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Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf earn Top Safety Picks in first IIHS electric vehicle crash tests

Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Safety, Hatchback, Chevrolet, GM, Nissan, Electric

chevy volt crash test

Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf Crash Tests – Click above for high-res image gallery

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has completed its first test of mainstream plug-in vehicles, and both the 2011 Chevrolet Volt and the 2011 Nissan Leaf have were named “Good” for their front, side, rear, and rollover crash protection. Testing procedures for these plug-in vehicles were exactly the same as for any other automobile the IIHS tests, as they should be.

The two plug-in pioneers join 80 other 2011 vehicles in earning the Top Safety Pick title, thanks to their fine performance in instrumented crash testing and their standard electronic stability control. For what it’s worth, other fuel sippers like the 2010 Toyota Prius and 2010 Honda Insight have also been named Top Safety Picks in the past. That said, the IIHS has taken issue with some plug-in electric vehicles in the past, specifically the not-quite-a-car NEVs like the Gem e2 or the Wheego Whip.

Of course, we all know how much fun it is to watch brand-new cars being smashed to bits in the name of safety, so we’ve gone ahead and embedded a video of the two plug-ins undergoing the crash testing process. Hit the jump to see for yourself and to check out the official press release.

Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Volt crash tests

2011 Chevrolet Volt crash tests

Gallery: 2011 Nissan Leaf crash tests

2011 Nissan Leaf crash tests

[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

Continue reading Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf earn Top Safety Picks in first IIHS electric vehicle crash tests

Chevy Volt, Nissan Leaf earn Top Safety Picks in first IIHS electric vehicle crash tests originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video]

Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, Europe, Videos, Hatchback, Misc. Auto Shows, Racing, Fiat

Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230

Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230 – Click above for image gallery

There’s a grand tradition to mid-engined hatchbacks that blend exotic layout with utilitarian bodystyle, and as promised, that tradition has now embodied itself in the Fiat 500.

Developed by Lucarelli Monza – a new tuning house eager to make its mark – the Abarth 500 Motore Centrale is a substantial re-engineering of the Italian retro hatch. The engine has been moved – apparently to a glass display case – in the rear, and extensively modified in the process. With a new turbocharger and intercooler, new catalytic converter and pistons, the 1.4-liter turbo four now drives 230 metric horsepower to the rear wheels, aided by an electronic limited-slip differential.

While the front MacPherson struts have been left intact, a new wishbone suspension has been crafted for the rear, joined by upgraded brakes with four-pot calipers all around and some revised bodywork with ducting fitted to help keep the engine cool in its new orientation. Aznom, meanwhile, has been brought on board strictly to outfit the interior with Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara.

The road-going R230 is quoted for a 4.7-second sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) and a 240 km/h (150 mph) top end. An R280 Pista version is also available with an extra 50 horses and 220 fewer pounds, plus a mechanical diff, full roll cage, adjustable suspension and data recorder, dropping its sprint down to 3.9 seconds and raising its top end up to 260 km/h (160 mph). No word on pricing, but you can bet that getting a budget hatchback to reach those kinds of numbers isn’t a cheap proposition.

Have a closer look in the gallery below, and follow the jump to see and hear the pocket rocket zipping around the streets of Monte Carlo thanks to Marco at Marchettino. Thanks to all for the tips!

Gallery: Lucarelli Monza 500 Motore Centrale R230

[Source: MotoreCentrale.com via Italiaspeed]

Continue reading Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video]

Awesome mid-engine, RWD Abarth 500 Motore Centrale revealed at Top Marques [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Fiat 500c drops its top in New York

Filed under: New York Auto Show, Convertible, Budget, Fiat

2012 Fiat 500c

2012 Fiat 500c – Click above for high-res image gallery

Fiat will unveil the brand’s newest take on the tiny 500 at the 2011 New York Auto Show later today. The 2012 500c delivers a unique power-operated dual-layer panoramic folding top that leaves the vehicle’s roof arches in place, and Fiat says that the design protects vehicle occupants from wind noise and buffeting unlike any other convertible on the market. The design also keeps the roof from impeding on rear passenger and cargo room, which is a nice touch on vehicle about the size of a ballet slipper.

The drophead can lose its canvas cover at speeds up to 60 miles perh our, and the roof can be partially closed to serve as a large sunroof should the driver so desire. The 500c also makes use of a slightly taller windshield compared to its hatchback brethren – a trait designed to give occupants a little more outward visibility.

Inside, the back seats can still be folded down to offer up to 23.4 cubic feet of cargo area. With the rear thrones in place, that number drops to a scant 5.4 cubes.

The 2012 500c will get its pep from a Multiair 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine when it goes on sale later this spring. Buyers can expect to play with 101 horsepower and 98 pound-feet of torque. When coupled to a five-speed manual transmission, the engine is also good for up to 38 miles per gallon, and a six-speed automatic is also available. Follow the jump for Fiat’s full press release.

Gallery: 2012 Fiat 500C

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading 2012 Fiat 500c drops its top in New York

2012 Fiat 500c drops its top in New York originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Kia Hampsters win Nielsen’s Top Auto Ad Award for second year in a row

Filed under: Budget, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Hatchback, Kia

Kia Soul Hamsters in

Kia Soul Hamsters in “This or That” – Click above to watch video after the jump

Kia has taken home the top honors in the Nielsen Automotive Ad of the Year awards for the second year in a row. The company’s troupe of dancing hamsters managed to make the biggest impression on viewers in the “A New Way To Roll” spot in 2009 and the rodents managed to pull off a similar stunt in 2010 with the automaker’s “This or That” ad.

Nielsen hands out the awards based on response information collected from 2.5 million viewers across 24 networks, and according to Kia, the hamster spots have helped increase Soul sales in a big way. The boxy compact saw its sales figures increase by 50.8 percent last month compared to March 2010.

The Soul wasn’t the only winner, though. Ford took home two awards in different categories, with the Fiesta netting honors for the best green ad and the company earning best sales event spot with its “Swap Your Ride” commercials. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz grabbed the best luxury campaign trophy with its “Triumphant” spot for the SLS AMG and Toyota walked away with the Spanish Advertiser of the Year title.

Follow the jump for the press release, as well as a replay of the winning “This or That” ad.

Gallery: Kia Soul This or That music video stills

[Sources: Neilsen, Kia]

Continue reading Kia Hampsters win Nielsen’s Top Auto Ad Award for second year in a row

Kia Hampsters win Nielsen’s Top Auto Ad Award for second year in a row originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Tour the riches of Top Marques Monaco in five minutes

Filed under: Aftermarket, Concept Cars, Convertible, Coupe, Performance, SUV, Europe, Aston Martin, Specialty, Luxury, Koenigsegg

Pagani Huayra at Top Marques Monaco

Pagani Huayra at Top Marques Monaco 2011 – Click above to view video after the jump

If you missed any of the action from last week’s Top Marques Monaco show, we’ve got you covered. This five-minute clip condenses all the glitzy highlights of this year’s show into one horsepower-drenched summary. The show was a seriously drool-worthy affair, featuring a wide range of exotics; from classy, composed offerings from the likes of Aston Martin, to the delicious Pagani Huayra to the completely silly Tirrito Ayrton R.

High-end tuning companies always make a strong showing at Top Marques Monaco, and this year was no different. Gemballa’s two new offerings, the Tornado and the Mistrale, broke cover after the company’s recent troubles. Add to that a host of offerings from ABT, Koenigsegg and Marussia, and you’ve got a great way to kill five minutes. Click past the jump for all the exotic glory. Thanks for the tip, HF!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Tour the riches of Top Marques Monaco in five minutes

Video: Tour the riches of Top Marques Monaco in five minutes originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Apr 2011 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gemballa shows Mistrale and Tornado at Top Marques Monaco

Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedan, Performance, SUV, Europe, Porsche, Luxury

2012 Gemballa Tornado

2012 Gemballa Tornado – Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite losing its founder under suspicious circumstances last year, German tuning house Gemballa is back with a vengeance at this year’s Top Marques Monaco show. To help celebrate its 30th anniversary, the company is rolling out two new models: The Porsche Cayenne-based Tornado and the Porsche Panamera-based Mistrale.

Both of Gemballa’s new models sport extensively reworked bodies, which Gemballa says shave nearly 150 pounds off each car. The weight savings come thanks to carbon fiber body panels made in-house by Gemballa. Both cars’ front fenders, hood, doors and front valance get replaced with new bespoke units made entirely of the black stuff.

Gemballa also unleashed its expertise underhood. In Stage 1 trim, the Tornado delivers 580 horsepower and the Mistrale pushes 610. If that’s not enough, Gemballa is happy to oblige with Stage 2, which takes either car to 700 hp and 737 lb.-ft. of toque. Keeping all that grunt in check is a set of enormous Brembo clamps developed specifically for Gemballa.

No matter which car you choose, you get a set of 410-mm, six-piston discs up front with 380-mm, four-piston units out back. The new brakes exert stopping power on a set of forged 22-inch Gemballa wheels. Despite their size, Gemballa says the forged rims are lighter and stronger than the stock Porsche units.

Inside, the cars get Gemballa’s signature Alcantara and quilted leather treatment. If either of Gemballa’s new rockets floats your boat, we’d suggest getting in line now, as the company says it will only build 30 examples of each. Check out the full press release after the jump.

Gallery: 2012 Gemballa Tornado and Mistrale

2012 Gemballa Tornado 2012 Gemballa Mistrale 2012 Gemballa Mistrale interior

[Source: Gemballa]

Continue reading Gemballa shows Mistrale and Tornado at Top Marques Monaco

Gemballa shows Mistrale and Tornado at Top Marques Monaco originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Melkus showing GT, GTS versions of RS2000 at Top Marques Monaco

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Misc. Auto Shows, MISC

Melkus RS2000 GTS

Melkus RS2000 GTS – Click above for image gallery

We were suitably impressed a couple of years ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show where we stumbled upon the Melkus RS2000. The gullwing sportscar is based on the Lotus Elise and built by a historic East German nameplate revived by the son and grandson of its founder. That same marque has now rolled up at the Top Marques show in Monaco with more powerful variants.

Replacing the Toyota-sourced, 270-horsepower, 1.8-liter four from the Elise on which it’s based, the GT and GTS versions of the Melkus RS2000 pack a 2.0-liter turbo four – reportedly sourced from a “well-known German manufacturer” (we’re looking at you, Volkswagen) – in 300- and 350-hp guises, respectively. With only 2,145 pounds to schlepp around, the new engine should be good for a 4.5 or 3.9-second 0-100 km/h (62 mph) time, while a new carbon-fiber aero kit helps it look the part.

Gallery: Melkus RS2000 GTS

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Melkus RS2000

[Source: Melkus via World Car Fans]

Melkus showing GT, GTS versions of RS2000 at Top Marques Monaco originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Hyundai Equus named IIHS ‘Top Safety Pick’

Filed under: Sedan, Safety, Hyundai, Luxury

hyundai equus top safety pick

2011 Hyundai Equus IIHS Top Safety Pick – Click above for high-res image gallery

Our long-term Hyundai Equus has already impressed our staff with its copious level of luxury refinement and general largess. Now Hyundai can put another notch in the belt of its luxury sedan after being designated an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick.

The Equus won the award by scoring a “Good” in front, side, rollover and rear crash protection. The Equus also manged to surpass the stringent IIHS requirement for roof strength, as the big sedan was found to have a roof that can support a force equal to 4.87 times its weight. To receive a “Good” score, a roof must be able to support at least four times its weight. The Equus also features electronic stability control; another must-have to receive a Top Safety Pick designation.

Click on the gallery below to see high-resolution pics of a $60,000 luxury sedan getting destroyed in the name of science and safety.

Gallery: Hyundai Equus IIHS Top Safety Pick

Hyundai Equus IIHS Top Safety Pick

[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

2011 Hyundai Equus named IIHS ‘Top Safety Pick’ originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Volvo S60 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick award

Filed under: Sedan, Safety, Volvo, Luxury

2012 Volvo S60 IIHS Crash Tests

2012 Volvo S60 IIHS crash tests – Click above for high-res image gallery

Volvo can stick another feather in its safety cap. The 2012 S60 has officially been awarded an IIHS Top Safety Pick judgement by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. That means the sedan managed to net top ratings in all IIHS crash tests, including front, side, rollover and rear evaluations. Vehicles awarded the Top Safety Pick designation must also come standard with electronic stability control.

According to the IIHS, it’s been a while since the S60 has carried the institute’s highest honor. The vehicle’s previous generation had no problem netting good ratings in both front and rear tests, but was only rated as acceptable in side impact evaluations. Additionally, the new roof strength tests weren’t in place for the vehicle’s last iteration. IIHS says that Volvo improved the design of the S60 enough to net higher side impact ratings and pass the new rollover tests with flying colors.

IIHS says that the roof of the S60 stood up to 4.95 times the weight of the vehicle. Currently, the federal standard is only requires a vehicle to withstand a force equivalent to 1.5 times its weight. Hit the jump for the full press release.

Gallery: 2012 Volvo S60 IIHS Crash Tests

[Source: IIHS]

Continue reading 2012 Volvo S60 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick award

2012 Volvo S60 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick award originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ford, Mercedes-Benz named top brands in new Harris polls

Filed under: Ford, Mercedes-Benz

The latest Harris polls are out, and the big winners in the automotive sector are Ford and Mercedes-Benz. The two brands made the top of the list for full-line and luxury automakers by scoring highest in terms of customer connection, commitment, equity and trust.

Ford took the top spot for full-line automotive due in part to strong new products, beating out Chevrolet, Honda and Toyota. Chevy finished second, while Toyota dropped from first place to fourth overall. Hyundai and Kia were pointed out as fast risers in the survey, though neither automaker made the full-line top 10.

On the Luxury front, Mercedes-Benz took the top prize away from Lexus, though Toyota’s luxury arm only slipped one spot to number two. BMW, Infiniti and Acura round out the top five.

A total of 25,099 people aged 15 and up were randomly asked about 60 brands out of a total of 1,273. Each brand was given a total of at least 1,000 responses, with rankings chosen based on a calculation of Familiarity, Quality, and Purchase Consideration. Hit the jump to read over the Harris Interactive press release.

[Source: Harris Interactive]

Continue reading Ford, Mercedes-Benz named top brands in new Harris polls

Ford, Mercedes-Benz named top brands in new Harris polls originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 27 Mar 2011 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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