Mercedes C Class diesel
Mercedes Benz India has launched the Mercedes C Class’s diesel version in India. Priced at INR 39.9 lakhs onward, the C220 CDI is powered by a 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder diesel engine that makes 167.6 hp and 400 Nm of torque.
Launched last year, the new C Class was earlier available only in its petrol guise. The car maker also announced the start of local assembly of the said petrol variant, while the diesel version will be brought into the country via the CBU route.
Hyundai i20 Cross coming in March 2015
Hyundai i20 Cross sketch.
Hyundai is currently in the process of finalising the all-new and
yet-to-be-revealed i20 Cross. We can tell you that the company is quite
gung-ho about the car’s prospects. It all starts with the altered look,
which Hyundai claims, has turned out surprisingly well. So what can you
expect? Well, apart from the de-rigueur extra cladding, the Cross also
gets attractive roof rails, bigger wheels, and a new nose. The
headlights, grille and chin have apparently been altered, and the ground
clearance, of course, is higher. Hyundai is likely to use LEDs on this
version of the i20 too.The engines will remain the same as the i20, but there will be a slight bump up in power for both, diesel and petrol models. An automatic is on the cards as well, but that will come later in the life of the car. The i20 Cross will also be significant for Hyundai India because the Chennai factory will be the global mother plant for the model. Expect it to cost Rs 50,000-75,000 more, in comparison to the regular i20.
GM confirms new compact SUV to rival EcoSport within 3
years – Brazil
General Motors of South America have confirmed development of an all-new compact SUV, designed to rival the Ford EcoSport and Renault Duster. Speaking to CarPlace, the Jaime Ardila, President General Motors South America, said that the SUV will replace the Tracker (Trax) in the South American market within 3 years.
The new Chevrolet SUV would be a tad smaller than the Trax.
The new compact SUV will be smaller than the Tracker (which measures 4.24 meters in length), and will be based on a new compact platform derived from the Chevrolet Onix, reports the publication. Given the similarity in buyer preferences and market trends, we wouldn’t be surprised if the new compact SUV under development is indeed the one bound for the Indian market.
Chevrolet showcased the Adra compact SUV concept at the 2014 edition of the Auto Expo, however, production isn’t due until 2017 (a similar three year period). While the Indian and the Brazilian SUVs could share architectures or parts, engineers will no doubt focus on a sub-4 meter length for the Indian version.
The Chevrolet Adra concept featured Indian inputs but was constructed in Australia.
As yet, it is too early to speculate on the engine and gearbox options of the SUV. However, to avail small car excise duty benefits, the diesel engine will have to be smaller than 1,500 cc while the petrol under 1,200 cc, for India, while the flex fuel engines in the 1.6-2.0-liter displacement class, similar to the EcoSport, can be expected on the Brazilian mini SUV.
Competitors: Ford EcoSport, Hyundai ix25, Renault Duster, Nissan Kicks, VW Taigun
Expected Price: INR 5.5-9 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: 2017
Expected Price: INR 5.5-9 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date: 2017
New Honda Jazz’s production starts in India – Report
According to GaadiWaadi, production of the new Honda Jazz has already started at Honda Cars India’s (HCI) plant in Rajasthan. The website reports that around 600 vehicles have been manufactured, and that a launch is expected around March 2015.
The Jazz in India will get a 1.2L petrol and a 1.5L diesel engine.
It is indeed logical for HCI to make the new Jazz at its Rajasthan plant as production of the City also takes place here, and the Jazz and City (based on the same platform) are expected to share several components.
Like the City, the Jazz diesel will be powered by the 1.5-liter four-cylinder i-DTEC diesel engine which has 100 PS and 200 Nm of torque. Unlike the City though, the Jazz will not get the larger and more powerful 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol unit. Honda will instead use their 1.2-liter petrol engine (which allows the Jazz to be classified as a ‘small car’ by Indian standards), which makes 88 PS and 109 Nm of torque.
The new Jazz borrows its interior from the new City.
Already available in international markets, the premium hatchback measures 3,955 mm in length, 1,695 mm in width, 1,525 mm in height and 2,530 mm in wheelbase.
Competitors: Maruti Swift, Hyundai Elite i20, VW Polo, Tata Bolt, Fiat Punto Evo
Expected Price: INR 5–7 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date in India: 2015
Expected Price: INR 5–7 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date in India: 2015
New Honda Jazz – Image Gallery
[Source – GaadiWaadi]
Yamaha R3 imported to India for R&D purposes – IAB
Report
According to import and export tracking website of India, zauba.com, the Japanese company has imported two units of the Yamaha R3 motorcycle for R&D purposes.
The R3 is yet to start global sales, as its public unveiling took place in November 2014.
Unveiled in October last year, the R3 had its public premiere at the EICMA 2014 in Milan Italy. The R3 houses a 321 cc in-line two-cylinder engine that is capable of producing 42 PS of power and 29.6 Nm of torque, transferred to the road via a six-speed transmission.
The R3 uses technology that’s been derived from racing, such as, direct drive camshaft, carburized conrods, forged pistons and low friction pistons. All these help the R3 in putting out some serious performance in its class.
As yet, India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Limited is yet to confirm the launch of the R25 or even the R3 for the country. Reports however state that the R25 is expected to launch by the middle of this year. It houses a 250 cc twin-cylinder liquid cooled engine and produces 31 PS of power and 22.6 Nm of torque that gets transferred to the road via a six-speed transmission.
The R3 makes an impressive 42 PS and 29.6 Nm of torque.
Currently in the Indian market, most of Yamaha’s competition is slowly shifting to the 300 cc and above motorcycle class, like the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and the KTM RC390.
Competitors: KTM RC390, Kawasaki Ninja 300
Expected Price: INR 3 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date in Europe: 2015
Expected Price: INR 3 lakhs, ex-Showroom
Launch date in Europe: 2015
Yamaha YZF-R3 – Image Gallery
New variants for hyundai fluidic verna spawn to take on the honda city
With the recent introduction of the all-new Honda City diesel laden with features at an aggressive (launch) price, the competition is absolutely going to face the heat.
The Hyundai Verna will get a new CX variant, according to Economic Times.
It is reported by Economic Times this week that Hyundai India has already started planning measures to keep its leadership position in the C-Segment from slipping away. A while back, the company had silently launched a top-end variant SX (O) and is now planning to introduce another one.
The Hyundai Fluidic Verna SX (O) is equipped with features such as projector headlamp, 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, safety escort headlamps, smart key with illuminated start button, chrome outside door handles, leather upholstery, automatic headlight control and illuminated power window switches.
The other variant is the Verna CX, positioned between the EX and the SX models. It will be powered by the 1.4-litre CRDI engine. Hyundai’s website does not currently list this variant.
The fourth generation Honda City has all the right ingredients to be the market leader, again.
The CX variant is said to be loaded with features such as automatic climate control, electrically adjustable and foldable outside mirror with turn indicators, 2 DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, steering mounted controls, electro-chromatic rear view mirror, rear parking camera with sensors, ABS and driver side airbag.
As per the newspaper, the addition of the new variant is part of Hyundai’s strategy to improve the price-value equations and provide a modern premium image to the models.
With the slowdown continuing in the auto market, companies are trying to refresh existing offerings to keep the interest alive among customers. To this end, 2014 would see new products as well as facelifts launch in the C Segment.
[Source – Economic Times]
Read more: http://indianautosblog.com/2014/01/hyundai-verna-cx-variant-planned-112888#ixzz2qoqBbTw4
Follow us: @indianautos on Twitter | IndianAutosBlog on FacebookWith the recent introduction of the all-new Honda City diesel laden with features at an aggressive (launch) price, the competition is absolutely going to face the heat.
The Hyundai Verna will get a new CX variant, according to Economic Times.
It is reported by Economic Times this week that Hyundai India has already started planning measures to keep its leadership position in the C-Segment from slipping away. A while back, the company had silently launched a top-end variant SX (O) and is now planning to introduce another one.
The Hyundai Fluidic Verna SX (O) is equipped with features such as projector headlamp, 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, safety escort headlamps, smart key with illuminated start button, chrome outside door handles, leather upholstery, automatic headlight control and illuminated power window switches.
The other variant is the Verna CX, positioned between the EX and the SX models. It will be powered by the 1.4-litre CRDI engine. Hyundai’s website does not currently list this variant.
The fourth generation Honda City has all the right ingredients to be the market leader, again.
The CX variant is said to be loaded with features such as automatic climate control, electrically adjustable and foldable outside mirror with turn indicators, 2 DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, steering mounted controls, electro-chromatic rear view mirror, rear parking camera with sensors, ABS and driver side airbag.
As per the newspaper, the addition of the new variant is part of Hyundai’s strategy to improve the price-value equations and provide a modern premium image to the models.
With the slowdown continuing in the auto market, companies are trying to refresh existing offerings to keep the interest alive among customers. To this end, 2014 would see new products as well as facelifts launch in the C Segment.
[Source – Economic Times]
Mahindra XUV500 W4 is priced at INR 10.95 lakhs
Mahindra launched the cut-price, entry-level XUV500 last week. Dubbed theMahindra XUV500 W4, this variant misses out on a lot of features but bears an attractive price tag. In New Delhi showrooms, the XUV500 W4 is priced at INR 10.95 lakhs, which is a good INR 1.06 lakhs cheaper than the W6 variant.
Our reader Raj, an XUV500 fan, sent us a few images that provide a first look at the car.
You can identify the W4 variant in two ways. At the front, the W4 is devoid of foglights, while at the rear, Mahindra has provided a ‘W4′ badge on the door.
The W4 variant does not get foglights and static bending headlights.
Perhaps it would be easier to tell the W4 apart from the higher variants while seated inside. The steering wheel does not get any embedded buttons for the music system, while cruise control has been omitted all together.
The center stack loses out on the 6-inch screen, and instead a rather tiny display that would probably give you information on the radio station you’re listening to or the volume level, has been provided.
Overall, the W4 misses out on features such as the infotainment display, a DVD player, driver information system, tyre pressure monitoring system, automatic wipers and headlights, front foglights, climate control system, cruise control and steering mounted controls.
The monochrome 6-inch display, climate control and cruise control are deleted.
What you do get is the same mechanical package, combined with safety features such as ABS and dual airbags.
The W4 XUV500 appeals to people on the lookout for the top-end variant of the Ford EcoSport, or the mid-variants of the Nissan Terrano/Renault Duster.
Note: Optional accessories such as the roof rack, front and rear chrome bumpers, and the chrome side step were fitted onto this car by the dealer. These are not part of the standard kit.
The W4 variant does not get foglights and static bending headlights.
The monochrome 6-inch display, climate control and cruise control are deleted.
Suzuki undecided on selling the iv-4 mini SUV outside Europe
Auto News has reported that Suzuki is undecided on whether to sell the iv-4 SUV outside Europe. Showcased as a concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the iv-4 previews a production model that will be made in Suzuki’s Hungarian plant from 2015.
The report adds that Suzuki will launch a new model every year for the next three years in Europe in a bid to return to profitability that it last recorded in the region in 2008.
The production Suzuki iv-4 would look very close to the concept, and is designed for the European region where Suzuki last recorded a profit in 2008.
In the 35 European markets last year, Suzuki’s sales were down by 13 percent to 202,000 cars. The automaker’s top seller is the Swift, which had a strong 2013, retailing 40,649 units so far this year.
Suzuki’s management believes that models like the SX4 S-Cross and the iv-4 will help it achieve the goal of 300,000 units from Europe by 2016.
The iv-4 would come with standard 4WD and Suzuki believes that this feature gives it the edge over rivals like the Renault Captur, Opel Mokka and the Peugeot 2008. Suzuki’s customer base has traditionally been off-road enthusiasts, and the new model would target them heavily.
Suzuki’s design executive Takehito Arai who is responsible for the iv-4, says the production version would be very close to the concept car.
The production Suzuki iv-4 would look very close to the concept, and is designed for the European region where Suzuki last recorded a profit in 2008.
Spied – New Bajaj Pulsar 200 (faired) tests in Lavasa, more details emerge
Only yesterday we showed you a close-up image of the upcoming Bajaj Pulsar 200thanks to Nitin Aggarwal who snapped the bike in Lavasa, Maharashtra. Nitin has shared more close-up images of the new Pulsar 200 and here they are.
The new Pulsar 200 would be based on the 200NS’ platform.
To recap the new Pulsar 200, we think it would be based on the 200NS’ platform and would be powered by the 199.5cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. For the new 200, Bajaj may decide to offer a fuel-injected version of this engine, which could also make its way into the 200NS. The new 200 would have its power and torque figures in the whereabouts of 23 bhp and 18 Nm, while a 6-speed gearbox will perform the transmission duties.
On the features front, the new 200 will sport twin projector headlights and based on this image, it appears to be very similar to that of the KTM RC390. We also expect the top-end variants to sport ABS.
The twin projector headlights seem inspired by the KTM RC390.
According to RushLane, Nitin also managed to get seated on the bike and says that the seats are “comfortable, even for the pillion”.
Early media reports speculate that Bajaj could call this bike the 200SS (SuperSports). The launch of the new 200 should take place very soon, maybe even before this year comes to an end. Or maybe Bajaj could delay the 200SS for an Auto Expo showcase in February next year.
Only yesterday we showed you a close-up image of the upcoming Bajaj Pulsar 200thanks to Nitin Aggarwal who snapped the bike in Lavasa, Maharashtra. Nitin has shared more close-up images of the new Pulsar 200 and here they are.
The new Pulsar 200 would be based on the 200NS’ platform.
To recap the new Pulsar 200, we think it would be based on the 200NS’ platform and would be powered by the 199.5cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. For the new 200, Bajaj may decide to offer a fuel-injected version of this engine, which could also make its way into the 200NS. The new 200 would have its power and torque figures in the whereabouts of 23 bhp and 18 Nm, while a 6-speed gearbox will perform the transmission duties.
On the features front, the new 200 will sport twin projector headlights and based on this image, it appears to be very similar to that of the KTM RC390. We also expect the top-end variants to sport ABS.
The twin projector headlights seem inspired by the KTM RC390.
According to RushLane, Nitin also managed to get seated on the bike and says that the seats are “comfortable, even for the pillion”.
Early media reports speculate that Bajaj could call this bike the 200SS (SuperSports). The launch of the new 200 should take place very soon, maybe even before this year comes to an end. Or maybe Bajaj could delay the 200SS for an Auto Expo showcase in February next year.
Maruti Swift hits the 1 million sales milestone, 8 years after its launch
In early July this year, Maruti introduced a special edition ‘RS’ version of the Swift, to begin celebrations for the 1 million cumulative sales figure the Swift was bound to achieve during the festive season. According to media reports the Maruti Swift has just crossed the 1 million sales figure mark, eight years after its launch in 2005.
The Maruti Swift RS was launched to celebrate the 1 million sales milestone of the Swift in India.
Recounting the Swift’s Indian journey, Mayank Pareek, chief operating officer marketing and sales of Maruti Suzuki said that Maruti was hoping to sell 5,000 units/month in 2005, and this was seen as an ambitious target as the market for premium hatchbacks was not created then.
Since its launch in 2005, the Swift has consistently ranked at the top of the sales chart and 2013 is no different: For the first 10 months of this year, the Swift is the 3rd best selling car with average monthly sales at 16,673 units.
A mildly updated model of the current generation Swift was launched in Europe and Japan in the middle of this year. India is yet to receive it.
In India, Maruti launched the Swift with a petrol engine option which was the same 1.3-liter engine used by the Esteem. A 1.3-liter diesel engine (the Fiat MultiJet engine) was added a couple of years into the launch. During its mid-life facelift, Maruti replaced the 1.3-liter petrol with the more modern 1.2-liter K-Series engine, which continues to be the sole petrol option for the Indian Swift.
In early July this year, Maruti introduced a special edition ‘RS’ version of the Swift, to begin celebrations for the 1 million cumulative sales figure the Swift was bound to achieve during the festive season. According to media reports the Maruti Swift has just crossed the 1 million sales figure mark, eight years after its launch in 2005.
The Maruti Swift RS was launched to celebrate the 1 million sales milestone of the Swift in India.
Recounting the Swift’s Indian journey, Mayank Pareek, chief operating officer marketing and sales of Maruti Suzuki said that Maruti was hoping to sell 5,000 units/month in 2005, and this was seen as an ambitious target as the market for premium hatchbacks was not created then.
Since its launch in 2005, the Swift has consistently ranked at the top of the sales chart and 2013 is no different: For the first 10 months of this year, the Swift is the 3rd best selling car with average monthly sales at 16,673 units.
A mildly updated model of the current generation Swift was launched in Europe and Japan in the middle of this year. India is yet to receive it.
In India, Maruti launched the Swift with a petrol engine option which was the same 1.3-liter engine used by the Esteem. A 1.3-liter diesel engine (the Fiat MultiJet engine) was added a couple of years into the launch. During its mid-life facelift, Maruti replaced the 1.3-liter petrol with the more modern 1.2-liter K-Series engine, which continues to be the sole petrol option for the Indian Swift.
Mercedes C Class Edition C Celebration Edition launched at INR 39.16 lakhs
Mercedes-Benz India have launched a special edition variant on the C Class. Called the Mercedes-Benz C Class Edition C, this variant celebrates the 10 millionth sale of the C Class globally since its launch in 1993.
The Edition C will be available in a single trim level – the C220 CDI. This variant is powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine producing 170 hp and 400 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h is dispatched in 8.1 seconds while the top-speed stands at 231 km/h. So basically, there are no mechanical changes in the Edition C compared to the regular C220 CDI.
Its on the outside where the Edition C differs, featuring a high-gloss black finish for the radiator grille and the fins. Mercedes have also included an AMG styling kit which sees the addition of front and rear bumper spoilers and side skirts. The 17-inch alloy wheels come in a two-tone, high-sheen finish featuring five spokes, while the headlights get a dark tint.
Inside, the Edition C gets a new navigation system which is fully integrated into the infotainment system. Other features include sports seats, an electric sunroof, contrast stitching for the interiors and the steering wheel, ambient lighting and 1/3:2/3 split folding rear seats.
Only 500 units of the Edition C will be made. The Edition C is priced at INR 39.16 lakhs (ex-Showroom, Mumbai).
Mercedes-Benz India have launched a special edition variant on the C Class. Called the Mercedes-Benz C Class Edition C, this variant celebrates the 10 millionth sale of the C Class globally since its launch in 1993.
The Edition C will be available in a single trim level – the C220 CDI. This variant is powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine producing 170 hp and 400 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h is dispatched in 8.1 seconds while the top-speed stands at 231 km/h. So basically, there are no mechanical changes in the Edition C compared to the regular C220 CDI.
Its on the outside where the Edition C differs, featuring a high-gloss black finish for the radiator grille and the fins. Mercedes have also included an AMG styling kit which sees the addition of front and rear bumper spoilers and side skirts. The 17-inch alloy wheels come in a two-tone, high-sheen finish featuring five spokes, while the headlights get a dark tint.
Inside, the Edition C gets a new navigation system which is fully integrated into the infotainment system. Other features include sports seats, an electric sunroof, contrast stitching for the interiors and the steering wheel, ambient lighting and 1/3:2/3 split folding rear seats.
Only 500 units of the Edition C will be made. The Edition C is priced at INR 39.16 lakhs (ex-Showroom, Mumbai).
Leaked! Porsche Macan spec sheet now available
Details and images of the Porsche Macan have been finding their way on the internet ahead of its world reveal at the 2013 LA Auto Show, which commences on November 20th. In a previous story, we brought you the uncamouflaged images of the car and we now have the spec sheet of the Macan thanks to Autohome.com.cn.
The Macan will measure 4,675 mm in length, 1,923 mm in width and 1,628 mm in height, with a wheelbase spanning 2,807 mm. Kerb weights will range from 1,898 kg for the diesel to 1,947 kg for the Turbo. While the diesel gets a 60 liter fuel tank, the Macan S gets a 65 liter tank and the Turbo gets an ever larger 75 liter tank.
The base Macan S gets a 3.0-liter V6 producing 340 hp and 460 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h takes 5.5 seconds while the top-speed is rated at 254 km/h. The more powerful Macan Turbo is powered by a 3.6-liter turbocharged V6 producing 400 hp and 550 Nm of torque. Its quicker to 100 km/h taking only 4.8 seconds, while the top-speed is higher at 269 km/h.
The Macan world premieres at the 2013 LA Auto Show in exactly eight days.
A diesel engined Macan will also go on sale, powered by a 3.0-liter V6 diesel (seen in many Audis). The specs for this engine are 258 hp, 580 Nm of torque, a 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds and a top whack of 226 km/h.
Details and images of the Porsche Macan have been finding their way on the internet ahead of its world reveal at the 2013 LA Auto Show, which commences on November 20th. In a previous story, we brought you the uncamouflaged images of the car and we now have the spec sheet of the Macan thanks to Autohome.com.cn.
The Macan will measure 4,675 mm in length, 1,923 mm in width and 1,628 mm in height, with a wheelbase spanning 2,807 mm. Kerb weights will range from 1,898 kg for the diesel to 1,947 kg for the Turbo. While the diesel gets a 60 liter fuel tank, the Macan S gets a 65 liter tank and the Turbo gets an ever larger 75 liter tank.
The base Macan S gets a 3.0-liter V6 producing 340 hp and 460 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h takes 5.5 seconds while the top-speed is rated at 254 km/h. The more powerful Macan Turbo is powered by a 3.6-liter turbocharged V6 producing 400 hp and 550 Nm of torque. Its quicker to 100 km/h taking only 4.8 seconds, while the top-speed is higher at 269 km/h.
The Macan world premieres at the 2013 LA Auto Show in exactly eight days.
A diesel engined Macan will also go on sale, powered by a 3.0-liter V6 diesel (seen in many Audis). The specs for this engine are 258 hp, 580 Nm of torque, a 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds and a top whack of 226 km/h.
Sales of the updated Ssangyong Actyon begin
Press shots of the Ssangyong Actyon facelift are now available on the internet, with car sales portals in countries like Ukraine listing the updated variants.
We’re not able to determine exactly when the company had launched the product, and the Actyon section of Ssangyong’s official website appears to be under construction. Ssangyong does not sell the Actyon in the Korean market, and manufactures it only for exports.
The front-end is thoroughly revamped and resembles its elder brother, the Korando Sports pickup.
Visually, the Actyon facelift stays the same in profile, but undergoes a thorough makeover for its front and rear fascias using new headlights, bumpers, grille, stoplight and foglamps.
From what we know the Actyon facelift is powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine producing 128 hp and 310 Nm of torque fitted with a particulate filter, and a 2.3-liter petrol engine producing 150 hp and 214 Nm of torque. Both engines are paired to a Mercedes Benz 5-speed automatic transmission, with top-end variants of both engine options receiving a part-time electronic 4WD system.
The X6-like rear remains the same, with changes made to the bumper and taillight.
Some of the Actyon’s other features are a Double-wishbone front and 5-link rear suspension, ABS with EBD, dual front airbags, “triple-layer” frame construction, rear parking sensors, electrochromatic rear view mirror, auto door locking, 8-way adjustable driver seat and ISO-FIX points.
Press shots of the Ssangyong Actyon facelift are now available on the internet, with car sales portals in countries like Ukraine listing the updated variants.
We’re not able to determine exactly when the company had launched the product, and the Actyon section of Ssangyong’s official website appears to be under construction. Ssangyong does not sell the Actyon in the Korean market, and manufactures it only for exports.
The front-end is thoroughly revamped and resembles its elder brother, the Korando Sports pickup.
Visually, the Actyon facelift stays the same in profile, but undergoes a thorough makeover for its front and rear fascias using new headlights, bumpers, grille, stoplight and foglamps.
From what we know the Actyon facelift is powered by a 2.0-liter diesel engine producing 128 hp and 310 Nm of torque fitted with a particulate filter, and a 2.3-liter petrol engine producing 150 hp and 214 Nm of torque. Both engines are paired to a Mercedes Benz 5-speed automatic transmission, with top-end variants of both engine options receiving a part-time electronic 4WD system.
The X6-like rear remains the same, with changes made to the bumper and taillight.
Some of the Actyon’s other features are a Double-wishbone front and 5-link rear suspension, ABS with EBD, dual front airbags, “triple-layer” frame construction, rear parking sensors, electrochromatic rear view mirror, auto door locking, 8-way adjustable driver seat and ISO-FIX points.
KTM Duke 390 gets a new all-black color
The KTM Duke 390 reached dealers in India in late June this year. Launched with mouth-watering specs at a mouth-watering price, the Duke 390 in India is available in a single white color only. Now though, KTM has added an all-black color for the Duke 390 and here are the official images.
KTM has introduced a new all-black color for the Duke 390. Its unavailable in India however.
We checked KTM India’s website, which lists the black color in addition to the white. However, some pages of KTM India’s website are shared with pages from other international markets and as a result, even though the black color is listed on the website, it may not be available for India as yet.
To confirm, we called up KTM dealers who said that they have not received any announcement from the company about the new black color. On the sidelines, we were informed that the waiting period for a Duke 390 extends to only a month.
The Duke 390 currently has a month long waiting period in India.
The Duke 390 is powered by a 373cc single-cylinder, fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine that produces 43.5 PS and 35 Nm of torque. Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, the 390 tips the scale at 145 kg (without fuel). You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to figure out that the 390 has a power-to-weight ratio of 300 PS per tonne, enough to accelerate it from 0-100 km/h in under 7 seconds and hit a top-speed of 170 km/h.
KTM has introduced a new all-black color for the Duke 390. Its unavailable in India however.
The Duke 390 currently has a month long waiting period in India.
Mercedes to bid farewell to the SLS AMG next week with a ‘Final Edition’
Early last month, we reported that Mercedes-Benz was considering axing the Mercedes SLS AMG next year. Production of the two-door flagship supercar commenced in 2010 in Sindelfingen, Germany, after its world premiere at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The Mercedes SLS AMG Final Edition would be introduced at the 2013 LA Auto Show next week.
German car magazine, Auto Motor Und Sport, reports that Mercedes will launch a Final Edition SLS AMG at the 2013 LA Auto Show on November 20th. Production of the regular SLS and the Final Edition will continue until the middle of 2014, after which the supercar will permanently go into the pages of history.
Visually, the Mercedes SLS AMG Final Edition will differ slightly from the regular model. Spyshots from Germany indicate that a mildly different front bumper with new air vents, a reskinned hood and new exhaust pipes would feature.
Mercedes themselves released this image of the SLC AMG: A small two-door sportster that would rival the F-Type, and replace the SLS.
While the SLS AMG Final Edition will retain the 6.2-liter V8 engine along with the 7-speed AMG dual-clutch gearbox, the power and torque outputs will be marginally higher than the regular version. Currently this engine produces 571 PS and 650 Nm in the standard SLS, 591 PS in the SLS GT and 631 PS in the SLS Black.
The SLS AMG will not be succeeded by a next generation model. Instead, Mercedes will introduce a smaller two-door sportscar (a Jaguar F-Type challenger) in 2015.Mercedes themselves released images of a camouflaged prototype, and the car could be called the SLC.
Early last month, we reported that Mercedes-Benz was considering axing the Mercedes SLS AMG next year. Production of the two-door flagship supercar commenced in 2010 in Sindelfingen, Germany, after its world premiere at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The Mercedes SLS AMG Final Edition would be introduced at the 2013 LA Auto Show next week.
German car magazine, Auto Motor Und Sport, reports that Mercedes will launch a Final Edition SLS AMG at the 2013 LA Auto Show on November 20th. Production of the regular SLS and the Final Edition will continue until the middle of 2014, after which the supercar will permanently go into the pages of history.
Visually, the Mercedes SLS AMG Final Edition will differ slightly from the regular model. Spyshots from Germany indicate that a mildly different front bumper with new air vents, a reskinned hood and new exhaust pipes would feature.
Mercedes themselves released this image of the SLC AMG: A small two-door sportster that would rival the F-Type, and replace the SLS.
While the SLS AMG Final Edition will retain the 6.2-liter V8 engine along with the 7-speed AMG dual-clutch gearbox, the power and torque outputs will be marginally higher than the regular version. Currently this engine produces 571 PS and 650 Nm in the standard SLS, 591 PS in the SLS GT and 631 PS in the SLS Black.
The SLS AMG will not be succeeded by a next generation model. Instead, Mercedes will introduce a smaller two-door sportscar (a Jaguar F-Type challenger) in 2015.Mercedes themselves released images of a camouflaged prototype, and the car could be called the SLC.
Rendering – Infiniti Q30 production version
The Infiniti Q30 concept was revealed at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Based on the Mercedes MFA (Mercedes Front-wheel Architecture) platform, the Q30 with its pseudo hatch-crossover looks will target the Mercedes GLA, BMW X1 and Volvo V40 Cross Country.
This rendering from Auto Bild shows what the production version of the Q30 could look like. While the overall design is inspired from the concept that was shown at Frankfurt, this rendering shows productionized bumpers, wheels and wing mirrors.
The Q30 is set to have its market launch in mid-2015. It will be positioned as a compact luxury vehicle aimed at the young generation customers. Infiniti says that the Q30 combines “the sportiness of a coupe, the roominess of a hatch and the higher stance of a crossover”.
Production of the Q30 will take place at Nissan’s Sunderland plant in the UK. Though Infiniti premiered the concept in September, media reports suggest that production of the Q30 was given the green light a full year earlier.
The Q30 is based on the Mercedes MFA platform.
The Q30 will be the first of five new models wearing an Infiniti badge by 2020. The company is also believed to be working on a high-end halo car as a brand shaper.
Unlike most current Infinti models, Q30 will also get diesel engines. While the petrol engines could come from the Renault-Nissan stable, diesel engines would be Mercedes mills.
General Motors launches all new Chevrolet Cruze in India
Reuters
New Delhi: The car powered by a 2 litre diesel engine will be available in three variants, Chevrolet Cruze LT (manual transmission) priced at Rs 13,75,580, Chevrolet Cruze LTZ (manual transmission) Rs 15,25,573 and Chevrolet Cruze LTZ (automatic transmission) Rs 16,15,933, the company said in a statement.
Commenting on the launch, General Motors India President and Managing Director Lowell Paddock said the Cruze has received an overwhelming response from consumers across India since its launch in 2009 and continues to be the largest-selling Chevrolet nameplate globally.
"With new stylish exteriors, modern comfort features and added safety, we expect the all new Cruze to continue exceeding expectations of car buyers and keep up the excitement in the festive season," he added.
The Infiniti Q30 concept was revealed at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Based on the Mercedes MFA (Mercedes Front-wheel Architecture) platform, the Q30 with its pseudo hatch-crossover looks will target the Mercedes GLA, BMW X1 and Volvo V40 Cross Country.
This rendering from Auto Bild shows what the production version of the Q30 could look like. While the overall design is inspired from the concept that was shown at Frankfurt, this rendering shows productionized bumpers, wheels and wing mirrors.
The Q30 is set to have its market launch in mid-2015. It will be positioned as a compact luxury vehicle aimed at the young generation customers. Infiniti says that the Q30 combines “the sportiness of a coupe, the roominess of a hatch and the higher stance of a crossover”.
Production of the Q30 will take place at Nissan’s Sunderland plant in the UK. Though Infiniti premiered the concept in September, media reports suggest that production of the Q30 was given the green light a full year earlier.
The Q30 is based on the Mercedes MFA platform.
The Q30 will be the first of five new models wearing an Infiniti badge by 2020. The company is also believed to be working on a high-end halo car as a brand shaper.
Unlike most current Infinti models, Q30 will also get diesel engines. While the petrol engines could come from the Renault-Nissan stable, diesel engines would be Mercedes mills.
General Motors launches all new Chevrolet Cruze in India
Reuters
Honda recalls 344,000 Odyssey minivans in US
The company wants to fix a software and parts problem, which can cause hydraulic pressure to build in the braking system after an engine restart
PTI
Washington: Honda is recalling 344,000 Odyssey minivans of the 2007-2008 model years to fix a problem that can cause the vehicle to brake suddenly.
The Japanese automaker said yesterday a software and parts problem can cause hydraulic pressure to build in the braking system after an engine restart. The build-up can suddenly be released, causing heavy and unexpected braking without the brake lamps coming on.
Honda said it is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the problem.
Honda says it will replace a “yaw sensor” but the part won’t be available until early next year.
In the meantime, it issued instructions online on how to drive to prevent the problem from occurring
Hero Motorcorp's Heroic Display
Hero shows its refreshed lineup of bikes that it will be launching over the next six months
Hero has gone solo for quite sometime and today CEO Pavan Munjal gave us an account of what to expect in the next six months. Sure the whole lineup will go under the knife for better decals and some added features but what caught out attention the most was the Hero Splendor iSmart, Pleasure, CBZ Xtreme and Karizma ZMR series.
Starting with the Splendor iSmart. Yes it still comes with a 98cc motor that makes around 7.4bhp and still goes like a camel on a gulp of a litre. To improve efficiency further, Hero has developed the i3S technology (Idle Stop and Start System) that shuts the engine when idling at a red light. Not very sure how much i3S will help in squeezing a meter or kilometers out of every litre of fuel.
The Hero Pleasure (the first scooter in the Hero lineup) on the other hand gets safety features like ‘Integrated Braking System’ (IBS). Similar to Honda’s Combi brake technology, the IBS improves rider safety and provides comfort of a single brake lever for both front and rear wheels. Hero says this is an in-house technology that will be seen in other Hero upcoming products as well.
Coming to the 150cc bike, the CBZ Xtreme has gone though a thorough cosmetic revision. The speedometer, headlight, new LED taillight, and fuel tank have all got design tweaks. On the utility front, the Xtreme also comes equipped with a mobile charger socket that should be handy when your mobile battery runs out of juice. There is also engine immobiliser system for added security.
The biggest bikes in the Hero stable, the Karizma R and ZMR see some serious design revisions. These include twin headlight, front fender, reworked side and front faring and wider tyres. The only visual difference between the bikes (ZMR and Karizma) being the half and full faring.
The 223cc engines on both the bikes (Karizma and ZMR) remain unchanged but Hero claims that the bikes have gained a bit more power. How much you ask? Well, we expect the ZMR's fuel injected motor to now pump out around 20bhp, while the Karizma R's carb unit churn out around 19.2bhp. Expect an extensive review of the Karizma and ZMR once they are launched in the coming months.
Starting with the Splendor iSmart. Yes it still comes with a 98cc motor that makes around 7.4bhp and still goes like a camel on a gulp of a litre. To improve efficiency further, Hero has developed the i3S technology (Idle Stop and Start System) that shuts the engine when idling at a red light. Not very sure how much i3S will help in squeezing a meter or kilometers out of every litre of fuel.
The Hero Pleasure (the first scooter in the Hero lineup) on the other hand gets safety features like ‘Integrated Braking System’ (IBS). Similar to Honda’s Combi brake technology, the IBS improves rider safety and provides comfort of a single brake lever for both front and rear wheels. Hero says this is an in-house technology that will be seen in other Hero upcoming products as well.
Coming to the 150cc bike, the CBZ Xtreme has gone though a thorough cosmetic revision. The speedometer, headlight, new LED taillight, and fuel tank have all got design tweaks. On the utility front, the Xtreme also comes equipped with a mobile charger socket that should be handy when your mobile battery runs out of juice. There is also engine immobiliser system for added security.
The biggest bikes in the Hero stable, the Karizma R and ZMR see some serious design revisions. These include twin headlight, front fender, reworked side and front faring and wider tyres. The only visual difference between the bikes (ZMR and Karizma) being the half and full faring.
The 223cc engines on both the bikes (Karizma and ZMR) remain unchanged but Hero claims that the bikes have gained a bit more power. How much you ask? Well, we expect the ZMR's fuel injected motor to now pump out around 20bhp, while the Karizma R's carb unit churn out around 19.2bhp. Expect an extensive review of the Karizma and ZMR once they are launched in the coming months.
Hyundai India launches the Grand i10 hatchback
After previewing its latest hatchback last month, Hyundai India has just launched the Grand i10, a car that straddles the space between the i10 and i20 hatchbacks. The car is available with petrol and diesel engine options. At the outset, Hyundai will offer the Grand i10 with a 5 speed manual gearbox and a 4 speed automatic gearbox. The Grand i10 is priced at 4.3 lakh rupees, ex-showoom Delhi, for the petrol engined base variant, while the diesel engined model comes in at 5.24 lakh rupees.
The car is available in 8 variants, and with 8 colour options for the buyer to choose from. Hyundai claims to have engineered the Grand i10 specifically for the Indian car market and this assertion does come backed with some action. Notably, Hyundai will unveil the next-gen 2014 i10 at Frankfurt, a car that's quite different from the Grand i10, which India has got. The customization for the Grand i10, targeting the Indian car market, includes better space (100 mm longer than Euro-spec next-gen i10) on the inside and a turbo diesel engine with matched gear ratios that are designed to reduce gear shifting in traffic.
Meanwhile, here is the variant-wise price split up for the Grand i10. It must be noted that these prices are introductory, with the potential of them being hiked once the order book fills up.
Hyundai Grand i10 Petrol
- Era - Rs. 429,900
- Magna - Rs. 449,400
- Sportz - Rs. 488,800
- Asta - Rs. 547,800
Hyundai Grand i10 Diesel
- Era - Rs. 523,700
- Magna - Rs. 543,200
- Sportz - Rs. 582,600
- Asta - Rs. 641,600
The Hyundai Grand i10's petrol engine displaces 1.2 liters and outputs 83 PS-116 Nm. The engine gets two transmission options, a 5 speed manual gearbox and 4 speed automatic gearbox. The turbo diesel engine is a 1.1 liter U2 CRDi that outputs 71 PS-163 Nm. The diesel engine is available with a 5 speed manual gearbox. The petrol engine comes with an ARAI certified mileage figure of 18,9 Kmpl while the diesel engine comes with an ARAI certified mileage figure of 24 Kmpl. In term of its looks, the Grand i10 is unmistakably a Hyundai, what with the Fluidic styling up front.
However, many styling bits on the car, such as a wide track, headlamps and tail lamps, give it a look that's quite distinct from the likes of the i10 and i20 hatchbacks. The car also gets a host of features and creature comforts, many of them segment firsts. Rear AC vents and a stereo player with 1 Gb inbuilt memory are two such class leading features. Twin airbags, ABS+EBD, push button start, a cooled glove box, reverse parking sensors, steering mounted audio controls, steering adjustable for tilt, etc are the various other features available on select variants of the Grand i10.
Pricing wise, the Grand i10's petrol base variant is about 20 thousand rupees higher than the similarly spec-ed i10 Era. Compared with the i20's petrol and diesel variants, the Grand i10's petrol and diesel base models are about 55 thousand and 76 thousand rupees cheaper. The Grand i10 is also cheaper than the best selling B+ hatchback in India, the Maruti Suzuki Swift, by 20 thousand and 35 thousand rupees, for the petrol and diesel engined models respectively. Bookings for the Grand i10 are on and deliveries commence today.
After previewing its latest hatchback last month, Hyundai India has just launched the Grand i10, a car that straddles the space between the i10 and i20 hatchbacks. The car is available with petrol and diesel engine options. At the outset, Hyundai will offer the Grand i10 with a 5 speed manual gearbox and a 4 speed automatic gearbox. The Grand i10 is priced at 4.3 lakh rupees, ex-showoom Delhi, for the petrol engined base variant, while the diesel engined model comes in at 5.24 lakh rupees.
The car is available in 8 variants, and with 8 colour options for the buyer to choose from. Hyundai claims to have engineered the Grand i10 specifically for the Indian car market and this assertion does come backed with some action. Notably, Hyundai will unveil the next-gen 2014 i10 at Frankfurt, a car that's quite different from the Grand i10, which India has got. The customization for the Grand i10, targeting the Indian car market, includes better space (100 mm longer than Euro-spec next-gen i10) on the inside and a turbo diesel engine with matched gear ratios that are designed to reduce gear shifting in traffic.
Meanwhile, here is the variant-wise price split up for the Grand i10. It must be noted that these prices are introductory, with the potential of them being hiked once the order book fills up.
Hyundai Grand i10 Petrol
- Era - Rs. 429,900
- Magna - Rs. 449,400
- Sportz - Rs. 488,800
- Asta - Rs. 547,800
Hyundai Grand i10 Diesel
- Era - Rs. 523,700
- Magna - Rs. 543,200
- Sportz - Rs. 582,600
- Asta - Rs. 641,600
The Hyundai Grand i10's petrol engine displaces 1.2 liters and outputs 83 PS-116 Nm. The engine gets two transmission options, a 5 speed manual gearbox and 4 speed automatic gearbox. The turbo diesel engine is a 1.1 liter U2 CRDi that outputs 71 PS-163 Nm. The diesel engine is available with a 5 speed manual gearbox. The petrol engine comes with an ARAI certified mileage figure of 18,9 Kmpl while the diesel engine comes with an ARAI certified mileage figure of 24 Kmpl. In term of its looks, the Grand i10 is unmistakably a Hyundai, what with the Fluidic styling up front.
However, many styling bits on the car, such as a wide track, headlamps and tail lamps, give it a look that's quite distinct from the likes of the i10 and i20 hatchbacks. The car also gets a host of features and creature comforts, many of them segment firsts. Rear AC vents and a stereo player with 1 Gb inbuilt memory are two such class leading features. Twin airbags, ABS+EBD, push button start, a cooled glove box, reverse parking sensors, steering mounted audio controls, steering adjustable for tilt, etc are the various other features available on select variants of the Grand i10.
Pricing wise, the Grand i10's petrol base variant is about 20 thousand rupees higher than the similarly spec-ed i10 Era. Compared with the i20's petrol and diesel variants, the Grand i10's petrol and diesel base models are about 55 thousand and 76 thousand rupees cheaper. The Grand i10 is also cheaper than the best selling B+ hatchback in India, the Maruti Suzuki Swift, by 20 thousand and 35 thousand rupees, for the petrol and diesel engined models respectively. Bookings for the Grand i10 are on and deliveries commence today.
WCC builds Grand Theft Auto ar
'Banshee' from ground-breaking videogame built as a one-off. Yup, it's real…
The videogame community has long been regarded as the base for mankind's problems - everything from the global economic crisis to things that predate even Mario. Like the Black Death (yeah, go figure). Every once in a while though, they inspire greatness. Like this.
Ladies and gentlemen of the web, may we present to you a real-life, actual, moving-parts ‘Bravado Banshee' from Grand Theft Auto. Yes, it's the Viper-inspired sportscar that millions of gamers across the globe will have crashed into a building during an ill-fated getaway run.
It's been built by West Coast Customs (they of the ‘yo dawg' fraternity) to celebrate the highly anticipated upcoming launch of Grand Theft Auto V, and is a complete one-off showpiece.
We're told ‘state of the art' fabrication techniques were used to create moulds for the exterior panels, which were cut and machined piece-by-piece, laid out by hand and bolted together to faithfully recreate its digital source.
The interior was also handcrafted and stitched, with ‘Banshee' embroidery on the seats, while the dash, door panels and centre console were finished with carbon inlays. And this being West Coast Customs, there's also a ‘multi-speaker' premium sound system. The whole thing was then finished in the metallic blue with white stripe seen in the game.
There's no word on its running gear, but seeing as the Banshee most closely matches the Viper, TG.com is secretly hoping the new 8.4-litre V10 from the current gen and its 640bhp has found a home underneath. Though this is quite unlikely, plus there's a ‘twin-turbo' badge on the front wing, so it's probably an earlier gen SRT with many, many horses, RWD and the propensity to chuckle derisively at your enthusiastic corner entry speeds...
Gamestop is even giving the Banshee away as promotion for GTA V, so you could be in with a shout of winning it. You have to admit, this is quite cool...
Ladies and gentlemen of the web, may we present to you a real-life, actual, moving-parts ‘Bravado Banshee' from Grand Theft Auto. Yes, it's the Viper-inspired sportscar that millions of gamers across the globe will have crashed into a building during an ill-fated getaway run.
It's been built by West Coast Customs (they of the ‘yo dawg' fraternity) to celebrate the highly anticipated upcoming launch of Grand Theft Auto V, and is a complete one-off showpiece.
We're told ‘state of the art' fabrication techniques were used to create moulds for the exterior panels, which were cut and machined piece-by-piece, laid out by hand and bolted together to faithfully recreate its digital source.
The interior was also handcrafted and stitched, with ‘Banshee' embroidery on the seats, while the dash, door panels and centre console were finished with carbon inlays. And this being West Coast Customs, there's also a ‘multi-speaker' premium sound system. The whole thing was then finished in the metallic blue with white stripe seen in the game.
There's no word on its running gear, but seeing as the Banshee most closely matches the Viper, TG.com is secretly hoping the new 8.4-litre V10 from the current gen and its 640bhp has found a home underneath. Though this is quite unlikely, plus there's a ‘twin-turbo' badge on the front wing, so it's probably an earlier gen SRT with many, many horses, RWD and the propensity to chuckle derisively at your enthusiastic corner entry speeds...
Gamestop is even giving the Banshee away as promotion for GTA V, so you could be in with a shout of winning it. You have to admit, this is quite cool...
The Jaguar C-X17 is coming
UPDATE: new leaked shots of C-X17 concept revealed. Yes, the 4x4 Jaguar is on its way
At the start of the week, Jaguar released a teaser shot of its C-X17 concept, which confirmed the fact that a big Jag was indeed on its way. Naturally, curiosity levels have been bubbling over since, and Jaguar knows that, so it has revealed the first official picture of the C-X17, and here it is.
Looks good, doesn't it? The twinkly headlamps carry forward the family look, as does the massive mesh grille housing a red Jaguar badge. The air intakes are lined with what seem to be LED daytime-running lights. Scrape off all the glitter, though, and you have a Jaguar SUV ready to roll out onto the street.
We don't know much more about it yet, but what we do know is that this concept will introduce Jaguar's new aluminium platform, which will also form the basis for many of the company's upcoming products.
Do you like where this is going, TopGearista?
Looks good, doesn't it? The twinkly headlamps carry forward the family look, as does the massive mesh grille housing a red Jaguar badge. The air intakes are lined with what seem to be LED daytime-running lights. Scrape off all the glitter, though, and you have a Jaguar SUV ready to roll out onto the street.
We don't know much more about it yet, but what we do know is that this concept will introduce Jaguar's new aluminium platform, which will also form the basis for many of the company's upcoming products.
Do you like where this is going, TopGearista?
Review: Mercedes-Benz A-Class diesel
Here's a Merc hatchback with brilliant handling and great styling inside out. Plus, its a diesel
Revealed: Smart FourJoy concept
Is this what the Smart ForFour will look like…?
This is the Smart FourJoy Concept, and we think it's a pretty good indication of what you can expect to see when Merc's small-car wing finally pulls the wraps of its new ForFour in the not-too-distant future.
2004's original ForFour, which shared a platform with the Mitsubishi Colt, was silently, unceremoniously killed-off about 15 minutes after its launch. Because it was rubbish.
As part of another platform-sharing operation - this time with Renault - the ForFour will be built alongside the next Twingo at the carmaker's Slovenian factory. Given what we already know about the forthcoming Twingo, expect the ForFour to have space-saving rear-engine, rear-drive layout and a bevy of techy small-capacity engines (rather than the concept's electric motor).
It will also be significantly less concept-y. We'd bet good money on it having doors, for example, and whatever you do, don't count on those longboards in the boot making the options list.
We'll see the FourJoy in the flesh later this month at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
2004's original ForFour, which shared a platform with the Mitsubishi Colt, was silently, unceremoniously killed-off about 15 minutes after its launch. Because it was rubbish.
As part of another platform-sharing operation - this time with Renault - the ForFour will be built alongside the next Twingo at the carmaker's Slovenian factory. Given what we already know about the forthcoming Twingo, expect the ForFour to have space-saving rear-engine, rear-drive layout and a bevy of techy small-capacity engines (rather than the concept's electric motor).
It will also be significantly less concept-y. We'd bet good money on it having doors, for example, and whatever you do, don't count on those longboards in the boot making the options list.
We'll see the FourJoy in the flesh later this month at the Frankfurt Motor Show.
Revealed: Rolls-Royce Celestial concept
Do you love the night sky, all those twinkly stars and far-off galaxies? Do you want to know exactly what it was like if you peered up at the heavens from Goodwood on the south coast of England at midnight on the 1st January 2003? Of course you do. And now there's a way.
You go to the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, speak nicely to the burly chap on the Rolls-Royce stand who's there to dissuade the hoi-polloi from fondling the Spirits of Ecstasy and sit in the back of the new Celestial Phantom. Above your head is the night sky from that very time and place - the significance being that it was the day the very first Phantom was delivered, signaling Rolls' resurgence under BMW's stewardship.
Tasteful? Necessary? That's not really the point here. What this headlining (made up of a thousand fibre-optic lights hand woven into the ceiling) represents, is a demonstration of what Rolls-Royce's craftsmen are capable of. This is a concept in the purest sense of the word, literally a set of ideas, a theme, applied to a car. The general impression it's designed to convey is that you can go to Rolls and say ‘I've got this idea, you're going to think it's very silly, but...' and they can make it happen.
Of course, the Celestial Phantom Extended Wheelbase wouldn't be much of a concept if the ideas didn't stretch beyond the headlining. So what we also have here is dark paintwork that features glass particles (to enhance the sparkle, we assume) and ‘Dusk' leather that ‘alludes to the inky quality of a cloudless night sky'. The clock in the partition between front and rear features a diamond at each quarter, the wheel centres have been engraved, so has the glassware in the picnic set (with a celestial motif), while the Spirit of Ecstasy is gently uplit.
Best of all, the lid of the rear drinks compartment has been specifically designed to reflect the stars in the headlining, so you don't even need to risk neck-strain while admiring the stars of that night sky a decade ago. Although you will, of course, be admiring a mirror-image...
Anyway, interweb, it's the what's possible we're inviting you to admire here. You've got to admit that Rolls is capable of some rather stunning flights of fancy.
You go to the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, speak nicely to the burly chap on the Rolls-Royce stand who's there to dissuade the hoi-polloi from fondling the Spirits of Ecstasy and sit in the back of the new Celestial Phantom. Above your head is the night sky from that very time and place - the significance being that it was the day the very first Phantom was delivered, signaling Rolls' resurgence under BMW's stewardship.
Tasteful? Necessary? That's not really the point here. What this headlining (made up of a thousand fibre-optic lights hand woven into the ceiling) represents, is a demonstration of what Rolls-Royce's craftsmen are capable of. This is a concept in the purest sense of the word, literally a set of ideas, a theme, applied to a car. The general impression it's designed to convey is that you can go to Rolls and say ‘I've got this idea, you're going to think it's very silly, but...' and they can make it happen.
Of course, the Celestial Phantom Extended Wheelbase wouldn't be much of a concept if the ideas didn't stretch beyond the headlining. So what we also have here is dark paintwork that features glass particles (to enhance the sparkle, we assume) and ‘Dusk' leather that ‘alludes to the inky quality of a cloudless night sky'. The clock in the partition between front and rear features a diamond at each quarter, the wheel centres have been engraved, so has the glassware in the picnic set (with a celestial motif), while the Spirit of Ecstasy is gently uplit.
Best of all, the lid of the rear drinks compartment has been specifically designed to reflect the stars in the headlining, so you don't even need to risk neck-strain while admiring the stars of that night sky a decade ago. Although you will, of course, be admiring a mirror-image...
Anyway, interweb, it's the what's possible we're inviting you to admire here. You've got to admit that Rolls is capable of some rather stunning flights of fancy.
Review: New Skoda Octavia
Skoda's original bread and butter model is making a comeback. This time it's bigger and much better than before
Skoda's original bread and butter model is making a comeback. This time it's bigger and much better than before
Launched: Kawasaki ZX-14R and also ZX-10R
It's not the most joyous time to be in India. The Rupee is on a downward spiral, holy men are up to unholy practices, and even Mumbai is not as safe for women as we all thought it was.
But all is not lost! There is some good news coming out of Pune today. Kawasaki (not Bajaj-KTM-Kawasaki), has finally decided to venture into the bike-eat-bike Indian market, all by itself.
What does this show of courage mean for us, you ask? Well, Kawasaki bikes will not have to share (or fight for) the limelight with Bajaj-KTM bikes in the ProBiking showrooms anymore. In fact, Kawasaki will be opening its own set of dealerships, starting with one in Pune from 7th September. But the best part is that leading the charge will be its flagship model - the ZX-14R, along with the litre-class bike - the ZX-10R.
The Suzuki Hayabusa-rivaling ZX-14R is powered by a four-cylinder, liquid-cooled in-line 1441cc engine that makes 197bhp and 162.5Nm of torque. It will cost Rs 16.90 lakhs ex-showroom, Pune. The ZX-10R is powered by a four-cylinder, liquid-cooled in-line 998cc engine that makes 197bhp and 112Nm torque. It will be priced at Rs 15.70 lakhs ex-showroom, Pune.
As of now, Kawasaki is selling all its bikes from their Pune dealership, but it will be expanding to other cities in the coming months, as the manufacturer aims to capture a 20% market share by 2015.
But all is not lost! There is some good news coming out of Pune today. Kawasaki (not Bajaj-KTM-Kawasaki), has finally decided to venture into the bike-eat-bike Indian market, all by itself.
What does this show of courage mean for us, you ask? Well, Kawasaki bikes will not have to share (or fight for) the limelight with Bajaj-KTM bikes in the ProBiking showrooms anymore. In fact, Kawasaki will be opening its own set of dealerships, starting with one in Pune from 7th September. But the best part is that leading the charge will be its flagship model - the ZX-14R, along with the litre-class bike - the ZX-10R.
The Suzuki Hayabusa-rivaling ZX-14R is powered by a four-cylinder, liquid-cooled in-line 1441cc engine that makes 197bhp and 162.5Nm of torque. It will cost Rs 16.90 lakhs ex-showroom, Pune. The ZX-10R is powered by a four-cylinder, liquid-cooled in-line 998cc engine that makes 197bhp and 112Nm torque. It will be priced at Rs 15.70 lakhs ex-showroom, Pune.
As of now, Kawasaki is selling all its bikes from their Pune dealership, but it will be expanding to other cities in the coming months, as the manufacturer aims to capture a 20% market share by 2015.
Launched: Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG
The tyre-shredding version of the new E-Class goes on sale in India
Good News!
After launching the facelifted E-Class a month back, Mercedes-Benz has now launched its AMG-fettled twin, the E63 AMG in India. As opposed to the soothing, laid-back attitude of the standard E-Class, the E63 is a luxury sedan that has grown a set of venomous fangs. And apart from the aggression dripping off its special AMG kit-equipped bodyshell, it shows in the numbers too.
Get this: the 5.5-litre, twin-turbo AMG V8 puts out 550bhp and 720Nm of torque. All this power is channeled through a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT auto 'box, and is directed solely at the rear wheels. The gearbox offers different driving modes - 'C' (Controlled Efficiency) for normal driving, "M" (Manual) for when you want to take charge, "S" (Sport) to have some fun and "S+" for when you want to wet yourself. The engine offers stop-start functionality as standard, but it doesn't work when you're in M, S or S+ mode. It's even got Launch Control. Mmm.
Mercedes claims the E63 will crack the ton in 4.2 seconds, and when you've got this much power in a rear-wheel-drive supersaloon, you need to put it on a leash. Which is why the E63 is restricted to a top whack of 250kph. Merc says the E63 only needs 9.8 litres of unleaded to travel 100 kilometres, but with all that mind-bending torque on tap, you should be more worried about tyre expenses than fuel bills with this car.
All of this doesn't however affect its "luxury" aspirations. Inside, you find AMG sports seats upholstered in Nappa leather with some Alcantara sprinkled around the all-black cabin. The instrument binnacle houses a 11.4 cm TFT multifunction display that features a racetimer, the AMG start-up menu and the speedo. You can even have individual LCD screens to entertain the rear passengers, if they're not too amused with the drama that the E63 can unleash.
For all its mildly scary power figures, the E63 carries quite a bit of safety kit - 8 airbags, an Intelligent Light System with cornering function and Adaptive High Beam with automatic switching between high and low beam modes. Attention Assist also makes an appearance on the feature list, to make sure you don't nod off while you're at the wheel. Merc really needn't have bothered with this, that gurgly V8 would more than ensure you stayed on your toes all the time.
To the price - the new E63 can be yours for Rs 1.29 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi). The other options that you've got are the BMW M5 and therecently-introduced Audi S6. Which one gets your vote, TG.commers?
After launching the facelifted E-Class a month back, Mercedes-Benz has now launched its AMG-fettled twin, the E63 AMG in India. As opposed to the soothing, laid-back attitude of the standard E-Class, the E63 is a luxury sedan that has grown a set of venomous fangs. And apart from the aggression dripping off its special AMG kit-equipped bodyshell, it shows in the numbers too.
Get this: the 5.5-litre, twin-turbo AMG V8 puts out 550bhp and 720Nm of torque. All this power is channeled through a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT auto 'box, and is directed solely at the rear wheels. The gearbox offers different driving modes - 'C' (Controlled Efficiency) for normal driving, "M" (Manual) for when you want to take charge, "S" (Sport) to have some fun and "S+" for when you want to wet yourself. The engine offers stop-start functionality as standard, but it doesn't work when you're in M, S or S+ mode. It's even got Launch Control. Mmm.
Mercedes claims the E63 will crack the ton in 4.2 seconds, and when you've got this much power in a rear-wheel-drive supersaloon, you need to put it on a leash. Which is why the E63 is restricted to a top whack of 250kph. Merc says the E63 only needs 9.8 litres of unleaded to travel 100 kilometres, but with all that mind-bending torque on tap, you should be more worried about tyre expenses than fuel bills with this car.
All of this doesn't however affect its "luxury" aspirations. Inside, you find AMG sports seats upholstered in Nappa leather with some Alcantara sprinkled around the all-black cabin. The instrument binnacle houses a 11.4 cm TFT multifunction display that features a racetimer, the AMG start-up menu and the speedo. You can even have individual LCD screens to entertain the rear passengers, if they're not too amused with the drama that the E63 can unleash.
For all its mildly scary power figures, the E63 carries quite a bit of safety kit - 8 airbags, an Intelligent Light System with cornering function and Adaptive High Beam with automatic switching between high and low beam modes. Attention Assist also makes an appearance on the feature list, to make sure you don't nod off while you're at the wheel. Merc really needn't have bothered with this, that gurgly V8 would more than ensure you stayed on your toes all the time.
To the price - the new E63 can be yours for Rs 1.29 crore (ex-showroom, Delhi). The other options that you've got are the BMW M5 and therecently-introduced Audi S6. Which one gets your vote, TG.commers?
Honda NSX makes track debut
T-minus two years and counting. We can barely contain ourselves...
Honda has confirmed it will showcase a prototype NSX at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in Lexington, Ohio, ahead of the Indy 200 Indycar Series race in early August.
The prototype NSX, due for launch in 2015, will lap the road course before the race gets underway, giving the people of Ohio - and whoever else is watching - a glimpse of what could be one of the most exciting cars of this decade.
We last saw the NSX at the Detroit Motor Show in January. The development prototype retains the concept's pointy face, and is fitted with the production vehicle's hybrid drivetrain. There are even custom graphics, and you'll agree that it looks suitably Iron Man-ish. Fitting, considering Tony Stark drove one in The Avengers...
Despite the hybrid drivetrain, this is no Prius. The rear-wheels are powered by a conventional V6 - most likely a 3.5-litre with around 400bhp - and each front wheel has its own electric motor.
Plus, there's an additional electric motor in the dual-clutch gearbox for KERS-style power boosts. The electric motors should add another 100bhp or so to the powertrain, bringing the total up to 500bhp. This is a nice, meaty figure.
The race will take place on 4 August, so keep your eyes peeled.
The prototype NSX, due for launch in 2015, will lap the road course before the race gets underway, giving the people of Ohio - and whoever else is watching - a glimpse of what could be one of the most exciting cars of this decade.
We last saw the NSX at the Detroit Motor Show in January. The development prototype retains the concept's pointy face, and is fitted with the production vehicle's hybrid drivetrain. There are even custom graphics, and you'll agree that it looks suitably Iron Man-ish. Fitting, considering Tony Stark drove one in The Avengers...
Despite the hybrid drivetrain, this is no Prius. The rear-wheels are powered by a conventional V6 - most likely a 3.5-litre with around 400bhp - and each front wheel has its own electric motor.
Plus, there's an additional electric motor in the dual-clutch gearbox for KERS-style power boosts. The electric motors should add another 100bhp or so to the powertrain, bringing the total up to 500bhp. This is a nice, meaty figure.
The race will take place on 4 August, so keep your eyes peeled.
New Skoda Octavia unveil on August 9
Lighter, longer and with fewer emissions than before, it’s a TG favourite, revitalised. And it will be unveiled in India early next month!
The Skoda Octavia isn't normally the type of car to turn up and smack you around the face with its honesty. But this budget-VW is a wonderful car. The new one - that thing above - looks even better, and guess what - it is scheduled for an India unveil on August 9.
Those smart, clean lines were revised from top to bottom by design chief Jozef Kaban and his team, and yes, while there's certainly an air of a battery-farmed VW Group product, it's still unpretentious. Which is the key really.
It's 102kg less than its tubby forebear. That's roughly the weight of George Foreman when he fought Muhammad Ali in the 70s
And underneath the new suit sits a revised body. The new, third generation Skoda Octavia sits on the new MQB platform - that Lego set that will underpin many millions of VW Group products - is 90mm longer and 45mm wider, while the wheelbase has grown by 108mm, and it's all for you. The extra growth over it's predecessor has meant there's more space for your head, elbows, knees and even your chattels in the back (the boot's risen to 590 litres in volume).
It's lighter as well; 102kg less than its tubby forebear. If you want some completely unrelated cultural context, that's roughly the weight of George Foreman when he fought Muhammad Ali in the 70s for the heavyweight championship of the world.
So engines powering this sans-Foreman Octavia should be able to perform well - better than the last model's entry-level engines (they struggled with the heft). For the new Octavia, expect a 2-litre TDI diesel motor, along with a 177bhp 1.8-litre TSI petrol engine. We should get the option of manual or DSG transmissions. Oh, and there's an Octavia RS "in the pipeline", which we hope is the understated gem its predecessor was...
There are some electronic nannies in the shape of an Adaptive Cruise Assistant, Light Assistant, Parking Assistant, and a future ‘traffic-sign recognition' pack just like the new S-Class's, along with keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, touchscreen infotainment systems and loads of practicality; stuff like an ice-scraper built inside the filler cap, a warning vest holder, rubbish bin and other storage bays.
It will only be unveiled next month, with launch scheduled for later this year. Fancy it? Or are your badge pretentions just too strong to sway from an actual VW?
It's 102kg less than its tubby forebear. That's roughly the weight of George Foreman when he fought Muhammad Ali in the 70s
What the Aston Martin and AMG deal means
TG's Paul Horrell explains how Aston's tie up with AMG will work...
You don't have to think very long about this week's Aston-Martin-AMG-Mercedes announcement to see what's in it for Aston.
As I said back in December when Aston acquired new financial backing, it needed a tie-up with an entity like Mercedes because it's too small to develop the big stuff alone.
This week's announcement specifically includes Aston using an adapted version of an AMG V8. Good. I like the current Aston V8 well enough, but compared with rivals it lacks direct injection or turbos, and that means its 430bhp is barely enough these days, and it's thirsty. Transmissions have never been our favourite parts of Astons either. AMG will be able to help, possibly with its dual-clutch unit, or its multiple-plate clutched autobox called MCT.
Then there's driver assistance and active crash safety. That's because there are actually two parts to this week's agreement. One is between Aston and AMG for powertrain, and the other is between Aston and the wider Mercedes for 'electrical and electronic architecture'.
Look at the sort of stuff you can get on a 911 or Panamera or Bentley: adaptive LED headlights, radars, pre-collision safety, advanced stability control, camera-based systems, internet connectivity. Being able to plunder the Mercedes cupboard - the best place in the world for this sort of stuff - will do Aston Martin not one bit of harm. We might even see the end of Aston's witless navigation systems in favour of something more up-to-date.
And of course electricity also means hybrid. Neither side will talk about it yet. But Mercedes is again a leader, and I think it's pretty important that Aston Martin can use this on a Rapide successor, whether that's the mildest system or full plug-in assistance. Without that, any luxury car maker will almost be shut-out of markets such as China and the US by the end of the decade.
Less obvious perhaps is what's in it for Mercedes and AMG. Well if the resulting Astons are good cars, it's good for credibility. Look what Pagani did for AMG's reputation. AMG is run by petrolheads, and they just couldn't resist the idea of seeing their V12 in an epic Italian supercar.
But there's got to be money in it too. The Germans will definitely sell their engines and components at a profit to Gaydon. And they might also learn things from Aston's ability to do bespoke design and interiors, and how to foster intimate relationships with fanatical customers.
Only thing is, this could be aiding a competitor. Mercedes-AMG makes some cars that you might think compete with Astons. The SLS and SL65 could be Vanquish or DB9 rivals in some eyes. The CLS63 is well on the way to being a cheap but effective rival for the Rapide. If AMG helps Aston, it could be losing its own sales. Especially as AMG is currently developing a cheaper two-seat front-engined sports car to sit under the SLS. Isn't that a Vantage rival?
Actually, probably not. For a start, Astons always command a higher price - and lower sales numbers - than the equivalently-sized and equivalently-powered AMG. But most of all, they're simply sort of different cars, bought by different sort of people.
Mercedes is good at recognising this, and entering into co-operations accordingly. For instance it works quite closely with Infiniti over diesel engines, and is even donating its A-Class platform to a new Infiniti to be built in Sunderland. You might think Infiniti is a Mercedes competitor. But Mercedes has done research that shows Merc's Japanese competitor is Lexus not Infinti, while Infiniti competes against BMW. So Mercedes can afford to help Infiniti without shooting itself in the foot.
Yamaha issues a recall for the Ray
Voluntarily, Yamaha has called back its scooter after finding potential handlebar issues with it
Do you ride a Yamaha Ray? If yes, have you found the handlebar to be a bit vague at times? If no, you should still be reading this carefully, because Yamaha has issued a recall for not ten, not a hundred, not even a thousand, but 56,082 units of its only scooter sold in the Indian market.
Yamaha says it has detected "insufficient strength" in the handlebars fitted to the Ray after some thorough product analysis, and says that since these handlebars weren't welded quite right, in the worst-case scenario, they could go a bit wonky. And could make the Ray disobey your inputs and head straight into the wall next to the lane you wanted to zip through.
Now that they know about the problem (which is not present on therecently-introduced Ray 'Z'), Yamaha has decided to run a "Ray Refresh Campaign", which will involve dealerships calling up and emailing customers affected by this recall, and replacing the component absolutely free of charge. You can even visit Yamaha India's websitehere and enter the vehicle chassis/frame number to see if your scoot has been recalled.
Volkswagen iBeetle gets iPhone 5 integration
The firm would take its car-iPhone integration to the next level with the debut of its new iBeetle at the Shanghai Auto Show
Reuters
Washington: Volkswagen has announced its plans to launch a new car that would offer a specially designed iPhone 5 dock and app.
The firm would take its car-iPhone integration to the next level with the debut of its new iBeetle at the Shanghai Auto Show.
The new Beetle, which is also available as the iBeetle Cabriolet, will be available in early 2014, Fox news reports.
The dock, which sits above the iBeetle in-dash display, provides users with access to host of the iPhone 5Œs functions, including navigation, hands-free calling and media streaming.
The dock, which sits above the iBeetle in-dash display, provides users with access to host of the iPhone 5Œs functions, including navigation, hands-free calling and media streaming.
According to the report, the iBeetle app, called Volkswagen Car Net The Beetle, enables users to access to the Spotify app, as well as seven different drive modes- Expert, Reader, Trainer, Postcard, Photos, Post and Milestone.
BMW unveils 7-Series from Chennai plant
Deliveries of this car, which will be built from completely knocked down kits, as well as three more petrol variants that will be imported as completely built units, will begin from May 1, the company said
Mumbai: German luxury car maker BMW India has begun assembly of the diesel variant of its flagship brand, the BMW 7-Series car, at its Chennai facility, and launched the first of this Made-in-India product today.
Deliveries of this car, which will be built from completely knocked down kits, as well as three more petrol variants that will be imported as completely built units, will begin from May 1, the company said. Earlier this year, BMW began assembling the new X1 at Chennai. “We will begin making the 1-Series at Chennai in September,” Philipp von Sahr, President-BMW Group India, said.
The group had invested €50 million to raise its capacity to 11,000 units last year, and will continue to invest, he added. The company had sold 9,375 units last year, Sahr said, but declined to comment on the sales projections for this year.
7-Series features
The new diesel 7-Series has TwinPower Turbo six-cylinder engine, and produces a maximum torque of 560Nm at 1500 rpm. The features include 8-speed automatic transmission, and an attention assist function that recognises if the driver is tired and issues an alert. The car has been priced at Rs 92.9 lakh (ex-showroom), while the prices of the petrol variants (749Li, 750 Li and 760 Li) range from Rs 1.127 crore to 1.73 crore.
Milan to host Lamborghini’s 50th Anniversary Grand Tour
Deliveries of this car, which will be built from completely knocked down kits, as well as three more petrol variants 
Mumbai: Setting-off from the Piazza Castello in Milan on May 8, the Lamborghini 50th Anniversary Grand Tour is slated to be the largest gathering of cars from the ‘House of the Raging Bull’.
The 350 participating Lamborghinis from 29 different countries of origin have travelled to Italy to celebrate the bash.
Historic Lamborghini cars on tour include three 350 GTs, five 400 GTs, seventeen Miuras, eight Espadas, two Jaramas, six Urracos, fifteen Countachs, one LM 002, twenty-one Diablos and thirty-six Murcielagos.
The first destination of the Lamborghini tour will be Bobbio, the soul of the Trebbia Valley, to conclude in Forte dei Marmi, a sea-side resort on the Tyrrhenian coast. The next day, the convoy will move on to Rome, and will conclude on May 11, in Sant'Agata Bolognese, headquarters of the Company.
Mahindra joins small car race, launches Verito Vibe
The company says the Verito Vibe gives it the opportunity to play in the large and highly competitive compact car segment
Reuters
Mumbai: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd , India's largest sports utility vehicle (SUV) maker, has made its first push into the country's small car market a week after warning that fierce competition could erode its dominant SUV position.
On Wednesday, Mahindra launched the Verito Vibe, a compact version of its sedan, at a starting price of 563,000 rupees ($10,000) - among the cheapest of its passenger vehicles. SUV sales have been a strong point for some manufacturers in India over the past year, even as sales of the smaller cars that account for most of the passenger vehicle market slumped.
Having a presence in the small car market will be a positive if demand returns in the next fiscal year, but Mahindra will have to compete with established brands such as Maruti Suzuki India Ltd and South Korea's Hyundai Motor Co. "Verito Vibe gives us the opportunity to play in the large and highly competitive compact car segment," Pravin Shah, head of Mahindra's automotive division, told reporters.
The flagship company of the $16 billion Mahindra Group builds every other SUV sold in India, but its share in the segment fell to 48 percent in the fiscal year that ended in March from 56 percent a year earlier, according to data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).Key to Mahindra holding its market share is not a small car but more SUV launches, some analysts say. 'Mahindra will continue to lose market share in the overall passenger vehicle industry, because of lack of new launches (by Mahindra) in the SUV segment and an extremely competitive environment thanks to launches by their competitors,' said Yaresh Kothari, an auto analyst with Mumbai-based Angel Broking.
Renault SA's Duster has become popular in India since its introduction last year, and Mahindra must also compete with automakers including Ford Motor Co and Japan's Nissan Motor Co Ltd, both of which are expected to launch SUVs this year.
World's most exotic police cars
Sleek, cutting through the air like arrowheads, low enough to drive under your kitchen table and so fast that 150 mph seems pedestrian, supercars are the ultimate eye candy. Car lovers drool at the mere sight of these high-dollar, high-thrill rides. But drop a light bar and a police-themed paint scheme on them and they elicit an entirely different bodily reaction. Get lit up by one of these police supercruisers and you're a snowball and it's getting hotter every second. Sure, there's no escape, but to get pulled over by one of the exotic police cars on this list is almost a privilege.
Lamborghini Aventador | Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Italy; U.K.
Lamborghini could be considered the worldwide leader in crime-fighting supercars, since many police departments opting for something exotic go with a supercar from this famed Italian automaker with the fighting-bull emblem. A green-and-white AventadorLP700-4 from the Dubai police stable is the latest Lambo to go on patrol. With 700 horsepower stampeding from its 6.5-liter V12 engine and a 2.9-second zero-to-60-mph time on its way to a 217 mph top spe
Caparo T1 | United Kingdom
The U.K. seems to have embraced the supercar police interceptor more than any other country. This Formula One-inspired street-legal racer from Caparo Vehicle Technologies has joined London's Metropolitan Police Service as a rapid-response vehicle. Its 3.5-liter V8 engine delivers 575 horsepower at a stratospheric 10,500 rpm, and goes from zero to 60 mph in an insane 2.4-seconds; 100 mph comes in less than five ticks. The only way to escape this beast would be to get out of your car and run; by the time the bobbies get those racing harnesses unbuckled, you'll be on your second pint at the pub. ed, all the Aventador needs to fulfill its duty are lights, a siren and a paint scheme.
Porsche 911 | Germany; Austria
In Germany they don't dial 911, they drive a 911. ThePorsche 911 has a long history of service in Teutonic police forces, and it is likely the first vehicle considered by any autobahn-based jurisdiction looking for a high-speed pursuit vehicle. With a substantial redesign in 2012, the seventh-generation Porsche 911 is longer, lower and wider than ever, and patrolling in this Carrera S-based cruiser puts 400 horsepower at the disposal of the Polizei.
Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 | Italy
Another "bull in a china shop" scenario has theLamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 chasing down the bad guys. The heart of the Lambo is a 5.2-liter V10 engine rated at 560 horsepower (the "560" in LP560-4). The car's all-wheel-drive system (the "4" in LP560-4) propels the Italian thoroughbred to 60 mph in a scant 3.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 201 mph.
Cadillac CTS-V | Bloomfield Hills, Mich.
The donuts never tasted so good for the patrolmen of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., a wealthy suburb of Detroit. The Bloomfield Hills Police Department has sported a number of cool General Motors-based police cruisers over the years. The department borrows the rides, converts them for service, and after a predetermined time period reverts them to stock livery and retur
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X | Australia; Malaysia; U.K.
What does this Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X patrol car have that most others on the list don't? Four doors. With a spacious rear seat, the Evo can not only overtake getaway drivers, it can transport the perps back to the stationhouse. With Mitsubishi's intuitive Super All Wheel Control active center differential, active yaw control system and 291-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, the Evo X is a real go-getter. ns them to GM. In the Cadillac CTS-V, the department can cruise and pursue in world-class luxury with a stout, 556-horsepower V8 engine under the control of that shiny right boot.
Jaguar XF | U.K.
Audi R8 GTR | Germany
This is a police concept created by tuner ABT Sportsline to entice German police departments in need of an autobahn burner as a pursuit vehicle. TheR8 GTR relies on a 5.2-liter 620-horsepower V10 engine to lay down the law. It leaps from zero to 60 mph in an eye-popping 3.2 seconds on its way to two clicks above the double-century mark: 202 mph.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
U.S. traffic fatalities rise for first time since 2005
Increase in traffic deaths is attributed to an improving economy, more motorcycle accidents and a warm winter.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:23 PM
After years of declining traffic deaths, the number of car-related fatalities rose 5.3 percent in 2012, according to new statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the first year traffic fatalities have increased since 2005, and it's the highest number of roadway deaths since 2008.
According to NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, the reasons for the recent surge in traffic fatalities include an improving economy and an increase in motorcycle deaths.
According to The Detroit News, an additional factor contributing to the rise in traffic fatalities was unseasonably warm weather in early 2012.
Small SUVs score poorly in IIHS crash test
Only Mitsubishi and Subaru were able to earn 'acceptable' and 'good' ratings on the small overlap test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Many small SUVs and crossovers do a poor job of protecting occupants in offset frontal crashes, according to the latest round of testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The IIHS, a nonprofit organization of insurance companies, found that 11 of 13 new models that were crashed in the group's small overlap test scored "marginal" or "poor." The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport rated "acceptable," and the 2014 Subaru Forester posted the only "good" score.
As with the group's two other tests, first involving midsize luxury cars in August 2012 and another evaluating midsize family sedans in December, the latest results show a serious safety flaw that many automakers have not addressed in their most popular cars.
The small overlap test modifies the group's standard offset frontal impact test, in which a car strikes a 5-foot tall barrier at 40 mph. The previous offset test strikes 40 percent of a car's frontal area, while the new test hits just 25 percent. This kind of impact, the IIHS says, occurs in about a quarter of all frontal crashes in which front passengers are seriously or fatally injured.
'Gran Turismo 6' coming for PS3 this fall
Next installment gets bigger, faster, more social.
When the sixth installment of "Gran Turismo" hits store shelves this holiday season for the PlayStation 3, it will include 1,200 cars, 33 tracks in 71 layouts, a new track editor with 10 square kilometers of scenery, and more ways to connect with friends and rivals.
The new installment will add to the franchise's current sales of 70 million copies, continuing its run as one of the biggest sellers on the PlayStation family of consoles. Polyphony Digital, Sony and 10 manufacturers brought journalists out to the Silverstone Circuit in England for some hands-on time with a prototype copy of the new game.
GT6 gets a new game engine and a new rendering program. Creator Kazunori Yamauchi says the title will have 50 times the dynamic range of the previous game. That means that the background and foreground images blur when they're supposed to -- at speed -- and clear up when you slow down. GT6 also uses a newer, more accurate physics engine including better programming for the suspension damping, tire deformation and aerodynamic parts. Polyphony Digital partnered with Yokohama tire and KW Automotive for a more accurate representation
Chinese owner smashes his Maserati to protest poor service
This is now a trend: Fail to fix someone's luxury car in China, and soon the vehicle may be bashed to bits.
In most cultures, destroying your own car to protest a shoddy repair job borders on self-mutilation, sort of like how ridiculous it would seem if a person stabbed himself after getting a lousy haircut.
Not in China. This week, a man parked his Maserati Quattroporte by the steps of the Qingdao Auto Show and proceeded to beat the car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd. The purpose, according to China Car Times, was to show the owner's frustration with a local Maserati distributor that repaired his car, unsuccessfully, with used parts instead of the new ones he ordered.
Luxury cars in China face huge import tariffs, and this particular Maserati cost a whopping $423,000 when new in 2011, or roughly 3.5 times more than a typical Quattroporte in the U.S. That makes the story even crazier.
But this is a trend. In 2011, a Lamborghini Gallardo owner smashed his car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd, also over a poor repair job. In 2012, a Porsche Cayenne owner went a little softer by towing his vehicle on a flatbed and organizing a sit-in outside the offending dealership. No destruction that time.
It's not clear if any of the automakers made these wealthy owners whole after witnessing these sensational displays. Whatever happened, we at least have to hand it to the car owners for taking it to the streets instead of posting an anonymous negative review on Yelp. But please, take it easy with those hammers.
Car Tech Spotlight: Annoying 'Eco Pedal' in the 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid
The accelerator actually pushes back against your foot if you're trying to goose it too hard.
In a market surrounded by relatively high gas prices, nearly every car on sale has an "eco" feature of some sort. From simple dashboard indicators to sophisticated engine stop-start systems, automakers are employing a wide range of technologies designed to help drivers squeeze every mile out of each tank of gas.
But none is as annoying as Infiniti’s Eco Pedal, which takes an overly aggressive approach to saving fuel. Parent company Nissan noted that with the Eco Pedal feature engaged, “Each time the driver steps on the accelerator, a counter push-back control mechanism is activated if the system detects excess pressure.”
In other words, as I found out while testing a 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid with the feature, if you push the accelerator too hard and the Eco Pedal determines you’re driving in a fuel-inefficient manner, it pushes right back.
Exhaust Notes: Blood alcohol limits, Tesla vs. NC, Acura NSX in Ohio
Our semiregular roundup of the latest automotive news and musings from around the Web.
By Clifford Atiyeh 20 hours ago
Welcome to Exhaust Notes, our self-titled, semiregular roundup of automotive bits and pieces from around the Web.
Unlike other posts on this blog, these are truly notes, but they're worth a few moments of your precious time.Capping off this week, we take a look at proposed changes to blood alcohol limits, Tesla's latest court battle over a North Carolina dealership and Acura's plan to build the next NSX in Ohio.
Porsche wants plug-in hybrids on all models, including 911
Sports-car brand’s hybrid-electric push is part of a broader focus on fuel efficiency.
Most automakers have dipped a toe into the slowly emerging and extremely limited plug-in hybrid electric market by producing just a single model. According to British magazineAutocar, Porsche plans to introduce plug-in versions of all of its models based on technology developed for the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid introduced at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show.
A Porsche representative revealed that new hybrid platforms that combine an electric motor and clutches in one unit has been adapted to fit into all of the company’s future cars, including the 911 and Cayman. It uses the same electric motor and clutch assembly slotted between the engine and transmission in the current Panamera and Cayenne hybrids, but adds a more powerful motor and battery.
The new hybrid technology is a step beyond the unit used in the Panamera S E-Hybrid and will be more powerful than its 94-horsepower hybrid-electric motor. The next-generation system will also be supported by a more energy-dense battery pack and more lightweight wire looms that use aluminum instead of copper.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
U.S. traffic fatalities rise for first time since 2005
Increase in traffic deaths is attributed to an improving economy, more motorcycle accidents and a warm winter.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:23 PM
After years of declining traffic deaths, the number of car-related fatalities rose 5.3 percent in 2012, according to new statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the first year traffic fatalities have increased since 2005, and it's the highest number of roadway deaths since 2008.
According to NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, the reasons for the recent surge in traffic fatalities include an improving economy and an increase in motorcycle deaths.
According to The Detroit News, an additional factor contributing to the rise in traffic fatalities was unseasonably warm weather in early 2012.
Small SUVs score poorly in IIHS crash test
Only Mitsubishi and Subaru were able to earn 'acceptable' and 'good' ratings on the small overlap test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Many small SUVs and crossovers do a poor job of protecting occupants in offset frontal crashes, according to the latest round of testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The IIHS, a nonprofit organization of insurance companies, found that 11 of 13 new models that were crashed in the group's small overlap test scored "marginal" or "poor." The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport rated "acceptable," and the 2014 Subaru Forester posted the only "good" score.
As with the group's two other tests, first involving midsize luxury cars in August 2012 and another evaluating midsize family sedans in December, the latest results show a serious safety flaw that many automakers have not addressed in their most popular cars.
The small overlap test modifies the group's standard offset frontal impact test, in which a car strikes a 5-foot tall barrier at 40 mph. The previous offset test strikes 40 percent of a car's frontal area, while the new test hits just 25 percent. This kind of impact, the IIHS says, occurs in about a quarter of all frontal crashes in which front passengers are seriously or fatally injured.
'Gran Turismo 6' coming for PS3 this fall
Next installment gets bigger, faster, more social.
When the sixth installment of "Gran Turismo" hits store shelves this holiday season for the PlayStation 3, it will include 1,200 cars, 33 tracks in 71 layouts, a new track editor with 10 square kilometers of scenery, and more ways to connect with friends and rivals.
The new installment will add to the franchise's current sales of 70 million copies, continuing its run as one of the biggest sellers on the PlayStation family of consoles. Polyphony Digital, Sony and 10 manufacturers brought journalists out to the Silverstone Circuit in England for some hands-on time with a prototype copy of the new game.
GT6 gets a new game engine and a new rendering program. Creator Kazunori Yamauchi says the title will have 50 times the dynamic range of the previous game. That means that the background and foreground images blur when they're supposed to -- at speed -- and clear up when you slow down. GT6 also uses a newer, more accurate physics engine including better programming for the suspension damping, tire deformation and aerodynamic parts. Polyphony Digital partnered with Yokohama tire and KW Automotive for a more accurate representation
Chinese owner smashes his Maserati to protest poor service
This is now a trend: Fail to fix someone's luxury car in China, and soon the vehicle may be bashed to bits.
In most cultures, destroying your own car to protest a shoddy repair job borders on self-mutilation, sort of like how ridiculous it would seem if a person stabbed himself after getting a lousy haircut.
Not in China. This week, a man parked his Maserati Quattroporte by the steps of the Qingdao Auto Show and proceeded to beat the car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd. The purpose, according to China Car Times, was to show the owner's frustration with a local Maserati distributor that repaired his car, unsuccessfully, with used parts instead of the new ones he ordered.
Luxury cars in China face huge import tariffs, and this particular Maserati cost a whopping $423,000 when new in 2011, or roughly 3.5 times more than a typical Quattroporte in the U.S. That makes the story even crazier.
But this is a trend. In 2011, a Lamborghini Gallardo owner smashed his car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd, also over a poor repair job. In 2012, a Porsche Cayenne owner went a little softer by towing his vehicle on a flatbed and organizing a sit-in outside the offending dealership. No destruction that time.
It's not clear if any of the automakers made these wealthy owners whole after witnessing these sensational displays. Whatever happened, we at least have to hand it to the car owners for taking it to the streets instead of posting an anonymous negative review on Yelp. But please, take it easy with those hammers.
Car Tech Spotlight: Annoying 'Eco Pedal' in the 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid
The accelerator actually pushes back against your foot if you're trying to goose it too hard.
In a market surrounded by relatively high gas prices, nearly every car on sale has an "eco" feature of some sort. From simple dashboard indicators to sophisticated engine stop-start systems, automakers are employing a wide range of technologies designed to help drivers squeeze every mile out of each tank of gas.
But none is as annoying as Infiniti’s Eco Pedal, which takes an overly aggressive approach to saving fuel. Parent company Nissan noted that with the Eco Pedal feature engaged, “Each time the driver steps on the accelerator, a counter push-back control mechanism is activated if the system detects excess pressure.”
In other words, as I found out while testing a 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid with the feature, if you push the accelerator too hard and the Eco Pedal determines you’re driving in a fuel-inefficient manner, it pushes right back.
Exhaust Notes: Blood alcohol limits, Tesla vs. NC, Acura NSX in Ohio
Our semiregular roundup of the latest automotive news and musings from around the Web.
By Clifford Atiyeh 20 hours ago
Welcome to Exhaust Notes, our self-titled, semiregular roundup of automotive bits and pieces from around the Web.
Unlike other posts on this blog, these are truly notes, but they're worth a few moments of your precious time.Capping off this week, we take a look at proposed changes to blood alcohol limits, Tesla's latest court battle over a North Carolina dealership and Acura's plan to build the next NSX in Ohio.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
U.S. traffic fatalities rise for first time since 2005
Increase in traffic deaths is attributed to an improving economy, more motorcycle accidents and a warm winter.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:23 PM
After years of declining traffic deaths, the number of car-related fatalities rose 5.3 percent in 2012, according to new statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the first year traffic fatalities have increased since 2005, and it's the highest number of roadway deaths since 2008.
According to NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, the reasons for the recent surge in traffic fatalities include an improving economy and an increase in motorcycle deaths.
According to The Detroit News, an additional factor contributing to the rise in traffic fatalities was unseasonably warm weather in early 2012.
Small SUVs score poorly in IIHS crash test
Only Mitsubishi and Subaru were able to earn 'acceptable' and 'good' ratings on the small overlap test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Many small SUVs and crossovers do a poor job of protecting occupants in offset frontal crashes, according to the latest round of testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The IIHS, a nonprofit organization of insurance companies, found that 11 of 13 new models that were crashed in the group's small overlap test scored "marginal" or "poor." The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport rated "acceptable," and the 2014 Subaru Forester posted the only "good" score.
As with the group's two other tests, first involving midsize luxury cars in August 2012 and another evaluating midsize family sedans in December, the latest results show a serious safety flaw that many automakers have not addressed in their most popular cars.
The small overlap test modifies the group's standard offset frontal impact test, in which a car strikes a 5-foot tall barrier at 40 mph. The previous offset test strikes 40 percent of a car's frontal area, while the new test hits just 25 percent. This kind of impact, the IIHS says, occurs in about a quarter of all frontal crashes in which front passengers are seriously or fatally injured.
'Gran Turismo 6' coming for PS3 this fall
Next installment gets bigger, faster, more social.
When the sixth installment of "Gran Turismo" hits store shelves this holiday season for the PlayStation 3, it will include 1,200 cars, 33 tracks in 71 layouts, a new track editor with 10 square kilometers of scenery, and more ways to connect with friends and rivals.
The new installment will add to the franchise's current sales of 70 million copies, continuing its run as one of the biggest sellers on the PlayStation family of consoles. Polyphony Digital, Sony and 10 manufacturers brought journalists out to the Silverstone Circuit in England for some hands-on time with a prototype copy of the new game.
GT6 gets a new game engine and a new rendering program. Creator Kazunori Yamauchi says the title will have 50 times the dynamic range of the previous game. That means that the background and foreground images blur when they're supposed to -- at speed -- and clear up when you slow down. GT6 also uses a newer, more accurate physics engine including better programming for the suspension damping, tire deformation and aerodynamic parts. Polyphony Digital partnered with Yokohama tire and KW Automotive for a more accurate representation
Chinese owner smashes his Maserati to protest poor service
This is now a trend: Fail to fix someone's luxury car in China, and soon the vehicle may be bashed to bits.
In most cultures, destroying your own car to protest a shoddy repair job borders on self-mutilation, sort of like how ridiculous it would seem if a person stabbed himself after getting a lousy haircut.
Not in China. This week, a man parked his Maserati Quattroporte by the steps of the Qingdao Auto Show and proceeded to beat the car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd. The purpose, according to China Car Times, was to show the owner's frustration with a local Maserati distributor that repaired his car, unsuccessfully, with used parts instead of the new ones he ordered.
Luxury cars in China face huge import tariffs, and this particular Maserati cost a whopping $423,000 when new in 2011, or roughly 3.5 times more than a typical Quattroporte in the U.S. That makes the story even crazier.
But this is a trend. In 2011, a Lamborghini Gallardo owner smashed his car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd, also over a poor repair job. In 2012, a Porsche Cayenne owner went a little softer by towing his vehicle on a flatbed and organizing a sit-in outside the offending dealership. No destruction that time.
It's not clear if any of the automakers made these wealthy owners whole after witnessing these sensational displays. Whatever happened, we at least have to hand it to the car owners for taking it to the streets instead of posting an anonymous negative review on Yelp. But please, take it easy with those hammers.
Car Tech Spotlight: Annoying 'Eco Pedal' in the 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid
The accelerator actually pushes back against your foot if you're trying to goose it too hard.
In a market surrounded by relatively high gas prices, nearly every car on sale has an "eco" feature of some sort. From simple dashboard indicators to sophisticated engine stop-start systems, automakers are employing a wide range of technologies designed to help drivers squeeze every mile out of each tank of gas.
But none is as annoying as Infiniti’s Eco Pedal, which takes an overly aggressive approach to saving fuel. Parent company Nissan noted that with the Eco Pedal feature engaged, “Each time the driver steps on the accelerator, a counter push-back control mechanism is activated if the system detects excess pressure.”
In other words, as I found out while testing a 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid with the feature, if you push the accelerator too hard and the Eco Pedal determines you’re driving in a fuel-inefficient manner, it pushes right back.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
U.S. traffic fatalities rise for first time since 2005
Increase in traffic deaths is attributed to an improving economy, more motorcycle accidents and a warm winter.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:23 PM
After years of declining traffic deaths, the number of car-related fatalities rose 5.3 percent in 2012, according to new statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the first year traffic fatalities have increased since 2005, and it's the highest number of roadway deaths since 2008.
According to NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, the reasons for the recent surge in traffic fatalities include an improving economy and an increase in motorcycle deaths.
According to The Detroit News, an additional factor contributing to the rise in traffic fatalities was unseasonably warm weather in early 2012.
Small SUVs score poorly in IIHS crash test
Only Mitsubishi and Subaru were able to earn 'acceptable' and 'good' ratings on the small overlap test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Many small SUVs and crossovers do a poor job of protecting occupants in offset frontal crashes, according to the latest round of testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The IIHS, a nonprofit organization of insurance companies, found that 11 of 13 new models that were crashed in the group's small overlap test scored "marginal" or "poor." The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport rated "acceptable," and the 2014 Subaru Forester posted the only "good" score.
As with the group's two other tests, first involving midsize luxury cars in August 2012 and another evaluating midsize family sedans in December, the latest results show a serious safety flaw that many automakers have not addressed in their most popular cars.
The small overlap test modifies the group's standard offset frontal impact test, in which a car strikes a 5-foot tall barrier at 40 mph. The previous offset test strikes 40 percent of a car's frontal area, while the new test hits just 25 percent. This kind of impact, the IIHS says, occurs in about a quarter of all frontal crashes in which front passengers are seriously or fatally injured.
'Gran Turismo 6' coming for PS3 this fall
Next installment gets bigger, faster, more social.
When the sixth installment of "Gran Turismo" hits store shelves this holiday season for the PlayStation 3, it will include 1,200 cars, 33 tracks in 71 layouts, a new track editor with 10 square kilometers of scenery, and more ways to connect with friends and rivals.
The new installment will add to the franchise's current sales of 70 million copies, continuing its run as one of the biggest sellers on the PlayStation family of consoles. Polyphony Digital, Sony and 10 manufacturers brought journalists out to the Silverstone Circuit in England for some hands-on time with a prototype copy of the new game.
GT6 gets a new game engine and a new rendering program. Creator Kazunori Yamauchi says the title will have 50 times the dynamic range of the previous game. That means that the background and foreground images blur when they're supposed to -- at speed -- and clear up when you slow down. GT6 also uses a newer, more accurate physics engine including better programming for the suspension damping, tire deformation and aerodynamic parts. Polyphony Digital partnered with Yokohama tire and KW Automotive for a more accurate representation
Chinese owner smashes his Maserati to protest poor service
This is now a trend: Fail to fix someone's luxury car in China, and soon the vehicle may be bashed to bits.
In most cultures, destroying your own car to protest a shoddy repair job borders on self-mutilation, sort of like how ridiculous it would seem if a person stabbed himself after getting a lousy haircut.
Not in China. This week, a man parked his Maserati Quattroporte by the steps of the Qingdao Auto Show and proceeded to beat the car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd. The purpose, according to China Car Times, was to show the owner's frustration with a local Maserati distributor that repaired his car, unsuccessfully, with used parts instead of the new ones he ordered.
Luxury cars in China face huge import tariffs, and this particular Maserati cost a whopping $423,000 when new in 2011, or roughly 3.5 times more than a typical Quattroporte in the U.S. That makes the story even crazier.
But this is a trend. In 2011, a Lamborghini Gallardo owner smashed his car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd, also over a poor repair job. In 2012, a Porsche Cayenne owner went a little softer by towing his vehicle on a flatbed and organizing a sit-in outside the offending dealership. No destruction that time.
It's not clear if any of the automakers made these wealthy owners whole after witnessing these sensational displays. Whatever happened, we at least have to hand it to the car owners for taking it to the streets instead of posting an anonymous negative review on Yelp. But please, take it easy with those hammers.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
U.S. traffic fatalities rise for first time since 2005
Increase in traffic deaths is attributed to an improving economy, more motorcycle accidents and a warm winter.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:23 PM
After years of declining traffic deaths, the number of car-related fatalities rose 5.3 percent in 2012, according to new statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the first year traffic fatalities have increased since 2005, and it's the highest number of roadway deaths since 2008.
According to NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, the reasons for the recent surge in traffic fatalities include an improving economy and an increase in motorcycle deaths.
According to The Detroit News, an additional factor contributing to the rise in traffic fatalities was unseasonably warm weather in early 2012.
Small SUVs score poorly in IIHS crash test
Only Mitsubishi and Subaru were able to earn 'acceptable' and 'good' ratings on the small overlap test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Many small SUVs and crossovers do a poor job of protecting occupants in offset frontal crashes, according to the latest round of testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The IIHS, a nonprofit organization of insurance companies, found that 11 of 13 new models that were crashed in the group's small overlap test scored "marginal" or "poor." The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport rated "acceptable," and the 2014 Subaru Forester posted the only "good" score.
As with the group's two other tests, first involving midsize luxury cars in August 2012 and another evaluating midsize family sedans in December, the latest results show a serious safety flaw that many automakers have not addressed in their most popular cars.
The small overlap test modifies the group's standard offset frontal impact test, in which a car strikes a 5-foot tall barrier at 40 mph. The previous offset test strikes 40 percent of a car's frontal area, while the new test hits just 25 percent. This kind of impact, the IIHS says, occurs in about a quarter of all frontal crashes in which front passengers are seriously or fatally injured.
'Gran Turismo 6' coming for PS3 this fall
Next installment gets bigger, faster, more social.
When the sixth installment of "Gran Turismo" hits store shelves this holiday season for the PlayStation 3, it will include 1,200 cars, 33 tracks in 71 layouts, a new track editor with 10 square kilometers of scenery, and more ways to connect with friends and rivals.
The new installment will add to the franchise's current sales of 70 million copies, continuing its run as one of the biggest sellers on the PlayStation family of consoles. Polyphony Digital, Sony and 10 manufacturers brought journalists out to the Silverstone Circuit in England for some hands-on time with a prototype copy of the new game.
GT6 gets a new game engine and a new rendering program. Creator Kazunori Yamauchi says the title will have 50 times the dynamic range of the previous game. That means that the background and foreground images blur when they're supposed to -- at speed -- and clear up when you slow down. GT6 also uses a newer, more accurate physics engine including better programming for the suspension damping, tire deformation and aerodynamic parts. Polyphony Digital partnered with Yokohama tire and KW Automotive for a more accurate representation
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
U.S. traffic fatalities rise for first time since 2005
Increase in traffic deaths is attributed to an improving economy, more motorcycle accidents and a warm winter.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:23 PM
After years of declining traffic deaths, the number of car-related fatalities rose 5.3 percent in 2012, according to new statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the first year traffic fatalities have increased since 2005, and it's the highest number of roadway deaths since 2008.
According to NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, the reasons for the recent surge in traffic fatalities include an improving economy and an increase in motorcycle deaths.
According to The Detroit News, an additional factor contributing to the rise in traffic fatalities was unseasonably warm weather in early 2012.
Small SUVs score poorly in IIHS crash test
Only Mitsubishi and Subaru were able to earn 'acceptable' and 'good' ratings on the small overlap test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Many small SUVs and crossovers do a poor job of protecting occupants in offset frontal crashes, according to the latest round of testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The IIHS, a nonprofit organization of insurance companies, found that 11 of 13 new models that were crashed in the group's small overlap test scored "marginal" or "poor." The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport rated "acceptable," and the 2014 Subaru Forester posted the only "good" score.
As with the group's two other tests, first involving midsize luxury cars in August 2012 and another evaluating midsize family sedans in December, the latest results show a serious safety flaw that many automakers have not addressed in their most popular cars.
The small overlap test modifies the group's standard offset frontal impact test, in which a car strikes a 5-foot tall barrier at 40 mph. The previous offset test strikes 40 percent of a car's frontal area, while the new test hits just 25 percent. This kind of impact, the IIHS says, occurs in about a quarter of all frontal crashes in which front passengers are seriously or fatally injured.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
U.S. traffic fatalities rise for first time since 2005
Increase in traffic deaths is attributed to an improving economy, more motorcycle accidents and a warm winter.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:23 PM
After years of declining traffic deaths, the number of car-related fatalities rose 5.3 percent in 2012, according to new statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the first year traffic fatalities have increased since 2005, and it's the highest number of roadway deaths since 2008.
According to NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, the reasons for the recent surge in traffic fatalities include an improving economy and an increase in motorcycle deaths.
According to The Detroit News, an additional factor contributing to the rise in traffic fatalities was unseasonably warm weather in early 2012.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.
That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?
Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.
GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
The Range Rover Supercharged is fast enough to get into Virginia's horse country without the locals suspecting a thing.
With favorable traffic, Middleburg, Va., is not quite an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1787, Middleburg still has a distinct small-town feel; even today, it has one only traffic light.
But the "Main Street, U.S.A." appearance belies its true claim to fame: This is ground zero for equestrian sports. Here, nestled among the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a place where horse-and-hound hunting is very much alive and stables are almost as common as garages.
So when I was handed the keys to a brand-new 2014 Range Rover Supercharged, I knew where I'd fit right in.
GM, VW spend $335 million to renovate dealerships
Automakers want to attract more customers in prime markets such as New York and California.
General Motors and Volkswagen are spending a combined $335 million to renovate dealerships in prime markets in the Northeast and California.GM is spending about $200 million to assist dealerships in New York, New Jersey and California with facility upgrades and relocating, according to the Detroit News. In these states, where buyers sway heavily toward import brands, GM hasn't made enough strides in attracting customers. In California, for example, GM's market share has trailed that of Honda and Toyota, dipping from 11.8 percent in 2011 to 9.8 percent last year, even as Japanese automakers suffered from supply shortages after the 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
"It changed radically from where our footprint used to be, because we're the oldest ones out there … and we let it go," GM North America President Mark Reuss told the Detroit News.
Volkswagen is spending $135 million on a 265,000-square foot VW-Audi dealership (shown above) that opened in Manhattan on Friday. Volkswagen owns the property and about a dozen other dealerships in the U.S. but lets independent dealership companies operate them. Other large Manhattan dealerships, such as Manhattan Fordand Mercedes-Benz of Manhattan, are essentially corporate-managed stores.
BMW beats Red Bull with record 51-mile-long drift
We're not sure if the tires gave out or BMW quit after nearly 2 hours of boredom – but either way, it's impressive.
We've all slid sideways in our cars, intentionally or otherwise, for at least a second. But can you picture doing that for an hour and 40 minutes?Last Saturday, BMW set the Guinness record for the world's longest drift at 51.3 miles. That's 51.3 miles of continuous sliding, 51.3 miles of keeping the steering wheel pointed right and – for racing driver Johan Schwartz and everyone watching his white M5 loop the skid pad nearly 323 times – 51.3 miles of absolute boredom.
Somehow, just like the artificial engine sounds piped into the M5's cabin, BMW has managed to dull a usually fun and out-of-control experience into a methodical, automated process.
In this case, hearing about the record secondhand is better than watching it, which is why BMW's promo video below is only one minute long. But boring as it may be to observe, it's damned impressive. Even more so: BMW smashed Red Bull's February drift record by more than 44 miles.
Chevrolet to sell Nissan-made compact van in 2014
General Motors needs a lighter commercial van to compete with Ford, but so far, it won't spend the money to import similar vehicles it already sells in Europe.
General Motors, lacking a compact van to compete with Ford, is taking the easy route with its 2015 City Express: It's slapping Chevrolet badges on a Nissan.That's opposed to GM federalizing and importing its Opel-brand commercial vans from Europe, as Ford did in 2009 with its Turkish-built Transit Connect van. Since then, the commercial market has been shifting slowly toward European-spec high-top vans, all promising greater fuel efficiency and, in some cases, greater cargo capacity than traditional vans such as the Ford Econoline and Chevrolet Express.
GM said the deal with Nissan, which already sells the compact, Mexican-built NV200 van in the U.S., will let the company shorten delivery times to its commercial customers. "This is the fastest way we could bring a light-duty product to our lineup," GM spokeswoman Pam Flores told MSN Autos
Recall: 2013 Subaru Legacy, Outback for steering loss
Drivers could lose control if the steering shafts separate.
Subaru is recalling 5,379 Legacy and Outback vehicles for potential loss of steering, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.The steering column shafts on 2013 models "may not have been 'press-fitted' sufficiently," which could cause the inner and outer shafts to separate and the driver to lose control, Subaru said.
Dealers will replace the steering column assembly starting on Thursday, when parts become available. Owners can contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
In March, Subaru recalled 47,419 cars equipped with remote engine start, including the 2013 Legacy and Outback, to fix faulty key fobs that could send a signal without the owner pressing the button. In April, Subaru recalled more than 10,000 2014 Foresters to replace floor mats that could curl when exposed to heat.
Study: Drivers willing to share DNA, fingerprints with automakers
A Cisco poll finds 60 percent of respondents would provide biometric information to 'personalize security for a vehicle.'
With automakers trying to display ads on our dashboards, even offering in-car discounts through location-based services, many drivers won't appreciate the intrusions.
But according to a new survey from tech giant Cisco, a majority of drivers say they're willing to trade personal information – including their DNA or fingerprints – if they can get a perk. Cisco’s Customer Experience Report found that 74 percent of respondents worldwide would allow companies to track their driving habits in order to save on insurance or maintenance costs.
It also found that 65 percent would freely give up their music preferences, in addition to their height and weight, for a more "customized vehicle and driving experience." And almost 60 percent "would provide biometric information such as fingerprints and DNA samples" if the information could be used to unlock their car, start the engine – as seen on the previous-generation Audi S8, above – and set memory settings such as radio presets and seat positions for individual drivers.
Photos: 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class gets smarter – and smells better
With a suspension that can predict the road surface and an automatic perfume system, Mercedes hopes -- modestly -- that this is the 'best automobile in the world.'
Mercedes-Benz has released the official details and photos of its 2014 S-Class. From the look of the company's iconic flagship, the 2014 model is a huge leap forward, unlike any generation before it.
It’s not just in the design, materials or performance, the last of which the new S550 has in spades, thanks to the upgraded 455-horsepower direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V8 (the previous car had 429 horsepower). It’s also in the intelligence and capabilities of the systems Mercedes-Benz has integrated into the car. If you crash this car, or even fall asleep behind the wheel, you’re really doing something wrong.
The features on this car almost seem like they were pulled out of a spy novel. With the new S-Class, Mercedes-Benz has taken an approach it calls "Intelligent Drive," which is basically a suite of driver aids running on one system of sensors. Radar all around the car and cameras mounted in the rear-view mirror help with everything from Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control to Active Lane Keeping Control. It also commands the Brake Assist System, which can now sense cross traffic and pedestrians and react as necessary. The S-Class even has Night View Assist Plus, which relies on two infrared cameras to project a better image and can also detect animals.
U.S. traffic fatalities rise for first time since 2005
Increase in traffic deaths is attributed to an improving economy, more motorcycle accidents and a warm winter.
After years of declining traffic deaths, the number of car-related fatalities rose 5.3 percent in 2012, according to new statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is the first year traffic fatalities have increased since 2005, and it's the highest number of roadway deaths since 2008.
According to NHTSA Administrator David Strickland, the reasons for the recent surge in traffic fatalities include an improving economy and an increase in motorcycle deaths.
According to The Detroit News, an additional factor contributing to the rise in traffic fatalities was unseasonably warm weather in early 2012.
Small SUVs score poorly in IIHS crash test
Only Mitsubishi and Subaru were able to earn 'acceptable' and 'good' ratings on the small overlap test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Many small SUVs and crossovers do a poor job of protecting occupants in offset frontal crashes, according to the latest round of testing by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.The IIHS, a nonprofit organization of insurance companies, found that 11 of 13 new models that were crashed in the group's small overlap test scored "marginal" or "poor." The 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport rated "acceptable," and the 2014 Subaru Forester posted the only "good" score.
As with the group's two other tests, first involving midsize luxury cars in August 2012 and another evaluating midsize family sedans in December, the latest results show a serious safety flaw that many automakers have not addressed in their most popular cars.
The small overlap test modifies the group's standard offset frontal impact test, in which a car strikes a 5-foot tall barrier at 40 mph. The previous offset test strikes 40 percent of a car's frontal area, while the new test hits just 25 percent. This kind of impact, the IIHS says, occurs in about a quarter of all frontal crashes in which front passengers are seriously or fatally injured.
'Gran Turismo 6' coming for PS3 this fall
Next installment gets bigger, faster, more social.
When the sixth installment of "Gran Turismo" hits store shelves this holiday season for the PlayStation 3, it will include 1,200 cars, 33 tracks in 71 layouts, a new track editor with 10 square kilometers of scenery, and more ways to connect with friends and rivals.
The new installment will add to the franchise's current sales of 70 million copies, continuing its run as one of the biggest sellers on the PlayStation family of consoles. Polyphony Digital, Sony and 10 manufacturers brought journalists out to the Silverstone Circuit in England for some hands-on time with a prototype copy of the new game.
GT6 gets a new game engine and a new rendering program. Creator Kazunori Yamauchi says the title will have 50 times the dynamic range of the previous game. That means that the background and foreground images blur when they're supposed to -- at speed -- and clear up when you slow down. GT6 also uses a newer, more accurate physics engine including better programming for the suspension damping, tire deformation and aerodynamic parts. Polyphony Digital partnered with Yokohama tire and KW Automotive for a more accurate representation
Chinese owner smashes his Maserati to protest poor service
This is now a trend: Fail to fix someone's luxury car in China, and soon the vehicle may be bashed to bits.
In most cultures, destroying your own car to protest a shoddy repair job borders on self-mutilation, sort of like how ridiculous it would seem if a person stabbed himself after getting a lousy haircut.Not in China. This week, a man parked his Maserati Quattroporte by the steps of the Qingdao Auto Show and proceeded to beat the car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd. The purpose, according to China Car Times, was to show the owner's frustration with a local Maserati distributor that repaired his car, unsuccessfully, with used parts instead of the new ones he ordered.
Luxury cars in China face huge import tariffs, and this particular Maserati cost a whopping $423,000 when new in 2011, or roughly 3.5 times more than a typical Quattroporte in the U.S. That makes the story even crazier.
But this is a trend. In 2011, a Lamborghini Gallardo owner smashed his car with sledgehammers in front of a crowd, also over a poor repair job. In 2012, a Porsche Cayenne owner went a little softer by towing his vehicle on a flatbed and organizing a sit-in outside the offending dealership. No destruction that time.
It's not clear if any of the automakers made these wealthy owners whole after witnessing these sensational displays. Whatever happened, we at least have to hand it to the car owners for taking it to the streets instead of posting an anonymous negative review on Yelp. But please, take it easy with those hammers.
Car Tech Spotlight: Annoying 'Eco Pedal' in the 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid
The accelerator actually pushes back against your foot if you're trying to goose it too hard.
In a market surrounded by relatively high gas prices, nearly every car on sale has an "eco" feature of some sort. From simple dashboard indicators to sophisticated engine stop-start systems, automakers are employing a wide range of technologies designed to help drivers squeeze every mile out of each tank of gas.
But none is as annoying as Infiniti’s Eco Pedal, which takes an overly aggressive approach to saving fuel. Parent company Nissan noted that with the Eco Pedal feature engaged, “Each time the driver steps on the accelerator, a counter push-back control mechanism is activated if the system detects excess pressure.”
In other words, as I found out while testing a 2013 Infiniti M Hybrid with the feature, if you push the accelerator too hard and the Eco Pedal determines you’re driving in a fuel-inefficient manner, it pushes right back.
Exhaust Notes: Blood alcohol limits, Tesla vs. NC, Acura NSX in Ohio
Our semiregular roundup of the latest automotive news and musings from around the Web.
Welcome to Exhaust Notes, our self-titled, semiregular roundup of automotive bits and pieces from around the Web.Unlike other posts on this blog, these are truly notes, but they're worth a few moments of your precious time.Capping off this week, we take a look at proposed changes to blood alcohol limits, Tesla's latest court battle over a North Carolina dealership and Acura's plan to build the next NSX in Ohio.
Porsche wants plug-in hybrids on all models, including 911
Sports-car brand’s hybrid-electric push is part of a broader focus on fuel efficiency.
Most automakers have dipped a toe into the slowly emerging and extremely limited plug-in hybrid electric market by producing just a single model. According to British magazineAutocar, Porsche plans to introduce plug-in versions of all of its models based on technology developed for the 2014 Panamera S E-Hybrid introduced at the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show.
A Porsche representative revealed that new hybrid platforms that combine an electric motor and clutches in one unit has been adapted to fit into all of the company’s future cars, including the 911 and Cayman. It uses the same electric motor and clutch assembly slotted between the engine and transmission in the current Panamera and Cayenne hybrids, but adds a more powerful motor and battery.
The new hybrid technology is a step beyond the unit used in the Panamera S E-Hybrid and will be more powerful than its 94-horsepower hybrid-electric motor. The next-generation system will also be supported by a more energy-dense battery pack and more lightweight wire looms that use aluminum instead of copper.
An alien comes to Washington: Driving the Volkswagen Scirocco R
We tease VW fans around the nation's capital with a forbidden European fruit.
Volkswagen fanatics have been looking across the Atlantic since the German automaker reintroduced the Scirocco in 2008, with hopes that the slippery hatchback would make its way to the United States.
The later release of the Scirocco R only further teased the Volkswagen faithful, but year after year, those hopes have been dashed. Recently, pictures of a Scirocco R at Volkswagen of America’s Northern Virginia headquarters raised the eyebrows of enthusiasts and set off yet another round of "will they, won’t they?" chatter.
I’m not following the online conversation right now, however; I’m too busy driving that Scirocco R and experiencing firsthand why Volkswagen should – and won’t – bring it to the U.S.
Now that I’ve got your attention, let me get the ritual "reading of the specs" out of the way: The engine is a turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI 4-cylinder, good for 261 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque in a compact 3-door hatchback with an attractive, shooting-brake-style body.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
By AutoWeek Mon 8:25 AM
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
If Bob Lutz were emperor of the United States
In a semi-jocular speech to the SAE, the former GM vice chairman said he would raise the gas tax and lower fuel economy standards.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 9:52 AM
The SAE World Congress, which took place in Detroit last week, is typically a staid gathering of automotive engineers. So if you’re an event organizer, how do you help it make headlines? Get Bob Lutz, the controversial former General Motors vice chairman and loose cannon, to deliver a keynote. He didn’t disappoint.
SAE asked Lutz, who also served in executive posts at Ford and Chrysler, to frame his speech around what he would do if he was declared king of the auto industry for a week. Living up to his nickname of “Maximum Bob,” Lutz instead insisted he would need to reign over the entire United States to be effective, and would require the title of emperor and the ultimate power that such a position bestows.
In the speech, the conservative-leaning Lutz straddled the line between an old-school auto exec and green futurist, declaring that he would call for an “honest debate” on climate change (which he once called “a total crock”), a simultaneous rise in U.S. gas taxes and a rethinking of federal fuel efficiency standards and even high-speed railroads.
Turn your steering wheel into an electronic drum kit
Smack Attack seeks to make your commute a wicked percussion solo.
By James_Tate Tue 5:49 AM
You may laugh over the absurdity of having a full-featured drum kit on your steering wheel. But admit it -- we've all drummed inside our cars, even when we think no one is watching.
Inventor and self-proclaimed nerd Gregor Hanuschak thinks that plenty of people will want to jam out with his new invention, the Smack Attack.
Hanuschak, a graduate of MIT, Stanford and Harvard, certainly has a heck of a résumé, so we got him on the line for some Q&A.
"I got the initial inspiration for Smack Attack while driving across the U.S. from Philadelphia to Silicon Valley," he told MSN Autos. "Although for the most part I was getting a good amount of sleep every night, I still often had trouble staying alert at the wheel. I later learned that there is a term for what I was experiencing: 'highway hypnosis.' Experiencing highway hypnosis firsthand inspired me to design something to fight it and keep drivers alert."
We half agree -- you're definitely more likely to stay awake while playing the steering-wheel drums, but alert? That would probably depend on performing a killer solo.
Energy Department recovers $21 million from Fisker to pay back loans
Fisker still owes feds $192 million.
By AutoWeek Tue 7:14 AM
The U.S. Department of Energy says it recovered $21 million in cash from struggling Fisker Automotive that will go toward repaying nearly $200 million in loans extended under a U.S. program to spur advanced vehicle development.
The Energy Department recouped the cash on April 11, DOE spokeswoman Aoife McCarthy said in a statement Monday.
"Given the obvious difficulties the company is facing, we are taking strong and appropriate action on behalf of taxpayers," the agency said in a statement.
A spokeswoman from Sitrick and Co., Fisker's outside public relations agency, declined to comment.
Nissan Leaf now cheapest 4-door electric car on sale
At less than $30,000 without tax credits, we can actually start calling the Leaf a deal among electric cars.
By Clifford Atiyeh Wed 9:08 AM
When Nissan announced in January that it would sell a cheaper model of its all-electric Leaf, we figured the price would drop by about $3,000.
Wrong. Nissan has taken our offer and more than doubled it.
The 2013 Leaf S is now $6,400 cheaper than the base 2012 model, with a final price of $29,650, including destination. That's $325 less than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, a car with thin doors that shut with the same resounding seal as an open can of beans; that's our impression, but given the car's ultralow sales, many others must agree.
The Leaf S isn't the cheapest electric car on sale. That would be the $25,750 Smart fortwo electric drive, a microcar that can seat only two people and has barely any luggage space. Even the Chevrolet Spark EV, bigger than the Smart but smaller than the Leaf, is expected to cost more than $30,000 when it debuts later this year in Oregon and California.
NHTSA to automakers: Keep technology from distracting drivers
Voluntary recommendations are aimed at text messaging, Web browsing and social media features.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:29 PM
As automakers introduce cutting-edge infotainment systems that bring everything from connected navigation to social media into the dash, federal regulators want to reduce the driver distractions the technology can cause.
To that end, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued its first set of voluntary guidelines"that encourage automobile manufacturers to limit the distraction risk connected to electronic devices."
Unlike most statements from NHTSA, the guidelines are not formal proposals intended to become law, such as the proposed requirement for all cars to have backup cameras and event data recorders.
The guidelines are designed to “establish specific recommended criteria” for automakers’ in-dash electronics that require drivers to take their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road to operate. The guidelines recommend that automakers develop infotainment system that limit the time drivers have to take their eyes off the road to two seconds for each input (for, say, finding an address using a navigation system) and 12 seconds to perform an overall task (such as inputting a destination and routing to it).
Moreover, as infotainment systems start to incorporate features that more drivers are asking for, such as hands-free text messaging and Internet access, NHTSA guidelines are also expanding to keep these features from becoming dangerous distractions.
US government buying up to 10,000 new hybrids
Move will save 1 million gallons of fuel per year and reduce environmental footprint of federal fleet.
By Douglas Newcomb Thu 10:13 AM
To improve the overall fuel efficiency of U.S. government’s vehicle fleet, the Obama administration is directing federal agencies to buy up to new 10,000 hybrids.
The General Services Administration, the U.S. government’s purchasing agency, said this large expansion will save 1 million gallons of fuel per year throughout the life of the vehicles.
GSA will fund the incremental cost to replace eligible vehicles with new hybrid sedans for federal agencies that decide to participate in the program. GSA spokeswoman Jackeline Yvette Stewart-Johnson told MSN Autos that the vehicles available under the current fiscal year 2013 contract and offered through the initiative include the Ford C-Max, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid andChevrolet Malibu Eco.
She added that the GSA fleet, which includes vehicles leased to various federal agencies, is currently made up of 10,672 hybrids, or 5.3 percent of all cars in federal fleets. In the last fiscal year, the GSA purchased just 919 hybrid vehicles.
Audi reveals TT ultra quattro
Lightweight concept points to limited production coupe.
By AutoWeek Thu 1:31 PM
Audi has taken inspiration from its motorsport activities in creating a new lightweight concept version of the TTS quattro. It will form the centerpiece of a display at parent companyVolkswagen's 2013 Wörthersee fan meet and greet in Austria next week.
Dubbed the TT ultra quattro, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder-powered coupe began life as an internal study into lightweight construction before Audi top brass stepped in and decided to take it public. The move provides clues to measures that are being taken in the engineering of the third-generation TT due to go on sale in North America in 2014.
Central to the developments brought to the new car are a series of weight-reduction initiatives. Together, they are claimed to shed some 659 pounds from the curb weight of the existing TTS quattro, bringing the four-wheel-drive TT ultra quattro to the scales at just 2,449 pounds.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
By AutoWeek Mon 8:25 AM
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
If Bob Lutz were emperor of the United States
In a semi-jocular speech to the SAE, the former GM vice chairman said he would raise the gas tax and lower fuel economy standards.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 9:52 AM
The SAE World Congress, which took place in Detroit last week, is typically a staid gathering of automotive engineers. So if you’re an event organizer, how do you help it make headlines? Get Bob Lutz, the controversial former General Motors vice chairman and loose cannon, to deliver a keynote. He didn’t disappoint.
SAE asked Lutz, who also served in executive posts at Ford and Chrysler, to frame his speech around what he would do if he was declared king of the auto industry for a week. Living up to his nickname of “Maximum Bob,” Lutz instead insisted he would need to reign over the entire United States to be effective, and would require the title of emperor and the ultimate power that such a position bestows.
In the speech, the conservative-leaning Lutz straddled the line between an old-school auto exec and green futurist, declaring that he would call for an “honest debate” on climate change (which he once called “a total crock”), a simultaneous rise in U.S. gas taxes and a rethinking of federal fuel efficiency standards and even high-speed railroads.
Turn your steering wheel into an electronic drum kit
Smack Attack seeks to make your commute a wicked percussion solo.
By James_Tate Tue 5:49 AM
You may laugh over the absurdity of having a full-featured drum kit on your steering wheel. But admit it -- we've all drummed inside our cars, even when we think no one is watching.
Inventor and self-proclaimed nerd Gregor Hanuschak thinks that plenty of people will want to jam out with his new invention, the Smack Attack.
Hanuschak, a graduate of MIT, Stanford and Harvard, certainly has a heck of a résumé, so we got him on the line for some Q&A.
"I got the initial inspiration for Smack Attack while driving across the U.S. from Philadelphia to Silicon Valley," he told MSN Autos. "Although for the most part I was getting a good amount of sleep every night, I still often had trouble staying alert at the wheel. I later learned that there is a term for what I was experiencing: 'highway hypnosis.' Experiencing highway hypnosis firsthand inspired me to design something to fight it and keep drivers alert."
We half agree -- you're definitely more likely to stay awake while playing the steering-wheel drums, but alert? That would probably depend on performing a killer solo.
Energy Department recovers $21 million from Fisker to pay back loans
Fisker still owes feds $192 million.
By AutoWeek Tue 7:14 AM
The U.S. Department of Energy says it recovered $21 million in cash from struggling Fisker Automotive that will go toward repaying nearly $200 million in loans extended under a U.S. program to spur advanced vehicle development.
The Energy Department recouped the cash on April 11, DOE spokeswoman Aoife McCarthy said in a statement Monday.
"Given the obvious difficulties the company is facing, we are taking strong and appropriate action on behalf of taxpayers," the agency said in a statement.
A spokeswoman from Sitrick and Co., Fisker's outside public relations agency, declined to comment.
Nissan Leaf now cheapest 4-door electric car on sale
At less than $30,000 without tax credits, we can actually start calling the Leaf a deal among electric cars.
By Clifford Atiyeh Wed 9:08 AM
When Nissan announced in January that it would sell a cheaper model of its all-electric Leaf, we figured the price would drop by about $3,000.
Wrong. Nissan has taken our offer and more than doubled it.
The 2013 Leaf S is now $6,400 cheaper than the base 2012 model, with a final price of $29,650, including destination. That's $325 less than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, a car with thin doors that shut with the same resounding seal as an open can of beans; that's our impression, but given the car's ultralow sales, many others must agree.
The Leaf S isn't the cheapest electric car on sale. That would be the $25,750 Smart fortwo electric drive, a microcar that can seat only two people and has barely any luggage space. Even the Chevrolet Spark EV, bigger than the Smart but smaller than the Leaf, is expected to cost more than $30,000 when it debuts later this year in Oregon and California.
NHTSA to automakers: Keep technology from distracting drivers
Voluntary recommendations are aimed at text messaging, Web browsing and social media features.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:29 PM
As automakers introduce cutting-edge infotainment systems that bring everything from connected navigation to social media into the dash, federal regulators want to reduce the driver distractions the technology can cause.
To that end, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued its first set of voluntary guidelines"that encourage automobile manufacturers to limit the distraction risk connected to electronic devices."
Unlike most statements from NHTSA, the guidelines are not formal proposals intended to become law, such as the proposed requirement for all cars to have backup cameras and event data recorders.
The guidelines are designed to “establish specific recommended criteria” for automakers’ in-dash electronics that require drivers to take their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road to operate. The guidelines recommend that automakers develop infotainment system that limit the time drivers have to take their eyes off the road to two seconds for each input (for, say, finding an address using a navigation system) and 12 seconds to perform an overall task (such as inputting a destination and routing to it).
Moreover, as infotainment systems start to incorporate features that more drivers are asking for, such as hands-free text messaging and Internet access, NHTSA guidelines are also expanding to keep these features from becoming dangerous distractions.
US government buying up to 10,000 new hybrids
Move will save 1 million gallons of fuel per year and reduce environmental footprint of federal fleet.
By Douglas Newcomb Thu 10:13 AM
To improve the overall fuel efficiency of U.S. government’s vehicle fleet, the Obama administration is directing federal agencies to buy up to new 10,000 hybrids.
The General Services Administration, the U.S. government’s purchasing agency, said this large expansion will save 1 million gallons of fuel per year throughout the life of the vehicles.
GSA will fund the incremental cost to replace eligible vehicles with new hybrid sedans for federal agencies that decide to participate in the program. GSA spokeswoman Jackeline Yvette Stewart-Johnson told MSN Autos that the vehicles available under the current fiscal year 2013 contract and offered through the initiative include the Ford C-Max, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid andChevrolet Malibu Eco.
She added that the GSA fleet, which includes vehicles leased to various federal agencies, is currently made up of 10,672 hybrids, or 5.3 percent of all cars in federal fleets. In the last fiscal year, the GSA purchased just 919 hybrid vehicles.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
By AutoWeek Mon 8:25 AM
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
If Bob Lutz were emperor of the United States
In a semi-jocular speech to the SAE, the former GM vice chairman said he would raise the gas tax and lower fuel economy standards.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 9:52 AM
The SAE World Congress, which took place in Detroit last week, is typically a staid gathering of automotive engineers. So if you’re an event organizer, how do you help it make headlines? Get Bob Lutz, the controversial former General Motors vice chairman and loose cannon, to deliver a keynote. He didn’t disappoint.
SAE asked Lutz, who also served in executive posts at Ford and Chrysler, to frame his speech around what he would do if he was declared king of the auto industry for a week. Living up to his nickname of “Maximum Bob,” Lutz instead insisted he would need to reign over the entire United States to be effective, and would require the title of emperor and the ultimate power that such a position bestows.
In the speech, the conservative-leaning Lutz straddled the line between an old-school auto exec and green futurist, declaring that he would call for an “honest debate” on climate change (which he once called “a total crock”), a simultaneous rise in U.S. gas taxes and a rethinking of federal fuel efficiency standards and even high-speed railroads.
Turn your steering wheel into an electronic drum kit
Smack Attack seeks to make your commute a wicked percussion solo.
By James_Tate Tue 5:49 AM
You may laugh over the absurdity of having a full-featured drum kit on your steering wheel. But admit it -- we've all drummed inside our cars, even when we think no one is watching.
Inventor and self-proclaimed nerd Gregor Hanuschak thinks that plenty of people will want to jam out with his new invention, the Smack Attack.
Hanuschak, a graduate of MIT, Stanford and Harvard, certainly has a heck of a résumé, so we got him on the line for some Q&A.
"I got the initial inspiration for Smack Attack while driving across the U.S. from Philadelphia to Silicon Valley," he told MSN Autos. "Although for the most part I was getting a good amount of sleep every night, I still often had trouble staying alert at the wheel. I later learned that there is a term for what I was experiencing: 'highway hypnosis.' Experiencing highway hypnosis firsthand inspired me to design something to fight it and keep drivers alert."
We half agree -- you're definitely more likely to stay awake while playing the steering-wheel drums, but alert? That would probably depend on performing a killer solo.
Energy Department recovers $21 million from Fisker to pay back loans
Fisker still owes feds $192 million.
By AutoWeek Tue 7:14 AM
The U.S. Department of Energy says it recovered $21 million in cash from struggling Fisker Automotive that will go toward repaying nearly $200 million in loans extended under a U.S. program to spur advanced vehicle development.
The Energy Department recouped the cash on April 11, DOE spokeswoman Aoife McCarthy said in a statement Monday.
"Given the obvious difficulties the company is facing, we are taking strong and appropriate action on behalf of taxpayers," the agency said in a statement.
A spokeswoman from Sitrick and Co., Fisker's outside public relations agency, declined to comment.
Nissan Leaf now cheapest 4-door electric car on sale
At less than $30,000 without tax credits, we can actually start calling the Leaf a deal among electric cars.
By Clifford Atiyeh Wed 9:08 AM
When Nissan announced in January that it would sell a cheaper model of its all-electric Leaf, we figured the price would drop by about $3,000.
Wrong. Nissan has taken our offer and more than doubled it.
The 2013 Leaf S is now $6,400 cheaper than the base 2012 model, with a final price of $29,650, including destination. That's $325 less than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, a car with thin doors that shut with the same resounding seal as an open can of beans; that's our impression, but given the car's ultralow sales, many others must agree.
The Leaf S isn't the cheapest electric car on sale. That would be the $25,750 Smart fortwo electric drive, a microcar that can seat only two people and has barely any luggage space. Even the Chevrolet Spark EV, bigger than the Smart but smaller than the Leaf, is expected to cost more than $30,000 when it debuts later this year in Oregon and California.
NHTSA to automakers: Keep technology from distracting drivers
Voluntary recommendations are aimed at text messaging, Web browsing and social media features.
By Douglas Newcomb Wed 12:29 PM
As automakers introduce cutting-edge infotainment systems that bring everything from connected navigation to social media into the dash, federal regulators want to reduce the driver distractions the technology can cause.
To that end, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued its first set of voluntary guidelines"that encourage automobile manufacturers to limit the distraction risk connected to electronic devices."
Unlike most statements from NHTSA, the guidelines are not formal proposals intended to become law, such as the proposed requirement for all cars to have backup cameras and event data recorders.
The guidelines are designed to “establish specific recommended criteria” for automakers’ in-dash electronics that require drivers to take their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road to operate. The guidelines recommend that automakers develop infotainment system that limit the time drivers have to take their eyes off the road to two seconds for each input (for, say, finding an address using a navigation system) and 12 seconds to perform an overall task (such as inputting a destination and routing to it).
Moreover, as infotainment systems start to incorporate features that more drivers are asking for, such as hands-free text messaging and Internet access, NHTSA guidelines are also expanding to keep these features from becoming dangerous distractions.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
By AutoWeek Mon 8:25 AM
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
If Bob Lutz were emperor of the United States
In a semi-jocular speech to the SAE, the former GM vice chairman said he would raise the gas tax and lower fuel economy standards.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 9:52 AM
The SAE World Congress, which took place in Detroit last week, is typically a staid gathering of automotive engineers. So if you’re an event organizer, how do you help it make headlines? Get Bob Lutz, the controversial former General Motors vice chairman and loose cannon, to deliver a keynote. He didn’t disappoint.
SAE asked Lutz, who also served in executive posts at Ford and Chrysler, to frame his speech around what he would do if he was declared king of the auto industry for a week. Living up to his nickname of “Maximum Bob,” Lutz instead insisted he would need to reign over the entire United States to be effective, and would require the title of emperor and the ultimate power that such a position bestows.
In the speech, the conservative-leaning Lutz straddled the line between an old-school auto exec and green futurist, declaring that he would call for an “honest debate” on climate change (which he once called “a total crock”), a simultaneous rise in U.S. gas taxes and a rethinking of federal fuel efficiency standards and even high-speed railroads.
Turn your steering wheel into an electronic drum kit
Smack Attack seeks to make your commute a wicked percussion solo.
By James_Tate Tue 5:49 AM
You may laugh over the absurdity of having a full-featured drum kit on your steering wheel. But admit it -- we've all drummed inside our cars, even when we think no one is watching.
Inventor and self-proclaimed nerd Gregor Hanuschak thinks that plenty of people will want to jam out with his new invention, the Smack Attack.
Hanuschak, a graduate of MIT, Stanford and Harvard, certainly has a heck of a résumé, so we got him on the line for some Q&A.
"I got the initial inspiration for Smack Attack while driving across the U.S. from Philadelphia to Silicon Valley," he told MSN Autos. "Although for the most part I was getting a good amount of sleep every night, I still often had trouble staying alert at the wheel. I later learned that there is a term for what I was experiencing: 'highway hypnosis.' Experiencing highway hypnosis firsthand inspired me to design something to fight it and keep drivers alert."
We half agree -- you're definitely more likely to stay awake while playing the steering-wheel drums, but alert? That would probably depend on performing a killer solo.
Energy Department recovers $21 million from Fisker to pay back loans
Fisker still owes feds $192 million.
By AutoWeek Tue 7:14 AM
The U.S. Department of Energy says it recovered $21 million in cash from struggling Fisker Automotive that will go toward repaying nearly $200 million in loans extended under a U.S. program to spur advanced vehicle development.
The Energy Department recouped the cash on April 11, DOE spokeswoman Aoife McCarthy said in a statement Monday.
"Given the obvious difficulties the company is facing, we are taking strong and appropriate action on behalf of taxpayers," the agency said in a statement.
A spokeswoman from Sitrick and Co., Fisker's outside public relations agency, declined to comment.
Nissan Leaf now cheapest 4-door electric car on sale
At less than $30,000 without tax credits, we can actually start calling the Leaf a deal among electric cars.
By Clifford Atiyeh Wed 9:08 AM
When Nissan announced in January that it would sell a cheaper model of its all-electric Leaf, we figured the price would drop by about $3,000.
Wrong. Nissan has taken our offer and more than doubled it.
The 2013 Leaf S is now $6,400 cheaper than the base 2012 model, with a final price of $29,650, including destination. That's $325 less than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, a car with thin doors that shut with the same resounding seal as an open can of beans; that's our impression, but given the car's ultralow sales, many others must agree.
The Leaf S isn't the cheapest electric car on sale. That would be the $25,750 Smart fortwo electric drive, a microcar that can seat only two people and has barely any luggage space. Even the Chevrolet Spark EV, bigger than the Smart but smaller than the Leaf, is expected to cost more than $30,000 when it debuts later this year in Oregon and California.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
By AutoWeek Mon 8:25 AM
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
If Bob Lutz were emperor of the United States
In a semi-jocular speech to the SAE, the former GM vice chairman said he would raise the gas tax and lower fuel economy standards.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 9:52 AM
The SAE World Congress, which took place in Detroit last week, is typically a staid gathering of automotive engineers. So if you’re an event organizer, how do you help it make headlines? Get Bob Lutz, the controversial former General Motors vice chairman and loose cannon, to deliver a keynote. He didn’t disappoint.
SAE asked Lutz, who also served in executive posts at Ford and Chrysler, to frame his speech around what he would do if he was declared king of the auto industry for a week. Living up to his nickname of “Maximum Bob,” Lutz instead insisted he would need to reign over the entire United States to be effective, and would require the title of emperor and the ultimate power that such a position bestows.
In the speech, the conservative-leaning Lutz straddled the line between an old-school auto exec and green futurist, declaring that he would call for an “honest debate” on climate change (which he once called “a total crock”), a simultaneous rise in U.S. gas taxes and a rethinking of federal fuel efficiency standards and even high-speed railroads.
Turn your steering wheel into an electronic drum kit
Smack Attack seeks to make your commute a wicked percussion solo.
By James_Tate Tue 5:49 AM
You may laugh over the absurdity of having a full-featured drum kit on your steering wheel. But admit it -- we've all drummed inside our cars, even when we think no one is watching.
Inventor and self-proclaimed nerd Gregor Hanuschak thinks that plenty of people will want to jam out with his new invention, the Smack Attack.
Hanuschak, a graduate of MIT, Stanford and Harvard, certainly has a heck of a résumé, so we got him on the line for some Q&A.
"I got the initial inspiration for Smack Attack while driving across the U.S. from Philadelphia to Silicon Valley," he told MSN Autos. "Although for the most part I was getting a good amount of sleep every night, I still often had trouble staying alert at the wheel. I later learned that there is a term for what I was experiencing: 'highway hypnosis.' Experiencing highway hypnosis firsthand inspired me to design something to fight it and keep drivers alert."
We half agree -- you're definitely more likely to stay awake while playing the steering-wheel drums, but alert? That would probably depend on performing a killer solo.
Energy Department recovers $21 million from Fisker to pay back loans
Fisker still owes feds $192 million.
By AutoWeek Tue 7:14 AM
The U.S. Department of Energy says it recovered $21 million in cash from struggling Fisker Automotive that will go toward repaying nearly $200 million in loans extended under a U.S. program to spur advanced vehicle development.
The Energy Department recouped the cash on April 11, DOE spokeswoman Aoife McCarthy said in a statement Monday.
"Given the obvious difficulties the company is facing, we are taking strong and appropriate action on behalf of taxpayers," the agency said in a statement.
A spokeswoman from Sitrick and Co., Fisker's outside public relations agency, declined to comment.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
By AutoWeek Mon 8:25 AM
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
If Bob Lutz were emperor of the United States
In a semi-jocular speech to the SAE, the former GM vice chairman said he would raise the gas tax and lower fuel economy standards.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 9:52 AM
The SAE World Congress, which took place in Detroit last week, is typically a staid gathering of automotive engineers. So if you’re an event organizer, how do you help it make headlines? Get Bob Lutz, the controversial former General Motors vice chairman and loose cannon, to deliver a keynote. He didn’t disappoint.
SAE asked Lutz, who also served in executive posts at Ford and Chrysler, to frame his speech around what he would do if he was declared king of the auto industry for a week. Living up to his nickname of “Maximum Bob,” Lutz instead insisted he would need to reign over the entire United States to be effective, and would require the title of emperor and the ultimate power that such a position bestows.
In the speech, the conservative-leaning Lutz straddled the line between an old-school auto exec and green futurist, declaring that he would call for an “honest debate” on climate change (which he once called “a total crock”), a simultaneous rise in U.S. gas taxes and a rethinking of federal fuel efficiency standards and even high-speed railroads.
Turn your steering wheel into an electronic drum kit
Smack Attack seeks to make your commute a wicked percussion solo.
By James_Tate Tue 5:49 AM
You may laugh over the absurdity of having a full-featured drum kit on your steering wheel. But admit it -- we've all drummed inside our cars, even when we think no one is watching.
Inventor and self-proclaimed nerd Gregor Hanuschak thinks that plenty of people will want to jam out with his new invention, the Smack Attack.
Hanuschak, a graduate of MIT, Stanford and Harvard, certainly has a heck of a résumé, so we got him on the line for some Q&A.
"I got the initial inspiration for Smack Attack while driving across the U.S. from Philadelphia to Silicon Valley," he told MSN Autos. "Although for the most part I was getting a good amount of sleep every night, I still often had trouble staying alert at the wheel. I later learned that there is a term for what I was experiencing: 'highway hypnosis.' Experiencing highway hypnosis firsthand inspired me to design something to fight it and keep drivers alert."
We half agree -- you're definitely more likely to stay awake while playing the steering-wheel drums, but alert? That would probably depend on performing a killer solo.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
By AutoWeek Mon 8:25 AM
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
If Bob Lutz were emperor of the United States
In a semi-jocular speech to the SAE, the former GM vice chairman said he would raise the gas tax and lower fuel economy standards.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 9:52 AM
The SAE World Congress, which took place in Detroit last week, is typically a staid gathering of automotive engineers. So if you’re an event organizer, how do you help it make headlines? Get Bob Lutz, the controversial former General Motors vice chairman and loose cannon, to deliver a keynote. He didn’t disappoint.
SAE asked Lutz, who also served in executive posts at Ford and Chrysler, to frame his speech around what he would do if he was declared king of the auto industry for a week. Living up to his nickname of “Maximum Bob,” Lutz instead insisted he would need to reign over the entire United States to be effective, and would require the title of emperor and the ultimate power that such a position bestows.
In the speech, the conservative-leaning Lutz straddled the line between an old-school auto exec and green futurist, declaring that he would call for an “honest debate” on climate change (which he once called “a total crock”), a simultaneous rise in U.S. gas taxes and a rethinking of federal fuel efficiency standards and even high-speed railroads.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
By AutoWeek Mon 8:25 AM
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
By Clifford Atiyeh Mon 6:36 AM
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.
Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
By Douglas Newcomb Mon 5:08 AM
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
By Exhaust Notes Apr 19, 2013 5:25AM
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 12:44PM
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.
I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 10:58AM
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.
That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
By AutoWeek Apr 18, 2013 7:55AM
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 18, 2013 6:23AM
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.
BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 2:02PM
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
By Douglas Newcomb Apr 17, 2013 1:02PM
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
WardsAuto World editors picked their favorite vehicle interiors after evaluating 46 vehicles that were either all-new or received interiors that were extensively upgraded.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
By Clifford Atiyeh Apr 17, 2013 9:13AM
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.
But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
By AutoWeek Apr 17, 2013 7:20AM
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Sheetmetal looks familiar in spite of an aggressive WRX concept shown in New York.
Development of the next Subaru WRX is well under way -- at least if spy photos showing a dazzlingly camouflaged, wing-wearing prototype at the Nürburgring are to be believed.
Certainly, whatever we're seeing is a long way from that mysterious, cobbled-together two-door mule we spotted last fall. If spy photos are to be believed, however, that striking concept that fired up enthusiasts at the New York auto showwas...pretty conceptual.
The camouflaged car seen here looks a lot more like a slightly hopped-up 2013 Subaru Impreza sedan than the aggressive, angular, very blue concept we saw in the Big Apple. Further, the car's giant rear wing looks like it was pulled right off a 2013 WRX STI -- though that's understandable given the stage of the car's development.
Volvo building race-tuned S60 Polestar for the Australians
It's the fastest Volvo sedan we've ever seen, but we won't ever see it. And we'd like it to pack even more power.
After teasing fans with a pair of neon blue concepts that looked ready to melt away the Swedish winter, Volvo is finally building one of them.But the S60 Polestar you see here isn't capable of tackling the hottest Mercedes AMGs or the Jaguar XFR-S, painted in the same shade. It's packing just 350 horsepower -- down from the ferocious 508 of the S60 and C30 Polestar concepts-- and it's for sale only in Australia, the land that commands its very own niche market of high-horsepower sedans.
"The Australian market for performance cars is, and has always been, strong," said Matt Braid, managing director of Volvo Cars Australia, in a statement. "We are delighted to be able to offer our customers the Volvo S60 Polestar, a car more than capable of getting into the thick of the action in this competitive segment of the market."
But to be honest, we'd like a little more juice on this S60, even if we'll never see one on our shores.
WardsAuto picks the top 10 car interiors
Seven slots go to Asian brands, and a pickup makes the cut for the first time.
From the luxury segment all the way down to subcompacts, car and truck interiors are getting better every year.
The annual Ward's 10 Best Interiors list highlights some of the best cabins in the business, and since MSN Autos has spent plenty of time in these 2013 models, we're apt to agree.
Seven of the 10 spots on the list were claimed by Asian automakers, and two entry-class cars made the cut. This year is also the first time WardsAuto editors picked a truck.
Leaked: Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4
The supercar, celebrating the company's 50th anniversary, will debut at Shanghai motor show.
Pictures of the Lamborghini Aventador LP720-4 50 Anniversario leaked from Germany’s Auto Bild magazine on Wednesday, before its reveal at the Shanghai auto show.
The new car is said to make 720 hp -- which would make sense, considering the name -- from the same 6.5-liter V12 engine as the basic Aventador. Power goes to all four wheels through Lamborghini’s ISR (independent shifting rod) transmission.
The new Lambo will wear a coat of Giallo Maggio (May yellow), which could be a reference to the month the company was founded in 1963. Lower carbon-fiber aero elements have also been redesigned, leading to a claimed 50 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency.
We’ll learn more as the Shanghai auto show approaches. For now, check out the photos below.
BMW selling 77-year-old gearboxes
For those lucky enough to need one, the original 4-speed manual for the 328 roadster is back.
What's old is always new after enough time, even when it's a 4-speed gearbox sourced from 1936.BMW and transmission partner ZF -- which is now up to nine speeds in its quick-shifing automatics -- are rebuilding the original gearbox from the gorgeous 328 roadster sold from 1936 to 1940. As just 464 cars were made, replacement gearboxes for this prewar German convertible had been very tough to find, if not impossible.
Of BMW's 40,000 classic parts in stock, most go back to the first 2-, 3- and 5-Series models, with a few more relegated to earlier models such as the equally gorgeous and rare 507 roadster and the oddball Isetta microcar of the 1950s. The original 328 and its 2.0-liter straight-six engine won more than 200 races in its day, including the famous Italian Mille Miglia and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Diesel-powered Chevy Cruze beats Jetta TDI at 46 mpg highway
Promises more equipment for similar starting price.
General Motors said the 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Turbo Diesel will deliver an estimated 46 miles per gallon on the highway, besting the company's initial target by four mpg.
The estimate is also good enough to top the rival 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI, which achieves 42 mpg on the highway. The Cruze's 2-liter turbo diesel engine produces 148 horsepower, compared with 140 hp for the Jetta diesel.
After its February introduction at the Chicago auto show, GM engineers continued to make adjustments to the Cruze diesel to improve its fuel economy. It emits 90 percent less nitrogen oxide and particulate emissions than earlier diesel models, according to GM.
Protean says electric wheel motors ready for production in 2014
While it's not reinventing the wheel entirely, Protean Electric is at least changing most of what we know about vehicle drivetrains.
Imagine being surrounded by four twin-turbo Mercedes V12 engines, their massive torque at your instant disposal, and rushing off in near silence.That's essentially how tomorrow's electric cars could work if a new in-wheel motor gets approval from major automakers.
Protean Electric, a private British engineering firm now headquartered in Michigan, has been toying with a radical concept since 2007. Instead of routing power from a single electric motor through a transmission and differential, Protean (then named PML Flightlink) put four deep-dish motors at the wheel hubs of a Mini Cooper, effectively giving each motor direct control without any traditional power losses.
The idea has been around for awhile, as anyone who has seen an electric bicycle can attest. But Protean's motor is seriously powerful.
Used car special: Low-mileage McLaren F1 for a few million
While low mileage is great in most cases, putting fewer than 200 on the world's most glorious supercar -- over 17 years -- should be a crime.
Like the freaks who vacuum-sealed their "Tickle Me Elmos" and traded Beanie Babies for 20 times their sticker price, the owner of this McLaren F1 has some problems.I'm hardly jealous of money and success. Rather, I'm hurt someone would keep the world's fastest production car sitting in a garage for 17 years and claim to have never driven it, not even to the grocery store. Hell, crash it to smithereens and rebuild it -- Rowan Atkinson did, and he's reportedly not losing much, if any, value to his F1.
That's because the F1 is the King Kong of supercars. For more than a decade, no other production car could match its outright speed and ghastly acceleration. Its official 240-mph Guinness-verified top speed wasn't broken until seven years after production had ended, and the car that did it (the Swedish Koenigsegg CCR) did so by but a few tenths.
Recall: 204,196 Honda models for shift lock failure
The shifter can be moved out of park without depressing the brake on certain 2012-2013 models.
Honda is recalling 204,196 cars to fix brake-shift interlocks that could fail and cause the shifter to be moved without depressing the brake, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.The 2012-2013 CR-V and Odyssey, and the 2013 Acura RDXhave interlock system parts that can contract in "subfreezing temperatures" and "become slow to return to its proper position," Honda said in a statement. That means the shifter could be moved out of park without pressing the brake pedal, as is required on all vehicles to prevent unintended acceleration. Honda said it has not received any reports of related accidents or injuries.
Dealers will install a new brake shift interlock system in mid-May. Affected owners can visit the official recall websites (www.recalls.honda.com and www.recalls.acura.com) or call the company at 1-800-999-1009.
Interlock failures have been a chronic problem for Honda, particularly on its ignition systems, whereby the key is supposed to be locked into the ignition slot until the car is put into park. In December, Honda recalled 870,000 models, including the 2003-2004 Odyssey, for ignition interlocks that could allow the driver to pull the key out of the ignition when the vehicle is not in park.
In 2003, Honda recalled more than 563,000 vehicles, including the first-generation 1999 Odyssey, for ignition interlock failures. The same problem resurfaced in a 2005 recall of more than 483,000 Accords, Preludes and Acura TLs. In 2010, Honda recalled more than 384,000 Accords, Civics and Elements from the 2003 and 2004 model years, again for the same problem. NHTSA had collected reports of 18 alleged crashes and one injury due to the 2010 recall.
[Source: NHTSA]
To curb distracted driving, banning smartphone maps is a slippery slope
California judge's says use of smartphone navigation apps behind the wheel is illegal.
Driver distraction is nothing new. When the car radio was introduced in the 1930s, politicians and certain members of the public were concerned that distraction caused by the technology would wreak havoc on the highways. Before that, some even wanted to ban the rearview mirror for the same reason. combating
Of course, everything from eating behind the wheel to talking to passengers can cause drivers to not pay attention. But smartphones are now public enemy No. 1 since they’ve ushered in a Pandora’s box of new distractions: text messages, email, social media and Web browsing -- not to mention Pandora itself.
While navigation apps may not come to mind as belonging to this category, a California judge recently ruled that fiddling with a smartphone for navigation purposes behind the wheel is illegal, equivalent to talking on the phone while driving. The case involved Steven Spriggs, who was cited for “driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone.” Spriggs argued that he should not have received a ticket for using his phone while driving because he was using a map app.
Smart fortwo gives you wings because it actually has them
Limited-edition microcar gets blessed by wingman and fashion designer Jeremy Scott.
A new Smart fortwo can actually give you wings -- unlike what happens after drinking those nasty cans of Red Bull.Smart is putting its wild winged concept from the 2012 Tokyo Motor Show, designed with help from fashion designer Jeremy Scott, into a limited production model called the forjeremy.
It's a regular fortwo "for cool people all over the world," according to Scott, with two wingtips glued above the taillights, deep gloss white Alubeam paint, white wheels and white diamond-stitched leather seats.
Unfortunately, those wings don't make the fortwo move any quicker, as there's only 102 horsepower on tap from its 3-cylinder gasoline engine.
Ford Escort concept revealed at Shanghai auto show
Could the old compact model come back?
The Ford Escort is back—at least as a concept at theShanghai auto show.
The simply-styled Escort concept was revealed this weekend in Shanghai, and it suggests design possibilities for a Ford compact sedan.
While not offering extensive details, Ford said the Escort is meant to be “stylish,” but not “arrogant or “pretentious.” The result is one of the more basic concepts shown by any major automaker in recent memory, though design cues include blinged-out LED headlights in the rough shape of a figure eight and an upright grille. It rolls on 18-inch chrome wheels and has a creased hood in front and short, sloping deck in back. The concept's powertrain was not disclosed.
If Bob Lutz were emperor of the United States
In a semi-jocular speech to the SAE, the former GM vice chairman said he would raise the gas tax and lower fuel economy standards.
The SAE World Congress, which took place in Detroit last week, is typically a staid gathering of automotive engineers. So if you’re an event organizer, how do you help it make headlines? Get Bob Lutz, the controversial former General Motors vice chairman and loose cannon, to deliver a keynote. He didn’t disappoint.
SAE asked Lutz, who also served in executive posts at Ford and Chrysler, to frame his speech around what he would do if he was declared king of the auto industry for a week. Living up to his nickname of “Maximum Bob,” Lutz instead insisted he would need to reign over the entire United States to be effective, and would require the title of emperor and the ultimate power that such a position bestows.
In the speech, the conservative-leaning Lutz straddled the line between an old-school auto exec and green futurist, declaring that he would call for an “honest debate” on climate change (which he once called “a total crock”), a simultaneous rise in U.S. gas taxes and a rethinking of federal fuel efficiency standards and even high-speed railroads.
Turn your steering wheel into an electronic drum kit
Smack Attack seeks to make your commute a wicked percussion solo.
You may laugh over the absurdity of having a full-featured drum kit on your steering wheel. But admit it -- we've all drummed inside our cars, even when we think no one is watching.
Inventor and self-proclaimed nerd Gregor Hanuschak thinks that plenty of people will want to jam out with his new invention, the Smack Attack.
Hanuschak, a graduate of MIT, Stanford and Harvard, certainly has a heck of a résumé, so we got him on the line for some Q&A.
"I got the initial inspiration for Smack Attack while driving across the U.S. from Philadelphia to Silicon Valley," he told MSN Autos. "Although for the most part I was getting a good amount of sleep every night, I still often had trouble staying alert at the wheel. I later learned that there is a term for what I was experiencing: 'highway hypnosis.' Experiencing highway hypnosis firsthand inspired me to design something to fight it and keep drivers alert."
We half agree -- you're definitely more likely to stay awake while playing the steering-wheel drums, but alert? That would probably depend on performing a killer solo.
Energy Department recovers $21 million from Fisker to pay back loans
Fisker still owes feds $192 million.
The U.S. Department of Energy says it recovered $21 million in cash from struggling Fisker Automotive that will go toward repaying nearly $200 million in loans extended under a U.S. program to spur advanced vehicle development.
The Energy Department recouped the cash on April 11, DOE spokeswoman Aoife McCarthy said in a statement Monday.
"Given the obvious difficulties the company is facing, we are taking strong and appropriate action on behalf of taxpayers," the agency said in a statement.
A spokeswoman from Sitrick and Co., Fisker's outside public relations agency, declined to comment.
Nissan Leaf now cheapest 4-door electric car on sale
At less than $30,000 without tax credits, we can actually start calling the Leaf a deal among electric cars.
When Nissan announced in January that it would sell a cheaper model of its all-electric Leaf, we figured the price would drop by about $3,000.Wrong. Nissan has taken our offer and more than doubled it.
The 2013 Leaf S is now $6,400 cheaper than the base 2012 model, with a final price of $29,650, including destination. That's $325 less than the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, a car with thin doors that shut with the same resounding seal as an open can of beans; that's our impression, but given the car's ultralow sales, many others must agree.
The Leaf S isn't the cheapest electric car on sale. That would be the $25,750 Smart fortwo electric drive, a microcar that can seat only two people and has barely any luggage space. Even the Chevrolet Spark EV, bigger than the Smart but smaller than the Leaf, is expected to cost more than $30,000 when it debuts later this year in Oregon and California.
NHTSA to automakers: Keep technology from distracting drivers
Voluntary recommendations are aimed at text messaging, Web browsing and social media features.
As automakers introduce cutting-edge infotainment systems that bring everything from connected navigation to social media into the dash, federal regulators want to reduce the driver distractions the technology can cause.
To that end, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued its first set of voluntary guidelines"that encourage automobile manufacturers to limit the distraction risk connected to electronic devices."
Unlike most statements from NHTSA, the guidelines are not formal proposals intended to become law, such as the proposed requirement for all cars to have backup cameras and event data recorders.
The guidelines are designed to “establish specific recommended criteria” for automakers’ in-dash electronics that require drivers to take their hands off the wheel or eyes off the road to operate. The guidelines recommend that automakers develop infotainment system that limit the time drivers have to take their eyes off the road to two seconds for each input (for, say, finding an address using a navigation system) and 12 seconds to perform an overall task (such as inputting a destination and routing to it).
Moreover, as infotainment systems start to incorporate features that more drivers are asking for, such as hands-free text messaging and Internet access, NHTSA guidelines are also expanding to keep these features from becoming dangerous distractions.
US government buying up to 10,000 new hybrids
Move will save 1 million gallons of fuel per year and reduce environmental footprint of federal fleet.
To improve the overall fuel efficiency of U.S. government’s vehicle fleet, the Obama administration is directing federal agencies to buy up to new 10,000 hybrids.
The General Services Administration, the U.S. government’s purchasing agency, said this large expansion will save 1 million gallons of fuel per year throughout the life of the vehicles.
GSA will fund the incremental cost to replace eligible vehicles with new hybrid sedans for federal agencies that decide to participate in the program. GSA spokeswoman Jackeline Yvette Stewart-Johnson told MSN Autos that the vehicles available under the current fiscal year 2013 contract and offered through the initiative include the Ford C-Max, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid andChevrolet Malibu Eco.
She added that the GSA fleet, which includes vehicles leased to various federal agencies, is currently made up of 10,672 hybrids, or 5.3 percent of all cars in federal fleets. In the last fiscal year, the GSA purchased just 919 hybrid vehicles.
Audi reveals TT ultra quattro
Lightweight concept points to limited production coupe.
Audi has taken inspiration from its motorsport activities in creating a new lightweight concept version of the TTS quattro. It will form the centerpiece of a display at parent companyVolkswagen's 2013 Wörthersee fan meet and greet in Austria next week.
Dubbed the TT ultra quattro, the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder-powered coupe began life as an internal study into lightweight construction before Audi top brass stepped in and decided to take it public. The move provides clues to measures that are being taken in the engineering of the third-generation TT due to go on sale in North America in 2014.
Central to the developments brought to the new car are a series of weight-reduction initiatives. Together, they are claimed to shed some 659 pounds from the curb weight of the existing TTS quattro, bringing the four-wheel-drive TT ultra quattro to the scales at just 2,449 pounds.
Toyota Me.We concept switches styles with snap-off plastic
The French-designed electric car shows off the automaker's fun side.
By Clifford Atiyeh Thu 1:32 PM
Occasionally, Toyota unbuttons the top button of its dress shirt and lets loose with something totally impractical. But while the electric concept you see here isn't wild like the company's Lexus LFA, it's about as crazy as this conservative automaker is going to get.French industrial designer Jean-Marie Massaud dreamed up the Me.We, a minimalist 5-door hatchback that's partVolkswagen Thing, part MINI Countryman. Thanks to removable plastic body panels remarkably similar to those used on the Little Tikes Cozy Coupe, the Me.We can be configured as a convertible or a pickup truck.
All of the polypropylene body panels snap right off -- doors, hood, bumpers, roof -- you name it, it's probably gone. Together with an aluminum frame, the Me.We weighs a scant 1,653 pounds, which means there's a good chance it got stuck in the sand right after this photo was taken.
Access to third-row seats in the big SUV is as easy as hitting a switch on the dashboard.
By Douglas Newcomb Fri 8:03 AM
Any luxury vehicle should be big on comfort, and a large luxury SUV with three rows of seats should make life even easier. They don’t come much larger than the 2013 Infiniti QX56, a throwback to an era of supersized SUVs and among the last of a bulky breed.
While the QX56 is loaded with comforts, such as a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel and tri-zone climate controls, one feature stood out to me: Pressing a switch on the dashboard remotely tips the passenger-side second-row captain’s chair forward for easy access to the third--row seats.
While this may not seem like a big deal, it’s one of those little luxuries you don't know you need until you need it, as I found out after a long day of shuttling kids around.
Market and political forces could kill GreenTech Automotive before it builds one car in the U.S.
By James_Tate Fri 10:19 AM
The popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles has drawn new blood to the auto industry in ways we haven’t seen in decades.
With that, there's yet another under-the-radar automaker you’ve likely never heard of before: the American-Chinese partnership known as GreenTech Automotive.
The company wants to import the JAC J3, a Chinese-built compact sedan made by a state-owned automaker, and install electric powertrains at a plant in Mississippi. GreenTech promises a range of more than 100 miles from its 19-kilowatt-hour battery. The company says it will begin a pilot program of 2,000 cars starting in late 2013.
GreenTech was established in 2009 as a partnership between American and Chinese businessmen who, after purchasing a Hong Kong-based electric vehicle manufacturer in 2010, had planned to build and sell a smaller electric model called MyCar.
Renault's tiny Twizy gets the Formula One treatment
Nutso urban runabout boasts latest F1 hybrid tech, hot hatch performance.
By AutoWeek Fri 10:39 AM
Renault has applied the state-of-the-art kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) used in its Formula One drivelines to the pint-sized Twizy electric car.
The result? A new zero-emission concept whose claimed 0-62-mph acceleration time matches that of the French carmaker's fastest production car, the RenaultSport Megane 265, at 6.0 seconds.
The concept has been dubbed the Twizy F1, and it represents the result of a collaboration between engineers from RenaultSport's production-car operations and RenaultSport's F1 department.
The flamboyant single-seater was conceived to show that Formula One technology can successfully be applied to road cars; the KERS used to power the rapid rear-wheel drive Twizy is brought over without any significant change from the driveline used by the Red Bull, Lotus, Williams and Cataham teams, says RenaultSport.
Market and political forces could kill GreenTech Automotive before it builds one car in the U.S.
By James_Tate Fri 10:19 AM
The popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles has drawn new blood to the auto industry in ways we haven’t seen in decades.
With that, there's yet another under-the-radar automaker you’ve likely never heard of before: the American-Chinese partnership known as GreenTech Automotive.
The company wants to import the JAC J3, a Chinese-built compact sedan made by a state-owned automaker, and install electric powertrains at a plant in Mississippi. GreenTech promises a range of more than 100 miles from its 19-kilowatt-hour battery. The company says it will begin a pilot program of 2,000 cars starting in late 2013.
GreenTech was established in 2009 as a partnership between American and Chinese businessmen who, after purchasing a Hong Kong-based electric vehicle manufacturer in 2010, had planned to build and sell a smaller electric model called MyCar.
Market and political forces could kill GreenTech Automotive before it builds one car in the U.S.
The popularity of hybrid and electric vehicles has drawn new blood to the auto industry in ways we haven’t seen in decades.
With that, there's yet another under-the-radar automaker you’ve likely never heard of before: the American-Chinese partnership known as GreenTech Automotive.
The company wants to import the JAC J3, a Chinese-built compact sedan made by a state-owned automaker, and install electric powertrains at a plant in Mississippi. GreenTech promises a range of more than 100 miles from its 19-kilowatt-hour battery. The company says it will begin a pilot program of 2,000 cars starting in late 2013.
GreenTech was established in 2009 as a partnership between American and Chinese businessmen who, after purchasing a Hong Kong-based electric vehicle manufacturer in 2010, had planned to build and sell a smaller electric model called MyCar.
Renault's tiny Twizy gets the Formula One treatment
Nutso urban runabout boasts latest F1 hybrid tech, hot hatch performance.
Renault has applied the state-of-the-art kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) used in its Formula One drivelines to the pint-sized Twizy electric car.
The result? A new zero-emission concept whose claimed 0-62-mph acceleration time matches that of the French carmaker's fastest production car, the RenaultSport Megane 265, at 6.0 seconds.
The concept has been dubbed the Twizy F1, and it represents the result of a collaboration between engineers from RenaultSport's production-car operations and RenaultSport's F1 department.
The flamboyant single-seater was conceived to show that Formula One technology can successfully be applied to road cars; the KERS used to power the rapid rear-wheel drive Twizy is brought over without any significant change from the driveline used by the Red Bull, Lotus, Williams and Cataham teams, says RenaultSport.
Recall: More than 10,000 Subaru Foresters for curling floor mats
Heat can cause warp the mats and cause them to block the driver's pedals in 2014 models.
By Exhaust Notes Fri 10:54 AM
Subaru is recalling 10,137 Foresters to fix floor mats that can curl and block the driver's pedals, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.Floor mats on certain 2014 Forester crossovers can curl "when exposed to heat," Subaru said, which could mean anything from engine and transmission heat radiated through the driver's footwell to ducted hot air from the climate-control system. On April 1, the automaker found 21 Forester models at a Washington state port with curled floor mats and later instructed dealers to remove floor mats after finding that the resin used on the mat's backing was defective.
Subaru dealers will begin replacing all four carpeted floor mats by the end of April. Owners can call Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Seventh-generation Corvette continues the tradition of attainable American performance.
By AutoWeek Fri 11:20 AM
The running line regarding 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingraypricing has been vague. It usually goes something like: If you can afford today's car, you will be able to afford the C7.
That was proved true Friday, when Chevy said the latest generation of the iconic sports car will start at $51,995, including destination charges. That is $1,400 more than the 2013 model.
The convertible starts at $56,995, also a $1,400 increase compared with the 2013 drop-top. The Corvette coupe is expected arrive in showrooms in September, followed by the convertible late in the year.
The C7 runs a 6.2-liter LT1 V8 pushing out at least 450 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque, capable of sprints to 60 mph in less than four seconds. It can be paired with a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters or a seven-speed manual gearbox. The aluminum frame is 99 pounds lighter than the previous generation, contributing to significant weight savings.
Nearly 44,000 Fit hatchbacks are being recalled for an update to the stability control software.
By Exhaust Notes Fri 2:35 PM
Honda is recalling 43,782 Fit hatchbacks to update software for the stability control, the automaker said late Friday.The 2012-2013 Fit Sport has a stability control system that allows the car to skid at a greater angle than allowed by federal requirements.
The issue is due to the Sport model's larger tires, which may allow the vehicle to drive more quickly around turns, a situation the stability control may not recognize in time to prevent the car from skidding.
(In reality, this isn't a defect so much as an added safety measure for those used to computer control. We say if you can't manage cornering a front-wheel-drive Honda hatchback by yourself, then you shouldn't be out on the road, period.)
That said, Honda dealers will reprogram the stability control software beginning in mid-May. Owners can find out more at www.recalls.honda.com or by calling Honda at 1-800-999-1009.
[Source: Honda]
All-electric minicar can travel 82 miles between charges.
By AutoWeek Wed 2:36 PM
General Motors says its Chevrolet Spark EV will get the equivalent of 119 mpg in combined city and highway driving, the best efficiency of any U.S. car sold to retail buyers.
The 2014 Spark EV, which will be launched this summer in California and Oregon, will have an EPA-rated range of 82 miles when fully charged, GM said in a statement.
Other EVs sold or slated for introduction in the United States include the Nissan Leaf, Fiat 500e, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Scion iQ EV, Honda Fit EV and the Focus Electric.
The Scion iQ EV is EPA rated at the equivalent of 121 mpg but is used only in car-sharing demonstration programs and not sold at retailers, a Scion spokesman said. The EPA created the mpg equivalency rating to help consumers compare the efficiency of gasoline-powered and electric vehicles.
The Fiat 500e, which Chrysler Group is launching this month in California, has a longer range than the Spark EV, at 87 miles. The Leaf, the top-selling pure EV, has a 73-mile range.
India's once red-hot car market shrank for the first time in a decade in the last financial year, industry figures showed on Wednesday, underlining the scale of the slowdown in Asia's third-biggest economy.
Passenger car sales fell by 6.7 percent in the financial year to March 2013 to 1.89 million units compared with from 2.03 million the previous year, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) said in a statement.
Sales in March alone plunged 22.5 percent year-on-year, raising questions about huge investment programmes announced by foreign car companies, such as Ford (NYSE: F - news) , which are building new manufacturing capacity.
"The basic problem has been the big downturn in the economy and high interest rates. They have knocked sales," Sugato Sen, SIAM deputy director general, told AFP.
Asia's third-largest economy is estimated to have grown by a mere five percent in the financial year to March 2013, its slowest pace for a decade attributed to low consumer spending and a slump in business investment.
Many blame the left-leaning government led by the Congress party which has presided over a period of high inflation and a string of corruption scandals which have knocked confidence since its reelection in 2009.
The last time annual car sales shrank was in 2002-03, SIAM said.
The performance was a far cry from SIAM's forecast at the beginning of the last financial year of 10-12 percent annual growth for 2012-2013.
"These figures have disappointed all our earlier forecasts -- there has been a reversal in buying behaviour," Sen said.
The gloom represents a turnaround from the scorching growth in most of the years up to 2010-11 when sales expanded 20 to 30 percent annually, prompting foreign automakers to shift into the nation to offset weakness in developed markets.
Indian car buyers now are being bombarded with "buy now, pay later" offers as sellers battle to boost consumer demand. Other offers to lure buyers back into showrooms include interest-free repayments and discounts of up to 20 percent.
To reduce inventories, automakers have been shutting production lines, while investment is already slowing, according to industry figures.
Out of the individual companies, passenger sales of India's top carmaker, Japanese-controlled Suzuki Maruti, rose 4.4 percent to 1.05 million units the last financial year.
French carmaker Renault, which re-entered India's market just two years back, was a rare bright spot selling 52,463 units, a rise of 1,331 percent helped by its popular $14,300 Duster SUV.
SIAM president S. Sandilya said the auto body expected car sales to pick up in 2013-2014, growing by three to five percent year on year.
"Last year was a bad year, no doubt about that, but we do hope that things will get better with some government initiatives which have been announced to boost growth," Sandilya told a news conference.
"Ultimately, with this country's population size (of 1.2 billion people), incomes growing, the low penetration of vehicles in this country -- the future is very bright for the industry -- that is a given fact," he said.
SIAM says that the number of cars per 1,000 people in India is just 12.
Long feted as “the next China,” the Indian car market turned into a big disappointment: India’s annual car sales fell for the first time in a decade in the financial year just ended, Reuters says.
“Carmakers in India, two years ago the world’s hottest growth market after China, have seen high interest rates, rising fuel prices and prolonged economic gloom turn an industry recently growing at 30 percent a year into one plagued by huge discounts, showrooms full of unsold cars, and chronic overcapacity.”
Car sales in the financial year that ended March 31 fell an annual 6.7 percent, according to data from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) released on Wednesday. Last year, India’s car sales grew a tepid 2.2 percent. Similarly lackluster sales are expected for this year.
At the same time, carmakers are sitting on huge amounts of newly-built capacity. Says Reuters:
“Last month, Tata Motors Ltd’s factory in Gujarat, built solely to manufacture its much-vaunted low-cost Nano, cranked out just 1,282 cars, a miserly 6 percent of total possible capacity at the 250,000 cars a year plant.”
India’s average industry utilization level stands at alarming 55 percent, with more capacity coming on line in the next few years.
Recall: 3,037 Ford, Lincoln models for leaking fuel tanks
On certain 2012 and 2013 models, the fuel tank may not have been manufactured to sufficient strength.
Ford is recalling 3,037 cars for fuel tanks that can leak, according to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.Seams on the plastic fuel tanks of the 2012 Ford Taurus andLincoln MKS and the 2013 Ford Explorer may not have been manufactured properly and can leak fuel, Ford said. In a collision, the tanks may not be strong enough to contain the fuel at certain speeds.
Ford said it discovered the problem in February 2012 after receiving two complaints from Saudi Arabian owners. Problems with the tank molding process led to the weaker seams, Ford said.
Dealers will replace the fuel tanks, as needed, beginning April 22. Owners can call Ford at 1-866-436-7332 for more information.
Why your smartphone is smarter than your car radio
Chevy Spark’s MyLink system's use of a connected portable device points to the future of infotainment.
Automakers are adding all kinds of connected services and applications to the dash. Some embed connectivity into the car, while others use Internet-enabled portable devices.
But as this technology evolves, more automakers are combining the two: embedded connectivity for stable, critical features such as automatic crash notification (ACN), and tethered smartphones for cloud-based infotainment using apps such as Pandora and Stitcher.
Examples of this “hybrid” approach include BMW’s ConnectedDrive and Lexus' Enform among luxury automakers, and Chevrolet with the Spark's and Sonic’s MyLink system on the lower end of the market. While the Spark and Sonic both have OnStar for ACN and other emergency services, the version of MyLink in these cars uses a smartphone, not only for apps but also for voice activation.
After spending a week in a 2013 Spark, I believe this sort of system represents the future of car infotainment.
That’s because in-dash electronics are at a distinct disadvantage compared with the portable devices that connect to them. A head unit on a brand-new car was likely designed about four years ago, which is typically how long it takes to plan and produce a new model. So the electronics are dated as soon as the vehicle rolls off a dealer’s lot.
Compare this with a smartphone that was designed in half that time and can be easily updated through software and firmware upgrades. While a few automakers have introduced software updates for their infotainment systems, it’s still a somewhat clunky process that involves downloads from an automaker's website to a USB drive, and then manually updating the software through the car’s USB drive. Smartphones can be easily updated by syncing with a computer or even over-the-air without any involvement from the owner.
It’s MyLink’s use of two features -- navigation and voice recognition -- on a connected smartphone that makes it smarter than most other infotainment head units. And the two features are as good as, if not better than, similar systems other automakers have embedded in their cars.
For navigation, the Spark’s MyLink system uses a dedicated smartphone app called BringGo instead of embedded navigation. I found that the $60 app works much better and has more features than an automaker’s in-dash navigation costing $600 or more.
And if you’ve used smartphone nav apps, you know that features such as local search and on-the-fly map updates can put most embedded systems to shame, although you have to use the app's tiny controls and the smartphone’s small screen. But with MyLink, the app's control is right on the car’s 7-inch screen.
MyLink also doesn’t have embedded voice recognition technology; instead, it uses the VR feature on a connected smartphone. So when you press the voice command button on the steering wheel, you talk to your smartphonerather than the car’s onboard VR.
This not only keeps costs down, but VR on a smartphone is sometimes more accurate than some automakers' embedded VR systems. Chevy MyLink is also the only system that currently works with Apple’s new Siri Eyes Free, which offers voice-activated features such as calendar reminders and the ability to find nearby gas stations.
Industry analysts, members of the tech media and consumers have questioned why automakers don’t just provide a screen in the dash that serves as a display for a connected smartphone. Many tech-savvy car buyers have all their info and cloud-based content on their smartphone. So why not just allow them to use it via the car’s controls rather than learning a new and often more complicated user interface for the car -- and paying extra for it?
While this isn’t possible due to driver-distraction issues -- no one needs "Angry Birds" in the dash, after all -- there is a push to do just this. The Car Connectivity Consortium’s MirrorLink standard, which has the backing of several automakers and automotive suppliers, is designed to transfer the user interface of a smartphone to a car’s in-dash display in a limited and safe fashion.
New York 2013: GM President Mark Reuss talks tech
Executive responsible for new Camaro Z/28 explains why GM is as focused on processing power as it is on horsepower.
Encouraged by the hoots of muscle-car enthusiasts attending Chevrolet’s 2013 New York Auto Show press conference on Wednesday, Mark Reuss, General Motors' North American president and resident motorhead, couldn’t contain his excitement when revealing the new Camaro Z/28.
A couple of hours before, Reuss faced a group of fanatical journalists of a different sort -- tech writers and bloggers who approach the car as a giant gadget rather than just a means of motoring.
While obviously more at home talking horsepower, Reuss was well-versed in his company’s ambitious technology plans as he discussed how processing power and portable-device integration are becoming crucial to a new generation of car buyers.
On GM’s various infotainment strategies for its different brands:
Reuss: You’ll see different approaches. In a Spark, we have a bring-your-own-media approach. This is a car that’s $12,000 to $13,000. So that car in that price point is one approach to connectivity that basically replicates what you have on your phone in a simple, easy-to-use way.
The Cadillac Cue system embeds more of that technology into the car. It replicates a lot of what a tablet or smartphone would do. And while the demographic for Cadillac may not be the very youngest, our population is permanently changed by the use of those devices, no matter what your generation. So people immediately understand what that is and how to use it.
Those are bookends of the portfolio. And if you look at the Cue system, it’s quite different than the Chevrolet MyLinkin an Impala. So we’re very flexible. We will sell what we think the customer wants based on the feedback we’ve gotten, and we will be able to adapt, platform-wise, to just about anything anybody wants. That’s why we did it that way. We weren’t focused on a silver bullet for any one of these segments because it changes so fast, and so we want to be able to adapt.
On GM’s recent announcement of bringing 4G connectivity to the car through AT&T:
Reuss: We’ve had OnStar in the car for 17 years. That demonstrates the commitment we made [to connectivity]. That’s a long-term financial commitment to … expansion of that pipe we’ve invested in.
I see all the different devices here today [points to bloggers’ phones and tablets on the table]. That’s a reflection of who you are, a reflection of how you live. And linked with 4G capability in the car, if done right, that harvests that early investment in OnStar.
It becomes an amazing value for the customer. If you have a GM vehicle and you have OnStar, we’re tapping into the car to deliver [data] through your handheld device. Through that pipeline [you can get] your tire pressure, fuel economy, preventive maintenance schedule -- all of those things are delivered now to one app through Chevrolet,GMC and Cadillac.
It takes the challenge of thinking about when my oil needs to be changed, when my tires need to be rotated, it takes that away from your busy life. Those are big things, because the world is not getting less complex, and these types of tools make your daily life less complex.
On the impact of bringing 4G into the car and having AT&T as a partner:
Reuss: We want to be able to deliver content and make your car better very rapidly. So this is a really key part of that. What it means to the content we deliver in the car is that it’s going to change every six months to a year. That’s going to give GM agility that no one else has. The content we want to be able to deliver could change as rapidly as the electronics industry.
On what GM is doing differently on infotainment versus competitors:
Reuss: What you see … like in a Spark, [are] simple things people understand, like Siri Eyes Free. We want to be first with things like that. People get that; they know what that is and it’s not something they have to relearn in a car because it’s a completely different interface than anything else in the market. They know it’s going to be simple, they’re not going to pay a lot of money for it, and it’s going to help them make their lives easier. Those are the key fundamentals we’re going to make sure everybody gets
Now there's really no excuse for your family hauler looking like a garbage bin.
It's official: The 2014 Honda Odyssey sucks.
On top-level Touring Elite models, a built-in vacuum can inhale crumbs from every corner of the cabin. But instead of a portable unit, Honda's vacuum operates more like the central vacuum units found in new homes.
That means the motor, filter, dust bin and the hose itself are part of the car, and the vacuum never needs to be plugged in or charged.
A small bin below the left rear window in the cargo area stows the hose, which is long enough to reach the front seats, and two attachments. The vacuum can run at any time, and even when the engine is shut off, the Odyssey has enough power to keep it running for eight minutes.
Could this spell the end of the smelly, filthy minivan? As this vacuum is standard only on the $40,000-plus trim, we think not.
Quick Spin: We try BMW's first 3-cylinder engine
The new twin-turbo engines are not slated for the U.S. but show that odd numbers of cylinders are becoming more common.
General Motors and Ford are not the only automakersconsidering 3-cylinder engines. At an event at BMW’s U.S. headquarters this week prior to the 2013 New York Auto Show, we got a peek and a ride in a prototype vehicle from the European luxury automaker that uses a 1.5-liter twin-turbo 3-cylinder engine.
The company said it’s also developing a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder.
The prototype we drove was a European-spec 1-Serieshatchback, which is a newer model than the 1-Series coupes and convertibles on sale sale here. Since the cars were prototypes, we didn’t get a chance to drive them on public roads and had to settle for a lap around BMW’s sprawling campus in Woodcliff Lake, N.J.
In that short time behind the wheel, we got a quick sense of the 3-cylinder engine's power and acceleration on one short straightaway. While not as zippy as BMW’s 4-cylinder twin-turbo engines, the gas-powered 3-cylinder did demonstrate decent power and significant low-end torque.
BMW didn't reveal fuel-efficiency numbers for the 1.5-liter engine, saying in a statement only that it “enjoys significantly reduced fuel consumption by virtue of its low internal friction.” BMW added that “the emotional sound of the engine also makes an important contribution to the driving experience,” and that the frequency of the sound of a 3-cylinder engine rises 50 percent faster than that of its twin-turbo 4-cylinder, which is used in the new 328i.
This makes the engine sound and feel “extremely vivacious and sporty,” according to BMW. But in our short drive, we detected more noise, vibration and harshness than in other BMWs we’ve driven -- and much more than in the328d 4-cylinder diesel that BMW also had on hand for street driving and that will be available in the U.S. later this year. BMW representatives said the engine and cabin noise for the 3-cylinder prototypes were not representative of a finished production car.
BMW also couldn't say when the engine would appear in in the U.S., but it will debut next year in the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports coupe.
[Source: BMW]
Google Glass? Not while driving, W.Va. legislators say
State lawmakers move to ban drivers from wearing the tech giant's latest innovation.
Google Glass is coming, but maybe not in a car near you.
Ten legislators in West Virginia are moving to amend the state's vehicle laws to include a ban on the tech company’s upcoming wonder device, and other states are likely to follow suit.
But while you might be quick to side with lawmakers, a closer look might have you believing that such a device might actually have safety benefits.
Today, we constantly take our eyes off the road – to change tracks on head units, to manipulate functions on iPods and to check navigation directions in the center console. With Google Glass, all of those visualizations could be moved directly into your line of sight, with their actions dictated only by voice, potentially serving to prevent accidents.
That being said, though, Republican Del. Gary G. Howell, the man leading the charge against “wearable computers with head-mounted displays,” makes a good point.
“Unlike a head-up display in a car or even a fighter jet,” he said, “that information is crucial to the operator. Can you imagine a fighter pilot watching cat videos in a multimillion-dollar aircraft?”
Howell says it to be the responsibility of the manufacturer to set limits on what can and can’t be done while the glasses are in motion, say over a certain speed. That’s a great idea in principle, but just ask owners of jailbroken iPhones how well attempts at policing technology actually work.
So what happens if you get caught wearing Google Glass while driving? The first fine would be a $100 ticket. Each consecutive time you get caught, the fine would go up by $100. Do it 15 times, and you’ll have spent as much in tickets as you did on the cool new glasses themselves.
Hours and hours at the Mercedes-Benz Museum
Most photogenic museum ever also happens to be crammed with automotive history.
The first thing a visitor to the Mercedes-Benz Museum sees, after purchasing a ticket and ascending to the top of the Guggenheim-like structure, is a stuffed white horse -- a slight shock anyone who made the pilgrimage to Stuttgart in search of Gullwings and Silver Arrows.
The bit of taxidermy isn't just a product of that vaunted German sense of humor at play. Naturally, it serves a specific and exactingly calculated purpose: The elevators taking you to the top of the concrete corkscrew are “time machines,” you see, designed to transport you to the dawn of mechanized personal transportation.
The horse, which presumably had the virtue of being easier to haul to the top floor of a building than a steam locomotive, is a reminder of what came before. Just past it -- in the museum's first gallery, to be exact -- lies the dawn of the internal combustion era. And Mercedes-Benz historians have figured out how to let company founders Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz share in the spotlight as motorized transportation pioneers.
Visitors are presented with Daimler's 1886 Motorkutsche, the first four-wheeled automobile -- but are instructed to note that it was not the first purpose-built vehicle since its basic structure was a conventional horse-drawn carriage. The 1886 Patent-Motorwagen displayed just feet away, by contrast, was built for internal combustion-based propulsion from the ground up.
Nearby displays highlight other superlatives: The first motorcycle, the oldest surviving truck (used for beer transportation, of course), the first motorized airship, etc. The history lesson was welcome and we would have enjoyed the well-planned displays even if the placards didn't make space for English translations.
As gravity pulled us down the spiral ramp and forward in time, we were surprised at how quickly the conventional “car” form, with a front-mounted engine sitting low in the frame, foot-operated controls, rear-wheel drive and a steering wheel took shape. Leaving aside completely alien driver control systems, the 1905 Benz 18 PS and 1902 Mercedes-Simplex 40 PS seem downright modern next to their carriage-like predecessors.
That Mercedes-Simplex, which occupied a place of honor in the center of a large, dramatically lit gallery, deserved special mention. Compared to the jaw-dropping 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K Special Roadster a level or two down, it wasn't much to look at -- more of a crude, brass-covered buggy than a machine-era masterpiece -- but without it, none of the later vehicles would have existed. It represents one of the very first cars to wear the Mercedes name, and it is the oldest of those known to survive. Its crown of Swarovski crystals is well-deserved.
We never had the opportunity to attend the old Mercedes-Benz museum, but we're told it was much less photogenic than the new structure -- and besides, it didn't have room to display the dozens of buses, service vehicles and trucks visitors can get close to today.
Galleries devoted to “voyagers” (buses, touring vehicles and wagons) “carriers” (buses and auto haulers) and “helpers” (fire, police and service vehicles) grabbed our attention as firmly as the Gullwings did, though we never want to see a Unimog as spic-and-span clean as the ones displayed at the museum are ever again.
We lingered near postwar Pontons and Pagodoas for a while before breezing through the driving safety section and making a beeline for one of the final, and perhaps the most dramatic, exhibits in the museum: The extensive display of racing and rally vehicles. It's a rather indulgent, if well-deserved, setup that glorifies Mercedes-Benz's long history of success in motorsport. As with the rest of the museum, it's tough to find a bad angle for viewing or photography.
We struggled to put a dollar value on the Silver Arrows before us -- $150 million? $250 million? Priceless? -- before resigning ourselves to simply enjoying the banked display setup. Earlier racers like the 1909 Blitzen Benz might not have borne Sir Stirling Moss' signature (as did the 1955 300 SLR nearby), but they raised their own unique set of questions. Forget driving these unruly beasts: How in the hell did anyone crank-start a four-cylinder engine with 21.5-liters of displacement?
That the museum celebrates Mercedes-Benz nearly exclusively is perhaps to be expected; based on the information presented in its exhibits, one could very nearly imagine an alternate automotive history in which Henry Ford, the Dodge Brothers or Walter P. Chrysler never lived. But that shouldn't keep you from attending -- and the $10 day ticket is dirt-cheap considering the hours you'll spend wandering the halls and galleries.
Guided tours are available (we did take one during our trip, and it might be advisable for the uninitiated), but we enjoyed wandering through the museum's galleries at our own pace. Comprehensive English-language signage made navigating exhibits a cinch. And if you want to make a Stuttgart-centric weekend out of your visit, be sure to hit the Porsche Museum located not too far away.
-- Graham Kozak
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Is America's love affair with large sedans over?
Polk says high gas prices and similarities to smaller vehicles have made flagship sedans a hard sell.
From the land yachts of the 1950s and '60s to the supersized SUVs of the '90s, Americans have always had a love affair with large cars. Only recently have rising gas prices dampened desires for big vehicles.
While hulking vehicles such as the Cadillac Escalade andInfiniti QX56 remain less popular than they would have a decade earlier, recent model introductions indicate that the full-size sedan is experiencing something of a comeback.Chevrolet recently introduced a new Impala, Toyota unveiled a new Avalon, Hyundai launched an all-new Azera, and Nissan is working on a redesigned Maxima.
But according to auto industry forecasters at Polk, the market for large, mainstream sedans is dwindling. Sales in the segment dropped from a 5.8 percent share of the U.S. auto market in 2008 to 3.5 percent last year, Polk's data show. And in a bad sign for large sedans, that sales dip places the iconic American car segment behind even the minivan, another sizable-vehicle segment that has eroded in comparison with trendier crossovers.
Polk points outs out that U.S. car buyers’ newfound appreciation for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles in the face of higher gas prices is the main motivation for the slide in large-sedan sales. The research firm also noted that automakers have been focusing their redesigns and technologies on the midsize-sedan segment, and it predicted that smaller sedans such as the Ford Fusion and Honda Accord may soon become the largest nonluxury automobiles in America.
While we agree with Polk’s points, we have our own opinions on why the full-size sedan may be ready to ride off into the sunset: Besides just a bit more room and lower mpgs, these larger cars don’t really offer anything that their smaller sedan siblings can’t match.
When you look at the top-of-the-line Ford Taurus next to a Ford Fusion, for example, there’s not a tremendous amount of difference -- except an almost $3,000 jump in price and 3-mpg drop in combined fuel economy. Both seat five passengers and have similar interior volumes, although the Taurus has about 4 more cubic feet of trunk capacity.
In comparing the top-of-the-line Nissan Maxima to the Altima, the price difference is about $5,000, while combined fuel economy comes up short by 4 mpg. Both also seat five passengers, and the difference in maximum interior cargo volume is just over 1 cubic foot in favor of the Maxima.
With new larger sedans such as the Chevrolet SS and Kia Cadenza in the pipeline, Polk does expect that the "large-car category will survive in the near term.” And for luxury automakers, buyers who want to live large are still buying their flagship sedans, although Polk noted that sales of large luxury cars, dominated by BMW and Mercedes-Benz, have slipped from 0.76 percent to 0.46 percent of the total US sales market.
Ford's Indian ad agency dreams of kidnapping the Kardashians
3 scandalous print ads showed up online late last week, although the automaker says it never approved them.
Advertising agencies would like to think they're smarter than their clients, but sometimes the world doesn't buy their baloney.
Hence, JWT, yet another New York ad agency with yetanother neon blue couch in a hip office staffed by young urban professionals who know next to nothing, has royally messed up its account with Ford.
Somehow, drafts leaked out of JWT's Indian office in Mumbai late last week that showed illustrated women -- bound, gagged and stuffed in the trunk of a Ford Figo, a popular subcompact car -- with extra-large breasts and skimpy clothing. The tagline: "Leave your worries behind with Figo's extra-large boot." On closer inspection, the women are actually the Kardashian sisters, and Paris Hilton is riding in the driver's seat, head cocked backward and winking.
A second ad shows three more exaggerated women -- one in a leather "police" outfit, another dressed like a skimpy schoolgirl -- with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi showing a peace sign. A third ad binds up some guys -- specifically Formula 1 drivers Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel -- with seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher up front.
Needless to say, themes of kidnapping, assault and sexual perversion, even as cartoon characters, aren't really the hallmarks of a major global automaker. With India still recovering from a brutal gang rape and murder of a young woman in December, the timing is a bit worse for wear.
In a statement to Business Insider, which broke the story, Ford said that it was "deeply" sorry and that the ads were "contrary to the standards of professionalism and decency within Ford and our agency partners." Ford said the ads were never approved or commissioned for print. But a team at JWT posted the ads online to the website Ads of the World, Business Insider said; they have since been removed. JWT said the ads "should never have been created, let alone uploaded to the Internet."
The ad agency is responsible for Ford's advertisements in one of the largest developing markets in the world, a country in which Ford has invested billions in new factories in order to achieve worldwide annual sales of 8 million cars in just two years.
But hey, at least they didn't use an image of Hitler, as many overseas ad agencies have done.
[Source: Business Insider]
'Sick' in style: Meet the new Russian ambulance luxury taxi
Wealthy Muscovites cut through traffic in style as police scramble to halt the new service.
If you find yourself riveted to dash-cam footage from Russian drivers -- and at this point, who among us isn’t? -- you already know that negotiating Moscow traffic can be an adventure.
Between the randomly parked cars, street racers, insurance fraudsters, extremely low military aircraft flyovers, random tank crossings and meteors, there is seemingly no end to the causes of Russian traffic woes. According to a report in Canada’s National Post, police in Moscow are now attempting to crack down on a highly illegal solution being offered by some companies: ambulances whose interiors have been stripped out and remade as luxury taxis for the city’s rich.
For a going rate of 6,000 rubles per hour (about $200), wealthy Muscovites can hire a taxi that, from the outside, looks like a standard ambulance — because it once was. Where gurneys and medical equipment once resided, however, now sit the swank leather couches and flat-screen TVs you’d expect to see in a limousine.
There’s even champagne and caviar, though with the sirens blaring and the inevitable weaving the ambulance-taxi would have to do through insane Moscow traffic, it’s hard to imagine anyone taking an actual sip. The pricey booze and fish eggs are there because hey – if you’re going to exploit people’s regard for emergency response vehicles for the sake of shortening your commute, you may as well do it in style.
If nothing else, one has to admire the ingenuity of the idea and the unrestrained nature of its execution. The interior of one of these faux ambulances could be the back of any service car geared toward the VIP set. Russian officials, unsurprisingly, have failed to find this funny. Moscow police were tipped to their existence by reports of companies advertising online, and have already begun making stops of suspicious ambulances in an effort to get them off the roads. For years, other Russian drivers have made a habit of installing flashing blue lights on their luxury cars to make them appear like state officials.
For now, if you’re in Moscow over the next few months, keep an eye out: That ambulance screaming by might not be an ambulance at all.
Why your smartphone is smarter than your car radio
Chevy Spark’s MyLink system's use of a connected portable device points to the future of infotainment.
Automakers are adding all kinds of connected services and applications to the dash. Some embed connectivity into the car, while others use Internet-enabled portable devices.
But as this technology evolves, more automakers are combining the two: embedded connectivity for stable, critical features such as automatic crash notification (ACN), and tethered smartphones for cloud-based infotainment using apps such as Pandora and Stitcher.
Examples of this “hybrid” approach include BMW’s ConnectedDrive and Lexus' Enform among luxury automakers, and Chevrolet with the Spark's and Sonic’s MyLink system on the lower end of the market. While the Spark and Sonic both have OnStar for ACN and other emergency services, the version of MyLink in these cars uses a smartphone, not only for apps but also for voice activation.
After spending a week in a 2013 Spark, I believe this sort of system represents the future of car infotainment.
That’s because in-dash electronics are at a distinct disadvantage compared with the portable devices that connect to them. A head unit on a brand-new car was likely designed about four years ago, which is typically how long it takes to plan and produce a new model. So the electronics are dated as soon as the vehicle rolls off a dealer’s lot.
Compare this with a smartphone that was designed in half that time and can be easily updated through software and firmware upgrades. While a few automakers have introduced software updates for their infotainment systems, it’s still a somewhat clunky process that involves downloads from an automaker's website to a USB drive, and then manually updating the software through the car’s USB drive. Smartphones can be easily updated by syncing with a computer or even over-the-air without any involvement from the owner.
It’s MyLink’s use of two features -- navigation and voice recognition -- on a connected smartphone that makes it smarter than most other infotainment head units. And the two features are as good as, if not better than, similar systems other automakers have embedded in their cars.
For navigation, the Spark’s MyLink system uses a dedicated smartphone app called BringGo instead of embedded navigation. I found that the $60 app works much better and has more features than an automaker’s in-dash navigation costing $600 or more.
And if you’ve used smartphone nav apps, you know that features such as local search and on-the-fly map updates can put most embedded systems to shame, although you have to use the app's tiny controls and the smartphone’s small screen. But with MyLink, the app's control is right on the car’s 7-inch screen.
MyLink also doesn’t have embedded voice recognition technology; instead, it uses the VR feature on a connected smartphone. So when you press the voice command button on the steering wheel, you talk to your smartphonerather than the car’s onboard VR.
This not only keeps costs down, but VR on a smartphone is sometimes more accurate than some automakers' embedded VR systems. Chevy MyLink is also the only system that currently works with Apple’s new Siri Eyes Free, which offers voice-activated features such as calendar reminders and the ability to find nearby gas stations.
Industry analysts, members of the tech media and consumers have questioned why automakers don’t just provide a screen in the dash that serves as a display for a connected smartphone. Many tech-savvy car buyers have all their info and cloud-based content on their smartphone. So why not just allow them to use it via the car’s controls rather than learning a new and often more complicated user interface for the car -- and paying extra for it?
While this isn’t possible due to driver-distraction issues -- no one needs "Angry Birds" in the dash, after all -- there is a push to do just this. The Car Connectivity Consortium’s MirrorLink standard, which has the backing of several automakers and automotive suppliers, is designed to transfer the user interface of a smartphone to a car’s in-dash display in a limited and safe fashion.
New York 2013: GM President Mark Reuss talks tech
Executive responsible for new Camaro Z/28 explains why GM is as focused on processing power as it is on horsepower.
Encouraged by the hoots of muscle-car enthusiasts attending Chevrolet’s 2013 New York Auto Show press conference on Wednesday, Mark Reuss, General Motors' North American president and resident motorhead, couldn’t contain his excitement when revealing the new Camaro Z/28.
A couple of hours before, Reuss faced a group of fanatical journalists of a different sort -- tech writers and bloggers who approach the car as a giant gadget rather than just a means of motoring.
While obviously more at home talking horsepower, Reuss was well-versed in his company’s ambitious technology plans as he discussed how processing power and portable-device integration are becoming crucial to a new generation of car buyers.
On GM’s various infotainment strategies for its different brands:
Reuss: You’ll see different approaches. In a Spark, we have a bring-your-own-media approach. This is a car that’s $12,000 to $13,000. So that car in that price point is one approach to connectivity that basically replicates what you have on your phone in a simple, easy-to-use way.
The Cadillac Cue system embeds more of that technology into the car. It replicates a lot of what a tablet or smartphone would do. And while the demographic for Cadillac may not be the very youngest, our population is permanently changed by the use of those devices, no matter what your generation. So people immediately understand what that is and how to use it.
Those are bookends of the portfolio. And if you look at the Cue system, it’s quite different than the Chevrolet MyLinkin an Impala. So we’re very flexible. We will sell what we think the customer wants based on the feedback we’ve gotten, and we will be able to adapt, platform-wise, to just about anything anybody wants. That’s why we did it that way. We weren’t focused on a silver bullet for any one of these segments because it changes so fast, and so we want to be able to adapt.
On GM’s recent announcement of bringing 4G connectivity to the car through AT&T:
Reuss: We’ve had OnStar in the car for 17 years. That demonstrates the commitment we made [to connectivity]. That’s a long-term financial commitment to … expansion of that pipe we’ve invested in.
I see all the different devices here today [points to bloggers’ phones and tablets on the table]. That’s a reflection of who you are, a reflection of how you live. And linked with 4G capability in the car, if done right, that harvests that early investment in OnStar.
It becomes an amazing value for the customer. If you have a GM vehicle and you have OnStar, we’re tapping into the car to deliver [data] through your handheld device. Through that pipeline [you can get] your tire pressure, fuel economy, preventive maintenance schedule -- all of those things are delivered now to one app through Chevrolet,GMC and Cadillac.
It takes the challenge of thinking about when my oil needs to be changed, when my tires need to be rotated, it takes that away from your busy life. Those are big things, because the world is not getting less complex, and these types of tools make your daily life less complex.
On the impact of bringing 4G into the car and having AT&T as a partner:
Reuss: We want to be able to deliver content and make your car better very rapidly. So this is a really key part of that. What it means to the content we deliver in the car is that it’s going to change every six months to a year. That’s going to give GM agility that no one else has. The content we want to be able to deliver could change as rapidly as the electronics industry.
On what GM is doing differently on infotainment versus competitors:
Reuss: What you see … like in a Spark, [are] simple things people understand, like Siri Eyes Free. We want to be first with things like that. People get that; they know what that is and it’s not something they have to relearn in a car because it’s a completely different interface than anything else in the market. They know it’s going to be simple, they’re not going to pay a lot of money for it, and it’s going to help them make their lives easier. Those are the key fundamentals we’re going to make sure everybody gets
Now there's really no excuse for your family hauler looking like a garbage bin.
It's official: The 2014 Honda Odyssey sucks.On top-level Touring Elite models, a built-in vacuum can inhale crumbs from every corner of the cabin. But instead of a portable unit, Honda's vacuum operates more like the central vacuum units found in new homes.
That means the motor, filter, dust bin and the hose itself are part of the car, and the vacuum never needs to be plugged in or charged.
A small bin below the left rear window in the cargo area stows the hose, which is long enough to reach the front seats, and two attachments. The vacuum can run at any time, and even when the engine is shut off, the Odyssey has enough power to keep it running for eight minutes.
Could this spell the end of the smelly, filthy minivan? As this vacuum is standard only on the $40,000-plus trim, we think not.
Quick Spin: We try BMW's first 3-cylinder engine
The new twin-turbo engines are not slated for the U.S. but show that odd numbers of cylinders are becoming more common.
General Motors and Ford are not the only automakersconsidering 3-cylinder engines. At an event at BMW’s U.S. headquarters this week prior to the 2013 New York Auto Show, we got a peek and a ride in a prototype vehicle from the European luxury automaker that uses a 1.5-liter twin-turbo 3-cylinder engine.
The company said it’s also developing a 1.0-liter 3-cylinder.
The prototype we drove was a European-spec 1-Serieshatchback, which is a newer model than the 1-Series coupes and convertibles on sale sale here. Since the cars were prototypes, we didn’t get a chance to drive them on public roads and had to settle for a lap around BMW’s sprawling campus in Woodcliff Lake, N.J.
In that short time behind the wheel, we got a quick sense of the 3-cylinder engine's power and acceleration on one short straightaway. While not as zippy as BMW’s 4-cylinder twin-turbo engines, the gas-powered 3-cylinder did demonstrate decent power and significant low-end torque.
BMW didn't reveal fuel-efficiency numbers for the 1.5-liter engine, saying in a statement only that it “enjoys significantly reduced fuel consumption by virtue of its low internal friction.” BMW added that “the emotional sound of the engine also makes an important contribution to the driving experience,” and that the frequency of the sound of a 3-cylinder engine rises 50 percent faster than that of its twin-turbo 4-cylinder, which is used in the new 328i.
This makes the engine sound and feel “extremely vivacious and sporty,” according to BMW. But in our short drive, we detected more noise, vibration and harshness than in other BMWs we’ve driven -- and much more than in the328d 4-cylinder diesel that BMW also had on hand for street driving and that will be available in the U.S. later this year. BMW representatives said the engine and cabin noise for the 3-cylinder prototypes were not representative of a finished production car.
BMW also couldn't say when the engine would appear in in the U.S., but it will debut next year in the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports coupe.
[Source: BMW]Google Glass? Not while driving, W.Va. legislators say
State lawmakers move to ban drivers from wearing the tech giant's latest innovation.
Google Glass is coming, but maybe not in a car near you.
Ten legislators in West Virginia are moving to amend the state's vehicle laws to include a ban on the tech company’s upcoming wonder device, and other states are likely to follow suit.
But while you might be quick to side with lawmakers, a closer look might have you believing that such a device might actually have safety benefits.
Today, we constantly take our eyes off the road – to change tracks on head units, to manipulate functions on iPods and to check navigation directions in the center console. With Google Glass, all of those visualizations could be moved directly into your line of sight, with their actions dictated only by voice, potentially serving to prevent accidents.
That being said, though, Republican Del. Gary G. Howell, the man leading the charge against “wearable computers with head-mounted displays,” makes a good point.
“Unlike a head-up display in a car or even a fighter jet,” he said, “that information is crucial to the operator. Can you imagine a fighter pilot watching cat videos in a multimillion-dollar aircraft?”
Howell says it to be the responsibility of the manufacturer to set limits on what can and can’t be done while the glasses are in motion, say over a certain speed. That’s a great idea in principle, but just ask owners of jailbroken iPhones how well attempts at policing technology actually work.
So what happens if you get caught wearing Google Glass while driving? The first fine would be a $100 ticket. Each consecutive time you get caught, the fine would go up by $100. Do it 15 times, and you’ll have spent as much in tickets as you did on the cool new glasses themselves.
Hours and hours at the Mercedes-Benz Museum
Most photogenic museum ever also happens to be crammed with automotive history.
The first thing a visitor to the Mercedes-Benz Museum sees, after purchasing a ticket and ascending to the top of the Guggenheim-like structure, is a stuffed white horse -- a slight shock anyone who made the pilgrimage to Stuttgart in search of Gullwings and Silver Arrows.
The bit of taxidermy isn't just a product of that vaunted German sense of humor at play. Naturally, it serves a specific and exactingly calculated purpose: The elevators taking you to the top of the concrete corkscrew are “time machines,” you see, designed to transport you to the dawn of mechanized personal transportation.
The horse, which presumably had the virtue of being easier to haul to the top floor of a building than a steam locomotive, is a reminder of what came before. Just past it -- in the museum's first gallery, to be exact -- lies the dawn of the internal combustion era. And Mercedes-Benz historians have figured out how to let company founders Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz share in the spotlight as motorized transportation pioneers.
Visitors are presented with Daimler's 1886 Motorkutsche, the first four-wheeled automobile -- but are instructed to note that it was not the first purpose-built vehicle since its basic structure was a conventional horse-drawn carriage. The 1886 Patent-Motorwagen displayed just feet away, by contrast, was built for internal combustion-based propulsion from the ground up.
Nearby displays highlight other superlatives: The first motorcycle, the oldest surviving truck (used for beer transportation, of course), the first motorized airship, etc. The history lesson was welcome and we would have enjoyed the well-planned displays even if the placards didn't make space for English translations.
As gravity pulled us down the spiral ramp and forward in time, we were surprised at how quickly the conventional “car” form, with a front-mounted engine sitting low in the frame, foot-operated controls, rear-wheel drive and a steering wheel took shape. Leaving aside completely alien driver control systems, the 1905 Benz 18 PS and 1902 Mercedes-Simplex 40 PS seem downright modern next to their carriage-like predecessors.
That Mercedes-Simplex, which occupied a place of honor in the center of a large, dramatically lit gallery, deserved special mention. Compared to the jaw-dropping 1936 Mercedes-Benz 500K Special Roadster a level or two down, it wasn't much to look at -- more of a crude, brass-covered buggy than a machine-era masterpiece -- but without it, none of the later vehicles would have existed. It represents one of the very first cars to wear the Mercedes name, and it is the oldest of those known to survive. Its crown of Swarovski crystals is well-deserved.
We never had the opportunity to attend the old Mercedes-Benz museum, but we're told it was much less photogenic than the new structure -- and besides, it didn't have room to display the dozens of buses, service vehicles and trucks visitors can get close to today.
Galleries devoted to “voyagers” (buses, touring vehicles and wagons) “carriers” (buses and auto haulers) and “helpers” (fire, police and service vehicles) grabbed our attention as firmly as the Gullwings did, though we never want to see a Unimog as spic-and-span clean as the ones displayed at the museum are ever again.
We lingered near postwar Pontons and Pagodoas for a while before breezing through the driving safety section and making a beeline for one of the final, and perhaps the most dramatic, exhibits in the museum: The extensive display of racing and rally vehicles. It's a rather indulgent, if well-deserved, setup that glorifies Mercedes-Benz's long history of success in motorsport. As with the rest of the museum, it's tough to find a bad angle for viewing or photography.
We struggled to put a dollar value on the Silver Arrows before us -- $150 million? $250 million? Priceless? -- before resigning ourselves to simply enjoying the banked display setup. Earlier racers like the 1909 Blitzen Benz might not have borne Sir Stirling Moss' signature (as did the 1955 300 SLR nearby), but they raised their own unique set of questions. Forget driving these unruly beasts: How in the hell did anyone crank-start a four-cylinder engine with 21.5-liters of displacement?
That the museum celebrates Mercedes-Benz nearly exclusively is perhaps to be expected; based on the information presented in its exhibits, one could very nearly imagine an alternate automotive history in which Henry Ford, the Dodge Brothers or Walter P. Chrysler never lived. But that shouldn't keep you from attending -- and the $10 day ticket is dirt-cheap considering the hours you'll spend wandering the halls and galleries.
Guided tours are available (we did take one during our trip, and it might be advisable for the uninitiated), but we enjoyed wandering through the museum's galleries at our own pace. Comprehensive English-language signage made navigating exhibits a cinch. And if you want to make a Stuttgart-centric weekend out of your visit, be sure to hit the Porsche Museum located not too far away.
-- Graham Kozak
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Get the latest Car Reviews from Autoweek.Is America's love affair with large sedans over?
Polk says high gas prices and similarities to smaller vehicles have made flagship sedans a hard sell.
From the land yachts of the 1950s and '60s to the supersized SUVs of the '90s, Americans have always had a love affair with large cars. Only recently have rising gas prices dampened desires for big vehicles.
While hulking vehicles such as the Cadillac Escalade andInfiniti QX56 remain less popular than they would have a decade earlier, recent model introductions indicate that the full-size sedan is experiencing something of a comeback.Chevrolet recently introduced a new Impala, Toyota unveiled a new Avalon, Hyundai launched an all-new Azera, and Nissan is working on a redesigned Maxima.
But according to auto industry forecasters at Polk, the market for large, mainstream sedans is dwindling. Sales in the segment dropped from a 5.8 percent share of the U.S. auto market in 2008 to 3.5 percent last year, Polk's data show. And in a bad sign for large sedans, that sales dip places the iconic American car segment behind even the minivan, another sizable-vehicle segment that has eroded in comparison with trendier crossovers.
Polk points outs out that U.S. car buyers’ newfound appreciation for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles in the face of higher gas prices is the main motivation for the slide in large-sedan sales. The research firm also noted that automakers have been focusing their redesigns and technologies on the midsize-sedan segment, and it predicted that smaller sedans such as the Ford Fusion and Honda Accord may soon become the largest nonluxury automobiles in America.
While we agree with Polk’s points, we have our own opinions on why the full-size sedan may be ready to ride off into the sunset: Besides just a bit more room and lower mpgs, these larger cars don’t really offer anything that their smaller sedan siblings can’t match.
When you look at the top-of-the-line Ford Taurus next to a Ford Fusion, for example, there’s not a tremendous amount of difference -- except an almost $3,000 jump in price and 3-mpg drop in combined fuel economy. Both seat five passengers and have similar interior volumes, although the Taurus has about 4 more cubic feet of trunk capacity.
In comparing the top-of-the-line Nissan Maxima to the Altima, the price difference is about $5,000, while combined fuel economy comes up short by 4 mpg. Both also seat five passengers, and the difference in maximum interior cargo volume is just over 1 cubic foot in favor of the Maxima.
With new larger sedans such as the Chevrolet SS and Kia Cadenza in the pipeline, Polk does expect that the "large-car category will survive in the near term.” And for luxury automakers, buyers who want to live large are still buying their flagship sedans, although Polk noted that sales of large luxury cars, dominated by BMW and Mercedes-Benz, have slipped from 0.76 percent to 0.46 percent of the total US sales market.
Ford's Indian ad agency dreams of kidnapping the Kardashians
3 scandalous print ads showed up online late last week, although the automaker says it never approved them.
Advertising agencies would like to think they're smarter than their clients, but sometimes the world doesn't buy their baloney.Hence, JWT, yet another New York ad agency with yetanother neon blue couch in a hip office staffed by young urban professionals who know next to nothing, has royally messed up its account with Ford.
Somehow, drafts leaked out of JWT's Indian office in Mumbai late last week that showed illustrated women -- bound, gagged and stuffed in the trunk of a Ford Figo, a popular subcompact car -- with extra-large breasts and skimpy clothing. The tagline: "Leave your worries behind with Figo's extra-large boot." On closer inspection, the women are actually the Kardashian sisters, and Paris Hilton is riding in the driver's seat, head cocked backward and winking.
A second ad shows three more exaggerated women -- one in a leather "police" outfit, another dressed like a skimpy schoolgirl -- with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi showing a peace sign. A third ad binds up some guys -- specifically Formula 1 drivers Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel -- with seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher up front.
Needless to say, themes of kidnapping, assault and sexual perversion, even as cartoon characters, aren't really the hallmarks of a major global automaker. With India still recovering from a brutal gang rape and murder of a young woman in December, the timing is a bit worse for wear.
In a statement to Business Insider, which broke the story, Ford said that it was "deeply" sorry and that the ads were "contrary to the standards of professionalism and decency within Ford and our agency partners." Ford said the ads were never approved or commissioned for print. But a team at JWT posted the ads online to the website Ads of the World, Business Insider said; they have since been removed. JWT said the ads "should never have been created, let alone uploaded to the Internet."
The ad agency is responsible for Ford's advertisements in one of the largest developing markets in the world, a country in which Ford has invested billions in new factories in order to achieve worldwide annual sales of 8 million cars in just two years.
But hey, at least they didn't use an image of Hitler, as many overseas ad agencies have done.
[Source: Business Insider]
'Sick' in style: Meet the new Russian ambulance luxury taxi
Wealthy Muscovites cut through traffic in style as police scramble to halt the new service.
If you find yourself riveted to dash-cam footage from Russian drivers -- and at this point, who among us isn’t? -- you already know that negotiating Moscow traffic can be an adventure.
Between the randomly parked cars, street racers, insurance fraudsters, extremely low military aircraft flyovers, random tank crossings and meteors, there is seemingly no end to the causes of Russian traffic woes. According to a report in Canada’s National Post, police in Moscow are now attempting to crack down on a highly illegal solution being offered by some companies: ambulances whose interiors have been stripped out and remade as luxury taxis for the city’s rich.
For a going rate of 6,000 rubles per hour (about $200), wealthy Muscovites can hire a taxi that, from the outside, looks like a standard ambulance — because it once was. Where gurneys and medical equipment once resided, however, now sit the swank leather couches and flat-screen TVs you’d expect to see in a limousine.
There’s even champagne and caviar, though with the sirens blaring and the inevitable weaving the ambulance-taxi would have to do through insane Moscow traffic, it’s hard to imagine anyone taking an actual sip. The pricey booze and fish eggs are there because hey – if you’re going to exploit people’s regard for emergency response vehicles for the sake of shortening your commute, you may as well do it in style.
If nothing else, one has to admire the ingenuity of the idea and the unrestrained nature of its execution. The interior of one of these faux ambulances could be the back of any service car geared toward the VIP set. Russian officials, unsurprisingly, have failed to find this funny. Moscow police were tipped to their existence by reports of companies advertising online, and have already begun making stops of suspicious ambulances in an effort to get them off the roads. For years, other Russian drivers have made a habit of installing flashing blue lights on their luxury cars to make them appear like state officials.
For now, if you’re in Moscow over the next few months, keep an eye out: That ambulance screaming by might not be an ambulance at all.
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