Auto Car: May 2009

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Another round of dealer cuts imminent at GM

Just a couple of weeks ago General Motors revealed that it would be cutting ties with over 1,100 dealerships, and the bad news keeps coming for dealers as the struggling automaker is expected to cut a further 450 dealerships in the coming months.

Many dealerships are under franchise agreements with GM that are expected to finish late next year - at which point around 450 dealers will most likely not have their contracts renewed. The dealerships facing the axe from GM have been chosen because they "have very specific issues", the automaker’s sales chief Mark LaNeve revealed to Automotive News. These issues include the fact that certain dealerships may have been exclusively stocking the now-defunct Pontiac brand, or be underperforming in regards to sales targets.
more detail. ...

First 2010 Subaru Legacy rolls off the line in Indiana

The 5th-generation Subaru Legacy has officially begun production, with the first car rolling off the Lafayette, Indiana assembly line late last week to confetti-strewn, ribbon-cutting fanfare.

In keeping with Subaru's recent new-model introductions, beginning with the current Impreza and continuing with the new Forester, the 2010 Subaru Legacy wears controversial new bodywork that abandons the elegantly understated lines of the outgoing model in favor of a more stylized (overstyled?) face attached to a car that has grown dimensionally in order to be better-positioned against the likes of the Honda Accord.

With production now underway, look for the new Subaru Legacy to start arriving in U.S. showrooms by July. We'll weigh in with our impressions of the car as soon as we can get our hands on one.

I really think it's going to be a good selling vehicle. It's designed for the North American market. I think it's got a lot of amenities that will appeal to the U.S. market," said Ken Nelson, a group leader in quality control who helped cut a red ribbon to celebrate the start of production.

It's pretty exhilarating. I've been working on this for a year and a half -- some pretty long hours.

SIA expects to build 165,000 vehicles this year. That includes a combined 68,000 Legacy and Outback models and 7,000 units of the Subaru Tribeca, along with 90,000 Toyota Camrys. That compares to a total of 183,249 units last year.

They should be in dealerships in July, maybe late June," said Tom Easterday, SIA senior vice president. "An ad campaign will begin in August or September.

Source:JConline via autoblog

Hamann does its thing to the new BMW 7 Series

The arrival of the new F01 BMW 7 Series means that aftermarket companies have a new toy upon which to apply their talents. Enter Hamann, the German tuner with a penchant for Lambo-dooring, among other things. Thankfully, the firm's workup of the all-new 7 Series leaves the factory door hinges intact, but that's about it.

A new aero kit makes the big sedan less vanilla-looking with updated fascias, skirts and spoilers on both the rear decklid and roof. Naturally, a lowered suspension is offered, which, when combined with a selection of new wheels and the aforementioned bodywork, gives the über-Bimmer a nastier stance.

Inside, Hamann will fully customize the cabin appointments to your taste, or lack thereof. The Hamann 7 Series isn't necessarily all show, either -- an available sport exhaust upgrade for the 730d bumps power by 45 horses for a total of 290. Hamann's unlikely to stop with this batch of initial offerings, so more extreme modifications are probably inevitable. Just resist that primal urge on the butterfly doors, okay guys?

PRESS RELEASE:

The HAMANN refining programme for the new BMW 7-series

Individualisation on the highest level – this is the motto under which HAMANN presents its refining programme for the new BMW 7-series of the model range F01 and F02. Already since 1986, the Laupheim-based company develops and produces products for the individualisation of BMW automobiles. Thereby, the HAMANN technicians profit from hundreds of successful motor sports participations. The competence which was gained there is the basis for the development of new HAMANN products and renders the highest level for product quality and processing. The result: stainless steel exhaust systems with a sporty and earthy sound, aerodynamics components reducing the lifting forces and striking light alloy rims from 19 to 22 inches. Interiors perfectly fitted with leather and combined with floor-mats in matching colours as well as non-slip aluminium pedals extend the accessory range.

Already when establishing the design, HAMANN perfectly adjusts the individual components of the aerodynamic pack. The result is an exciting styling with an optimised air flow across the car silhouette. LED daytime running lights which are integrated in the new front skirt, render a sporty-dynamic look and increase the passive safety. Simultaneously, in combination with the roof spoiler and the rear spoiler, the lifting forces are reduced and give the upper class limousine a new, attractive overall appearance. The visual connection between the front and rear part are the HAMANN side skirts which are available for the model series F01. The optionally available rear shield insert for the side skirt of the model 730d and 740i allows fitting the four-pipe sport end muffler. Four round stainless steel end pipes with a diameter of 90 millimetres perfectly enhance the rear part of the 7-series BMW and produce a powerful, earthy sound.

A performance enhancement for the Diesel engine with variable turbine geometrics is already under construction. By this first tuning stage the serial measure of the 730d (180 kW / 245 hp) increases by approximately 33 kW/45 hp.

A technical highlight of the offered tuning programme is the one-piece HAMANN-aluminium wheel called DESIGN HM EVO 22 inches. A hallmark of the modern styling is the glossy black paint with the diamond-grinded rim star and the discreet deep rim well. Five elongated and over-vaulted triple spokes document visual and technical finesse. Struts inside the spokes render additional stability. Modern production processes and the use of special aluminium alloys guarantee highest bearing loads at a low weight. Here, HAMANN recommends the dimensions 9.0Jx22 inches with 265/30ZR22 tyres at the front axle and 10.5Jx22 inches with 295/25ZR22 tyres at the rear axle.

The four progressively coiled chassis springs which lower the centre of gravity with the models 730d, 740i by 40 millimetres at the front- and rear axles, render a dynamic appearance. For the models 750i and 750Li, there is a lowering kit consisting of two chassis springs and an evening kit.

In addition to the existing, serial interior equipment, HAMANN accessories made first-class aluminium, pedals and foot-rests render motor sports air and perfectly match the embroidered HAMANN floor mat set. If desired, even a complete leather equipment can be produced with expert precision.

For more information about the extensive HAMANN refining programme, please visit the web site www.HAMANN-MOTORSPORT.com
via:autoblog

Spy shots: First test-mules for next-gen 2012 VW Passat

Volkswagen's next generation 2012 Passat, which is expected to debut in late 2011 as a 2012 model, is caught undergoing testing on Germany's famous Nürburgring. It’s the first time spy photographers got the spy shots of a test-mule for the new car.

While the test-mule wears the current Passat body, we can see slight modifications in the form of wider wheel arches and lengthened B-pillars. This clearly indicates that the next generation Passat will be longer and wider than current model. According to CAR magazine, however, the next-gen Passat will feature a host of weight saving technologies such as ultra-thin glass, foam chassis reinforcements and a low-friction 4Motion all-wheel drive system, the car should ensure a lighter kerb weight and improved mileage.

Under the hood, a replacement for the VR6 engine will be in place, putting out close to 300hp (224kW) from a displacement of 3.0L. To improve mileage and maintain power, the new engine will also be using direct injection, while the rest of the powertrain lineup is expected to benefit from some form of forced induction as well. Other models will include a new hybrid as well as a high-performance diesel with AWD.

To give the Passat some much needed panache, VW will be pulling out all the stops to make the next-generation a technological showcase, including an automatic parking system, "airless" Continental tires, an advanced window cleaning system that doesn't use traditional wipers, 360° parking cameras, adaptive cruise control with speed limit monitoring, and possibly even a sci-fi low-voltage magnetic paint which will allow owners to change the car's exterior color by adjusting the current.

In terms of exterior design, the new Passat is expected to ditch the current model's bland styling for a more aggressive appearance which is both luxurious and dynamic.

Volkswagen's next-generation Passat is expected to compete with BMW 3-Series, Mercedes Benz C-Class and Audi A4. Incidentally, One year after the launch of the Passat sedan will be the station wagon. This will be followed closely by a new high-performance model to replace the current R36.

Ford offers SYNC TDI update

Ford is enhancing the capabilities of its vehicles by offering its popular Sync system with the new Sync TDI application (SYNC 3.0 version) , which adds traffic, directions and information in a simple download, now available for download via the Ford SYNC website.

SYNC TDI pairs with drivers' Bluetooth handsets to connect to Ford's Service Delivery Network to bring them turn-by-turn driving directions, real-time traffic information, business searches and new, sports and weather updates. Users can call up these features with voice guidance through their handsets --- at no subscription cost for the first three years of vehicle ownership.

To operate the system, all the driver needs to do is state the voice command “services”. Stating “traffic” will then send a text message to the driver’s phone with information such as location and severity of accidents or new road construction causing areas of heavy congestion. This message is then broadcast over the vehicle’s audio system.

If a user states “directions,” a turn-by-turn route for a desired journey is downloaded and is spoken to the user over the vehicle’s audio system and displayed on the central information display near the radio.

The latest system also enables drivers to personalize and categorize their favorite media topics, such as sports, weather and news using voice commands or through the Sync website.

The automaker's 2010 models equipped with the SYNC entertainment system will ship with the update already installed, though owners of some early-launch 2010 models will need to perform the update themselves.

The SYNC system is available as an option on select Ford, Mercury and Lincoln vehicles for $395, and includes a GPS receiver for the 2010 model year.

Details of 2010 Audi TT RS

Last year, Audi has taken the wraps off several variants of its sporty TT, including TT-S, 2.0L TDI diesel-powered TT and the entry-level 1.8L TFSI model. And at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, we see the performance RS version of the TT, which is simply called Audi TT RS. The TT RS range has two models, they’re TT-RS Coupe and Roadster.

The TT RS range is powered by Audi's new 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine with FSI direct petrol injection. It makes maximum power of 340hp (250kW) and peak torque of 450Nm (332 lb ft) between a wide band of 1,600rpm and 5,300rpm. This power and torque is sent through to all four wheels via Audi's quattro permanent AWD.

Performance, according to Audi, confirms the TT RS as the fastest in its class. The Coupe fires off the line to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds while the Roadster does it in 4.7 seconds. Top speed is limited to 250km/h in both cars but can be increased to 280km/h if requested. The hard top weighs in at 1,450kg (3,197 lbs) while the Roadster is 60kg (132 lbs) dearer because of all the extra equipment needed to operate the canvass roof.

Average fuel consumption is 9.2 litres per 100km (25.57 US mpg) for the Coupe and 9.5 litres per 100km (24.76 US mpg) for the Roadster.

The standard wheel size is 18-inch with 245/40 tyres but customers can specify the bigger 19s or 20s for their baby. A standard sports suspension lowers the car by 10 milimetres while the optional magnetic ride adaptive damping system offers Comfort and Sport characteristics. The rear features a diffuser and a stationary spoiler. There is an optional one that retracts and extends. All models are fitted with a six-speed manual and ventilated disc brakes with black four-piston aluminium callipers and diameters of 370mm at the front and 310mm at the rear button, which alters throttle response and also opens a flap in the left exhaust tailpipe to increase the rumble. The standard electronic stability software has been replaced with a more sporty version that is more forgiving to sideways action and can also be switched off completely for maximum fun.

The interior is laid out in leather and Alcantara. It also features heated sports seats, brushed aluminium inlays and a flat-bottomed multifunction sports steering wheel.

The TT RS Coupe will be priced at €55,800 and the Roadster at €58,650 when they are launched this summer in Europe.

2009 Savage Rivale Roadyacht GTS officially revealed

The Savage Rivale Roadyacht GTS, designed by Dutch students Emile Pop and Justin de Boer, is expected to begin production by 2010. The car is the only 4 door "topless on demand" supercar in the world with a fantastic look.

The designers put in a retractable hard-top which can open or close in just 20 seconds. Built without B-pillars and having a two-tone paint job, the car is meant to have taken inspiration from luxury yachts. Body panels are made from carbon-fiber, and the chassis is built from chrome steel. Inside, the driver is treated to a nice layout of alcantara, aluminum, and carbon-fiber. Meanwhile, the floorboard is made from teak wood, which will look interesting if left unupholstered. Although commonly used on yachts, and thus keeping with the boat motif, a lighter-weight material probably could have been chosen for the floor if some form of carpeting will cover it up.

Power under the hood comes from a powerful V8 that propels the car from 0-300km/h (0-186mph) in under 35 seconds. The supercar is a true celebration of design and the design is achieved from driving excitement. The Savage’s menacing front section demonstrates the cars inherit potency, while the broad beefy rear section exhibits unbreakable integrity. The aggressive cut front shows its primeval powers.

Regardless, with a Corvette ZR1 powertrain, weight is still relatively low at 1,280 kg. Custom-made Tenzo 19-inchers are wrapped in Toyo T1R tires. Braking is provided by DBM, using eight-piston and four-piston monoblocks, gripping 380mm or 355mm discs.

Companies lending their assistance to the project includes Eindhoven, Netherlands, based Motio development, who aided with the 3D modelling. Komplot Mechanics supplied the foam moulds, while Rep-air Composites assisted with the body panels. Steel juggernaut Corus provided materials for the chassis.

Pop and de Boer expect to produce 20 units of the Savage Rivale Roadyacht GTS, at a rate of four annually. They are actively looking for investors, and hope to begin production by 2010.

Saturday, May 30, 2009

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Volkswagen Eos White Night released

The Volkswagen Eos range is expanded with the latest version of the Eos White Night, which is currently available for orders with price tags beginning at 33,140 Euros.

Specifically, the new Eos White Night comes in a strikingly contrast of black and white. The White Night boasts the exterior painted in "Candy White", a roof colored in "Deep Back Pearlescent" and cherry-red LED taillights. Additionally, the mirror covers, the radiator grille and the trim strips are covered in black as well. 18-inch “Budapest” wheels partially painted black with a polished finish complete the elegant appearance of the Eos White Night.

The white-dark contrast continues inside the car too, with the black nappa leather seats, door and side trim and black steering wheel keeping the same exterior styling cues. Furthermore, the trim strips and radio trim in "Candy White" plus the sill panel strips lettered with "White Night" are also a part of the range.

As with the features offered by the Volkswagen Eos White Night, it comes with a fairly decent equipment lineup, including "Climatronic" climate control system, sports chassis lowered 15 mm and heated front seats, all of them offered as standard.

Incidentally, the Eos White Night can be combined with all engine versions included in the Eos range, excepting the V6.

Exclusive BMW M3 Edition Models

BMW's popular M3, is regarded as powerful, aesthetic design, supreme performance and exclusive style. So it will be difficult to make the new BMW M3 even more appealing. But with the new M3 Edition models, it seems that nothing is impossible.

The M3 Edition Models, available only on the M3 Coupe variant, features cosmetic enhancements on new body design and interior features but also new light-alloy wheels and an even lower chassis. Knowing to leave well enough alone, the powertrain of the M3 is untouched in the Edition Models.

The new models is available in four colours: Alpine White non-metallic, Black non-metallic, Dakar yellow non-metallic, and Monte Carlo Blue metallic - all classic choices for the M3. A chrome package is included standard to accentuate "the truly sophisticated character of the Edition Models." They use a dark, eloxy-plated chrome for the quad tailpipes, kidney grille, and side gills. The color tone perfectly matches the blacked-out 19-inch M-series light alloy rims. Or, if you prefer, you can get the rims in either silver or a contrasting white. We recommend going with the dark rims, because they will also match the black mirror caps.

Inside, the cars get contrasting insert colors, 'Carbon Structure' leather trim with contrasting seams, Black Novillo leather seats, all with unique trim and stitching. Armrests and even door handles also get custom treatment with color-matched contrasting seams on the Dakar Yellow and Monte Carlo blue models. Finally, the door entry bar gets a checkered flag design and the M3 logo.

The suspension drop is the only significant mechanical change, with all of the M3 Edition Models riding 10mm lower than their standard counterparts. Each model also gets a unique 19in alloy wheel with a double-spoke design. Finish can be either standard alloy or black, while on all but the Dakar Yellow model the rims can also be had in a special white color with polished spokes.

Under the hood we have the same impressive V8 engine capable to develop 309 kW/420 hp and to push the car to 100 km/h comes in 4.6 seconds (six-speed manual: 4.8 seconds) while the average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 11.9 litres/23.7 mpg imp (six-speed manual: 12.4 litres/22.8 mpg imp)/100 kilometres.

The BMW M3 Edition Models will go on sale in July, 2009, and will only be available for six months. The release of the special editions and the limited time frame tip BMW's hand to the motivation for this unexpected batch of early special editions: pumping up slumping sales.