William Maley

Yeah, the last straight-six was built in 1998 if I remember correctly.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 19, 2012 Updated: July 25, 2012 Well, the Mitsubishi Outlander GT S-AWC and Volkswagen Passat 2.5 SE have left the Garage and in their place is this; the 2012 Nissan Quest LE. The Quest LE comes with a 3.5L V6 producing 260 HP and 240 lb-ft of torque, and is equipped with a CVT. First Impressions: Woah, this is very distinctive. I feel that the Quest's design is a love it or hate it. I like it myself. I've been in houses that aren't as nice as the Quest's interior. V6 and CVT combination is a surprise. Really can get the Quest moving at a surprising rate. Don't like the Quest's transmission gate. Think I'm in Drive when I'm actually in Low. Very annoying. I'll have some updates on the Quest as the week goes on. In the meantime, drop off your questions for the Quest. Update: Sorry for the lack of updates on the Quest, I've been busy with some other work. But after spending a week and close to 550 miles on this van, I can say the Quest does make a good case for itself as a contender. Yes, you can't fold the seats into the floor or remove them to increase cargo room. But if you're main goal is to transport family members or people, the Quest fills that need perfectly. Fuel economy wise, the Quest did ok. 21.2 MPG was the test average, and on the highway run I got 22.3 MPG. Not bad for a van that weighs closely to 4500 lbs. William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 19, 2012 BMW has long maintained there would be no M version of the 7-Series sedan, despite competitors offering a performance version of their flagship sedans. However, BMW could be changing their tune. Automobile Magazine has learned the next generation 7-Series could be seeing a sort of, kind of M7 called the M770i xDrive. The M770i xDrive will likely use a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 producing 475 HP and 480 lb-ft of torque. While those numbers sound impressive, the M770i xDrive pales in comparison to the V12 760i which comes with 570 HP and a 665 lb-ft of torque. But the M770i xDrive will be more agile than a 760i thanks to significant weight loss. The M770i xDrive will use carbon fiber on the roof, trunk, and hood. Other weight losses will come from lightweight seats, carbon-ceramic brakes, thin-wall exhaust, and lightweight 20-inch wheels. The M770i xDrive could arrive sometime in 2015. Source: Automobile Magazine William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 19, 2012 With the advent of ever-tightening fuel economy and emission standards, no automaker is safe, not even boutique luxury automakers like Aston Martin. Consider this, besides the Aston Martin Cygnet which is a Scion iQ in drag, the rest of the Aston Martin lineup comes with either a V8 or V12 engines. Aston Martin has reduced the emissions of its engines by 25% over the past six years, but that might not be enough. Aston Martin head Ulrich Bez recently revealed to Autocar the company is open to downsizing their engines. “The job is not complete. Four or even three cylinders are possible. If the spirit of the times demands six cylinders, then it has to be looked at.” However, if a move like that was done, Bez said it would “never undermine exclusivity. We must stay special”. Source: Autocar William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

Congrats on the job ocn

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 18, 2012 Kia's flagship sedan, the K9 will have a change of name when it goes on sale in select countries in the fourth quarter of 2012. The name; Quoris. "Derived from the English words 'core' and 'quality', the name of our new flagship sedan hints at the attributes at the very heart of the vehicle. The word 'Quoris' conveys solidity, luxury and high-technology, all resonating together as a chorus," said Thomas Oh, Kia's Executive Vice President & COO of the International Business Division. "Our decision to give this striking new sedan an unconventional name means it will stand out even further from the established crowd, driving Kia sales in what is a new segment of the global automotive market for Kia." Now, I might be the only person who liked the name K9. But the name Quoris is just terrible. Its about the same level of terribleness as Amati. Okay, lets get off the name for the time being. The Quoris will be available with full adaptive cruise control, a collision warning and mitigation system, blind spot detection and lane departure warning, and a multi-camera system. Press Release is on Page 2 Kia 'Quoris' flagship sedan promises premium driving convenience and innovative safety technologies - New rear-wheel drive flagship to be named 'Quoris' for export markets - Innovative driving assistance and active safety technologies - Safety systems utilize radar, cameras and haptic technology (SEOUL) July 18, 2012 – Kia's striking, rear-wheel drive, all-new flagship sedan will be called 'Quoris' when it goes on sale in overseas markets from the fourth quarter of 2012. The new luxury model (known as 'K9' in the domestic market) went on sale in Korea in early May, and features a host of high-tech comfort and safety features, many of them never seen before on a Kia. "Derived from the English words 'core' and 'quality', the name of our new flagship sedan hints at the attributes at the very heart of the vehicle," commented Thomas Oh, Kia's Executive Vice President & COO of the International Business Division. "The word 'Quoris' conveys solidity, luxury and high-technology, all resonating together as a chorus. "Our decision to give this striking new sedan an unconventional name means it will stand out even further from the established crowd, driving Kia sales in what is a new segment of the global automotive market for Kia," adds Mr. Oh. Innovative 'active' safety technologies The Kia Quoris will feature an array of high-tech driving assistance and active safety features. "Quoris adopts a number of intelligent safety technologies never before seen on a Kia, in order to deliver maximum driver comfort and safety," comments Chang-Ki Kang, Senior Vice President of Kia's Namyang R&D Center. "The Quoris can cruise at a desired speed, maintain a pre-determined 'safe' distance from the vehicle in front, and even come to a complete stop if necessary. Quoris can also detect and warn the driver of approaching potential hazards using innovative audio, visual and haptic alerts. "Our new flagship sedan possesses remarkable abilities to monitor and detect changing traffic conditions, and is constantly processing information, immediately deciding the right course of action and precisely executing vehicle movement controls as necessary," concludes Kang. Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) The Quoris employs Kia's first radar-based Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC). Located in the right side of the front bumper, the radar system constantly monitors the road ahead, up to a range of 174 meters. With ASCC activated, the Quoris monitors traffic conditions and speed in order to maintain a pre-determined safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The driver can easily adjust this distance by choosing from four options (52, 40, 32 or 25 meters at a speed of 90 km/h) using a button on the steering wheel. The Quoris will also automatically come to a complete stop, if necessary. When the stop is less than three seconds and traffic ahead moves off, the Quoris automatically moves forward, resuming the journey. For a stop longer than three seconds, the driver has to manually restart the vehicle by pressing the accelerator or pushing the resume button. Advanced Vehicle Safety Management (AVSM) The ASCC is linked to the rest of the vehicle controls by the Quoris' Advanced Vehicle Safety Management (AVSM). Integrating the control of various vehicle monitoring systems, including the Electronic Stability Control (ESC), seatbelt mechanisms and multiple warning systems, the AVSM can alert the driver, pre-pressurize the braking system and activate the Pre-Safe Belt (PSB) system, depending on the anticipated level of a collision risk. Detecting a risk of a collision, AVSM warns the driver in three stages via a loud audible alarm, a visual warning on both the Head Up Display (HUD) and TFT LCD cluster and a haptic signal on the seatbelt. Stage 1 At a low level of collision risk, a visual warning appears on the LCD cluster and HUD. Stage 2 At a higher level of collision risk, in addition to the visual warning, an audio warning signal is sent out and the haptic seatbelt is activated via an electric motor, sending strong vibrations through the driver's seatbelt. Stage 3 When a collision is imminent, the AVSM automatically applies the brakes to reduce the impact speed. The electric motor and pre-tensioners of the PSB system are also activated to retract the seatbelt and hold occupants closer to their seats, ensuring maximum occupant protection and minimizing abrasions caused by contact with the airbags. Class-leading Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assistance The Blind Spot Detection (BSD) system for Quoris features two radar scanners located in each of the outer corners of the rear bumper. Each is capable of detecting objects up to 70 meters away from the rear, and four meters from each side. Activated at vehicle speeds above 30 kph, BSD gives the driver a warning when a vehicle comes into the blind spot zone – an area approximately four meters wide along each side of the Quoris and extending more than six meters from the rear bumper. Compared with sonic-based BSD systems, Quoris' radar-based BSD gives a longer detection range, which is also exploited by the Lane Change Assistance (LCA) system. LCA alerts the driver to vehicles approaching from the rear at high speeds from up to 70 meters away. If the system also considers the speed of approach to be a potential hazard – specifically if it calculates that a collision would occur within 4.5 seconds if no avoiding action is taken – it will illuminate a warning triangle graphic in the left or right door mirror glass and activate a warning signal on the HUD. If the driver does not react to this visual 'alert', an audible warning is also sounded. Both the BSD and LCA systems can be deactivated by the driver, if required. Lane Departure Warning System While radars boast a superior ability to detect objects at long distances, cameras are used in Quoris to recognize the shape of closer objects such as lane markings. A forward-facing video camera is at the heart of the new sedan's Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS). It monitors the car's position in relation to lane markings and triggers a warning in case of unintended lane departures at speeds above 60 kph. Around View Monitor system Four cameras on each side of Quoris are used to create its class-leading Around View Monitor (AVM) system, which provides maximum convenience and safety during parking and low-speed maneuvering. Unlike the majority of competitors' AVM systems with a field-of-view of less than a 270-degrees, the Quoris' system offers a true 360-degree all-around view in eight different viewing modes, displayed on the Audio Video Navigation (AVN) monitor. Continuously synthesizing images from four cameras, the AVM provides a virtual 'top' view in motion, so the driver can easily have a full grasp of all his or her surroundings, maximizing safety for the car occupants as well as pedestrians. The AVM system automatically deactivates at speeds above 20 km/h. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 18, 2012 Remember the Camaro 1LE package? No? Well, you're not the only one as the big news in the Camaro world this year has been the ZL1. Quick refresher on the Camaro 1LE; like the Mustang lineup which offers a car between the GT and GT500 with the Boss 302, the 1LE takes the middle place between the SS and ZL1. So what does the 1LE package offer? Well for starters you get matte black hood, front splitter and rear spoiler. A set of black-finished 10-spoke wheels from the ZL1 come as standard. That's not all of the ZL1 goodies you get in the 1LE. The ZL1 also donates some suspension hardware, much of its fuel system, flat-bottom steering wheel, and a short-throw shifter, which is mated to a 1LE exclusive Tremec TR6060-MM6 six-speed manual transmission designed to take abuses from road racing. Other bits for 1LE include larger front and rear stabilizer bars, higher-capacity rear-axle half shafts, mono tube rear dampers and a strut tower brace. Those looking for increased power in the 1LE will be disappointed as the 426 HP 6.2L LS3 V8 does its duty. Chevrolet says the 1LE Package will be under $40k. Meanwhile, In the Navigation Department Also coming to the Camaro for the 2013 model year seven-inch touchscreen that will control the car's audio options, including MyLink. The seven-inch touchscreen will be standard across the Camaro lineup. Navigation will be added as an option later in the year. William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 3 CHEVROLET CAMARO / CAMARO SS New for 2013 1LE performance package Dual-mode exhaust available on SS Electric power steering on SS Chevrolet MyLink and color-touch navigation Hill start assist now standard on all manual transmissions ZL1-style shift knob standard on all manual transmissions Remote vehicle start now included on 1LT and 1SS with automatic transmission Blue Ray Metallic exterior color Frameless inside rearview mirror New 18-inch and 20-inch wheel designs Mojave leather interior trim 2013 CHEVROLET CAMARO RANGE EXPANDS WITH TRACK-READY 1LE PACKAGE The road-racing-inspired Camaro 1LE performance package returns for 2013 with unique gearing, suspension tuning and tires that make the model capable of more than 1 g of lateral acceleration and a sub-three minute lap time at Virginia International Raceway’s Grand Course. It is offered on Camaro SS coupes with manual transmissions. All Camaro SS models now feature variable-effort electric power steering and an available dual-mode exhaust system on manual transmission-equipped models. Both features were introduced on the Camaro ZL1. The 2013 Camaro lineup includes: The 323-horsepower (241 kW) V-6-powered LS coupe and LT coupe and convertible – including the 2LS with an EPA-rated 30 mpg on the highway The Camaro SS coupe and convertible, with a 6.2L V-8 delivering up to 426 horsepower (318 kW) The 580-horsepower (432 kW) supercharged Camaro ZL1 coupe and convertible. (Please see the separate Camaro ZL1 release for complete details.) In addition to the new performance features offered on the Camaro SS, all 2013 Camaro models offer a wider range of choices and enhancements that will help it remain America’s most popular sports car. New and revised content includes: Chevrolet MyLink and color-touch radio standard on LT, SS, and ZL1 models Chevrolet MyLink and color-touch radio with GPS map navigation (late availability) Hill start assist now standard on all manual transmissions ZL1-style shift knob standard on all manual transmissions Remote vehicle start now include on 1LT and 1SS with automatic transmission Blue Ray Metallic exterior color Frameless inside rearview mirror New 18-inch and 20-inch wheel designs Mojave leather interior trim. 1LE details The 1LE package is offered on 1SS and 2SS coupe models with an exclusive Tremec TR6060-MM6 six-speed manual transmission. Paired with a numerically higher 3.91 final-drive ratio, the close-ratio gearing of the transmission is tuned for road-racing performance. As with the ZL1, the 1LE transmission features a standard air-to-liquid cooling system for track use. The 1LE also features exclusive, monotube rear dampers instead of the twin-tube dampers on SS models. The new hardware allowed engineers to tune the 1LE suspension to focus on optimal body-motion control while preserving much of the ride quality and wheel-motion control of the Camaro SS. Other changes to optimize the 1LE for track-day use include: Larger, 27-mm solid front stabilizer bar, and 28-mm solid rear stabilizer bar for improved body control Higher-capacity rear-axle half shafts to cope with increased levels of traction Strut tower brace for improved steering feel and response ZL1-based 20 x 10-inch front and 20 x 10-inch aluminum wheels 285/35ZR20 Goodyear Eagle Supercar G:2 tires front and rear (identical to the front tires for ZL1) ZL1 wheel bearings, toe links and rear shock mounts for improved on-track performance ZL1 high-capacity fuel pump and additional fuel pickups for improved fuel delivery during high-load cornering. Visually, the 1LE package is distinguished by its matte black hood, front splitter and rear spoiler – as well as the 10-spoke ZL1-based wheels, which are finished in black. The functional front splitter and rear spoiler contribute to the car’s on-track performance by helping to reduce aerodynamic lift at high speeds. Inside, the 1LE package incorporates the ZL1’s flat-bottom steering wheel, trimmed in sueded-microfiber and designed for easier heel-and-toe driving on the racetrack. The quick-acting, short-throw shifter from the ZL1 is also trimmed in sueded-microfiber. In anticipation of consumers entering the 1LE in amateur-racing events, Chevrolet is pursuing SCCA approval of the 1LE package for Touring Class competition. The Camaro 1LE package was introduced in 1988, inspired by Camaro’s involvement in Pro-Am road racing. MyLink details Chevrolet’s color touch radio with MyLink infotainment is available on 2013 Camaro LS, SS and ZL1 models. The color touch radio, with a seven-inch touch screen, also can be paired with an available in-dash GPS navigation system – a first for the Camaro. The color touch radio with MyLink gives customers a higher level of in-vehicle wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options, while building on the safety and security of OnStar. It seamlessly integrates online services such as Pandora® internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio® using hands-free voice and touch-screen controls via Bluetooth-enabled phones. MyLink adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smartphones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in most Chevy vehicles. The high-resolution, full-color touch screen display makes media selection easy to navigate. MyLink also retains all the capabilities of today’s entertainment functions, including AM/FM/Sirius XM tuners, auxiliary and USB inputs. Camaro design and exterior features Camaro’s heritage-inspired interior and exterior convey sportiness through iconic design cues. A rear spoiler is standard on all models and a variety of stripe packages offers a broad range of personalization features. LT and SS models are available with the RS package, which adds 20-inch wheel, body-color roof moldings and antenna, as well as high-intensity discharge headlamps. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard on LS and LT model, with 20-inch wheels standard on SS. The Camaro convertible brings top-down driving fun and style to LT and SS models. And because the architecture for the fifth-generation Camaro was designed to accommodate a convertible model, it gives the cars coupe-like driving dynamics. Four strategic reinforcements enhance the already-stiff body structure to quell the cowl and steering wheel shake common in convertibles. They include: A tower-to-tower brace under the hood A transmission support reinforcement brace Underbody tunnel brace Front “X” brace and stiffer cradle as well as rear underbody “V” braces. All convertible models feature a standard rear vision camera system. It is also standard on 2LT and 2SS models and available on 1LT and 1SS. Exterior colors include Summit White, Black, Crystal Red Tintcoat, Victory Red, Rally Yellow, Inferno Orange Metallic, Ashen Grey Metallic and Blue Ray Metallic. The convertible top color choices include black and beige. Camaro interior features Camaro’s well-executed balance of heritage and contemporary features provides a fun and comfortable environment for up to four. An ambient lighting package on 2LT and 2SS trims gives the interior a special glow with LED light pipe technology. Driver and passenger seats feature six-way adjustable settings (fore/aft, up/down and tilt), with power recline front seats that are standard on LT and SS models. Heated, leather-trimmed seats are part of the 2LT and 2SS trim packages. Additional comfort and convenience include a standard driver’s foot rest (dead pedal), power windows with express up/down, an auxiliary gauge panel in the center console – standard in 2LT and 2SS – and a new ZL1-inspired shift knob for all manual transmissions. A leather-wrapped, three-spoke steering wheel is standard on LT and SS. A head-up display, which projects key instrument, Turn-by-Turn navigation and audio system details on the windshield, is part of the 2LT and 2SS trim packages. And complementing the new MyLink infotainment system is a six-speaker sound system on LS, 1LT and 1SS. A 245-watt, Boston Acoustic nine-speaker sounds system is standard on 2LT and 2SS – and available on 1LT and 1SS. Interior color and trim choices include Black, Beige, Gray, Inferno Orange and Mojave. The Inferno Orange and Mojave combinations include contrast stitching and other details. Camaro powertrains Standard in LS and LT models is the LFX-code 3.6L V-6, rated at 323 horsepower (241 kW) and enabling EPA-estimated 30-mpg highway mileage (2LS model). Many lightweight engine features contribute to that, including an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves about 13 pounds per engine, when compared with a conventional, non-integrated design. Two 6.2L V-8 engines are offered in the Camaro SS, including the L99 on automatic-equipped vehicles and the LS3 on manual-equipped models. Horsepower for the L99 is 400 (298 kW) at 5,900 rpm and torque is 410 lb.-ft. (556 Nm) at 4,300 rpm. The LS3 develops 426 horsepower (318 kW) and 420 lb.-ft. (569 Nm). Output on the L99 is lower than the LS3 because of a slightly lower compression ratio (10.4:1 vs. 10.7:1) and design features of the Active Fuel Management system. All Camaro models can be equipped with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission with TapShift. Equipment and features include: The Aisin AY6 six-speed manual is standard with the 3.6L engine, and a Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic is optional A Tremec TR 6060 six-speed manual is standard on the SS, and the Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic is optional The SS model’s Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual is designed to handle the high torque characteristics of the LS3 engine and is matched with a 3.45:1 final drive ratio A close-ratio version of the Tremec TR6060 is used with the 1LE package and is matched with a 3.91 final drive ratio Hill start assist is standard on all manual transmissions. A dual-mode exhaust system is available on Camaro SS models with the six-speed manual transmission. Similar to the systems found on the ZL1 and Corvette models, this vacuum-actuated system provides a quieter driving experience at low engine speeds and a more aggressive sound at when aggressive acceleration is called for. Camaro chassis and suspension Camaro features fully independent front and rear suspensions, with the rear suspension featuring a 4.5-link system that includes a unique, L-shaped upper control arm that attaches to the knuckle at one end and incorporates a ride bushing in the rear. A sub-frame at the rear is double-isolated to minimize vehicle body motions and dampen road imperfections. Coil-over shock absorbers are used in the rear with a decoupled, hollow stabilizer bar. The front suspension has a dual-ball strut system, with a direct-acting stabilizer bar. Four suspension packages are offered: FE2 sport on LS and LT models; FE3 on SS Convertible models, FE4 performance on SS Coupe models and the FE6 with the 1LE Performance Package. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on all models – including Brembo four-piston calipers on SS – with hydraulic brake assist. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on all models. Competitive/sport mode on SS models enhances on-track performance and Performance Launch Control on SS models with the manual transmission optimizes hard-acceleration launches for quicker, more consistent performance. New for 2013, an electric power steering system developed for the ZL1 is standard on all SS. This variable ratio, variable effort system provides light efforts for easy maneuverability at parking-lot speeds as well as increased resistance at higher speeds, providing more feedback and a more direct steering feel. Camaro safety and crash-avoidance features The Camaro is designed to help drivers avoid crashes, while protecting occupants in the event a crash occurs. A strong body structure is designed to absorb crash energy and provide a protective “safety cage” around occupants. In fact, the 2012 Camaro was the first passenger car to receive NHTSA’s revised quadruple 5-star safety rating. Additional features include: Six standard air bags include side curtain air bags, which provide head protection for outboard passengers in the event of a side-impact or rollover crash Rear Vision Package includes a rearview camera system to complement the rear park assist feature (standard on 2LT and 2SS; available on 1LT and 1SS) StabiliTrak electronic stability control system helps reduce the risk of rollover crashes by keeping the vehicle in the driver’s intended path by applying throttle, braking or a combination of both Standard four-wheel disc brake system featuring smooth, quiet operation, longer pad life and more resistance to brake pulsation Pretensioners minimize forward movement during a collision, and are standard on the front safety belts. Load-limiting retractors cinch the belt more tightly Standard tire pressure monitoring system Standard remote keyless entry (RKE) system provides a second function for the red panic button. Drivers can use it to locate their cars without sounding the panic alarm. OnStar details Six months of OnStar Directions and Connections service is standard on all Camaro models. OnStar is the global leading provider of connected safety, security and mobility solutions and advanced information technology. OnStar’s RemoteLink Mobile App allows smartphone users to control vehicle functions, access vehicle information and send directions directly to the vehicle. A new, opt-in service called FamilyLink allows subscribers to stay connected to loved ones by checking the location of their vehicle online or by signing up for vehicle location alerts. Camaro also features new OnStar button icons. Drivers will notice an updated look for the Hands-Free Calling button, blue OnStar button and red Emergency button. More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com. # # # For immediate release 2013 CAMARO / CAMRO SS SPECIFICATIONS Overview Models: Chevrolet Camaro LS, LT and SS Body style / driveline: four-passenger, front-engine, rear-drive coupe Construction: unitized body frame, one- and two-sided galvanized steel EPA vehicle class: coupe Manufacturing location: Oshawa, Ontario, Canada Key competitors: Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang, Nissan 370Z Engines 3.6L V-6 DI VVT (LFX) 6.2L V-8 (LS3, L99) Application: LS, LT SS Type: 3.6L V-6 6.2L V-8 Displacement (cu in / cc): 217 / 3564 376 / 6162 Bore & stroke (in / mm): 3.70 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6 4.06 x 3.62 / 103.25 x 92 Block material: cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners cast aluminum w/ cast-in-place iron bore liners Cylinder head material: aluminum aluminum Valvetrain: DOHC; four valves per cylinder; continuously variable valve timing’ overhead valve; two valves per cylinder; roller lifters; Active Fuel Management (L99) Ignition system: electronic individual coil-on-plug; individual cylinder knock control and extended-life platinum-tipped spark plugs coil-near-plug ignition Fuel delivery: direct fuel injection sequential fuel injection Compression ratio: 11.5:1 10.7:1 (LS3); 10.4:1 (L99) Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm): 323 / 241 @ 6800* 426 / 318 @ 5900 (LS3)* 400 / 298 @ 5900 (L99)* Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm): 278 / 377@ 4800* 420 / 569 @ 4600 (LS3)* 410 / 556 @ 4300 (L99)* Recommended fuel: regular unleaded premium recommended not required Maximum engine speed (rpm): 7200 6200 (L99) 6600 (LS3) Emissions controls: evaporative emissions system, catalytic converter, equal-length exhaust, dual close coupled and dual under floor catalytic converters, positive crankcase ventilation, intake and exhaust cam phasers, electronic throttle control evaporative system, close-coupled catalytic converters, positive crankcase ventilation, electronic throttle control EPA-estimated fuel economy (city / hwy): 18 / 29 (auto) 19 / 30 (auto, 2LS model) 17 / 28 (man) 16 / 25 (auto) 16 / 24 (man) *SAE certified. Transmissions Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic (LS, LT) w/ TAPshift Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic (SS) w/ TAPshift Aisin AY6 six-speed manual (LS, LT) Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual (SS) Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual (SS w/1LE) Gear ratios (:1): First: 4.06 4.03 4.48 3.01 2.66 Second: 2.37 2.36 2.58 2.07 1.78 Third: 1.55 1.53 1.63 1.43 1.30 Fourth: 1.16 1.15 1.19 1.00 1.00 Fifth: 0.85 0.85 1.00 0.84 0.74 Sixth: 0.67 0.67 0.75 0.57 0.50 Reverse: 3.20 3.06 3.67 3.28 2.90 Final drive ratio: 3.27 2.92 (2LS) 3.27 3.27 3.45 3.91 Chassis / Suspension Front: double-ball-joint, multi-link strut; direct-acting stabilizer bar; progressive-rate coil springs; fully adjustable camber, caster and toe; 27mm solid stabilizer bar (1LE) Rear: 4.5-link independent; progressive-rate coil springs over shocks; stabilizer bar; fully adjustable camber and toe; 28mm solid stabilizer bar and specific half-shafts (1LE) Steering type: variable-ratio rack-and-pinion; electric variable power steering (SS) Steering ratio: 16.1:1 Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock: 2.5 Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / m): 37.7 / 11.5 Brakes Type: four-wheel disc w/ ABS; ventilated front and rear rotors; single-piston front calipers and single-piston alloy rear calipers (LS, LT); four-piston fixed Brembo aluminum front and rear calipers (SS, incl. 1LE) Rotor diameter, front (in / mm): LS, LT: 12.64 / 321 SS: 14 / 355 Rotor diameter, rear (in / mm): LS, LT: 12.4 / 315 SS: 14.4 / 365 Rotor thickness, front (in / mm): LS, LT: 1.18 / 30 SS: 1.26 / 32 Rotor thickness, rear (in / mm): LS, LT: 0.9 / 23 SS: 1.1 / 28 Wheels / Tires LS LT SS Wheel size and type: 18 x 7.5-in. steel 18 x 7.5-in. aluminum 19 x 8-in. aluminum 20 x 8-in. aluminum (front) 20 x 9-in. aluminum (rear) 20 x 10-in. aluminum (front w/ 1LE) 20 x 10-in. aluminum (rear w/ 1LE) Tires: P245/55R18 all-season P245/55R18 all-season P245/50R19 all-season P245/45ZR20 summer (front) P275/40ZR20 summer (rear) P285/35ZR20 (front/rear w/ 1LE) Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase (in / mm): 112.3 / 2852 Overall length (in / mm): 190.4 / 4836 Overall width (in / mm): 75.5 / 1918 Overall height (in / mm): 54.2 / 1376 Track, front (in / mm): 63.7 / 1618 Track, rear (in / mm): 64.1 / 1628 (LS, LT) 63.7 / 1618 (SS) Curb weight (lb / kg): 3769 / 1713 – LS w/ automatic 3780 / 1718 – LS w/ manual 3750 / 1701 – LT w/ automatic 3741 / 1697 – LT w/ manual 3913 / 1775 – SS w/ automatic 3860 / 1751 – SS w/ manual Weight balance (% front / rear): 52 / 48 Coefficient of drag: 0.37 (LS, LT); 0.35 (SS) Interior Seating capacity (front / rear): 2 / 2 Headroom (in / mm): front: 37.4 / 950 rear: 35.3 / 897 Legroom (in / mm): front: 42.4 / 1077 rear: 29.9 / 757 Shoulder room (in / mm): front: 56.9 / 1444 rear: 42.5 / 1080 Capacities Cargo volume (cu ft / L): 11.3 / 320 Fuel tank (gal / L): 19 / 71.9 Engine oil (qt / L): 3.6L: 7.6 / 7.2 6.2L: 8.9 / 8.5 Note: Information shown is current at time of publication. 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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 18, 2012 Since last November, we've been reporting on Volkswagen dropping the 2.5L five-cylinder and replace with it a turbocharged 1.8L four for the Beetle, Golf, and Jetta. Now, we have got confirmation the 1.8T will be appearing in one of the three vehicles listed. Rainer Michel, Vice President of Product Marketing & Strategy at Volkswagen of America stopped by the Autoblog offices to talk about Volkswagen has in store for 2013. Michel also revealed the 1.8T would be arriving in the Jetta in 2014. The 1.8T produces 158 HP and 185 lb-ft of torque and can be found in the European Passat and CC. The engine will be built at Volkswagen's Silao, Mexico engine plant. The 1.8T will bring a wrath of improvements and changes to the Jetta including better fuel economy, an electric power steering system, and new suspension tuning. Source: Autoblog William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 17, 2012 Chrysler announced today that they will idle their Mack II engine plant in Detroit in September as production of the 3.7L V6 comes to an end. The 3.7L V6 powered the Dodge Nitro, Dodge Ram, and Jeep Liberty. The Dodge Nitro has already been shown the door. The current Jeep Liberty will end its run next month as the Toledo, Ohio plant where it’s built undergoes a $500 million upgrade. The Ram drops the 3.7L V6 for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 due out later this year. About 200 employees who work at the Mack II engine plant have received received layoff notices but won’t lose their jobs. A Chrysler spokeswoman explained the workers will be moved to other Chrysler plants. The Mack II engine plant was built in 1999, offering 650,000 square feet and assembled the 3.7-liter engine exclusively. The adjacent Mack I engine plant which builds the 4.7L V8 will continue on. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 17, 2012 The current Suzuki SX4 is going on six years and its beginning to show its age. Suzuki knows this and is working on the next generation SX4. Some new spy shots show how much progress Suzuki has made on the next SX4. The next SX4 appears to be much larger than the current model, thanks to larger greenhouse. Other design changes include a new grille and headlamps. There also appears to be a large intercooler that is hiding behind the lower fascia, meaning the next SX4 could be packing a turbo engine. This is a play for fuel economy and not performance. Source: Autoblog William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 17, 2012 Jaguar Land Rover North America's CEO, Andy Goss is calling for individual Jaguar and Land Rover dealers to merge together. “We want to cut the number of rooftops to about 200. At 200, the majority of dealerships would be Jaguar Land Rover,” Goss said. Goss hopes that merger of individual Jaguar and Land Rover dealers will improve overall sales. “Forty-five percent of people who own a Jaguar also own an SUV. It is the same customer base. It would be foolish not to try and get those customers,” said Goss. At the moment, there are about 97 stand alone Jaguar or Land Rover dealerships in the U.S.. Goss wants to see half of them merge. The company is focusing this plan in seven markets: Chicago, San Francisco, Denver, Los Angeles, New Jersey, New York state and Portland, Ore. The company isn't forcing dealers to buy or sell, but its not offering any incentives for them to merge. Goss is hoping the prospect of better sales will convince them. Source: Auto Guide William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article