2010 Archives | Page 6 of 23

LA 2010: Subaru Impreza Concept caught in living color

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Sedan, Subaru, Design/Style

2010 Subaru Impreza Concept

2010 Subaru Impreza Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

One of the biggest surprises (so far…) of the 2010 LA Auto Show has to be the Subaru Impreza Design Concept that snuck up on us just a few hours ago. Some thought it might be the long-awaited Subota coupe (a close cousin of the Toyobaru, of course), but in reality what we have here is a conceptual sedan that the Japanese automaker claims will heavily influence future models… namely the Impreza, we’d wager.

Yes, there’s a working 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine bolted to a CVT gearbox behind that shapely new front grille and its massive side vents, but it’s the styling we’re really intrigued by. To that end, be sure to take a good, hard look at the live shots in our high-res gallery below. If you need all the details, follow the jump for the press release.

Gallery: LA 2010: Subaru Impreza Concept

Gallery: 2010 Subaru Impreza Concept

[Source: Subaru]

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LA 2010: Subaru Impreza Concept caught in living color originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: Nissan GT-R adds 45 HP for 2012, hits 60 under 3 seconds *Update

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Nissan

2012 Nissan GT-R

2012 Nissan GT-R – Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan is making quite a splash at the 2010 LA Auto Show. Despite the presence of the bat-guano-crazy Murano CrossCabriolet and rather attractive Ellure Concept, perhaps the most highly anticipated machine from the Japanese automaker is the 2012 GT-R. Here are the most important pieces of information to chew on: 530 horsepower and 488 pound-feet of torque.

That means Godzilla Part II (Tokyo Strikes Back!) offers up 45 more raging stallions than the first edition, which Nissan claims is enough to push its all-wheel-drive super coupe to 60 miles per hour in under three seconds(!). Those upgraded figures come courtesy of increased boost from the twin turbos packed into the six combustion chambers along with larger inlet and exhaust pipes.

Body modifications include an enlarged front fascia and grille openings along with double rectifier fins and LED running lights. These updates are said to allow for more air to enter the engine compartment and sweep across front brakes for cooling. Out back, Nissan says its redesigned rear fascia lowers the car’s center of gravity.

Aerodynamic improvements such as the aforementioned front fascia, rear diffuser and underbody trays equal a coefficient of drag that falls to just 0.26. All models get new and improved Rays wheels, and a new Black Edition sees darkened six-spoke affairs along with red-trimmed Recaro seats that should look pretty darn nice with the new across-the-range carbon interior highlights.

Colors include Solid Red, Gun Metallic, Pearl White and a limited production four-stage metallic Super Silver, which join two new shades for the new year: Deep Blue Pearl (pictured) and Jet Black. Full details can be found in the press release after the jump, but what you really want to see are the high-res images in our galleries below. Enjoy!

*Update: Nissan reports the starting MSRPs for the 2012 Nissan GT-R are $89,950 USD and $95,100 USD for the Premium and Black Edition respectively.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2012 Nissan GT-R

2012 Nissan GT-R

Gallery: 2012 Nissan GT-R

[Source: Nissan]

Continue reading LA 2010: Nissan GT-R adds 45 HP for 2012, hits 60 under 3 seconds *Update

LA 2010: Nissan GT-R adds 45 HP for 2012, hits 60 under 3 seconds *Update originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: Porsche pulls the covers off 2011 Cayman R

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Coupe, Performance, Porsche

2011 Porsche Cayman R

2011 Porsche Cayman R – Click above for high-res image gallery

Porsche has pulled the silk off its all-new 2011 Cayman R, the latest variant of the German automaker’s two-seat coupe. Aside from the obligatory decals and badging designed to differentiate this new flagship Cayman from its siblings, the Cayman R boasts a chassis that has been lightened by about 120 pounds and a handful of other tweaks.

Inside the cabin, the Cayman R features Alcantara and leather upholstery, sport seats, strap door handles and a painted console color-keyed to the exterior. Under the skin, the suspension has been enhanced with shorter, more rigid springs and there are customized anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles (the ride height is about 20 millimeters lower than the Cayman S).

Motivation comes from Porsche’s 3.4-liter flat-six, bumped up slightly to 330 horsepower, while transmission choices include Porsche’s excellent PDK automatic gearbox or a traditional six-speed manual. According to the automaker, the 2,855-pound Cayman R will hit 62 miles per hour in less than five seconds and top out at 175 mph. Look for the Cayman R in dealers wearing a $66,000 price tag before the end of the year. Follow the jump for the official press release from Porsche.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2011 Porsche Cayman R

2011 Porsche Cayman R

Gallery: 2011 Porsche Cayman R

Continue reading LA 2010: Porsche pulls the covers off 2011 Cayman R

LA 2010: Porsche pulls the covers off 2011 Cayman R originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: Nissan Ellure concept previews future sedan design

Filed under: Concept Cars, LA Auto Show, Sedan, Nissan

Nissan Ellure concept

Nissan Ellure concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

Nissan calls its Ellure concept “the sedan re-imagined,” previewing what sort of design is possible for its forthcoming four-door range. This concept is at once elegant and aggressive, with styling elements that don’t stray too far from what the automaker is currently putting out. Those headlamps, for example, use the same fin-like design of the taillights on the 370Z and Juke, and are a more forward-thinking version of what we currently see on the Maxima.

Let’s be clear, though – there are plenty of elements on the Ellure that are purely concept car spec. The large, 21-inch wheels and rear-hinged rear doors, for example – stylish and sleek, yes, but hardly practical for future production sedans. The same thing can be said for the interior, which uses suede seats, “floating” headrests, red floors and red pedals (why don’t more cars have these?).

The Ellure is powered by a supercharged 2.5-liter inline-four and a 25-kilowatt electric motor, mated to the automaker’s Xtronic CVT and a front-wheel-drive layout. Nissan says the concept uses regenerative braking and an advanced drive-by-wire electric/hydraulic steering system to ensure that the Ellure is as involving as possible for drivers out on the road.

No, the Ellure won’t be destined for production, but we’re eager to see how this sexy new sedan influences Nissan’s future product portfolio. See it in full high-res glory in the gallery below, and follow the jump for the official press release.

Gallery: LA 2010: Nissan Ellure Concept

Nissan Ellure Concept

Gallery: Nissan Ellure Concept

[Source: Nissan]

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LA 2010: Nissan Ellure concept previews future sedan design originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: U.S.-spec Fiat 500 right at home in Chrysler’s hip new LA dealership

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Hatchback, Chrysler, Fiat

2011 Fiat 500

2011 Fiat 500 – Click above for high-res image gallery

Yesterday, we told you about the grand opening of Chrysler’s swanky new Motor Village dealership in downtown Los Angeles – the first North American dealership to sell the Fiat 500. As part of its big opening-day ceremonies, Chrysler unveiled the U.S.-spec 500 ahead of its official reveal at this week’s LA Auto Show. A variety of colors and trims were on hand, and being surrounded by all of these 500s at once only makes us more eager to get some seat time in the diminutive little Italian Job.

The first round of 500s will go on sale later this year, in Sport, Pop and Lounge trim levels. A wealth of colors, interior fabrics and wheels will be available, and you can see some of what Fiat has to offer in our high-res image gallery, below.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2011 Fiat 500

2011 Fiat 500

LA 2010: U.S.-spec Fiat 500 right at home in Chrysler’s hip new LA dealership originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: Volkswagen “perfects” 2012 Eos convertible

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Coupe, Volkswagen

2012 Volkswagen Eos

2012 Volkswagen Eos – Click above for high-res image gallery

We knew this was coming. Just a few weeks ago, Volkswagen of Australia let loose a bunch of details and images of the next Eos hardtop convertible. At the time, we said we’d wait for confirmation from VW of America, but of course we knew the new model would eventually be announced for the States as it is the largest market for the German droptop, and it’s getting its official debut right here in the U.S. at the LA Auto Show.

And so here we are with all the details and two full high-res image galleries of a U.S.-spec Volkswagen Eos, which VW claims has been “perfected.” Sharp-eyed readers will notice refined front and rear fascias, which are a bit more in keeping with VW’s most recent vehicular debuts. We think it’s a pretty comprehensive improvement over the outgoing model, which always looked a bit too feminine to our eyes. We especially think the optional xenon headlamps with their 14 integrated LEDs help move the car a bit upscale.

Also as expected, VW will fit the next-gen Eos with the latest version of its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant, mated up to the well-known six-speed DSG transmission. Fuel mileage is estimated at 22 miles per gallon in the city and 31 on the highway. The interior sees a few updates as well, mostly with the addition of some new trim options and fabrics.

Expect the new Eos to hit a dealership near you sometime in March. In the meantime, feel free to click past the break for the official press release and be sure to check out the high-res image galleries below.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2012 Volkswagen Eos Live Photos

LA 2010: Volkswagen Eos

Gallery: LA 2010: 2012 Volkswagen Eos

2011 Volkswagen Eos

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Jeff Glucker / AOL
[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading LA 2010: Volkswagen “perfects” 2012 Eos convertible

LA 2010: Volkswagen “perfects” 2012 Eos convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 01:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: Cadillac unwraps Urban Luxury Concept

Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

One could be excused for thinking that the definition of urban luxury might be the Cadillac Escalade, but apparently the hive mind at General Motors’ most luxurious division have other thoughts on the subject. In fact, it seems Cadillac is thinking the exact opposite. To wit, take a gander at the Urban Luxury Concept that’s being debuted at the 2010 LA Auto Show.

As would seem appropriate for a car intended for urban confines, this Caddy concept features rather small exterior dimensions, but the automaker claims that it’s large inside with seating for four occupants. Wheelbase comes in at a hair over 97 inches and overall length measures 151 inches. Width is listed at 68.1 inches and height at just under 57 inches.

Ingress and egress takes place through a pair of scissor doors that extend outward and rotate forward when opened – supposedly a boon for tight urban parking spaces. The rest of the exterior carries the brand’s Art and Science motif to new levels and could sort of be described as a Smart Fortwo or Aston Martin Cygnet drawn with nothing but a straight edge. We wouldn’t call it pretty, but striking would certainly be an apt descriptor.

Interior space is recovered by the lack of the expected gauges and control surfaces. Instead, we have projectors and a slew of capacitive touch screens that glow Tanzanite blueish-purple. There’s a hide-away right-hand touch pad and the back of the folding passenger seat converts into an Orbit Baby SmartHub.

Power comes from a 1.0-liter turbocharged three cylinder engine (perhaps the unit that was originally planned for the Chevy Volt?) that makes up part of a hybrid drivetrain. GM claims the system would provide a completely theoretical 56 miles per gallon in the city and 65 mpg on the highway.

To get the full story of the Urban Luxury Concept, you really need to take a look at our high-res image gallery below, and you’ll also find the complete press release after the break.

Gallery: LA 2010: Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept

LA 2010: Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept

[Source: Cadillac]

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LA 2010: Cadillac unwraps Urban Luxury Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: Ford Focus Race Car Concept goes global

Filed under: Concept Cars, Motorsports

Ford Focus Race Car Concept

Ford Focus Race Car Concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

Ford likes to tout the 2012 Focus’ global credentials, because this is the first time the compact sedan and hatchback will be offered with minimal changes in nearly every market the Blue Oval operates. Interestingly, the Ford has taken a similar approach with the racing version of the Focus, which it says is designed to compete in all kinds of rally racing both in the United States and throughout the rest of the world.

Power, predictably, will come from a tuned version of the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that we’ll see in the upcoming Focus ST. You’ll find AST performance coil-over adjustable dampers at each corner holding up anthracite 18-inch wheels and Hoosier race tires. Other suspension bits include sway bars from Ford Racing with adjustable end links and front brakes with 320-millimeter two-piece rotors and race pads.

Inside, a full FIA-certified roll cage is included, along with Recaro seats with six-point racing harnesses and a full electronics package for keeping track of essential data. Interestingly, Ford says it teamed up with a number of professional private racing teams to develop its Focus Race package, which means it should be highly adaptable to multiple series and formats.

FSWerks Ford Focus This car’s first appearance in competition will be at the 2011 British Touring Car Championship, but it will also circle tracks in China and at the 24-hour race at Nürburgring in Germany. Even more importantly, Ford says the upcoming 2012 Focus ST will benefit from the experience gained by racing its track-developed sibling.

In addition to the Focus Race Car Concept, also hitting the LA Auto Show floor will be three Focus models tuned with various aftermarket products. One will come from Ford’s own Vehicle Personalization group while the others will be presented by FSWerks and 3dCarbon, respectively.

Hit the jump for all the details in the complete press releases.

Gallery: LA 2010: Ford Focus Race Car Concept and FSWerks Focus

LA 2010: Ford Focus Race Car Concept LA 2010: FSWerks Ford Focus

[Source: Ford]

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LA 2010: Ford Focus Race Car Concept goes global originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedan, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG – Click above for high-res image gallery

On the eve of the LA Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz has taken the wraps off the 2012 CLS63 AMG, the bi-turbo V8 version of its thoroughly restyled and utterly delectable sedan.

AMG’s new baby – the M157 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 – is finding a home in nearly every new Mercedes product, and when fitted to the CLS63 the blown mill is good for 518 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque… in standard form. Option up for the AMG Performance Package and Merc’s in-house tuner turns up the boost from 14.5 to 18.8 psi and output rises to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft of twist. Equipped with AMG’s seven-gear “Speedshift” MCT automatic tranny, the CLS63 takes an estimated 4.4 seconds to run from 0-60 in standard guise and 4.3 seconds with the AMG pack. Similarly, top speed also rises from 155 to 186 mph with the performance upgrade. And if you care, both variants clock in at 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.

In addition to the reworked engine and transmission, the front axle has been widened by nearly an inch and AMG fitted its independent adaptive suspension with electronic damping and a three-stage traction control system. The 19-inch, five-spoke wheels are wrapped in 255/35 tires in front and 285/30s out back, while 14.2-inch drilled and ventilated discs are fitted at all four corners.

A special “Launch Edition” will be available when the CLS63 goes on sale this coming summer and comes coated in matte grey paint with a mix of carbon fiber and piano black interior trim, alcantara headliner and AMG sports seats swathed in “Corteccia Pearl” leather. Make the jump for all the details and specs.

Gallery: LA 2010: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

Gallery: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading LA 2010: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG

LA 2010: 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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LA 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible drops its top in sunny SoCal

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Performance, Chevrolet

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible – Click above for high-res image gallery

Earlier this morning, Chevrolet let loose with official details, pictures and even a few videos of the 2011 Camaro Convertible just ahead of the car’s official debut at the LA Auto Show. The droptop pony car hasn’t been a secret for some time now, but this is our first real look at a standard production model.

Perhaps it’s because the concept version debuted nearly four years ago in Detroit or because we’ve seen dozens of spy photos, but for some reason, the Camaro Convertible hardly seems like a new car. The front end is essentially unchanged from the coupe, so if you like the hardtop then you’ll likely enjoy the looks of the convertible, as well. Even so, the folks at General Motors are excited about having a second model to help improve their sales lead over the Mustang, and we’re sure that they’ll soon be popping up all over the place in warmer states and rental car fleets across the country.

It was a typically warm Southern California day without a cloud in the sky, and we would have loved to take the Camaro Convertible out for a spin. Unfortunately, we aren’t able to get behind the wheel just yet, but we did take plenty of photos that can be found in the high-res gallery below. You can also hit the jump for the official press release from GM in case you missed it this morning.

Gallery: LA 2010: Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible

Continue reading LA 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible drops its top in sunny SoCal

LA 2010: 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible drops its top in sunny SoCal originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Nov 2010 21:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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