Think paying $100,000 for an electric car is obscene? How about $100K for an F-250? As much was we covet electric cars like the Tesla Roadster, most of us balk at the $100,000 sticker price. But with gas prices at or above $4 / gallon, the cost difference isn’t as dramatic as you might imagine. The NYTimes reported last week that if you account for total ownership of a full-sized truck, including insurance, interest, repairs, taxes, and gasoline, a big vehicle like Ford’s F-250 will now set you back $100,000 in the first five years of ownership. Five years is the average amount of time an owner keeps one of these trucks. Obviously, the average person and automakers alike are noticing how expensive large vehicles have become (GM just announced it would stop making trucks and SUVs at four of its North American plants). Until May, full-sized trucks accounted for 13% of the US vehicle market. They’ve now now plummeted to 9%. Ford’s F-series trucks have been the best selling vehicle annually since 1976, but for the first time in years the top selling vehicle last month was a car: the Honda Civic sedan. Unfortunately, there isn’t a great renewable energy replacement for heavy duty trucks yet, besides incorporating hybrid technology (like GM has done) which can boost fuel economy by 20%, or modifying the fuel system to accept high ethanol blends (50% of GM’s fleet will be Flex-Fuel by 2012). One thing has been made abundantly clear: the threshold for buying a full-size truck has gone up a few notches. I was shocked earlier this month when my mechanic said he would be downsizing to a Toyota Tacoma for his daily commute. Will he keep the full-sized truck? Of course, he says, because well, he still has a boat and horse trailer to haul around. Posts Related to Electric Cars and Gas Prices: An Electric Car You Can Buy Today: The $20K TRIAC EV Save Gas Without Losing Your Shirt: 3 Gas Saving Devices with High Scam Potential An Electric Car With Muscle: The 175 MPGe X1 Prototype by Wrightspeed Inc. Low Impact Living: Think Hybrid Cars are Too Expensive? Goodbye Trucks and SUVs; Hello Gas Saving… Geo Metro? Sources: New York Times- Big Vehicles Stagger Under the Weight of $4 Gas Detroit Automakers Compete for a Vanishing Truck Market Photo Credit: Ford
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Friday, October 31, 2008
AutoblogGreen for 10.31.08
Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Green
Whatever it looks like on the outside (like it?) the hybrid versions of the new 2010 Ford Fusion/Mercury Milan should get 38 mpg, and that's always attractive. Speaking of which, how 'bout that Hilary Swank and her BMW Hydrogen 7? If you're curious about how a fuel cell vehicle drives, we can tell you all about it.
- First Drive: Daimler F-Cell, Hyundai FCEV, Toyota FCHV and GM HydroGen4
- Tesla Roadster goes to the drags, does a 12.7 second quarter mile
- Volt will have a driver-activated "pedestrian-friendly alert"
- Tech Analysis: 2010 Ford Fusion/Mercury Milan powertrains, 38 mpg hybrid!
- New mileage record for the Peugeot 308: 69.15 mpg
- NICE Car Co opens outlet in Europe's newest, biggest mall
- What gas are you going to choose for your next car?
- VIDEO: 2009 Zero X electric motorcycle: stronger, faster
- Hilary Swank smiles for a BMW Hydrogen 7
- Yamaha patents flex-fuel motorcycle
- More on Ford's SmartGauge cluster for the Fusion/Milan hybrids w/VIDEO
- BlueMotion arrives in Brazil and gets local (ethanol) flavor
- First look: 2010 Lexus RX450h, RX350
- Ford thinks there's a great future for I-4 engine offerings in the "New Frugality"
- Rendered Speculation: New Audi city car
- Smart due in Brazil's urban centers in April 2009
- Azure Dynamics signs deal with Ford dealerships for hybrid trucks
AutoblogGreen for 10.31.08 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 05:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read�|�Permalink�|�Email this�|�CommentsGordon Murray's T25 could come to the U.S. in 2014
Filed under: Economy, Hybrids/Alternative, Green
The microcar concept has been around for a long time, but Daimler kick-started its redevelopment with the original smart fortwo. Now, that model's success in the marketplace (if not financially) has prompted such big name players as Toyota and Volkswagen to step up to the plate with innovative new city cars of their own. Toyota's iQ is set to take on the fortwo in Europe any day now and will likely hit the States next year. The next player is coming from engineering icon Gordon Murray and his Design team in the form of the unique T25.Expected to measure in at just over 94-inches long (2.4-meters) and weigh just 1,200-pounds, this is one seriously small car. Many different body styles, primarily made of plastic, are expected to fit on the same basic chassis, including a mini-MPV, pickup truck and convertible. A small, three-cylinder engine is expected to deliver downright amazing fuel economy and low emissions. Murray currently expects the T25 to go on sale in Europe in 2012, with U.S. sales following in as little as two more years. Even if you care nothing of small city cars, you may want to mark that date. And Murray's next project will be an "everyday supercar" that will be sold at a very low price. We can't wait.
[Source: CAR]
Gordon Murray's T25 could come to the U.S. in 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read�|�Permalink�|�Email this�|�CommentsAudi TT-S starts at $45,500
Filed under: Car Buying, Convertibles, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Audi
Audi announced today that pricing for its U.S.-spec TT-S will begin at $45,500 for the Coupe model and $47,500 for the open-air Roadster. The TT-S joins the TT 2.0T and TT 3.2 in Audi's lineup, settling atop the range with a turbocharged, direct-inject 2.0L TFSI engine producing 265 hp @ 6,000 RPM and 258 lb-ft of torque. That's 15 more horsepower and 22 more lb-ft of torque than the TT with Audi's 3.2L V6. The TT-S Coupe also manages to hit in an impressive 4.9 seconds while achieving a combined fuel economy rating of 24 mpg. Top speed for both the Coupe and Roadster, however, will be electronically limited to 155 mph. For their money, buyers will also get Audi's S tronic dual-clutch transmission, magnetic ride suspension and the brand's trademark quattro all-wheel-drive system.
If the TT-S is still not fast enough for you, the TT-RS is on its way. While it may not make it to U.S. shores, the TT-RS will pack a 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder producing 340 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, which will be mated to a six-speed manual and quattro all-wheel-drive. 0-60 times for the TT-RS are expected to drop even further down to 4.5 seconds. Expect the price to also go up even further in turn.
[Source: Audi]
Continue reading Audi TT-S starts at $45,500
Audi TT-S starts at $45,500 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink�|�Email this�|�CommentsNissan Versa 1.6 becomes lowest-priced car in U.S.
Filed under: Car Buying, Sedans/Saloons, Nissan
Nissan has announced a new version of its Versa sedan today, which it claims is now the lowest-priced car in the U.S. For a base MSRP of $9,990 (excluding a $695 destination and handling charge) you can get your hands on the new Nissan Versa Sedan 1.6, which includes a standard 1.6L four-cylinder producing 107 horsepower. It's smaller in displacement than the Versa's other 1.8L engine that produces 122 hp, but is also more efficient returning 26 mpg city/34 highway with a five-speed manual and 26 city/33 highway with a four-speed automatic. The larger 1.8L achieves 26 city/31 highway with a manual, 24 city/32 highway with an automatic and 27 city/33 highway with Nissan's Xtronic CVT transmission. So the new Versa Sedan 1.6 will be slightly more frugal with fuel, but we also expect it will include less standard features in order to keep the starting price below $10,000. The new lowest-priced car in the U.S. will go on sale November 18th.
In the meantime, Nissan has another plan to ease the financial burden of its customers in these tough economic times. The Japanese automaker has announced 0% financing for 36 months (for well-qualified buyers) on the Murano, Sentra, Altima, Versa and Rogue, as well as a $199/month lease for the 2009 Altima and Rogue. Leasing a Rogue for less $200/month will require a hefty down payment of $2,754, while the Altima commands an even more steep $2,759 before you can drive it off the lot. The question is whether or not a sub-$10k Versa and new financing and lease deals will move cash crunched consumers to act.
[Source: Nissan]
Continue reading Nissan Versa 1.6 becomes lowest-priced car in U.S.
Nissan Versa 1.6 becomes lowest-priced car in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 31 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink�|�Email this�|�CommentsThursday, October 30, 2008
Who needs Ethanol
Who needs EthanolThe silver lining in the cloud of high gas prices is that more people became aware of diesel technology and its potential. Automotive consumer’s interests in diesel piqued and thus European manufacturers accelerated their plans to bring diesel cars to the United States for sales. The problem supporters of diesel technology face is convincing the American public that the technology is clean, reliable and most of all fast. Just like Transformers there is more to diesel that meets the eye. Diesel needs to lose the stigmata that surrounds it, e.g. that big black cloud of exhaust or excessive tail pipe emissions. What makes modern diesel engine unique? They produce less greenhouse gases and have increased fuel economy when compared to a gasoline equivalent. Most modern diesel engines can run on three different types of fuel petro-diesel, bio-diesel, and synthetic- diesel. As a society we are looking for alternatives to power our future, with diesels versatility and reduced emissions it is the perfect stepping stone. Each type of diesel fuel brings us one step closer to energy independence. Petro-diesel is widely available and will allow us to reduce the amount of foreign oil we use by about 20-30% due to the increased fuel economy, and with an added bonus of reduced greenhouse emissions. Moving from petro-diesel to synthetic diesel will help reduce the demands of foreign oil even further. Synthetic diesel can be manufactured from almost anything garbage, wood ,sewage, straw, corn(no need for ethanol), natural gas and coal things the US has allot of. While synthetic diesel is promising source, bio-diesel is the holy grail made from animal fats or vegetable oil it is 100% renewable and further reduce greenhouse emission by 50%. There is no way change the vehicles that are already on the road, but switching to and demanding more diesel vehicles from auto manufactures is the next step in the evolution of the daily commute. Like gas engine diesel engine can also be converted to hybrids to even increase their range even further. If we invest resources and time facilities that can be up and running in the very near future, diesel can be used or made from natural resources that are abundant in the US like coal and natural gas. Diesel has the potential to also be a 100% renewable resource that is ultimately better for the environment. Read More | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us
Audi TT RS specs leak out
Filed under: Convertibles, Coupes, Audi
The crew from WCF supposedly intercepted a letter en route to German dealers from Audi HQ that gives up the details on the forthcoming Audi TT RS.
As previously rumored, power will be provided by a 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder, churning out 340 hp and 330 lb.-ft. of torque. Output will be delivered through a six-speed manual gearbox on its way to Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, expected to have a healthy rear-wheel bias. The direct-injected mill should provide acceptable fuel economy, while returning a 0-60 time of just under 4.5 seconds.
In addition to the power upgrades, the TT RS will come equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels, a duo of oval-shaped exhaust tips and an interior swathed in Alcantara and leather. There's no word on whether Audi will ditch the standard TT's magnetic dampers for a more track-focused suspension, and the memo didn't outline if carbon ceramic brakes would be an option.
Expect Audi's Boxster beater to debut late next year in both hard-top and convertible form.
[Source: World Car Fans]
Audi TT RS specs leak out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
AutoblogGreen for 10.30.08
Filed under: Hybrids/Alternative, Green
We're looking for some feedback. Which appeals to you more, the MINI E (left), BMW's green supercar (right) or the new Ford Ka (center)? If you can't see the Ka, then perhaps you're looking too closely at Bond Girl Olga Kurylenko, who gets to drive the diminutive Ford in the new 007 movie this fall.
- Georgia company quits cellulosic ethanol in favor of garbage methane
- Will China be the new Electric Car mecca? It has to
- Paris Hilton drives pink Escalade hybrid in new Paris for President video
- Bond Girl Olga Kurylenko drives first Ford Ka; UK Ka prices start at �7,995
- MINI E gets it guts from AC Propulsion, not Tesla
- GM slashing product development funding; "no impact" on Volt program
- New green supercar to come from BMW
- Alex J. Severinsky wins recognition for "inventing the hybrid"
- No oil burning for the prancing horse, Ferrari rejects diesels
- "Big oil is behind ethanol's bad press"
- Volt used as a keyword for Chrysler's ENVI
- Alfa Romeo MiTo in UK dealerships shortly, deliveries start in January
- ElectricCar.com launches hybrid limo service, donates to wireless transmission tech
- UPS orders up hydraulic hybrids from Eaton
- Ford "Smart Gauge" collects green leaves for good behavior w/VIDEO
- New information on the electric Ford F-150 Hi-Pa coming to SEMA
- Tata delays introduction of the diesel-powered Nano
- Julie Zona joins Automotive X Prize as director of team relations
AutoblogGreen for 10.30.08 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 06:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Toyota denies rumors of giving aid to GM
Filed under: Economy, Hybrids/Alternative, GM, Toyota, Rumormill
Rumors of a meeting between GM CEO Rick Wagoner and top officials from Toyota in Japan has been denied. This shouldn't come as much of a surprise, considering that it's GM's policy not to comment on such matters, but Toyota has no such policy and has also denied that such discussions have or will take place. The Japanese Kyodo News had started the rumors, which specifically suggested that Toyota could offer GM hybrid technology and assistance in the assembly of small cars. That seemed rather odd, especially since GM has its own sophisticated Two-Mode hybrid system that was developed along with Chrysler and BMW. Toyota and GM also already share a factory in California that builds relatively fuel efficient compact cars, so any deal between the two automakers would just be an extension of their current agreements. What's more, General Motors is also in talks with Cerberus to make a major play on Chrysler's automotive operations, so it would seem to be an inopportune time to discuss major deals with other automakers as well.
[Source: Reuters]
Toyota denies rumors of giving aid to GM originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
VIDEO: Saab 9X Air BioHybrid
Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertibles, Videos, Saab
The Saab 9X Air BioHybrid said hello to the world on a pedestal full of disco lights at the Paris Motor Show. It did not, however, move. So for now, if you want to see what the 9X Air will be able to do when it finally does get rolling, we have this little video courtesy of GM. The 9X BioHybrid and its Air BioHybrid sibling are supposed to provide clues to a forthcoming Saab 9-1 small car, and the video is quite cool. But frankly, we also find it a bit saddening, since we can't quite believe that we'll see anything nearly this cool on an actual Saab, and the way things are going, we might not see the Saab 9-1.
[Source: GM FastLane Blog]
Continue reading VIDEO: Saab 9X Air BioHybrid
VIDEO: Saab 9X Air BioHybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
volkswagen jetta tdi mileage report
volkswagen jetta tdi mileage reportA road trip to Vegas lets us compare the mileage of our gas sipping 1.6-liter MINI with our new long term 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI. How does the turbo diesel stand up in a fuel efficiency over the long haul?Last weekend my niece celebrated her first birthday. This meant another trip from Orange County to Las Vegas. I probably do this drive ten times a year if not more. Between holidays, press trips, SEMA and just random trips, I have grown to know this route with much too much familiarity.Lately I have been making the drive in our long term MINI Cooper S. It is a great road trip car for my wife and I. Comfortable, fun and averages about 34 miles per gallon on the open road. The little 1.6-liter turbo four is a real gas sipper, which is nice since the drive is roughly 290 miles door to door. Once we get to Vegas, it works if we plan on taking another couple out for dinner and a movie, but it can be kind of tight.This time we drove our brand new Long Term Jetta TDI. We wanted to see what the turbo diesel could do on a road trip, especially considering the extra size and weight of the sedan compared to the MINI. The drive was just as comfortable in the Jetta. We had more space than we really needed in the Jetta with everything taking up roughly two-thirds fot the trunk and the entire back seat empty. With the MINI, we tend to fill up the trunk and a good part of the backseat. But what about the mileage, that’s what everyone wants to know right? Well, the day before the drive to Vegas, I filled the car up at a cheap gas station in Glendora right before a photo shoot. I know better than to buy to cheap gas, but I was already late for the shoot and didn’t have much of a choice. Diesel was 3.09 a gallon, which turned out to be even cheaper than regular unleaded. Even with said crappy diesel the Jetta managed to eek out 38mpg on the trip to Vegas. That is a pretty impressive number, but not quite what I expected out of the car. We left on a little under a full tank, and we were able to drive to Vegas, around Vegas all weekend on that gas. The morning we left, we filled up at a name brand station. Diesel was another 70 cents a gallon but it turned out to be worth it. On the way back we achieved just over 44mpg. That’s more like it!Read More | Digg It | Add to del.icio.us
2010 Ford Fusion revealed with new face, new engines and new six-speed transmission
Filed under: Car Buying, Sedans/Saloons, Ford
We love mid-size sedans if for no other reason than buyers benefit from the incredibly high level of competition between each player in the segment, and Ford's just-revealed 2010 Fusion appears ready to compete. We only have one image, but it shows the Fusion's new face with an even bigger three-bar grille, nicely contoured hood, angry-eye headlights and a sharply redesigned lower bumper. There's also a new engine lineup with three mills to choose from. The first is an all-new Duratec 2.5L four-cylinder with 174 hp and 172 lb-ft of torque (up 14 hp/16 lb-ft from prior 2.3L). The second is a reworked version of the current 3.0L V6 with 19 more horsepower for a total of 240 hp and 228 lb-ft of torque. And finally Ford will be offering the Fusion with its new 3.5L V6 for 2010, which will make a class competitive 263 hp and 249 lb-ft of torque. The best part? All three engines will be paired with Ford's 6F35 six-speed automatic transmission.
Ford hasn't revealed fuel economy numbers yet, but says the four-cylinder's fuel economy will go up a full 10% and the sixes between 4-6% thanks in large part to the new tranny. This will also be the year Ford introduces the Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid, which will feature the previously announced SmartGauge and can travel up to 47 mph in all-electric mode with a range of more than 700 miles. Unfortunately, it appears that the 2010 Fusion won't be available with any turbocharged, direct-inject EcoBoost powertrains, but the new engines and transmission, along with the nose job, are a big step forward for Ford's already competitive Fusion.
[Source: Ford]
Continue reading 2010 Ford Fusion revealed with new face, new engines and new six-speed transmission
2010 Ford Fusion revealed with new face, new engines and new six-speed transmission originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Filed under: Car Buying, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Earnings/Financials
The sun will set on an alarming number of new car dealerships this year, according to The National Automobile Dealers Association, better known as NADA. This has been an ongoing trend, but it's set to accelerate as slowing new car sales and the tough credit market makes it very difficult for dealerships to stay open. After losing about 430 dealerships last year, the total stood at around 20,700 left, of which 700 are expected to close up shop before the end of the year.
This sobering statistic will have far-reaching effects on the nation's economy, as NADA estimates that 18% of all retail dollars are made at car dealerships, and 13% of the nation's payroll is paid to their employees. Closures will account for the loss of over 37,000 jobs in the United States and will only serve to complicate the oftentimes frustrating act of purchasing a new car for many Americans, not to mention making it that much harder for automakers to reach out to their dwindling number of customers.
[Source: The Wall Street Journal]
NADA estimates 700 dealers will close in 2008 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Filed under: Convertibles, Euro, UK
Caterham has revised its best-selling Superlight R300, dropping the old Rover mill in favor of a Ford Duratec and pulling a few tricks from its range-topping R500.
The new R300's 2.0-liter four-pot is putting out 175 hp at 7,000 rpm and 139 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels through a six-speed gearbox. With only 1,135 pounds weighing the R300 down - giving it a power-to-weight ratio of 339 hp per ton - it can scoot to sixty in 4.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 140 mph. Available in both build-it-yourself form for �24,995 (or �27,995 complete from the factory), the kit includes everything you need to get on the road, along with a flush-button dash and keyless ignition system pulled from its big-bro the R500. Avon CR500 tires are wrapped around Superlight aluminum wheels, and for those destined for the track, you can option the R300 up with a Stack data logging system, dry-sump oil kit and limited-slip differential.
Caterham has also revised its Roadsport 175 model, a more tame version packing a five-speed transmission with longer gear ratios, 14-inch wheels and a heater. The cost of entry for the 175 comes in at �21,995 in kit form and �24,995 built at the factory. Both models can also be had in "wide chassis" guise for an additional �1,750. We'll take one of each, equipped with the LSD option.
Continue reading Caterham unveils next Superlight R300, Roadsport 175
Caterham unveils next Superlight R300, Roadsport 175 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Subaru R1e electric vehicle ready for sale early
Filed under: Car Buying, Economy, Hybrids/Alternative, Green, Japan, Hatchbacks, Subaru
Subaru's parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), has announced that the R1e electric vehicle will begin silently rolling off dealer lots come 2009, which is a year ahead of schedule. With lithium-ion batteries developed by the Tokyo Electric Power Company, the R1e will have a 50-mile range and a 62-MPH top speed. While the 'range isn't too impressive -- although plenty for typical urban commuting, and it will certainly increase -- the car can be 80-percent recharged in just 8 minutes.
Prices haven't been released for the 2009 launch, but FHI says that by 2012 or 2013, it expects to be able to sell the car for around $17,500. A couple more years of mass production of the battery should allow for a price drop to about $13,100. Initially, FHI only plans to sell 100 of the cars annually, which is only 60 more than are being tested on roads right now and sounds rather conservative to us. Nevertheless, for those of you in Japan, your electric future is nearly here.
[Source: Green Car Congress via Winding Road]
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Pontiac: G8 and Solstice not being canceled
Pontiac: G8 and Solstice not being canceled
Filed under: Convertibles, Coupes, Sedans/Saloons, Pontiac, Rumormill
Pontiac hopes to clear things up with a post on Pontiac blog regarding the future of its current products, namely the G8 and Solstice. It was just the other day that rumors of the brand's two rear-wheel drive vehicles possible being canceled hit the interwebs, and we dutifully reported on the story as we always do. According to Pontiac, though, those rumors are nothing more than speculation and should not be taken as gospel unless you hear it from the horse's (or Mr. Lutz's) mouth, which we have not. Still, the rumor in question indicates that the G8 will live on at least another five years, assuming it continues to sell that long, but would not be replaced after that. This could still be the case. Likewise, the Solstice has not been canceled, but it's replacement in GM's lineup still seems unlikely given the low volume of sales the vehicle attracts. In short, nobody can predict the future, but sometimes the handwriting on the wall isn't that tough to read.
[Source: Pontiac Underground]
Pontiac: G8 and Solstice not being canceled originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
6,000 Camaros ordered so far, 84% with V8
Filed under: Car Buying, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet
Chevrolet has reportedly taken more than 6,000 orders for its new Camaro so far, and why not? The car is great looking, excitement is high, and fuel prices have eased up a bit. You'd think that the prior spike in the cost of fuel would still be fresh on everyone's mind, thus making the V6 a popular choice. Wrongo. While the V6 has similar lip-smackingly great styling, and won't be a slowpoke, it seems that everyone wants that small block rhythm thumping away under the hood of their neo-ponycar. 84% of orders have been for V8-powered SS models so far, which may mean a longer wait for delivery since GM is likely building a very different ratio of V8 to V6 models. Thanks for the tip, Doug!
[Source: Camaro5]
6,000 Camaros ordered so far, 84% with V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
How quickly we forget: Cheaper gas = higher pickup and SUV sales
Filed under: Car Buying, SUVs, Trucks/Pickups
Pickup and SUV sales plummeted when gas hit $4 per gallon, and many thought these gas-guzzling segments would never fully recover. That may be true, but for now Americans are once again getting more comfortable with trucks and SUVs. Truck sales fell below 10% of overall vehicle sales back in May and June, but the price of gas falling from an average of $4.11 per gallon to $2.78 has helped the share of trucks rise to 14.1% of the overall market for September. Depending on how buyers react to the financial crisis, October could be even better as gas prices have continued to go down. SUVs have seen a smaller but still significant jump in overall share, going from 1.9% in May to 2.5% in September - a big improvement for a shrinking segment.
Much of the increased interest in trucks and SUVs can easily be attributed to huge incentives on the hoods of these hefty haulers, but gas prices are a big factor, as well. And while most analysts feel the truck market won't recover until construction picks back up, we're sure automakers are happy to see an increase in sales for their most profitable vehicles, even if it takes a pile of cash on the hood to get them moving.
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd, Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty ]
How quickly we forget: Cheaper gas = higher pickup and SUV sales originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Porsche Boxster/Cayman facelift leaked?
Filed under: Convertibles, Coupes, Porsche
The team at Autoweek.nl supposedly snatched a few images of the facelifted Boxster and Cayman from Porsche's configuration page, revealing a slightly revised set of headlamps and air intakes, along with restyled LED taillights inspired by the 2009 911. But what's mounted amidships is far more important.
The 2010 Porsche Boxster and Cayman will go on sale next year, rumored to be powered by a new 2.9-liter engine. The standard models will be putting out approximately 265 hp and 222 lb.-ft. of torque, while the S-equipped line will feature the same engine equipped with direct injection. Output is reported to swell to 320 hp and 274 lb.-ft. of torque, with power being sent to either a six-speed manual or Porsche's new PDK dual-clutch gearbox.
Expect more details to be revealed next month.
[Source: Autoweek.nl]
Porsche Boxster/Cayman facelift leaked? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
No 2009 Volkswagen R32 for the U.S.
Filed under: Car Buying, Hatchbacks, Volkswagen
The Volkswagen R32 has a die-hard following here in the States. Unfortunately for the sprightly hatchback's groupies, you'll have to head overseas if you want a 2009 model. Volkswagen spokesman Thomas Wegehaupt confirmed the R32's early exit out of the U.S., which means the original 5,000-unit allotment of hot hatches will be the only current-generation R32s to make it Stateside. Part of the reason for the discontinued R32 could have something to do with next year's arrival of the MK VI
The folks over at Kicking Tires say there are still 276 '08 models left in the US, so there are a few chances left to pick an R32 up. The remaining copies of the $32,995 hatch has $2,000 on the hood, too, so those last examples come at a discount. Is a 250-hp Golf with AWD worth a $31,000 entry price when the GTI is almost as fast for nearly $10,000 less? That may have something to do with the fact that we won't have an '09 R32 in the first place.
[Source: Kicking Tires]
No 2009 Volkswagen R32 for the U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Oct 2008 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
