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Archives for September 2015

Tesla Model X Unveiled and Explored

September 30, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

The Tesla Model X is here and this electric vehicle manufacturer has once again thrown down the gauntlet in front of luxury manufacturers the world over. The first SUVs have already been delivered to six eagerly awaiting customers.

2016 Tesla Model X

Three and one-half years is a long time to wait for a highly anticipated model, but that delay is now over for fans of the Tesla Model X. Last night at a public reveal, the California-based electric vehicle manufacturer formally unveiled its crossover sport utility vehicle model, what offers seating for six or seven adults, depending on the interior layout.

That event was held near Tesla’s assembly plant in Fremont, California. Six customers who put down sizable deposits were on hand to receive the keys for their new electric SUV. Yes, production is in full swing and deliveries are being made right now.

The design of the 2016 Tesla Model X is not much different from the prototype unveiled in early 2012. Yes, the cool falcon-wing doors are present and all-wheel drive is standard. And this model comes with a 90-kilowatt battery, providing 250 miles of range.

2016 Tesla Model X

Two editions are available — 90D with an EPA-estimated range of 257 miles and a 0-to-60 mph time of 4.8 seconds, and a P90D edition with an EPA-estimated range of 250 miles and a 0-to-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds.

But it gets even better than that — customers who choose a Ludicrous Speed Upgrade option with their P90D can see a 0-to-60 mph time of just 3.2 seconds! Compare that with the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and its best time of 4.1 seconds and you’re looking at the fastest SUV in the world with or without the upgrade.

The launch editions of the Tesla Model X are certainly not cheap. Indeed, customers who purchase the P90D Signature edition will pay $132,000, while those who opt for the P90D Founder edition will spend $142,000. Less costly models will follow, with an expected starting price near $80,000. In the Model X, Tesla is gunning for high-end Porsche customers as well as current Mercedes-Benz and BMW owners. Don’t be surprised if a few Cadillac Escalade owners make the switch too.

2016 Tesla Model X

The rear falcon-wing doors may be the most interesting feature for this SUV. The doors are easily opened when parked in a crowded lot with only about one foot of space needed between vehicles. The front doors open in the standard way, although the driver’s door self opens when you approach the vehicle.

As for its design, the Model X looks very much like the Model S sedan with a similar interior layout.

The front trunk or “frunk” provides storage room and doubles as a large, impact absorbing crumple zone. At the very front are active sensors with emergency braking and collision avoidance systems included. The batteries are floor mounted in a bid to lower the center of gravity and mitigate rollovers. Further, the battery support structure provides what Tesla says is superior side impact protection. Indeed, Tesla has boldly made the claim that the Model X will receive a 5-star crash test rating from the NHTSA. If it does, it will be the first SUV to do so.

2016 Tesla Model X

Other features present with the Tesla Model X include daytime running lights, power-folding and heated side mirrors, an automatically deploying rear spoiler, a full size rear cargo storage area, automatic keyless entry, maps and navigation with real-time traffic updates, GPS-enabled home link, and four LATCH child seat attachments — two each for the second and third rows.

Speaking of the interior, Tesla claims that the Model X offers room for seven adults. Analysts had initially expected the interior to be suitable for five adults with two children finding room in a third row jump seat. However, Tesla says that seven adults can ride in comfort.

Further, the automaker offers a six-place option whereby the three-place middle row and its individually reclining seats is replaced by a pair of bucket seats. That arrangement will make it easier to move about the cabin.

2016 Tesla Model X

One significant surprise found in the SUV is a 17-speaker, 560-watt audio system. The company could have turned to a known manufacturer such as Harmon Kardon, Bowers and Wilkins, or Bang & Olufsen, but they did not. Instead, the audio system was designed entirely in-house by a team of audio engineers. Word has it that it is ideally matched for the Model X.

Bringing the Model X to the market is no small achievement. Tesla got things going in 2008 when it built small numbers of its Tesla Roadster. A few years later the Tesla Model S sedan proved that the company was not a flash in the pan, while the Model X should do its part to shake the luxury SUV market.

If Tesla continues as planned, in a few years it’ll bring forth the Model III, an electric car for the masses. And that may prove to be the tipping point that forces the auto industry to fully embrace vehicle electrification.

All photos copyright Tesla Motors.


Related Reading

GLM ZZ Picks Up Where the Tesla Roadster Left Off

4 Lesser Known Facts About the Tesla Model X

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: all-wheel drive, crossover, ELECTRIC VEHICLE, EV, FALCON WING DOORS, LUDICROUS SPEED UPGRADE, P90D FOUNDER, P90D SIGNATURE, SUV, TESLA MODEL S, TESLA MODEL X

Early Altima Refresh Shows Nissan Wants More

September 29, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

2016 Nissan Altima SR

The all-new Nissan Altima SR edition.

Product cycles for most vehicles are typically six years with a refresh taking place by the fourth model year. Nissan, in its hot-selling Altima midsize sedan, has pushed the refresh forward by one year, a move that may win the brand new customers for the 2016 model year and beyond. Its a bold decision on Nissan’s part, one that could help the Altima surpass the Accord in sales and put the top-selling Toyota Camry within striking distance.

Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn revealed the refreshed Altima in New York on Sept. 22, just six months removed from revealing the flagship and all-new Maxima sedan at the New York International Auto Show on March 31. Both models share the same platform, but the Maxima targets premium shoppers, while the Altima aims for mainstream shoppers.

The Altima is the best-selling model for Nissan, a midsize sedan that has seen sales rise for five consecutive years, despite its dropping the available coupe body style after 2013. Auto Trends has tested both the SL and SV editions. This writer has also suggested that the Altima may be the best in its class.

The refreshed Nissan Altima doesn’t go on sale until November, but the following are some of its most significant changes:

2016 Nissan Altima SR

A New SR Edition

For 2016, the Altima SR is all new, a model that brings an extra measure of sportiness to the product line. The SR is now the seventh Altima model and can be had with the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 182 horsepower or the available 3.5-liter V-6 engine making 270 horsepower.

These engines come paired with a continuously variable transmission with manual operation — essentially, it mimics seven gear “steps” when operating in manual mode. Paddle shifters mounted to the steering column make this possible.

The Altima SR comes with front and rear stabilizer bars, revised damping tuning, active understeer control, a black interior with blue-stitched trim, Dunlop tires, 18-inch machined aluminum-alloy wheels, and a rear decklid spoiler. It is one of the best composed front-wheel drive models in this segment.

2016 Nissan Altima SR

New Design Language

One look at the 2016 Altima and you’ll see evidence of Nissan’s new and sporty design language everywhere. That look was initially expressed in the 2015 Nissan Murano crossover SUV followed by the 2016 Nissan Maxima sedan.

Dubbed “energetic flow,” the latest Nissan exterior design language is complemented by an interior design language known as “gliding wing.” The revised look means that everything up front is new — the fascia, hood, bumper, fenders, and hood.

To the rear, a sculpted bumper, new trunk lid, and new combination lights are included. The result is a drop in the coefficient of drag by 10 percent to 0.29. That will help the Altima achieve 39 mpg on the highway with the four-cylinder engine.

Inside, the 2016 Altima shares the design language evident in the Murano and Rogue crossovers. It is marked with a C stack with available 5- and 7-inch NissanConnect displays along with Nissan navigation and mobile apps.

The zero gravity seats have been reshaped and new and improved materials for the seats and door inlays are also evident. A new steering wheel and larger cup holders up front are also included, the latter as a direct result of owner input.

2016 Nissan Altima

2016 Nissan Altima

As the third best selling model in the midsize segment behind the Camry and Accord, the Nissan Altima has certainly earned its place in the market. Now, its poised to continue its ascendancy.

Besides its top competitors, other midsize models to consider include the Ford Fusion, Subaru Legacy, Chrysler 200, Chevrolet Malibu, Mazda 6, and the Volkswagen Passat.


See Also — Altima

Nissan Altima photos copyright Nissan North America, Inc.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 2016 cars, ALTIMA SR, DESIGN LANGUAGE, HONDA ACCORD, Midsize Sedan, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry

Diesel Resurrection: How Volkswagen Might Win Back Customers

September 28, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

Five ways Volkswagen might salvage its US operation.

Volkswagen is in a world of hurt, but that pain is entirely of the company’s own doing. While some have been making pronouncements that the automaker as we know it is finished, others believe that something can be salvaged. I, for one, stand in the latter camp. To that end, there are several conditions Volkswagen must meet in a bid to win back customers. It all begins with transparency and continues by building trust.

1. Never deflect blame. Thus far, Volkswagen has accepted blame for the emissions scandal, although it does not yet revealed who is to blame. Affected customers don’t care — they want to be made whole. There will come a point when we’ll learn precisely how the cheating scandal was conceived — a clear and unequivocal response from Volkswagen is the transparency required at this point.

five2. Buy back the affected cars. Unless the fix Volkswagen creates preserves both performance and fuel economy, diesel customers will always feel that they were deceived. Drivers operated their vehicles under the impression that their cars were clean and efficient. Volkswagen breached that trust. Therefore, providing a buyback program is a start with customers, then free to buy a heavily discounted new Volkswagen or take their check to a competing manufacturer. Unless Volkswagen offers an aggressive program in the United States, its hopes of ever improving beyond a market toehold here will be set back, perhaps permanently.

3. Drop the price of new diesels across the board. Volkswagen is the largest seller of diesel cars in America. Shoppers spanning all brands will wonder if any diesels are worth the cost. Volkswagen cannot do much about general perceptions, but they can begin to change impressions for the Volkswagen brand. One way to do that is to offer diesels as a no extra cost option, perhaps for one year. Certainly, Volkswagen will take a hit with each sale, but they’ll build goodwill and allow owners to reap the highest residual values.

4. Extend the powertrain warranty. So far as we know, the diesel scandal has nothing to do with the engine’s long-term durability. The problem has everything to do with manipulating emissions testing to deliver results that are a flat-out lie. Volkswagen can build customer confidence by matching the Hyundai-Kia 10-year, 100,000 mile warranty on all of its models, regardless of the engine type. Also, they should back date the warranty coverage to 2009 for the affected diesels that customers choose to keep. Chances are expanding the warranty coverage won’t cost Volkswagen much, but it could earn the brand much-needed respect and the sales edge that has eluded it in the US for decades.

5. Back strong emissions standards worldwide. The Volkswagen scandal exposes the weak and inconsistent testing practices of the EPA and other government environmental agencies around the world. A related matter that will need to be tackled is just who should be doing the testing. Likely, we’ll witness all automakers consenting to government testing instead of being allowed to submit their own tests for approval. This change should include the EPA mileage testing. As a result, Volkswagen must back tough emissions testing or at least provide evidence that their vehicles don’t contribute to smog and climate change, at least at elevated levels. Certainly, this a topic rife with political posturing and gamesmanship, but Volkswagen lost whatever edge it had before the scandal was made known. It would be best to back tougher emissions and find other ways to demonstrate environmental leadership than to give any appearance that they’re not sorry for polluting with abandon.

Time Will Tell

For Volkswagen, time is of the essence, especially as they restructure the company, determine the cause behind the scandal, and work diligently to regain the trust of their customers.

There is a chance Volkswagen will remain a permanent “also ran” player in the US market, but they dare not abandon it. The company is heavily invested with its lone US manufacturing plant in Tennessee and also has two other important brands to protect, Audi and Porsche.

Speaking of the other brands, maintaining a safe distance apart from the Volkswagen brand is critically important. In addition, Audi A3 owners with the 2.0-liter TDI engine will also need to be made whole.

Filed Under: Commentary Tagged With: AUDI, BRAND, CHEATING, DIESELS, MARKETING, SCANDAL, Volkswagen

Volkswagen Scandal No Surprise to Those Who Have Been Tracking It…VW Management Included

September 25, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

VW Clean Diesel

Lateral view of a Volkswagen Golf TDI “clean diesel” at the 2010 Washington Auto Show.

By the reading of it, Volkswagen management expressed what seemed like genuine shock when the EPA and California’s Air Resources Board revealed their joint findings regarding the automaker’s manipulation of US emissions testing for diesel cars outfitted with a particular 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine.

Last Sunday, the company’s then CEO, Martin Winterkorn, issued a brief statement declaring that the Board of Management at Volkswagen AG “takes these findings very seriously.” What those findings revealed was that the automaker used “defeat devices” to fool emissions testing, effectively concealing the reality that certain cars spew emissions some 10 to 40 times the legal limit.

Approximately 482,000 US cars are equipped with the affected engines and will be recalled. The remaining models sitting on new car dealer lots are under a stop-sale order.

Within a few days of the initial response in which the now terminated Winterkorn added, “We do not and will not tolerate violations of any kind of our internal rules or of the law,” it was revealed that the extent of Volkswagen’s emissions manipulation had been known for at least two years, perhaps much longer.

Indeed, that knowledge was confirmed when a small research staff at West Virginia University completed a report in May 2013, then shared those findings in a public forum. Volkswagen representatives were on hand and even questioned Daniel Carder, the university’s engineer who led the study. Carder serves as Interim Director of CAFEE — the Center for Alternative Fuels, Engines and Emissions, at the university.

The CAFEE study, commissioned and paid for by the nonprofit International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT), was shared with and substantiated by the EPA and CARB.

Regulators met with Volkswagen in 2014 and the company agreed to a voluntary recall to fix the problem. Volkswagen subsequently sent notices to some customers declaring that their vehicles were in need of an “emissions service action.”

That notice was served in April 2015 to an unknown number of 2010 to 2014 model-year owners in California according to Reuters. It was offered by Volkswagen as a potential solution agreed upon by CARB, but it didn’t work.

In July 2015, the CARB conducted follow up testing and discovered that the scrubber technology — which sprays a liquid comprised of 30 percent urea and 70 percent water into the diesel exhaust system and ultimately cuts carbon dioxide to levels within acceptable emissions parameters — was turned off. Those findings were shared with the EPA and led to the agency’s recall order on Sept. 18.

This fast changing and expanding story later revealed that as many as 11 million cars are affected worldwide, vehicle’s powered by a family of turbo-diesel engines with displacements of 1.6 and 2.0 liters. Further, Volkswagen has set aside approximately US$ 7.5 billion to handle repairs and related claims.

Class action lawsuits on behalf of consumers will likely follow to help owners recoup the “diminished value” of their vehicles. When a fix is announced, it is expected that the cars will lose performance and suffer a corresponding decline in fuel economy.

Volkswagen executives now find themselves sitting on a hot seat with some facing dismissal, including Volkswagen of America CEO Michael Horn. However, US Volkswagen dealers are opposed to his ouster as they credit him with representing their interests before upper management at Volkswagen’s headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany.

Horn, a 25-year Volkswagen company representative, assumed his current position in January 2014, just months after the CAFEE study was shared and a mere three months before the CARB-initiated recall. Although Volkswagen dealers laud Horn for his representation in Wolfsburg, what has yet to be revealed is whether he shared the emissions findings with senior management in Germany, including the now-deposed Winterkorn.

This story, like so many other far-reaching scandals has had its shares of twists and turns.

As far back as 2011, the non-governmental environmental organization Greenpeace initiated its own crusade against Volkswagen. That campaign included releasing an anti-Volkswagen video with a Star Wars theme whereby the organization alleged that “VW is threatening our planet by opposing cuts to CO2 emissions.” The video concluded by inviting viewers to “join the rebellion.” It was uploaded to YouTube on June 27, 2011.

If there is a darker side of the Volkswagen scandal, you can be certain that it will eventually be exposed. However, some questions remain unanswered, including whether Wolfsburg was kept in the dark as well as why it took the EPA so long to address the matter.

Photo credit: Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz, licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: CAFEE, CARB, CREATIVE COMMONS, EPA, GERMANY, GREENPEACE, ICCT, MARTIN WINTERKORN, REUTERS, SCRUBBER TECHNOLOGY, VOLKSWAGEN SCANDAL, WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY, WOLFSBURG, YOUTUBE

Aluminum Comes to the Ford Super Duty

September 24, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

Ford Super Duty

An all-new 2017 Ford F-450 Super Duty at work.

 

In an absolutely expected move, the Ford Motor Company is dressing the 2017 Ford Super Duty with an aluminum body. Soon, all models bearing the F-Series name will use this lightweight material, with the heavy-duty truck coming in up to 350 pounds lighter than its predecessor.

Ford says that the new truck, to be built at the Kentucky Truck Plant and available late next year, will benefit from an all-new fully boxed frame. That frame will be composed of more than 95 percent high-strength steel with stiffness 24 times greater than the current frame. This change alone will benefit towing and hauling, already two of its strongest suits. Other modifications bring in four-wheel drive components, driveline, axles, and towing hardware, to provide enhanced heavy-duty capabilities.

2017 Ford Super Duty

Two Alloys at Work

Like the 2015 Ford F-150 that started it all, the 2017 Super Duty makes use of high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy, what the manufacturer claims is more dent- and ding-resistant than the present steel body and is also impervious to red rust corrosion.


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


The two alloys effectively reduce the Ford’s weight, with savings of up to 350 pounds realized. Those savings also extend to the chassis cab as it receives a brand-new, high-strength steel frame with an open C-channel design located behind the cab. The new configuration was designed to facilitate aftermarket upfit and modification.

2017 Ford Super Duty

Super Duty Towing and Visibility Changes

Ford has not provided towing and payload numbers for the new Super Duty. However, the automaker says that it is rolling out “advanced coaching and camera technology,” in a bid to ease both conventional and gooseneck (fifth-wheel towing) for drivers.

Furthermore, the Super Duty receives numerous new features, including some that are not found elsewhere in the heavy-duty segment. For example, LED lighting and adaptive cruise control arrive, features not found in competing trucks from Ram, Chevrolet and GMC.

Also, the new truck receives a center high-mounted stop lamp camera, what increases visibility into the cargo box — especially helpful when connecting for gooseneck towing purposes. At work is a 360-degree camera system, comprised of four digital, high-definition cameras. The system provides a panoramic view of the truck.

2017 Ford Super Duty

Moreover, Ford will include reverse guidance cues and tips to help drivers as they move a trailer in reverse. Lastly, a factory-available trailer camera is now available for the first time and can be attached to the trailer.

Other changes include a standard or available tire pressure monitoring system, adaptive steering, SYNC 3 telecommunications, a Blind Spot Information System, lane departure warning with steering wheel vibrations, and the adaptive cruise control system paired with collision warning and brake support.

In addition, Ford says that various lighting changes are in evidence, including LED side view mirror spotlights, quad-beam LED headlamps and tail lamps, and a new LED cargo lighting system.

2017 Ford Super Duty

Super Duty: Three Engine Choices

Three engine choices return for the 2017 Ford Super Duty. A 6.2-liter gasoline V-8 engine is now paired with a new TorqShift-G transmission, a six-speed automatic gearbox featuring a more robust torque converter arrangement. Also available is a 6.8-liter, V-10 gasoline engine.

The third engine choice is the second-generation, 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 diesel, a Ford-built product. The automaker hasn’t released performance numbers yet, but it is expected to improve upon the current horsepower and torque ratings.

2017 Ford Super Duty

Cabs and Trim Level Choices

The next generation Super Duty will offer three cab choices — regular, SuperCab and Crew Cab. Super Duty shoppers will also have five trim levels to choose from — XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum. Prices and performance numbers will be provided closer to this model’s release date.

“Ford Super Duty is the truck America’s hardest-working men and women trust and depend on,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, The Americas. “We are helping these customers build a better world by delivering a new generation of pickups that set new benchmarks in capability, performance and efficiency.”


See Also — Aluminum Super Duty: 2017 Ford F-350 Platinum 4WD

Super Duty photos courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 2017 trucks, DIESEL, FORD F SERIES, FORD F-150, Ford Motor Company, FORD SUPER DUTY, HEAVY-DUTY TRUCK, SYNC 3, TORQSHIFT-G

Avenir Concept Leads to New Buick Design Fascia

September 23, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

2017 Buick LaCrosse

The Avenir concept will be reflected in the next generation LaCrosse grille.

Buick will soon sport a new face. And that front fascia will be based on none other than the Buick Avenir concept, a large rear-wheel drive vehicle that itself has not been officially promised.

On Tuesday, Buick disclosed and Automotive News reported that the next generation Buick LaCrosse — due out in the second half of next year for the 2017 model year — will inherit the Avenir’s design. Further, that look will be fan out across the entire Buick line by 2018, creating a unified visage that is at once cutting edge as it is upscale.

The Avenir’s fascia is not a huge departure from the current Buick waterfall grille. But it provides an emblematic look with spears jutting out on both sides of the upper portion of the brand’s trishield insignia. Modifications to the front lighting assembly would include more forceful, yet elegant LED daytime running lights. Notably, the overall countenance would offer a broader presentation.

Buick Avenir

The Buick Avenir concept.

Buick showcased the Avenir at the last round of North American auto shows. That model was shown near or alongside the 1954 Buick Wildcat II concept, the vehicle from which the Avenir’s designers took inspiration.

“The Avenir concept shattered expectations of what a Buick could be and the 2017 LaCrosse promises to do the same,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Buick. “Its expressive design represents a break from convention and highlights the progressiveness in all new Buick models.”

Buick plans to showcase the next generation LaCrosse at the Los Angeles Auto Show this November. The company says that the new flagship will ride on an all-new chassis, representing the latest rendition of the GM’s Epsilon platform. That platform also underpins the Buick Regal as well as the Chevrolet Malibu and the Opel Insignia; all three models are midsize sedans.

Buick LaCrosse

The current generation Buick LaCrosse.

New technologies will complement the updated interpretation. For starters, Buick has promised a five-link rear suspension, claiming that it will provide a “more responsive ride.” Additionally, Buick noted that the suspension is not offered on the Lexus ES. The ES and LaCrosse battle it out for the same customers.

Other changes will likely include an updated telematics system, new audio system choices, and additional safety features. The 2016 edition already has such state-of-the-art features as Apple CarPlay, available 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot, and several collision-avoidance technologies.

Likely, front-wheel drive will remain standard; all-wheel drive will be available; and an eight-speed automatic transmission should debut. Engine choices will be announced at the auto show.

The next generation Buick LaCrosse will chase the Buick Cascada to the market, the latter a 2+2 convertible based on an Opel product with the same model name. The LaCrosse will itself be followed by the next generation Verano compact sedan and then an all-new Enclave crossover.

Buick Envision

The made-in-China Buick Envision.

Two additional products might also be added to Buick’s line up. In the short term, a smaller crossover SUV may slot between the diminutive Encore and the glamorous Enclave. That SUV is known as the Buick Envision, a model sold in China and one that GM would like to import to the US. However, GM must get past union objections — the new SUV might be a “go” once a new labor agreement has been enacted this fall.

The other product would be based on the Opel Adam, a sporty three-door minicar. The Adam’s advent, if it ever happens, would likely be a few model years out, and would most likely arrive only after Buick has revised the balance of its model line.

The upcoming changes to Buick should help keep this brand maintain its part of the 1-2 luxury punch its shares with Cadillac. GM has positioned Buick to go after the lower end of the luxury market, with Lincoln, Acura, Infiniti and select Lexus products in mind. Meanwhile, Cadillac is poised to battle it out with the German brands, including Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Together, the two brands account for more than 400,000 premium and luxury sales in the US each year, with room for further growth.

Photos copyright General Motors Company.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 2017 cars, BUICK AVENIR, BUICK CASCADA, BUICK ENCLAVE, BUICK ENCORE, BUICK ENVISION, BUICK LACROSSE, BUICK REGAL, BUICK VERANO, LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW, OPEL ADAM

Volkswagen Diesel Cheating May Cost the Company Billions

September 22, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

turbodiesel

A Volkswagen Group TDI supplied to Audi.

Over the weekend, news that the Volkswagen Group had cheated on EPA emissions testing began to spread across the Internet. By late Sunday afternoon, the extent of the scandal became fully known. On Monday, the commercial markets reacted and dropped the automaker’s worth by approximately 20 percent, effectively erasing US$ 17 billion from its market value.

Once again, a major car manufacturer found itself embroiled in a steep controversy. But unlike Toyota and GM where deaths were directly involved, Volkswagen’s transgression involves technological manipulation, whereby the manufacturer wrote vehicle software designed to activate anti-pollution control equipment only while tested.

Specifically, when the equipment is tampered with to not function in real world conditions, it spews many times the amount of harmful pollutants than it claims. In effect, vehicle owners became unwilling contributors to “rolling coal,” what purposefully manipulates computer-controlled diesel engines to emit more soot to the tune of 10 to 40 times the allowable limits.

So, although no immediate deaths have occurred as in the case of GM and Toyota, some may make the argument that the increased emissions lead to a corresponding and lasting rise in illnesses, including cancer.

Clean Diesel Engines

Volkswagen launched its line of “clean diesel” or TDI engines in 2009. Since then, the company has sold five Volkswagen and one Audi models equipped with the 2.0-liter, turbo-diesel engine that is at the heart of the controversy. Not included is a larger V-6 turbo-diesel displacing at 3.0 liters. That engine is widely used in Audi models as well as in some Volkswagen brand models.

As the scope of the crisis began to set in, Volkswagen responded to the charges levied jointly by the EPA and the California Air Resources Board.

On Sunday, Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, CEO of Volkswagen AG, issued a press statement that reads in part, “The Board of Management at Volkswagen AG takes these findings very seriously. I personally am deeply sorry that we have broken the trust of our customers and the public. We will cooperate fully with the responsible agencies, with transparency and urgency, to clearly, openly, and completely establish all of the facts of this case. Volkswagen has ordered an external investigation of this matter.”

Winterkorn went on to add, “We do not and will not tolerate violations of any kind of our internal rules or of the law.” He concluded by explaining that the “…trust of our customers and the public is and continues to be our most important asset.”

EPA Fines and a Stop Order

The statement followed the revelation that the EPA could fine Volkswagen as much as $37,500 per affected vehicle. With approximately 482,000 of the affected diesels sold since 2009, that fine could mount to a staggering US$18.075 billion.

Furthermore, the company has also placed a stop order on its leftover 2015 four-cylinder turbo-diesel models. No word yet on how this will impact the upcoming 2016 model year diesels.

Compensation for Owners and Investors

As for the owners of the soon-to-be-recalled vehicles, they’re waiting to see what steps will be required of them. If the remedy is a software change, then each vehicle’s performance and fuel economy will likely be affected. That would also mean a corresponding decrease in a vehicle’s value — owners should and will seek compensation.

That remuneration may come by means of a class-action suit, what could take years to settle. However, several law firms have already served notice that they intend to file in a bid to help owners recoup the diminished value of their cars. So, if you’re planning to dump your VW or Audi because of the pending recall, you may want to wait.

As for Volkswagen investors, your knight in white armor may also be forthcoming. At least one company, the Rosen Law Firm, announced that it “…is preparing a class action lawsuit to recover losses suffered by Volkswagen investors.” Expect more suits as well as statements from environmental groups condemning Volkswagen’s deception.

The Death of Trust

Perhaps the biggest sufferer here is “trust” or what consumers expect when buying a product from a company that espouses strength and confidence in its products. With record recalls hammering the industry, including not a few based on corporate deception, the trust factor is most certainly in peril. Although that won’t necessarily stop people from buying new cars, it could cause them to rethink their Volkswagen and Audi brand aspirations.

Audi A3 TDI photo copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: AUDI, CALIFORNIA AIR RESOURCES BOARD, CHEATING, DIESEL, EPA, LAWSUIT, POLLUTION, RECALL, Volkswagen, VW

The Provocative, Evocative Range Rover Evoque

September 21, 2015 by admin 4 Comments

Range Rover Evoque

British SUV manufacturer Land Rover has divided itself into high-end Range Rover and more pedestrian Discovery lines, with the two aimed at different consumers. Certainly, you could pay upwards of $200,000 for one Range Rover model, but if your SUV aspirations are more down to earth, then the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque with a starting price of $41,100 may be more to your liking.

Notably, the Evoque is the smallest and least costly of all Range Rover models, an all-wheel drive compact SUV with room for five. Range Rover offers the Evoque in a traditional 5-door layout or as a coupe. The 5-door rendition was a recent weekly loaner from Land Rover and it was outfitted with just over $10,000 in package upgrades.

Think “Land Rover” and forced induction should come to mind. That’s because this British marque relies exclusively on performance boosting to squeeze more power from its engines. Most Land Rover (and Jaguar models for that matter), are powered by supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 or 5.0-liter V-8 engines.

Range Rover Evoque

In the case of the Range Rover Evoque, this model relies on a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, enabling it to attain 240 horsepower and 250 foot-pounds of torque. Land Rover pairs this model with a 9-speed automatic transmission supplied by the German automotive components manufacturer, ZF.

Before we examine the Evoque’s performance numbers closely, we’ll consider its countenance. In particular, beginning with the front fascia, itself marked by a split horizontal chrome grille augmented by a wraparound lighting assembly. The lower grille opening is larger and protected, at least in part, by a skid plate. Oversized embrasures at the corners of the front bumper house a pair of LED daytime running lights.

The Evoque’s broad and muscular hood gives this model an imposing presentation, one that is amplified by its strong shoulders and deeply arched wheel wells. Multiple character lines are found across the profile. A high and rising belt line and a sloping roof give this vehicle a sporty as well as a commanding presence. As the roof line tapers it ends at a pronounced rear spoiler. Wraparound tail lights, rear fog lights, two exhaust tips, and a rear skid plate are also present.

Range Rover Evoque


 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque

View manufacturer details and pricing


Range Rover Evoque

The Range Rover Evoque can be had in SE ($41,475), SE Premium ($45,675), HSE ($50,475), and HSE Dynamic ($53,775) trim levels. Fully loaded, this model can approach $60,000. Add about $5,000 if the Evoque Coupe is on your list.

Inside, the Range Rover Evoque offers generous room for five with a pair of thickly bolstered and lavishly padded seats up front and a 40-20-40 split fold down seat to the rear. Leather, chrome wood and other high-end materials are used throughout the cabin, a two-tone work of art with a moderately simple formation.

Slip behind the leather-wrapped steering wheel and a tilt and telescopic column are at the ready. Cruise and audio controls are found on the face of the wheel. Behind it is an instrument panel, with tachometer and speedometer displays. In the center of that display is a digital driver’s information center.

Range Rover Evoque

Land Rover keeps things simple with the center stack, itself dominated by a color touch screen display with attendant switches to the left and to the right. The console flows from the stack to the arm rest/storage compartment, and applies switches and knobs to operate the Meridian audio system, climate control, the emergency brake and all-wheel drive functions.

The transmission knob emerges from the center of the console and is followed by cup holders and a smart phone holder. USB ports and an auxiliary input port are present inside of the storage compartment. Underneath the flowing console is an open storage compartment.

Power-operated, 12-way perforated grain leather seats with lumbar support and driver’s memory is standard for the Evoque. Oxford leather is standard for the HSE edition on up. Alloy wheels, a front parking aid and ambient lighting are included.

Select models bring in front fog lights, automatic leveling, a navigation system, a panoramic glass roof with an integrated sun blind, brake assist, heated front seats, illuminated tread plates, and a rear aero flip spoiler.

Because Land Rover is as much about its off-road capabilities as well as its on-road behavior, this model comes equipped with numerous features to enhance the terrain experience. These include: hill descent control, roll stability control, and an active driveline in addition to torque vectoring.

Range Rover Evoque

Press the start button and the transmission shifter knob emerges, leaving its previous flush-with-the-console residence. You can operate the transmission in standard or sport mode, the latter enabling you to advance through all nine forward gears with ease.

Step on the accelerator and the Evoque moves capably forward. Hammer the accelerator and be prepared for some hesitation as the turbocharger spools up. Admittedly, the turbo lag was noticeable, especially as every Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) product to date was outfitted with a supercharger, my preferred method of forced induction.

I cannot give you the reason why Land Rover went with the turbo.However, that it is a less costly choice than a supercharger is a likely factor. That it is the only powertrain combination for this model could cost it some sales, especially when competitors such as BMW offer larger engines as well as turbodiesel options at that.

Range Rover Evoque

One area that certainly was not a complaint was the transmission. ZF has been supplying 8- and 9-speed transmissions to manufacturers around the world in much greater numbers of late, but complaints of mapping or shifting problems have followed. But that was not so with the Evoque as this model shifted smoothly and capably between gears with no hunting noted.

On-road handling is more than satisfactory; the steering is balanced and augmented by the torque vectoring system. Due in part to its compact size, its advanced design as well as its engineering dynamics, the Evoque maintained its composure on twisty roads as well as around corners, with very little body roll noted. Perhaps not as adept as a BMW X3, but equal to the Lexus NX. I’ve tested both models.

For this test I did not take the Evoque off road. My previous off-road experiences with Land Rover products is that these vehicles can handle a variety of surfaces, thanks to its terrain management system. The response settings include general driving; grass, gravel, and snow; mud and ruts; and sand. Choosing the correct mode enables you to take this handsome urban traveler to places most competing models simply won’t go.

Range Rover Evoque


 2015 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque

 

  • Sticker price from $41,100
  • Price as tested: $51,595
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine
  • 240 horsepower @ 5,500 RPM
  • 250 foot-pounds of torque @ 1,750 RPM
  • 3.45 inches bore by 3.27 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
  • 9-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 104.8 inches
  • Length: 171.5 inches
  • Width: 74.8 inches
  • Height: 63.2 inches
  • Passenger volume: NRt
  • Storage volume: 20.3/51.0 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 1,585 pounds
  • EPA: 21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway
  • Premium grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,615 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: NR
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 6 years/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Halewood, UK

See Also — Luxury Fervor: 2017 Jaguar XE

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2015 SUVS, all-wheel drive, CAR REVIEW, JAGUAR, Land Rover, RANGE ROVER EVOQUE, sport utility vehicle, SUPERCHARGER, turbo

Potent Ford Focus RS Hits 100 KM/H in 4.7 Seconds

September 18, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

Ford Performance is busy working on new models. The 2016 Focus RS is just one of 12 performance vehicles we’ll see from this specialty shop, the third generation and most powerful RS ever.

Ford Focus RS

The 2016 Ford Focus RS may be the fastest mainstream compact model on the market. And with Ford having completed its most recent testing, those speed numbers have never been better.

Indeed, the Ford Motor Company says that the all-new Focus RS will go from 0-to-62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.7 seconds. That’s faster than quite a few cars that cost far more and are much larger. Further, the Focus RS has a top speed of 165 mph (265.5 km/h) for this all-wheel drive wonder car.

Focus RS Performance and Pricing Set

North American pricing has been set at US$36,605. The special turbocharged 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine makes an even 350 horsepower (261 kW) and 350 foot-pounds of torque (474.5 n.m.). It is the same engine found in the Ford Mustang, but it benefits from a few modifications, including a larger turbocharger, improved flow air intake, and an enhanced exhaust system. Thus, the engine offers a 10 percent power boost over the Mustang and comes paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

The new hatchback has already gone on sale in Europe and will arrive in North America next spring. Built in Saarlouis, Germany, the Focus RS represents just one of 12 new performance vehicles Ford has promised us over the next five years. The Focus RS is also the 30th car to wear the illustrious RS badge. Moreover, it is the fastest RS model built yet, following on the heels of the first (2002) and second (2009) generation models.

“The all-new Focus RS will bring the legendary nameplate to a new generation of global customers for the first time,” said Dave Pericak, director, Ford Performance. “Focus RS delivers stunning performance and innovative technology at a price that will make both enthusiast consumers and premium automakers look twice.”

A Need for Speed

To reach its 100 km/h speed threshold, drivers will need to rely upon the hot hatchback’s launch control system. That arrangement is featured in the cluster setup; when selected the driver will choose first gear, apply full throttle, then release the clutch.

Launch control adjusts the car’s chassis and powertrain system to propel the Focus RS to its goal. Drivers are aided by a performance shift light (also located in the instrument panel) to shift upward at points of 5,900 RPM. If the driver red lines the vehicle at 6,800 RPM, then the light flashes.

Dynamic All-Wheel Drive System

The Ford Performance all-wheel drive system makes use of a pair of electronically controlled clutch packs to oversee the RS’ front to rear torque split. It is also tasked with controlling side-to-side torque distribution at the rear axle for optimum torque vectoring capability. The outcome is improved driver handling and cornering stability satisfaction.

Four different driver selected driving modes are at the ready with each mode impacting the all-wheel drive system, damper controls, stability control, steering feedback, engine response, and the exhaust note. Normal, sport and track settings are the usual suspects here, but it may be the fourth mode, drift, that will pique the interest of enthusiasts the most. This mode provides controlled oversteer on the track or wherever else it is safe to drift.

Give Us More, Ford Performance!

Certainly, the RS is the preeminent Ford Focus, a vehicle that offers a compelling alternative to the Ford Mustang for some performance aficionados. Both vehicles are far different, but when outfitted to the teeth, the Ford Performance side of the house has never shone brighter. Other models will soon follow, including the state-of-the-art Ford GT, the most powerful Ford product ever.

Photo courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: 2016 cars, all-wheel drive, Ford Focus RS, Ford Motor Company, FORD MUSTANG, FORD PERFORMANCE, TORQUE, TURBOCHARGED ENGINE

Sporty Jaguar F-PACE Utility Vehicle Bows

September 17, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

2017 Jaguar F-PACEThe 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show served as the ideal backdrop for Jaguar to unveil its fifth model line and its first sport utility vehicle ever. Indeed, by taking this unique British brand to Germany to face its chief rivals on their home turf — i.e., BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi — Jaguar has served notice that its five-passenger, midsize F-PACE SUV intends to commandeer its share of the market.

The 2017 Jaguar F-PACE follows on the heels of the XE — Jaguar’s all-new compact executive sedan — set to arrive itself stateside early in 2016, just ahead of the SUV. Along with the XF, XJ and F-TYPE, these five model lines should help Jaguar compete more effectively with Europe’s exceptional brands.

Fundamentally, it is these same competitors that have influenced Jaguar to expand toward territory once held only by Land Rover, its brand kindred. Notably, the new F-PACE is nothing like a Land Rover, at least by its looks, as its designers applied the front fascia of the brand’s sedans and fastened the strapping rear haunch of the F-TYPE to its back quarter in a bid to forge this model. The result is an SUV that is at once elegant as it is athletic.

2017 Jaguar F-PACE

Priced With Attainability in Mind

Despite its high-end visage and exquisite interior, the F-PACE is surprisingly attainable. Indeed, with a base price of $40,990, it comes in far lower than what might have been charged. Essentially, with this aggressive pricing Jaguar has articulated that it intends to expand volume by wooing customers away from its larger and far more entrenched competitors.

When the 2017 Jaguar F-PACE launches in the US, it will offer 340- and 380-horsepower variants of its renowned 3.0-liter, supercharged V-6 engine. The latter engine will be exclusive to the F-PACE S ($56,700), enabling it to go from 0-to-60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Every F-TYPE engine will come paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission supplied by ZF.

Later on in the year, a 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine making 180 horsepower at 4,000 RPM with an output of 317 foot-pounds of torque at 1,750 to 2,500 RPM will be offered. Jaguar says that its compact oil burner will go from 0-to-60 mph in 8.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 129 mph. Importantly, the new diesel meets all current and upcoming European and American emissions standards.

2017 Jaguar F-PACE

All-Wheel Drive Comes Standard

The Jaguar F-PACE is an all-wheel drive model based on a traditional rear-wheel drive platform. Although Jaguar is silent about a possible rear-wheel drive version, such an option seems likely. Surely with BMW offering sDrive or rear-wheel drive derivatives of its X3, X5, and X6 utility vehicles, there is room for Jaguar to do likewise.

Jaguar says that the cabin is spacious with premium materials and advanced craftsmanship employed throughout. Seating five, the F-PACE comes with cloth seats standard with leather seats available. Up front are a pair of bolstered bucket seats. To the rear is a 40-20-40 split folding bench seat. As the photo demonstrates, the 33.5 cubic foot storage compartment might house your pet. Look for a line of animal friendly accessories to follow.

Standard equipment includes power accessories, a tilt and telescopic steering column, a Jaguar InControl Touch infotainment system featuring an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen, zoned climate control, and audio packages. The front center console includes a 12-volt outlet and two USB ports. The rear console offers two 12-volt outlets and two USB ports.

2017 Jaguar F-PACE

Advanced Safety Features Available

Numerous safety systems are included or available. For example, Jaguar employs stereo camera technologies to provide a 3D view of the road ahead, an arrangement it says works ideally with autonomous emergency braking systems. Not only does this system “see” cars, but it also detects pedestrians and brakes accordingly.

Other safety features include a laser head-up display, adaptive cruise control with queue assist, a blind spot monitor and reverse traffic detection, and park assist. By the way, the laser HUD system provides contrasting colors and saturation in an effort to quell the impact of strong sunlight that typically degrades HUD read outs.

2017 Jaguar F-PACE

Additional Models Planned

Now that Jaguar has its first SUV, a second one will follow. Dubbed the J-PACE, the larger model is still a few years out and will likely parallel the Jaguar XJ. Further, if customers are attracted to Jaguar SUVs without diluting sales from Land Rover, a third utility vehicle could follow, this one slotting beneath the F-PACE.

Clearly, Jaguar is taking a risk by adding SUVs to its product line, but it isn’t without precedence. Just as Porsche has successfully expanded its offerings by adding a sedan and two SUVs, Jaguar may very well enjoy a similar bounce. And this comes from a brand that a decade ago was struggling not only to find its footing, but to survive in a highly competitive luxury market.


See Also — Performance Beast: 2017 Jaguar F-TYPE SVR Coupe

Photos courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: all-wheel drive, FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW, JAGUAR F-PACE, JAGUAR F-TYPE, JAGUAR J-PACE, Land Rover, SUPERCHARGED ENGINE, turbodiesel

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