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Archives for November 2013

Tall Wagon: 2014 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited

November 29, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

“Three is a charm,” was one thought that came to mind when a Venetian Red Pearl Subaru Outback showed up as my weekly driver recently. Just a few weeks earlier I spent some time with the Subaru Legacy and over the summer a Subaru Forester arrived unbidden.

No Subaru model with the exception of the BRZ offers much eye candy, but the brand represents perhaps the best combination of reliable, durable and safe vehicles on the market. And its high crash safety ratings (IIHS and NHTSA) are enhanced by its excellent symmetrical all-wheel drive system, standard on all Subaru models, although not available with the BRZ.

2014 Subaru Outback

Tall Wagon Heritage

The Subaru Outback is a tall wagon (8.7-inch ground clearance), based on the same platform that underpins the midsize Legacy sedan. From 2000 to 2007, Subaru produced both the Legacy wagon and the Outback, but beginning in 2008 the Outback has served as the brand’s exclusive wagon model. Its competitors include the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen, the Toyota Venza, Honda’s Crosstour, the Ford Flex, and perhaps similarly sized crossovers from other manufacturers.

For 2014, Subaru offers the Outback in four trim levels: 2.5i (from $23,495); 2.5i Premium ($25,795); 2.5i Limited ($29,095); and 3.6R Limited ($32,095). A fifth trim level, the 3.6R, was last offered in 2013 and was priced from $28,495.

As you might guess both the 2.5 and 3.6 trim level designations correspond to the engines offered, a pair of BOXER or horizontally opposed four- and six-cylinder motors. The base motor makes 174 horsepower; the six-cylinder is rated at 256 horsepower. Figure that the majority of customers will be satisfied with the performance of the standard engine and the lower price point too. As equipped, the Outback 3.6R came in at just under $37,000, with taxes and tags extra. Yes, that makes for a pricey Subaru.

2014 Subaru Outback

Subaru Outback Design

So, how do you make a wagon look beautiful? You don’t. Instead, you work on those functions that are important to customers including projector beam headlights, integrated fog lamps, wraparound tail lamps, heated body colored adjustable side mirrors, roof rails with retractable and adjustable cross bars, and aluminum alloy wheels. Keep in mind that the 3.6R Limited comes fully loaded; some of the features mentioned here are package upgrades or are not available with the base model.

And if you are Subaru you also deliver the safety features that buyers expect starting off with its symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) system. Subaru used to tout that its AWD system transferred power from “the wheels that slip to the wheels that grip,” a fact that still describes what happens when road conditions are slippery. Brake assist, traction control, stability control and a suite of airbags are important to buyers, but its legendary AWD system coupled with top crash test performance are the signature achievements of this wagon.

Inside, the Outback is outfitted with sport bucket seats up front and a 65/35 split bench seat in the rear. Five adults can ride comfortably; you can also “lose” one or two rear seating positions when more storage room is needed. Fold down the rear seat and you’ll have over 70 cubic feet of room to house your estate sale finds.

Except for the base model, the driver is treated to a 10-way power adjustable seat. Both front seats get two-setting (low/high) heat; heated side mirrors and a windshield wiper deicer as part of an available all-weather package.

2014 Subaru Outback

Interior Amenities

Leather seating is standard with the two top trim levels; cloth seats are found elsewhere. A manually adjustable tilt and telescoping steering wheel column is standard across the model line as are automatic on/off headlights, keyless entry, electronic cruise control, and a three-spoke steering wheel with secondary controls. As tested, this edition comes with an electronic brake with hill holder assist, a nine-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system with a 4.3-inch color display, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual zone climate control.

The Outback 3.6R Limited also provides eight cup holders, an overhead console, a retractable and removable cargo area cover, cargo under floor storage, a removable cargo tray, and cargo grocery bag hooks and tie downs. A rear back up camera, navigation system, HomeLink and a power moonroof package were optional equipment packages included with the test model.

2014 Subaru Outback

Engine and Transmission Pairings

Choose the four cylinder engine and you get a six-speed manual transmission or an optional continuously variable transmission. The 3.6R Limited is outfitted with a five-speed automatic transmission that can operated in manual mode with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters at the ready.

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Subaru’s Tall, Roomy and Versatile Wagon

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View manufacturer details and pricing

On the Road

Driving the Outback offers few surprises although the inline-six delivers a generous amount of performance. Thus, if you have the opportunity to drive one as I did, you put it through its paces. What better place to do this than on the rural roads of central North Carolina? These roadways include customary two-lane thoroughfares with long stretches of straight pavement followed by various twisty turns, rises and dips.

One of my favorite trips takes me across Alamance County to Chapel Hill via Old Greensboro Road, traveling past livestock farms and historic sites as I wind my way to the campus of the University of North Carolina. As far as road surfaces goes it is a fairly tame experience until a significant drop is reached, one punctuated by a bridge at its nadir followed by an immediate ascent. No white-knuckled gripping of the steering wheel or brake pedal play needed here, but it is a good place to learn what your vehicle can do. Its significance as an on-road track of sorts is magnified when conditions are wet and, happily, the Outback proved it was up to the task one blustery and wet afternoon as the wagon plunged its way forward with confidence.

Perhaps the biggest drawback for the Subaru Outback is its pricing, especially if you insist on a the six-cylinder model. With just one trim level to match the bigger engine, you’ll find yourself paying at least $35,000 to get behind the wheel of one. A comparably equipped 2.5i Limited would still cost you about $32,000.

2014 Subaru Outback 3.6R Limited

  • Sticker price from $32,095
  • Price as tested: $36,960
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 3.6-liter 24-valve I-6 engine
  • 256 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
  • 247 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,400 rpm
  • 3.62 inches bore by 3.58 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10.5-to-1
  • Five-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 107.9 inches
  • Length: 189 inches
  • Width: 71.7 inches
  • Height: 65.8 inches
  • Passenger volume: 105.4 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 34.3/71.3 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 3,000 pounds
  • EPA: 17 mpg city, 25 mpg hwy.
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,647 pounds
  • Vehicle assembly: Lafayette, Ind.

See Also — Out and Back With the Subaru Outback

Subara Outback photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Vehicle Reviews Tagged With: all-wheel drive, boxer engine, CAR REVIEW, crossover, Subaru, SUBARU LEGACY, Subaru Outback

Carlos Tavares Named PSA Peugeot Citroen Head

November 28, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

Up until three months ago, Carlos Tavares was the chief operating officer for Renault, the French automaker in alliance with Nissan. Tavares left the company in Aug. after Bloomberg published an article that quoted him as saying that he would like to run another automaker as Renault/Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn apparently wasn’t going anywhere.

Those words probably didn’t sit too well with Ghosn who at 59 wasn’t ready to relinquish the reigns to Tavares, 55, or anyone else for that matter. Although he was soon out of a job, Tavares was expected to land safely elsewhere, perhaps leading GM or Ford, two companies he has expressed interest in.

PSA Peugeot Citroen

PSA Peugeot CitroenEarlier this week Tavares did land on his feet when rival PSA Peugeot Citroen announced that he will join the company’s management board effective Jan. 1. Later in the year Tavares will replace current PSA CEO Phillippe Varin, who plans to retire.

Peugeot is the second largest car manufacturer in Europe after Volkswagen. The French government and GM own stakes in the company, but the automaker has also been seeking a partnership with Dongfeng Motors, a Chinese manufacturer. In Oct., Reuters reported that PSA Peugeot Citroen was preparing a 3 billion euro (US $4.1 billion) capital increase with monies contributed equally by the French government and Dongfeng, itself owned by the Chinese government.

China’s Dongfeng Motors

Through the originally proposed financial initiative, both Dongfeng and the French government would each gain a 20 to 30 percent stake in PSA. The move would also cause the Peugeot family to lose control of the company as its 25.4 percent stake and 38.1 percent voting share would be reduced. GM’s own 7 percent share would also be diluted once an agreement was made. However, later reports have indicated that Dongfeng is not interested in retaining a stake larger than 10 percent as reported by Automotive News Europe.

Regardless of the number of shares taken, Peugeot has little choice to look for outside help as the company continues to get hammered in the weak European market where its strength lies. PSA has a presence overseas, but it is absent from one important market: North America. Despite its relationship with GM or perhaps because of it, the Peugeot and Citroen brands are not likely to return to the US market, last served more than two decades ago.

Slumping European Market

Peugeot has been mired in a slump for six years as the European market continues to suffer high unemployment and weak growth, especially in western nations. Tavares brings with him more than three decades of automotive experience at Renault, culminating as Ghosn’ second-in-command. Tavares had planned to add both sports car and luxury brands to Renault before he left, moves that could have raised Renault’s global visibility.

Tavares comes to a money losing operation, one that has seen its automotive unit lose 510 million euros (US$691.7 million as of publication) during the first half of 2013. Returning to profitability will require additional sacrifices, what Varin has already required by closing manufacturing plants and through the elimination of more than 11,000 jobs. The French government is eager to stem job losses, as unemployment has been rising steadily moving from 9.5 percent in late 2011 to an estimated 11 percent today.

Tavares is a native of Portugal and speaks French fluently. Thus, heading to Peugeot keeps him in a market he knows well and removes his name from potential successors at GM and Ford. Both US automakers have several of their own executives that might step up when Dan Akerson (GM) and Alan Mulally (Ford) retire. But in the automotive industry job hopping is not only expected, but it is especially required for executives seeking to move up.

Recent News

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Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: CARLOS GHOSN, CARLOS TAVARES, DONGFENG MOTORS, NISSAN, Peugeot, Renault

Drive It! 2014 Chevy Camaro SS Convertible

November 27, 2013 by admin 7 Comments

2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible.
2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible.

What is your favorite car? Thats a question I am asked by friends that know I routinely drive, enjoy and review a variety of vehicles. Okay, the enjoy part is at times an arguable one as there are occasions when a car comes my way that I know I would never purchase, yet still must consider for my readers if I am to render an illuminating and cogent review.

So it was to my immense personal pleasure when a 2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible arrived and was immediately welcomed to my humble abode. From its beautiful red rock metallic finish to its satin black cloth roof and extending across every square inch of its muscular frame, this particular Camaro is an imposing one, a 2+2 sport coupe with an attitude and the accompanying throaty exhaust note that says that it means nothing but business.

Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible

That we even have a Camaro today is largely a tribute to a dedicated fan base that lobbied for its return following it cancellation in 2002. It also shows that car manufacturers, in this case General Motors, listens to its customers. That GM was still able to bring the Camaro back as it went through a painful bankruptcy and restructuring is quite an accomplishment. Not only that, Chevrolet wanted to build a better car than its Ford Mustang nemesis and it appears that it has succeeded.

The current iteration of the Camaro is now in its fifth model year. Chevrolet has tweaked this model since and has rolled out various versions including the ZL1, the SS and now the Z/28. The only people that remain heartbroken through it all are Pontiac Firebird fans who see in the Camaro what coulda/woulda/shoulda been for the Firebird. Fortunately, there is at least one aftermarket supplier that has developed a Trans Am bolt-on body kit to turn your Chevy into a Bird.

The standard hardtop Camaro comes equipped with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine making 323 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 278 foot-pounds of torque at 4,800 rpm. Not bad numbers, in fact they are excellent for a V-6. Moreover, this model is priced from $23,455 with the convertible carrying a $6,500 price premium, what makes the Camaro affordable for many buyers.

2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible

LS3 Goodness and Thrills

But then most buyers know that greater performance is available by means of a 6.2-liter Corvette-derived engine, an LS3 motor bursting with energy. It features a cast aluminum block with iron bore liners and aluminum cylinder heads. Its an overhead valve motor with two valves per cylinder, its fuel drawn in by sequential fuel injection. As delivered, the Camaro SS makes 426 horsepower at 5,900 rpm and 420 foot-pounds of torque at 4,300 rpm. Happily, a TREMEC TR6060 six-speed manual transmission was the power plant pairing of choice, with a short-throw shifter entirely suited for this convertible. A six-speed automatic transmission with tap shift is available.

For 2014, Chevrolet updated the Camaro’s front and rear fascia including new headlamps and tail lights with the changes. Its SS hood scoop is the equivalent of a ring on a bull, a functional unit that diminishes heat and aerodynamic lift. The front fascia now features a wider and lower opening for improved heat mitigation and aerodynamic ability. Chevrolet also has separated the fog lamps from the LED daytime running lamps and has outfitted the SS with rear LED lights that complement the halo ring headlamps. Standard 20-inch aluminum wheels and a dual-mode exhaust system (quad finishers) enhance this burly beast.

To the great relief of this writer, the Camaro SS Convertible features a fairly simple and straightforward interior. Why occupy yourself with distracting controls when all you want to do is drive? The instrument panel is dominated by analog speedometer and odometer displays that flank a digital drivers information center. Four additional analog readouts are located forward of the transmission shifter for oil pressure, oil temperature, battery voltage and transmission temperature.

Recaro performance bucket seats up front provide the bolstering that the Camaro driver deserves, seats that never leave you tired or wishing for something else for that matter. They are heated too and both are six-way power adjustable. The center stack is topped by a colorful Chevrolet MyLink infotainment display with OnStar access, a navigation system with a rear back up camera, and touchscreen control of the 245-watt Boston Acoustics audio system. Knobs and switches provide audio access for traditional audiophiles.

2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible

On the Road

Now that the design pleasantries are behind us, what matters the most about the Camaro SS is its performance, made immediately evident the moment you turn the starter and hear the engine announce its presence with the exhaust system responding by offering up the sweetest note. Well maybe not so sweet for the person who doesn’t appreciate the pounding of a drumhead with that beat amplified with each contact of the gas pedal. I spent the better part of the week coaxing out different sounds, quickly learning that slowing down while still in third gear produces a rolling rumble. My neighbors will confirm that experience too.

Chevrolet provides a launch control feature with the Camaro SS. To activate, a button located near the shifter is pressed twice in succession and StabiliTrak Competitive Mode appears on the driver information screen. Floor the gas pedal to allow the rpms to adjust at the appropriate range. Release the clutch, floor the pedal and youre ready to go. Its a fun feature, but I prefer to launch without any electronic assistance thank you very much.

It takes about one second to discover that the Camaro SS is made for performance. And for people not particularly comfortable with manual shifting this Chevy offers ample clutch free play and a smooth shifting stick, what allows you to concentrate on the drive without concern that youll get more of a work out than perhaps you want.

2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible

Drop the Top

Novembers in North Carolina can be dicey with cold fronts pushing down from the north to kill your drop down plans overnight, adding showers to the mix. However, opportunity knocked one Sat. afternoon as the clouds departed and temperature soared through the 60s. And if you are blessed with a convertible especially one as potent as the SS, you’ll want to put the top down as soon as you can. Make that move and you’ll enjoy the intensity of the engine and exhaust system, amplifying sounds that hearken to an earlier muscle car era, circa 1970.

Granted, the Camaro SS weighs in fairly heavy, pushing two tons of rolling metal. Still, its electric assisted steering provides good feedback and the four-wheel independent suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, and performance tires to ensure that youll get everything you want from this beast. Was this Chevy my favorite car? Lets just say that it is on my wholly desirable list, the same one that also includes the Nissan 370Z and the BMW 435i.

Top Down Fun + Performance = Realizing the Dream

View manufacturer details and pricing

2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible

  • Sticker price from $41,855
  • Price as tested: $46,360
  • Seats 4 occupants
  • 6.2-liter 16-valve V-8 engine
  • 426 horsepower @ 5,900 rpm
  • 420 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,600 rpm
  • 4.06 inches bore by 3.62 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10.7-to-1
  • Six-speed manual transmission
  • Wheelbase: 112.3 inches
  • Length: 190.6 inches
  • Width: 75.5 inches
  • Height: 54.2 inches
  • Passenger volume: N/A
  • Storage volume: 10.2 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: N/A
  • EPA: 16 mpg city, 24 mpg hwy.
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 19 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,860 pounds
  • Vehicle assembly: Oshawa, Ontario (Canada)

More Car Reviews

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Chevrolet Camaro photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Vehicle Reviews Tagged With: CAMARO SS, Chevrolet, Chevy, convertible, GM, LS3, rear-wheel drive, V8 engine

Electric Vehicles: Favorable, But Unaffordable Say Consumers

November 26, 2013 by admin 2 Comments

Navigant Research finds cost remains a significant impediment to EV adoption.

Chevrolet Spark Electric Vehicle

Consumers may like electric vehicles, but they are not keen about embracing the technology. At least not where cost is involved. When it comes down to it the high purchase price of EVs continues to keep these vehicles off of most people’s “buy” list according to a recently released consumer survey conducted by Navigant Research.

Navigant Research conducted its web-based survey in Fall 2013, with 1,084 US consumers responding. The survey was nationally representative and demographically balanced to accurately gauge current EV sentiment and to project future interest.

Electric Vehicle

BMW i3: A Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle

 

Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Alternative fuel vehicles represent a very small, but fast growing segment and include battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and other types of vehicles that do not rely on the internal combustion engine alone and/or gasoline or diesel fuel such as natural gas vehicles. More than half of the respondents had favorable views for such vehicles, but when it came to identifying specific makes and models, that familiarity just wasn’t there.

The Chevrolet Volt was familiar to 44 percent of respondents, the highest percentage among all models. However, less than one third of the respondents said that they were familiar with the BMW i3, the Ford C-Max Energi, Tesla’s Model S or the Nissan Leaf. Incidentally, the pure electric Leaf outsells the PHEV Volt, but GM appears to be doing a better job of telling its own story.

Ford Fusion Energi Electric Vehicle


See Also — About EV Maker Evian


Battery Electric Vehicles

“Two-thirds of consumers surveyed stated that they believe BEVs have unique features that stand out from their gasoline counterparts, and 6 out of 10 agreed that BEVs are much less expensive to own in the long run than gasoline cars,” says Dave Hurst, principal research analyst with Navigant Research. “While those are encouraging numbers, it’s clear that automakers still have a long way to go in marketing these vehicles to the wider car-buying public.”

Consumers think highly of all three types of alternative fuel vehicles with 67 percent of respondents giving hybrid vehicles a favorable or a highly favorable rating. Electric vehicles followed with a positive rating of 61 percent and natural gas vehicles came in at 56 percent. For consumers who expressed an interest in BEVs or PHEVs, high fuel economy is not only desired, but expected. As for PHEV buyers, that desire expands to include high performance and larger body sizes such as midsize and large vehicles.

Tesla Model S Electric Vehicle

Supercharging: Tesla Model S’ at a Burlington, NC station.

Falling EV Prices

Electric vehicle prices have fallen since the Nissan Leaf was introduced three years ago. Initially, the Leaf retailed for more than $36,000, but Nissan cut its price for 2014 to $28,800 plus shipping, taxes and tags. However, for consumers eligible to take the $7,500 federal tax credit, their final cost for a base model falls to $21,050. That incentive does not include state or local help, where available.


See Also — Rivian Automotive Draws Interest From GM, Amazon


Notably, more than two-thirds of the Navigant Research respondents indicated that they would shop for a vehicle costing no more than $25,000 with 43 percent indicating that they would hold their price to below $20,000. Thus, even the subsidized Leaf would not show up on a significant number of buyer’s radars and for those who could afford one its 80-mile driving range might eliminate it from consideration.

Battery Prices and Vehicle Cost

Navigant expects battery prices to drop by about one third come 2020, a trend that should help raise interest in EVs. Right now, battery systems make up half the price of EVs. As prices fall those savings are likely to be passed on to consumers. In the meantime, manufacturers will have to keep not-yet-profitable EV systems in place and perhaps push for continued federal, state and local incentives as well.


Further Reading

Global Debut: BMW i3 EV

On Sale Now: Chevrolet Volt

Income Tax Breaks and Your Hybrid Car

What Tax Breaks Are Available for Efficient Vehicles?

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: Chevrolet Volt, CONSUMER SURVEY, ELECTRIC VEHICLES, FEDERAL TAX CREDIT, NAVIGANT RESEARCH, Nissan LEAF

Ford F-150: Now With CNG Upfit Capability

November 25, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

Alternative fuel choices and the 2014 Ford F-150.

CNG Ford F-150

The first CNG ready trucks roll off of a Kansas City production line.

 

Compressed natural gas (CNG) may not be on your radar as a fuel choice, but it may soon be if you shop for a large pickup truck including the Ford F-150. The Ford Motor Company has begun producing its first CNG-capable trucks and has plans to extend that capability to other trucks and vans by summer 2014.

CNG Capability

Compressed natural gas is being widely touted as a readily available alternative to gasoline given that natural gas is procured from domestic wells unlike most crude oil. CNG is cleaner and cheaper than gasoline, but vehicles must be specially outfitted or upfitted to use this fuel. Until now, only Honda is still offering a production CNG-enabled vehicle in the Civic CNG.

This month, Ford began producing CNG-enabled versions of its F-150 pickup truck outfitted with its 3.7-liter V-6 engine. The truck can run on either compressed natural gas or liquified petroleum gas with plans to produce more than 15,000 vehicles for the 2014 model year.

CNG Upfit Package

The CNG package equips these vehicles with hardened valves, valve seats, pistons and rings, adding $315 to the factory cost of each truck. Customers will still need to work with a Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifier to supply the fuel tanks, fuel lines and special fuel injectors that these vehicles require. Ford says that upfits add another $6,000 to $9,500 to the cost depending on the truck’s fuel tank capacity.


See Also — Ram Chassis Cab is Here and Brings With it Class-Leading Numbers


Although the upfits are expensive, consumers may find that state incentives can help defray those costs. Moreover, as of publication CNG fuel costs about $1.66 per gallon or half the price of crude oil based gasoline. For the company that uses 1,000 gallons of gasoline, they will spend about $3,250 per year on fuel. With CNG, that cost is closer to $1,650. Thus, the upfit investment pay back can be realized in as little as four years. Customers can located CNG stations on the CNG Now!website. You should also know that many of these stations are private and are not open to the general public.

Meeting Customer Demand

In offering CNG capable vehicles, Ford says that it is responding to customer demand. Indeed, AT&T recently purchased 650 F-350 chassis cabs with the CNG-prep option. AT&T plans to deploy as many as 15,000 alternative-fuel vehicles by the end of 2018 and is already half way toward reaching its goal.

Said Jerome Webber, AT&T vice president, global fleet operations, “Vehicles such as CNG F-350s from Ford have helped us avoid purchasing 7.7 million gallons of gasoline over the past five years while reducing our fleet’s emissions.”

For upfit configuration, Ford works with qualified vehicle modifiers that must meet its stringent guidelines. Customers still enjoy Ford’s engine and powertrain limited warranty for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first. The modifier handles the system component warranty.


See Also — New Ford Super Duty F-600 Unveiled


Extending CNG Vehicle Availability

Other Ford vehicles that will soon have CNG options include the Transit Connect van and wagon, the Transit van, wagon, cutaway and chassis cab, the E-Series van, wagon, cutaway and stripped chassis, the F-Series Super Duty pickup and F-350 chassis cab, the F-Series Super Duty chassis cab (F-450, F-550), the F-650 medium-duty truck, and the F53 and F59 stripped chassis.

Ford has not said whether it intends to extend this option to its cars and sport utility vehicles.


See Also — Natural Gas Vehicles and a National Energy Policy

Photo courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: AT&T, CNG, COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS, FORD F-150, HONDA CIVIC CNG, liquified petroleum

Tesla Model S Tops Owner Satisfaction Survey

November 22, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

Tesla Model S pulls down an important award.

Tesla Model S

The last few weeks have been tough for Tesla Motors as the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a probe investigating fires involving three Tesla Model S vehicles. Still, the investigation has not affected Teslas place in a recently released owner-satisfaction study conducted by Consumer Reports. That study found that the Tesla Model S scored a 99 out of a possible 100, the highest score among the 285 models scored.

Owner Satisfaction Survey

CR collected more than 600 survey responses from owners of 2012 and 2013 Tesla Model S vehicles. The Model S score matches a 99 performance rating score reached earlier this year.

“In testing, the Model S stands out for its innovative design, outstanding performance, and surprising practicality. These results suggest Tesla owners are very, very satisfied,” said Jake Fisher, Consumer Reports’ director of automotive testing.

The Question Is…

The annual owner satisfaction survey asks subscribers a question, one that CR says reveals much about consumer sentiment. It asks, Considering all factors (price, performance, reliability, comfort, enjoyment, etc.), would you get this car if you had it to do all over again?” Scoring is based on the percentage of respondents who answer definitely yes this year respondents offered up their opinions for more than 350,000 vehicles spanning the 2011 thorough 2014 model years.

While the Model S had the highest overall owner satisfaction score, several other models shined. Among sports cars the Porsche Boxster was tops, finishing in second place overall behind the Tesla. Other stand outs included the Audi A6 (luxury sedan), Mazda Mazda6 (midsized sedan), Subaru Forester (SUV), Dodge Charger V8 (large sedan), and the Volkswagen Golf TDI (compact car).

Novelty and the New Car

Typically, both luxury and high performance models do well with the CR owner satisfaction survey. Audi had more high scores than any other luxury brand, but the moderately priced Mazda6 and Subaru Forester still managed to outscore every model from the top luxury makes: BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus.

“Novelty can play a big role in launching a car into the top ranks, which isn’t surprising because brand-new designs can generate a lot of excitement. But enthusiasm can wane quickly if a car turns out to be not very special,” said Anita Lam, Consumer Reports automotive data program manager.

Some models start off with high scores one year, but quickly fade in owner satisfaction in subsequent years. One example of a top performer that started off great, but has slipped is the Toyota Prius C. Other cars that have slipped since introduction include the Subaru Impreza (hatchback), Hyundai’s Sonata and the Chrysler 200.

Green Car Loyalty

So-called green cars typically do well too as owners seem particularly vested in the technology as well as a particular make/model. The Chevrolet Volt slipped to third place this year after finishing in first place the previous two years. However, its score (91) fell by just one point, thus its staying power appears to be strong.

Beyond the green cars the BMW 3 Series continues to satisfy its owners. The Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang (V8), Porsche 911, Mazda’s MX-5 Miata, the Toyota Prius and the Lexus LS consistently score well in every owner satisfaction survey. On the other end of the spectrum was the Nissan Versa (sedan) with just 45 percent of its owners saying that they would buy one again. Owners of the Jeep Compass, Nissan Rogue, Kia Optima Hybrid and Nissan Armada also expressed little enthusiasm for their purchases.

CR posts the results of its owner satisfaction survey and other reports on its website at ConsumerReports.org. The report will also be published to its Jan. 2014 issue, due to hit news stands on Dec. 5, 2013.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: Chevrolet Volt, CONSUMER REPORTS, NHTSA, owner satisfaction survey, PORSCHE BOXSTER, TESLA MODEL S

Honda Accord Wins Green Car of the Year Award

November 21, 2013 by admin 1 Comment

2014 Honda Accord PHEV
2014 Green Car of the Year: Honda Accord

The 2014 Honda Accord is the recipient of Green Car Journal’s 2014 Green Car of the Year award. The new model beat out the Toyota Corolla, the Mazda3, the Audi A6 TDI and the BMW 328d in winning the latest award.

The Green Car of the Year award is juror selected and is always announced on the second press day of the Los Angeles Auto Show. The Accord is the second Honda model to win the award in the past three years. Two years earlier the Honda Civic Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) model garnered the award.

Earth Dreams Technology

Honda outfits every 2014 Accord with its Earth Dreams Technology powertrains including a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Honda pairs this engine with a continuously variable transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. The Accord is rated as high as 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

Customers may also opt for a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. The larger engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. The V-6 Accord is rated as high as 21 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Earth Dreams represents a number of technological advances over earlier generation Honda powertrains. For example, its gasoline engines make use of variable valve timing and employ a lift electronic control system to improve thermal efficiency and to reduce friction. The result is better fuel economy and fewer emissions. The new technology also encompasses improvements to its diesel engine line, its transmissions, and to its hybrid systems.

Accord Hybrid Models

But it is the Honda Accord Hybrid that leads the model line in fuel efficiency and has the lowest emissions. The standard hybrid, powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission and an electric motor, is rated at 50 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway. A plug-in version of the Accord Hybrid is also available, making 47 mpg in the city and 46 on the highway. Moreover, when this model runs on a combination of electricity and gasoline it makes a fuel economy equivalent to a whopping 115 MPGe.

In presenting this year’s award Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal and CarsOfChange.com said, “With its efficient internal combustion, hybrid, and plug-in choices, the 2014 Honda Accord delivers exactly what consumers are looking for today. It all comes together this year for the Accord in ways that speak to significant environmental performance built into a mainstream, volume model that’s a joy to drive. The Accord is a deserving winner of Green Car Journal’s 2014 Green Car of the Year.”

Green Car of the Year

Responding on behalf of Honda about the Green Car of the Year Award was Mike Accavitti, senior vice president of Automobile Operations at American Honda. Said Accavitti, “Led by the 2014 Accord Hybrid, the entire Accord lineup really embodies the promise of the Honda brand to deliver both fun-to-drive enjoyment and outstanding fuel efficiency at the highest level. I want to say thank you to Green Car Journal, not just for honoring Accord, but for shining a spotlight on the environment and our shared vision for an ultra-low carbon future.”


See Also — In Just 22 Years, Car Theft Rates Have Plunged by 58 Percent

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: EARTH DREAMS TECHNOLOGY, EV, Green Car Journal, GREEN CAR OF THE YEAR, HONDA ACCORD, Honda Accord Hybrid, PHEV

Hyundai Tucson FCV: First Mass Produced Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle

November 21, 2013 by admin 3 Comments

Bring it on. The first mass-produced fuel cell vehicle will not come from Honda, General Motors or Toyota, who are among the biggest names associated with this emerging technology. Instead, the winner in the race for the first hydrogen-powered vehicle will be Hyundai when its 2015 Tucson FCV (fuel cell vehicle) hits the market next spring.

2015 Hyundai Tucson FCV.
Arriving Spring 2014: 2015 Hyundai Tucson FCV.

2015 Hyundai Tucson FCV

Hyundai took the wraps off of its Tucson FCV this week at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show. It will be made available at several southern California Hyundai dealerships beginning in spring 2014. With $2,999 down and a 36-month lease signed, customers will pay $499 per month to drive one. The lease package also includes unlimited free hydrogen refueling and access to the company’s “At Your Service Valet Maintenance” plan offered exclusively to Hyundai Equus and Tucson FCV owners. That plan provides a free loaner vehicle if the FCV needs to be serviced, with a Hyundai dealer picking up and returning the serviced vehicle to the customer’s home, including the delivery of the loaner vehicle.

Tucson FCV availability will be restricted to southern California initially. The biggest problem facing this technology is that a hydrogen fueling infrastructure is not yet in place across the country. As of this writing, there are just 10 hydrogen stations in the United States, with eight of these clustered in the Los Angeles area. A ninth station can be found in Emeryville, Calif. The lone east coast station can be found in Columbia, SC.

2015 Hyundai Tucson FCV

How to Order One

The US Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center tracks the number of public stations, but not the private ones. The state of California is backing hydrogen energy and has vowed to develop as many as 100 hydrogen fueling stations across the state over the next few years. For its part the federal government has thrown its support behind H2USA, a private-public partnership developed to push for a national hydrogen fueling infrastructure. Automakers such as Hyundai, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, and Nissan have joined with various gas and hydrogen associations to support H2USA.

Hyundai has established an interest page or what they say is the first step in the Tucson FCV ordering process on it website. Visit Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell and you’ll be asked to provide your first name, last name, email, and zip code. Hit the submit button and you’ll be registered.

This east coast guy did sign up and received the following message: “Unfortunately the Tucson Fuel Cell is not currently available in your area. It may become available in the near future, so please check back and stay updated with our fuel cells.” The sign up page also touts the FCV’s 300-mile range, what some other vehicles offer. Unlike any other mass-produced vehicle, the Tucson FCV runs on water and has zero emissions except for harmless water vapor.

Soon after signing up, I received the following note from Hyundai via email: “You’re now on the list for upcoming announcements about the exciting new Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell. It’s completely reimagining the idea of an electric vehicle. Keep an eye on your inbox for more updates and to find out when the Tucson Fuel Cell will be available in your area.” I had to pull the message out of my spam box, by the way.

How hydrogen power works.
How hydrogen power works.

Refueling and Testing

Hyundai says that the FCV can be refueled in under 10 minutes or for about the same time you would refuel a gasoline-powered vehicle. They are also touting the minimal cold-weather effects of FCV technology compared with battery electric vehicles while emphasizing the 221 foot-pounds of torque derived from its electric motor. Hyundai says that its fuel cell fleet has been in operation since 2000 and has completed more than 2 million durability test miles. That testing has also put the Tucson FCV through numerous crash, fire and leak testing scenarios.

The 2015 Hyundai Tucson FCV will be built at the same Ulsan, Korea, manufacturing plant that produces the gas-powered Tucson. And, yes, I’ll let you know if Hyundai ever follows up with a message announcing availability beyond its initial marketing base.

2015 Hyundai Tucson FCV

Further Reading

Toyota Opens California Pipeline-Fed Hydrogen Station

Daimler, Nissan and Ford Tie One On (Fuel Cell Partnership)

MIT Names Audi, Toyota As Disruptive Companies

KPMG Survey: Automotive Executives and Electric Vehicles

Tucson FCV photos and charts courtesy of Hyundai Motor America.

Filed Under: Engineering & Technology Tagged With: 2015 TUCSON FUEL CELL, crossover, F2USA, hydrogen, HYDROGEN STATIONS, Hyundai Motor America, sport utility vehicle, TUCSON FCV

Ford Edge Concept: Remote Control Parking

November 20, 2013 by Timothy Henson 1 Comment

Ford Edge Concept
The Ford Edge Concept offers a remote parking assist feature.

At the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Ford Motor Company revealed its Ford Edge Concept, a crossover utility vehicle that demonstrates the design direction for this popular model line. It also showcases technology not yet available elsewhere: a fully assisted parking aid that can self park the vehicle when operated by the driver when sitting inside or standing outside by remote control.

Tomorrow’s Technology Today

With the Ford Edge Concept, the automaker is making available tomorrow’s technology today. As a concept vehicle that does not mean the Ford Edge will immediately gain this and other featured leading edge technologies, but it does underscore that the technology is in progress and may soon become available.

At a press conference held just before the start of the L.A. auto show, Raj Nair, Ford group vice president of global product development noted that the automaker’s global engineers, “…are advancing the systems that will ultimately help make drivers smarter, safer and more efficient. From advanced engine systems to collision avoidance and automated driving systems, Ford will continue to lead in delivering the technologies consumers want and need.”

The Ford Edge is a midsize crossover utility vehicle that seats five. Introduced in 2007, the Edge was updated in 2011. It offer standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive and is powered by a family of four and six cylinder engines. These engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Prototype Parking Aid Technology

Ford describes its prototype technology as a “fully assisted parking aid” that allows drivers to select a button inside the cabin to self park the vehicle. Utilizing ultrasonic sensors the Ford Edge Concept can find an empty perpendicular parking spot to occupy.

If the driver is outside of the vehicle, a key fob button can be activated to enable the crossover to pull out of a parking space. This feature may be ideal for times when parking room is tight. By simply activating the button, the Ford Edge backs out of its space, stops and the driver and passengers can enter, buckle up and drive off.

Additional Safety Technologies

Ford’s remote control parking builds on a foundation that has produced many other safety features in recent years including technologies used in most Ford and Lincoln models. Ford’s Blind Spot Information system makes use of radar sensors located in the rear corners of the vehicle that measure the space between vehicles next to or just behind the car. When a vehicle enters the driver’s blind spot, a warning light flashes on the mirror.

Adaptive cruise control along with collision warning with brake support ensures that your car remains a safe distance behind the vehicle you are following. If the vehicle in front slows down, the cruise control adapts to the new speed. And if that vehicle suddenly stops, your adaptive cruise control enabled vehicle will automatically brake and stop too. Ford employs radar to detect the movement of vehicles in front of your Ford or Lincoln.

Ford also offers lane keeping assist on many of its models. This technology makes use of a forward-facing camera that scan the road surface for lane markings. If your vehicle begins to drift out of its lane, a vibrating alert is sent to the steering wheel. If you do not respond to the alert, your vehicle is gently nudged back to its lane.

Ford’s remote control parking builds on its active park assist technology currently available on a dozen Ford vehicles today. When drivers are ready to parallel park their vehicle, the driver releases the steering wheel while maintaining control over the brake and accelerator. Using sensors and the vehicle’s steering system, the car is self-parked without incident.

Ford Edge Concept Interior

Besides its technological enhancements, the Ford Edge Concept showcases a number of interior updates including an LED-lit “Edge” scuff plate in bright silver finish, a unique gear shifter, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a hand-stitched leather instrument panel, a 10-inch display screen with MyFord Touch, and a unique steering wheel. The concept also is outfitted with a dynamic center stack with premium mechanical switchgear and a floating binnacle top.

Three exterior features are displayed as well and include enhanced active grille shutters, air curtains, and automatic start-stop technology. Combined, the three are designed to enhance fuel economy for the Ford Edge.


See Also — New Ford Edge Scores and Soars

Filed Under: Concept Vehicles Tagged With: ACTIVE PARK ASSIST, CONCEPT VEHICLE, FORD EDGE CONCEPT, LANE KEEP ASSIST, LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW, REMOTE CONTROL PARKING, SAFETY FEATURES

Toyota Tacoma X-Runner: Sport Truck Thrills!

November 20, 2013 by admin 4 Comments

2013 Toyota Tacoma XRunner.
2013 Toyota Tacoma XRunner.

Sport trucks are a breed apart, specialty models that bring a level of performance to the pickup truck line typically not found elsewhere. The Toyota Tacoma X-Runner was a rarity at that — a small truck in a segment with just two players remaining: the Tacoma and the Nissan Frontier. Yes, the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon are returning to production, but not until next year as 2015 models. For now, its just Tacoma v. Frontier.

Toyota Tacoma X-Runner Performance

The Toyota Tacoma X-Runner is, or I should say was, an attractive, fun and highly capable 4×2 sport truck. It was also my weekly drive recently, a model I soon learned would not return for 2014. After nine years of service Toyota decided to cancel the X-Runner, news that certainly disappoints a small, but loyal group of enthusiasts.

For its part, the X-Runner injected a level of performance into the segment that may make you reconsider your sports car purchase. Its got a look that says, “I am boss,” with its embedded fog lamps, hood scoop and body kit skirting. Its clad in 18-inch alloy wheels set within Bridgestone Potenza tires.

It also has the goods under the hood to enhance its street cred: a 4.0-liter, 236-hp V-6 engine. Sure, that engine is used elsewhere as is its paired six-speed manual transmission. What the other models lack is the X-Runner’s sport-tuned suspension, a rear stabilizer bar, and performance tires. Bring all these ingredients together and you have a tasty recipe for sport truck success.

2013 Toyota Tacoma XRunner.

Toyota Racing Development

Yes, Toyota Racing Development (TRD) got its hand on the X-Runner to deliver a potent truck. They also developed an available supercharger kit that boosts engine output to 304 horsepower and 334 foot-pounds of torque.

When the kit is installed by the dealer, Toyota’s powertrain warranty is preserved. So, if the standard 7 second 0 to 60 mph time is not sufficient for you, then the supercharger should shave at least a second off of that number. The TRD sales page offers more details about this $4,500 option.

X-Runner Trim and Layout

The Toyota Tacoma X-Runner is an Access Cab model, which means that its rear doors are rear hinged. A pair of jump seats can hold two people in a pinch, or they can be folded up to provide more interior storage room. Beneath and between the rear seats are storage compartments too, handy places to stash stuff that you don’t want flying around the cabin as you streak down the road. Between the two seats is a funky looking subwoofer with a big “X” across its face and a light to set the mood. The X-Runner conveys “different” but in a wholly acceptable way.

2013 Toyota Tacoma XRunner.

Up front, you get fabric-trimmed bucket seats with manually adjusted lumbar support. The driver’s seat offers good bolstering and overall support — you ride high and your sight lines are not diminished by the presence of the hood scoop. This feat is a significant one as the X-Runner is a low rider truck to begin with.

For your additional viewing pleasure, the Tacoma features electronically adjusted side mirrors. Its rear view monitor, standard across the model line, is conveniently displayed in the far left corner of the rear view mirror, enabling you to view back through the mirror and by means of the monitor at the same time.


Toyota Tacoma X-Runner: 2005-2013 R.I.P.


For Your Driving Pleasure

The X-Runner is a hoot to drive. The six-speed manual transmission is the right pairing for it too — you just need to get used to the long throws as you shift through the gears. And save the sixth gear for interstate driving when you are ready to activate the cruise control to squeeze out more mpg; unless your rpms push 3,000 you should find fifth gear the best place to leave the transmission. Yes, there is tach for reading that.

2013 Toyota Tacoma XRunner.

One back country jaunt had me traveling on twisty roads with a fair share of rises and dips thrown in for good measure. This is when you can best appreciate the lowered, sport-tuned suspension the most as the truck stays firmly planted and handles every turn with ease. You can thank the X-Runner’s engineers for adding a rear stabilizer bar and performance tires, what provide a balanced and assured driving experience not unlike a sports coupe.

Beyond its performance capabilities, the Toyota Tacoma X-Runner shines in two other areas: payload and towing. Payload comes in at 1,425 pounds; towing at 3,300 pounds. You not only get a truck that is a hoot to drive, but it will carry, store and pull all your stuff too. Try doing that with your sports coupe.
2013 Toyota Tacoma XRunner

Sport Truck Choice

So without the X-Runner for 2014, what other choices do Tacoma shoppers have in a sport truck? Just one: the PreRunner, a sub-model sold in Access Cab and Double Cab (short or long bed) configurations. There are some important differences to consider however: the PreRunner is a 4×4 truck and a rear stabilizer bar is not available. The absence of the latter makes sense as the PreRunner does for the off-road what the X-Runner successfully accomplished on solid pavement.

 2013 Toyota Tacoma X-Runner Specifications

  • Sticker price from $26,775
  • Price as tested: $28,075
  • Seats 4 occupants
  • 4.0-liter 24-valve V-6 engine
  • 236 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm
  • 266 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,000 rpm
  • 3.70 inches bore by 3.74 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10-to-1
  • Six-speed manual transmission
  • Wheelbase: 127.4 inches
  • Length: 208.1 inches
  • Width: 724inches
  • Height: 65.6 inches
  • Passenger volume: N/A
  • Storage volume: 40.88 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 3,300 pounds
  • EPA: 16 mpg city, 21 mpg hwy.
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 21.1 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,835 pounds
  • Vehicle assembly: San Antonio, Texas

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Vehicle Reviews Tagged With: PICKUP TRUCK, REAR STABILIZER BAR, SIX-SPEED TRANSMISSION, TOYOTA TACOMA PRERUNNER, TOYOTA TACOMA X-RUNNER, V-6 ENGINE

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