William Maley

I think you mean Kia and not Hyundai. Hyundai dropped their minivan (Entourage) in the late 2000s.

Before its arrival at dealers this spring, Chrysler has the revealed pricing structure for the 2017 Pacifica minivan. The base LX will start at $29,590 (includes a $995.00 destination charge). This undercuts the Honda Odyssey LX ($30,300 with destination) and Toyota Sienna L ($29,750 with destination). Standard equipment includes a backup camera, 17-inch aluminum wheels, power driver’s seat, six-speaker sound system, Stow-N-Go seating, and an active noise cancelation system. The remainder of Pacifica lineup looks like this, Touring ($31,490) - Automatic headlights, power sliding doors, and SiriusXM satellite radio Touring L ($35,490) - Leather seats, heated front seats, tri-zone climate control, remote start, blind spot monitoring, rear crosstraffic alert, and power liftgate Touring L Plus ($38,890) - rear-seat entertainment system, 7-inch Driver Information Display, 8.4-inch UConnect system, Alpine audio system, power passenger seat, and heated second-row seats. Limited ($43,490) - HID headlights, handsfree sliding doors and liftgate, ventilated front seats, vacuum, and 3D navigation “With nearly 40 innovations not offered by any others in its class, the all-new Chrysler Pacifica is the new benchmark in the segment that we invented more than 30 years ago. The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica offers more features – and at a better value than our key competitors – on each and every trim level,” said Timothy Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands, FCA - North America. Pricing for the Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid will be announced sometime later this year. Source: Chrysler Press Release is on Page 2 All-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Delivers Unprecedented Functionality, Versatility and Technology Starting at $28,595 MSRP 2017 Chrysler Pacifica lineup offers five highly equipped models, starting at $28,595 U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) 2017 Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid revolutionize the minivan segment with nearly 40 new minivan firsts Re-engineered from the ground up on an all-new platform for class-leading ride, handling, and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) 2017 Chrysler Pacifica brings sculptural styling, beautiful surfacing and highly crafted execution to the minivan segment Offers more than 100 standard and available safety and security features, including 360-degree Surround View camera, ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Hold and Forward Collision Warning-Plus The most technologically equipped of its kind with available all-new Uconnect Theater rear seat entertainment, 8.4-inch touchscreen display and premium audio systems Full array of comfort and convenience technologies available, including Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum, tri-pane panoramic sunroof, handsfree sliding doors and liftgate and redesigned Stow ‘n Go seating with Stow ‘n Go Assist and Easy Tilt access to the third row March 10, 2016 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica delivers unparalleled levels of functionality, versatility, technology and bold styling – all at a price that bests key competitors. The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica lineup features five highly equipped models, starting at $28,595 U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), not including destination. Not only does the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica offer more major standard content at a lower price point than its key competitors, it also offers features not available at any price from the competition. These exclusive features include Stow ‘n Go seating, Stow ‘n Go Assist, heated second-row seats, 20-inch wheels, tri-pane panoramic sunroof, 10-inch seatback touch screens, ParkSense Parallel/Perpendicular Park Assist, 360-degree Surround View camera, ventilated seats, rotary e-shifter, capless fuel filler, LED fog lamps and headlamps, handsfree sliding doors and liftgate and KeySense programmable key fob. “With nearly 40 innovations not offered by any others in its class, the all-new Chrysler Pacifica is the new benchmark in the segment that we invented more than 30 years ago,” said Timothy Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands, FCA - North America. “The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica offers more features – and at a better value than our key competitors – on each and every trim level.” Chrysler Pacifica LX The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica LX offers a multitude of standard features at a starting price lower than key competitors. Standard interior highlights include Stow ‘n Go seats, Stow ‘n Go Assist (driver side), power driver’s seat, Active Noise Cancellation, six-speaker sound system, first-row one-touch up/down windows, second-row power windows and Bluetooth connectivity. Other standard features include ParkView rear backup camera, passive entry, halogen headlamps, 17-inch aluminum wheels and capless fuel filler. The all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica LX has a U.S. MSRP of $28,595, plus $995 destination. Chrysler Pacifica Touring Building on the standard equipment of the Pacifica LX, the Pacifica Touring adds standard SiriusXM satellite radio, power sliding doors, passive entry on all doors and automatic headlamps. The all-new 2017 Chrysler Pacifica has a U.S. MSRP of $30,495, plus $995 destination. Chrysler Pacifica Touring-L The Chrysler Pacifica Touring-L offers the key comfort, convenience and safety features customers want, including leather seats, heated first-row seats, remote start, three-zone automatic temperature control, projector headlamps, fog lamps, chrome trim accents and power liftgate. The Touring-L also adds the SafetyTec Group as standard, which includes ParkSense rear park assist with stop, Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection. The all-new Chrysler Pacifica Touring-L has a U.S. MSRP of $34,495, plus $995 destination. Chrysler Pacifica Touring-L Plus Offering the best-in-class rear seat entertainment system as standard, the Chrysler Pacifica Touring-L Plus also adds additional convenience and technology features, including a 7-inch Driver Information Display (DID), heated steering wheel, power passenger seat, Stow ‘n Go Assist (passenger side), heated second-row seats, 13-speaker Alpine sound system and 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen. The all-new Chrysler Pacifica Touring-L Plus has a U.S. MSRP of $37,895, plus $995 destination. Chrysler Pacifica Limited Inside, the Chrysler Pacifica Limited is loaded with memory functions for the Nappa leather seats, audio and mirrors and includes power third-row seats, ventilated front seats, 3-D navigation and Stow ‘n Vac integrated vacuum – the segment’s most powerful vacuum. The exterior features HID headlamps, LED fog lamps, power folding mirrors, and handsfree sliding doors and liftgate. The standard tri-pane panoramic sunroof adds to the feeling of spaciousness with a dual-pane panoramic sunroof over the front- and second-row seats and fixed glass pane over the third row. The all-new Chrysler Pacifica Limited has a U.S. MSRP of $42,495, plus $995 destination. The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica will be available in dealer showrooms in spring 2016, with the Pacifica Hybrid arriving in the second half of 2016. View full article

With the rise of services of car and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft, a number of people have said this would begin the downfall of buying and owning a new vehicle in the U.S. But a new study commissioned by Kelly Blue Book says that isn't happening for the majority of the country. The study revealed many Americans consider vehicle ownership to be more convenient, reliable, safer than car- and ride-sharing services. It also revealed that 76 percent of respondents that use these services are planning to buy or lease a vehicle within the next two years. "While there are numerous benefits to ride sharing and car sharing, our data reveals that owning a car still reigns supreme, with reliability, safety and convenience all being major factors," said Karl Brauer, senior analyst for Kelley Blue Book. Other findings of KBB's study include, 73 percent of respondents said they have heard of these ride-sharing services, but only 16 percent have used them. This is similar to car sharing services as 43 percent said they have heard of them, but only 7 percent have taken advantage.Most of the respondents using these services are young people living in urban environments. This makes sense as owning a vehicle in this environment is more of a pain. [*]Car and Ride sharing services are seen more as substitutes for taxis and rental cars. [*]Affordability was the top reason given respondents who don't own a car. Only 5 percent said using a ride-sharing service was the reason they don't own a car. 3 percent said gave the same reason for why they use car sharing services. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required), Kelly Blue Book Press Release is on Page 2 Kelley Blue Book Study Reveals Ride-Sharing, Car-Sharing Services Do Not Pose Threat To Car Buying KBB.com Finds Americans Not Ready to Give Up Freedom Associated with Vehicle Ownership IRVINE, Calif., March 10, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The results are in, and according to Kelley Blue Book, ride- and car-sharing is not an imminent threat to new-car buying and vehicle ownership, despite the growing number of services being offered to consumers. This is just one of many interesting findings from the recent 2016 Kelley Blue Book Ride Sharing/Car Sharing Study, released today by KBB.com, the vehicle valuation and information source trusted and relied upon by both consumers and the automotive industry. Commissioned by Kelley Blue Book and conducted by Vital Findings to understand the motivations behind ride-sharing and car-sharing usage, as well as opinions and behaviors surrounding current and future transportation, the survey found that these sharing platforms primarily are used as substitutes for taxis and traditional rental car companies, and have very limited impact on current or future vehicle ownership. In fact, the expected transportation method of the majority of Americans that currently own or have access to a vehicle (74 percent) is to drive themselves in the next six months. When asked what statements about owning or leasing a vehicle respondents agree with, 80 percent completely or somewhat agreed that owning or leasing a vehicle provides a sense of freedom and independence, followed by 62 percent that completely or somewhat agreed that owning or leasing a vehicle gives you a sense of pride/success. Ride-sharing services, including Uber and Lyft, among others, use a Smartphone app for consumers to request and pay for a ride on demand from drivers who typically own the cars they drive. On the other hand, car-sharing companies, such as Getaround, ZipCar and Car2Go, among others, provide consumers with the opportunity to borrow vehicles and drive themselves, using a Smartphone app to schedule, unlock and pay for borrowed vehicles. "Ride- and car-sharing services are getting a lot of attention these days, and we wanted to better understand the current landscape of these app-fueled platforms and how they may impact both consumers and the auto industry moving forward," said Karl Brauer, senior analyst for Kelley Blue Book. "While there are numerous benefits to ride sharing and car sharing, our data reveals that owning a car still reigns supreme, with reliability, safety and convenience all being major factors." Looking down the road, the field is relatively level for potential ride-sharing providers to enter the market with more than one-third of respondents (37 percent) giving the most consideration to companies with a ride-sharing app, followed closely by rental car companies (32 percent) and taxi/limo companies (26 percent). In addition, 24 percent of those surveyed also would consider vehicle dealerships as a potential ride-sharing provider over vehicle manufacturers (16 percent) and individuals with a vehicle (15 percent). Respondents were least likely (14 percent) to consider tech companies as potential ride-sharing providers. Similar to ride-sharing, the opportunity for new car-sharing services to enter the market is fairly level, as traditional vehicle rental companies (36 percent), companies specifically created to provide vehicle sharing (33 percent), and notably, vehicle dealerships (31 percent) were among the most considered car-sharing providers among respondents. Sample of Additional Findings from 2016 Kelley Blue Book Ride Sharing/Car Sharing Study Awareness Doesn't Mean Use: Nearly three-quarters of respondents (73 percent) are aware of ride sharing, but only 16 percent have actually used these services, with Millennials and city dwellers leading usage. As for car sharing, 43 percent of respondents are aware, but only 7 percent use these services. Still Planning to Buy or Lease: Vehicle-sharing services are viewed as substitutes for taxis (41 percent) and rental cars (39 percent), with more than three-quarters (76 percent) of vehicle-sharing users reporting their intent to purchase or lease their own vehicle within the next two years. Ownership Has Its Benefits: According to respondents, vehicle ownership is more reliable (81 percent vs. 19 percent for ride sharing; 78 percent vs. 22 percent for car sharing), safer (80 percent vs. 20 percent for ride sharing; 80 percent vs. 20 percent for car sharing) and more convenient (74 percent vs. 26 percent for ride sharing; 75 percent vs. 25 percent for car sharing) than depending on sharing services. Budget Is Primary Ownership Factor: Among those surveyed who did not currently own or lease a vehicle, more than half of respondents (57 percent) name affordability, which also was the highest listed reason, as the main deterrent for not purchasing or leasing their own vehicles. Only 5 percent said utilizing ride sharing and 3 percent said utilizing car sharing as reasons for not owning a vehicle in the future. Safety First: More than two-thirds of respondents (69 percent) believe that ride-sharing services are a great way to combat drunk driving; however, only 33 percent of those surveyed deemed ride-sharing to be safe. In fact, 48 percent stated they wouldn't be comfortable riding alone with a ride-share driver. The national survey reveals the responses from more than 1,900 U.S. residents between the ages of 18-64 years old, weighted to Census figures by age, gender and ethnicity that have a variety of residential and ownership patterns. View full article

Subaru and mid-engine sports car? It seems like a fantasy that someone has dreamed up, but a report says such a thing does exist. Car and Driver has learned that Subaru is playing around with an experimental mid-engine coupe prototype. It is said to be a modified BRZ with a different all-wheel system - electric motors powering the front wheels and a turbocharged Boxer engine powering the rear wheels. The prototype is also said to use Subaru's new modular platform. “Whether the end result will be a two-door sports coupe or some kind of sports crossover/CUV is still in the evaluation stage,” the source said. “A coupe seems more likely, though.” Why is Subaru working on this? Word has it that Subaru dealers in the U.S. - the company's biggest market - want something special. The home office listened and is working on this. The report goes on to say that a concept of this mid-engine vehicle will debut in about two years to gauge reaction from the press and public. Source: Car and Driver View full article

The big stumbling block for Volkswagen and the EPA/California Air Resources Board (CARB) has been trying to figure out a fix for diesel vehicles with illegal software. Ever since CARB rejected Volkswagen's first proposal back in January, the three have been in negotiations. But now, an official from CARB says some vehicles may only get a partial fix. Speaking at a legislative hearing in California yesterday, chief of the California Air Resources Board enforcement division Todd Sax said it might not be possible for Volkswagen to provide a compliant fix for all of the affected models. "Our goal has been to fix the vehicles and return them to their certified configuration as expeditiously as possible. Unfortunately, this may not be possible," said Sax. He believes there isn't a fix that could comply with either emission standards or onboard diagnostic requirements. "We will have to decide what the best approach is to dealing with these vehicles, and one of the options potentially would be to accept something less than a full fix," explained Sax. Newer TDI models use AdBlue diesel exhaust fluid to clean up emission and it is expected a software update will bring them into compliance. Older TDI models feature lean NOx traps (LNTs) to clean up emissions. These models need extensive modifications to bring them into compliance which could cost Volkswagen a lot of money. Sax was quick to point out that a compromise hasn't been agreed on and all of the parties are still in discussions. But if this option was taken, Volkswagen would need to pay penalties to mitigate the harm caused by leaving these vehicles on the road. Source: Reuters View full article

I don't think Horn was aware of the cheating. I'm sure he knew about the EPA investigation but didn't know why. My gut tells me Horn was tired of dealing with this mess and being painted as a fiend in this mess. This is not good news for Volkswagen's dealers. I just updated the story with some quotes from Volkswagen's dealer council. They loved Horn because I think he understood what they were going through and wanted to help. You need someone like Horn to make your dealers feel at ease and give them hope that they will be able to weather the storm. With him gone, I wouldn't be surprised if some drastic measures are taken (dealers closing up shop or switching to another brand).

Just moments ago, Volkswagen announced that CEO and President of Volkswagen of America, Michael Horn has stepped down effective immediately. In a statement released by the company, the departure was reached "through mutual agreement." Hinrich J. Woebcken - recently announced as the head of Volkswagen's North American operations - will act as the interim CEO and President. Volkswagen would like to thank Horn for his contributions to the company during his tenure in the United States. “I want personally to say ‘thank you’ to Michael Horn for the great work he has done for the brand and with the dealers in the United States. During his time in the U.S., Michael Horn built up a strong relationship with our national dealer body and showed exemplary leadership during difficult times for the brand,” said Herbert Diess, CEO of Volkswagen brand in a statement. Horn joined Volkswagen back in 1990 and was named CEO and President of Volkswagen of America in 2014. His departure comes about six months after the EPA revealed the company used illegal software in their diesel vehicles to cheat emission tests. This news is a blow to Volkswagen's U.S. dealers who respected Horn as he was very upfront and worked on improving profits. “The [VW] National Dealer Advisory Council wants to acknowledge Michael for his leadership and strength through the continued mismanagement of the diesel scandal that has plagued our sales and reputation more than any other global market,” Volkswagen's dealer council said in a statement to Automotive News. The council also blasted Volkswagen's handling of the emission scandal and are very concerned about this change in leadership. "There is no sense of a resolution to the diesel scandal. We are troubled watching the mismanagement of this scandal from Germany, and how it may impact the ultimate decisions by the authorities in the United States. This change in management can only serve to put the company at more risk, not less.” Source: Volkswagen, Automotive News (Subscription Required) Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers & Gears Press Release is on Page 2 VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP CHANGE Herndon, VA (March 9, 2016) – Volkswagen Group of America today announced the departure of Michael Horn, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. Through mutual agreement with Volkswagen AG, Horn will be leaving to pursue other opportunities effective immediately. On an interim basis, Hinrich J. Woebcken, who was recently announced as the new Head of the North American Region and Chairman of Volkswagen Group of America, will assume the role of president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. Volkswagen would like to thank Horn for his contributions to the company during his tenure in the United States. “I want personally to say ‘thank you’ to Michael Horn for the great work he has done for the brand and with the dealers in the United States,” said Herbert Diess, CEO of Volkswagen brand. “During his time in the U.S., Michael Horn built up a strong relationship with our national dealer body and showed exemplary leadership during difficult times for the brand,” he added. Michael Horn (54) assumed the role as president and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America in January 2014 and has over twenty five years of experience with the Volkswagen Group. Prior to his current role, Horn served as the Global Head of After Sales at Volkswagen AG (VW). Horn joined Volkswagen in 1990 and has held many roles of increasing responsibility within the brand over his tenure, including Head of Volkswagen sales North West Europe, Head of sales and marketing luxury class vehicles, and Head of sales for Europe. View full article

I think about 3 to 4 inches higher would be a good start. Also, I wouldn't be surprised if it came with an air suspension so you can raise or lower it.

At first glance, you might be wondering why this Rolls-Royce Phantom is making news. It looks like any standard Phantom. But it's when you look a bit closer and notice the raised ride height, aggressive tires, and shorten rear doors that you realize this isn't your ordinary Phantom. It happens to be the mule for Rolls-Royce's first SUV. It is assumed that the mule is using a new aluminum spaceframe architecture that will underpin the entire Rolls-Royce lineup. Judging by the shortened rear doors, it would be safe to assume that SUV will be slightly shorter than the next Phantom. Power will likely come from a V12 of some sort going through a four-wheel drive system. The Rolls-Royce SUV is expected to come out in 2018. Source: Autoblog, Motor Authority View full article

I'm assuming it deals with how the suspension is set up in the platform. From Subaru's press release:

The latest automaker to announce they're joining the modular platform craze is Subaru. This week, the Japanese automaker announced the Subaru Global Platform that will underpin their future models starting with the next-generation Impreza later this year. Subaru says the new platform is about 70 to 100 percent more rigid than their current platforms. The center of gravity has been lowered and body roll has been reduced by 50 percent due to how the suspension is set up. This results in improved levels of comfort and handling. The new platform will also improve overall safety as there is an increase in the amount of high-tensile strength steel. A key feature of the Subaru Global Platform is the ability to accommodate different drivetrains such as hybrid and electric. This means we could be seeing Subaru offering a wide range of powertrains on future models. Source: Subaru Press Release is on Page 2 FHI Unveils the “Subaru Global Platform” - Subaru’s next-generation platform to achieve significant enhancement in overall vehicle performance Tokyo, March 7, 2016 ― Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the manufacturer of Subaru automobiles, has unveiled an overview of the Subaru Global Platform, which is currently under development as the architecture to be used for all the Company’s next-generation vehicles. The Subaru Global Platform is part of the six initiatives to enhance the Subaru brand described in the Company’s mid-term management vision, “Prominence 2020,” announced in 2014. Together with the horizontally-opposed engines, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), and EyeSight that represent Subaru’s core technologies, the new platform will constitute the basic foundation of the next generation of Subaru vehicles. Marking the launch of the new concept, FHI President Yasuyuki Yoshinaga said, “The Subaru Global Platform lifts Subaru’s automotive technology to new heights, and marks the next step in the evolution of “Enjoyment and Peace of Mind,” the value that Subaru offers to its customers. This new platform represents the culmination of the know-how we have developed over many years, and we are confident that it will allow us to produce vehicles that live up to our proud traditions and meet the high expectations customers have of Subaru. We continue to work on designing ever-more attractive vehicles that offer the customer both enjoyment and peace of mind.” Main Features of Subaru Global Platform The next-generation platform is designed with the future in mind, and looks ahead to 2025. The main features include: Subaru’s biggest-ever enhancement in overall vehicle performance Emotionally engaging “Dynamic feel” that goes beyond high performance The world’s highest levels of safety Single design concept for development of all models, adaptable to electrification in the future Subaru’s Biggest-ever Enhancement in Overall Vehicle Performance Emotionally engaging “Dynamic feel” that goes beyond high performance The new platform will make possible a new type of driving experience, appealing directly to the senses and offering unparalleled smoothness and comfort―all backed up by excellent performance and specifications. Specifically, the new platform will further refine Subaru’s dynamic feel in the following areas: (1) straight line stability, (2) noise and vibration suppression, and (3) comfort. (1) Straight line stability The new platform dramatically increases rigidity throughout the body and chassis (a 70% to 100% increase over present models) and incorporates substantial improvements to the suspension system and achieve a lower center of gravity, bringing about highly responsive steering that allows drivers to control the vehicle precisely as they want. The eradication of unnecessary movement in handling makes the car seem to grip the road surface, achieving a traveling performance that looks ahead to the need for enhanced straight line stability in the autonomous vehicles of the future. (2) Noise and vibration suppression Optimized frame structure and stronger joints between parts allow the new platform to improve overall torsional rigidity by 70% over present models. This distributes the resonance and distortion throughout the body, greatly reducing vibrations from the steering wheel, floor, and seats. It achieves a quietness that goes beyond vehicle class. (3) Comfort The new platform increases the rigidity of the suspension mounting, improving the absorption of the suspension without warping the body of the car, and providing a smooth and comfortable drive whatever the irregularities in the road surface. By mounting the rear stabilizer directly to the body, the new platform reduces the body roll of the vehicle by 50% compared to present models. 2. The world’s highest levels of safety Active safety The new platform achieves a center of gravity that is 5 mm lower than present models. Together with the major improvements in rigidity and the evolution of the suspension system, this lower center of gravity makes possible a more stable driving experience than ever before, and offers outstanding danger avoidance capabilities on a level with a high-performance sports car. Passive safety Thanks to a frame structure that enables more efficient energy absorption in the event of collision and the enhanced body rigidity resulting from the increased use of high-tensile steel plates including materials formed by the hot press method, impact energy absorption is improved by 40% over present models. The platform anticipates further improvements in strength and new materials and has the potential to continue to offer the world’s highest levels of collision safety even in 2025. Single Design Concept for Development of All Models, Adaptable to Electrification in the Future The new platform will offer a single unified design concept for all Subaru models. Planning the main specifications of all vehicle types at one time and flexibly adjusting these basic specifications to match with the requirements of different models will strengthen the entire Subaru lineup while still allowing the Company to develop models that take advantage of each model’s strengths. The new concept allows one design concept to be adapted not only to gasoline engines but also to hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrids, electric cars, and other types of alternative power units for which demand will increase further. Development based on a single design concept makes it possible to use limited development personnel and facilities efficiently to develop a diverse range of models and to direct the resulting savings into areas that can make our products more competitive. It will also become possible to produce platform components for multiple models in the same one production facility, rather than manufacturing them in different factories as has been the case in the past. This will increase production efficiency at Subaru’s factories and at our partner companies. The new unified design concept will also make it easier for our two factories in Japan and the Subaru of Indiana Automotive plant in the United States to carry out bridge production of multiple different models on a single line, making our global production system more flexible. The Subaru Global Platform that offers these benefits will be used in the development of all Subaru vehicles from now on, beginning with the next-generation Impreza, due to hit the market in 2016. FHI remains true to its management philosophy?to become “a compelling company with a strong market presence” on the basis of “customer-first” policy. The Company will continue to pursue engineering excellence and offer its customers “Enjoyment and Peace of Mind” to achieve FHI/Subaru distinctive presence. View full article

It was in late January when Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' CEO Sergio Marchionne announced that the Chrysler 200 and Dodge Dart would "run their course”. A diplomatic way of saying we wouldn't see a second-generation of either model. But Marchionne mentioned that both models could continue on if a partner was found. Motor Trend has learned that FCA is currently with potential partners, although who isn't mentioned. “There are discussions going on now. I think we will find a solution. We continue to talk. It’s both a technical solution and an economic one. We need to find a solution that works economically,” Marchionne said to Motor Trend on the floor of the Geneva Motor Show. The key thing FCA is looking for in a partner to build their small cars is someone “who is better at it than we are and who has got capacity available.” This comes on the heels of FCA announcing an extension of the temporary shutdown at Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan - home of Chrysler 200 production. The plant was shut down on February 1st and workers were expected to return on March 14th. This was to help cut down on the massive supplies of 200s sitting on dealer lots. FCA has decided to extend it by three weeks to April 4th. A FCA spokeswoman tells Reuters the reason for the extension is to match supply with demand. At the start of this March, FCA had a 147 day supply of 200s. This is an improvement from February where there was a 217 day supply. Source: Motor Trend, Reuters View full article

The story of the Kia Sorento can be best described as an ugly duckling to a swan. The first-generation was a rough and tumble, body-on frame SUV. It had some questionable choices in terms of interior materials and the engines drank gas like it was going out of style. The second-generation Sorento became a bit more mature in a number of key areas such as design, fuel economy, and refinement. But it still was missing that one thing, something that could put it over the top. Now we have come to the third-generation Sorento and Kia might have it figured out. The Sorento's design can be described as aspirational. When I was walking around the Sorento after it was dropped off, I was thinking of how much it reminded me of the last-generation Audi Q7 in terms of overall look. A lot of this comes from the boxy shape with rounded corners. The front end gets a larger a tiger-nose grille and LED fog lights. Chrome trim running along the side windows and nineteen-inch alloy wheels only add to the overall aspirational impression. The interior of the Sorento looks and feels like something you would find in a more expensive crossover. Most surfaces in the Sorento are soft to the touch and have some decorative touch such as contrast stitching. The dash layout is very clean and controls are in logical order. The SX Limited comes with Nappa leather for all of the seats, though you would be hard-pressed to tell a difference between this and the standard leather used on lower trims of the Sorento. The front seats come with power adjustments, along with heat and ventilation. I found them to be quite comfortable once you figured out what adjustments needed to be made. The back seat has plenty of legroom thanks to a three-inch increase in overall length and the ability to slide the seat. Headroom is on par with the class, even with the SX Limited’s panoramic sunroof. The Sorento does have the option of a third-row, but it isn’t available on the Limited Turbo. You'll need to opt for a model with the V6 to get that. On the technology front, the Sorento SX Limited begins with a color display in the instrument cluster that acts as the speedometer, along with a trip computer. The screen is easy to read thanks to clear text and vibrant colors. The only downside is the screen can be washed out if sunlight hits it. An eight-inch screen with Kia UVO eServices and navigation is standard on the Limited and optional on lower trims. Kia’s infotainment system is one my favorite systems to use as it features a simple interface and fast responses. The Sorento’s engine lineup is comprised of a 2.4L four-cylinder, a new turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder, and a 3.3L V6. My Sorento SX Limited tester came with the turbo producing 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque (arriving at 1,450 rpm). It comes with a six-speed automatic and the choice of either front or all-wheel drive. The 2.0L turbo is a bit of a disappointment as it has turbo lag, something I thought was banished with the current generation of turbo engines. Leaving a stop, there are a few seconds where you creep along before the turbo spools up and gets a punch of power. Once the turbo is working, the engine is quite responsive and willing to get up to speed at a decent rate. The six-speed automatic is the best part of the powertrain. Shifts are very smooth and the transmission is quick to downshift when you need a bit more oomph. The other disappointment comes in fuel economy as I only got an average of 21 MPG for the week, slightly lower than the 22.1 I got in the last-generation model equipped with the 3.3L V6. Personally, I would go for the V6 as it offers a better spread of power and would likely achieve around the same fuel economy as the turbo-four. Kia hasn’t messed with the Sorento’s ride and handling characteristics which is a very good thing. The suspension does an excellent job of isolating bumps and other road imperfections from those inside. On the highway, the Sorento is very quiet. No hint of road or wind noise came into the cabin. Steering has a little more heft, but some will complain they want more feel. But you need to keep in mind that Sorento is built for coddling passengers, not trying to be a sporty crossover. But like the last Sorento I drove, this one has a big value problem. The SX Limited with the Turbo and all-wheel drive starts at $41,700. Equipped with an optional technology package that adds lane departure warning, smart cruise control, an around-view camera system, and a few other bits along with destination ran the price to $45,095. If you want a V6, you’ll need to add about $1,600. The SX Limited does come with everything, but how many people would be willing to drop that much money on a Kia? The 2016 Sorento is a complete shock. Not only has Kia made a crossover that looks expensive, but they also made it feel expensive in terms of the interior and overall refinement. The value argument on the Limited models are quite hard to swallow and the 2.0L turbo needs a bit more work in terms of low-end performance. Hence is why I would recommend going for either EX or SX equipped with the V6. They both have that aspirational feel at a price that won’t make you faint. Cheers: Handsome exterior and interior, Smooth ride, Value for money on lower trims Jeers: Price of the Limited, Turbo Engine doesn't feel powerful, Fuel Economy Disclaimer: Kia Provided the Sorento, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2016 Make: Kia Model: Sorento Trim: SX Limited Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged Direct-Injected Four-Cylinder Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 240 @ 6,000 Torque @ RPM: 260 @ 1,450-3,500 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 19/25/22 Curb Weight: 4,004 to 4,303 lbs Location of Manufacture: West Point, GA Base Price: $41,700 As Tested Price: $45,095 (Includes $895.00 Destination Charge) Options: SXL Technology Package - $2,500 View full article