland rover range rover sport Wed, 08 May 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20561195/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/08/range-rover-hybrid-heading-to-frankfurt/20561195/article-detail.xml 20561195 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/08-2013-land-rover-range-rover-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/08-2013-land-rover-range-rover-review.jpg <![CDATA[Honda Civic Tourer caught testing ahead of 2014 launch]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/honda-civic-tourer-caught-testing-ahead-of-2014-launch/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/honda-civic-tourer-caught-testing-ahead-of-2014-launch/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/honda-civic-tourer-caught-testing-ahead-of-2014-launch/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Honda Civic Tourer spy shots - front three-quarter view, camouflaged

Honda showed off its Civic Tourer concept at the Geneva Motor Show in March, and at that time, we were told that a production version would be coming to market in the very near future. Obviously, the sleek lines of the concept car will be dumbed down slightly for consumers, but that doesn't mean the Civic wagon will be a bland machine. The Euro-spec Civic's angular front end looks like it will blend nicely with the rakish rump that we saw on the concept.

Our sources suggest that not only will the Civic Tourer be a class-leader in terms of cargo capacity, but it will likely be a pretty engaging car from behind the wheel, as well. Honda is hoping that the Tourer will account for roughly 20 per cent of all European Civic sales after it goes on sale.

Expect to see the production car debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September, with the first customers taking delivery in early 2014. In the meantime, have a look at the camouflaged swoopy wagon from all angles in our gallery above.

Click through to watch a video showing the Honda Civic Tourer's launch at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.

Gallery: Honda Civic Tourer Concept



Continue reading Honda Civic Tourer caught testing ahead of 2014 launch

Honda Civic Tourer caught testing ahead of 2014 launch originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> auto showautoshowautoshow2013civicfrankfurtfrankfurt 2013frankfurt motor showhondahonda civichonda civic tourerhonda civic wagonspy photosspy picsspy shots Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20535113/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/honda-civic-tourer-caught-testing-ahead-of-2014-launch/20535113/article-detail.xml 20535113 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-honda-civic-tourer-spy-shots628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/001-honda-civic-tourer-spy-shots628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Next-gen Mini interior ditching familiar centre speedo]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/next-gen-mini-interior-ditching-familiar-center-speedo/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/next-gen-mini-interior-ditching-familiar-center-speedo/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/next-gen-mini-interior-ditching-familiar-center-speedo/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



A Reddit user has posted images of the 2015 F56 Mini Cooper, a car nearing its public debut. As has been the case since the launch of the new Mini in 2001, the overall exterior shape underneath camouflage screams Mini, but insiders are still calling the coming F56 model "the most aggressively different new Mini yet." Inside, though, the two-door that defined premium hatchbacks has, according to its most devoted buyers, gone mainstream.

The giant ring atop the centre console is there, but there's no longer a speedometer inside of it. Instead, in an integration that brings to mind words like "shoehorned," Mini designers have placed radio and telephone controls inside the bezel. According to the Mini experts at MotoringFile, the picture above is the base trim and one of four possible treatments - in the upper trims a larger screen for navigation takes up most of the space. The bezel itself is marked with mood lighting that supposedly "swirls around" when you start the car with the red toggle switch.

The speedo rests atop the steering column with a tachometer placed to its left. The BMW wheel pictured is just for the prototype - you can expect a familiar three-spoke Mini wheel when the car is revealed, and latest rumour is that the event will take place at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

Scroll down to see our quick video take on the 2013 Mini Countryman JCW.

Gallery: 2013 MINI GP




re

Continue reading Next-gen Mini interior ditching familiar centre speedo

Next-gen Mini interior ditching familiar centre speedo originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 frankfurt motor show2015 mini coopercooper sf56 minifrankfurtfrankfurt motor showjcwjohn cooper worksminimini cooper Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20524691/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/01/next-gen-mini-interior-ditching-familiar-center-speedo/20524691/article-detail.xml 20524691 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2015miniinterior_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2015miniinterior.jpg <![CDATA[Range Rover Sport spotted cold-weather testing]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/range-rover-sport-spotted-cold-weather-testing/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/range-rover-sport-spotted-cold-weather-testing/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/06/range-rover-sport-spotted-cold-weather-testing/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Next Land Rover Range Rover Sport undergoing winter testing - front three-quarter view, camouflaged

With the massively redesigned Range Rover out of the way, Land Rover is now working on getting its next-generation Range Rover Sport ready for the public eye. Wearing far less camouflage than the last time we saw this SUV, we're starting to get a better idea of what the Range Rover's brasher relative will look like.

Up front, it looks like the Sport will be getting a more pointed nose than the new Range Rover, and we can also see that the lower fascia has a sportier appearance and LED running lights similar to the smaller Evoque. Our spy shooters also added that this prototype appears to be wider and lower than the current model.

Since this vehicle was caught testing near the Arctic Circle, Land Rover benefited from a bit of extra camouflage courtesy of a thick layer of snow covering the rear, so we still don't have a good idea about what the back of the new generation will look like. Speaking of the rear end, there is still no confirmation as to whether the Range Rover Sport will be getting a seven-passenger version, so we'll likely have to wait for more information about this new Land Rover until closer to the Frankfurt Motor Show this fall where we expect it to debut.

Click here for a better look at our spy photos.

Continue reading Range Rover Sport spotted cold-weather testing

Range Rover Sport spotted cold-weather testing originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 land rover range rover sport2014 range rover sportland roverrange rover sportspy photosspy shots Wed, 06 Feb 2013 14:29:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20450787/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/06/range-rover-sport-spotted-cold-weather-testing/20450787/article-detail.xml 20450787 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/range-rover-sport-spy-shots_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/range-rover-sport-spy-shots.jpg <![CDATA[Modded Porsche Cayenne, the Eterniti Artemis, arrives in Beijing]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/eterniti-motors-brings-updated-hemera-artemis-s/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/eterniti-motors-brings-updated-hemera-artemis-s/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/04/24/eterniti-motors-brings-updated-hemera-artemis-s/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,

Eterniti Artemitis - driving - front three-quarter view

Eterniti Motors chose the 2012 Beijing Motor Show to unveil the Artemis, an engineering prototype of the Hemera SUV Concept we saw at the Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this year. From the looks of things, the boutique automaker has ditched the Porsche Cayenne-inspired front for a fascia that borrows a bit more heavily from the Jaguar playbook. The company says the vehicles on display are currently running prototypes used for testing and that finished examples should be in production by this summer.

Designed to offer buyers new levels of luxury and performance, Eterniti calls the Artemis a Super SUV. The cabin boasts absurd levels of hand-crafted detail, including quilted carpets with lambswool rugs, natural wood veneers with carbon fibre and piano black accents and twin reclining rear seats. Eterniti stitched the SUV's body from carbon composite and massive 23-inch wheels are standard equipment. Under the hood, a 4.8-litrd twin-turbo V8 (wonder where they got that?) dumps 600 horsepower to the ground and helps the machine dart to 100 km/h in a scant 4.5 seconds.

Buyers may purchase their own Artemis for around $335,000 at current conversion rates, complete with a two-year, 100,000-mile warranty. Eterniti thoughtfully offers insurance and financing for those who don't have that sort of cash on hand. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Continue reading Modded Porsche Cayenne, the Eterniti Artemis, arrives in Beijing

Modded Porsche Cayenne, the Eterniti Artemis, arrives in Beijing originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 beijing motor showartemetisbeijingbeijing motor showeternitieterniti artemetiseterniti motors Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:01:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20222402/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/24/eterniti-motors-brings-updated-hemera-artemis-s/20222402/article-detail.xml 20222402 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-eterniti-artemis-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-eterniti-artemis-628.jpg <![CDATA[2013 Audi A3 is Ingolstadt's new baby]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a3-geneva-2012/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a3-geneva-2012/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a3-geneva-2012/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2013 Audi A3

Although the 2013 A3 made its unofficial Internet appearance a couple of weeks ago, we're now seeing the fruits of Audi's labour for the first time here at Geneva Motor Show. With 42 models in its lineup, the Ingolstadt brand didn't want its stalwart and next-smallest car to get lost in the traffic, so it's thrown quite a bit of goodness into the mix.

The overall size is just about the same, but the wheelbase and interior dimensions have grown. Even so, the new A3 has lost weight to the tune of 80 kilograms, meaning the 1.4 TFSI model weighs just 1,175 kilos. That 122-horsepower 1.4-litre engine will be one of three offered at launch, along with a 180-hp 1.8-litre TFSI and a 2.0-litre TDI with 150 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque, all driven through the front wheels. Quattro versions come later "for more powerful engines," as will alternative-fuel powerplants. Shifting will come in either five-speed manual or six-speed S-tronic forms.

Technological conveniences once found only in major-league sedans have made their way to the thick end, with the A3 offering adaptive cruise control, an evolution of park assist and a 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo.

See below for all the details you might ever want on the new A3, and have a gander at it in the huge galleries of both stock and live images.

Continue reading 2013 Audi A3 is Ingolstadt's new baby

2013 Audi A3 is Ingolstadt's new baby originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 audi a3a3audigenevageneva 2012geneva motor show Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:02:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20187778/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/2013-audi-a3-geneva-2012/20187778/article-detail.xml 20187778 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-audi-a3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2013-audi-a3.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla to build electric Mercedes-Benz]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/tesla-to-build-electric-mercedes/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/tesla-to-build-electric-mercedes/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/02/16/tesla-to-build-electric-mercedes/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Tesla Roadster

Tesla and Daimler are set to collaborate on a new electric Mercedes-Benz. According to Gigaom.com, the fourth-quarter earnings report released by Tesla earlier this week revealed the company is set to supply a full powertrain for an unnamed electric Mercedes-Benz in the near future. Those components include a motor, transmission, inverter and all of the software necessary to keep the car whirring along. Funds from the deal are supposed to begin trickling in by the second quarter of this year, though no details about production timing or volume were available in the report.

The two automakers aren't strangers. Daimler is an investor in the small electric vehicle manufacturer, and Tesla already supplies battery packs for the low-production Smart ED. Mercedes-Benz made waves at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show when it unveiled the B-Class E-Cell Plus. At the time, the vehicle boasted a lithium-ion battery sourced from a joint venture between Daimler and Evonik, though it's certainly possible the German automaker has changed course on the five-door. Then again, the B-Class E-Cell Plus was an extended-range hybrid, whereas the Tesla earnings report seems to hint toward a full-electric model. Consider us curious.

News Source: Gigaom.com

Image Credit: Copyright 2012 AOL

Tesla to build electric Mercedes-Benz originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> daimlerelectricelectric mercedes-benzmercedes-benztesla Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20173415/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/16/tesla-to-build-electric-mercedes/20173415/article-detail.xml 20173415 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-roadster-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/tesla-roadster-628.jpg <![CDATA[Seat announces five-door Mii city car]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/seat-announces-five-door-mii-city-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/seat-announces-five-door-mii-city-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/02/07/seat-announces-five-door-mii-city-car/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Seat Mii

We knew at its unveiling in Frankfurt that the debut of the production version of the Volkswagen Up! was only the beginning, what with all the concept versions Volkswagen showcased over the years. But that was only the tip of the proverbial iceberg. VW isn't the only brand in the group that will offer the little city car, and its sister marques are eager to follow suit.

So after Volkswagen debuted the Up!, Skoda unveiled the Citigo and Seat showcased the Mii - all versions of the same vehicle, but with slightly modified sheetmetal and different nameplates. But those were only the three-door versions. Now that Volkswagen has confirmed the five-door Up! and Skoda the five-door Citigo, Seat is taking its turn with the five-door Mii.

The similarities between the Mii, Citigo and Up are, of course, greater than the differences. But at the end of the day, the variety gives European buyers a greater range of choices when buying their new city car, even if similar exercises on this side of the Atlantic - Plymouth, Mercury, Pontiac, Oldsmobile...we're looking at you - have long since disappeared.
Read the full press release after the jump.

News Source: Seat

Continue reading Seat announces five-door Mii city car

Seat announces five-door Mii city car originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 5-doorcitgofrankfurtmiiseatvolkswagen upvw up Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20166472/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/07/seat-announces-five-door-mii-city-car/20166472/article-detail.xml 20166472 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mii5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/mii5.jpg <![CDATA[Eterniti Hemera hitting the market in April]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/eterniti-hemera-hitting-the-market-in-april/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/eterniti-hemera-hitting-the-market-in-april/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/12/15/eterniti-hemera-hitting-the-market-in-april/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Even if Eterniti Motors hasn't exactly made its Hemera SUV beautiful, it has kept it on a consistently delivered timeline. The boutique British company showed off the Hemera, it's Cayenne-Turbo-S-based "SUV meets BMW M5"at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and now says the final version will rock up to the Beijing Motor Show in April before going on sale later this year.

Only a tiny amount of those sales, though, will take place outside of China: Eterniti plans a first-year run of 50 Hemeras, with 90 per cent of them booked for China. The last five of them will be split between Russia, the Middle East and Europe. They could also be paying a little more than previously reported, with the Frankfurt price tag of £150,000 ($241,000 CAD) now quoted as "above £150,000."

And that's before the bespoke options are arranged on top of the four climate-controlled seats, wireless iPad integration and drink chiller. The 23-inch lightweight wheels, however, won't be extra - shod in low-profile tires they're said to provide a sporting yet refined ride.

News Source: Autocar

Eterniti Hemera hitting the market in April originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> eternitieterniti hemeraeterniti motorshemera Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20128305/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/15/eterniti-hemera-hitting-the-market-in-april/20128305/article-detail.xml 20128305 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/eternitiinapril_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/eternitiinapril.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen concept injects Up! with a shot of GT]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/volkswagen-concept-injects-up-with-a-shot-of-gt/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/volkswagen-concept-injects-up-with-a-shot-of-gt/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/11/01/volkswagen-concept-injects-up-with-a-shot-of-gt/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Volkswagen GT Up! concept

Gallery: Volkswagen GT Up! concept







As small as the car is itself, Volkswagen wanted to ensure its Up! city car would make a big impact when it lifted the veil on the production model at the Frankfurt Motor Show. So along with the basic three-door hatch, the German automaker also brought out a series of concept cars that gave us a hint at what the future of the product line could hold in store.

Though little in the way of details were offered on the show floor, Volkswagen has been highlighting these concepts one at a time in the weeks that have passed since. First in line was the Cross Up! that confirmed the arrival of a five-door model. Then came the Buggy Up! that showed a more playful side of the platform. Now Wolfsburg has detailed the GT Up!, demonstrating the little hatchback's sporting potential.

Applying a similar formula that's transformed the Golf into the GTI, the GT Up! packs such performance-oriented extras as 17-inch alloys filling up those little wheel wells, a wider grille, brake ducts with integrated LED daytime running lights, extended side sills, gloss-black side mirror housings, a rear spoiler and diffuser and twin exhaust pipes.

The interior has been done up with blue-checked anthracite upholstery, a black headliner, gloss-black trim and leather-wrapped three-spoke wheel. While the GT Up isn't quite confirmed for production at this point, it does show us what could come down the pipeline. In the meantime, you can check out the high-resolution images and the press release after the jump.

Continue reading Volkswagen concept injects Up! with a shot of GT

Volkswagen concept injects Up! with a shot of GT originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 01 Nov 2011 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> gt upupup gtvolkswagenvolkswagen gt upvolkswagen upvwvw gt upvw up Tue, 01 Nov 2011 17:59:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20095591/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/01/volkswagen-concept-injects-up-with-a-shot-of-gt/20095591/article-detail.xml 20095591 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/webvw-gt-up_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/webvw-gt-up.jpg <![CDATA[Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrates Aston Martin Racing with AMVOX5 LMP1]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/jaeger-lecoultre-celebrates-aston-martin-racing-with-amvox5-lmp1/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/jaeger-lecoultre-celebrates-aston-martin-racing-with-amvox5-lmp1/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/19/jaeger-lecoultre-celebrates-aston-martin-racing-with-amvox5-lmp1/#comments Filed under: ,

Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX5 LMP1

There are lots of watchmakers out there leveraging their automotive partnerships with special edition timepieces, but few of them are as convincing as the series Jaeger-LeCoultre produces for Aston Martin. And there are few we'd rather have on our wrists.

Most of the AMVOX series are inspired by Aston Martin road cars - some even have transponders to open and close the doors - but this latest example pays tribute to Aston's victorious racing program. The AMVOX5 LMP1 packs JLC's 41-jewel Caliber 752 movement with chronograph and GMT functions, so you can time your hot laps at circuits from Suzuka to Sebring, La Sarthe to Laguna Seca, plus a date window and 65-hour power reserve.

The precision movement is housed in a 44-milimetre ceramic-titanium case, affixed to the wrist with a calfskin and Cordura strap, all decked out in the team's blue and orange livery. We got a chance at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show to see one of the 250 examples that will be offered before the press embargo lifted, and were tempted to race off with one of our own. But since we resisted the urge, you can see more in the trio of high-res images.

Gallery: Jaeger-LeCoultre AMVOX5 LMP1



News Source: Jaeger-LeCoultre

Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrates Aston Martin Racing with AMVOX5 LMP1 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> amvoxamvox5 lmp1aston martinjaeger lecoultrejaeger lecoultre amvox5 lmp1jaeger-lecoultrejaeger-lecoultre amvox5 lmp1timepiecewatch Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20084922/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/19/jaeger-lecoultre-celebrates-aston-martin-racing-with-amvox5-lmp1/20084922/article-detail.xml 20084922 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webamvoxlmp1cufn_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/webamvoxlmp1cufn.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz S-Class EV in the cards?]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/mercedes-benz-s-class-ev-in-the-cards/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/mercedes-benz-s-class-ev-in-the-cards/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/mercedes-benz-s-class-ev-in-the-cards/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Increasingly stricter environmental dictates are making the rich man's camel pass though the eyes of smaller and smaller needles to get to regulatory heaven. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is going to have to shrink somewhere in order to make it into the future, and it seems the company plan for that is to make an electric version, possibly even with lithium-sulfur batteries powering plug-in fuel-cell technology from the F-125! concept showed off at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

The hitch in this case is that if we ever see such a car, Daimler's R&D chief believes 2020 or 2025 would be the window for its appearance. The technologies aren't concept-only, or as out-there as using thorium for power, but scaling up to passenger car sizes and standards might be a decade or more out. The return: an S-Class with an emissions-free range of 1,000-kilometres.

That might sound like overkill, but as of now only one S-Class undercuts the European average for vehicular CO2 emissions. With the noose tightening in 2015 and even tighter strictures in 2020 and 2025, Mercedes (and plenty of other automakers) will need to position itself for 2025 and beyond.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz F125! Concept: Frankfurt 2011



News Source: Automotive News - sub. req.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class EV in the cards? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> CO2emissionsf-125f-125 conceptFuel Cellhydrogenmercedes s-classmercedes-benzmercedes-benz f-125mercedes-benz s-class Mon, 17 Oct 2011 13:31:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20083460/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/17/mercedes-benz-s-class-ev-in-the-cards/20083460/article-detail.xml 20083460 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/mercedessclassfuture_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/mercedessclassfuture.jpg <![CDATA[Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version approved for production, may result in AMG-like tuning arm]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/10/infiniti-fx-sebastian-vettel-version-approved-for-production-ma/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/10/infiniti-fx-sebastian-vettel-version-approved-for-production-ma/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/10/infiniti-fx-sebastian-vettel-version-approved-for-production-ma/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version

Running a luxury brand used to be simple. Tart up a few mass-market sedans with leather interiors and power accessories, slap on a big hood ornament, jack the price through the roof, then sit back and watch the gravy train flow. These days it couldn't be more different. You need dedicated luxury platforms and halo cars and marketing tie-ins. And if you really want to be taken seriously among the cognoscenti, you need an in-house performance tuner to craft your own AMG or M-series line of cars.

Which brings us to Infiniti, the formerly North American-only luxury brand. It has been going toe-to-toe with Mercedes and BMW in some product segments for years, but with aspirations of competing with the big two luxury marques globally, it needs to put some muscle behind its nascent Infiniti Performance Line brand. So that 414-horsepower Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version you saw at Frankfurt? Yep, it's coming, according to an interview with Nissan Executive Vice President Andy Palmer on the company's corporate blog. And although it won't necessarily be branded an IPL car, Palmer says the Vettel FX will serve as a pilot, to prove that Infiniti can sell "low-volume, very special versions, and be able to charge a premium."

Vettel took his second straight Formula 1 title with a victory in Japan this weekend, and Infiniti might as well capitalize on its marketing partnership with Red Bull Racing. You don't spend upwards of $10 million U.S. on a racing deal if you're not going to use it to sell cars. Of course, Vettel is hardly a celebrity in the U.S., so we'll have to wait to hear some official word about North American plans. "Right now," Nissan PR told us, "it is still simply a concept."

Watch the entire interview with Palmer after the jump.

Gallery: Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version: Frankfurt 2011



News Source: Nissan

Image Credit: Copyright 2011 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version approved for production, may result in AMG-like tuning arm

Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version approved for production, may result in AMG-like tuning arm originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> andy palmerfx50infinitiinfiniti fx sebastian vettel versioninfinti performance lineiplnissansebastian vettel Mon, 10 Oct 2011 16:01:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20078025/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/10/infiniti-fx-sebastian-vettel-version-approved-for-production-ma/20078025/article-detail.xml 20078025 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/fx_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/fx.jpg <![CDATA[Next Opel / Vauxhall Astra cabrio to be standalone model]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/10/next-opel-vauxhall-astra-cabrio-to-be-standalone-model/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/10/next-opel-vauxhall-astra-cabrio-to-be-standalone-model/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/10/next-opel-vauxhall-astra-cabrio-to-be-standalone-model/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



The Opel Astra CC suffers from the same ailment as other small, hardtop convertibles like the Renault Megane and Peugeot 308 cc: an ungainly backside. Stowing a tin roof that needs to cover four people inside a small car just blows things up in the rear. That's why the head of General Motors design in Europe says that the next Astra cabrio won't be a hardtop, but return to cloth.

And in fact, it won't even be called "Astra." Set to bow in 2012, it will break from that nomenclature and forge its own - as yet unknown - brand path. "This car demands a new name," it was said, because "it will look nothing like an Astra," burdened as it will be with continuing the fight to raise Opel and Vauxhall cachet as, a battle begun with the Insignia.

We thought the Opel GTC we saw at the Frankfurt Auto Show was pretty hot - put a softtop on that and hold its stance, and we'd applaud. But if Opel has something even better in mind, well then bring on 2012. We can't wait to see it.

News Source: Car magazine

Next Opel / Vauxhall Astra cabrio to be standalone model originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 opel astra convertibleastra convertibleopel astraopel astra ccopel convertiblevauxhall astravauxhall astra ccvauxhall convertible Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20077431/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/10/next-opel-vauxhall-astra-cabrio-to-be-standalone-model/20077431/article-detail.xml 20077431 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/vauxhallastracab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/vauxhallastracab.jpg <![CDATA[Volkswagen brings Buggy Up! concept back from the beach]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/03/volkswagen-brings-buggy-up-concept-back-from-the-beach/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/03/volkswagen-brings-buggy-up-concept-back-from-the-beach/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2011/10/03/volkswagen-brings-buggy-up-concept-back-from-the-beach/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Volkswagen Buggy Up! concept

Typically an automaker releases information on its latest concept cars in the days and weeks running up to the auto show where it's set to be unveiled. But when we got to Frankfurt this year, Volkswagen had a few surprises up its sleeve that were neither previewed beforehand nor unveiled at the VW Group event the night before the Messe opened its doors to the gathered press.

Not only did Volkswagen unveil the new production Up! city car, it also showcased a whole mess of Up-based concept cars as well. Included on the company's sprawling show stand were the Up! Azzurra, the Cross Up!, GT Up!, Eco Up!, e-Up! and this, the Buggy Up!, which the German automaker has just now detailed to satisfy your curiosity.

Drawing its inspiration from the iconic Meyers Manx and other such Beetle-based beach buggies, the Buggy Up! concept takes the new urban hatchback's mechanical bits and covers them in a new shape that has no doors. Instead, there's a waterproof cockpit with two neoprene bucket seats, drain holes, a grab-handle for the passenger, a removable infotainment module and a fabric roof. The hatchback, meanwhile, has been replaced with a trunklid that splits to fold up and down for easy access.

It was a nice little surprise when we stumbled upon it on the show floor, and you can check it out in the fresh batch of images from the manufacturer, along with our own gallery of live images, and the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Volkswagen Buggy Up! concept



Gallery: Volkswagen Up! variants: Frankfurt 2011



News Source: Volkswagen

Continue reading Volkswagen brings Buggy Up! concept back from the beach

Volkswagen brings Buggy Up! concept back from the beach originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 03 Oct 2011 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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