What To Expect From Chrysler's Upcoming CUV

Previous Page Next Page We weren't expecting this, but Chevrolet has revealed the all-new 2018 Equinox tonight in Chicago. 
The exterior borrows heavily from the Cruze and Malibu designs. Up front is a revised grille (similar to the one seen on the Cruze) with new headlights and LED daytime running lights. Around the side is a character line that swoops down and 'Equinox' name on the front doors. The back features a restyled tailgate, blacked-out pillars to give the impression of wrap-around glass, and horizontal taillights. The interior matches up with newer Chevrolet models with a floating screen (either seven or eight-inches) and either cloth or leather covering bits of the dash. One key item Chevrolet is quick to point is the dashboard is lower to provide better visibility.
There will be three turbocharged four-cylinders on offer; a 1.5L, 2.0L, and a 1.6L diesel. The 2.0L turbo will come paired with GM's new nine-speed automatic. We're guessing the 1.5 and 1.6 will get a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive will come standard and an all-wheel drive system with a disconnecting rear axle when not in use will be optional. One item we're glad to see is Chevrolet dropping 400 pounds out of the Equinox.
On the safety front, the Equinox will feature the options of surround-view camera system, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert. Two new features will be Teen Driver (can set limits on speed and volume for your young driver) and Rear Seat Reminder (reminds you to check the back seat to prevent kids from overheating on a hot day).
No word on pricing, but Chevrolet says the 2018 Equinox will arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2017.
Source: Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2
CHEVROLET INTRODUCES ALL-NEW 2018 EQUINOX
The perfect balance of design and technology DETROIT — Call it the right balance. On the autumnal equinox today, Chevrolet introduced the all-new 2018 Equinox, a fresh and modern SUV sized and designed to meet the needs of the compact SUV customer.
“We’ve got the strongest truck business in the industry and we’ve reinvigorated our car lineup with Volt, Cruze and Malibu,” said Alan Batey, Global Chevrolet president. “We’re applying the same customer focus to grow our crossover/SUV business — starting with the Chevrolet Equinox.”
Today’s compact SUV customers want a vehicle that meets all of their needs, from design, connectivity and safety perspectives. The Equinox delivers on all fronts, starting with its fresh new design and all-new propulsion systems.
Fresh, new design
The new Equinox’s expressive exterior has a lean, muscular skin echoing the global Chevrolet design cues and sculpted shapes seen in the Volt, Malibu and Cruze. Extensive aero development in the wind tunnel influenced the sleek shape.
It is a richer, more detailed design featuring chrome trim on all models and Malibu-inspired styling. Projector-beam headlamps are standard, along with LED daytime running lamps. At the rear, horizontal taillamps emphasize the Equinox’s wide stance, while uplevel models feature LED taillamps. 
“Customers who previewed the vehicle early on had a strong emotional response to the sleek and sophisticated exterior design,” said John Cafaro, executive director, GM Design. “Those same themes are carried through to the interior, making the space beautifully intuitive.”
The interior takes advantage of the Equinox’s all-new architecture to offer a down-and-away instrument panel, while a low windshield base provides a commanding outward view. New elements such as available denim-style seat fabric blend high style with high durability, while a new “kneeling” rear seat enhances functionality. With it, the bottom cushions tilt forward when the split-folding seatbacks are lowered, allowing a flat floor for easier loading.
Connectivity
The 2018 Equinox offers purposeful technology that helps keep passengers safe, comfortable and connected.
Chevrolet’s latest connectivity technologies are front and center, including 7- and 8-inch-diagonal MyLink infotainment systems designed to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an available OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is subject to their terms, privacy statements and data plan rates, as well as a compatible smartphone.)
Safety
The Equinox offers a comprehensive suite of available active safety technologies and adaptive crash-avoidance features that provide ease of use and peace of mind on the road.
Teen Driver is also offered, allowing parents to set controls and review an in-vehicle report card in order to encourage safer driving habits, even when they are not in the vehicle.  
Available advanced active safety features to enhance driver awareness on the road include radar- and camera-based adaptive technologies that can provide alerts to potential crash threats, allowing the driver to react and make changes to avoid them, including:
New Safety Alert Seat New Surround Vision New Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator New Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking New Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning New Rear Seat Reminder Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert  Rear Cross Traffic Alert Turbocharged engines and more 
A range of three turbocharged engines — including the compact SUV segment’s first turbo-diesel in North America — provides customers more choices when it comes to performance, efficiency and capability in the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox.
They include a 1.5L turbo, a 2.0L turbo — matched with GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission — and a 1.6L turbo-diesel.
“With three choices, customers can select an engine that offers more of the attributes that are important to them: efficiency, performance and capability,” said Dan Nicholson, vice president, Global Propulsion Systems. “The advantage for each is the power of a larger engine and the efficiency of a smaller engine.”
The new Equinox is the first Chevrolet model in North America to use an all-turbocharged, multi-engine powertrain lineup. That includes the expected segment-exclusive 1.6L turbo-diesel that will offer customers excellent efficiency and capability.
“It is an all-new SUV from the ground up and one that takes on the industry’s biggest competitors with a stronger architecture, greater efficiency and more technology,” said Rick Spina, executive chief engineer. “And it looks great doing it.”
Additional vehicle highlights:
Approximately 400 pounds (180 kg) lighter than the current model — a 10 percent weight reduction Switchable AWD system that enhances efficiency by disconnecting from the rear axle when not needed  Unique kneeling rear seat that enables a flat rear load floor and up to 63.5 cubic feet (1,798 liters) of maximum cargo space Equinox sales have reached more than 2 million since its launch and it is Chevrolet’s second-best retail selling vehicle, after the Silverado.
The 2018 Equinox goes on sale in the first quarter of 2017 in North America. It rolls out to approximately 115 additional global markets later in the year.
2018 CHEVROLET EQUINOX PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS 
(NORTH AMERICA)
Overview

Models: 2018 Chevrolet Equinox
Body style / driveline:
five-passenger, four-door SUV, front-engine, front- or all-wheel drive
EPA vehicle class:
compact SUV
Powertrains

Engine / Type: 1.5L turbo DOHC DI
2.0L turbo DOHC DI
1.6L turbo-diesel
Block material:
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
Fuel delivery:
direct injection
direct injection
direct injection
Horsepower (hp / kW):
170 / 127 (GM-estimated)
252 / 188 (GM-estimated)
136 / 101 (GM-estimated)
Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm):
203 / 275 (GM-estimated)
260 / 353 (GM-estimated)
236 / 320 (GM-estimated)
GM-est. fuel economy:
31 hwy
28 hwy
40 hwy
Transmission:
Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic
Hydra-Matic 9T50 nine-speed automatic
Hydra-Matic 6T45 six-speed automatic
Chassis / Suspension

Suspension (front): MacPherson strut with side-loaded modules, specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar
Suspension (rear): 
4 Link Independent Rear Suspension
Steering type:
Dual Rack and Pinion Electric Power Steering
Turning circle (ft / m):
37.4 / 11.4 (17-inch wheels)
Brakes & Wheels

Brake type: four-wheel disc with ABS and ESC; Duralife rotors and low-drag calipers (US)
Wheel size and type:
17-, 18- and 19-inch aluminum
Exterior Dimensions

Wheelbase (in / mm): 107.3 / 2725
Overall length (in / mm):
183.1 / 4652
Overall width (in / mm):
72.6 / 1843
Overall height (in / mm):
65.4 / 1661
Track (in / mm):
front: 62.2 / 1580
rear: 62.2 / 1581
Interior Dimensions

Seating capacity: 2 / 3
Headroom (in / mm):
Front - 40.0/1015 (w/o SR), 38.2/970 (w/ Sunroof)
Rear - 38.5/977 (w/o SR), 36.9/936 (w/ Sunroof)
Legroom (in / mm):
40.9 / 1040 (front)
39.7 / 1008 (rear)
Shoulder room (in / mm):
57.2 / 1452 (front)
55.5 / 1410 (rear)
Hip room (in / mm):
54.2 / 1377 (front)
51.7 / 1314 (rear)
Weights & Capacities

Base curb weight (lb / kg): 3327 / 1509 (1.5L w/ FWD)
Fuel capacity (gal / L):
14.7 / 55 (FWD)
TBD (AWD)
15.5 / 58 (1.6L diesel)
Max cargo room (cu ft / L):
29.9 / 846 (behind rear seat)
63.5 / 1798 (rear seat folded)
Max trailering (lb / kg):
3500 / 1585 (2.0L turbo)
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Previous Page Next Page We weren't expecting this, but Chevrolet has revealed the all-new 2018 Equinox tonight in Chicago. 
The exterior borrows heavily from the Cruze and Malibu designs. Up front is a revised grille (similar to the one seen on the Cruze) with new headlights and LED daytime running lights. Around the side is a character line that swoops down and 'Equinox' name on the front doors. The back features a restyled tailgate, blacked-out pillars to give the impression of wrap-around glass, and horizontal taillights. The interior matches up with newer Chevrolet models with a floating screen (either seven or eight-inches) and either cloth or leather covering bits of the dash. One key item Chevrolet is quick to point is the dashboard is lower to provide better visibility.
There will be three turbocharged four-cylinders on offer; a 1.5L, 2.0L, and a 1.6L diesel. The 2.0L turbo will come paired with GM's new nine-speed automatic. We're guessing the 1.5 and 1.6 will get a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive will come standard and an all-wheel drive system with a disconnecting rear axle when not in use will be optional. One item we're glad to see is Chevrolet dropping 400 pounds out of the Equinox.
On the safety front, the Equinox will feature the options of surround-view camera system, forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert. Two new features will be Teen Driver (can set limits on speed and volume for your young driver) and Rear Seat Reminder (reminds you to check the back seat to prevent kids from overheating on a hot day).
No word on pricing, but Chevrolet says the 2018 Equinox will arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2017.
Source: Chevrolet
Press Release is on Page 2
CHEVROLET INTRODUCES ALL-NEW 2018 EQUINOX
The perfect balance of design and technology DETROIT — Call it the right balance. On the autumnal equinox today, Chevrolet introduced the all-new 2018 Equinox, a fresh and modern SUV sized and designed to meet the needs of the compact SUV customer.
“We’ve got the strongest truck business in the industry and we’ve reinvigorated our car lineup with Volt, Cruze and Malibu,” said Alan Batey, Global Chevrolet president. “We’re applying the same customer focus to grow our crossover/SUV business — starting with the Chevrolet Equinox.”
Today’s compact SUV customers want a vehicle that meets all of their needs, from design, connectivity and safety perspectives. The Equinox delivers on all fronts, starting with its fresh new design and all-new propulsion systems.
Fresh, new design
The new Equinox’s expressive exterior has a lean, muscular skin echoing the global Chevrolet design cues and sculpted shapes seen in the Volt, Malibu and Cruze. Extensive aero development in the wind tunnel influenced the sleek shape.
It is a richer, more detailed design featuring chrome trim on all models and Malibu-inspired styling. Projector-beam headlamps are standard, along with LED daytime running lamps. At the rear, horizontal taillamps emphasize the Equinox’s wide stance, while uplevel models feature LED taillamps. 
“Customers who previewed the vehicle early on had a strong emotional response to the sleek and sophisticated exterior design,” said John Cafaro, executive director, GM Design. “Those same themes are carried through to the interior, making the space beautifully intuitive.”
The interior takes advantage of the Equinox’s all-new architecture to offer a down-and-away instrument panel, while a low windshield base provides a commanding outward view. New elements such as available denim-style seat fabric blend high style with high durability, while a new “kneeling” rear seat enhances functionality. With it, the bottom cushions tilt forward when the split-folding seatbacks are lowered, allowing a flat floor for easier loading.
Connectivity
The 2018 Equinox offers purposeful technology that helps keep passengers safe, comfortable and connected.
Chevrolet’s latest connectivity technologies are front and center, including 7- and 8-inch-diagonal MyLink infotainment systems designed to support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as an available OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is subject to their terms, privacy statements and data plan rates, as well as a compatible smartphone.)
Safety
The Equinox offers a comprehensive suite of available active safety technologies and adaptive crash-avoidance features that provide ease of use and peace of mind on the road.
Teen Driver is also offered, allowing parents to set controls and review an in-vehicle report card in order to encourage safer driving habits, even when they are not in the vehicle.  
Available advanced active safety features to enhance driver awareness on the road include radar- and camera-based adaptive technologies that can provide alerts to potential crash threats, allowing the driver to react and make changes to avoid them, including:
New Safety Alert Seat New Surround Vision New Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator New Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking New Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning New Rear Seat Reminder Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert  Rear Cross Traffic Alert Turbocharged engines and more 
A range of three turbocharged engines — including the compact SUV segment’s first turbo-diesel in North America — provides customers more choices when it comes to performance, efficiency and capability in the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox.
They include a 1.5L turbo, a 2.0L turbo — matched with GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission — and a 1.6L turbo-diesel.
“With three choices, customers can select an engine that offers more of the attributes that are important to them: efficiency, performance and capability,” said Dan Nicholson, vice president, Global Propulsion Systems. “The advantage for each is the power of a larger engine and the efficiency of a smaller engine.”
The new Equinox is the first Chevrolet model in North America to use an all-turbocharged, multi-engine powertrain lineup. That includes the expected segment-exclusive 1.6L turbo-diesel that will offer customers excellent efficiency and capability.
“It is an all-new SUV from the ground up and one that takes on the industry’s biggest competitors with a stronger architecture, greater efficiency and more technology,” said Rick Spina, executive chief engineer. “And it looks great doing it.”
Additional vehicle highlights:
Approximately 400 pounds (180 kg) lighter than the current model — a 10 percent weight reduction Switchable AWD system that enhances efficiency by disconnecting from the rear axle when not needed  Unique kneeling rear seat that enables a flat rear load floor and up to 63.5 cubic feet (1,798 liters) of maximum cargo space Equinox sales have reached more than 2 million since its launch and it is Chevrolet’s second-best retail selling vehicle, after the Silverado.
The 2018 Equinox goes on sale in the first quarter of 2017 in North America. It rolls out to approximately 115 additional global markets later in the year.
2018 CHEVROLET EQUINOX PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS 
(NORTH AMERICA)
Overview

Models: 2018 Chevrolet Equinox
Body style / driveline:
five-passenger, four-door SUV, front-engine, front- or all-wheel drive
EPA vehicle class:
compact SUV
Powertrains

Engine / Type: 1.5L turbo DOHC DI
2.0L turbo DOHC DI
1.6L turbo-diesel
Block material:
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
Cylinder head material:
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
cast aluminum
Fuel delivery:
direct injection
direct injection
direct injection
Horsepower (hp / kW):
170 / 127 (GM-estimated)
252 / 188 (GM-estimated)
136 / 101 (GM-estimated)
Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm):
203 / 275 (GM-estimated)
260 / 353 (GM-estimated)
236 / 320 (GM-estimated)
GM-est. fuel economy:
31 hwy
28 hwy
40 hwy
Transmission:
Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic
Hydra-Matic 9T50 nine-speed automatic
Hydra-Matic 6T45 six-speed automatic
Chassis / Suspension

Suspension (front): MacPherson strut with side-loaded modules, specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar
Suspension (rear): 
4 Link Independent Rear Suspension
Steering type:
Dual Rack and Pinion Electric Power Steering
Turning circle (ft / m):
37.4 / 11.4 (17-inch wheels)
Brakes & Wheels

Brake type: four-wheel disc with ABS and ESC; Duralife rotors and low-drag calipers (US)
Wheel size and type:
17-, 18- and 19-inch aluminum
Exterior Dimensions

Wheelbase (in / mm): 107.3 / 2725
Overall length (in / mm):
183.1 / 4652
Overall width (in / mm):
72.6 / 1843
Overall height (in / mm):
65.4 / 1661
Track (in / mm):
front: 62.2 / 1580
rear: 62.2 / 1581
Interior Dimensions

Seating capacity: 2 / 3
Headroom (in / mm):
Front - 40.0/1015 (w/o SR), 38.2/970 (w/ Sunroof)
Rear - 38.5/977 (w/o SR), 36.9/936 (w/ Sunroof)
Legroom (in / mm):
40.9 / 1040 (front)
39.7 / 1008 (rear)
Shoulder room (in / mm):
57.2 / 1452 (front)
55.5 / 1410 (rear)
Hip room (in / mm):
54.2 / 1377 (front)
51.7 / 1314 (rear)
Weights & Capacities

Base curb weight (lb / kg): 3327 / 1509 (1.5L w/ FWD)
Fuel capacity (gal / L):
14.7 / 55 (FWD)
TBD (AWD)
15.5 / 58 (1.6L diesel)
Max cargo room (cu ft / L):
29.9 / 846 (behind rear seat)
63.5 / 1798 (rear seat folded)
Max trailering (lb / kg):
3500 / 1585 (2.0L turbo)
Previous Page Next Page

Previous Page Next Page Ahead of the 2016 Paris Motor Show, Opel gave an early look at a new variant of their Opel Karl city-car called the Karl Rocks.
The Karl Rocks, gains the looks of a small SUV with a raise in ride height by 18mm (0.7 inches), added perimeter body cladding, integrated skid pads, and functional roof rails.  The interior is largely carryover from the standard Karl except for a new seat fabric exclusive to the Rocks.
Mechanically, the Karl Rocks maintains the same powertrain as a standard Karl, with a 1.0 liter 3-cylinder which produce 75 hp. Transmissions are either a 5-speed manual, or a 5-speed EasyTronic (a single clutch 5-speed manual transmission that has automatic gear shifting) that gives the functionality of an automatic transmission without as much additional cost.  No all-wheel drive is available.
Three entertainment systems are available, a base radio, and two versions of Opel's Intellilink. Both Intellilink options feature Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
The Opel Karl Rocks goes on sale in Europe later this year.  Could there be a Chevrolet Spark version in the works? If the trademark filing for the Chevrolet Spark Activ is any indicator, we think yes. 
Source: Opel Media
Press Release on Page 2
 
The New KARL ROCKS: SUV-Makeover for Opel’s Entry Level Model
 
·         SUV-inspired: Raised ride height and rugged body parts for the urban jungle
·         Extrovert: The wild Opel KARL with expressive exterior is perfect fit for individualists
·         Connected: Opel OnStar and Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink available
·         In the spotlight: KARL ROCKS to celebrate world premiere at Paris Motor Show
 
 
Rüsselsheim.  Are you looking for a small car that has the stylish looks and upmarket features of a much bigger and often much pricier vehicle? Or are you looking for a mini car that can handle the daily challenges of the urban jungle while simultaneously dazzling onlookers with its trendy SUV look and feel? If this is the case, the new Opel KARL ROCKS should appeal to you.
 
The new car, which is set to celebrate its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show (Booth 501 in Hall 5-2; October 1-16), bears a strong resemblance to a true SUV and shares many virtues connected with this vehicle class such as an elevated seating position that enables better visibility and easier access to the cabin or an outstanding connectivity offer. Furthermore, the new Opel KARL ROCKS maintains the unquestionable practicality of the Opel KARL with five doors, five seats, compact dimensions and a maximum trunk space over 1,000 liters up to the roof making it the ideal vehicle for a broad audience of city dwellers. Like KARL, the rocking version will thus be big on everything – except size and price.
 
Clever design tweaks set the KARL ROCKS, available for order from the end of the year, apart from most of its A-segment rivals and in fact also from its tamer sibling. The functional silver roof rails, rugged front and rear bumpers with integrated skid pads (the former also including fog light), front and rear wheelhouse moldings and unique 15-inch bi-color look alloy wheels blend in perfectly with typical Opel design cues such as the Opel blade that sweeps dynamically up towards the rear. Combined with the sloping roofline this creates a dynamic, sporty appearance that links the KARL ROCKS to the KARL while simultaneously giving it a distinct rugged look.
 
The car’s off-road character and outgoing personality are further emphasized by an 18-mm increase in ride height enabling better visibility in dense urban traffic or when admiring the view while cruising along country roads. The raised ride height also brings further advantages with it – KARL ROCKS can also venture off tarmacked roads and negotiate uneven surfaces better. Furthermore, the 18-mm increase facilitates ingress and egress.
 
The outdoor atmosphere created by the exterior design continues on the inside of the car with the unique “Favo” fabric upholstery for the seats. The design is reminiscent of honeycomb and exclusively available for the KARL ROCKS. Elsewhere, front door sill plates and the high gloss frame for the standard Radio R 300 or the optional Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink system, which brings the world of smartphones to the KARL ROCKS via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and enables navigation via Apple Maps or Google Maps, add to the new level of sophistication. Alternatively, Navi 4.0 IntelliLink offers an integrated navigation system. The connectivity offering of the KARL ROCKS is rounded off by the availability of Opel’s personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, making it and its tamer sibling the best connected mini cars on the market.
 
However, KARL ROCKS has much more to offer than its enticing looks and stylish interior – it is also just a practical as the Opel KARL. Five doors guarantee easy access to the front and rear seats while the five seats ensure that even families can enjoy Opel’s stylish mini car with SUV flair. And when needed, the rear seats, with a standard 40/60 folding split, can be folded down completely giving the KARL ROCKS an impressive total trunk space of 1,013 liters up to the roof.
 
Furthermore, Opel’s wild child comes with all of the safety and comfort features available in the regular KARL. City mode reduces steering effort at the push of a button (from Enjoy), greatly facilitating maneuvering in heavy city traffic. Park Assist is also available and assists the driver during parking by issuing an acoustic warning as the car approaches obstacles when reversing. Cruise control with speed limiter regulates driving speeds, which is extremely helpful in complicated urban traffic and in residential areas with a 30 km/h speed limit.
Previous Page Next Page
View full article

Previous Page Next Page Ahead of the 2016 Paris Motor Show, Opel gave an early look at a new variant of their Opel Karl city-car called the Karl Rocks.
The Karl Rocks, gains the looks of a small SUV with a raise in ride height by 18mm (0.7 inches), added perimeter body cladding, integrated skid pads, and functional roof rails.  The interior is largely carryover from the standard Karl except for a new seat fabric exclusive to the Rocks.
Mechanically, the Karl Rocks maintains the same powertrain as a standard Karl, with a 1.0 liter 3-cylinder which produce 75 hp. Transmissions are either a 5-speed manual, or a 5-speed EasyTronic (a single clutch 5-speed manual transmission that has automatic gear shifting) that gives the functionality of an automatic transmission without as much additional cost.  No all-wheel drive is available.
Three entertainment systems are available, a base radio, and two versions of Opel's Intellilink. Both Intellilink options feature Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
The Opel Karl Rocks goes on sale in Europe later this year.  Could there be a Chevrolet Spark version in the works? If the trademark filing for the Chevrolet Spark Activ is any indicator, we think yes. 
Source: Opel Media
Press Release on Page 2
 
The New KARL ROCKS: SUV-Makeover for Opel’s Entry Level Model
 
·         SUV-inspired: Raised ride height and rugged body parts for the urban jungle
·         Extrovert: The wild Opel KARL with expressive exterior is perfect fit for individualists
·         Connected: Opel OnStar and Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink available
·         In the spotlight: KARL ROCKS to celebrate world premiere at Paris Motor Show
 
 
Rüsselsheim.  Are you looking for a small car that has the stylish looks and upmarket features of a much bigger and often much pricier vehicle? Or are you looking for a mini car that can handle the daily challenges of the urban jungle while simultaneously dazzling onlookers with its trendy SUV look and feel? If this is the case, the new Opel KARL ROCKS should appeal to you.
 
The new car, which is set to celebrate its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show (Booth 501 in Hall 5-2; October 1-16), bears a strong resemblance to a true SUV and shares many virtues connected with this vehicle class such as an elevated seating position that enables better visibility and easier access to the cabin or an outstanding connectivity offer. Furthermore, the new Opel KARL ROCKS maintains the unquestionable practicality of the Opel KARL with five doors, five seats, compact dimensions and a maximum trunk space over 1,000 liters up to the roof making it the ideal vehicle for a broad audience of city dwellers. Like KARL, the rocking version will thus be big on everything – except size and price.
 
Clever design tweaks set the KARL ROCKS, available for order from the end of the year, apart from most of its A-segment rivals and in fact also from its tamer sibling. The functional silver roof rails, rugged front and rear bumpers with integrated skid pads (the former also including fog light), front and rear wheelhouse moldings and unique 15-inch bi-color look alloy wheels blend in perfectly with typical Opel design cues such as the Opel blade that sweeps dynamically up towards the rear. Combined with the sloping roofline this creates a dynamic, sporty appearance that links the KARL ROCKS to the KARL while simultaneously giving it a distinct rugged look.
 
The car’s off-road character and outgoing personality are further emphasized by an 18-mm increase in ride height enabling better visibility in dense urban traffic or when admiring the view while cruising along country roads. The raised ride height also brings further advantages with it – KARL ROCKS can also venture off tarmacked roads and negotiate uneven surfaces better. Furthermore, the 18-mm increase facilitates ingress and egress.
 
The outdoor atmosphere created by the exterior design continues on the inside of the car with the unique “Favo” fabric upholstery for the seats. The design is reminiscent of honeycomb and exclusively available for the KARL ROCKS. Elsewhere, front door sill plates and the high gloss frame for the standard Radio R 300 or the optional Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink system, which brings the world of smartphones to the KARL ROCKS via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and enables navigation via Apple Maps or Google Maps, add to the new level of sophistication. Alternatively, Navi 4.0 IntelliLink offers an integrated navigation system. The connectivity offering of the KARL ROCKS is rounded off by the availability of Opel’s personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, making it and its tamer sibling the best connected mini cars on the market.
 
However, KARL ROCKS has much more to offer than its enticing looks and stylish interior – it is also just a practical as the Opel KARL. Five doors guarantee easy access to the front and rear seats while the five seats ensure that even families can enjoy Opel’s stylish mini car with SUV flair. And when needed, the rear seats, with a standard 40/60 folding split, can be folded down completely giving the KARL ROCKS an impressive total trunk space of 1,013 liters up to the roof.
 
Furthermore, Opel’s wild child comes with all of the safety and comfort features available in the regular KARL. City mode reduces steering effort at the push of a button (from Enjoy), greatly facilitating maneuvering in heavy city traffic. Park Assist is also available and assists the driver during parking by issuing an acoustic warning as the car approaches obstacles when reversing. Cruise control with speed limiter regulates driving speeds, which is extremely helpful in complicated urban traffic and in residential areas with a 30 km/h speed limit.
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FCA US Reports August 2016 U.S. Sales Increased 3 Percent
Jeep® brand posts 12 percent sales increase in August compared with same month a year ago Five Jeep brand models up in August, led by 41 percent increase in Jeep Cherokee sales Dodge brand up 5 percent; six Dodge brand vehicles log year-over-year sales gains in August Ram Truck brand up 2 percent; Ram ProMaster and Ram ProMaster City vans each post double-digit percentage sales gains September 1, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FCA US LLC today reported U.S. sales of 196,756 units, a 3 percent increase compared with sales in August 2015 (190,887 units).
 
FCA US retail sales were 150,153 units in August, while fleet sales were 46,603 units. Retail sales represented 76 percent of total sales, while fleet sales were 24 percent.
 
The Jeep®, Dodge and Ram Truck brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in August, led by the Jeep brand’s 12 percent increase. Five of the six Jeep brand vehicles recorded sales increases in August, with the Jeep Cherokee turning in the largest percentage year-over-year gain.
 
The Dodge brand delivered higher year-over-year sales as the Dodge Charger, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Journey, Dodge Grand Caravan, Dodge Durango and Dodge Viper all recorded sales gains in August, helping to propel the brand to a 5 percent increase. Likewise, the Ram Truck brand was up with the Ram ProMaster and Ram ProMaster City vans each recording year-over-year sales increases for the month.
 
Jeep Brand
Jeep brand sales were up 12 percent in August compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep Cherokee – the most capable mid-size SUV – posted a 41 percent sales gain, the largest percentage increase of any Jeep brand model in August. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass all turned in double-digit percentage increases for the month.
 
Dodge Brand
Dodge brand sales were up 5 percent in August compared with the same month a year ago, as Dodge cars and trucks had a strong sales month. The Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger each posted year-over-year sales gains in August. Charger sales were up 24 percent, while the Challenger turned in a 5 percent sales gain in August. Sales of the Dodge Durango full-size SUV, the Dodge Grand Caravan minivan, the Dodge Journey crossover and the Dodge Viper were all up in August as well. The Dodge brand last month used the famed Woodward Dream Cruise to debut its new 2017 Challenger T/A and Charger Daytona – two performance-upgraded models infused with heritage style. Production for both models will begin this fall with Charger Daytona models available for order in September, followed by Challenger T/A models this October.
 
Ram Truck Brand
Ram Truck brand sales, which include the Ram pickup, Ram ProMaster and Ram ProMaster City, were up 2 percent in August versus the same month a year ago. Both the ProMaster and ProMaster City vans turned in double-digit percentage sales gains in August, led by the ProMaster City’s 32 percent increase. The ProMaster City – America’s most efficient work van – is the newest addition to the brand’s commercial vehicle lineup and contributes to the expanding, purpose-built van segment with a number of best-in-class, functional elements tied directly to commercial customer demand. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were flat in August.
 
FIAT Brand
FIAT brand sales, which include the Fiat 500, Fiat 500L, Fiat 500X and Fiat 124 Spider, were down 21 percent in August. In its second month on sale, the all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider logged 460 sales in August. Last sold in the U.S. in 1985, the 124 Spider brings classic Italian styling and proven performance to a new generation of buyers. The all-new 124 Spider delivers the ultimate Italian roadster experience with driving excitement, technology and safety combined with iconic design.
Chrysler Brand
Chrysler brand sales were down 22 percent in August compared with the same month a year ago. Sales of the Chrysler 300 full-size sedan were up 22 percent compared with the same month a year ago. The all-new Chrysler Pacifica logged 7,459 in sales in August. The Pacifica reinvents the minivan segment with its unprecedented level of functionality, versatility and technology. With nearly 40 innovations not offered by any others in its class, the Pacifica is the new benchmark in the segment that Chrysler invented more than 30 years ago.
FCA US LLC Sales Summary August 2016
Reflects Restated Sales
                       Month Sales
Vol %
CYTD Sales
Vol %
Model
Curr Yr
Pr Yr
Change
Curr Yr
Pr Yr
Change
Compass
8,867
6,891
29%
69,462
40,418
72%
Patriot
11,789
10,690
10%
86,632
80,328
8%
Wrangler
15,290
18,264
-16%
135,338
139,536
-3%
Cherokee
23,932
17,014
41%
142,498
139,582
2%
Grand Cherokee
18,409
16,477
12%
134,135
125,653
7%
Renegade
8,181
7,941
3%
71,328
27,861
156%
JEEP BRAND
86,468
77,277
12%
639,393
553,378
16%
200
4,210
12,538
-66%
45,983
128,673
-64%
300
5,275
4,339
22%
39,291
33,069
19%
Town & Country
1,809
7,255
-75%
56,607
53,469
6%
Pacifica
7,459
0
New
26,893
0
New
CHRYSLER BRAND
18,753
24,132
-22%
168,774
215,211
-22%
Dart
2,898
6,343
-54%
34,540
61,102
-43%
Avenger
0
45
-100%
0
1,197
-100%
Charger
8,614
6,964
24%
67,402
67,802
-1%
Challenger
5,262
5,014
5%
45,489
47,346
-4%
Viper
58
37
57%
406
456
-11%
Journey
11,732
8,351
40%
66,415
70,359
-6%
Caravan
10,572
10,330
2%
93,349
56,218
66%
Durango
5,204
5,111
2%
49,059
41,416
18%
DODGE  BRAND
44,340
42,195
5%
356,660
345,896
3%
Ram P/U
40,202
40,341
0%
308,970
295,243
5%
Cargo Van
0
29
-100%
21
2,144
-99%
ProMaster Van
3,234
2,587
25%
23,206
16,812
38%
ProMaster City
990
752
32%
11,832
4,434
167%
RAM BRAND
44,426
43,709
2%
344,029
318,633
8%
Alfa 4C 
37
97
-62%
376
451
-17%
ALFA BRAND
37
97
-62%
376
451
-17%
500
1,243
2,102
-41%
10,095
17,982
-44%
500L
131
314
-58%
2,687
6,334
-58%
500X
898
1,061
-15%
8,348
2,279
266%
Spider
460
0
New
885
0
New
FIAT BRAND
2,732
3,477
-21%
22,015
26,595
-17%
TOTAL FCA US LLC
196,756
190,887
3%
1,531,247
1,460,164
5%
                  Total Car & MPV
48,028
55,378
-13%
424,003
474,099
-11%
    Total UV's
104,302
91,800
14%
763,215
667,432
14%
    Total Truck & LCV
44,426
43,709
2%
344,029
318,633
8%