Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Report: Detroit automakers head to Congress to talk Japanese, Korean currency manipulation Filed under: Government/Legal, Japan, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Earnings/Financials, South Korea 
We can't even pretend to know the first thing about currency manipulation, so we won't bother trying to explain how artificially depreciated currency can help imports into the U.S. market. But American manufacturing groups have long accused the governments of China, Japan and South Korea of manipulating their currency to gain an bigger foothold in the U.S. market, and domestic automakers say Japan and South Korea in particular have been artificially depreciating their currency for years. Earlier this month, The American Automotive Policy Council, which represents General Motors, Ford and Chrysler, met with Obama Administration auto task force head Ron Bloom about the manipulation of the Japanese yen and Korean won, and now the AAPC is talking with members of Congress.
A report from The Detroit News shows that Japan added $56 billion to a "currency interventions fund" last week - a fund that apparently has a substantial cash reserve. Further, Japanese Finance Minister Naoto Kan told the Japanese Diet that his government is ready to manipulate currency by depreciating the yen. The AAPC claims that the actions of the Japanese and Korean governments put American manufacturing jobs at risk, adding:
"American auto companies will consider intervention in foreign exchange rate markets by the Japanese government that weakens the yen as unfair competition directed at the American automotive market and American workers as the industry begins to recover from the economic recession."
The DetNews claims representatives from the Japanese government were not available to comment on the group's claims. For its part, AAPC says that the goal of meeting with Congress is action:
"we urge you to make clear to the governments of Japan and Korea that the U.S. Congress considers such interventions unacceptable and that any decision to proceed with or continue such interventionist policies will be strongly and directly challenged by the United States in defense of fairness and American jobs."
Another area of concern for the AAPC is what they allege is the inherently closed nature of Asian auto markets. The Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development claims that the two countries are currently the most closed out of the 30 markets with auto industries. The ECOD also notes that domestic automakers in those countries account for 95.5 percent of all auto sales.
[Source: The Detroit News] Report: Detroit automakers head to Congress to talk Japanese, Korean currency manipulation originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011 Filed under: Car Buying, Budget, Hatchback, Scion 
2011 Scion xB - Click above for high-res image gallery
The Scion brand's poster car, the boxy xB, gets a freshened face for the 2011 model year, as well as some minor interior upgrades. Overall, the exterior changes give the econobox a more aggressive appearance - a good thing, since the second-generation xB wasn't appealing to the young, hipster crowd nearly as much as the automaker would have hoped. (We much prefer the first-generation car, for what it's worth.)
Up front, the revised fascia features slightly redesigned headlamps, as well as a honeycomb grille and larger outer vents on the bumper. Around back, the single rear backup lamp has been integrated into the taillamps, which cleans up the car's back end rather nicely. Other cosmetic changes include the addition of two new metallic paint colors - Army Rock and Elusive Blue.
Moving inside, the xB's front seats have been given more bolstering for better overall comfort and support. Additionally, a new center console has been added that offers better storage solutions, as well as a sliding armrest, and the steering wheel now offers with both tilt and telescope adjustments (a simple feature that we wish were standard fare on every make and model).
Pricing for the new xB starts at $16,000 for the manual transmission model and $16,950 if you prefer a conventional automatic - increases of $150 over the 2010 car. The 2011 xB will make its way to a Scion dealer near you later this month. Hit the jump to read Toyota's official press release, and click through our attached gallery to see dozens of high-res shots of the new xB.
[Source: Scion]Continue reading Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011 Scion xB restyled and repriced for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
You'll never guess which midsize sedan wins MT's latest comparo... Filed under: Sedan, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota 
Ah yes, the good ol' midsize sedan. Bastion of the American family car set and holder of most automaker's sales crowns, as well as that of the best-selling automobile in the United States. As pointed out by Motor Trend, only three car nameplates have held the top sales spot in America in the last 20 years: the Ford Taurus, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Of course, the current midsize sedan sales leader is none other than the aforementioned Camry. Unless you've been living under a rock for the last few months, you're certainly aware that Toyota has found itself in the hot seat with numerous claims of unintended acceleration and two separate recalls that are meant to deal with such safety defects.
Besides its recent safety woes, Toyota has had to deal with constant pressure from every other automaker seeking to dethrone the Camry as the midsize sales leader. So, the natural question is whether or not the segment stalwart can maintain its edge in the face of such stiff competition and a newly sullied reputation. MT sought the answer in its latest comparo.
These days, Ford's numero-uno midsize sedan is the Fusion, which was significantly redesigned this year, and that car won the coveted Motor Trend Car of the Year Award for 2010. Also new-for-2010 (as a 2011 model) are the Hyundai Sonata, which features swoopy new duds and a high-tech four-cylinder powertrain, and the Subaru Legacy, which is the only model in the segment to come standard with all-wheel drive.
Though not all-new for '10, the Chevrolet Malibu and Nissan Altima are certainly perennial power players in the midsize sedan segment, and as such were included in MT's comparison test. With introductions out of the way, who do you think could have grabbed the top spot in Motor Trend's comparison test of these seven leading midsize sedans? Hint: See the photo above. Suffice it to say... we were a bit surprised. Click here to see for yourself.
In related news, the boys from Inside Line have gone a slightly different route with a much smaller midsize sedan comparison, pitting the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2010 Mazda6 and 2010 Honda Accord together in a winner-takes-all fight. Click here for the results.
Do you agree with either MT or IL, or would you rank them totally differently? Have your say in 'Comments.'
[Sources: Motor Trend, Inside Line]You'll never guess which midsize sedan wins MT's latest comparo... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Report: NUMMI and UAW seeking closure through cash Filed under: Plants/Manufacturing, Toyota, UAW/Unions 
Thanks to the hard work and solidarity of the United Auto Workers union, Detroit automakers have for years known that it is extremely expensive to offer early retirements, entice workers to walk away from their jobs or permanently close the doors at a plant. And even though NUMMI is an independent company, Toyota, too, is now fully aware of the financial pain involved in mothballing a factory for good. The Freemont, California NUMMI plant became expendable after General Motors cut ties with the company during its bankruptcy proceedings, leaving Toyota with more capacity than it needed.
A report from the Silicon Valley Mercury News indicates that the UAW and NUMMI have reached a tentative agreement on a separation package valued at $281 million, or about $60,000 for each and every member of the 4,700 worker plant. The original proposal was valued at $253 million, with $168 million for hourly workers and $85 million for salaried employees.
While $60,000 sounds like a king's ransom to simply walk away from a job, the number isn't as impressive when considering national unemployment at close to 10 percent. After all, it's not exactly as though there are plenty of quality manufacturing jobs out there - even when times are good.
With NUMMI scheduled to shutter on April 1, we can see why some workers are anxious to close the deal. NUMMI employee Scott MacMillan reportedly told the SVMN that workers are dissatisfied with the amount of information the UAW is giving workers, adding "that has caused a lot of frustration for the employees." NUMMI UAW workers are scheduled to vote on the separation package later today.
[Source: Silicon Valley Mercury News | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]Report: NUMMI and UAW seeking closure through cash originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Video: This truck driver has got something on his nose... Filed under: Truck, Etc., Safety, Videos, Work
Is this a highway or the set of a new Bruce Willis flick? What appears to be a cell phone-wielding cameraman has captured some timely highway footage of a truck driver hauling more than just a few dozen tons of potentially hazardous liquid. We have no idea how a vehicle, apparently a Renault Clio, could possibly find itself in such a precarious and perpendicular position, but we're even more puzzled as to how the truck driver could possibly pass other vehicles in traffic without noticing a 3,000 pound vehicle on its nose.
Assuming this is real and not some sort of staged stunt, we're sure hope the driver of the Clio escaped this unfortunate incident unharmed, because otherwise we would feel really guilty about the fact that we laughed at the fact that the brake lights were flashing on and off. Like that was going to do anything. Check out the video for yourself by hitting the jump. The video footage is admittedly less than great, but we feel the bizarre nature of the subject matter is worth a look.
[Source: YouTube]Continue reading Video: This truck driver has got something on his nose... Video: This truck driver has got something on his nose... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models Filed under: Performance, BMW, Luxury 
If there's one thing that's certain in this crazy world, it's that Ultimate Driving Machines are driven by their rear wheels. Sure, there's an occasional all-wheel-drive model thrown in for good measure, but even those revert to the tried-and-true RWD when extra traction from the front two contact patches isn't deemed necessary or desirable. Well, alert the media (oh, wait...): BMW has confirmed the rumors that it will build front-wheel-drive automobiles.
At the Annual Accounts Press Conference for 2010, Dr. Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW, had this to say:
[The small car] segment is expected to grow further. And we will take advantage of this opportunity. We are exploring the possibility of developing a joint architecture for the front and four-wheel drive systems of these cars. In other words: There will be front-wheel drive BMWs in the smaller vehicle classes in the future.
Heresy, BMW fans? We wouldn't worry too much - there seems little chance that BMW will make a wholesale switch from powering the rear wheels to the fronts, especially for its mainstream models like the 3 Series, 5 Series and 7 Series - but the addition of a FWD chassis will make it easier for the automaker to share platforms with other companies and to "reduce [its] fleet's carbon-emissions worldwide by at least another 25 percent between 2008 and 2020."
In fact, take it from Reithofer himself:
BMW will continue to be a sport-inspired brand. We at the BMW Group continue to deliver maximum performance, tackle new challenges and sharpen our competitive edge.
Click past the break for the complete text of Reithofer's speach.
[Source: BMW]Continue reading BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models BMW confirms plans for front-wheel-drive models originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Video: Tanner Foust drifts Mulholland Drive in his 600-horsepower Scion tC Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Videos, Scion 
Tanner Faust tears up Mullholland Drive in his Scion tC - click above to watch the video
Look for the tire tracks. If you've ever been around drift cars, you know that with all that gumption, these beasts tend to break the tires loose. And when they cut loose, they leave synchronized patches of molten rubber in their wake. In the case of Tanner's NASCAR V8-powered Scion tC, we're talking about 600 horsepower and an equally crazy amount of torque. Probably to the wheels. Meaning that Tanner's car doesn't just burn rubber, the little Scion incinerates it.
Why are we harping on this point? Why are we encouraging you to watch the video looking for tire tracks? That's a tough question to answer without giving away the video, so we'll just say that despite being fully within the city limits of big, bad, mega-metropolis Los Angeles, Mulholland Drive is a pretty pristine place. Er, it was before Tanner Foust sunk his smoky, rubber claws into it. Make the jump to watch how great Top Gear USA could have been and read the press release.
[Source: YouTube]Continue reading Video: Tanner Foust drifts Mulholland Drive in his 600-horsepower Scion tC Video: Tanner Foust drifts Mulholland Drive in his 600-horsepower Scion tC originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
2011 Ford Mustang V6 to pace NASCAR race at Bristol Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Ford 
2011 Ford Mustang V6 Pace Car - Click above for high-res image gallery
Historically, pace cars have been limited to the highest performing models of each brand. That's about to change this weekend when the new 2011 Ford Mustang V6 will serve as the pace car for NASCAR's Food Land 500 at Bristol International Speedway. This will be the second time a Mustang has paced a NASCAR race this year after the new 5.0-liter Mustang GT led the pack at the Daytona 500 in February.
Despite being the least powerful Mustang available for 2011, the V6 model will be more than capable of carrying out its duties thank to its new 3.7-liter engine and six-speed transmission. With 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, it should have no trouble setting the pace on Bristol's half mile oval. The budget pony car will undoubtedly be one of the most efficient pace cars in history as well, with the V6 officially rated at a record 31 mpg on the highway. You can see the new 2011 Mustang V6 pace car in action by tuning into Fox this Sunday at 1:00 pm EST.
[Source: Automobile Magazine]2011 Ford Mustang V6 to pace NASCAR race at Bristol originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
U.S. Grand Prix to return to Indy? Filed under: Motorsports 
During the Bahrain Grand Prix last weekend, Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone was quoted as saying that a return to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway was under consideration. Not so fast, say spokesmen for the speedway, who say that while the facility is interested in bringing the U.S. Grand Prix back, talks are not currently taking place.
Since the first "American Grand Prize" was held in 1908, the United States Grand Prix has been staged at a wide variety of locations across the country, including Savannah, Milwaukee, Santa Monica, San Francisco, Riverside, Sebring, Watkins Glen and Phoenix, to say nothing of the individual races in Long Beach, Las Vegas, Detroit and Dallas, or the years when the Indy 500 counted towards the Formula One World Championship. But in between, there have been huge gaps: the race was not held between 1917 and 1957, 1981-'88 or 1992-'99.
After eight races held at Indianapolis between 2000 and 2007 - including a dismal showing in 2005 when Michelin boycotted the event leaving six cars on the grid - the race has been off the calendar for the past three years running. Automakers still competing in the series (following the recent withdrawals of Honda, Toyota and BMW) have been clamoring for a return, as have American racing fans, among them a good portion of the Autoblog team.
[Source: ESPN]U.S. Grand Prix to return to Indy? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Report: Congressmen spending thousands of dollars a month to lease ordinary vehicles Filed under: Car Buying, Government/Legal, Ford, GM, Mercury 
Remember when Congress got all up in the grilles of Detroit automaker chief executives for traveling to Washington in luxury courtesy of the companies private jets? It appears our lawmakers are less than perfect when it comes to sourcing their own cost-effective transportation, as Politico is reporting that at least 10 members of the House of Representatives have monthly vehicle leases that exceed $1,000 per month in taxpayer money.
But those leases, they're for specialized, bulletproof SUVs to keep our elected officials safe, right? Well, not so much. A little digging from Politico shows that members of Congress just don't know how to shop around. Of the top five lease prices listed, the most exorbitant monthly outlay at least appears to come with the best excuse. Missouri Democrat Emanuel Cleaver pays a reported $2,900 a month for a mobile office equipped with wifi and a wheelchair lift. Representative Cleaver justifies the hefty price tag by arguing that he uses the vehicle as his mobile office, foregoing the off-site office many other representatives have. Oh, and the mobile office runs on used cooking oil.
Other congressmen have less credible excuses, but it apparently isn't stopping them from giving it the old college try. House Intelligence Committee Chairman Silvestre Reyes (D-Texas) $1,628 to lease a GMC Yukon. Reyes blames short lease terms and fuel efficiency regulations on the high lease prices. Meanwhile, we suspect that every other American with decent credit can choose from dozens of CUVs or SUVs with 24-month leases for less than $600 per month.
Rep. Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick (D-Mich.) rolls in a $1,230 per month Chevrolet Tahoe. A spokesperson for Cheeks Kilpatrick claims the 13th District rep. leases the vehicle because General Motors headquarters resides within her district. Ironically, Cheeks Kilpatrick's son, Kwame Kilpatrick, the former Detroit mayor who left office in disgrace after being found guilty of perjury, caught plenty of flack a few years back for spending $1,000 per month for a taxpayer-funded Lincoln Navigator.
Rep. Harry Teague (D-N.M.), reportedly worth more than $36 million dollars, pays $1,266 per month for a Chevrolet Malibu. That's right, folks, a Malibu. Not a bad vehicle by any stretch, but $1,266 per month? Really? Other high lease offenders include Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-Ill.), who rides in a $1,259 per month hybrid Toyota Highlander, Rep. Lacy Clay (D-Mo.), who trolls the St. Louis streets in $1,059 a month Ford Escape hybrid and Rep. Paul Kanjorski (D-Pa.) with his $1,026 per month Mercury Mariner hybrid. Not to be left out, Rep. Sam Johnson (R-Texas) apparently also spends $1,143 every month for an unspecified leased vehicle, and multimillionaire Rep. Gary Miller (R-Calif.) leases a Lexus RX400h for $843 taxpayer-funded dollars a month, reportedly arguing that he needs the vehicle's bigger accomodations because he's over six-feet tall and has to make an hourlong commute twice a week.
Head over to Politico to read more about congress and the expensive vehicles they lease on your dime. We're thinking there are thousands of Autoblog readers who can help their congressmen procure a more cost effective lease vehicle than some of the ridiculous prices you just read about. Any volunteers?
[Source: Politico]Report: Congressmen spending thousands of dollars a month to lease ordinary vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
AOL Autos debuts official iPhone app for new car shoppers Filed under: Car Buying 
AOL Autos iPhone app - Click above to learn more and download
 Our brethren over at AOL Autos are having a big day today. They've just launched the official AOL Autos iPhone app, which you can download for your iPhone or iPod Touch by clicking here. The cost of the app is zero pesos, so there's nothing to lose by trying it out.
You'll want this app if shopping for a new car is in your future. Why? It basically takes all of that research you did at home on your computer and crams it into a mobile app that goes with you. That way you can visit a dealership armed with all of that information about pricing and options at your finger tips.
The app allows you to narrow down your new vehicle search by price, type and style, or you can directly hit the vehicle you want by make and model. Once you've found a model, you can pick a trim level and select options, and the app will keep a running tally of what the vehicle costs as you go.
There are also photo galleries for each vehicle, expert opinions, user reviews and the ability to save models that you've built and send them to your friends and family. We've talked with the AOL Autos folk and are encouraged to hear that this won't be an app that gets forgotten in the App Store. Their team is already working on updates to improve functionality and add new futures, which will debut in the coming months.
We know what you're thinking: Where's an Autoblog app for the iPhone? Good question. First, do us a favor and go download the AOL Autos app. The more popular their app is, the more incentive our bosses have to unleash the Autoblog news flow in an iPhone app for your portable pleasure.
[Source: AOL Autos]AOL Autos debuts official iPhone app for new car shoppers originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
In The Pink: Fiat releases special edition droptop 500C Filed under: Convertible, Fiat, UK 
Fiat 500C Pink Limited Edition - Click above for high-res image
When we saw the Abarth version of the 500C in Geneva, we were suitably impressed at how beefy Fiat's performance division could make one of its most dainty (yes, dainty) products. But like there is no light without darkness and no heat without cold, here is the opposite end of the spectrum: the Fiat 500C Pink Limited Edition.
Following on the stiletto heels of the Barbie edition and the fixed-roof 500 Pink that followed, the 500C Pink is exactly what you'd expect: even pinker than that unfortunate Mansory Bentley we saw in Frankfurt. The flip side is that one look at this car is already relieving our indigestion, and leaves us craving some sort of carnival confection.
The special color scheme extends to the exterior paint, door mirrors and interior, and is complemented by chrome trim, 16-inch alloys and a smattering of other special touches. As you can see from the press release after the jump, the limited edition commands a £13,500 price tag in the UK's comparatively price-inflated market (that's around $20,600 U.S.), representing a £1,200 premium ($1,800) over the 500C 1.2 Pop model upon which it's based, but it also carries £1,870 ($2,860) worth of options.
[Source: Fiat UK]Continue reading In The Pink: Fiat releases special edition droptop 500C In The Pink: Fiat releases special edition droptop 500C originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Video: Fiat takes on 'The Office' with online fleet management sitcom Filed under: Minivan/Van, Etc., Marketing/Advertising, Videos, Work, Fiat, UK, Humor
Episode 1 of The Fleet - Click above to watch the video after the jump
Imagine the TV show, "The Office." No, not the American version that catapulted Rainn Wilson into superstardom, but the British original. You know...the sitcom that helped launch creator and star, Ricky Gervais, into the spotlight. Now imagine it set in a fleet management company called Lightfoot Logistics. That is the setup for a new viral marketing effort created for Fiat's UK van business, of all things.
Fiat has produced a series of short mockumentary-type webisodes chronicling the day-to-day activities at the firm and a full Lightfoot website to go with it. There is plenty of sexual innuendo in the videos, but they are pretty tame and make this Office-knockoff almost as funny as the real thing. Almost. We've embedded the first two episodes after the jump for your lunch-at-work viewing enjoyment. Click through to see Pete and Dave take on a rival's clueless salesman and watch as they head to the area commercial van show to check out the Doblo and its competition, nearly getting sidetracked by an obnoxious acquaintance.
WARNING: Videos after the jump are set to auto play.
[Source: Lightfoot Logistics]Continue reading Video: Fiat takes on 'The Office' with online fleet management sitcom Video: Fiat takes on 'The Office' with online fleet management sitcom originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Exclusive First Ride: 2011 Ford Edge Sport Filed under: Performance, Crossover, Ford, Quick Spin 
Yee-Ha! in a 2011 Ford Edge Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery
Manufacturers used to roll out all-new cars every five-to-eight years. Somewhere around the halfway point - usually year three - much hoopla would be made about new front and rear fascias, the addition of some standard features and some new option packages. (*Yawn*). These changes were designed to give shoppers a reason to look at a car that was getting long-in-the-tooth.
Ford Motor Company sung by this songbook for decades, but it's not any longer. As we've seen with the Escape, Fusion and Mustang, the Ford brand is rolling out significant product changes any time they darn well please. For example, the 2010 Fusion could have been a standard refresh, but instead included three all-new powertrains, a significantly upgraded interior, and the expected front and rear fascias.
Introduced as a 2007 model at the close of 2006, the Edge was Ford's second attempt at a more car-like crossover. (Anybody remember the Freestyle/Taurus X ... uhh, not so much.) Heading into its fifth year of production, the Edge needed some serious attention. It just got it: We reported so on the eve of February's Chicago Auto Show.
Following the new model's public debut, Ford offered Autoblog an exclusive opportunity to ride in a 2011 Edge Sport with some development engineers so we could have an early, behind-the-scenes look at their handiwork. The new Edge doesn't go on sale until later this Summer, but you can read all about our experience at the Dearborn Development Center right now after the jump.
Photos by Rex Roy / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading Exclusive First Ride: 2011 Ford Edge Sport Exclusive First Ride: 2011 Ford Edge Sport originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Ultimate Reveal: Uncrating buried treasures, Honda NR 750 and RC30 [w/video] Filed under: Motorsports, Classics, Performance, Videos, Honda, Motorcycle, Racing 
Two-wheeled treasure chest - Click above to watch the video of the uncrating after the break
We're sure you are familiar with the old expression that hindsight is 20/20. In most cases this adage holds true, particularly, when it comes to all of the beautiful cars and motorcycles we wish we would have kept over the years. It wasn't exactly a case of hindsight, but rather well planned forethought that drove Bengt Gunnarson to hang on to two of Honda's most elusive models by tucking them away safely in his shop's basement.
Gunnarson, who is the owner of Stockholm's MC-Varuhus (Motorcycle Warehouse), does something most dealers are terrified of: he actually collects motorcycles in between selling them. In 1992, when the Warehouse received its shipment of not one, but two Honda NR models, Bengt quietly stashed one in the basement for a rainy day. Since then, we have yet to see many eight-valve V-four engines with oval pistons floating around. But this was not the first time that Gunnarson had seen the writing on the wall. Only three years earlier, in 1989, as Honda's HRC division was producing a limited number of RC-30 models to meet World Superbike homologation rules, a parking place was also made for a boxed RC in the cellar.
Recently, the crew at MC-Varuhus opened the vault and uncrated these two beautiful bikes. The plan is to let them spend some time out in the open, albeit in display cases, where visitors to the dealership can get a first-hand view of both bikes. Click past the break to watch the unveiling video, as this may be as close as we get to coming to grips with two of Honda's most unique motorcycles.
[Source: Hell For Leather] Continue reading Ultimate Reveal: Uncrating buried treasures, Honda NR 750 and RC30 [w/video] Ultimate Reveal: Uncrating buried treasures, Honda NR 750 and RC30 [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Saab choosing trendy Royal Oak, MI as North American HQ? Filed under: GM, Saab 
General Motors may have sold off Saab to Spyker for $74 million and a 50 gallon bucket of Swedish meatballs, but it appears the "Born From Jets" automaker isn't saying goodbye to Michigan altogether. The Detroit News is reporting that Saab has chosen small but trendy Royal Oak, MI as the location for the company's North American headquarters. The move makes sense given the fact that Michigan has oodles of engineering talent and many of the world's automakers and suppliers have a presence in the Mitten State. The move will be a short one as well, as WWJ radio in Detroit reports that the 60 workers will transfer from Saab's old headquarters at the Renaissance Center in downtown Detroit.
To help lure Saab to the Southeast Michigan suburbs, the state's Economic Development Authority has reportedly granted Saab a five year, $1.2 million high technology tax break. In exchange, the state of Michigan keeps 60 jobs that pay, on average, $88,000 per year and opportunity for growth in the next few years. In fact, Saab says there is potential for the company's North American headquarters to grow to 158 people by 2014. That would represent an estimated $2 million per year for the beleaguered state, a development that would turn the tax break into a win for the region.
Mike Colleran, chief operating officer of Saab Cars North America, told the DetNews that the company closed on the 13,000 square foot facility in February and employees will inhabit the building by the end of March.
[Source: The Detroit News]Saab choosing trendy Royal Oak, MI as North American HQ? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Once and For All? Lutz text message reportedly confirms Cadillac Converj is dead Filed under: Concept Cars, Detroit Auto Show, Coupe, Technology, Cadillac, GM, Design/Style 
2009 Cadillac Converj Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Although previously the subject of some early obituaries, it appears that the future of the Cadillac Converj showcar is indeed at a dead-end. According to Automotive News, a production future for the rakish extended-range coupe has been scuttled due to "priorities and the conviction that the Volt and Ampera will use all available capacity for years to come" - that's according to a text message from General Motors vice chairman Bob Lutz.
Lutz, who is himself retiring on May 1, openly championed the Converj, including telling members of the Society of Automotive Analysts that the car would be built after 2012. Prevailing logic also had the well-received 2009 Detroit Auto Show concept getting the green light, if only because affixing a higher-margin Cadillac badge to its flanks would presumably help GM recover some of its massive investment in the E-Rev technology it shared with the Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera. However, in a Bloomberg report from earlier this month, some company managers apparently successfully argued that the business case for the Converj could not be made.
Photos by Drew Phillips / Frank Filliponio / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req.]
Once and For All? Lutz text message reportedly confirms Cadillac Converj is dead originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
GM gives us sneak peak of next-generation heads-up display technology Filed under: Safety, Technology, GM 
GM's next-generation HUD concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Currently, automakers use head-up displays to project important vehicle information (speed, navigation directions, etc.) on the windshield, keeping the driver's eyes focused on the road, where they belong. General Motors is hard at work developing its next-generation heads-up technology, and we were given a preview yesterday of what sort of new features to expect in the coming years.
This new concept, developed in partnership with Carnegie Mellon and the University of Southern California, uses an augmented reality system to display head-up information across the entire windshield. Never heard of augmented reality? Sure you have. When you're watching a football game and images appear on the screen to indicate lines on the playing field, that's augmented reality. GM feels that this technology will be a good way to expand upon current heads-up systems without being too distracting for drivers.
 GM's new concept uses an array of vehicle sensors and cameras to collect data and project images directly onto the surface of the windshield. For example, if you're driving in dark foggy conditions, this technology can highlight the lines of the road. By pairing these functions with existing night vision technology, the heads-up system can identify and highlight animals or people along the side of the road. It's all about improving safety, not only for the driver and passengers, but for pedestrians, too. What's more, this new tech can work with a car's navigation system to give more precise directions, highlighting actual road signs or buildings to show drivers where they should be going.
Don't expect to see this technology anytime soon, however - there's still quite a bit of work to be done. GM needs to figure out how to piggyback on sensors and cameras already used in automotive applications, as well as how to keep the overall cost down. We imagine there are probably a few legal hurdles to be surmounted as well. That said, we're told that if things go well, we could see a complete version of this system as early as 2016. Still, it's a very forward-thinking concept, and we'll be interested to see how these new functions slowly come to market. Hit the jump to read GM's press release, and click through our gallery below to check out high-res shots of the heads-up display prototype.
[Source: General Motors]Continue reading GM gives us sneak peak of next-generation heads-up display technology GM gives us sneak peak of next-generation heads-up display technology originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Reader Spy: Next Ford Explorer with Lincoln-esque grille caught in LA? Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Crossover, Ford, Lincoln 
Lincoln-grilled 2011 Ford Explorer spy shot - Click above for high-res image gallery
Granted, these aren't the clearest set of spy photos you're going to see this week. Regardless, they are interesting as they show what appears to be a next-gen 2011 Ford Explorer with the familiar face of the current Lincoln lineup grafted in place. Sure, it's not terribly surprising to see a luxurious Lincoln created from a more pedestrian Ford product - it happens all the time - but why the Explorer?
Consider that Lincoln already offers a pair of crossovers that are based on existing Ford models, namely the MKX and the MKT. Consider too that the next Explorer will migrate to a smaller, car-based crossover platform... and one wonders just how many CUVs the Lincoln brand could support.
So, just what is this camo'd vehicle we see roaming the streets? Could it be a new Navigator (or a revival of the ex-Explorer-based Aviator), just a cobbled together mule from spare parts that doesn't have any production intent whatsoever, or something new altogether? Beats us. Feel free to take a look at the pictures and judge for yourselves. Thanks for the images, George!
Reader Spy: Next Ford Explorer with Lincoln-esque grille caught in LA? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: date in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 16
Aston Martin shows off the racier side of the Cygnet Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Hatchback, Aston Martin, Design/Style 
Aston Martin Cygnet in Gulf Livery - Click above to enlarge
Aston Martin is an automaker with a history that's indelibly linked with racing... not to mention beautiful styling, attractive colors and, um, James Bond. But the British automaker has more recently signaled its intent to be known for offering a lavishly equipped fuel efficient city car that focus solely on transportation duties and not 0 to 60 times or top speeds.
Mostly. A quick run through the automaker's website shows that its not willing to let the Cygnet degrade its performance and racing image entirely. To wit, the little urban commuter is pictured in a number of scenarios that don't exactly scream "efficient transportation." For instance, there's an orange-helmeted Stig lookalike posing with the Aston in one scene.
Note too that the Cygnet can be customized with three different racing-derived paint schemes, two of which focus on the classic British Racing Green of Aston Martin's current racers and a third that shows the Cygnet painted up in iconic Gulf livery. Feel free to check it out for yourself at AstonMartin.com.
[Source: Aston Martin]Aston Martin shows off the racier side of the Cygnet originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds. Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments
Notice: Undefined offset: 3 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 2 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 25
Notice: Undefined offset: 1 in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 26
Notice: Use of undefined constant query - assumed 'query' in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
Notice: Undefined index: query in D:\inetpub\wwwroot\warranties4wheels.com\www\rss_display_autoblog.php on line 30
|
