The Torque Report

Ford to Lead the Industry by Replacing One-Quarter of its Lineup by 2016

2012-05-16T20:36:25Z

Ford is set to replace 26 percent of its lineup between 2013 and 2016 according to a Bank of America Merrill Lynch report. Ford will lead the industry by introducing the most new or refreshed vehicles in the U.S. during the period. The annual "Car Wars" report predicts that GM will replace 25 percent of its lineup, while Toyota will replace 24 percent and Nissan will match the industry average at 23 percent.

New models are picking up from the "lull" during the last three years. The Bank of America report predicts that most new introductions will be in the crossover, luxury-car and light-truck segments. Chrysler and Honda will trail the segment by with replacement rates of 20 percent.

]]> The report also states that Ford will replace 46 percent of its volume for the 2015 model year with the new Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers, F-Series pickups and the all-new Mustang. GM will replace 52 percent of its volume one year earlier in 20114 with new models like the Chevy Silverado pickup, all-new Chevy Impala and a new Cadillac CTS.

Automotive News

2012 Hyundai Azera Named IIHS Top Safety Pick

2012-05-16T20:17:55Z

The all-new 2012 Hyundai Azera has achieved the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) highest honor as a Top Safety Pick. In order to be labeled as a Top Safety Pick, a vehicle has to receive a "good" rating, the highest rating possible in front, side, rollover and rear crash tests.

"Having a great recipe of safety equipment baked into the all-new Azera put it on the top pick list," said Scott Margason, director, product planning, Hyundai Motor America. "The Azera takes ESC and seating to the next level, by adding the ability to automatically counter steer the car from pulling too much in one direction and further reduce head and neck injuries through an impact reducing seat structure."

]]> The all-new 2012 Azera starts at $32,000 and is powered by a 293 horsepower 3.3L V6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

2013 Nissan Altima Production Begins in Tennessee

2012-05-16T10:41:58Z

Nissan has officially kicked off production of the all-new 2013 Nissan Altima at its Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant in Tennessee. It's been 20 years since the first Nissan Altima rolled off the line in Smyrna and 4.4 million Altimas later, the fifth generation is here.

"The Nissan Altima ranks among the country's top-selling cars and best-known nameplates," said Bill Krueger, vice chairman, Nissan Americas. "This generation is not only the most innovative Altima ever, it also becomes the benchmark for quality in the midsize car segment. And there's no better plant to rise to the challenge than our top-quality manufacturing operations in Smyrna."

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The 2013 Altima will begin arriving in dealers in June with a starting price of $21,500. The all-new Altima gets new premium exterior styling with a strong presence and excellent aerodynamics, an upscale interior with premium materials, and an outstanding balance of ride comfort, stability and a fun-to-drive demeanor with projected best-level acceleration. Buyers can choose between a 182-horsepower 2.5L four-cylinder that gets up to 38 mpg on the highway or a 270-hp 3.5L V6.

2013 BMW 135is Packs 320-HP and Starts at $44,145

2012-05-16T01:15:38Z

BMW has unveiled a new "enhanced performance" version of the 2013 1 Series, the 2013 BMW 135is. The 2013 BMW 135is coupe and convertible will now be the top versions of the 1 Series, since the 1 Series M coupe is already gone.

The 135is is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder (N55) engine with 320 horsepower and 317 lb-ft. of torque. Even with the extra power over the 135i, BMW claims that the 135is will maintain the same emissions level and MPG ratings as the lesser powered 135i. The 135is also gets a performance exhaust system and the engine gets an upgraded cooling system. Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or 7-speed double clutch transmission.

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The 135is is equipped with sport suspension incorporating an aluminum double-pivot front suspension and a five-link fully independent rear suspension in lightweight steel. BMW's Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) also includes a Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) function that provides electronic intervention to prevent loss of vehicle control, but at a higher threshold before activation. If the driver desires, both DSC and DTC can be disabled entirely. In addition to its duties as a safety system, the DSC system on the 135is is programmed specifically to enhance performance-oriented driving.

The exterior of the new 135is Coupe / Convertible will be identified by exclusive 18" wheels, unique high-gloss black kidney grill, black mirror caps and special exterior badges in addition to the standard M Sport Package components. Interior highlights include stainless steel pedals, special interior badges and optional black leather seats with blue stitching for the standard sport seats.

Both the 135is Coupe and Convertible are scheduled to arrive in BMW showrooms this fall with retail pricing set at $44,145 and $48,845 respectively.

Porsche 918 Spyder Hybrid Confirmed with More than 770 Horsepower and 78 MPG

2012-05-15T15:35:34Z

Porsche's 918 Spyder hybrid is slated to arrive by the end of 2013, but Porsche has been kind enough to release a few of the details now. Prototypes of the hybrid super car are currently being tested with camouflage harking back to historical Porsche 917 racing cars, that signal the final touches to the 918 Spyder.

The 918 Spyder plug-in hybrid is powered by a V8 engine and two electric motors, which will put out more than 770 horsepower according to Porsche. The 4.6-liter V-8 engine is expected to put out around 570 horsepower and sends its power to the rear wheels. One electric motor also sends its power to the back, while another electric motor sends power to the front of the 918 Spyder. Although the hybrid system will put out more than 770 horsepower, Porsche estimates that the 918 Spyder's fuel consumption in the region of three litres per 100 kilometers (78 MPG U.S) The 918 Spyder will also have an electric-only range of 15 miles, reach 0-60 mph in under 3.0 seconds and have a top speed over 200 mph.

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The 918 Spyder will also get other new technology like, a fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque with unit carrier, fully adaptive aerodynamics, adaptive rear-axle steering and the upward-venting "top pipes" exhaust system.

"What we are doing with the 918 Spyder is redefining driving fun, efficiency and performance," said Wolfgang Hatz, Member of the Executive Board Research and Development of Porsche AG.

Acura Shows Off the NSX Concept in Red

2012-05-15T11:56:26Z

Acura gave us our first look at the NSX concept at the Detroit Auto Show in January. The concept was originally shown off in a light charcoal, now here are new photos of the NSX Concept in red.

in case you need a refresher, the NSX concept is a preview of the next-generation NSX that will arrive within the next three years. The NSX concept features Acura's new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD hybrid system. The system uses a two electric motor drive unit up front that can instantly send negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. The next-generation VTEC V6 engine features direct-injection and is mated to a dual clutch transmission with built-in electric motor that sends its power to the rear wheels.

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Audi Q3 Red Track Debuts at the Wörthersee Tour

2012-05-15T11:41:10Z

Audi is going to unveil a new version of the Audi Q3 crossover at the Wörthersee Tour. The Audi Q3 Red Track is powered by a 2.5L five-cylinder TFSI engine with direct injection and turbocharging that generates an output of 340 hp 332 lb-ft. of torque. The power of the turbocharged five-cylinder unit is transferred to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system via a seven-speed S tronic transmission. The Audi Q3 red track accelerates from 0-62 mph in 5.4 seconds and continues to a top speed of 163 mph.

On the outside the Q3 Red Track is painted in Energy Red paint that contains golden pearlescent particles. Its add-on body parts are in matte gray quartz-based paint. Eye catching features on the sides of the Q3 Red Track are the flared wheel arches and the running boards, which Audi is to incorporate into the extensive range of Q3 accessories. The newly styled aluminum roof rails are specially designed for transporting skis. The Q3 Red Track also rides on 20 inch wheels with off-road tires. It's track has also been increased by 1.57 inches and the body is 1.18 inches higher compared to the other Q3 models.

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In the interior of the Audi Q3 red track, three colors offer an ambience of sophistication and sporty elegance - black, gray and red. The headlining is made from titanium gray Alcantara; large parts of the interior, including the carpet, are black. The black, ribbed floor mats are edged with narrow strips of red Velvet leather.

The interior of the Audi Q3 Red Track includes two devices for winter sports fans. The side wall of the luggage compartment houses a charging station. It can be used for storing flashlights and charging them inductively at the same time. The same technology is used for the Thermos canister. It is located in the cup holder between the front seats and is able to chill or warm drinks. Both devices have LEDs that show the current charge level. One attractive extra is that, in addition to LED lighting, the flashlights incorporate an infra-red heating element that can be used for warming your hands or a pair of ski boots.

Next-Generation 2014 Infiniti G37 to Arrive Next Spring

2012-05-14T20:16:34Z

The guys over at Inside Line recently spoke with Andy Palmer, executive vice president of Nissan and Infiniti's Global Business Unit, who confirmed that the next-generation G37 will arrive in the spring of 2013.

Palmer did not provide many other details about the new G37, but it is possible that it could eventually get a four-cylinder in place of the V6 in the base G. Nissan's new partnership with Mercedes-Benz has confirmed plans for Nissan to build four-cylinder engines for the next Mercedes-Benz C-Class, but it's also highly possible that this engine could also find its way under the hood of a G model.

]]> There is also a possibility of a hybrid variant.

Inside Line

Chevy to Add New Trax Small SUV to its Global Lineup

2012-05-14T14:47:43Z

Chevy is set to introduce a new small SUV to its global lineup by the end of this year. The all-new Chevy Trax small SUV is going to debut at the Paris Motor Show in September. GM states that the five-passenger Trax will offer class-leading interior space and be offered in over 140 markets. Mexico and Canada will be the first markets to launch the small SUV in the fourth quarter of this year. Unfortunately because of the strong position of the Equinox, there are no plans to introduce the Trax in the U.S. market.

]]> "The Trax provides Chevrolet an entry into a growing small SUV segment and delivers the flexibility, great fuel economy and car-like handling that urban explorers around the world require," said Mary Barra, GM senior vice president of Product Development. "After a record sales year in 2011 and a record first quarter, Chevrolet continues to meet customer needs by expanding its portfolio with strong new entries."

BMW M135i Officially Unveiled in 3 and 5-Door Versions

2012-05-14T10:55:55Z

BMW has officially taken the wraps off the M version of the 1 Series hatchback in Europe. The M135i was previewed in concept form at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The production version is powered by a turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder engine with 320 horsepower. This is the first time a BMW M Performance model has been powered by a gas engine.

Buyers in Europe will be able to choose between either three or five door bodystyles, which feature an M suspension and body kit. The 3.0L engine can be mated to either a standard six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. The manual equipped M135i should reach 0-62 mph in 5.1 seconds, while the eight-speed version is a few ticks faster at 4.9 seconds.

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2013 BMW 3 Series Sport Wagon Officially Unveiled

2012-05-13T14:29:13Z

Here's the first official photos and info about the all-new 2013 BMW 3 Series Sport Wagon, that will be sold in the U.S. The 3 Series Sport Wagon is slightly larger than its predecessor with a wider track and longer overall length and wheelbase. Most of the added length benefits the rear seat passengers, which now have more space to stretch out than before. Cargo volume has also been increased by 10 percent.

The 2013 BMW 3 Series Sport Wagon will launch in Europe later this year and will arrive in U.S. showrooms in spring 2013. Inside the rear seat can be folded down in three sections in a 40:20:40 split. A net as well as an additional strap along the right side panel can be used to help secure cargo and a net along the left-hand panel will also be available. A storage tray under the load compartment floor and a deep stowage compartment on the left-hand side of the cargo area can accommodate smaller items. The luggage compartment cover can also be stowed away under the load compartment floor, allowing it to be kept in the car even when not in use and a separate partition net helps keep things in place when the rear seats are folded down.

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The 2013 BMW 3 Series also gets a power tailgate for the first time ever. It can be opened with the touch of a button or with the Comfort Access package, the tailgate will open with a handsfree system that only needs you to stick a foot under the rear bumper and the tailgate will automatically swing open.

Mini John Cooper Works GP Unveiled, it's the Fastest Mini Ever

2012-05-13T14:02:33Z

Mini has unveiled the fastest production Mini ever, the John Cooper Works GP. The John Cooper Works GP recently lapped the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 8 minutes and 23 seconds, a full 19 seconds quicker than the the lap time set by its predecessor, the Mini Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP Kit.

Underpinning the performance characteristics of the Mini John Cooper Works GP is exclusive powertrain, chassis and aerodynamics technology inspired directly by motorsport. Mini hasn't announced the final horsepower figures, but it wil pack more than the 214 horsepower that the previous model had. It also gets an adjustable race suspension. On the outside the Mini John Cooper Works GP gets large front and rear aprons, side skirts, a bespoke roof spoiler and a newly developed rear diffuser which optimizes airflow around the underbody. The rear seats have also been removed to save weight.

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The Mini John Cooper Works GP gets an adjustable race suspension and on the outside its stands apart from the lesser powered models with its large front and rear aprons, side skirts, bespoke roof spoiler and a newly developed rear diffuser which optimizes airflow around the underbody. Inside the rear seats have been removed to save weight.

Final pricing will be announced closer to its on sale date, but Mini will only produce 2,000 units. The good news is that it will be sold in the U.S.

Porsche Plans New Smaller Sedan to Compete Against the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

2012-05-11T11:40:01Z

Porsche is reportedly working on a new sedan that will be smaller than the current Panamera. It will be released by 2017 and go head to head with models like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series.

Internally the new sedan is code-named Pajun and according to Auto Bild the new sedan will cost between 65,000 euros and 100,000 euros.

]]> Automotive News

Nissan Begins Construction of New Facility to Build Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz Engines

2012-05-10T21:04:47Z

The Renault-Nissan Alliance and Daimler partnership reached a milestone today when Tennessee officials joined Nissan leadership to break ground on a new manufacturing facility in Decherd, Tenn. The new facility, which is located at the existing Nissan powertrain assembly complex - will produce Mercedes-Benz 4-cyl. gasoline engines for Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz models.

"Today, we begin an exciting new chapter for the Renault-Nissan Alliance and our continued investment in the United States," Swenson said. "Today's groundbreaking marks the latest move in our collaboration with Daimler to localize production capacity and enhance our competitiveness in the global market."

]]> Production of the new engines will begin in 2014 with installed capacity of 250,000 units per year. The Tennessee plant's strategic location will ensure a direct supply of engines for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, to be built at Daimler's vehicle plant in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

GM Trademarks the Riviera Name, Will it be Used for a Future Buick?

2012-05-10T11:21:30Z

GM has reportedly filed for the trademark of the Riviera name, which has fueled more speculation that GM could apply the name to a future Buick model. The Riviera name is obviously not new, but the last time that we saw it used was for the 2007 Buick Riviera concept that debuted in China.

It's not known if GM is simply just filed for the trademark, but doesn't have any plans to actually use it. Many automakers will trademark many names, but not actually use them, like Ford who trademarked a series of "MK" names for the Lincoln brand.

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There have been rumors that Buick may get a new rear-wheel-drive coupe, possibly based on the Alpha platform, but nothing has been confirmed. If it does happen in the future it wouldn't be surprising if GM applied the Rivera name to it.

GM Inside News