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When we drove the Volkswagen Atlas back in the summer, we liked the base turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder for the most part. Aside from noticeable turbo-lag, the engine provided decent oomph. But for 2019, Volkswagen is quietly reducing the number of models you can order with the turbo 2.0L. CarsDirect recently obtained the order guide for the 2019 Atlas and reports that the base S trim will be the only model available with the 2.0T. Previously, the SE and SEL could be ordered with the 2.0T. Volkswagen has also decided to drop V6 FWD configuration for the S. This means the mid-level SE is now the cheapest way to get the V6 FWD configuration - $36,490 vs. $35,090 for the S V6 AWD. Why is Volkswagen doing this? The most likely reason comes down to the four-cylinder version of the Atlas not really being available at dealers. If you wanted one, you had to order it straight from the factory. Source: CarsDirect -
AMG's Boss Believes Brand Will Not Be Diluted With More Models
William Maley posted an article in Mercedes Benz
Owning a Mercedes-Benz AMG model for a time was something special as there was only a few models to get the performance treatment. But the past few years has seen an explosion of AMG models that offering varying levels of performance. There is also the AMG-only models like the GT and GT 4. Some are wondering if AMG is going a bit overboard with this model expansion. Not so according to Tobias Moers, head of AMG. "The A35 family is not diluting the brand. We have shared components with the next 45. And driving-dynamics-wise it's on the same level as the current A45, but with less horsepower. It's a different segment and we're going to be really competitive with pricing," said Moers to CarAdvice at the Paris Motor Show this week. The A35 will sit between the standard A-Class and upcoming A45 AMG. It packs a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive, the A35 can hit 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. "From my perspective, whether you're in the car...value for money, that's the key. Mercedes brought back in the past and A-Class...was the brand diluted then? I don't think so. When we introduced the A45 we had a lot of questions like that, was the brand diluted? No. We get access to brand new customers," Moers went on to say. Thus we have a double-edge sword situation; having more models allows for more people to experience AMG performance, but could also alienate those who spend the big bucks on the higher end models. Source: CarAdvice -
With Ford planning on dropping most of its cars except for one, the automaker is making changes to its advertising strategy, Automotive News is reporting that Ford has ended nationwide marking for the Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, and Taurus. The company is also dialing back spending in certain regions. Mark LaNeve, Ford's vice president of U.S. marketing, sales, and service tells AN that the money will be used on the Mustang, EcoSport, and new models coming in the pipeline. "It allows us to focus our resources. If we can take that money from sedans, where we have a middle-of-the-road position, to be the leading brand in SUVs, that'd be a really good position," said LaNeve. According to executives, deciding to end sales of most their car lineup was the right move, sighting August sales numbers as an example. Sales of Ford cars dropped 21 percent last month. Meanwhile, pickup and van sales rose 5.9 percent, and utilities increased 20 percent. Ford has already stopped production of the North American Focus, and will end Fiesta and Taurus production by the middle of next year. The Fusion will have a slow death as executives say the model will stick around for a couple more years. The lack of national ads will likely hurt sales, LaNeve said the company would support dealers by offering various incentives on the model. "Obviously, we can't let the dealers just sit on the inventory. We'll keep them competitive on incentives, but we're certainly not spending money there in a way where we'd be driving the market. We're accepting the share we've got." Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
Ford's announcement of dropping most of their lineup of traditional cars likely caused a number of automakers to consider doing something similar. One automaker that will not be doing this is Subaru. Dominick Infante, Subaru’s national manager of product communications told Motor Trend one of the key reasons they keeping traditional cars is increasing gas prices. “Gas prices are starting to come up now. So a good hedge for better economy is having a sedan,” said Infante. “So we still make the Impreza and the Impreza hatchback. They do get better gas mileage than say a comparable CUV like the Crosstrek so we do sell those so if the market does change that’ll help sales of sedans.” Subaru's entry-level Impreza helps bring first-buyers in and performance models like the WRX/STI and BRZ draw in customers in their late 20s and early 30s. Still, Subaru's car lineup is taking it on the chin. Here are the sales numbers through April, Impreza: 22,287 (Down 16.3% YTD) Legacy: 14,730 (Down 13.9% YTD) WRX/STI: 9,854 (Down 8.2% YTD) BRZ: 1,286 (Down 10.1% YTD) Their crossover lineup is doing slightly better. Again, here are the sales numbers through April, Crosstrek: 45,728 (Up 66.6% YTD) Outback: 58,205 (Up 2% YTD) Forester: 50,783 (Down 9.7% YTD) Source: Motor Trend -
Ford Will Finally Reveal What Cars Will Be Cut Later This Year
William Maley posted an article in Ford
Since last year, we've been hearing various rumors of Ford cutting a number of passenger cars. In October, Ford CEO Jim Hackett said various cuts were incoming, including ones for the vehicle lineup. This would be part of a $7 billion shift of development funds from passenger cars to SUVs/Trucks. At the time, Ford wouldn't say what vehicles would be cut. During Ford's fourth-quarter and 2017 earnings call, Hackett said details about which models would be cut would finally be revealed later this year. Analysts hoping to get an answer were frustrated by this news. Ford has already ended production of the C-Max Energi late last year and is planning to end production of the C-Max Hybrid sometime later this year. Other models that have been rumored to be cut include the Fiesta, Taurus, and recently the Fusion. Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required) -
The past few years has seen Nissan expanding their lineup of NISMO performance models around the world. But that isn't enough as Nissan plans on expanding NISMO into more markets. To that end, the company announced a new unit called the NISMO Cars Business Unit. This will be part of Autech Japan, Inc - a Nissan group company that convert vehicles for disabled drivers and tunes performance vehicles. Nissan hopes that the new unit combined with the efforts Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. and other group companies can deliver more NISMO products in a shorter timeframe. "As a Nissan sub-brand, NISMO further builds upon the core values of Nissan cars. With the combined expertise of Nissan group companies, NISMO road cars will make customers enjoy Nissan cars more than ever," said Takao Katagiri, president and CEO of both Autech Japan and Nissan Motorsports International. Nissan doesn't make any mention of what models are under consideration for the NISMO treatment. Currently, Nissan sells NISMO versions of the 370Z, GT-R, Juke, and Sentra in the U.S. Source: Nissan Press Release is on Page 2 Nissan sets up new unit to boost NISMO road car business More high-performance models to be rolled out globally YOKOHAMA, Japan – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has set up a new unit to expand its NISMO road car business by making a greater range of models available to customers in more markets. The NISMO Cars Business Department is part of Autech Japan, Inc., a Nissan group company that makes converted vehicles. Using talent from Nissan, Autech, Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. and other group companies, it will plan and develop more appealing products in a shorter time. Nissan plans to expand the range of NISMO road cars to new segments, market them more globally and boost the lineup in existing markets, including Japan, North America, Europe and the Middle East. This will help increase sales of NISMO cars, which are now about 15,000 units a year. Nissan introduced the NISMO brand to its mainstream model lineup in 2013 to bring customers more innovations and excitement. Featuring performance and styling developed through NISMO's motorsports activities, the cars offer a sporty driving experience combined with Nissan's quality, reliability and durability. NISMO road cars introduced so far include the GT-R, 370Z, JUKE and Sentra in the U.S. – plus the Note and Patrol in markets outside the U.S. "As a Nissan sub-brand, NISMO further builds upon the core values of Nissan cars," said Takao Katagiri, president and CEO of both Autech Japan and Nissan Motorsports International. "With the combined expertise of Nissan group companies, NISMO road cars will make customers enjoy Nissan cars more than ever." The new business unit will also work with Nissan Motorsports International on marketing. This includes showing NISMO road cars at Nissan dealerships and showrooms and holding events and activities for NISMO car owners. -
Aston Martin Readies Lagonda As A Rolls-Royce Fighter
William Maley posted an article in Aston Martin
Aston Martin will soon be relaunching the Lagonda brand as a competitor to the likes of Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Speaking with Motoring, Aston Martin boss Andy Palmer said Lagonda would standard apart from its parent company. “Historically, Lagonda competed with the likes of Rolls and Bentley. [but] it has been largely dormant or has often been used as a sub brand… or a pet name of Aston, so lots of confusion. We’re going to get rid of the confusion… The direction I gave to Marek [Reichman, Aston Design boss] was look, Rolls Royce, is the epitome of luxury. It’s first class in a [Boeing] 777 – big, comfortable, we can’t compete with them. [So instead] Give me Concorde – the best of speed; the finest of fastest cars," said Palmer. The Lagonda lineup will comprise of two models, although what they will be is unknown at this time. Palmer says he hasn't signed off on plans for either model. He does admit it will likely be a sedan and SUV. Both models will use Aston's bonded aluminium platform and not one from their partner, Mercedes-Benz. Both models are expected to debut sometime in the next decade. Source: Motoring -
Rumorpile: Ford and Lincoln Are Adding More Crossovers and SUVs!
William Maley posted an article in Ford
"SUVs are the top-selling segment in the U.S. That is why we are introducing five new SUVs in the U.S. by 2020," for the Ford brand, said Mark LaNeve, Ford vice president of U.S. marketing, sales and service in a statement this week. We already know three of the five models: EcoSport in 2018, the electric compact crossover in 2019, and the Bronco in 2020. But what about the other two? Reuters has learned from supplier sources that the models in question will be based on Ford's next-generation Focus and Fiesta. Meanwhile, Lincoln will be getting an additional model to their crossover/utility lineup. Sources say it will be a midsize model sharing the underpinnings of the Explorer due in 2019. Currently, the model is known internally as Aviator and MKD. We hope Lincoln goes with the former and not the latter. Source: Reuters Pic Credit: NewspressUSA -
Lexus Executive Admits There Are Some Holes In Their Lineup
William Maley posted an article in Lexus
Lexus executives admit there are some holes in their lineup such as not having a subcompact or three-row crossover. Speaking with Automotive News, Lexus General Manager Jeff Bracken said the brand is losing as many as 70,000 potential vehicle sales by not competing in certain segments. "We do think there's room to fill some gaps that still exist for Lexus," said Bracken. One possibility is introducing a subcompact crossover possibly with a production version of the UX concept. "That's a gap we are watching very closely. We're very fixated on trying to move that conversation forward with our parent corporation." Also up for consideration is a three-row crossover and expanding the F-series performance family - might include an LC-F. One surprise to come out is Lexus doing an electric vehicle. According to Bracken, the brand started investigating possibilities after the Paris Motor Show where many European luxury automakers pushed this idea. "It was amazingly focused. Subsequent to that show, from my standpoint, we began conversations with our product planners," said Bracken. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
The Bentley Bentayga maybe one of most controversial models ever launched by the brand, but it has exceeded sales expectations. Because of this, Bentley is considering expanding Bentayga lineup. Autocar reports that there are three models up for consideration. First up is a coupe-styled version that could launch in 2019 if given the green-light by Volkswagen. “I’m confident that it will happen and our team is working on the case for this car, but it is not yet approved for production. We are the first in the luxury SUV space and at the moment unopposed, but there are lots of rivals coming to the sector. The question we need to answer is if there is space for all these different bodystyles,” said Bentley CEO Wolfgang Dürheimer. Next is a long-wheelbase Bentayga that is already under development. This model will be primarily be aimed at markets such as China and the Middle East. “In the Middle East and China it is almost exclusively what we sell. Those markets have shown what is possible and it makes business sense; the engineering is not rocket science, but it is expensive because when you change components like the side panels and roof you add a lot of cost,” said Dürheimer. The last model is a high-performance Bentayga that could use a retuned version of the W12 engine. Possible competitors include the Range Rover SVR. The Bentayga lineup currently consists of a 6.0L W12 and a diesel V8. A Plug-in hybrid will arrive in 2018. Source: Autocar -
As more consumers head over to crossovers and SUVs, automakers find themselves making changes to their lineup. Case in point is Ford which is considering dropping some of their nameplates because of the change in demand. “Over time, there should be some pruning of the portfolio to support growth in other areas. Clearly we’re going to invest in growing the SUV portfolio. We certainly intend to have a strong car base as well; we don’t know where the market’s going to go. But there will be some pruning over time as there should be in a nameplate and portfolio,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of the Americas. Ford's car sales are down 14 percent through November with sedans being the big losers. Fiesta: Down 26 percent year-to-date Focus: Down 17 percent YTD Taurus: Down 11 percent YTD Fusion: Down 10 percent YTD Hinrichs didn't say which nameplates could be cut, but mentioned that former popular vehicles such as the Ranger were dropped after demand fell. “If you look at our past, there’s been some nameplates that have dropped off and other nameplates have been added. Given where the market is going, the demands for capital investment and the regulatory changes coming at us, we’ll continue to always look at the total portfolio and see where’s segmentation going and where should we be phasing out,” said Hinrichs. We think the Taurus is one of the vehicles on the chopping block since sales of it have been falling for the past couple of years. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
Hyundai has a major revamp of its crossover lineup on the horizon. Speaking with Automotive News, Hyundai Motor America CEO Dave Zuchowski outlined plans to meet the current demand of crossovers for the U.S. Beginning with their current crossover lineup, the Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport will grow in size and separate from one another. The Santa Fe will grow into an eight-seat crossover, and the Sport will get a name change along with a new design to make it more rugged. The Tuscon will grow as well but will not get a major change in its mission. Hyundai will also be introducing a new B-segment crossover in 2018 to compete with the likes of the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, and Mazda CX-3. Further down the road, a subcompact crossover will be introduced. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
Sales of Fiat vehicles in the U.S. have been tanking and FCA is making a drastic change to try and reverse this. Automotive News got their hands on documents revealing a new pricing structure that will see Fiat cut the prices on some of their models. The base 500 will see a price cut of $2,000 ($14,995 from $16,995). The price doesn't include a $995 destination charge. The big price cuts will come to the 500C lineup as there will now be a $1,495 difference between the cabrio and regular hardtop. A key example is the 500C Abarth which sees its price drop from $26,695 to $21,490 for 2017. Prices for the 124 Spider and 500X remain unchanged. A Fiat spokesman declined to comment. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers and Gears -
Mercedes-Benz Plans To Slice Down Models and Trims in U.S.
William Maley posted an article in Mercedes Benz
Did you know that Mercedes-Benz has nearly 30 models on sale in the U.S. at the moment? Factor in the various engine choices and body styles and you're looking at nearly 90 different models. This is causing Mercedes-Benz and their dealers a number of headaches dealing with it. "It has gotten to the point of being just too much to manage customer model confusion, vehicle logistics and manufacturing. Each of these models require marketing support, education at the dealer level, even service and parts inventory," said Jeff Schuster, president of global forecasting at LMC Automotive. Mercedes is going to do something about it. Earlier this month, the German automaker told dealers at a national meeting in Las Vegas they would be cutting back on the number of models it offers within the next twelve months. "We are going to see models go away within the next 12 months. Within the next 90 days, we might see some of those announcements," according to one unnamed dealer who was at the meeting. The automaker also announced that it would be scaling back the number of options and equipment packages it offers. Poor selling options would be dropped, while popular ones would become "standard equipment on certain models" or tacked "onto existing feature packages." What models may get the ax? We know that the SLC roadster will be leaving the lineup next year due to slumping sales. Automotive News speculates the C-Class coupe/cabrio and S-Class coupe/cabrio could also go due to sales falling. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
Ford's announcement of dropping most of their lineup of traditional cars likely caused a number of automakers to consider doing something similar. One automaker that will not be doing this is Subaru. Dominick Infante, Subaru’s national manager of product communications told Motor Trend one of the key reasons they keeping traditional cars is increasing gas prices. “Gas prices are starting to come up now. So a good hedge for better economy is having a sedan,” said Infante. “So we still make the Impreza and the Impreza hatchback. They do get better gas mileage than say a comparable CUV like the Crosstrek so we do sell those so if the market does change that’ll help sales of sedans.” Subaru's entry-level Impreza helps bring first-buyers in and performance models like the WRX/STI and BRZ draw in customers in their late 20s and early 30s. Still, Subaru's car lineup is taking it on the chin. Here are the sales numbers through April, Impreza: 22,287 (Down 16.3% YTD) Legacy: 14,730 (Down 13.9% YTD) WRX/STI: 9,854 (Down 8.2% YTD) BRZ: 1,286 (Down 10.1% YTD) Their crossover lineup is doing slightly better. Again, here are the sales numbers through April, Crosstrek: 45,728 (Up 66.6% YTD) Outback: 58,205 (Up 2% YTD) Forester: 50,783 (Down 9.7% YTD) Source: Motor Trend View full article
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Since last year, we've been hearing various rumors of Ford cutting a number of passenger cars. In October, Ford CEO Jim Hackett said various cuts were incoming, including ones for the vehicle lineup. This would be part of a $7 billion shift of development funds from passenger cars to SUVs/Trucks. At the time, Ford wouldn't say what vehicles would be cut. During Ford's fourth-quarter and 2017 earnings call, Hackett said details about which models would be cut would finally be revealed later this year. Analysts hoping to get an answer were frustrated by this news. Ford has already ended production of the C-Max Energi late last year and is planning to end production of the C-Max Hybrid sometime later this year. Other models that have been rumored to be cut include the Fiesta, Taurus, and recently the Fusion. Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required) View full article
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The past few years has seen Nissan expanding their lineup of NISMO performance models around the world. But that isn't enough as Nissan plans on expanding NISMO into more markets. To that end, the company announced a new unit called the NISMO Cars Business Unit. This will be part of Autech Japan, Inc - a Nissan group company that convert vehicles for disabled drivers and tunes performance vehicles. Nissan hopes that the new unit combined with the efforts Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. and other group companies can deliver more NISMO products in a shorter timeframe. "As a Nissan sub-brand, NISMO further builds upon the core values of Nissan cars. With the combined expertise of Nissan group companies, NISMO road cars will make customers enjoy Nissan cars more than ever," said Takao Katagiri, president and CEO of both Autech Japan and Nissan Motorsports International. Nissan doesn't make any mention of what models are under consideration for the NISMO treatment. Currently, Nissan sells NISMO versions of the 370Z, GT-R, Juke, and Sentra in the U.S. Source: Nissan Press Release is on Page 2 Nissan sets up new unit to boost NISMO road car business More high-performance models to be rolled out globally YOKOHAMA, Japan – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has set up a new unit to expand its NISMO road car business by making a greater range of models available to customers in more markets. The NISMO Cars Business Department is part of Autech Japan, Inc., a Nissan group company that makes converted vehicles. Using talent from Nissan, Autech, Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. and other group companies, it will plan and develop more appealing products in a shorter time. Nissan plans to expand the range of NISMO road cars to new segments, market them more globally and boost the lineup in existing markets, including Japan, North America, Europe and the Middle East. This will help increase sales of NISMO cars, which are now about 15,000 units a year. Nissan introduced the NISMO brand to its mainstream model lineup in 2013 to bring customers more innovations and excitement. Featuring performance and styling developed through NISMO's motorsports activities, the cars offer a sporty driving experience combined with Nissan's quality, reliability and durability. NISMO road cars introduced so far include the GT-R, 370Z, JUKE and Sentra in the U.S. – plus the Note and Patrol in markets outside the U.S. "As a Nissan sub-brand, NISMO further builds upon the core values of Nissan cars," said Takao Katagiri, president and CEO of both Autech Japan and Nissan Motorsports International. "With the combined expertise of Nissan group companies, NISMO road cars will make customers enjoy Nissan cars more than ever." The new business unit will also work with Nissan Motorsports International on marketing. This includes showing NISMO road cars at Nissan dealerships and showrooms and holding events and activities for NISMO car owners. View full article
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"SUVs are the top-selling segment in the U.S. That is why we are introducing five new SUVs in the U.S. by 2020," for the Ford brand, said Mark LaNeve, Ford vice president of U.S. marketing, sales and service in a statement this week. We already know three of the five models: EcoSport in 2018, the electric compact crossover in 2019, and the Bronco in 2020. But what about the other two? Reuters has learned from supplier sources that the models in question will be based on Ford's next-generation Focus and Fiesta. Meanwhile, Lincoln will be getting an additional model to their crossover/utility lineup. Sources say it will be a midsize model sharing the underpinnings of the Explorer due in 2019. Currently, the model is known internally as Aviator and MKD. We hope Lincoln goes with the former and not the latter. Source: Reuters Pic Credit: NewspressUSA View full article
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Aston Martin will soon be relaunching the Lagonda brand as a competitor to the likes of Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Speaking with Motoring, Aston Martin boss Andy Palmer said Lagonda would standard apart from its parent company. “Historically, Lagonda competed with the likes of Rolls and Bentley. [but] it has been largely dormant or has often been used as a sub brand… or a pet name of Aston, so lots of confusion. We’re going to get rid of the confusion… The direction I gave to Marek [Reichman, Aston Design boss] was look, Rolls Royce, is the epitome of luxury. It’s first class in a [Boeing] 777 – big, comfortable, we can’t compete with them. [So instead] Give me Concorde – the best of speed; the finest of fastest cars," said Palmer. The Lagonda lineup will comprise of two models, although what they will be is unknown at this time. Palmer says he hasn't signed off on plans for either model. He does admit it will likely be a sedan and SUV. Both models will use Aston's bonded aluminium platform and not one from their partner, Mercedes-Benz. Both models are expected to debut sometime in the next decade. Source: Motoring View full article
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Hyundai has a major revamp of its crossover lineup on the horizon. Speaking with Automotive News, Hyundai Motor America CEO Dave Zuchowski outlined plans to meet the current demand of crossovers for the U.S. Beginning with their current crossover lineup, the Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport will grow in size and separate from one another. The Santa Fe will grow into an eight-seat crossover, and the Sport will get a name change along with a new design to make it more rugged. The Tuscon will grow as well but will not get a major change in its mission. Hyundai will also be introducing a new B-segment crossover in 2018 to compete with the likes of the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, and Mazda CX-3. Further down the road, a subcompact crossover will be introduced. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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Sales of Fiat vehicles in the U.S. have been tanking and FCA is making a drastic change to try and reverse this. Automotive News got their hands on documents revealing a new pricing structure that will see Fiat cut the prices on some of their models. The base 500 will see a price cut of $2,000 ($14,995 from $16,995). The price doesn't include a $995 destination charge. The big price cuts will come to the 500C lineup as there will now be a $1,495 difference between the cabrio and regular hardtop. A key example is the 500C Abarth which sees its price drop from $26,695 to $21,490 for 2017. Prices for the 124 Spider and 500X remain unchanged. A Fiat spokesman declined to comment. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers and Gears View full article
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Lexus executives admit there are some holes in their lineup such as not having a subcompact or three-row crossover. Speaking with Automotive News, Lexus General Manager Jeff Bracken said the brand is losing as many as 70,000 potential vehicle sales by not competing in certain segments. "We do think there's room to fill some gaps that still exist for Lexus," said Bracken. One possibility is introducing a subcompact crossover possibly with a production version of the UX concept. "That's a gap we are watching very closely. We're very fixated on trying to move that conversation forward with our parent corporation." Also up for consideration is a three-row crossover and expanding the F-series performance family - might include an LC-F. One surprise to come out is Lexus doing an electric vehicle. According to Bracken, the brand started investigating possibilities after the Paris Motor Show where many European luxury automakers pushed this idea. "It was amazingly focused. Subsequent to that show, from my standpoint, we began conversations with our product planners," said Bracken. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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The Bentley Bentayga maybe one of most controversial models ever launched by the brand, but it has exceeded sales expectations. Because of this, Bentley is considering expanding Bentayga lineup. Autocar reports that there are three models up for consideration. First up is a coupe-styled version that could launch in 2019 if given the green-light by Volkswagen. “I’m confident that it will happen and our team is working on the case for this car, but it is not yet approved for production. We are the first in the luxury SUV space and at the moment unopposed, but there are lots of rivals coming to the sector. The question we need to answer is if there is space for all these different bodystyles,” said Bentley CEO Wolfgang Dürheimer. Next is a long-wheelbase Bentayga that is already under development. This model will be primarily be aimed at markets such as China and the Middle East. “In the Middle East and China it is almost exclusively what we sell. Those markets have shown what is possible and it makes business sense; the engineering is not rocket science, but it is expensive because when you change components like the side panels and roof you add a lot of cost,” said Dürheimer. The last model is a high-performance Bentayga that could use a retuned version of the W12 engine. Possible competitors include the Range Rover SVR. The Bentayga lineup currently consists of a 6.0L W12 and a diesel V8. A Plug-in hybrid will arrive in 2018. Source: Autocar View full article
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VW News: Volkswagen Removes 2.0T From Most Trims For 2019
William Maley posted a topic in Volkswagen
When we drove the Volkswagen Atlas back in the summer, we liked the base turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder for the most part. Aside from noticeable turbo-lag, the engine provided decent oomph. But for 2019, Volkswagen is quietly reducing the number of models you can order with the turbo 2.0L. CarsDirect recently obtained the order guide for the 2019 Atlas and reports that the base S trim will be the only model available with the 2.0T. Previously, the SE and SEL could be ordered with the 2.0T. Volkswagen has also decided to drop V6 FWD configuration for the S. This means the mid-level SE is now the cheapest way to get the V6 FWD configuration - $36,490 vs. $35,090 for the S V6 AWD. Why is Volkswagen doing this? The most likely reason comes down to the four-cylinder version of the Atlas not really being available at dealers. If you wanted one, you had to order it straight from the factory. Source: CarsDirect View full article -
Did you know that Mercedes-Benz has nearly 30 models on sale in the U.S. at the moment? Factor in the various engine choices and body styles and you're looking at nearly 90 different models. This is causing Mercedes-Benz and their dealers a number of headaches dealing with it. "It has gotten to the point of being just too much to manage customer model confusion, vehicle logistics and manufacturing. Each of these models require marketing support, education at the dealer level, even service and parts inventory," said Jeff Schuster, president of global forecasting at LMC Automotive. Mercedes is going to do something about it. Earlier this month, the German automaker told dealers at a national meeting in Las Vegas they would be cutting back on the number of models it offers within the next twelve months. "We are going to see models go away within the next 12 months. Within the next 90 days, we might see some of those announcements," according to one unnamed dealer who was at the meeting. The automaker also announced that it would be scaling back the number of options and equipment packages it offers. Poor selling options would be dropped, while popular ones would become "standard equipment on certain models" or tacked "onto existing feature packages." What models may get the ax? We know that the SLC roadster will be leaving the lineup next year due to slumping sales. Automotive News speculates the C-Class coupe/cabrio and S-Class coupe/cabrio could also go due to sales falling. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
