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Archives for September 2014

Branding: What’s In a Model Name?

September 30, 2014 by admin Leave a Comment

Last week, GM announced the name for its long-expected, ultra-luxurious Cadillac sedan. Originally code-named LTS (or Omega), the new model will be called the CT6 when it goes on sale in late 2015. That model name may seem out of place considering the brand’s current three-letter naming convention, but it also points to where Cadillac’s nomenclature is now heading.

In other words, every Cadillac model will eventually sport an alphanumeric naming convention that begins with “CT” and ends in a number. Changes to the brand’s current model names such as ATS, CTS and XTS won’t take place until refreshed or new versions of each vehicle are released. So, for the next few years Cadillac will employ a transitional naming convention, composed of old and new names.

Cadillac Escalade
Branding strategy: Cadillac may eventually drop the Escalade name.

Branding: Naming Conventions

GM’s move is designed to align Cadillac’s naming strategy closer to what the European makes, particularly the Germans, provide. All Audi car models start with an A and are followed by a number: A3, A4, A5 and so on. Audi crossovers start with a Q and include: Q3, Q5 and Q7. Mercedes-Benz typically employs a one-letter naming convention followed by “class” to include: C-Class, E-Class and S-Class. BMW takes a similar approach, assigning a number followed by series. For instance, you have the 3 Series, 4 Series and the 7 Series, to name a few.

Lincoln and Infiniti have also changed their naming conventions in recent years. These days, all Lincoln models (except for the Navigator) start with an MK and are followed by a third letter as in MKZ, MKS, MKT and MKX. For 2014, Infiniti changed its naming convention with “Q” followed by two numbers now representing cars (Q70, for example) and “QX” applied to all utility vehicles (QX50, QX60 and QX70). Unlike Cadillac, Infiniti introduced its new naming convention at once.

As expected, news about the top-end Cadillac’s planned introduction was warmly received by the automotive press. Even so, there was also disappointment with the choice of the name — not a few of us believe that “LTS” would have been an entirely suitable choice, what could represent “long or lengthened touring sedan.” But that won’t happen as new Cadillac president, Johan de Nysschen, the architect of Infiniti’s naming convention, announced the pending change with management backing.

The Experts Weigh In

Coming up with new model names is par for the industry. However, changing the entire naming strategy is a big move. Auto Trends reached out to a few brand-savvy folks to get their take on the changes and received mixed responses.

Bob Ramsey, a marketing consultant with Senior Living magazine out of British Columbia, Canada, pointed out that both Cadillac and Lincoln “…are trending to a universal scheme, yet not fully realized by the consumer, which includes anyone not a
brand loyalist.” Both brands have relied nearly exclusively on Canadian and American consumers, but now have much greater, indeed, global aspirations.

Ramsey felt that where Bonneville (Pontiac) and Fleetwood (Cadillac) names once met something to established owners (likely to include those that subscribe to his magazine), the model names mean nothing to most new shoppers, especially to global consumers.

Branding expert Rob Frankel, author of “The Revenge of Brand X: How to Build a Big Time Brand on the Web or Anywhere Else,” noted that Cadillac has been moving away from its “older man’s brand” image thanks to “new body designs and advertising.” He understands why Cadillac is making the move, but he thinks it is a mistake.

And that mistake has to do with confusing models with other brands. Said Frankel, “Try throwing all those number/letter names on to the table without their manufacturer’s names and see how many people can pick out whose is whose.”

Know Us by Our Brands?

One way that confusion may be averted is to simply refer to each vehicle by its brand name with no regard to model. That seems to be the direction premium brands are taking today with an Audi A3 being just as much as an Audi as an A8. It appears that Cadillac has that thinking in mind too, with only your wallet knowing those distinctions.

Related Reading

Grand Cadillac to be Built in Detroit

Great Leap Forward: Cadillac to New York

Cadillac LTS and Other Luxury Rumors

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: BRANDING, CADILLAC, GM, INFINITI, Lincoln, luxury, NAMING CONVENTION, NOMENCLATURE

Sweet Swede: 2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 Drive-E

September 29, 2014 by admin 4 Comments

On the road with a Swedish wagon.

2015.5 Volvo XC60

You are to be forgiven if you have have some difficulty placing the Volvo XC60 in the right category. This model is a cross between the traditional station wagon and a utility vehicle, what some might consider a “tall wagon” while others would call it a crossover utility vehicle. Labeling aside, the XC60 is a small four-door model with an oversized liftgate. It is a premium model at that, delivering all the luxury as well as safety features that defines a Volvo.

2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 Drive-E

I was given the keys to a 2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 Drive-E (E for environmental) and promptly set out to learn more about this Swedish-designed model. Yes, the “.5” designation was part of the model year description, although for registration purposes your vehicle would be a 2015 edition. Why the special classification? Well, if your model is a T6, then the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is both supercharged and turbocharged, cranking out an amazing 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque from its small package. It also gets a Sensus navigation system, one that can be configured with your smartphone.

That engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities, a robust combination that takes this vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. This model is sold only in front-wheel drive; if you want all-wheel drive you will have to opt for the larger 3.0-liter V-6 engine. In the near future Volvo will offer only one engine across its entire model line — the 2.0-liter four. By then, an all-wheel drive package for the smaller motor should be available. For now, you’re limited to the larger engine when you want power sent to all four wheels.

2015.5 Volvo XC60
2015.5 Volvo XC60

Aging, But Still Appealing

The Volvo XC60 was introduced in 2010, but to its credit the design is fairly timeless and has benefited from tweaks that have kept it fresh. You get two rows of seating with excellent room for four and decent room for five. I liked the multi-compartment rear center seat arm rest with its cup holders and trays that much — so, I would find a way to keep the back seat open to just two people. By the way, I am about six feet tall and found the rear area comfortable and roomy.

It is up front where the best treats are found. Volvo has a thing for ergonomics, placing buttons and switches in the right places and tilting them to the driver. The seats are as comfortable as any you will find in the segment, providing excellent hip and thigh support. I was pleasantly surprised and pleased to find a storage pocket at the leading edge of the driver’s seat, offering a good place to secretly store whatever you want to keep from prying eyes. A second hidden storage compartment is located behind the base of the center stack.

The XC60’s interior is bright and well-appointed, making good use of leather and other high-end materials throughout. The instrument panel is a fairly simple design with analog and digital displays. The one disadvantage up front is the small display screen. Volvo says it measures seven inches, but it seems smaller. The control buttons are small too and take some getting used to. Happily, Volvo met my connectivity requirements by providing a between the seats storage compartment for both USB and auxiliary input ports.

You get keyless entry and push button start/stop for this Volvo with your steering wheel tilting and telescoping to your heart’s content. Close your door, adjust the seat and mirrors, buckle up, and you’re ready to take to the road. Yes, this model comes with steering wheel paddle shifters although most people are likely to operate the XC60 with the stick shifter.

2015.5 Volvo XC60


2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 Drive-E

View manufacturer details and pricing


Around Town and on the Highway

Head out on the road and you’ll take note of the tremendous amount of power under the hood. That power sometimes does weird things such as shifting the car to the left or to the right as torque steer comes in. It is a lower speed phenomenon you feel when you press the pedal to the metal, then quickly corrects itself. Do you want to experience it at its strongest? Turn a corner as you pull away from a stop sign, gunning the engine.

Speaking of stop signs, just as you come to full braking, the engine cuts off and stays off until you’re ready to move out again. It’s like other start/stop systems, but engages just before you come to a full stop. Consider it one of the many ways that Volvo conserves gasoline as you go about your business.

On the road, the suspension is firm and the steering is precise, just what you expect in a Volvo. On the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) scale, vibration and harshness are not an issue. But noise is — as you work your way up to and maintain highway speeds, wind seeping through the windows is noticeable. You can also hear the suspension system at work, especially as you drive along rougher pavement.

Braking is quite good and if you’re traveling at low speeds (below 20 mph) and forget to hit the brakes, Volvo’s City-Safety low-speed collision avoidance system kicks in. It is designed to detect cars, bikes and pedestrians in front of your vehicle and automatically applies the brakes if you do not. It is just one of many safety features that Volvo is known for and a big reason why it gets the top score on crash tests.

2015.5 Volvo XC60

Family-Friendly Features

Volvo has long been a favorite of families, especially people that place a premium on safety. Beyond the safety attributes, Volvo also integrates important features expressly for the youngest passengers. A child booster seat package ($500) brought in rear sear power child locks and a pair of outboard, two-stage booster seats. Simply pull the handle at the leading edge of either seat and the cushion pops up and slides back to hold little back sides. While you are at it, slide back the mesh sunroof cover and bring in some extra light or fresh air when desired.

Besides the front and rear cup holders, each door has bottle holders too. Additional storage, including a hidden compartment with a strap underneath the rear seat, is also present. Tie down hooks and a 12-volt outlet rounds out the family-friendly features.

2015.5 Volvo XC60
2015.5 Volvo XC60

Pricing and Options

Volvo prices the XC60 T6 Drive-E from $40,900. Its full price came in at $50,175 with several upgrades included. A Platinum package was the priciest of the lot, adding $4,400 in features to include: a power operated tailgate, dual Xenon headlamps with washers, keyless drive, rear park assist, a convenience package and a technology package. The convenience package brought in such goodies as electric folding rear headrests, power retractable side mirrors and a cargo cover. The technology package brought in adaptive cruise control, collision warning with full braking, lane keeping assist and active high beam management.

You have a number of other choices to consider when exploring the Volvo XC60, including the Cadillac SRX, Audi Q5, Lincoln MKC, Acura RDX and the BMW X3. Each of these vehicles can be had fully loaded for about $50,000, but you’d be hard-pressed to find any model that combines the safety features and performance of the 2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 Drive-E edition.

2015.5 Volvo XC60


2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 Drive-E

  • Sticker price from $40,900
  • Price as tested: from $50,175
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 2.0-liter 16-valve inline-four cylinder gasoline engine
  • 302 horsepower @ 5,700 rpm
  • 295 foot-pounds of torque @ 2,100 to 4,500 rpm
  • 3.23 inches bore by 3.67 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10.8-to-1
  • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 109.2 inches
  • Length: 182.8 inches
  • Width: 74.4 inches
  • Height: 67.4 inches
  • Passenger volume: 101.9 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 30.8/67.4 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 3,500
  • EPA: 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway
  • Premium grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 4,043 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+ (2014)
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 48 months/50,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 48 montsh/50,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 144 months
  • Vehicle assembly: Ghent, Belgium

More Car Reviews

Compact Luxury Value: 2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick (Lacrosse)?

Top-of-the-Range Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited Delivers

Say It: Land Rover Range Rover Sport


2015.5 Volvo XC60 T6 Drive-E photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Vehicle Reviews Tagged With: 2015 CARS, BOOSTER SEAT, CROSSOVER UTILITY VEHICLE, SENSUS, SUPERCHARGER, turbo, Volvo XC60

Zoom-Zoom and a Mazda CX-5

September 26, 2014 by admin 7 Comments

A sporty CUV with luxurious features.

2015 Mazda CX-5

Mazda is one of the smaller of Japan’s six automakers that still maintain a stake in the US market, trailing Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Subaru, but well ahead of Mitsubishi in vehicle sales. Concern that Mazda might someday exit the market have been brushed away by the company as it continues to roll out new products based upon its Skyactiv Technology. That technology represents more efficient engines and transmissions as well as lightweight and rigid vehicle chassis.

In 2013, Mazda released the CX-5 — a replacement for its compact Tribute crossover utility vehicle — itself a mechanical twin to earlier Ford Escape models. Mazda’s relationship with Ford is over, thus the latest small CUV platform was developed entirely in house. The current model is a strong improvement over its predecessor, something I discovered when spending a week with a 2015 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD edition.

2015 Mazda CX-5
2015 Mazda CX-5

2015 Mazda CX-5

The 2015 Mazda CX-5 is offered in three trim levels: Sport ($21,545), Touring ($24,965) and Grand Touring ($27,970). Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available. Add $1,250 to the price of the Touring and Grand Touring editions if you choose AWD.

Sport editions are powered by a 2.0-liter four cylinder engine making 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 150 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. Touring and Grand Touring editions are powered by a 2.5-liter four cylinder engine making 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 185 foot-pounds of torque at 3,250 rpm. Only the Sport edition offers a standard 6-speed manual transmission; the other models are outfitted with an 6-speed automatic transmission with manual stick capabilities.

The base front-wheel drive model is the CX-5’s fuel economy champion, earning 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. My test model had the lowest fuel economy rating for this model line, but still earned a respectable 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway EPA rating.

Among the Japanese makes, an argument can be made that Mazda has the best styled cars. That statement may not fly well with the owner of a Nissan 370Z or of a Toyota Tacoma, but from top to bottom the Mazda model line is distinguished by its KODO or soul of motion design language.

2015 Mazda CX-5

KODO Design Language

Automakers love to make a big deal about design and for good reason: buyers are often attracted by a vehicle’s look, especially customers that place a larger emphasis on that criteria — no appliance models for them. KODO represents vehicles with a distinctive five-point grille, highly defined body lines, a strong stance and an energetic presence. Those features alone might not mean all that much, but when pulled tougher in one package, the look is quite striking.

Mazda’s designers figured out a way to apply KODO to its small utility vehicle, presenting a design that is much more bold and less safe than a Chevrolet Equinox or a Honda CR-V, for example. The Mazda CX-5 advances the design language without losing its utility and the larger engine coupled with all-wheel drive and nimble handling make it a fun drive too. Who said that you can’t have zoom-zoom with a CUV? But I am getting ahead of myself here. Let’s take a look inside to discover all the goodness of the CX-5.

2015 Mazda CX-5

Attractive Cabin, Standard Features

The cabin for the Grand Touring edition offers a two-tone color scheme, in this case sand with contrasting gray across the dash, along the top and bottom of the door panels and around the base of the center storage compartment. The front bucket and rear split-folding 60-40 bench seat come wrapped in leather, an upgrade over the standard cloth (Sport) and premium cloth (Touring) fabric.

This model comes standard equipped with a tilt and telescopic steering wheel column, push button start, cruise control, power accessories, dual covered visor vanity mirrors (illuminated, but not in the Sport), air conditioning (climate control in Touring and Grand Touring editions), three 12-volt outlets, a USB port, an auxiliary input jack, 4-, 6- or 9-speaker audio systems (Bose is standard with the Grand Touring) and the usual Pandora, SMS text messaging, audio menu command and other infotainment system features that come standard in the Grand Touring edition and are available elsewhere.

The instrument panel features a standard three oval ring display with the tachometer to the left, the speedometer in the middle and a driver’s information center to the right. Secondary and cruise control switches sit on the steering wheel; switches for the blind spot monitor, adaptive front lighting and the traction control system can be found to the left of the steering wheel in the center of the dashboard.

The CX-5’s infotainment layout is a simple one with a 5.8-inch screen surrounded by buttons and switches. The navigation system, part of a $1,425 technology package that also brings in the adaptive headlamps with an automatic leveling feature, comes courtesy of TomTom. TomTom is one of the earliest GPS systems, what you might have selected before GPS became widely available in today’s cars. It is a simple system that gets the job done, what likely saved Mazda big bucks in developing a proprietary system.

Beneath the center display are buttons and switches for climate control and the heated seats. At the base of the center stack in front of the transmission stick is an open storage area. A second storage compartment suitable for storing and recharging your smartphone is in the center compartment. This model has two cup holders up front, two in the rear center seat storage compartment, and four bottle holders — one in each door.

2015 Mazda CX-5
2015 Mazda CX-5


2015 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD

View manufacturer details and pricing


Engine Technology and Road Manner

The compact utility vehicle segment has largely moved away from available V-6 engines to offer naturally-aspirated or turbocharged four-cylinder engines only. Mazda uses naturally-aspirated direct-inject gasoline engines with a high compression ratio, a move that improves thermal efficiency. Knocking, typically an issue when torque kicks in, has been avoided by shortening combustion duration and modifying the exhaust system.

The CX-5 Grand Touring has no lack of power and its handling is quite good. Most people outside of the snow belt can do without all-wheel drive, but it is a nice-to-have feature when the weather turns rough or the road twists, dips and turns. The Mazda CX-5 comes with electronic power-assisted steering and provides good handling, a comfortable ride and excellent braking. Bring forth the zoom-zoom by shifting the transmission into sport mode and you may forget you’re driving a utility vehicle. That knowledge may be of some consolation for young families who sold the Miata to make room for a new baby.

If you are shopping for a small crossover utility vehicle, the Mazda CX-5 offers a good alternative to Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue and other competitors. Its sporty styling is a plus, but you should also keep in mind that to get the many amenities found in the test model, you’ll pay more than $30,000 for your vehicle — in this case, $31,780. Yes, you get all the bells and whistles including 19-inch alloy wheels, rain sensing wipers, a rear wiper, heated power side mirrors and a power moonroof, but if you’re happy with front-wheel drive and a more basic package suits you, then a CUV in the $26-28,000 price range is certainly attainable.

2015 Mazda CX-5


2015 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD

  • Sticker price from $29,220
  • Price as tested: from $31,790
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 2.5-liter 16-valve inline-four cylinder gasoline engine
  • 184 horsepower @ 5,700 rpm
  • 185 foot-pounds of torque @ 3,250 rpm
  • 3.50 inches bore by 3.94 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 13.0-to-1
  • 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 106.3 inches
  • Length: 197 inches
  • Width: 179.3 inches
  • Height: 67.3 inches
  • Passenger volume: 102.3 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 34.1/65.4 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 2,000 (when properly equipped)
  • EPA: 24 mpg city, 30 mpg highway
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 15.3 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,560 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+ (2014)
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Hiroshima, Japan

More Car Reviews

Compact Luxury Value: 2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

Wouldn’t You Really Rather Have a Buick (Lacrosse)?

Top-of-the-Range Subaru Legacy 3.6R Limited Delivers

Say It: Land Rover Range Rover Sport


See Also — Nissan Kicks SR Revisited

2015 Mazda CX-5 photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Vehicle Reviews Tagged With: 2015 CARS, all-wheel drive, crossover, KODO, MAZDA CX-5, SOUL OF MOTION, utility vehicle

How Are Insurance Scores Determined?

September 25, 2014 by admin 4 Comments

If you have not heard of your insurance score, you are not alone. An insurance score, like a credit score, is based on information derived from your credit reports. Insurance companies have found that there is a correlation between the way you handle your credit and future accidents as well as your likely insurance claims. Although credit reports are used to establish both credit scores and insurance scores, there are also some important differences.

what is your insurance scoreYour credit score is based largely on your ability to repay what you have borrowed. Your insurance score goes beyond your credit report to look at the behavior of policyholders with similar credit temperament who have filed claims with the insurer. You should know that insurers set their own insurance scores, consequently, your score will vary from company to company.

A credit score, such as one from FICO, is used by 90 percent of US lenders. That score is based on five factors: your payment history, the amount of your debt, the length of your credit history, new credit and the types of credit. Loan approval and terms are based on your credit score.

Your insurance score will also look at the same factors, although your insurer likely isn’t interested in your income information or job history, criteria that banks and other lenders look at when deciding whether to extend credit to you or not. Even so, the better your credit score the higher your insurance score.

Insurance Score Determination

Auto Trends reached out to the insurance industry to glean more information about insurance scores. Kristofer R. Kirchen, president of Advanced Insurance Managers, LLC, in Tampa, Florida, directed us to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) website to learn how scores are determined.

Credit-based insurance scores are nothing new, arriving on the scene in the early 1990s. According to FICO, some 95 percent of auto insurers and 85 percent of homeowner insurers use credit-based scores. However, not all states allow credit-based scores, thus it is important for consumers to check with their state insurance department to learn what their state permits.

insurance scoreYou should also know that insurance companies may only consider your credit-based insurance score as “one factor in its underwriting process” according to the NAIC. If you are seeking coverage for a vehicle, the insurer will consider the make, model and age of your car as well as the age of the drivers, the miles driven annually and your zip code. Yes, you can ask your insurer if an insurance score was factored to underwrite and rate your policy. You should also ask your insurer what risk category you were placed in after your quote was received.

Obtain Your Score and Improve It

Kirchen noted that CreditKarma.com provides both your credit score and your insurance score for free. You need to register with that website, by providing an email address and a password to track that information. This writer has been using Credit Karma and found his insurance score by clicking on the “view all my scores” button. In this case two scores were presented: an auto insurance score and a home insurance score with only a small numerical difference between the two.

If your insurance score is low you can improve it the same way you can raise your credit score: by using your credit wisely, paying your bills on time and reducing your debt. Kirchen also advises consumers to clean up collection activity as found in their credit reports. You can obtain one free copy annually of all three of your credit reports by visiting AnnualCreditReport.com.

Now About That Claim

It is important for you to know that placing a call to your insurance company to report an incident when there is no damage to either vehicle should always be avoided. That call will show up on your claims history even though no pay out was made noted Glenn Jacobs of the Jacobs Agency in Knoxville, Tennessee. Your insurance score will suffer and as a consequence, you may be charged a higher rate for auto insurance.


See Also — Your Insurance Score and Insurance Premiums

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: auto insurance, car insurance, credit report, CREDIT REPORTS, CREDIT SCORE, FICO, insurance score, INSURER

Great Leap Forward: Cadillac to New York

September 24, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

Big Apple relocation for Cadillac in the works.

Cadillac New York.
Cadillac’s New York headquarters will be among historic buildings like this one.

Fresh on the heels of its announcement that its upcoming full-bodied, top-of-the-range flagship Cadillac sedan would be be built in Detroit — starting in the fourth quarter of 2015 — GM announced this week that it will detach Cadillac from its main operation. As a separate business unit, Cadillac will also establish its headquarters in New York, in an effort to “further global growth” as noted by GM President Dan Ammann.

(See: Grand Cadillac to be Built in Detroit)

Cadillac Detachment, Not Completely

Splitting a luxury make from its main manufacturer isn’t unprecedented. Indeed, Cadillac’s new president, Johan de Nysschen, was formerly with Infiniti. Nissan’s luxury brand is now headquartered in Hong Kong, with the global parent located in Yokohama, Japan. GM isn’t losing control over Cadillac, rather it is giving its own luxury brand the chance to extend its wings. Technical and other operations will remain in Detroit.

“Cadillac’s mission is to reinstate the brand to a pre-eminent position among global luxury brands, a bold challenge requiring a distinct and focused new organization,” Ammann said. More than a division or brand, Cadillac is becoming a center of excellence for our company.”

That potential reinstatement follows years of decline where the once self-proclaimed “standard of the world” became a luxury afterthought from the 1970s to the early years of the new millennium. New product and a revised focus on the brand has brought forth the CTS line followed by the ATS, XTS and other updated and new models. Cadillac does not yet have the panache of a Jaguar or BMW, but it has been making much progress.

Going Global

The Cadillac leadership council is led by de Nysschen and is also composed of five other executives including Jim Bunnell, vice president of sales and service and Andrew Smith, executive director of design. Additional team leaders will be announced in the future.

Cadillac now serves 40 countries and sells more cars in the United States than anywhere else. That should eventually change as global growth of 28 percent last year and 10 percent this year is being led by China, where yearly sales are up 75 percent through August.

New York, New York

Dozens of GM employees will be given the opportunity to relocate to New York, but some may choose to remain in Michigan. To fill required positions, Cadillac would then seek fresh talent to help elevate the brand moving forward.

Cadillac’s headquarters will be located in modern loft offices in Soho, lower Manhattan. About the innovative location de Nysschen said, “it allows our team to share experiences with premium-brand consumers and develop attitudes in common with our audience. New York’s well-heeled populace are a natural customer base for the Cadillac brand.

Future Product

Besides the top-of-the-range and as yet unnamed ultra-luxury sedan, Cadillac’s portfolio will expand to keep up with its European rivals, particularly its German competitors: Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi. All three have been working diligently to bring new products to the market and have promised to expand their own model lines further.

Cadillac has yet to identify what all-new models it will bring to the market, but there are several holes to be filled in the utility segment where the Germans currently dominate. Right now, the compact SRX and the full-size Escalade serve that segment, but there is room for a midsize crossover utility vehicle rivaling the Buick Enclave’s size. GM has promised that there will be no rebadged model for Cadillac, as the Buick, GMC and Chevrolet versions of this CUV are essentially alike.

An absence of roadsters, convertibles and electrified vehicles also means that Cadillac has much more room to grow. GM will need to invest billions of dollars to help Cadillac win more market share, but in doing so it stands to reap tremendous profits. That’s good news for a company long dependent on pickup trucks and SUVs to fund its operation, vehicle segments that will be squeezed as the higher fuel economy mandates kick in.

Photo credit: 26-28 Wooster Street 71 Grand Street by Beyond My Ken Own work. Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: CADILLAC, China, GM, HEADQUARTERS, MANHATTAN, NEW YORK, SOHO

Will Fiat Chrysler Rescue Mitsubishi?

September 23, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

Mitsubishi will supply pickup trucks to Fiat.

Mitsubishi I200 Pickup Truck
The next generation of this Mitsubishi L200 will also be sold by Fiat.

Fiat and Mitsubishi signed a “memorandum of understanding” or MOU last week, whereby the Japanese automotive manufacturer will supply 170,000 small pickup trucks to Fiat for six years reports Bloomberg. The Mitsubishi L200 is a midsize truck, one that will be sold by Fiat through its commercial vehicle arm in the Americas as well as in Europe. The US, however, is not expected to see the truck — at least not through this deal.

Mitsubishi: Back to the 1970s

The Fiat-Mitsubishi MOU once again involves Chrysler — although indirectly — a company that collaborated with Mitsubishi for decades, starting in the early 1970s when Chrysler purchased a 15 percent stake in the Japanese company. The Mitsubishi Galant got the alliance going when it was sold in America as the Dodge Colt, a full decade before Mitsubishi began selling vehicles stateside under its own banner. The two automakers continued with their relationship, later launching a joint venture in Illinois called Diamond-Star Motors.

Chrysler eventually sold its share of Diamond-Star to Mitsubishi and decreased its stake in the company, but continued to supply engines, transmissions and other parts well into the new century. After Daimler merged with Chrysler to form DaimlerChrysler (DCX), the new company took a 34 percent stake in Mitsubishi in a bid to establish a truly global presence.


See Also — Up Next: Ford-Volkswagen Tie-up?


Mergers, Acquisitions and Divestures

DCX gradually sold off its share in Mitsubishi, ending the relationship two years before Daimler and Chrysler split. During that time Mitsubishi forged other alliances, including with PSA Peugeot Citroen, something it maintains to this day. Mitsubishi is also in collaboration with Renault and has worked with Volkswagen and Proton.

Fiat and Chrysler are expected to complete their merger by the end of the year with the newly-minted Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, N.V. (FCA) establishing its global headquarters in London. Feeling the financial pinch from the pending merger, FCA will not have to devote its scant resources to develop a new truck, relying on Mitsubishi to supply fresh product instead.

A Ram Dakota Replacement?

The agreement could pave the way for the truck to be sold in North America, filling an important hole in the Ram lineup, one that opened when the Dakota was discontinued following the 2011 model year. With Chevrolet and GMC returning to the segment this year in the Colorado and Canyon respectively, Chrysler could follow suit if Mitsubishi amends its MOU to add more trucks and send an additional supply to America.

An amended agreement might also help Mitsubishi gain new found traction in a market where it is averaging fewer than 6,000 sales per month. Mitsubishi sales had been on a downward spiral until this year and are now up 29 percent through August. Although a direct rescue of Mitsubishi by Fiat Chrysler isn’t likely, supplying much-needed product will aid the fortunes of all concerned.

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Photo courtesy of Mitsubishi.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: CHRYSLER, DAIMLER, FIAT, MIDSIZE PICKUP TRUCK, MITSUBISHI L200, RAM DAKOTA

Grand Cadillac to be Built in Detroit

September 22, 2014 by admin 5 Comments

New model will sit at the top of Cadillac’s model range.

The worst kept secret in the automobile industry is this one: Cadillac plans to build a full-sized, rear-wheel drive sedan that will rival the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Lexus LS and the Audi A8. The top-of-the-range model has only been openly discussed for several years now with two recent concept vehicles, Ciel and Elmiraj, fanning the flames.

Built in Detroit

On Friday, Cadillac issued a press release announcing that its Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plant has been selected to build the unnamed flagship with production commencing in the fourth quarter of 2015.

Cadillac Ciel Concept.

Cadillac Ciel Concept.

An official preview of the new sedan is months away with GM saying that it would happen in the first half of 2015. Auto Trends has been told that the New York International Auto Show will showcase the new model, with a March 31, 2015, debut tentatively scheduled. The NY auto show will be open to the public from April 3 to 15, 2015.

Another possibility is a Jan. debut in Detroit, host of the North American International Auto Show. Personally, I’m leaning toward Detroit as it is the biggest stage for Cadillac’s most significant model ever.

The Detroit-Hamtramck facility is a logical choice as GM has invested more than $1 billon in the plant over the past five years. The plant currently builds several Cadillac models, including the ELR plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the compact ATS coupe and sedan, and the midsize CTS sedan. Retooling for the new sedan is already done, reflecting an earlier $384 million investment commitment.

No Cadillac Models Replaced

GM also put to rest rumors that Cadillac’s XTS sedan would disappear once the new model arrives. Some analysts have looked at that sedan as a “place holder” until the grand sedan appears, but GM noted that the new model “adds to rather than replaces any model in the portfolio.” Likely, the slow-selling ELR will also hang around for at least another model year too.

Newly installed Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen, formerly with Audi and Infiniti, noted that the flagship model will extend GM’s luxury brand’s range. He also pointed out that the vehicle will lift Cadillac in other ways. “In addition to new technology in the car itself, we are instituting innovative manufacturing techniques to assemble it with the precision deserving of a luxury make,” stated de Nysschen.

Cadillac sales are down 4.7 percent year-to-date in a market that is experiencing double-digit increases. The brand should erase its shortfall by year end as new ATS coupe and Navigator models draw people to Cadillac showrooms.

Cadillac Elmiraj Concept.

Cadillac Elmiraj Concept.

Omega Platform

The flagship Cadillac will be built on GM’s all-new Omega platform, itself derived from the Alpha platform underpinning the ATS and CTS. Even so, the cost for launching the new platform cannot be paid by a vehicle selling for upwards of six figures, given that fewer than 10,000 units will be sold each year.

Auto Trends believes that there are two models that will ultimately be derived from Omega: Buick’s large coupe, what likely will sport the Riviera moniker, and the next generation Escalade SUV. The most recent generation Escalade was introduced for the 2015 model year, but its run is expected to be a short one. My guess is that the Riviera will debut by 2017 and the Omega-based Escalade by 2018.

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Filed Under: New Models Tagged With: AUTO SHOW, CADILLAC, CADILLAC ATS, CADILLAC CTS, CADILLAC ELR, Cadillac Escalade, Cadillac XTS, DETROIT-HAMTRAMCK, GM, JOHAN DE NYSSCHEN

Compact Luxury Value: 2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

September 19, 2014 by admin 8 Comments

Second generation A3 meets an important price point.

2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

Take one look at the Audi pecking order and you’ll find a good mix of small, medium and large models. When it comes to the compact end of the market, Audi offers a two-prong approach in both the A3 and A4 sedans, providing an important gateway to the brand.

Selling two models of similar dimensions may seem odd, but there are differences of note, starting with the A3’s base price ($29,900) and its slightly shorter presence (6.8 inches between the wheels; 9.7 inches overall). The A3 also slips in a smaller base engine, a 1.8-liter twin-turbo four. Otherwise, both models share 2.0-liter twin-turbo gasoline or a 2.0-liter TDI (diesel) four cylinder engines.

The sub-$30,000 price point for the A3 Premium is critical, but it is reached with one important sacrifice: you get front-wheel drive instead of Audi’s phenomenal quattro all-wheel drive. It is a sacrifice that won’t matter to some who simply want to get behind the wheel of Germany’s fastest growing luxury brand without busting the bank.

2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

Even so, my tested A3 Sedan 2.0T (Premium Plus) was priced from $32,900 ($37,195 sticker price) and included all-wheel drive and such updates as heated front seats, 18-inch 10-spoke wheels and other embellishments. If you can afford the extra $3,000, then start here instead. And if you have more money to spare you might also consider the Prestige package, priced from $38,350. Engine upgrades are extra across the A3 line.

Audi does perhaps the best job of presenting the same face across its model line among all luxury makes. Certainly, there are some distinctives that separate the top and lower end models including front end lighting and the air intakes, but the overall look is at once familiar as it is elegant. Uniformity is very important to luxury car buyers who shop the brand more than they shop by model.

Powerful Turbocharged Engine

The 2.0T engine is wholly suited for the A3. I experienced its capabilities in an A6 sedan earlier this year and found it was sufficient in the larger model too. (See — 2014 Audi A6: Surprised by Four) Audi pairs this 220-horsepower engine with a shiftable six-speed automatic transmission.

That engine puts a lot of zip into this 3,362-pound sedan, enabling you to pass on the highway with confidence and keep up with the bigger boys and their naturally-aspirated V-8s. Definitely, slight turbo lag was present, a minor annoyance ultimately offset by full power, once delivered.

Electromechanical power steering provides capable control with limited feedback. The suspension system is outfitted with McPherson struts and a stabilizer bar up front and four-link suspension to the rear with separate springs and shocks.


2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

View manufacturer details and pricing


Room For Five; Four is Ideal

Step inside the Audi A3 and you’ll immediately sense its more compact proportions. Even so, the driver and front passenger do not lack room, with comfortable and bolstered seats ensuring the best possible ride. To the rear, a 60-40 split-bench seats provides good support, but I must say that seating three larger people in the back is a bit of a stretch. Two would be ideal as would utilizing the wide middle seat arm rest with its front projecting cup holders to enhance the comfort quotient. Take note of the head room when you sit in the back: the top of my near 6-foot frame touched the headliner when I sat upright. Clearly, the back seat is most useful for children.

Audi provides an elegant, even refined interior, but also limits the number of technological embellishments in the A3. The expected retractable center screen is present, sized smaller for the sedan. The screen is one of my favorite features, offering a clean and sophisticated look. Passengers often marvel when they see it in action as it emerges from the instrument panel when the ignition key is engaged. You can always opt to keep it hidden too.

2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

The rest of the instrument panel is uncluttered, marked by four circular air vents that can be twisted open or closed and directed toward or away from you. It is a simple, yet smart design that seems to provide better control over air flow than in many other models. The circular design matches the other dials present, what control the heated seats, air-conditioning, audio system volume and the infotainment screen.

Behind the tilt and telescoping steering wheel is a two analog tachometer and speedometer display. The round displays flank a digital driver’s information center, controlled by steering wheel mounted switches. A push button switch on top of the steering column resets the trip odometer.

USB Port…Please

My only gripe with the Audi A3 — and all Audi models for that matter — is a suitable USB port. Audi does offer a music interface with various connection cables to connect your device. What they do not offer is a USB port for charging, a must have for people on the go. I found myself having to take to the road with my iPhone 5 fully recharged, otherwise the energy pig that it is would most likely shut down before I could recharge. Everything else Audi does from a technology perspective is right, including its voice-controlled navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity, but it is the lack of a smartphone recharge port that remains an annoyance.

Features that do please in the A3 include: available dual zone climate control, in-door storage compartments (with bottle holders up front) two cup holders, a small storage compartment under the front seat, leather-covered seats, aluminum trim (Premium Plus) and the usual power accessories: windows, door locks and side mirrors. The Prestige Plus edition also provides a sunroof with a sunshade, Xenon Plus headlamps, a rain and light sensor, and a trial SiriusXM satellite radio subscription. This model does not come with a rear view monitor.

2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

The press fleet model also came with several upgrades. These included: Glacier White metallic paint ($550), an Audi MMI navigation system ($1,900), a cold weather package: heated seats, heated side mirrors and heated windshield washer nozzles ($500), aluminum trim ($450) and an Audi music interface with iPod cable ($350).

If you value trunk space, you’ll only have 10 cubic feet at your disposal. There is a small, open storage tray on the left side of the vehicle within the trunk and another storage compartment underneath the floor adjacent to the spare tire.

2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

Current Generation Competitors

The current iteration of the Audi A3 is all-new, replacing the first generation model that was sold from 2006 to 2013. No 2014 edition was built. This vehicle can also be had in an S3 package (from $41,100). Its chief competitors include: the Lexus IS250, Acura ILX, Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and BMW’s 2 Series. Stretch the list out a bit and a high-end Buick Verano might also be cross shopped.


2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T

  • Sticker price from $32,900
  • Price as tested: from $37,195
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 2.0-liter 16-valve inline-four cylinder gasoline engine
  • 220 horsepower @ 4,500 to 6,200 rpm
  • 258 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,600 to 4,400 rpm
  • 3.25 inches bore by 3.65 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 9:6-to-1
  • 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 103.8 inches
  • Length: 197 inches
  • Width: 175.4 inches
  • Height: 55.7 inches
  • Passenger volume: NR
  • Storage volume: 10 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: NR
  • EPA: 24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 14.5 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,362 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick+ (2014)
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 12 years/Unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Gyor, Hungary

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2015 Audi A3 Sedan 2.0T photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Vehicle Reviews Tagged With: all-wheel drive, AUDI A3, four-cylinder engine, navigation, Quattro, turbo, USB PORT

This Week: Fall 2014 Charlotte AutoFair

September 17, 2014 by admin 1 Comment

It may not be known as the “greatest show on earth” but the Charlotte AutoFair has its own notoriety amongst automotive enthusiasts. This week, from Thursday through Sunday (Sept. 18-21, 2014), the latest edition of the semiannual AutoFair gets under way. For more than three decades AutoFair has been drawing people from the Carolinas and well beyond, an extravaganza that mixes the familiar with the new, as well as the eccentric.

Charlotte Motor Speedway.
This week: AutoFair gets underway at the Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Fall 2014 Charlotte AutoFair

Held on the grounds of the Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, NC, the Charlotte AutoFair is marked by new car auctions, private sales, an infield brimming with vendors and special displays, and much more. This week, AutoFair will recognize the 50th anniversary of the Pontiac GTO, America’s first muscle car.

Also presented is an exotic performance vehicle display featuring the rarest and fastest automobiles ever made, including a 2015 Lamborghini Huracán, a 2014 Lamborghini Aventador, a 1931 Bugatti, a 1995 Mercedes Lotec, a 2015 Aston Martin Vantage, a 2008 Porsche GT3 RS and other models. Other events include: a DockDogs canine aquatics diving contest and Terracross UTV racing, each providing something for the entire family.

Charlotte AutoFair
Terracross racing events will be held on Friday and Saturday.

Terracross Racing

One of the fastest growing forms of racing in the country, the Mystik Lubricants Terracross Championship UTV racing series will be at the Charlotte AutoFair on Friday and Saturday. Terracross is raced on a short, rugged, purpose-built course made for the toughest off-road enthusiast. Multiple disciplines go head-to-head against the roughest and muddiest terrain with extreme track features, including crossover jumps.

Terracross racing will be conducted on the fifth-mile track located behind the backstretch of the 1.5-mile speedway. Opening ceremonies start at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, followed by practice/seeding and qualifying throughout the day. Two rounds of finals will take place on Saturday, with opening ceremonies at 11 a.m. and racing immediately following.

Dealer Auction and a Car Corral

This fall’s classic car auction is brought to the Charlotte AutoFair by Dealer Auctions Inc. As is always the practice, dozens of classic cars will be brought to the Charlotte Motor Speedway on Friday and Saturday. Key models up for auction include: a 2009 Shelby GT500KR previously owned by the late Carroll Shelby; a 1969 Camaro Prototype COPO seized by the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Department; a 1970 Boss Mustang 302; and a 1987 Porsche 911 Cabriolet and more.

Charlotte AutoFairYou can also view as many as 1,500 classic cars on sale in the car corral ringing the speedway. Private sellers are on hand to hawk their vehicles with deals completed right on site. To assist sellers and buyers, the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles maintains an on-site office to process the paperwork throughout the event.

As many as 50 car clubs are on hand for the fall AutoFair, representing one of the largest assembly of clubs anywhere. Harrisburg Cruisers, the 5th Generation Camaros, Queen City Corvettes, Charlotte Motorists, Southeastern GM Toyz and East Coast Cruisers are just a few of the car clubs represented.

Best of the Rest

Families with young kids in tow need not worry about their little ones getting bored. The Charlotte AutoFair provides a play zone located adjacent to the Nationwide Insurance Pavilion featuring inflatables, face painting, the Patriot slide, a carousel moon bounce and carnival games. A petting zoo, pony rides and interactive games are held in the Fan Van. The play zone does not open until Friday and remains accessible until late each afternoon on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Attendees can also take in one of the world’s largest flea market, as 7,000 vendor spaces are filled with automotive parts and memorabilia. Located inside and outside the speedway, you may uncover a rare treasure amongst the many goods featured. Check out the manufacturer’s midway too as distributors and manufacturers of aftermarket parts and accessories are also on hand.

AutoFair tickets run $10 for adults and are free for children 13 and under. You can also secure a 4-day pass for $30. The Charlotte AutoFair will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.


See Also — Countdown to the Spring 2014 Charlotte AutoFair

Photos courtesy of the Charlotte Motor Speedway and Terracross Racing.

Filed Under: Auto Shows Tagged With: car auction, CAR CORRAL, CHARLOTTE AUTOFAIR, CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY, DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES, DOCKDOGS CANINE AQUATICS, EXOTIC CARS, FLEA MARKET, PONTIAC GTO, TERRACROSS, VENDORS

About the 2015 Jeep Renegade

September 16, 2014 by admin 6 Comments

2015 Jeep Renegade

The Jeep brand continues to set sales records and shows no signs of losing ground. New or updated models have propelled the brand as have new markets and consumers who are embracing America’s iconic 4×4 brand.

2015 Jeep Renegade

Jeep is not resting on its laurels. The Chrysler Group, indeed parent Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, N.V., is pinning much of its growth on Jeep. To that end a new model, the subcompact Renegade, goes on sale early this fall. It is the first Jeep model that benefits from the company’s cross-Atlantic alliance.

Indeed, the Jeep Renegade will share the same platform and major components with the Fiat 500X, itself similar to the 500L. Both models will be built at Fiat’s Melfi plant in Italy, representing the first Jeep model ever built abroad.

The 2015 Jeep Renegade will be sold as 4×2 or 4×4 models and will offer a naturally-aspirated 2.4 four-cylinder engine or an available 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The larger engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission; the smaller engine with a six-speed manual transmission.

2015 Jeep Renegade

Room for Five

With room for five, the Renegade is fairly light, its curb weight ranging from 3,095 to 3,490 pounds. When fuel economy numbers are announced later this month, Jeep expects highway fuel mileage to easily top 30 mpg. That would put Jeep close to the top of the fuel mileage range among small SUVs. All models take regular grade gasoline.

Going small does not mean that the Renegade departs from Jeep’s core design of offering rugged, muscular and upright bodies that define the brand. The seven-slot vertical grille, a Jeep signature, is flanked by round head lamps. The lower part of the fascia advances a burly design and is matched with daytime running lights, available fog lamps and tow hooks.

Short overhangs, distinctive wheel arches and a raised belt line give this model a formidable look on a small footprint. A new “X” design crisscrosses the tail lamps what Jeep says is a “theme inspired by military equipment” to convey strength. Rear tow hooks are available too.

2015 Jeep Renegade

Modern, Updated Interior

Inside, the Renegade provides a unique steering wheel, marked by a beefy rim section. Secondary driver controls, including voice, vehicle and audio controls are located near the grip points. A heated steering wheel option is available.

Large analog speedometer and tachometer displays flank a digital driver information center. The 3.5-inch display provides vehicle information and can be upgraded to a 7-inch display. Across the lower section of the instrument panel USB, auxiliary input and 12-volt connectivity points align with the climate control switches and the glove box.

The center console, featuring a wrapped armrest, provides ample storage. Each door offers additional storage room, useful for holding beverages or gadgets. The ergonomically-shaped seats are draped in cloth or covered in leather. Standard 60-40 split second row seats can also be upgraded to 40-20-40 split seats with an available cargo area pass through.

The cargo area provides 18.5 cubic feet of standard storage area, expandable to 50.8 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. The front passenger seat also folds forward, providing enough room to accommodate a five-foot ladder.

2015 Jeep Renegade

Trailed Rated Renegade Trailhawk

The Renegade, like other Jeep models, will also offer “trail rated” packages, representing the brand’s internal rating scheme. Applicable 44 models have been tested on some of world’s toughest trails and must successfully perform well in the following five off-road conditions: articulation, ground clearance, maneuverability, traction and water fording.

The Jeep Renegade Trailhawk is the best model for off-road adventuring as it is equipped with an active drive low 44 system with a 20:1 crawl ratio, a terrain selection system with five modes to include: auto, snow, sand, mud and rock modes, 17-inch off-road wheels, a 0.8-inch off-road lift, hill descent control and skid plates.

2015 Jeep Renegade

Aggressive Jeep Growth

With the Renegade filling the bottom end of the Jeep portfolio, it joins the Patriot, Compass, Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. The Patriot and Compass will be discontinued midway in 2016, replaced by a single new model according to Chrysler’s five-year plan as reported by Automotive News.

Chrysler expects Jeep sales to top 1 million units this year, a first, and continue to expand aggressively as the brand is introduced to new markets, particularly Asia. For now, Fiat Chrysler will be watching the Renegade’s progress closely, expecting sales to strengthen as production ramps up.


See Also — Compact SUV Value: 2016 Jeep Renegade Sport

Photos courtesy of the Chrysler Group.

Filed Under: New Models Tagged With: 2015 MODELS, 4x4, CHRYSLER GROUP, FIAT, FIAT 500X, JEEP RENEGADE, TRAIL RATED

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