William Maley

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 24, 2012 It’s hard to believe the current Range Rover has been on sale since 2003. The car has been getting minor changes during its almost ten year life. However, Land Rover is busy prepping the next generation Range Rover and new spy shots show how much work is going into it. The next Range Rover looks to keep the shape of the current one, albeit a bit longer and a lower roofline. The big news for the next Range Rover lies in its platform. The new Range will ride on a all-new aluminium monocoque platform, first seen on the Jaguar XJ. The move will help drop the weight of the new Range Rover by about 881 lbs. Powertrains are unknown at the moment, but expect the naturally-aspirated and supercharged V8s in the current model to carry over and hybrid option to follow. Source: Autocar View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 24, 2012 A few weeks ago, Cadillac debuted their ad for the 2012 Super Bowl. The ad features the new ATS sedan and some footage of it undergoing testing at the Nurburgring. The ad ends with this line, “So if anyone tells you that Cadillac can’t beat the world’s best, just tell them to go to green hell and see for themselves.” The ad also calls out one of the ‘world’s best’, the BMW 3-Series. A bit audacious to call out the best selling compact luxury car in your ads. But on paper, the ATS makes a good case; three different engine choices (2.5L, 2.0T, 3.6L DI V6), two transmissions, a low curb weight, the list goes on. But there is one item that isn’t talked about. One item that the ‘world’s best’ (i.e. the Germans) have that Cadillac doesn’t; perception. Ask someone what they think about the German automakers and the response is pretty high. The person thinks of the Germans as building high quality vehicles, fun to drive, and great experience to buy and own. Ask for their thoughts on Cadillac and it’s a complete 180. The person thinks of Cadillac as building so-so quality vehicles, a floaty ride that would grandparents love, and a meager experience to buy and own. GM has been hard at work trying to change the perception and position Cadillac as a world beater since 2003, when the CTS, SRX, and XLR were introduced. Cadillac has gone more drastic with their designs, worked on improving the quality of their vehicles, tuned the driving dynamics, introduced a performance sub-brand, made the dealer experience better, and so on. But GM has been at this for only a bit. The Germans have been working on this for a long time. Look at the history of the German luxury compact sedan class; the BMW 3-Series has 33 years, while the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class both have 18 years. The ATS is coming right of the gate and its predecessor, the CTS stands at 9 years. GM is on the right track with Cadillac of rebuilding and positioning, but now isn’t the time to start calling out your competitors in ads. The ATS might look good on paper and in the ads, but will it mean people will go out and try the Cadillac? Possibly, but only in a minuscule amount. Right now, Cadillac is on its third step of rebuilding/repositioning with the new ATS, upcoming XTS, and redesigned CTS in the works. What Cadillac should be do is stop talking about the completion. Instead start talking about what makes a Cadillac a Cadillac. Talk about CUE, Magnetic Ride Control, the 2.0L Turbo, the engineering that went into it, so on and so forth. But also, keep working on those improvements. And before you know it, you can say we can take on the world’s best, and no one would bat an eye at it. View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 24, 2012 Lexus is trying to gain back the crown of being the best selling luxury brand in the U.S. Their plan includes nine new models, including the new GS, three F-Sport models, and new RX. But they're saying no to the idea of an entry-level luxury car, like the upcoming Acura ILX. "I don't think [entry-luxury] is a focus of ours right now. Other manufacturers have a reason for going there. Some might be customer demand; some might be government regulation," said Brian Smith, marketing vice president. Instead, Lexus will focus on other products, like the GS. We've learned over the years one of the worst things for a great launch is trickling out the product. And in this case, the remaining inventory of the previous-generation [GS] is virtually gone. There's no reason to worry about a sell-down. We just opened up the factory to produce as much as possible. We're probably going to get well over 1,000 [cars] retailed this month." Moving on from the GS, Lexus will focus on expanding existing product lines to suit the needs of its customers. One of those lines could be the RX. "There is room for that type of thing, [but] nothing that we can announce right now. I would love to see the RX family grow. We don't have specifics, but it's a very capable vehicle, and it's a broad section of the market." Source: Kicking Tires View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 23, 2012 The Fiat 500. A car that was given an ambitious sales goal of 50,000 vehicles during its first year and missed by a long shot - only selling 17,945 vehicles between March and December of 2011. Everyone, including yours truly has said that's a failure. But, some new analysis from Polk says the 17,945 isn't really a failure. Polk compared the 500 to other three-door subcompacts and found out the 500 captured 25.71% of the market. That puts it behind the Mini Copper, but well ahead the Hyundai Accent and Toyota Yaris. Still, Polk points out that three-doors only make up 16% of the subcompact market. Source: Polk View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 23, 2012 Ford's 1.0L three-cylinder EcoBoost is an interesting engine. Using a turbocharger and some other tech, the engine produces an amazing 123 HP. But there could be more power lying in that engine. Autocar spoke with the vehicle line director for the Focus, Gunnar Herrmann. They asked Herrmann if more power could be made with the 1.0L EcoBoost. “It’s a stretch, but possible,” said Herrmann. Rumor has it Ford is testing a 1.0L EcoBoost with an electric supercharger taking the place of the small turbo and a turbo from the 1.6L EcoBoost. Power is said to be 177 HP. This version is expected to sit between the base Focus and the hot ST. Source: Autocar View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 23, 2012 Even though Bentley has introduced a new 4.0L twin-turbo V8 engine, that will not stop development of W12 engine. Ralf Frech, Bentley’s technical director told What Car? the W12 will be getting further improvements. “The W12 can have the same improvements as the new V8,” said Frech. Frech added the engine could see a rise from its current 567 HP to 600. The bump in power would be joined by an increase in fuel economy. Under consideration is a eight-speed automatic. Frech also revealed the company was looking towards hybrids. “We are looking at the possibility of a hybrid, particularly a plug-in hybrid, but we are waiting for the next generation of technologies because none of the current solutions work,” he said. Source: What Car? View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 22, 2012 This is going to be a bit of stretch, so bear that in mind. Hot Wheels showed off a poster showing off their 2012 lineup. One of those vehicles is reportedly the new 2013 Viper in diecast 1/43 scale. Squint and you can make out a long aggressive hood with a vent, gaping lower fascia, and a double-bubble roof. Is this the new Viper or is it a bunch of phooey? We will found out soon. Source: T-Hunted via Autoblog View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 22, 2012 Question: What do GM's European arm and Peugeot-Citroën have in common? The answer; both are in dire financial straits and are trying to turn their fortunes around. GM's European arm announced a $562 million loss in 2011. Meanwhile, Peugeot-Citroën's announced a loss of $121 million in 2011 and has cut 6,000 jobs. It seems fitting then that GM and Peugeot-Citroën are talking about an alliance. Reuters is reporting that the two are in talks about a possible alliance. The alliance would have Opel/Vauxhall and Peugeot-Citroën cooperating on projects ranging from developing engines and transmissions to complete models that each brand could sell. No shares for either company would change hands. French newspaper La Tribune says the talks have been going on for the past few months and is entering the final stage of negotiations. When asked for comment, GM spokesman Johan Willems said, "We routinely talk with others in the industry, but have no comment beyond that." PSA, Peugeot & Citroën's parent company said in a statement, "In the context of its globalization strategy and improving its operational performance, PSA Peugeot Citroen looks at potential cooperations and alliances, There can be no certainty at this stage that these discussions will result in any agreement." Source: Reuters, Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

William Maley Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com February 22, 2012 Ford is using next month's Geneva Motor Show to show off a passenger van concept. Called the Tourneo Custom concept, this previews the next generation Transit van. Before we go any further, we would like to point out this isn't the Transit we're getting in North America. The Tourneo Custom concept is previewing the next generation of front-wheel-drive, passenger-friendly Transit for Europe and other world markets. The version for North America will based off of the heavy-duty, rear-wheel-drive Transit that's set to debut later this year. Now with that cleared up, lets get back to the Tourneo. The Tourneo exhibits many cues of Ford's kinect design language. The front end has trapezoidal grill and large, tear-drop headlamp housings. Step inside the Tourneo and you'll notice a eight-seat configuration trimmed in leather and cloth, SYNC, and a dash layout similar to the Focus and Fiesta. Engines will range from 100, to 125, to 155 horsepower and mated exclusively to a six-speed manual transmission. Press Release is on Page 2 Dynamic Ford Tourneo Custom Concept Makes Global Debut at 2012 Geneva Motor Show Ford Tourneo Custom Concept makes global debut at Geneva Motor Show to showcase a dramatic new look and preview introduction of an all-new family of one-ton Ford Transit people movers and commercial vehicles for Europe and Asia The dynamic and contemporary Tourneo Custom Concept adopts the same Kinetic Design language as Ford's latest passenger cars to take a fresh approach to space, style and functionality and target a new generation of Tourneo customers Stylish eight-seat concept brings new energy to personal use, lifestyle and executive shuttle sectors; car-like dynamics and comfort brought together through a driver-focused cockpit and all-new luxurious interior design Multi-adjustable and removable rear seating can be adapted for business or leisure pursuits while innovative technologies include SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with Emergency Assistance Concept features state-of-the-art driver assist systems, and latest Ford low-CO2 ECOnetic Technologies help target best-in-class fuel economy COLOGNE, Germany, Feb. 23, 2012 – The dynamic new Ford Tourneo Custom Concept will make its global debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, bringing a new level of energy and style to the European personal use vehicle segment. Previewing the introduction of a completely new range of people movers, with commercial vehicles to follow, the Tourneo Custom Concept showcases a dramatic new look that will appeal to customers seeking style, functionality and space. "One look at the Tourneo Custom Concept is enough to tell you that it will inject an exciting new spirit into the personal use segment," said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe. "Our forthcoming new range gives us the opportunity to appeal to new customers with a fresh new direction, and we have seized that opportunity with both hands. "We are excited to present this significant new concept in Geneva. The Tourneo Custom's car-like qualities will be appreciated by a broad range of business and leisure customers, and this is a fitting venue to present the vehicle for the first time." The Tourneo Custom Concept will preview of a host of exciting new features, which give the vehicle strong car-like appeal. These include an all-new interior design with driver-focused cockpit, and a luxurious, fully trimmed cabin which has the ambience and high-quality materials of a modern multi-seat saloon car. The Concept also showcases a number of smart innovations including multi-adjustable and removable rear seating, advanced SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system with Emergency Assistance feature, and the latest Ford low-CO2 ECOnetic Technologies. Dramatic new design language The Tourneo Custom Concept communicates very clearly a dramatic new design direction for Ford's commercial vehicle range, which will be introduced later in 2012. With its advanced, streamlined appearance, the concept vehicle embodies the same dynamic character as Ford's Kinetic Design passenger cars – generating the strong sense of movement, even when the vehicle is standing still. "We set out to create a design with clean, futuristic lines and with a real sense of occasion," explained Paul Campbell, chief designer, Ford of Europe. "With its sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line and flush glazing, the Tourneo Custom Concept brings something fresh and exciting to this class of people mover. "By applying the latest Kinetic Design principles, the design has a completely new style and drama," he added. Signature Kinetic Design features helps give the Tourneo Custom Concept its unique character, including the bold trapezoidal grille, strong and muscular shoulder line, prominent wheel lips and window lines with the distinctive kick at the rear. The concept is further enhanced by a number of stylish details from the chrome grille surround and striking LED lighting on the front-end, to the dynamic looks of the 18-inch alloy wheels. Luxurious car-like interior Bringing a whole new level of car-like style and sophistication to the personal use segment, the Tourneo Custom Concept features an all-new interior design. "We wanted to give the driver, and the rear seat passengers, an interior which has the same standards of design and quality they would experience in a modern multi-seat saloon car, but with ample space for people and luggage" explained Campbell. "From its modern, driver-focused cockpit, to the luxurious rear cabin finished in leather, the Tourneo Custom Concept shows that interiors in this class can be both functional and attractive." The stylish, sculpted instrument panel is orientated around the driver, and features technologies which are closely-related to those in Ford's car range. Like the exterior, the interior follows the same Kinetic Design approach as the latest passenger cars, such as in the taut wing-like section of the upper instrument panel. Occupants in the rear are surrounded by space and luxury, with a fully-trimmed cabin which incorporates bold Kinetic Design detailing on the side panels which are linked to the graphical themes from the front. The rear seats themselves are a completely new design, which can be easily folded into multiple configurations, or removed completely. This enables the interior to be easily tailored to suit business or leisure pursuits. In the concept vehicle, the luxurious and spacious feel of the interior is further enhanced by an exclusive two-tone colour scheme, featuring hand-stitched leather seats with attractive cloth inserts. Smart New Features The Tourneo Custom Concept highlights that customers in the personal use market can expect the same high levels of technology which are enjoyed by Ford car drivers. Among the smart, innovative features included on the concept are: ECOnetic Technologies – Ford's advanced low-CO2 features including Auto-Start-Stop and Smart Regenerative Charging SYNC voice-activated, in-car connectivity system – enables mobile phones and music players to be connected to the vehicle, and controlled using voice control Emergency Assistance – enabled by SYNC, this new feature is designed to assist occupants to contact the Emergency Services in the event of an accident, providing vehicle location information Advanced restraint system – including driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags Rear-view camera – integrated into the rear view mirror Lane Departure Warning and Driver Alert – latest driver assistance features to alert the driver if the system detects the vehicle is inadvertently drifting out of the lane, or the driver is becoming tired behind the wheel To ensure that this enhanced specification is complemented by outstanding performance and fuel economy, the concept is powered by a further improved 155 PS version of Ford's 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine family. The Tourneo Custom Concept is based on a new Ford global platform which has been engineered to deliver car-like dynamics, including agile, responsive handling, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels. "Customers in the personal use market are demanding much higher levels of technology, performance and handling," said Barry Gale, chief engineer, Ford of Europe. "This concept shows that we are taking those demands very seriously, and that customers can expect a rewarding and car-like driving experience." New Generation of Ford Commercial Vehicles The debut of the Tourneo Custom Concept has added significance in heralding the arrival of a completely new generation of Ford commercial vehicles. The full range of models will be revealed during 2012. Kicking off this major series of introductions, the Tourneo Custom Concept itself highlights a new family of Ford people movers and one-tonne vans which will be launched in Europe and other global markets, but will not be sold in North America. "The imminent arrival of an all-new people mover and van is an exciting moment for us," said Gale. "The new model gives us plenty to talk about, and we look forward to sharing more details very soon." This new range will be powered by enhanced versions of the new 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, which was initially introduced in 2011; with Auto-Stop-Start technology fitted as standard, Ford is targeting best-in-class fuel economy. Three power ratings will be available: 100 PS, 125 PS and 155 PS. All versions are paired with a six-speed manual transmission and feature front-wheel drive. The model range will include a wide choice of body styles and two wheelbases (SWB and LWB) allowing for extra luggage or goods capability where required. Ford will be presenting larger and higher payload Transits later in 2012. These models will be sold globally, including North America, and will also feature rear-wheel-drive. "2012 is a tremendously significant year for Ford as we begin the roll-out of a completely new range of commercial vehicles," said Odell. "Our market-leading commercials have established a tremendous reputation for value and durability, and our new range is destined to raise this to a new level." View full article