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Rumorpile: Ferrari To Supply Engines To Alfa Romeo, Lancia, & Maserati

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 6, 2012
According to an Italian automotive news site, Ferrari will develop and build two new engines that will be fitted under the hood of upcoming Alfa Romeo, Lancia, and Maserati models.
Sources say the two engines will be a be a twin-turbocharged V6 producing a max of 450 HP and a naturally-aspirated V8 exceeding 500 HP. Both engines are part of a a €50 million ($62 million) investment made by Fiat and will be built on a new assembly line in Italy.
Vehicles that will use this engine include Maserati’s upcoming SUV and mid-size luxury sedan, as well as Alfa and Lancia’s new flagship sedans.
Source: Left Lane News
William Maley

UPDATED: 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo To Only Cost Slightly More

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 5, 2012
UPDATE: Yeah, about the under $20,000 pricetag for the Veloster Turbo.. That appears to be bunk.
The Truth About Cars got a hold of Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik asking to clarify the $1600 increase. Krafcik said the Veloster Turbo will add $1600 to the cost the Veloster, but with all of the added equipment, the price tag will be over $20,000. We'll see how much over $20,000 tomorrow.
As for the Inside Line story, that has pulled a disappearing act. Click on the link and it will take you to a page not found.
The orginal story follows below.
William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 4, 2012
The Hyundai Veloster has been praised for its outlandish looks and is selling each one that comes off the truck. One complaint the funky car has been getting is the lack of oomph. Hyundai has shown the fix earlier this year at NAIAS with the new Veloster Turbo. Now, we've gotten a clue of what the Turbo model will cost.
Hyundai Motor America CEO John Krafcik revealed to Inside Line that Veloster Turbo will be $1,600 more than the base Veloster. The base Veloster starts at $18,075 (Includes $775 destination charge), meaning the Turbo model will be under the $20,000 mark.
"There is lots of equipment difference between the base Veloster and the base Veloster Turbo," Krafcik said to Inside Line.
The Veloster Turbo comes with a 1.6L DI turbo-four producing 201 HP, leather seats, and Hyundai's BlueLink communications setup. Available will be a ‘ultimate’ package which gets you a panoramic glass roof and a matte gray paint job.
Hyundai will release pricing on the Veloster Turbo on Wednesday.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Mercedes-Benz Adds Two Letters To 2013 SLS, Gains More Power

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 5, 2012
Its not everyday when news of an automaker refreshing their supercar comes out, but that is what Mercedes-Benz is doing. Today, the company announced the 2013 SLS AMG GT. The GT is to make note of the light refresh when it goes on sale in November.
Starting under the hood, the SLS AMG GT naturally-aspirated 6.2L V8 sees its output climb from 563 HP to 583 HP. Torque remains at 479 lb-ft. Mercedes claims a 0-60 run of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 197 MPH (electronically limited).
Mercedes also recalibrated the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for quicker and more direct shifts in manual mode. The SLS AMG GT's suspension is stiffer thanks to recalibrated springs and dampers.
Inside, the SLS AMG GT gets piano black accenting on the center console and doors, red seat belts and red-trimmed floormats, and a custom AMG Performance steering wheel with Alcantara grips.

Press Release is on Page 2
The New SLS AMG GT
June 05, 2012
The new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT boasts enhanced driving dynamics and even better on-track performance. With an enhanced maximum output of 583 hp (435 kW), a re-calibrated AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission and the redeveloped AMG Adaptive Suspension, the new SLS AMG GT – which is available both as a Coupé and a Roadster – has raised the bar even higher. As a further highlight, a new optional AMG designo STYLE interior package is now also available for the 2013 SLS AMG GT. According to Tobias Moers, Board Member and Head of Overall Vehicle Development for Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The new SLS AMG GT demonstrates the sort of potential which lies in AMG's super sports cars. With its even higher levels of performance, the SLS AMG GT excites out on the race track in particular by providing an emotionally enjoyable and passionate driving experience."
For MY2013 in the U.S., Mercedes-Benz will now exclusively offer the new SLS AMG GT. Available as a Coupe and Roadster, it will go on sale in mid-November 2012, replacing previous SLS AMG versions.
Masculine and decidedly athletic the new SLS AMG GT is distinguished by darkened headlamp and tail light lenses a unique wheel color and red-painted brake calipers. The wing-shaped cross fins and the star recess in the radiator grille are given a new high-gloss black finish, as do the exterior mirrors and the fins on the hood and front fenders. The AMG logo on the right of the trunk lid also features the additional letters "GT" to clearly identify this new model.
One look at the technical specifications highlights the fact that AMG successfully elevated the dynamic profile of the SLS AMG GT even further. The maximum output of the AMG 6.3-liter V8 front mid-engine has been increased to 583 hp at 6800 rpm, while the maximum torque is maintained at 479 lb/ft at 4750 rpm. These changes yield a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 3.6 (est) seconds with a max speed of 197mph (electronically limted)
The key data at a glance: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GTCylinder arrangement V8 Valves per cylinder 4 Displacement 6208 cc Bore x stroke 102.2 x 94.6 mm Compression ratio 11.3:1 Output 583 hp at 6800 rpm Max. torque 479 lb/ft at 4750 rpm Fuel economy 14 city / 20 highway / 15 combined Acceleration 0-60mph 3.6s (est) Top speed 197mph*
Please note, preliminary figures.
* electronically limited
Mercedes-AMG has achieved the output of 583 hp through internal dethrottling measures in conjunction with an increase in peak combustion pressure. The SLS AMG GT M159 6.3-liter eight-cylinder engine responds with even greater agility to accelerator pedal movements and excites with even sportier-tuned performance characteristics. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission located on the rear axle is more direct and aggressive in the manual "M" transmission mode. Thanks to newly developed gear change logic and optimised transmission control, it has been possible to shorten reaction time significantly during shifts.
When changing gears manually via the alloy shift paddles on the AMG Performance steering wheel, gear change are executed crisply and markedly quicker than previously – all of which is ideal when striving to achieve ambitious lap times on a closed race circuit.
These changes in shift reaction time and feel provide an even more emotional experience for the driver. The automatic double-declutching function when downshifting is also more pronounced in the SLS AMG GT. Due to a modified engine mapping profile that changes the engine torque delivered in manual mode, the shift procedure is even quicker than previously – and is accompanied by some passionate acoustic feedback for the driver. Overall, the optimization of the dual clutch transmission complements the sportier focus of the SLS AMG GT perfectly.
New AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension
It is not just the enhancements to AMG’s M159 6.3-liter V8 and the optimized dual clutch transmission which are responsible for increasing the driving dynamics of the SLS AMG GT. The newly developed AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension also enhances the vehicle's sportiness. In the case of the SLS AMG GT, Mercedes-AMG has combined the sophisticated suspension layout of twin aluminium wishbones all round with specially tuned variable, electronically controlled dampers. Compared with the AMG Adaptive Suspension from the 2012 Model Year SLS AMG, the new AMG Adapative Performance Suspension for the SLS AMG GT features stiffer and more aggressive spring/damper tuning for a more dynamic feel.
"Sport" mode is tuned as the optimum setting for undulating road surfaces and routes requiring increased suspension travel – such as found on rural roads or the legendary North Loop of the Nürburgring, for example.
The control algorithm of the AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension reacts best to fluctuations in the road surface with a tendency towards lower/softer damper force levels. The resulting effect is the best possible performance by effectively preventing body roll for enhanced contact with the road when adopting a sporty driving style. The enhanced driving dynamics and even better race track performance are measureable: as part of an internal comparison with the SLS AMG, the SLS AMG GT is able to achieve faster lap times on a race track.
"Sport plus" provides higher/firmer damping forces and features specific control algorithms which have been adjusted for a decidedly sporty driving style on routes with a level road surface - such as when trying to achieve ambitious lap times on a race circuit such as Hockenheim.
Selection of suspension modes via the AMG DRIVE UNIT
Depending on the driving conditions, speed and vehicle load, the AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension adjusts the damping characteristics at lightning speed and automatically reduces the roll angle of the body. The two modes can be selected via a button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The activated suspension mode is indicated by means of indicator lamps on the button and the display in the AMG main menu.
As standard, the vehicle comes with 265/35 R 19 tires on the front and 295/30 R 20 tires on the rear, fitted to weight-optimized AMG forged light-alloy wheels featuring a 10-spoke design and that are inlayed in a matte black finish and with machine polished high-sheen finish on the face of the wheel. Three additional optional AMG light-alloy wheel styles/colors are also available.
Interior with consistently sporty highlights
The interior of the SLS AMG GT features a distinctivly sporty design: combining the high-quality, exclusive ambience of a true AMG model with the emotional atmosphere of a racing car. The sports seats covered in designo leather, feature center sections finished in Alcantara® and are accented with an embossed AMG crest on the head restraint. Complimenting the styling design of the seats, Alcantara® is also found as an accent on the door panels. These premium materials are combined with red seat belts, red trimmed floormats and red contrast stitching thoughout the interior on the sports seats, center console, dashboard, and door panels.
The high-gloss black trim on the center console and door panels perfectly match the new high-gloss black finish found on the trim rings of the air vents and the real metal insert on the AMG Performance steering wheel. The steering wheel has been enhanced as well with side grips finished in Alcantara®, a flat bottom section and now features a new red 12 o'clock marking for easier orientation while driving. The instrument cluster of the SLS GT has also been visually enhanced with new black dials and a black accent surrounding the LED shift lights.
AMG designo STYLE interior package for all SLS AMG GT
Also now available with the introduction of the SLS AMG GT, is a new, highly exclusive option in the form of the AMG designo STYLE package. This expressive option is available in three different color combinations in both single and two-tone finishes. It comprises a distinctive upholstery design featuring full designo leather with a contrast stitching and a diamond quilt design on the seats and door panel inserts.
Other highlights include designo leather for the entire dashboard, the beltlines, door armrests and the handrest on the centre console. AMG floor mats are in black with porcelain leather edging and the roof lining and parcel shelf (Coupé) or roll-over bar (Roadster) are finished in porcelain Alcantara.® Seat piping is also finished in contrasting colors which offer an exciting highlight and underscores the exclusive, hand-finished nature of this new styling package. Available color combinations include mocha brown/porcelain, titanium grey/porcelain and mystic red/porcelain.
Other attractive optional extras for the SLS AMG GT include (extract):
AMG carbon-fiber exterior mirrors
AMG carbon-fiber engine compartment covers
AMG Interior Carbon-Fiber package (carbon-fiber trim, trim on seat backrest and side, door sill panels)
AMG carbon ceramic high-performance composite braking system
AMG Performance Media
AMG 10-spoke forged wheels in additional colors
AMG carbon-fiber interior trim
Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system

The specific assembly area for the SLS AMG is located in the largest Mercedes-Benz production plant in Sindelfingen. The AMG 6.3-liter V8 engine comes directly from the AMG engine workshop in Affalterbach, where it is hand-assembled according to the traditional "one man, one engine" philosophy.
40 significant awards for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
The SLS AMG has succeeded in winning numerous comparison tests against a host of international competitors conducted by the international specialist media – both as the gullwing model and the Roadster. Since its world premiere at the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt in 2009 and the presentation of the SLS AMG Roadster in May 2011, the super sports car from Mercedes-AMG has picked up a total of 40 awards – including such major prizes as the "German Design Award", the "Red Dot Design Award", the "Golden Steering Wheel 2009", "Classic of the Future", "Sports Car of the Year", "Best Performance Car" and "Legends on Wheels".
William Maley

Rumorpile: Volvo Planning A C90 Luxury Coupe

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 5, 2012
Volvo appears to have their heart set on a luxury coupe, or that is what Inside Line is reporting.
Sources inside Volvo say the company is considering a coupe and convertible that will sit above the current C70. The C90 would compete directly with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe and convertible.
If given the green light, the C90 will use Volvo's new Scalable Platform Architecture that will underpin the XC90 and other vehicles. Power will come from a range of four-cylinder gas, diesel engines, and a plug-in hybrid model.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Fiat Throws In The Towel On 2012 500 Abarth Orders

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 5, 2012
If you were thinking about purchasing a 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth, you're out of luck for the time being. The Detroit News reports that Chrysler is telling dealers that it's no longer accepting wholesale orders for the new 2012 500 Abarth.
When the Abarth went on sale in late April, over a thousand customers had put a deposit down. Fiat decided to up the amount from thousand to 3,000 Abarths to help with increased demand. Sources say the Toluca, Mexico plant building the 500 Abarth has reached its limit.
So what does this mean for customers who place an order for Abarth now? They'll be waiting for the 2013 500 Abarths to roll off the line.
"The Fiat 500 Abarth is unstoppable. Dealer orders for the Abarth dramatically exceeded the number of units we had scheduled for production. We had to schedule additional production to try and keep up with the demand. Most Abarth units are sold within one day," said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Fiat Brand.
Source: The Detroit News
William Maley

Spying: Nissan Sentra With Added Zebra

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 4, 2012
Nissan made big news earlier this year with promise of five new models over the course of this and next year. So far, we've seen the new Altima and Pathfinder in concept form. Now, some spy shots of the new Sentra have been released.
Decorated in zebra camouflage, the next Sentra's shape mimics the new Altima from front to back. Under the hood, Nissan could be placing a 1.8L DI four-cylinder under the hood, which will come with either a CVT or a six-speed manual.
Other changes include LED taillights, metal-finish accents on the interior, and a Altima-like instrument panel.
Source: Autoblog
William Maley

Chrysler Design Boss Say Next Generation Vehicles Will Be Sleeker

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 4, 2012
Chrysler design chief Ralph Gilles says design changes are coming for future Chrysler products. The current lineup is known for their boxy design aesthetic, but Gilles says that's not in line with the industry.
Speaking at the annual Mackinac Policy Conference, a gathering of Michigan political and business leaders, Gilles says aerodynamics are becoming an important design aspect. He uses the Audi A7 and the new Toyota Avalon as vehicles that can have the aerodynamic design usually associated with sports cars.
"The wind is starting to sculpt these vehicles," Gilles said.
Gilles said Chrysler will be abandon the boxy look and go for a sleeker look, starting with the next generation 200 and 300.
"We'll have no choice but to be some of the most wind-swept vehicles that you've ever seen."
How does Chrysler plan to accomplish this? Gilles told reporters that his design team spends between 200-300 hours in the wind tunnel, analyzing the aerodynamics during the vehicle's design stage. Chrysler has also been putting more emphasis on hiring people with experience in fluid dynamics to help further their understanding on aerodynamics.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

2013 Ford F-150 Shows Its The Little Things That Matter

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 4, 2012
This morning in Texas, Ford pulled the covers off the refreshed 2013 F-150.
While not a dramatic refresh, the 2013 F-150 does include a number of enhancements to bring it in line with the rest of the Ford lineup.
The exterior gets new grills (XLT and below: two bars. Lariat and above: three bars), optional high-intensity discharge headlamps, and some new 18- and 20-inch wheel options. Also available on the options list are power telescoping and folding outside rearview mirrors.
Inside, the F-150 gets a set of revised gauges and a driver-configurable LCD screen sitting in the middle. Also, the higher end F-150s (Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and the new Limited) will get the MyFordTouch infotainment system. Models below that will get a new 4.2-inch LCD center-stack screen that will give more readable radio and HVAC information.
The new F-150 arrives later this year.

Press Release is on Page 2

Ford Reveals 2013 F-150, Celebrating Rugged F-Series Pickups and 65-Year Future Farmers of America Relationship


Today Ford celebrates introduction of the 2013 F-150, featuring updated design and all-new driver controls technology, with Future Farmers of America (FFA) members, alumni and educators
Ford Motor Company, a continuous FFA sponsor since 1948, has provided $7.1 million in Built Ford Tough® scholarships to tomorrow’s farmers since 1997
For 2013, F-150 introduces new front-end styling and advanced technologies such as MyFord Touch® voice-activated driver controls and high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps

BRUCEVILLE, Texas, June 4, 2012 – Ford Motor Company today celebrates introduction of the new 2013 Ford F-150 – part of the best-selling line of pickups in America – with the agricultural professionals and leaders of tomorrow.
“Like our hardworking customers, Ford is committed to getting the job done right with our industry-leading trucks,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “The 2013 F-150 demonstrates our commitment to continuously improving our trucks with new features and capabilities, allowing F-Series owners to be increasingly productive.”
For 2013, the Ford F-150 receives new front-end design and advanced technologies such as MyFord Touch® with voice-activated driver controls and available high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps.
“Farm families have always represented an important F-Series truck constituency,” said Doug Scott, Ford Truck group marketing manager and FFA sponsor board member. “For these multitasking customers, a Ford pickup means family transportation, economic livelihood, rugged capability and reliability. Like FFA, Ford pickups are an enduring agricultural tradition, and we are delighted to join forces with them to reveal the new F-150 models.”
America’s pickup
For 2013, the most fuel-efficient and capable light-duty pickup on the market continues to push forward with updated design and advanced technologies. F-150 also adds even more breadth to its expansive lineup with a new Limited luxury model and availability of the groundbreaking EcoBoost® engine, powerful 6.2-liter V8, electronic-locking rear axle and Hill Descent Control™.
Outside, the F-150 lineup gets bold new grilles combining fresh designs with instantly recognizable F-Series cues highlighted on the XLT model revealed today.
New HID projector headlamps are available as a segment-first technology to deliver improved visibility and increase driver confidence. HID technology provides exceptional lighting performance while contributing a distinctive look with stylish L-shaped lamps.
F-150 style also is enhanced with new 18- and 20-inch wheels offered in various trim packages.
Segment-exclusive power-telescoping and power-folding trailer-tow sideview mirrors add flexibility and convenience when operating in tight quarters, while enabling class-leading visibility.
F-150 pickups are available in three new hues including Blue Jeans Metallic, Kodiak Brown Metallic and Ruby Red Clearcoat Metallic.
Truck-focused technology
The 2013 Ford F-150 adds Ford’s award-winning SYNC® voice-activated communications and entertainment system with 911 Assist® and Vehicle Health Report as standard equipment in XLT series and above. This enables hands-free, voice-activated control of enabled mobile devices.
Buyers may choose from an optional suite of SYNC Services, including Traffic Information, Turn-by-Turn Directions, Business Search, Send to SYNC from Google Maps and MapQuest, News, Sports, Weather and Horoscopes.
F-150 also introduces SYNC paired with a new 4.2-inch LCD center-stack screen that provides enhanced displays of audio and climate-control functions. In addition, the instrument cluster contains a 4.2-inch driver-configurable LCD productivity screen including menus for gauge setup, trip computer, fuel economy and towing/off-road applications.
Lariat, King Ranch®, Platinum and Limited series models are equipped with SYNC with MyFord Touch, adding voice control to more vehicle systems coupled with an all-new, large 8-inch LCD color touch screen mounted in the center stack. This package adds a media hub with two USB ports, an SD card reader and audio/video input jacks.
Ford’s unique truck interface allows drivers to tailor their vehicle to their specific needs, such as wearing work gloves.
This premium system can be augmented with an available voice-activated Navigation System, SD map-card reader, point-of-interest storage and integrated SiriusXM Travel Link.
Interior design
The 2013 F-150 offers a range of interior updates. The new 4.2-inch multifunction display and MyFord Touch interfaces gave designers the opportunity to deliver a more modern center stack and control layout. Several new environment colors include a Steel Gray interior on Lariat and a Black interior for King Ranch. Both of these series receive upgraded wood grain appliqués to enhance premium style.
The aggressive FX Appearance Package now adds Alcantara seat inserts that amplify its sporty persona.
The Platinum series – synonymous with high-end trucks – offers new choices of Black or Pecan leather seating.
F-150 continues to offer a wide array of models and packages, allowing buyers to tailor their Ford pickup to their individual needs and preferences.
Fuel-efficient capability
From the powerful yet fuel-efficient EcoBoost® engine to the mighty 6.2-liter V8, the most powerful eight-cylinder engine in the segment, F-150 offers an engine to meet the needs of every customer. Each engine across the F-150 lineup is mated to a fuel-saving electronic six-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul mode, with tow packages and STX series and above adding SelectShift® capability.
F-150 engine choices include:
3.7-liter four-valve Ti-VCT V6
Best-in-class 302 horsepower at 6,500 rpm
Unsurpassed 278 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm vs. V6 competitors
Best-in-class 17 mpg city and best-in-class 23 mpg highway (4x2)
Best-in-class 6,100 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. V6 competitors

5.0-liter four-valve dual-overhead-camshaft Ti-VCT V8
Best-in-class 360 horsepower at 5,500 rpm vs. standard V8 competitors
21 mpg highway, unsurpassed 15 mpg city (4x2)
Best-in-class 10,000 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. standard V8 competitors

6.2-liter two-valve single-overhead-camshaft V8
Best-in-class 411 horsepower at 5,500 rpm
Best-in-class 434 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm
13 mpg city, 18 mpg highway (4x2)
Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow

3.5-liter Ti-VCT EcoBoost engine
365 horsepower at 5,000 rpm on regular fuel
Best-in-class 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,500 rpm vs. premium V8 competitors
Up to 90 percent peak torque available from 1,700 rpm to 5,000 rpm
Best-in-class 11,300 pounds maximum trailer tow vs. all competitors
Best-in-class 3,120 pounds payload vs. all competitors
Unsurpassed 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway vs. all competitors

“The 2013 Ford F-150 adds more style and technology that sets a benchmark for capability and efficiency in light-duty pickups,” said F-150 Marketing Manager Raj Sarkar. “We continue to focus on the no-compromise solution for our customers, giving them all of the conveniences and technologies they want with the capability they need and the fuel efficiency to go further.”
FFA and Ford – making a difference
Future Farmers of America is a dynamic youth leadership development organization that changes lives by empowering its 540,000 members to set a course for the future. FFA operates within the context of agricultural education to complement classroom and laboratory instruction with hands-on experiential learning, useful life skills and individual motivation.
The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their leadership potential, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.
Ford’s FFA alliance gets a boost from supporting Ford dealerships serving agricultural markets.
For the 2011-12 academic year, the Built Ford Tough® Scholarship Program and 285 participating Ford dealers awarded a total of 540 individual $1,000 grants for post-secondary education.
Now in its 15th year, the Built Ford Tough Scholarship Program, the Ford Fund, and participating Ford dealers have awarded $7.1 million in grants. Built Ford Tough Trucks also sponsors the affiliated National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) Lifetime Achievement Awards and an FFA chapter grant program. In 2011, six winning chapters were each awarded a $3,000 grant to support local initiatives.
Ford has sponsored FFA since 1948, the same year Ford F-Series pickups first went on sale.
William Maley

Rumorpile: Could The Next RS Be The Fiesta?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 4, 2012
The thought of the hyper-performance Focus has been under consideration for awhile, but there are murmurs of another car taking the Focus' place.
Autocar reports that Ford could be considering building an RS version of the Fiesta instead of the Focus. Ford has already decided that there will be another RS model, the debate now is which one.
Both vehicles make a good case as to why they should be the lone RS model. The Fiesta is a global car and is the vehicle that is used in the World Rally Championship.
The Focus is also a global car, has been sold as an RS before, and can bring in higher profit margins.
Ford has yet to admit it is planning either car, instead it's focusing on its ST models at the moment.
Source: Autocar
William Maley

Consumer Reports Calls High-MPG Compact Cars Bunk

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 3, 2012
With gas prices going up and up, automakers are offering fuel-efficient versions of their compact cars to help stretch a gallon of gas farther.
Consumer Reports wanted to see if these fuel-efficient compact models are worth the extra $500 - $800 from their non fuel-efficient models. They picked up a Chevrolet Cruze Eco, Ford Focus SFE, and Honda Civic HF to test the claim. Each of the vehicles were equipped with an automatic transmission.
The Civic HF and Focus SFE is rated at 33 MPG combined, and the Cruze Eco is rated at 31 MPG combined.
CR found in their testing the Civic HF got the highest combined MPG with 33, the Focus with 31, and the Cruze Eco was last with 27.
The news gets even worse for the Cruze Eco. Consumer Reports found that Cruze Eco would only save about $20 per year in gas if prices stayed around $4.00. The Focus SFE would save $145 and the Civic HF would save around $135. That would mean you would need to own the vehicles between 3 to 38 years for the savings to offset the higher price.
CR points out that the Mazda 3 SkyActiv and Toyota Corolla can achieve similar mileage without any special tweak.
Source: Consumer Reports
William Maley

Audi U.S. chief Johan de Nysschen Steps Down

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 3, 2012
Audi of America president Johan De Nysschen stepped down from his post this past Friday. Audi spokesman Brad Stertz told Autoweek that the move is immediate. Stertz also said De Nysschen is leaving for another job.
In an e-mail to workers, de Nysschen explained why he is stepping down,
"I do want to make it very clear--this development is unrelated to the present discussion and expectations of reorganization of senior roles inside the VW Group. Rather, it comes from a realization of the future leadership needs of Audi, in order to attain our goal of becoming the most aspirational premium brand in the U.S."
He goes on to say; "I'd like to think you know me. The spirit of Audi roars within my heart. However, after much reflection, I have the very clear conviction that Audi is at a new inflection point in the ongoing development of the brand in the U.S.--and this demands leadership with new insights and a philosophy which is more appropriate for this new phase for the company. I dearly love this company and all it represents. I thrive on developing turnaround strategies and on building companies, but Audi of America is no longer a construction site. It needs leadership with a different skill set. I want Audi to win. But I too, need to secure my future, and must play to my own strengths. Stepping aside for new leadership, and setting forth to seek out a new "construction site," in a manner of speaking, is a painful but appropriate decision at this time. A win-win, if you like. Such an opportunity presents itself at this time, and I have decided to accept this new challenge."
de Nysschen has been Audi's U.S. president since December 2004 and has overseen the considerable growth for the brand in image and sales.
Audi's COO Mark Del Rosso will handle day to day operations until a replacement is found.
Source: Autoweek
William Maley

Next Volvo XC90 Coming In 2014 At The Earliest

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 1, 2012
Its hard to believe that the current Volvo XC90 will be around 11 years old when the next XC90 will come out. But according to Inside Line, that is what will happen.
The new XC90 isn't due out till 2014 at the earliest, but it will bring forth a platform that will underpin many of Volvo's future products. Called Scalable Platform Architecture (SPA), this platform will underpin the next generation S60, V70, XC60 and S80.
As for power, the XC90 will exclusively use four-cylinder power only. The four-cylinder engines will be part of the Volvo Environmental Architecture engine family and come in gas and diesel versions. There is also a plug-in hybrid in the works as well.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

GM To Close Down Oshawa Consolidated Line *UPDATED*

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 1, 2012
General Motors is expected to announce today the closing of the Oshawa Consolidated Line. The line currently builds the Chevy Impala and overflow production of the Equinox.
General Motors told workers this morning the closure will happen on June 1, 2013 and layoff around 2,000 people. Chris Buckley, president of CAW Local 222 is not happy with the decision.
“GM announced to us this morning their plans to close the plant. We are extremely offended. Our members. both active and retired, made huge sacrifices to help save this company during their auto crisis. GM’s way of rewarding Canadian autoworkers is to throw them onto the street,” Buckley told the Windsor Star today.
Production of the Impala will move to the Detroit-Hamtramck plant. Chevrolet Equinox production will move to Spring Hill, Tenn.
We'll be keeping an eye out for an official announcement from GM.
Source: The Truth About Cars, The Globe & Mail, The Windsor Star
UPDATE: The Truth About Cars has gotten some comments from GM about Oshawa Consolidated Line closing. Originally, the line was supposed to close down in 2008, based on plans made in 2005. However, demand for the Equinox and Impala was so high, the plant was left open.
The closing will take place in shifts. Third shift will be phased out in the forth quarter of this year, while second shift will follow in the first quarter of 2013. Production will end will when the final W-Body Impala rolls of the line later in 2013.
There is somewhat good news for the laid-off workers. GM could add a third shift to the the Oshawa flex plant that builds the Chevrolet Camaro, Buick Regal, Cadillac XTS, and the next-generation Impala if additional capacity is needed. The 2,000 laid-off workers will have first shot at applying for the jobs.
Source: The Truth About Cars
William Maley

Rumorpile: What Porsche Has In Store For The Pajun

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
June 1, 2012
Last month, we talked about what Porsche has got in store for their lineup through 2016. One of the vehicles that Porsche has got in store is the Pajun, aka the Junior Panamera. Automobile Magazine has uncovered some new information about the Pajun.
The Pajun will not only target Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but also at the Audi A7, BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, and Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. Porsche will not only offer the Pajun in the five-door model like the Panamera, but will also offer it as a shooting brake.
As for power, the Pajun will solely rely on V6s. The lineup will include a 3.0L V6 producing around 320 HP and 324 lb-ft of torque, and a twin turbo version of the 3.0L V6, boosting power to 420 HP and 413 lb-ft of torque. Two diesels will also come: a 3.0L V6 Audi diesel rated at either 260 HP or 320 HP.
A hybrid version and high performance turbo version are also in the works.
Source: Automobile Magazine
William Maley

Spying: Lexus LS

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 31, 2012
Lexus is in the middle of refreshing their lineup. So far, it has unveiled all-new generations of the GS and ES sedans and revised versions of the LX and RX SUVs. Next up is the LS flagship.
Automobile Magazine got their hands onto some spy shots of the next generation LS undergoing some testing.
Lexus must have missed a class at camouflage U since we can clearly make out the LS' new front end. The front includes Lexus’ new spindle grille and a set of LED headlights flanking either side.
The rest of the LS appears to take on a more evolutionary route. The profile seems to carry the same look, albeit slimmed down.
The spy photographer says the LS will use a heavily modified version of the current LS' platform and maintain its current V8 engines. Also, expect the LS to drop its current performance hybrid powertrain, instead going for one that focuses on fuel efficiency.
Source: Automobile Magazine
William Maley

Mercedes-Benz Shows The GL63 AMG

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 31, 2012
If you're that person who wanted a ML63 AMG, but needed Mercedes-Benz's larger SUV, the GL, Mercedes has some news for you. Today, Mercedes-Benz released details on the ML63 AMG.
The ML63 AMG will come equipped with a 5.5L twin-turbo V8 engine producing 550 HP and 560 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a seven-speed AMG Speedshift transmission and AWD, the ML63 can hit 60 MPH in 4.9 seconds and reach a electronically limited top speed of 155 MPH. The 5.5L is fitted with a standard start/stop system.
The GL63 AMG's exterior gets more pronounced front air vents topped with LED running lamps, aluminum trim on the lower front fascia, and 21-inch five-spoke wheels. Inside, GL63 comes equipped with a new steering wheel, AMG sport seats, and leather-wrapped everything.
Pricing hasn't been announced, but don't be surprised to see it above the $100,000 mark. The GL63 arrives early next year.

Press Release is on Page 2
The perfect balance of performance and style
Montvale – Luxury and refinement, distinctive design, outstanding safety and classic Mercedes dynamics – the new GL63 AMG high-performance SUV combines the latest technology with an extensive array of standard equipment and perfect comfort for up to seven passengers. Exceptional refinement comes courtesy of the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine with a peak output of 550 hp and maximum torque of 560 lb-ft. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM delivers compelling dynamics and classic Mercedes handling.
The MY 2013 GL350 BlueTEC, GL450 and GL550 arrive in U.S. dealerships in September 2012. The MY2013 GL63 AMG is expected arrive at U.S. Mercedes-Benz dealerships in the first quarter of 2013.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "With the new GL63 AMG, our range of performance-oriented SUVs is now complete. Alongside the outstandingly versatile ML63 AMG and the recently launched G63 AMG (U.S. debut in August) and G65 AMG (n/a U.S.), the GL63 AMG sets clear accents in the fields of dynamics and style. The GL63 AMG combines the first-class comfort of the S-Class with the performance of an AMG sports sedan and is utterly unique in its segment."
The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine delivers the perfect prerequisites for a refined ride and performance that is typically AMG. One glance at the technical data delivers all the evidence you need. The peak output of 550 hp and maximum torque of 560 lb-ft delivers absolutely first-class performance. The GL63 AMG accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.9* seconds, while the top speed stands at 155 mph (electronically limited).
The AMG eight-cylinder with the acronym M157 is equipped with an innovative package of high-tech features that includes spray-guided gasoline direct injection, piezo injectors, bi-turbocharging, air-water intercooler, a fully aluminum crankcase, four-valve technology with variable camshafts and alternator management, plus the ECO stop/start system.
An overview of the key data:
Displacement: 5461 cm3
Bore x stroke: 98.0 x 90.5 mm
Compression ratio: 10.0 : 1
Power: 550 hp @ 5250-5750 rpm
Max. torque: 560 lb-ft @ 2000-5000 rpm
Engine weight (dry): 450 lbs
Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 4.9 s**
Top speed: 155 mph*
Power delivery to all four permanently driven wheels is handled by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-Speed automatic transmission. Equipped with three modes and an automatic double declutching function for downshifting, the seven-speed automatic offers an impressive degree of versatility. The ECO stop/start function is active in the Controlled Efficiency mode © and switches off the eight-cylinder engine as soon as the vehicle comes to a standstill. "C" also comes with a milder throttle and transmission setup with early gearshift. Pulling away generally takes place in second gear. A green "ECO" symbol in the AMG instrument cluster advises the driver that the ECO start/stop function is active.
In the Sport (S) and manual (M) modes, not only is the ECO stop/start function disabled, the engine/transmission combination also has more spontaneous reactions for a considerably more agile feel. In these modes, the brief and precisely defined retardation of ignition and injection during upshift under full load delivers faster shift times and a thrilling acoustic effect.
Greater efficiency and performance
For greater efficiency, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-Speed automatic transmission is equipped with a highly efficient torque converter with centrifugal pendulum vibration absorber, friction-reduced bearings and transmission oil temperature management. Also contributing to reduced fuel consumption are friction-minimized axle drives, the electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, optimized belt drive and on-demand control of all auxiliary units and pumps.
Mercedes-AMG uses a standalone transfer box for the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive that enhances the dynamic characteristics by splitting the drive 40:60 between the front and rear axles. Furthermore, the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with AIRMATIC package, consisting of air suspension, special struts, automatic self-leveling function and Adaptive Damping System (ADS), is combined with the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM. This is standard equipment and has been specifically adapted by AMG. It incorporates active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles that reduce bodyshell roll angle under cornering for enhanced agility and driving pleasure. At the same time, the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM raises stability and thus safety, especially at high speeds.
Roll stabilization, springs and damping adapt automatically to the prevailing driving conditions and offer excellent ride characteristics, as well as exceptionally high stability. At the touch of a button, the GL63 AMG driver can choose between two suspension modes "Comfort" and "Sport". The full air suspension system is speed sensitive and lowers the bodyshell at higher speeds to minimize drag, while increasing stability.
The AMG-specific elastokinematics on the front axle and the stiffer rear axle stabilizer deliver even greater steering precision. The reinforced driveline ensures the best possible transmission of power to the wheels and hallmark Mercedes reliability. The 4ETS electronic traction control system optimizes grip under varying surface conditions.
AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance brake system
The electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering is equipped with variable power assistance that adapts in accordance with the selected suspension mode. This system also helps to save fuel, as the power assistance only consumes energy when the driver is actually turning the steering wheel. The GL63 AMG runs as standard on machine polished, twin five-spoke 10 x 21 AMG alloy wheels sporting 295/40 R 21 tires. For the shortest possible braking distances and excellent fade resistance, there is the AMG high-performance brake system with ventilated and perforated discs at all four corners – 15.4 x 1.4 inches (front) and 13.6 x 1.0 inches (rear).
Masculine design with performance focus
Distinctive, masculine, unmistakable – these are the characteristics that define the design of the GL63 AMG. The styling fundamentals of the new GL – powerful dynamics and sporty elegance – have been further enhanced by Mercedes-AMG with specific elements that emphasize the stunning performance of this V8 top model. The hallmark, upright GL radiator grille with its central Mercedes star is augmented by high-gloss black louvers. The AMG styling includes the front valance, which features large air intakes for effective airflow to the cooling modules. On the lower air intake, shaped in true AMG fashion in the shape of a stylized "A", is a narrow gap beneath a fine black fin, through which air flows directly to the cooling modules – a perfect combination of design and technology. The chrome trim element beneath this creates visual breadth and blends perfectly with the surrounds for the LED daytime running lamps incorporated into the outer air intakes.
The AMG front valance transitions beautifully into the flared fenders. The large 21-inch AMG alloy wheels clad in wide 295 tires add almost one inch to either side of the vehicle. The side view is further enhanced by "V8 BITURBO" badges on the fenders and illuminated sills with an aluminum finish. The flared fenders at the rear connect into the AMG rear valance, which also sports a distinctive chrome trim strip, as well as a black diffuser-type panel. A visual and acoustic highlight is provided by the two chromed twin end pipes of the AMG sports exhaust system.
Exclusivity and dynamics dominate the interior
Enormous attention to detail, perfect ergonomics and a generous amount of space characterize the interior of the GL63 AMG, where the emphasis is on exclusivity and dynamics. All seven seats in the high-performance SUV are upholstered in premium leather. The electrically adjustable AMG sports seats feature double stitching in a contrasting color, as well as AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats. The dashboard, armrests and door trim are finished in MB-Tex with double stitching.
The AMG performance steering wheel features a four-spoke design and offers optimum vehicle control with perforated leather grips, a flattened bottom and aluminum shift paddles. Four instrument dials in the AMG instrument cluster provide the driver with all necessary information. Positioned in the center is a color TFT monitor, which incorporates an AMG logo and the AMG main menu.
Further standard equipment in the GL63 AMG includes:
• AMG running boards in stainless steel
• AMG floor mats
• AMG sports pedals in stainless steel with rubber studs
• Active Parking Assist
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM
• Bi-xenon headlamps
• COMAND System with Bluetooth® and USB interface
• COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
• Easy-entry system for the rear seat on both sides
• Electrically operated tailgate
• Electric tilt/sliding glass roof
• Intelligent Light System (ILS)
• KEYLESS-GO
• Multi-contour seats with massage function for driver and front passenger
• Memory package (incl. electrically adjustable driver and front passenger seats, steering column and exterior mirrors with memory function, plus 4-way lumbar support for driver and front passenger)
• Crosswind stabilization
• 3-zone automatic climate control
• AMG performance steering wheel with DINAMICA microfiber grip
• Red brake calipers
Further special equipment (extract):
• 360° camera
• Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist
• Trailer hitch with electric release
• Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG high-end surround sound system
• BAS PLUS brake assist
• DISTRONIC PLUS (including PRE-SAFE® Brake)
• Panorama sliding roof, panorama roof over all three seating rows
William Maley

Full Size Cars Becoming An Endangered Species

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 31, 2012
Despite the fullsize car getting a kick in the pants with vehicles like the Chevrolet Impala, Toyota Avalon, and Ford Taurus, the fullsize car is becoming an endangered species.
R.L. Polk & Co reports that the fullsize sedan market has seen its relevance halved. Fullsize sedans have seen their market share drop from slightly above 5% of all vehicles sold in 2006 to just 2.3% in the first three months of this year. Also, the number of full-size vehicles on sale has dropped from fifteen to seven.
R.L. Polk & Co points to rising gas prices, the discontinuation of makes (i.e. Pontiac, Mercury) and certain models (Crown Victoria), and the rise of mid-size vehicles as factors to the decline of the fullsize.
Polk believes if more consumers opt for mid-size vehicles and gas prices keep rising, then automakers will not do anymore fullsize sedans.
Source: Kicking Tires, R.L. Polk & Co
William Maley

Spying: Chevrolet SS

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 30, 2012
Almost two weeks after GM announced the return of the Chevrolet SS, Automobile Magazine got their hands on the first spy shots of SS.
While we can't tell much about the front and back (GM has done a good job of layering camouflage on those bits), we can see the SS will be based on the VF Commodore.
Also unknown is the powerplant. Chevrolet said the SS would come with V8 power, and the photographer noted a V8 growl coming from beefy dual exhaust pipes. There's a good chance the SS could use all-new fifth-generation small-block V8 engine.
Source: Automobile Magazine
William Maley

Rumorpile: Volkswagen Working On A Jetta Alltrack

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 30, 2012
Volkswagen appears to be spreading the Alltrack love. Autocar reports that Volkswagen is mulling over whether to do a a lifted version of its next Golf and Jetta wagon. The Golf would be for Europe while the Jetta would be for North America.
The reason is due to the next generation Tiguan, due out in 2014, will be growing in size and offer a third row of seats. Volkswagen still wants a player in the small crossover market.
The Alltrack will include a raised ride height, uniquely styled bumpers and light graphics, additional wheel arch cladding, and unique interior trims. The Golf and Jetta Alltrack will be available with either FWD or Volkswagen's 4Motion AWD system.
The Golf and Jetta Alltrack will come out in 2015.
Source: Autocar
William Maley

Rumorpile: Next Generation MINI Cooper To Come In Five Door Guise?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 30, 2012
The MINI Cooper in the U.S. has gotten one consistent complaint since its launch in 2002; its too small and and not very practical. MINI however has a plan to rectify this complaint.
According to Motoring File, the brand is working a five-door variant, codenamed F55, to appear sometime after the revamped three-door model bows in early 2013. The five-door is aimed at the U.S. and European markets.
The five-door will have the back doors hinged on the B-Pillar and extend over the rear wheel arches and all the way to the gas cap. The addition of the two-doors will add two inches of rear legroom.
To avoid the five-door looking like an awkward long-wheelbase MINI hatch, designers will implement a sleeker C-pillar that will give it a more rakish profile.
Source: Motoring File
William Maley

Collision Warning Systems Get Thumbs Up With Consumers, With A Catch

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 29, 2012
Last fall, the Department of Transportation and eight automakers began a study to assess drivers' acceptance of accident-avoidance technologies. The study, called the Connected Vehicle Safety Pilot Program put people on closed roads in cars that were equipped with the technologies and asked what did they think about it.
Out of the 688 participants in the study, 92% wanted the technology in their vehicles and more than 90% believed it would improve the safety of driving in the real-world. These numbers covered most age ranges.
But there is a catch. A majority of drivers said they wouldn't pay a modest amount for the technology. When asked if they would pay “more than $250” for a suite of accident-avoidance tech, all of the participants say that was too high.
The study isn't finished yet - the next phase involves 3,000 test cars trying out the features on open roads in Ann Arbor, Michigan starting this fall.
Source: New York Times Wheels
William Maley

Weak Inventory Pushed Ford's Market Share Down

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 29, 2012
In the first quarter of 2012, Ford saw its market share drop 1.4 points. The reason: not enough inventory.
"The market got a little bit ahead of us," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of the Americas. “Most of our production actions and capacity increases take place in the second half of this year.”
Ford plans on boosting production at several of its vehicle assembly plants to counter what it says were weak dealer inventories during the first quarter of 2012. The plan includes trimming the summer shutdown period for plants and have three shifts running at Hermosillo, Mexico, assembly plant, later this year when the new Fusion goes on sale.
Ford expects the production increases to result in an additional 400,000 vehicles through the rest of 2012. However, Ford does concede that it will still probably lose some market share this year. So far this year, Ford has had a 15.4% share of the U.S. industry, a drop from its 16.8% share last year.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

Rumorpile: Lexus GS Coupe To Arrive For 2014 Model Year?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 29, 2012
Inside Line reports that Lexus is working a GS coupe to compete with the Audi A5/S5, BMW 6-Series, and Mercedes E-Class. This appears to confirms a comment made by Lexus' general manager Mark Templin back in January, stating he would like to see a replacement for the SC430.
Lexus has a holdup though on the GS Coupe. Currently, they're debating which powertrain to use. The GS sedan uses a 3.5L V6 (GS350) and a hybrid V6 setup (GS450h). Those two and a GS-F model with a unique drivetrain and tuning are under consideration.
The coupe is expected to be introduced sometime in the first quarter of 2013 with sales beginning later in the year.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Marchionne Reveals Some Of Chrysler's Future Plans

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 29, 2012
Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne is on a mission to end to product overlapping among the divisions of Chrysler. At a media event last week and interview with Automobile Magazine, Marchionne said two vehicles will be gone.
First will be the Chrysler Town & Country, leaving the lineup sometime after 2013. That will leave the Dodge Grand Caravan as the sole minivan. Marchionne said an upscale crossover will take the Town & Country's place, sometime in 2014/2015.
Also saying goodbye is the Jeep Compass. The Compass will be leaving in August 2014. Marchionne is keeping quiet about its replacement, saying only that “there are a number of candidates to take the place of the Compass."
Our guess: it will be vehicle based on Fiat's new CUSW platform that has been undergoing testing for the past few months.
Marchionne also revealed something has been rumored since the launch of the Dart. SRT has begun work on the Dart SRT.
"The only thing we're fighting over now is to determine how big an engine we stick in it," said Marchionne.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

Rumorpile/Spying: 400 HP S60 Anyone?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 28, 2012
Volvo's marketing campaign for the new S60 is going down a dark route. Instead of talking about how safe it is, Volvo is talking about how sporty and "Naughty" the S60 is. And it appears Volvo is upping the naughty a bit, if a report and some spy shots come to fruition.
Sweden’s Tekniken Svarld reports that Volvo and performance partner, Polestar are working together to build high performance S60. Rumor points to a Yamaha sourced V8 that Volvo uses in the XC90 SUV and S80 flagship. The V8 has been tuned to somewhere in the range of 400 HP.
Tekniken Svarld goes onto say that the S60 could get a sequential transmission, light-weight materials, and a new body kit.
Which leads us to some spy shots that Tekniken Svarld nabbed of an S60 wearing some handsome camouflage. The pictures show this S60 sitting much wider than a normal model and equipped with bigger fenders and wider wheels.
Is this the high-performance S60 undergoing some tests? No one is sure at the moment.
Source: Tekniken Svarld, AutoGuide
William Maley

Rumorpile: Porsche Panamera Says Goodbye To One V8, Hello To Another

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 28, 2012
Last month, we reported on Porsche's plan for their lineup up to 2016. One part of the plan that was talked about was a heavy refresh of the Panamera for 2013. Car has uncovered some new information about the refresh and what could be expected.
Sources who have seen the refresh say its changed so much, it almost looks like a new car.
Also, it appears some changes are coming to the Panamera's powertrain lineup. The Panamera 4S will drop its current 4.8L V8 producing 400 HP and go for a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 producing somewhere in the range of 420 HP. Its unsure if the Panamera S will follow suit.
There is also talk about the Panamera getting Audi's V8 TDI engine. The V6 diesel Panamera is doing well in Europe. And before you ask, the answer is no for the U.S..
Source: Car
William Maley

Rumorpile: BMW 1-Series Sedan

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 27, 2012
The new craze with luxury automakers is building compact luxury sedans. Audi has a new A3 sedan and Mercedes-Benz is working on the new CLA. Now, BMW is joining the craze with a new 1-Series sedan.
Autocar reports that BMW has begun planning a new 1-Series sedan to come out after the new 1-series coupé and convertible.
The sedan will be the spiritual successor to the E30 3-Series.
The report says the sedan will utlize a RWD platform using some bits from the new 3-Series. This seems a bit odd since BMW is working on a new FWD platform.
Powertrains will include four and six-cylinder engines, with an electric powertrain under consideration. AWD will be an option.
Source: Autocar
William Maley

XTS Hybrid? Don't Count On It

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 25, 2012
When Cadillac showed the XTS Platinum Concept at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, it was equipped with a 3.6L DI V6 and a plug-in hybrid system that produced a potent 350 HP. However, the production XTS probably won't have a hybrid version.
AutoGuide had the chance to sit down with Cadillac Communications Manager David Caldwell. Caldwell said a hybrid version of the XTS, either to provide more fuel-economy or power is highly unlikely. If Cadillac was to provide more power for the XTS, they would go in a different direction.
Source: AutoGuide
William Maley

Spying: Range Rover

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 21, 2012
Land Rover is coming close to finishing up the next generation Range Rover as these new spy shots show.
The big surprise, besides the modern art camouflage, is how much camo there is on this particular mule, giving us a clear look of what changes have been done. The overall boxy shape of the current model is still present. The difference will be in the details, with changes like a slightly more upswept beltline, an angled front end, and a sharply raked front and rear window.
The big news for the next generation Range Rover will be in the weight. Land Rover has shed somewhere between 800 to 1,000 lbs thanks to a new aluminum chassis and extensive use of lightweight materials.
Engines are likely to include the naturally-aspirated and supercharged variants of the 5.0L V8 and possibly a hybrid.
Source: Autoblog
William Maley

Rumorpile: Subaru Advance Tourer Previewing Next WRX?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 21, 2012
Remember the Subaru Advance Tourer concept from the 2011 Tokyo Auto Show? If not, it was a polarizing wagon concept that many believed was a preview for the next Legacy. However, a new report from Motor Trend says the concept is actually a preview of the next generation WRX.
The next generation WRX and STI will split from the Impreza and utilize a separate platform. Powertrain is expected to be either a turbocharged 1.6L or 2.0L four-cylinder. Also being thrown around is a hybrid version of the 1.6L.
Sources say the front end design of the Advanced Tourer will make its way to the new WRX, along with other aspects.
Source: Motor Trend
William Maley

Report Says Ford, GM To Gain Share, Kia & Hyundai To Drop

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 21, 2012
The annual "Car Wars" report by Bank of America Merrill Lynch states that Ford, General Motors and Toyota will gain back share and that Hyundai and Kia will lose share by 2016.
The report is based on the rate at which automakers launch new products. Ford has the highest rate with 26% of the lineup being replaced by 2016. GM follows next with 25% and Toyota is next with 24%. The report says with these replacement rates, Ford should gain 0.8% of market share, GM with 0.5%, and Toyota with 0.3%.
The big losers? The report says that will be Hyundai and Kia since they do not have a high replacement rate. Their market share should drop by 0.5%.
Source: Bloomberg
William Maley

Volkswagen Chief Designer Says Interiors Were Not Compromised

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 18, 2012
Despite the large amount of complaints from the automotive media about the Volkswagen Jetta and Passat's interior quality, Volkswagen is standing behind them, stating that interior quality hasn't been compromised.
We didn’t take (cost) out. We just rebalanced where (the money was spent). We moved it from here to there. Whatever was taken out went right back in,” said Jae Min, chief designer-group interior at VW’s Design Center California.
Min credits a new, more flexible architecture and a shift in manufacturing from Germany to VW’s new Chattanooga, TN, plant as to the cost savings.
We're finding it hard to believe Min's comments on that costs were not taken out of the Jetta and Passat's interiors. But there is one thing we can believe, sales have gone up. Jetta sales have shot up 43.9% this year and Passat sales have risen by 80.9%.
Source: Ward's Auto
William Maley

Lexus Changes Their Hybrid Philosophy

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 18, 2012
Lexus has a different philosophy on hybrids than their parent company, Toyota.
Toyota has opted to use hybrids to deliver maximum fuel economy above all else (see the Prius). Lexus on the other hand uses hybrids as a way to provide performance of large engine, while delivering the fuel economy of a smaller engine. For example, the GS450h delivers performance equal to that of a V8, but gets V6 fuel economy. However, it seems Lexus is changing their mindset.
Lexus ES and LS product planner Ketan Renade told AutoGuide that sales of the GS and LS hybrids have been extremely slow.
“We did studies and focus groups and people said, ‘hybrid equals mpg’”, says Renade. “Cars with 400 and 500 HP are great, but no one is buying them.”
Starting with the new ES300h, Lexus will put more of a mindset on fuel economy than performance. The ES300h uses a four-cylinder engine with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system to deliver 200 HP and 39 MPG combined.
As for other Lexus hybrid models, Renade almost confirmed the next generation LS hybrid will go down the same route.
“If we did a future hybrid Lexus LS, it would go V6 hybrid,” said Renade.
Source: AutoGuide
William Maley

First Drive: 2013 Dodge Dart

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 18, 2012
In 2008, Chrysler was dreaming about their possible future. The economy was in the tank, sales were down, and they were losing money in every which way. Development had come to a standstill as everyone in Chrysler headquarters wondered the same thing: could we pull off a Hail Mary like we had done many times before? The answer was yes and the Savior would come in the form of Fiat.
Since then, Fiat/Chrysler has been hard at work bringing out vehicles that were just sitting there during the Cerberus reign and introducing the Italian brand back into the U.S. But there was one question unanswered: What would happen when Chrysler and Fiat worked together on a new car? We all dreamt that would somehow involve a platform and powertrains from Fiat, and design involve a mix of Italian and American.
Well the answer comes in the form of the new Dodge Dart. Part Italian and part American, does this new compact sedan prove dreams can come true or not?
Next: The Exterior Look
Exterior:
The Dart’s exterior is very polarizing and unique, something that is appreciated in the growing compact car class. The overall shape doesn’t share the same squared off look as the larger Charger and Challenger. Instead, Dodge designers went for a rounded shape on the Dart, which helps give the compact a drag coefficient of 0.289 cd.

But don’t think the rounded shape means the Dart has gone soft. It’s still a Dodge and carries a lot of attitude. The front end carries Dodge’s trademark crosshair grille seen on the larger Charger and Durango. Depending on the model, the Dart’s grille can either be in chrome or the same body color as the car. On either side, a set of projector headlights help pronounce the scowling profile.
The profile includes slightly bulged front and rear fenders, and contoured sheet metal for the doors. The backend of the Dart features the wide LED tail lamp array seen on the Charger and Challenger and a “Bangle-esque” trunk lid.

One of the big points Dodge made to us during our time with the Dart was the amount of styles and customization that will fit drivers. The Dart will be available with twelve different colors and come in the choice of five trim levels. Each of the five trims has their own design tweaks to help them differentiate from each other. For example, the Dart Rallye comes with a black grille surround, black inset headlights, and chrome exhaust tips. The Dart Limited swaps the black grille surround with a body color one, a chrome crosshair grille, and chrome door handles.
Next: The Inside Story
Interior:
Chrysler has really been stepping up their game with the design and quality of their interiors and the Dart is no exception. Curvy lines, putting controls in easy reach for the driver, and using soft touch materials were the main takeaways.

During the drive, I had the chance to sample the Dart Rallye and the Limited. The Dart Rallye is step above the SXT model, which gains you supportive cloth seats with a stripe running down the middle and a set of analog gauges with a trip computer.
Then there’s the Limited model and it steps up the features list by a ten fold. Step in and you find optional leather seats that provide a good amount of support and comfort. Facing you is a stitched dash and a gauge cluster that includes a customizable seven-inch TFT screen which displays speed and trip information.

Both the Rallye and Limited came equipped with the optional 8.4-inch touch-screen for Chrysler’s UConnect Infotainment system. The system provides AM/FM/Sirius satellite radio, iPod and aux connectivity, Bluetooth, Garmin navigation, and a backup camera. Playing around with UConnect interface, I found it easy and intuitive to use. And if you’re wondering, there are controls for the radio and climate control right underneath the screen.
Back seat passengers might have a bone to pick with the Dart. Headroom and legroom are a bit on the tight side, even though the Dart is classified by the EPA as a midsize.
Next: Driving Around in the Dart and Final Thoughts
Ride & Drive:
For the Dart, Dodge offers the choice between three engines and two transmissions for each engine. The engine lineup includes:
2.0L Tigershark four-cylinder: 160 HP and 148 lb-ft of torque
Six-speed manual or automatic
[*]1.4L MultiAir turbo-four: 160 HP and 184 lb-ft of torque

Six-speed manual or dual-clutch transmission
[*]2.4L Tigershark four-cylinder: 184 HP and 171 lb-ft of torque

Six-speed manual or automatic



During the drive, I drove the 2.0L four and six-speed automatic, and found it to be a decent base engine. The 2.0L is quiet and smooth. However, you do have to rev the engine over 3,000 RPMs to get moving quickly. As for the six-speed automatic, it delivered smooth shifts. But it had tendency to hold onto first gear longer than wanted and didn’t like to upshift on hills.

Dodge says the Dart 2.0L will get an EPA fuel economy rating 25 city/36 highway/29 combined. During the drive through the Texas Hill Country loop, I matched the combined rating of 29. Big contributions to the Dart's efficiency come from the aerodynamic styling, underbody panels which reduce drag by 7%, and an active grill shutter system which reduce drag by 3 to 5%. Those who want more performance and better fuel economy should check out the 1.4T which gets 27 city/39 highway/29 combined and get can get 41 highway MPG thanks to a new Aero model.
The Dart’s trump card lies in the driving dynamics. Dodge employs a modified version of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta’s platform for the Dart. Up front, the suspension uses MacPherson struts. The back gets a bi-link independent suspension. The Dart’s steering is nicely weighted and gives a direct feeling of the road. Put it all together and the Dart sports a dual personality; Out on the curvy Texas Hill roads, the Dart felt poised and composed when taking a corner, yet on the open highway back to Austin, the Dart provided a smooth and quiet ride
One item I do need to nitpick is the Dart’s brakes. During the first few minutes of driving, I found them to be a bit touchy when I was trying to slow down or come to a complete stop. After those few minutes, the touchiness went away. Hopefully, the brakes get sorted out before the Dart hits dealers next month.
Verdict:
The first joint product from the Chrysler and Fiat partnership appears to work. A polarizing exterior design, knockout interior, engaging drive, and a countless number of ways to make it your own means the new Dodge Dart could make both the domestic and import competition a more than a little nervous.
It was only a few years ago when Chrysler was just dreaming about what the future holds. Now with Fiat and the new Dart, Chrysler can begin living out the future.
DISCLAIMER: Chrysler provided the travel, accommodations, food, and vehicles during the trip.

William Maley

Ford Now Taking Orders For 2013 C-Max Hybrid

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 17, 2012
Ford has announced today that dealers will begin taking orders on the new C-Max Hybrid, due out later this fall. The C-Max Hybrid will carry a base price tag of $25,995 (excluding destination charge), which undercuts its closest competitor, the Toyota Prius V by $500.
The C-Max Hybrid will come equipped with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack delivering an estimated 141 HP. Fuel economy numbers hasn't been released, but Ford does say it will be America’s most “fuel-efficient hybrid utility vehicle”.
Features for the C-Max Hybrid include hands-free liftgate, rain-sensing windshield wipers, active park assist, MyFordTouch, and SmartGauge with EcoGuide. SmartGauge with EcoGuide shows real-time fuel economy and uses gauges to help drivers maintain a fuel-efficient driving style.
Press Release is on Page 2
Ford Begins Taking Orders for C-MAX Hybrid – America's Most Affordable, Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Utility Vehicle
Ford dealers are now taking orders for the Ford C-MAX Hybrid, which will be more affordable than Toyota Prius v while achieving better fuel economy
Class-exclusive technologies include hands-free liftgate, active park assist for easier parallel parking and next-generation SmartGauge® with EcoGuide to help customers increase their fuel economy
C-MAX will launch this fall as part of Ford's power of choice strategy to deliver leading fuel economy across its lineup while tripling electrified vehicle production capacity by 2013

DEARBORN, Mich., May 17, 2012 – Ford dealers are starting to place orders for America's most affordable and fuel-efficient hybrid utility vehicle – the 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid – with innovative technologies such as a hands-free liftgate, spaciousness for five passengers and cargo as well as the fun-to-drive character shared with well-handling cars including Ford Focus.
The C-MAX is a compact hybrid utility vehicle and the company's first dedicated line of hybrids. The 2013 C-MAX Hybrid will be available this fall with a base price of $25,995 – approximately $500 lower than the Toyota Prius v's base price.
The C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid will follow later this year with better electric-mode fuel economy and overall driving range than the Prius plug-in hybrid.
"C-MAX Hybrid offers better fuel economy, performance, technology and functionality than Prius v – and C-MAX Hybrid customers will pay less at the dealership and at the pump," said Ken Czubay, vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. "Ford is delivering the power of choice for leading fuel economy across its lineup – from EcoBoost to electrified vehicles – because customers increasingly want to save money at the pump, even as gas prices rise over time."
The C-MAX Hybrid blends fuel economy with performance, with projected best-in-class horsepower and torque along with Ford's third-generation powersplit technology that allows for higher speed while in electric mode than Toyota Prius v.
C-MAX Hybrid benefits from 20 years of research and innovation behind the software and hardware technology driving it, with many of Ford's almost 500 hybrid vehicle-related patents contained within.
That means that along with SYNC® with MyFord Touch®, drivers get class-exclusive features like hands-free liftgate (offering hands-free cargo access with a simple kicking motion), SmartGauge® with EcoGuide, regenerative braking and an advanced lithium-ion (li-ion) battery pack that is being used for the first time in a Ford hybrid.
C-MAX Hybrid – being built on Ford's global C-segment platform – also benefits from a proven design and nameplate with more than 156,000 units of the gasoline version sold in Europe since its 2010 launch.
Room to move
C-MAX Hybrid is a compact hybrid utility vehicle jam-packed with features and room for five people and cargo.
The vehicle has a high roofline (63.9 inches) offering ample interior space and flexibility. C-MAX Hybrid offers 99.7 cubic feet of passenger space compared with 97 cubic feet in Prius v. The spacious C-MAX Hybrid also provides greater headroom in both front and rear seats than Prius v (41/39.4 inches vs. 39.6/38.6 inches).
For cargo, C-MAX Hybrid has 60/40 split-fold rear seats that easily fold flat with 54.3 cubic feet of space behind the first row and 24.5 cubic feet behind the second row.
Tech-savvy
C-MAX Hybrid features the company's innovative hands-free liftgate, allowing for quick and easy access to the cargo area without messing with keys. A gentle kicking motion under the rear bumper opens the liftgate when used in combination with a key fob the user keeps in his or her pocket or purse that tells the car it's OK to engage. The same motion can close the liftgate.
The vehicle also features the newest version of MyFord Touch to help inform, enlighten, engage and empower drivers. MyFord Touch offers multiple ways for customers to manage and control their phone, navigation, entertainment and climate functions through voice commands, menus accessed through controls on the steering wheel, touch screens, buttons or knobs.
C-MAX Hybrid also offers the next generation of SmartGauge with EcoGuide. Designed to help drivers get the most from the C-MAX Hybrid, information such as instantaneous fuel economy can be displayed on the left cluster to help drivers more closely monitor how their driving behavior affects the vehicle's efficiency.
The left cluster also shows Brake Coach, a feature that helps drivers optimize their use of the braking system so that driving range can be enhanced through proper braking techniques. In the right cluster, redesigned imagery of green leaves shows overall driving efficiency – as drivers improve their efficient driving, they are rewarded with more leaves.
Quality and ingenuity
The 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid is new, but its software and hardware technology have been evolving for nearly two decades.
C-MAX Hybrid is powered through the combination of a gasoline engine and a battery-driven electric motor. When powered by gasoline, the C-MAX Hybrid uses the all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine – a powerful and fuel-efficient engine and among the most advanced non-turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains Ford has ever offered.
The electric motor of the C-MAX Hybrid is powered by an advanced li-ion battery system designed to maximize use of common, high-quality components, such as control board hardware that has proven field performance in Ford's critically acclaimed hybrid vehicles.
C-MAX Hybrid also offers Ford's next-generation powersplit architecture that allows the electric motor and gasoline-powered engine to work together or separately to maximize efficiency. The engine also can operate independently of vehicle speed, charging the batteries or providing power to the wheels as needed. The motor alone can provide sufficient power to the wheels in low-speed, low-load conditions and work with the engine at higher speeds.
In the C-MAX Hybrid, the li-ion battery pack is recharged when the gasoline engine is in operation. Further, the regenerative braking system can recapture more than 95 percent of the braking energy that would otherwise be lost, and is able to use that power to help charge the battery. C-MAX Hybrid requires no plug-in charging.
Made in U.S.A.
C-MAX Hybrid is being produced at Ford's Wayne, Mich.-based Michigan Assembly Plant alongside Focus, Focus Electric and Focus ST. More information about MAP can be found online here.
It is one of five electrified vehicles Ford plans to produce in North America in 2012. In addition to C-MAX Energi, the other vehicles include Focus Electric, Fusion Hybrid and Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid. More information about Ford's electrified vehicle lineup can also be found online here.
William Maley

Rumorpile: Porsche Cans The "Baby Boxster"

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 17, 2012
The Porsche "Baby Boxster", the long rumored roadster that would become the entry-level model for Porsche appears to be canned. We had previously reported on the "Baby Boxter" troubled fate back in January when the Volkswagen Bluesport project also looked to be faltering.
In a interview with German newspaper Stuttgarter Zeitung, Porsche CEO Matthias Mueller said the company has dropped plans to build a sub-Boxster, a move that could likewise seal the fate of the Volkswagen sister car.
"We would do no good to the brand if we were to lose traditional Porsche customers" by pursuing a smaller Boxster model, said Muller.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

Return of RWD - Chevrolet Announces SS For 2013

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 17, 2012
After months of speculation, rumor, and hearsay, GM let the cat out of the bag today. Coming late next year as a 2014 model, the Chevrolet SS RWD sedan. (Yes, SS is the actual name).
The SS sedan will be based on the Holden Commodore sedan and it will be it will be used by NASCAR Sprint Cup teams starting at the 2013 Daytona 500.
At the moment, Chevrolet isn't saying much about specifics. We're expecting a small-block V8, manual transmission option, and to be sold in limited numbers.
“As a passionate race fan and performance enthusiast, I am thrilled that Chevrolet will deliver a true rear-wheel-drive NASCAR racecar in the SS that is closely linked to the performance sedan that will be available for sale. The Chevrolet SS is a great example of how GM is able to leverage its global product portfolio to deliver a unique performance experience that extends beyond the track. I am personally looking forward to driving it,” said Mark Reuss, president of GM North America in a press release.
The lead up related to this:
Chevy’s Upcoming SS Sedan May Give Way to a New Ute and Wagon
Did OnStar Accidentally Confirm An SS Model In 2014?
Rumorpile: GM Trademarks SS... Why Now?
Impala Leaping Out of NASCAR, Unnamed Model Taking Its Place
Press Release in on Page 2

Chevrolet Announces New SS Performance Sedan



Will compete in 2013 NASCAR and arrive in showrooms as 2014 model


DETROIT – Chevrolet today announced the return of a V-8 powered, rear-wheel-drive performance sedan to the U.S. lineup, the Chevrolet SS. The SS will also be Chevrolet’s next NASCAR Sprint Cup racecar and will debut in its race configuration at the 2013 Daytona 500.
The limited production version of the Chevrolet SS will be a 2014 model and will arrive in dealer showrooms in late 2013. It is the first time in 17 years that Chevrolet will offer a rear-wheel-drive sedan for sale in the United States.
Chevrolet has a long history of using the SS (Super Sport) designation on high-performance models of some of its most enduring nameplates. The SS designation first appeared in 1957 on a Corvette prototype race car built under the guidance of Zora Arkus-Duntov with the plan to enter it in the Le Mans 24-hour race.
The first production vehicle offered with an SS option was the 1961 Impala – 453 were built with the performance upgrades which included a modified chassis and suspension, power brakes, a steering column mounted tachometer and unique wheels and tires. The latest SS model in the Chevrolet lineup is the fifth-generation Camaro, which debuted in 2010.
The Chevrolet SS will be a derivative of the award-winning global rear-wheel-drive architecture that spawns performance vehicles like Chevrolet Camaro and Holden’s upcoming VF Commodore. The much anticipated Australian-built car will benefit from significant technology advances which enhance overall performance.
“As a passionate race fan and performance enthusiast, I am thrilled that Chevrolet will deliver a true rear-wheel-drive NASCAR racecar in the SS that is closely linked to the performance sedan that will be available for sale,” said Mark Reuss, president of GM North America. “The Chevrolet SS is a great example of how GM is able to leverage its global product portfolio to deliver a unique performance experience that extends beyond the track. I am personally looking forward to driving it.”
Chevrolet was America’s best-selling performance car brand in 2011 with Camaro and Corvette accounting for one out of every three sports cars sold in the United States. The addition of the SS should strengthen Chevrolet’s position as a leading performance brand.
William Maley

Leaked: Fisker Atlantic Documents

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 17, 2012
Fisker has a lot of problems: money, delays, and an investigation into a Karma fire are just some of them. And it doesn't look like the problems are going to end soon.
Inside EVs got their hands on some leaked documents that were dated "a few weeks ago" dealing with the new Atlantic sedan. First the bad news. Originally, Fisker said that production would begin in late 2012 before hitting the market in early 2013. The leaked document states “negotiations with the DoE have become more complicated and are expected to take longer than originally expected”, delaying the Atlantic’s 2013 launch by several months. In fact, Fisker's Deleware plant won’t even begin building prototypes until mid-2013, with full production not expected to begin in mid-2014.
The documents also reveal other details about the Atlantic, including pricing and performance specs.
The Atlantic will use a 300 HP engine from BMW that's capable of a 0-60 time of 6.5 seconds and get emissions of 50g of CO2 per km.
Pricing will be around the $50,000-$60,000 range, putting it in the same company with the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6 and Jaguar XF.
When asked by AutoblogGreen about the documents, a Fisker representative said,
"As these documents are obviously leaked investor documents and highly confidential, I am not prepared to comment any further."
Source: Inside EVs, AutoblogGreen
Related:
Fisker Atlantic makes its debut in New York
William Maley

Rumorpile: Will Holden Announce An Export Program For The Commodore?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 16, 2012
There is a new report from Australia saying Holden will be announcing a new export program to bring the next generation of the Commodore sedan codenamed VF to America as the new Chevrolet SS sedan.
If and when this announcement, this could end the long running speculation, ranging from a U.S. trademark filling to an OnStar leak.
The report from News.com.au also ties the announcement to it being the replacement for the current NASCAR Impala. Also, the report brings up Holden doing tests of left-hand drive models of the Commodore and comparing it to the Dodge Charger.
Source: News.com.au
William Maley

Lamborghini Development Chief Talks About Urus Plans

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 16, 2012
When Lamborghini introduced the new Urus at the at the Beijing Motor Show last month, we were wondering what would be powering it.
Automotive News had the chance to talk with Maurizio Reggiani, Lamborghini's Development chief about what could lie under the Urus' hood. Reggiani said that Lamborghini hasn't decided on an engine, but a V8 is a strong possibility.
"Such a car needs huge torque at low revolutions rather than high peak power, therefore a V-8 twin-turbo is an interesting possibility," Reggiani said.
The engine that could be used is the 4.2L 450 HP V8 unit Audi uses in their RS models. Lamborghini's version will likely produce somewhere in the range of 600 HP.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

Interactive Review: 2012 Buick Verano

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 16, 2012
As the Chevrolet Malibu Eco leaves the Cheers and Gears Detroit garage, another vehicle arrives to take its place. The vehicle is the smallest Buick of them all, the new Verano.
The Verano is equipped with a 2.4L four-cylinder producing 180 HP and 171 lb-ft of torque, and a six-speed automatic.
First impressions so far: The Verano is very, very quiet. Something I appreciate very much. Also, I'm finding the 2.4L to be an ok powertrain in the short time I had it.
I will be updating with my thoughts about the Verano throughout this week. In the meantime, send your questions in.
William Maley

Tesla To Begin Paying Back U.S. Government Loans

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 15, 2012
Tesla announced this week they will begin to pay back their loans from the U.S. Government later this year.
Tesla chief financial officer Deepak Ahuja told Bloomberg this week, "We are delivering on the milestones, what we're committed to...once we are delivering customer cars, that signifies completion of the project".
This suggests once Tesla begins delivering the new Model S sedan out to customers, they will begin paying back the Department of Energy loans.
Tesla also announced this week that the first Model S sedans will begin flowing out to customers in June, a month ahead when they originally put it.
“We are pleased that Tesla continues to make progress and look forward to working with them as clean, electric vehicles play an important role in our energy future,” said Damien LaVera, an Energy Department spokesman.
Source: Bloomberg
William Maley

Porsche Introduces The 918 Spyder Prototype

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 15, 2012
Porsche has just completed the initial prototypes of the new 918 Spyder, complete with a black-and-white livery that pays homage to the 917 race cars. Production is set to begin next September with the pricetag starting at a whopping $845,000 per model.
But with that price, you do get a 570 HP, 4.6L V8 and two electric motors delivering a peak output of 770 HP. That powertrain should be good a 0-60 run of 3.1 seconds, a top speed of 199 MPH, run on electricity alone up 94 MPH, and return around 78 miles per gallon on the EU cycle.
Press Release is on Page 2
918 Spyder prototypes commence trials
Stuttgart. The Porsche 918 Spyder is on the road: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has taken the driving trials of the super sports car of the future a step further with completion of the initial prototypes. The 918 Spyder will go into production at the end of September 2013 as planned, with the first customers receiving their vehicles before 2013 is out. "What we are doing with the 918 Spyder is redefining driving fun, efficiency and performance," said Wolfgang Hatz, Member of the Executive Board Research and Development of Porsche AG.
The prototypes, their camouflage harking back to historical Porsche 917 racing cars, signal the final touches to the 918 Spyder. The focus is on the interplay between the highly sophisticated individual drive components. The combination of combustion engine and two independent electric motors – one on the front axle and one in the drive line, acting on the rear wheels – poses completely new demands on the development of the operating strategies. "They are therefore a critical component in this vehicle into which we have put all of our expertise and capacity for innovation," said Wolfgang Hatz. These operating strategies and the development of the software to go with them are one of Porsche's core competences. Both of them have a major influence on the extreme driving fun to be had with the 918 Spyder and they make possible a unique combination of minimal fuel consumption and maximum performance. The initial results of the driving trials are in line with the high expectations placed on the 918 Spyder.
The super sports car is designed as a plug-in hybrid vehicle combining a high-performance combustion engine with cutting-edge electric motors for extraordinary performance: on the one hand, the dynamics of a racing machine boasting more than 770 hp, on the other hand, fuel consumption in the region of three litres per 100 kilometres. Moreover, Porsche is breaking yet more new ground with the technology demonstrator with spectacular solutions such as the full carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque with unit carrier, fully adaptive aerodynamics, adaptive rear-axle steering and the upward-venting "top pipes" exhaust system. In the process, the 918 Spyder is offering a glimpse of what Porsche Intelligent Performance may be capable of in future.
William Maley

Senate Passes Mandatory Black Boxes In Vehicles By 2015, House Expected To Follow

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 15, 2012
Its been working its way through the halls of congress, but according to Car and Driver, the "black box" mandate for cars could be in the books. The Senate has already voted to adopt a transportation bill that has a provision mandating event data recorders to be equipped into new vehicles starting in 2015. The House of Representatives is considering a version with slightly different language.
The current state of the bills are "vague". In the Senate version, the bill states that devices must “capture and store data related to motor vehicle safety” and release this information to an “interoperable data access port.” Changes are expected if this does go into law.
Of course, when you bring up government regulations and "black boxes", the tin foil hats come out. Currently in the Senate version, there's a provision that the data contained in the little electronic box is actually owned by the owner of the vehicle. If the law wants access to the data, they will likely have to get a court order. But there is a caveat: first responders such as paramedics would also have access to the data, without a court order, if it would help them in an emergency.
Source: Car & Driver, GovTrack.us (To see the Senate version of the bill)
William Maley

Rumorpile: Next Infiniti G To Arrive In 2013?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 14, 2012
The current Infiniti G Sedan, Coupe, and Convertible has been around since 2007 battling against the likes of the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class to name a few. But with the competition in the compact luxury sedan market heating up once more with the new BMW 3-Series, Cadillac ATS, and a refreshed Audi A4 and Mercedes C-Class, Infiniti is readying a new G.
Inside Line sat down with Nissan and Infiniti's Global Business Unit Excutive Vice President, Andy Palmer to talk about various Infiniti productions. During the chat, Palmer revealed the next G will come out next year as a 2014 model.
Palmer didn’t reveal any other details about the next G. But we do Infiniti could be using a mix of Mercedes-Benz and their own powertrains. Also, there is talk about a hybrid model coming.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Chevrolet Introduces Their New Global Crossover, The Trax

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 14, 2012
Chevrolet is introducing a new global-market crossover called the Trax. The Trax will serve as the brand's only global crossover.
The Trax appears to be closely related to the Opel Mokka and Buick Encore crossover. The only change appears to be the Trax getting its own fascia.
Chevrolet is being quiet on specific details about the new Trax. Our guess that it will likely share the same engine lineup as the Mokka and Encore, and come in front-wheel and all-wheel-drive.
Chevrolet says the the Trax will make its debut at the Paris Motor Show in September, with sales beginning in the forth quarter in Mexico and Canada. The U.S. won't be getting the Trax "because of the strong position of the Equinox."
Press Release is on Page 2

Chevrolet Will Add New Small SUV to Global Lineup
Trax will debut at Paris Motor Show and be sold in more than 140 countries


DETROIT – The Chevrolet Trax, an all-new small sport utility vehicle, will join the Chevrolet global portfolio and make its debut at the Paris Motor Show in September.
With room for five passengers and class-leading cargo space, Trax will meet the needs of customers in more than 140 markets. Mexico and Canada will be the first markets to launch the crossover in the fourth quarter of this year. Because of the strong position of the Equinox, there are no plans to introduce the Trax in the U.S. market.
“The Trax provides Chevrolet an entry into a growing small SUV segment and delivers the flexibility, great fuel economy and car-like handling that urban explorers around the world require,” said Mary Barra, GM senior vice president of Product Development. “After a record sales year in 2011 and a record first quarter, Chevrolet continues to meet customer needs by expanding its portfolio with strong new entries.”
Chevrolet has recently introduced a new Malibu mid-sized sedan, Colorado pickup, TrailBlazer mid-sized SUV and Cruze station wagon. When it joins its siblings in the showroom, Trax will possess the same pioneering spirit and expressive design that defines each new Chevrolet.
Trax exhibits its SUV toughness and capability in a small package through a muscular exterior design and wide athletic stance. While its contemporary form evolves the global Chevrolet design aesthetic, Trax’s interior and details will be executed to standards usually found in more expensive vehicles.
William Maley

BMW Shows The New 3-Series Wagon, Coming To The US Next Year

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 14, 2012
With the introduction of the new 3-Series sedan earlier this year, we knew that it would be followed by the new wagon, coupe, and convertible. Well, BMW has introduced the second 3-Series model, the 3-Series wagon.
The new 3-Series wagon is larger and boasts 10% more space than the outgoing model. As with the 3-Series sedan, the wagon will come in Sport, Luxury, Modern, and M Sport lines; each providing their own twist on the exterior and interior design.
Inside, the back seats split 40:20:40. There's also a hidden storage compartment, a standard partition net, and an automatic tailgate with separate rear window opening that with an optional package, can become hands free.
Engine lineup for Europe includes the 328i (245 HP), 320d (184 HP), and 330d (258 HP). All engines will have the option of xDrive AWD.
The new 3-Series wagon arrives at European dealers later this year. As for North America, BMW says the wagon will arrive next year. Powertrains and other details for the N.A. spec will come out sometime later.
Press Release is on Page 2
All-New BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon
The favorite wagon of enthusiasts will again be available in the US
Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 12, 2012 6:00pm EDT... BMW today released the first images and information on the next generation BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon and announced that, as with the two previous generations, this model will be offered in the US. Unlike anything else on the market, the all-new 3 Series Sports Wagon will again offer the flexibility and utility one would expect from a premium wagon combined with the driving dynamics of the quintessential sport sedan, the BMW 3 Series. The new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon will launch in Europe later this year and is set to arrive in US showrooms in Spring 2013. Powertrain details for the US as well as pricing, specifications and standard/optional equipment will be announced at a later date.
Like its Sedan sibling, the new 3 Series Sports Wagon is slightly larger than its predecessor, most notably its wider track (front + 37 mm/1.46 in., rear + 48 mm/1.85 in.). The car's length (+ 97 mm/3.66 in.) and wheelbase (+ 50 mm/1.96 in.) also accentuate its sporting promise. Inside the new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon, rear passengers will appreciate the noticeable increase in space made possible by the larger dimensions. These larger dimensions also pay dividends in utility with nearly ten percent more cargo volume both with the rear seats up and when folded.
The new 3 Series Sports Wagon will be the next model to offer BMW Lines as a way to tailor the car to individual tastes, just as with the Sedan, by choosing from a trio of trim and equipment variants – the Sport Line, Luxury Line and Modern Line. Each presents its own individual take on the character of the Sports wagon, with exclusive, high-quality trim and material combinations. For the enthusiast who wants to go beyond even the Sport Line, the M Sport Line will also be offered because it is, after all, a BMW 3 Series at its heart.
Striking face with precise contours and multi-faceted surfaces.
Characteristically, the sporting nature of the new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon is made apparent to the eye by its wide track. By accentuating the width of the car, the multi-faceted surfaces of the expressive front fascia give the 3 Series Sports Wagon a more athletic face than ever.
A three-dimensional interpretation of the upright, slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille emphasizes an assured presence. LED accent lights positioned like eyebrows above the traditional four round headlights with corona rings (if Adaptive Xenon headlights are specified) lend an extra intensity to the classic BMW focused look. Clearly defined headlight surrounds now extend up to the frame of the kidney grille, merging the headlights and grille into a single stylistic element and adding further emphasis to the car's broad-set stance. The 3 Series Sports Wagon replaces the central air intake of its predecessor with two larger intakes, which are positioned underneath the headlights to the outer edges of the front fascia and add extra depth to the car's sporty look. On the left and right edges of the main ducts are small vertical intakes which help create the "Air Curtain". This new technology improves air flow around the front wheels, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and reducing fuel consumption at higher speeds.
The closely spaced, squat openings of the kidney grille, with their eye-catching surrounds, form the most prominent element of the new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon's front design. It is also where the precise lines of the dynamically contoured hood begin at the base of the A pillars and flow over the full length of the hood. The result is a front that appears lower-slung, giving 3 Series Sports Wagon a clear sporting edge when viewed head-on.
Precise lines produce a silhouette that enhances the car's dynamic impact.
Powerfully taut surfaces with sweeping lines dominate the side view of the BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon, stretching the car visually and lending extra verve to its dynamic stance. The flanks of the car are shaped by an eye-catching double character line running alongside each other. The higher character line emerges out of the low-slung nose and flows over the front wheel with an understated sweep, in a nod to the wagon's fleetness of foot. The second character line develops lower down behind the front wheel and follows a delicately arching path towards the rear. Together, they reinforce the dynamic wedge shape of the car's flanks. As well as providing a discreet increase in muscularity in the rear section below the character line, these styling cues also create vivid light and shade effects, which draw further attention to the car's wide track.
The car's athletic overall impression is emphasized by the steeply raked D-pillars, the angle of the rear window and the subtly wedge-shaped geometry of the window surfaces. The roofline – which slopes downwards slightly to the rear and is extended visually by a spoiler – and the "Hofmeister kink" at the foot of the D-pillar also generate a sense of dynamic tension. The finely balance between the greenhouse and the body lends the new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon a sporty, elegant and nimble look, while the rear lights extend well into the sides of the body and combine with its flowing lines to create a harmonious transition between the flanks and rear section.
The rear of the new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon also boasts a blend of sporting elegance and modern practicality. The horizontal lines and L-shaped lights set far to the outer edges accentuate the subtly flared fenders and the wider track. Two integrated bars of LEDs allow a slim light design and ensure they maintain an appearance that is instantly recognizable as a BMW both day and night. The positioning of the lights at the outer edges of the rear underline the car's hunkered-down stance on the road. The large tailgate opening and low sill make loading and unloading bulky items that much easier.
The new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon again features a rear window that opens separately from the tailgate. The window is unlocked electrically via a button on the rear window wiper arm and opened by hand. This practical function makes it easier to load and unload smaller items – especially when space is tight, as the rear window opens up rather than out.
In order to make access to its generous cargo area easier, a power tailgate will be offered for the first time on a 3 Series Sports Wagon. Getting into the cargo area can be done at the touch of a button, either on the remote key or from inside the interior. Access is made even easier when Comfort Access is ordered, which will include the Hands Free Opening Tailgate. If one approaches the new 3 Series Sports Wagon with hands full, one need only stick a foot under the rear bumper and the tailgate automatically swings open.
Practicality and versatility: Hallmarks for the new 3 Series Sports Wagon
The new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon offers remarkable flexibility. A net as well as an additional strap along the right side panel can be used to help secure cargo. Four tie-downs are integrated into the cargo floor. A net along the left-hand panel will also be available. A pair of coat hooks and an addition 12-volt outlet add an extra measure of flexibility. A storage tray under the load compartment floor and a deep stowage compartment on the left-hand side of the cargo area can accommodate smaller items. Another neat twist, the luggage compartment cover can be stowed away under the load compartment floor, allowing it to be kept in the car even when not in use. Also standard is a separate partition net, which can be employed in a variety of ways even when the rear seat backrests are folded down. The rear seats can be folded down in three sections in a 40:20:40 split. The large through-loading facility allows the new 3 Series Sports Wagon to carry four adults and longer items, such as skis or snowboards, at the same time.
In addition to the flexibility and utility offered by the interior of the new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon, other features unique to this model includes roof-rails to accommodate all manner of storage racks for everything from bicycles and skis to cargo boxes. It will also be available with a full glass panoramic sunroof.
BMW ConnectedDrive: The latest in safety and infotainment
With its broad range of driver assistance systems and mobility services, all offered as part of BMW ConnectedDrive, the new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon sets a new benchmark when it comes to safety, convenience and infotainment. To ensure that the available features deliver the maximum benefit, the exchange of information between the passengers, the vehicle and the outside world is managed by BMW ConnectedDrive.
The new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon is available with a full-color Head-Up Display. It projects key information in sharp resolution onto the windshield in the driver's direct field of vision. Depending on the vehicle specification the speed limit is noted in addition to the car's speed. The driver can also see navigation instructions and various alerts in the Head-Up Display. Thanks to the wide variety of driver assistance systems available in the new BMW 3 Series range, more information can be placed in the driver's direct line-of-sight while their eyes remain squarely on the road.
State-of-the-art camera technology provides the potential for new levels of safety and convenience. Active Safety options include Lane Departure Warning as well as Blind Spot Detection. Backing up and parking both are made easier with the available Rear-view Camera with Top View which provides a bird's-eye view of the car. Another convenience-enhancing assistance system is the BMW Parking Assistant, which takes charge of maneuvering into parking spaces making parallel-parking a breeze.
BMW Assist, a globally unique mobility service, comprises among other features a telephone information service and BMW's industry-leading enhanced Automatic Collision Notification function with automatic detection of the vehicle location. BMW Assist also includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity.
Other innovative technologies allow the integration of the Apple iPhone and other smartphones as well as music players, including the use of Internet-based services. The Apps option enables iPhone users, among other things, to receive Internet radio stations and to display Facebook and Twitter posts on the onboard monitor. With BMW Apps, iPhone users can access and listen to music streaming services like Pandora and MOG today with Stitcher coming soon.
The all-new BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon again brings the versatility of a wagon with the driving dynamics of the quintessential sport sedan. The new 3 Series Sports wagon will be arriving in US showrooms in spring 2013. Powertrain details for the US as well as pricing, specifications and standard/optional equipment will be announced at a later date.
William Maley

Caroll Shelby Passes Away At Age 89

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 11, 2012
Automotive legend Caroll Shelby passed away last night at the age of 89 after a lengthy illness at the Baylor Hospital in Dallas, TX.
Shelby's shadow extended nearly across automotive world. In the fifties, Shelby was a highly accomplished racer. He would win three U.S. sports-car championships, the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans, and set land speed records at Bonneville. However, a heart condition in 1960 would cause him to stop racing.
But that didn't stop Shelby. During the sixties, Shelby would be known for building the Shelby Cobra and his partnership with Ford, building the Shelby GT350 and GT500 Mustangs. Racing would still be a big part of Shelby's work as Daytona Cobras and GT40s terrorized Ferrari, Porsche, and Jaguar on their own turf.
In the eighties, Shelby would hook up with Chrysler to produce a number of specialty cars and trucks, including the Onmi GLH and GLHS.
Beyond that Shelby grew his business into a "skunkworks," doing research and development for auto companies. In 2005, Shelby and Ford buried the hatchet from a disagreement in the seventies and would work together once again building high performance Mustangs.
However it wasn't always good times for Shelby. He made some shaky business deals, held grudges, and would go to court over trademarks with Ford, AC Cars (Ironically) and Cobra replicar manufacturers Superformance International, Inc. and Factory Five, Inc.
But the most inspirational and remarkable fact about Caroll Shelby's life was how hard he worked with his heart condition. That would land him with a heart transplant in 1990. Six years after the heart, he would get a kidney transplant from his son.
In a statement released today by Shelby American, President Joe Conway said,
“We are all deeply saddened, and feel a tremendous sense of loss for Carroll’s family, ourselves and the entire automotive industry. There has been no one like Carroll Shelby and never will be. However, we promised Carroll we would carry on, and he put the team, the products and the vision in place to do just that.”
Source: Autoweek, Motor Trend, Motoramic
William Maley

Interactive Review: 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 11, 2012
Spending the next few days here in the Cheers and Gears Detroit garage is the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco. This is Chevrolet's second hybrid sedan; the first being the last generation Malibu Hybrid sold from 2008-2009.
The Malibu Eco comes equipped with GM's eAssist mild hybrid system. The system provides a 15 HP and 79 ft-lb of torque boost to the 2.4L four-cylinder engine's 182 HP and 171 lb-ft of torque.
So how does it drive? It drives pretty nice. The eAssist setup provides enough low-end torque to get off the line. Once going, the 2.4L is more than adequate to get you around town.
I have some more updates throughout the weekend dealing with fuel economy, driving, and Chevrolet's new MyLink infotainment system. In the meantime, send your questions in.
William Maley

Deaths On U.S. Roads Declining

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 11, 2012
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic deaths are at their lowest levels since 1949.
NHTSA's preliminary numbers show an estimated 32,310 people died in traffic accidents last year, a 1.7% drop from 2010 where 32,885 people died. Deaths in traffic accidents has been decreasing by 26% since 2005.
New England and the Great Lakes region saw the biggest decrease in car accident deaths in 2011, with the former down 7.2% and the latter down 3.3%. California, Arizona, and Hawaii saw a 3.3% increase.
AAA says the decrease is due several factors, primarily being motorists drove 1.2% fewer miles last year and gas prices increased 6.7%. Vehicles are also being fitting with more standard safety equipment.
Source: The Detroit News, Kicking Tires
William Maley

Cash-Burning Opel a “Four-Alarm Fire,” Restructuring Deal Could Take 2 to 3 Months

Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 10th, 2012
General Motors’ European operating firm Opel recently lost $256 million dollars in the first quarter of 2012, and changes are underway to stem the losses.
The waves of red ink washing in overseas at Opel are cutting deep into the Detroit automaker’s earnings. While GM posted net earnings of $1 billion dollars for this year’s first quarter, it knows things could’ve been much better if its European outpost were operating profitably.
Compared to the first quarter of 2011, GM’s earnings this time around were down by almost 69 percent because of its losses in Europe.
This has given GM CEO Dan Akerson especially some cause to worry. Akerson described the situation in a recent radio interview as a “four-alarm fire,” going on to say that Opel would “have to restructure again.”
It was barely six months ago that GM reorganized its European operations in a previous effort to turn the German brand around. During the shake-up, former president and CEO Nick Reilly was forced into retirement and replaced by Karl-Fredrich Stracke. Also transferring to Europe, among a host of others, were GM chief financial officer Dan Amman and GM Vice Chairman Steve Girsky. Girsky is now chairman of the board at Opel.
Eurozone malaise squeezing Opel, automotive industry
Opel’s troubles stem from a serious financial and economic crisis currently sweeping Europe.
Just last month, the economy of the United Kingdom skidded into its second recession since 2008. As many as one out of four people living in Spain are currently unemployed. Many European countries, such as Greece, are swimming in sovereign debt and are requesting bailouts from the European Union.
The crisis in Europe has understandably debilitated consumer confidence, and new car sales there are expected to drop as a result. European buyers are expected to buy almost 1 million fewer vehicles than their American counterparts this year and recovery isn’t expected overnight.
When the CFO of rival Ford spoke to CNN Money recently, he said that he didn’t expect European sales to return to a “normal” level of 15 million vehicles a year for the next four to five years.
Over at Opel, signs of a faltering market for 2012 are already beginning to show as it watched its market share decline 0.7 percent in the first quarter — from 7.3 percent in the previous year to 6.6 percent this year.
While Opel CEO Karl-Fredrich Stracke is confident that some market share can be regained in the future with new models like the upcoming Mokka subcompact crossover and Adam city car, he said that he didn’t foresee significant growth in the market for the next two years.
While Opel is feeling the burn of a weakened European economy and automotive marketplace, it isn’t going the ride alone. It’s worth noting competitors Fiat, Renault, and Ford Europe are also similarly struggling, as is GM’s new business partner Peugeot-Citroen PSA.
Restructuring coming
Earlier this week, Opel labor boss Wolfgang Schaefer-Klug said to reporters amidst 4,000 striking workers at Opel’s Russelsheim plant that a restructuring deal could take 2 to 3 months.
Schaefer-Klug said a deal to bring the money-burning automaker back to profitability was “necessary and realistic.”
In early March, Opel CEO Karl-Fredrich Stracke also said that restructuring talks could take 2 to 3 months. Just last week, however, he told reporters that it could take an additional 2 months before he could disclose the complete details.
The restructuring at Opel is expected to mainly focus on cutting costs and over production, in order to adjust to the shrinking European market.
“We’ve got to get the break even point lower, get the revenue higher, in order to be profitable in that kind of market environment,” CFO Dan Amman told analysts back in January.
CEO Stracke would go on to say to reporters this month: “We're working intensively on increasing efficiency to improve profitability of the company in a difficult market environment as soon as possible.”
Opel lost an average of $628 dollars for each of the 1.19 million cars it produced last year. This is because its fixed costs are geared toward an additional half-million vehicles — a number worth the equivalent of two major manufacturing plants.
Plant closures out for now
While Opel will trim back production capacity, it denies rumors that it will shutter its plants in Ellesmere Port, UK and Bochum, Germany as part of the restructuring talks.
“We are not addressing any plant closures until 2014,” Stracke said recently.
Although labor boss Schaefer-Klug didn’t comment on the future of the Bochum plant, he didn’t think Ellesmere Port was in danger of closing. “I’ve heard no speculation that they want to close the plant,” he said.
In fact, it seems that Opel has considered relocating production of its compact Astra hatchback after 2015 exclusively to Ellesmere Port and Gliwice, Poland from Russelsheim, Germany. While such a move would cut costs and could boost production, it was met with red-hot disapproval from employees in Germany.
Schaefer-Klug especially rejected that the fact the Russelsheim plant produced only 18,000 Astras out of a total of 330,000 last year made producing the model there relatively insignificant.
“It’s complete rubbish to say that the Astra isn’t important for this plant,” he said, noting that Opel’s home plant is set to build 70,000 Astras this year.
Is saving GM’s burning European ship hopeless?
Since 1999, Opel’s losses have continued to mount and, since 1993, its market share has continued to shrink, leaving some observers to almost dismiss any prospect of the German brand returning to good health.
As much as $13 billion dollars has been lost by the European firm over the past 13 years, and its market share has deflated by 5.3 percent in EU and EFTA countries during the course of almost two decades.
“I almost see Opel’s problems as not solvable,” said industry watcher Maryann Keller in a Bloomberg report back in January.
Analysts also point out that Opel has significant image issues to trump, that it doesn’t have the standing of competitors like Volkswagen to charge prices that would cover costly German labor rates.
But there is some hope for GM’s troubled Euro brand. GM could expand Opel’s dealer network in China with the help of partner SAIC. Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas even went so far as to suggest in a research note written at the beginning of the year that an alliance with SAIC could improve business efficiency at Opel.
The German brand is also set to launch in Australia this year, and that could bring about a slight upward nudge in sales if buyers there respond favorably.
There’s also Peugeot PSA’s partnership with Opel’s parent company. In March, board chairman Steve Girsky said that the union would begin to generate cost savings by the second half of this year.
The alliance between the two firms is expected to eventually save $2 billion annually within 5 years and give GM and PSA better leverage when purchasing components and raw materials. GM and PSA are also expected to share development costs on future vehicles.
While there’s still a rough economic storm ahead for Opel to weather, if GM restructures its European operations to be smarter and leaner, the 150 year-old German company could very well have a second big turnaround story to tell since it came back from the brink after WWII revenged Germany in the 1940s.
Sources: Automotive News (sub. req.), Bloomberg,WSJ (sub. req.) (3/6/12 and 5/10/12), Reuters, The Detroit Bureau, CNN Money, Detroit News, Financial Times
Blake Noble

Infiniti Compact To Arrive In 2014, Built By Magna Steyr

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 10, 2012
We've been hearing about a new Infiniti compact car to take the Audi A3, BMW 1-Series, and Mercedes-Benz A-Class for the past year or so. What we didn't know was when the new compact would arrive, until today.
Nissan announced a new deal with Magna Steyr to build the new compact in 2014. In a statement, Nissan said Manga Steyr has begun work with them on the production model.
The new compact will utilize Mercedes' new MFA compact platform that underpins the new A-Class. Mercedes will also provide other bits for the new compact, including four and six-cylinder engines.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

2013 Honda Accord Order Sheet

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 10, 2012
Even though Honda hasn't showed off the production version of the new 2013 Accord, the order sheet has made a surprise appearance.
The Temple of VTEC got their hands onto an order sheet for the 2013 Accord. Besides a new six-speed automatic for V6 models and a new CVT for the four-cylinder models, there are two new model designations.
On the sheet, there is an Accord Sport and an Accord Touring models. The Sport sits between the LX and EX four-cylinder sedans, and the Touring sits as the top of line model. As to what they'll bring, no one is quite sure at the moment.
Source: Temple of VTEC
William Maley

Rumorpile: Another Day, Another Omega Platform Rumor

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 10, 2012
Its been a few months since we last heard anything about the rumored Omega RWD platform that could be underpinning future Cadillac flagships. Our last report in September said a sedan and hard top are in the works and will be appearing sometime in 2015.
A new report from Car and Driver says GM has a few Omega vehicles on the way, with the first one arriving sometime in 2015.
Omega will take hold of the larger RWD vehicles ranging from a midsize luxury sedan (CTS, 5-Series, E-Class) up to length of 207 inches (about the same length of an Audi A8L).
The first vehicle in question is the replacement for the still-need-be-launched Cadillac XTS. Car and Driver says the Omega-based replacement will arrive sometime in 2015. The vehicle will have GM's 3.6L DI V6 as a base, a twin-turbo version of the 3.6L, and V8 for an engine lineup. Also, a new eight-speed automatic and a new hybrid system are in the cards as well.
Going further down the rabbit hole, the long-rumored “flagship” Cadillac could eventually be spawned from the Omega platform; whether it takes the form of the Sixteen concept from 2003 or the Ciel concept from last year remains to be seen.
Source: Car and Driver
Related:
The Never Ending Story: More Rumors With The Cadillac Flagships
Omega Likely To Be Approved For Cadillac Flagship, More Hybrids
William Maley

General Motors Files to Trademark Riviera Name

Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 9th, 2012
For a span of almost four decades, Buick’s classic Riviera models brought critical acclaim to one of GM’s oldest marques. Arguably GM’s first real success at building a “personal luxury car,” the Riviera was a “best-of” showcase for Buick offering class-competitive styling, luxury and technology.
While the Riviera name has been previously used on a concept car introduced for the 2007 Shanghai Auto Show, it hasn’t been applied to a production model since the last Riviera was built in 1999. Now, according to GM enthusiast website GM Inside News, there is the potential for a Riviera revival.
Last week, on May 3rd, General Motors filed to trademark the Riviera name with the US Patent Office for use on automobiles.
As GM Inside News mentions, it isn’t really much of a secret that automakers regularly trademark various names and wind up not putting them to use on a production car. On the other hand, AutoGuide points out that GM doesn’t trademark names unless it’s serious about putting them to use.
So then if GM intends to use the name, what would a new Riviera be like? At the moment, your guess is as good as ours.
While rumors of Buick adding a new coupe to its lineup have been rather persistent over the last few years, they’ve always been rather sporadic. At one point it was speculated that Buick would sell a coupe version of its Regal sports sedan, based on reports of Vauxhall getting the green-light to develop a two-door version of the related Insignia. There has also since been rumors of Buick building a rear-drive coupe based off of the Alpha platform used by the Cadillac ATS.
However, Car and Driver recently mentioned in a report on the upcoming Chevy SS sports sedan that GM’s Australian firm Holden was being tasked with developing two new rear-drive Buick vehicles primarily for China. The two Buicks would be based on a revised version of GM's Zeta platform. It’s obvious that one of those vehicles could be a replacement for the Holden Statesman-based Chinese Buick Park Avenue. But could the other be a Zeta-based Buick Riviera coupe?
Sources: GM Inside News, AutoGuide, Car and Driver
Blake Noble

Honda Wins Appeal Over Civic Hybrid Mileage Case

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 9, 2012
Heather Peters, the owner of a 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid who won her case against Honda in small claim courts in February, has had here case overturned.
Superior Court Judge Dudley W. Gray II ruled in favor of Honda this week, saying the company complied with regulations one how automakers advertise fuel economy. Grey also wrote in his ruling that miles per gallon ratings are for comparing vehicles and don't account for factors that could effect mileage.
"Despite these many variables, most of the owners of the subject vehicle achieve fuel economy very close to the EPA estimate," Gray wrote.
"It's a sad day when regulations designed to protect consumers are used against them. I'm certain that the EPA and FTC never intended to shield Honda from liability for advertising claims that a court of law determined to be false." Peters said.
Source: Associated Press, Motoramic
Related:
A Honda Owner Takes The Company To Court, Minus The Lawyers
Honda Civic Hybrid Owner Wins Judgement Against Honda
William Maley

Cadillac XTS to Include iPad

General Motors is including an iPad with the 2013 models of the Cadillac XTS, in the hopes of acclimating owners with the luxury vehicle's CUE infotainment system and other features.
The company hopes that customers will find the interactive experience helpful in getting the most out of their vehicles.
Cadillac's head of customer experience, Mark Harland, told Wired Magazine that Cadillac wants "to be the leader in customer experience."
The luxury carmaker is rolling out online and dealership-based initiatives to help owners with their new gadgets.
"We need to think about helping [owners] with the learning curve. Even if you get a walk-through at the dealership, you’re going to forget about a lot of the features. And we want the customer to learn about CUE on their own time," said Harland.
The XTS is meant to replace Cadillac's DTS. The DTS' predecessor, the Deville, had an age demographic of 69. No doubt Harland is mindful that baby-boomers may feel overwhelmed by Cadillac's promising system.
Want to Pique your CUEriosity? There's an app for that.
The iPad will come preloaded with the OnStar Remotelink and myCadillac apps as well as a program that is a CUE simulator.
Owners can learn the system's functionality without making accidental changes to their own vehicle's CUE system.
Cadillac is training 25 "connected consumer specialists" that will be teaching dealers on the brand's infotainments systems. Each dealership will be required to have at least two 'experts' on hand to assist customers with their vehicle's systems.
In addition, a call centre dedicated to CUE is being set up. Should customers still have trouble with their systems, a specialist will come directly to their home.
Sources: Wired, Autoblog

  • New owners of Cadillac's XTS will discover a fancier-than-usual instruction manual in their glove box.

FAPTurbo

Rumorpile: Scion FR-S Convertible To Appear In Late 2013 Or 2014

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 9, 2012
Back in March, we reported on a comment said by Tetsuya Tada, the chief engineer of the Toyota GT86/Subaru BRZ/Scion FR-S.
"The GT 86 was designed from the outset that we can build it as a convertible," said Tada.
Well it seems Toyota has given the green light for an FR-S convertible. Car and Driver reports the convertible will keep its back seat, however trunk space will suffer due to the folding roof mechanism.
Mechanicals will remain the same: a 200 HP flat-four engine and the choice between a six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. Expect the convertible to get some structural reinforcements.
The FR-S is expected to come out in late 2013 or sometime 2014 with a larger pricetag.
Source: Car and Driver
William Maley

Porsche Reigniting 551 Project, May Be Planning a “Ferrari Fighting” Four-Door Coupe

Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 8th, 2012
Earlier this year, it was rumored that Porsche decided to cancel its plans to introduce a long-rumored, mid-engined compact roadster for 2014. Essentially a “baby Boxster,” the small Porsche roadster was expected to ring up at a price less than the next-generation Boxster, which is expected to grow in size and price.
It seems rumors of the little Porsche’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. According to Automobile magazine, the project — codenamed “551” or “Mimo” — was indeed up in the air at one point but is back on the table.
The Porsche 551 was originally set to be a fraternal twin to the production version of Volkswagen’s BlueSport concept shown at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. However, VW recently deemed the BlueSport project as too costly and with too limited appeal to sell in significant sales volumes. Since the 551 was previously linked to the BlueSport so that Porsche could benefit from a larger economy of scale, VW backing away from producing the BlueSport put the 551 in question.
Now its rumored that the Porsche 551 will be introduced for 2017 instead, using a smaller lower-cost version of the company’s new MSB-M platform that will also form the basis of the next-generation Boxster and Cayman. Said to be powered by a new 1.6 liter four-cylinder boxer engine with either a single or twin turbo setup, the 1.6 will produce anywhere between 180 horsepower for the base 551 models to 240 in a range-topping 551 R. Prices are said to start at around 30,000 euros (or $45,000 dollars) and the car will follow the premise of the classic 550 Spyder (hence the “551” codename).
Before Porsche begins building the 551, it will focus on its other upcoming “cash cows” first. Currently on the table are the sub-Cayenne Macan crossover, the rumored “Pajun” small sedan, and an all new Panamera, in addition to finishing up the upcoming 918 Spyder flagship and the 960 supercar.
Aside from the 551, there’s also new speculation concerning the Stuttgart firm’s 960 supercar project. The 960 is supposed to be a model which will bridge the gap between the flagship 918 Spyder and the range-topping versions of the company’s primary mainstay, the 911. Said to be based on a version of the aforementioned MSB-M platform and powered by a mid-engined turbo boxer six, the 960 was previously thought to be a traditional two-door supercar. Now, information from Automobile seems to suggest that Porsche’s “Ferrari fighter” will be a four-door coupe.
While the prospect of a four-door coupe capable of wrestling a Prancing Horse is certainly interesting, taking the idea with a grain of salt would probably be best advised.
Source: Automobile (4/23/12 and 5/4/12)
Blake Noble

Fire Official Claims Fisker Karma Caused A House Fire

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 8, 2012
More bad news for the Fisker Karma. A fire which engulfed a Fisker Karma and caused damage to house in Sugar Land, Texas is now be pointed at as the cause.
Chief fire investigator for Fort Bend County, Texas, Robert Baker told Autoweek that he belives the Fisker Karma started the fire.
“Yes, the Karma was the origin of the fire, but what exactly caused that we don't know at this time,” Barker said.
Barker says the owner pulled into the garage with the Fisker and walked away. Three minutes later, the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The vehicle reportedly wasn't plugged in at the time and the battery was intact.
The fire is still undergoing an investigation, and an official report is expected sometime in the future.
In a statement released by Fisker, the company says the cause of the fire “is not yet known and is being investigated.” The statement goes onto say that “multiple insurance investigators are involved, and we have not ruled out the possibility of fraud or malicious intent.”
Fisker also said in the statement, "We are aware that fireworks were found in the garage in or around the vehicles. Also, an electrical panel located in the garage next to the vehicles is also being examined by the investigators as well as fire department officials."
Fisker said they will not comment on the fire “until all the facts are established.”
This fire comes less than two months after Fisker and battery firm, A123 Systems issued a recall for 640 Karmas due to a possible battery defect. The Karma involved in the fire was a post-recalled one.
Source: Autoweek
William Maley

Rumorpile: Next Z4 To Be More Dynamic

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 8, 2012
Inside Line has learned from a couple of sources that the next generation Z4 will be a more dynamic sports car than previous generations of the two-seat roadster.
BMW's goal is to make the next Z4 more agile and sportier to drive, but up to a point as to not upset current owners and fans.
Design of the next Z4 will reflect this goal with the long front end losing a few inches.
BMW will also utilize the current N20 turbocharged four-cylinder to help improve the weight distribution.
Source: Inside Line
William Maley

Quick Review: 2012 GMC Sierra Denali HD 2500

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 8, 2012
The war of heavy duty pickups has been raging on for many years with Ford, General Motors, and Ram one upping each other with more powerful engines and towing capabilities that could embarrass certain commercial trucks. Now, a new branch of this war is emerging; the luxury heavy-duty truck.
Gone are the steel wheels, vinyl seats, rubber floormats, and grey dashboards seen on many a truck. In their place are large chrome wheels, leather seats with heating and cooling, carpeting, and different color dashboards trimmed with wood.
Ford, GM, and Ram have thrown their competitors into the ring and are now battling for the king of luxury heavy-duty truck.
So when a 2012 GMC Sierra Denali HD 2500 was dropped off for week, it was the perfect time to see if it can be the king or not.

What has changed?
Not much since General Motors updated its heavy-duty trucks back in the 2011 model year. The big news for the 2012 model year was GM upping the hauling and towing ratings for the heavy duty trucks. The stats are,
Maximum towing capacity of 23,000 pounds
Conventional-hitch trailering capacity of 18,000 pounds
Maximum payload of 7,215 pounds

Besides the rise in ratings, GMC has added a new exterior color and some new interior features for the Denali HD line.
On to the exterior & interior
So the exterior is pretty much the same as before?
Yeah, the Denali HD hasn’t changed much since its last appearance in the C&G garage back in December 2010. The blunt front end still has the signature Denali chrome finishing on the upper and lower grilles. Around the side, the front fenders carry some sculpting and chrome bars adorn the doors. Add on the optional 20-inch chrome wheels and the new Steel Gray Metallic paint, and what you get is an understated luxury pickup, a trademark of the Denali line.

What about the interior?
The Sierra HD Denali’s interior is similar to any other loaded up GMC Sierra, albeit with more leather and “wood” trim. The dash looks and feels outdated with the materials clearly from the "old GM" era of cheap plastics. If the Sierra HD Denali cost $30,000, this would be ok. However, when the Denali HD is pushing $63,000, it falls into unacceptable. Also missing on this truck was the auto-up feature on the power windows. The only auto-thing on it was the auto-down feature on the driver’s side. It left me wondering why certain compact cars have this feature and not this truck.

The optional navigation unit in Sierra HD Denali has been updated this year with new software that solves the problem of outdated software we had in our previous example. But interface issues remain; do I really need two whole rows of buttons to move around the NAV?

However, all is not lost with Sierra HD Denali’s interior. The leather seats are very comfortable for both front and rear passengers. Front seat passengers will enjoy the heated and cooled seats for whatever season it is. Back seat passengers will like the amount of head and legroom.
Next: Power, Verdict, and Specs
What is the powertrain and how does it drive?
All of GM’s heavy-duty pickups come standard with a 6.0L V8 producing 360 HP and 380 lb-ft of torque. However, this Sierra HD Denali was equipped with the shining star of GM’s powertrain lineup; the 6.6L Duramax turbo-diesel V8. The 6.6L engine produces 397 HP and mind-numbing 765 lb-ft of torque. All of that power goes through a six-speed Allison transmission.

Driving around with the Duramax and Allison combo was a sublime experience. Power was strong and linear as I left from a stop or while making a pass. The transmission provided buttery smooth shifts.
Average fuel economy for the week stood at 14.5 MPG. On a 100 Mile highway trip, the Sierra Denali averaged 19 MPG, a surprise since the Sierra Denali HD tips the scales at 7,400 lbs.
The ride of the Sierra Denali HD varies on the road condition. Smooth roads and Sierra Denali HD provided a comfortable ride. Head onto a rougher road and you can feel every bump. That’s due to good looking 20-inch chrome wheels and the upgraded suspension to handle the weight.
Maneuverability isn’t the Denali HD’s strongest suit. The long length and wide turning circle make it pain in certain situations. Many a time was spent during the week backing up, steering the truck, and pulling into certain parking spots without trying to cause property damage.
And the verdict?
The Sierra Denali HD sits in a precarious spot in the luxury heavy-duty truck market. On one hand, the Denali HD doesn’t match what the Super Duty and Ram Heavy Duty trucks offer in luxuries. Examples include a better quality dash, a newer navigation system, and other little things that make you feel your spent your money well. Plus, maneuverability could be a little bit better.
On the other hand, the Sierra Denali HD claws back with its superb optional Duramax and Allison Transmission powertrain package. Plus, the Denali has a trick up its a sleeve. Unlike the Ford and Ram’s current luxury trucks which scream, “Look at me, I’m driving a big honking luxury truck,” the Denali HD goes for the understated look.
The Sierra Denali HD hits 75% of what luxury truck buyers want, it’s the last 25% the truck is missing, which could prove devastating when Ford and Ram launch their true competitors to the Denali HD later this year.
Cheers:
Duramax and Allison powertrain
Understated luxury look
Hauling and Towing Ratings

Jeers:
Interior doesn't match pricetag
Poor maneuverability
Ride Quality

Disclaimer: General Motors provided the truck, insurance, and one tank of diesel.

Year - 2012
Make - GMC
Model - Sierra HD
Trim - Denali 2500 Crew Cab
Engine - 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8
Driveline - Four Wheel Drive, Six Speed Automatic
Horsepower @ RPM - 397 @ 3000
Torque @ RPM - 765 @ 1600
Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - N/A
Curb Weight - 7456 lbs
Location of Manufacture - Flint, Michigan
Base Price - $48,785.00
As Tested Price - $62,914.00 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge)
William Maley

Nevada Issues A Drivers License To A Driverless Car

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 8, 2012
Almost a year after the state of Nevada approved legislation to allow tests of self-driving vehicles on public roads, the state has issued its first license for a self-driving vehicle.
The vehicle in question is Google's autonomous Toyota Prius, which has currently logged 140,000 miles and one accident. The accident was caused when a car driven by a person bumped into the back of Google's autonomous car. Google hopes with these tests to dramatically reduce or eliminate these types of incidents.
The Prius will wear a red license plate, with an infinity sign on it next to the number 001.
Source: BBC
William Maley

Volkswagen Planning to Build Two Smaller SUVs

Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 7th, 2012
At the moment, Volkswagen builds only two different flavors of sports-utility vehicles. On one hand you have the small highway-oriented Golf-based Tiguan, and on the other you have the larger off-road capable Touraeg.
However, that stage may be preparing to change as VW could be planning to expand their portfolio of SUVs in the near future. According to a recent report sourced from German business newspaper Handelsblatt, Volkswagen is planning to introduce two new car-based SUVs that will slot in below the compact Tiguan.
In the report, Handelsblatt claims that VW is seeing a strong, growing demand for small crossovers and said, while citing company sources, that a compact SUV based on the Up! city car is “certain” and will be priced at well below 20,000 euros. Other than the miniature Up! soft-roader, the German paper also went on to say that work on a previously rumored crossover called the “Rockton” has resumed as well. The Rockton was supposed to be based on the Suzuki SX4, but since the VW-Suzuki partnership has recently dissolved it’s said that it will be based on the company’s Polo model instead.
When reached for comment, a VW spokesman would not confirm the two models, saying that the automaker hasn’t “made a decision yet.”
If Volkswagen builds Up! and Polo-based crossovers, then the Opel Mokka (otherwise known as the Buick Encore) and Mini Countryman could face some interesting competition.
Source: Automotive News (sub. req.)
Blake Noble

How Much For The Cadillac ATS?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 7, 2012
With summer just around the corner, Cadillac decided to announce pricing for the new ATS sedan today.
Pricing begins at $33,990 (Includes Destination) for the base 2.5L four-cylinder producing 200 HP and 188 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic, Cadillac says highway fuel economy will be "well over 30 mpg".
Want a bit more power? Well, the 2.0L turbo-four producing 270 HP and 260 lb-ft rings in at $35,795. Buyers will have the choice of either a six-speed manual or automatic, as well as rear or all-wheel drive.
The top dog of the ATS lineup, the 3.6L DI V6 producing about 320 HP comes in at $42,090. The 3.6L comes with automatic transmission, available AWD, Cadillac's CUE infotainment system, leather 8-way power seats with memory, adaptive start, and more.
Press Release is on Page 2
2013 Cadillac ATS Priced from $33,990
New luxury sport sedan launches this summer
DETROIT – The all-new, rear-wheel-drive Cadillac ATS compact luxury sport sedan with a fuel-efficient 2.5L engine and next-generation six-speed transmission will be priced starting at $33,990, including destination charges. Highway fuel economy will be well over 30 mpg.
"The ATS enters a vehicle segment this year that's one of the most competitive in the market, from both a price and performance standpoint," said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. "ATS will bring a distinctive presence and compelling value while offering quick, nimble, fun-to-drive dynamics that will appeal to the lifestyles of modern luxury buyers and challenge the segment's status quo."
A mid-level model with a lightweight and powerful 2.0L turbocharged engine costs $35,795 including destination and will offer automatic and manual transmissions, and rear- or all-wheel drive.
Topping the engine range is a 3.6L V-6 with a preliminary rating of 320 horsepower, costing $42,090 including destination with an automatic transmission and standard content that includes CUE, leather 8-way power seats with memory, adaptive start and more. All-wheel drive will be available.
A full breakdown of availability and pricing of packages and options will be available later.
ATS goes on sale this summer, but already the new sport sedan is positively impacting Lansing, Mich., where more than 440 new employees have been hired at Cadillac's Lansing Grand River plant where the ATS will be assembled. A total of 600 new employees are expected to be part of Cadillac's $190 million investment in the facility.
A dedicated engineering team has traveled the globe refining and advancing the ATS to meet customer demands. The addition of advanced materials has reduced curb weight to less than 3,400 pounds, more than 100 pounds less than an Audi A4 or Mercedes-Benz C250.
Time spent at premier race tracks around the globe, including Road America, Road Atlanta, Phoenix International Raceway and the Nürburgring in Germany has enhanced the ATS' sporty ride and handling and engine tuning. The 3.6L model is expected to have a 0-60 mph acceleration time of well below six seconds.
Cadillac's new CUE user interface, standard on most ATS models, offers the first automotive use of capacitive touch to create an intuitive, modern way for drivers to interact with the car. This technology, used for most smartphones and tablet computers, uses electrodes to sense the conductive properties of objects, such as a finger.
William Maley

Rumorpile: BMW & Hyundai In Engine Talks

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 7, 2012
From the Twilight Zone files: Reuters reports that BMW is in talks with Hyundai about jointly developing engines.
"The talks are at early stages," a source told Reuters.
Another source said the two companies had discussed a comprehensive alliance, which included developing an engine and sharing development costs equally.
German industry publication Automobil Produktion reported on Thursday that Hyundai Motor Group chairman Chung Mong-koo's son and heir apparent, Chung Eui-sun met with BMW officials to talk about this.
BMW currently has partnerships with Peugeot, Toyota, and GM.
"Further co-operation partners are currently not foreseen," BMW chief executive Norbert Reithofer said to reporters.
Source: Reuters
William Maley

Spying: Is This Ram 1500 Packing A Diesel?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 7, 2012
While GM has shelved their small diesel for their half-ton trucks, Ram looks to be soldiering on with their plans for a diesel 1500. Some new spy shots have caught a Ram 1500 single-cab with an odd thing. On this truck, the rear fender happens to be covered with soot, leading us to believe this happens to be a diesel 1500.
Left Lane News speculates that under the hood lies a version of the Italian-built VM Motori 3.0L diesel V6 that will power the 2013/2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The 3.0L V6 produces 240 HP and over 400 lb-ft. of torque.
Source: Left Lane News
William Maley

Rumorpile: Subaru Considering Electric Turbocharging for Next WRX

Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 4th, 2012
“Turbocharging” isn’t quite the dirty word it used to be these days. With strict fuel economy standards looming in the near horizon and the price of a gallon of gas unstable, automakers have turned to building and selling smaller turbo-powered engines to increase fuel economy without losing power. Buyers also seem to be responding favorably to turbo engines — for example, Ford's EcoBoost F-150 is enjoying better sales than comparable V8 models.
While it seems like a win-win situation on spec sheets and in sales, in the real word modern turbocharged engines still sometimes suffer from turbo lag and require additional, sometimes complicated piping. And although something like Chrysler’s 1.4 liter turbo four will undoubtedly be more reliable than its primitive ancestors from the 1980s, automakers are still constantly looking at ways to improve and reduce the drawbacks associated with turbocharged engines.
Enter Subaru then, who is considering replacing the exhaust-gas driven turbocharger on its WRX performance model for an electric-powered design. According to Australia’s Drive magazine, Subaru’s electric turbo would operate on heat generated from the exhaust which would be converted into electricity that would power the turbine. Such a design could eliminate most, if not all of the associated piping and drastically reduce turbo lag.
The electric turbo is just one of the many rumors circulating about the next WRX. Expected to bow sometime around 2014, there are whispers that the new WRX will be available as a two-door coupe and have distinct styling that will borrow nothing from the related Impreza. Subaru Australia representative David Rowley spoke to Drive and agreed with the latter rumor, saying that it would “look considerably different.”
The engine for the next WRX is expected to be a 1.6 liter boxer four, just in case you were wondering what that neat electric turbo could show up attached to. Only one question remains, though. How much power will this whiz-bang turbo setup be good for?
Source: Drive
Blake Noble

Rumorpile: Chevy’s Upcoming SS Sedan May Give Way to a New Ute and Wagon

Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 4th, 2012
GM hasn’t exactly been bashful about the fact it plans to build a new rear-drive performance sedan for Chevrolet next year, and race it on your local NASCAR track. Announced in March of this year, the upcoming Chevy — which will wear the SS moniker in either short or long-hand form — should likely boast the same 6.2 liter V8 heart which furiously beats beneath the hood of the Camaro SS. The 6.2 should produce upwards of 415 horsepower for use in the SS sedan.
When news broke about the Chevrolet SS, it was widely believed that the car would be only be available with a V8 and four doors. However, that may not turn out to be the case as it seems GM may be planning to further expand the Bowtie brand’s portfolio of rear-drive cars.
Car and Driver is reporting that after the SS is introduced with the hairy-chested 6.2 V8, Chevrolet will offer a version of the car for more squeamish buyers using a 3.6 liter V6 good for churning out 300-plus horsepower. This doesn’t come as much of a surprise given that most automakers must remain conscious of ever increasing CAFE regulations with every new model and a V6-powered Chevy SS would likely achieve highway mpg figures somewhere in the upper 20s.
What may be seen as surprising is that the Chevy SS family may not be comprised of just a V6 or V8-powered sedan. When the SS moves to an updated, lighter version of the Zeta platform on which it is based, GM could very well introduce additional ute (read: ElCamino) and wagon bodystyles. This should take place around 2015, and production of the SS will also shift to North America — likely GM’s plant in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada — from Australia where it will first be built alongside the related Holden Commodore.
It’s worth mentioning that while production of the Chevy SS will probably move out of Australia, it’s unclear if the Holden Commodore will follow suit. Australian website Drive is skeptical and thinks if the Commodore leaves its native home it likely wouldn’t happen until a totally new model is introduced for 2018, pending future currency exchange rates and sales.
Whatever the case, enthusiasts will undoubtedly be excited at the prospect of not only the upcoming Chevy SS, but a new wagon and especially a successor to the beloved ElCamino. Let’s just hope that GM doesn’t revoke anyone’s green card this time around.
Sources: Car and Driver, Drive
Blake Noble

Déjà Vu: GM Really Wants a Slice of Isuzu Motors

Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 3rd, 2012
At one point in the past, General Motors held a 49 percent stake in the Japanese automaker Isuzu. Over the years however, as GM’s market share eroded and the Detroit car company began fighting against the tides of red ink, it began selling off its shares in Isuzu until the alliance came quietly to an end. In 2006, it sold off its last 7.9 percent stake in the company for a reported $300 million dollars in order to fund restructuring efforts that were badly needed at the time.
History is about to repeat itself then, as General Motors is reportedly in talks with Isuzu Motors to form a new alliance. This past Sunday, Japanese newspaper Nikkei reported that GM could buy a 10 percent stake in Isuzu. The two automakers would collaborate on developing pickup trucks and selling vehicles in Central and South America, as well as Asia. Isuzu could also benefit from access to GM’s hybrid know-how and other fuel saving technologies.
Since emerging from bankruptcy in 2009, GM has been focused on striking up new partnerships. Most notably, GM recently bought a 7 percent stake in Peugeot-Citroen SA back in March that cost $423 million dollars.
While General Motors may be set to take 10 percent of Isuzu, it’s also rumored that GM initially wanted to buy 33.4 percent of the automaker — which amounts to roughly one-third — at a cost of $3 billion dollars. If GM didn’t scale down how much of Isuzu it wanted to buy, it would give GM the right to veto any decision made by board members.
Source: Reuters 4/29/12, Reuters 5/2/12
Blake Noble

Interactive First Drive: 2013 Dodge Dart

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 2, 2012
If you have been wondering why there has been a lack of news here on Cheers & Gears for the past couple of days, I can explain why.
Right now I'm in Austin and just finished up driving the new Dodge Dart. I will have a first drive report sometime next week, but I wanted to give some quick impressions about it.
Compared to the Caliber, the Dart is a drastic 180 turn. The Dart's overall look has a lot of Italian influence with smooth surfaces and sexy curves. But the Dart is still a Dodge and lets you know about it. The front carries Dodge's crosshair grill. Step around the back and the back light bar from the Challenger and Charger makes an appearance.
As for the Dart's interior, its a massive step forward with flowing lines, soft touch materials, and technologies like an optional 8-inch touchscreen. One downside is lack of legroom for back seat passengers.
Three powertrains are available for the Dart: a 2.0L Tigershark four-cylinder, a 1.4T four-cylinder, and a 2.4L Tigershark four. At the Dart event, only the 2.0L and 1.4T were available to drive. The 2.4L four will be out later this year with the R/T.
The 2.0L Tigershark produces 160 HP and 148 lb-ft of torque and can go through either a six-speed manual or automatic. During the drive, I found 2.0L and automatic to be a fine companion as power came smoothly, even though you had to climb above 3,000 RPMs to find it. Dodge says the Dart gets fuel economy of 25 MPG city and 36 MPG highway. During the time I had behind the wheel, I averaged about 29 MPG.
As the 1.4T, I didn't get the chance to drive it due to the models equipped came as six-speed manuals and I can't drive a manual. A dual-clutch transmission is due out later this year and hopefully I will get the chance to check it out.
As for the drive, the Dart is a sweetheart. The Dart's suspension tip toes the lines of sport and comfort. One moment, the Dart provides excellent handling around the twisty roads of Texas. The next, the Dart is providing a smooth and quiet ride. Steering is heavy and direct, something that is very appricated.
I will have more thoughts on the Dart later next week. If you guys have any questions, I will do my best to answer them.
William Maley

Manual Transmissions Becoming Somewhat Popular Again

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 1, 2012
From the Twilight Zone file: USA Today reports that 6.5% of new vehicles sold in the first quarter were equipped with a manual transmission, which is more than double of vehicles sold with them in 2007. It's also the highest amount since 2006 when 7.2% vehicles were sold with manual transmission.
The take rate is more impressive when you take into account that 19% of the 2,360 different models on sale offer a manual.
The increase is attributed to the lower prices of manual transmission vehicles, fun factor, and ease of operation.
The increased interest of manual transmissions by buyers have surprised automakers.
For example, Ford says that 10% of Focus demand is for a manual transmission. Orignally, Ford had planned on 4 to 4.5% demand for a manual.
Source: USA Today
William Maley

2013 Ford Focus ST To Cost $23,700

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
May 1, 2012
Thanks to the folks at FordSTNation.com, we know now what the starting price of the 2013 Ford Focus ST will be. $23,700 (excluding the $795 destination charge) will get you into a 247 HP hot hatch according to a leaked spec sheet.
The pricetag undercuts the four-door GTI by a $100 and the Mazdaspeed3 by $300.
The spec sheet also reveals two equipment groups adding on an additional $2,505 and $4,840. A fully loaded ST will cost around $29,000.
Source: FordSTNation.com via The Truth About Cars
William Maley

Rumorpile: Scratch 1.4T Out: Jetta and Beetle To Get 1.8T

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 29, 2012
For the past six months, we've been following rumors about what will replace Volkswagen's 2.5L five-cylinder engine that is used in the Jetta, Golf, Beetle, and Passat.
Last November, a report from Car & Driver stated the 2.5L will be replaced by a 1.8T. Then in January, Volkswagen executives hinted the Jetta, Beetle, and Golf could get the 1.4T that will be under the hood of the upcoming Jetta Hybrid.
Now, Car & Driver reports the 1.8T for the Jetta, Beetle, and Golf is back on the table according to a source. Car & Driver speculates with Volkswagen's ambitious sales goal by 2018, it will be more efficient and more cost-effective to minimize the number of engines it offers.
Source: Car & Driver
William Maley

Google: Who Wants To Partner With Us On Self-Driving Vehicles?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 29, 2012
This past week at the SAE World Congress in Detroit, Google says that self-driving cars can be on U.S. roads within the next few years.
We don't know what it's going to take to show its safer than a driver. It's much sooner than the next decade," said Google project manager Anthony Levandowski.
Levandowski revealed that Google is in talks with auto makers and suppliers about working with them on the technology.
"All options are open. From giving the technology away to licensing it to working with Tier 1s, Tier 2s, working with the OEMs, building a car with them, everything is open and we're trying to figure out which paths make the most sense. We're talking to basically every car company to see what their level of excitement is and how do we work with them."
But before Google's prediction of self-driving cars on roads within the next few years come true, there will be many legal and insurance hurdles to get over.
So far, Google has successfully lobbied legislation in Nevada for testing of autonomous vehicles on public roads.
Google is now in talks with insurance companies about creating policies that would cover autonomous vehicle owners. Also, the company is planning to log at least 1 million miles on the technology before its allowed in the real world. Currently, Google said they have logged about 250,000 miles on their fleet of ten Toyota Priuses.
Source: The Detroit News
William Maley

Lamborghini Snaps Up Another Trademark: “Huracán”

Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 28th, 2012
Lamborghini has certainly been trademarking any sort of interesting name it can get its hands on lately. Earlier this month, we reported that the Italian supercar builder laid claim to the “Deimos” name. It wasn’t much longer after that rumors quickly began to circulate that Lamborghini also trademarked “Urus” — rumors that proved to be true when the super-SUV concept car debuted at the Beijing Auto Show.
Now, according to Car and Driver, Lamborghini has snapped up another trademark and you can add “Huracán” to the list of names the marque has acquired.
If you haven’t figured out the meaning of the name yet, we’ll save you the trouble. The word “huracán” is Spanish for the word hurricane. In fact, the English language pretty much borrows the word complete from the Spanish language. Ironically, the word isn’t native to Spanish either — Huracán is actually the name of the god of fire, wind, and storms in Mayan mythology. That also ties in nicely with Deimos, which was the name of the god who embodied fear and dread in Greek mythology.
We know what Lamborghini applied the Urus moniker to, but we still have yet to see what the automaker intends to do with the Deimos and Huracán names. We know a replacement for the Gallardo supercar is in the works and may be renamed with either of the two names. Is it possible, though, that Lamborghini may elect to rename the production version of the Urus?
Source: Car and Driver
Blake Noble

Spying: Opel Adam/Junior Spotted at the Nurburgring

G. Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 28th, 2012
To say that Opel has been eyeing the success of the Fiat 500 would be something of an understatement. In fact, it’s almost well known that the German automaker has been hard at work on a new model the last few years to compete with the small Italian city car. Now new spy photos have emerged of the upcoming small Opel lapping the Nurburgring as engineers put its sporting prowess to the test.
During the course of its development, the new Opel city car has worn a few different names. The first two monikers were “Junior” — borrowed from an old Opel city car concept designed by Chris Bangle dating back to the 1980s — then “Allegra.” Now some rumors indicate that Opel may choose to name the car “Adam” in honor of company founder Adam Opel. Whatever Opel chooses to call it, the automaker has chosen to formally announce the car on Tuesday May 8th, 2012. A debut at the Paris Auto Show is likely.
Beyond the curious issue of what they’ll name it, there isn’t too much more information out there about the Opel Junior Allegra Adam. It has been suggested that the Adam will measure in at 3.70 meters long (or roughly 144 inches), making it smaller than the Opel Agila but longer than the Volkswagen Up! by 15 centimeters (about 6 inches) and the Fiat 500 by around 10 centimeters (or about 4 inches). There isn’t much word on what will be under the hood, but it seems likely that a three-cylinder engine co-developed with SAIC could appear on the spec sheets.
Pricing is rumored to start around 10,000€ (about $13,000 USD) when the small Opel goes on sale next spring.
Sources: Opel, CarPix via Autoblog
Blake Noble

Coming Soon, A Ferrari Hybrid

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 27, 2012
Ferrari's replacement for the Enzo supercar will be the prancing horse's first hybrid.
"We are entering the market with our Formula One-derived hybrid system, which will slash fuel consumption and increase performance," said Ferrari CEO Amedeo Felisa.
The hybrid system, called HY-KERS, improves fuel consumption by 40% while slashing the time it takes to accelerate from 0 to 124 MPH by 3 seconds compared with a Ferrari model without the system in testing.
Ferrari says the system will add about 265 pounds to a car. To help offset the addition, Ferrari will cut more weight out and use more carbon fiber.
Source: Autoweek
William Maley

Is The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Producing 662 HP & 630 lb-ft?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 26, 2012
It only seemed like a few months ago when Ford was showing off the new GT500 at the L.A. Auto Show and it was announced that it would be producing 650 HP and 600 lb-ft of torque. However, the GT500 wasn't certified by the SAE.
If a report from the Team Shelby message board prove to be accurate, the 2013 GT500 has finally gotten its official figures. Those figures are 662 HP and 630 lb-ft of torque.
Jamal Hameedi, Ford’s SVT team chief engineer and Jim Owens, Vice President of marketing for Shelby revealed the data during an interview.
Source: Team Shelby Forum
William Maley

Did OnStar Also Let Word Slip About a New Cadillac?

G. Blake Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 26th, 2012
Yesterday, we reported about OnStar possibly letting word slip about what name GM may apply to the upcoming Holden Commodore-based Chevrolet sports sedan. Apparently, however, OnStar also let the cat out of the bag on another upcoming model from Cadillac.
According to this screen capture nabbed yesterday by tech blogger Christopher Price, for a short time OnStar’s 2014 compatibility guide listed the Cadillac ELR. The Cadillac ELR — whose name actually stands for “Electric Long Range” and not “Electric Luxury Roadster” — will more or less be a production version the Volt-based Converj luxury coupe concept shown at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.
Expect to see the Cadillac ELR introduced sometime next year. Aside from North America, Cadillac’s plug-in hybrid should also go on sale in China alongside the recently revealed Cadillac XTS.
Source: christopherprice.net
Blake Noble

GM CEO Pushes For Internal Successor

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 26, 2012
General Motors' CEO, Dan Akerson recently said that he would like to see GM’s next CEO come from within the company ranks.
“My preference would be for it to be an internal candidate just because as you might expect, in any company in any industry, it’s less disruptive,” Akerson said at the 2012 Automotive News China Conference.
Akerson told The Wall Street Journal earlier this month that GM Vice Chairman Steve Girsky is on the list of candidates with a shot at replacing him as CEO. Also on that list are North America chief Mark Reuss and global product head Mary Barra.
When asked how long he would continue on as GM CEO, Akerson hinted at a timeframe of two to five years.
"I owe the board, as every CEO does, what happens if I get run over today? What would I recommend you do, tomorrow? But that's not what we're really worried about. We're worried about what happens two to five years from now."
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
William Maley

Audi Shows The Refreshed Q5

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 26, 2012
Audi has given their midsize crossover, the Q5, a mid-cycle refresh. Not that you actually can tell on the outside or the inside. Both got subtle styling changes and updates. The big news on the Q5 refresh is what lies under the hood.
The only engine sticking around is the base 2.0T with 225 HP and 258 lb-ft of torque. Everything else is all new. Replacing the 3.2L V6 is Audi's supercharged 3.0T (don't ask why they didn't use an S instead of a T) producing 272 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Also, coming is a 3.0L diesel churning out 245 hp and a eye-watering 428 lb-ft of torque and a Hybrid model that pairs the 2.0L Turbo and a 54 HP electric motor which together produce 245 HP and 354 lb-ft of torque.
Press Release is on Page 2
High-performance SUV with many talents – the updated Audi Q5
- Completely updated Q5 model series
- New engine-transmission pairings are up to 15 percent more efficient
- Audi connect services set new benchmark for infotainment
INGOLSTADT, Germany, Apr 24, 2012 - Sporty, spacious, comfortable and multifunctional – the Audi Q5 has a versatile and successful character. Now the mid-class SUV is even more attractive, efficient and sporty – adding many new solutions in design, infotainment, chassis and engines. The Q5 hybrid quattro, the brand’s first production hybrid model, unites the power of a V6 with the fuel economy of a four cylinder.
Engines
Audi is launching its updated Q5 with five engine options: three TDI and two TFSI engines. All of these engines combine direct fuel injection with charging, and a start-stop system is standard in all versions. Although most of the engines have enhanced performance, their fuel consumption values were reduced by up to 15 percent.
The most efficient Q5 series engine is the 2.0 TDI; Audi offers it in two versions. In the version with 105 kW (143 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque, the four-cylinder engine in combination with manual transmission and front-wheel drive has an average fuel consumption of 5.3 liters of diesel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg) – and a CO2 equivalent of 139 grams per km (223.70 g/mile). The 75 liter (19.81 US gallon) fuel tank enables driving ranges of up to 1,400 km (870 miles).
The Audi Q5 with 130 kW (177 hp) and 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque (with S tronic and quattro drive) has a fuel consumption value of 6.0 liters per 100 km (39.20 US mpg). The 3.0 TDI delivers 180 kW (245 hp) and 580 Nm (427.79 lb-ft) of torque. The V6 diesel – which appears in a new, advanced design and is always paired with a seven-speed S tronic and quattro drive system – accelerates the Q5 from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.5 seconds and has a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). Its combined fuel consumption is just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (36.75 US mpg).
The gasoline engines of the updated Audi Q5 also feature state-of-the-art technology. A highlight of the TFSI engine line-up is the new two-liter, four-cylinder engine that has numerous innovations such as in the control of valves and their stroke, innovative thermal management, the fuel injection system, turbocharger and integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head.
The new 2.0 TFSI outputs 165 kW (225 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft). Its fuel consumption (with a manual transmission) is 7.6 liters per 100 km (30.95 US mpg). Producing even more power is the new 3.0 TFSI – the three-liter V6 with supercharging, which replaces the 3.2-liter engine. This engine outputs 200 kW (272 hp) of power and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque. Key performance data: zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.9 seconds, top speed 234 km/h (145.40 mph), combined fuel consumption of 8.5 liters per 100 km (27.67 US mpg).
Transmissions
Each of the engines in the updated Q5 has an optimal transmission system. The four-cylinder engine operates with a manual six-speed transmission as standard equipment. The highly convenient eight-speed tiptronic is available as an option for the 2.0 TFSI with 165 kW (225 hp); it is standard in the 3.0 TFSI. The sporty seven-speed S tronic, on the other hand, is standard in the 3.0 TDI and available as an option in the 2.0 TDI with 130 kW (177 hp).
The transmissions are integrated in the innovative thermal management system of the four-cylinder versions, a system that significantly shortens the warm-up phase after a cold start. All transmissions have wide gear spreads – the long gear ratios in the upper gears reduce fuel consumption, while the short gear ratios of the lower gears improve dynamic performance in highway driving.
The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system is standard with all but one engine – only the 2.0 TDI with 105 kW (143 hp) has front-wheel drive. Normally, the center differential distributes engine power to the rear and front axle at a ratio of 60:40, but it can redistribute the power at lightning speed when necessary. The torque vectoring system finishes its job with finely tuned brake interventions.
Chassis
The chassis of the Audi Q5 – with its five-link front suspension and trapezoidal-link rear suspension – adds new refinement and comfort in the characteristics of the springs, shock absorbers and stabilizers. The new electro­mechanical power steering system gives the driver a better feel for the road with direct gearing. The system – which adjusts its power assist to vehicle speed – does not consume any energy in straight-line driving, reducing fuel consumption by about 0.2 liters per 100 km.
The Q5 has 17-inch aluminum wheels and size 235/65 tires (18-inch wheels from 165 kW [225 hp]). Audi and quattro GmbH can deliver wheels with up to 20-inch diagonals and tires up to 255/45. Customers who are particularly focused on sports performance can order the S line sport suspension. The electromechanical parking brake may be supplemented with the optional Audi hold assist, and the standard downhill assist function controls vehicle speed on steep descents. Electronic stabilization control (ESC) adapts its interventions to characteristics of the road surface.
Another high-end feature in the Audi Q5 is the Audi drive select system. It lets the driver vary the characteristic of the accelerator pedal, the shift points of the automatic transmission, amount of power steering assist and operation of the automatic air conditioning system via four modes, including an efficiency mode. When an Audi navigation system is ordered, a fifth mode is added that is largely user-programmable.
In addition, three optional components may be integrated in Audi drive select. They are adaptive cruise control, chassis with damping control and dynamic steering, in which the steering gear ratio is modified as a function of vehicle speed via a harmonic drive system. At performance limits in driving through curves, it compensates for understeer and oversteer by intervening with slight steering pulses.
The Audi Q5 also performs very well on rugged terrain. Its maximum climbing angle is 31 degrees. The vehicle’s approach and departure angles are each 25 degrees, while its ramp angle is 17 degrees. The vehicle’s ground clearance measures 20 centimeters (7.87 inches).
Exterior styling
The Audi Q5 is progressive and sporty, spacious and functional. Its styling, with a coupe-like roof line and wrap-around tailgate, visualizes all of these properties – and it is now acquiring distinctive new traits. The interior design of the headlights has been modified; the LED daytime running lights of the optional xenon plus units are shaped as curved bands that surround the headlights. Audi also offers the optional adaptive light with dynamic cornering light and static turning light.
The horizontal lines of the high-performance SUV’s front end are emphasized more strongly. The high-gloss black Singleframe grille has beveled upper edges; its vertical chrome struts and the Audi rings have a sculpted look. The modified bumpers integrate air inlets with high-gloss black inserts and fog lights with chrome rings.
When xenon plus headlights are ordered, the tail lights are also designed with a layout of visually uniform LED light bands. The diffuser insert and the tailpipes that taper at the bottom have been redesigned – in two versions, depending on the engine. Roof rails and crossbars are standard equipment.
There is a range of 15 colors, including four new colors. As options, Audi can deliver an S line exterior package or an offroad styling package; both give the Q5 a unique look with their design details and the colors of add-on parts.
The updated SUV is 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long, 1.90 meters (6.23 feet) wide and 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) tall. Its drag coefficient is 0.33 and its frontal area is 2.65 m2 (28.52 square feet); the curb weight of the base version is 1,755 kg (3,869.11 lb).
The engine hood and trunk lid consist of aluminum, while a large share of the car’s structural elements integrate ultra-high-strength steels; they reduce weight and improve crash safety. The high-performance SUV’s interior has a solid and highly comfortable look. Audi received the “Euro Car Body Award” for the Q5 body – the most prestigious award in car design.
Interior
The interior of the Audi Q5 has made additional strides in refined styling. Many of the user controls have narrow chrome trim; the steering column control stalks, ignition key and instruments were given subtle modifications. The narrow panels of the center console are high-gloss black. All steering wheel versions, including versions with shift paddles, reflect the new Q-specific styling.
The ergonomics have also been fine-tuned. The central media component, MMI navigation plus, now has four buttons, and its volume dial has an additional skip function. Other refinements have been made to the controls for the seat heating, the new highly efficient air conditioning system, the Audi drive select system and the multifunction steering wheel.
Extras worthy of special mention are the convenience key, three-zone automatic air conditioning system and climate-controlled comfort seats with a ventilation function. The panoramic glass roof also creates a pleasant atmosphere in the interior.
An uncompromisingly high quality of workmanship is a matter of pride at Audi. Selections of materials, colors and upholstery fabrics have been updated – three new interior colors, three fabric and three leather qualities and a total of 35 different combinations offer plenty of latitude when it comes to customization.
Large fabric-upholstered surfaces are standard on the door trim panels; inlay options include three wood veneers and one aluminum version.
The S line sport package offers a black interior; sport seats and elegant trim components make it even more elegant. The package is completed by 19-inch wheels with 235/55 tires, a sport suspension and the exclusive exterior color Daytona Grey, pearl effect. The design packages, Audi exclusive program and Audi exclusive line offer other exclusive choices.
The Audi Q5 is a car with outstanding practical talents when it comes to recreational and family activities. It offers ample interior space with a long wheelbase of 2.81 meters (9.22 feet). The seatback angles can be adjusted on the rear seats. When these seats are folded – which is very easy using the remote seatback unlatching feature – the cargo capacity increases from 540 to 1,560 liters (19.07 to 55.09 cubic feet).
Audi offers an optional rail system for the cargo space, an electric drive for the tailgate, folding front passenger seatback and rear seating system with ten centimeters (3.94 inches) of longitudinal adjustment together with cargo pass-through feature. The Audi Q5 is also a powerful towing vehicle with up to 2.4 metric tons of trailer load, depending on the engine and hill incline.
Driver assistance systems
In the updated Q5, the driving is relaxed and carefree – in part due to the highly developed assistance systems from Audi. The driver information system with rest recommendation is a standard feature. If the system detects that the driver’s attentiveness is waning – based on steering wheel movements and other parameters – it recommends that the driver take a break from driving.
Assuming a central role among the optional assistance systems is adaptive cruise control. The radar-based cruise control system controls the distance to the car ahead in traffic; at speeds under 30 km/h (18.64 mph) it can initiate hard braking if it detects an impending collision. Audi active lane assist can support the driver with small steering interventions to stay on track in a lane. Audi side assist monitors the space behind the Q5 to support the driver in changing lanes.
Infotainment systems and Audi connect
Audi offers a broad selection of infotainment systems in the updated Q5. Positioned at the top: the Bang & Olufsen sound system and MMI navigation plus with a large hard drive, seven-inch color monitor, 3D graphics and DVD player. Many system details have been improved, e.g. voice control and the optional digital radio reception. The system is a standard feature in the Q5 hybrid quattro, together with the Audi sound system and color driver information system.
The Bluetooth car phone online perfectly complements MMI navigation plus. Its integrated WLAN hotspot lets passengers surf the Internet and email with their mobile devices. For the driver, it brings customized Audi connect online services into the car, such as Google Point of Interest search by voice control, navigation with Google Earth images and Google Street View. Audi traffic information online, a service of Audi connect, offers the driver up-to-the-minute information about traffic on the selected route.
Another new feature is the smartphone app Audi music stream. Q5 drivers can use it to receive more than 5,000 Internet radio stations, and they can save their favorites to their cell phones. The selected program accesses MMI navigation plus via WLAN, and its audio signal is output over the audio system loudspeakers. Web radio is also controlled from the vehicle’s user terminal.
Audi Q5 hybrid quattro
The Q5 hybrid quattro, the first hybrid model from Audi, is designed as a highly efficient parallel hybrid. Propulsive power is supplied by a 2.0 TFSI with 155 kW (211 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque as well as an electric motor with a peak output of 40 kW (54 hp) and peak torque of 210 Nm (154.89 lb-ft). Together, the two power sources can briefly output a system power of 180 kW (245 hp) and a system torque of 480 Nm (354.03 lb-ft).
The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.1 seconds and can reach a top speed of 225 km/h (139.81 mph). In pure electric mode, it can cover up to three kilometers (1.86 miles) at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph). In this mode, its top speed is 100 km/h (62.14 mph), while its combined fuel consumption is just 6.9 liters per 100 km (34.09 US mpg).
A highly modified eight-speed tiptronic transmission transfers engine power to the drivetrain without requiring a torque converter; its mounting space is taken by the electric motor, which is combined with a multi-plate clutch. The clutch engages and disengages the electric motor and the TFSI. A compact and lightweight lithium-ion battery system with 1.3 kWh energy capacity stores electrical energy. A complex air cooling system maintains battery temperatures within a suitable window.
The driver switches between the three driving modes with a button and with the tiptronic gear selection lever. The EV characteristic map prioritizes the electric drive, while the D mode efficiently controls both the internal combustion engine and electric motor. The S mode and the manual shift gate of the tiptronic are configured for a sporty style of driving.
Within these constraints, the hybrid control module chooses the best operating mode at any given time. The Audi Q5 hybrid quattro can be driven with just the TFSI, just the electric drive or in hybrid mode. It can also recover energy during deceleration, or it can boost output for powerful acceleration when both drives work together.
Outside, the Audi Q5 hybrid quattro can be recognized by its fully painted bumpers and by the hybrid-specific ten-arm turbine design of its wheels. 19-inch wheels are standard; 20-inch wheels are optional. Inside, special instruments display the hybrid’s operating state – such as the powermeter, which replaces the tachometer.
Prices
Despite extensive vehicle upgrading and the addition of new features, the price of the Audi Q5 has barely risen for customers. For example, the 2.0 TDI with 130 kW (177 hp) costs just 150 euros more than the previous model with 125 kW (170 hp); its base price is 39,900 euros. The high-performance SUV will arrive at dealers later this summer.
William Maley

Did OnStar Accidently Confirm An SS Model In 2014?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 25, 2012
A few days after we caught wind of GM trademarking the SS nameplate, a blogger uncovered an interesting entry in a OnStar document.
Christopher Price found on OnStar's vehicle compatibility guide that the 2014 Chevrolet lineup includes an "SS Performance" entry. Could this be the mysterious RWD Chevrolet sedan that we've been hearing about for the past few months?
Source: christopherprice.net, Motoramic
William Maley

Maserati Kubang Concept To Bid Adieu, Production Version To Arrive 2014

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 25, 2012
This years Beijing Auto Show marks the end of the road for the Maserati Kubang concept.
"After Beijing, we will retire the Kubang concept. Our SUV will reappear in its production form and with its final name in due time," said Maserati CEO Harald Wester.
Beijing marks the forth showing of the Kubang SUV. First unveiled at last year's Frankfurt auto show, the Kubang also has been shown at Dubai and Detroit.
Sources inside Maserati say the production version will arrive in 2014.
Source: Autoweek
William Maley

Review: 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Crew Cab

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 25, 2012
My name is William Maley and I love pickups trucks. I’m not sure why I love them. I don’t work on a farm or a construction site, tow an RV, carry an ATV, or anything else you do with a pickup.
Maybe it’s their large size, brooding V8 engines, and the ability go anywhere and do pretty much anything. Or maybe it’s due to me riding in many pickups as a child. Something about them just makes me smile.
So I was excited when a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LTZ Crew Cab was dropped off for a weeklong evaluation. Despite being the second oldest full-size truck on sale, it was the second best selling truck in 2011. I had two questions that I would hopefully have answers to: Would my love continue for the pickup truck? And, how would I feel about the Silverado after a week.
Onward to the exterior
Exterior
It’s hard to believe that the Silverado is going into its sixth model year if you only judge it on the exterior. The front end carries Chevrolet’s trademark dual grills surrounded by either chrome bars or as on our test truck, bars in the truck’s Victory Red color. Flanking on either side of the grill are large, square headlights. The hood protrudes in two places where the driver and passenger sit.
The side profile features flared out front and back fenders, helping give the Silverado an aggressive look. Also, the optional door rails add both a touch of class and make it easier to get in and out. Otherwise, cover up the side lettering on the front doors and could you tell me whether it’s a Silverado or a GMC Sierra?

As for the back, the chrome plated bumper features bumps for the rear parking sensors. The truck bed on this Silverado happens to be shortest, measuring at 5-feet 8-inches. This means you have to play Tetris when loading certain objects into the bed, as I learned over Easter when loading some new bedroom furniture. Luckily, all of the furniture boxes got into the bed, thanks to skills I had learned from playing a Tetris.
How did the Silverado fare in the interior department?
Interior
One place where you can tell interior is six years old is the dash. While the trim for the LTZ model is from the Suburban/Tahoe SUVs, it uses hard plastics that are very cheesy looking. I would forgive it if it was around $30,000, but when the price is pushing $48,000, you expect better materials to be used.
Then, there is the optional Navigation system. I do give GM props for updating the system software this year, bringing it somewhat in line with the current software used in the Cruze and other models. Plus, the system provides the ability to split radio information and navigation on the same screen. But, using the two rows of small buttons on either side of the screen to help move to different functions and control the system is a big pain in the butt. As for touch, the system responds quickly. As for the sound, the standard Bose system belted out very a good quality sound.

GM deserves credit for the comfortable front seats. This being the range topping Silverado, they’re heated and power adjustable, plus the driver gets two memory settings.
Back seat passengers will approve the comfortable seats as well and the large amount of head and legroom. Also, the bottom part of back seat will folds up, expanding interior cargo room.
On to the Ride & Drive
Ride & Drive
The Silverado Crew Cab comes with three V8 engine options: 4.8L, FlexFuel 5.3L, and 6.2L. Also, the Crew Cab comes in a Hybrid configuation. The hybrid uses a 6.0L V8 and two electric motors hooked up to a 300 volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack. This particular Silverado Crew Cab was equipped with the 5.3L, which is rated at 315 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque. Fill the tank with E85 and and the computer will grant you additional power rising to 326 horsepower and 348 ft-lb of torque. The 5.3L is hooked to a six-speed automatic.
Despite the roughly 5,400 curb weight, the powertrain makes it a non-existent problem. Power comes on strong and can be delivered at any speed. The six-speed transmission delivered smooth and unobtrusive shifts. Sadly, I didn’t get to test the towing capacity of the Silverado Crew Cab, but did test the payload. As I mentioned earlier in this review, I had some bedroom furniture sitting in the bed. The Silverado handled it with ease, feeling like there was nothing sitting in the bed.
Fuel economy for the 5.3L stands at 15 City/21 Highway. Fill up with E85 and the fuel economy drops to 11 City/16 Highway. Average for the week was 15 MPG in mostly city driving. Not surprising at the least, although I would bet the cylinder-deactivation and six-speed transmission played a role into the average I got.

As for driving the Silverado around, it was a challenge for me for the first day or so. The tall ride height and long hood played with my depth perception and caused to me think I was steering the S.S. Silverado. Once I got over those feelings, I began to notice the good and bad.
The Silverado’s steering is very heavy, but it feels very direct. A good thing to have when you the bed is filled with cargo or towing a trailer. Plus, when driving on the highway, the steering was dead straight.
The ride is a mixed bag. Driving on smooth surfaces, the Silverado’s suspension provided a very comfortable ride. On rougher surfaces, the Silverado feels like its transmitting every single bump on the road. There are two causes for that; the optional 20-inch wheels and stiff rear springs to help with carrying large loads.
The Verdict?
Closing Thoughts
At the end of the week, I had the answers. For the first question, the answer was yes, I still have a love for the truck. But, I revised my expectations because of the challenges I had to get over before being comfortable with driving the Silverado.
As for the second question about the Silverado itself, I have a mixed opinion on it. On one hand, the Silverado’s modern looking exterior, comfortable interior, and powertrain combo make it a tough truck to beat.
However, one thing the Silverado cannot beat is its age. Compared to Ford F-150 and the refreshed Ram 1500, the Silverado begins to fade. The interior, while simplistic in design, uses lower quality materials that are a big negative in 2012. Also, the ride quality could be improved when driving over rough surfaces
The Silverado is a very good and a very competent truck. But being a competent truck doesn’t get you far in the cut-throat world of pickup trucks.
Cheers
Exterior Looks
Comfortable Interior
5.3L V8 and Six-speed automatic
Jeers
Material Quality
Ride Quality
Disclaimer: General Motors provided the Silverado, Insurance, and one tank of Gas

Year - 2012
Make - Chevrolet
Model - Silverado
Trim - 1500 LTZ Crew Cab 4WD
Engine - 5.3L V8
Driveline - Four Wheel Drive, Six Speed Automatic
Horsepower @ RPM - 315 @ 6300
Torque @ RPM - 335 @ 3800
Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 15/21/17
Curb Weight - 5410 lbs
Location of Manufacture - Silao, Mexico
Base Price - $42,440.00
As Tested Price - $48,419.00 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge)
William Maley

*UPDATE* Spying: Chevrolet Sliverado/GMC Sierra On The Road Again

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 24, 2012
Some new spy shots of the next generation Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups have hit the internets today and we can gleam some new information about them.
The Silverado/Sierra appears to be going towards a more upright and boxy look than the previous model. The front end looks to be more evolutionary than revolutionary, continuing with the large, square headlights and wide grille. Also, it appears the Silverado will continue on with the center bar running across the grille.
As for powertrains, the next generation Silverado and Sierra are expected to be the first vehicles to be equipped with GM's new Gen V small block V8. The Gen V small block V8 will come with new tech like aluminum construction, direct-injection and cylinder deactivation. A V6 and a hybrid powertrain are also in the cards.
Source: Left Lane News
UPDATE: Following up on the new spy shots of the Siverado/Sierra 1500, a spy photographer caught the first images of the Silverado 2500.
Known internally as the K2XCZ, the next generation Silverado/Sierra HD, will share most of its styling with its light-duty brother with some differences. The Silverado/Sierra HD will have more substantial frame, higher ride height, and a larger exhaust.
Powertrains will include updated versions of the 6.0L and 6.2L gas engines. A 6.6L Duramax diesel will also be available.
Source: Left Lane News
William Maley

Lamborghini Estoque Concept: I'm Not Dead Yet!

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 24, 2012
With the Lamborghini Urus making its debut at this week's Beijing Motor Show, a question has popped upped about another one of Lamborghini's concepts; what ever happened to the Estoque concept?
The Estoque sedan concept was shown at the 2008 Paris Motor Show as a way to preview a new model line for the brand. Since then, nothing much has happened.
Autoweek had the chance to sit down with CEO Stefan Winkelmann and asked him about the Estoque.
"It [the Estoque] was placed on hold because of a number of reasons, including the lack of a suitable platform. We haven't given up on the idea of a sedan entirely, but we see more potential in a sport-utility vehicle encapsulating typical Lamborghini attributes."
Source: Autoweek
William Maley

Audi Extends Their e-tron concept With A6 L e-tron Concept

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 24, 2012
Audi is extending their e-tron technology to a luxury sedan. At the Beijing Motor Show, Audi introduced the A6 L e-tron concept.
Based on the A6 platform, the A6 L e-tron is on a longer wheelbase. Power comes from a 2.0L TFSI engine making 211 HP and is combined with a 95 HP electric motor that is powered by a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery. The A6 L e-tron can operate in fully-electric, hybrid or gasoline mode as needed.
Audi says the A6 L e-tron concept is technically an concept at the moment, but did admit that it could indicate what an A6 e-tron could look like.
Press Release is on Page 2
Audi A6 L e-tron concept
Audi is presenting its first luxury-class e-tron concept car – a technology study known as the Audi A6 L e-tron concept at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The plug-in hybrid has a powerful drive system that enables a driving range of 80 km (49.71 miles) on pure electric power, and it was specifically designed to fulfill Chinese needs.
The A6 L e-tron concept is an important step towards future electric mobility in China for Audi. With its first e-tron technology study in the luxury class, the company is showing what a locally produced New Energy Vehicle from Audi might look like.
The basis for this study is the new A6 L, the most successful premium automobile and Audi's bestselling model in China. Audi produces this business sedan at the Changchun plant in a joint venture with FAW.
The A6 L e-tron concept is precisely tailored to the requirements of Chinese customers. Plug-in hybrids that can travel long distances electrically – thereby enabling zero emissions driving in local areas – are ideal for use in rapidly growing megacities. Beyond its drive system, the A6 L e-tron concept has all of the qualities that customers value in Audi cars: prestige, comfort and sporty performance.
Parallel hybrid system: intelligently combined TFSI and electric motor
The technology study is a parallel hybrid. It brings together a 2.0 TFSI that outputs 155 kW (211 hp) and an electric motor with 70 kW (95 hp) peak power. The liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery is located in a collision-protected space at the rear of the vehicle. In electric mode, the Audi A6 L e-tron concept can travel up to 80 km (49.71 miles) at a constant speed of 60 km/h (37.28 mph). At any given moment, the hybrid control module chooses the best suited operating mode with the focus on driving range.
This technology platform can be operated with only the internal combustion engine, only the electric drive, or in hybrid mode. In addition, it can recover energy during deceleration, or it can boost output power for strong acceleration by combining the two drives. The Audi A6 L e-tron concept delivers sporty performance.
Setting a course for the future: Audi's e-tron strategy
The rapid advance in urbanization and the associated need to reduce CO2 emissions are a key determining factor for new drive technologies. Audi views electric mobility as a key future technology and is working on highly efficient solutions that simultaneously offer the customer a typical Audi driving experience.
Audi has already launched electrified drive systems in volume production with full hybrid models that have highly advanced lithium-ion technology. The Q5 hybrid quattro, A6 hybrid and A8 hybrid can drive up to three kilometers (1.86 miles) on electric power. In combined mode, which uses the internal combustion engine and electric motor, customers experience sporty driving performance and significantly better fuel economy.
The next step is to implement drive systems in which electric driving is the primary focus. The term Audi e-tron refers to technologies ranging from PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) to range extenders and finally vehicles powered purely by electric batteries or fuel cells.
In its first Audi e-tron concept car, Audi already showed how this future might look. And in the case of the R8 e-tron, this vision will be realized in a short production run later this year.
Audi is using A1 e-tron and A3 e-tron test vehicles to acquire important customer feedback, which can be incorporated in later production cars. The first product will be the A3 e-tron in 2014. It will be followed by other New Energy Vehicles. In this way, e-tron will become established as a further attractive drive technology option alongside TDI and TFSI.
Elegant: the styling
The Audi A6 L e-tron concept is notable for its elegant styling. The sedan, which has a 3.01 meter (9.88 feet) wheelbase, is 5.02 meters (16.47 feet) long and 1.87 meters (6.14 feet) wide, but only 1.46 meters (4.79 feet) tall. Its long engine hood, its low, extended roof line and the sharp lines on its sides create an athletic overall look. Characteristic Audi LED headlights emphasize the car's determined expression.
The car's exterior styling shows its differences from the production car. At the front, the single-frame grille with its slender cross-bars and the nearly covered air intakes attract the eye – both features are typical of all e-tron models. Powerful 21-inch wheels in e-tron design and the special rear diffuser highlight the car's progressive character. On the body, signatures identify the prototype's technology, while under the engine hood a styling capsule covers engine components. A ribbed contour at its center symbolizes the hybrid drive.
Lightweight and strong with Audi ultra: the body
The body of the A6 L e-tron concept is identical to that of the Audi A6 L. It is lightweight, rigid and safe to a maximum degree, due to application of the ultra lightweight principle. Consisting of approximately ten percent aluminum, it weighs about 15 percent less than a comparable all-steel design. Aluminum components in the load-bearing structure and exterior skin, as well as the high-tech steels used in the occupant cell, make the body significantly lighter.
Each new future Audi model will be lighter in weight than the previous model. This makes the brand a frontrunner in reversing the upward weight spiral. In designing car bodies, developers will intelligently use new combinations of materials, including carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP). For Audi, ultra lightweight construction does not solely focus on one material, rather it seeks a flexible approach that utilizes a wide variety of materials – but with one goal: to attain the best performance with the least material usage at the best places.
Furthermore, advanced materials and construction methods achieve an extremely low sound level in the interior of the Audi A6 L e-tron concept. Excellent vibration comfort is attained by fine-tuning components and by hydraulically damping axle and drive mounts.
Comfortable and sporty: the chassis
Audi's ultra lightweight construction competence is also found in the chassis, which combines a high level of comfort with sporty handling. The links are made of aluminum. The power steering, like the brake booster and the air conditioning compressor, utilizes an electromechanical drive.
At the limits of performance in driving through curves, the electronic transverse differential lock – a function of electronic stabilization control (ESC) – stabilizes the Audi A6 L e-tron concept by making small interventions at the front wheel on the outside of the curve.
Luxurious: interior and features
As in the Audi A6 L before it, the interior of the technology platform continues the elegant styling of its exterior design. Its defining element is an arc under the windshield – the wrap-around – that surrounds the driver and front passenger. The front of the instrument panel is designed in the form of a flowing wave. All of the interior details illustrate the aesthetic standard with which Audi builds its vehicles. All materials have been carefully selected and meticulously worked into the design.
The controls are intuitive. The powermeter replaces the tachometer; its pointer indicates total drive system power on a scale of zero to 100 percent. Colored segments indicate the current operating state of the A6 L e-tron concept; an auxiliary instrument visualizes the charge state of the lithium-ion battery.
Meanwhile, the energy flow indicator tells the driver the current operating mode and which hybrid drive components are currently active. It can be called up from the driver information system or MMI monitor. The large screen shows a bar diagram of average fuel economy and indicates the amount of recovered energy over five-minute intervals.
The Audi A6 L e-tron concept offers a lot of space at all seating positions. It integrates all of the model line's luxury-class features. The seats offer ventilation and massage functions, the Bose surround system delivers good sound, and the deluxe automatic air conditioning system with air ionizer ensures a pleasant climate in the car. Ambient lighting adds subtle highlights to the interior illumination.
The driver assistance and safety systems also satisfy the highest standards. Audi active lane assist supports the driver in lane-keeping, while Audi side assist helps to change lanes. When it is dark, the night vision assistant highlights detected pedestrians even at a distance; the parking assistant helps in parking. The Audi pre sense system can reduce the severity of accidents and their consequences in many cases.
The car's features also include MMI navigation plus. Many functions of the large hard-drive navigation system can be controlled by touchpad character input; the touch-sensitive pad, MMI touch, recognizes 29,000 Chinese characters. A team of engineers developed these functions at the Audi Infotainment Tech Center (ITC) in Beijing, where infotainment components from Germany are adapted to suit the wishes of Chinese customers.
William Maley

Bentley Reveals Some Powertrain Details On The EXP 9 F

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 23, 2012
Bentley brought along its polarizing EXP 9 F SUV concept to the Beijing Motor Show this week. Before you ask the answer is no, the EXP 9 F is still the same as we last saw it at Geneva. However, the automaker has revealed the powertrains that will be in the EXP 9 F.
The engines being talked about are 4.0L twin-turbo V8 producing 500 HP and a twin-turbo W12 producing somewhere in the range of 600 HP. Both engines would likely mate to Bentley’s eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system. The third powertrain is a plug-in hybrid that would be based around a V6 engine. Bentley predicts an electric range of at least 19 Miles and a 0 to 62-mph time under five seconds for the plug-in variant.
Bentley is currently saying that these powertrains are under consideration, but we wouldn't be surprised if they all are approved.
Press Release is on Page 2

BENTLEY REVEALS POWERTRAIN DETAILS FOR EXP 9 F LUXURY SUV CONCEPT AT 2012 BEIJING INTERNATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE EXHIBITION


EXP 9 F all-wheel drive luxury Sport Utility Vehicle concept makes debut in China as potential third Bentley model-line
Bold reinterpretation of Bentley design cues in a spacious, versatile and high performance SUV
A range of advanced powertrains under consideration include 500bhp, 4.0 litre V8 Twin turbo, a V6 plug-in hybrid, in addition to the flagship 6.0 litre W12 engine.
An innovative fusion of contemporary, crafted luxury, advanced in-car technology, commanding driving position and all-terrain capability.

(Beijing, 23 April 2012) Bentley is offering a vision of the future with a dramatic new Sport Utility Vehicle concept, EXP 9 F, at the 2012 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition. The Company’s designers and engineers have created a compelling new take on the Grand Touring Bentley – a vehicle that feels equally at home at an opera gala performance, on the sand dunes and the overtaking lane of the autobahn.
Unmistakably a Bentley – yet a Bentley like none before it – the EXP 9 F could herald a third Bentley model-line alongside the bespoke Mulsanne and the high performance Continental GT, GTC and Flying Spur.
Today a global luxury brand with a network of 160 dealers from Shanghai to Beverly Hills, Bentley has an increasingly diverse customer base spanning every continent. For many customers, a dramatically styled, Bentley all-wheel drive SUV which combines a spacious, versatile cabin and commanding driving position, with Bentley’s hallmark power, performance, advanced technology and hand crafted luxury, would be a natural choice both on and off-road.
The new pinnacle-luxury Bentley would offer exhilarating performance, setting new benchmarks for the SUV sector. The EXP 9 F concept on display in Beijing is based around the Bentley 6.0 litre, twin-turbocharged W12 petrol engine, developing 600bhp and 800 Nm of torque coupled with an 8-speed close-ratio transmission.
A range of other powertrain options are also under consideration. This includes Bentley’s recently launched 500bhp, 4.0 litre petrol V8 as well as a groundbreaking powertrain for the luxury SUV segment – a V6 plug-in hybrid. With a potential 30km range in full electric mode and CO2 emissions of 130g/km, the V6 hybrid would still be capable of a 0 to 100km/h sprint time of less than 5 seconds.
“We are very excited by the potential of a high performance, ultra-luxury Bentley SUV. Since we first showed EXP 9 F at Geneva, the response has been overwhelming. Everyone seems to agree that an SUV is a natural fit for Bentley. An exciting range of drivetrain options including a hybrid V6 are under active consideration but one thing is for sure, any Bentley SUV would offer the thunderous performance for which the marque is renowned.” Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors.
BOLD, DYNAMIC, SPORTY DESIGN
Key Bentley styling cues re-interpreted for EXP 9 F with innovative detailing
Sculptured flowing surfaces emphasise power, muscularity and robustness

From a designer’s perspective, EXP 9 F was a dream project, the chance to create a completely new type of Bentley. From the very beginning, the design team had a clear vision for the new Bentley SUV, as Dirk van Braeckel, Director of Design, explains:
“EXP 9 F had to represent the absolute pinnacle of the sport utility sector, setting a new benchmark for this type of vehicle. The style had to reflect Bentley’s sporting character despite its radically different package and purpose together with sculptured, flowing surfaces in keeping with the Bentley tradition.”
A new class of Bentley allowed the styling team to adopt a more progressive design approach. The exterior is a bold, dynamic statement, combining clean, muscular surfaces with signature character lines, while retaining the qualities of luxury and power – a pure Bentley.
Key Bentley cues such as the matrix grille, round lamps and the strong power-line and haunch along each flank are reinterpreted for EXP 9 F. The ‘hewn from solid’ design language and innovative detailing, emphasise the robust character of this high-luxury SUV.
The designers were inspired not only by the more functional nature of EXP 9 F but by the ‘visible engineering’ of the famous Blower Bentleys. For example, the day-time running lamp apertures also act as the charge cooler air intakes for the twin-turbo W12 engine, each with a dramatic, mesh-covered turbine fan design and ‘rifled’ inner surface finish.
The turbine theme continues with the stunning 23-inch alloy wheels, the design of which complements the sculptured coachwork. The multiple spokes are reminiscent of the shape of turbine fan blades while the centrally mounted wheel nut is a visual reference both to Bentley’s Le Mans racers of the 1920s with centre-lock spinner and to the single nut found on the modern-day Speed 8’s high-tech racing alloys.
At the rear, the swooping lines of the tailgate avoid utilitarian overtones in favour of a distinctly sporting profile, while the ultra-wide, two-part split tailgate offers a high level of versatility when grand touring. The bold design language of EXP 9 F is complemented by twin exhaust tailpipes with ‘rifled’ inner surfaces, their elliptical shapes echoing those of the rear light clusters.
The rear lights are inspired by the forms and details of fighter jet engines, uniquely designed so that they glow from within, spreading their light outwards.
INTERIOR – A FUSION OF INNOVATION, LUXURY AND UTILITY
Light, airy, contemporary cabin design with exquisite British ‘sporting’ luxury craft detailing
Contemporary use of touchscreen and tailored interface technologies
Fresh interpretation of traditional handcrafted materials with highly durable surfaces
High degree of practicality including versatile rear cabin layout and full-width, two-piece tailgate

Bentley is renowned for its fusion of extremes – technology and craftsmanship, luxury and performance – and the interior of EXP 9 F expresses the resolution of apparent opposites in its use of materials, techniques and technology, as Dirk van Braeckel explains:
“The challenge for the interior design team was to create a cabin which provides a blend of luxury and utility. The result is a light and airy environment with a commanding view of the road and a versatile layout which showcases Bentley’s craft and design language in an innovative and contemporary way.”
Traditional handcrafted elements such as wood, leather and polished metals such as aluminium, bronze and gunmetal are used to create a sense of British luxury, yet the way they are used sets a fresh and contemporary interior ambience. Soft-touch leather contrasts with highly durable surfaces with the concept car design experimenting with the use of saddle leather for the seat backs, top roll and loadspace – while analogue bezels and dials are paired with TFT ‘virtual’ instrumentation.
Even the luxurious silk wool floormats are reversible – with one side finished in durable, ribbed saddle leather for use when the driver and passengers are dressed for the great outdoors.
The upright dashboard design features a full-width, one-piece wood veneer with a subtly negative surface and instruments with a configurable display. The fluid waist rail design shows pinnacle craftsmanship with chequered, lacquered and oiled finishes. Veneers are sculpted to reveal their solid wood construction. The highly distinctive, carved checkering design on the steering wheel rim, inspired by a shot-gun’s stock, also offers additional grip.
Traditional Bentley ‘bulls eye’ vents have a ‘rifled’ gunmetal inner surface for a more contemporary and functional appearance. The centre console is a blend of functionality and supreme ergonomics with dynamic, architectural layers which help to create a central spine to the cabin. The frame of the console is also a structural component with integrated, sculpted grab handles. The high-gloss black touch-screen surround seamlessly blends into a lacquered veneered surface, emulating the decorative surfaces of a Stratocaster guitar.
The flowing roof design with a panoramic glass panel is inspired by the roll cages of rally cars, expressing both strength and lightness. The innovative, four-zone electro-chromatic ‘sunroof’ allows individual passengers to select their preferred level of light screening
Rear seat passengers can chose between business mode, with generous legroom complete with fold-down keyboard and full internet connectivity via an iPad or tablet or a more reclined position with powered footrest, drinks table and an infotainment screen for movies. A removable Touch Pad located on the centre console manages the rear cabin climate control system and entertainment functions. When the rear seats are not in use, they can be powered forward to create a larger loadspace for sports equipment or luggage.
The EXP 9 F seating is 4+1, with a rear armrest sitting between the two electrically operated ‘Captain’s chairs’. Seats feature a diamond-quilted ‘shoulder line’ in soft-touch leather, echoing the traditional appearance of a British field sport jacket. A sliding drawer between the seats reveals a cooled compartment for champagne and glasses.
Micro leather piping accentuates the lines of the dashboard, centre console and seats and is colour-matched to the coachwork.
At the rear, the lower section of the two-piece tailgate may be used as a viewing bench or picnic table with the upper section providing a canopy to provide protection against the elements. Bespoke picnic hampers are stowed neatly to either side of the load space when not in use, but are located on rails for easy access. An awning extends over the tailgate to protect those seated there; two umbrellas fit into stowage compartments in the rear luggage area for when the rain clouds sweep in. These compartments are heated for rapid drying of wet umbrellas.
COMMANDING DRIVING POSITION AND CONTROL ARCHITECTURE
Inspired blend of traditional analogue and TFT touchscreen technology
Bespoke interface engineering – tailored to the individual with driver-selectable instrumentation modes

As befits a Bentley, the EXP 9 F design concept features a near-infinite choice of driver information and entertainment options. However the design and electrical engineering teams sought to avoid creating a cluttered or confusing driver and passenger environment, presenting only the information that each user needs, when they need it.
As a result, EXP 9 F places key driver information such as 3D navigation in a central TFT panel directly in the driver’s line of sight, where it is flanked by two analogue reverse-read dials. Meanwhile, controls that are shared between driver and front seat passenger, such as cabin temperature, air vents and entertainment, are presented in the central touchscreen and console. The TFT screen deploys from the full-width metal trim to provide a fully integrated extension to the glass surface of the centre console.
Three different driving modes – Comfort, Sport and Off-Road – are selectable according to the road environment and type of journey. Thus the driver information TFT panel would be able to switch between satellite navigation on the motorway to a ‘sump cam’ when negotiating a bumpy track. For sand-dune driving, the speedometer is automatically replaced by a compass while, for high altitude driving, the rev counter is replaced by an altimeter.
EVALUATION, REFINEMENT AND FUTURE PLANNING
When the first generation Continental GT was unveiled in 2003 it represented the renaissance of Bentley as a global luxury icon, subsequent launches such as Mulsanne, Continental Flying Spur saloon and the new Continental GT have seen the Bentley brand growing from strength to strength.
EXP 9 F represents the chance to take Bentley values of design, craftsmanship and engineering excellence into what would be – literally – new terrain for the brand. Bentley’s experience with the all-wheel drive Continental range makes the concept of a Bentley SUV a natural progression for the company.
Customer and public reaction will be analysed following the unveiling of EXP 9 F at Geneva 2012, with the aim of refining the concept further. Above all, Bentley will be listening carefully to the reaction of customers and potential customers throughout the world, prior to making any definitive commitment to production.
“A Bentley Grand Tourer doesn’t necessarily have to be a coupé, a convertible or a saloon – it could equally well be an SUV. What’s important is that it should be true to Bentley’s brand values and in line with the desires and needs of our customers.” – Alasdair Stewart, Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing.
William Maley

Mini Clubvan Concept To Become Production Model, Come To U.S.

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 23, 2012
At the Geneva Motor Show in March, Mini showed off a cargo van concept based on their Clubman called the Clubvan. The Clubvan drops the back seats and windows, and in their place comes in a flat load floor, steel grill to separate cargo and the front seats, and other items you expect in a cargo van.
Car & Driver has learned that the Clubvan will go into production and come to the U.S. later this year as a 2013 model. The production model will come with a stainless-steel grille separating the passenger and cargo area, an aluminum cargo rail in the rear hold, six tie-down hooks, a cloth-trimmed load floor with a matching roof liner, and an integrated power socket in the cargo area.
Mini says the Clubvan will offer increased load capacity compared with the Clubman, but didn’t give out a number.
As for engines, Mini isn’t saying if the Clubman’s 121 HP naturally aspirated four, or if the Clubman S’s 181 HP turbocharged engine will be available.
Source: Car & Driver
William Maley

Nissan Teases The 2013 Sentra

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 23, 2012
Starting with the new 2013 Altima, Nissan will be launching five all-new products in the U.S. over the next 15 months. Product #3 is the all new Sentra which will be released later this year.
Nissan released a teaser picture and video of the new Sentra today. What we can see on the picture and video is the new Sentra will share a lot in common with the new Altima. The front will get Nissan's new grill seen on the Altima and Versa, new fog lights, and LED-accented headlights. The back end sees a new more prominent deck lid and LED-accented taillights.


Press Release is on Page 2
Nissan North America Product Blitz Continues With All-New Sentra Sedan Coming Later This Year
On the heels of the Beijing Motor Show, at which Nissan Motor Company unveiled an all-new global sedan, Nissan North America (NNA) announced that this new model will be the basis for an all-new 2013 Nissan Sentra. In conjunction with the announcement, Nissan released teaser video clips and images of the North American market's uniquely styled 2013 Sentra SR. The all-new Sentra will be unveiled in the United States later this summer and go on sale in the fall.
"Sentra is the third of five all-new core models we'll be introducing in a 15-month product onslaught," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "The all-new Altima goes on sale this summer and will be followed closely by the all-new Pathfinder and Sentra. And when the next two new models launch in 2013, we will have refreshed 75 percent of our volume, rewarding our loyal owners and attracting new customers into Nissan showrooms."
The all-new 2013 Sentra will be launched as the nameplate celebrates its 30th anniversary in the U.S., promising to bring a new level of refinement and innovation to the segment. Nissan will unveil the Sentra and release more details about it this summer
William Maley

Jaguar Introduces Two New Powertrains

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 23, 2012
Jaguar is joining Audi, BMW, and other luxury automakers in offering smaller forced-induction engines. At the Beijing Motor Show today, Jaguar announced a new supercharged V6 and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
The supercharged V6 is a 3.0L producing either 340 or 380 HP, depending on the configuration. The all-aluminum V6 is derived from Jaguar's 5.0L V8 and features quad cams, direct injection and a Roots-type twin vortex supercharger with a water-cooled intercooler.
Jaguar says in their press release the 380 HP version will lie under the hood of a high-output variant of their new F-Type roadster when it next year.
As for the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, that will be the 2.0L 240 HP engine from the Range Rover Evoque. Jaguar isn't saying what vehicles will get the 2.0L turbo at the moment.
Press Release is on Page 2
JAGUAR ANNOUNCES FUTURE POWERTRAINS
AT-A-GLANCE
Jaguar will bring to market globally two new forced-induction engines; a Supercharged 3.0L V6, and a Turbocharged 2.0L in-line four cylinder
These engines will be offered as choices on a number of Jaguar models in the future
The Supercharged 3.0L V6 draws on key technology used in the Jaguar 5-liter V8. This engine will be available in two states of tune: 380hp and 340hp
The Turbocharged 2.0L I-4 produces 240hp
The 380hp version of the Supercharged 3.0L V6 will be exclusively offered as one of the powerplants in the forthcoming Jaguar F-TYPE roadster
Both engines will deliver their power through eight-speed automatic transmissions
The V6 will be available with Jaguar’s Intelligent Stop-Start system

Introduction
As Jaguar expands its product offerings in key global markets, it is introducing two additional engines; a new Supercharged 3.0-liter V6, and a Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4, which will be offered as choices on a number of models.
The first announced utilization of the 380hp Supercharged 3.0L V6 will be the all-new Jaguar F-TYPE two seat roadster, coming in 2013. The Jaguar F-TYPE will focus uncompromisingly on delivering a rewarding drive experience
Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director, Jaguar Cars, said, "Jaguar currently has its strongest range of products for several decades. Our continued growth is dependent on two things; activating the awareness of the brand, and expanding our range to enable us to access new customers in both existing and emerging markets. The introduction of these two additional forced-induction engines is integral to this ambitious plan."
The new V6 engine has been developed by Jaguar from its existing 5-liter V8. This all aluminum alloy engine has received accolades from around the world in applications from luxury sedans to 186MPH convertibles. The V6 uses many key technologies from the V8 engine including direct injection, variable valve timing and aluminum construction. It will offer comparable levels of power and refinement to the naturally-aspirated version of the V8 engine, but with greater specific output and efficiency courtesy of supercharging.
The Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4 engine uses a range of technologies for power generation that belies its size. It produces 240hp thanks to the use of three key innovations; low-inertia turbocharging, direct fuel-injection and variable timing of both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
Ron Lee, Group Chief Engineer Powertrain, Jaguar Cars, said: "Both these new engines make intelligent use of forced-induction technology to produce high-specific output in an efficient way, while delivering the compelling combination of flexibility, refinement and driver reward that are integral attributes in all Jaguar engines."
Both engines will be mated to a new eight-speed automatic gearbox which offers a broad spread of ratios for an optimally balanced combination of performance, economy, and driver control. The 3.0 V6 S/C will also be available with Jaguar's Intelligent Stop-Start system.
Details: Supercharged 3.0-liter V6
This new engine finds it's bloodline from the current Jaguar V8 engine. The all-aluminum architecture of the V8 forms the basis of Jaguar’s new supercharged V6. The engine will be presented in two states of tune depending on its application; the 380hp version and a 340hp version.
The new quad-cam V6 shares its all-aluminum construction with the V8, with the lightweight die-cast block supplemented with cross-bolted main bearing caps to increase rigidity and therefore refinement.
The valves themselves are subject to control by a dual independent variable cam timing (DIVCT) system which is activated by the positive and negative torques generated by the movement of the intake and exhaust valves. This variable timing system features actuation rates of more than 150 degrees per second throughout the rev range, to optimize power, torque and economy at all engine speeds.
This responsive and uninterrupted power delivery is made possible through the use of spray-guided direct injection (SGDI) which delivers precisely measured quantities of fuel directly into the center of the combustion chambers at pressures of up to 300 bar (2,176 PSI). The fuel is delivered several times during each combustion cycle, creating a more homogenous air-fuel mixture for cleaner and more efficient combustion.
To maximize combustion efficiency, these spark plugs are precisely oriented both in relation to the injector and within the combustion chamber. The compression ratio is also raised from 9.5:1 in the supercharged V8 to 10.5:1 in the supercharged V6, further improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.
Mounted in the ‘V’ of the engine is latest-generation Roots-type twin vortex supercharger, which is the key to achieving high-specific output and efficiency. A water-cooled intercooler reduces the temperature of the intake air to optimize power and efficiency. The supercharger boost control is electronically managed by new Bosch engine management software. The engine features a system of counter-rotating front and rear balancer weights which lend it the same smoothness and refinement characteristics as its larger V8 brother.
The V6 powertrain will be completed by a Jaguar-tuned ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission's large spread of ratios allows the engine’s prodigious power to be fully exploited while optimizing economy and emissions.
Efficiency is also boosted by an Intelligent Stop-Start system which improves fuel consumption by up to seven per cent in European Test Cycle.* Utilizing a twin solenoid starter, the system is able to restart the engine in less time than it takes for the driver’s foot to move from the brake to the accelerator. In engine stop-start 'change of mind' scenarios, it is able to reenergize the engine via rapidly reintroducing fuel into the cylinders.
Details: Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4
The introduction of the Turbocharged I4 to the Jaguar range brings greatly improved efficiency* with competitive power outputs. This new engine will be used in a longitudinal configuration and mated to the new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission that will be used on the V6. Again, this transmission's large spread of ratios maximizes both performance and efficiency. Producing 240hp at 5,500 rpm, this engine offers a highly flexible powerband.
With a weight of only 304 lbs (138kg), courtesy of compact dimensions and all-aluminum construction, it is the lightest engine ever fitted into a production Jaguar. This low mass improves dynamic agility while bringing further emissions and economy benefits.
The engine uses of a low-inertia turbocharger that enables it to produce its high-specific power and torque outputs. The turbocharger is fed via a lightweight thin-walled exhaust manifold which offers a shorter engine warm-up period and faster catalyst light-off. Chain-driven cams operate with variable timing on both the intake and exhaust valves to maximize the broad spread of torque.
The engine features specialized coatings on the piston rings and tappets in order to reduce unwanted internal friction. Efficiency and power gains are also realized using direct injection technology. Fuel is injected in precisely measured doses several times during each combustion cycle to ensure the most efficient possible burn with the maximum benefit in terms of power generation while maintaining the lowest possible fuel consumption and emissions.
Significant steps have been taken to ensure expected levels of smoothness and sophistication refinement including twin balancer shafts, active engine mounts, an acoustic engine cover, and the use of additional sound insulation.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
340hp Supercharged 3.0-liter V6
Engine type: V6, supercharged
Capacity (cc): 2,995
Bore/stroke (mm): 84.5/89
Peak power (HP@rpm): 340@6,500
380hp Supercharged 3.0-liter V6
Engine type: V6, supercharged
Capacity (cc): 2,995
Bore/stroke (mm): 84.5/89
Peak power (HP@rpm): 380@6,500
240hp Turbocharged 2.0-liter I4
Engine type: four-cylinder, in-line, turbocharged
Capacity (cc): 1999
Bore/stroke (mm): 87.5/83.1
Peak power (HP@rpm): 240@5500
*All figures estimated. EPA estimated ratings pending.
**Manufacturer's estimates. All figures correct at time of going to press. Figures will not be final at time of printing– they will be "target figures" subject to final confirmation.
Editor's notes
The 3.0 V6 S/C and 2.0 Turbocharged I4 will join Jaguar's existing 5.0 liter V8 engines
Full emissions and fuel economy data will follow upon final testing and certification

William Maley

Rumorpile: Porsche Overhauling Its Entire Lineup By 2016

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 23, 2012
Automakers are always in a overhauling cycle with their model lineup in varying stages. Porsche happens to be in the middle of its cycle. So far, the company has introduced the new Panamera and refreshed versions of the Cayenne, 911, and the Boxster. Automobile magazine has uncovered what the company has got planned up to 2016.
First up are the vehicles we know about; coming in 2013 are the new Cayman, the smaller Macan, and the 918 Spyder. The 918 Spyder will come with equipped with a 4.6L aluminum V8 producing 550 hp and 515 lb-ft of torque, and will be paired with two electric motors for a combined total output of “at least 720 hp” and 550 lb-ft. The setup can provide 15 miles of range on the electric power alone. Also the setup can have the engine on or a combination of the two to drive the rear wheels. The front wheels get their own electric motor, which means the 918 will have on-demand all-wheel drive with torque vectoring.
In addition the 918 Spyder, there will be a car that will sit underneath and provide competition to the Ferrari 458 Italia. Codenamed the 960, the vehicle will use a new mid-engine platform, that will also underpin future Lamborghini models. Power will come from a 4.0L flat-six with dual twin-scroll turbochargers producing somewhere in the range of 600 HP and 550 lb-ft of torque.
Also coming in 2013 is a heavily refreshed Panamera which will also bring a long-wheelbase version and possibly a Panamera shooting brake and a four-seater Panamera cabriolet.
There is also the rumor of a smaller Porsche sedan, codenamed Pajun (short for Panamera junior). The Pajun will inherit many components from the larger Panamera and will come with four doors with seating for four. The Pajun will arrive in 2016 and could spawn two or three different body styles.
There is talk about a BMW X6 competitor that will be based on the next generation Cayenne that could arrive in 2016.
Source: Automobile Magazine
William Maley

Victor Muller Looking To Give Spyker A Second Lease On Life

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 22, 2012
Ex-Saab CEO Victor Muller on-again, off-again affair with the sports car company he started, Spyker appears to be back on.
During Muller’s tenure at Saab, Spyker was put up for sale to the highest bidder. A few companies were interested, but none bit, which has become a blessing in a disguise. Since Saab has bid adieu, Swedish Automotive has changed its name to back to Spyker. Now, Muller has some big plans in store.
De Telegraaf is reporting Muller wants to see Spyker’s production reach 1,000 units annually. Last year, Spyker built only 12 of its C8 supercars. Muller also wants add models to Spyker’s lineup. One vehicle floated out was the 2006 D12 Peking-To-Paris Concept.
However, for Muller’s plan to come to fruition, he’ll need some investors. De Telegraaf says Muller is in talks with investors and only needs around 25 million euros ($32 million) to get production back online.
Investors are skeptical though, with Muller's failed attempts at both Formula One and Saab as examples.
Source: De Telegraaf via Motor Authority
William Maley

Holden Tasked With Developing Vehicles For China

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 22, 2012
After a $1 billion dollar investment into Holden by the Australian government and General Motors, Holden is starting a new project to develop new vehicles for China.
Holden announced a new design and engineering partnership with Shanghai General Motors and the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC – an engineering and design joint venture between GM and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp) to help develop two new vehicles for the Chinese market.
Work on the two vehicles will take place at Holden’s technical center in Port Melbourne. The vehicles will be based on existing GM global platforms. No more details were released about the vehicles.
Source: Drive.com.au
William Maley

Alfa Romeo Calls US Patent Office, Trademarks 4C

G. Noble
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 21st, 2012
If you are one of the many disappointed American gearheads who missed out on the chance to at least drool on the Alfa Romeo 8C Competitizone when it silently roared onto US soil through Maserati dealers back in 2008, we have some good news for you: more Alfas could be headed our way.
According to Automotive News, Fiat recently trademarked the “Alfa Romeo 4C” name here in the US for use on accessories, parts, and the car itself. The trademark was granted to Fiat on April 10th.
The week prior, on April 4th, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne said that the rear-drive, mid-engined sports coupe would go on sale in North America by the final quarter of 2013. Only 2,500 Alfa Romeo 4Cs are scheduled to be built annually, and sales will first kick off in Europe during the second half of next year. For the European market, the 4C will cost around the equivalent of $60,000 USD and it will be positioned as a halo vehicle for the brand.
Although Alfa’s return has overall been a rather disappointing on-again-off-again affair over the last five years, Marchionne is serious about staying the course this time. Fiat is targeting Alfa Romeo to more than double its 150,000 unit sales figure from 2011 to 400,000 in 2014. Alfa selling a full line of vehicles here in America — for the first time in almost 20 years — is key to covering that huge amount of ground.
In addition to returning to the US, Alfa is also planning to introduce six new models, ranging from crossovers to sedans, to give its sales figures a needed kick in the head. The 4C is the beginning of that plan, with the next likely introduction being the Giulia sedan.
Keep your salivary glands, towels and buckets on standby and Gorilla Glue your fingers crossed. We may have been disappointed by Alfa’s return in the past, but it seems it might be seriously for real this time.
Source: Automotive News (sub. req.)
Blake Noble

Leaked: Lamborghini Urus

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 20, 2012
Yesterday, we brought forth the name of the Lamborghini SUV, the Urus. Today, we bring you the pictures of the Urus.
Leaked out before its official debut at the Beijing Motor Show, the Urus matches the renderings we've seen in the past, albeit with sleeker headlamps and a low-slung appearance.
The Urus is expected to use the platform that will be used on next-generation Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7 and upcoming Bentley SUV, but come in 200 lbs lighter. Power will come from a V10, most likely from the Gallardo.
Source: Autoblog.nl
William Maley

Acura Prices The 2013 ILX

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 20, 2012
Acura has announced pricing on their smallest vehicle, the ILX. The base price starts at $25,900 (Excludes $895 destination fee) when it goes on sale next month.
For that amount, you get a 2.0L four-cylinder producing 150 HP, six-speed automatic, cloth seats, a proximity key, Pandora and text message functionality for the audio system, Bluetooth, alloy wheels and a power moonroof.
For an extra $3,000 ($29,200), you can add the premium package which includes leather heated seats, power adjustment for the driver’s throne, an uprated 360-watt stereo with SiriusXM and active noise cancellation, fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels and a rearview camera.
For another $2,200 ($31,400) is the technology package which adds ELS surround sound audio, AcuraLink multimedia functionality with voice recognition, and a navigation system with a 60-gigabyte hard drive.
There are also two other engine choices; for $29,200 you can get the ILX with a 2.4L four producing 201 HP, a six-speed manual transmission, and the premium package. The tech package isn't available on the 2.4L.
Then there is the ILX Hybrid which comes with a 1.5L hybrid powertrain and CVT. The base ILX hybrid starts at $28,900. The only option is the Technology Package which adds $5,500 ($34,400).
William Maley

Fisker Lays Off Twelve People At Delaware Plant

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 20, 2012
The bad news is solidering on at Fisker Automotive. A few weeks after showing the new Atlantic concept, the company let go twelve people at their Delaware plant. This is second time this year that Fisker has laid off people at the plant. Back in February, Fisker laid off twenty-six employees due to the company not meeting the Department of Energy’s contractual milestones for their loans.
Today, Fisker employs only a small maintenance team at the site "protecting plant assets and maintaining the facility," said Fisker spokesman Russell Datz to The News Journal.
"We have always had a flexible business model that allows us to scale up and down as work demands. As we ramp up the project again, we will add a new headcount. We've accomplished a lot at the plant, using more than 40 local contract firms to recycle old material and equipment. The plant is now ready for the next phase of installing new production equipment."
One of the people laid off, Jeffrey Garland told The News Journal that the plant is "absolutely empty." Fisker has hauled used equipment away from the site but hasn’t installed the new equipment needed to build a vehicle.
"All of us who were there hoped we were still adding value. I think what happened was the budget numbers are so tight right now and they're working so hard to preserve as much cash as they can that something had to give,” said Garland
Source: The Daily Journal
William Maley

Rumorpile: GM Trademarks SS... Why Now?

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 19, 2012
When you think of Chevrolet, one of the first things that comes up is the SS. The nameplate that signifies added performance on a Chevrolet model has found more than a million homes since the first SS model, the 1961 Impala SS was introduced.
So it seems a bit odd that General Motors decided to trademark the SS name this year. Someone uncovered a application filled by GM on April 13 trademarking SS.
So what does this mean? Well, most everyone thinks that reason why GM trademarked SS is due to it being using as a designator, and there have been rumors that a civilian version of the Caprice PPV will hit the market and simply be called the SS.
Source: US Patent Office via GM Inside News
William Maley

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