William Maley

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 22, 2012 When Wolfgang Durheimer became the CEO of Bentley last February, he set out to expand the range from the current pair of vehicle platforms; the Mulsanne and the Continental/Flying Spur. One of those vehicles was the EXP 9 F concept shown at Geneva. But there were a few more vehicles in the running Durheimer told Motor Trend, but wouldn’t go into detail except for one. The one happens to be a smaller sports car. Durheimer says the designers at Bentley were keen to do it. However, the decision was made to do the SUV. “In the end the SUV was a better idea. It sits above all its competition,” Durheimer said. “The sports car would have had the Porsche 911 Turbo as opposition.” Durherimer knows how tough the 911 Turbo is, he was the head of Porsche’s R&D before becoming Bentley’s CEO. However, Durherimer hasn’t ruled out the sports car for the time being. He says the model of the sports car sits outside the office of company design director Dirk van Braeckel. Source: Motor Trend View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 21, 2012 According to Reuters, Hyundai will be introducing a new Sonata in 2014. Hyundai CEO Kim Choong-ho revealed the product update plans at an industry meeting in Seoul, South Korea. The current Sonata has become the brand's biggest seller in the U.S. and the third best seller in Korea since going on sale in both countries. The Sonata has also helped propel Hyundai into one of the major players in the U.S. Choong-ho also told Reuters that a new Genesis will be arriving sometime in late 2013. Source: Reuters View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 21, 2012 Earlier tonight, Scion put the starting price tag on the new FR-S. As shown, the base price tag for a six-speed manual FR-S starts at $24,930 (Includes a $730 destination charge). This confirms a leaked document that got into the hands of FT86 Club which revealed the starting pricetag of $24,200 (excluding the destination charge) Source: Scion, FT86 Club Press Release is on Page 2 Scion Announces Pricing for Its 2013 FR-S Sports Car TORRANCE, Calif., March 22, 2012 – Scion today announced pricing for its 2013 FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car. The FR-S starts with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $24,200 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and $25,300 when equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that features paddle shifters and rev-match technology. The high-performance coupe is the fifth model to join the Scion family and will go on sale this spring. “Scion’s goal was to create an affordable sports car that true driving enthusiasts could enjoy,” said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. “We accomplished that goal with the FR-S starting under $25,000…a total home run! Add in Scion’s complimentary Scion Service Boost, our no-haggle no-hassle Pure Price, and Scion’s network of about 1,000 dealers, and the FR-S is a grand slam.” Pure Balance The FR-S, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport; is Scion’s definition of an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car with exceptionally balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility and surprising fuel efficiency. The FR-S is a true “scion,” born into a lengthy history of Toyota performance cars and motorsports. During planning and development, it was most inspired by the AE86 generation of the Corolla, better known as the Hachi-Roku, meaning “8-6” in Japanese. The AE86 was a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe that was lightweight and well balanced, making it a solid choice for driving enthusiasts. Inspired by the AE86, the FR-S is designed around the core goal of achieving “Pure Balance.” The balance begins with the strategic use of the world’s only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration. The engine’s compact size and flat shape allow it to be mounted mid-ship and extremely low, giving the car a dynamically favorable front-to-rear weight ratio of 53:47 and a low center of gravity comparable to some exotic supercars. The FR-S’s 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine is the result of a joint development between Toyota and Subaru. The partnership begins by combining Subaru’s newly developed, horizontally opposed engine and Toyota’s cutting edge D-4S injection system that incorporates both direct and port injection. The D-4S system, partnered with a high 12.5:1 compression ratio, results in an impressive 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. The flat-four mates with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual offers quick, precise shifts with a short-throw; while the automatic features aggressive up shifts and sporty rev-matched down shifts that are initiated by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Power is transferred to the pavement via a standard Torsen® limited-slip differential. The idea of “Pure Balance” is further realized by the FR-S’s lightweight design and compact size. The combination allows the car to be quick and nimble into and out of corners, with dynamic maneuverability and confident handling. The coupe’s weight is kept to a minimum by utilizing a lightweight aluminum hood, a solid roof, and by featuring a trunk design instead of a hatchback. The FR-S’s low weight is matched with a dynamically tuned suspension setup consisting of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear. Lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels and ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four corners. Powerful Exterior Design The fierce exterior of the FR-S is a solid reflection of its inner power. The profile, inspired by the Toyota 2000GT, reveals a hood and roof-line that is remarkably sleek and low, giving it an aerodynamic shape that channels air cleanly over to the top. The low stance continues to exaggerate the coupe’s menacing face, which is made up of sharp lines, a wide mouth and angular headlights that house the projector-beam halogen lamps. The aggressive front fenders protrude upward and boast the iconic ‘86’ piston emblem, which highlights the car’s AE86 heritage as well as its unique new boxer engine. The rear fascia sits low and wide, with aerodynamic lower treatments that surround the sporty dual exhaust system. LEDs illuminate the edgy taillights, while center-mounted backup lights finish the muscular design. The FR-S will be available in seven colors including Raven, Asphalt, Hot Lava, Argento, Ultramarine, Firestorm and Whiteout. Performance-Focused Interior The FR-S’s interior includes a 2+2 seating configuration that is designed with both form and function in mind. The front seats feature deep bolsters and are mounted extremely low and are comfortable yet assertive, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space. The car will come standard with FR-S badged floor mats. The large center-mounted tachometer is the focus of the three-gauge cluster and features a programmable shift-indicator, informing the driver of the engine’s vitals. Speed is monitored by both digital and analog gauges. The FR-S features a sporty leather-trimmed steering wheel that has both tilt and telescopic adjustment. The FR-S will come standard with an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer™ audio system. Standard features also include HD Radio™ technology and Bluetooth® connectivity that allows both hands-free phone connection as well as streaming audio capability. Sports Car Performance with Excellent Safety Features FR-S comes standard with six airbags, including dual-stage advanced driver- and front-passenger airbags, front-seat-mounted airbags and side-curtain airbags. Like all Scions, FR-S features the Star Safety System that includes Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST). The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $730 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary. Warranty and Complimentary Scion Service Boost Like all Scion models, the FR-S is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile comprehensive warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The FR-S will come standard with Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and two years of 24-hour roadside assistance. Scion FR-S Preliminary Specifications Length 166.7 in. Width 69.9 in. Height 51.2 in. (not including antenna base) Wheelbase 101.2 in. Track Front 59.8 in. Rear 60.6 in. Seating capacity 4 Engine Total displacement 1,998 cc Type Horizontally opposed four-cylinder, D-4S injection, DOHC Bore × stroke 86 × 86 mm. Maximum output 200hp @ 7,000 rpm Maximum torque 151 lb.-ft. @ 6,600 rpm Transmission 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters Driveline Rear-wheel drive Suspension Front MacPherson struts Rear Double wishbone Brakes Front Ventilated Disc Rear Ventilated Disc Tires Front 215/45R17 Rear 215/45R17 Fuel tank 13.2 gallons Fuel Premium Unleaded View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com March 21, 2012 Today, General Motors showed off the production model of the new Trailblazer at the Bangkok auto show in Thailand. Like the concept Trailblazer shown back in November, the production model uses GM's new global body-on-frame midsize truck architecture. Styling is the same as the concept; rounded and muscular. Engines include a base 2.5L four-cylinder diesel producing 150 HP and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.8L four-cylinder diesel producing 180 HP and 346 lb-ft of torque. Both engines go through a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic. The Trailblazer will hit dealerships in Thailand in June, with much of the world to follow there after. As for the U.S. getting their hands on a Trailblazer, Chevrolet spokesman Tom Wilkinson told Autoblog, "There are currently no plans to bring that vehicle to the U.S." Press Release is on Page 2 All-New Chevrolet Trailblazer Makes World Debut in Thailand BANGKOK – The Trailblazer, Chevrolet’s tough new “haul-anything, go-anywhere” SUV, made its world debut today at a special event ahead of The 33rd Bangkok International Motor Show in Thailand. First previewed in concept form at last year’s Dubai International Motor Show in the Middle East, the Trailblazer will go on sale around the world, beginning with Thailand in June. Based on General Motors’ new global body-on-frame midsize truck architecture, the Trailblazer was designed to feature premium ride comfort and handling dynamics for urban and highway driving, matched by superior off-road capabilities. Inside, the all-new Trailblazer features leading interior space and intuitive three-row tumble and fold-flat seating, representing Chevrolet’s most significant play in the competitive body-on-frame midsize SUV segment. Available in two- and four-wheel-drive configurations, the Trailblazer is powered by GM’s new four-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel engines that offer class-leading power and torque matched with efficiency and refinement. Martin Apfel, president, GM Southeast Asia and Chevrolet Sales Thailand, said the introduction of the new Trailblazer, which will be built at GM Thailand’s manufacturing facility in Rayong, will boost Chevrolet’s presence in the world’s fast-growing SUV markets. “True to its name, the Trailblazer will blaze the trail for new Chevrolet vehicles coming into the market. It has been built tough to offer Chevrolet customers everything they need from a heavy-duty SUV,” he said. Designed for family transport and urban commuting, the Trailblazer is equally at home negotiating off-road terrain as it is with urban traffic and highway cruising,” Apfel added. “It will hit the sweet spot, not just for consumers in Thailand and throughout Southeast Asia, but in every place around the world where it will be sold.” The Trailblazer was developed in tandem with the all-new Chevrolet Colorado midsize pickup truck by a highly skilled team of GM engineers, who used their expertise to add passenger vehicle attributes to the midsize truck architecture. Team members lived in Thailand during the development of both vehicles, immersing themselves in the highly competitive truck and SUV market and observing how Thais use their vehicles and the driving conditions they experience. The insights gathered led to the development of Trailblazer models covering two specification levels: the mid-level LT and the range-topping LTZ. Powertrain and Transmission The Trailblazer will be powered by GM’s all-new family of Duramax four-cylinder turbo-diesel engines, featuring 2.5L and 2.8L displacements. The engines incorporate a host of technologies aimed at delivering an optimal balance of power, performance and fuel economy. The range-topping 2.8L variant features a variable-geometry turbocharger for optimal power and efficiency across the engine’s revolution band, and a balancer-shaft for greater smoothness. Both engines feature components designed to last for 240,000 kilometers, enhancing durability and reliability while contributing to lower cost of ownership. A choice of two drivetrains will be offered – a five-speed manual transmission and a six-speed automatic featuring electronic shift-control with clutch-to-clutch capability and an electro-hydraulic control module. The 2.8-liter engine is rated at 180 horsepower (132 kW) and 346 lb.-ft. of torque (470 Nm) with an available six-speed automatic transmission (324 lb.-ft. / 440 Nm with a five-speed manual). The 2.5-liter engine is rated at 150 horsepower (110 kW) and 258 lb.-ft. of torque (350 Nm). Additional powertrains for specific markets will be announced later. Ride and Handling The Trailblazer’s foundation for both its on- and off-road capabilities is its robust body-on-frame architecture. With the support of an independent five-link rear suspension, a feature found in more upmarket, premium SUVs, the Trailblazer displays none of the typical characteristics of conventional body-on-frame SUVs. In fact, it enjoys a combination of best-in-class luxurious ride and responsiveness. The use of coil springs throughout also provides the Trailblazer with better suspension articulation, a useful trait in off-road conditions, in addition to providing passenger car-like handling dynamics on the road. “Our objective when developing the Trailblazer was to achieve ride and handling dynamics that match, and in many cases exceed, those of similar-size crossover vehicles,” said Brad Merkel, GM’s Global Vehicle Line Executive for Midsize Trucks and SUVs. “The Trailblazer will cater to a wide range of driving styles and requirements. It is car-like responsive and premium in its ride quality while offering the off-road capability that our customers demand. That makes it the complete SUV package.” Safety The Trailblazer range boasts an impressive array of active and passive safety features, including: Electronic Stability Control Anti-lock Braking System Hydraulic Brake Assist Traction Control Dynamic Rear Brake Proportioning (first use of Rear Drive Brake in the market) Electronic Brake-force Distribution Panic Brake Assist Engine Drag Control Hill Descent Control Driver and Occupant Air Bag Protection Exterior Design – Sophisticated Muscle The Trailblazer’s bold road presence was created by the GM South America Design Center in São Caetano do Sul, Brazil, and shares a number of design cues with its sister vehicle, the Chevrolet Colorado, in line with Chevrolet’s global design DNA. Exterior highlights include a “body in-wheels out” design that delivers high approach and departure angles. A dramatic power dome in the hood combined with a raised cowl designed to give the Trailblazer a strong, purposeful appearance, while higher-mounted dual projector headlamps are positioned beneath the power dome, emphasizing the visual strength in the face of the vehicle. Also prominent is the contemporary dual-port grille – an unmistakable Chevrolet cue – that carries a three-dimensional grille mesh. It is complemented by polished aluminum decor trims in the fascias, rockers, belt line, tailgate and roof rack. “The Trailblazer delivers a great combination of capabilities, from negotiating off-road trails to daily city driving, that we wanted to convey visually,” said Matt Noone, director of Design for GM do Brasil. “There’s an obvious sense of muscle in the design, but at the same time a very sophisticated appearance in line with the world’s premium SUVs. From every angle, the Trailblazer looks agile and athletic, with a refined finish that makes it a vehicle our customers will aspire to own.” The Trailblazer will be available in seven exterior colors: Summit White, Black Sapphire, Sizzle Red, Auburn Brown, Blue Mountain, Royal Gray and Switchblade Silver. Interior – Spacious, Refined and Flexible Signature Chevrolet cues continue inside, conveying spaciousness, flexibility and an upscale appearance in all control interfaces. With a flowing instrument panel, integrated center stack and signature Chevrolet dual cockpit design, the interior of the all-new Trailblazer combines car-like characteristics with the boldness expected of a true SUV. The seven-passenger interior offers intuitive three-row tumble and/or fold-flat seat versatility and best-in-class spaciousness in the third row. “We made the seating both flexible and intuitive. There’s no need to pull out the owner’s manual to figure out how to configure the seats,” Noone said. “The third row in the all-new Trailblazer isn’t an afterthought. It’s an authentic third row where people can sit comfortably for long trips. Combine that with luxurious interior appointments and it is easy to see why the Trailblazer really is an all-purpose vehicle.” Additional interior details include: Second row 60/40 split seats with single latch forward gravity tumble, fold-flat capability, and six-degree seat-back reclining with integrated folding armrests, incorporated with cup holders; Third row 50/50 split seats with center console storage and fold-flat capability; Flat floor storage from the front row rearward when all seats are folded to provide extreme load capability; Auxiliary power plug with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. Contrasting trim used with the light-colored leather seating and dual-grained surfaces on the instrument panel provide a premium feel. A number of storage compartments are located throughout the interior, including a covered center bin for the concealment of valuable items, and a large dual glovebox. Pricing, full specifications and features will be released later. View full article