William Maley

Ford had a special event in Cologne, Germany tonight where it introduced the next-generation Fiesta. It is clear that Ford didn't want to mess with the Fiesta's exterior design much. The basic shape is the same as the current one, but it appears some of the lines have been softened somewhat. It also looks like slightly larger, but Ford hasn't provided any dimensions to confirm this. Ford has unveiled four versions that will appear in Europe: Titanium: Stylish ST-Line: Sporty looks Vignale: Luxury Active: Crossover-esq Interior-wise, the Fiesta follows suit with the recently-announced EcoSport with new styling, improved materials, and an 8-inch touchscreen that floats above the center stack. Ford brags this new screen helped removed 20 buttons from the center stack (although we're a bit wary about that considering our experience with interfaces that rely heavily on touchscreens). Not much is known about engines for the next Fiesta, but we wouldn't be surprised if it's comprised of three and four-cylinders running on gas and diesel for Europe. We'll likely learn more details about the North American-spec of the Fiesta in the coming months. Expect a launch sometime late next year, possibly around the same time as the EcoSport. Source: Ford Press Release is on Page 2 FORD REVEALS NEXT-GENERATION FIESTA, SMART MOBILITY NEWS AND MORE AT “GO FURTHER” EVENT Ford unveils the next-generation Ford Fiesta in four production variants – upscale Vignale, sporty ST-Line, stylish Titanium and Active crossover – at “Go Further” event in Cologne Company outlines latest findings on life-enhancing qualities of self-driving cars, announces testing of autonomous cars on European roads will begin next year Multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine will be the first three-cylinder engine in the world to enhance fuel efficiency with innovative cylinder deactivation technology Ford GT and heritage Ford GT40 race cars join exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models celebrating Ford’s emphatic win at Le Mans in 1966 and 2016 Ford Motor Company today delivered the global debut of the next-generation Ford Fiesta at a special “Go Further” event in Cologne, Germany. Jim Farley, executive vice president and president, Europe Middle East and Africa, Ford Motor Company, was joined by Mark Fields, president and chief executive officer, Ford Motor Company, to unveil four new production versions of the next generation Fiesta to an audience of 2,500 dealers, employees and media at the company’s Cologne Niehl manufacturing facility – the home of Fiesta. Supported by members of the Ford teams from around Europe who have helped to transform the company, Ford at Go Further also: Revealed new research that underscores the potential for Ford’s self-driving vehicle technologies to improve quality of life for customers and announced testing of autonomous cars on European roads will begin next year Unveiled distinctive and sporty new Ford Transit Custom Black Edition and Sport series vans; as well as the new Ford Edge ST-Line sports utility vehicle (SUV) Announced new cylinder deactivation technology for the the multi-award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost – an industry first for a three-cylinder engine Revealed that the Le Mans-winning 2016 Ford GT and 1966 Ford GT40 race cars will be available as part of the exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models “Four years ago, at the first Go Further event, Ford promised a leaner, smarter business in Europe with great products and new technologies – and we’ve over-delivered through the talent, ingenuity and passion of our people,” Farley said. “We have delivered an all-new SUV line-up; set the performance car segment alight with our Focus RS and Ford Mustang; strengthened the backbone of our business with our award-winning commercial vehicle range; and re-written the rulebook on compact engines with our 1.0-litre EcoBoost – and that’s before we get to the next generation Fiesta.” Not one, not two, but four fun-to-drive Fiestas Ford revealed four distinctive production variants of the next generation Fiesta: the stylish Fiesta Titanium, the Ford Performance-inspired Fiesta ST-Line, the upscale Fiesta Vignale and the Fiesta Active crossover. Featuring an elegant exterior, ergonomic interior that offers a floating high-definition touchscreen and Ford’s sophisticated SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system, Fiesta also will be the first Ford to deliver a premium B&O PLAY Sound System. The expanded Fiesta range will offer more personalisation options to customers than ever before, and enhances the sporty, fun to drive character that has delighted generations of customers. The next-generation Ford Fiesta debuted with a spectacular unveil to music performed by the award-winning DJ Yoda assisted by a “YuMi” collaborative robot. Ford is among first auto makers to develop a new, closely integrated approach to car workers and collaborative robots working together on the assembly line. DJ Yoda and “YuMi” performed a setlist of tracks from 1976 onward in celebration of Fiesta’s 40th anniversary this year. Smart Mobility for improved quality of life A new Ford-commissioned European survey* has revealed that that drivers believe enjoying passing scenery, catching up with family and friends, and reading a book are among the main perceived benefits of travelling by self‑driving car. Ford also announced the company will expand testing of autonomous cars to European roads next year, in addition to extensive testing in the U.S. Ford is currently expanding into both an auto and a mobility company by pursuing emerging opportunities through Ford Smart Mobility – its plan to be a leader in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience data and analytics. The company is committed to making self-driving cars available for millions of people and earlier this year announced plans to triple its autonomous vehicle development fleet making it the largest of all automakers. New Transit Custom Black Edition and expanded Sport series The dynamic new Transit Custom Black Edition van offers four eye-catching colour schemes with contrasting roof, mirror caps, skid plate and side stripes, and unique black 17‑inch alloy wheels. The Transit Custom Sport series van with signature twin bonnet stripes can also now be ordered in a much wider choice of bodystyles, including van, kombi and double-cab-in-van models in both short and long wheelbase versions. The Tourneo Custom people mover can be specified with the same Sport package. These striking new Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom models are powered by the game-changing 170PS Ford EcoBlue diesel engine, and Tourneo Custom is also now offered with new features and technologies including a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, a unique-to-segment rear air suspension system, and attractive new 17-inch alloy wheels. Ford also revealed the new Ford Edge ST-Line SUV – which joins the Ford Fiesta ST-Line, Focus ST-Line, Mondeo ST-Line and Kuga ST-Line models – delivering Ford Performance-inspired styling, high specification and powerful engines. Award-winning 1.0-litre EcoBoost inspires industry-first innovation Ford powertrain engineers have defied industry expectations to deliver cylinder deactivation technology that will improve fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the multi-award-winning 1.0‑litre EcoBoost engine, without sacrificing refinement. Ford’s compact and powerful 1.0-litre EcoBoost will be the first three-cylinder engine in the world to feature cylinder deactivation. The technology can disengage or re-engage the cylinder in 14 milliseconds – 20 times faster than the blink of an eye – and combined with advanced solutions to counteract vibrations, will be imperceptible to drivers in terms of operation and engine performance. Ford GT racers join exclusive LEGO range Ford and The LEGO Group have joined forces to offer the 2016 Ford GT and 1966 Ford GT40 race cars as part of the exclusive LEGO Speed Champions range of models, featuring iconic high performance road and racing cars. The two new buildable models follow in the tyre tracks of the popular Ford Mustang and Ford F‑150 Raptor pickup sets already on sale, and celebrate Ford’s motor racing achievements in the world-famous Le Mans 24 Hours endurance race. Ford made an historic return to Le Mans this year, taking victory with the new Ford GT race car exactly 50 years after recording a 1-2-3 clean sweep at the 1966 race. Ford Chip Ganassi Racing drivers Dirk Müller and the full WEC team – Andy Priaulx, Harry Tincknell, Olivier Pla and Stefan Mücke – represented Ford’s victorious 2016 Le Mans team at Go Further, where both the 1966 and 2016 race cars were on stage. Further special guests joining Ford executives and European team members to celebrate the company’s contribution to sport included Sennan Fielding, a 20-year-old star of the Ford British F4 championship that features single-seat race cars powered by Ford’s 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine. View full article

Only a few months after we got the first spy shots of the upcoming Kia GT on U.S. soil, a leaked photo showing the production GT without any camouflage has come out. Kia-World.net got their hands on this photo which shows a pre-production GT sitting in one of Kia's factory. The design is toned down from the 2011 GT Concept, but the key details are here - similar roofline, vents on the hood, and taillights that extend into the rear fenders. It is expected that the GT will feature a turbocharged 3.3L V6 - introduced in the 2018 Genesis G80 Sport - along with a turbo-four. Kia-World says the GT will be called the K8 in Korea. No word on when Kia will show off the production version. Source: Kia-World.net Image Credit: Kia-World.net View full article

I should have a bit clearer on my comment. If a fix ever gets approved, it will likely be for the newer models. There is a third option, let us not forget. You skip taking the settlement and keep driving the vehicle. I'm not sure many are taking this option.

No, you have the choice of having Volkswagen buying back the vehicle (and then being crushed, which makes no sense to me because isn't that bring more environmental issues?) or you keep the vehicle and wait for Volkswagen to come up with a fix, whenever that may be.

Ever since Mercedes-Benz introduced the new E-Class earlier this year, there has been speculation as to when its sister model, the CLS would be redesigned. A new report says that it will take place in 2018. According to Automotive News, the next-generation CLS is expected to go on sale in the summer of 2018 for the U.S. The model will use Mercedes' Modular Rear Architecture (MRA) that is not only lighter than the platform underpinning the current CLS, but also bring more room. Spy shots reveal that the design of the next CLS will evolve, but will not depart from the current look. There is talk that the new inline-six that Mercedes announced earlier this month could be used for the CLS. The interesting bit about Automotive News' report is that Mercedes could move the CLS name to a new four-door sedan that AMG is currently developing, while the standard model would use the CLE nameplate. Also under speculation is that CLS shooting brake will be dropped when the next-generation model is introduced. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

A record number of consumers are finding themselves 'underwater' when it comes time to trade-in their vehicle - the vehicle is worth less than what they owe on their loan. The Detroit Free Press cites a study done by Edmunds revealing that in the second quarter of this year, 32 percent or nearly one-third of vehicles being traded in fall into the 'underwater' category. This isn't good news for consumers since the difference is tacked on to the new vehicle they had their eye on. To put this in perspective, the previous high was 29.2% in 2006, around the time where the housing market was reaching its cresting point. “There’s been a lot of water building behind this dam for some time because of higher transaction prices, lower down payments and long-term loans," said Greg McBride, chief analyst with Bankrate.com. "It’s problematic for the consumer because there’s no foolproof way to eliminate his financial exposure. If the car gets stolen, is totaled or you get new car envy while you’re upside down then it’s a big problem." In October, the average transaction price of a new car was $34,663 according to Kelly Blue Book. The average length of a new car loan hovers around 68 months according to Experian Automotive. This rises to 72 months if it's a subprime buyer - someone whose credit score is below the low 600s. Not helping matters is the amount of vehicles being returned from leases, flooding the used car marketplace. This increase is causing dealers not willing to spend a lot of money at auction. Source: Detroit Free Press View full article

The Volkswagen CC is getting a bit long in the tooth and will be soon phased out. But there is a successor to the CC in the pipeline known as the Arteon which the German automaker has begun to start teasing. Shown off in a pencil sketch, the Arteon looks very similar to the Sport Coupe Concept GTE shown at last year's Geneva Motor Show - a long front end, stubby rear end, and a coupe-like roofline. Volkswagen says the Arteon will feature a grille that extends into the LED headlights, and frameless windows. As for the name, Volkswagen says Arteon is a combination of 'Art' and 'Eon'. We'll see the production version next March at the Geneva Motor Show with sales following in the summer. Source: Volkswagen Press Release is on Page 2 The Volkswagen Arteon: New Premium Saloon Combines Avant-Garde Design and Dynamic Handling Four-door saloon implements new progressive Volkswagen design language Headlights and Volkswagen emblem merge into a wholly new interpretation of the front section Wolfsburg, 28.11.2016 – Three months ahead of its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen is providing a first look at the fascinating contours of its new premium saloon, the Arteon. The totally new model sits above the Passat and emphasises emotion in the upper mid-class. In addition to a new and emotive outline Volkswagen is also introducing with the Arteon a highly expressive, horizontally accentuated brand look. The bars of the radiator grille extend into the three-dimensional headlights, while LED lighting elements additionally emphasise the striking layout and demonstrate dominance. The four-door saloon impresses both through revolutionary design and great practicality. While the doors' frameless windows reflect the typical stylistic elements of a grand tourer, the top-hinged and wide-opening tailgate provides optimum access to the huge boot. Tobias Sühlmann, Exterior Designer, explains: “At first sight, the Arteon arouses enthusiasm through its expressive design. It then surprises through its practical virtues. This combination is unique." The name Arteon – with the emphasis put on the first syllable – is made up of two component parts: 'Art' describes the saloon's harmonious lines and emotionality. The ending 'eon' identifies it, in the same way as Volkswagen's top model for the Chinese market, the PHIDEON, as a premium model. The new Arteon is being publicly unveiled for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show; its launch will then follow in summer 2017. View full article

Took a couple of days off from writing to try and recharge. Felt great. Trying to get back in the flow of writing after said break is kind of hard.

They'll likely do something similar, but we'll have to wait and see.

Porsche currently has between 1,300 to 1,500 new Cayenne diesels that are just sitting around on dealer lots because of the diesel emission scandal. But when a fix for the diesel engine is given the ok, you'll be able to get one with a hell of a discount. Speaking with Automotive News, Porsche Cars North America CEO Klaus Zellmer said that once the U.S. Federal Court gives the approval for the fix, they will fix the affected Cayennes for both owners and those on dealer lots. Once fixed, the ones sitting on dealer lots will not go onto the new car lot. Instead, you'll find them in the used car section. "Then they're going to be sold as used cars. They will be low-mileage, very attractive used cars, based on the age of the car. There's always a market for any car. You just have to get the price right," said Zellmer. It is unknown how much Porsche plans to discount the Cayenne Diesels that are sitting on dealer lots. We wouldn't be shocked if there is a price cut of $5,000 or more. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

Most luxury SUVs will never go fully off-road. The closest they’ll ever get is driving down a gravel road. But that doesn’t mean some automakers aren’t filling them with the latest off-road for that one person who decides to. Case in point is the LX 570. Lexus’ variant of the Toyota Land Cruiser has been updated inside and out to try and draw buyers away from the usual suspects in the class. For 2016, Lexus has softened the LX’s boxy-shape with some rounded edges and more imposing fenders. The front grille has grown in size to match other Lexus vehicles, though to our eyes it looks more like the head from a Cylon in the 1980’s Battlestar Galactica tv show. The rear features new taillights and a reshaped tailgate. The interior has somehow become more opulent since the last LX we drove. A new dash design features real wood trim and more soft-touch materials. Our tester featured leather upholstery that can be described as red-orange. At first, I thought it was a bit much. But over the week I grew to like the color as it adds some personality. Sitting in either the front or second-row seats of the LX is a pleasant experience. There is plenty of head and legroom for both rows, along with heat. Front seats also get ventilation as standard. The third-row seat is a bit of joke. Getting back there in the first place is quite difficult due to the small gap when you move the second-row forward. Once back there, you find legroom is almost negligible. Finally, the way the third row folds up by side walls and not into the floor hampers cargo space - only offering 41 cubic feet. Lexus’ Remote Touch interface has arrived in the LX this year with a gargantuan 12.3-inch screen sitting on top of the dash. On the plus side, the screen is vibrant and easy to read. The negative is the remote touch controller as you’ll find yourself choosing the wrong function because the controller is very sensitive to inputs. Power comes from 5.7L V8 with 383 horsepower and 403 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic and full-time four-wheel drive system. On paper, the V8 should move the LX 570 with no issue. But a curb weight of 6,000 pounds negates this. Performance can be described as ho-hum as it takes a few ticks longer to get up to speed. At least the eight-speed automatic transmission is a smooth operator and quick to respond when you stab the throttle. The LX 570 is chock full of clever off-road tech such as crawl control, hill start assist, 360-degree camera system, and multi-terrain select system that optimizes various parts of the powertrain and four-wheel drive system. Sadly, we didn’t get the chance to put any of these to the test. No matter the condition of the road, the LX 570 provides a smooth and relaxing ride. Impressive when you consider the LX is riding on a set of 21-inch wheels. Road and wind noise are kept to very acceptable levels. Lexus added a set of adaptive dampers for the 2016 LX and you can adjust the firmness via a knob in the center console - Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The dampers do help reduce body roll in corners, giving you a little bit more confidence. Steering is what you would expect in an SUV, light and numb. This makes the LX a bit cumbersome to move in certain places such as a parking lot. Compared to the last LX 570 we drove, the 2016 model has gone up in price. Base price now stands at $88,880 and our as-tested price comes in at $96,905. This one feels a bit a more worth of price tag that Lexus is asking for, but I still think a Cadillac Escalade or Range Rover are slightly better in terms of value. If you’re planning a trip to Death Valley or the Rocky Mountains and want something that can you there and back, along with providing all of the luxuries, look no further than the LX. Otherwise, there are a number of other luxury SUVs that make more sense if you’re planning to stay on the pavement. Year: 2016 Make: Lexus Model: LX 570 Trim: N/A Engine: 5.7L 32-Valve, DOHC Dual VVT-i V8 Driveline: Eight-Speed Automatic, Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 383 @ 5,600 Torque @ RPM: 403 @ 3,600 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 13/18/15 Curb Weight: 6,000 lbs Location of Manufacture: Aichi, Japn Base Price: $88,880 As Tested Price: $96,905 (Includes $940.00 Destination Charge) Options: Mark Levinson Audio System - $2,150.00 Dual-Screen DVD Rear-Seat Entertainment System - $2,005.00 Luxury Package - $1,190.00 Heads-Up Display - $900.00 Cargo Mat, Net, Wheel Locks, & Key Glove - $250.00 All-Weather Floor Mats - $165.00 Heated Black Shimamoku Steering Wheel - $150.00 Wireless Charger - $75.00 View full article