Chevy Orlando LIVE

BMW hires former Chevy Volt lead engineer

2011-04-18T22:36:00.000-07:00

the Chevrolet Volt, has taken a position with BMW. Weber was serving as the head of product planning for the General Motors Opel and Vauxhall units, but will now field a variety of duties with his new Bavarian employer. Officially, Weber has taken up the head of vehicle architecture and integration mantle with BMW, though he's also expected to work heavily with the company's EfficientDynamics program. We'd be awfully surprised if his experience with plug-in hybrid technology didn't come into play as well.BMW hasn't officially announced Weber's start date as of yet, thanks in part to the fact that negotiations are still on-going with Opel. We do know that the engineer will report to Klaus Draeger, head of research and development for BMW, when he does finally get started with his new employer.

Chrysler Limited Convertible

2011-03-29T23:38:00.000-07:00

You know you can't think of Chrysler these days without thinking it. Imported From Detroit is the tagline for, believe it or not, the 2011 Chrysler 200. At least, that's where it started. Sure, Chrysler probably would have loved to tag the more popular, fully revised 300, but alas, that car's made in Canada while the Chrysler 200 nee Sebring is bolted together by red-blooded Americans in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

But we're not here to talk about manufacturing processes or debate what is/is not an American car. We're here to talk track numbers, specifically those for the refreshed 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible.

Follow the jump to see what this 4,022-pound (with 57% up front), 283-horsepower convertible can do on an empty testing facility.

Suzuki readying Swift S-Concept

2011-02-09T20:28:00.000-08:00

With the Geneva Motor Show coming up in a matter of weeks, a whole mess of new debuts and concept cars are rolling in. The latest comes courtesy of Suzuki and its European operations.

Called the Swift S-Concept, the show car looks like it could be a pretty mean interpretation of the latest Swift hatchback in a higher-performance guise with a healthy dose of rally-inspired action. The Japanese automaker has released very little in the way of details, essentially announcing the debut accompanied by the preview rendering you see above.

We'll have to wait as the expo approaches for more, but for now you can check out the press release after the jump and click on the image above to view in high-resolution.

new Fiesta ST – which we've caught undergoing testing at the Nurburgring circuit in Germany

2010-09-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

Feast your eyes on the hottest Fiesta yet. This is the new Fiesta ST – which we've caught undergoing testing at the Nurburgring circuit in Germany.

As you can see it boasts a wild bodykit with a Focus RS-style nose, which helps feed air to the intercooler – because this Fiesta is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged EcoBoost petrol engine.

Producing around 200bhp, it should be able to do 0-60mph in around six seconds and hit a top speed of 140mph. Lowered suspension, widened front and rear tracks and two huge exhaust pipes poking out of an angry diffuser are further giveaways that this is no ordinary supermini.

According to our spy photographer, the ST was being benchmarked alongside its chief rival – the RenaultSport Clio 200. It will also compete with the VW Polo GTI, and Ford's engineers will be keen to ensure the Fiesta is a more entertaining hot hatch than both.

Inside the racy tweaks continue with a pair of sporty Recaro seats for the driver and passenger. There's no official word from Ford on when the ST will arrive, but expect an on-sale date of early 2011.

Bosal Muffler Single offset inlet and center outlet configuration; 29 in. L x 9 in. W x 7 in

2010-07-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

Bosal Muffler - Natural, Aluminized steel, Direct OE Replacement, Standard OE Replacement
Part Number: BO163727
Manufacturer Number: 163-727
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BOSAL REAR MUFFLER, ALUMINIZED STEEL, NATURAL FINISH, SOLD INDIVIDUALLY -- Single offset inlet and center outlet configuration; 29 in. L x 9 in. W x 7 in. H; Oval casing; Standard direct fit OE replacement; Made to fit vehicle-specific requirements for backpressure, emissions, sound levels, and sensors; Precision-manufactured to high tolerances for long life; Easy installation.

Maybach Exelero concept

2010-06-02T20:35:00.000-07:00

Maybach Exelero concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

Often imitated, never duplicated. We're talking about the Maybach Exelero, the high-speed test bed commissioned from Daimler by Fulda tires. Unfortunately, only one was ever made, and it was subsequently sold for nearly $8 million, reportedly to an African diamond tycoon named André A. Jackson.

Since then, the Exelero has prompted a few wannabes in various forms, from the Brabus-tuned Maybach 57 Nardo top speed test vehicle to the "Black Ruby" and the latest Xenatech coupe. Now a company in Switzerland is apparently offering replicas of the original Exelero based on the Dodge Viper.

Little in the way of details is available at this point, save for the Viper's 8.3-liter V10 and 23-inch wheels. The manufacturer is offering the replicas – made to order to the buyer's specifications – on luxury classified site JamesList for €550,000 (about $670k). That may seem like a lot, but it's still a far cry from the eight million asked for the original.

Gallery: Maybach Exelero

Ford to build seven-seat C-Max in Spain for export to U.S.

2010-05-11T15:26:00.001-07:00

2011 Ford C-Max seven-seater – Click above for high-res image gallery

When Ford announced its new seven-seat Grand C-Max last fall at the Frankfurt Motor Show, it also revealed that the new model would be coming to North America for the first time. In conjunction with the announcement today that Ford's plant in Valencia, Spain would produce hybrid versions of the five-seat C-Max, Ford also announced that the same plant would be exporting the seven-seater to America late next year.

The larger C-Max is based off of Ford's new c-segment platform shared with the Focus and is similar in size to the Mazda5. This marks Ford's return to the sliding door van market that was abandoned when the Freestar was discontinued in 2006. Ford hasn't said what powerplant will go into the C-Max for export, but we would bet on the same 2.0-liter direct injected four that will power the new Focus with an optional 2.0-liter Ecoboost. Now that General Motors has decided not to sell the Chevrolet Orlando in the U.S., Ford and Mazda are currently the only entrants in this small minivan segment, with vehicles like the conventionally doored Kia Rondo lurking on the fridges.

2010 Ford Grand C-Max

Ford C-Max

First of 500 Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition to be Auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson

2010-03-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

First of 500 Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition to be Auctioned off at Barrett-Jackson

First Carbon Limited Edition 500 Corvette Z06 at Barrett-Jackson auction

Continuing its tradition of offering the Chevrolet during the first production models of passenger cars on special Barrett-Jackson, GM announced today that 500 of the first retail-2011 Corvette Z06 Coupe Carbon Limited Edition goes to the highest bidder in an auction to Palm Beach, Florida, April 3.

"The Corvette Z06 Carbon would surely be a collector's immediate," says Jim Campbell, U. S. Vice President, Marketing Chevrolet. "For this reason, we see Barrett-Jackson, as the first of the first Z06 retail carbon.

GM said that the winner will also have the option of the Company's Performance Build Center in Wixom, Michigan Tour for the car and look to the leadership of the Assembly of the Corvette in Bowling Green.

Special features of the Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited, which has raised the carbon ceramic Brembo brakes, Michelin PS2 tires, improved cooling, Magnetic Ride Control, lights and mirrors blacks, a ZR1-style body color spoiler, Body color door handles, hood Carbon fiber and carbon fiber splitter and black rocker.

It should be noted that most of these features are also offered for the Z06 standard equipment in two separate packages (CFZ Z07 and Z06).

For more details and pictures on the Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited, click here.

2011 Chevrolet Orlando

2010-02-28T07:29:00.000-08:00

2011 Chevrolet Orlando spy shotsGallery

Chevrolet confirmed early last year that it would bring a production version of 2008’s Orlando concept vehicle to North American markets sometime in 2011, reversing an earlier decision to only sell the vehicle overseas.

The Orlando is based on the same front-wheel drive Delta platform that underpins cars like the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and Volt plug-in hybrid, and despite its compact proportions the upcoming crossover will be able to seat seven.

Being based on the Delta platform means the Orlando will most likely enter production at the same Hamtramck plant in Detroit that will build the Cruze and Volt sedans. However, the new crossover will be a crucial model in Chevrolet’s global lineup, with production planned for Europe and South Korea as well.

These latest spy shots capture a 2011 Orlando prototype undergoing cold weather testing in Europe. They reveal that the production Orlando will keep the boxy design, swept-back roof, and blunt front-end of the concept, although it appears that the sliding door and split tailgate configuration of the show car has been dropped in favor of a conventional four-door body and vertically lifting tailgate.

Expect a similar powertrain lineup to the one in the Cruze for North American markets, which means a range of four-cylinder gasoline engines in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms. A plug-in hybrid version using the Voltec system borrowed from the Volt may also make an appearance according to previous comments from GM vice chairman and former product planner Bob Lutz.

2012 Chevrolet Orlando

2010-02-28T07:28:00.002-08:00

2011 Chevrolet Orlando

New spy photos of the 2011 Chevrolet Orlando show GM's future MPV with similar exterior and interior features as the Chevy Orlando Concept. The concept, introduced at Geneva in 2008, has a similar roofline and doors as its newest prototypical counterpart.

Captured by cameras during cold weather testing, the front-wheel drive Orlando can be seen with redesigned side sills, and b-pillars that are more visible than they were on the show car. Its interior was also snapped with a center console and layout almost identical to the early incarnation.

Pictures show that the MPV might not get the same rear LED lights as the concept. Despite the heavy padding at back, the prototype vehicle looks as though it may have a relatively flat rear.

The spy believes the Orlando will have the Mazda5 in its sites when it comes on the American market next year, likely as a three-row seven-seater. Built on the Cruze's Delta II platform, some speculate that the Chevrolet Orlando will get the 182-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine being released with the 2010 Equinox.

GM will release the Chevrolet Orlando in 2011, preceding the next-generation Opel Zafira.

Chevy Orlando: Small SUV, Big on Space

2010-02-28T07:28:00.001-08:00

Chevrolet used its space at this week's Detroit Auto Show to announce a production schedule on a SUV small enough to be built on a compact car platform but large enough to seat 7. The Chevy Orlando will go on sale in the U.S. in the summer of 2010, as a 2011 model - and the automotive press has exactly one thing to say about it - it's spacious for its size.

Autoblog explains, "Based on the same platform as the Cruze, the Orlando offers seven seats in a relatively compact design." Autoblog calls the crossover "more appealing than the HHR."

Business Week comments, "The body has some European flair to it," and again points out that "GM managed to pack three rows of seats on a small frame that will also host the Chevy Cruze compact next year." The Cruze platform has proven very fuel efficient, and Business Week thinks the Orlando "should also get close to 30 miles per gallon."

Both rows of rear seats fold flat into the floor, according to the Detroit News. "The concept also uses dual overhead glass on the rooftop allowing more light exposure into the cabin and a storage area inside the center console that can charge an iPod or iPhone."

Though the Orlando is expected to appear first with a conventional four-cylinder engine, Automotive News speculates that the crossover could ultimately be sold as a Volt-like Extended-Range Electric Vehicle. "Although GM currently has no plans to use the Volt technology in the Orlando," AN writes, "executives note that the Orlando will be built on an architecture that easily would allow GM to do so."

Research the best small SUVs with U.S. News' car rankings and reviews.

Chevrolet Orlando - Spied

2010-02-28T07:27:00.000-08:00

At the Detroit auto show in January, Chevrolet announced that not only will its Orlando concept see production, but it will be sold in the U.S. in 2011, likely as a 2012 model. Such a short gestation period from concept to production is due to the fact that the Orlando displayed at the show and the one soon to be available in dealerships are both built on the platform of the 2011 Cruze, the small car set to replace Chevy’s Cobalt. The Orlando prototype spotted here gives a fair look at how much the pugnacious concept will change for production.

Although heavy camouflage covers the front and rear, the bare side sheetmetal gives away the usual distillation from show car to show room car. The concept’s jutting rocker extensions and pronounced fender flares appear to be smoothed, leaving a less-inspired and more vanlike profile. The taper of the greenhouse remains, but the glass grows a little taller to accommodate real people inside. The taming of the concept’s design is unfortunate, as the concept promised a surprisingly attractive way to transport seven people.

Beneath the rear camo, the answer to how the Orlando concept’s funky recessed and pillarless rear glass will translate to production remains hidden, but we assume there won’t be a massive sunroof over the rear seats. While the front is likewise hidden under heavy wraps, the shrinking of the fender flares should be the only major change, and Chevrolet’s signature split grille is visible through the disguise.

Although it rides on the Cruze’s platform, we suspect the 140-hp turbocharged 1.4-liter from the Cruze won’t quite be enough to propel the larger and heavier Orlando—particularly with all seven seats filled. Whether Chevy will squeeze another 20 or so hp from the engine—which would pit it directly against the fours in the similarly sized Mazda 5 and Kia Rondo—or install another, larger engine, is unclear at this point. The 182-hp 2.4-liter four from the upcoming 2010 Chevrolet Equinox is an intriguing possibility.

Chevrolet Orlando shows its face

2010-02-28T07:26:00.001-08:00

Like its kissing cousin from another mother, the Chevrolet HHR is not long for this world. And development of its replacement is underway in the form of the 2011 Chevrolet Orlando.

Originally unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 2008 and later spied in production guise this past August, the Orlando is likely to debut sometime in 2010 and go on sale later this year. Seven seats are supposedly part of the package and there's also talk of a range-extending Voltec drivetrain pulled from the Chevrolet Volt.

It would appear that some of the Orlando's edgy and angular styling seems to have been lost in the translation from concept to production, particularly in front where the taut headlamps and chiseled fascia makes way for a decidedly more Malibu-like appearance. Thankfully, the blistered fenders front and rear appear to be part of the package, and hopeful Chevy can retain some of the concept's blocky rump when the Orlando hits U.S. and European shores later this year packing a few fuel-efficient fours.

Chevrolet Orlando Review 2011

2010-02-28T07:25:00.001-08:00

Preview

What We Know

The Chevrolet Orlando, a seven-seat concept shown at the 2008 Paris Auto Show, will arrive in U.S. showrooms by 2011. Built on the same platform as the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, the Orlando concept has a 108.6-inch wheelbase. That's about 3-inches longer than the Cruze. The Orlando also has a wider front and rear track than the Cruze to open up more space inside. A 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine powered the concept, but expect the production vehicle to switch to a similarly sized gasoline engine for the U.S. market.

What Edmunds.com says

Sizable people movers with smaller engines could become the family vehicle of choice if upcoming fuel regulations force manufacturers to build more efficient cars and trucks.

Chevrolet Orlando Review and Prices

2010-02-28T07:15:00.000-08:00

Call it a mini-minivan or a tall compact wagon, but Chevrolet is cooking up a seven-seat people mover and will slot beneath Chevy’s 2009 Traverse. See the Traverse images and read the review.

Consumer Guide's Impressions of the 2011 Chevrolet Orlando

Call it a mini-minivan, a tall compact wagon, or a small crossover SUV, but Chevrolet is cooking up a seven-seat people mover that could help many families cope with rising gas prices and not cramp their lifestyle.

What We Know About the 2011 Chevrolet Orlando

Minivans aren't as "mini" as they used to be--nor as popular either. Yet smaller models have been a virtual no-sale in these United States. Remember the Nissan Axxess, Mitsubishi Expo and Mazda MPV? We thought not.

New SUV Prices & Reviews
Reviews of All New Chevrolets
All Chevrolet Traverse Reviews

Things are different in Europe, where consumers love the compact people movers generally termed monocabs, multi-purpose vehicles, or MPVs (sorry, Mazda). Among the most popular of these popular mini-minivans is General Motors' seven-seat Opel/Vauxhall Zafira, which is also sold in Brazil under the Chevrolet banner.

The Zafira was introduced back in 2001 and heavily updated in '05. A face-lifted version with additional powertrain choices hit European dealers in February 2008. But here's the kicker. As part of GM's recently signed contract with the United Auto Workers, a variant of an upcoming redesigned Zafira may be built in the U.S. and will sold here starting in 2011 as an addition to the Chevy lineup. Dubbed Orlando, the new Chevy version will have bolder styling than its Opel cousin, but the basic layout will closely mirror the Zafira. The 2011 Chevrolet Orlando will likely be marketed as a thrifty compact crossover SUV, not a small minivan. It's the same approach used for the only other such vehicles on the American scene, the Mazda 5 and KiaRondo.

Reports say the new Chevy people mover, codenamed MPV-7, will be based on GM's new front-wheel drive Global Compact Vehicle Architecture that is also known as "Delta 2." This is the same platform that underpins the upcoming 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and 2011 Chevrolet Volt. The next-generation Opel/Vauxhall Astra is also expected to be built on the Delta 2 platform. The 2011 Chevrolet Orlando made its debut at the 2008 Paris Auto Show in early October, the same show where the Chevrolet Cruze debuted.

In America, the 2011 Chevrolet Orlando will slot beneath Chevy's Traverse, a midsize crossover sharing GM's Lambda platform with the BuickEnclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook, and the Chevrolet Equinox. Where the current Chevy HHR fits into this picture is unknown. Elsewhere, the new Chevrolet Orlando will likely replace the current Daewoo-based Chevy Tacuma.

the mountain roads around Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where the car will be manufactured

2010-01-07T22:51:00.000-08:00

Here's a supercar that's rising up against the competition - it's the Fenix! The work of Leicestershire-based sports car maker, Lee Noble, it's the first model to come from his new company, Fenix Automotive.

The as-yet-unnamed supercar features a basic design that is reminiscent of the Noble M600 and M12. However, the Fenix gets aggressive and angular lines, similar to those of the fighter jet-inspired Lamborghini Reventón.

“The M12 was hugely successful, but we needed to move the game on in terms of design,” said Noble. “The new car’s styling owes nothing to what I’ve done before and has quite literally been a ‘clean sheet’ exercise from the start. It’s edgy, with powerful lines, and aerodynamically will be in another league to any of my previous cars.”

Under the bonnet is a choice of two Corvette engines, giving 480bhp and 638bhp. The latter is lifted from the supercharged ZR1, and with a kerbweight of 1,200kg, is said to propel the Fenix from 0-100mph in just under seven seconds on its way to a 200mph top speed.

“Our first prototype is now in build and development will start in around one month’s time,” said Noble. “We’ll be hot-weather testing the first prototype on the mountain roads around Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where the car will be manufactured. But I’m itching to get the car back to the UK where I can set it up on roads I know well.”

Prices will be confirmed when sales start in 2011.

Lexus of Europe says LFA V10 is bespoke, not headed for GS F

2010-01-03T21:02:00.000-08:00

Another country heard from – this time, a mole in Lexus of Europe has announced via the corporate Twitter account that the LFA's V10 will definitely not be going into the GS F. The supercar's 10-pot wonder is "bespoke to LFA," which is ur-English for something custom made, but in this case we'll take to mean "None of you can have this engine if you don't drive an LFA."

You'll note that the 106-character tweet deftly avoids confirming the existence of any sort of GS F in the first place – a car that has existed solely as a fairytale for nigh on three years – with the deflection, "not going to comment on those." But at least now if the GS F does come, we know what it won't have. But hey, they didn't rule out a derivative, right? Hat tip to Stan!

Ford Kuga in front, possible 2011 Ford Kuga out back

2010-01-03T20:32:00.000-08:00

Ford Kuga in front, possible 2011 Ford Kuga out back – click above for high-res image gallery

Here's the skinny: Ford's current Escape is heading the way of the dodo bird. In its place will be the Kuga, a much less dowdy looking compact CUV that should compete nicely with the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson. The European designed 2011 Kuga will be built here in the United States at a Louisville, Kentucky plant. All this we already know and have known for some time now.

What we don't know is what Ford will call the Kuga when it goes on sale here in 2011. Kuga is obviously one option, but so, apparently, is Escape. According to Wards Auto, Ford's domestic dealers are pushing for Escape. "I believe the Escape is a great vehicle with a great reputation and that it would be a big mistake to kill the Escape name," says one San Diego based dealer.

Others point back to Ford's decision to drop the Taurus name in favor of Five Hundred – part of the brand's strange decision to make all cars start with the letter "F" (Focus, Fusion, Five Hundred – though the Mustang never became Fustang) and all SUVs and crossovers start with the letter "E" (Edge, Escape, Explorer, Expedition, Excursion). Though, of course, reverting back to Five Hundred was supposed to drum up some long lost brand equity/nostalgia, which is the first thing CEO Alan Mulally did when he changed Five Hundred back to Taurus. Very complicated stuff, no?

So, Kuga or Escape? While there are many good arguments for Escape, here's one for Kuga – Ford's One World strategy. Simply put, rather than having one Focus for Europe and one for North America, Ford is working toward offering one global vehicle per a given segment – and that's it. And naming one car one thing for one market and one car another for another is essentially a monkey wrench in the plan. What should Ford do, and more importantly what will they do? Place your vote in our poll below and leave any further thoughts in Comments.

What should Ford call the Kuga when it reaches the U.S. market?

KugaEscapeNeither

Rolls-Royce edition Mini reportedly confirmed for custom order

2009-11-22T03:54:00.000-08:00

Mini Rolls-Royce special for Park Lane – Click above for image gallery

It's been about half a year since the initial reports of a Rolls-Royce edition Mini first surfaced, and nearly as long since the first batch of photos emerged. But rumors persist, and now reports from the UK indicate that mutual parent company BMW has given the green light for a series of Rolls-style accoutrements for the iconic retro-hatch.

Following market trends that seem to indicate that, in Europe especially, buyers aren't willing to give up on luxury when they go for more compact, fuel-efficient rides, the specially-trimmed Minis would offer customers a range of customization options suitable for a Phantom yet packed into a Cooper. But rather than outfitting Minis with stock luxury trim packages – like Aston Martin is preparing to do with the iQ-based Cygnet – the exclusive Mini hatchbacks would be outfitted at the Rolls-Royce factory according to individual customer orders. Clients would be able to choose from the best leathers and veneers to give their Minis a more upscale feel, much like the coachbuilt Minis popular amongst British celebs like Harold Radford and The Beatles in the '60s, but available through established dealers in a more organized fashion.

Unfortunately, that's about all the information available at this point, but sources suggest a public announcement sometime next year.

Rolls MINI for Park Lane

Renault could sell 40% of its F1 team to Russian investors

2009-11-22T03:37:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back, Toyota announced its departure from Formula One, and it looked like Renault could follow. The team had lost its drivers, its team leaders, its sponsors and its reputation. The French automaker's board convened in France to discuss the matter, but no announcement followed, leaving everyone scratching their heads. Well if the latest rumors hold any truth, we could have our reason.

While the decision may have seemed fairly black or white (should I stay or should I go?) there are plenty shades of gray for Renault to choose from. One option would have been to sell or shutter its team while continuing to supply engines, but now another possibility has emerged: for Renault to sell part of the team but keep the rest.

The reports stem from Turun Sanomat, one of Finland's largest daily papers, which suggests that the French automaker could sell as much as 40 percent of the team to an unnamed Russian company. The move would help Renault raise some much-needed capital to continue its involvement in the sport, but could come with strings attached, including placing GP2 runner-up Vitaly Petrov in a race seat beside Robert Kubica. Considering the hot water Renault's already in with the Russians and how poorly the country's last venture into F1 went, they could prove hesitant, but then Ghosn and company might not have any better options.

Ford Mustang details leak out 2010

2009-11-22T03:19:00.000-08:00

We have to wait a couple more weeks before we're officially "in the know" about the 2011 Ford Mustang, but it appears FoMoCo's secret information dam has a few cracks in it. Ford recently released its fleet distribution news bulletin and it offered some insights as to when the refreshed Mustang is coming and the new variants on offer. The bulletin states customers will be able to order their 2011 Mustang on January 18, 2010, with Ford's favorite stallion tentatively entering production on March 15, 2010.

The alleged news bulletin also mentions some of the new model variants on the way, including the return of the California Special. There will also reportedly be an SVT Performance package, three available 19-inch wheel options, an available six-speed automatic transmission and a Brembo Brake package. The SVT package includes 19-inch wheels, an RR spoiler, "Over the Top" stripe delete and a 3.73 limited slip. The order form also appears to confirm that the 2011 Shelby GT500 will continue to use the 5.4-liter V8 engine, which we hear will be of the all-aluminum variety. We'll learn a lot more about the 2011 Mustang when Ford reveals its vastly updated pony car at the LA Auto Show in early December.

Range-topping Lamborghini Urus rumored

2009-11-22T02:39:00.000-08:00

2010 Lamborghini Reventón Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

So you like the Lamborghini Murcielago LP670-4 SV, but you're struggling to justify the price. After all, it may be just as fast as the Reventón, but it only costs a third of that range-topping bull. You like that it's the latest limited-edition hypercar from Sant'Agata Bolognese, but will everyone think you're slumming by not getting the most expensive bull in the barn? Come to think of it, maybe you can hold out for the Reventón Roadster, which should easily surpass the coupe as the ne plus ultra in the Lambo lineup. Of course, you could just stick with your ordinary LP640-4 or LP650-4 Roadster a little longer and wait for the Murcielago replacement in a year or two.

When that so-called Jota finally debuts, it will bring with it a new carbon fiber chassis and an equally new direct-injected 6.0-liter V12 thought to be good for at least 700 horsepower. Yeah, that's probably the way to go. After all, the economy isn't exactly the best right now and plunking down $1.5M for a new car might make others unnecessarily envious. Haters. Of course, if you wait too long, you might find yourself debating waiting a little longer still for the Jota-besting halo car from Lamborghini, the rumored Urus.

CARS UK is quoting "a source close to Lamborghini" when they talk about this new halo vehicle, which is expected to take on all comers, especially that "FX70" Enzo-replacement coming out of Maranello. Using a modified Jota chassis, the Urus will go on an even stricter diet to make it a ~~featherweight~~ lighter heavyweight. It will drop the few bits of aluminum that are expected to be used on the Jota and go all carbon fiber. That, active aerodynamics, and a nearly 800 horsepower version of the Jota V12 in its engine bay should allow the Urus to challenge even the Bugatti Veyron with a sub-3-second 0-60mph time. The real question becomes -- Can you wait until 2012 for the Urus or will you buckle a year earlier and pop for the Jota in 2011? You know what, just get both.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Lamborghini Reventon Roadster

Audi has erected a special temporary art museum for the design show

2009-11-22T01:28:00.000-08:00

Audi pavilion at Design Miami - Click above for high res image gallery

Audi's centennial celebration is winding down, but the German brand isn't quite ready to switch off the lights. There's at least one more big model debut planned for its 100th anniversary, and in just over a week Audi will pull the sheets off the all-new 2011 Audi A8. Although the uber-sedan will take the stage at the LA Auto Show in two weeks, the world will get its first official look on the opposite coast at Design Miami.

Audi has erected a special temporary art museum for the design show, providing a backdrop for the unveiling of the brand's new flagship. According to Audi, the sedan will be surrounded by an exhibit from the Rubell Family collection called "Beg Borrow and Steal." There will also be an installation called the "Light Light" made of LEDs and aluminum -- a fitting tribute to the new A8's aluminum structure and LED lighting. So far, all we have is images of the Audi pavilion and a few teasers of the sedan, so stay tuned for more next week.

SPEED World Challenge GT at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca

2009-10-17T17:01:00.000-07:00

2009 SPEED World Challenge GT at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca - Click above for a high-res image gallery

With various racing series coming to a close this month, the Mustang has proven its worth on track by bringing home two major road racing championships. This past weekend Brandon Davis secured the 2009 SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT title in only his second season with a fourth place finish at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Davis, who was racing in the new 2010 ACS Mustang that debuted a few weeks earlier at Road Atlanta, only needed to finish in eighth place to guarantee the championship and beat out Porsche driver James Sofronas.

In the Grand-Am Koni Challenge series, the Mustang FR500C also captured not only the driver title, but also the team and manufacturers' championships for the second straight year. Rehagen Racing sat atop the driver and team points lead with a sixth place finish at Virginia International Raceway, and the win by JBS Motorsports helped put Ford just one point ahead of BMW in the manufacturers' standings. Mustangs won five races during the 2009 season and finished on the podium eight out of eleven races.

We didn't make it out to VIR for the Koni Challenge race, but we were on hand at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca to watch the SPEED World Challenge race with cameras at the ready. Check out the high-res gallery below, or tune into SPEED TV on November 3 at 2:00 pm EST to watch the race yourself.

Gallery: 2009 SPEED World Challenge GT at Laguna Seca

would pay $150 million and receive Hummer

2009-10-12T16:40:00.000-07:00

2009 Hummer HX concept – Click above for high-res gallery

Last week, it was reported that General Motors had signed a definitive agreement to sell Hummer to Chinese machinery manufacturer Tengzhong. The Chinese company and its partner in the deal, Lumena Resources Corp., would pay $150 million and receive Hummer and its intellectual property, ownership of U.S. franchise agreements, and manufacturing, business, and component assistance during a four- or five-year transition period.

The questions being raised now concern what is happening on the other side of the Pacific. The Chinese Commerce Ministry reportedly hasn't received Tengzhong's application to officially bring Hummer home, which has led observers to wonder if there will be a holdup or reversal of the deal. According to a Hummer representative, however, Tengzhong had to finalize the deal with GM before it could present it for approval to the Chinese authorities:

Gallery: Detroit 2009: HUMMER HX in the design studio

Rockstar Energy Drink Drift captain Stephan Papadakis comes charging

2009-10-12T16:28:00.001-07:00

Autoblog goes drifting with Tanner Foust – Click above for high-res image gallery

"It feels like I'm down on power!" yells Tanner Foust in the general direction of the gathered throngs containing both his crew and assorted media. Tanner and myself are currently five-point bolted into his new stock car-engined Formula D Scion tC. We've just exited an aborted lap around the Toyota Speedway at Irwindale because something – so says Foust – is amiss with the car.

Rockstar Energy Drink Drift captain Stephan Papadakis comes charging towards the Scion and begins earnestly, if not frantically, checking the car's vitals through the steering wheel's digital readout. Steph floors the motor a few times, checks the numbers and exasperatedly tells Foust that everything looks fine. "Oh," says Tanner, patting me on my beer belly. "Must be him." Very funny, jerk.

Gallery: Autoblog Goes Drifting with Tanner Foust

Rockstar Energy Drink Drift captain Stephan Papadakis comes charging

2009-10-12T16:28:00.000-07:00

Autoblog goes drifting with Tanner Foust – Click above for high-res image gallery

Gallery: Autoblog Goes Drifting with Tanner Foust

2009-07-05T20:09:00.000-07:00

Click either image for a hi-res gallery of the Chevy Orlando

GM has announced that it will unveil the Chevy Orlando show car at the Paris Motor Show next month. The compact 7-seat crossover has a 105-inch wheelbase, rides on the same platform (Delta II) as the Chevy Cruze and gets turbodiesel power from a 2.0-liter four. The Orlando and the Chevy Tacuma prototype caught testing in disguise would appear to be one and the same, and as the Tacuma spy shots hinted, instead of a traditional vannish MPV appearance, the Orlando show car demonstrates that the production vehicle will follow the CUV pack and adopt tougher-looking SUV styling queues (Quien es mas macho? Orlando.) A substantial split grille dominates the front end, along with headlights that sweep back onto the front fender. Inside, an attractive cabin blends styling elements from a number of modern Chevys and Opels. We'll get the rest of the skinny and report back live from the Paris show next month.

Gallery: Chevrolet Orlando concept

Chevy Orlando Concept comes stateside

2009-07-04T20:08:00.000-07:00

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Chevy Orlando Concept

Among the array of various concept and production vehicles at the GM display was the Chevy Orlando Concept that made its world debut in Paris just a few months prior. Based on the same platform as the Cruze, the Orlando offers seven seats in a relatively compact design. At its debut we found the Orlando to be a much more appealing than the HHR and hoped that GM would consider bringing it to the U.S. as a production vehicle. Our wish has been granted, and the Orlando will arrive in dealers as a 2011 model along with the Spark mini-car. Follow the jump for the press release from GM, video from the live unveil, and check out new high-res photos in the gallery below.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Chevrolet Orlando Concept

PRESS RELEASE:

The Chevrolet Orlando show car will make its North American debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The compact, seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle has the versatile attributes of a sport-utility, a family van and a wagon.

Based on the recently introduced Cruze compact sedan, the Orlando show car carries Chevrolet's signature design language into a new vehicle segment. Cues include a two-tier grille, expressive headlamps that flow into the front fenders and muscular fender forms that wrap around the wheels.

"The Orlando suggests a possible addition to Chevrolet's global product portfolio, while adhering to its mission of offering value, quality and fuel efficiency," said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. "It offers adaptable seating, more than expected interior room and a powerful yet economical powertrain – features that were designed to suit a variety of needs in different markets."

Fuel-efficient power for the Orlando show car comes from a 2.0L turbo-diesel that generates 150 horsepower (112 kW) and a strong 235 lb.-ft. of torque (320 Nm). The small-displacement four-cylinder engine combines excellent fuel efficiency with surprising performance, thanks to high torque available across the rpm band. The car-based architecture of the Orlando – the hallmark of a true crossover – further contributes to the vehicle's efficiency with lower overall mass and better aerodynamics.

Inside, the five-door Orlando is designed to meet the needs of families and those who need plenty of seating capacity. It has reconfigurable, theater-style seating in three rows that comfortably accommodate up to seven occupants. The seats in rows two and three conveniently fold flat into the floor, whenever load carrying becomes a priority.

A long, 108.6-inch (2,760 mm) wheelbase, along with wide front and rear tracks, enhance the interior's spaciousness. Those dimensions also support a smooth, compliant driving experience, with assistance from a strut-type front suspension, compound crank rear suspension and a speed-sensitive, electric power steering system.

Chevy Orlando Concept Unveiled In Paris

2009-06-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

Yeah, we said it: The Chevy Orlando Concept shown here on the Paris Auto Show floor is the spiritual successor to the Pontiac Aztek. And in this case, we mean that as a complement: The Aztek had a ton of great interior features going for it, and the Chevy Orlando takes that post-minivan people-mover spirit and wraps it in sharp-looking sheet metal. The Orlando seats seven, has five doors and is based on the Cruze platform, meaning it has a shot at actually being really fuel-efficient, particularly with its Euro 2-liter diesel. We're not sure how much fun it would be hauling seven folks around with a 1.4-liter turbo motor here in the states, though, so it'll be interesting to see how — and if — it evolves for our market.

Chevy Orlando Concept On The Paris Show Floor

Inside The Seven-Passenger Chevy Orlando Concept

Chevrolet Orlando show car signals entry into new segment for the brand

Detroit - The Orlando show car, making its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October, is a clear indication that Chevrolet is considering an expansion to its portfolio with a seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle with distinctive sport utility-like design, adaptable seating and impressive interior space.

Based on the recently announced all-new Cruze compact sedan, the Orlando show car carries Chevrolet’s signature design language into a new vehicle segment. It explores the potential of combining the versatility attributes of a sport utility, a family van and a wagon in a single execution.

Chevrolet Orlando cuts a distinctive silhouette, replacing conventional monocab proportions with a more defined contrast between the hood and windshield lines. With flared fenders instead of a flat side-body, Orlando has a muscular stance that gives it the appearance of a sport utility vehicle, yet it offers dynamic ride and handling, excellent fuel efficiency and easy entry thanks to its car-based architecture.

Inside, the five-door Orlando is designed to meet the needs of families and those who need plenty of seating capacity with adaptable, theater-style seating in three rows that comfortably accommodate up to seven occupants. Whenever load carrying becomes a priority, the spacious cabin can be quickly transformed into a large cargo area. A generous 2760 mm wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks provide Orlando with outstanding interior roominess.

Chevrolet’s latest-generation 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque, provides a powerful and fuel efficient powertrain.

Following the recent announcement of the all-new Cruze sedan, the Orlando show car promises another page in Chevrolet’s product portfolio and another step in Chevrolet’s plan to offer customers around the globe impressive value, quality and fuel efficiency.

Auto Show: 2010 Chevy Orlando

2009-06-28T20:06:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Chevy Orlando with 7-passenger seating was shown exclusively to the Detroit Free Press on Saturday Jan. 10, 2009. The crossover vehicle will be introduced to the media and the world during this year's Detroit auto show at Cobo Hall. (ERIC SEALS/DFP)

Chevy Orlando is Totally the Minivan of the Future

2009-06-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

This is the 2010 Chevy Orlando, a concept vehicle due to be shown off at the Paris Motor Show next week. It's pretty similar to the 2010 Chevy Cruze, but as you can see, it's got some pretty dramatic blue lighting on its exterior. I'm not quite sure if its completely ridiculous or totally awesome; it probably falls somewhere between the two. I mean, Tron lights are awesome, but Tron lights on a glorified minivan? It's interesting, at least. Hit the jump for a shot of this with its sunroof glowing, then head over to Jalopnik to see many, many more pictures of this thing.

Chevy Orlando 2009

2009-06-23T20:04:00.000-07:00

AUTO SHOWS:

Sitting on the same Delta II platform that will underpin the Chevrolet Cruze, the Orlando rides higher and taller. General Motors said it "explores the potential of combining the versatility attributes of a sport utility, a family van and a wagon in a single execution." We think it looks quite a bit like a 2008 Dodge Caliber, particularly in its C-pillars and its exaggerated fender flares.

But compared to the Caliber, as well as the current Chevrolet HHR, the Orlando brings more crossover credentials. It has three rows of stadium seating, fitting up to seven people or folding down to make room for cargo.

The show car is powered by Chevrolet's new 2.0-liter turbo-diesel, which makes 150 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque.

Chevy Orlando For Eur Eyes Only

2009-06-21T20:03:00.001-07:00

Not so long ago, GM teased us with the prospect of building the Chevy Orlando in the U.S., and even selling the mini minivan here. Pffft. GM execs say they aren’t prepared to take the chance.

It’s a seven seater built on the same platform as the Chevy Cruze. It could, then, be built at the Lordstown, Ohio plant. The Euro-sized minivan is similar in size and package to the Mazda5. Mazda has sold about 16,000 through September, though with no marketing support to speak of and limited allocation.

GM is effectively out of the minivan business in the U.S., having ditched the segment for full-sized crossover SUVs like Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave.

Some believe that the Euro minivan segment could become a profitable segment in the U.S. as fuel prices rise and more one and two-child families bypass traditional minivans for smaller packages.

However, the Orlando lacks the one thing minivan owners, and Mazda5 owners,like—-a sliding door, which is crucial for getting small kids in and out of carseats in cramped U.S. parking lot spaces.

2009 Meet Brian Deese, the 31-year-old in charge of breaking up GM

2009-06-06T00:14:00.000-07:00

Many of us ABers being in our early- to mid-30s, we're less amazed that another of our ilk has risen to a decisive government position. We are, after all, a generation on the rise. The surprising part about Brian Deese's story is that he's been instrumental in shaping the Obama administration's moves to save General Motors, and this is his first official tour of duty in Washington. What qualifies a guy who hasn't even finished his Yale Law degree to steer President's automotive task force around? From what's been said about Mr. Deese, his quick ability to boil down the often competing economic and political aspects of any given issue.

Deese piped up in favor of Fiat's rescue of Chrysler, pointing out with a memo that a fire sale of the ailing automaker would send unforseen ripples out into the economy as a whole. Speaking out in such an influential manner is definitely unusual considering Deese doesn't appear to be an auto enthusiast or business propeller-head with his nose buried in studies and reports about the car industry. A childhood spent in the Boston suburb of Belmont, Massachusetts under the parentage of a college professor an an engineer, Deese did his undergraduate time at Middlebury College in Vermont before heading to Washington to work for Nancy Birdsall on international aid. A turn with former Clinton policy wonk Gene Sperling before the move to Yale, Hillary Clinton's bid for nomination brought Deese back to DC. With friends in Washington, Deese found himself hooked into the Obama team, and from there he's been running busily around our nation's capital.

If General Motors can successfully navigate Chapter 11, we'll all get to see just how well Brian Deese has done digesting the thorny chestnut that is saving our domestic auto industry.

Chevy Orlando For Eur Eyes Only

2009-05-07T00:08:00.001-07:00

Not so long ago, GM teased us with the prospect of building the Chevy Orlando in the U.S., and even selling the mini minivan here. Pffft. GM execs say they aren’t prepared to take the chance.

GM is effectively out of the minivan business in the U.S., having ditched the segment for full-sized crossover SUVs like Saturn Outlook and Buick Enclave.

Some believe that the Euro minivan segment could become a profitable segment in the U.S. as fuel prices rise and more one and two-child families bypass traditional minivans for smaller packages.

However, the Orlando lacks the one thing minivan owners, and Mazda5 owners,like—-a sliding door, which is crucial for getting small kids in and out of carseats in cramped U.S. parking lot spaces.

Chevy Orlando Show Car

2009-05-07T00:07:00.001-07:00

Looks like: The guy that designed the Pontiac Aztek found a new job
Defining characteristics: Compact seven-seater with over-stylized snout
Ridiculous features: Glass roof with what appear to be solar cells
Chance of being mass-produced: In Europe, nearly 100%; in the U.S., chances are 50/50

We caught our first glimpse of the Orlando a few weeks back, but today we see every angle of the Cruze-based MPV, including a radically truncated rear. Man, that is one flat backside.

Chevy calls the Orlando a “show car,” but it looks nearly ready for production, with the same basic interior design and materials as the Cruze. The three-row people-mover has a 60/40-split second row and a 50/50-split folding third row. Both can fold flat to create a very large, flat cargo area. The seatbacks are covered with a metal finish, but we’d expect something more affordable, like durable plastic, in a production version.

There’s also a storage bin under the rear cargo floor.

A small turbo-diesel is planned for the European model, if it’s produced, but the new turbocharged, 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that GM announced for the U.S. last week could serve duty under the Orlando’s hood if it does go on sale here.

Check out the photos below and let us know if you think Chevy should bring the Orlando stateside.

News Chevy Orlando Concept Unveiled In Paris, Shows What Pontiac Aztek Could Have Been

2009-05-07T00:06:00.001-07:00

Chevy Orlando Concept On The Paris Show Floor

Inside The Seven-Passenger Chevy Orlando Concept

Chevrolet Orlando show car signals entry into new segment for the brand

Detroit - The Orlando show car, making its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October, is a clear indication that Chevrolet is considering an expansion to its portfolio with a seven-seat multi-purpose vehicle with distinctive sport utility-like design, adaptable seating and impressive interior space.

Based on the recently announced all-new Cruze compact sedan, the Orlando show car carries Chevrolet’s signature design language into a new vehicle segment. It explores the potential of combining the versatility attributes of a sport utility, a family van and a wagon in a single execution.

Chevrolet Orlando cuts a distinctive silhouette, replacing conventional monocab proportions with a more defined contrast between the hood and windshield lines. With flared fenders instead of a flat side-body, Orlando has a muscular stance that gives it the appearance of a sport utility vehicle, yet it offers dynamic ride and handling, excellent fuel efficiency and easy entry thanks to its car-based architecture.

Inside, the five-door Orlando is designed to meet the needs of families and those who need plenty of seating capacity with adaptable, theater-style seating in three rows that comfortably accommodate up to seven occupants. Whenever load carrying becomes a priority, the spacious cabin can be quickly transformed into a large cargo area. A generous 2760 mm wheelbase and wide front and rear tracks provide Orlando with outstanding interior roominess.

Chevrolet’s latest-generation 2.0-liter turbo diesel, developing 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque, provides a powerful and fuel efficient powertrain.

Following the recent announcement of the all-new Cruze sedan, the Orlando show car promises another page in Chevrolet’s product portfolio and another step in Chevrolet’s plan to offer customers around the globe impressive value, quality and fuel efficiency.

Chevy Orlando Concept reveals its rear 2010

2009-05-07T00:05:00.001-07:00

Click the image above for a hi-res gallery of the Chevy Orlando

The Chevy Orlando, due to be revealed at next month's Paris Motor Show, has turned tail and the rendering doesn't look half-bad. It's mildly reminiscent of the Audi A2 from way back when, in an exaggerated, chunked-up way, and we get a little Volvo feeling from the sculpted area of the rear lights. Overall, we give it a thumbs up.

The Orlando is a compact seven-seater, and the dip in the rear roofline means that those last to occupants might need to be especially compact. However, the intended audience is probably not the local WNBA team, so the kids should fit just fine. With a hot front and rear, and an interior that nearly qualifies as dreamy, this is the kind of thing we're looking forward to checking out in the flesh. Stay tuned for Paris...

Chevy Orlando concept previews compact 7-seater for Europe

2009-05-07T00:04:00.000-07:00

Click either image for a hi-res gallery of the Chevy Orlando

Chevy Orlando LIVE

2009-03-23T22:13:00.001-07:00