Autoblog

Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2010 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[Mitsubishi recalls 2004 Endeavor, 2010 Galant]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/11/mitsubishi-recalls-2004-endeavor-2010-galant/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/11/mitsubishi-recalls-2004-endeavor-2010-galant/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/11/mitsubishi-recalls-2004-endeavor-2010-galant/#comments Filed under: Budget, Sedan, SUV, Recalls, Safety, Mitsubishi, Off-Road

Mitsubishi is recalling both the 2004 Endeavor SUV and 2010 Galant sedan over possible corrosion issues that could cause flammable fluids to leak. The safety recall affects approximately 56,113 Endeavors and 2,307 Galants across the United States.

The Endeavors in question are those that were originally sold or currently registered in states where road salt is used to clear away snow and ice in the winter. According to NHTSA, road salt, mixed with other debris, can become trapped between the Endeavor's fuel filler pipe and a reinforcing bracket, which can cause corrosion and potentially a fuel leak. As for the Galant, the automatic transmission oil cooler pipe on some vehicles may have insufficient corrosion-preventing plating. If so, this pipe can develop a hole, meaning transmission fluid can potentially seep out.

The official safety recalls begin in March for the Galant and July for the Endeavor, and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. Owners can contact Mitsubishi at 1-800-222-0037 for more information regarding either recall. Click through the jump to read the full details in NHTSA's press releases.

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Mitsubishi recalls 2004 Endeavor, 2010 Galant

Mitsubishi recalls 2004 Endeavor, 2010 Galant originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2004 mitsubishi endeavor2004MitsubishiEndeavor2010 mitsubishi galant2010MitsubishiGalantendeavorgalantmitsubishimitsubishi endeavorMitsubishi GalantMitsubishiEndeavorMitsubishiGalantNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationNationalHighwayTrafficSafetyAdministrationNHTSANhtsaRecallrecallsafety recallSafetyRecall Thu, 11 Mar 2010 18:32:00 EST <![CDATA[Report: Honda CR-Z was almost killed twice, U.S. dealers didn't want it]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/08/report-honda-cr-z-was-almost-killed-twice-u-s-dealers-didnt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/08/report-honda-cr-z-was-almost-killed-twice-u-s-dealers-didnt/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/08/report-honda-cr-z-was-almost-killed-twice-u-s-dealers-didnt/#comments Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Hybrid, Hatchback, Honda

2011 Honda CR-Z - Click above for high-res image gallery

Norio Tomobe, chief engineer of the Honda CR-Z, said "The CR-Z is supposed to be an intelligent sports car." We can spend a fair bit of time debating the 'intelligence' of a sports coupe that gets from 0-to-60 in 9.7 seconds and has just two seats but gets worse gas mileage than a Toyota Prius. However, we won't really be able to decide on the issue until we drive it, and that is apparently what it takes to feel the love for it.

According to Automotive News, back when the CR-Z was being designed to house a traditional gasoline-only drivetrain, Tomobe said he and his team dug deep to come up with a new idea for the car, which ended up being a hybrid drivetrain and a six-speed transmission. But that wasn't until after they had tried to kill the project. Twice. And that didn't stop the president of American Honda Motor from repeatedly telling Japan the U.S. didn't need or want a sporty hybrid, which he thought would confuse customers. Until he drove it, and then all was go.

The hybrid's compromises remain a subject on everyone's minds. Tomobe wants more horsepower, and rumors began a month ago about a Type-R iteration. Even though Tomobe claims "We are not pursuing absolute maximum speed," we can't help but wonder if this first version of Honda's 122-horsepower future satisfies his own aspiration that "What we aim for is a car that is exhilarating to drive."

Gallery: Detroit 2010: 2011 Honda CR-Z

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd.]

Report: Honda CR-Z was almost killed twice, U.S. dealers didn't want it originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20112011 cr-z2011 honda cr-z2011Cr-z2011HondaCr-zcr-zgas-electrichonda cr-zHonda hybridHondaCr-zHondaHybridhybridhybrid carHybridCarNorio TomobeNorioTomobeType-R Mon, 08 Mar 2010 10:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet lets the light shine in]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/04/geneva-2010-renault-megane-coupe-cabriolet-lets-the-light-shine/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/04/geneva-2010-renault-megane-coupe-cabriolet-lets-the-light-shine/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/04/geneva-2010-renault-megane-coupe-cabriolet-lets-the-light-shine/#comments Filed under: Convertible, Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Renault

Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet - Click above for high-res image gallery

In addition to the smaller Wind roadster, Renault is showing off another droptop at this year's Geneva Motor Show - the Megane Coupe-Cabriolet. Much larger than the Wind, the Megane CC is poised to compete with the likes of the Volkswagen Eos or Audi A5 convertibles. And while the design isn't nearly as svelte as the Audi, it's a bit more attractive than the often-overlooked Eos.

As is the trend these days, the Megane uses a folding hardtop configuration with a glass roof so drivers can let the sun shine in even when the lid is closed. From there, Renault is offering a total of seven powertrain configurations, encompassing both gas- and diesel-powered mills, as well as dual-clutch, manual and continuously variable transmissions. The new Megane CC will hit European dealerships this spring and you'll never see it in the U.S, so check it in both galleries below.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Renault Megane Coupe Cabriolet

Gallery: 2011 Renault Megane Coupe-Convertible

Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Geneva 2010: Renault Megane Coupe-Cabriolet lets the light shine in originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Geneva Motor Showgeneva motor show 2010GenevaMotorShowGenevaMotorShow2010meganemegane ccMegane coupe-cabrioletMeganeCcMeganeCoupe-cabrioletrenaultrenault meganerenault megane coupe-cabrioletRenaultMeganeRenaultMeganeCoupe-cabriolet Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:01:00 EST <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Renault Wind roadster drops its top]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-renault-wind-roadster-drops-its-top/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-renault-wind-roadster-drops-its-top/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-renault-wind-roadster-drops-its-top/#comments Filed under: Convertible, Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Renault

Renault Wind - Click above for high-res image gallery

Remember the Honda Civic Del Sol? We sure do, and we couldn't help referencing it in regards to the new Renault Wind roadster. This funky little coupe/cabriolet takes everything that we love about two-seat convertible motoring and puts it in a more functional, compact, everyday-drivable package.

Unlike the Del Sol (or even the recent Pontiac Solstice Coupe), the Wind's roof panel is operated by a power mechanism that flips the roof back 180 degrees and stows it under the rear trunk lid. The whole operation only takes 12 seconds, and Renault says that with either the roof on or off, there's still roughly 9.5 cubic feet of usable cargo space out back. Not bad, especially for a car that's only slightly larger than a Mini Cooper. (The Cooper convertible, by contrast, makes due with six cubic feet of trunk volume with the rear seats in place.)

It's cute and compact while offering top-down thrills, and we'd be happy to take one for a spin any day of the week. Scroll through our gallery of images to see the Wind live on the Geneva show floor.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Renault Wind

Gallery: Renault Wind roadster

Live photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Geneva 2010: Renault Wind roadster drops its top originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Convertiblegenevageneva 2010Geneva Motor ShowGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowrenaultRenault Windrenault wind roadsterRenaultWindRenaultWindRoadsterroadsterwindwind roadsterWindRoadster Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Subaru Impreza XV looks buffer, not any better]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-subaru-impreza-xv-looks-buffer-not-any-better/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-subaru-impreza-xv-looks-buffer-not-any-better/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-subaru-impreza-xv-looks-buffer-not-any-better/#comments Filed under: Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Japan, Crossover, Hatchback, Spyker, Diesel

Subaru Impreza XV - click above for high-res image gallery

Like the recently redesigned Forester and Outback, the Impreza XV unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this week gives us yet another Subaru that looks more SUV-like than its predecessor. Subaru pulled this trick off by giving the XV a heftier-looking grille, beefier wheel arches, thicker, more purposeful-looking roof rails and a new, boomerang-look rear spoiler. You'll also notice the little bumperettes up front flanking the new grille.

Don't like the way it looks? Don't worry, as the Impreza XV will not be headed our (U.S.) way. However, you're going to have to learn to live with it should you live in Europe. That won't be too hard to do as the XV ships with your choice of either a peppy 2.0-liter boxer gas engine or torquey turbo-diesle boxer mill, the latter motivator being the power plant that best compliments the new XV's so-so trucky looks.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Subaru Impreza XV

Geneva 2010: Subaru Impreza XV looks buffer, not any better originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ForesterGenevaGeneva 2010Geneva Motor ShowGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowImprezaImpreza XVImprezaXvOutbackSubaruSubaru Impreza XVSubaruImprezaXv Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Tata debuts Nano EV concept]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-tata-debuts-nano-ev-concept/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-tata-debuts-nano-ev-concept/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-tata-debuts-nano-ev-concept/#comments Filed under: Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Etc., Hatchback, Tata, Electric

2011 Tata Nano EV - Click above for high-res image gallery

Tata Motors just debuted an electrified version of its Nano today at the Geneva Motor Show, promising no compromises in the way it drives compared to the regular 600cc Nano. The Tata Nano Electric Vehicle (EV) will be built on the existing Nano platform and still seats four adults, but adds "super polymer lithium ion batteries" to the mix. No word on power, but Tata does promise a range of 160 kilometers (99 miles) and acceleration of 0-60 kilometers per hour in under 10 seconds. Notice that's 60 km/h, which equates to 37 miles per hour, so the Nano EV isn't going to be one of those instant torque EV drag racers like the Tesla Roadster.

Tata plans to put the Nano EV into production and sell it alongside the company's already launched Indica Vista EV, which goes on sale in Europe later this year. Development has also already begun on the Nano Europa, set to go on sale in Europe in a couple of years, so perhaps the Nano EV could join it in showrooms at launch. No word on pricing yet either, although we're guessing it will be somewhere between the bargain basement price of the regular Nano in India and the DC Designs Nano we showed you a little while ago.

There is a press release after the jump with even more details about the EV as well as Tata's other vehicles on display in Geneva, and also a live gallery from the show floor below.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Tata Nano EV concept

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

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Tata debuts Nano EV concept

Geneva 2010: Tata debuts Nano EV concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> electric nanoelectric tataelectric tata nanoElectricNanoElectricTataElectricTataNanogenevageneva 2010Geneva Motor ShowGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowNano EVNanoEvTata EVtata nanotata nano evTataEvTataNanoTataNanoEv Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Nissan Micra is easy being green]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-nissan-micra-is-easy-being-green/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-nissan-micra-is-easy-being-green/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/geneva-2010-nissan-micra-is-easy-being-green/#comments Filed under: Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Nissan

2010 Nissan Micra - Click above for high-res image gallery

The more charming - if that's even possible - Nissan Micra has been tweaked to bring smiles to consumers in 160 countries where it will go on sale. To keep them smiling once things get under way, a brand new 1.2-liter, supercharged three-cylinder gas engine gets down with 80 horsepower and 144 pound-feet.

Believe it or not but the bounty doesn't stop there, with a suspension combining "agility, refinement and poise" also included as standard equipment. We'll let you decide for yourself, unless you're in the U.S. since we probably won't get it. For you, there's a press release after the jump and a gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Nissan Micra

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Nissan Micra is easy being green

Geneva 2010: Nissan Micra is easy being green originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 micra2010 nissan2010 nissan micra2010Micra2010Nissan2010NissanMicramicranissan micraNissanMicra Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:41:00 EST <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: 2012 Ford Focus Wagon is a stylish C-segment tease]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/ford-focus-wagon-geneva-2010-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/ford-focus-wagon-geneva-2010-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/03/ford-focus-wagon-geneva-2010-live/#comments Filed under: Budget, Wagon, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Ford, UK

2012 Ford Focus Wagon - Click above for high-res image gallery

We'll be honest - we're all pretty excited about the 2012 Ford Focus as it's set to add new levels of refinement and technology to the booming C-segment in the United States. And while we're pleased to see the return of the five-door hatchback, we'd be lying if we said we weren't a bit jealous that other markets will be getting this haul-ready wagon variant.

Plans for bringing the wagon to the States haven't been completely ruled out, and executives have said that if market demand is there, Ford will answer (we've heard this one before). Still, Europe should be relatively impressed with the 2012 Focus Wagon, what with its new Kinetic design, optional MyFord Touch system, and a range of both petrol and diesel engines. Click through our attached gallery to see live shots of the not-for-U.S. Focus Wagon.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Ford Focus Wagon

Gallery: 2012 Ford Focus Wagon

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Geneva 2010: 2012 Ford Focus Wagon is a stylish C-segment tease

Geneva 2010: 2012 Ford Focus Wagon is a stylish C-segment tease originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2012 ford focus2012FordFocusfocusfocus wagonFocusWagonfordford focusford focus wagonFordFocusFordFocusWagongenevageneva 2010geneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShow Wed, 03 Mar 2010 11:58:00 EST <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Audi A1 to hatch jealousy in the eyes of Americans]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/audi-a1-geneva-motor-show-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/audi-a1-geneva-motor-show-live/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/audi-a1-geneva-motor-show-live/#comments Filed under: Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Audi, Diesel

2011 Audi A1 - Click above for high-res image gallery

We've just returned from Audi's press conference here at the Geneva Motor Show, where Justin Timberlake has laid claim to one of the first A1 hatchbacks that comes off the line. Funny thing is, even with his undoubtedly massive bank accounts, the pop star won't be able to get one - at least not to park in front of any of his U.S. cribs. That's because Audi has announced that the entertaining-looking three-door isn't headed to the States. Given how the A3 has festered in darkened showroom corners in the American market, we can't exactly blame them for not importing an even smaller hatchback, but somehow we think this Mini Cooper-fighter might just find a market where the frumpier, more conventional A3 has stalled.

Available in Europe with four turbocharged, direct-injected engines (two TDI diesels, two gasoline), the A1 will be available with a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch S tronic gearbox with optional paddle shifters. Thanks to standard start-stop and energy recuperation among other fuel-saving tricks, the A1 is estimated to reach between 44 miles-per-U.S.-gallon and 62 mpg on the European Cycle.

Audi is also showing an electrified concept version of the A1 as the latest in its e-tron family. Packing a t-shaped lithium-ion battery and a single-rotor Wankel rotary IC engine(!) along with a few external cues to hint at its extended-range hybrid technology, it also drew more than a few eyeballs.

Interestingly, Audi's press materials (available after the jump) make no mention of the availability of Quattro all-wheel drive. Whether the option will come later remains to be seen, but for now, the A1 picks up where the not-for-U.S. A2 left off.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: Audi A1

Gallery: 2011 Audi A1

Photos by Chris Paukert and Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Audi A1 to hatch jealousy in the eyes of Americans

Geneva 2010: Audi A1 to hatch jealousy in the eyes of Americans originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 A12011 Audi2011A12011Audi2011Audi A12011audiA1Audi A1audi hatchbackAudiA1AudiHatchbackGenevaGeneva 2010Geneva Motor ShowGeneva Motor Show 2010Geneva2010GenevaMotorShowGenevaMotorShow2010Justin TimberlakeJustinTimberlakes tronics-tronicstronicTimberlake Tue, 02 Mar 2010 11:10:00 EST <![CDATA[Toyota offering to fix oil lines on nearly 1M six-cylinder models]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/toyota-offering-to-fix-oil-lines-on-nearly-1m-six-cylinder-model/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/toyota-offering-to-fix-oil-lines-on-nearly-1m-six-cylinder-model/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/toyota-offering-to-fix-oil-lines-on-nearly-1m-six-cylinder-model/#comments Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Safety, Crossover, Toyota

"This is not a safety recall."

Toyota is making it perfectly clear that this latest limited service campaign involving V6-powered vehicles sold over the past few years is not, in fact, a safety recall, as it does not have the potential to harm drivers. What's happening, however, is the rubber portion of the oil supply hose for the VVT-i actuator has the potential to degrade, which can cause oil to leak, in turn causing the engine to produce odd noises and the oil pressure light in the dash to illuminate.

The most recent phase of this service campaign involves 2007-2009 model year V6-equipped RAV4 and Avalon models. Last year, however, Toyota announced the first two phases of this campaign, which included 2005-2006 Avalons, 2007-early 2010 Camrys, 2006 RAV4s, 2007-2008 Lexus ES350s, and 2007-2009 Lexus RX350s. For all of these models, Toyota dealers will replace the oil hose at no extra charge, and the service campaign will be available to owners until March 31, 2013. Click through the jump to read the full details in Toyota's press release.

[Source: Toyota]

Continue reading Toyota offering to fix oil lines on nearly 1M six-cylinder models

Toyota offering to fix oil lines on nearly 1M six-cylinder models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AvaloncamryEs350lexuslexus es350Lexus RX350LexusEs350LexusRx350limited service campaignLimitedServiceCampaignrav4RX350toyotatoyota avalontoyota camrytoyota rav4toyota recallToyotaAvalonToyotaCamryToyotaRav4ToyotaRecallvvt-i Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:47:00 EST <![CDATA[Video: Ladies love the Hyundai Elantra and, apparently, each other]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/26/video-ladies-love-the-hyundai-elantra-and-apparently-each-oth/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/26/video-ladies-love-the-hyundai-elantra-and-apparently-each-oth/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/26/video-ladies-love-the-hyundai-elantra-and-apparently-each-oth/#comments Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hyundai, Canada

Hyundai "Lipstick Note" TV spot - Click above to watch video after the jump

Canada. It's not just that place where Americans go to load up on Olympic medals. It's also the home of TV spots you'd never see in the U.S. because they're just too edgy and inappropriate for our young'uns eyes. Case in point: a new Elantra commercial that Hyundai Canada is running in daytime ad buys. In it, a cute brunette is so impressed with an Elantra she comes across that she leaves the owner her lipstick-enhanced digits under the wiper. And the owner? Well she seems pretty jazzed by the possibilities. Watch it unfold after the jump. We now return you to your 24/7 Cialis and Enzyte saturation coverage on U.S. television.

[Source: YouTube via AutoNorth]

Continue reading Video: Ladies love the Hyundai Elantra and, apparently, each other

Video: Ladies love the Hyundai Elantra and, apparently, each other originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> elantrahyundaihyundai canadaHyundaiCanadalipstick noteLipstickNotetv adtv commercial tv spotTvAdTvCommercialTvSpot Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:59:00 EST <![CDATA[Despite recalls, <em>Consumer Reports</em> names Honda Fit, Toyota Prius Best Values]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/despite-recalls-consumer-reports-names-honda-fit-toyota-prius/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/despite-recalls-consumer-reports-names-honda-fit-toyota-prius/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/despite-recalls-consumer-reports-names-honda-fit-toyota-prius/#comments Filed under: Budget, Hybrid, Etc., Recalls, Hatchback, Honda, Toyota

Honda Fit and Toyota Prius named Consumer Reports Best Values for 2010

Consumer Reports is set to ship its annual automotive issue out to subscribers, but before the dyed and bound dead trees make their way to subscribers, CR shot off a few press releases to let us know what to expect. While we already covered the six new members of their Top Picks charts this morning, we found their New-Car Best and Worst Values List equally newsworthy.

CR chose the Honda Fit and Toyota Prius as its top picks for best overall value in the marketplace, despite Honda recalling more than 650,000 Fits and the issue plaguing the Toyota Prius, among the myriad of things that have kept ToMoCo busy lately. So before the complaints come in, perhaps a look at CR's methodology is in order. According to the presser after the jump:

"To determine which cars are the best values, Consumer Reports looked at a combination of performance, utility, and reliability for the money, considering total owner costs over the first five-years. The better a car performs in Consumer Reports' road tests and reliability Ratings and the less it costs to own, the greater its value."

Consumer Reports says the Honda Fit and the Toyota Prius bested 280 other cars in eight different categories to grab their top spots. Each recorded a score of 2.08 on their tally sheets, representing values that are more than twice as good as the overall average for the group. It could be argued that the recalls affecting the vehicles might have come too late in the game and/or may have not impacted their rankings significantly enough to erase the inherent value of each vehicle. And lest we forget, CR isn't alone in recognizing the Prius, with MotorWeek and Intellichoice both naming the Japanese hybrid to their awards this year.

The full report on best and worst new-car values will show up March 2, but you can see the lists in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Consumer Reports]

Continue reading Despite recalls, Consumer Reports names Honda Fit, Toyota Prius Best Values

Despite recalls, Consumer Reports names Honda Fit, Toyota Prius Best Values originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> Best ValueBestValueconsumer reportsconsumer reports best valueconsumer reports top picksConsumerReportsConsumerReportsBestValueConsumerReportsTopPicksfitfit recallFitRecallhondaHonda Fithonda recallHondaFitHondaRecallprius recallPriusRecallTop PicksTopPickstoyotatoyota priustoyota recallToyotaPriusToyotaRecall Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST <![CDATA[2012 Chevrolet Aveo makes an early debut]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/2012-chevrolet-aveo-sneaks-out-of-presentation/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/2012-chevrolet-aveo-sneaks-out-of-presentation/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/2012-chevrolet-aveo-sneaks-out-of-presentation/#comments Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Hatchback, Chevrolet

2012 Chevrolet Aveo - Click above for image gallery

With the recent unveiling of the Aveo RS concept at the Detroit Auto Show and spy shots of Chevrolet's diminutive hatch testing in Michigan, Chevy is obviously prepping all-new Aveo for prime time. And judging by these pics procured by KickingTires after a presentation by Bob Lutz, the Aveo is getting a much-needed makeover both inside and out.

With a front end that stays true to the RS, along with a set of bulging fenders and an artfully carved swage line, the 2012 Aveo is a dramatic departure from the budget-conscious model roaming the streets today. Coupled with a thoroughly revised interior, complete with upgraded materials and the RS' motorcycle-inspired gauge cluster, the Aveo has its sights set squarely on the new Ford Fiesta, particularly when it arrives in five-door form.

Pricing remains a question mark, but we'd suspect all the details to be revealed before the end of the year, with sales starting sometime in 2011.

[Source: KickingTires]

2012 Chevrolet Aveo makes an early debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 20122012 chevrolet aveo2012 chevy aveo2012ChevroletAveo2012ChevyAveoaveochevroletchevy Tue, 23 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> adds six cars to Top Picks list, touts diversity]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/consumer-reports-adds-six-cars-to-top-picks-list-touts-d/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/consumer-reports-adds-six-cars-to-top-picks-list-touts-d/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/consumer-reports-adds-six-cars-to-top-picks-list-touts-d/#comments Filed under: Budget, Hybrid, Minivan/Van, Sedan, SUV, Truck, Hatchback, Chevrolet, GM, Hyundai, Infiniti, Lexus, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen, Luxury, Off-Road

2010 Consumer Reports Top Pick Cars - Click above for high-res image gallery

Each year, the automotive editors of Consumer Reports select their Top Pick Cars, representing vehicles that are the best in their individual segments. These cars are deemed to have "average or better" predicted reliability and have scored high marks in government safety testing. In past years, automakers like Honda and Toyota have dominated this list, but since more and more manufacturers are ramping up their quality within each competitive segment, the 2010 list proves to be the most diverse CR Top Picks group in over a decade.

So, which cars garner the most praise from CR? The Nissan Altima has officially dethroned the Honda Accord from the top family sedan spot, the Volkswagen GTI takes honors as the best sporty car, the trusty Subaru Forester takes the cake in the small SUV category, the quirky Mazda5 wins for best family hauler, and both the Chevrolet Traverse and Silverado stand tall as the best family SUV and pickup truck. These six newcomers join the Hyundai Elantra SE, Infiniti G37, Toyota Prius and Lexus LS460L to round out the entire list of Top Pick Cars.

Unlike most automotive media outlets (Autoblog included), Consumer Reports actually buys its own test cars before putting them through rigirous evaluations of handling, braking, comfort, safety and more, and each test car is roughly 6,000 miles older by the time all of the tests have been completed. Follow the jump to read the official press release from CR, and scroll through our attached gallery to see high-res shots of all the 2010 Top Pick Cars.

Gallery: 2010 Consumer Reports Top Picks

[Source: Consumer Reports - sub. req.]

Continue reading Consumer Reports adds six cars to Top Picks list, touts diversity

Consumer Reports adds six cars to Top Picks list, touts diversity originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> AltimachevroletChevrolet SilveradoChevrolet TraverseChevroletSilveradoChevroletTraverseconsumer reportsconsumer reports top picksConsumerReportsConsumerReportsTopPicksElantraForesterG37GTIHyundaihyundai elantraHyundaiElantraInfinitiinfiniti g37InfinitiG37lexuslexus ls460LexusLs460LS460mazdaMazda5nissannissan altimaNissanAltimapriusSilveradoSubaruSubaru ForesterSubaruForestertoyotatoyota priusToyotaPriustraversevolkswagenvolkswagen GTIVolkswagenGti Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:58:00 EST <![CDATA[Smart move? Daimler reportedly teams with Renault for next-gen minicar]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/smart-move-daimler-reportedly-teams-with-renault-for-next-gen-m/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/smart-move-daimler-reportedly-teams-with-renault-for-next-gen-m/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/smart-move-daimler-reportedly-teams-with-renault-for-next-gen-m/#comments Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Budget, Minivan/Van, Sedan, Hatchback, Nissan, Smart, Renault, Electric

2009 Smart Fortwo - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Daimler brain trust of Dieter Zetsche and Thomas Weber has reportedly struck a deal with Renault/Nissan to develop its next generation of minicars due out in 2014 or so. As you would expect, Daimler will get a new Smart Fortwo out of the deal while the Franco-Japanese conglomerate will use the design for unknown future models that could bear both the Nissan and Renault nameplates.

According to Automobile Magazine, Daimler insisted on retaining the Smart brand's trademark rear-engine and rear-wheel drive configuration, which was somewhat understandably met with some trepidation by Renault. Also held over will likely be the steel safety cage design with interchangeable plastic body panels so the resulting vehicles will be safe and easily distinguishable from each other.

Not surprisingly, electric powertrains will be part of the mix, along with a newly developed 1.0-liter direct injected three-cylinder engine and a duo of 1.3- and 1.5-liter fours. The modular chassis may also be lengthened in order to spawn a new four-seat Fourfour and a taller Formore micro-minivan with sliding doors.

Gallery: Review: 2009 Smart ForTwo

[Source: Automobile Magazine]

Smart move? Daimler reportedly teams with Renault for next-gen minicar originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> DaimlerForFourformorefortworenaultrenault nissanRenaultNissansmartsmart carsmart forfoursmart formoresmart fortwoSmartCarSmartForfourSmartFormoreSmartFortwo Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:27:00 EST <![CDATA[Report: GM adding extra shift at Lordstown to meet expected Cruze demand *UPDATE]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/report-gm-adding-extra-shift-at-lordstown-to-meet-expected-cruz/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/report-gm-adding-extra-shift-at-lordstown-to-meet-expected-cruz/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/23/report-gm-adding-extra-shift-at-lordstown-to-meet-expected-cruz/#comments Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, GM

2011 Chevrolet Cruze - Click above for high-res image gallery

It looks like General Motors is going to announce that Lordstown will be getting a third shift. Lordstown, Ohio is the plant where GM is going to be building its new compact Chevrolet Cruze, and apparently they think the demand is going to be pretty high for this handsome little sedan.

If you recall, Lordstown was supposed to be a round-the-clock plant when then-GM CEO Rick Wagoner announced a third shift and $350 million investment in the plant. That was way back In August 2008, though, before the carpocolypse. By September, the industry and whole country found themselves in a free-fall. By January 2009, two shifts were eliminated at Lordstwown, idling some 2,800 workers. Last April GM idled the whole plant for three weeks to cut supply and lower operating costs.

The addition of a third shift should bring a number of union employees back to work building the all-important new Cruze, wit the highly efficient, 40-mile-per-gallon Cruze arriving in dealerships this fall.

UPDATE: General Motors made the extra shift at its Lordstown, OH plant official today saying it will add 1,200 new jobs. Follow the jump for GM's official press release.

Gallery: LA 2009: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

[Source: Detroit News]

Continue reading Report: GM adding extra shift at Lordstown to meet expected Cruze demand *UPDATE

Report: GM adding extra shift at Lordstown to meet expected Cruze demand *UPDATE originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> chevrolet cruzeChevroletCruzechevychevy cruzechevy cruze lordstownChevyCruzeChevyCruzeLordstowncruzegeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmlordstownlordstown ohioLordstownOhioohreportRick WagonerRickWagoner Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:01:00 EST <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Mitsubishi RVR Crossover]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/pics-aplenty-mitsubishi-rvr-crossover/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/pics-aplenty-mitsubishi-rvr-crossover/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/pics-aplenty-mitsubishi-rvr-crossover/#comments Filed under: Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Japan, Crossover, Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi RVR Crossover - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mitsubishi has officially rolled out the Japanese market version of its new RVR crossover, which will also be dubbed ASX for the European market when it goes on sale later this year. The automaker has said that it has plans to bring the new small CUV to the United States, but no official nomenclature has been confirmed for the vehicle that will land on our shores. The European version will officially debut to the public at next month's Geneva Motor Show.

In Japan, the RVR is offered with a new 1.8-liter gasoline four, producing 139 horsepower and mated to a continuously variable transmission with column-mounted paddle shifters. Both front- and all-wheel drive versions will be available, and earlier reports have stated that European customers will have the choice of a few diesel powerplants, including a 1.8-liter unit mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Have a click through our gallery to see the new Mitsubishi crossover from all angles, and expect more photos and information live from the Geneva show floor next month.

Gallery: Mitsubishi RVR Crossover

[Source: Drom.ru, Carscoop]

Pics Aplenty: Mitsubishi RVR Crossover originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> europeGeneva Motor ShowGenevaMotorShowJapanmitsubishimitsubishi rvrMitsubishiRvrrvr Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:01:00 EST <![CDATA[New Volkswagen CrossPolo to join GTI in Geneva]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/volkswagen-crosspolo-to-join-gti-in-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/volkswagen-crosspolo-to-join-gti-in-geneva/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/volkswagen-crosspolo-to-join-gti-in-geneva/#comments Filed under: Budget, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Volkswagen

Volkswagen CrossPolo - Click above for high-res image gallery

Volkswagen will be using the stage at this year's Geneva Motor Show to flesh out its new Polo range, which includes the base Polo, a high-efficiency Bluemotion model, the GTI version unveiled earlier this week and the CrossPolo revealed today. The latest generation CrossPolo takes the hatchback's sharp new styling and beefs it up with black plastic molding around the wheel arches, across the sills and bottom of each door, as well as on the front and rear bumpers. The front bumper gets a honeycomb treatment for the lower air intake and light silver trim at the bottom that suggests underbody protection (there isn't any, though). Also included are the CrossPolo's trademark silver anodized roof rails and handsome 17-inch two-tone wheels.

With the rear seat down, the little CrossPolo will swallow about 37 cubic feet of cargo, and Volkswagen offers no less than six (!) engines to haul all that stuff. There are three gas-powered engines that include a 1.2- and 1.4-liter four-cylinder, as well as a 1.2-liter TSI engine that features direct injection and turbocharging. There are also three diesel engines available and your choice of a six-speed manual transmission or 7-speed DSG automatic. That is, if you live in Europe.

The Polo remains off limits to U.S buyers for now, but VW has confirmed it will eventually be sold in the U.S. We drove a new Polo with the most powerful 1.2-liter TSI engine recently and came away eager for the day it goes on sale in the States. With the unveiling of the GTI and CrossPolo, we're now anxious.

Gallery: Volkswagen CrossPolo

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading New Volkswagen CrossPolo to join GTI in Geneva

New Volkswagen CrossPolo to join GTI in Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 09:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> genevageneva 2010geneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowpolovolkswagenvolkswagen crosspolovolkswagen poloVolkswagenCrosspoloVolkswagenPolovwvw crosspoloVwCrosspolo Fri, 19 Feb 2010 09:57:00 EST <![CDATA[Hyundai reportedly increasing Tucson production to meet surging demand]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/hyundai-reportedly-increasing-tucson-production-to-meet-surging/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/hyundai-reportedly-increasing-tucson-production-to-meet-surging/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/19/hyundai-reportedly-increasing-tucson-production-to-meet-surging/#comments Filed under: Budget, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Hyundai, South Korea

2010 Hyundai Tucson - Click above for high-res image gallery

Every automaker was expecting, or at least really hoping for, a dramatic rise in sales at the beginning of this year. Something in the lower double digits would have been an excellent start, a nice way to bring in the new year. Hyundai is one of those for which such dreams came true - the Korean automaker's dealers posted a 128-percent increase in sales in January.

Among the popular vehicles in the showroom blitz was the 2010 Tucson, leading Hyundai to boost production to meet demand. It's a great problem to have, especially after selling just 15,000 of the previous model last year. Hyundai America's CEO said the company foresees a "huge boost" this year. Part of that can be attributed to the troubles faced by a certain Japanese automaker, while another chunk of that gain is simply down to the fact that Hyundai is making some very good machinery.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Hyundai Tucson

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

Hyundai reportedly increasing Tucson production to meet surging demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Feb 2010 07:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2010 hyundai2010 hyundai tucson2010 tucson2010Hyundai2010HyundaiTucson2010Tucsonhyundai tucsonHyundaiTucsontucson Fri, 19 Feb 2010 07:58:00 EST <![CDATA[IIHS names 2011 Hyundai Sonata a Top Safety Pick]]> http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/18/iihs-names-2011-hyundai-sonata-a-top-safety-pick/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/18/iihs-names-2011-hyundai-sonata-a-top-safety-pick/ http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/18/iihs-names-2011-hyundai-sonata-a-top-safety-pick/#comments Filed under: Budget, Sedan, Safety, Hyundai

2011 Hyundai Sonata - Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata has a lot of things going for it. Not only does the sedan wear sleek new sheetmetal, it's powered by a powerful yet fuel-efficient 2.4-liter four-pot mill with direct injection, capable of achieving up to 35 miles per gallon on the highway and it's priced below the $20,000 mark. Now, the Sonata can wear another badge of honor, as it has just earned the rating of Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

According to the IIHS, a Top Safety Pick vehicle must earn the highest rating of "good" in all front, side and rear crash tests, and it must be equipped with electronic stability control. This is a relatively big achievement for Hyundai, as the 2011 model is the first Sonata to receive this high honor.

We're in the process of conducting our first drive on the Sonata as you read this, so stay tuned for full driving impressions in the not-too-distant future.

Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata

[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

IIHS names 2011 Hyundai Sonata a Top Safety Pick originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Feb 2010 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 Hyundai Sonata2011 sonata2011HyundaiSonata2011SonataHyundaihyundai sonataHyundaiSonataIIHSInsurance Institute for Highway SafetyInsuranceInstituteForHighwaySafetySonata Thu, 18 Feb 2010 16:59:00 EST