The Torque Report

Next VW Beetle to Draw Inspiration from the Ragster Concept

2010-03-19T14:13:05Z

VW is hard at work on the replacement for the Beetle, which will be previewed as a concept car at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the end of this year. According to sources the next Beetle is going to get a reworked chassis as it will share its drivetrain with the next Jetta. It's also expected to have a longer wheelbase and wider tracks, which should improve some of the complaints with the current model's interior.

In terms of styling, some insiders claim that the 2005 Ragster concept can be seen as a hint of what we can expect for the next Beetle. The design will continue to feature elements of the original Beetle with its rounded headlights and taillights and separate wings over each wheel, but the roofline is expected to be less rounded.

In the US the Beetle will be powered by the 170-hp 2.5L five-cylinder engine. A hybrid is also in the works.

]]> Full Story: Autocar

GM Unleashes More Images of the 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition

2010-03-18T21:02:28Z

Last week GM revealed the 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition, but at the time only two photos were released, but now GM has released more.

The 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition features black headlamps and mirrors, a ZR1-style body color spoiler, body color door handles, carbon fiber raised hood, and black carbon fiber rockers and splitter. Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with specific dark gray metallic calipers and black 20-spoke 19-inch front/20-inch rear wheels are also included.

"For track use, the Z06 Carbon is the best balanced Corvette yet. It combines the lightweight and naturally-aspirated Z06 engine with the road-holding and braking of the ZR1," said Tadge Juechter, Corvette Chief Engineer. "For technical tracks like Laguna Seca, the Z06 Carbon could shave up to three seconds off the Z06 lap time."

The Corvette Z06 Carbon will be available in two colors: Inferno Orange and the all-new Supersonic Blue.

"Designed to further incorporate technology developed through racing, the Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition is a tribute to the 50th anniversary of Corvette's first race in the 24 Hours of LeMans," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet General Manager. "With a limited production of 500 units, this car is a must-have for the true Corvette collector and driving enthusiast."

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Porsche and Lincoln Lead in 2010 Dependability Study

2010-03-18T19:25:09Z

J.D. Power and Associates has released the results of its 2010 long-term dependability study. The study measures problems with vehicles that are three-years old (2007 models). Overall dependability is determined by the level of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100), with a lower score reflecting higher quality.

This year Porsche leads the overall nameplate rankings, followed by Lincoln, which improved by six rank positions from 2009. The rest of the top five nameplates are Buick, Lexus and Mercury.

Regarding specific models, Toyota took home the most awards with four segment awards, Honda took home three and Lincoln received two awards.

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PRESS RELEASE:

J.D. Power and Associates Reports:

Despite Overall Industry Improvement in Long-Term Dependability, Some Vehicle Brands
Don't Receive the Credit They're Due

Japanese Models Capture Nine Segment Awards, While Domestic Models Garner Seven and European Models Earn Three

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.: 18 March 2010 - Twenty-five of 36 vehicle brands have improved in long-term dependability in 2010 compared with their performance in 2009, continuing a steady trend of industry-wide improvement. However, for some of these brands, consumer perceptions have not kept pace with their actual performance, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 U.S. Vehicle Dependability StudySM (VDS) released today.

The study, which measures problems experienced by original owners of three-year-old (2007 model year) vehicles, includes 198 different problem symptoms across all areas of the vehicle. Overall dependability is determined by the level of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100), with a lower score reflecting higher quality.

The Vehicle Dependability Study is used extensively by vehicle manufacturers worldwide to help design and build better vehicles-which typically translates to higher resale values-and by consumers to help them make more-informed choices for both new- and used- vehicle purchases. According to J.D. Power and Associates, among new-vehicle shoppers, perception of quality and dependability is the most influential factor in their decision to purchase a specific vehicle model.

The study finds that several brands that perform well in long-term dependability in 2010 are avoided at relatively high rates due to consumer concerns about dependability. Among brands included in VDS, Cadillac, Ford, Hyundai, Lincoln and Mercury have the greatest lags between dependability performance and consumer perception.

"Producing vehicles with world-class quality is just part of the battle for automakers; convincing consumers to believe in their quality is equally as important," said David Sargent, vice president of automotive research at J.D. Power and Associates. "It takes considerable time to positively change consumer perceptions of quality and dependability-sometimes a decade or more-so it is vital for manufacturers to continually improve quality and also to convince consumers of these gains."

According to Sargent, approaches that can help reinforce perceptions of high quality in consumers' minds include: providing extended warranties, which demonstrates a brand's faith in its products; incorporating features, materials and finishes in vehicles that have a rich feel; and ensuring that new models launch with better quality than their predecessors. In addition, automakers need to increase communication efforts about their high quality and dependability through social media channels such as blogs, Facebook and Twitter as well as through traditional channels.

Toyota continues to perform well in long-term dependability and garners four segment awards-more than any other nameplate in 2010-for the Highlander, Prius, Sequoia and Tundra. Honda receives three segment awards for the CR-V, Fit and Ridgeline. Lincoln captures two awards for the Mark LT and MKZ. Models by Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz and Mercury each receive an award in their respective segments.

Porsche leads the overall nameplate rankings in 2010, which is consistent with its performance in the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Initial Quality Study,SM which measures new-vehicle quality at 90 days of ownership. Lincoln improves by six rank positions from 2009 to follow Porsche in the nameplate rankings. Rounding out the top five nameplates are Buick, Lexus and Mercury. In addition, seven of the 10 models with the lowest incidence of problems in the industry are from Ford and General Motors, including the 2007 model-year Buick Lacrosse, Buick Lucerne, Cadillac DTS, Ford Five Hundred, Lincoln MKZ, Mercury Milan, and Mercury Montego.

Overall vehicle dependability has improved by 7 percent in 2010 to an average of 155 PP100, compared with 167 PP100 in 2009 -a rate that is consistent with historical industry gains. In addition to the improvement in overall dependability, the rate of component replacement has also been reduced from 2009. Approximately 65 percent of owners indicate they replaced a vehicle component in 2010, compared with 68 percent in 2009.

The study also finds that long-term dependability has a significant positive effect on repurchase intent. Among owners who say they did not experience problems with their vehicle, 43 percent indicate they "definitely will" repurchase their current brand. This figure declines to 28 percent among owners who say they experienced at least one problem with their vehicle.

The 2010 Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from more than 52,000 original owners of 2007 model-year vehicles. The study was fielded between October and December 2009.

Find more detailed findings on vehicle dependability as well as model photos and specs by reading an article and reviewing brand and segment dependability ratings at JDPower.com.

Lease the $375,000 Lexus LFA for $12,400 a Month!

2010-03-18T15:10:17Z

The Lexus LFA supercar is one pricey car. Lexus has announced the pricing for the 552-hp LFA that has a base price of $375,000. It's already been reported that you cannot actually buy the LFA, instead you only have the option to lease the vehicle for 24 months. But don't get too excited, it's not a simple lease payment that you see advertised on TV, the LFA can be leased for a whopping $12,398.44 a month. After 24 months that will total $297,562.56 worth of payments. After 24 months you can finally buy the car for an additional $93,750.

Just wait, it gets even crazier, since the LFA is also only available through Lexus' 1Pay 24 month program, which means that you have to prepay all lease payments in one lump sum to be able to drive the car home. That's in addition to multiple credit checks.

The good thing is that if you are able to actually qualify for one and afford it, you will be getting one of the only 500 units that are going to be produced.

]]> Full Story: Autoblog

PRESS RELEASE:

Lexus LFA Pricing Announcement

Lexus is pleased to announce the launch of the LFA, Lexus' first ever supercar that delivers world-class design, performance, and cutting edge technology.

A Race Car that is Street Legal A radical departure from standard Lexus development, a band of engineers approached the LFA from a non-traditional angle, pushing their technological, material, and engineering boundaries every step of the way. The result, a tour de force powered by a 4.8L V10 engine that generates 552 hp and a remarkable 9,000rpm redline. Reaching 60 mph in 3.6 seconds with a top speed over 200 mph = Super High Performance! This race-inspired power plant is mated to a uniquely developed six-speed Automated Sequential Gearbox (ASG) with paddle shifters for ultimate driver control.

Weight-saving measures were implemented in every area in the development process. The LFA features advanced Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) construction for its chassis and much of its bodywork to deliver a light, extremely strong, and impact-resistant structure. It also has carbon ceramic brake discs, and a host of other technological marvels.
Production and Pricing Start of production will begin December 2010. Consumers will be able to choose from three configurations at the Base MSRP price of $375,000.

⇒ Configuration 1
Leather or Alcantara seats and trim in three standard colors
⇒ Configuration 2
Configuration 1 plus Navigation & Mark Levinson
⇒ Configuration 3
Configuration 2 plus Lexus Enform™ with Safety Connect™, which provides Destination Assist, eDestination, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location and Enhanced Roadside Assistance; Lexus Insider™; Voice Command; XM® Satellite Radio, XM NavTraffic®, XM NavWeather™ and XM® Sports & Stocks (includes 2 years of XM & Telematics subscription fees).

Consumers will have a tremendous amount of customization opportunity with each LFA thanks to: Exterior
10 Standard Exterior colors that may be chosen at no additional cost
20 Special Exterior colors (Note: These require additional lead-time for the order/production cycle)
3 Wheel finishes*

1.⇒ 6 Brake Caliper colors*
Interior
3 Standard Interior colors in Leather or Alcantara
9 leather colors and 7 Alcantara colors*
An interior divided into multiple zones, each customizable by several colors, down to the stitching itself

*Please note: Some customization selections have additional costs. Please see Appendix for detailed information
Customer Notification

Customers will be notified within a March - June 2010 timeframe of their opportunity to order a Lexus LFA. Due to the limited production of the Lexus LFA of 500 cars globally, and customer response which has exceeded the number of available cars, it is possible that not all customers who expressed interest will have an opportunity to order a Lexus LFA.

Once customers are notified of their opportunity to order a car, they will have 10 business days to place a $10,000 deposit with, and submit a credit screening form to, their dealer. A customer must obtain credit approval in order to remain eligible to order an LFA. If the customer's credit has not been approved, the customer will not have the opportunity to order an LFA.

Once credit is approved, the customer will deposit an additional $50,000 with their selected dealer at the time they place the order for their car. A second credit approval immediately prior to the scheduled delivery date must also be obtained in order for the customer to take delivery of the LFA.

If you have any questions about the notification and/or ordering process, please contact [REDACTED].
LFA Lease Program is through Lexus dealer and Lexus Financial Services

All LFAs will be available only through a 1Pay 24 month lease via your Lexus dealer and Lexus Financial Services (LFS). You will have the option to purchase the Lexus LFA at lease maturity.

1Pay Lease Program for 24 months The LFA 1Pay Lease program is structured for you to prepay all monthly payments in a single payment at lease signing. In general, this single total lease payment is less than the amount you would pay over the life of a conventional lease.

How will the 1PAY lease work?

¾ Special reduced lease rate will apply.
¾ 24 monthly payments are calculated and collected in one lump sum (1PAY) at lease
inception. ¾ Any deposits made on the LFA will be applied to the 1PAY amount due
What will payments look like on a 1PAY lease?
Example:
MSRP:
$375,000
Term:
24 months
Monthly Payment x 24 = 1Pay Amount:
$12,398.44 x 24 = $297,562.56
Residual Value:
$93,750

Notes:

Rates used to calculate payments are for example purposes only and are subject to change and will vary depending on final price of the vehicle and credit qualification.

Lease payments do not include acquisition fee, sales tax, license, or title & registration fees.

A $700 acquisition fee is due at lease signing. A security deposit is not required.

The lease example above assumes a mileage limit of 15,000 miles/year.

LFS Lease FAQs

What is the credit application process?
The credit application process is a two-step process:
Step 1 - Complete a credit application which will be reviewed by your Lexus dealer and LFS at the
time the first deposit of $10,000 is placed with the dealer.
Step 2 - Upon vehicle arrival at the dealership, a second review of your credit prior to delivery of
the LFA.

Is there an acquisition fee due?
Yes, the standard acquisition fee of $700 will be due at lease inception.

Are there any additional fees due at lease signing?
Yes, all sales and/or use tax, license, title and registration fees are collected at lease inception.

How about Insurance coverage?
Customer is responsible to provide insurance coverage information to the dealer at lease
inception and maintain coverage throughout the lease term.

Can customers purchase the vehicle?
Per the terms of the lease agreement, at the end of 24 months (lease maturity), the customers may
purchase their vehicle for the purchase option amount listed on the agreement.

What happens if the customer wants to turn in their vehicle prior to the lease maturity date?
Per the terms of the lease agreement, the vehicle cannot be returned prior to the lease maturity
date.

Is the lease transferable?
No, during the term of the lease, customers will not be able to transfer the lease or vehicle to third
parties. However, in the event of a deceased consumer lessee, the consumer's estate will have the
option to transfer the lease to a qualified transferee.

Can I lease the vehicle in my business name?
Yes, you can elect to lease the vehicle in your business name.

If the customer does not purchase the vehicle at lease maturity, are they responsible for any
excess mileage, or wear & use charges?
Yes. Per the terms of the lease agreement, any mileage that exceeds the amount listed on the
lease agreement will be assessed a charge of 0.20 cents per mile for each mile that exceeds the
contract limit. In addition, the vehicle will be inspected for excessive wear & use and any resulting
charges are the customer's responsibility.

APPENDIX

Customers can choose between 3 configurations: All at $375,000 Base MSRP INTERIOR COLORS APPENDIX cont'd
Configuration 1
Leather or Alcantara Seats & Trim in three standard co lors
Configuration 2
Configuration 1 plus Navigation & Mark Levinson
Configuration 3
Configuration 2 pl us Lexus Enform with Safety Connect, which p rovi des Destination Assist, eDestination, Automatic Col lision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, and Enhanced Roadside Assistance; Lexus Insid er; Voice Command ; X M Satell ite Radio, XM NavTraffic, XM NavWeather, and XM Sp orts & Stocks (includes 2 years of Telematics subscription fees)

Exterior Colors

- 10 Basic Colors
No Cost
- 12 So lid Colors*
$3,000
- 7 Metallic Colors*
$3,0 00
- 1 Matte Color
$20 ,000
- Custo m Co lors
TBD
Wheels

- Painted
No Cost
- IS F Finish (Dark G raphite)
No Cost
- Polished
$2,500
Brake Caliper Colors

- Black, Red
No Cost
- Yello w, Blue, Silver, Gold
$1,000
Interior Colors

- Red, Black, Camel Yellow
No Cost
- Stitching (9 special colors)
$1,000
- Steering Grip (9 special colors)
$1,500
- Seat Front (9 special colors)
$2,50 0
- Seat Back ( 9 special colors)
$2,50 0
- I/P & Door (9 special colors)
$2,500
- Carpet (black, cream , red, camel yellow, blue)
No Cost
- Floor Mats (black, cream, red, camel yellow, blue)
No Cost
- Headliner (black, red, camel yell ow)
No Cost
- Metallic Ornamentatio n (satin silver or blackish brown)
No Cost
Seats & Trim

Alcantara Seats
No Cost
Alcantara Trim
No Cost
Headlamp Washer
$100
Winglets
$200

* Special Selection Colors will only b e available for LFA s produced from December 2011.

2011 Scion xB Gets a Refresh

2010-03-17T23:36:48Z

The current generation Scion xB is getting a little old, so for 2011 the xB is getting a refresh inside and out. On the outside the 2011 xB gets a more aggressive front end with a restyled bumper, headlights and grille. Out back the taillights get a small refresh, which basically involves the integration of the rear backup lamp, which was formally not integrated.

Inside the front seats have been redesigned with larger bolsters. There is also a new center console with a sliding armrest.

The 2011 xB starts at $16,000 for the manual and $16,950 for the automatic model.

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PRESS RELEASE:

Scion Announces Pricing for Restyled 2011 xB

TORRANCE, Calif., March 16, 2010 - Scion today announced Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the restyled 2011 xB urban utility vehicle that will arrive at dealerships later this month. The 2011 xB is upgraded with an aggressive new look on the outside and added comfort and convenience on the inside. The enhancements to the 2011 xB come with a $150 price increase over the 2010 model resulting with MSRPs of $16,000 and $16,950 for manual and automatic transmission models, respectively.

The xB enters the 2011 model year with fresh exterior styling including changes to the front and rear bumpers, grill, headlights and taillights, which together reveal a more aggressive demeanor. The new front bumper features enlarged outer vents, improving the appearance of the vehicle's stance. The front grille features a new honeycomb pattern and improved headlamp design. The single rear backup lamp has been integrated into combination lamps to produce a more refined appearance. The 2011 xB will be available in seven exterior colors including the all-new Army Rock Metallic and Elusive Blue Metallic. Hypnotic Teal will no longer be offered in the xB color palette.

Changes to the 2011 xB's interior offer significantly more comfort and convenience to all of its occupants. Driver- and front-passenger seats are redesigned to include larger bolsters for greater comfort and stability. Front and rear seats have a new light gray fabric with a geometric pattern for the seating surfaces contrasted by black fabric covering the bolsters, bases and backs. A combination center console with sliding armrest has been added to increase driver comfort and utility. Improved gauge-cluster design with black background, along with a separate clock and outside temperature display, provides better visibility to information. Completing the changes, the steering wheel now includes both telescopic and tilt functions.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $670 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

GM Shows off New Head-Up Display Technology

2010-03-17T14:22:47Z

Currently vehicles that feature "head-up display" technology generally display important information like vehicle speed, navigation directions, etc. on small part of the windshield, but GM's new system is going to go even further.

GM is currently working on a new system that would use data collected from vehicle sensors and cameras to project images generated by compact ultra violet lasers directly onto the entire windshield.

"We're looking to create enhanced vision systems," says Thomas Seder, group lab manager-GM R&D. His team is working with Carnegie Mellon University and The University of Southern California, as well as other institutions, to create a full windshield head-up system leveraging night vision, navigation and camera-based sensor technologies to improve driver visibility and object detection ability.

"Let's say you're driving in fog, we could use the vehicle's infrared cameras to identify where the edge of the road is and the lasers could 'paint' the edge of the road onto the windshield so the driver knows where the edge of the road is," Seder said.

The system would help alert drivers of objects that may exist in the road or beyond their normal vision.

It's not known when this technology will actually make it into production, but don't expect it anytime soon.

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PRESS RELEASE:

GM Reimagines Head-Up Display Technology

- GM's next-generation head-up technology will make driving safer.
- Research conducted in conjunction with leading universities.

Warren, Mich. -- Imagine a fog-shrouded morning when you cannot see the end of your driveway let alone the road you're about to drive. Wouldn't it be great if the sides of the road could magically appear on your windshield?

It's not magic, and it's not far away either.

General Motors R&D and several universities are working on a system that would use data gathered from an array of vehicle sensors and cameras and project images generated by compact ultra violet lasers directly onto the entire surface of the windshield,

Enhanced vision systems are a 21st Century take on head's up display technology that GM was the first to market in 1988. Designed to help keep driver attention on the road ahead by displaying important information such as vehicle speed, lane change indicator status and vehicle warning messages directly into the driver's field of vision, head-up display systems are currently available on the GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Corvette, Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac STS.

Scientists and lab technicians at GM's global research and development in Warren, MI, are now developing next-generation head-up systems that could transform the everyday windshield into a device that can make driving even safer. While the full windshield head-up system has not yet been identified for a future GM vehicle program, Seder says some of the supporting technologies could end up in GM vehicles in the near-term future.

Coated with a series of transparent phosphors which emit visible light when excited by a light beam-in this case from a compact laser-the windshield becomes a large area transparent display, instead of current HUD systems that use only a small portion of the windshield.

The ability to use such an expansive surface enables the system to alert drivers of potential dangers that may exist outside of the normal field of vision-including children playing or motorcycles passing.

On that foggy day, maybe worsened by sleet or snow, the enhanced vision system could combine night vision with the head-up system to identify and highlight the precise location of animals roaming along the side of the road that could have avoided recognition with the naked eye.

"This design is superior to traditional head down display-based night vision systems, which require a user to read information from a traditional display, create a mental model and imagine the threat's precise location in space," Seder said

As an added safety feature, the head-up system can be combined with automated sign reading technology, similar to the Opel Eye system that debuted on the 2009 Opel Insignia, to alert the driver if they are driving over the posted speed limit or if there's impending construction or other potential problems ahead. Additionally, the system can use navigation system data to alert the driver of their desired exit by reading overhead traffic signs.

"We have done testing on a number of drivers and their performance is better relative to head-down systems that are commonly used in vehicles today," Seder said. "It's a compelling design."

Honda Recalls 400K Odyssey and Elements to Fix Braking Issue

2010-03-16T18:48:08Z

Honda has issued a recall of 344,000 Odyssey and 68,000 Elements to fix an issue with the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). Honda claims that owners have complained about brake pedals that feel soft and a longer pedal travel that requires more pressure to bring the vehicle to a stop.The condition seems to worsen over time. The problem is that some VSA modulators are letting in a small amount of air during the VSA self-check mode. Over time the air will accumulate can can lead to the soft brake pedal issue.

]]> Related Stories:
Chicago 10': Honda Odyssey Concept Previews the Next Odyssey

PRESS RELEASE:

Statement by American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Regarding VSA Modulator Recall

03/16/2010 - TORRANCE, Calif.

Honda will recall approximately 344,000 Odyssey and 68,000 Element vehicles from the 2007-2008 model years in the U.S. to modify the Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) modulator. Honda has received customer complaints of brake pedals that feel "soft" or that gradually exhibit a pedal height that gets lower (closer to the floor) before the vehicle stops. In affected vehicles, this condition tends to very slowly increase over time.

Some VSA modulators were assembled in a manner that could allow air intrusion, making it possible for air to enter the modulator during the VSA self-check mode. While only a miniscule amount of air can enter the system during each check, over a period of months or years, the air will accumulate and can result in the "soft brake pedal" or "low brake pedal" condition symptoms associated with this issue. Although not all vehicles being recalled are affected by this issue, we are recalling all possible units to assure all customers that their vehicles will perform correctly.

Honda is announcing this recall to encourage all owners of these vehicles to take their vehicle to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification from Honda that their vehicle is affected. Notification to customers will start at the end of April.

Once owners of these vehicles receive written notification of this recall from Honda, they should contact their authorized Honda dealer to schedule an appointment for repair. When Honda identifies concerns of this nature, nothing is more important to the company than fulfilling our obligation and responsibility to alert our customers. To this end in addition to contacting customers by mail, after April 19, 2010, owners of these vehicles will be able to determine if their vehicle requires repair by going on-line or calling. Honda owners can go to www.recalls.honda.com or call (800) 999-1009, and select option 4.

2011 Ford Mustang GT Puts out 412-HP and Gets 26 MPG Highway

2010-03-16T13:13:40Z

The 2011 Ford Mustang GT gets a new 412-hp 5.0L V8 and when it's mated to the six-speed manual transmission it gets 26 mpg on the highway, giving it the best fuel economy in its class. The six-speed manual GT gets 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway and the six-speed automatic gets 18/25 mpg. In comparison the Camaro SS gets 16/24 mpg with the manual and 16/25 with the automatic.

Ford has also announced that the 305-hp Mustang GT gets 19/31 mpg.

PRESS RELEASE:

2011 FORD MUSTANG GT LEADS CLASS WITH 26 MPG HIGHWAY, 412 HORSEPOWER

DEARBORN, Mich., March 16, 2010 - The 2011 Ford Mustang GT, powered by a new 412-hp 5.0-liter V-8 engine, adds yet another notch to its belt: an EPA rating of 26 mpg highway when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, giving it the best fuel economy in its class.

"The 2011 Mustang continues to exceed expectations in every category, and these fuel economy numbers are another chapter in an incredible story," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford's group vice president, Global Product Development. "To offer this kind of horsepower and class-leading fuel economy in a comfortable, beautiful, tech-savvy and affordable package - it's really unprecedented."

With the six-speed manual transmission, Mustang GT coupe is rated at 17 mpg city and
26 highway, while models with the available six-speed automatic achieve 18 mpg city and
25 highway.

The GT's best in class fuel numbers come on the heels of the Mustang V-6, which just last week cracked the record books as not only the most fuel-efficient Mustang ever, but also the first production car in history to produce 305 horsepower and 31 mpg highway.

Mustang GT is powered by an all-new 5.0-liter double-overhead-camshaft (DOHC) V-8 with a host of advanced features to deliver the combination of power and class-leading fuel economy.

Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valvetrain in microseconds depending on driver inputs. A carefully tuned intake and exhaust system ensures free breathing at all engine speeds. And all-aluminum construction results in a lightweight yet durable powerplant.

A pair of new transmissions, both with six forward ratios, also play a large part in making the 2011 Mustang a breakthrough car. Regardless of whether drivers want to shift for themselves or let the car shift for them, they're treated to carefully chosen gear ratios to maximize fuel economy while still delivering high-horsepower performance

"Mustang powertrain development has reached a point where customers don't have to choose between fuel efficiency and performance," says Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president of Global Powertrain Engineering. "Thanks to technologies like Ti-VCT and our six-speed gearboxes, a Mustang driver has the best of both worlds."

Hyundai's Consumer Loyalty Passes Honda and Toyota

2010-03-15T23:44:21Z

Kelley Blue Book has released the latest Market Intelligence Data, in which Hyundai has taken the top spot, passing both Toyota and Honda in brand loyalty among shoppers on kbb.com.

Comparing February 2010 data to Q4 2009, Hyundai had the greatest increase in loyalty with current Hyundai owners looking at new models within the brand increasing by 10.4 percent to 56.3 percent. This puts Hyundai in the top spot, up from third in Q4 2009. Honda continues to hold the second spot with 55.8 percent, while Toyota has fallen to the number three spot at 53.3 percent.

"Hyundai is clearly benefiting from 'a perfect storm' - a result of introducing passionate new products like the 2011 Sonata and 2010 Tucson, while Honda's mainstream vehicles like the CR-V and Accord are a bit stale in the marketplace and Toyota is experiencing a huge consumer perception crisis," said James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "To sustain this momentum, Hyundai should continue to promote its attractive new-vehicle lineup, solid warranty offer and strong price-points to new-car shoppers. Hyundai's main challenge in the near future will likely come from domestic automakers like Ford and GM as they gear up for battle over buyers starting to look for a change from 'Camry-land.'"

]]> PRESS RELEASE:
Kbb.com: Hyundai Owner Loyalty Speeds Past Honda, Replaces Toyota to Take No. 1 Spot

Hyundai Values Outperform Segment; Sonata Recently Breaks into Top 10 Most-Researched New Vehicles List

IRVINE, Calif., March 15 -- According to the latest Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com Market Intelligence data, brand loyalty for Hyundai recently surpassed that of Honda and Toyota, leading Hyundai's brand loyalty to the No. 1 spot among car shoppers on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. In addition, Hyundai values have been outperforming the car segment average, and the all-new Sonata recently emerged on the kbb.com Top 10 Most-Researched New Vehicles list.

When comparing February 2010 data to Q4 2009, Korean import automaker Hyundai has seen the greatest recent increase in loyalty, with Hyundai owners looking at new models within the brand increasing by 10.4 percentage points to 56.3 percent. This surge leads Hyundai to the top spot in brand loyalty on kbb.com for the first time in recent history, up from third place in Q4 2009.

In the same timeframe, Toyota fell from the No. 1 spot to third place and Honda continues to hold steady at second place. A fewer percentage of Toyota owners are looking at new models within the brand, down 4.4 percentage points to 53.3 percent, driving Toyota loyalty to third place. Meanwhile, holding steady in second place, Honda owners looking at new models within the brand have increased by 0.7 percentage points to 55.8 percent.

In addition, the Hyundai Sonata recently broke into kbb.com's Top 10 Most-Researched New Vehicles list for the first time. In February 2010, the Sonata was the fifth most-researched new car on kbb.com, with only perpetual 'Top 10 Most-Researched' mainstay Honda and Toyota models such as the Accord, Civic, Camry and CR-V ahead of it.

Furthermore, according to Kelley Blue Book Values data, throughout the month of February 2010 Hyundai outperformed the overall car segment average by a healthy margin. Hyundai values increased 2 percent month-over-month, relative to a 0.3 percent increase for the entire car segment.

This Kelley Blue Book Market Intelligence data analysis examined site traffic to used-car trade-in pages and new-car pricing report pages on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, and compared loyalty data from Q4 2009 to February 1 - 28, 2010. The Kelley Blue Book Values data within this release represents month-over-month used-vehicle depreciation percentages.

VIDEO: SNL Pokes Fun at the Runaway Prius

2010-03-15T23:33:32Z

Here's a funny video of an Saturday Night Live skit making fun of the current Toyota unintended acceleration issues.

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Lexus LFA Nürburgring Track Edition Comes in a Funky Orange Color

2010-03-15T14:34:55Z

Lexus is set to release a track version of the LFA supercar, dubbed the Nürburgring edition. The track-spec model features a fixed rear-wing, large front spoiler, a stiffer suspension, lightweight alloy wheels and an extra 10 horsepower. It will also be available in four colors, one of which is this orange pictured here.

Expect more details soon.

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Full Story: The Lexus Enthusiast

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2012 Lexus LFA Starts at $375,000

New York 10' Preview: 2011 Kia Optima Unveiled

2010-03-15T14:25:00Z

The 2011 Kia Optima is going to make its debut at the 2010 New York Auto Show.

The next-generation Optima, also known as the Magentis, is longer, wider and lower than before. It also features a coupe-like profile and Kia's new bold "tiger" family face.

The 2011 Optima will officially be unveiled on April 1 and will go on sale this fall.

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PRESS RELEASE:

Next generation Kia Optima to showcase confident new design direction
World premiere to be held at 2010 New York Motor Show

(SEOUL) March 14, 2010 - The next generation Kia Optima (currently, also known as 'Magentis' in some markets) is set to make its world premiere next month at the 2010 New York International Auto Show.

The Optima exudes an athletic confidence from every angle and shutline - its raked roofline, the high and pronounced shoulder line of its sculpted flanks and its extended wheelbase are complemented by boldly flared wheelarches and a shallow glasshouse that create a saloon with a muscular and self-assured stance.

The striking visage of the Optima features a new interpretation of Kia's bold 'tiger' family face that's edged by piercing projector headlamps.

Longer, wider and lower than before, the Kia's coupe-like profile is enhanced by the sweeping chrome arc that flows from A to C pillar, a distinctive design motif that visually lowers the car further still and enhances its cab-backwards proportions.

Spacious, and with class-leading levels of safety and luxury equipment, the Optima's intelligently configured and driver-oriented cabin underlines this newfound poise and presence.

The Kia Motors press conference for the New York International Auto Show will take place on April 1, 2010 from 10:10-10:35 a.m. at the Kia Stand on Level 1 of the 'Jacob Javits Center' located between 34-39 Streets on 11th Avenue in New York City.

2011 BMW 5 Series Touring Officially Unveiled

2010-03-15T14:10:22Z

BMW has officially unveiled the wagon version of the new 5 Series. The 2011 5 Series Touring looks very close to the sedan, unlike the 5 Series Gran Turismo variant.

In Europe the 5 Series Touring gets two diesel and two gasoline engine choices. The least powerful is the diesel 520d Touring with 184-hp. The diesel 530d Touring puts out 245 horsepower. The two gasoline options are the 204-hp 523i Touring and the 306-hp 535i Touring. An eight-speed automatic transmission is optional with all of the engines.

Unfortunately it doesn't look like the US will be getting this new 5 Series wagon, instead we have to make due with the 5 Series Gran Turismo.

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VIDEO: Officer in San Diego Helps Stop Runaway Toyota Prius

2010-03-09T15:22:43Z

Yesterday a California Highway Patrol officer helped stop a runaway Toyota Prius on a San Diego County freeway. The Prius had reached 94 mph after the car's accelerator became stuck, but luckily the officer was able to bring the car safely to a halt.

In what is worse news for Toyota, the owner of the Prius, James Sikes, said that he took his Prius to an El Cajon dealership for repairs after receiving a recall notice, but he was turned away.

"I gave them my recall notice and they handed it back and said I'm not on the recall list," Sikes said.

Sikes called 911 around 1:30 pm after accelerating to pass another vehicle on Interstate 8 when he realized that he could not control the Prius.

"I pushed the gas pedal to pass a car and it did something kind of funny ... it jumped and it just stuck there," the 61-year-old driver said.

"As it was going, I was trying the brakes ... it wasn't stopping, it wasn't doing anything and it just kept speeding up," Sikes said, adding he could smell the brakes burning he was pressing the pedal so hard.

Eventually a patrol car pulled alongside the Prius and the officers told Sikes to push the brake pedal to the floor and pull the emergency brake. A steep upgrade also helped slow the vehicle. Once the car slowed to 50 mph SIkes turned off the engine and coasted. The officer eventually maneuvered his car in front of the Prius as a precautionary block.

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Full Story: Detroit News

2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon to Debut in New York

2010-03-09T15:00:47Z

Acura has confirmed that the new 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon will debut at the New York Auto Show at the end of this month.

The TSX Sport Wagon will go on sale this fall and be sold alongside the TSX sedan. The TSX sedan is available with either a 4-cylinder or V6, but it hasn't been the engine lineup for the Sport Wagon has not been announced.

]]> PRESS RELEASE:

All-New Acura TSX Sport Wagon to Debut at New York International Auto Show

Acura announced it will debut the all-new 2011 TSX Sport Wagon at the New York International Auto Show. The TSX Sport Wagon will offer a new solution to modern utility needs with its balanced and efficient performance coupled with bold styling and versatile cargo capabilities.

Arriving at Acura dealerships in the late fall, the Sport Wagon will join the TSX lineup, which already includes the 4-cylinder and V6-powered sports sedans.

The TSX Sport Wagon will be introduced at the New York International Auto Show on March 31, 2010 in the Acura booth. The press conference will be webcast live, followed by a Q&A on Twitter via @Acura_Insider.