New Motors Auto Mall

2012-01-12T06:32:00.000-08:00

Volkswagen Passat receives "Best of 2012" top-honor from Cars.com

TDI® Clean Diesel model also recognized as “Eco-Friendly Car of the Year”

Detroit, MI - Adding to a growing list of awards, the new-for-2012 Volkswagen Passat has earned additional praise from Cars.com for its outstanding value and long list of standard features. Named “Best of 2012,” the Passat captured the third annual award from the popular online automotive source. The Passat’s long list of standard features includes Bluetooth® technology, dual-zone automatic climate control, class-leading rear seat legroom, and Volkswagen’s Carefree Maintenance program for a starting MSRP of $19,995.

Prior to choosing the “Best of 2012” awards, editors at Cars.com tested more than 65 models released for 2012. Editors picked their top six before selecting the 2012 Passat as “Best of 2012.” The Passat ousted the Subaru Impreza, Range Rover Evoque, Hyundai Veloster, Hyundai Accent, and Audi A7.

In addition to the “Best of 2012” honor, Cars.com named the Passat TDI Clean Diesel model their “Eco-Friendly Car of the Year.” The clean diesel’s 2.0L four-cylinder engine produces 140 horsepower and an exceptional 236 pound-feet of torque. Boasting an industry-leading 795-mile range on a full tank, the Passat TDI manual has an EPA estimated 43 mpg on the highway. As the only affordable diesel in midsize sedan segment, the Passat delivers excellent performance while maintaining exceptional fuel economy.

“This recognition is an honor. We set out to bring to market a sedan that appealed to the American consumer in the highly competitive midsize segment and the Passat is quickly earning a spot on the U.S. consumer’s shopping list due to its exceptional value, strong list of standard features, and German heritage,” said Kevin Joostema, general manager of product marketing. “Accolades such as this indicate that we’re succeeding.”

Engineered in Germany and built at Volkswagen’s state-of-the-art plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the 2012 Passat has garnered praise from the automotive press since its introduction last fall. For more information on the 2012 Passat and its list of awards, visit www.media.vw.com.

About Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen’s operations in the United States include research and development, parts and vehicle processing, parts distribution centers, sales, marketing and service offices, financial service centers, and its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Beetle, Eos, Golf, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Passat, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan vehicles through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or media.vw.com to learn more.

2012 Motor Trend Car of The Year: Volkswagen Passat

2011-12-09T13:16:00.000-08:00

ADVANCEMENT IN DESIGN

Granted, from 50 feet or in a two-dimensional photograph, the Passat engages the eye less than does the splashy "fluidic design" of the Hyundai Sonata, but closer inspection reveals exquisite detailing. Our own expert witness, Tom Gale, gets the ball rolling: "The package provides good accommodation, and like the Audi [A6], what is remarkable is the restraint shown with the handling of the design. Clean, beautiful surfaces have been refined for an engaging result. The upper character line, with its subtle undercut, is an example of the care taken with the stampings throughout." Engineering guru Chris Theodore found the exterior "tastefully executed with really tight shut lines and nice detailing." The result is sort of a time-release appeal that blossoms upon close scrutiny or when hand-washing the vehicle. It's a less flashy design than the Sonata's, but way more cohesive than the Accord's.
There's nothing trendy going on inside, either, which may let it age more gracefully than bolder designs. Gale admits the design "breaks little new ground, but the grain, gloss levels, and material choices are tasteful." He and others criticized the choice to prioritize the dash vents over the multifunction display, the low placement of which looks dated and represents an ergonomic back-step. Ditto the fiddly turn-signal-stalk cruise controls and the entertainment system's lack of a USB port (Bluetooth and an SD card are supported, and there's a 1/8-inch aux jack). But the car's functions can be intuitively controlled without consulting the owners' manual -- something Accord owners may appreciate.

ENGINEERING EXCELLENCE

OK, the engineers among us dislike odd-numbered cylinder counts like this 2.5-liter's, but Theodore grudgingly admitted, "It's the best-tamed VW I-5 application ever. The thrashiness has been masked, and the engine is very quiet. A fine choice for middle America in real-world driving conditions." Your technical director's log reads: "This 2.5 appears to have finally found a good home," with praise for strong launch torque that keeps pace with the competition to 30 mph thanks to short gearing (its 9.0-second 0-60 time trails the competition notably).
Characterizations of the engine note ranged from "moaning" to "unique growl," but the general consensus was that the powertrain integration team earned its kibble. Sure, we wish it were a sprightlier sprinter, but we expect a direct-injected and/or turbocharged four-cylinder replacement to arrive soon.
The turbodiesel found no detractors. "Hands down, my favorite," declared product expert Jim Hall. "This diesel puts the hybrids on the trailer," said Lassa. "Pulls this car around so easily, and gives you 600 plus miles to a tank," added Evans. Pair this clean diesel with "one of the best twin-clutch transmissions in the business," said Theodore, and you've got a green car "without the compromises the mainstream green vehicles impose -- a true technological achievement." And for those who need more power, the compact VR6 teams with that same twin-clutch automatic to deliver class-stomping acceleration to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds.

EFFICIENCY

It should surprise no one that over the course of 11 mixed-driving loops, our diesel Passat recorded the highest fuel economy stats of this year's finalists at 34.3 mpg. Perhaps more interesting was the base 2.5-liter's fifth-best 26.5 mpg -- that's exactly halfway between the EPA city and highway ratings of 22/31 mpg. That's higher within its EPA-predicted economy range than any other finalist managed, and the second highest was the TDI/DSG at 43 percent of its 30/40-mpg points spread (we didn't run the VR6 on our fuel-economy loops). This bodes exceptionally well for real-world achievability of the Passat's window-sticker numbers. Not penurious enough with the petrol? Opt for the base five-speed manual in the SE to eke out one more highway mpg, or the six-speed manual TDI to earn an even better 31/43 mpg.

SAFETY

Like every new car in the segment, the Passat gets six airbags to cushion the occupants if it all goes wrong, plus stability control, tire-pressure monitoring, ABS, brake-assist, and myriad other electronic aids to prevent things from going wrong in the first place. But what's more fun to talk about under the safety rubric is how well the Passat's chassis is tuned to keep it out of trouble, because well-driven, agile cars are less likely to plow into things than poorly controlled, flabby, clumsy ones.
Lassa enthused, "Chassis, steering, ride, and handling all are tastiest within this mostly taste-free vanilla segment." Reynolds proclaimed the Passat "substantially more integrated and driver-attuned than the Camry. In the figure eight, its braking, turn-in, cornering, and exit are all fluidly linkable with less roll and better road feel." Indeed, despite slower acceleration and slightly worse braking performance relative to the base Camry, the Passat SE circulated our figure-eight course 0.4 second quicker at the same 0.60g average. This confirms Reynolds' impressions, proving that the VW corners far stronger than the Toyota. "Steering feels perfectly weighted for this car." Driven against three market-equivalent examples of the sales-leading Camry, this Yankee Doodle Vee-Dub evinced 100-percent German DNA with better body-motion control, less tire noise, and more eager dynamics in every situation. In short, it drives way smaller and more scintillatingly than it looks.

VALUE

Here's where VW's $4-billion Chatta-nooga plant investment pays off for U.S. buyers -- by insulating us from the strong Euro currency that forced the outgoing Passat 2.0T to sell as a Eurochic niche player, base priced at a heady $27,945. That kind of money will buy a nice TDI nowadays, while the mainstream 2.5 SE opens at $20,765. Thirty grand buys a range-topping VR6 that handily out-chics and out-streaks the old EuroPassat, not to mention the V-6 or turbo variants of its family-sedan competitors.
Ownership costs are also further suppressed by VW's Carefree Maintenance Program, which picks up the tab for all scheduled stops during the 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
Of course, in the back of our skeptical minds was a nagging impression that VW quality and reliability lag those of Toyota and Honda, eroding the long-term value proposition. Apart from a dash buzz in one of our test cars, we found no evidence to support this collective prejudice, and Volkswagen officials argue that perception is lagging reality on the quality front. Prototype testing and evaluation have been stepped up dramatically in recent years, and a recent J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Index poll suggests it's paying off. Asked what percentage of their trips to the dealer were for repair versus maintenance, respondents ranked VW seventh at 31 percent -- that's tied with Infiniti, two spots back from Honda (25 percent), and above both Nissan (34) and Toyota (43).

PERFORMANCE OF INTENDED FUNCTION

It's in this category the bigger Passat really shines. Its family-schlepping credentials are impressive. With nearly 49 cubic feet of rear-seat space, "I can comfortably cross my legs while sitting behind a driver seat set to my 5-foot 11-inch height," noted Loh. Jurnecka proclaimed it "like a limo in back -- a great budget Audi." Add to this a usefully cubic 15.9-cubic-foot trunk with split-folding seats and set it all down on a chassis with the moves to make an enthusiast smile, and we've got a pretty interesting new dog in the midsize-sedan fight.
As for our jury? The verdict is in: Volkswagen's less-boring-than-it-looks, 100-percent-German-driving Passat is Motor Trend's Car of the Year.

CLOSEST VOTE EVER

Editor-in-chief MacKenzie always asks his 10 fellow COTY judges for their top three picks. This year, the voting was tied 5-5 (with one errant vote) between the Passat and Chrysler's 300. It was still tied after a count of second-place votes, and the Passat eked ahead only after third-place votes had been counted. Two worthy cars. But there can be only one...

2012 BMW 3 Series Unveiled!

2011-10-21T08:05:00.000-07:00

The BMW 3 Series has been the most lauded sport sedan in the world for longer than we can remember. Worthy competitors pop up, only to fall short of beating this benchmark – often by some subjective measure that can't be quantified. So it's a big deal when the 3 Series is up for a clean-sheet redesign. Not one to refuse a challenge, BMW has stepped up to the task of redesigning its best-selling vehicle and came up with this, the redesigned 2012 BMW 3 Series.BMW clearly wanted to bring the design of the new 3 Series more in-line with the look of its other new cars, mainly the 5, 6 and 7 Series. To that end, the most visible difference is up front, where the car's nose has grown in size. Likely a nod to European safety standards that require taller hoods for pedestrian safety, the 3 Series' new schnoz is both taller and wider than before. The new, larger twin-kidney grille is also no longer separated from the headlights, which are also bigger. Instead, the grille surrounds meet a small portion of the lights to create the impression of a more unified front fascia. It looks a bit like the 5 Series, but also appears to draw inspiration from the forthcoming i8. The new 3 Series looks most familiar, from the side while the new rear end shows off the car's larger trunk.

BMW has stretched the car's new shape around a platform that's larger in every dimension. Its front track is wider by 1.46 inches, the rear by 1.85 inches and length has increased by a full 3.66 inches. Despite being bigger, the new 3 Series is also 88 pounds lighter than its predecessor. Those extra inches outside translate to more rear seat room inside, though not much. What BMW defines as "legroom inside the doors" increases by 0.71 inches and kneeroom is up by 0.6 inches, while headroom grows a scant 0.31 inches. As mentioned, trunk space has grown with the 2012 model able to swallow three golf bags at once.The new 3 Series is also marked by the arrival of BMW's new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that first debuted in the Z4. Replacing the brand's venerable 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder in the 328i model, the new four-cylinder produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, both significant increases. BMW claims the new 328i will also be more fuel efficient despite the extra power, and while fuel economy numbers aren't available yet, the company does say the new 328i will scoot to 60 miles per hour in 5.7 seconds and on to an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph.

The more powerful 335i model retains its N55 single-turbo 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder that once again produces 300 hp and 300 lb-feet, but thanks to new fuel-saving measures like Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, an ECO PRO mode and new eight-speed automatic transmission (a six-speed manual is standard), BMW says the 335i can now achieve an estimated 32.6 mpg, though, again, official EPA numbers aren't yet available.The new 3 Series will be available in four trim levels to suit individual tastes: Sport Line, Luxury Line, Modern Line and M Sport Package. The Sport Line is identified by its dark side, which means lots of gloss black trim on the exterior, as well as gloss black interior bits with red accents. The Luxury Trim, in contrast, favors shiny chrome and receives a special set of 18-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels. The Modern Line is a bit more subtle, decked out in satin aluminum trim with 18-inch turbine-style alloy wheels. Lastly, the M Sport Package alters the sedan's new look with an aerodynamics package and 18- or 19-inch M Design wheels. While falling short of a full on M car, the M Sport Package does also offer an M Sport suspension, M short-shifter and various other M-branded bits.

Lastly, the 2012 3 Series gains some tech enhancements that include a new full-color, high-resolution Heads-Up Display; Active Blind Spot Detection System; Camera monitoring for a Lane Departure Warning System and Collision Warning; and a new Surround View system with Top View and Side View to augment the rear-view camera. The 3 Series lineup will also welcome a hybrid variant later on in 2012 called the ActiveHybrid 3 that produces a combined gas/electric power output of 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque.The 2012 BMW 328i and 335i will arrive in U.S. showrooms in February 2012, with pricing to be announced at a later date, while the all-wheel-drive 328i and 335i xDrive models will be available in this summer. The ActiveHybrid 3, meanwhile, goes on sale in the fall. Now the only thing left to do is drive them.

Could the Kia GT be produced with something other than a V6?

2011-10-07T07:33:00.001-07:00

Volkswagen brings Buggy Up! concept back from the beach

2011-10-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

BMW working on carbon-ceramic brakes for M5

2011-09-27T07:11:00.001-07:00

2012 Kia Rio priced from $13,600*

2011-09-27T07:06:00.000-07:00

BMW X4 production confirmed

2011-09-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

GT Concept pushes Kia into the world of rear-wheel drive performance

2011-09-15T06:47:00.001-07:00

Volkswagen Beetle R Concept gets shot of testosterone

2011-09-15T06:41:00.000-07:00

Latest Subaru BRZ prototype comes into view

2011-09-06T08:23:00.000-07:00

BMW planning M5 with diesel, all-wheel drive?

2011-08-12T07:54:00.001-07:00

It wasn't that long ago that a BMW with all-wheel drive – or really, anything other than rear-wheel drive – would have seemed downright apocryphal. But these days the Bavarian automaker offers traction at all four corners on a growing variety of vehicles... including the X5 M and X6 M crossovers. But an M5? If you shudder at the thought, you may want to stop reading here, because word on the street is that BMW is not only planning to place an extra driveshaft in the M5, but also give it – gasp! – a diesel.The rumors are sparked by an apparently official document that includes a model designated M550dX. The first letter and number we all know and love. The 50 reportedly refers to a new triple-turbo diesel inline-six set to be unveiled at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The D, of course, refers to the diesel fuel it will burn, and the X for all-wheel drive.Although most M cars these days carry simpler names like M3 and M5, enthusiasts will note that one of the division's first products was the M535i of 1979, which came along long before the first M5 in 1984. Could BMW be planning on returning to this nomenclature for its first diesel, all-wheel-drive performance sedan? We'll have to wait and see.

Spy Shots: 2014 BMW M3 caught packing new turbocharged inline six

2011-08-12T07:50:00.001-07:00

As we reported earlier this year, the current E90/E92 BMW M3 will be the last of the naturally aspirated M cars, and if recent rumors are to be believed, BMW will adapt the single-turbo N55 inline-six for duty in our favorite 3 Series. But how many turbos?Some reports indicate two, while others say three (two traditional snails and an electric turbo). But no matter the configuration, expect output to be up over 450 horsepower and torque to swell to nearly 400 pound-feet.Regardless of what's under the hood, development of the next M3 is well underway in Germany as BMW gears up for the release of the standard 3 Series successor.This first batch of M3 spy shots don't show much aside from blacked-out 19-inch wheels, a widened body sans hood bulge and quartet of exhaust pipes. Stylistically, the next 3er is set to take cues from the recently revealed i brand, including new "angle eye" LED daytime running lamps that are flat on the top and bottom, and fitted to a more upright, angular fascia.The fully redesigned 3 is set to debut later this year, with sales beginning in early 2012. As for the M3, don't expect it to hit until 2013 and 2014 model.

Subaru teases XV crossover ahead of Frankfurt

2011-08-11T10:50:00.001-07:00

If you were smitten by the Subaru XV concept, Fuji Heavy Industries is ready to make your dreams a reality at next month's Frankfurt Motor Show. Influenced by the concept that debuted in Shanghai this April, the production version of Subaru's next generation crossover is set to land in European showrooms later this year. For those of us in the States, you'll know the XV as the Impreza Outback, although it's unclear if the Euro-XV will form the basis of the next Outback wagon or another variant of the Impreza. We'll know soon enough once we hit the floor in Germany.

BMW 3 Series Touring drops some camo

2011-08-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

BMW builds a great wagon. You would be forgiven for forgetting that, what with the recent product lineup featuring the ugly duckling, hunchback-shaped 5 Series GT and physics-defying X6. Over yonder Atlantic pond, the European market gets to play with the 5 Series Touring while we're left to wait for an updated 3 Series Touring. Looks like our wait is nearly over.Our spy photographers snapped a camo-clad 3 Series wagon undergoing testing. We assume that involves cramming it with groceries, puppies, hockey equipment and golf clubs. The 3 Series is due for its update, and we're excited to see what it looks like under all of that Starry Night-inspired camouflage. Now, if we could convince BMW to give us back the 5 Series Touring, we'd cut off our ear to show our gratitude. - Autoblog

BMW i3 Electric City Car

2011-07-29T10:23:00.001-07:00

BMW claims that its new $35,000 Chevy Volt-beater will have 99 miles of range from its rear-mounted electric motor and floor-mounted batteries. BMW (being BMW) is also claiming 100 mph for the car's top speed, and the i3 could bring the equivalent of 150 horsepower. Cargo will be divided between the rear seats and in the front trunk (a la the original, rear-engine VW Beetle). Much of the body will be made of carbon-reinforced plastic. Wireless charging is one intriguing concepts we hope makes it to market. In conjunction with industrial giant Siemens, BMW is working on a magnetic field charging system, like those used in wireless laptop and cell phone charging pads, where a car would parked above a charging station. At that point, a coil in both the ground and the vehicle would recognize each other and begin the charge. This beats having your Volt or Prius PHV plugged in via wire at a garage or mall for a few hours, where vandalism or other hazards exist.

Long-wheelbase BMW 3 Series spotted testing

2011-07-28T13:37:00.000-07:00

The Chinese like long-wheelbase versions of sedans, because execs like to be able to stretch out while the drivers ferry them about – and the country, if you didn't know, has a whole lot of executives. Audi sells a stretched A4 there, and BMW evidently feels the market looks robust enough for a long-wheelbase 3 Series Li. Why not just get a 5 Series, you ask? Because the man says he wants a longer 3 Series, and he's got cash...Reports indicate this is a China-only model that will bow at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. Its platform, though, is also expected to underpin the 3 Series GT. That car might come to America, and if so it will offer some extra rear legroom for us and certainly be just as interesting to look at as this long-wheelbase model.

2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: July 2011

2011-07-25T14:00:00.001-07:00

If the Volkswagen Jetta TDI featured in our Battle Of The Eco Compact Cars comparison test looked familiar, that's because it's our long-term tester. In fact, you might say that the arrival of our Jetta TDI is what sparked the idea for the comparison test, especially after Editor-in-Chief John Neff took the car on a few long highway trips and recorded well over 50 miles per gallon. And while the Jetta – spoiler alert! – may not have won our eco-warrior comparison, its 2.0-liter diesel engine continues to impress us with its effortless efficiency.Just how effortless? We enthusiasts tend not to be the most efficient drivers, and yet our recorded average fuel economy over the past 8,500 miles is 43.4 miles per gallon. That's right, our average combined number is 1.4 mpg higher than the EPA's highway rating for the Jetta TDI. In fact, we've recorded as high as 53.5 mpg on the highway, and even under the most spirited driving, the lowest number recorded in our logbook so far is just 36.7 mpg. - Autoblog

Luc Donckerwolke named Head of Advanced Design for VW Group

2011-07-25T05:59:00.000-07:00

Luc Donckerwolke, the man who brought us the Lamborghini Gallardo, Murcielago and Diablo VT 6.0 (hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah) has been promoted to head of advanced design at the Volkswagen Group.He leaves his position as director of design at Spain's SEAT and will answer directly to VW Group Design Chief, Walter de Silva.Donckerwolke's most recent concept car was the SEAT IBE electric hatchback, which was introduced at the 2010 Paris Motor Show.

2012 Volkswagen Beetle production gets underway in Mexico

2011-07-22T11:31:00.001-07:00

Like many a Beetle before it, Volkswagen has prepped its newest escarabajo to begin running down production facilities in Mexico. Located in Puebla, Volkswagen de México serves as one of the nation's largest employers, with a workforce of over 15,000 folks. The Puebla facility served as a major manufacturer of the preceding New Beetle, turning out 1.5 million units between 1997 and 2010. Now, the factory worker's wrenches are set to bring the updated version to life.

CNBC to air hour-long report on BMW

2011-07-11T09:26:00.001-07:00

CNBC will air an hour-long program this Wednesday on the brand behind the roundel called "BMW: A Driving Obsession," which the news channel bills as "the fascinating story behind a once small, struggling company that transformed itself into a global luxury car powerhouse." The four featured highlights will take looks at BMW World, art cars, the BMW tech center and Rolls-Royce. The page's breathless descriptions – "...where every dimension of the cars and company is engineered in search of perfection" – make us think this might be more for the casual car follower, not the enthusiast, but it's safe to say our DVRs will be reporting for duty come showtime. The program gets four airings this Wednesday, July 13 starting at 9 p.m.t EST, but you can get previews now with a few extra-feature videos already on the CNBC site.

Official: Subaru promises four new models by 2016

2011-07-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

Fuji Heavy Industries has just released a new five-year plan for Subaru under the banner "Motion-V," and the blueprint calls for at least three new models and a hybrid vehicle to be on dealer lots by 2016. The move is part of a strategy to draw in an ever-larger brand fan base in an attempt sell 900,000 units by that date – a 40 percent jump over current figures. That means increasing North American sales to 380,000 units and broadening its Chinese presence to 180,000 vehicles. Subaru sold 263,820 vehicles in the U.S. in 2010.

Spy Shots: Next-gen BMW 335i works on its craft at the 'Ring

2011-07-07T11:14:00.001-07:00

BMW is continuing to work away on the 2013 3 Series, and our spy photographers managed to click off a few photos of what appears to be the 335i sedan cranking out a few hot laps at the Nurburgring. The shots show a vehicle with slightly less aggressive camouflage than anything we've seen in the past, though details as to what we can expect from the next-generation 3 are still markedly absent. Given that the four-door in the photos is rocking an aggressive dual-exhaust treatment, we'd say there's likely a forced-induction inline six kicking power to the rear wheels.If that's not obvious enough for you, we can even speculate that the tires are probably made of rubber. But don't quote us on that.BMW has kept its secrets wrapped up but good concerning the next-generation 3 Series, though there are some whispers kicking around the web indicating that lower-rung trims may slip to a forced-induction four-cylinder engine. Stay tuned.

Official: BMW reveals 2012 6 Series M Sport and diesel models

2011-07-02T07:59:00.000-07:00

BMW is expanding its 6 Series line. The automaker has just announced information on the 2012 640d Coupe and 640d Convertible. The two-door oil-burners aren't expected to make it Stateside, and that's a pity, as they make use of a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter straight six with 313 horsepower and a hefty 464 pound-feet of torque. All that twist helps the coupe hit 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds while returning 51.4 mpg on the Imperial scale. BMW is also offering the 6 Series with xDrive for the first time as well, but only on 650i models. Thankfully, buyers can expect to see the all-wheel-drive coupe in North American dealers later this year.If chugging along with a diesel under your hood isn't quite your speed, you'll be happy to know that BMW is also offering a 6 Series M Sport for 2012. The package includes special aerodynamic additions as well as LED fog lamps and 19-inch, double-spoke aluminum alloy wheels. Inside, sport seats are trimmed in Alcantara and leather as well as an M Sport steering wheel. - Autoblog

Spy Shots: 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe inches closer to production

2011-07-01T06:50:00.001-07:00

It's funny; of the three German luxury brands, BMW was the first to offer a sport-utility vehicle – the X5 – and yet it's the last to create some sort of four-door coupe, the next hot segment that every luxury marque seems to be diving into. Mercedes-Benz is now on its second generation of the CLS, the sexy Audi A7 is now on sale around the globe, and even Porsche took notice and created the Panamera. Nevertheless, BMW is quickly prepping its own take on the four-door coupe with this, the 6 Series Gran Coupe, which – based on this latest set of spy photos – looks to be nearing completion.Not surprisingly, the 6 Series Gran Coupe will share its turbocharged six- and eight-cylinder engines with the 5 and 7 Series lineup, likely launching in 650i guise first with BMW's 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. Don't be surprised if the production car debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show this fall.

Spy Shots: Next Volkswagen GTI mule snapped

2011-06-28T11:45:00.001-07:00

Volkswagen has apparently commenced road tests for the company's next-generation Golf GTI and Golf R. Our legion of crafty spy photographers managed to nab a few photos of a pair of test mules spotted out and about in public. From the looks of things, the upcoming Golf GTI will rely on a set of dual-exhaust pipes in the future while the more menacing Golf R will go for quad pipes.Volkswagen hasn't released any final details on either vehicle, but from the whispers kicking around the web, it sounds like both hatches will need their new easy-breathing exhausts. In GTI trim, the Golf is expected to kick out around 230 horsepower – 30 more ponies than the current model. Step up the Golf R and you'll likely be treated to closer to 300 ponies.

Report: 1963 Volkswagen Bus hammers at record-setting $217,800

2011-06-28T11:40:00.001-07:00

At Barrett-Jackson's recent Orange County, California auctions, a 1964 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud III James Young sedan went for $159,500, a 2005 Ford GT sold for $165,000 and a 1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger cleared $215,600. Topping them all, and every other car for the weekend: a 1963 Volkswagen Samba Microbus, sold for $217,800 inclusive of bidder's fee.

2012 BMW M5 unveiled at Nürburgring 24

2011-06-25T07:37:00.001-07:00

We have seen it hinted and teased and glossily presented all over the internet, so we flew ourselves to the Nürburgring 24-hour affair and got all over her. Of course, we're talking about the long-awaited F10, or fifth-generation, M5 from BMW. The big news is that it will likely be priced at just eight percent above the starting sticker of the last-generation V10-powered E60 M5. Make that a cool $92,000. Then add M bells and whistles.We know most of the details in the general sense. (The assembled BMW development bosses were all bragging about how much they had driven it already around the Nürburgring and Hockenheimring, and all those other 'Rings we don't get daily access to. Dirty dogs.) A 553-horsepower, 4.4-liter Twin-Power Turbo V8 shared with the X5 M and X6 M behemoths, plus the small matter of 500 pound-feet of torque between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. Redline is now right around 7,200 rpm instead of the discontinued E60 M5's V10 that smacked us around at 8,250.Versus the predecessor, which ceased production way back in December 2009, power is up by roughly 10 percent, torque by 30 percent, and fuel efficiency also by a whalloping 30 percent. "Drive it on the autobahn at full unrestricted speed around 180 miles per hour," says the F10 M5's project leader, Albert Biermann, "and certainly those efficiency numbers suffer. But our engineers drove the F10 every day to and from home some weeks, and have realized all of these better numbers."

2011 Saab 9-5 and Volkswagen CC earn IIHS Top Safety Pick awards

2011-06-17T12:04:00.000-07:00

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has awarded two vehicles Top Safety Pick awards. After testing eight mid-size to large sedans, the IIHS has called out the 2011-12 Volkswagen CC and 2011 Saab 9-5 for its highest award. Both vehicles earned "good" ratings for front, side, rear and rollover protection during testing. It should be noted, however, that only the front-wheel-drive VW CC gets the Top Safety nod, as the all-wheel-drive version only received an "acceptable" rating in rollover testing.The IIHS also tested Lexus IS, Lexus ES, Infiniti G, Chevrolet Impala, BMW 3 Series and Saab 9-3. The rest of the vehicles had score ratings ranging from good to acceptable, but it was the Saab 9-5 and Volkswagen CC (FWD) that walked away with a clean sweep in all tests.

First Drive: 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan

2011-06-16T11:00:00.001-07:00

At first blush, Munich seems like an awfully long way to travel for the chance to drive a mid-cycle refresh. But Volkswagen has good reason to ask us to schlep across the Atlantic to drive its updated-for-2012 Tiguan: Momentum.The compact crossover had a bit of a knock-kneed start out of the gates when it arrived in the U.S. in May of 2008 as a 2009 model. While demand was spectacular at home in Europe, the VW failed to find early favor with North American shoppers, despite entering a white-hot segment. But that's rapidly changing. Last year, Tiguan sales increased from fewer than 14,000 units to nearly 21,000, and this year, it's on its way to a new record, selling almost 3,100 units in May alone. And thanks to a series of meaningful updates for 2012, there's every reason to believe that the kid brother of the pricey Touareg will continue to find increasing favor among consumers.

Report: BMW to rename 1 and 3 Series coupes as 2 and 4 Series

2011-06-16T10:54:00.001-07:00

While Mercedes-Benz has been steadily re-integrating its four-seat coupes and cabrios into their corresponding sedan ranges, BMW is reportedly preparing to go the other way. Word from Car Magazine has it that the Bavarian automaker is preparing to launch the next-generation versions of its 1 Series and 3 Series coupes and convertibles as the 2 Series and 4 Series, respectively.The move would correspond well to the 6 Series, the coupe and convertible that sits between the 5 Series and 7 Series sedans. It's not the first time BMW has considered such a move, having come close to spinning the two-door 3 Series into a 4 Series about a decade ago.

First official 2012 BMW M5 shots hit the web

2011-06-16T10:50:00.001-07:00

Official 2012 BMW M5 images have leaked onto the Internet as the latest iteration of the legendary M model prepares to charge toward showrooms. The F10 M5 is flared and aero-ed up with bodywork that maintains a buttoned-up demeanor even as it radiates aggression. Onlookers can tell the M5 is a special car with its enlarged air intakes in the front fascia, quartet of tailpipes and 20-inch wheels with Z-rated tires, but it doesn't need to be festooned with wings and bling to make its point.The 2012 M5 is about more than mere surface beauty, after all. The sonorous V10 of the last M5 has been traded out for a twin-turbocharged V8 fist. Power is up, with 552 horsepower (the V10 produced 507 hp) coming on at 6,000 rpm – 1,750 rpm lower than the V10. Torque is hugely boosted from 383 pound-feet to 501 lb-ft, which will be great for shoving this car to 60 miles per hour in a reported 4.4 seconds. That'll route to the rear wheels via a standard dual-clutch transmission, though a proper six-speed stick will reportedly be available here in the United States. - Autoblog

Spy Shots: Subaru RWD coupe spotted on the 'Ring

2011-06-11T13:05:00.001-07:00

We see a lot of spy shots here at Autoblog. But few vehicles have popped up quite as much as the Toyobaru FT-86. The rear-wheel drive sportscar that may very well spawn Toyota, Scion and Subaru versions has popped up on roads around the world. And now it's taken to the Nürburgring.The legendary German road course is a favorite among chassis development engineers for the variety of corners and surfaces around its undulating distance. Most German and many Japanese and American sportscars undergo at least part of their shakedown there, with many manufacturers maintaining on-site workshops.While the Subaru coupe and its FT-86 sibling may not be up to the task of chasing LFAs and GTRs, its appearance at the notorious Green Hell may be our best indication yet of the car's sporting potential.

Spy Shots: 2013 Volkswagen CC getting new corporate face

2011-06-11T13:03:00.001-07:00

The 2012 Passat may be garnering the majority of our attention over at Volkswagen, but looking ahead, it appears that the swoopier CC is due for a facelift. Unsurprisingly, these camouflaged testers show a front fascia that's more akin to what we see on both the Passat and Jetta. We've always been big fans of the CC's styling, so let's hope that the more sedate front end still translates well onto the sedan's overall shape.We can expect a slightly revised rear fascia to accompany the changes up front, and new wheel choices will likely be offered for the 2013 model year. The CC's interior will get a slight touching-up, as well. Mum's the word on powertrain options, but we wouldn't be surprised if the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four and 3.6-liter V6 carry over largely unchanged.

Official: 2011 BMW M3 Frozen Black Edition hits the U.S., only 20 examples to be produced

2011-06-11T13:01:00.001-07:00

On June 16, 2011 at 11:30 AM EST, BMW will start taking orders for the car you see here, the 2011 Frozen Black Edition M3 Coupe. Only 20 examples will be produced, with the first 19 being sold on a first come, first serve basis to anyone willing to plunk down $79,650. BMW North America will hold on to the 20th car (you know, for auto shows and such), though it may be sold on a later date.So, what does nearly $80,000 net you? Obviously, all the grace and glory of the M3 Coupe, complete with its 4.0-liter, 414-horsepower V8. The Frozen Black coupes will only be available with the M DCT dual-clutch transmission, which lowers the 0-60 time from 4.7 seconds to 4.5.All 20 coupes will be fitted with BMW's M3 Competition Package, not to mention optional goodies like the full premium and convenience packages, as well as things like heated seats, satellite radio and a premium sound system. In addition to the Frozen Black paint, this special M3 is set apart from its kin with black Novillo leather with red contrast stitching, M3 GTS wheels (painted black, of course), red brake calipers and a whole lot of other sinister design touches.For the full list of Frozen Black M3 equipment. Customers will be able to take delivery of their cars starting at the end of June, with the full production run to be completed by the end of July.

2012 Volkswagen Passat configurator powers up

2011-06-11T12:58:00.001-07:00

The Volkswagen Passat has gotten a big makeover for 2012, with all-new styling and a lower price tag starting at $19,995. Now we know exactly what to expect for under $20k, thanks to VW's the new online configurator. For starters, the base Passat has the 170-hp 2.5-liter five-cylinder mated to a five-speed manual. It also gets an eight-speaker sound system, Bluetooth and dual-zone climate control.Move up to the Passat TDI and the price of entry jumps to $25,995. The big pull is, of course, the 2.0-liter turbodiesel, which is rated at 31 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. The range-topper is the Passat V6, which produces 280 horsepower and has a six-speed DSG. The $3,955 V6 SEL package adds navigation, a 30GB hard drive, leather seats with Dynamica inserts and Autumn Nut Burl interior trim, bringing the MSRP to $32,950.

Spy Shots: BMW M6 coupe looks production-ready

2011-06-09T06:34:00.001-07:00

The sporty German two-door may be wearing camo in these photos, but it certainly looks like we're going to see the naked BMW M6 in the very near future.The convertible has already been subjected to the spy photographer's lens, but now its time for the cam-clad coupe to jump into the spotlight. We expect both the drop-top and hardtop to pack the same 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that's found under the hood of the newest M5. Output for that hi-po sedan is rated at 560 horsepower and 530 pound-feet of torque.

Official: BMW spills all the beans on new 1 Series

2011-06-06T06:39:00.001-07:00

There's no point, or so the saying goes, of closing the door once the horses have bolted. So shortly after the first handful of images leaked their way onto the Internet, BMW has released the full kit n' kaboodle on its new entry-level model.The all-new 2012 1 Series is expected to make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this fall. And when it does, it will be a substantially different car than the model it replaces. The new model – code-named F20 and based on the same platform that underpins the (now only slightly larger) 3 Series – has grown considerably over the E81 it succeeds, with every dimension but height increasing. The changes benefit both interior and cargo space, two aspects where the outgoing model fell short.The new sheetmetal has also bears revised styling, with a bigger face incorporating the giant eyes featured on BMW's latest concept cars, a more pronounced swage line and taillights moved outboard across the wider track to offer a larger liftgate aperture for increased ease-of-use. The Bavarians also appear to have paid close attention to the interior fit and finish to improve on the previous model's rather spartan cabin.Under that long nose, the new baby Bimmer is being launched exclusively with four-cylinder engines, and while more variants are expected to follow, for now it's just the five-door hatch. A pair of 1.6-liter gasoline engines pack direct injection and offer 136 horsepower in 116i trim and 170 in the 118i. Three 2.0-liter turbo-diesels are also being offered overseas, ranging from 116 horsepower up to 184 in the flagship 120d. A 1.5-liter three-pot is expected to come in gasoline and diesel variants, while the top 128iS is slated to get a 245hp turbo 2.0-liter gasoline four to take the place of the current six-cylinder 130i.All engines come mated to either a six-speed manual or an optional eight-speed auto from ZF, with an array of earth-friendly technologies including stop-start ignition and regenerative braking. Of course, this being the latest offering from a leading German automaker, all manner of electronic assists are on offer, from self-adjusting high-beams and lane departure warning to automatic traffic sign recognition and a back-up camera.Overseas buyers will also be able to choose between Urban and Sport trim levels offering different aesthetics, but we'll have to sit tight to see which models will make their voyage to this side of the Atlantic.

Report: VW to release 235-hp 35 Edition GTI to U.S. dealers

2011-06-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

Does this storyline look familiar? A German or Japanese automaker announces some hot-sounding variant of a vehicle we already love, but then they follow that news up by telling us that the new model won't be making its way to the U.S. We thought this tired and disappointing plot was once again unfolding with the recent announcement of a Volkswagen 35 Edition GTI, but Car and Driver cites sources who say we're likely to receive the hot hatch after all.The big news for the 35 Edition GTI is a jump in horsepower to 235 horsepower, or 25 more ponies than the already awesome standard GTI. The name of the special edition VW comes as a tribute to the fact that the GTI has been available in Europe for 35 years. Not so in the U.S., though, so the name may have to change if it indeed reaches our shores. C/D points out that the first GTI hit the States in 1983, so the 30 Edition name could be a strong possibility. Of course, that means the 35 badging on the door sills, seats and fenders will need to go, but we're guessing the deletes won't be much trouble at all.While this report is no clear confirmation from VW, we're optimistic that C/D's sources could be onto something. Hope springs eternal and all that...

Report: Volkswagen Tiguan to be built in North America?

2011-05-31T12:59:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen is reportedly seriously considering moving production of its compact Tiguan crossover to this side of the pond in an effort to cut costs. If the Tiguan moves to North America, it will likely be built alongside the Jetta and Passat. By moving production of the small CUV here, Volkswagen would cut down on shipping and labor costs, as well as put its plants closer to some parts suppliers.According to Automotive News, VW execs hope such a move would stop exchange rate fluctuations diminishing profits from the world's number two car market and allow it to better stay ahead of consumer trends. The proposed move of Tiguan production coincides with the opening of VW's new $1 billion plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. If everything goes according to plan, the new plant will crank out 150,000 vehicles a year starting in 2012.

Tiny Darth Vader brings The Force to VW's Chattanooga plant

2011-05-27T08:16:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday, May 24, Volkswagen officially opened its plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee that is dedicated to building the Passat. There were all sorts of potentates gathered for the occasion, from Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood to current and former mayors of the city. When it came time to press the big, red button to get the factory party started, though, six men gathered around the podium and they didn't make a move until a surprise guest waved his hands: little Darth Vader. Otherwise known as Max Page, he's the kid in costume who practically owned YouTube when he appeared in VW's 2012 Passat commercial during the Super Bowl. Arriving with an entourage of Stormtroopers and his theme music, he did a little of what he does, the red button was pushed, and it was only then that the Chattanooga facility officially opened.

Exclusive: BMW developing customizable LCD gauges for refreshed 5 and 7 Series models

2011-05-27T08:14:00.001-07:00

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has had one for a few years, and Jaguar-Land Rover recently fitted units to its all-new XJ and updated Range Rover. Now BMW is getting ready to offer its own fully configurable LCD gauge cluster on the next-generation 5 Series and 7 Series models.Co-developed in Munich and BMW's Technology Office in Mountain View, CA, the new gauge cluster will display the standard dials for speed, revs, fuel and temp, but can be configured to show additional navigation, telematics and infotainment data depending on the driving mode. Comfort and Sport settings will tailor the display to suit conditions, possibly placing the tachometer front-and-center in Sport mode, along with providing shift lights and other more driver-centric information.A BMW engineer we spoke with made it clear that BMW doesn't want to rely on digital representations of analog gauges. Instead, the automaker is looking at the display as a blank canvas with which it can display a variety of information in an innovative way. However, while consumer customization will be available, BMW believes that keeping the user-tweakability to a minimum is key for ease-of-use and general readability.

Official: 2012 Volkswagen Passat priced from $19,995*

2011-05-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen has officially announced pricing for the company's 2012 Passat. Buyers will be able to jump into the mid-size sedan for as little as $19,995 (*plus $770 in destination charges). At that price, you can expect to be met with a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission riding on 16-inch steelies. Dual-zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and a host of other gadgets are standard equipment on the base model, though customers can step up to SE trim for $23,725 plus delivery. The extra coin will net buyers an eight-way power adjustable seat, flashy 17-inch alloys and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, among other kit.But here's the only number we want to know: VW will politely ask for $25,995 plus delivery for the Passat TDI, complete with its 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine and up to 43 mpg highway. Finally, 3.6-liter V6-equipped vehicles will start at $28,995. There are just 16 buildable configurations for the Passat, and each engine choice is available in three trim levels: S, SE and SEL. - Autoblog

Official: Kia prices 2011 Soul Hamstar special edition at $20,295*

2011-05-27T08:09:00.001-07:00

You can get with this... for $20,295. Kia has officially announced that you'll need that much dough (*plus $695 for delivery) if you want to purchase a 2011 Soul Hamstar special edition. An ode to the award-winning hip-hop hamsters seen in Kia commercials, the four-speed auto-equipped Hamstar becomes the sixth special edition Soul that Kia has offered up for sale.The limited-production box on wheels wears Molten Red pain, which is offset with a pair of black stripes across the front doors and black trim. Black is also the color of choice for the 18-inch wheels, fender vents and fuel-filler cap. A Hamstar logo sits on the hood, and can also be seen throughout the interior.That interior space can be filled with music thanks to the Audio Upgrade Package. A 315-watt amp pumps sound out through the speakers, but it's kicked up a notch thanks to the center speaker and subwoofer.

Report: Are you the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe?

2011-05-27T08:06:00.000-07:00

BMW has previously confirmed that it plans to build a production version of the 6 Series Gran Coupe Concept that it unveiled at the 2010 Beijing Motor Show, and these plausible-looking patent filings appear to give a glimpse at the car's final design. Much like BMW's latest batch of concept cars – the M5 and 6 Series Coupe, notably – the "finished" product doesn't stray too much from the original concept car, save, of course, the traditional dumbing-down of air intakes and wheel sizes.The 6 Series Gran Coupe is expected to slot in between the BMW 5 Series and 7 Series in terms of both size and price, and will likely use the same range of turbocharged six- and eight-cylinder engines that we see in those models. While not as overly swoopy as its competitors, the 6 Series Gran Coupe will be poised to do battle with the Audi A7 and Mercedes-Benz CLS for four-door coupe luxury supremacy. - Autoblog

Report: BMW X3 M getting ready to rumble

2011-05-24T13:01:00.001-07:00

According to the wizards at Europe's CAR magazine, sources within BMW have confirmed that the high-performance X3 M could launch as early as 2012. A stupid-fast X3 hardly seems necessary, but then again, that's what we said about the larger X5 M and X6 M before falling in love after our stints behind the wheel.CAR states that the X3 M will likely be powered by a tweaked version of the new six-cylinder engine bound for duty in the M3. In the X3, this engine will reportedly produce somewhere around 450 horsepower, and could use a brand new tri-turbo system – one electric turbocharger paired with two exhaust-gas-driven units.A 450-horsepower X3? With three turbochargers (one of which is electric)? Sounds absurd (and is to be taken with a grain of salt... for now), but based on our experiences with the rest of BMW's M range, consider us totally stoked. -AB

Spy Shots: 2012 BMW M5 inches closer to production in a stunning shade of brown

2011-05-23T12:54:00.001-07:00

The BMW M5 that debuted at this year's Shanghai Motor Show may have technically been a concept car, but it comes as no surprise to see that the near-production models the German automaker is testing look exactly like the car we saw on stage. For what it's worth, we certainly hope the dark brown paint seen on this prototype will be offered when the M5 hits dealerships. Those blacked-out wheels can stay, too.As you've no doubt read countless times before, the M5 will be offered with BMW's twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8, packing somewhere north of 480 horsepower. In the United States, both a manual and dual-clutch transmission will be available, and all-wheel drive may be in the cards, as well.

Official: 2012 Kia Sorento gets 2.4L GDI engine, UVO infotainment

2011-05-16T06:11:00.001-07:00

The 2012 Kia Sorento will be available with the company's hands-free UVO infotainment system, and its brand-spanking-new GDI direct-injection four-cylinder engine. With those new features, the big Kia crossover can really dance with the big guns from the likes of Ford.Other available options include Kia's YES Essential seat treatment, which makes the seats resistant to stains and static electricity and includes an anti-bacterial chemical. That, along with an entertainment system to be reckoned with, should keep the young family demographic very happy.The Sorento's new engine uses the same GDI setup as the upcoming 2012 Rio, but this time, it sees duty atop a 2.4-liter version of the brand's Theta II architecture. Thanks to GDI, the 2012 Sorento should close in on 200 ponies, as opposed to the old engine's 175.For those who aren't looking to upgrade to the Sorento just yet, the new options are also available on the 2012 Sportage. - Autoblog

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series GT shakes its rump

2011-05-10T11:31:00.001-07:00

Good as it may be to drive, and better as it may be to ride in, we still don't quite understand the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo. It isn't as hunkered down and svelte as a Porsche Panamera or Audi A7 Sportback, and its big booty style isn't exactly the most attractive thing to come out of Munich.And now there's a smaller one to look forward to.In addition to a sedan, coupe, convertible and wagon, the next-generation BMW 3 Series will be offered in hunchbacked Gran Turismo form, seen here all covered up in swirly camouflage. Our sources indicate that the 3GT will have a different front fascia than the rest of the 3 Series lineup, as well as a unique roofline and a frameless window design.Expect engine choices to be the same as the rest of the 3 Series lineup, with turbocharged four- and six-cylinder powerplants across the range. No word on when the 3GT will bow (or if it's destined for consumption here in the States, where the 5GT hasn't exactly been lighting the sales charts afire), but our spies suggest that BMW's new genre-bender will launch one year after the 3 Series Touring, another bodystyle we're not sure is coming to North America. - Autoblog

Official: VW celebrates GTI anniversary with 232-hp Edition 35

2011-05-10T11:28:00.001-07:00

The Volkswagen GTI is the king of the hot hatches. Sure, there are more powerful, better-driving cars in the segment, but Volkswagen's hot Golf kicked off this niche of flingable sport compacts back in the mid-1970s, and it's quickly grown to become one of our favorite vehicle classes. When it comes to fun per dollar, you just can't beat a hot hatch.To celebrate the 35th birthday of the Golf GTI, Volkswagen has created this, the 35 Edition, which goes on sale in Germany this week. Visually, the 35 Edition is set apart by a unique front bumper, special wheels, and '35' badging on the door sills and seats. The most important upgrade, however, is the substantial boost in power over the normal GTI – 25 horsepower – for a grand total of 235 hp.Volkswagen hasn't said a word about availability here in the United States just yet, but we're keeping our fingers crossed. The Golf GTI 35 Edition makes its official debut at the infamous GTI Meet in Wörthersee, Germany, on June 1st.

Optima beats Camry, Accord in CR test, Altima still favorite; Explorer lambasted

2011-05-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

The mid-size sedan battle rages on year after year. Perennial kings are dethroned while new challengers emerge boasting fresh styling and a bountiful list of standard features. Consumer Reports launches its June issue today, and the institute's testers have put a host of family-minded four-doors powered by four-cylinder engines through a workout to determine which is the top dog. Ten vehicles were tested but, as Christopher Lambert will tell you, there can be only one.As it has here at Autoblog Towers, Kia's 2011 Optima draws big praise from the Consumer Reports crew. In fact, the Korean squeezes out a higher rating than the Honda Accord. It may have only beat the Honda by one point, but this represents a significant win for Kia. The opinions of Consumer Reports are highly valued by a large number of car shoppers, and this victory ought to push the Optima further onto radar of the American car buying public. Interestingly, while the Optima earned a "Very Good" rating, it wasn't the comparison's overall winner, however, as the Nissan Altima (a perennial CR favorite) claimed the test's top spot, neatly trumping the Honda and the best-selling Toyota Camry in the process.One vehicle not fairing so well in the June issue of Consumer Reports? The 2011 Ford Explorer. Nineteen mid-size sport utility vehicles were rounded up for testing, and the Explorer wound up in 17th place – well behind the Toyota Highlander Hybrid – a dismal showing for the Blue Oval brand. - Autoblog

Report: Kia Soul Hamstar edition rolling onto dealer lots this spring

2011-05-09T07:55:00.001-07:00

The Kia Soul and special editions go together like hip-hop and hamsters. That is to say, some people love them and other folks might have heard enough of this, and heard enough of that. Regardless, the Soul is getting another special edition, and this time around it's the Hamstars that are getting the attention.We saw the concept version of the Kia Soul Hamstar Edition at the 2010 SEMA show. Now, we've received confirmation from Kia that this stars and stripes-wearing Soul is coming to dealer lots in time for the 2011 spring season. Stripes run up the doors and on to the fenders while a star Hamstar logo sits on the hood and rear hatch. The Soul Hamstar will get a unique wheel package, and the inside will feature more Hamstar logos throughout. No word yet on pricing... but it's safe to assume it will cost you a little bit of this, and a little bit of that. Sorry.

Microsoft and Volkswagen team up for in-car file storage

2011-05-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

The House that Gates Built has teamed up with the Volkswagen Group to develop the next generation of automotive information and entertainment delivery strategies.A firm called e.solutions supplies Volkswagen with its infotainment software. Microsoft has signed an agreement to license its Extended File Allocation Table (exFAT) technology to e.solutions, which allows the software developer to squeeze more information into smaller spaces. Also, the speed at which that data can be accessed will get a shot in the arm. - Autoblog

Blake Griffin to auction dunked-over Kia Optima on AutoTrader.com

2011-05-06T06:20:00.001-07:00

Mixed opinions arise when discussing Blake Griffin's over-car dunk at the 2011 NBA Slam Dunk Contest. Regardless, it got people talking and the 2011 Kia Optima played a major role in the jam. Kia turned Griffin's hop into a commercial, and now Griffin is again using that same Optima for another good move; one that will benefit cancer research organization Stand Up to Cancer.With the help of AutoTrader.com, Blake Griffin will auction off the car that helped him win the 2011 Dunk Contest title. Signed by the recently named Rookie of the Year, this Optima has been seen by millions of people courtesy of YouTube (and you can join that group by clicking past the jump and watching the dunk for yourself).All proceeds will go to Stand Up for Cancer, which is a charity close to Griffin's heart. His friend, and former high school basketball teammate, Wilson Holloway recently lost a three-year battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. AutoTrader.com, which typically does not auction vehicles, has stated that it's eager to help raise as much money as possible for such a worthy charity. The auction will run through May 15th, and can be viewed at a special Blake Griffin-specific page on AutoTrader.com.

All-wheel-drive BMW M5 in the cards

2011-05-04T07:54:00.001-07:00

The times, they are a changin'... and so is the BMW M5. Since it hit the streets back in 1985, the M5 has always been a beastly Bavarian that sends power solely to the rear wheels, but now, new reports are stating that the all-new F10 M5 may be available with all-wheel drive.Exact details of this upcoming M5 have yet to be revealed, but BMW has reportedly confirmed that an AWD-version is in the cards. The production version of the 2012 BMW M5 is set to hit the Frankfurt Motor Show stage in September, and we expect to suss out a few more tidbits of information before that time arrives. Until then, we're content to fill our dreams with visions of snow-filled four-wheel drifts punctuated by the turbo-muffled growl of a force-fed V8 engine.

BMW 3 Series loses more of its camo

2011-05-04T07:52:00.001-07:00

The next-generation BMW 3 Series has been out stretching its legs before its official debut, and our tactical team of spy photographers was quick to snap a few photos before the vehicle returned to the automaker's lair. These photos give us a more complete look at the new 3er for the first time as its shed more of the psychedelic-swirl camouflage than in any of its previous outings. We can clearly make out the rear fascia in its entirety and we've been given a good glimpse of the vehicle's LED tail lamps as well. Those rear lights look an awful lot like the hardware found on the newest BMW 5 Series to us.In addition, this particular mule shows off the vehicle's new headlights as well. Those rigs look to be rocking the same squared-off LED shape as the latest 6 Series, which means we may see the diodes spread to the rest of the German automaker's lineup.

Kia earnings up 91% to $890 million in Q1

2011-05-02T06:45:00.001-07:00

Automaker earnings have been mostly impressive so far, and Kia is no different. Reuters reports that the Korean automaker has posted earnings of $890 million for the first quarter of 2011, up 91 percent compared to the $466 million profit from Q1 2010. Overall revenue for the quarter was $10 billion, up 37 percent year over year. Kia's healthy earnings come as sales rose 30 percent to 619,089 units. The automaker fared especially well in South Korea, China and the United States, where new models like the Optima and Sportage have really taken off.

BMW Voted Best Performance Brand and Coolest Brand in 2011 KBB Awards

2011-04-23T09:42:00.000-07:00

BMW Voted Best Performance Brand and Coolest Brand in 2011 KBB Awards

Kia adding Optima production line to Georgia plant

2011-04-23T06:50:00.000-07:00

The Kia Optima has been a resounding success from the minute the midsize sedan's redesigned 2011 model hit dealer showrooms. Optima sales have nearly doubled since its November introduction, which has helped the automaker claim a 36 percent sales increase on the year.The Korean automaker seems to think the good times will continue into the future, announcing a third hiring wave at the Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia plant. The additional employees will help increase Optima output when the 2012 model arrives in the third quarter. This is good news for the red-hot Kia brand, and those looking for work in Georgia are likely excited as well. Kia says in the post-jump press release that its hiring spree will increase the workforce at the facility to 3,000 workers.

Volkswagen gives price points for 2012 Beetle, targets Mini

2011-04-21T13:30:00.001-07:00

Elaborating on our previous details from the New York unveiling of the 2012 much-altered Beetle, Volkswagen North America CEO Jonathan Browning has told Autoblog, "We're aiming to essentially go after the Mini so far as market positioning and price offerings."That means a price range from $20,000 to $24,000 when the coupe launches worldwide in late September, and between $25,000 and $29,000 for the 2013 convertible. These price ranges take into account the three engines on offer at the start of deliveries: the 2.5-liter five-cylinder, 2.0-liter TDI diesel, and 200-hp 2.0-liter TFSI. There's no telling what the price will be on the hot Beetle R foreseen for mid-2013 with the newest 261-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four from the Scirocco R, much less the rumored 337-hp Beetle RS with turbo inline five "W28" engine for 2014.Wheels available at launch will range from a standard 17-inch set to optional 18-inch and 19-inch, the latter set being the size shown on all of the Beetles that you'll see in our photos from the 2011 New York Auto Show.VW global branding boss Luca De Meo tells us, "We want to avoid the almost total lack of rollout planning that the former New Beetle suffered. That car had a couple of pretty good years and then it fell dramatically. We want to keep offering new things that are significant this time around so as to keep the car fresh."Though Volkswagen could rely on its vast worldwide manufacturing network to build the Beetle for Western Europe, China, and North America, bosses in New York say that all Beetle manufacturing will remain exclusively at the Puebla, Mexico plant.

2012 Subaru Impreza: Deep Dive

2011-04-21T13:26:00.001-07:00

The fourth generation 2012 Subaru Impreza has arrived, and to paraphrase Huey Lewis, the first thing you might notice is that it's hip to be square... er. Underneath its skin, the new Impreza says a few things that Americans aren't so used to – nor so fond of – hearing, like the fact that it has a smaller-displacement engine with less horsepower.If that's the step backward, though, there are more than two steps forward: It's lighter, faster, more frugal, stiffer, nicer inside, has a better suspension and more interior room, all the while being the same size as the previous generation. Said Subaru Production Line Manager Todd Hill, "it's all upside."- Autoblog

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

2011-04-21T13:23:00.000-07:00

Kia has taken home the top honors in the Nielsen Automotive Ad of the Year awards for the second year in a row. The company's troupe of dancing hamsters managed to make the biggest impression on viewers in the "A New Way To Roll" spot in 2009 and the rodents managed to pull off a similar stunt in 2010 with the automaker's "This or That" ad. Nielsen hands out the awards based on response information collected from 2.5 million viewers across 24 networks, and according to Kia, the hamster spots have helped increase Soul sales in a big way. The boxy compact saw its sales figures increase by 50.8 percent last month compared to March 2010.

New York 2011: Subaru shows off 2012 Impreza with lighter figure, impressive fuel economy

2011-04-21T13:22:00.001-07:00

We just gave you a deep dive look at the 2012 Subaru Impreza. Now, we get to see the fourth-generation Subaru in its four and five-door flesh on the floor of the 2011 New York Auto Show. The new car is lighter and more fuel efficient, boasting a very impressive 36 mile per gallon highway fuel-economy rating. How is the new 2012 Impreza able to claim the title of most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive car in the United States? Dropping a few pounds doesn't hurt but there's a bit more to it than that.Beneath the hood lies a brand-new 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine, which produces 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. When paired with Subaru's new CVT, the Impreza achieves the aforementioned 36 mile per gallon highway fuel-economy rating, and also returns 27 mpg in the city. And though the 2012 Impreza occupies the same footprint as the model it replaces, the wheelbase has been pushed out an extra inch, which allows for more interior space yet no trunk room was compromised.The lightened-up Subaru Impreza sedan and five-door hatchback are scheduled to arrive at your local dealership later this summer. - Autoblog

New York 2011: Kia debuts all-new 2012 Rio with start-stop, good for 40 MPG

2011-04-21T13:19:00.001-07:00

The 2012 Kia Rio debuts at the 2011 New York Auto Show today, sporting brand new bodywork, Kia's new direct-injected four-cylinder and the company's Idle Stop and Go, or stop-start technology. Kia claims the combination of direct fuel injection and stop-start means the 2012 Rio will pull down 30 miles per gallon around town and 40 mpg on the highway.On top of that, the new Rio should be a peppy little beast, knocking down 138 horsepower from its 1.6-liter four cylinder. Switching the ratios will be either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. Idle Stop and Go is an all-new feature for any Kia – when the car is stopped and the brake depressed, the computer kills the engine to save gas. When the brake pedal is released, the engine fires back up and away you go.Outside, the Rio has been treated to a full re-skinning, taking on the high-shouldered, wedge-shaped look of the rest of the Korean automaker's lineup. Out front, the Rio gets a slightly slimmer version of the company's familiar grille, re-shaped to better integrate with the car's headlights. The 2012 Rio has also grown to 171.9 inches in length and 67.7 inches in width, but sits lower than the outgoing model. Kia claims that, despite its increased dimensions, the widened stance and use of high-tensile steel in the car's construction makes for significantly better ride and handling over the old Rio.The 2012 Kia Rio will be available in three trim packages, starting with the LX, which gets 15-inch steel wheels, body-color door handles and side mirrors. Above that, the EX model rides on the same wheels as the LX, but gets power mirrors and locks and keyless entry. The top-level trim will be the SX, which sports 17-inch wheels, fog lamps, LED daytime running lights, a dual-tip exhaust and heated mirrors sporting turn signal repeaters. The five-door Rio5 SX, meanwhile, will be upgraded to projector headlights. - Autoblog

New York 2011: Kia updates 2012 Soul with new engines, transmissions and style

2011-04-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

Kia has introduced the updated 2012 Soul at the 2011 New York Auto Show. The quirky box has received a slew of styling updates both inside and out alongside a number of mechanical improvements designed to give the vehicle a little extra power and fuel efficiency, to boot. Up front, the Soul gains projection-beam headlights accented with LED daytime running lights, and two new paint colors have been added to the option sheet – Canyon and Moss. Indoors, top-trim buyers are treated to Kia's new Microsoft-branded hands-free connectivity system called UVO or an optional navigation system for the first time.But the most exciting news comes from under the Soul's hood. The engineers at Kia have fitted an all-new 1.6-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine that produces 135 horsepower and 121 pound-feet of torque. That's a pony increase of 11 percent over the old, non-DI 1.6-liter engine, and Kia says that when coupled to either a new six-speed manual transmission or a similarly minty six-speed automatic gearbox, which replace the old five-speed manual and four-speed automatic, the engine will return 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 mpg highway.A more powerful 2.0-liter engine is also still on hand, but Kia has a new version that's more powerful than the one it replaces, producing 160 hp or 18 hp more than the engine its replacing, and it too can now be bolted to the new six-speed transmissions. Fuel economy for the updated 2.0-liter engine is now rated at 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for both cogswappers. - Autoblog

New York 2011: Subaru looking at XV Concept for US, but wouldn't be called Outback Sport

2011-04-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

At the 2011 New York Auto Show, we asked Dominic Infante, Subaru's U.S. product manager, about the XV Concept revealed at the Shanghai Motor Show. "It's probably not for us," he said, "but we're looking at it. And if it did come, it probably wouldn't be called Outback Sport."That's because the Outback Sport is an anomaly in Subaru's U.S. line-up that the brand's marketing arm would like to correct – an Outback in name only, it is actually based on the Impreza platform. But it sells so well, Infante says, "that the sales guys don't want them to change anything. They're like, 'Don't mess it up.'" - Autoblog

BMW Z4 Roadster to be first four-cylinder offered on U.S. shores in decades

2011-04-19T07:02:00.001-07:00

Forced-induction, four-cylinder engines and small cars go together likes punch and pie. BMW understands this, and the automaker has officially announced that the Z4 is the first U.S. model to get its new turbocharged mill. This marks the first time in decades that BMW is bringing a four-banger to U.S. shores. Fans of the 2002, rejoice.The BMW Z4 sDrive28i Roadster will serve up its engine bay for the new turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four. Output is rated at 240-horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque, which arrives at just 1,250 rpm. Using a combination of direct-injection, BMW's Valvetronic intake management and a twin-scroll turbo allows the engine to produce V6 power with I4 efficiency. BMW expects to see a 20 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the outgoing motor. The eight-speed automatic transmission will also certainly help the Z4 in the fuel economy fight. - Autoblog

New York 2011: VW Beetle live reveal

2011-04-18T08:49:00.001-07:00

Another icon has gone under the knife and emerged, well, only slightly differently iconic. The differences are only superficially slight – as Volkswagen global marketing director Luca de Meo said of the 2012 Beetle that was revealed simultaneously in New York, Berlin and Shanghai, "We worked on the entire packaging of the car, engine, trunk, interior, everything." Take a close look at it, and it's clear.de Meo laid out three objectives for the new hatchback: Bring back the spirit of the original, i.e., make it affordable, tough, and easy to use; reconnect with the emotion of the car; and bring the shape and concept of the original into the 21st century.To achieve all that, Volkswagen's head of design, Klaus Bischoff, says they threw everything from the current Beetle out the window and had an original Beetle in the studio when they started the redesign in 2007. Working from those vintage cues, the 2012 car is stretched everywhere: it's 150 millimeters longer, 3.2 inches wider, and has a wider track. The bonnet is longer, a look exacerbated by the cabin being pushed back and the windshield being more upright and closer to the driver.The window graphic has also been stretched and continues around the car in a more cohesive line. At the bottom, the car is lowered and the revealed coupe wears oversized alloys. Bischoff says, "the masculine feeling we wanted to achieve is based on really big wheels." Inside, there are body-colored elements on the dash and steering wheel spokes, and ambient lighting that can be changed from red to white to blue.But that bit about masculinity is the real takeaway. When de Meo listed the most important alterations to the "monument," they were the XDS electric front differential which make the Beetle "more nimble, agile – it makes it behave like the movie car Herbie;" the fact that the 200-horsepower turbocharged motor makes this a "toy for a boy;" and the Fender audio that includes some first-time features such as the Panasonic technology in the tweeters.The aim is to communicate that the Beetle isn't just for women anymore. Even as the car is meant to be more emotional, VWUSA head Jonathan Browning says VW wants to keep the women who have sponged up the car, but expand the demographic and make the car more global. de Meo adds, "We want to make a statement without making compromises, to get out of niche and into core demand in many markets," not just the States.The 2012 Beetle will go on sale sometime in September or October, priced "very competitive in the mainstream of the marketplace" according to Browning.

Shanghai Preview: Subaru XV

2011-04-11T08:28:00.000-07:00

The Shanghai Motor Show is beginning to look like a pretty big deal, with more than enough high-impact reveals to pique our interest. The latest vehicle to be teased in advance of the show is the XV concept, which Subaru says is "a design concept car that defines a new generation of crossover vehicle, blending exceptional SUV practicality with a fashionable form."The Japanese automaker says the theme of the crossover concept is "Enjoyment and Peace of mind," which, loosely translated, means that the XV will be practical to own yet fun to drive. Subaru hasn't provided many facts other than what we could have already guessed; that the automaker's symmetrical all-wheel drive system is part of the package. We're guessing a boxer engine isn't far behind.As you can see from the teaser photo above, the XV will feature four doors, stylized headlamps, big concept car wheels and the shape of a crossover, albeit one with a backlight that's got more rake than a typical utility-first Subaru. Given the short distance from the rear doors to the tailgate, we might also guess that the XV will be on the smaller side; perhaps the size and shape of a puffed-up Impreza, but the company already has the Forester in that role – could there be room for two such models? Either way, we're going to have to wait for the vehicle's official unveiling on April 19 to know for sure. -AB

First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage SX

2011-04-09T07:26:00.000-07:00

Turbocharging Adds Welcome Spice To This Handsome Soft-Roader 2011 Kia Sportage SX - Click above for high-res image galleryThere's no replacement for displacement. Ask any man or woman who dined on the muscle cars that Detroit was serving in the '50s and '60s, and they'll tell you to always order the largest engine offered if you want to have any fun. Thing is, that tired old axiom just isn't accurate in the modern era. Downsizing is what's for dinner these days.Before anyone older than 60 has a heart attack, know that the ever-escalating horsepower wars are alive and well. As it turns out, there is a replacement for displacement: technology. Take one part modern computers and the hundreds of sensors that feed them, add the classic trick of turbocharging and sprinkle on the relatively newfangled mechanical magic of direct injection, and you've got yourself one tasty recipe for performance. And you don't need a cup that measures power in cubic inches to get it.Look no farther for proof than Kia. The Korean automaker is working hard to change its hard-earned image of offering low-cost, basic transportation to something more like the sportier side of a dual-headed Korean conglomerate that also includes Hyundai. Its SX trim level is part of that plan, and the latest two vehicles to bear those letters only have a less-is-more strategy of power production on the menu. We've already sampled the turbocharged, direct-injected Optima SX and were left wanting seconds; now it's time to taste Kia's well-received and attractive compact crossover, the Sportage, in turbo flavor. Make no mistake, the biggest piece of the Sportage SX pie is its engine. Kia has managed to coax 260 horsepower (at 6,000 rpm) from just 2.0 liters, which is an impressive feat. Torque comes in at an equally impressive 269 pound-feet, delivered between 1,850 and 3,000 rpm. If that's not sounding all that special, consider what would happen if you could linearly double the engine size and output. Does 520 horsepower from 4.0 liters grab your attention?Granted, other automakers have met and even beaten that power-per-liter figure – General Motors reached that exact same level of horsepower with its turbocharged, direct-injected 2.0-liter Ecotec engine over five years ago, albeit with a bit less peak torque. Kia, however, has managed the feat while requiring only regular-grade gasoline. We applaud Kia for not requiring the finest of fuel (in terms of price) at the pump, even more so because we're not being asked to forsake any performance at the altar of 87 octane.We did ask officials on hand at the model's introduction in Phoenix if there would be a performance boost from using premium gasoline, but there isn't. We were told this engine was tuned from the very beginning to drink regular 87 octane, and while its computer system will indeed recognize when higher octane gas goes in the tank, the entire system has been optimized for regular. In other words, fill the tank with 87 octane and be thankful you don't have to pay extra for the privilege of having 260 horses underhood.What's more, the fuel economy penalty for all this extra power (the larger displacement standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder offers just 176 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque) isn't all that severe. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates the Sportage SX will return 22 miles per gallon in the city and 27 mpg on the highway in front-wheel-drive guise, and 21/25 equipped with all-wheel drive. Those figures equal the standard Sportage in the city, though owners will lose three to four mpg on the highway from the horsepower injection.It's also worth mentioning that the 2011 Kia Sportage SX shares its basic drivetrain with the Optima SX, which produces 274 horsepower. Why the output discrepancy? Kia explains that packaging issues in the Sportage required revised intake and exhaust routing, which in turn required slightly different tuning. Those changes resulted in a loss of 14 horsepower compared to the Optima, but peak torque remains the same.Those ponies are routed to the front wheels (all-wheel drive is optional) through a six-speed automatic transmission with a manual mode, but no steering wheel paddles (there is a +/- detent on the gearlever, however). We'd argue that any performance-minded machine should have paddle-shifters if no proper manual transmission is made available, but such arguments often fall on deaf ears at automakers that say they have solid business cases in hand saying otherwise. In any case, the six-speed automatic in the Sportage SX handles shifting duties well, though we predictably prefer snappier gear changes when driving aggressively, or better yet, a dedicated Sport mode.

Which brings us to our only real complaint about the drivetrain. As is typical with small displacement turbocharged engines, power doesn't begin to build until the twin-scroll turbocharger starts turning. It's laudable that peak torque comes on at just 1,850 rpm, but there's noticeable lag below that. From a dead stop, the torque converter does a good job of getting the boosted engine into its sweet spot, but if the Sportage SX is moving at anything below a walking pace, even adding some spice in its sauce won't generate any meaningful acceleration for a beat or two. That's certainly not a deal breaker, as such instances of sudden onset acceleration don't happen all that often in the real world, but it's something to keep in mind if you think those 260 horses are ready to run at all times.Once moving, the 2.0-liter engine feels very responsive and that broad torque spread allows it to haul the stylish little crossover into passing speed with nothing but a single downshift. Braking performance is similarly immediate, as the 11.8-inch ventilated front discs (up an eighth of an inch over non-turbocharged models) offer good initial bite and have plenty of reserve power for emergency situations. Steering manners are generally pleasant, though the feel and feedback from the electronic rack still doesn't match that of a well-tuned hydraulic unit. That said, we were accustomed to this artificial feeling from the front wheels after the first few miles and never really thought about it again.The Sportage SX also has a suspension tuned on the sporty side of the compact crossover segment. As observed over largely smooth Arizona roads, we wouldn't describe the ride as harsh, but it's firmly on the side of... firm, the benefit of which is well-controlled body roll. Interestingly, all-wheel-drive models also feature a lockable center differential, but that doesn't mean you should expect any real off-road capabilities. We happened to have a Trail Rated 2011 Jeep Patriot the same week we were testing the Sportage SX. Suffice it to say that the Sportage would not be Trail Rated were it wearing a Jeep badge. Not that it matters much – we can't imagine any Sportage SX buyer taking this turbocharged machine farther off the road than the rutted dirt parking lot at the local farmer's market. And if called for, the optional all-wheel-drive system will do a fine job of adding some security in bad weather conditions.Naturally, you will have to empty your piggy banks a bit more than the standard Sportage to drive home in a turbocharged SX. Base price for the front-wheel-drive SX is $25,795. All-wheel drive will cost you an extra $1,500. That may seem a bit expensive when compared to the $18,295 asking price for a base Sportage, but the SX is loaded up with all the same goodies as the upper-level EX trim, and the turbo engine option with all its assorted performance goodies adds a somewhat more reasonable $2,500 to the cost of an EX.The 2011 Kia Sportage SX rides, drives and generally behaves exactly like what it is: a Sportage with a welcome dash of horsepower. If you like the basic entree Kia offers in its compact 'ute but crave an optional V6 engine, you'll find a delicious substitute in the turbocharged, direct-injected 2.0-liter under its sculpted hood. - Autoblog

Spy Shots: 2012 Subaru Impreza shows its face

2011-04-09T07:13:00.000-07:00

Subaru released a side profile shot of its 2012 Impreza sedan ahead of the car's New York Auto Show debut, and now, our trusty spy photographers have caught the new Subie out in public, revealing its fresh face. - Autoblog

Subaru shows us a side of the 2012 Impreza

2011-04-07T07:54:00.000-07:00

Subaru rolled out an impressive Impreza concept vehicle at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. That design was aggressive, good-looking and one of the better reveals of the entire auto show. Will the impending production version be as exciting as the concept? We'll see. Subaru has plans to reveal the next Impreza at the fast-approaching New York Auto Show. Ahead of that, the automaker has released a profile shot of the 2012 Impreza.We don't have much in the way of actual information to offer just yet, but Subaru is offering fuel efficiency estimates of 36 miles per gallon on the highway, and we're told that both the sedan and wagon are scheduled to appear at the 2011 NYIAS. As far as the styling goes, we're going to hold off final judgment until we see it in the flesh, or at least until we can show you more than just this side profile. Until that time, you can find us hanging out in our angry dome.

BMW developing adaptive 8-speed transmission that predicts curves, road conditions

2011-04-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

BMW just wrapped up its annual Innovation Days here in Munich, and in addition to detailing its new modular engines (turbocharged three-, four- and six-cylinder powerplants), showing off a range of lightweight components and discussing the possibility of equipping a future EV with a range-extending engine, BMW revealed plans for a new adaptive transmission based on its current eight-speed gearbox.Utilizing GPS mapping, a wireless data connection, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), front and rear-mounted cameras and radar sensors, the transmission can adapt its shifting pattern and power delivery to suit road conditions.So, let's say you're heading out on the road and it's raining. The data connection pulls in the most recent weather information, the DSC takes in the coefficient of friction of the road and then restricts power to avoid wheel spin. With the integrated GPS, the system can detect the next curve, recognize you're in Sport mode and downshift into a lower gear to perfectly suit the bend you're about to bomb.The range of applications is only limited by the amount of data the system can pull in and process, and while BMW wouldn't divulge when this technology would hit production, there's a good chance that the next iteration of the 7 Series could benefit from the system and then filter down throughout BMW's range.

VW to reveal new global Beetle in two weeks on MTV

2011-04-05T08:10:00.001-07:00

You think Volkswagen is interested in generating buzz in the next generation Beetle? The automaker teased (and gave away) The People's Car on Oprah in the fall, Followed by a pricey but clever Super Bowl commercial back in February. We heard a couple weeks back that VW planned to follow up on the considerable Beetle buzz with an unveil in Shanghai, but that's only part of the story.Volkswagen has announced that it will unveil the 2012 Beetle on April 18 in a whirlwind tour of three continents. The kickoff will occur in China, followed by reveals in Berlin and New York City. The entire event will be covered by MTV, with special guests planned for each event. Here in the States, the event will be headlined by The Black Eyed Peas while the Germans will kick it with Belgian duo 2manydjs.Luca de Meo, Director of Marketing, Volkswagen Group, touts the marketing partnership of Beetle and MTV as a pair of icons working together. The marketing boss believes that the 2012 Beetle's "one-of-a-kind styling combined with the latest technology will be very well received by customers."Stay tuned to Autoblog as we gather the latest 2012 Beetle intelligence in advance of the bulbous hatchback's global reveal, and feel free to peruse our spy photo gallery of the prototype Beetle below, then hit the jump to look over VW's official press release. - AB

Current generation BMW M3 to be last naturally aspirated M car

2011-04-05T08:08:00.000-07:00

The writing's been on the wall for some time, but the fate of naturally aspirated M cars from BMW is all but sealed: forced induction is the future and the next M3 will come equipped with a turbocharged engine.With next year's new emissions standards looming on the horizon, every automaker is looking to improve its fleet-wide fuel economy, and that means performance vehicles will be some of the first to undergo an EPA-mandated makeover.For BMW, that means turbocharging and start-stop systems, two technologies that will boost the fuel economy of the all-new M5 by up to 25 percent when it goes on sale next spring.Looking over BMW's current crop of M products, one vehicle stands alone in the induction department, and a source within BMW has told us that the E90/E92 M3's V8 will be the last naturally aspirated engine fitted to an M vehicle. While nearly every automaker has made tremendous strides to nearly eliminate turbo lag, the linear, low-end grunt of a turbo can't compare to the high-revving thrills of an NA powerplant. But the future is here and the future is forced induction. - AB

2012 BMW M5 Concept leaked ahead of Shanghai debut

2011-04-04T10:20:00.001-07:00

The 2012 BMW M5? Here it is in the "concept" form that will make its official debut later this month at the Shanghai Motor Show, courtesy of photos leaked from an embargoed preview event held this weekend in Germany.As is BMW's wont when it comes to these things, "concept" simply means, "This is exactly what the production car looks like, and we'll reveal the rest of the juicy details at a future date. And maybe the production wheels won't be black."Of course, some stuff related to the F10 M5 is pretty much set in stone already, courtesy of Chris Harris' first drive for Evo magazine. The twin-turbo V8 should out-power the one in the X6M, which makes 546 horsepower. Shifts come via a seven-speed DCT. Selectable driving programs include Comfort, Sport, and Sport-Plus, plus the let-it-all-hang-out M Driving Mode. Snap judgement: this is the best-looking BMW M vehicle since the E39 M5, and whatever BMW's cooked up underhood should have no problem backing up the looks. Stay tuned for more info on the BMW Concept M5 as we receive it. - AB

Rumormill: BMW 3 Series GT could actually be new 4 Series

2011-03-28T06:56:00.001-07:00

We've heard a few times that BMW is working on a 3 Series Gran Turismo, but a rumor floated at Germany's Auto Motor und Sport claims the GT may instead be an all-new 4 Series. If true, BMW Blog says that a 4 Series could be offered as a four-door coupe that would help BMW compete with offerings like the A5 Sportback. The move would also enable BMW to offer a more stylish vehicle that slots well below the 6 Series in price while still demanding a premium over the 3 Series. And keep in mind that BMW has already green-lit the 6 Series Gran Coupe, which will feature two-door styling and four physical doors when it arrives in 2012. - Autoblog

Rumormill: 2012 BMW M5 to get manual tranny in U.S.

2011-03-26T10:42:00.001-07:00

Contradictory to earlier rumblings, the upcoming F10 BMW M5 will reportedly be available with the option of a traditional manual transmission here in the United States. As with the E60 M5, we'd expect the stick-shift-equipped F10 to be slower than its automated sister, but we doubt it will amount to anything noticeable. Buyers will still be able to opt for the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission here in the States, if they so desire.There's one option, however, that BMW won't be offering in our market. In Germany, buyers can opt to have the car's top speed raised to 189 miles per hour, provided they agree to enter an M5-specific driver training program. This will likely be a costly option – in addition to the price of the training program, buyers will have to shell out for upgraded engine management software, as well as a set of ZR-rated tires. - Autoblog

Spy Shots: BMW 3 Series GT caught taking a break from bell-tower duty

2011-03-25T06:19:00.001-07:00

BMW hinted that a 3 Series GT was in the works. Like its larger BMW 5 Series GT sibling, the 3 Series Gran Turismo would feature a two-tier rear hatch, raised seating position and a boosted ride height. And rumor has it that a non-swirly-camo version will be heading to the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.The BMW 3 Series GT will slot in the lineup to combat Audi's upcoming Q3 crossover. It's also enough of segment jumper that the A4 Avant could wind up in its crosshairs. - Autoblog

This is your 2012 BMW 6 Series Coupe, America

2011-03-14T09:55:00.001-07:00

The shark has finally surfaced – the 2012 BMW 6 Series coupe has officially arrived. Its lines are tighter, its bite is more potent and it's heading to your local BMW dealership sometime this fall. Under the hood sits the same 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that our man Chris Paukert sampled in the convertible. It produces 400 horsepower between 5,500 rpm and 6,400 rpm, and a stout 450 pound-feet of torque from 1,750 rpm up through 4,500 rpm.That power is managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission, which can be controlled manually via a pair of paddle-shifters. Should you prefer to row your own gears in the more traditional manner, a six-speed manual gearbox will also be offered. The engine and both transmission options help propel the car from 0-60 miles per hour in just 4.8 seconds and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155 mph.In the cabin, the 2012 6 Series Coupe is filled with BMW's latest gadgetry. A 10.2-inch high-definition screen serves as the nexus of visual information. This modern Sixer boasts available Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot detection, Rear and Top View Cameras, a Parking Assistant and a three-dimensional heads-up display.This is all just the tip of the iceberg for the 2012 BMW 6 Series Coupe. Don't break out the checkbook just yet, because pricing hasn't been announced. - AB

First Drive: 2012 Volkswagen Golf R

2011-03-07T14:31:00.000-08:00

We're slumming through traffic in downtown Geneva, Switzerland, making our way towards the French border where we're about to spend a few hours flogging the 2012 Volkswagen Golf R along the twisty, narrow roads of the Alps. Right now, we're focused on the Golf's comfortable, well-appointed interior, and how its good visibility and relatively small stature make it a pleasant drive through heavy city traffic. It's just like every other GTI – or Golf, for that matter – in this regard. But as soon as we approach the entrance to highway A40, we find out exactly what that R badge is for. We speed towards the sharp, right-hand on-ramp with a furious growl coming from the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, and as we throw the wheel to the right, the Golf R hunkers down, digs its claws into the pavement, clips the apex of the ramp and sends us blasting onto the A40 with tremendous force." A GTI would have fallen all over itself right there," our co-driver states, matter-of-factly. He's right, too. Even with Volkswagen's nifty new XDS active differential, the GTI is prone to understeer when coming into a turn at high speed, and there's a decent amount of torque steer that makes the exit a bit more skittish than you'd prefer. But in the Golf R, with its fourth-generation 4Motion all-wheel-drive system and more powerful engine, every step of the high-speed cornering dance is executed perfectly. You can imagine, then, that the rest of our drive through the French Alps was nothing short of bliss. The Golf R is Volkswagen's new poster child for hot hatchery, and if you've ever fallen in love with a GTI, be prepared to be absolutely smitten with this little number. - Auto Blog

BMW lifts the veil a little more on M5

2011-03-05T07:14:00.001-08:00

After the quick teaser clip BMW unveiled for the next-generation M5, we've been itching to get a better look at the machine. Fortunately for Bimmer-addicts everywhere, the automaker has been so kind as to serve up a lengthier video of the new menace frolicking through the snow. BMW President Kay Segler is even on hand to introduce the super sedan, as well as his company's new initiative to get fans of his brand to submit their M5-inspired stories. We gather that the tales will be collected for a marketing stunt when the vehicle gets an official unveil.As you may recall, word has it that BMW has parted ways with the luscious V10 of old in favor of a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 that kicks out a raucous 560 horsepower and 530 pound-feet of torque. All of that muscle gets dumped on the rear wheels.Rumors have dusted up that the big 10-pot isn't the only bit of tech to get left behind with the new generation change. Buyers may not be able to get their hands on a manual transmission with the new M5 debuts, either.

2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo packs 256 hp, priced from $25,795

2011-03-05T07:12:00.001-08:00

Kia has dropped all the juicy details on its 2011 Sportage SX Turbo. The vehicle will hit the streets with a 256-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's also good for 264 pound-feet of torque. That makes the Sportage the second vehicle in the Kia lineup to take advantage of the automaker's all-new direct-injection engine, the first being the 2011 Optima. The forced-induction four-pot will come bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission, which should help the Sportage SX nab 27 miles per gallon on the highway in front-wheel-drive guise. The automaker says that the figure gives its CUV better fuel economy than any of its competitors.In addition, the Sportage SX Turbo will use a firmer suspension compared to its naturally aspirated kin, and a host of aesthetic changes will set the vehicle apart from the rest of the Sportage line. Look for special 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust and a different grille to adorn the new turbo model.Prices start at $25,795 for the front-wheel drive version. Opting for all-wheel drive will add an additional $1,500. Both prices exclude a $695 destination charge. - AB

2011 Kia Optima receives five-star NHTSA crash rating

2011-03-05T07:07:00.001-08:00

The Kia Optima set the mark as the first Korean-built car to be officially five-star certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The all-new Optima recieved five-star ratings in the frontal, side-impact and rollover tests.The Optima sports six airbags, active front headrests, side-impact door bars and height adjustable three-point seat belts for each seat. This five-star rating is indeed something worthy of bragging rights, as NHTSA imposed significantly stricter testing standards for 2011 models.

Subaru's RWD Sports Car getting 2.0-liter non-turbo engine, confirmed for America

2011-03-04T08:50:00.001-08:00

Peanut butter and jelly. Beer and brats. Wine and cheese. Subaru and all-wheel drive. It's true – Subaru has done an enviable job convincing Americans that its automobiles are synomous with all-wheel drive, and the idea of a Subie that eschews four driven wheels for a powertrain sending its horsepower to the rear wheels only sounds like heresey to the diehard WRX driver.But it shouldn't... at least, that's what Subaru is now trying to convince the masses with its new rear-wheel-drive Boxer Sports Car Architecture. It's worth noting that the automaker has confirmed for the first time here at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show that the upcoming production version of this sports car is coming to America. If all goes to plan, production will commence in the spring of 2012 at a Subaru production plant in Japan. - AB

Volkswagen Bulli Concept is a blast from the past re-hashed

2011-03-04T08:48:00.001-08:00

Aside from the Beetle, Volkswagen's Microbus may be one of the most iconic vehicles ever to come out of the German automaker's stable. VW brought it back in concept form ten years ago, but despite a warm reception, plans to create a modern-day Microbus were scrapped. Now, though, Volkswagen is offering a second conceptual redux of its oh-so-popular van at the Geneva Motor Show with this, the Bulli concept.Much like the 2001 Microbus, the Bulli is simply a modern throwback to the people-mover that took the world by storm many decades ago. Of course, the full slate of new-age technology is on hand, including an Apple iPad that controls all infotainment functions, mated to a Fender USA-designed premium audio system. The Bulli uses a lithium-ion battery pack to drive a 113-horsepower electric motor and interestingly enough, Volkswagen says that the van can be fully charged in less than one hour. Good stuff. - AB

Geneva 2011: BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept focuses on connectivity

2011-03-04T08:43:00.001-08:00

BMW has pulled the wraps off of its latest concept vehicle, which is in part a research tool for the automaker as it looks towards the future of mobile networking. The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept is a two-passenger roadster seeking to push new boundaries in the realm of automotive technology.The topless concept borrows much of its design from the Vision EfficientDynamics concept that's on the road to production, but this showcar focuses on three areas; comfort, safety and infotainment. Each category provides feedback and data to the driver by means of a light display spread throughout the vehicle.In the cabin, the driver will be able to monitor a multitude of information thanks to a three-dimensional head-up display. The HUD incorporates augmented reality to display point-of-interest icons and road information into the driver's field of vision. The display is fully customizable, and the driver can fine-tune the amount of information and how it's displayed in front of him or her. Interestingly enough, BMW has provided no information about what powers this concept – either in reality or merely conceptually.The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept is the automaker's view of where automotive information technology is heading. By providing the driver with as much or as little information as he or she desires, the driver is able to make a closer connection with the vehicle. It may be merely a study at this point, but it's a glimpse at a future where the driver is still in control... and that's something we can stand behind.

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan keeps calm and carries on

2011-03-04T08:40:00.000-08:00

The trusty Volkswagen Tiguan gets a modest refresh for the 2012 model year, most immediately noticed by the revised front fascia. The German automaker's new corporate face is nicely presented on the small crossover, incorporating an attractive set of LED running lamps, similar to the larger Touareg. The other major change for 2012 isn't anything visual, but instead a mechanical change to the six-speed automatic transmission that yields a healthy boost in fuel economy. The turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four is now capable of achieving 29 miles per gallon on the highway – up from 25 mpg in the 2011 model. Volkswagen lowered the shift point RPM for each gear, moved the idle speed down to 600 RPM and adjusted the ratios of fifth and sixth gear to improve highway cruising economy. - AB

2012 Kia Rio falls in line with the rest of its swoopy family

2011-03-04T08:37:00.001-08:00

The fourth-generation 2012 Kia Rio has made its world debut in front of the 2011 Geneva Motor Show crowd. From the subtle swooping body lines to the front grille, the all-new Rio now resembles the rest of the Kia family.For the 2012 model year, the Kia Rio has become longer (3/4-inch), wider (1-inch) and lower (1/2-inch). Kia has pushed the wheelbase out to 101-inches, an increase of nearly three-inches over the outgoing Rio.Available as a five-door or three-door, the 2012 Rio is offered with a choice between four engines and three transmissions. The two gas-burning options are a 1.25-liter inline-4 producing 83 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 87 pound-feet of torque, or a 1.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 108 hp and 100 lb-ft of torque. Two turbocharged diesel options are available; a 1.1-liter triple that generates 81 horses and 69 pound-feet of torque or a 1.4-liter unit producing 89 hp and 159 lb-ft. Both diesel burners and the 1.4-liter gas engine are paired with a six-speed manual while the 1.25-liter gas-sipper gets a five-speed manual transmission. The 1.4-liter gasoline engine is also available with a four-speed automatic. - AB

Kia K9 sedan spied, upscale cues include Maserati-style side vents

2011-03-01T07:08:00.001-08:00

Remember the proposed Kia K9 luxury sedan? Apparently, it's a reality, as spy shots of the Kia flagship have hit a web forum in Korea. As you can see, the K9's camouflage (which sneakily includes Hyundai Genesis wheels) doesn't obscure a set of Maserati Quattroporte-style fender ports. Just how upmarket is Kia shooting with this? Well, according to the tipster who sent them to us, the K9 is expected to slot into the market space between the Hyundai Genesis and Equus sedans.If those two are anything to go on, Kia might be on to something. From these photos, it looks like the K9 will not only sport Quttroporte-referencing vents along its fenders, but long, angular headlights and a protruding grille, leaving impressions of the BMW 5 Series and Jaguar XJ - lofty benchmarks, indeed. - Autoblog

2012 Volkswagen Golf R loses power and choice of tranny on way to U.S.

2011-03-01T07:06:00.001-08:00

As part of its 2011 Geneva Motor Show festivities, Volkswagen is letting us loose behind the wheel of its range-topping Golf R, set to arrive in United States as a 2012 model. Production of the Stadeside-spec car begins at the automaker's Wolfsburg plant this November, and we've just learned how different our version of the Golf R will be from the model that's already on sale in Europe.Don't worry – we're still getting the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to the company's fourth-generation Haldex 4Motion all-wheel-drive system. But while the European car cranks out 270 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, Volkswagen tells us that the U.S. car will produce something closer to 256 hp and 243 lb-ft (not yet confirmed). Still, that's 56 hp and 36 lb-ft more than the standard GTI, and since the Golf R is estimated to weigh around 3,300 pounds – 250 pounds lighter than the most recent R32 – the end result should be quite lively. Volkswagen is estimating that 0-62 mile-per-hour times will fall somewhere in the 5.7- to 5.9-second range.As we reported earlier, the Golf R will only be offered with a six-speed manual transmission when it hits our shores. European cars can be had with Volkswagen's slick-shifting DSG unit, and we must admit, not offering the twin-clutch setup in the States seems like a curious omission, especially when you consider that the take rate on DSG in the less powerful GTI is around 50 percent. Still, Volkswagen says that its research with different enthusiast groups and dealers suggests that the vast majority of U.S. consumers have been clamoring for a row-your-own Golf R, and since the automaker had to keep the number of build options to a minimum in order to get the vehicle approved for American consumption, manual-only was the way they decided to go. - Autoblog

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan shows its new face in Geneva

2011-03-01T07:03:00.001-08:00

The Volkswagen Tiguan is getting a makeover for the 2012 model year, and the changes will be on display this week at the Geneva Motor Show. Changes include a refreshed front end that incorporates the automaker's new sullen yet distinctive aesthetic.The grille has been remade to mimic that of the new Jetta and Passat, with a pair of horizontal chrome strips that blend into the Tiguan's updated headlamps. Jumping up to the top SEL trim will net you updated peepers with Bi-Xenon lamps and the LED eyeliner treatment that seems to be all the rage these days. Volkswagen still hasn't released a photo of the Tiguan's new boot, but the post-jump press release tells us that the taillamps have been updated to reveal a "double L" pattern. SEL buyers will also get new 19-inch "Savannah" wheels designed by R GmbH.VW made minor enhancements to the Tiguan's interior as well, including updated material choices and a rash of standard features. All 2012 Tiguan models will receive an eight-speaker sound system and Bluetooth, aux-in and heated side view mirrors.The Tiguan will retain the excellent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, but fuel economy has been given a serious bump. VW claims the updated engine will fetch 29 miles per gallon in highway driving, up considerably from the 25 mpg of the outgoing model. - Autoblog

Volkswagen Giugiaro Go! Concept previews MPV of the future in Geneva

2011-03-01T07:00:00.001-08:00

Says Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of Volkswagen Group, "Italdesign is a figurehead of Italian design and engineering creativity. We have been working together closely in a spirit of partnership for many decades." In reality, that may be an understatement. After all, Giorgetto Giugiaro is credited with penning the original Volkswagen Golf/Rabbit and Scirocco – two classic shapes that went on to define the VW brand for the last few decades.After a research study to determine what Volkswagen vehicles of the future may look like, Giugiaro (now owned by the Volkswagen Group) focused on two distinct concepts, one of which is the Go! that you see here (the other is the Tex, which we've already shown you). The design firm thinks of the Go! as a multi-purpose vehicle for urban areas, and as such, it measures just four-meters in length and runs solely on electricity using VW's proprietary Blue-e-motion EV technology. According to the automaker, the Go! is capable of traveling about 150 miles on electric power alone.Like the Tex, the Go! concept uses VW's modular transverse architecture, which was designed to accomade a diverse range of powertrain options, including plug-ins, internal combustion engines and even hydrogen fuel cells. Despite the Go!'s relatively dimunitive exterior dimensions, its 106-inch wheelbase matches that of the larger Passat. The battery pack sits beneath the passenger compartment, covering the areas of both the front and rear-seat passengers.VW and Giugiaro are keen to highlight the large glass area of the Go! concept. Such a configuration allows for plenty of natural light and offers maximum visibility. Interestingly, though, only the lower part of the glass is actually electrically lowered (have a look at the image gallery below to see what we mean), and the concept relies on video cameras to give the driver a view of his or her surroundings.Other interesting design details include rear doors that push outwards and pull back parallel to the vehicle, a high seating position that caters to drivers who prefer the visibility of an SUV and the control panel that is placed at the base of the windshield, well back from its normal location behind the steering wheel. - Autoblog

2012 Kia Rio looks sharp ahead of Geneva rollout

2011-02-14T15:41:00.001-08:00

Kia has released the first images of its 2012 Rio hatchback ahead of its official Geneva Motor Show debut, and might we say, it's quite a looker. The Korean automaker has been doing some fantastic things with styling in the past few years – thanks in part to strong leadership from design director Peter Schreyer – and now the smaller Rio gets a healthy dose of modernity. It looks fantastic in these photos and we're eager to see the new angles and curves live in the metal.The Rio will be offered with a range of gasoline and diesel powertrains in other markets, including a 1.1-liter diesel that only generates 85 g/km of CO2. We're most curious about the new 1.2-liter turbocharged direct-injected engine – we've heard about this three-cylinder powerplant before – and if it proves to be well-received in Europe, Kia will likely offer it here in the United States after the Rio's initial launch.Look for the Rio to go on sale in the UK starting in September, with a three-door variant expected to launch in early 2012. We don't have any official word as to when we'll see the facelifted Rio here in the United States, but we'd guess that it'll arrive roughly around the same time as the Euro-spec version.

Spy Shots: BMW M6 convertible caught on snowshoeing shakedown

2011-02-14T15:40:00.001-08:00

Our own Chris Paukert recently spent some time getting to know the 2012 BMW 6 Series Convertible, and he did so under the hot South African sun. BMW engineers are busy testing their upcoming hi-po M6 droptop, but they're doing so in a place where the top is definitely going to stay up.Spy photographers have caught the powerful two-door out playing in the snow during winter testing. Last time we saw the camouflaged convertible, it was out running on a track and making good use of its rumored 560 horsepower and 530 pound-feet of torque. This time around we imagine that whoever's behind the wheel is going to be a bit more conservative with the throttle.

Kia lining up third shift in GA to meet Sorento demand

2011-02-10T08:57:00.001-08:00

Kia is fresh off a fantastic 2010 in which the Korean automaker increased sales by 19 percent versus 2009, boosting its market share from 2.9 to 3.1 percent. A major reason Kia fared so well in 2010 was the success of the Sorento, which managed 109,000 sales for the year.Automotive News reports that Kia will look to increase that total in 2011 by adding a third shift to the company's West Point, Georgia plant. Kia feels that stronger Sorento sales are inevitable given the fact that the U.S. auto market is picking up speed. Add the fact that dealers have reportedly been asking for more Sorentos for months now, and increasing production becomes more of a no-brainer.Kia hasn't yet announced a start date for the plant's third shift, though dealers tell AN that additional Sorento CUVs will begin hitting retail stores "in the next couple months." In the meantime Kia will be looking for additional workers in Georgia, and we're thinking the Korean automaker will receive more than enough applications.

2012 Subaru Impreza could debut in New York

2011-02-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

We were smitten with Subaru's Impreza Concept from the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show. The production version will certainly be toned down for normal road use, and a report from Inside Line states that we could see the next-generation Impreza bow sooner than expected. In speaking with IL, Subaru of America's executive vice president, Tom Doll, confirmed that the 2012 Impreza will go on sale in the United States in August, meaning that an official reveal at April's New York Auto Show is very likely.Like the current model, the 2012 Impreza will be offered in both sedan and five-door hatchback body styles, powered by the automaker's revised 2.5-liter Boxer flat-four that debuted in the 2011 Forester. We hope that Subaru keeps many of the Impreza Concept's lines intact for the production car, especially since we drool at the thought of what the STI-fettled version will look like.

2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI starts at $23,495

2011-02-10T08:46:00.000-08:00

Volkswagen has brought its latest iteration of the new-for-2011 Jetta – the turbocharged GLI – to this year's Chicago Auto Show, and we're quickly falling in love with the Autobahn-ready VW. The Jetta's already handsome (if decidedly sedate) looks are emphasized by larger 18-inch alloy wheels, a more aggressive front fascia and smoked taillamps, and when the whole package is painted in pull-me-over red, we can't help but daydream about whipping the new Jetta GLI around our favorite set of twisty backroads.The Jetta GLI appears eager to perform, too. Under the hood is Volkswagen's turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four, rated at 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. Both a manual and dual-clutch transmission are available, the latter of which allows the Jetta GLI to achieve up to 32 miles per gallon on the highway. Not bad.The big change, of course, is that the GLI will benefit from a more sophisticated independent rear suspension than the standard Jetta, and VW has ported over its XDS cross differential technology from the GTI. Look for the 2012 Jetta GLI to go on sale later this year, priced from $23,495.

Report: 2012 BMW 6 Series Coupe coming to Shanghai

2011-02-03T13:58:00.001-08:00

Word has it that BMW is planning to unveil the next 6 Series coupe at the upcoming Shanghai Motor Show in April. According the Dutch arm of AutoWeek, it only makes since for the big two door to take a bow this spring since the concept version debuted at the 2010 Pairs Motor Show last fall. Given that we've seen more than a few spy photos crop up recently, the prediction would seem spot-on.The report says that buyers can first expect to get their hands on the coupe in either 640i or 650i variants with additional models showing up later down the line. But that's not the most interesting bit of news to pop up.AutoWeek is also reporting that BMW is currently slaving away on a sedan version of the 6 Series. Supposedly, the car would make use of the same coupe body lines as its two-door brethren. Such a vehicle would allow BMW to tango with the ever-popular Mercedes-Benz CLS, but we have to wonder if there's room in the Roundel's stable for yet another sedan. - Autoblog

Rumormill: BMW could launch 13 front-wheel-drive vehicles by 2016

2011-02-03T12:12:00.001-08:00

Rumors about front-wheel-drive vehicles have been swirling around BMW for some time now, and word on the Bavarian street is that this drivetrain shift in BMW's portfolio is set to launch sooner than we may think. Initially, we believed front-wheel drive would be limited to just a sub-compact here and a compact coupe there, but now comes word that the German automaker could produce up to 13 front-wheel-drive vehicles by 2016.Of course, not all of these vehicles will wear BMW badges – after all, the company's Mini brand only uses front-wheel drive. Inside Line reports that the first BMW-branded car sending power to the front will be the upcoming 1 Series GT, based off the next-generation 1 Series which could also use front-wheel drive. The next-generation X1 and a future subcompact car could also receive a front-wheel drive layout