March 2008 - Posts
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 Scion proved its hip to be square with its original xB, being affordable, frugal, and urban chic. Nissan has been watching the success of that enthusiast-rallying box from afar, while offering its own successful take in Japan, the Cube. Over the past few years, the Cube has made token appearances at international auto shows with side comments made by officials about consideration for the United States. Well, that trend has extended now to New York, with the announcement that we can expect the next-generation Cube to reach our shores.
The Denki Cube concept on display at the NY auto show gives Americans a close look at an asymmetrical design that looks like it popped right out of an iMac computer. The word “Denki” is Japanese for “electric,” hinting at the electric powertrain demonstrated in this show model.
To spark conversation about its future alternative-vehicle strategy, Nissan replaced the Cube’s standard 1.3-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor and laminated lithium-ion batteries located under the floor and seats. The laminated structure and unique material technology offer more power, energy and battery stability, as well as compact size and packaging flexibility, versus conventional cylindrical batteries.
 Lithium-ion batteries are expected to be the basis for near-future hybrids and EVs, though some manufacturers, including Honda, remain focused on nickel-metal hydride. It is worth noting that Nissan first had an electric vehicle in the road in 1947 and has been field-testing lithium-ion batteries for more than 10 years. This project is more than show-car fantasy. Officials say to expect a marketed EV in 2010, as well as a plug-in hybrid model in the foreseeable future.
Though the production Cube offers three rows of seating, the Denki Cube Concept offers only two rows and the wheelbase has been stretched 9.4 inches in order to better accommodate the lithium-ion battery cells. Even still, this show car clearly conveys the artistic, minimalist styling that has defined the Cube and promises to make for a worthy competitor for the latest xB.
A redesigned gasoline-powered, next-generation Cube will arrive at Nissan dealers in the United States and Canada beginning in 2009.
Research the Nissan in the buyer’s guide, complete with pricing, specifications, and photo galleries.
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 General Motors will green up the dirt-loving Hummer brand starting with 2009 H2 and H2 SUT, which will become its first flex-fuel models. The announcement was made at Classic Chevrolet/Hummer in Dallas, Texas, the dealership who sold the most Chevrolet Trucks in 2008 and who has spent $500,000 to install nine pumps dedicated to E85, E10 and biodiesel. This grand-opening event marked the first public biofuel pumps in the nation owned by a new car and truck dealership.
Given the partnership GM has with Coskata, an innovative firm that is striving to commercialize its unique process for turning biomass into ethanol, this may be just the beginning. Fewer than one percent of filling stations nationwide offer E85 fuel. If GM wants to increase flex-fuel vehicle sales, providing E85 at the dealers could spur sales and potentially create another revenue stream.
Elevated gas prices have increased consumer interest in reducing our national dependency on imported oil, helping make E85 a household name. However, many car buyers do not realize that E85 has about 25 percent less fuel economy than gasoline. In other words, a truck that normally gets 20 mpg on gasoline would return 15 mpg on E85. Of course, the real appeal is that E85 is created from renewable resources, such as corn, switch grass, and even waste materials.
GM has more than three million flex-fuel vehicles on the road in the United States. Plus, it has pledged to double flex-fuel production by 2010 and make half its portfolio E85-capable by 2012. Part of the encouragement for this expansion is a clause in national fuel-economy regulations that provides for Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) credits for E85 vehicles than can help offset poor performance by other models, sparing an automaker from costly gas-guzzler penalties. This rule was intended to encourage the building of E85-compatible vehicles ahead of the infrastructure, and through GM’s efforts, there may be an increase in both the number of vehicles and pumps. “We’ll offer a biofuel powertrain in every model we build by the end of 2010,” Hummer General Manager Martin Walsh said. “A Hummer’s off-road capability and care for the environment are in no way mutually exclusive. This is simply one more step in our effort to promote responsible adventure.”
Research the Hummer in the buyer’s guide, complete with pricing, specifications, and photo galleries. Also see our 2007 Hummer H3 review.
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 Nearly 40 years after the Corolla was introduced to American drivers, a redesigned, 10th-generation 2009 Corolla hits the road with numerous improvements and a Good overall crash-test rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
In a recent test, IIHS rated the Corolla Good for structure, restraints, and most injury measurements on its crash dummies. Head/neck got an Acceptable rating, the lowest mark for this sedan. Performance was undoubtedly aided by side- and side-curtain air bags—welcomed features in any vehicle, especially a small car. The ’09 Corolla also includes anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist for emergencies, and neck-protective active front headrests.
While it may have matured, the new Corolla remains true to the brand's role as a subcompact sedan, with dimensions similar to the model it replaces. But it offers an all-new body with a lean, muscular shape, and it delivers increased interior and luggage room, more power, more economical engines and an all-new chassis and suspension.
Read our road test of the 2009 Toyota Corolla, in which we wrote: “For someone moving out of an older Corolla or almost any other small car, these much-better new Corollas should be highly satisfying.”
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 Chevrolet has announced the pricing for its 260-horsepower Cobalt SS, a potent compact performance coupe with an estimated 30 mpg in highway driving. The Cobalt SS starts at $22,995, including a $660 destination charge. An extreme amount of performance and style for the money, the Cobalt SS features a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter Ecotec engine and a five-speed manual transmission good for a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. It wasn’t long ago that 5.7 seconds was considered muscle car territory.
Ride and handing are supported by an all-new FE5 Sport suspension, with specific stabilizer bars, spring rates and damper tuning –designed to mitigate afflictions such as torque steer. Driver-selectable modes help maximize performance whether on the street or track.
Four-wheel disc brakes with standard ABS help ensure the car stops as confidently as it accelerates and corners. The front brakes are from Brembo and have a performance-oriented, fixed-caliper design, which resists fade better than floating caliper designs; the rear discs are vented for better heat dissipation. Large, twin-five-spoke 18-inch forged aluminum wheels and performance tires are standard. They’re mounted on 225/40-series Continental summer tires.
Other standard equipment includes air conditioning, premium sound system, remote keyless entry, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, side-impact air bags, OnStar, and XM Satellite Radio. Major options include an uplevel audio system ($295), sunroof ($750), high-wing rear spoiler ($195) and a limited-slip differential ($495).
The Cobalt SS coupe is expected to arrive in dealerships in late April.
Research the 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt in the buyer’s guide. See our last Chevrolet Cobalt SS review.
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 Ford Motor Company has been making aggressive moves to put the automotive giant on more solid footing, with none more shocking than rumors it would part with brands. Just a few short years ago, FoMoCo built itself into a global powerhouse by building a portfolio of luxury brands to augment its own Lincoln. Now, the Premium Automotive Group (PAG) is in active retreat, with its uppercrust British brands Jaguar and Land Rover widely reported to be sold for $2 billion to India-based Tata Motors Ltd., part of the massive Tata Group conglomerate. “Ford acquired Jaguar for $2.5 billion in 1989 and Land Rover for $2.75 billion in 2000,” reports the Wall Street Journal. WSJ cites that Ford spent more than a combined $5 billion to purchase the two brands originally.
As part of the deal expected to be announced Wednesday, Reuters reports that Ford will provide about $600 million to seed the pension fund for Jaguar and Land Rover employees. Tata will retain the 15,300-strong British work force, according to Business Week.
Ford will be a supplier to Tata, providing powerplants and other components for Jaguar and Land Rover models, opening a new revenue stream for the smaller, leaner automaker.
Tata made international headlines recently with the unveiling of its Nano car (shown here), a 30-hp four-door with a $2500 price tag and the promise to revolutionize transportation in developing regions.
Research Ford, Jaguar, and Land Rover in our buyer's guide.
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 Looking for the next big thing, Scion unveiled its Hako Coupe concept at the New York International Auto Show last week. Taking its name from the Japanese word for box, the Hako recasts the xB with a blend of Japanese aesthetic and vintage American car design. It seems that just as American youths covet all things JDM (Japanese domestic market), a rising trend in the East is to emulate classic American cars. Put it all in a blender, flick on a CAD workstation, and out comes the Hako.
From the side, the chopped top and long hood the Hako looks like it escaped central casting for “Japanese Graffitti.” For now, the Hako is all about the appearance and seeking consumer feedback on whether the brand pursue a model in this direction. Presumably, it would be developed off the xB platform, sharing the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine.
Inside, the Hako makes interesting use of video monitors, with two on the front passenger dash for mobile entertainment controlled with a large roller ball. Screens located on each door and on each side of the rear seating area project images from cameras mounted beneath the A-pillars for viewing, saving, and editing. Think of it as a replay mode for a road trip.
The flat, panorama roof features a random, barcode-like pattern that can be seen on the exterior and from the interior.
Scion sales are down significantly, despite fresh models (xB and xD) and a market shift toward small cars. The young brand needs more fire in the line up, and officials say they’d like to expand the range to five or six vehicles. They are open to different vehicle types, mentioning a roadster and pickup truck as possibilities during the press conference.
What do you think of this concept? Should Scion build it, and if they did, would you buy one? Post your comments below.
Research Scion in the buyer’s guide. See our 2008 Scion xB review.
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 At the New York International Auto Show, Dodge unveiled the Challenger R/T and Challenger V6, filling out the line-up started with the SRT8 shown last month in Chicago. All three variants look remarkably faithful to the 1970 original, with a little extra heft around the bumpers for essential crash protection. Indeed, the Challenger is a muscle-car enthusiast’s fantasy come to life, with the heritage and silhouette that has filled decades of dreams, concours events, and Barrett-Jackson auctions. Mopar enthusiasts will be able to recapture the glory of the good ol’ days with truly modern performance, reliability, and safety.
Dodge expects the R/T to be the volume model, with its 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. Although the name is familiar, the engine is enhanced over that found in the current Charger R/T, climbing in horsepower and yet also gaining five percent in fuel economy. With the five-speed automatic transmission, the 5.7L produces 370 horsepower. Go for the six-speed manual and you could boast 375 horsepower with 404 lb.-ft. of torque. In either configuration, Dodge promises the coupe can run 0-60 mph in under six seconds. (For those keeping score, the official word on the 425-hp SRT8 is a race 0-60 mph under five seconds.)
 The base six-cylinder model features a familiar 3.5-liter engine with 250 horsepower and 250 lb.-ft. of torque. The sole transmission with the V-6 is a four-speed automatic.
To keep risk-tempted drivers safe, the Challenger will offer anti-lock brakes, brake assist, side-curtain airbags, electronic stability control, and traction control.
Technology is also available to entertain and pamper, with the MyGig multimedia entertainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, satellite radio, Keyless Go, and remote start.
Without question, the new Challenger sounds highly entertaining in any flavor.
Research the 2008 Dodge Charger in the buyer’s guide. See our Dodge Charger review.
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 Honda unveiled the all-new 2009 Honda Fit at the New York International Auto Show, revealing a model that has evolved from the first-generation car without changing the successful formula. During the press days, Honda remained tight-lipped on technical details, especially for a car that is already on sale in overseas markets.
What we do know is that the ’09 Fit is incrementally longer and wider than the outgoing model, with the base of the windshield moved five inches forward—increasing the interior space. This change allows for larger glass sail panels in the forked base of the A-pillars, enhancing visibility.
Less obvious changes include a focus on improved structure for occupant safety, adapting the much-touted Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) design approach. The fancy acronym boils down to a dedicated, computer-engineered structure that addresses common collision parameters and smartly controls forces to best protect passengers. Good stuff. In addition, the Fit includes active head restraints, side and side-curtain airbags, and anti-lock brakes. Electronic stability control is available.  Comfort is improved by addressing driver leg room and offering a tilt/telescope steering wheel. The rear “magic seat” now performs its tumbling trickery in one motion, opening up a massive, flat cargo space. A rare offering in this class, an in-dash navigation system will be offered.
Honda promises improved dynamics through body stiffness, suspension refinement, and larger wheels – now 15 or 16 inches. The powerplant will be a new 1.5-liter VTEC engine partnered with a five-speed manual or automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. No horsepower or fuel economy claims were released.
The 2009 Honda Fit goes on sale in the United States this fall, and more details are promised closer to its arrival at dealerships.
Research the 2008 Honda Fit in the buyer’s guide. See our 2007 Honda Fit review.
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Automakers use car shows for several key purposes:
- Create excitement for the brand with both future production models and sheetmetal-rendered hyperbole.
- Stimulate shareholder interest, as a good promise can often temper a painful reality.
- Introduce a future design language, preparing the world for a new look or product that could bring a dramatic change to the portfolio.
- Appease the dealers who demand a steady flow of new, interesting products and enthused consumers drawn to the brand virtues.
- Feel out public, media, and investor interest in a new model, technology, or design direction.
 This last reason always seems the most exciting, when true, as it provides a unique opportunity for consumers to give feedback to an automaker and influence a future product, as Honda is doing with the CR-Z concept. The latest example is with the 2010 Pontiac G8 sport truck to be shown this week at the New York International Auto Show.
At this point, Pontiac has made the decision to build the car. That much is locked in stone. What the GM division seeks now is to excite the public and get some quality name suggestions. (Learn more about the car name game from CNN.) That’s where you come in.
Consumers can visit www.pontiac.com/namethiscar and submit their name ideas. The winning entry will be announced April 15.
Now before you click over and submit “El Camino,” let’s take a closer look at this interesting model. Blending a car and a pickup truck, Pontiac G8 sedan variant is more like the Chevrolet El Camino and Ford Ranchero of old, than the Volkswagen Rabbit pickup, complete with rear drive and a big V-8. It has a four-inch longer wheelbase than the G8, and overall, it is six inches longer. To fortify the G8 platform for crossover pickup duty, more than 60 new components were added to strengthen the structure. This sport truck shares the four-wheel independent suspension with the G8, promising sport sedan agility. A color-coordinated, soft tonneau covers the cargo bed and protects items in the cargo bed from the weather. The doors, roof and exterior panels aft of the B-pillars are unique from the G8 sedan. 
Underhood is a mighty 6.0-liter, 361-horsepower V-8 shared with the G8 GT, with Active Fuel Management technology to help with fuel economy. Teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain can deliver a promised 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds. While these performance numbers are respectable by sports car standards, the G8 sport truck offers flexibility unlike that of a sports car. A 73.9-inch (1878 mm) cargo bed has 42.7 cubic feet (1208 L) of cargo space and a durable composite bed liner. It also can carry a payload of more than 1,074 pounds (488 kg) and tow a 3,500-pound (1,600 kg) trailer.
The G8 sport truck is expected to arrive in dealers’ showrooms in late 2009, and its name depends on your creativity. When go to cast your vote, remember “autoMedia” would make a great name…
Research Pontiac in the buyer’s guide.
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 The 2010 Hyundai Genesis coupe has made a splash online ahead of its official Wednesday unveiling, with sites like AutoBlog, AutoWeek, and Motor Trend posting press photos early. Hyundai remains tight-lipped on mechanical details, pending its scheduled press conference at the New York auto show.
Having seen the Concept Genesis Coupe at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, we can say it is has a commanding presence and looks primed for aftermarket enhancement. Further, this sleek muscle car rides on a rear-drive platform shared with the upcoming luxury sedan of the same name. The Coupe will boast more than 300 horsepower from a 3.8-liter V-6 engine. It will likely be backed by an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission, with manual-shift ability. The sedan has an independent, five-link front and rear suspension, suggesting the two-model may have the same configuration.
In Hyundai’s words: “When the production sports coupe arrives, it likely will be the most affordable 300+ horsepower car on the market.” Just when the American muscle car is seeing a resurgence, there is an Asian alternative. Should be interesting.
Stay tuned, we’ll post full details once available.
Research Hyundai in the buyer’s guide.
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 Lexus has released pricing on its Pebble Beach Collection RX 350 and ES 350 special edition packages, marking the first time that these models have received the Pebble Beach treatment. Production of the Pebble Beach Collection RX and ES is limited to 6,000 vehicles each. The MSRP for the RX 350 Pebble Beach package is $3,880, while the ES 350 package carries an MSRP of $4,170. Lexus has produced an SC 430 Pebble Beach edition every year since 2003.
So, what do you get besides exclusivity and sand? Both the RX and ES Pebble Beach models will feature signature colors, unique wheels, popular options, and unique badging. Additionally, Pebble Beach Edition owners will have the opportunity to customize their ownership experience by selecting from one of three distinctive merchandise packages: Callaway Golf Experience, travel, or Epicurean Encounter.
Research Lexus in the buyer’s guide. Read our last ES 350 and RX 350 reviews.
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 As the automotive world counts down to the New York auto show this week, Pontiac has released a preview of the 2009 Pontiac G8 GXP muscle sedan. Marking a significant gain in performance, the GXP produces Corvette-grade 402 horsepower from an 6.2-liter LS3 V-8. Preliminary performance figures from Pontiac show the GXP is capable of running 0-60 mph in about 4.7 seconds, continuing through the quarter-mile in 13.0 seconds at 108 mph.
The secret to the prodigious power output? This engine features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block, high-flow, L92-style cylinder heads; larger-diameter pistons; unique camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; and high-flow fuel injectors. The LS3 engine has an aluminum cylinder block with cast-in-place iron cylinder liners. Larger bores help create a 376-cubic-inch displacement. The block casting also features revisions and machining in the bulkheads to enhance its strength and improve bay-to-bay breathing. New pistons were designed for high-rpm performance.
New, high-flow cylinder heads aid engine breathing and are based on the large port and valve design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L76 engines. The larger-capacity, straighter intake port-design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber, an effect augmented by large valves, measuring 2.16 inches (55.0 mm) on the intake side and 1.59 inches (40.4 mm) on the exhaust side.
 The engine comes matched with a six-speed 6L80 automatic transmission, with a generous 6.04:1 overall ratio that enables a “steep” first-gear. The result is strong launch acceleration along with “tall” overdrive ratios that lower engine rpms for better fuel economy and reduced noise. A new six-speed Tremec TR6060 manual transmission is optional – a rare, and expensive, move for the manufacturer for the limited, expected take rate. A 3.27 final drive ratio comes with automatic-equipped GXPs, and a 3.70 gear is matched with the manual transmission. A limited-slip differential is standard.
To help keep the performance in check, the GXP features a Brembo braking system with 14-inch vented front and 12.76-inch rear disc rotors, with special quad-piston alloy calipers in front. The alloy calipers on the rear brakes have single-piston actuation. At each corner is a 19-inch polished aluminum wheel wrapped with summer 245/40R19 tire are standard. Comparable all-season tires are available.
To set the GXP off, it features a unique front fascia with a lower splitter and a distinctive rear fascia diffuser. Inside, the GXP has two-tone, heated sport seats with color-coordinated gauge cluster and GXP embroidery, plus the usual array of power amenities and leather trim bits.
All told, the GXP promises to be a powerful, refined sport sedan. Pricing hasn’t been announced, or hinted at, but it does go on sale in the 2009 calendar year. Needless to say, with the muscle car resurgence, the next year should be quite entertaining indeed.
Research Pontiac in the buyer’s guide.
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 For those who remember the “Speed Racer” cartoon from childhood, or perhaps are leaving the imported Japanese classic with your own children, the latest trailer released by Warner Brothers should quicken your pulse.
While the colorful, CGI-filled film looks a far step removed from the simplistic animation in the original TV series, the latest trailer reveals many cues and characters that are immediately recognizable. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of the film is the creative team behind it: writer/directors Larry and Andy Wachowski, the creators of the “The Matrix” trilogy, with Joel Silver producing. These three last worked together on “V for Vendetta.”
The film stars Emile Hirsch (“Alpha Dog”) as Speed, Christina Ricci (“Black Snake Moan”) as Trixie, Matthew Fox (TV’s “Lost”) as Racer X, Susan Sarandon (“Dead Man Walking”) as Mom Racer, and John Goodman (“Evan Almighty”) as a well-cast Pops Racer.
This live-action film is scheduled for release on May 9, 2008.
Take a look at the trailers, and let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, read the experiences of our own speed racer in “Top speed testing.”
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 At the upcoming 2008 New York International Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz will showcase its growing range of SUVs and three-row people movers. Freshened styling on the M-Class may stand out in pictures, but it is what’s under the hood that makes the 2009 M-, G-, and R-Class models worth a closer look.
We all knew it was coming, but the clean-diesel BlueTec engine arrives in the Big Apple ready to meet 50-state emissions limits, thanks to a new AdBlue exhaust treatment system. The BlueTec engine promises 20-30 percent better fuel economy than equivalent gasoline engines, surprisingly good performance, and low exhaust emissions. With the added fuel economy, the BlueTec equipped models have up to 600 miles cruising range.
The BlueTec diesels use an NOx storage catalytic converter in combination with an SCR catalytic converter and AdBlue injection to lower NOx emissions. The AdBlue system injects an aqueous urea solution into the exhaust flow, which releases ammonia (NH3), reducing nitrogen oxides to harmless nitrogen and water in the downstream SCR catalytic converter. The AdBlue tank needs to be refilled every 10,000 miles during routine maintenance intervals.
At a time when consumers are clamoring for improved fuel economy, yet unwilling to sacrifice performance, modern diesel engines promise a desirable balance. However, elevated diesel fuel prices cast an unfortunate shadow. (National average this week is $3.82 for diesel fuel, according to the Energy Information Administration.) Combine the price premium over gasoline with the additional cost for diesel engines, and they may be a hard sell in the United States.  2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
The M-Class is treated to a midlife freshening, with its toughened visage keeping it in line with the G-Class and new GLK-Class SUVs. Front bumpers are new, with updated headlamps. Likewise, the rear bumper is redesigned and dressed with stainless steel.
Inside, door panels now have an upholstered center section, and the seats boast a sportier design and a four-stage power lumber support for the driver’s seat. A new four-spoke steering wheel features built-in multi-function buttons and shift paddles. New advanced-technology features include an in-dash 6-disc DVD changer, hands-free Bluetooth phone system, telematics system, and a port for connecting audio devices such as an iPod. The standard audio system comes with a color display, a double radio tuner, speed-dependent volume control and a keypad for phone numbers and radio frequencies. Optional equipment includes a voice recognition system, a 610-watt digital harmon kardon Logic7 audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system with two eight-inch screens, wireless headphones and an integrated DVD player with dual-source capability.
The Pre-Safe safety system is made standard. Just as on the S-Class flagship, the Pre-Safe can react to an impending collision before it happens and take measures to protect occupants during those valuable seconds before impact. It can tighten the front seat belts before a possible impact, and the front passenger seat moves to a position that can provide better protection. Side windows also close to provide better support for the window curtain air bags. If the system senses an impending rollover, the sunroof also closes.
For those in the area, the New York show is open to the public March 21-30. Look for other highlights from the last show of the season here in the autoMedia blog.
Research Mercedes-Benz in the buyer’s guide.
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 At the North American International Auto Show, aka Detroit auto show, Honda displayed a hybrid concept vehicle whose appearance and name instantly conjured fond memories of the sporty, second-generation CRX. It feels like the right model, at the right time – an affordable, hybrid coupe radiating personality.
Thus far, Honda has been mum on technical details, but it is presumed to have an evolution of the Civic Hybrid’s powertrain. Placed in a smaller, lighter-weight car, this mild powertrain would have more verve than in the staid sedan, though the sports character would likely come from its handling acumen.
In theory, such concepts are shown at major auto shows to gauge attendee reaction and prepare the public for a production model. However, there isn’t always a means to give direct feedback. In this case, Honda has posted a survey on its consumer site. (CR-Z survey.) It also has a special section for previewing other concepts and future models, including the redesign Fit schedule to debut next week. We’ll have the scoop here once the cover is pulled back in New York.
For now, what do you think of the CR-Z? Fill out the survey, and share your comments below.
See our highlights from the 2008 Detroit auto show. Research Honda models in our buyer's guide.
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