spy Archives | Page 12 of 19

Spy Shots: Mazda prepping smaller CX-5 crossover?

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Mazda

Mazda Small CUV

Mystery Mazda small CUV spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda has, on more than one occasion, discussed its plans to expand its model range in the next couple of years, including the addition of a small crossover in the near term. According to an earlier report from Autocar, Mazda had said that its “new small SUV” would debut sometime in 2011, with the first sales taking place before we turn the calendar over to 2012. Now, we have our first glimpse at what appears to be a mule for Mazda’s new small crossover, a model we’ll call CX-5.

This mule may be a chopped and cropped version of the larger CX-7, but the new CX-5 is understood to be based on the smaller Mazda3 platform. Expect power to come from Mazda’s new line of Sky G and Sky D engines and transmissions, tailored for the specific demands of customers in different world markets. The CX-5 will likely be produced in Japan, and we wouldn’t be shocked to learn that it’s coming to the United States and Europe, as well. See it for yourself in the high-res gallery of spy shots below.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Mazda Small CUV

Mazda Small CUV spy shots

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Mazda prepping smaller CX-5 crossover? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Audi Q3 caught frolicking in the snow

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Audi

Audi Q3 spy shot

Audi Q3 spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

The details on Audi’s forthcoming Q3 crossover are slim, and while we still have yet to see a clear set of spy photos (this latest set certainly isn’t the greatest, but beggars can’t be choosers), there’s no doubt that the automaker is prepping its smallest-yet CUV for a debut sometime in 2011. We do understand that the majority of the Q3’s groundwork will be based on the Volkswagen Tiguan, though the styling will be more akin to that of Audi’s Cross Coupe concept from 2007.

Various reports have stated that the Tiguan’s engines and transmissions will carry over to the Q3, so we can expect the Audi to be powered by the automaker’s 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, producing somewhere around 200 horsepower. A diesel version is more than likely planned for European markets, though there’s no word about whether or not an oil-burning Q3 will make its way Stateside.

Our spies suggest that the Q3 will debut in the second half of 2011 (Frankfurt Motor Show?) with the first models going on sale later that year. Until then, we’ll keep our eyes peeled for clearer views of Q3 prototypes out on the road.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Audi Q3

Audi Q3 spy shots

[Source: CarPix]

Spy Shots: Audi Q3 caught frolicking in the snow originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Compass sharpens up

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Jeep

2011 Jeep Compass spy shot

2011 Jeep Compass spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

Based on what we saw in a few reader-snapped spy shots, the Jeep Compass is getting a much-needed makeover for the 2011 model year. This latest set of spy photos shows the new changes clear as day, and while the Compass’ shape hasn’t been altered (that odd C-pillar door handle is still intact), the completely revised front end is immediately more attractive than the outgoing model. It isn’t terribly original, as it’s clearly a derivative of the Grand Cherokee, but it’s a huge step forward. Let’s just hope Chrysler doesn’t fudge it up with a Rallye version this time around.

Around back, things are largely the same, albeit with a new set of LED taillamps, more than likely reserved for higher-zoot trims within the Compass range. The rear bumper and lower fascia have been reworked slightly, but we won’t fault you for not noticing right away, especially when the majority of your attention has largely gone to checking out the WK2-ified front end.

Like the vast majority of 2011 model year Chrysler vehicles, expect the new Compass to benefit from a greatly updated interior that includes higher-quality materials and a tweaked overall design. Judging by the Compass’ kissing cousin, the recently facelifted 2011 Patriot, we don’t expect much to have changed under the hood (the anemic 2.0- and 2.4-liter four-cylinder ‘World Engines’ will likely carry over unchanged), but we suspect improvements to the vehicle’s ride, handling and NVH will be realized.

With the Detroit Auto Show only a few weeks away, it’s likely that the refreshed Compass will make its public debut under the lights of Cobo Hall, with the first few examples going on sale very shortly thereafter.

Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Compass

2011 Jeep Compass

[Source: Chris Doane/Brenda Priddy & Company]

Spy Shots: 2011 Jeep Compass sharpens up originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Are you the 2012 Volkswagen NMS?

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, Volkswagen

Volkswagen NMS spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

For all of secrecy surrounding the New Midsized Sedan, we may have just scored our first unfettered glimpse at the new Volkswagen four-door. The quick-eyed crew over at JokeForBlog managed to lay their hands on a scant few images of what appears to be the NMS, and the vehicle looks to take more than a few cues from the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta. Using the German carmaker’s revised corporate face up front and the same hexagonal license plate inset on the trunk deck, the similarities are almost overwhelming. We’ve got to wonder exactly what VW has planned to differentiate the two models other than size.

Unfortunately, if these shots are accurate, the as-yet unnamed sedan doesn’t appear to be nearly as aggressive as the renderings we saw at this year’s Paris Motor Show. While those drawings showed off a low-slung four-door with aggressive lines and plenty of menace in its bones, these spy photos show a vehicle that looks downright pedestrian and conservative. That said, given the modest wheels this model is wearing, we suspect it’s a lower trim level – hopefully more expensive models will appear more premium and aggressive.

With the current Passat headed for the scrap heap in America, it would appear that we’d best get used to what we see above. Odds are this machine is going to be a bigger, less-expensive replacement for long-serving VW four-door.

Gallery: Volkswagen NMS Spy Shots

[Source: JokeForBlog via Autoblog.nl]

Spy Shots: Are you the 2012 Volkswagen NMS? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: De Tomaso readying SLC for Geneva?

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, MISC

De Tomaso SLC spy shot – Click above for image gallery

We’ve heard the rumors, and now we have a small series of spy photos that seem to corroborate the hearsay. Looks like De Tomaso is indeed readying at least one concept car to show off at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

We can’t say for certain that the machine seen in these photos is the BMW X6-like crossover that has been talked about – in fact, it looks more sedan or wagon-like, but at least it appears to be proof that something is in the works. Current conjecture has this car will be called SLC.

Whatever the case, we can clearly see De Tomaso’s new logo, along with some sensuous, flowing curves that piques our curiousity. See for yourself in our image gallery below.

Gallery: Spy Shots: De Tomaso SLC

Spy Shots: De Tomaso SLC

[Source: Jokeforblog.blogspot.com via Autoblog.nl]

Spy Shots: De Tomaso readying SLC for Geneva? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Lincoln MKT Hearse looks to be one swanky final ride

Filed under: Spy Photos, Crossover, Lincoln, Specialty

Lincoln MKT hearse

Lincoln MKT hearse spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

Halloween may have been two months ago, but our quick-shooting spy photographers have just captured the first images of Lincoln’s upcoming MKT hearse. (Yes, hearse.) With the impending death of the Town Car not too far ahead, Ford Motor Company has already stated that the Flex-based MKT crossover will be uplifted to serve a variety of special livery duties. This means that in addition to this rather fetching hearse, we can probably expect to see stretched limousine versions of the MKT in the not-too-distant future.

It isn’t immediately clear if this MKT hearse is fully a factory effort or if Ford is conducting testing with an aftermarket livery company, but this prototype has been spotted in Ford’s usual stomping grounds, and it boasts a Michigan Manufacturer license plate. The tester seen here appears to be powered by the automaker’s 3.7-liter V6, an engine that’s currently available in the base MKT, and that seems just fine by us. After all, there really isn’t any need for the more powerful EcoBoost V6 in a vehicle that’s designed for slow, sorrow-filled processions. The prototype’s stretched wheelbase and taller roof should provide ample room for even the largest of – ahem – passengers, and based on our experiences with the standard-issue MKT, things shouldn’t be too spartan for the driver, either.

Have a look at the full set of MKT Hearse spy shots in our high-resolution gallery below, and look for this larger-than-life (or death) Lincoln to start arriving at funeral homes near you.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Lincoln MKT Hearse

Lincoln MKT Hearse

[Source: Chris Doane/Brenda Priddy & Company]

Spy Shots: Lincoln MKT Hearse looks to be one swanky final ride originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: Pagani C9 caught flexing its V12 muscle

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Performance, MISC

Spy Shots: Pagani C9

Spy Shots: Pagani C9 – Click above for high-res image gallery

While you might be at home recovering from a Turkey-induced hangover, the dedicated spy photographers of the world are out and about, dutifully catching glimpses of new cars as they are tested. One lucky lensmith caught a camouflaged Pagani C9 being put through a rigorous testing regime.

And rigorous it is, with a reported 500,000-plus combined kilometers having ticked off the odometers of the four prototypes and one test mule. Pagani wants to hit 700,000 kilometers before the car shows its unmasked face, which looks almost Fisker-esque in the photos you see here.

The Pagani C9 is powered by an AMG-developed V12 engine, which is not related to the V12 found in the Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series. Rumor has it that the V12 powering the C9 produces over 700 horsepower while also lowering C02 emissions to sub-supercar levels.

We’re still calling it the C9, but the real name will be revealed sometime in the next few weeks. Pagani’s Zonda replacement, whatever moniker it might wear, should make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March of 2011. If that happens, you can be certain we’ll be on hand to capture it from every angle.

Gallery: Spy Shots: Pagani C9

Spy Shots: Pagani C9

[Source: Carpix]

Spy Shots: Pagani C9 caught flexing its V12 muscle originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Nov 2010 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: McLaren prepping race-ready MP4-12C GT3

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Racing

McLaren MP4-12C GT3 spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

Grainy as they may be, these spy photos give us our first glimpse at the race-prepped McLaren MP4-12C GT3 – a high-performance version of the automaker’s stunning new two-door. The GT3 aims to recapture the racing success of the original McLaren F1, and though details are slim on power enhancements, the revised visual cues of this prototype show that this MP4 is ready to do serious battle out on the track.

Up front, the road-going MP4’s front air intakes have been closed off and a large air duct is now found right in the center of the hood. These changes are matched with revised rear window venting, as well as a giant wing fixed to the car’s rump.

Early reports have stated that McLaren is working with British racing firm CRS and that the car is set to debut sometime in 2012. All we know is, we can’t wait to see this stunning new beast swapping paint with other GT3 racers. See the full set of spy shots in the high-res gallery, below.

UPDATED with better images.

Gallery: Spy Shots: McLaren MP4-12C GT3

McLaren MP4-12C GT3 spy shots

[Source: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: McLaren prepping race-ready MP4-12C GT3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Nov 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Reader Spy: U.S. Border Patrol finally gets its leatherless Ford Raptors

Filed under: Truck, Government/Legal, Work, Ford, Off-Road

U.S. Border Patrol Ford Raptors being delivered – Click above for image gallery

What the U.S. Federal Government wants, the U.S. Federal Government gets. And what the Customs and Border Protection division of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security wanted were at least 10 Ford SVT Raptor pickup trucks to patrol the area where Arizona borders with Mexico. Only problem is that Ford puts a standard leather interior in all its Raptor trucks, which is evidently against the ordering preferences of the Feds.

So, what to do? Put in an extra-special order with Ford, make a few phone calls (give us what we want… or else…) and patiently await delivery – a truckload of specially liveried pickups that Autoblog reader Matt happened photograph and send in to us. We went ahead and contacted Ford to be sure that it managed to deliver the authorities the Raptors it wanted, and we got an affirmative… sort of.

Ford would need the actual Vehicle Identification Numbers of the trucks to confirm individual equipment levels, and we’re not about to march on down to Southern Arizona to grab them. But Ford says the Feds did order Raptors without leather and that the Blue Oval Bosses complied. So we’re going with a definite probably. Have a look for yourself below. Thanks for the pics, Matt!

Gallery: U.S. Border Patrol Ford SVT Raptor shipment

Reader Spy: U.S. Border Patrol finally gets its leatherless Ford Raptors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series caught testing, interior revealed for first time

Filed under: Spy Photos, Sedan, BMW

BMW 3 Series spy shots

BMW 3 Series spy shots – Click above for high-res image gallery

Lately, we’ve been hearing a lot about BMW’s plans to expand its model line with more niche models like the X6 and 5 Series Gran Turismo. We’ve heard talks of a new X4 crossover, a 3 Series GT and even a hatchback M3. It’s all a bit maddening, yes, but never fear – BMW has not forgotten about its core models, especially the all-important 3 Series sedan. After all, the four-door 3er is quite possibly the most important benchmark vehicle in the automotive marketplace. We do talk about it quite a bit.

BMW 3 Series interior spy shot Our sneaky spy photographers have just snapped this 3 Series prototype out testing on public roads, and while the exterior hasn’t been altered too much from other development cars we’ve seen, our photogs managed to snap the 3er’s reworked interior for the first time. Breathe easy, folks – it isn’t too far removed from what we’ve come to know in the current E90 car. The dash has more sculpted lines, the steering wheel is beefier and has some more functional buttons and the center console features BMW’s new remote-sized shifter.

We’re still unsure as to what BMW has lurking under the hood, but we can expect the usual host of six-cylinder powertrains, both turbocharged and naturally aspirated. Of course, there’s always the possibility of a four-cylinder option, too. Until we get the official word, we’ll hug our current E90s and wait patiently. See the latest set of spy shots for yourself in the gallery below.

Gallery: Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series

BMW 3 Series spy shots

[Source: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series caught testing, interior revealed for first time originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Nov 2010 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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