William Maley

The 2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport provides a middle ground between the standard Corvette and the all-mighty Z06. Case in point is the price. Chevrolet announced the pricing for the Grand Sport which begins at $66,445 for the coupe and $70,445 for the convertible (both prices include destination). The standard Corvette starts at $56,395 and the Corvette Z06 begins at $80,395. The Grand Sport gets the Z06's chassis tuning, upgraded cooling systems, aerodynamic package, electronic limited-slip differential, and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. Optional is the Z07 package that adds carbon ceramic-matrix brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 2 Cup tires. The 6.2L V8 with 460 horsepower provides the firepower. Later this year, Chevrolet will offer a Collector Edition that comes with a Watkins Glen Gray Metallic paint with Tension Blue hash-mark graphics, satin black full-length stripes, black wheels and a full leather and suede-wrapped interior finished in blue. Chevrolet says the Corvette Grand Sport will arrive at dealers this summer. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 2017 CORVETTE GRAND SPORT PRICED AT $66,445 Track-focused model offers 1.2g cornering, 3.6-sec. 0-60 time with Z07 package BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Chevrolet announced today the track-bred 2017 Corvette Grand Sport will be priced at $66,445 for coupe models and $70,445 for convertibles, when they go on sale this summer. The prices include the destination charge, but not tax, title and other dealer fees. With heritage-inspired design cues combined with track-focused chassis and suspension elements, the new Grand Sport builds on a legacy established in 1963, when five Grand Sport race cars were built under the direction of the Corvette’s first chief engineer, Zora Arkus-Duntov. “The racing DNA of the original Grand Sport race cars is in the 2017 model, adding greater dimensions of capability and driver involvement to the Corvette’s award-winning architecture, for a purer driving experience,” said Harlan Charles, Corvette product marketing manager. “It is a worthy successor to the spirit of the originals.” The 2017 Grand Sport’s lightweight architecture, downforce-producing aerodynamics package, enhanced cooling package, electronic limited-slip differential and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires combine to offer a Chevrolet-estimated 1.05g in cornering capability – and up to 1.2g with the available Z07 package, which includes Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. The new Grand Sport also offers estimated 0-60-mph performance of 3.6 seconds and quarter-mile capability of 11.8 seconds at 118 mph, with the available Z07 performance package and available paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission. A seven-speed manual with Active Rev Match is standard. Further, engineers adapted the Brembo braking system from the Corvette Z06 to give it estimated 60-0-mph performance of less than 100 feet with the available Z07 package, which adds carbon ceramic-matrix brake rotors, along the PS Cup 2 tires. In addition to the track-focused chassis and suspension components, the Grand Sport features unique exterior elements, including specific front fender inserts and Z06-style grille, as well as wider fenders and rear quarter panels to accommodate a wider track. Grand Sport models are offered with the Stingray’s full exterior and interior color palette, including 10 exterior colors: Admiral Blue Metallic (late 2016 addition) Watkins Glen Gray Metallic (new for 2017) Black Rose Metallic (new for 2017) Sterling Blue Metallic (new for 2017) Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat Arctic White Blade Silver Metallic Black Corvette Racing Yellow Tintcoat Torch Red An available Heritage package includes hash-mark fender graphics in six colors, with the hash mark detail carried onto the interior’s brushed aluminum trim. Full-length stripes are also offered in five colors. They are joined by the available Z07 package, five wheel choices and available carbon fiber ground effects to offer a wide and diverse range of customizable choices. “The choices are almost endless,” said Charles. “The Corvette Grand Sport’s custom ordering options take personalization to an unprecedented level, enabling customers to create their own Corvette Grand Sport statement.” A Grand Sport Collector Edition will be offered later in the model year, featuring Watkins Glen Gray Metallic exterior with Tension Blue hash-mark graphics, satin black full-length stripes, black wheels and a unique Tension Blue full leather and suede-wrapped interior. A three-dimensional representation of an original Grand Sport race car is embossed in the headrests and that shape is also used on an instrument panel plaque that carries a unique build sequence number. View full article

I would like to see Cadillac not play follow the leader with other luxury competitors - i.e. crossover-apoolza and subcompact luxury sedan.

Alphabet Inc. - Google's parent company - wants to find automotive partners to use their autonomous technologies. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is looking for partners to help offset costs of development and production. In fact, CEO Sergio Marchionne has hinted that he is open to working with a technology company. Chocolate, meet peanut butter. The Wall Street Journal has learned from a source that Alphabet and FCA are in the late stages of talks about a technology partnership. These talks have been ongoing for a few months explained the source. But why Fiat Chrysler Automobiles? Compared to other automakers, they are way behind in a number of key technology areas. The AutoExtremist, who first reported the rumor, explained FCA has a couple key items that interest Alphabet Inc. First is the upcoming Pacifica minivan which could be developed into a fully autonomous vehicle. The second is that FCA has the manufacturing capability and dealer network, something Alphabet lacks. Source: The AutoExtremist, The Wall Street Journal View full article

The Fiat 124 Spider might be based on the Mazda MX-5 Miata, but it features a turbocharged engine and is slightly less than its platform - aside from the base trim. Fiat announced pricing for the 124 Spider today. The base Classica model starts at $25,990 (includes a $995 destination charge). Compared to the base MX-5 Miata Sport, the 124 Spider Classica is about $255.00 more expensive. Both models come with 16-inch wheels, black cloth seats, and LED taillights. Mazda ones up Fiat by offering LED headlights. This changes when you climb up further in the 124 Spider's trim lineup: Lusso: $28,490 ($2,395 less than the comparable MX-5 Miata Grand Touring). Comes with 17-inch alloys, heated leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 7-Inch touchscreen with navigation. Abarth: $29,190 ($230.00 less than the comparable MX-5 Miata Club). Comes with front and rear Bilstein sport suspension, mechanical limited-slip differential, front strut tower bar, 17-inch alloy wheels finished in a gun metal grey, and quad-tip exhaust. Brembo brakes and a set of Recaro sport seats are optional. Wrapping up the 124 Spider lineup is the limited edition Prima Edizione Lusso that comes with an exclusive blue paint finish and premium leather seats. This model only comes with an automatic. Source: Fiat Press Release is on Page 2 FIAT Announces Pricing for All-new 2017 124 Spider 2017 Fiat 124 Spider is the most affordable turbo-powered convertible in America with a starting price of $24,995 (MSRP) Lineup includes: Classica, $24,995; Lusso, $27,495; and Abarth, $28,195 (MSRP) 2017 Fiat 124 Spider returns nearly 50 years after original introduction Revival of roadster continues expansion of FIAT brand in North America Delivers iconic Italian style with modern adaptation of original Spider legend Powered by standard proven turbocharged MultiAir 1.4-liter engine for best-in-class 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque on Classica and Lusso; 165 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque on Abarth, available with six-speed manual or automatic transmission EPA fuel economy of 26 city / 35 highway for manual transmission and 25 city / 36 highway for automatic transmission Double-wishbone front suspension and rear multi-link suspension with stabilizer bars, 54/46 weight distribution and tuned electric-power steering system for enhanced handling and fuel efficiency Available with an array of safety and security features, including Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection and ParkView rear backup camera Technology including passive entry with keyless go, Bluetooth connectivity, heated seats and available FIAT Connect 7.0 with Pandora, Stitcher and Aha Available premium Bose nine-speaker system with noise cancelling headrest speakers First 124 units will be available as limited-production Prima Edizione Lusso April 29, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The FIAT brand today announced that pricing for its all-new 2017 124 Spider lineup will start at $24,995 U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), not including destination. FIAT’s all-new roadster is the lowest-priced turbocharged convertible in America. The 2017 Fiat 124 Spider revives the storied nameplate, bringing its classic Italian styling and performance to a new generation of vehicles and buyers. Paying homage to the original 124 Spider nearly 50 years after its introduction, the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider delivers the ultimate Italian roadster experience with driving excitement, technology and safety combined with iconic Italian design. The roadster will come standard with the proven 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo four-cylinder engine, the engine’s first application in a rear-wheel-drive vehicle. The engine delivers best-in-class 160 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque on Classica and Lusso, 165 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque on Abarth, and is available with a six-speed manual transmission (26 city / 35 highway) or a six-speed automatic transmission (25 city / 36 highway). “Our mission at FIAT is to deliver Italian design and heritage in vehicles that are fun to drive,” said Olivier Francois, Head of FIAT Brand, FCA – Global. “The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider brings these elements together and comes loaded with open-air fun, stunning Italian design and the proven turbocharged MultiAir 1.4-liter engine.” Fiat 124 Spider Classica The Classica model features a dual-tip exhaust, black roll bar finish, and body-color header, side sills and door handles. The vehicle also comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, Nero (black) premium cloth seats, halogen headlamps and LED tail lamps. Inside, soft-touch materials on the instrument panel are highlighted with light silver accents. Not visible are eight points to reduce NVH, including insulation in the instrument panel, center tunnel, convertible top and rear trunk, to name a few. The Classica is available in six colors: Rosso Passione (red clear coat), Bianco Gelato (white clear coat), Nero Cinema (jet black metallic), Grigio Argento (gray metallic), Grigio Moda (dark gray metallic) and Bronzo Magnetico (bronze metallic). The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Classica with a six-speed manual transmission has a U.S. MSRP of $24,995, plus $995 destination. The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Classica with a six-speed automatic transmission is $26,345, plus $995 destination. Fiat 124 Spider Lusso The Lusso (“Luxury”) model builds on the Classica, with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, silver-painted A-pillar header and roll-bar cover and dual-tip chrome exhaust. The interior features heated premium leather seats in Nero (black) or Saddle and a leatherette-wrapped cluster brow. The lower instrument panel also is wrapped in leatherette, with Piano Black accents throughout. The Lusso model is available in seven colors: Rosso Passione (red clear coat), Bianco Gelato (white clear coat), Nero Cinema (jet black metallic), Grigio Argento (gray metallic), Grigio Moda (dark gray metallic), Bronzo Magnetico (bronze metallic) and Bianca Perla (crystal white pearl tri-coat). The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Lusso with a six-speed manual transmission has a U.S. MSRP of $27,495, plus $995 destination. The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Lusso with a six-speed automatic transmission has a U.S. MSRP of $28,845, plus $995 destination. Fiat 124 Spider Abarth The all-new Fiat 124 Spider Abarth offers a sportier, more responsive driving experience for performance enthusiasts at 165 horsepower. Features include a front and rear Bilstein sport suspension, mechanical limited-slip differential, front strut tower bar, Sport Mode selector and sport-tuned chrome quad-tip exhaust with the world-renowned Abarth sound. Its aggressive appearance comes complete with unique front and rear fascia, 17-inch Gun Metal aluminum wheels, Gun Metal exterior accents and an available hand-painted hood stripe, offering a one-of-a-kind appearance. Other available features include a Brembo braking system and Recaro seats for added sportiness. The Abarth model is available in five colors: Bianco Gelato (white clear coat), Rosso Passione (red clear coat), Nero Cinema (jet black metallic), Grigio Argento (gray metallic) and tri-coat Bianco Perla (crystal white pearl). The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth with a six-speed manual transmission has a U.S. MSRP of $28,195, plus $995 destination. The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Abarth with a six-speed automatic transmission has a U.S. MSRP of $29,545, plus $995 destination. Fiat 124 Spider Prima Edizione Lusso To celebrate the return of the classic nameplate, the first 124 vehicles will be offered as a limited-edition Prima Edizione Lusso. Each will be individually numbered with a commemorative badge and available in exclusive Azzurro Italia (Blue) exterior paint with premium leather seats in Saddle. Consumers who purchase a Prima Edizione also will receive limited-edition items, including a matching blue leather bag, journal with pen and a poster showcasing original design illustration with vehicle dimensions. The all-new 2017 Fiat 124 Spider Prima Edizione Lusso has a U.S. MSRP of $35,000, plus $995 destination. View full article

The past couple days have been crazy at Mitsubishi with executives possibly stepping down, the EPA ordering retest of vehicles, and the U.S. branch telling dealers there are no inconsistencies in the tests for the U.S. models. Let's get you up to date. On Tuesday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) requested details from Mitsubishi on its U.S. vehicle lineup to check for discrepancies. The EPA also requested Mitsubishi to retest their U.S. lineup. A day later, Japanese media reported that Mitsubishi Motors CEO Osamu Masuko and COO Tetsuro Aikawa would resign due to manipulation of fuel economy data. According to Reuters, Aikawa denied these reports. "It's my responsibility and my mission to put the company on track to recovery. Beyond that, I haven't had a chance to even consider" the possibility of resigning, Aikawa said. Reuters also reports that Mitsubishi Motors could be on the hook for almost $1 billion to compensate owners, pay back tax rebates from the government, and other payments. This is according to analysts at Nomura Holdings. Yesterday, Mitsubishi Motors North America said they found no testing problems with vehicles sold in the U.S. between 2013 to now. “Our findings confirm that fuel economy testing data for these U.S. market vehicles is accurate and complies with established EPA procedures,” Don Swearingen, COO of 
Mitsubishi Motors North America told dealers in a letter to dealers. The letter was obtained by Automotive News. Source: Reuters via Automotive News, Reuters, Automotive News (Subscription Required), Mitsubishi Press Release is on Page 2 Mitsubishi Motors North America Statement Regarding Fuel Consumption Testing Data April 27, 2016 Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in Tokyo recently announced irregularities concerning fuel consumption testing data. To confirm that U.S. market vehicles are not affected by this issue, Mitsubishi Motors R&D America, Inc., working together with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation, proactively conducted an internal audit of U.S. market vehicles going back several model years to check previously submitted data to the EPA. After a thorough review of all 2013MY – 2017MY vehicles sold in the United States, we have determined that none of these vehicles are affected. Our findings confirm that fuel economy testing data for these U.S. market vehicles is accurate and complies with established EPA procedures. An entirely different system is used for the United States market to determine what the EPA calls Road Load Coefficient, strictly adhering to EPA procedures. The data generated is then independently verified for its accuracy before being submitted to the EPA for their fuel economy testing. MMNA has shared this information with EPA, California Air Resources Board and DOT. Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has acted quickly to address this issue and is putting in place a committee of external experts to thoroughly and objectively continue this investigation. The results of the investigation, once completed, will be made public. Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is also working closely with the Japanese Government to fully review the implications of this issue, and to discuss potential resolutions. View full article

The Hyundai Tucson has never been a real serious threat in the compact crossover segment. It isn’t that Hyundai wasn’t trying. They offered a lot of equipment at a low price and went with a unique design. But even with these traits, the Tucson wasn’t able to make a sizable dent into the compact crossover market where the likes of the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Subaru Forester rule the roost. Hyundai isn’t giving up the fight, though. Last year, they launched the third-generation Tucson to make some inroads in the class. As we said in our first drive back in August, “it may be that the 2016 Hyundai Tucson can be considered one of the best in its class.” Let's see how we feel when we revisit the 2016 Tucson after some time has passed. To make the Tucson standout in a crowded class, Hyundai has put a lot of effort into the Tucson’s design. There is a fair amount of European influence with sharp lines and an uncluttered look. Hyundai’s trademark elements such as a large hexagonal grille and slim headlights are here. A set of 19-inch alloys on the Limited are designed in such a way that it looks like an airplane propeller. The design work has paid off as the Tucson is one of the sharpest looking models in the class. The Tucson’s interior doesn’t have the same flair as the exterior which is quite a shame. Is isn’t to say the interior is bad; there is a good mix of hard and soft materials, and controls are arranged in a logical fashion. But I found myself wishing Hyundai would take a small risk and add something special to the interior. Our Tucson Limited tester came with leather seats with power adjustments for the front. Comfort and support levels are excellent. In the back, the Tucson offers plenty of head and legroom for most passengers. As we noted in our first drive, the Tucson loses out in cargo space. Open the tailgate and you’ll be greeted with 31 cubic feet. Fold the rear seats and space increases to 61.9. Competitors such as the Honda CR-V (35.2, 70.9 cubic feet), Subaru Forester (34.4, 74.7 cubic feet), and Toyota RAV4 (38.4, 73.4 cubic feet) offer more space. When it comes to technology, the Tucson Limited does very well. There is an eight-inch touchscreen with the latest version of Hyundai’s infotainment system. We like this system as it is one of the easier systems to use thanks to large touchpoints and buttons under the screen to take you to the various parts of the system. One thing we are slightly disappointed is that you cannot option the larger screen on the Sport trim, which slightly hurts Hyundai’s value argument. Most Hyundai Tucsons will come equipped with a turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder producing 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and the choice of either front or all-wheel drive. The turbo engine is potent thanks to the torque being available across a wide range (1,500 to 4,500 rpm). This means the Tucson is able to scoot along when you are trying to make a pass or leaving from a stop. The engine is also very refined with very little noise coming into the cabin. Sadly we cannot say the same about the dual-clutch transmission. Unlike the transmission we tried out on our first drive, the one in our test Tucson had issues of hesitating when leaving a stop and taking its sweet time to downshift whenever we needed to make a pass. At least upshifts were quick and smooth. Now when we turned in our Tucson tester, we learned that Hyundai issued an update for the transmission to fix the hesitation issue. If the Tucson was built before November 17, 2015 - which we suspect ours was - Hyundai’s dealers would perform the update on the vehicle. Tucsons built after November 17th have the update installed. The Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD is rated by the EPA at 24 City/28 Highway/26 Combined. Our average for the week landed around 26 MPG. Those who want to eek out a few more MPGs should look at the Tucson Eco that comes with some fuel saving tricks such as lighter wheels to improve fuel economy to 26 City/33 Highway/29 Combined for the front-wheel drive model. All-wheel drive models see a small decrease in fuel economy numbers. One thing that hasn’t changed from our first drive impressions is the Tucson’s ride and handling characteristics. Over Michigan’s terrible roads with endless bumps and potholes, the Tucson’s suspension was able to iron them out and provide a smooth ride. An extraordinary feat when you take into account the Tucson Limited feature a set of 19-inch wheels. Handling is impressive for a Hyundai with little body roll and the vehicle feeling planted. The only item we wished Hyundai would work on is the steering. There is still a slight dead zone when beginning to turn the wheel. At least some weight does appear the further you turn. It seems Hyundai has mostly hit it out of the park with the new Tucson. Not quite. The big issue for the Tucson is the value argument. Our Limited all-wheel drive came with a base price of $31,300. The as-tested price landed around $34,945 with the Ultimate package that adds HID headlights, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, lane departure warning, and a panoramic sunroof. This about the average price you would expect for other loaded small crossovers. It is only when you drop down to other trims that you begin to realize the Tucson isn’t as a great of a value as you might think. For example, the Eco and Sport don’t come with any options. The only items you get to choose are color and whether you want front or all-wheel drive. If you want navigation or dual-zone climate control on the Sport, you’re out of luck. That isn’t to say there aren't a lot of good things to the Tucson because there are. It stands out with some of the sharpest looks in the class and the turbo engine is one of best we have driven. Hyundai also deserves some kudos for getting the ride and handling balance just right. But the Tucson has a value problem that could drive some folks away, along with a small cargo area for the class. The 2016 Tucson is good, but it isn’t the slam dunk we thought it was. Cheers: Exterior design that stands out, turbo engine, nice balance between sport and comfort Jeers: Value argument tough to argue on lower trims, small rear cargo area, interior design could use some more flair. Disclaimer: Hyundai Provided the Tuscon, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2016 Make: Hyundai Model: Tucson Trim: Limited AWD Engine: Turbocharged 1.6L GDI Four-Cylinder Driveline: Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 175 @ 5,500 Torque @ RPM: 195 @ 1,500 - 4,500 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 24/28/26 Curb Weight: 3,710 lbs Location of Manufacture: Ulsan, South Korea Base Price: $31,300 As Tested Price: $34,945 (Includes $895.00 Destination Charge) Options: Ultimate Package for Limited - $2,750.00 View full article

A quote from this piece. I'm sorry what?! NO NO NO NO I do think Peter does make some good points once in awhile. But they are buried in a mess of other words. To put it simply.

Two things about this: Cadillac has denied this rumor to Autoblog and Motor Authority. They did not say no comment, which makes me believe this is crazy talk. Did we forget about the story back in January where Cadillac has said they are working on a sedan to sit below the ATS? The key thing with this story is what Dave Leone, Cadillac executive chief engineer said, "one of our strengths in sedans is that we are known for being rear-wheel drive." Could Cadillac have thought about doing a front-wheel drive sedan? Sure, but I don't think they are. The only reason I can think why is because it saves money, which is one of the key things that got Cadillac in trouble before. Sure the Mercedes-Benz CLA is a hot seller. But how many of those owners are going to buy another Mercedes? I doubt many because the CLA is a terrible car in terms of interior, power, and value for money. In the short term, it is making them money. Long term? Could be a different story.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles is able to build vehicles in China thanks to a partnership with Chinese automaker Guangzhou Auto. Guangzhou wants FCA to return the favor by helping them enter the U.S. "Chrysler's development in China required our support. Now for GAC Motor's development in the U.S. we also hope for Chrysler's support and help," said GAC Motor General Manager Wu Song to Reuters at the Beijing auto show. Guangzhou Auto's subsidiary GAC Motor announced its intentions last year to enter the U.S. by 2017. The company has already been talking with dealerships about selling their vehicles and doing tests on U.S. roads. Song told Reuters the company has also started tests in China on two of its car models against American standards. What would FCA offer Guangzhou Auto? Song and representatives of GAC Motor didn't elaborate and FCA spokesman declined to comment. Our best guess is FCA knows what interests Americans at the moment and know the various U.S. regulations. Source: Reuters Pic Credit: Newspress View full article