William Maley

The ABS system has been upgraded.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 7, 2013 Chevrolet's police lineup has a new vehicle joining the force. Meet the 2015 Tahoe PPV which will be offered in both pursuit and special service configurations for police departments. Power will come from 5.3L EcoTec V8 from the standard Tahoe. Output is rated at 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that features "a unique police-service calibration that supports pursuit performance." A first for this generation of the Tahoe PPV is that the pursuit configurations can be ordered with either two-wheel or four-wheel drive. Before, the pursuit configuration could only be ordered with two-wheel drive only. Modifications for police duty include upgraded tires, new brakes, revised ABS system, and suspension. There is also an auxiliary battery to power radios and computers when the vehicle is off. “The Tahoe PPV’s versatility and low lifecycle cost have made it a leader among police agencies. The enhancements to the 2015 model have further refined an already great vehicle to give police officers the performance, speed and safety they need to help keep their communities safe,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president, Fleet and Commercial Sales. Orders for the Chevrolet Tahoe PPV open in January for the two-wheel drive pursuit model and special service four-wheel drive model. The four-wheel drive pursuit model goes on sale in the second quarter. Source: Chevrolet William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe PPV Prepares for Duty Four-wheel-drive pursuit model joins police lineup 2013-11-07 LAS VEGAS – Chevrolet today announced a police patrol vehicle, or PPV, version of the all-new 2015 Tahoe. The Tahoe lineup will expand with the addition of an automatic 4WD pursuit vehicle to the existing 2WD pursuit and 4WD special service models. The new Tahoe PPV offers more power, greater efficiency and enhanced features developed for law enforcement. The 2015 Tahoe PPV features an all-new interior, exterior and EcoTec3 powertrain, while offering the same basic dimensions, sturdy body-on-frame architecture and versatility that made it the best-selling Chevrolet police vehicle for the last several years. The carryover dimensions allow a seamless transfer of law enforcement equipment used in current Tahoe PPVs. The Tahoe will remain the largest police vehicle on the market designed with driver comfort in mind. It has additional space in the rear seat, which provides more leg room and easier access to individuals and equipment in the back seat. “The Tahoe PPV’s versatility and low lifecycle cost have made it a leader among police agencies,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president, Fleet and Commercial Sales. “The enhancements to the 2015 model have further refined an already great vehicle to give police officers the performance, speed and safety they need to help keep their communities safe.” The Tahoe PPV is used today by state and local municipalities and federal government officials for patrol, first response, tactical, HAZMAT, Border Patrol and K9. More power and greater efficiency The Tahoe PPV’s standard EcoTec3 5.3L V-8 features state-of-the-art technologies, including direct injection, cylinder deactivation, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system, designed to make the most of power, torque and efficiency across a broad range of operating conditions. With the EcoTec3 powertrain, the 2015 Tahoe PPV offers more power, 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque and improved acceleration. The engine is mated to a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission with a unique police-service calibration that supports pursuit performance. Designed for law enforcement use The 2015 Tahoe PPV was developed to deliver a more controlled ride with improved steering and braking responsiveness compared to previous models. A strong, fully boxed, perimeter frame supports payload and trailering capability that body-frame-integral SUVs can’t match. With the addition of electric power steering, the Tahoe has precisely tuned responsiveness needed in pursuit situations. The increased payload allows law enforcement to carry all equipment that they may need for any job. Still the only body-on-frame full-size SUV designed for the rigors of police work, the Tahoe offers full-pursuit capability. The addition of more high-strength steel, increased body stiffness, suspension improvements and a wider track for increased stability helps the 2015 Tahoe PPV offers improved ride and handling designed for pursuit. The Tahoe has a standard 730-CCA Auxiliary Battery, which allows officers to power their equipment, including radios, video cameras and laptops, when the vehicle is not running, avoiding drain on the primary vehicle battery. The vehicle also has a 110V power outlet and USB input. Key components remain that contribute to the Tahoe PPV’s consistent performance at police vehicle testing: V-rated, P265/60R17 Goodyear RSA tires, mounted on 17-inch steel wheels Heavy-duty four-wheel-disc brakes with ABS, tuned for police driving StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with Proactive Roll Avoidance and traction control A fully integrated electrical system makes it easier to upfit police-specific equipment Safe and comfortable The redesigned interior gives officers 360 degrees of safety with new standard features, including rear park assist, backup camera and optional adjustable pedals, which personalize the vehicle to each driver. An optional Driver Alert Package includes lane departure warning, forward collision alert and Chevrolet’s Safety Alert seat. Increased use of high-strength steel contributes to a safer, quieter ride. New inlaid doors help make it the quietest Tahoe and Tahoe PPV ever. The quiet environment decreases unnecessary distractions, allows police officers to remain focused on the road and can help reduce fatigue after long shifts. OnStar, the leading provider of connected safety, security and mobility solutions and advanced information technology, is now standard on the Tahoe PPV, OnStar provides automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle slowdown and recovery. The vehicle also comes standard with Bluetooth, which allows officers to stay connected safely and talk hands-free while on the road. The security of the Tahoe PPV has enhanced security features, including new door locks, side-milled keys and a steering column lock. The new Tahoe will be built at GM’s Arlington, Texas assembly plant. The 2WD pursuit and 4WD special service models will be available for order in the first quarter and the 4WD pursuit vehicle in the second quarter of 2014. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 7, 2013 Toyota has announced that the FJ Cruiser will be heading into the sunset after the 2014 model year. But before it does that, Toyota has introduced a special edition of the FJ Cruiser called the Ultimate Edition. The Ultimate Edition begins with a “Heritage Blue” paint job and white painted front grille surround as an homage to the iconic FJ40 Land Cruiser. Under the skin lies a number of parts from Toyota Racing Development (TRD) including an off-road suspension, Bilstein shocks with remote reservoirs, beefier front skid plate, and sixteen-inch simulated beadlock wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich off-road tires. Toyota isn't saying how much the FJ Cruiser Ultimate Edition will cost, only saying that it would be going on sale in February and that only 2,500 will be built. Source: Toyota William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 November 05, 2013 Happy Trails, FJ Cruiser Toyota Bids Farewell to an Off-Road Icon with Ultimate Edition LAS VEGAS, Nov. 5, 2013 -- It’s finally here…and then it’s gone. Toyota today unveiled the 2014 FJ Cruiser Trail Teams Ultimate Edition at a press conference held at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show. The 2014 Trail Teams Ultimate Edition is a commemorative final special edition of the FJ Cruiser. It is the toughest and most capable FJ ever and pays tribute to the iconic vehicle that will end its production run at the conclusion of the 2014 model year. With limited production, only 2,500 will be built. The FJ Ultimate Edition pays tribute to the iconic Land Cruiser FJ40 of the 1960’s, from which the FJ Cruiser draws its rugged DNA, inspiration and design. A unique white painted front grille surround and newly developed “Heritage Blue” paint are reminiscent of the classic FJ40. Designed and built for rugged off-roading, the Ultimate Edition raises the bar one more time for off-road capability with all new performance upgrades. A race-inspired Toyota Racing Development (TRD) off-road suspension was developed and meticulously tuned for the Ultimate Edition. The new suspension includes TRD Bilstein race shocks with increased damping, articulation and high speed stability. The front shock assemblies are 66mm with new TRD race coil springs, which raise the front of the FJ just enough to level out the stance and improve the approach angle. The rear shocks are 50mm and are equipped with remote reservoirs to decrease damping fade. The list of new TRD goodies doesn’t stop there. A newly developed TRD front skid plate, made from one-quarter-inch thick aluminum plate comes standard on the Ultimate Edition. The TRD stamped front skid plate not only looks great, but improves approach angle and provides an increased level of underbody protection. TRD 16-inch bead lock wheels with BF Goodrich A/T KO tires, rock rails and roof rack complete the exterior. The Ultimate Edition FJ Cruiser is only available in 4x4 and comes standard with Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), Crawl Control (CRAWL available with automatic transmission only), Vehicle Skid Control (VSC) with off switch and electronically controlled locking rear differential. In addition, the Toyota Star Safety System is standard. Farewell to an Icon Chiseled from nearly a half-century tradition of tough off-road performance provided by the legendary FJ40, the original 4Runner, and 4x4 compact pickups, the FJ Cruiser was developed as a basic, capable and affordable off-roader aimed specifically at serious off-roaders looking to push the limits. Hailed by consumers and critics alike, the FJ Cruiser became an instant classic. The final model year 2014 FJ Cruiser is on sale now. The Trail Teams Ultimate Edition is scheduled to roll into dealerships in February 2014, kicking off a fond farewell to a Toyota original. With sales of more than 200,000 units sold since 2006, the FJ rides into the sunset leaving lasting memories of one of the most iconic vehicles in Toyota’s rich SUV history. FJ CRUISER ULTIMATE EDITION TRAIL TEAMS KEY FEATURES Performance and Exterior Features Unique white front grille surround and exclusive Monotone “Heritage Blue” paint Blacked out bumpers, exterior mirrors and door handles All-new TRD heavy duty one-quarter-inch thick aluminum front skid plate Sew Specially-developed off-road tuned TRD Bilstein front suspension and rear Bilstein shocks with remote reservoir Exterior FJ Trail Teams Badge Roof rack Rock rails TRD 16-inch Gunmetal bead lock wheels with BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A KO tires Rear wiper Interior Convenience Features Stainless steel FJ Cruiser Ultimate Edition dash plaque Power outside mirrors with illuminated markers Privacy glass on rear side, quarter and rear door windows Cruise Control Leather-trimmed steering wheel Floating-ball Multi-information Display with inclinometer, Compass and outside temperature Remote keyless entry system Auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated backup camera display One 115V/400W AC power outlet View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 6, 2013 Here is our first official shot of the new Jaguar F-Type Coupe that will debut at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show in a few weeks time. The F-Type Coupe looks very much like the C-X16 Concept shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show back in 2011. We can't tell much from this ariel shot aside from the F-Type coming with a glass roof, possibly an option. We'll have more info on the new member of the F-Type family in a few weeks time. Source: Jaguar William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 F-TYPE COUPE TO MAKE DYNAMIC DEBUT IN LOS ANGELES • Jaguar to produce coupe version of breakthrough new F-TYPE sports car • F-TYPE Coupe to make its global debuts at L.A. and Tokyo Motor Shows (MAHWAH, N.J.) – November 5, 2013 –The Jaguar F-TYPE Coupe will make its global debut on November 19 at a Los Angeles VIP customer and media event, the eve of the Los Angeles Auto Show, and on the show floor on November 20 at the Los Angeles and Tokyo Motor Shows. The all-aluminum F-TYPE Coupe range will deliver in production form the uncompromised design vision of the Jaguar C-X16 concept, and will complement the existing F-TYPE Convertible, winner of the 2013 'World Car Design of the Year' award. The F-TYPE Coupe will go on sale in North America in spring 2014. Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar, said, "The excitement generated when we revealed the C-X16 concept was terrific; so to now be on the cusp of what I can assure you will be a drama-filled reveal event in Los Angeles for F-TYPE Coupe is a very significant moment." "We've been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to the F-TYPE Convertible, but for me the purity of creating a sports Coupe is a uniquely satisfying process – and I know that both visually and dynamically, F-TYPE Coupe raises the bar yet again." View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 6, 2013 The SEMA Show isn't known for the introduction of new models, but Honda decided to change that by introducing the refreshed 2014 Civic Coupe and Civic Si Coupe yesterday. The 2014 Civic Coupe gets a more aggressive front end treatment that features a new grille treatment, revised bumper, a new hood, and new fenders. Around back are a new bumper and set of taillights. No mention if the interior of the 2014 model is the same or has been changed. For the 2014 Si Coupe, Honda fits a unique bumper to make it stand out and a set of eighteen-inch wheels. Around back is a larger decklid spoiler and new bumper with rear diffuser. The 2.4L i-VTEC engine has been given a bit of massage to eek out another four horsepower and four pound-feet of torque to 205 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. Honda says more details will be revealed at the L.A. Auto Show. Source: Honda William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 2014 Honda Civic Coupe Ignites Opening Day of 2013 SEMA Show - 2014 Civic Coupe features sportier exterior styling - 2014 Civic Si boosts fun-to-drive performance with more horsepower - Launch of Honda Performance Development Street Performance Accessory lineup beginning with CR-Z - 133-mph Honda "Mean Mower" joins stock and modified cars and motorcycles on display A significantly updated 2014 Honda Civic Coupe made its world debut today at the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show, offering a first look at new exterior styling updates to America's best-selling1 compact car. Honda also announced that the performance-oriented Civic Si will benefit from increased power and larger wheels and tires, making both the two- and four-door varieties even more fun to drive. Honda also surprised performance enthusiasts by announcing plans to begin sales of street-oriented performance parts developed by Honda Performance Development, Inc. (HPD), Honda's U.S.-based race engineering company, starting with a full range of performance accessories for the CR-Z sport hybrid coupe that go on-sale at Honda dealerships today. A power-boosting CR-Z supercharger package will follow in the spring of 2014. In the longer term, HPD engineers are also investigating other models and platforms in order to expand Honda's street performance product line. "With the further advancement of the 2014 Civic Coupe and Si models and an exciting path forward for performance parts drawing on our racing experience we are making a statement about our commitment to the fun to drive character of the Honda brand", said John Mendel, executive vice president auto sales for American Honda Motor Co., Inc. The 2014 Civic Coupe and Coupe Si Following a major refresh of Civic Sedan styling for 2013, Honda turns its attention to the Civic Coupe and Coupe Si, implementing a host of exterior design changes that include a more aggressive grille, hood, front fenders and headlight design. Additional Coupe exterior changes include new taillight lenses, sportier front and rear bumpers, new side mirrors and new wheel designs. The Civic Si Coupe benefits from the same styling enhancements as the standard Civic Coupe but adds Si-exclusive design cues, including a unique lower front bumper garnish, larger rear decklid spoiler, a distinctive front spoiler and sporty rear air diffuser. The Civic Si Sedan picks up on these same cues, and both the Si Coupe and Si Sedan get larger, 18-inch (+1 inch) wheels and tires with new wheel designs. The performance-tuned Civic Si Coupe and Si Sedan also get a retuned exhaust system that helps boost peak output to 205 horsepower2 (+4 horsepower) and 174 lb-ft of torque3 (+4 ft-lb). More details about the full 2014 Civic lineup will be made available at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 6, 2013 Chrysler has a habit of building a car that can cause everyone to go gaga and have the desire to own one. In the early 2000s, it was the PT Cruiser that caused many people to go crazy with lust. Then in 2005, lighting stuck once again with the introduction of the 300. Its bold styling and available HEMI V8 struck a chord with people. Here was a vehicle that looked like a million bucks, but was very much attainable. However the 300 lost it's exclusiveness and became old news. But a couple years ago, Chrysler under the guiding hand of Fiat launched a new 300. The new model was leaner and possibly a little meaner as well. But the question for the new 300 is this; can it be the attainable dream car like the previous model? I had a 2013 300S for a week to find out. The first-generation 300 received many praises for its very distinctive exterior design. That left Chrysler's designers in a tough spot with designing the next-generation model. Do they stick with what worked for the 300 and make minor changes or start anew? They went with the former and somehow made the new model look more exclusive. Park an old and new 300 and you can tell there's a family resemblance between them. The difference between the old and new is that new 300 features a smoother front and rear end, bolder wheel wells, and a set of LEDs arranged in a C-shape in the headlights. S models take the 300's design further by adding dark grey trim pieces and twenty-inch wheels with black paint on the wheel pockets. These additions really make the 300S stand out.One of the biggest complaints with the last 300 was the use of questionable materials in the interior. The outside looked great, but was let down by an interior that could be described as disappointing. The new model fixes that by a wide margin. Chrysler made the 300S look and feel like a more expensive car by using better materials such as soft-touch materials along the dash and door panels, brushed metal trim, and leather on the steering wheel and seats. Controls felt solid and build quality was excellent. The only item I would change in the 300S' interior is switching out the black seats for the optional red ones. I thought the red seats would be somewhat garish. But after spending a week in what felt like complete darkness thanks to black leather on the seats and black dashboard, the red leather would provide some contrast. As for comfort, the driver and passenger get enveloped in supportive leather seats with power adjustments and heat. Taking a quick trip up to Mid-Michigan for the day, I found that I was very comfortable and had no pain in my back. The back seat provides an adequate amount of head and legroom. However, there is a feeling of claustrophobia thanks to a high beltline and a small greenhouse. A large eight-inch touchscreen sits on top of the center stack and features Chrysler's UConnect infotainment system. UConnect controls the radio, climate, navigation, and number of other functions in the 300. This system is has to be one the most user-friendly infotainment system I have used thanks to large touch points and switching from one function to another very quickly. One point of contention with UConnect is the Garmin navigation system. Some complain that it looks like MyFirstNavigation, but I would argue that its easier to use than fair number of competitors. Sure it's simplistic, but the system gets the job done.Now that I have talked about the show in 300S, Let us dive into what makes this go on the next page. The 300 comes with the choice of a V6 or the HEMI V8. In this particular 300S, it was equipped with Chrysler's 3.6L Pentastar V6 that produces 300 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque, up from the standard 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This is thanks to a sport-tuned exhaust and cold-air induction system. An eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF gets the power to the rear wheels. The 3.6L V6 is a very strong engine whether you're leaving a stop or needing to make a pass. There always seems to be enough power ready at your command. What impressed me more was the eight-speed automatic. This transmission plays very well with the V6, keeping it in the zone of power with no sweat. Shifts were unobtrusive and mostly quick when downshifting. I do wish the upshifts were a little bit faster when I hit the go pedal though.The eight-speed automatic also has one of oddest and confusing gear selectors on the market today. It's supposed to work like your standard gear selector where you pull back to go into reverse or drive and push forward to go into park. But I never could seem to get into the gear I wanted on the first try. I would figure out that there are notches when you push or pull the selector, which helped out somewhat. I was left wondering why Chrysler thought this was a good idea. Maybe with a refresh or next-generation, a rotary knob will take the place. Fuel economy wise, the 3.6L is rated at 19 City/31 Highway/23 Combined. During my week, I saw an average of 25.3 MPG. Chrysler found a nice midpoint with comfort and sport with the 300S' ride. We'll start with the comfort. The suspension tuning and long-wheelbase make any road almost feel smooth, even with the standard twenty-inch wheels on the S model. Wind and road noise hardly make an appearance as well. As for the sport, Chrysler fits a touring suspension which helps reduce body roll. Steering has a nice feel and weight when being pushed. However, the large size of the 300S makes it a bit of a handful when being driven hard.In every facet, Chrysler has improved the 300. Under the familiar but somehow new body lies a number of major changes that make new model not only a standout in the Chrysler family, but in the entire marketplace. Also considering the as-tested price of $37,925 makes the 300S a bit of bargain. The affordable dream car is back with a vengeance. Disclaimer: Chrysler Provided the 300S, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas. Year: 2013 Make: Chrysler Model: 300 Trim: S Engine: 3.6L DOHC 24-Valve V6 Driveline: Rear-Wheel Drive, Eight-Speed Automatic Horsepower @ RPM: 300 @ 6350 Torque @ RPM: 264 @ 4,800 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 19/31/23 Curb Weight: 4,029 lbs Location of Manufacture: Brampton, Ontario Base Price: $33,145 As Tested Price: $37,925 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: SafetyTec - $1,995.00 UConnect 8.4N AM/FM/Sat/Nav - $995.00 Light Group - $795.00 William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article