2011 Archives | Page 36 of 57

Video: 2011 Nissan Leaf assembly process detailed

Filed under: Japan, Plants/Manufacturing, Technology, Videos, Hatchback, Nissan, Electric

2011 Nissan Leaf assembly – Click above to watch video after the jump

Earlier this week, we rolled out a time-lapse video of the assembly of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt. In that video, General Motors took us inside its Detroit-Hamtramck plant to watch its plug-in hybrid undergo a transformation from a bodyshell to a ready-to-roll vehicle. In the all-too-brief clip, GM attempted to capture the complex steps of assembling the Chevy Volt but, as many of our commenters pointed out, failed to provide a detailed look at the intricate technologies that differentiate the Volt from more conventional vehicles.

In an attempt to be as fair as possible, it’s only fitting that we also showcase the assembly of the 2011 Nissan Leaf. This video, shot inside Nissan’s plant in Oppama, Japan, captures the production of the Leaf in painstaking detail. Hit the jump to watch the Nissan Leaf as it comes together right before your eyes.

Gallery: 2011 Nissan Leaf: First Drive

[Source: Nissan via YouTube]

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Video: 2011 Nissan Leaf assembly process detailed originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Quick Spin: 2011 Dodge Journey

Filed under: Crossover, Dodge, Quick Spin

An Also-Ran Matures Into A Real Competitor

2011 Dodge Journey

2011 Dodge Journey – Click above for high-res image gallery

With all of the Chrysler models receiving updates both significant and otherwise, it’s understandable if you’ve gotten a little lost in the fray. Here’s what you need to know: One of the most surprising bright lights to come out of the company’s refresh bender is the 2011 Dodge Journey. While the 2011 Dodge Charger and Durango may have stolen the spotlight with their new sheetmetal, the Journey has transmogrified into a small family hauler that offers plenty of horsepower, acceptable fuel economy and a massively updated interior. There’s even one of the quickest and largest touchscreens of any vehicle we’ve come across nestled in the dash.

Given Chrysler’s recently discovered love of installing much-improved interiors in its vehicles, the newfound goodies indoors should come as no surprise. But the company’s engineers seem to have spent just as much time tweaking the crossover’s driving character, resulting in a complete package that has turned it from being a washed-up never-was into a competitor almost overnight.

Gallery: 2011 Dodge Journey: Quick Spin

2011 Dodge Journey

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Quick Spin: 2011 Dodge Journey originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cadillac CTS-V, Jeep Grand Cherokee named 2011 Internet Car and Truck of the Year

Filed under: Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Crossover, Cadillac, Jeep, Off-Road

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011 Cadillac CTS-V and 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee – Click above for high-res image galleries

The Internet Car and Truck of the Year voting jury has just announced its pair of winners for 2011, and top honors go to both the Cadillac CTS-V and Jeep Grand Cherokee. For 2011, the CTS-V is offered in a trio of body styles, all of which boast a 556-horsepower supercharged V8 and seriously good driving dynamics. Likewise, the 2011 Grand Cherokee remains one of the best off-road vehicles in its class, and points the way forward for the “new Chrysler.”

In addition to the vehicles picked by the Internet Car and Truck of the Year jurors, the motoring public was able to cast its vote for the “Average Joe” awards. Unlike the professional jury, the public voters named the 2011 Ford Mustang GT as Car of the Year, its new 5.0-liter V8 and reworked suspension geometry making it more of a true sports car than a stereotypical muscle car. However, both the “Internet Pros” and “Average Joes” saw eye to eye on the Truck of the Year award, with the Grand Cherokee taking the cake from both segments of voters.

Vehicles aside, the ICTOY jury also honored recently deceased and legendary automotive journalist Jerry Flint with the 2010 Journalist of the Year award. Flint, who died on August 7th of this year, covered the automotive beat for over 50 years, and was once named one of the 100 most prominent business reporters of the 20th century.

For the full details on all of the awards, follow the jump to read the Internet Car and Truck of the Year press release.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Coupe

Gallery: Review: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

[Source: Internet Car and Truck of the Year]

Continue reading Cadillac CTS-V, Jeep Grand Cherokee named 2011 Internet Car and Truck of the Year

Cadillac CTS-V, Jeep Grand Cherokee named 2011 Internet Car and Truck of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2011 Mini Cooper S

Filed under: Hatchback, Mini, Reviews

Further Evolving Sir Alec Issigonis’ Original Idea

2011 Mini Cooper

2011 Mini Cooper – Click above for high-res image gallery

Henry Ford, Ferdinand Porsche, Karl Benz, Gottlieb Daimler. All pioneers in the automotive world. But this list would be woefully incomplete without the inclusion of Sir Alec Issigonis, the man most responsible for the design of the original Mini.

Issigonis once famously said, “When you’re designing a new car for production, never, never copy the opposition.” Sage advice, we’d say, as the Mini – a true clean-sheet automotive design, with its transverse engine, front-wheel drive and sparse seating – went on to become one of the most successful vehicles in history. And its name and likeness continue to live on in the form of the modern-day Mini Cooper, Clubman and, most recently, Countryman.

Despite the similarities from one modern generation to the next, the BMW-owned automaker is quick to point out the myriad of changes made to the Cooper for the 2011 model year, not the least of which are improvements to the engine and transmission options, resulting in more power and improved efficiency.

So, the logical question is: Do these changes make a better Mini, or are they so minor (or is that Minor?) you won’t even notice?

Gallery: 2011 Mini Cooper: First Drive

2011 Mini Cooper

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First Drive: 2011 Mini Cooper S originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Pirelli calendar presented by Karl Lagerfeld

Filed under: Etc., Design/Style

2011 Pirelli Calendar by Karl Lagerfeld – Click above for high-res image gallery

The Pirelli Calendar is an annually produced gift, intended for friends and VIPs who associate with the top-tier tire manufacturer. It’s also become a fashion icon, with 12 months of high-art photography that typically includes nude or near-nude subjects. For the 2011 edition, Pirelli has teamed up with fashion maven Karl Lagerfeld and a host of models, both male and female, including actress Julianne Moore. The theme for this year’s calendar is Greek and Roman mythology, with Moore playing the part of Hera and Brad Kroenig portraying Zeus.

Past calendars have chosen to show off Brazil, Botswana, China and even Hollywood. Lagerfeld’s 2011 edition sticks to the mythology theme but was shot at his Paris studio, and then unveiled in Moscow. No, this doesn’t make a ton of sense to us either…

For additional information on the 2011 Pirelli calendar, be sure to hop past the jump and check out the press release – in all of its nearly 16,000-word glory. More importantly, safe-for-work shots from the calendar can be seen in our gallery below.

Gallery: 2011 Pirelli Calendar by Karl Lagerfeld

[Source: Pirelli]

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2011 Pirelli calendar presented by Karl Lagerfeld originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX

Filed under: Performance, Hatchback, Subaru, Reviews

Measuring The Difference In Inches

2011 Subaru Impreza WRX

2011 Subaru Impreza WRX – Click above for high-res image gallery

One point three inches. How much difference can it make? That depends on what you’re measuring. If you’re comparing the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX to the 2011, that small measurement makes all the difference in the world.

If you’re a Subie fan, you’ve already read our First Drive. The headline news for the 2010-to-2011 changeover is that the WRX gained the STI model’s widebody fenders and 1.3-inch wider track. Wanting to know whether the growth in girth made any difference to the affable and relatively affordable WRX, we decided to spend some quality time in the example you see here.

We learned plenty. Many things work well for the practical enthusiast. Others, not so much.

Gallery: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX: Review

2011 Subaru Impreza WRX

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Review: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Honda Insight gets much cheaper base model, new features for 2011

Filed under: Hybrid, Hatchback, Honda

2011 Honda Insight

2011 Honda Insight – Click above for high-res image gallery

The slow-selling Honda Insight hasn’t exactly stolen any of the Toyota Prius’ thunder since its introduction last year, and with new green cars like the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf ready to join the battle, the future of Honda’s hybrid hatch doesn’t look too bright. Still, the Japanese automaker has given the Insight a host of improvements for the 2011 model year, including a new base model that retails for $18,950 (including the $750 destination charge).

So, what do you ~~lose~~ gain with the base Insight? For starters, a downgraded stereo system is on hand, with a single CD player and two – yes, two – speakers. Audiophiles need not apply. Remote entry is standard on the base Insight, but if you want amenities like cruise control, a USB audio interface, center armrest and floor mats, you’ll need to opt for the mid-grade LX trim. In other words, the new price leader is something of a municipal and fleet special. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the pricier EX now comes standard with steering wheel-mounted audio controls and can be optioned with navigation.

The Insight’s 1.3-liter inline-four with Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist carries over largely unchanged, with fuel economy rated at 40/43 miles per gallon, city/highway. 2011 Insight models are arriving at Honda dealers as you read this, and for the full details on what’s new, follow the jump for Honda’s press release.

Gallery: 2011 Honda Insight

2011 Honda Insight

[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Honda Insight gets much cheaper base model, new features for 2011

Honda Insight gets much cheaper base model, new features for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Volvo recalls various 2011 models over fuel cutoff calibration fears

Filed under: Sedan, Recalls, Safety, Crossover, Volvo

2011 Volvo S60 at the beach

Volvo fuel shutoff recall models – Click above for high-res image gallery

Volvo and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration have announced that the Swedish automaker will recall some 6,046 vehicles from the 2011 model year due to a possible flaw in the engine control module. According to NHTSA, a fuel shut-off parameter in the software is too sensitive, and under certain conditions, the engine may stall. Volvo is concerned that the problem may lead to an accident. A total of four models are covered in the recall, including the 2011 S60 and S80 sedans along with the XC60 and XC70 softroaders.

Volvo is scheduled to begin the recall on or before December 10, and owners will have their vehicle’s software updated free of charge to fix the problem. Concerned drivers may contact Volvo directly at 1.800.458.1552 or at customercare@volvoforlife.com.

Gallery: Volvo Fuel Cut-Off Recall

[Source: NHTSA]

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Volvo recalls various 2011 models over fuel cutoff calibration fears originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Aston Martin releases updated 2011 Vantage GT4

Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Aston Martin, Racing

2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4

2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4 – Click above for high-res image gallery

The Aston Martin Vantage GT4 has only been racing for two years, but in that time has garnered notable accolades: Wins at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, Spa 24 hours and this year’s European GT4 Cup, just to name three.

The Gaydon firm has made revisions to the 2011 model, incorporating lessons learned from the roadgoing V12 Vantage, including better aerodynamics and greater downforce, as well as a new option that includes racing-tuned ABS and a new traction control system developed by Bosch. No specific numbers were released, but Aston Martin says that it has reworked the GT4’s 4.7-liter V8, as well, providing improved horsepower and torque numbers.

We’re sure these new changes will help the GT4 secure a few more wins in the 2011 racing season. You can follow the jump for more details or just ogle it in the gallery of high-res photos below.

Gallery: 2011 Aston Martin Vantage GT4

[Source: Aston Martin]

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Aston Martin releases updated 2011 Vantage GT4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Nov 2010 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Ride: 2011 Harley-Davidson CVO models

Filed under: Motorcycle, Reviews

Appealing to the Senses, Not the Sensibilities

2011 Harley-Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide

2011 Harley-Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide – Click above for high-res image gallery

Harley-Davidson isn’t exactly known for innovation. While the majority of players in the motorcycle world tend to push the envelope of performance and technology, The Motor Company has historically taken a different approach to its lineup of heavyweight motorcycles. In place of traction control and electronically adjustable suspension setups, H-D focuses on chrome, paint, tradition and… more chrome.

Nowhere is that strategy more evident than the yearly crop of models from its Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) unit, which has proven to be a rather successful way to entice buyers into its highest priced wares. As such, we shouldn’t expect any major adjustments to the basic way of thinking that’s proven itself time and time again from the brain-trust in Milwaukee.

That said, there are some meaningful updates for the 2011 model year that we were interested in seeing and hearing, so we saddled ourselves up on each of the four new CVO bikes in beautiful Lake Tahoe for some good ol’ fashioned riding impressions. Kick back, throw on your very best leather chaps and read on, Harley fans.

Gallery: 2011 Harley-Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide

2011 Harley-Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide

Continue reading First Ride: 2011 Harley-Davidson CVO models

First Ride: 2011 Harley-Davidson CVO models originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Nov 2010 11:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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