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The U.S.-market sister ship to the Subaru BRZ, the Scion FR-S, will go on sale this spring. It is an unusual car for parent company Toyota, or at least the Toyota of late. Before the creation of the FR-S, Akio Toyoda (president of Toyota and grandson of the company’s founder) asked himself, “Where is the passion in our lineup? I want to build a sports car.”The Scion FR-S

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 is that sports car. (It also will be sold across the globe as the Toyota GT 86 or simply 86.) Much has been made about the collaboration with Subaru. Toyota claims credit for the car’s existence and the idea itself, which is in direct opposition to what Subaru told us. Fight! Fight! Toyota says chief engineer Tetsuya Tada’s original concept called for a front-engined sports car with rear-wheel drive. Inspired by the rear-drive Corolla of the ’80s that became the darling of drifters, the new sports car would be light, agile, and affordable. After some internal resistance within Toyota and Subaru, a prototype was built in late 2007 using a Subaru flat-four and rear-wheel drive. The prototype changed minds; by early 2008, a sports-car program was born.

Toyota readily admits the lion’s share of the development was done by Subaru. However, according to Toyota, plans and objectives came from its engineers and were merely executed by Subaru’s team. (There’s that contradiction again.) For example, the all-new platform and chassis are from Subaru. Toyota made contributions along the way, such as adding its eight-injector direct and port fuel injection to Subaru’s 2.0-liter flat-four. Making the car attractive fell to Toyota. The greenhouse is a homage to the Toyota 2000GT of the 1960s; the nose hints at the Lexus LFA supercar. Squint a little while eyeing the FR-S, and cars like the Supra and Celica come to mind, too. Assembly of the FR-S and BRZ is Subaru’s responsibility. Read the rest of this article here.

TOYOTA ON THE MOVE AGAIN IN NOVEMBER 2011

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Toyota deliveries rose 6.7 percent in November stated the automaker.

Sales of the Prius hybrid rose 49 percent to 15,208 and deliveries of the new 2012 Camry sedan climbed 13 percent to 23,440. The automaker exceeded five analysts’ average estimate for a 5 percent increase in November deliveries.

Four of the six largest automakers beat sales expectations, boosting industry sales to a 13.6 million seasonally adjusted annualized rate.  Pace exceeded the 13.4 million average estimate of 14 analysts surveyed by Bloomberg and is the best month since sales were helped by Cash for Clunkers in August 2009.

Some believe that consumers have been waiting for a surge. Several analyst in the industry believe that the cars consumers are driving are getting older and people are beginning to reach a point where they need or want to replace them. There is recession out there but there is a growing fatigue and people want to buy if they can.

Source http://toyota-alabama.com/toyota-on-the-move-again-in-november-2011/

Toyota recalling 200K Siennas over misprint

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According to a report from Automotive News, Toyota is recalling more than 200,000 Sienna minivans from the 2011 and 2012 model years. But before you start worrying about reading the words 'Toyota' and 'recall' in the same sentence, know that this is for a very, very minor issue.

The problem? The tire and load information placard has been misprinted, and can cause a situation where owners over-inflate the tires. Overloaded tires can potentially fail (read: burst), and can result in a crash.

Toyota spokesperson Bryan Lyons told Automotive News that there isn't a problem with any mechanical part of the Sienna itself, just the sticker. To remedy this situation, the automaker will mail new replacement placards to affected vehicle owners.Toyota recalling 200K Siennas over misprint originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 08:57:00 EST.

Source http://toyotaowners.net/toyota-forum/showthread.php?t=21931

2013 Dodge Dart Will Offer New Nine-Speed Automatic

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NEW YORK — Chrysler boss Sergio Marchionne said he expects the new 2013 Dodge Dart will achieve a 40-mpg highway fuel-economy rating, which could give corporate parent Fiat a final chunk of Chrysler stock.

The all-new Dart debuts next month at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show and is slated to go into production next spring at Chrysler's Belvidere plant outside Chicago. Based on a stretched version of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the 2013 Dart sedan effectively replaces the Caliber as Dodge's volume entry in the compact segment.

Marchionne, in an interview with Reuters, indicated he expects the new Dart will be rated by the EPA at 40 mpg on the highway. Fiat, which has controlled Chrysler since the U.S. automaker emerged from bankruptcy last year, is entitled to receive another 5-percent equity stake in Chrysler if it is able to certify at least one new car at 40 mpg, according to Automotive News. Read the rest of the article here.

GM’s fully electric Chevy Spark

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Set to be produced at a plant in White Marsh, Maryland, the Spark’s 85 kW, 114 hp motor will use nonophosphate lithium-ion batteries supplied by A123 Systems and have permanent magnet and induction motors. GM expects other vehicles in the future to run on propulsion motors, while nine of its vehicles already use electric motors as part of the propulsion system. According to GM’s Chief Engineer Pete Savagian, each of its electric motors has three long lives of 200k miles each.

“We’ve spent the past few years highlighting our in-house battery capability, which will play a significant role as one of our core competencies going forward,” said Larry Nitz, GM executive director of Vehicle Electrification Engineering. “Electric motor development and manufacturing is another area of expertise we’ll need as we expand vehicle electrification technologies to address the needs of our customers around the world.”

Until recently, electric cars have been held back in the US market due to a lack of choices, high price tags, poor infrastructure for charging stations and low fuel prices. But as the industry faces requirements to produce more fuel-efficient cars by 2025, the competition to build the greenest, sexiest electric cars has stimulated growth and innovation between competitors.

“We welcome competitors into the market,” Mark Perry, director of product planning for Nissan Americas, told Reuters. “We’re glad that GM has decided to go pure electric. This brings further validity to the segment.”

Under GM Chief Executive Daniel Akerson, GM’s fourth CEO since 2009, the company has pursued electric vehicles aggressively and is using the new Spark as a way to recoup some of the lost investment in the Volt. By mass-producing electric vehicle technology, as it did in the 90s, the cost of the cars would make them a fraction of the cost of the $40,000 Volt. Read entire article here.

Review: The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK350

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The new-generation SLK remains small,with just a 95.7-inch wheelbase. But it has more aggressive styling for a sexier, more masculine look and continues with its fast-acting retractable hardtop. Even the exhaust outlets are artfully shaped.

The 3,397-pound SLK350 has a solid feel—top up or down. But Mercedes stuck its plastic three-pointed star emblem right up front in the center of the grille, where it can be easily damaged.
 
The first Mercedes-Benz SLK, which I drove in Italy at a media preview in the late 1980s, was a bore. It had terribly plain styling and modest performance. It was at least some fun with a manual gearbox, but that wasn’t even initially offered in America.

Read the entire article here.

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2012 BMW M5 Revealed

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The legendary BMW M5 has finally been revealed as the F10 model for 2012. The new model is stylish, much more fuel efficient, packed with technology, and comes with a 552hp twin-turbo V8. GM’s west-coast group manager announced a hybrid crossover for next year’s Detroit Auto Show similar to the Volt MPV5 concept. Volvo will be discontinuing the S40 and V50 models for the US due to lackluster sales. The BMW z2 is in our internet rumor mill, expected to launch in 2014 with a couple of engine options. Fast Lane Daily hosted by Derek DeAngelis.

Bentley Will Unveil Continental GT V8 in Early 2012

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BOSTON — Bentley will introduce a new twin-turbocharged direct-injection 4.0-liter V8 at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show in the 2012 Bentley Continental GT. The new V8, which is being jointly developed with Audi and is said to deliver around 550 horsepower, will be extended to other models in the Bentley range.

Audi also plans to use a version of the turbo 4.0 V8 in the new RS7, among other models, with a formal introduction as early as next month at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. Audi also may share its S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with Bentley, for use with the new V8.

Bentley will unveil a face-lifted Continental GTC convertible in Frankfurt, but that car will continue to carry the brand's twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12, which is rated at 567 hp. Eventually, the redesigned GTC, due in 2013-'14, will get the 4.0 V8, as will the coupe and convertible versions of the Mulsanne and the successor to the Continental Flying Spur sedan.Read entire article here

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Bentley Will Unveil Continental GT V8 in Early 2012

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BOSTON — Bentley will introduce a new twin-turbocharged direct-injection 4.0-liter V8 at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show in the 2012 Bentley Continental GT. The new V8, which is being jointly developed with Audi and is said to deliver around 550 horsepower, will be extended to other models in the Bentley range.

Audi also plans to use a version of the turbo 4.0 V8 in the new RS7, among other models, with a formal introduction as early as next month at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. Audi also may share its S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with Bentley, for use with the new V8.

Bentley will unveil a face-lifted Continental GTC convertible in Frankfurt, but that car will continue to carry the brand's twin-turbo 6.0-liter W12, which is rated at 567 hp. Eventually, the redesigned GTC, due in 2013-'14, will get the 4.0 V8, as will the coupe and convertible versions of the Mulsanne and the successor to the Continental Flying Spur sedan.Read entire article here

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Next-Generation Range Rover Due in 2012

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Just the Facts: A replacement for Land Rover's flagship Range Rover is due next year. The current design will be 10 years old in 2012. The next Range Rover will borrow styling cues from the smaller Evoque.

LONDON — A replacement for Land Rover's flagship Range Rover is due next year, when the current design will be 10 years old. As part of a major overhaul, the fourth-generation model will move even further upmarket than today's Range Rover.

Company sources tell Inside Line the next-generation Range Rover will soften its traditional boxy look and borrow styling cues from the recently launched Evoque. Read the rest of the article here.

2012 Infiniti FX Prices Rise

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Just the Facts: Infiniti has hiked stickers on the face-lifted 2012 FX crossover from $850 to $1,750. The 2012 FX35 and FX50 get updated grilles, wheels and instrument clusters. The 2012 FX goes on sale in early October.Read the rest of article here.

2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet: Car Seat Check

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2012 Toyota Prius V Preview

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Remember when the Toyota Prius first came out? Its funky design was an edgy way for early adopters to shout to the world “I’m green and damn proud of it!” Many of those early adopters were singletons and couples since the Prius had a good-sized cargo space but wasn’t up to daily family hauling. Toyota has started to remedy this problem with the introduction of the 2012 Toyota Prius V, the second of four planned Prius family members. The Prius V is the most family-friendly of the bunch. It has 58 percent more cargo space than the Prius and was designed specially to fit bulk paper products from warehouse stores in the cargo space. How is it possible that we’re out of toilet paper … again?

Recall Alert: 2011 Cadillac SRX

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2012 Honda Civic - Two-Minute Video Review Of New Sedan

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2011 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon Recalled for Inoperative Windshield Wipers

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Just the Facts:

• General Motors is recalling 4,674 2011 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon trucks to fix inoperative windshield wipers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
• The nut may not be tightened to specification on the windshield wiper motor crank arm and could loosen, which may result in the wipers becoming inoperative.
• The recall begins today.

Read the entire article here.

GM recalls pickup trucks due to wiper defect

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General Motors Co is recalling more than 4,500 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon pickup trucks because nuts in the windshield wipers may not have been sufficiently tightened.

If a nut in the wiper’s motor crank arm were too loose, the wiper might not work if there were a build-up of snow or ice. The nut could also loosen if the wiper were operated on a dry windshield.

At a certain point, the nut could be loose enough for the wipers to stop working.

GM said the trucks, which are for the model year 2011, were built from late September to early November of last year.

NHTSA Widens Probe of 1997-2001 Ford F-150 Trucks to 2.7 Million Units

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Just the Facts:

• NHTSA said the fuel tank in older Ford F-150 pickups could drop to the road, causing a fire hazard.
• One or both of the steel straps holding up the fuel tank and attaching it to the truck frame can corrode and break, the government said.
• Among the incidents reported to NHTSA or Ford, 243 involved the fuel tank dropping below the vehicle and/or dragging on the ground, 95 involved fuel leakage, and nine included reports of sparks from the tank being dragged on the road.

Read the entire article here.

Toyota announces first pipeline-fed hydrogen vehicle fueling station in U.S.

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Today, Toyota announced the opening of the first hydrogen fueling station fed from a pipeline for vehicles in the United States. The hydrogen fueling station in California is to be used as part of the Toyota fuel cell hybrid demonstration program (as well as for fueling other hydrogen powered vehicles), leading up to the release of Toyota's first hydrogen fuel cell commercial vehicle by 2015. Read the entire article here.

Mercedes-Benz Unveils Two New Special-Edition G-Wagens We Can’t Buy

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Sadly, the SWB G-Class wagon bodystyle is reaching the end of the line; Benz has chosen to commemorate it with the BA3 Final Edition, available with either a 211-hp diesel or a 388-hp 5.5 in the G350 BlueTEC and G500, respectively. Rated at 398 lb-ft, the diesel actually churns out seven more torques than the gas engine. As for special bits for the BA3? AMG superficials, metallic paint, dabs of faux carbon-fiber and real burl walnut, and—naturally—mudflaps.

For all its AMG-esque showboatery, the BA3 Final Edition features no advertised Designo pieces. The LWB Edition Select, however, is a G500 that apparently stocked up on Designo at Gemco. To wit, you can choose Designo Mystic White paint, Designo porcelain/black two-tone or straight Designo black leather upholstery. Standard stuff includes Designo black/porcelain floor mats and Designo piano black wood trim. You also get an AMG exhaust system and a 450-watt Harmon Kardon sound system. Affalterbo? Harm-O Kardo? No. Not to worry, though. Neither truck is making it to the US, leaving it up to discretionary spenders elsewhere to drop the extra few large on the special-edition Gs.

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source:http://blog.caranddriver.com

BMW Leads The U.S. Luxury Market By Just 29 Sales

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For several years, the U.S. luxury market has been dominated by , but as we mentioned a couple of weeks ago, high-end marque recently lost ground with American shoppers. Now BMW sits in the driver’s seat, ahead of German rival Mercedes-Benz by a super-slim lead of just 29 sales.

Lexus’ management team attribute the company’s sales slump to manufacturing and supply problems stemming from the March 11 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan, where most Lexus vehicles are built. While there’s definitely some truth to that, the fact of the matter is that Lexus has been slipping for some time, and we’re not entirely sure that its new CT 200h will be the silver bullet that the company has hoped for.

That leaves German brands vying for the #1 spot. sold 18,042 cars and SUVs last month — a 2.3% rise from April 2010 — which put the company at 71,388 sales for the year to date. But when all the dust had settled, it was by a nose, selling 18,801 vehicles in April and 71,417 for the year. That’s a difference of just 29 units.

And the race isn’t likely to get any less exciting as the year progresses. As Marty Padgett noted in his sales roundup earlier this week, has been helped by strong sales of its E-Class rides, while BMW has leveraged the popularity of the X5 and the new X3.

Other brands like , Cadillac, Infiniti, and Lincoln (which actually slipped compared to 2010) have been left mostly in the dust. With 17,576 sales in April (64,932 for the year), Lexus is the only player that stands a chance of competing with BMW and Mercedes — but can the underdog burst from the rear of the pack to force an upset? It’s unlikely, but we’re not laying any bets. Stay tuned.

Source:http://www.thecarconnection.com

Chevrolet Impala - No Redesign Until 2014 Model Year

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In what has to be a blow to Chevrolet’s contention that their recent new product offerings symbolize the revitalized , Automotive News’ Rick Kranz, in a recent posting, took exception to the bow-tie brand’s claim. In Kranz’ view, as with many astute industry onlookers, the Chevrolet Impala is a glaring old-timer in Chevy’s lineup.

In other words, Impala is seriously long in the tooth. It’s been around for five decades, since the first model rolled off the assembly line in 1958. During that time, the Impala has been a best-seller for Chevrolet and a popular family car for millions of American consumers.

What’s the big deal? Why pick on Chevrolet when it’s got several top-selling vehicles right now? Yes, the all-new compact Cruze is moving up fast, posting 25,160 sales for April and 75,365 year-to-date. In fact, the Cruze is the number four best-selling passenger car in the U.S. for April. The mid-size sedan is itself a winner, snagging fifth place in passenger car sales for the month with 24,701 units sold (and 73,446 for year-to-date). And the Malibu for 2013 is redesigned, so that will boost sales even more for the family sedan.

Yet the Chevrolet Impala, though it hasn’t been restyled since 2006 model year and its last major redesign was for the 2000 model year, still sells well. Admittedly, it’s mostly to fleet and/or heavily discounted, but the still managed to capture the number 10 best selling passenger car spot for April with sales of 21,071 (and 70,612 year-to-date, up 29.8 percent year-over-year).

Chevy is reportedly going to refresh the Impala for the 2012 model year. That means, according to various media outlets, that the large sedan will receive a new 3.6-liter engine to replace the current choices of 3.5- or 3.9-liter engines. In addition, gone will be the old (and seriously outdated) four-speed transmission, replaced by a six-speed. Expect a few styling tweaks as well, including a new grille and dual exhaust pipes. Dressing up with a little cosmetic “enhancements” never hurt other models as carmakers eke out a year or so before redoing the line.

Actually, Impala’s re-do is long overdue, in more ways than one. It wasn’t supposed to happen this way, but the whole bankruptcy thing got in the way of a planned redesign that was originally scheduled for the 2011 model year. Some say (including Automotive News) that the next-generation Impala will be rear-wheel drive and that it may include a version; it’s more likely the new car will be front-wheel drive, possibly with an all-wheel-drive option.

As it is, there’s too much overlap between the full-size Impala and mid-size Malibu. Automotive News quotes Chevy dealers and executives who indicate the next-generation Impala will clearly separate the large sedan from its sibling. No more “big, budget-priced car” for the Impala, says Bryan Nesbitt, Chevrolet’s executive director for exterior design.

 

While Chevy brass are tight-lipped on the details, the next complete re-do of the Impala will sit on the longer version of the GM Epsilon platform – the same one underpinning the current LaCrosse and the upcoming .

Perhaps the most telling comment comes from Alan Batey, Chevrolet sales executive, quoted in Automotive News as saying, “When we do finally show the thing, I think it’ll blow the doors off.”

Hmm…must be impressive. But then, by the time the 2014 Chevrolet Impala (presumably introduced in 2013 as a 2014) goes on-sale, there’ll be a revamped (getting its makeover for 2013) in the market, as well as a new , Accord and Altima. FamilyCarGuide looks forward to the reveal of the 2014 Chevrolet Impala. What Chevy needs is an elegant (dare we say near-luxury) six-passenger full-size family sedan – at an affordable price.

See Bengt Halvorson’s piece on the 2012 Chevrolet Impala in TheCarConnection.

Source:http://www.familycarguide.com

GM Invests $131M To Build Next Corvette

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NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — General Motors is investing $131 million in the Bowling Green, Ky. factory that builds the Chevrolet Corvette as it prepares to roll out the next generation of the sports car in a couple of years.In the process, the automaker will add about 250 jobs at the plant.”This is a significant day for anyone who believes that America should build world-class, high-performance products,” said Mark Reuss, GM North America president.The plant currently employs about 400 hourly workers, GM said, who work four 10-hour days a week producing the cars. Corvettes had been made at Bowling Green since 1981. All versions of the car are assembled there including hardtops, convertibles and the high-performance Z06 and ZR1 versions.The plant will continue to produce the current sixth generation version of the Corvette for at least two more model years, a GM spokesman said. Production of a new version of the sports car will begin some time after that but no specific timetable for the start of production has been set.While most cars are thoroughly redesigned about every five years to keep up with changing consumer tastes and competitors’ improvements, high-cost niche products like the Corvette tend to go much longer between revisions. The sixth-generation Corvette was introduced in 2005.GM has not yet revealed any official images or information about the seventh-generation Corvette.

Source: CNN

2012 Hyundai Accent Subcompact: Video

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2012 Honda CR-V Introduction Delayed by Quake

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Just the Facts:

• As some of Honda’s Japanese parts suppliers continue to struggle in the aftermath of the quake and tsunami, the automaker has delayed the introduction of its redesigned 2012 CR-V.
• Honda also said it will curtail production of other Japan-sourced models for the North American market, including the redesigned 2012 Honda Civic.
• Japanese-built models expected to remain in short supply in North America include the Honda Fit, CR-Z, Insight and Civic Hybrid and the Acura TSX, TSX Wagon and RL.

 

TORRANCE, California — Honda Motor will delay by one month the introduction this fall of the redesigned 2012 CR-V, while extending production of the current 2011 CR-V by one month, as some of the automaker’s Japanese parts suppliers continue to struggle to re-establish production in the aftermath of that country’s devastating quake and tsunami.

Honda also said it will curtail production of other Japan-sourced models for the North American market, including the redesigned 2012 Honda Civic, “at least through the summer months.”

Japanese-built models expected to remain in short supply in North America through the end of the year include the Honda Fit, CR-Z, Insight and Civic Hybrid and the Acura TSX, TSX Wagon and RL. Read the entire article at the source here.

2012 Nissan Versa Video

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40 MPG 2012 Ford Fiesta

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To keep interest in its 40 mpg capable Fiesta bubbling along into the 2012 model year, Ford is introducing a trio of new customization packs for both the exterior and cabin of the already stylish minicar. The new packs should prove popular, as around 40 percent of buyers of the 2011 model have opted for at least one accessory.

So what’s available for the 2012 Ford Fiesta?

Starting with the new exterior package, Fiesta customers can now get a European Focus RS inspired look with side mirrors, headlight and grille surrounds, a license plate header and rear spoiler now finished in a custom black paint scheme. Read the rest of this article from the source here.

Porsche Panamera Diesel delivers 37 mpg

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The Porsche Panamera Gran Turismo with a 3.0L diesel engine consumes 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 mpg US)—167 g/km CO₂—on the NEDC with optional low-friction tires. Range on a single tank is in excess of 1,200 kilometers (746 miles).

With the standard tires the fuel consumption is 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 mpg US) with 172 g/km CO₂.

The 3.0L V6 engine has a rated output of 250 hp (184 kW) achieved between 3,800 rpm and 4,400 rpm. The maximum torque of 550 N·m (406 lb-ft) is available all the way from 1,750 rpm to 2,750 rpm. Coupled with the eight-speed Tiptronic S, the turbo diesel accelerates the new Gran Turismo from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 242 km/h (150 mph). The Panamera Diesel is exclusively available with rear-wheel drive.

The Porsche Panamera Diesel features common rail direct injection through piezo valves at a pressure of 2000 bar; turbocharging employing electrically controlled variable geometry turbochargers (VGTs;) and emission control achieved by controlled exhaust gas recirculation, oxidation catalyst and particle filter.

An auto start/stop function is standard.

Source greencarcongress.com

2011 Scion tC Manual - Short Take Road Test

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What Is It?

It’s the cheapest version of the most mundane Scion. Opting for the manual instead of settling for the automatic saves you $1000. While the tC was redesigned for 2011, it takes a real Scion fan (um, anybody? Hello?) to tell the difference. The look is little changed, but every body panel is in fact new, and the result is a rounder, sleeker overall shape.

How Does It Drive?

Fitting for a product from a youth-oriented brand like Scion, the tC might be the perfect car for first-time manual drivers. The shifter has a welcome heft and is very direct, without the high-focus tightness of a Honda piece. The clutch pedal is neither smooth nor linear, but is nearly idiot-proof. Initial takeup is very slow, allowing a nervous left foot lots of play while the car first gets rolling, at which point the final engagement happens very quickly. With the smallest blip of the throttle at any point in the process, first-timers will be rolling. (Actually, a small blip of the throttle is tricky, as the pedal is resistant to motion initially, but requires very little input to net large throttle openings.) Beginners also will find it helpful that the all-new 2.5-liter’s stall speed seems to be around the three-rpm chuff chuff of an old single-piston farm engine. Continue reading from the source here.

Toyota Making Drastic Production Cuts Official No Layoffs Planned During Stoppage

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(CNN) — Toyota Motor Corporation on Tuesday announced dramatic production cuts in North America because of difficulty in supplying parts following the massive 9.0-magnitude March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan.Previously, Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA), had said it would suspend production on Mondays and Fridays between April 15 and April 25. That will continue through June 3, the company said in a statement.”During the same period, production will run at 50% on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday,” the statement said. In addition, Canadian production will be suspended for the week beginning May 23, and U.S. production for the week starting May 30.No decisions have been made for production after June 3, according to Toyota.”No layoffs are planned during this period,” the statement said. “Team members will utilize non-production time for training and plant improvement activities.”“We are trying to continue production as much as possible and keep our workforce intact in order to facilitate a smooth transition back to full production when all parts are available,” said Steve St. Angelo, executive vice president of TEMA, in the statement.Last month, Toyota told its U.S. plants to prepare to shut down because of parts supply problems.Toyota employs 25,000 manufacturing and research-and-development workers in North America. It operates nine plants in the United States in Kentucky, Indiana, Texas, Tennessee, Alabama, West Virginia, California and Mississippi. It also operates three plants in Canada and one in Mexico.

Source: CNN

2012 Acura TL - First Drive

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When it was launched as a 2009 model, the TL was the most extreme definition of Acura’s new styling direction.

It was a polarizing design, with a brash front end and beak-like silver grille surround. According to Acura marketers, buyers in Miami and New York loved it, but Californians and others didn’t. At all.

The West Coast won out. For 2012, the styling of the Acura TL has been dialed down.

most popular sedan (and, styled in California and built in Ohio, its most all-American) is tidied up, and looks quieter and more polite.

The changes to the exterior are the most visible evidence of a mid-cycle refresh for a car that launched directly into the teeth of the recession in the fall of 2008.

Acura hopes the revised TL has addressed a reason that some buyers cited for avoiding the previous model: its extroverted styling.

Indeed, while side-by-side photos of the 2011 and 2012 models look surprisingly similar, a host of subtle changes to the front and rear fascias have softened the beak and made the bumper surfaces more vertical.

The front grille is smaller, and it’s moved further down the hoodline for a lower appearance.

The pointy beak has given way to a minimal vee shape, and the front bumper now has a horizontal line in it to make it look wider. Continue reading review from source here.

2011 Kia Sorento Recalled for Transmission Failure

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Just the Facts:

• Kia is recalling 12,690 2011 Sorentos because a defective transmission may cause “loss of motive power, increasing the risk of a crash,” according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
• Kia dealers will replace the right-side output gear and intermediate shaft on the affected Sorentos.
• The recall is expected to begin sometime this month.

source: insideline

GM SUVs probed for bad fuel gauges

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Reuters

updated less than 1 minute ago 2011-05-02T17:13:46

Federal regulators are investigating 865,000 General Motors Co sport utility vehicles for potential faulty fuel gauges that could mistakenly tell drivers their vehicles have more gas than they do.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its website it opened a preliminary investigation covering Chevrolet Trailblazers, GMC Envoys, Buick Rainiers and Saab 9-7s from model years 2005-2007 after receiving 668 complaints alleging inaccurate fuel gauge readings.

Of the complaints over the weekend, 58 incidents were alleged to result in a vehicle stall and 43 of those occurred because the fuel level reading indicated more fuel than what was actually in the tank, NHTSA said.

One complaint alleged the affected vehicle stalled while exiting the interstate and was struck from behind, according to NHTSA.

NHTSA said the complaints show an apparent increasing trend, with most complaints received within the past year. It added it has opened preliminary probes for Ford Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co Ltd vehicles.

NHTSA received 18 complaints concerning the liftgate glass on the rear doors or hatches on 200,000 Ford SUVs. The reports said the liftgate glass on Ford Escapes and Mercury Mariners for model years 2010 and 2011 could spontaneously shatter when the liftgate was opened or closed. Read the rest of this article here.

Chrysler reports first quarterly net profit since 2009 - Business - Autos

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A Chrysler Group assembly worker works on the bottom chassis for Chrysler Jeeps, Grand Cherokees and Dodge Durangos at the Chrysler Jefferson North auto plant in Detroit, Michigan April 28, 2011. REUTERS/Rebecca Cook

Reuters

updated 2 minutes ago 2011-05-02T17:13:31

By Deepa Seetharaman

DETROIT (Reuters) - Chrysler Group LLC reported its first quarterly net profit since emerging from bankruptcy nearly two years ago, helped by a revamped lineup of cars and trucks as well as higher vehicle prices.

Chrysler’s first-quarter net income came to $116 million, compared with a net loss of $197 million a year earlier, as revenue shot up 35 percent to $13.1 billion.

The company reported an operating profit of $477 million in the first quarter, compared with $143 million a year earlier.

Sixty percent of the company’s sales in the first quarter came from its revamped lineup, including the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Average vehicle prices rose to $28,300 in the first quarter, from $27,300 a year ago.

Until now, Chrysler has posted a string of operating profits, but high interest costs on more than $7 billion in loans the company owes to the United States and Canada from its 2009 bailout have undercut its ability to post a net profit.

Chrysler’s earnings kick off a week of big news for the automotive sector. Carmakers are due to report April U.S. auto sales on Tuesday, and General Motors Co will release quarterly earnings on Thursday.

Chrysler, which now operates under the management of Italian automaker Fiat SpA, is seeking a $3.5 billion term loan and $2.5 billion in bonds to refinance that debt, the company said on Monday.

Sergio Marchionne, the chief executive of Chrysler and Fiat, said the deal was close to being “crystallized.”

Chrysler also reiterated its full-year outlook, saying it aimed to post revenue of $55 billion and net income between $200 million and $500 million.

Marchionne has said the company would need to post “a couple” quarters of net income before an initial public offering, which could come this year or next.

“Success is incredibly temporary,” Marchionne told analysts and reporters on a conference call. “The first quarter is done. We’ve got a lot of quarters to do.”

Fiat shares rose to the highest level in more than three months after the Chrysler report. Read the rest of this article here.

NHTSA Investigating Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner

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The 2010-2011 Ford Escape and its former twin, the , are being investigated by federal safety officials for problems with shattering rear window glass.

The Detroit News says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will be studying more than 200,000 Escape and Mariner crossovers from the past two model years, in the wake of complaints about the glass in their rear liftgates. The paper reports that 18 complaints have been logged by the NHTSA from owners reporting shattered glass when opening or closing the rear liftgate.

One of the complainants was cut by falling glass.

has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) for the problem, but the NHTSA study is a possible step toward an official recall.

The NHTSA advisory indicates that the shattering glass could be related to cold weather. Read the rest of this article here.

Most women buy cars based on lifestyle, price and fuel economy

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In a digital age when consumers can educate themselves long before they enter the showroom of a car dealership, women have become savvy shoppers who are using a variety of online resources to do their car buying research.

Many will read the latest reviews and safety information from sites like JD Power and Consumer Reports. Women are also looking for honest to peer-to-peer reviews from bloggers like Cindi Matthews who recently reviewed the 2011 Chevy Malibu as part of the Chevrolet Girlfriend Getaway Program.

When women walk through the door of an auto dealership, they are armed with information and ready to negotiate, but what are they looking for when they shop for an automobile?

The latest in technology, as well as comfort and style, often factor into the decision making process for female car buyers. With gas prices on the rise, fuel economy is also an important consideration.

However, Christine Overstreet, executive director of Heels and Wheels, feels that most women are looking for a car that fits into their current lifestyle.

“I want a safe, comfortable vehicle that will get me where I need to be. I don’t need seven seats, but would like some cargo space, so I am looking at sedans, CUV’s and wagons … and I love heated seats!”

A woman who frequently travels in her car for business may be looking for something totally different than a mom who is transporting four children to school, sports functions and other activities.

The business traveler may look for a car that touts a technology package with gadgets such as a built-in navigation system and hands-free wireless communication. The busy mom, who has the safety and comfort of her children in mind, may research vehicles that have ease of entry/exit, adequate storage and excellent safety reviews.

In addition to research on safety, fuel economy and comfort, there is still the issue of price. Does price play a factor in the car buying decisions of women and is it the biggest motivator when it comes to writing the deal?

“In this economy, people are price conscious but it is not price alone. Value for the dollar is more important,” says Christine Overstreet. “It is price for what you get and again, this is where the Internet is playing a large part in purchases. You can see exactly what you will get for what you pay out before you even arrive at the dealership.”

Beyond the research, reviews and comparison shopping, what cars are worth a look for women? Overstreet, who created Heels & Wheels to recognize women as a ‘major force in the automotive purchase decision’, gives her opinions on her top five favorite vehicles. Read the rest of this article here.

2011 Chevy Cruze Video

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2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport SE Review

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It has awkward proportions, almost as though it has a nose too big for its face. But that doesn’t take away from the cuteness of the 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. From the seemingly twisted category of “cute utes,” Mitsubishi comes forth with one of their latest.
A capable hauler, it has pluses and minuses to be certain. Sit back as we cruise with one of the new breed in urban-assault grocery getters, this one from the maker of the Evo. What is it?
A four-adult, or two-adult, three child carrier, the Outlander Sport is a compact CUV that draws inspiration from the Evo Lancer, and according to Mitsubishi, adds some spice to an otherwise humdrum segment. Our vehicle for the week was the 2WD SE model, although it is available in an all-wheel-drive configuration as well.

Powered by the firm’s venerable four-banger, it might be the solution for some, but not all, types of buyers.

What’s it up against?
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport comes up against some heavy hitters in the segment. Among them are Nissan’s glimmering siblings, the Juke and Rogue, the Kia Sportage, the MINI Countryman and then, at a slightly higher price point, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

It is a rather stout segment, so if you wish to compete, you best bring your A–game.

Any breakthroughs?
Among the breakthroughs for the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport start with the price. Value pricing in this segment is a way to get market share, especially when some of your competitors skirt close to the edge of $30,000, or beyond.

All Outlander Sport models are equipped with standard features like remote keyless entry with a panic feature, halogen and S–HID headlights, Bluetooth hands-free communications, and audio systems with USB input and steering wheel mounted controls. Mitsubishi’s FUSE Hands free Link System even allows Bluetooth streaming audio from a smart phone or iPhone. Read the rest of this article here.

2011 Jeep Compass Review

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The new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Compass's larger, hardier sibling, got a complete redesign this year, and it's been almost unanimously lauded for being attractively proportioned, if a bit conservative. Meanwhile, the former, pre-2011 Compass has not at all been well-received, especially with respect to styling. Its 'Jeep Modern' design—with an odd combination Wrangler/CJ design cues in front and an odd, angular crossover tail—never quite took with either conservative Jeep suburbanites or with the hip urban folks Jeep originally aimed it at. Design-wise odd yet homely were appropriate descriptors.

The short story is that Jeep tried to give the 2011 Compass the Grand Cherokee treatment. The Compass hasn't received a complete redesign for 2011, just some softened sheetmetal and new front and rear end styling. The proportions are the same, with the boxy wheelwell outline and smooth rear-pillar upkick preserved. the front end is a smaller, softer version of the Grand Cherokee's, while the taillamps have also been softened. Overall, the Compass has a vaguely sleeker, classier look from some angles, but the changes don't reduce the Compass's ungainliness, to our eyes.

Likewise, Jeep claims to have upgraded trims and finishes inside, but those upgrades are basically limited to a new steering wheel, some new knobs for the climate control, and a few more bright plasti-chrome accents. Available leather seats have contrasting piping and are an upgrade in style, though. That said, the fundamentals are all here and the layout of the interior is straightforward and functional—and appealing in appearance if not always feel. Read the rest of this review here.

Toyota Joins Wireless Electric Car Charging Revolution

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This year we’ve seen a dramatic increase in the number of companies working towards detaching the electric car from its charging cable.  Now , the world’s largest automaker, has joined the inductive charging revolution with a substantial undisclosed investment in WiTricity, specialists in wireless charging. 

WiTricity’s current technology is comparable to standard Level 2 fast charge technology, providing up to 3.3 kilowatts of power. This makes it ideal for providing a way of charging plug-in vehicles without wires where in places where wired technology may present a trip hazard such as shopping mall parking lots, for example.  

WiTricity’s technology makes use of a technique it calls resonance wireless charging. 

Instead of inducing a magnetic field in a receiver coil in the same way a traditional electrical transformer works, resonance inductive coupling works by using two coils which vibrate at the exact same frequency. 

When a specific frequency of oscillating current is applied to force the primary coil to vibrate, an oscillating magnetic field of specific frequency is produced, inducing a matching current in the secondary coil as it vibrates sympathetically with the first. 

This allows energy to be transferred between two points with very high efficiency without any physical contact between the two coils. 

Used primarily in devices like the Powermat to wirelessly charge portable electronics devices, the technology also prevents inadvertent exposure to unintended electromagnetic radiation causing harm. reducing risk to computer components, credit cards and humans. 

Toyota’s investment in WiTricity is as yet not fully disclosed, although we expect the partnership to help Toyota develop wireless charging systems for its range of up-coming plug-in vehicles, including future versions of the Plug-in Prius, the all-electric RAV4 EV and   possible electrification of its city car, the iQ. Read the full article here.

Mercedes, Toyota Plants in Alabama Shut Down by Violent Southern Storms

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Mother Nature continues to shut down production at Toyota, but this time the affected plant is in Alabama and the problem is a series of violent storms and not the Tsunami and earthquake that struck its home production facilities in Japan. Mercedes was equally hard hit by the horrific storms that have killed more than 268 people as of Thursday afternoon.

Read the whole story here.

Lamborghini Aventador Video

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Cadillac Working on Softtop Convertible to Slot Between the ATS and CTS

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After ending production of the XLR following the 2009 model year, Cadillac is planning to re-enter the convertible market with a distinctly different approach. Twice, Cadillac has aimed high, first with the Pininfarina-bodied Allanté that went out of production in 1993, and then with the XLR, a folding-hardtop roadster that shared much of its architecture with the Chevrolet Corvette.

Burned by weak sales of these expensive boutique models, Cadillac will bring its next convertible in at a much lower price. It will be based on the upcoming Alpha platform, which underpins both the 2013 ATS compact sedan and the next-generation CTS. The new convertible won’t just be an open-top ATS, though. Instead, it will be positioned between the ATS and the CTS and have unique styling that sets it apart from both models. Think of it as the equivalent of the Audi A5 convertible.

There is one important aspect which the new convertible shares with the A5 cabrio: It will have a softtop. The luxury-convertible segment is split on this issue: The Audi, the upcoming Cadillac, and the Mercedes-Benz E-class cabriolet sport fabric roofs. On the other side of the fence are the convertible versions of the BMW 3-series, the Lexus IS, and the Infiniti G37, all equipped with folding hardtops. While this style of retractable roof eats up trunk space and adds substantial weight, it does give onlookers something to gawp at when the complex mechanism begins the transformation from coupe to convertible and vice versa. As enthusiasts, we’re fans of the lighter cloth-top approach—though we do understand the all-season appeal of folding metal for some folks.

 

Engine choices for the new Cadillac convertible are not clear at this point, but the platform could potentially host anything from a turbocharged four to V-6 and V-8 engines. Look for the new car to be launched in late 2013 for the 2014 model year. Read the rest of this article here.

MINI’s Electric Future - TEST DRIVE

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA — A little while ago, yours truly wrote about the Nissan Leaf, the world’s first fully electric, non-golf cart-like car to be made widely available in the 21st century. While the unstylish little thing is also unquestionably a game-changer, the smart eco-shopper knows that even more, ahem, electrifying offers are right around the corner.

The MINI E is a slightly different animal compared to the Leaf: This electric version of the popular small car will never make it to market, but the lessons learned will be applied to the BMW Megacity, an electric vehicle (EV) that’s set to debut in 2012. Nevertheless, during a quick test drive close to BMW Canada HQ north of Toronto, the MINI E offered eye-opening performance, particularly from its regenerative braking system.

While all EVs and hybrid cars have these systems — they charge the battery pack when you lift off the gas or apply the brake — the set-up on the MINI is far more powerful than the rest. In fact, the system is so powerful, you can drive the car without ever having to touch the brake pedal; simply lift off the gas and the car automatically reduces speed until you come to a complete stop.

To top it all off, the MINI E offers the same dynamic handling of a regular MINI Cooper combined with even quicker acceleration. I initially failed to notice that the speedometer was set to mph and not km/h; before coming to this realization, the MINI and I were rocketing along at very much over the posted speed limit, working up no sweat at all. Then I hit the regenerative brakes and a parachute deployed, top fuel dragster-style, to slow us down and get back on the right side of the law. (This whole story is true except the parachute part.)

I’ve gone on record as saying that the MINI is the best-handling, most fun-to-drive and most style-conscious compact car in existence and the electrified version continues this trend. If not for the lack of trunk space or the disappearance of the back seat (both due to the large battery pack), the E would get a straight-up ‘A.’ Read full article here.

All 2012 Corvettes Get New Seats, Better Tires for Z06 and ZR1

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Just the Facts:

• Finally, new seats in all Corvettes. They'll be like the ones in the Centennial Edition.
• New Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires for the ZR1 and Z06 are basically street-legal race tires.
• 2012 Chevrolet Corvette production begins in July.

DETROIT — Many of the changes on the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette have already slipped out, but today Chevy clarified a couple details: All 2012 Corvettes get new seats, while the Z06 and ZR1 models get a brand-new set of Michelin tires.

The 2012 Corvette, which goes into production in July at Bowling Green, Kentucky, makes its public debut this weekend at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green. Continue reading here.

Chrysler says it will repay U.S. rescue loans by midyear

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Chrysler Group has reached a debt-refinancing deal that will allow the automaker to repay $6.6 billion in bailout loans from the U.S. and Canadian governments this quarter.

Proceeds from a term loan and debt securities sold to institutional investors will be used to repay the debts to the governments, Chrysler said in a statement today. Chrysler made the announcement ahead of a planned visit to Detroit later today by U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner.

Repaying the loans from the U.S. and Canadian governments would mark a critical step for Chrysler as it tries to distance itself from the controversial 2009 rescue by the Obama administration and rebuild consumer confidence in the brand.

Chrysler also hopes the deal will ease Department of Energy concerns about the automaker and allow the federal agency to grant the company as much as $3.5 billion in low-interest loans. The money would be used to refit Chrysler plants to build more fuel-efficient vehicles — a priority of President Obama’s.

Further details will likely be disclosed on Monday when first-quarter earnings are reported, the automaker said.

The announcement comes almost two years after Chrysler emerged from a U.S.-funded bankruptcy under the management of Italy’s Fiat S.p.A.

Fiat announced earlier that it plans to buy an additional 16 percent stake in Chrysler for $1.27 billion, up from the current 30 percent. The debt offering, term loans and the cash infusion from Fiat are all expected to occur concurrently, the company said.

Analysts and bankers have said this would make the U.S. automaker a more attractive story for potential investors in an initial public offering that could come as early as this year. Next month, Chrysler executives will begin to court potential debt investors, primarily in North America, as part of a road show. Continue reading here.

Cadillac to Get Another Three-Row SUV, Keep Escalade

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Cadillac’s SUV line is a huge success story. Whether or not we like it, buyers are snatching up the new SRX, and the Escalade remains one of the country’s most recognizable automotive status symbols. It’s not surprising, then, that the company is looking to expand its SUV family. Jim Vurpillat, Cadillac’s global marketing chief, tells us that there is room in the portfolio for another SUV to slot in between the SRX and the Escalade. The SRX got smaller in its second generation, leaving room for another model in the $50–60K range. Continue reading here.

2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 – Official Photos and Info

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We thought that Porsche had pretty much squeezed everything it could get out of the current 911 (internally called 997), which is due to be replaced by the heavily redesigned and bigger 991 at the Frankfurt auto show this fall. But we were wrong: meet the 911 GT3 RS 4.0, a stripped-down track fugitive equipped with the largest engine ever installed in a series-production 911, a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six that reaches 500 hp at 8250 rpm. That’s up from 450 hp at 7900 rpm for the 911 GT3 RS with its 3.8-liter flat-six. The maximum torque of 339 lb-ft—up from 317—arrives at 5750 rpm.

Keep Reading: 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 – Official Photos and Info

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Video

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2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Video

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2011 Hyundai Sonata Turbo: Driven

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Just a few years ago, the conventional wisdom with mid-size was that, unless you counted yourself among frugally minded tightwads, you’d be much happier with the optional V-6 than with a standard four-cylinder engine.

Then four-cylinder engines found a new benchmark for power last year, when introduced its direct-injection 2.4-liter four, in the 2011 Sonata. Making up to 200 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque—with class-leading fuel economy of 35 mpg highway—this engine (and the car itself, The Car Connection’s Best Car To Buy 2011) was a game-changer.

But for those who still wanted to move more rapidly than the standard engine, Hyundai has another game-changing option on offer in the Sonata. There’s no Sonata V-6; instead, a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder, making 274 hp, powers Turbo SE and Limited models of the Sonata just as quickly as a six.

In fact, the Turbo might actually be more responsive in transitional maneuvers like highway passing, or easing confidently out of a corner. Its 269 pound-feet of torque peak is reached as low as 1,750 rpm, so it can really ease up to speed without downshifting. We couldn’t feel much, if any, turbo lag either—and we expected some, considering this setup’s pressure-cooking 17.4-psi boost level.

What’s surprising is how effectively the Turbo model feels like a premium, more sophisticated powertrain choice. It’s surprisingly quiet; Hyundai has tuned out most of the turbo whistle, wastegate, and and intake noise you hear on other high-performance turbo models, and it’s hushed the exhaust about to the levels of the non-turbo model. Floor the accelerator at highway speeds and the engine and transmission work quickly but smoothly, with speed gathering in a luxury-car-like rush. Much like a V-6 sedan, in fact. Yes, you can tell there’s a four-cylinder engine under the hood, but it doesn’t sound or feel downmarket. Read the full article here.

Nissan Pathfinder, Infiniti QX4 Recalled for Potential Steering Column Failure

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Just the Facts: Nissan will recall 196,000 1997-2003 Infiniti QX4s and 1996-2004 Nissan Pathfinders.

 

Under-body rust could damage the SUVs’ driver-side strut housing and break the steering column.

Nissan will inspect the front suspension and, if necessary, replace the strut housing.

read the full article here.

2011 Ford Focus - Features and Specs Review

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Reviewers, in general, have not been all that kind to the 2011 Ford Focus. With a complete refresh of the model on the books for 2012 and the market for small, fuel-efficient cars heating up, the 2011, which carries an MSRP of $16,640 to $19,670, does not stack up all that well against the competition. Even its own sibling, the Ford Fiesta, is considered to be better looking and a more satisfying drive. In general, when you put the Focus next to cars like the Honda Civic and the Nissan Versa, you’re going to see a dated model that returns sluggish acceleration and is, at best, what Autoblog called a “grocery getter.”

For running errands, the Focus performs as well as any car with a 2.0-liter four cylinder is going to perform. Get out on the road, and the noisy 140 horsepower engine, high cabin noise, annoying tire hum, and complete lack of “get up and go” don’t just stand out, they scream out. Gas mileage is okay — 24 mpg in town and 35 mpg on the road. A year ago that would have been outstanding, now, it’s just “good” for this class of automobile.

Inside, the one thing that does make the Focus stand out is the fact that the Sync infotainment system is a standard feature. Otherwise, when you get past the comfortable front seats, the cabin is mildly low grade. Body panels that don’t line up and flaws in the upholstery, especially on the rear bench seat, are fairly common. The head and leg room is good up front and in theory the car seats five, but three people in the back had better know each other really well. The back seat splits and folds, but the 13.8 cubic feet of trunk space when the seats are up is nothing to write home about. Go with the Nissan Versa, which is a better performer on just about all levels, and you get 17.8 cubic feet.

Parents will like the fact that the MyKey system is also a standard feature. This lets the folks program in a top speed, turn the sound system off unless the seatbelts are in use, and basically annoy their kids into better driving behaviors in a variety of ways. The 2011 hasn’t been crash-tested, but the 2010 picked up four stars for driver and front passenger front impact crashes and five stars for side impact. The insurance industry also awarded the 2010 Focus its top rating, “Good,” for front, side, and rear impacts. You get all the standard safety bells and whistles — six airbags, Electronic Stability Control, and anti-lock brakes.

Ford can and has done better. The 2011 Focus can’t even stand up to the in-house competition. It’s not the cheapest out there — the Kia Forte is $2,000 less and is considered one of the best small cars on the road today with a long list of amenities including Bluetooth and satellite radio. Even if you nurse a particular loyalty for Ford, pass on the 2011 Focus. Wait for the model refresh next year or shop outside the box this year.

source http://www.carseek.com/reviews/ford/2011-focus/

 

Ferrari 458 Italia awarded 2011 World Performance Car of the Year

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While the 2011 Nissan LEAF and the 2011 Chevrolet Volt took the 2011 World Car of the Year and the 2011 World Green Car of the Year awards (respectively) at the 2011 New York Auto Show, the Ferrari 458 Italia was rightfully named the the 2011 World Performance Car of the Year.

The Ferrari 458 Italia was chosen from an initial list of 14 sports cars by a jury consisting of 66 international journalists from 24 different countries.

With the “World Performance Car of the Year” the jury’s specialists wanted to underline the 458 Italia’s extraordinary performance capacity on the track and on the road, defining the car as “already a classic in every sense, but its sophisticated handling abilities at the limit take the V8 middle-rear engine Ferrari concept to a whole new level”.

In the statement an acclaim regarding the car’s “meraviglioso sound” wasn’t missing.

Refresher: Power for the Ferrari 458 Italia comes from a mid-rear mounted 4.5L V8 producing 570-hp at 9,000 rpm with a maximum torque of 398 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm. Mated to a dual-clutch 7-speed F1 gearbox, 0 to 62 mph comes in just 3.4 seconds with a top speed of over 202 mph. Click here to read more

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Jaguar Planning Brand New V-6 Engine for XF (and Maybe XJ)

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Perhaps you read in this week’s Financial Times that Jaguar is looking at building a new factory for engine construction in the UK. What the company hasn’t said—but thanks to our sources, we can now confirm—is that the added production capacity will allow the Jaguar to begin construction of a brand-new six-cylinder engine. The engine should come to the U.S. in the XF, and possibly even in the XJ.

At present, every Jaguar sold in the U.S. comes with an excellent 5.0-liter V-8 engine. Some are naturally aspirated and make 385 hp, while others are supercharged and produce 475 or 510 ponies. Europeans see more options for their cats: a 2.2-liter diesel four, a 3.0-liter diesel six, and the old Ford-based 3.0-liter V-6. You may remember that last engine from such groaning flops as the Jaguar X-Type 3.0 and the S-Type 3.0. Suffice it to say that the company needs a new gasoline V-6 for the U.S. market and for Europeans who want an engine designed during the current millennium. (Jag also needs all-wheel drive, but that’s not happening any time soon.)

Given that the outgoing lump makes 240 hp, we’d expect Jaguar’s new six-pot to produce significantly more power, something comparable to the 300-plus-hp engines from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. It seems sensible that this engine would be paired to the eight-speed automatic that the company recently announced would be used in 2.2-liter diesel cars in Europe. We were told our wait for the engine wouldn’t be too long, so we figure that we’ll see it in the 2013 or 2014 model year.

soure http://blog.caranddriver.com/jaguar-planning-brand-new-v-6-engine-for-xf-and-maybe-xj/

Mercedes-Benz Drops Price on 2012 CLS-Class

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Just the Facts:

• The redesigned 2012 CLS550 starts at $72K; the CLS63 AMG comes in at $95,775.
• The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 costs $4,150 less than its predecessor.
• Both 2012 CLS-Class four-doors reach U.S. dealerships this summer.

Source: http://www.insideline.com/mercedes-benz/cls-class/2012/mercedes-benz-drops-price-on-2012-cls-class.html

 

VW Amarok 2.0 TDI Short Review

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Volkswagen Amarok is the first pick-up of Volkswagen and also the competitor for the Toyota Hilux. The pick-up was built at the Pacheco factory in Buenos Aires, before it was sent to South America, Austalia and New Zealand, as well as Europe.

The VW Amarok looks classy and aggressive with the VW grille, locking centre and rear differentials. The interior of this all-wheel drive gives you well-textured surfaces. The seats height is unusual, prepared to give you an excellent driving position. Read the rest of this review http://www.dautobuzz.com/volkswagen/vw-amarok-20-tdi-short-review.html

Volvo S60 Voted International Sedan Of The Year

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The eternal problem with sporty Volvos has been their resemblance to the well-known IKEA breakfast. Less expensive than its continental counterpart, it’s also not particularly flavorful and much of its appeal comes from sheer novelty. But if the old S60 was like the mealy, grey meatballs served by the flat pack furniture chain, the new 2011 model is like the Carl Gustaf anti-tank weapon – a simple looking grey metal tube that is capable of destroying far superior weaponry. Continue reading http://www.autoguide.com/manufacturer/volvo/2011-volvo-s60-review-1519.html

2011 Buick LaCrosse Earns The NHTSA’s Top Rating

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Add another GM car to the roster of vehicles earning the Feds’ top safety rating.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says the 2011 Buick LaCrosse is worthy of a five-star safety rating.

The NHTSA has toughened its safety ratings for the current model year; as a result, many five-star cars from the 2010 model year have fallen from the top of the rankings this time around.

In the crash tests leading up to its final scoring, the LaCrosse garnered five stars for front- and side-impact protection.

The mid-size sedan earns a rating of 8.2 from our editors, who note the sedan “isn’t just a good-looking vehicle; it handles and rides well, and when compared to its main rivals, it’s a value leader as well.”

Read the rest of this article here.

Mercedes-Benz slots 4 compacts for U.S.

via onlineautobrochure.com

By DIANA T. KURYLKO, AUTOMOTIVE NEWS on 4/25/2011

Mercedes-Benz will launch four compact vehicles in the United States in the next three years with starting prices of $30,000 or below.

The vehicles will include a production version of the A-class coupe concept shown last week at the New York auto show. Three variants of Mercedes’ new-generation compact family also are headed for the United States.

Insiders say the three other cars are:

1. A small van that will likely be offered as an electric vehicle.

2. A small sedan to be called the CLC.

3. A small crossover to be called the GLC.

Mercedes-Benz initially decided not to bring the A class here. The decision was reversed several months ago after marketing boss Steve Cannon and a product committee that included dealers saw early versions of the new compact line.

The deciding factor was how different the new-generation A class is from the current A class sold in Europe, said Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA.

“The A class has a very European design, and they are doing well with it,” he said. “But for North America, it just didn’t appeal to the customer. This car does.”

The new small cars are expected to drive growth in the United States. Currently, the lowest-priced Mercedes is the C class, which starts at $34,865, including freight.

“There is huge potential for us there,” Lieb said.

The new vehicles will come standard with many safety features Mercedes has on its larger cars, including adaptive cruise control, traction control and the Pre-Safe safety system that adjusts seat belts and head restraints when the car senses an impending crash.

“If we leave that segment for our competitors, they become stronger and they branch out and give us resistance in those segments,” Lieb said. “The time is overdue.”

Lieb is also convinced that even luxury buyers will shift to smaller vehicles. The initial response to the A-class concept in New York was overwhelmingly positive, he said.

“There is clearly an opportunity if we do everything right,” he said.

Together with its dealer council, Mercedes is developing processes for selling the small vehicles. Lieb said dealers who have completed the brand’s Autohaus facility improvement program and follow the new processes will get an extra percentage point in the dealer discount margin beginning next year.

 

AutoWeek