GMPT - General GM and Auto news http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/ en Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:41:17 GMT vBulletin 90 http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/images/misc/rss.jpg GMPT - General GM and Auto news http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/ Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A7 caught in production form http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/spy-shots-2011-audi-a7-caught-production-form-12048/ Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:43:28 GMT Filed under: Detroit Auto Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/detroit-auto-show/), Spy Photos (http://www.autoblog.com/category/spyphotos/), Sedan... Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Spy Photos, Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Hatchback, Audi, Luxury

2011 Audi A7 Spied - Click above for high-res image gallery

The intrepid spy shooters at KGP have caught the 2011 Audi A7 uncovered in a testing lab in Germany ahead of its official reveal next year, and the sleek, low-slung saloon/coupe hasn't lost much of its flavor in the transition from showcar to production.

Although the shots don't give us a clear view of the front fascia, the headlamps and front clip have obviously been toned down from its conceptual predecessor shown earlier this year the Detroit Auto Show. However, its sloping roofline and well-integrated hatch would appear to prove that at least one automaker can create a five-door hatch that's simultaneously attractive and functional.

If our tea leaf-reading is accurate, we'd expect to see the A7 make its production debut either in Detroit this January or at the Geneva Motor Show in March. Powertrain options should include everything from Audi's turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four to the S4's supercharged six, along with a V8 option further down the line. And if the BMW 5 Series GranTurismo proves to be a hit in the States, we won't be at all surprised if Audi follows suit and by offering the A7 in North America.


Gallery: Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A7


Spy Shots: 2011 Audi A7 caught in production form originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/spy-shots-2011-audi-a7-caught-production-form-12048/ VIDEO: Audi teases the new A8 ahead of Sunshine State debut http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/video-audi-teases-new-a8-ahead-sunshine-state-debut-12047/ Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:32:39 GMT Filed under: LA Auto Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/la-auto-show/), Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Videos... Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedan, Videos, Audi, Luxury


Audi A8 teaser - click above to watch the video after the jump

We still have a bit over a week until Audi officially pulls the wraps off its next-generation A8 flagship sedan in Miami. As a holdover, however, they have released a teaser video, and we've got it for you. The operative word here is tease. As usual, very little of the car is actually shown, although a variety of phrases are overlaid on the imagery which feature terms like "creativity," "aesthetics," and "art factory." From a couple of the images (including the one captured above), it appears that the new A8 will probably be more sculpted than previous models, and it will likely feature elements like the so-called "tornado line" used on the side of the A4 and A5.

As a brand headliner, the A8 will surely feature an "intensive abundance of research and ideas" such as the rumored touch pad interface with handwriting or gesture recognition for the controls. No doubt more details will be trickling out over the coming week, and we'll be on hand in Miami to give you the full details as the car is revealed. In the meantime, you can check out the video now by clicking past the jump.

[Source: Audi]Continue reading VIDEO: Audi teases the new A8 ahead of Sunshine State debut

VIDEO: Audi teases the new A8 ahead of Sunshine State debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/video-audi-teases-new-a8-ahead-sunshine-state-debut-12047/ Pics Aplenty: Porsche Boxster Spyder http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/pics-aplenty-porsche-boxster-spyder-12044/ Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:31:50 GMT Filed under: LA Auto Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/la-auto-show/), Convertible (http://www.autoblog.com/category/convertibles/), Performance... Filed under: LA Auto Show, Convertible, Performance, Porsche


2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder - Click above for high-res image gallery

Porsche drivers don't like waiting. That's why they buy a Porsche, after all. So while a few weeks might not seem like a long time for most people, to a Porsche driver used to rocketing to 60 miles per hour in four-point-right-now seconds, the span of weeks must seem like an eternity.

Although we're still weeks away from the LA Auto Show, where Porsche is set to unveil the new Boxster Spyder, Zuffenhausen has kept its enthusiasts placated with a fresh batch of photos showing its newest, lightest vehicle in all its glory. We'll be on hand for the unveiling next month, but before then check out the updated high-res image gallery below.


Gallery: 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder



[Source: Porsche]Pics Aplenty: Porsche Boxster Spyder originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/pics-aplenty-porsche-boxster-spyder-12044/ <![CDATA[Two Out of Three Ain't Bad: Most Chevy Camaros reportedly being sold with V8 power]]> http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/two-out-three-aint-bad-most-chevy-camaros-reportedly-being-sold-v8-power-12042/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:50:02 GMT Filed under: Car Buying (http://www.autoblog.com/category/carbuying/), Coupe (http://www.autoblog.com/category/coupes/), Performance... Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Chevrolet


2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS - Click above for high-res image gallery

It's a sign of the times that most buyers of the new Camaro would go for the V6 and not the V8. At $31,595, the eight-cylinder SS model naturally sells for more than the $23,530 base V6 model. To compound the issue the V6 model costs the auto giant nearly as much to build as the V8 version.

So why would GM want buyers to go for the V6? The smaller engine would help the General keep its Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) rate on the good side of earth-friendly. But according to Edmunds, customers have been voting with their feet. Their right feet, as it would happen, heavy as they are.

Of more than 47,000 Camaros sold from April through October, Edmunds estimates that about two-thirds have been V8 SS models - a trend we can get on board with.


Gallery: Review: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS



[Source: Inside Line]Two Out of Three Ain't Bad: Most Chevy Camaros reportedly being sold with V8 power originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/two-out-three-aint-bad-most-chevy-camaros-reportedly-being-sold-v8-power-12042/ BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wh http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-come-manual-transmission-wait-wh-12041/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 21:36:14 GMT Filed under: Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Buick (http://www.autoblog.com/category/buick/) Image:... Filed under: Sedan, Buick

2011 Buick Regal live unveiling - Click above for high-res image gallery

Trivia Time: When was the last time a U.S. market Buick was available with a manual transmission? Honestly, we can't recall anything more recent than a buddy in high school having a hand-me-down mid-Eighties Somerset coupe with a stubby, workmanlike five-speed. Even back then its presence in our friend's hooptie was a genuine curiosity and a source of perpetual amusement.

Naturally, we posed this same question to a few Buick PR-types this morning at a first drive event upon learning from vehicle line executive Jim Federico that the reborn 2011 Regal will receive a six-speed manual transmission option (mated to a blown 2.0-liter four, no less). The answer? Shoulder shrugs and sheepish looks. Curiously, nobody even tried to answer our query with a red herring like the ill-fated Reatta coupe (it only came with a four-speed automatic).

So we now know when a Buick will next feature God's Own Gearbox (probably in the third quarter of 2010), but we still can't crack this historical chestnut - so we beseech thee, Autoblog Nation... what year was the last Buick built with a DIY transmission - and what car was it in? Hit us with your best shot in Comments.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal Live Unveiling



Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.




BREAKING: Buick confirms 2011 Regal 2.0T to come with manual transmission. Wait... wha? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/breaking-buick-confirms-2011-regal-2-0t-come-manual-transmission-wait-wh-12041/ Rumormill: 2011 Ford Mustang details leak out http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/rumormill-2011-ford-mustang-details-leak-out-12040/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:46:11 GMT Filed under: LA Auto Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/la-auto-show/), Coupe (http://www.autoblog.com/category/coupes/), Ford... Filed under: LA Auto Show, Coupe, Ford, Rumormill


We have to wait a couple more weeks before we're officially "in the know" about the 2011 Ford Mustang, but it appears FoMoCo's secret information damn has a few cracks in it. Ford recently released its fleet distribution news bulletin and it offered some insights as to when the refreshed Mustang is coming and the new variants on offer. The bulletin states customers will be able to order their 2011 Mustang on January 18, 2010, with Ford's favorite stallion tentatively entering production on March 15, 2010.

The alleged news bulletin also mentions some of the new model variants on the way, including the return of the California Special. There will also reportedly be an SVT Performance package, three available 19-inch wheel options, an available six-speed automatic transmission and a Brembo Brake package. The SVT package includes 19-inch wheels, an RR spoiler, "Over the Top" stripe delete and a 3.73 limited slip. The order form also appears to confirm that the 2011 Shelby GT500 will continue to use the 5.4-liter V8 engine, which we hear will be of the all-aluminum variety. We'll learn a lot more about the 2011 Mustang when Ford reveals its vastly updated pony car at the LA Auto Show in early December.

[Source: GMInsideNews via Mustang Heaven]Rumormill: 2011 Ford Mustang details leak out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/rumormill-2011-ford-mustang-details-leak-out-12040/ Rumormill: Ferrari preparing hardcore 599 GTO? http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/rumormill-ferrari-preparing-hardcore-599-gto-12039/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:35:51 GMT Filed under: Coupe (http://www.autoblog.com/category/coupes/), Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Geneva Motor Show... Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Ferrari, Rumormill

Ferrari 599XX - Click above for high-res image gallery

Ferrari often uses its World Finals event to unveil exclusive new versions of its most enticing road cars. The FXX Evoluzione was unveiled there a couple of years ago, and the 16M Scuderia Spider made its debut at the event last year. But aside from a mishap involving Fernando Alonso, Felipe Massa and Luca di Montezemolo in a California convertible, this year's event at Valencia came and went with nothing new to offer. However, the latest churns from the rumormill indicate Maranello could be working on an exciting new project.

Supposedly leaked pre-order sheets reportedly refer to a "599 GTO Limited Edition", named in deference to the iconic 250 GTO (to say nothing of the ground-pounding 288 GTO). Based on the 599 GTB Fiorano, the GTO could be Maranello's answer to arch-rival Lamborghini's Murcielago LP670-4 SuperVeloce.

Incorporating design cues and technologies from the 599XX program, the 599 GTO could benefit from a weight-reduction program to cut some 100-150 pound off the curb weight thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber, while squeezing out as much as 700 horsepower from the Enzo-derived 6.0-liter V12. Pricing would be expected to jump by as much as a quarter to nearly $400,000, and if the reports prove accurate, the 599 GTO could be ready for debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March with the first of just 500 examples slated for delivery by this time next year.


Gallery: Geneva 2009: Ferrari 599xx



[Source: Autogespot via World Car Fans]Rumormill: Ferrari preparing hardcore 599 GTO? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/rumormill-ferrari-preparing-hardcore-599-gto-12039/ Another day, another racing 911, introducing the Porsche GT3 R http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/another-day-another-racing-911-introducing-porsche-gt3-r-12038/ Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:35:40 GMT Filed under: Motorsports (http://www.autoblog.com/category/motorsports/), Coupe (http://www.autoblog.com/category/coupes/), Performance... Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Porsche, Misc. Auto Shows

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R - click above for high-res image gallery

Over its nearly half-century of its existence, the Porsche 911 seems to have spawned nearly as many racing variants as production models. The newest one announced is the 911 GT3 R, which, as the name implies, is targeted at GT3 class racing worldwide. The GT3 R is the followup to the GT3 Cup S model and just as with its road cars, Porsche has aimed to make the new racer both faster and easier to drive.

The GT3 R is derived from the most recent Cup car that was launched in September. It uses a larger normally aspirated 4.0-liter version of the classic flat-six that cranks out 480 horsepower. Like other road racing 911s, this one is rear-wheel drive only and uses a six-speed gearbox. The GT3 will be shown publicly in January at the Birmingham Motor Show in the UK before deliveries to teams start next spring. Since we can't afford one, we're hoping to see a few of these in the ALMS' new GT Challenge class next season. High-res gallery below, official press release after the jump.


Gallery: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 R



[Source: Porsche]Continue reading Another day, another racing 911, introducing the Porsche GT3 R

Another day, another racing 911, introducing the Porsche GT3 R originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/another-day-another-racing-911-introducing-porsche-gt3-r-12038/ <![CDATA[The backstory behind HPP's showstopping Daytona conversion... is a Chevy Camaro next?]]> http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/backstory-behind-hpps-showstopping-daytona-conversion-chevy-camaro-next-12037/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:34:29 GMT Filed under: Aftermarket (http://www.autoblog.com/category/aftermarket/), SEMA Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sema/), Classics... Filed under: Aftermarket, SEMA Show, Classics, Coupe, Performance, Dodge

HPP Daytona - Click above for high-res image gallery

When we saw the HPP Daytona at this year's SEMA show, two things became very apparent. One, we'd really like to drive it. Two, we need better pictures of it. See, the poor thing got itself shoved into a tight booth at SEMA and we just couldn't get too many decent shots. So, being the enterprising lads that we are, we wrote HPP and asked if they had some better pictures. Guess what? You're looking at 'em.

One thing we really dig about these studio shots is the detailing. Just check out the custom exhaust tips - the square suckers sticking out of the Daytona's side behind the rear wheel. Nifty, no? Great hood latches, great front splitter, good looking (and apparently functional) hood scoops and really nice hood pins. And just look at that wing - fabulous. Really, the more we look, the more we like this 600-horsepower supercharged bad boy. Which leaves us with one big question: who is HPP?

Well now, included with the purty pictures was a very interesting explanation to that very question. Gordon M. Heidacker is the president of Heide Performance Products (HPP). He's been in the car business for 23 years, working for AMC and Chrysler while getting his hands dirty with cars like Plymouth Prowler and Dodge Viper. After the Cerberus debacle, Heidacker decided to go it on his own, and set up HPP to fill, "a general hole in the market for accessories and upscale vehicles that could be converted into passionate expressions of metal, glass, plastic to become rolling art." Sounds good by us.

As far as this here Daytona goes, Heidacker had a conversation with Chrysler explaining what he and his team wanted to do. And if Chrysler liked it, they'd fund it. But, as Heidacker points out, they "Delivered that proposal to Mopar exactly 1.5 hours before they declared bankruptcy. So we decided to internally fund the project." Timing, as it's said, is everything. What's next for HPP? Next up is another Challenger, but for next year's SEMA show, they'll be bringing a Chevrolet Camaro. We, for one, will be there. For a partial list of the 50 individual changes HPP made to the Challenger when turning it into the Daytona, make the jump.


Gallery: HPP Daytona Studio Shots



Gallery: SEMA 2009: HPP Daytona Challenger



[Source: hppcars.com]Continue reading The backstory behind HPP's showstopping Daytona conversion... is a Chevy Camaro next?

The backstory behind HPP's showstopping Daytona conversion... is a Chevy Camaro next? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/backstory-behind-hpps-showstopping-daytona-conversion-chevy-camaro-next-12037/ LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/la-preview-mazda2-make-its-north-american-debut-12035/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 16:33:40 GMT Filed under: LA Auto Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/la-auto-show/), Budget (http://www.autoblog.com/category/economy/), Hatchback... Filed under: LA Auto Show, Budget, Hatchback, Mazda

2011 Mazda2 - click above for high-res image gallery

Mazda has finally made it official this morning: it will be bringing its B-segment Mazda2 to the North American market late next year. As you are likely aware, the current generation Mazda2 has been sale in Europe and elsewhere for two years, but we'll be seeing it here for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show in a couple of weeks. The Maz2 shares its platform with the Ford Fiesta which will also make its U.S. production-spec debut at the West Coast show.

Mazda hasn't revealed any other details yet about powertrains or where the car will be sourced from. We expect a 1.6-liter four-cylinder to will be the primary engine. Judging by the teaser shot they released above, we can certainly expect to see the car at least in five-door hatchback form, but given that this is sedan-loving America, we would also expect a four-door with a trunk to show up in Mazda stores, although perhaps not at the LA Auto Show.


Gallery: 2007 Mazda2



[Source: Mazda]Continue reading LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut

LA Preview: Mazda2 to make its North American debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/la-preview-mazda2-make-its-north-american-debut-12035/ Quattro Shock: Forthcoming Audi A1 lineup reportedly to arrive without AWD http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/quattro-shock-forthcoming-audi-a1-lineup-reportedly-arrive-without-awd-12034/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:32:59 GMT Filed under: Geneva Motor Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/geneva-motor-show/), Hatchback (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hatchbacks/), Audi... Filed under: Geneva Motor Show, Hatchback, Audi


Audi Metroproject Quattro Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi and Quattro go together like peanut butter and jelly, but Autobild is reporting that the four-ringed automaker's fabulous all-wheel drive system will be excluded from the forthcoming A1 mini car. We're a little surprised to hear that the Quattro tech won't be added considering that the A1's design study, the Audi Metroproject Quattro Concept, includes the word "Quattro" in its name. Regardless, while this news might be a problem for purists, on the practical side, the inclusion of AWD means additional weight and cost, something that's antithetical to the A1's stated mission.

The A1 will reportedly only be available with one gearbox: a seven speed S-Tronic automatic transmission. Autobild reports that the A1 will be available throughout Europe in August or September of next year, with a sportback version coming online in late 2011 and a cabriolet in early 2012. The S1 will reportedly hit production in February of 2011 with a 1.4-liter TFSI powerplant capable of a very respectable 180 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds. There's no word on whether Audi plans to offer the A1 in the U.S., but we should know more when the compact runabout is revealed at the Geneva Motor Show in March.


Gallery: Audi metroproject quattro concept



[Source: Autobild via German Car Blog]Quattro Shock: Forthcoming Audi A1 lineup reportedly to arrive without AWD originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/quattro-shock-forthcoming-audi-a1-lineup-reportedly-arrive-without-awd-12034/ Volkswagen Amarok will be Official Support Vehicle for Dakar Rally http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/volkswagen-amarok-will-official-support-vehicle-dakar-rally-12033/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:27:27 GMT • 35 pickups to be used in the world's toughest rally
• Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is the “Official Supplier” to the A.S.O.

It is durable, robust and can tackle any road, no matter how tricky: the Volkswagen Amarok will have to prove those claims from January 2010 during the world’s toughest rally. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is the “Official Supplier” to the Dakar Rally and a partner to the organiser, the Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O.). The new pickup from Volkswagen will be the Support Vehicle for the rally. The organiser is to use 20 Amarok, with a further 15 to be used as press and shuttle vehicles.

From 1st to 17th January 2010, the Dakar Rally will also see four teams from Volkswagen Motorsport as well as many other teams travelling 9,000 km through Argentina and Chile. The rally starts and finishes in Buenos Aires.

The Amarok will undergo an endurance test during the Dakar Rally, because it will have to handle all the challenges of the demanding stages: as the organiser’s vehicle to reconnoitre the rally stages, as a press vehicle and as a shuttle for the Volkswagen Motorsport team.

Four of the Volkswagen Amarok from the A.S.O. fleet will get additional off-road conversions for the trip, and four PanAmericana multivans will also be used.

“We are pleased to be able to use the Volkswagen Amarok as our Support Vehicle, because the Dakar Rally demands the highest levels of technical perfection, reliability and endurance – from our Race Touareg as much as from the support vehicles. The Amarok is exactly the right vehicle for our team”, explains Kris Nissen, Volkswagen Motorsport Director.

“The Volkswagen Amarok is Volkswagen’s answer to the pickup and on the Dakar Rally – one of the last great adventures for mankind – it will have the chance to show what it’s made of and to demonstrate its flexibility and durability”, adds Stephan Schaller, CEO of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

“Moreover, the Volkswagen Amarok is built in Argentina and South America is one of the most important markets for this product, so taking part in the 2010 Dakar Rally was an absolute must for us”, stresses Schaller.

The Volkswagen Amarok will be seen at the Dakar Rally in Argentina for the first time and will then be launched initially in South American markets, followed by Europe. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is entering a new vehicle sector. ]]> General GM and Auto news RealWire http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/volkswagen-amarok-will-official-support-vehicle-dakar-rally-12033/ REPORT: Hummer getting plans in order for H4 and H5 models http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/report-hummer-getting-plans-order-h4-h5-models-12032/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 01:03:44 GMT Filed under: SUV (http://www.autoblog.com/category/suvs/), Truck (http://www.autoblog.com/category/trucks/), GM... Filed under: SUV, Truck, GM, Hummer, Rumormill, Off-Road


Hummer HX concept - click above for high-res image gallery

As a brand, Hummer has been in limbo since General Motors announced it was selling the downtrodden marque to China's Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Co. Ltd. Speculation remains that the sale could be completed on or around December 1, pending approval from GM and the Chinese government. For now, everything is on hold, though Tengzhong and new Hummer CEO Jim Taylor are apparently still working hard to plan Hummer's future.

First on the "Honey Do" list is to arrest the free-fall of Hummer sales. Right now, sales are down 64% on the year to about 8,500 units, but Hummer is looking for 25,000 sales in 2010. That will be a tough nut to crack, but Automotive News reports that the company optimistically plans to get things done in part with some aggressive marketing. Ultimately, however, new product will be needed to get dealerships buzzing with customers again. In the meantime, Hummer's 154 U.S. dealers need more inventory in the showrooms to help move metal. AN says that dealers only have 1,300 units in stock, compared to the 7,400 vehicles at the same time in 2008.

The last piece of the Hummer reclamation project is adding those new models. When Tengzhong gets the keys to the Hummer kingdom, it will also receive engineering plans for the H4, a new smaller model that is reportedly based on the HX Concept from the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. Taylor reportedly told AN that Hummer's Jeep Wrangler fighter could arrive within three years. Also possible is an even smaller Hummer H5, which would help the SUV automaker to meet future CAFE requirements. Taylor even goes as far as to say that the smaller H4 and H5 could one day replace the brand's heavier and thirstier H2 and H3 mainstays. The next big challenge for Hummer once the sale becomes final is to find a manufacturing partner to build these vehicles. GM will reportedly cease building Hummer models as early as the end of 2010.


Gallery: Detroit 2008: HUMMER HX Concept



[Source: Automotive News - subs req'd]REPORT: Hummer getting plans in order for H4 and H5 models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/report-hummer-getting-plans-order-h4-h5-models-12032/ Autoblog Podcast #153 - with Phil Berg http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/autoblog-podcast-153-phil-berg-12031/ Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:11:32 GMT Filed under: Podcasts (http://www.autoblog.com/category/podcasts/), BMW (http://www.autoblog.com/category/bmw/), Buick... Filed under: Podcasts, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, GM, Toyota


Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!


Long-serving automotive journalist Phil Berg joins regulars Chris, Sam, and Dan to chew over some recent items. Starting us off, the car we all want in our driveways, the Cadillac CTS-V Sportwagon continues to be grist for the rumormill. Staying with GM, we move on to the debut of the Buick Regal and its potential use of GM's latest mild hybrid system. We next hit up the coming Impala, which will not be a version of the stillborn Pontiac G8, before we comment briefly about third quarter reports and the fervor surrounding GM's financials. The final two items before we hit questions are the delay of BMW's new X3, and a possible wagon or SUV version of the Toyota Prius.

Let us know what you think by dropping us an email at Podcast at Autoblog dot com, reviewing the show in iTunes, filling out our survey, or even leaving us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Thanks for listening, we'll see you next week!Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #153 - with Phil Berg

Autoblog Podcast #153 - with Phil Berg originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/autoblog-podcast-153-phil-berg-12031/ <![CDATA[GM's RenCen headquarters in Detroit 'at risk' without tax credits?]]> http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/gms-rencen-headquarters-detroit-risk-without-tax-credits-12030/ Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:03:30 GMT Filed under: Government/Legal (http://www.autoblog.com/category/government-legal/), GM (http://www.autoblog.com/category/gm/), Earnings/Financials... Filed under: Government/Legal, GM, Earnings/Financials



According to The Detroit News, General Motors has gone on record as suggesting that without state tax credits designed to keep 2,500 employees ensconced at its Detroit Renaissance Center headquarters, the automaker could pull out of Motown's skyline and into the suburbs and surrounding areas.

As the story goes, transcripts from the Michigan Economic Development Corp. say that the Michigan Economic Growth Authority needs to amend a slate of already-approved tax credits to include the Renaissance Center. The requested amendment reportedly includes a provision that GM would need to keep at least 2,500 employees working at the RenCen with a total payroll of $60 million in order to qualify for the incentives.

If GM does not receive the tax breaks, it could disburse the approximately 1,500 additional workers at its headquarters to other offices in the metro Detroit area.

[Source: The Detroit News | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]GM's RenCen headquarters in Detroit 'at risk' without tax credits? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/gms-rencen-headquarters-detroit-risk-without-tax-credits-12030/ <![CDATA[REPORT: January's Detroit Auto Show to be loaded up with political VIPs]]> http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/report-januarys-detroit-auto-show-loaded-up-political-vips-12027/ Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:01:19 GMT Filed under: Detroit Auto Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/detroit-auto-show/), Government/Legal... Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, Government/Legal, Chrysler, GM



After General Motors and Chrysler required a combined $80 billion in government assistance to keep their doors open, many speculated that Uncle Sam would want to keep a hand in the carmaking cookie jar. While it is debatable how much control (a lot) the White House and Congress have over the Detroit automakers, it certainly appears that our politicians have taken a keen interest in the nation's auto industry.

One sign that our government is keeping an eye on our investment is the overwhelming amount of interest Washington is reportedly taking in the 2010 North American International Auto Show. The Detroit Free Press is reporting that Congress, the Department of Transportation and other agencies are making so many requests for access to the press days of the show that special gray and silver government badges are being created just for them. NAIAS Chairman Doug Fox says more than twice the politicians and government agencies have requested to attend the show than last year, and we're guessing the queries will continue to pour in as the show draws nearer. There is also speculation that President Obama may himself attend the show, though the White House isn't likely to confirm or deny that until much closer to the actual event.

On one hand, it's nice to see that Washington has finally decided to pay attention to the auto industry, but we can't help but wonder what what the value add is of joining the scrum during press days. We're thinking most of the politicians and government officials can learn all they need to know about the show from Autoblog, save a few million dollars, and perhaps avoid some time in the frozen tundra that is Detroit in January.

[Source: Detroit Free Press | Image: Stan Honda/AFP/Getty]REPORT: January's Detroit Auto Show to be loaded up with political VIPs originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/report-januarys-detroit-auto-show-loaded-up-political-vips-12027/ U.S.-spec Chevrolet Cruze to debut at LA Auto Show http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/u-s-spec-chevrolet-cruze-debut-la-auto-show-12026/ Tue, 17 Nov 2009 19:01:17 GMT Filed under: LA Auto Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/la-auto-show/), Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Chevrolet... Filed under: LA Auto Show, Sedan, Chevrolet, GM

2011 Chevrolet Cruze - Click above for high-res image gallery

General Motors has announced plans to unveil the U.S.-spec version of the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze at next month's LA Auto Show, alongside the all-new Chevrolet Volt. The compact sedan has been available in Europe and across the Pacific for over a year, but will finally go on sale in the States in the third quarter of 2010.

Originally shown at the Paris Motor Show last year, the Cruze is designed to replace the aging Cobalt and will be packing a 1.4-liter turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder that GM expects to max out at 40 mpg on the highway. Production will begin at the General's Lordstown, OH plant this coming April, and it would seem that GM doesn't plan to offer the 1.6- or 1.8-liter gas engines (or the Euro-market 2.0-liter turbo diesel) at launch. Hit the jump for GM's releases and expect more details to follow when we hit the ground in So. Cal. on December 2nd.


Gallery: 2011 Chevy Cruze


Continue reading U.S.-spec Chevrolet Cruze to debut at LA Auto Show

U.S.-spec Chevrolet Cruze to debut at LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/u-s-spec-chevrolet-cruze-debut-la-auto-show-12026/ <![CDATA[Autoblog builds an LS9 for someone's Corvette ZR1]]> http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/autoblog-builds-ls9-someones-corvette-zr1-12025/ Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:01:01 GMT Filed under: Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Etc. (http://www.autoblog.com/category/etc/), Plants/Manufacturing... Filed under: Performance, Etc., Plants/Manufacturing, Chevrolet, GM

Our completed LS9 V8 - Click above for high-res image gallery

When you think of brands like Aston Martin, Ferrari and AMG, the idea of their engines being built by the hands of skilled craftsmen is no great surprise. However, most people would be very surprised to learn that General Motors has its own special facility dedicated to building its highest performaning engine by hand.

The GM Performance Build Center is located in a nondescript industrial park in in Wixom, MI, not far from the company's Milford Proving Ground. The PBC is a 100,000-square foot factory that opened in 2005 and has since produced both the supercharged Northstar V8 that was used in the Cadillac STS-V and XLR-V, as well as the dry-sump small-block V8 used in the Corvette Z06 and ZR1. The most recent addition to the lineup is the dry-sump LS3 used in the new manual transmission Grand Sport. We were invited by GM to tour the facility and even build one a monster LS9 that would eventually wind up in someone's ZR1.


Gallery: Building an LS9 V8 at the GM Performance Build Center


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.
Continue reading Autoblog builds an LS9 for someone's Corvette ZR1

Autoblog builds an LS9 for someone's Corvette ZR1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/autoblog-builds-ls9-someones-corvette-zr1-12025/ Volkswagen To Defend Dakar Honour With Five Race Touaregs http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/volkswagen-defend-dakar-honour-five-race-touaregs-12024/ Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:31:34 GMT Volkswagen will field five Race Touaregs as the team bids to defend one of the most challenging international motorsport events, the Dakar Rally. ... Volkswagen will field five Race Touaregs as the team bids to defend one of the most challenging international motorsport events, the Dakar Rally.

Taking place across the South American continent for the second consecutive year, the 31st ‘Dakar’ Rally will see the five Volkswagen teams encountering some of the most demanding terrain on the planet.

The 2010 ‘Dakar’ Rally course starts from Buenos Aires in Argentina on 1 January. The five teams will be tested to the limits, travelling 9,000 kilometres (5,625 miles) across the Andes, through the Atacama desert’s demanding dune fields in the north of Chile and back, with altitudes exceeding 4,700 metres above sea-level. It was over this terrain that Volkswagen made history in 2009 with the Race Touareg becoming the first diesel-powered vehicle to win the legendary event.

The Race Touaregs, powered by a 2.5-litre TDI developing 280 PS, won ten out of a possible 13 stage wins on the way to clinching a famous one-two victory.

Last year’s winning pairing of Giniel de Villiers (ZA) / Dirk von Zitzewitz (D) return to the Race Touareg cockpit, alongside fellow Dakar Rally veterans Carlos Sainz (E) / Lucas Cruz (E) and Mark Miller (USA) / Ralph Pitchford (ZA). They are joined by Nasser Al-Attiyah (Q) / Timo Gottschalk (D) and the most recent addition to the Volkswagen Motorsport driver line-up Brazilian partnership Mauricio Neves and Clécio Maestrelli.

Neves brings a wealth of experience to the Volkswagen Motorsport team, as the most successful Brazilian driver in cross-country rally racing. He made his competition debut in the Race Touareg prototype earlier this year at the Rallye dos Sertões, nicknamed ‘Little Dakar’, clinching a class podium and overall sixth place.

Volkswagen Motorsport Director, Kris Nissen explains ‘At the 2009 Dakar Rally, we showed that the Race Touareg is not only the most reliable but also the fastest cross-country rally vehicle in the world and that the Volkswagen Group’s TDI technology is superior to other diesel power concepts. We have put together a powerful driver’s squad and we want to successfully defend our title at the upcoming ‘Dakar’.’ ]]> General GM and Auto news RealWire http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/volkswagen-defend-dakar-honour-five-race-touaregs-12024/ Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009 http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/lexus-gx460-debut-china-auto-guangzhou-2009-a-12022/ Tue, 17 Nov 2009 01:00:39 GMT Filed under: SUV (http://www.autoblog.com/category/suvs/), Lexus (http://www.autoblog.com/category/lexus/), Toyota... Filed under: SUV, Lexus, Toyota, Misc. Auto Shows, Luxury

2009 Lexus GX470: Its days are numbered

The arrival of the 2010 Toyota 4Runner meant that a luxury-badged cousin would soon follow. Sure enough, Toyota has announced that the new 2010 Lexus GX460 will be among the array of vehicles to be shown next week at China's Auto Guangzhou 2009 show. As the nomenclature would suggest, the next-gen GX will be powered by a 4.6-liter V8, which is rumored to make 300 horsepower in the GX460, a 37-hp bump over the 4.7-liter V8's output in the current vehicle (shown above).

According to scuttlebutt posted to ClubLexus.com following last year's New York City dealer meeting, we should look for the new GX to arrive in January 2010 with styling that borrows heavily from the full-sized LX570 SUV and electrically-folding third row seating. We'll keep our eyes peeled for photos and additional info, but in the meantime you can check out Toyota's brief PR after the jump.Continue reading Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009

Lexus GX460 to debut in China at Auto Guangzhou 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/lexus-gx460-debut-china-auto-guangzhou-2009-a-12022/ REPORT: C/D says Lutz confirms Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/report-c-d-says-lutz-confirms-cadillac-cts-v-sport-wagon-12021/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 22:53:45 GMT Filed under: Coupe (http://www.autoblog.com/category/coupes/), Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Wagon... Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Wagon, Cadillac, GM, Rumormill, Luxury



Between the Buick Regal GS, front-wheel drive (and possible hybrid) Chevrolet Impala and the rumored Caprice SS, Bob Lutz has managed to release a scad officially unofficial details on General Motors' future product plans over the last two days. And now comes this.

Speaking with Car and Driver, Maximum Bob went into Maximum Bloviation mode when discussing the Buick Regal wagon, and then ostensibly confirmed that the Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon has been given the green light by saying, "You'll be able to get the CTS-V any way you want." Meaning: the CTS-V will be available in both coupe and five-door variants.

Naturally, anything that jumps out of Lutz' mouth should be taken with an extra helping of NaCl, as his past off-hand announcements haven't always come to fruition. Regardless, creating the duo of CTS-Vs is damn easy and we're hoping to see both in production form next year.

[Source: Car and Driver]REPORT: C/D says Lutz confirms Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/report-c-d-says-lutz-confirms-cadillac-cts-v-sport-wagon-12021/ Rumormill: Holden-based, RWD 2012 Chevy SS coming after all? http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/rumormill-holden-based-rwd-2012-chevy-ss-coming-after-all-12020/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:44:06 GMT Filed under: Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Chevrolet... Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Chevrolet, Holden, Australia, Rumormill

Chevrolet Lumina SS (Middle East edition) - click above for high-res image gallery

If it's Monday, there must be a big, rear-wheel drive Chevy four-door coming soon. Tuesday? We'll retract and deny everything. We know, we know. We also know we just reported that the next Chevy Impala will remain FWD -- but check this out. We've been hearing rumors for some time now, that despite whatever Fritz Henderson has to say on the matter, a high-performance version of the Pontiac G8 will live on as a Chevy SS model, either badged as a Caprice or (more likely) an Impala. And we're not talking the police special. As Maximum Bob has said, the G8 is "Kinda too good to waste." Needless to say, we totally agree.

An eagle-eye'd reader named Jim just caught the following on a Pontiac G8 forum:
"My dealer had sent off pictures to GM of the cable portion of the front seats belts rubbing against the plastic on the side of the front seats. In an email sent back to the dealer, GM says that they have no plans to solve what has already been built but going forward a correction is planned. The email continues: ...a fix is planned for MY11.5 Chevy Police Program and MY12 Chevy SS. The fix will involve a protective sleeve that covers the buckle and section of the buckle stem that rubs on the plastic trim."
How 'bout them apples? Not only does it confirm what we've heard, but it brings a great big smile to our face. Now, repeat after us, LS3 with six-speed manual, LS3 with six-speed manual, LS3 with six-speed manual... Thanks a million, Jim!


Gallery: 2009 Chevy Lumina SS (Middle East)



Source: G8 Board]Rumormill: Holden-based, RWD 2012 Chevy SS coming after all? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 15:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/rumormill-holden-based-rwd-2012-chevy-ss-coming-after-all-12020/ REPORT: Lutz says next Chevy Impala to stay front-drive, gain hybrid variant http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/report-lutz-says-next-chevy-impala-stay-front-drive-gain-hybrid-variant-12019/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:41:19 GMT Filed under: Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Chevrolet (http://www.autoblog.com/category/chevrolet/) Image:... Filed under: Sedan, Chevrolet

2009 Chevrolet Caprice (Middle East) - Click above for high-res image gallery

Remember those AWESOME rumors about the rear-wheel drive Pontiac G8 living on as a Chevy Caprice? Not going to happen, though used Chevy cop cars will still be the hot Christmas item come 2017 or so. Inside Line's Ed Hellwig reports that after a sit down meeting with General Motors' Maximum Bob Lutz, not only won't there be a true successor to the 1994-1996 Impala SS, but the next Impala will remain front-wheel drive.

The new Impala will get bigger says IL, and add features - probably in an attempt to keep up with the hefty and tech-laden Ford Taurus. Lutz mentions that the new Impala will not only sport decent fuel economy, but also feature GM's hybrid technology. Whether or not this means a Chevy Volt style gas-electric powertrain or the General's next-generation belt-alternator mild hybrid system isn't clear. All we know is, once the few, still-lingering-on dealer-lots G8s are gone, they are gone baby, gone.


Gallery: 2009 Chevrolet Caprice (Middle East)



[Source: Straight Line Blog]REPORT: Lutz says next Chevy Impala to stay front-drive, gain hybrid variant originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/report-lutz-says-next-chevy-impala-stay-front-drive-gain-hybrid-variant-12019/ Chevy Volt color contest finalists include EV-ergreen, environMINT and Viridian Joule http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/chevy-volt-color-contest-finalists-include-ev-ergreen-environmint-viridian-joule-12018/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:41:19 GMT Filed under: Hybrid (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hybrids/), Chevrolet (http://www.autoblog.com/category/chevrolet/), GM... Filed under: Hybrid, Chevrolet, GM, Design/Style, Alternative Fuel

2011 Chevrolet Volt - Click above for high-res image gallery

As of this morning, Chevrolet is moving into the final stage of its Volt color naming contest. The company has picked three finalists from among the names submitted by 13,000 people over the last two weeks. Starting this morning, you can cast your vote for which of the finalists will win the contest. The silver paint with a pale green tint will be one of the launch colors for the Volt when it goes on sale next November.

The three finalists are "EV-ergreen" submitted by Devin McQuarrie, San Jose, CA; "Viridian Joule" submitted by Dave Thomas, of Sanford, FL; and "environMINT" entered by Matthew Valbuena, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA. Visitors on the http://www.chevroletvoltage.com site can vote for their choice and all three finalists will be brought to Los Angeles on December 1 where the winner will be announced. Immediately following the announcement, the winner will get to take a test drive in one of the pre-production Volts, the first outsider to do so. General Motors is limiting votes to one per person per IP address over the next two weeks, so make yours count.


Gallery: 2011 Chevy Volt



[Source: General Motors]Continue reading Chevy Volt color contest finalists include EV-ergreen, environMINT and Viridian Joule

Chevy Volt color contest finalists include EV-ergreen, environMINT and Viridian Joule originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/chevy-volt-color-contest-finalists-include-ev-ergreen-environmint-viridian-joule-12018/ Pics Aplenty: Maybach drops full slate of Zeppelin images http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/pics-aplenty-maybach-drops-full-slate-zeppelin-images-12017/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:36:38 GMT Filed under: Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Geneva Motor Show (http://www.autoblog.com/category/geneva-motor-show/), Europe... Filed under: Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Maybach, Luxury

Maybach Zeppelin 62 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Hi everybody! You're looking at the $612,000 Maybach Zeppelin 62. We've already given out opinion as to why the new Zeppelin range of Maybachs probably ain't worth the extra money. So never mind the economics of the car -- at least for a few minutes. What we have here is a big old gallery worth of images of the new ultra-exclusive top of the line Maybach in its natural habitat. That's right, running around the French Riviera. We'll get to sneak a peak at the new Zeppelin's interior come Geneva. Maybe even sit inside it if we can catch a security guard dozing on the job.

We've been hearing rumors of Maybach's demise for quite some time, but as soon as some pundit yells game over, Daimler's uber-luxury brand goes and releases another model -- like the kooky Landaulet. And we don't mean kooky in a derogatory way. We mean it in a "We're kooky and we'd love to pull up to a roller derby game in a white-on-white Landaulet with half a dozen of our closest friends" kind of way. Failing that, we wouldn't mind rolling 'round town in a Zeppelin. Especially if we're not paying.


Gallery: Maybach Zeppelin



[Source: Daimler]Pics Aplenty: Maybach drops full slate of Zeppelin images originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/pics-aplenty-maybach-drops-full-slate-zeppelin-images-12017/ BREAKING: GM to begin repaying $6.7 billion in US loans next month http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/breaking-gm-begin-repaying-6-7-billion-us-loans-next-month-12015/ Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:06:31 GMT Filed under: Government/Legal (http://www.autoblog.com/category/government-legal/), GM (http://www.autoblog.com/category/gm/), Earnings/Financials... Filed under: Government/Legal, GM, Earnings/Financials



General Motors will announce later today plans to repay the U.S. government some $6.7 billion in loans ahead of its initial due date of July 2015. The payments are expected to begin as early as next month, with $1 billion paid each quarter until the full sum is paid -- although that doesn't cover the total $50 billion the taxpayers have "invested" in the automaker after it declared bankruptcy earlier this year.

However, as the Washington Post points out, the amount the government will get back from GM depends on the value of the General's stock. With $6.7 billion in debt, $2.1 billion preferred stock and a 61 percent stake in the automaker, the $50 billion total is a long way off from being paid in full. And when GM reports its financial results tomorrow, it's not expected to show a profit, although the overall picture could be slightly better than anticipated.

[Sources: Washington Post, Detroit News | Image Source: Bill Pugliano/Getty]BREAKING: GM to begin repaying $6.7 billion in US loans next month originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/breaking-gm-begin-repaying-6-7-billion-us-loans-next-month-12015/ Rumormill: Bob Lutz drops more Buick Regal GS, high performance wagon hints http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/rumormill-bob-lutz-drops-more-buick-regal-gs-high-performance-wagon-hints-12014/ Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:04:24 GMT Filed under: Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Performance (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sports/), Wagon... Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Wagon, Buick, Opel, Rumormill

Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer -- Click above for high-res image gallery

While we were talking about the Escalade EXT launch with Susan Docherty (don't ask) during the Regal reveal at the Hollywood Palladium last week, Car & Driver's Steve Siler was pushing Maximum Bob about sportier versions of the newest Buick. Now, we heard mumblings about a new Buick Regal GS last month, but that was just dealer hearsay. Siler's report is straight from Lutz's mouth, and while he's not exactly the most reliable GM exec we've ever talked with, he does seem to have his finger on the General's performance pulse.

To summarize a bit, a 335-hp, all-wheel-drive manny-tranny version of the Regal might be coming, labeled with the legendary GS badge. There might even be a wagon version of the top of the line Regal - maybe even one with GM's eLSD torque vectoring. In fact, Lutz made it sound like GM might just import the 325-hp turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer, crank up the boost a smidge and slap a Regal GS badge on it - which is more than totally fine with us. In fact, Siler suggests that what GM ought to do is make the tip top Regal wagon-only - sort of like the MazdaSpeed3 or WRX STI. Maybe call it the Buick Regal GSX? But like most such things involving GM these days, we'll believe it when we see it.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2010 Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer



[Source: Car & Driver]Rumormill: Bob Lutz drops more Buick Regal GS, high performance wagon hints originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/rumormill-bob-lutz-drops-more-buick-regal-gs-high-performance-wagon-hints-12014/ STUDY: Cash for Clunkers helped Japanese way more than Detroit 3 http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/study-cash-clunkers-helped-japanese-way-more-than-detroit-3-a-12011/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 02:14:40 GMT Filed under: Government/Legal (http://www.autoblog.com/category/government-legal/), Chrysler (http://www.autoblog.com/category/chrysler/), Ford... Filed under: Government/Legal, Chrysler, Ford, GM, Honda, Nissan, Toyota



While there is no question that Obama's Cash-for-Clunkers program accelerated vehicle sales this summer, a new report by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute shows the big winners were from Japan, not Detroit.

According to the study, nearly 85 percent of the trade-ins were from General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler, yet they only sold 39 percent of the new cars moved off the lots. On the other hand, 8 percent of the trade-ins came from Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, manufacturers who accounted for 41 percent of new car purchases.

While these numbers may be justified by the large quantity of inefficient domestic trucks and SUVs that were deemed clunkers, customer loyalty also seems to have taken a big shift. About 68 percent of owners who traded in Toyota, Honda, or Nissan vehicles replaced them with another from one of those Japanese brands, while only 43 percent of consumers who traded in Detroit steel purchased another General Motors, Ford, or Chrysler product. The program cost the U.S. taxpayers about $3 billion.

[Source: USA Today | Image: Justin Sullivan/Getty]STUDY: Cash for Clunkers helped Japanese way more than Detroit 3 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/study-cash-clunkers-helped-japanese-way-more-than-detroit-3-a-12011/ Buick Regal likely to be launch platform for next GM hybrid system http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/buick-regal-likely-launch-platform-next-gm-hybrid-system-12010/ Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:06:25 GMT Filed under: Hybrid (http://www.autoblog.com/category/hybrids/), Sedan (http://www.autoblog.com/category/sedans/), Buick... Filed under: Hybrid, Sedan, Buick

2011 Buick Regal - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last night, General Motors publicly unveiled the 2011 Buick Regal that goes on sale in North America in the first half of next year. The Regal will be Buick's new mid-sized sedan entry and is essentially just a re-grilled version of the Opel Insignia that went on sale in Europe last year. The North American Regal will be built at the Oshawa Ontario assembly plant in Canada beginning in calendar 2011 and will only be offered with a choice of direct-injected four-cylinder engines. However, the Regal is actually slated to go on sale in calendar 2010, and some are suggesting that the sedan will be sourced from Germany for 12 to 15 months.

The base engine will be the 2.4-liter normally aspirated unit that debuted earlier this year in the Chevrolet Equinox, among other models. With a six-speed automatic transmission, the Regal should hit 30+ mpg on the highway. The optional unit will be a 220-hp version of the 2.0-liter turbo, but that powertrain likely won't come on-line right away.

Earlier this year, documents were leaked that listed the Oshawa plant as building a new mid-size hybrid sedan in 2011. It looks like the Regal will be that car with GM's new second generation mild hybrid system that was announced in 2008. The new system uses a more powerful motor/generator and a lithium ion battery. According to Ward's Auto World, the Regal could also get GM's plug-in two mode hybrid system, but that likely won't appear before late 2011 at the earliest.


Gallery: 2011 Buick Regal



[Sources: Ward's Auto World - sub req'd | GM-Volt.com]Buick Regal likely to be launch platform for next GM hybrid system originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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More... ]]> General GM and Auto news jamz http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/buick-regal-likely-launch-platform-next-gm-hybrid-system-12010/ Koenigsegg reportedly rejects 81 out of 218 U.S. Saab dealers http://www.gmperformancetuning.com/forums/f122/koenigsegg-reportedly-rejects-81-out-218-u-s-saab-dealers-12009/ Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:17:55 GMT Filed under: Government/Legal (http://www.autoblog.com/category/government-legal/), GM (http://www.autoblog.com/category/gm/), Saab... Filed under: Government/Legal, GM, Saab

2010 Saab 9-5 - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to Automotive News, Federal Express letters arrived at 81 of Saab's 218 dealers on Thursday stating that their franchises had not been selected to move forward and become a dealer for the post-sale entity, Saab Cars North America. The package from General Motors said that Swedish supercar maker Koenigsegg, Saab's buyer, had selected only certain stores based on its business plan requiring strong, well-located dealers showing profits and high volume.

All Saab dealers signed termination agreements in June when GM entered bankruptcy. The dealers who received reject letters today will follow the terms of those agreements. Meanwhile, the remaining 137 U.S. Saab dealers will have to wait patiently until the end of November when the sale is scheduled to close (although those close to the deal say it may take longer). Current Saab dealer contracts with GM will not expire until October 2010, at which point the remaining dealers will sign new franchise agreements with Saab Cars North America.


Gallery: 2010 Saab 9-5



[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]Koenigsegg reportedly rejects 81 out of 218 U.S. Saab dealers originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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