autoMedia Auto News Blog : Auto news

Koenigsegg Hits Brakes On Deal to Buy Saab

admin — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 02:55:00 GMT

Koenigsegg Group has walked away from a proposed purchase of Saab from General Motors. The conglomerate lead by supercar-maker Koenigsegg had previously reached an agreement to purchase the Swedish division from GM, aided by a $600 million funding commitment from the European Investment Bank (EIB) guaranteed by the Swedish government. GM was to support the new venture with continued assistance in developing and producing cars, including the next-generation Saab 9-5 . Without Koenigsegg, Saab risks being shuttered, as was the fate for Saturn when Penkse Automotive decided not to complete its purchase. "We're obviously very disappointed with the decision to pull out of the Saab purchase," said GM President and CEO, Fritz Henderson. "Many have worked tirelessly over the past several months to create a sustainable plan for the future of Saab by selling the brand and its manufacturing interests to Koenigsegg Group AB. Given the sudden change in direction, we will take the next several days to assess the situation and will advise on the next steps next week." In the post-bankruptcy, GM has struggled with its divested brands. Pontiac is closed. Saturn is done come January...(read more)

Pricing: 2010 Nissan Cube

admin — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 03:04:00 GMT

Nissan has nudged up the pricing on the high trim levels of its iconic Cube, while adding new features for 2010. The base Cube remains at $13,990, but it now carries an extra safety cachet with the recent announcement that the Cube was among 27 vehicles named as Top Safety Picks for 2010 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. (See our 2009 Nissan Cube pricing announcement.) Step up to the S or SL trim level, there is added, tangible goodness for the extra $340 charged for each. Specifically, it adds hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and steering wheel audio controls. Further audio system upgrades include an iPod interface, MP3 playback, Radio Data System (RDS), speed-sensitive volume control (SSV), and two additional speakers (six total). The Krom Edition adds a new 4.3-inch color audio display with USB connectivity and rear camera, along with a push-button start. The price increases a more significant $760. 2010 Nissan Cube pricing 1.8 Base M/T - $13,990 1.8 S I4 M/T - $15,030 1.8 S CVT - $16,030 1.8 SL CVT - $17,130 Krom Edition CVT - $20,120 In total, the Cube is incrementally more appealing for 2010, improving a distinct vehicle with notable...(read more)

Less Than 200 Customers Want Money Back From GM

admin — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 02:29:00 GMT

When General Motors first introduced its 60-day Money Back Guarantee, it seemed a bold attempt to assure buyers that its products will satisfy. It also raise the question of how many buyers would choose to participate in the program, and then return a vehicle. On October 15th, we reported that a single return had been made. Just more than a month later, GM reports that 200 of 222,000 customers have opted to pursue a vehicle return. That sounds like a small percentage, though only 653 customers chose the 60-day offer over a $500 rebate. GM says that many other car shoppers were persuaded to purchase a Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, or GMC vehicle because of the confidence given by the program. Thus far 53 vehicles have been returned, and about 140 others are going through the process. Each dissatisfied customer is going through an exit interview with Vice President of Global Product Engineering Mark Reuss and/or his staff. Through this significant effort, GM is certain to learn about the specific reasons that people are willing to walk away from a car. Ultimately, GM has fueled sales and molded public perception—both essential wins as the automaker seeks to remake itself....(read more)

Pricing: 2010 Acura ZDX

admin — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:42:00 GMT

Since the 2010 Acura ZDX was unveiled , there has been debate over what it is. Based on a platform shared with the MDX SUV , the ZDX looks like a cross between a coupe and sedan, with an elevated ride and premium execution. Regardless of how you perceive this genre-defining vehicle, it definitely has class. And the price of entry we now know will be $45,495, plus $810 destination charges, when it goes on sale December 15. The ZDX will be available in three trim packages: the well-equipped ZDX; ZDX with Technology Package; and the ZDX with Advance Package. All versions are powered by a 3.7-liter, 300-horsepower V-6 with a six-speed automatic transmission. And each benefits from the “super handling” SH-AWD system that aids enthusiastic driving and all-weather traction. Standard features include the world's longest panoramic glass roof, hand-stitched leather interior, Bluetooth connectivity, power tailgate, and a premium AM/FM/XM/CD audio system with iPod. The ZDX with Technology Package adds navigation with voice recognition and real-time traffic information, real-time weather with radar image maps, and a multi-view rear camera. In addition, the Technology Package upgrades the stereo...(read more)

IIHS Names 2010 Top Safety Picks – Fewer Than Before

admin — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has announced 19 car and eight SUVs as Top Safety Picks for 2010—far less than the 94 vehicles that earned the accolade for 2009. The IIHS has made the requirements to be named a Top Safety Pick more stringent by adding a roof strength test to measure protection in a rollover accident. In addition, the Picks also factor performance in front, side, and rear crashes the Institute performs, as well as the availability of electronic stability control. Subaru again shines in IIHS tests, being the only manufacturer that has winning products in all four categories for a total of five awards. Ford and subsidiary Volvo have six winners, and Volkswagen/Audi has four. Chrysler earns four awards, continuing recent trend of improving the crashworthiness of its vehicles. This marks the second time the Institute has raised the bar for Top Safety Pick status since the awards were introduced in 2005. As with its other tests, it is expected that the rollover rating will push automakers to improve their vehicles ahead of federal mandates. And there is good motivation; The Institute estimates rollovers kill more than 9,000 people in passenger vehicles each...(read more)

autoMedia CARnival 11-13-09: This week in Auto Blogs

Brandy Schaffels — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:36:00 GMT

It's the week ending November 13, and we've browsed our favorite automotive blogs all week long to gather the highlights from each....(read more)

Ford Ranger, Ka Not Coming to America

admin — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 03:50:00 GMT

Ford CEO Alan Mulally told Automotive News recently that the company would not be importing its global Ford Ranger pickup truck and Ka minicar into the United States, as previously thought. The Ranger built in Thailand, and sold throughout the world, is different and significantly newer than the model sold here, which has roots back to the 1990s. The Ka is considered too small for our market. Unstated, the Ka may also be too inexpensive to be profitable given transportation costs and exchange rates. Word of the Ranger not coming hurts. The current model is due to be phased out in 2011, and this news suggests there is no imminent replacement. The American Ranger fits an increasingly important niche beneath the full-size truck category, but it feels decidedly long in the tooth. An updated model design to from the onset to deliver significantly improved fuel economy could likely find its place. (Read our Ford Ranger review .) That may still be in the cards, though sourced locally. Pickuptrucks.com has reported that the long-speculated F-100 project may live on. Past rumors have suggested it would be a lightened F-150, though more likely it would be an unique design built for lighter-duty...(read more)

Sneak Peek: 2011 Volvo S60

admin — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 03:24:00 GMT

Volvo is continuing its recent tradition of giving very early looks at upcoming models with this 2011 Volvo S60 preview. The relatively curvaceous styling was first seen at the 2009 Detroit auto show , where the concept gave a clear indication of the production styling. (See the S60 concept .) From the front, it bears more than a passing resemblance to the XC70 , and it is aerodynamic enough to forever erase the connotation that Volvo design equates to the classic, darn-near-bulletproof 240 boxes. The production model will make its debut in March 2010 at the Geneva Motor Show, and the factory will begin building the new sedan the following summer in Belgium. Volvo previously indicated that the new 2011 S60 will be powered by a 1.6-liter/180-horsepower turbocharged, direct-injection engine. As seen on the concept car, the S60 is expected toboost fuel economy by using an auto start/stop function; twin manual gearboxes that work in tandem; electric steering; grille shutter to reduce aerodynamic drag; a DRIVe-Mode economy function that prioritizes a variety of functions to emphasize fuel economy; and flat under-chassis panels. The S60 will tout a new, potentially life-saving Volvo safety...(read more)

Charge! Cadillac Converj Plug-In Racing to Production

admin — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 02:36:00 GMT

Word has spilled from the Motor City via The Detroit News that General Motors will produce the Cadillac Converj extended-range electric car. For industry pundits, it seemed predestined that GM would offer a luxury sibling to the much ballyhooed Chevrolet Volt. By packaging the innovative drivetrain in a Cadillac model, GM can amortize the investment across more sales volume. Just as significantly, a Cadillac sports car can absorb the cost for the expensive battery packs, and it will make the Volt seem like an affordable, practical alternative, rather than the most expensive Chevrolet in history. First shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit , the Cadillac Converj served as the automaker’s grand finale. Product czar Bob “Maximum” Lutz at the time said if greenlighted, the production Converj would closely resemble the show vehicle. As you can see here, the Converj bears more than a family resemblance to the CTS Coupe , and it puts a sharp edge on luxury sportsters in general. Going green is fast becoming cool. The Volt is expected to go on sale by late 2010, so don’t look for a Cadillac version till 2011 at the earliest. Also see: Driving a Chevy Volt Test...(read more)

Preview Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour

Editor — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:10:00 GMT

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour launched to take on Venza and Murano What is a CUV (crossover utility vehicle), aka "crossover"? It's a careful blend of SUV and sedan, with close-to-car styling, handling and fuel economy. And it's where a majority of buyers are heading, some moving down from SUVs, others moving up from less practical cars. Honda's new-for-2010 Accord-based Crosstour CUV is essentially an Accord wagon with its roofline aerodynamically sloped instead of squared off--or maybe an Accord five-door hatchback. But Honda prefers you to see it as an increasingly fashionable crossover. It's offered it in two models, a well-equipped EX at just over $30,000, including destination, and an upscale EX-L at about $33K. Four-wheel drive adds $1,450 and voice-activated navigation with a rear-view camera adds another $2,200, both available on the EX-L only. The only available powertrain is the Accord's 271-hp 3.5-liter i-VTEC SOHC V-6 coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission and using Honda's Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) cylinder deactivation system to enhance fuel economy by shutting down two or even three cylinders when lightly loaded. The 2WD...(read more)

Future Product Plans: Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:23:00 GMT

Chrysler LLC hosted a multi-hour business plan meeting last week where the reborn automaker detailed its strategy for the next few years. Enabled by its new partner Fiat, Chrysler will consolidate platforms, expand product offerings, and aim to boost sales volume and profit. All while significantly increasing product quality. Sounds good so far. The basic breakdown begins with reducing the number of unique platforms. Aside from pickup trucks, Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep count 11 platforms today. For 2014, the aim is to use just six, and that includes expanding into the A/B subcompact/compact-car segments thanks to Fiat. The trick is to move C and D segment vehicles, including small and midsized crossovers and sedans, onto a single, versatile platform. The Jeep Wrangler will have the distinction of having its own platform. (There’s only one, as they say.) The large sedans, minivans, and larger SUVs will each ride on three distinct platforms. There are several tangible benefits to this strategy. Chrysler lost its engineering partner with Daimler divested its interests. While Chrysler continues to use variations of Mercedes platforms, access to such resources is finite going forward. New...(read more)

SEMA: Chevrolet Camaro Synergy Green Machine

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:22:00 GMT

The halls and exterior space surrounding the Las Vegas Convention Center was awash in customized, high-performance machines last week at the Specialty Equipment Market Association ( SEMA ) show. Among the hundreds of project cars, the redesigned Camaro was well represented, with the 2010 Yenko Camaro , Lingenfelter Trans Am Concept , and twin-turbocharged Jay Leno Camaro all made their public debut. Among the many other show cars, the Camaro Synergy stood out as the ultimate green machine. Not, not some tree-huggin', hybrid, but literally green. While it may not have a celebrity name attached to it, this official Chevrolet project car showcases a striking new exterior color that will be available in the first half of 2010. Think of it as a counterpoint to the upcoming Plum Crazy Dodge Challenger . The Synergy also showcased a variety of add-on accessories being considered for market through the GM Performance Catalog and local dealerships. The makeover is handsome, with a ground effects kit, Cyber Grey hood stripes, high-wing rear spoiler, and 21-inch wheels with a black center. The car is further enhanced with aftermarket goodies that include a Peddars coil-over lowering kit and...(read more)

Pricing: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi sedan

admin — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:50:00 GMT

Suzuki is coming out swinging with its all-new Kizashi sedan , striking at the vital midsized sedan segment. Each Kizashi features all-wheel drive and is motivated by a strong 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180-185 horsepower, depending on transmission fitment. The Kizashi looks poised to compete on personality, feature equipment, and value, with prices starting at $19,000 and peaking at about $27,000, plus $735 in destination charges. Even the base Kizashi S is well equipped with front, side, rear side, and side-curtain airbags; dual-zone climate control; nine-speaker audio system; push-button keyless start; power windows, doors, and mirrors; stability control; and ambient lighting. Starting at $21,500, the Kizashi SE packs additional equipment, such as continuously variable transmission (CVT), 10-way adjustable driver’s seat, leather trim bits, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. Suzuki expects this will be the most popular version. For those who want a more sporting character, the GTS starts at $22,500 and ranges to $25,000 with all the goodies. The GTS is available with a choice of six-speed manual transmission or performance-tuned CVT with steering wheel paddle shifters. It...(read more)

Ford Introduces Inflatable Seat-Belt Airbag

admin — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:03:00 GMT

Today, Ford introduced an to provide rear passengers with airbag protection. The airbags are concealed within special shoulder belts. Once deployed, the disperse the force over a wider area than a conventional belt, thereby reducing injury risks. Ford points to the benefits for children and the elderly, two groups that commonly ride in the second-row and are especially vulnerable to injury. (Read “ The Dilemma of Older Drivers .”) In the event of a crash, the airbag deploys in 40 milliseconds. This is notably slower than a traditional front airbag, since the device does not need to close a gap between the belt and the occupant. After all, it is already in contact with the passenger. As it expands, the rear seat belts spread crash forces over five times more area of the body than conventional seat belts; this helps reduce pressure on the chest and helps control head and neck. The seat-belt airbag system will be first offered on the redesigned 2011 Ford Explorer, and it will be made available on other FoMoCo vehicles after that launch. See the top-10 car safety systems . Learn more about car safety ....(read more)

SEMA: 2010 Yenko Camaro Unveiled

admin — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 02:54:00 GMT

With the massive Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), there are performance vehicles of all stripes, but only one has the distinctive Yenko stripes. As previewed in the autoMedia blog , General Marketing Capital Incorporated ( GMCI ) showed a 2010 Yenko Camaro Prototype based on a Camaro SS . The Phase 1 Yenko boasts a supercharger to boost output to 600 horsepower, Tremec six-speed manual transmission, Hurst short-throw shifter, six-piston big brake package, and Magnaflow high-flow cat-back exhaust system. The appearance is given the full Yenko treatment with the essential, distinctive strips, emblems, and retro-styled 22-inch aluminum wheels. The interior features Yenko Super Car (sYc) embroidered headrests, Yenko/SC sill plates, Yenko/SC embroidered floor mats, and more. GMCI is exploring options for producing more Yenko project cars and product lines. It is also developing a Web site to support the business and nurture a Yenko community. The name Yenko is legendary in muscle car circles, with classic Yenko Camaros demanding 10-times the price as a traditional factory car at major auctions. It was Don Yenko who was responsible for creating the Yenko Stinger Corvair, Yenko...(read more)