William Maley

Within a few days, General Motors has announced ten new recalls covering close to eight million vehicles in the U.S. alone. The largest recall of the ten is for 6.8 million vehicles in the U.S. (7,610,862 vehicles in North America) for ignition switches that can rotate out of the run position. GM says this is problem with how the key is designed and not the switch itself. 1997 - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu 1998 - 2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue 1999 - 2004 Oldsmobile Alero 1999 - 2005 Pontiac Grand Am 2000 - 2005 Chevrolet Impala 2000 - 2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 2004 - 2008 Pontiac Grand Prix Another group of vehicles, totaling 616,179 of these vehicles are in North America (554,328 vehicles in the U.S.), are being called in due to problems with their ignition switch as well. In this case, the ignition switch can be turned from the run position if the driver bumps the key fob. 2004 - 2006 Cadillac SRX 2013 - 2014 Cadillac CTS 466,940 full-size trucks and SUVs equipped with four-wheel drive have a problem with the transfer case where the vehicle can electronically shift into neutral without input from the driver. This is due to a faulty control module. 2014 - 2015 Chevrolet Silverado 2014 - 2015 GMC Sierra 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe 2015 Chevrolet Suburban 2015 GMC Yukon 2015 GMC Yukon XL 188,705 SUVs have "a possible electrical short in the driver's door module that could disable the power door lock and window switches and, in rare cases, overheat the module." 2005 - 2007 Buick Ranier 2005 - 2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 2005 - 2007 GMC Envoy 2005 - 2007 Isuzu Ascender 2005 - 2007 Saab 9-7X 2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT 2006 GMC Envoy XL 33,085 compact sedans have a incorrect part in the driver's side front airbag inflator which can cause the inflator rupture and not inflate properly in the event of a crash. An added problem is that shrapnel can fly out and hit the driver. 2013 - 2014 Chevrolet Cruze 20,134 vehicles equipped with a engine block heater may have damaged insulation on the cord, creating a fire hazard. 2011 - 2014 Chevrolet Cruze 2012 - 2014 Chevrolet Sonic 2013 - 2014 Chevrolet Trax 2013 - 2014 Buick Encore 2013 - 2014 Buick Verano 12,002 HD Trucks equipped with an auxiliary battery have a problem where an electrical overload in the feed may cause the underhood fusible link to melt, causing smoke and possibly a fire. 2007 - 2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2007 - 2011 GMC Sierra HD 4,794 rear-drive sedans are being called in due to gears stripping in the windshield wiper motor, causing the wipers not to operate. 2013 - 2014 Chevrolet Caprice PPV 2014 Chevrolet SS 2,064 Corvettes equipped with the FE1 or FE3 suspension have "a possible insufficient weld in the rear shocks that could lead to a fracture and/or reduce the shocks’ service life." 2014 Corvette Stingray Finally, 117 vehicles in North America "may not have had a 'Superhold' joint fastener torqued to specification at the assembly plant. 2014 Buick Regal 2014 Cadillac XTS 2014 Chevrolet Camaro 2014 Chevrolet Impala Source: Autoblog, General Motors Press Releases are on Page 2 GM Announces Four Vehicle Recalls 2014-06-27 DETROIT – General Motors (GM: NYSE) today announced four safety recalls covering 428,211 vehicles in the United States. Dealers will replace the driver’s side air bag inflator in 29,019 2013-2014 model year Chevrolet Cruze sedans in the U.S. and 4,066 in Canada. The inflator in the driver’s front air bag may rupture and/or the air bag may not inflate during air bag deployment. A rupture could propel metal pieces of the inflator into the vehicle cabin, possibly striking and seriously injuring the driver or other vehicle occupants. Additionally, if the inflator does not inflate the air bag, there is an increased risk of injury to the driver. GM is aware of one injury related to the issue. Dealers will recalibrate transfer case control module software in 392,459 full-size pickup trucks and SUVs in the U.S. and 53,607 in Canada. An additional 20,874 were sold outside the U.S. and Canada. Affected are four-wheel-drive versions of the 2014-2015 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra; the 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban; and the 2015 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL. In these vehicles, the transfer case may electronically switch to neutral without input from the driver. If this occurs while a vehicle is in motion, no power will go to the wheels. If the vehicle is stopped or parked, it may roll away if the parking brake is not set. GM is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to this issue. Dealers will inspect, and replace if necessary, the windshield wiper module assembly in 4,794 2013-2014 model year Chevrolet Caprice police cars and 2014 Chevrolet SS sport sedans in the U.S. If the motor gear teeth become stripped, the wipers may not operate. GM is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to this issue. Dealers will replace the two rear shock absorbers in 1,939 2014 model year Chevrolet Corvettes in the U.S. with the FE1 or FE3 suspension to repair a possible insufficient weld in the rear shocks that could lead to a fracture and/or reduce the shocks’ service life. Thirty-three additional vehicles were sold in Canada and another 82 were exported. GM is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to this issue. GM Announces Six Safety Recalls DETROIT – General Motors announced today it will conduct six new safety recalls in the United States involving about 7.6 million vehicles from the 1997 to 2014 model years. "We undertook what I believe is the most comprehensive safety review in the history of our company because nothing is more important than the safety of our customers," said GM CEO Mary Barra. "Our customers deserve more than we delivered in these vehicles. That has hardened my resolve to set a new industry standard for vehicle safety, quality and excellence." Among these recalled vehicles, GM is aware of seven crashes, eight injuries and three fatalities. The fatal crashes occurred in older model full-size sedans being recalled for inadvertent ignition key rotation. There is no conclusive evidence that the defect condition caused those crashes. "We have worked aggressively to identify and address the major outstanding issues that could impact the safety of our customers," Barra said. "If any other issues come to our attention, we will act appropriately and without hesitation." GM has made changes to every process that affects the safety of its vehicles, and the company has acted or will act on all 90 of the recommendations put forward by former U.S. Attorney Anton Valukas in his independent report to the company's Board of Directors. GM expects to take a charge of up to approximately $1.2 billion in the second quarter for the cost of recall-related repairs announced in the quarter. This amount includes a previously disclosed $700 million charge for recalls already announced during the quarter. Until the ignition recall repairs have been performed, it is very important that customers remove all items from their key ring, leaving only the vehicle key, and always use their seat belts. The key fob, if present, should also be removed from the key ring. View full article

If you happen to plan on seeing Transformers 4 at the theater, you should pay close attention to the scenes in China as some of those vehicles could be making their way to the U.S. Guangzhou Automobile Group Co Ltd. (GAC) which has some of their Trumpchi vehicles in the film is planning on sending them to the U.S. as early as next year. "Our sponsorship of Transformers 4 will help more overseas dealers and consumers know about our cars and over the long run it will greatly contribute to our branding. We want to start exporting to the U.S. as quickly as possible and I am confident that they will find our Trumpchi cars competitive," said Wu Song, chief of the Trumpchi brand. The first model destined for the U.S. is the Trumpchi GS5 SUV. In China, the model is offered with a 2.0L four-cylinder with 145 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque or a 1.8L turbocharged four with 174 horsepower and 175 pound-feet. Either engine can be paired with a five-speed manual or automatic, and either front- or all-wheel drive. Source: Automotive News China (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

This morning, General Motors and Kenneth Feinberg have announced the details for the long awaited ignition switch recall compensation fund. The fund will be open to family members of anyone that was killed or injured due to ignition switch failure. That will include passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists that were killed or seriously injured because of the ignition switch. Victims will be able to begin the process starting on August 1st. Applications are due by December 31st. Feinberg says that claims will take around 90 to 180 days. As for how much GM will be paying out, that is completely up in the air. Feinberg has said that he isn't going to try and estimate how much will paid due to how many variables there are. GM hasn't placed a cap on how much money will be paid out by the fund, which leads some attorneys to think the company could be paying out billions of dollars. “GM understands. GM wants to do the right thing — and the right thing is paying people who can document their claims, and that’s a challenge. I would not dare estimate how many deaths or how many injuries until people file their claim and we evaluate the claim,” said Feinberg. However, victims who apply will have to prove their accident was the cause of the ignition switch. Also if you apply for the fund, you lose your right to sue GM at a later date. Source: Associated Press, The Detroit News William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

Since the announcement came down that Holden would shutter its operations in 2017, the rumors and speculations began flying about the fate of the Commodore. Would it become a big front-wheel drive model or stick to its rear-drive roots? Was the nameplate destined to stay around? It seems we might have answer to the latter question. CarsGuide.com.au reports that Holden has been fighting with General Motors to keep the Commodore name around. Sources say Philip Brook, Holden’s sales and marketing executive has been begging Mike Devereux, formerly the head of Holden and now GM's ice president of sales and marketing for international operations to keep the Commodore name around. “I need the Commodore name to help sell this car.” Brook has allegedly said. When asked, Brook denied making those comments. “It’s up for discussion. You’ve got to talk to customers, at the end of the day you’ve got to do what makes the most sense from a customer perspective and from a market perspective,” Brook told Drive.com.au. Asked if the Commodore name would live on, Brook said that a decision on that is way down the road. “We’re just going to work through that. It’s a significant decision that we need to make in amongst a whole lot of other significant decisions we need to make.” Source: CarsGuide.com.au, Drive.com.au William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

New documents released by congressional investigators last week are putting some doubt onto GM's own internal investigation and legal proceedings. The Wall Street Journal reports that new documents show Doug Parks, vice president of product programs was aware of the ignition switch problems on the Chevrolet Cobalt as early as 2005. At the time, Parks was the chief engineer on the Cobalt and Saturn Ion. On May 2, 2005, he was involved in a email chain with a dealer over a customer wanting the dealer to buy back his vehicle because the ignition switch moves out of the "run" position too easily. Parks responded by suggesting "coming up with a plug" to place on the key to reduce the weight and stop the switch from turning. "This appears to me to be the only real, quick solution," Parks said in the email. “As Ms. Barra has said repeatedly we have taken all of the personnel actions that we feel are appropriate at this time,” GM Spokesman Greg Martin told Bloomberg. These documents could cause big problems for GM's legal battles. The Consumerist explains that lawyers could argue that the lack of a recall, particularly when a former chief engineer and current vice president knew of this issue, could give some credence that the company was trying to cover up this problem. Source: The Wall Street Journal (Subscription Required), Bloomberg, Consumerist William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

Ford has refreshed the Focus Hatchback and Sedan for the 2015 model year, and now it's the ST's turn. At the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Ford has pulled the cover back on the 2015 Focus ST. Like the standard model, the Focus ST gets a revised front end with blacked-out headlights and a tweaked lower fascia. The back sees slimmed taillights and a revised bumper. A set of eighteen-inch wheels and two new colors round out the exterior changes. Inside, the Focus ST gets a revised center stack that features actual buttons for the MyFordTouch system, along with a flat-bottom steering wheel. The option list sees the addition of a backup camera, eight-way adjustable driver's seat, and heated steering wheel. Nothing has changed with the powerplant, which means the 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder still produces 252 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Handling-wise, Ford has changed the front suspension setup and put in a new electric power steering system to improve feel. The 2015 Focus ST goes on sale later this year. Source: Ford William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Ford Reveals New Focus ST at Goodwood; Demonstrates Model's Enhanced Driving Dynamics on Famous Hill Climb - New 2015 Ford Focus ST makes global debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom – the perfect venue to demonstrate the significantly enhanced driving dynamics of the new model - Updated tuning provides increased handling refinement and improved steering feel to help deliver a driving experience that is more responsive and balanced - Beautifully crafted cockpit-like interior features ergonomic controls, Recaro seats and sports steering wheel GOODWOOD, U.K., June 27, 2014 – The 2015 Ford Focus ST makes its global debut today at Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom – the ideal venue for showcasing the enhanced driving dynamics of Ford's global performance version of the new Focus. "Since its debut, Focus ST has been bringing our fun-to-drive DNA to the hot hatch segment with a uniquely Ford blend of driving dynamics, performance and style," said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. "Now, with improved dynamics, an updated suspension, new styling and a more sophisticated cabin, we expect the 2015 Focus ST will remain the hottest hatch worldwide." Focus ST will benefit from technology and craftsmanship first revealed earlier this year for the new Ford Focus – the world's best-selling global nameplate. Ford introduced the first Focus ST in 2002; since then, more than 140,000 examples have been sold in more than 40 countries worldwide. Refinements for the upgraded 2015 Focus ST include: - Redesigned, sportier front and rear fascias - HID headlamps standard with ST2 and ST3 trim levels with Recaro seats - Standard LED signature lighting - 18-inch Rado Gray alloy wheels standard - Available new 18-inch alloy wheel design with red painted brake calipers - New exterior color, Magnetic Metallic, replaces Ingot Silver - Two over-the-top stripe choices now available – Satin Black and High Gloss Red, stripes come with matching mirror skull caps - Redesigned instrument panel center stack with improved climate controls and new finishes - New center console with more storage space including a new media bin with USB smart charging port, which charges two times faster than previous USB port - Updated front door storage with cupholders - New flat-bottom steering wheel to provide extra leg clearance for the driver - Available heated steering wheel - Available eight-way power driver's seat - Revised steering for improved feel - Rear view camera standard Enhanced driving dynamics Ford Team RS, the award-winning European arm of Ford's Global Performance Vehicle group, made improving the entire driving experience the No. 1 objective for the new Focus ST. The sports suspension features all-new front springs and sportier shock absorber tuning front and rear to deliver even sharper dynamic performance. The electric power-assisted steering has also been revised to provide the Focus ST driver with improved steering feel. "We are proud Ford has long enjoyed a reputation for producing performance hatchbacks with superb driving dynamics, and the new Focus ST further ups the ante," said Nair. "The engineering enhancements to the suspension and steering deliver greater responsiveness, agility and precision – all of which will reward the performance enthusiast with an exhilarating driving experience." Ford's 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engine uses turbocharging, twin independent variable camshaft timing and high-pressure direct injection to deliver uncompromising performance. Peak output of 252 horsepower is available at 5,500 rpm, while torque peaks at 270 lb.-ft. at 2,500 rpm. The engine is paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission with a performance-oriented, short-throw shifter. The gear ratios – exclusive to ST – deliver rapid acceleration in lower gears and comfortable cruising at speed. Powerful appearance The new Focus ST features sportier and more aggressive styling than the previous generation, with a lower, wider stance; new dynamically sculpted hood; slimmer headlamps and rectangular fog lamps. The sports body kit also includes body‑colored side skirts and diffuser elements either side of the exhaust, and a rear roof spoiler optimized for aerodynamic performance. All new Focus ST models feature twin-hexagonal center tailpipes. "The design of the new Focus is stronger and sportier, and that allowed us to make the new ST even more aggressive and dramatic," said Moray Callum, Ford group vice president, Global Design. "The front bumper is deeper, the honeycomb upper grille is higher and more upright, and the lower grille is larger. The deeper rear bumper really emphasizes the width of the car." Cockpit-style cabin Ford has redesigned the Focus interior for a more intuitive layout, with a clearer visual connection between key components and significantly fewer buttons in the cabin. An additional bank of three gauges – an ST hallmark – is situated in a central instrument pod and displays turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure information. A new, flat-base sports steering wheel with a soft-feel leather covered rim, a satin chrome-topped gear lever and ST pedals deliver the interior ST drivers expect. Satin chrome door grab handles and aluminum scuff plates with illumination add extra touches of refinement. The car's sport seats developed jointly by Ford and Recaro provide the support required to fully enjoy the ST driving experience, along with comfort for everyday driving. The new Focus ST will be available in ST1, ST2 and ST3 trim levels. ST1 seats feature gray/charcoal/anthracite black fabric; ST2 adds partial leather with base and side bolsters available in four colors – Tangerine Scream, Performance Blue, Smoke Storm or Race Red; ST3 seats have full charcoal black leather finish. Advanced technologies Driver-assist, convenience and connectivity technologies include Ford SYNC®. 2015 Focus ST drivers will have access to powerful capabilities thanks to a host of new functions developers can integrate as they modify their apps to communicate with enhanced SYNC® AppLink™. Android and iOS smartphone owners can download more than 60 AppLink-enabled apps from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. View full article

That is something I would like to see with all of these compact vans coming out.

Build quality and fit/finish was really good. I thought it was a prototype, but it was a production model.

For the longest time, Cadillac has been trying to crack the European market. All of its attempts so far have fallen flat. The brand's latest attempt featuring the ATS and CTS has been shelved for the time being due to financial problems and finding better success in China and U.S. That doesn't mean Cadillac has given up. "Clearly our number one priorities are the US and China, but in the longer term there is a role for Cadillac in Europe," said GM President Dan Ammann. Ammann also was realistic about chances the brand has in Europe. "Is it going to be a high-volume contender in the medium to long term future? Probably not. But is there a role for something other than the three German luxury brands? I think there is. We’ve got to figure out what it is, what our portfolio is, a different value proposition. But trying to out-German the Germans will not be the path to success. We have to have a different proposition.” Ammann didn't give a timeline of when the brand would be coming fully to Europe. Source: Auto Express William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

One of the more notable segments that has been seeing massive growth is the compact commercial van. What used to be a place where the Ford Transit Connect and Ram C/V Tradesman (AKA Dodge Caravan Cargo Van), has now become a battleground. There's the new Ford Transit Connect, the Nissan NV200/Chevrolet City Express twins, and now the 2015 Ram ProMaster City. The ProMaster City is the Fiat Doblo wearing some new clothes. The front end wears a large Ram grille and restyled headlights. Otherwise, the ProMaster City and Fiat Doblo are the same from the A-Pillar and back. Ram will offer the ProMaster City in one wheelbase (122.4 inches) and two different configurations; the Tradesman cargo van and five-passenger passenger wagon. Power comes from the 2.4L TigerShark four-cylinder paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Output sits at 178 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. Ram says with this powertrain, the ProMaster City has a best-in-class payload rating of 1,883 pounds. The ProMaster City cargo van boasts 131.7 cubic feet of cargo volume, which spans 60.4-inches wide and 87.2-inches deep. Both vans feature 60/40-split cargo doors in the rear and sliding doors on the side. Ram hasn't revealed pricing or fuel economy numbers at this time. We'll likely have that information sometime later this year when the ProMaster City goes on sale. Source: Ram Press Release is on Page 2 Ram Truck Continues Building a Commercial Presence with New 2015 Ram ProMaster City, Offering Best-in-class Specs Where They Count 2015 Ram ProMaster City aggressively competes in the compact Class 1 van segment with a focus on commercial customer needs and total cost of ownership Available in cargo and passenger wagon configurations, new ProMaster City creates opportunity for Ram product line expansion and increased commercial market share The new 2015 Ram ProMaster City is developed from the successful Fiat Doblò and features exceptional cargo capability and durability Ram ProMaster City best-in-class features: Combined fuel economy 178 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft. of torque Payload – 1,883 pounds Cargo volume – 131.7 cubic feet Cargo width and length – 60.4 inches and 87.2 inches Distance between wheel wells – 48.4 inches Wheelbase – 122.4 inches 2.4-liter Tigershark I-4 engine, featuring MultiAir2 valve-actuation technology World’s first commercial-van application of nine-speed automatic transmission Unsurpassed powertrain warranty – five years/100,000 miles Available in two-seat Tradesman cargo van and five-seat passenger Wagon configurations, new Ram ProMaster City offers modern styling and professional appeal in a small, capable package Ram ProMaster City offers more than 30 safety and security features, including seven available air bags and electronic stability control technologies Ram Truck continues to work with Fiat Professional to develop new product lines in North America June 26, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The 2015 Ram ProMaster City is Ram’s newest addition to its commercial vehicle lineup, and contributes to the expanding, purpose-built, van segment with a number of best-in-class, functional elements tied directly to commercial customer demand. The new Class 1 entry opens a door for incremental growth of Ram’s brand sales volumes. Joining the larger and highly capable Ram ProMaster and popular Ram C/V as a Class 1 van offering, the 2015 Ram ProMaster City will compete with compact commercial and passenger vans with best-in-class attributes in the areas that count: payload capacity, cargo area, performance and fuel economy. “As businesses strive for lower costs, the demand for a smaller, more efficient van has increased and Ram Commercial is answering the bell with the all-new ProMaster City,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO — Ram Truck Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Years ago, the selection of delivery and cargo vehicles was limited and those offerings didn’t focus on cost of ownership. Today all of that has changed with the recent introduction of the full-size Ram ProMaster, and the now the Ram ProMaster City.” Ram Truck is tapping into Fiat Professional, one of the largest producers of commercial vehicles in the entire world, backed by more than 110 years of experience. That knowledge has helped Ram Truck enter new segments and expand its product line. Based on the successful Fiat Doblò, a two-time International Van of the Year winner with more than 1.3 million units sold, the Ram ProMaster City will incorporate familiar Ram Truck design elements and offer features, systems and powertrains preferred by North American customers. The 2015 Ram ProMaster City is the brand’s second shared collaboration with Fiat Professional. The 2014 Ram ProMaster full-size van was the first. Engineered for the North American market Whether the job is delivering packages, organizing and hauling the tools of a professional tradesman or carting the band’s gear to the next gig, the all-new 2015 Ram ProMaster City van is designed and engineered to tackle big jobs with best-in-class cargo area, payload capacity and standard fuel economy. It does so while delivering versatile functionality, durability and superior ride and handling. The 2015 Ram ProMaster City shares its basic design with the highly successful, two-time International Van of the Year Fiat Doblò, which is sold around the world. Now in its third generation, the Fiat Doblò is the preferred workhorse for business and commercial uses, a status gained via its ideal size for crowded urban environments and a host of thoughtful and innovative features. Starting with a winning template, Ram Truck engineers subjected the front-wheel-drive van to the full spectrum of severe-duty use expected of commercial vehicles in North America. The lessons from millions of combined development miles make the 2015 Ram ProMaster City more robust, durable, functional, comfortable and cost effective for any use. The 2015 Ram ProMaster City will be offered in two-seat Tradesman cargo van and five-seat passenger Wagon configurations. Unibody design: rugged and weight smart The foundation of the 2015 Ram ProMaster City is a steel unibody design. The unibody architecture helps minimize curb weight, a key contributor to the ProMaster City’s best-in-class payload capability of 1,883 pounds. A best-in-class wheelbase of 122.4 inches offers impressive ride and handling while creating the space needed for the largest cargo area in the segment. Suspension The Ram ProMaster City’s front axle uses a proven, durable and compact MacPherson strut suspension, tuned for rougher North American roads and class-leading payload capacity. In a departure from standard practice in the Class 1 van category of using rear leaf springs, the Ram ProMaster City upgrades to an independent, coil-sprung bi-link rear suspension. The ProMaster City’s rear suspension incorporates a category-unique independent bi-link configuration that increases driving comfort, enhances stability, and ensures maximum safety characteristics in all load situations. Front-wheel drive The Ram ProMaster City uses a front-wheel-drive layout that provides several benefits: Fewer mechanical parts, resulting in less weight, lower maintenance costs (in large part because there’s no rear differential), enhanced mechanical efficiencies and enhanced fuel efficiency Optimal cab and cargo compartment space, attributable to the absence of a transmission/prop shaft tunnel – a key enabler to achieving a flat floor in the cargo compartment area More predictable handling in emergency maneuvers (reduced over- and under-steer characteristics) Enhanced traction in rain, mud and snow, a result of the engine weight being situated over the drive wheels Greater payload capacity due to lighter overall vehicle weight Dimensions The Ram ProMaster City is thoughtfully designed with working people in mind. The hard-working credentials start with a 48.4-inch span between the rear wheel wells, the widest in the class. Construction tradesmen know that 48 inches is a common dimension for building materials and loaded pallets – yet those materials rarely measure exactly 48 inches. The width between the ProMaster City’s wheel wells provides an extra margin of capacity so that building materials and pallets can be loaded quickly and easily, without concern over whether the load fits. Above the wheel wells, the ProMaster City’s nearly vertical side panels give it a best-in-class width of 60.4 inches. Combined with an interior roof height of 51.8 inches, the result is best-in-class volume of 131.7 cubic feet for the cargo van version of the ProMaster City. The vertical side panels are upfitter-friendly and simplify the attachment of shelves or storage racks for specialized commercial use. The floor of the ProMaster City cargo van measures 87.2 inches in length and is fitted with six standard equipment D-ring tie downs to secure cargo in place. Each side of the Ram ProMaster City is fitted with a sliding door with a 26-inch opening to access the cargo compartment. The roof of the Ram ProMaster City is prepped for load rails or roof racks, available through Mopar with a weight capacity of 154 pounds. The rear of the Ram ProMaster City is fitted with 60/40 split swing doors. Using lessons learned from European customers, the larger door swings open toward the traffic (driver) side of the van, making it easy to quickly access larger cargo items and not block the path to the curbside of the van. Both rear doors initially swing open 90 degrees, and – for dock loading – can swing to 180 degrees with a simple press of a release button on the door latch. The latch automatically re-engages when the door is closed. The passenger wagon version of the Ram ProMaster City is equipped with a three-passenger second row. The second-row seating is split 60/40, with each section capable of folding and tumbling forward to expand cargo room. With the seats in place, the ProMaster City passenger wagon offers close to four feet of cargo length to the rear doors. With seats folded and tumbled, Ram’s new van provides nearly six feet of cargo length. Upfitter friendliness Ram Truck is known industry-wide for being the most upfitter-friendly brand in the truck market. The Ram ProMaster City continues the tradition and features a variety of available upfit systems through Mopar. Adding to the design for adaptability, virtually all primary vehicle systems are packaged forward of the cargo area, leaving the box open to creativity. Powertrain The 2015 Ram ProMaster City’s powertrain combines MultiAir2 engine technology and an exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission to deliver best-in-class performance and best-in-class combined fuel efficiency. Tigershark The all-new 2015 Ram ProMaster City is powered by the 2.4-liter Tigershark I-4. The engine generates a best-in-class 178 horsepower at 6,400 rpm, while its peak torque – 174 lb.-ft. (231 N•m) at 3,900 rpm – is greater than any standard-equipment engine in the ProMaster City’s segment. The engine’s thoughtful construction also suits its Tigershark moniker, while benefiting the ProMaster City’s rugged duty cycle. The engine’s four-valve aluminum head hosts advanced valve-actuation technology that is exclusive to Chrysler Group in North America. Dubbed MultiAir2, the acclaimed electro-hydraulic fully variable system uses a column of oil in place of the traditional mechanical link between the camshaft and intake valves. As a result, it affords precise control of the intake-valve events – beginning and end – which reduces engine-pumping losses, increases volumetric efficiency and cuts carbon-dioxide emissions. Engine accessory drives tighten the ProMaster City’s grip on best-in-class fuel efficiency. “Smart alternator management” and a variable A/C compressor tap the most efficient times to initiate a duty cycle. Unlike most alternator systems, which operate continually, the ProMaster City’s smart-charge system uses moments of deceleration or braking to run at capacity when necessary. The variable A/C compressor has the ability to operate at multiple speeds rather than full-capacity and off. By reducing the need for full-capacity compressor cycles, engine load is decreased, giving efficiency a boost. Load reduction also translates into overall performance. Transmission The centerpiece of the all-new ProMaster City’s powertrain is its segment-exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission. The ProMaster City is the first commercial van ever to feature a nine-speed automatic, and one of the first vehicles to be so equipped in automotive history. Also known as the 948TE, the transmission is part of the ProMaster City’s standard equipment list. Leveraging its wide gear ratio spread and 3.73:1 final-drive ratio, the advanced-technology transmission and well-matched engine will combine to deliver fuel economy ratings unsurpassed by any standard-equipment powertrain in the ProMaster City’s segment. The 948TE delivers the right response at the right time. Its 4.70 first-gear ratio delivers the kind of acceleration required of nimble delivery vans: 0-to-30 mph in an estimated 3.7 seconds and 0-to-60 mph in an estimated 9.8 seconds. The new transmission also delivers power smoothly, a result of optimized gear-ratio steps, which provide the perfect balance of power, comfort and fuel economy. While the 948TE is plenty efficient on its own, Electronic Range Select (ERS) offers hands-on control of its unique capabilities. ERS allows customers to manually set the highest available gear for a particular task, such as operating under heavy loads. The result is enhanced throttle response when it is needed most. Design The Ram design team started with a functional exterior and interior, adding distinct Ram styling while adapting the new van for North America. Exterior The exterior design and related body systems on the all-new 2015 Ram ProMaster City collectively deliver outstanding versatility, practicality and a level of refinement unexpected in the commercial small van category. Exterior styling is identified by smooth body lines, wraparound bumpers and twin-reflector headlamp clusters. Although the cargo area is carry-over from the previous model year Fiat Doblò, from the front door cut forward the Ram ProMaster City is all new, encompassing the signature crosshair grille and ram’s head logo as the focal point. The fluid body lines give ProMaster City a strong, modern and professional representation and assure its presence in the Ram Commercial lineup. The tucked front-wheel-drive packaging is compact allowing for a short hood. This design provides a better vantage point of the front corners, useful when maneuverability is key and important to commercial customers. Borrowing from its big brother, the ProMaster City’s front and rear bumpers run high on the body to keep functional lighting out of danger, resulting in reduced repair costs and downtime. The new van features plenty of real estate on all sides. This space allows for businesses to post signage and graphics – a rolling billboard to help promote the owner’s business or sponsor. Three different window options are available on both trim levels. The Ram ProMaster City may be loaded and unloaded multiple times a day, leaving impressive dimensions and capacities as must-have features. The Ram ProMaster City offers a cargo area width of 60.4 inches, a cargo area height of 51.8 inches and a step-in height of 21.5 inches. In addition, on each side of the vehicle there is a small, practical step that allows the user to get into the load area. Interior The Ram ProMaster City Tradesman and SLT trim levels use a simplified color palette with durable fabrics. Inspiration for the all-black with gray accents came from items that can be found in a vocational environment: tool boxes, hand tools and lumber. The new van achieves a commanding presence that promotes roominess, ergonomics and practicality for increasingly demanding customers who depend on their vehicle as a partner for vocational use or to transport passengers. Interior design and function is paramount for a light commercial van in which the driver may be on the road for most of the day, sometimes under harsh conditions. The cabin of the ProMaster City was therefore designed with comfortable driving ergonomics, important because the van may be a mobile office and/or small work shop. ProMaster City cargo models offer a load compartment with an easy, four-way access, best-in-class cargo volume of 131.7 cubic feet and cargo width of 60.4 inches. Because goods always need to be transported securely, the new van is fitted with accommodations to hold down goods on the floor. Six tie-down rings, with a 1,000-pound combined rating, fold away to maintain a flat floor for easy loading and unloading operations. A high roof height allows ease of movement when working in the cargo area and contributes to best-in-class standard cargo capacity. Ideal for locksmiths, caterers, package delivery, telecommunications, heating and cooling, painters or florists, the best-in-class 48.4-inch width between wheel wells allow the ProMaster City to load up a full-size pallet. Wagon models feature four tie-down rings, a full length headliner and carpet that covers the floor. Panel moldings cover the rear of cargo area, up, over and around the wheel wells and additional storage trays at seated shoulder level incorporate a retractable cover to keep cargo out of view. Safety and security Safety and security were two of the guiding principles followed by engineers throughout the development of the new 2015 Ram ProMaster City. Ram’s new Class 1 van offers 34 active and passive safety and security features. The ProMaster City also includes standard ESC, hosting a number of technologies to assist the driver. Security also means notification of the traffic around you. Ram ProMaster City features available ParkView backup camera and ParkSense with audible warning, all of which are useful when maneuvering in the city. Electronic stability control The standard electronic stability control (ESC) system on the new Ram ProMaster City is a sophisticated four-channel (independent control to all four corners of the vehicle) active handling system that links the vehicle’s dynamic control systems to assist the driver in maintaining control under demanding or adverse conditions such as wet, snow-covered or icy roads, tight turns and evasive maneuvers. In effect, the ESC determines the driver’s intentions and optimizes overall vehicle control to keep the dynamic forces within select limits in any driving situation – nearly transparent so control seems almost intuitive. Uconnect ProMaster City customers can make the best use of their valuable time by leveraging Uconnect’s easy-to-learn, easy-to-use interface – acclaimed for its convenience and sensible design. Handsfree calling in the all-new 2015 Ram ProMaster City is made convenient via reliable Bluetooth technology. A full-color, five-inch touchscreen is available with global positioning satellite (GPS) navigation, providing Ram ProMaster City customers the ability to chart time-saving routes to their destinations. Uconnect Web, powered by Autonet Mobile, is available to U.S. customers. This system delivers continuous Internet connectivity, creating an efficient workspace and real-time information access on the go. Best practices In total, the Ram ProMaster City test fleet accumulated millions of miles enabling Ram and Fiat teams access to real-world data. This includes testing performed in laboratories in Turin, Italy and Auburn Hills, Mich., at Fiat and Chrysler Group proving grounds, as well as reliability testing on public roads in many different climates in Europe and the United States. The 3/36 Reliability Testing, appropriately named as each test car accumulates 36,000 miles (equivalent to three years of use) in about three months, is conducted day and night by teams of drivers. To reflect typical daily driver scenarios, the test drivers do not originate from the engineering ranks and are intentionally chosen from diverse backgrounds to represent customers of different ages, sizes and ethnicities. The test drivers scrutinize all the customer functional aspects of each vehicle as well as overall driving evaluations. This includes radio and navigation system checks, seat-belt buckling, heating and ventilation operation and opening and closing storage compartments and windows. Configurations The 2015 Ram ProMaster City offers eight different configurations: Tradesman Cargo with security panels Tradesman Cargo with rear windows Tradesman Cargo with rear and side windows Tradesman SLT Cargo with security panels Tradesman SLT Cargo with rear windows Tradesman SLT Cargo with rear and side windows Wagon with rear and side windows Wagon SLT with rear and side windows Manufacturing The 2015 Ram ProMaster City will be assembled at the TOFAS plant in Bursa, Turkey. Awarded the World Class Manufacturing Gold Medal, this 3.6-million sq. ft. (83.7 acre) state-of-the-art plant also assembles the Fiat Doblò. The optional cargo van configuration is upfitted at The Chrysler Group Transformation Center in Baltimore, Maryland. View full article

It has been awhile since I drove a Fit, so I cannot really say. I think the dimensions are ok for the subcompact class.

Subcompacts tend to have that one thing, a gimmick or feature that they try to put out there as a selling point. We have models that are fun to drive, get good gas mileage, have the back seat space of a midsize, etc. The 2015 Honda Fit is no exception to this rule. As I found out at the MAMA Spring Rally, Honda is playing the versatility card with the Fit. The back seat in the Fit is what Honda calls the 'magic seat' and there is reason why. The back seat can be folded in a number of configurations to allow tall items to stand in back; create a flat floor delivering 52.7 cubic feet of cargo space; fold the front passenger seat along with the back seat to fit an eight-foot object (surfboard, ladder, etc); or have the back seat up and fold both front seats down to provide a nice space to lay down. Describing it seems a bit funny, but actually having someone demonstrate it from Honda and then trying it out for myself, I was really impressed. Aside from the clever seating, Honda has classed up the Fit. A new dashboard design with better materials and a cleaned up center stack make the Fit a nice place to be in. The optional infotainment system features the latest version of HondaLink which comes with a new interface. I like the interface as its easy to read and navigate. What I'm not so keen on is Honda's choice of using capactive touch controls for the volume and seek since it takes a couple of times for it to be registered. Stepping outside and looking around the Fit, Honda has designed the Fit to be more in line with other Honda vehicles. This is apparent up front where the grille and headlights are reminiscent to the Civic. I understand what Honda is trying to do with the design, but I Iiked the alien shape of the previous model and wished Honda built upon that. Powering the Fit is a all new 1.5L four-cylinder with Earth Dreams technology. The 1.5L makes 130 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. This was paired up to a CVT, though a six-speed manual is available. Like most subcompacts, the Fit's power lies towards the top of the rpm range. Great for driving on the backroads, but a little bit buzzy when driving in the city. The back roads of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin also revealed another big change for the Fit. The previous Fit was known as being a fun to drive subcompact vehicle. The 2015 Fit loses some of that the suspension doesn't quite handle the way a Chevrolet Sonic does, nor is the steering as sharp. Plus side: Fit exhibits some impressive ride quality when driven over rough surfaces. While its versatility may be its trump card, the 2015 Fit has a few other qualities that make a real contender in the subcompact class. Disclaimer: Honda Provided the Fit for the MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2015 Make: Honda Model: Fit Trim: EX-L Navi Engine: 1.5L i-VTEC Earth Dreams Four-Cylinder Driveline: Front-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 130 @ 6600 Torque @ RPM: 114 @ 4600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 32/38/35 Curb Weight: 2,642 lbs Location of Manufacture: Celaya, Mexico Base Price: $20,800 As Tested Price: $21,590 (Includes $790.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article