Preview: 2008 Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen’s drawn out gestation for its Tiguan compact SUV is approaching its end and this latest rendering shows that the final production version is likely to be almost identical to the concept car displayed at last year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. Aimed as a rival for popular soft-roaders such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota Rav 4, the new Tiguan will feature a foldable rear bench and seating capacity for five.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continued- Article

The key differences to the concept version is the toned down front-end styling, less flared arches and smaller 17in alloys. Underpinning the new Tiguan is an upgraded version of the platform used for the VW Golf range, with the biggest change being the wider track and taller ride-height. The Tiguan is expected to be sold with FWD in base models and optional 4WD that will be standard for upscale models.

Under the hood will be range of new Bluetec diesels and efficient FSI gasoline engines. Expect the 2.0L “Clean TDI” Bluetec diesel engine that was displayed at the LA Show to appear with an estimated 170hp on tap. Other powerplants should include VW Group’s 200hp 2.0L TFSI as well as a more powerful 280hp 3.6L V6.

The Tiguan should hit showrooms by the end of the year with pricing expected to start around $24,000.

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/crossovers/preview-2008-volkswagen-tiguan/

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New York Preview: AMG debuting mystery model

Owners of a Mercedes-Benz AMG model who have access to the brand's Private Lounge website have been notified that a mystery model from AMG will make its world debut at the New York Auto Show in a couple of weeks. The only hint as to what model it might be are a few detail pics and a profile shot of the car cloaked in a sheet. Continue reading to read what WorldCarFans and Autoblog have predicted the mystery car could be. Also, a say from us, but we'll have to wait and see until April 4th to find out.

[Source: Autoblog]

Continued- Article

As for what model it could be, World Car Fans suggests that it's likely the AMG C 63, the high-performance version of the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class that was only officially debuted earlier this month in Geneva. Autoblog had to agree, although they noticed that the profile shot shows the contour of a door handle that belongs to the front passenger door, but not a corresponding handle for the rear passenger door. We have to agree with numerous forums like CarSpyShots.net that it's actually the CLK 63 AMG Black Series. All questions will be answered in early April when we're on hand as the cover's pulled.

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Honda moving some production of CR-V to Mexico

In 2008, 50,000 CR-Vs will be cranked out of Honda's assembly plant in Guadalajara, Mexico. Currently, the plant is used to build Accord sedans, to the tune of about 30k per year, but when CR-V production begins, they'll be no more hecho en Mexico Accords finding their way north. Instead, production of Honda's midsize sedan will move to their plant in Marysville, Ohio.

[Source: Autoblog]

Continued- Article

The move, which reportedly cost Honda over $8 million in upgrades, is due to a high level of demand for the 'lil 'ute in the U.S. that isn't being met by the automaker's plant in East Liberty, Ohio.

Of the 50,000 CR-Vs to be produced annually, half will head into the States, while the rest will remain south of the border. The production shift will begin this fall.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/23/honda-sends-some-cr-v-production-south-of-the-border/

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Holden VE Commodore SS Police Car

Even the cops in Australia have it over us. While we wait (impatiently) for the Pontiac G8 to start rolling off transport ships originating from the island continent sometime next year, the new VE Commodore is now entering fleet duty as a police interceptor. Holden released a trio of shots showing full-dress VE Commodore SSes ready for duty on the undoubtedly long stretches of road running through the Outback in Australia's Northern Territory. Boy, we would burn through a lot of gas if we were Australian police officers on patrol out there with one of these as the "company car."

[Source: Autoblog]

Continued- More images

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Preview: 2009 Volvo S60

Volvo is busy preparing its entry to the mid-size sedan market in the shape of the S60, which will feature radical new styling under the direction of design chief Steve Mattin. Having already developed the XC60 concept, Mattin’s next job is to give the S60 a bold new face that will compete with the German triumvirate.

Our friends at Auto Motor & Sport Sweden managed to score a peek at design sketches for the new S60 the day before the Geneva Auto Show and their journalist relayed the impressions to a 3D artist, who created these images.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continued- Article, one more rendering

Due to a lack of funds Ford decided to halt production of the S60 for 6 months, but AMS reports that things are back in full swing for a 2009/2010 release date. According to their discussion with Mattin, Volvo wants to make the S60 more unique and an interesting alternative to the usual suspects. The goal is to hit 600,000 cars sold per year in 2010, up from the 450,000 mark at the moment.

[Read More...]

GM rumored to be developing a new RWD platform: Alpha

In the past 18 months, GM has brought out two all-new rear-wheel drive platforms at opposite ends of the spectrum. The Kappa platform underpins the Solstice and Sky roadsters, as well as several concepts that have been shown at auto shows this season. At the larger end, the crew at Holden has created the Zeta platform that drives the Commodore/Pontiac G8/Chevy Camaro/2009 Impala and likely more.

Now it's being reporting that there will be a new mid-sized RWD platform code-named Alpha. Alpha would apparently take pieces from the other platforms and be used for future Pontiacs and Cadillacs. The next generation G6 may use this architecture instead of the front wheel drive Epsilon II. For Cadillac, the new car would slot in below the CTS and also replace the much derided BLS in Europe.

[Source: Autoblog]

Continued- Article

If it's done right, such a Cadillac would give the brand a real competitor for the BMW 3-Series and Audi A4/S4, as long as consumers aren't hounded by the memory of other entry-level Cadillacs like the Cimarron. A smaller, rear-drive sedan and/or coupe would fit in much better with Cadillac's current lineup, however, and further help to lower the average age of the brands' customers.

Many are saying that the Holden Torana Concept shown in 2004 is a clear indication of the new rumored Alpha platform.

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Production Ford Fairlane renamed 'Flex', will debut in NYIAS

Ford’s new full-size crossover based on the Fairlane concept version pictured will make its debut in full production trim at next month’s New York Auto Show. The Detroit News reports that Ford has labeled the new “people mover” the Flex and that it will be available for sale in 2008.The new Flex is the replacement for Ford’s now defunct Freestar minivan, and is a prime example of the trend towards more flexible and stylish crossover-style MPVs. The vehicle will be manufactured at the Blue Oval’s Oakville Assembly Plant in Ontario alongside the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers. Lincoln is expected to offer its own crossover model based on the same platform underpinning the Flex.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continued- Article

Late last year, Ford’s head designer J. Mays said the production version of the Fairlane will be almost identical to the concept car. Inside, there’ll be seating available for six passengers but the Flex won’t get the suicide style rear doors as seen on the concept.

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/crossovers/new-ford-%e2%80%98flex%e2%80%99-to-debut-at-new-york-auto-show/

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NHTSA to investigate GM SUVs for fuel leak issue

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced today that it is investigating General Motors' GMC Envoy and Chevrolet TrailBlazer for corrosion problems that can lead to fuel leaks. The investigation could lead to a recall of more than 800,000 of the popular SUVs.

[Source: Inside Line: Edmunds]

Continued- Article

The investigation covers 2002 and '03 models. The two vehicles sold a combined 418,381 units in 2003, although sales of the big SUVs have dropped in subsequent years. NHTSA said there have been 16 reports of leakage from the vehicles' fuel pump module, apparently caused by corrosion.

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=120074

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GM plans 7 world premieres for NYIAS

We're officially getting pumped up for the New York Auto Show. Bomb #1 dropped yesterday as the Infiniti G37 embargo got vaporized like the White House in Independence Day. The runup to the show is in full effect, and that's always a fun time. Today we got word that the gang at GM is planning world premieres of one concept and six production vehicles. Those come in addition to the US debut of Saab's E100 concept and a parade of other showpieces like the new CTS, the Camaro Convertible, the Saturn Astra, and other fun stuff.

[Source: Autoblog via NYIAS]

Continued- Article

The concept is described as a "closely guarded world concept," which makes us very curious bloggers, indeed. On the production side, you can pretty much pencil in the two Buick Supers, and we know what two of the others are (check back a week from today), but on the last two, we're still in the dark, though we can make very educated guesses on them. In any case, a good time is sure to be had by all, and we've got a big team standing by to bring you all the news as it rolls off Bob Lutz's tongue.

So what do you think will be the stars of GM at this year's show in the Big Apple? The Super variants of the Buick Lacrosse/Allure? The revamped Aveo hatchback? We'll see soon.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/21/gm-plans-7-world-premieres-for-ny-auto-show/

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New Fiat 500 revealed

These are the first official images of Fiat’s cute 500, the Italian rival to popular minicars such as the MINI Cooper and Nissan Micra. The 500 was originally planned to hit the market in September but it’s now scheduled to be released on the 4th of July, and unlike the original “cinquecento” models of the 1950s, the new 500 will be positioned as a premium model. Fiat will be offering customers multiple customization options to add to the car’s life-style appeal and up-market cachet.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continued- Article, more hi-res images

Prices should start at close to the €10,000 mark, putting the new 500 above the larger five-door Panda in terms of price. Fiat is expected to sell up to 58,000 units by the end of the year, with this figure likely to jump to around 120,000 cars per year thereafter. Fiat will build the 500 in Tychy, Poland, alongside the upcoming second generation Ford Ka, with which it shares its platform.

The new 500 gets double projector headlights at each side, with a chrome ornament on the front bumper sporting the new Fiat logo. The 500 will only be offered in a three-door configuration and is limited to carrying four passengers. Fiat is launching the 500 with three engines initially. A 1.3L turbodiesel with 75hp (55kW) and two gasoline units with 69hp (51kW) and 100hp (74kW), with all the engines connected to either five or six-speed gearboxes. A high-performance 1.4L unit with 150hp is likely to debut in a sporty Abarth version.

Rival manufacturers are rushing to release their own minicars including premium versions from the likes of Volkswagen and Audi as well as more budget-based models from GM and Toyota. But none of these new models will have the cult-status of the new 500, its popularity garnered by the wholesome appeal of the original. It’s clear that Fiat’s marketing strategy for this model is heavily influenced by BMW’s revived Mini Cooper and we’re sure the new 500 will steal some of its limelight.



http://www.motorauthority.com/news/hatchbacks/fiat-500-preview/

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New York Preview: Infiniti G37 Coupe revealed ahead of schedule

With the New York Auto Show only a couple weeks away, the embargos had to begin to break any day now. Road and Track started things off by releasing its May issue online early with a single of the new Infiniti G37 and a short driving impression. Edmunds Inside Line and Automobile smelled blood, and immediately opened the flood gates revealing everything they knew about Infiniti's new G Coupe. These news outlets were apparently invited to a sneak preview of the G37 at Nissan's test facility in Arizona last month, and while Infiniti likely set strict embargoes on publishing pictures and driving impressions of the new model, all it takes is one hole in the dam to start a deluge.

[Source: Autoblog]

Continued- Article, more images

The full view of the G37 is stunning, with familiar cues from the G35 Sedan mingled with coupe-specific cues like a large front intake and fast profile. The headlights peel back into the front fenders the G37 an even more imposing presence than the current G35 coupe.

The already excellent 3.5L V6 from the G35 Sedan gets bored out by 4.6mm to reach 3.7 liters, and the compression is increased to 11.0:1 to create some outstanding power numbers. An estimated 330 hp and 270 lb-ft will move the 3,682 lb coupe, and the drive should be much improved with 36-percent stiffer underpinnings than the G35 coupe. Stopping power is also quite impressive, with 14-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors.

Infinity showed the world it was no pushover in the entry luxury market with its first-generation G35 coupe, and we think the great looks and impressive power numbers of the all-new G37 may put Infinity at the front of the pack. Of course, the BMW 335i coupe leads the pack at the moment while weighing less and putting up bigger torque numbers with its twin-turbo inline-six, so we'll reserve judgment on whether or not the G37 wins by a nose until we've had the chance to drive it.

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Chrysler Sebring Convertible priced from $25,740

Chrysler has released pricing information on the soft-top version of the new Sebring convertible, and prices have actually dropped from last year's model. You can get a four-cylinder model for $25,470, which is about $700 less than the outgoing model. Add a V6 engine and the price comes to $28,070 and when you tick the boxes for 18-inch wheels and a premium sound system, the price gets a bit high at $31,670. While we like the price of entry for the new convertible, we got a bit worried when there was no mention of the 3.5L V6 model, equipped with the hard-top option. A $35k+ Sebring of any kind would be a very hard pill to swallow.

[Source: Autoblog via Kicking Tires]

Continued- Article

The last-generation Chrysler Sebring may have been described by many as "lame," but when you took off the roof, you had a convertible that was mildly attractive and relatively affordable. The new Sebring, although questionably styled, is likely better than the outgoing model, but again, the all-new convertible version is much, much cooler than its fixed-roof sibling. Plus, you can choose between a soft-top and hard-top.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/20/chrysler-sebring-convertible-pricing-announced/

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Saturn Aura Green Line priced from $22,695

The folks at Saturn have finally slapped a sticker on their 2007 Aura Green Line, and at $22,695 (with destination fee) it undercuts the price of every other hybrid on the market. If that wasn't enough incentive to woo would be fuel misers into the dealership, the Green Line also qualifies for the $1,300 federal tax credit.

[Source: Autoblog via GM]

Continued- Article, official press release

As a refresher, the hybrid setup in the Aura combines a 2.4L engine to an electric motor/generator to produce 164 HP and 159 lb.-ft. of torque while returning current EPA mileage figures of 28 city/35 highway. The 30-percent increase in mileage over the base Aura is achieved by both shutting off the engine at idle and cutting fuel delivery during deceleration. The Aura GL is considered a "mild" hybrid since the electric motor doesn't move the vehicle on its own or assist the IC engine in acceleration at any time.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/19/saturn-aura-green-line-becomes-lowest-priced-hybrid/

PRESS RELEASE:

Saturn Aura Green Line - the Lowest Priced Hybrid -Certified for $1,300 Tax Credit

New hybrid starts at $22,695; receives official EPA ratings of 28 mpg city/35 mpg highway

Detroit -- Saturn announced today that the new 2007 Aura Green Line hybrid's MSRP will start at $22,695 (including destination charge), making it the lowest-priced hybrid on the market for 2007.

In addition to its value-focused price, the Internal Revenue Service has certified that Aura Green Line buyers will qualify for a tax credit of $1,300.

"The Aura Green Line is a great value among the hybrids in the mid-size car segment," said Saturn General Manager Jill Lajdziak. "With a starting sticker price over $2,000 less than any mid-sized hybrid sedan and a $1,300 tax credit, it makes true hybrid fuel savings available to more people than ever before."

The Aura Green Line's EPA fuel economy rating of 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway represents up to a 30 percent improvement in EPA combined fuel economy compared to the non-hybrid Aura XE model (depending on driving conditions).

The Aura is assembled at the General Motors Fairfax Plant in Kansas City , Kan. , and Green Line hybrid models are beginning to arrive at Saturn retail facilities.

The hybrid system in the Aura combines sophisticated controls with a precise electric motor/generator mated to a 2.4-liter engine. The system delivers fuel economy gains by providing electric power assist during acceleration, through early fuel cut-off during deceleration with torque smoothing and by shutting the engine off at idle. The system also captures electrical energy through regenerative braking. The vehicle's hybrid powertrain produces 164 horsepower (122 kW) at 6400 rpm and 159 lb.-ft. (215 Nm) of peak torque at 5000 rpm.

Saturn's new hybrid sedan is based on the all-new Aura midsize sedan, which garnered the 2007 North American Car of the Year award. The Green Line features the same comprehensive safety package that earned Aura a full five stars in government frontal and side-impact crash tests, placing it among the safest vehicles available. (Visit safercar.gov for details.) Key standard features include dual-stage front, side head-curtain and front-seat thorax protection air bags; StabiliTrak electronic stability control; four-wheel disc brakes with ABS; and GM's OnStar safety and security system.

The Aura Green Line is one of four hybrids that Saturn has announced. The 2007 Vue Green Line, which debuted last summer using the same hybrid technology as the Aura Green Line, provides the highest EPA estimated highway fuel economy of any SUV at 32 mpg.

In 2008, Saturn will offer the Vue Green Line with the first front-wheel-drive application of GM's new, 2-mode hybrid system that is expected to deliver up to a 45-percent improvement in combined city and highway fuel economy compared with the non-hybrid Vue.

A plug-in hybrid that has the potential to achieve double the fuel efficiency of any current SUV, is also in development for the Vue. This hybrid SUV will use a modified version of GM's 2-mode hybrid system and plug-in technology. A Lithium-ion battery pack, when ready, along with highly efficient electronics and powerful electric motors, will achieve even greater increases in fuel economy.

Complete information on the Aura Green Line and the rest of Saturn's lineup can be found on the Web at www.saturn.com.

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Aston Martin calls on Volvo for new Rapide

Aston Martin will rely on Volvo to develop safety systems for its upcoming Rapide sedan, and we’re likely to see more Ford engineers playing a bigger role in designing Aston’s future models. The Blue Oval still retains a £40 million stake in the luxury brand, including ownership of the engine factory in Köln where Aston Martin sources its V8 and V12 engines. According to Sweden’s AutoMotor&Sport, Aston will also benefit from Ford’s advantage in procuring raw materials at discount, especially for aluminum.

[Source: Motor Authority]

Continued- Article

Aston CEO Ulrich Bez confirmed that Volvo’s knowledge and resources on safety features would be utilized by his company, just as it was used for the DB9 and V8 Vantage. Experts from Volvo are helping to develop the stiff aluminum structure of the Rapide, including designing the B-pillar and side-members to optimise occupant safety during side impact collisions.

Now the rush is on to launch the Rapide sports sedan ahead of rival Porsche’s four-door Panamera. The proposed launch date for the new model is in late 2008 and it could potentially add another 1,000 to 2,000 units on top of the niche sports carmaker’s current production levels.

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/industry/aston-martin-calls-on-volvo-for-new-rapide/

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$99 registration open for Smart ForTwo, will start under $12,000

We alerted you to the fact that smart would be taking $99 reservations for its U.S. bound fortwo and the day has come when you can officially get in line for a fee. A registration page has been set up that will take your vital info, including your drivers license number, as well as what model fortwo you'd like and the color of the body panels, trident safety cell and interior. The $99 fee doesn't guarantee you a car, as it's meant to help DaimlerChrysler distribute the vehicles they'll have to the regions where demand is greatest. If you do manage to buy one, the fee will be added to the cost of your vehicle. If you don't get one, they'll refund the money.

[Source: Autoblog]

Continued- Article

According to the registration page, the U.S. fortwo will start at under $12,000 for the PURE model (just a note – it appears the PURE comes sans stereo with a "radio-ready dash). The slightly uplevel PASSION model (with an AM/FM radio and CD player) will begin under $14,000, and the PASSION CABRIO just under $17,000. While this pricing is most likely not final, it can't be far off. Color us impressed, as we were expecting a base smart fortwo to start in the $15k to $16k range based on the kitsch factor of smart's image alone. Beginning at $12,000, however, means DCX will have to worry about supply much more than what we expect to be extremely high demand for this urban runabout.

If you are willing to purchase the peppy runabout, you can go to the link after the sentence to register for a car, once only available in Canada.

https://commerce.smartusa.com/Registration/register.aspx

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ZAP releases all-EV ZAP-X

ZAP has released a sketch of the ZAP-X, a previously talked-about all-electric SUV that uses in-hub motors producing 644 horsepower to achieve a 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. ZAP claims the ZAP-X will also achieve an almost too-incredible-to-believe 350-mile range and be able to recharge fully in just ten minutes. We think the laws of physics and practical reality might disagree, but time will tell.

[Source: Autoblog via Green Car Congress]

Continued- Article

We freely admit that the all-electric Tesla Roadster has wowed us with its impressive specs. While none have been delivered yet, all available evidence indicates that the car's 0-60 time of under four seconds, 130-mph top speed and 250-mile range are all true. Then there's ZAP, a distributor of many quirky EV vehicles and for a little while longer the only sole importer of smart fortwos in the U.S.

The ZAP-X is being engineered by Lotus Engineering, an interesting partnership considering the involvment Lotus engineers have had in developing the Tesla Roadster. Extensive use of aluminum and a new "efficient drive system and advanced battery management system" are the silver bullets that ZAP hopes will make its claims come true. We'll remain skeptical for the moment, though the Tesla shows that preconceived notion about the efficacy of all-electric vehicles are quickly falling.

You can check out ZAP's website for more detailed information of the ZAP-X crossover here. http://www.zapworld.com/ZAPWorld.aspx?id=4560



http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/19/zap-releases-sketch-of-zap-x-super-ev-suv/

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Spy Shots: BMW 1-Series Coupe sheds its disguise

We reported to you back in January that the BMW 1-Series was on its way to the US in 2008 and that the mini-Bimmer would come in several two-door configurations. After Brenda Priddy and friends caught the 1-Series in an all-out photo shoot in the American Southwest, we're more convinced than ever that the 1-Series will hit US shores, and soon.

[Source: Autoblog via Edmunds]

Continued- Article, full image

The 1-Series' price will likely be slotted in between the MINI Cooper and the 3-Series, with some speculation that indicates that the 300 HP, twin-turbo 3.0L may find its way under hood. That kind of power coming packed into a small, RWD vehicle from Bavaria is almost guaranteed to be a fantastic drive. To keep the BMW cachet in the US alive and well, we doubt the normally-aspirated four-cylinder model sold in Europe will come here anytime soon. That is, until BMW develops a new turbo-four.

http://blogs.edmunds.com/Straightline/2496

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Suicide over at Ford's Marketing Headquarters

Tragedy struck the Ford Motor Company on Saturday when a man jumped to his death from the 10th floor of the automaker's Regent Court Building in Dearborn. In an interview with the Detroit Free Press, company spokeswoman Sara Tatchio confirmed that an employee committed suicide and stated, "It was not work-related and he was not an executive of any kind."

[Source: Autoblog via Freep]

Continued- Article

Police didn't release any information regarding to the identity of the individual, nor did they specify whether a suicide note was found.

Over at Renault there have been three suicides since last October due in part to high stress at work. Hopefully we're not seeing a new trend in the highly competitive automotive landscape.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/19/suicide-at-fords-marketing-headquarters/

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Spy Shots: 2008 Kia HM (Mesa)

Kia unveiled the Mesa Concept in 2005's Detroit Autoshow. It showcased Kia's determination in the SUV league. After it garnered lots of attention and praise from the media, Kia gave the go-ahead in producing it recently. Spy shots of the production mule have surfaced before the opening of our blog, which gave us more clues that the Mesa, code HM, will take alot of cues from its concept car.

This time, we have the preliminary specs of the long-anticipated full-size SUV. As known before, the HM will slot above the Sorento and be equipped with 7 seats. Expect the HM to have the 3.8L V6 Lambda engine, found on the Azera and Veracruz, for powering up the base model. The upper models will receive the anticipated 4.6L Tau V8 which will also find home in the upcoming BH and the VI. The Korean-spec HM will receive the 3.0L V6 diesel found in the Korean-spec Veracruz.

Continued- Article, preliminary specs, more images

The HM will be based on a RWD platform with full-time 4WD. The Veracruz is based on a AWD platform with full-time 4WD. The HM will be equipped with a H-Matic 6 speed automatic transmission also found in the Veracruz. The HM is touted as an off-road full size SUV. The HM's unveiling date has not been speculated or set. However, our guesses point towards an unveiling date of sometime this year with sales starting next year.

Body- Body-on-frame (shares with Sorento)

Drivetrain- RWD based full-time 4WD

Type- Off-road Full Size SUV

Size(mm)- 4877 x 1974 x 1907

Powertrain- 4.6L V8 Tau & 3.8L V6 Lambda & 3.0L V6 Diesel (KR)

Transmission- H-MATIC 6 AT (same as Veracruz)

Project Code- HM

[Read More...]

Not all the Germans want to dump Chrysler

Some German DaimlerChrysler shareholders may be moving to rename the company back to Daimler-Benz, but not everyone from the Stuttgart side is ready to abandon Chrysler yet. Helmut Lense is one of the union representatives on the company Supervisory Board, the equivalent of a US board of directors. Lense spoke to the Detroit News and indicated that the employee representatives on the board would oppose any selloff that resulted in the dismantling of the Chrysler Group. If a sale must be made, then he would prefer to see another manufacturing company buy the group as opposed to a private equity fund like the Blackstone Group.

[Source: Autoblog via Detroit News]

Continued- Article

Currently, DaimlerChrysler management is in talks with manufacturers like General Motors and supplier Magna International in addition to equity funds Blackstone and Cerberus Capital. Lense feels that a big part of Chrysler's difficulty is an over-reliance on truck sales, which have been particularly hard-hit the past two years. He feels that a revamp of Chrysler's passenger car lineup is what's really needed. As GM has learned in the last few years, cuts can only take you so far, without revenue you can't be consistently profitable. The key to revenue in the auto industry is creating a string of products people actually want to pay for, and that has been Chrysler's real downfall.

While selling to a manufacturer with experience running a large industrial company might be preferable, finding one that is a good fit without significant overlap in product won't be easy. That's why Lense doesn't see GM as a good buyer. For Chrysler to be successful in the long run, the best option could be for Daimler to keep them and make a commitment to the company. They should then follow GM's pattern and design some desirable small and mid-sized models that will appeal to drivers. For that to work, Daimler must be willing to commit to sharing resources with the Auburn Hills group, and perhaps let Chrysler market vehicles like the A and B-Class. Mercedes could then re-focus on more premium vehicles. This would help reduce the brand dilution that Mercedes has experienced, while giving Chrysler a more well rounded lineup. Unfortunately, that doesn't seem likely to happen.

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/18/not-all-the-germans-want-to-dump-chrysler/

[Read More...]

President Bush will tout fuel economy plan at Kansas City auto plants

President Bush's proposal to cut overall gasoline consumption by 20 percent over 10 years is drawing all sorts of fire from domestic automakers and the UAW. They say the plan is too expensive and not technologically feasible at this point. But that's not stopping the president from promoting his plan at GM and Ford assembly plants in the Kansas City area next week. He'll use the Saturn Aura Green Line and Ford Escape Hybrid as backdrops to push his agenda. The president has been seen with electric vehicles (above) and in biofuel labs lately as he tries to address green issues.

[Source: AutoblogGreen]

Continued- Link to original post

http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/03/18/president-bush-will-tout-fuel-economy-plan-at-kansas-city-auto-a/

[Read More...]

New York: Callaway C16 Convertible

The folks at Callaway figured that if their customers were willing to plunk down the cash for a fixed-roof bespoke coupe, they'd be even more smitten with a drop top version. So at next month's New York Auto Show, they'll be debuting the C16 convertible, another supercharged super-Vette creating either 560 or 616 HP from its blown V8.

[Source: Autoblog]

Continued- Article, official press release

Much like the hardtop version that debuted in Montreal, the open-air version will be able to reach 60 in three and half seconds and on to a top speed over 200 MPH. All that, while still leaving the factory with a five-year, 100k-mile warranty. If you've got the $128,765 entry fee, go on and read the full press release.

PRESS RELEASE:

CALLAWAY C16 CONVERTIBLE MAKES WORLD DEBUT
AT 2007 NEW YORK AUTO SHOW

World-Class Supercar Performance, Now Available in a Paddle Shifted Convertible

OLD LYME, CONNECTICUT (March 16, 2007) – Callaway Cars today announced it will unveil the C16 Convertible – the company's latest variant in an impressive lineup of exclusive, hand-built ultra-high-performance automobiles – at the New York International Auto Show.

Based on the current Chevrolet Corvette platform, the C16 convertible takes performance, style and open-air motoring to the next level, giving buyers an opportunity to experience premium supercar performance in a convertible, complete with the ease of a 6-speed, paddle-shift automatic transmission.

"Customers who want the exhilaration of a convertible and the daily driver convenience of a paddle-shift automatic without sacrificing the performance capabilities of a Z06 and beyond, can only get it here," says company founder Reeves Callaway. "With this car we have maintained the C16's class-leading performance, while creating a gorgeous convertible version, based on one of the best sports car platforms ever made. In true Callaway tradition it incorporates our race-proven technologies and superlative craftsmanship in an arresting and appealing style."

The C16 Convertible, like the C16 Coupe, was drawn and modeled by designer Paul Deutschman, who has a twenty-year portfolio of Callaway designs. Architect of the Callaway look – from its 254 mph Sledgehammer and Corvette-based Le Mans race cars to the current C16 versions – he has masterfully remodeled the original design, redrawing every panel of the standard body to achieve the C16 Convertible's integrated look while retaining the Corvette's easy-to-operate power top.

Equipped with Callaway's 560-hp supercharged 6.0-liter V8, the C16 Convertible is also available with an optional Performance Package that delivers 616 supercharged horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 582 lb-ft of torque at 4,750 rpm. The Callaway C16 Convertible does 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds, and a quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds. Top speed of the paddle shifted convertible is estimated at just over 200 mph. Equally impressive is its fuel efficiency rating of 18 city/28 highway. It is emissions compliant and backed by a 5 year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

There are three transmission options on the Callaway C16 Convertible: two 6-speed manual transmissions (one incorporating the Z51 Performance Package's shorter ratios in the first four gears), or a 6-speed automatic with paddle shift. The Callaway C16 Convertible, like C16 Coupe, delivers the feeling of a fully integrated driver's car, maintaining the company's legendary hallmark of easy-to-drive, super high-performance road cars, now available with the added pleasure of top-down motoring.

Inside, the C16 convertible's cockpit is completely retooled in fine German leather and Alcantara, featuring seats with a choice of harnessing styles manufactured for Callaway by Recaro. Door sill panels, steering wheel and passenger dash area also carry signature Callaway badging. Each automobile is serialized and identified by its build plaque. Each C16 convertible is built to order. Clients choose body and top color and interior appointments to individual taste.

The car's razor-sharp handling and comfortable ride are courtesy of newly developed Callaway/Eibach Multi-Pro coil-over suspension. This advanced spring/damper system features ride height, corner weight, and pitch angle adjustability. The aluminum-bodied dampers feature 10-click-position compression and rebound adjustability and have remote mounted reservoirs, allowing the driver to customize settings for track or road conditions.

To bring the Callaway C16 Convertible from 200+ mph to rest, the C16 utilizes a Stoptech brake system developed exclusively for Callaway using 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers gripping 355mm diameter rotors. Super-lightweight Callaway Dymag wheels - the lightest road wheel in the industry - measure 19" x 10" front and 20" x 12" rear. The Dymag wheel features forged magnesium centers surrounded by carbon fiber rims - another example of Callaway bringing their race experience to their road cars. Yokohama "AdvanSport" 285/30ZR19 (front) and 325/25ZR20 (rear) tires complete the package.

Pricing for a fully loaded C16 Convertible is $128,765 USD. All Callaway C16 Convertible components are available individually, for both new and currently owned Corvettes, through Callaway authorized retailers and installers.

Callaway C16 automobiles are built by Callaway facilities in California, Connecticut, and Germany. The Callaway C16 Convertible is available exclusively through Callaway Cars' authorized dealer network. For additional information on Callaway Cars, its automobiles and dealer locations, call 860-434-9002 or visit www.callawaycars.com

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/17/new-york-auto-show-callaway-c16-convertible-cometh/

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