Saturn Dead?

Bad news for Saturn.  Penske just announced that they are backing away, because they are concerned about vehicle availability from GM going forward.  WSJ: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125434260817353567.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_LEFTWhatsNewsCollection

Mercedes to shift C-Class production to U.S?

Several car firms have shifted production to the United States in the past few years to avoid rising labour costs and exchange rates and Mercedes could be expanding that initiative. According to the latest reports out of Germany, Mercedes-Benz in mulling shifting some C-Class production to the U.S.

Mercedes is considering moving some production of its popular C-Class to the United States. If the plan is approved, production of the C-Class would shift from Sindelfingen, Germany to Tuscaloosa, Alabama, presumably at the company’s current M-Class facility. Mercedes’ is considering the shift due to lower wages rates at the Alabama plant. The move would also help safeguard Mercedes’ profits against unfavorable Dollar to Euro exchange rates.

Mercedes has yet to confirm the report – only saying that “there is neither a decision nor a recommendation on C-Class location politics” – but rumors suggest the 4 door, 2 door and wagon variants of the C-Class could be built at the Alabama plant, with the latter likely for export.

No word on when the shift might occur, but the Mercedes SL-Class would likely fill the C-Class' spot at the Sindelfingen plant.

News in brief

GM cancels plans to build unibody pick up trucks - Via Insideline

Russian built Nissans due in 2012 - Via Autocar
2010 Lexus ES sedan pricing announced - Via Edmunds.com

Electric Rolls-Royce Phantom under consideration - Via WorldCarFans

Opel workers in Spain take to the streets to protest - Via Autocar

Office of Fair Trading (OFT) launched an inquiry into second hand cars (UK) - Via MSN UK

Turkey investigates pricing fix - Via Autocar

Audi RS6 V10 set to be replaced by twin-turbo V8 - Via WorldCarFans

Protesters dump manure on Clarksons lawn (UK) - Via Autotrader UK

Land Rover Defender replacement due in 2012 - Via Autocar

Ploue "Peugeots have lost their beauty" - Via Autocar

Uninsured? Say good-bye to your car (UK) - Via WhatCar?

Vauxhall Astra pricing announced (UK) - Via Autocar

Mexcian buyers get more incentives (MX) - Via Edmunds.com

"Unintended Acceleration", Don't Pray, THINK

This morning on the radio, I heard the audio from a 911 distress call that a man placed while driving an out of control Lexus.  This was one of the events which precipated the massive Toyota floor mat recall.  Apparently, his accelerator pedal was stuck to the floor, and his brakes weren't working (he probably boiled them, or perhaps, the brake pedal was obstructed). He called 911 in a panic, and the operator just had time to suggest that he turn the car off, before the man said "We're coming to an intersection... pray!", and that was the end.  The man and his three passengers were killed. 

He didn't need to pray.  He just needed to think.  He panicked, and got himself and his family tragically killed because he wasn't able to use his cars multiple redundant controls.

Suppose your gas pedal is stuck to the floor.  What can you do?

1. Use your toe to try to lift the pedal.  This actually happened to me once, that a piece of trash got jammed next to the pedal, and I had to physically pull it up to free it.
2. If that doesn't work, put your car into neutral.  Then use the brakes.
3. If your normal brakes won't work (they're cooked, or loss of vacuum) you can use your emergency (aka parking) brake to slow your car
4. If all else fails, kill the power to the engine by turning off the key.  If you don't have a key but have push button start, no big deal.  On many systems, pressing and holding the engine start button will force it to stop.

So there are 3 different ways to stop your car from accelerating: transmission, emergency brake, engine stop.  It's a shame that the 911 caller couldn't remember any of them.

NHTSA: Toyota Owners Remove Floor Mats

NHTSA has an urgent message to owners of many Toyota vehicles:

• 2007-2010 Camry
• 2005-2010 Avalon
• 2004-2009 Prius
• 2005-2010 Tacoma
• 2007-2010 Tundra
• 2007-2010 ES 350
• 2006-2010 IS 250 and IS350

Remove your driver side floor mat and do not replace it with any other mat until otherwise instructed.  For more information see NHTSA at http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/portal/site/nhtsa/menuitem.f2217bee37fb302f6d7c121046108a0c/

This will probably become a massive recall later, potentially affecting millions of vehicles, and a may be another chip in Toyota's quality reputation.

Meanwhile, owners of Chrysler, Ford, and GM may continue to enjoy their floor mats.

Sorry, I can't resist a little schadenfreude.

On Paddle Shifters

More and more cars now ofter steering wheel mounted shift levers for cars that have fully automatic transmissions. These are an imitation of the semi-automated manual transmissions typically used in high performance and full-bore race cars such as the Ferrari 430.

I think this is silly.

Real paddle-shift transmissions are basically automated mechanical transmissions which do not have torque converters; they have replaced the clutch and stick with the paddles. On a high-end sportscar, they makes sense, as an alternative to a traditional manual with 3 pedals on the floor.

On a consumer grade car with a torque converter type automatic transmission, the paddles are a gimmick, and I doubt anyone uses them.

If the car won't stall because you forgot to shift with the paddles, it's not authentic, in my book. If you don't need to interact with it unless you feel "sporty" that day, it is a toy. Part of the fun of driving a true manual transmission car (which I do) is that you have to do your job ot make the car move. If my car had a dual-clutch automated manual transmission, I'd be thrilled, but I would probably never use the manual override. I'd put it in D and go.

The Truth About TTAC

The Truth About Cars (TTAC) was started by Robert Farrago, an auto blogger whose calling cards were coprolalia and an obsession with predicting the death of GM.

So Farrago turned out to be sort of right about GM, they did go bankrupt, though it is still very alive and kicking.

However, not so much for Farrago's blogging career at TTAC. The media company that owned TTAC just about stopped paying its writers, and then sold the site to another media company. Money was still a problem, so Farrago left.

Score: Farrago 1, GM 2.

I'll give RF credit for riding the GM-dies horse so hard and long, because after all, he turned out to be right. But I've always been annoyed at TTAC's style. Farrago, if you remember, was the one who compared a Subaru front end design to a woman's genitals, and then was outraged that he wasn't going to be offered free press cars to drive anymore. TTAC under Farrago didn't necessarily do anything better than any other automotive news site, they just did it louder.

Review: 2010 Ford Taurus

I thought I would make an effort to test-drive a 2010 Ford Taurus, since it is an important product for Ford, and I am familiar with the previous incarnation. I talked my mom into buying a used Five Hundred based on the big room, excellent safety, and big depreciation.

I went to my local Ford dealer and test drove a shiny metallic white Limited, the top of the line. It had the Sony sound system, navigation, SYNC, push-button start, keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot warning system.

The car is still quite large, but Ford did a good job making it look less huge. Instead of a large dome-on-a-box shape, the new Taurus looks more like a blunt wedge. The compromise here is that the interior head space is smaller than the old model, and the rearward visibility is not very good. Which may be one reason why they chose to add the blind spot warning and rear view camera as options. The trunk is still huge.

I like the re-style. It is distinctive without being outlandish (see Chrysler 300) or derivative (see Avalon). It is definitely not bland-but-functional like the Five Hundred was.

The driving experience was overall pretty good. The powertrain is smooth and quiet, and gives more than adequate power, though it is not a muscle car. Steering feel was excellent, with good on-center precision and crisp response for such a large car. The ride was somewhere in between family car soft and sports car hard, about right for that size of vehicle. I didn't feel like I was in a race car, but I did feel like I was well connected to the road.

The interior is very nice. Ford did a good job putting together an attractive interior without being too blingy (see: MKS). I was particularly impressed with the door panels, which look like they are actual stitched leather, but are in fact high fidelity moldings of stitched leather. I did feel that the center stack was a bit on the wide side, eating up some valuable driver space. There was liberal use of fake wood (which I am not a fan of), but the fake wood was good quality, and it looked a lot like actual wood.

I liked the implementation of keyless entry and start. You walk up to the car, and swipe the hidden door pillar keypad with your finger. The door unlocks. You get in, buckle in, press the brake pedal, and push the start button. The engine fires up and you go. Very quick and easy. The only issue I noticed with this is that I would personally have to re-train myself to lock the car by hitting the door button, since you don't need to hang on to the key fob.

Adaptive Cruise Control was fascinating to use, but had a few weaknesses. If the guy in front of you slams on his brakes, the system flashes a large row of red LEDs to warn you that you need to brake--apparently it is limited in how much braking it can command. Also, the system can not brake the car completely to a stop and then start rolling again, instead it disables itself if your speed drops too low (I tried). It was neat, but not worth the cost in my opinion.

My test drive car had the paddle shifters, which are pretty silly. I found myself fiddling with them because they were there, but I can't think of time when I actually would want to use them. A simple 'L' would be fine for most people, to allow engine braking down grades. I can't believe anyone is fooled into thinking the paddle shifters are "sporty". Message to Ford (and everyone else): If the car won't stall because you forgot to paddle shift, the paddle shifters aren't real.

Some annoyances: the foot-actuated parking/emergency brake was carried over from the Five Hundred as a pedal on the driver's left kick-panel. Ford should move the e-brake to the center console like most modern cars.

Another problem for me is the poor rearward visibility. Between the short rear window and intrusive rear head restraints, the rear view mirror has a poor field of view. Ford should have imitated Volvo and installed pivoting (they don't have to be powered) rear headrests. Normally if you know how to adjust your mirrors, you wouldn't need a blind spot warning system. But on the Taurus, it is helpful because of the poor corner visibility through the rearview mirror.

I was able to find a comfortable driving position, but in my favorite spot, the top buttons of the center console were hard to reach because of the steep rake. As stylish as a swoopy center stack is, I think a steeper angle would have been better for me ergonomically.

SYNC worked well and the navigation system was good looking and easy to use. However, I don't think there is a way to customize the SYNC voice, which my $150 TomTom offers. SYNC also does offer a way to dictate outbound text messages or emails, which would be very useful. The Sony branded sound system sounded good to me.

Overall, I enjoyed driving the Limited. If I bought one, I would buy a cheaper variant (MSRP ~$38,000). If I needed a larger car, or wanted something with some heft, I would definitely consider a 2010 Taurus. Consider the competition: Chevrolet Impala? Ancient platform, mushy, rental-car queen. Toyota Avalon? A big bland mushy couch on wheels. Chrysler 300? Old product, rough interior, though RWD is a plus. Buick LaCrosse? Zzzzzzz.

Stuff I Liked:

• Leather moldings
• Nice fake wood
• Huge trunk
• Steering feel and handling
  
• Cooled seats
  
• Seat comfort
• Sony sound system
  
• Keyless entry and start
• Capless fuel filler
  

Stuff I didn't like:

• Park brake pedal
  
• Rear visibility, headrests
• Steep rake of center console makes reaching top buttons hard
• No speech-to-text messaging on SYNC
  
• Silly paddle shifters

New Car: 2010 Fiat Panda

In order to keep the Panda fresh and up-to-date, Fiat has decided to revised their ever-popular city-car. On the outside, all 2010 Panda adopt the more contemporary body coloured grille found on all variants, excluding the entry-level Active models. In addition to the revised bumpers, new alloy wheel designs, larger exterior mirrors and silver trim finish for the roof bars are now available. Fiat has also added four new exterior colours to the lineup.

Inside, the instrument panel gets fresh graphics while there's also a new selection of upholstery colours.

Mechanically,  improvements are limited to the 1.2 litre petrol engine that now has 69bhp, up from 60bhp and now emits 113g/km CO2, down from 133g/km (eco model emits 119g/km). This same engine is found in the Fiat 500 and Ford KA city-cars. The Panda 4x4 should also have lower CO2 emissions, compared to the 155g/km from the current model. In Europe, Panda buyers have a wide choice of petrol, diesel, natural gas and LPG engines with outputs ranging from 54bhp to 100bhp. Both manual and Dualogic semi-automatic transmissions will also be available. The UK will only get the 2 former engines.

The Panda was launched in September 2003. In the 6 years it has been in production, Fiat has sold more than 1.5 million units of the city-car.

Fuel economy & low taxation top precedence for car buyers (UK)

Fuel consumption and low tax are moving up the priority list for car buyers, according to a new report by British Car Auctions.

In the BCA's Used Car Market Report published this week motorists were asked what sort of car they would buy once the recession is over and the green shoots of recovery have really taken hold. Responses suggest that, even in a more optimistic economic climate, the majority of car owners are planning to remain prudent.

Although 19% of motorists intend to buy 'the same type of car' next time, a third of car buyers will be looking for 'better fuel consumption' and a fifth for 'lower road tax'. This move to save money is underlined by a wish list of 'lower CO2', 'lower maintenance costs' and a 'smaller car'- rounded off by driving a harder bargain on the 'part-exchange value'.

14% of respondents who previously brought new were considering buying a used car next time. Wealthier car buyers are more likely to focus on 'lower CO2' and 'lower depreciation' than others, while older car buyers will generally settle for the status quo when their next car change comes round.

BCA's Tim Naylor said: 'The combination of the recession and high fuel prices has made motorists become a little 'greener' in their outlook. It seems the issues of better fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions and more affordable road tax will come to the fore when deciding what car to buy next.' 

'Only 22% said they were influenced by the test drive. Despite the fact that this is a significant financial outlay, it seems that car buyers act on their heart rather than their head much of the time. And that can end up with some expensive decisions!'

The UAW/CAW Car List

The UAW and CAW have released a list of vehicles which they endorse, because they are assembled by unionized plants in North America.  There are some  "Big 3" vehicles which are notably missing because they are assembled in Mexico, such as the Chevrolet HHR.  Others have an * because some variants are built in Mexico while others are built in US or Canadian union plants, such as the GM pickups.

There are some "foreign" cars which are UAW kosher:

• Mazda6 (Flat Rock, MI, along with Mustang)
• Mazda Tribute (Kansas City, along with Escape)
• Mitsubishi Eclipse (MMNA Normal, IL)
• Mitsubishi Galant (MMNA Normal, IL)
• Mitsubishi Endeavor (MMNA Normal, IL)
• Toyota Corolla/Matrix (NUMMI, but not for long)
• Toyota Tacoma (NUMMI)
• VW Routan (Windsor, with Chrysler vans)

Some Detroit 3 vehicles which are assembled in Mexico:

• Chevrolet HHR
• Chevrolet Avalanche
• Chrysler PT Cruiser
  
• Ford Fusion/Lincoln MKZ
• Saturn Vue

Fiat reaches 130g/km CO2 limit 6 years early (EU)

Fiat has become the first manufacturer in Europe to reduce its average CO2 emissions from new cars sold to below 130g/km, six years earlier than the Europe-wide goal set by the EU. All car manufactures must have an average CO2 output of 130g/km or less by 2015, otherwise heavy fines will be handed out. Fiat’s average CO2 emissions from cars sold in Europe in the first half of 2009 were 129.1g/km, according to figures released by automotive advisory leader JATO. The Italian firm was ahead of Toyota, which had average CO2 emissions of 132g/km and Peugeot, which had average emissions of 134.5g/km.

It has achieved this figure partly due to the success of its LPG-powered vehicles, of which it has sold 65,000 units across Europe so far this year. The average CO2 emissions of these cars was 115.8g/km. Lorenzo Sistino, CEO of Fiat Automobiles, said: "Improving the environment is not a goal for the future, but something we can do right away.

"New engines are being introduced – like the innovative Multiair technology on petrol engines, making them capable of guaranteeing up to 10% lower CO2 emissions and the new generation of common-rail Multijet diesel engines that will make their debut on the Punto Evo and that will be gradually adopted on all of our group’s cars."

Europe's top ten manufacturers for low CO2 emissions:

1. Fiat - 129.1 g/km

2. Toyota - 132.9 g/km

3. Peugeot 134.5 g/km

4. Citroen - 138.1 g/km

5. Renault - 138.9 g/km

6. Ford - 140.4 g/km

7. Vauxhall/Opel - 149.5 g/km

8. VW - 152.5 g/km

9. Audi - 162.6 g/km

10. Mercedes - 178.8 g/km

Chevrolet Cruze gets new diesel engine (UK)

While the Cruze is gaining popularity, Chevrolet has added a new diesel engine to the range. The 123bhp 2.0 litre turbo-diesel can shift the Cruze from 0-60mph in 10.3 seconds with a top speed of 122mph. Its CO2 emissions are 145g/km and has a combined fuel economy of 51.4mpg.

Available in 2 specifications, in entry-level S trim, the Cruze gets air conditioning, electronic stability control (ESC), CD player, front electric windows, central locking and electrically adjustable & heated door mirrors.

The higher-spec LS gets 16 inch alloy wheels, chrome front grille surround, rear parking sensors, steering wheel mounted audio controls and leather steering wheel & gearknob.

The Cruze starts from £13,745 in S trim and rises to £14,345 in LS trim. It is on sale now.

Mazda2 confirmed for Stateside (U.S/CA)

Mazda North America has confirmed that the Mazda2 will be sold for the first time in the United States and Canada beginning in late 2010.

Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations, told a dealer at a meeting: "We've been studying the market to make sure we can make a business case for it across North America. As consumers' tastes and attitudes toward small vehicles have changed, we now believe strongly there is a place in our lineup for a car below our current least-expensive car, the Mazda3." He said the Mazda2 will be "stylish, fun to drive and a heck of a value."

Final North American specs will be released at the 2009 Los Angeles motorshow. It's likely that the 5dr hatchback and 4dr sedan will be available. UK specification cars get electrically adjustable, heated & folding door mirrors, front & rear electric windows, halogen headlamps, front fog lights, body colour bumpers, door handles & mirrors, alloy wheels, cruise control w/ steering wheel mounted audio controls, 6 speakers, height adjustable leather steering wheel, height adjustable drivers seat and 6 airbags with ESP. We can expect U.S cars to have similar spec, if not, more. The Mazda2, which shares its B-Segment architecture with the Ford Fiesta, was named 2008 World Car Of The Year.

Press Release:

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. - Mazda North American Operations' president and CEO, Jim O'Sullivan, confirmed today during a meeting of the company's top dealers that the MAZDA2 subcompact, or B-Car classification, car will be sold in the U.S. beginning in late 2010. It was previously announced that the car also will be sold in Canada, beginning at about the same time.

"You've asked us for it for a while now, and we've been studying the market to make sure we can make a business case for it across North America," O'Sullivan told the assembled dealers. "As consumers' tastes and attitudes toward small vehicles have changed, we now believe strongly there is a place in our lineup for a car below our current least-expensive car, the MAZDA3. MAZDA2 will be true to everything that makes our cars stand apart from the competition: it will be stylish, fun-to-drive and a heck of a value. In short, it will be Zoom-Zoom."

No further details were released at the meeting, other than notice that the final North American-specification MAZDA2 will be unveiled to media and the public at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. Further information on specifications, content, pricing and on-sale timing will be provided closer to launch.

MAZDA2 has been a sales and media success in markets around the world, winning more than 50 awards and being named Car of the Year in more than 20 separate countries. Additionally, MAZDA2 was named the 2008 World Car of the Year, besting all other new cars around the world.

Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in the United States in 2010, Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

GMC Terrain Reaction

The other day, I had a chance to take a close look at a GMC Terrain which was probably a GM employee drive-home, or perhaps a press fleet car, which I spotted around the Troy area.

Photo courtesy of Edmunds

I can't say I was too excited about the styling. While it is certainly not bland, it has a very brutal style to it, with the very large trapezoidal grille and exaggerated flared fenders. It was the fenders that bothered me the most, they seemed cartoonish, and reminded me of the many non-functional embellishments of the Hummer brand, such as the non-functional inflater hubs on the wheels. The fenders look more inflated than tough, and a tough look doesn't work well for the Terrain anyway because it is not much of an off-road vehicle.

To me, it is just too far towards ugly to consider buying one.

Edmunds has a nice photo gallery of the Terrain here:

IIHS At 50: 1959 Bel Aire Vs. 2009 Malibu

We've come a looong way since 1959 with auto safety.

This shocking video shows what happens when a 1959 Bel Aire crashes into a 2009 Malibu at 40mph, offset. The Bel Aire weighs about 400lbs more than the Malibu, but it gets seriously destroyed.

Equinox Vs Escape Math

In his recent web chat, GM's Bob Lutz stated that the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox "trounces" the Ford Escape Hybrid. I'll ride to the defense of the Escape Hybrid against the onslaught of Mr. Lutz.

Let's compare EPA mpg and carbon footprint calculations:

Equinox FWD 2.4L 22/32 mpg (city/hwy) 7.1 tons/year CO2

Equinox AWD 2.4L 20/29 mpg 8.0 t/yr CO2

Escape Hybrid FWD 34/31mpg 5.7 t/yr CO2

Escape Hybrid AWD 30/27mpg 6.3 t/yr CO2

Saturn Vue Hybrid 25/32 mpg 6.6 t/yr CO2

So Equinox "trounces" the hybrid Escape because it beats it on highway fuel economy by a whopping 1-2mpg? And it doesn't even trounce the Saturn Vue Greenline, soon to be killed off.

Where the Equinox does beat the Escape is in acceleration:

Equinox FWD 2.4L 8.7s (GM claim)

Escape Hybrid FWD 9.5+ s (Edmunds)

Which is impressive, considering that the Equinox weights about 100lbs more than the Escape, 3761 vs. 3669 lbs.

Lutz "Best Car" Chat

Bob Lutz had a web chat on the topic of the new GM "return it if you don't like it" marketing campaign, "May The Best Car Win". A few things that I noticed (my creative interpretation in red):

15:00

[Comment From Matteo Ronzoni ]

Hi Bob! I realy liked gm latest ad w/ whitacre but I'm not sure if the May the best car win can apply to the chevy aveo...when is the replacement due?

15:01

Bob Lutz: You'll notice that the Chevy Aveo, sound little car that it is, is not featured in the ads. Its replacement is on the way, and it's going to be sensational, done by an international product development team. Obviously, we're not revealing exact launch timing.

Yeah, you got me there. Aveo sucks.

15:01

[Comment From Aldo ]

Hi Mr. Lutz: Do you think it's going to be difficult to effectively market both Buick and Cadillac to upscale crowds if Cadillac continues to blurry brand identity by having more front wheel drive vehicles, just like Buick?

15:03

Bob Lutz: We don't think so. Cadillac will be much more tuned, chassis-wise, to take on the German marqes, while Buick will be aimed at Lexus. Both brands will have AWD offerings, so the question of rear- vs front- will be moot.

Cadillac = FWD Mercedes, Buick = Lincoln

15:06
[Comment From Herb Shuldiner ]
What percent of Saturn, Pontiac and Hummer customers do you think GM will retain, or do you concede they will be lost to domestic and import competitors.
15:06
Bob Lutz: The goal is all of them but that's obviously not realistic. If we could keep 50% or more we would declare victory.

Lutz is admitting that most of Saturn, Pontiac and Hummer customers are lost to GM. This is interesting (and bad news for GM).

15:24

[Comment From Ed ]

What is GM doing to appeal to a youth culture. Example: The 2004-06 GTO was, for all intensive purposes a failure in a marketing sense. Yet, now that they're available in a youth price range (sub 20k) they've started to explode in re-sale. Will GM be doing anything to appeal to the sub $20k muscle car market? Like it did in the good ole days.

15:26

Bob Lutz: The only reason for the GTO's lack of sales was a serious rise in the Australian dollar that caused us to have to price it over $30K, as opposed to our original intent of mid-$20s. Regardless of all the negative media coverage at the time, it was and is a great and rewarding car to drive, and the owners have a legitimate and wonderful piece of muscle car history. That is apt not to be repeated due to new fuel economy regulations which will drastically inhibit the production of large-engined high horsepower cars.

The end of cheap high-output engines is nigh.

15:35

[Comment From Sorgenfreillc.com ]

Mr. Lutz, looking 5 years out, how concerned are you about the Chinese manufacturers entering the U.S. market?

15:35

Bob Lutz: Not as concerned as i was about the Japanese and Koreans, because unlike those situations, we participate fully in the Chinese automotive industry. If Chinese imports to the US dominate, we will be able to participate in that.

We'll build in China and import to the U.S. if we have to.

15:38

[Comment From Sheth ]

what can we expect to see in terms of print ads going forward? Will other products have comparison charts like Equinox ads?

15:39

Bob Lutz: Equinox will probably wind up being compared to Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 as well as the Ford Escape hybrid, all of which Equinox trounces roundly. And yes, other products will have comparisons.

The Equinox trounces the Escape HEV? Sort of, but not always. The EPA numbers for Equinox FWD are 22/32 City/Highway , AWD are 20/29. Escape Hybrid is FWD is 34/31, AWD is 29/27. So Equinox "trounces" Escape Hybrid on the highway, but not city or combined.

Aptera Wants It Both Ways

In order to be able to build and sell a super-efficient vehicle legally, Aptera takes advantage of the federal motor vehicle regulations which consider their 3 wheeled vehicle to be a type of motorcycle, rather than an automobile. This means that the Aptera does not have to meet numerous FMVSS regulations, such as front and side impact standards or bumper requirements.

Now, Aptera also wants to get in on the Department of Energy loans that competitors Tesla and Nissan (Leaf) are taking advantage of. Problem is, the DOE program is explicitly for "automobiles", not "motorcycles".

The WSJ has a nice video on this subject:



Congressman Brian Billbray of California has proposed legislation which would extend DOE consideration to any enclosed passenger vehicle, removing the requirement for 4 wheels.

In my opinion, Aptera should fund their enviro-trike themselves, and not demand public funds, or they should be ready to pass the same stringent requirements that all their four wheeled competitors must pass. Otherwise, it is not a fair table. if GM knew that tricycles are acceptable, they may have developed one from the very beginning.

Hyundai Genesis, Genesis Coupe and Equus under European consideration (EU)

Hyundai is putting its Genesis Coupe through the final stages of technical evaluation before deciding whether to put it into production for the European markets.

The rear-wheel drive coupe has long been awaited for a European launch but a final decision has yet to be taken. The mid-sized Genesis and large Equus sedans are also under consideration for a UK launch.

European vice president Allan Rushforth said: “The final stages of testing are currently being undertaken on the Genesis Coupe. We will be making a final decision on whether to launch it in Europe within the next month.”

Rushforth is keen for the Genesis Coupe to be properly suited to European driving tastes and, in particular, the UK’s.

“If you want to get noticed with a new product in Europe, the best way to do this is in the UK,” he said. “If the Genesis Coupe goes get launched then it would be left-hand drive markets getting it first, but never say never to a UK launch. There would be a big market for it over here.”

Rushforth said Hyundai is yet to test its cars on UK roads but this would change if more specialist vehicles such as the Genesis Coupe, Genesis saloon and Equus were launched.

“Hyundai recognises that it is important to set up a car properly for UK roads due to their general bad quality,” he said.

“I’m not worried about this for the i models as they are pretty durable but when you are talking more specialised rear-drive models such as the Genesis Coupe, then you have to pay close attention to ride and handling. UK buyers like big wheels and firm suspension, two factors which affect ride quality.

“Our technical team would make sure any specialist model would ride properly on UK roads.”

Rushforth said if the Genesis Coupe were given the go-ahead, it would potentially go into production by September 2010. After a decision is made on it, then the attention will turn to the Equus and Genesis saloon, which are at a less advanced stage of technical evaluation.

One Hyundai source said the case for a Genesis Coupe launch in the UK could be made stronger by similar demand for the car in Australia. Both are right-hand drive markets.

“Whereas Europe would get the 4 pot 2.0 litre petrol engine, Australia and the UK would be more interested in the 3.8 litre V6 petrol which suddenly gives the Genesis Coupe more of a market case,” said the source. However, Hyundai's current coupe, the Coupe III was sold with a 2.7 litre V6 engine which got axed earlier this year.

Lotus could be used to fine-tune the three car’s ride and handling should a European or UK launch be confirmed. Hyundai will also launch a replacement for the Coupe III, primarily for the European market.

New Car: 2010 Citroen C-Crosser/Peugeot 4007

The Citroen C-Crosser has been facelifted, getting a revised interior, a cleaner diesel engine and the option of a dual clutch gearbox.

The new six-speed gearbox has been mated to the revised 154bhp 2.2-litre diesel engine, and is available at the VTR+ and Exclusive trim levels.

The gearbox can be used as a manual and automatic, with paddle-shifts located behind the steering wheel. Drivers can select a 'Sport' mode to speed up changes.

The automatic version averages 38.7mpg and emits 192g/km of CO2, while the manual does 40.4mpg and emits 185g/km.

The interior modifications include an updated dashboard with new chrome inserts and vents, while automatic wipers are now standard across the range. Bluetooth connectivity will also be standard on Exclusive trim models.

Peugeot has added a six-speed dual clutch semi-automatic gearbox to its 4007 SUV. In the Peugeot 4007 DCS, it will be mated to a 156bhp 2.2 litre diesel engine, with combined fuel consumption of 38.7mpg and CO2 emissions 192g/km.

With the dual clutch system the 4007 DCS can be operated as an auto’ or manually with gear shifts delivered via steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.

The new semi-automatic gearbox is available on the seven seat SE and GT versions of the 4007, which will be distinguished from manual models by new rear twin exhausts. Inside revisions are also being made across the 4007 range including a new LCD screen and changes to the trim around the instruments.

Prices aren't changing, so expect to pay £23,345 for both SUV's.

Peugeot RCZ pricing announced (UK)

Peugeot has revealed the price of its new RCZ coupe. Prices start from £19,900 for the base 1.6 litre THP manual 156 model and rise to £24,000 for the flagship 2.0 HDi 163 manual.

Entry-level features include 18" alloy wheels, front sports seats, dual zone air-conditioning, rear parking sensors, four airbags, alarm w/ immobiliser, double bubble rear windscreen, ESP, EBFD, EBA, ABS, rear spoiler and twin sports exhaust.

The second trim level will adds leather seats w/ heated function, front parking sensors, auto-tilting door mirrors (when in reverse), floor mats, automatic lights, follow-me-home lighting, automatic windscreen wipers, 19" wheels.

A range of options will be available, like re-styled 19" wheels, a carbon roof panel, sat-nav, xenon headlamps, black roof arches and a JBL hi-fi pack.

The full price list is as follows:

Trim level 1 -

1.6 litre THP 156 Manual - £19,900

1.6 litre THP 156 Automatic - £21,000

2.0 HDi 163 Manual - £21,700

Trim level 2 -

1.6 litre THP 156 Manual - £22,200

1.6 litre THP 156 Automatic - £23,300

1.6 litre THP 200 Manual - £24,500

2.0 litre HDi 163 Manual - £24,000

Expect the production RCZ to include similar features to the concept – a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine from the 207 GTi and a six-speed gearbox. This shoots the RCZ from 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 146mph. Despite its power, this engine can also manage an average fuel economy of 42.2mpg. Its CO2 emissions are estimated at 160g/km, placing the car into tax band G at £150 per year. Peugeot describes the RCZ as “an exclusive vehicle which is full of emotion and aimed at enthusiasts.”

A spokesperson said the production RCZ could be heavier than the concept 308. This is because concept cars don’t usually include many of the road-going features such as sound-proofing and interior styling.

The RCZ is Peugeot’s first car not to use a zero or double-zero in its name. Peugeot say this “symbolises its special and unique position within the Peugeot range.”

It will showcase the coupe in its final form at the 2009 Frankfurt motorshow, which begins on 15th September. UK launch will happen in Spring 2010.

The car will go on sale in spring 2010. Its rivals include the Audi TT, BMW Z4 and the forthcoming Honda CR-Z.

Audi R8 Spyder unveiling

The Audi R8 Spyder defines what automotive love is all about. It’s a virtual certainty that you’ll fall in love with the sound of that V10 engine when the roof is down. The car’s design doesn’t really veer far away from the original R8. It still has that simple yet elegant look but the side blades that distinguish the Audi R8 is gone and replaced by air vents. For your off-color fixation, the frame of the windshield is made of brushed aluminum. Watch out for the official unveiling of the car, with all its gorgeous details in the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show.

2011 Rolls-Royce Ghost

Rolls Royce has introduced its Ghost model at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show which made the media wow for the car’s evoking images of adventure and technical innovation. Aside from the impressive exterior and interior parts, the Ghost sports a turbocharged V12 engine which displaces 6.6-liter and cranks out 563 horsepower with a torque of 575 lb-ft. According to Rolls Royce Motor Cars CEO, the Ghost car “will be the first in a new generation of models to carry this evocative name…”.

There are no surprises in the styling, which is unchanged from the 200EX concept displayed in Geneva last March. naturally, the Ghost retains the Phantom-style coach doors (don't call them suicide in the presence of a Rolls rep) with built-in umbrellas. Inside, the Ghost carries over additional Phantom quirks, such as the "Power Reserve" gauge the driver gets in lieu of a traditional tachometer. Aside from that, this is clearly more of a driver's car than the Phantom, whose opulent backseat accommodations show that it's more about being driven in. The Ghost's steering wheel is much smaller in diameter and has a thicker rim than its big brother, and the seats appear to have more contouring for lateral support, as well.

BMW will produce Mini coupe in oxford

BMW Chairman Norbert Riethofer visit to the Mini factory in Oxford England this week to inform staff members that they will soon have two new cars to build. The first confirmed model for production is the Coupe concept that was previewed online last week ahead of its Frankfurt Motor Show rollout. The Coupe will be joined by a second concept at the show which in all likelihood will be the oft-rumored speedster version of the coupe.

Reithofer did not announce any timing for when production of the new models would start production. Also unknown at this time is whether the Coupe and Speedster will be available only in John Cooper Works form or in base Cooper and S flavors as well.

PRESS RELEASE:


MINI Frankfurt show stars confirmed for production at Plant Oxford

* 03.09.2009
* Press Release

Dr.Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management, BMW AG has announced that two new MINI models are to be built at MINI Plant Oxford.

Reithofer confirmed the production plan during his two-day visit to BMW Group UK operations earlier this week.

One of the models based on the MINI Coupé Concept and a concept of the second vehicle will be unveiled for the first time to global media at Frankfurt Motor Show on 15 September.

Images of the stunning MINI Coupé Concept were issued to press on 26 August 2009, exactly fifty years after the first classic Mini was presented to the public.

Likely to feature the impressive 1.6-litre turbocharged MINI John Cooper Works power train, the MINI Coupé Concept is designed to be the most dynamic and agile MINI ever built. Strictly a two-seater, the low roof line, compact dimensions, perfect axle load distribution and lightweight construction are all trademarks of a genuine sports car.

Details of the second model have not yet been announced.

The two new models will join the existing Hatch, Clubman and Convertibles on the production line at Plant Oxford, where all derivatives are produced seamlessly just-in-time and just-in-sequence.

Business Secretary Lord Mandelson said: "The production of the two new MINI models is very good news for Oxford, and for the UK car industry. It is a demonstration of BMW's long term commitment to the UK as it celebrates its 50th birthday this year.

"British drivers have had a long love affair with the MINI and I'm sure that this will continue for many years to come."

Dr. Juergen Hedrich, Managing Director of MINI Plant Oxford, said: "The fact that Plant Oxford will be building these exciting new models shows the high level of flexibility of the plant and its associates. The MINI family has a bright future.

Start dates for these two new models to enter production will be confirmed in due course.

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing
Used an aluminium spaceframe body the SLS will come with gullwing doors that rise upwards on roof-mounted hinges, just like Mercedes’s 300SL sports car from half a century ago AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine developing 420 kW/ 571 hp peak output, 650 Nm of torque and dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration, sports suspension with aluminium double wishbones and a kerb weight of 1620 kilograms based on the DINstandard.


Successor to the SLR in both position and alphabetical order, the SLS will supposedly be faster, cheaper and easier to love than its predecessor. Instead of aiming for the miniscule hypercar market the SLR was designed for, the SLS will battle against the cream of the crop in the roughly $200,000 range. Expect to see it facing off against everything from the Nissan GT-R to the Porsche 911 GT3 to the Ferrari F430 in both magazine comparisons and bonus-toting executives’ minds.

People Want PHEVs, But Cheap

A fascinating survey was publshed by Pike Research (here: http://www.pikeresearch.com/newsroom/48-of-consumers-interested-in-purchasing-a-plug-in-hybrid-electric-vehicle) which found that out of 1,041 respondents,  48% are interested in buying a plugin hybrid car (such as a Chevrolet Volt).  The problem is, of those, 65% would pay a premium of an average of 12% over a similar gasoline car, while 35% would not pay any premium at all. 

The Volt will cost around $40,000 at first.   A 12% premium over on a $25,000 car is $28,000. 

Kia Forte Koup pricing announced (U.S)

Kia USA has released full pricing on the Forte Koup. Kicking off at $17,290 ($16,595 + $695 destination fee) for the entry-level EX with a 156bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine coupled to a five speed manual gearbox.

Those looking for more power can opt for the Koup SX that comes with a 2.4-litre producing 174bhp which is mated to a 6 speed manual and has a sportier suspension set up. Prices for the SX begin from $18,390 including delivery fees.

If you prefer not to change gears manually, there's a five-speed automatic transmission that will cost you an extra $1,000 on both the EX and SX.

Mazda3 MPS pricing announced (UK)

Mazda UK has announced pricing for the all-new Mazda3 MPS that goes on sale Thursday 1st October. The hot hatch is being marketed in the UK in a single trim level with pricing set at £21,500 OTR including mica or metallic paint finish.

Based on the second generation Mazda3, the 3 MPS is powered by a 2.3-litre turbocharged four-pot that makes 260bhp and 380Nm or 280 lb-ft of torque and drives the front wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. The Japanese firm announces a 0 to 62mph sprint time of 6.1seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

Standard features include Bluetooth technology, surround-sound BOSE premium audio system with 10 speakers w/ steering wheel mounted audio controls, front bucket sports seats, electrically adjustable/heated and folding door mirrors, xenon headlamps, MID (multi information display) with a compact satellite navigation system that uses a high-resolution 11cm (4.1 inch) screen mounted in the dashboard's upper section and automatic dual zone climate control air conditioning.

GM - The Volt isn't a car for idiots

General Motors has responded to Audi of America’s boss Johan de Nysschen’s claims that the Chevrolet Volt was “a car for idiots”.

Speaking to veteran American journalist Lawrence Ulrich, de Nysschen said that few customers will be prepared to pay the estimated £24,500 asking price for the Volt, which will go on sale in Europe as the Vauxhall/Opel Ampera.

"No one is going to pay a $15,000 (£9,000) premium for a car that competes with a Toyota Corolla,” said de Nysschen. "So there are not enough idiots who will buy it."

In response, GM spokesman Rob Peterson claimed the firm was surprised he had chosen to insult fellow car enthusiasts.

“Very surprised Mr de Nysschen was so quick to insult the intelligence of electric vehicle and Volt enthusiasts,” he said. “Not so surprised that Audi is taking a bold stance given their entrenched diesel position. EVs will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and tailpipe emissions – if that's being "hoodwinked by our government" then count me in.”

De Nysschen has apologised if he had been "unclear" about the fact that he isn’t opposed to electric vehicles, and said he didn't remember specifically saying the Volt is a car "idiots". Audi will unveil its own electric car concept at the Frankfurt motor show next week.

In related news, the forthcoming Vauxhall/Opel Ampera is likely to cost around £24,500 when it goes on sale in the UK in the first quarter of 2012.

Opel’s managing director Hans Demant made the claims in an interview with a Swiss news outlet, Tages-Anzeiger. Demant claimed that for the Ampera to be a commercial success, it must not cost more than a fully-specced Vauxhall Zafira with automatic transmission. The range-topping Zafira SRi 1.9 CDTi costs just shy of £25,500 when equipped with an auto’ box in the UK. This gives a hint as to how much the Ampera will cost when it goes on sale.

Audi USA president; Johan de Nysschen - The Volt is for idiots (U.S)

Audi of America president, Johan de Nysschen has dismissed General Motors Chevrolet Volt as "a car for idiots".

Speaking to veteran American journalist Lawrence Ulrich, de Nysschen said that few customers will be prepared to pay the estimated £25,000 asking price for the Volt, which will go on sale in Europe as the Vauxhall/Opel Ampera.

"No one is going to pay a $15,000 (£9,000) premium for a car that competes with a Toyota Corolla,” said de Nysschen. "So there are not enough idiots who will buy it."

De Nysschen, a long-time advocate of diesel power, admitted that plug-in hybrids are good in concept and hold advantages over diesels in stop-and-go driving. However, he maintained that electric cars are more about making a statement at present.

“They’re for the intellectual elite who want to show what enlightened souls they are,” he said.

De Nysschen concluded by saying that the Volt will fail to sell and the Government will be forced to subsidise it and boost sales, having forced GM to develop electric cars.

However, De Nysschen said in his defence:

“Let me clearly state that in my opinion, electric vehicles will be part of the future transportation of society – but only if we go about it the right way. In fact, Audi is working on electric vehicles," he said."

De Nysschen also apologised if he had been "unclear" about the fact that he isn’t opposed to electric vehicles, and said he didn't remember specifically saying the Volt is a car "idiots".

Car sales rise, city-car sales rise by 253% (UK)

With car sales rising 2.4% in July, August car sales rose 6% compared with the same month last year. The increase is the second consecutive monthly rise, after more than a year of decline in vehicle sales. Industry figures revealed that 67,006 new cars were registered during August.

The scrappage scheme is widely accepted to have prompted the boost in sales since its introduction in May. However, the scheme is expected to run out of cash by the end of the year. Most buyers have been waiting out for the '59' plate change, which changes this month. September generally yields 5 times as many sales as August. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' (SMMT) chief executive Paul Everitt said: 'The scrappage incentive scheme is having a positive impact, but with consumer and business confidence still fragile, there remain significant risks ahead.

However, the figures from the SMMT also revealed that total sales for the year so far are still 21.5% lower than for the same period last year.

'It is essential that these early signs of recovery are sustained into 2010.'

The top 10 best-selling cars for August were as follows:

1) Ford Focus - 4,366

2) Ford Fiesta - 2,968

3) Hyundai i10 - 2,431

4) Vauxhall Corsa - 2,031

5) Volkswagen Golf - 1,832

6) Peugeot 207 - 1,558

7) BMW 3 Series - 1,482

8) Vauxhall Astra - 1,355

9) Vauxhall Insignia - 1,334

10) Toyota Yaris - 1,331

The worst performers in August were:

1) Saab -91.48%

2) Bentley -75.51%

3) Lotus -58.82%

4) Porsche -43.7%

5) Jeep -36.96%

Germany has ended its scrappage scheme, but is expected to offer tax incentives instead. France will extend it's scrappage scheme until 2011, to avoid plunging car sales. The UK Government has no intention of expanding, despite the fragile state of the car industry. However, pressure from automotive magazines, car manufactures and consumers could see it expanded.

Galileoscope: It Really Works!

I got my Galileoscope in the mail the other day, and I am really impressed. It has a large, heavy, real glass objective lens. The eyepiece lenses are plastic, but seem to work pretty well.

It was not too hard to assemble, and is solid when together. I took it out, screwed to a camera tripod, and I was able to see Jupiter and 4 of its moons!

I am not able to take a picture, but the image was similar to this, though not as magnified:



I can't wait to point it at Saturn!

Read Pete.

If you aren't reading Peter DeLorenzo, you should be. He's got a lot to say, and it is usually well said. http://www.autoextremist.com.

(No, he didn't pay me for that.)

Creepy Metal Detector Guy

I went for a walk to today, and went past a local construction site where the city is re-modeling a municipal park. A metal detector guy had slipped through the construction fence, and was quietly wandering around with his detector, stopping every so often to dig into the exposed earth with a small trowel.

I don't know about you, but I find these guys to be creepy. Their hobby is based on the idea of profiting by digging up stuff that other people have lost. They are mostly looking for jewelry and rare coins. To me, the right thing to do is to turn in lost property, especially if it is valuable. Perhaps you get to keep it if no owner comes forward.

Audi A3 2.0 TDi pricing announced (U.S)

Diesel engined cars remain tough to sell in the North American market but German brands like Volkswagen, have sold clean-diesel cars sucuessfully. Volkswagen's luxury counterpart, Audi now wants to sell clean-diesels. It's introducing the new A3 TDI for the U.S market, for which the Ingolstadt-based automaker released pricing details.

Starting price for the A3 TDI with the S-tronic transmission and front-wheel drive is $29,950, excluding a delivery charge of $825.

Like the European model, the 2.0 litre TDI provides 140bhp and 236 lb-ft of torque (320 Nm). Combined fuel economy is 42 mpg U.S.

So why is it so hard for European carmakers to sell diesels in the U.S? This is to meet the stringent emissions standards that are set in each U.S state for diesel powered passenger cars. Those regulations are far more restrictive than they are for transport trucks. That coupled with the lack of availability of highly-refined (low-sulphur) diesel fuel also made selling diesels in all 50 states a challenge.