William Maley

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 12, 2013 Mazda has been know to be a bit different than other automakers. Case in point is their SKYACTIV Technologies inative. Instead of following most automakers with hybrids and electric vehicles, Mazda is extracting as much efficiency as they can from standard gas and diesel engines, and doing some very clever enginnering. In fact Mazda says for the time being, they are going to pass on hybrids and electrics. "While downsizing can be an effective method for reducing emissions, adding an electric boost often merely offsets the loss in power from reduced displacement. We want to make sure our engines are optimally designed, to make better effect of the benefits of combined battery power," said a Mazda R&D Spokesperson to AOL Cars UK. As for electrics? "We've created a full EV version of the Mazda2, which we showcased mainly to prove wrong those who said we couldn't do it. In fact creating an electric car isn't that difficult, but in terms of customer appeal and uptake, we don't foresee the time being right before 2020," said Peter Allibon, sales director of Mazda UK. Source: AOL Cars UK 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 12, 2013 A new report from Auto Express says the long rumored Jaguar SUV is apparently in the advanced design stages. Sources tell the magazine the SUV's design will blend lines of a Jaguar sedan and a high-riding SUV. The SUV will inlcude such design cues as asteeply raked front and rear windshield, short overhangs, and a blacked-out C-pillar. Power will come from two different four-cylinders (2.0L turbocharged and a 2.2 turbodiesel) and a 3.0L supercharged V6. A ZF eight-speed automatic will send the power to either the rear or all four wheels. The new SUV will use a shortened version of the XJ’s all-aluminum platform to keep weight and costs down. The new SUV, likely wearing the XQ nameplate will go on sale in 2015. Source: Auto Express 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

Now you got wanting to blog pieces again.. Have some ideas that I need to take some time and begin writing. Also, I have more reviews on the way.. and a upcoming first drive.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 11, 2013 A new report from Reuters cites France's La Tribune story that General Motors is in talks with PSA Peugeot-Citroën about possibly selling vans in the United States. The report doesn't say which vans are in consideration, only saying that van would be sold under ofne of GM's brand, most likely Chevrolet. This news doesn't come as a surprise. GM currently has some of the oldest full-size vans on the marketplace and with fresh models coming in from Europe, GM could use all the help they can get. Also, GM recently struck a deal with Nissan to sell the NV200 as the Chevrolet City Express. Source: Reuters 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 11, 2013 Automakers seem to be having a tough go with electric vehicles. The only way it seems automakers are able to move their stockpile is by drastically cutting the price. We've seen it with the Nissan Leaf which saw it sales jump General Motors hasn't gone down that same route with the Volt, but is offering a number of discounts. Ford looks to be doing the former option with the Focus EV. The Detroit News reports that for the 2014 Focus EV will see a $4,000 price drop. That brings the base down from $39,200 to $35,200. While that should help out the Focus EV, that's still $6,000 more than the base Nissan Leaf. Ford said in a statement the lower price “keeps us competitive in the marketplace.” The price slash is a bit of a surprise since last month, Nancy Gioia, Ford’s director of global electrification said they would not follow in the footsteps of compeitors doing a price cut. “We’re not going to chase down to the lowest price possible — that doesn’t make sense to erode the brand image or the true value of the product,” Gioia said. Source: The Detroit News 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 10, 2013 Volkswagen has announced their 2014 lineup and the big news is that the 2.5L will be bidding farewell in the Beetle, Jetta, and Passat. In its place will be a new 1.8L turbocharged four-cylinder with 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. While the 1.8T has about the same horsepower as the outgoing 2.5, it has about seven more pound-feet of torque. The 1.8T will be available in the Jetta and Passat SEL at the start. The rest of the Passat lineup and Beetle will follow. The 2014 Jetta also trades in its torsen-beam rear suspension for an independent rear suspension, which should improve the driving dynamics. Other items of note for the 2014 Volkswagen lineup Volkswagen's R-Line lineup will now include the Tiguan, Touareg, and Beetle Convertible. VW Car-Net which adds security and convenience features such as crash notification, roadside assistance, stolen vehicle location assistance, remote vehicle access, vehicle health report, and more. Car-Net will be available on Beetle, Beetle Convertible, CC, Eos, Jetta, Passat, and Tiguan All 2014 Volkswagen models will be able to run E85 fuel. Source: Volkswagen 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 07.10.2013 MODEL YEAR 2014: MORE EFFICIENT DOWNSIZED ENGINES AND AN EXTENDED R-LINE RANGE HEAD THE CHANGES New 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® engine to feature in Jetta, Beetle, and Passat, replacing the 2.5-liter five cylinder. R-Line® range expands to five models. Jetta SE and SEL models are fitted with new 170-horsepower 1.8-liter engine, offering a manufacturer predicted highway fuel economy improvement of 16 percent All Jetta models now have independent rear suspension VW Car-Net™ connected services introduced across a broad range of models New 1.8-liter engine in the Beetle has manufacturer predicted highway fuel economy improvement of 17 percent Sporty Beetle GSR® special edition offers dramatic appearance package Beetle R-Line model replaces Turbo, adding new bumpers, badging, and optional 19-inch wheels and Bi-Xenon headlights Passat trims are revised and new 1.8-liter engine replaces 2.5-liter unit, starting in the SEL model R-Line added to the Tiguan range Touareg R-Line joins the lineup All VW models are now E15 capable Herndon, VA - After three years of incredible growth and a slew of new product introductions, 2013 is a year of consolidation for Volkswagen of America. Nevertheless, it’s also a year in which some very important product changes will occur. Chief among these for the 2014 model year is the introduction of the EA888 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder TSI® engine, which will gradually replace the 2.5-liter five-cylinder naturally aspirated powerplant fitted to the Jetta, Beetle, and Passat models. This new engine produces 170 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque: this is the same power as the 2.5, but the torque is improved by seven lb-ft, delivered much lower in the rev range. Volkswagen pioneered the use of small-displacement turbocharged and DI engines in the U.S. market: the implementation of the new EA888 gasoline unit will help ensure that more than 90 percent of the cars sold by Volkswagen in the U.S. have these highly efficient powerplants. The engine is built in a new, state-of-the-art factory in Silao, Mexico that is part of Volkswagen’s ongoing $5 billion investment in the North American market. The new TSI engine will be fitted to the Jetta range and the Passat SEL initially, to be followed by the rest of the Passat lineup and the Beetle later in the model year. The new engine is expected to offer significant highway fuel mileage gains over the 2.5-liter unit. The popular Beetle range has a number of new additions for 2014. The most significant is the introduction of the retro-themed GSR (German for “Yellow Black Racer”) that will be sold as a limited-edition model. Because the base Beetle now has a turbocharged engine, the previous Turbo models have been re-branded with the R-Line® moniker. The R-Line range itself has been extended to five vehicles. The Beetle Convertible R-Line, Touareg R-Line, and Tiguan R-Line all go on sale this fall, joining the existing Beetle Coupe R-Line and the CC R-Line. Volkswagen will introduce its VW Car-Net™ connected services this fall as part of the 2014 model lineup. Available on Beetle, Beetle Convertible, CC, Eos, Jetta, Passat, and Tiguan models, VW Car-Net offers a wealth of security and convenience features, including crash notification, roadside assistance, and stolen vehicle location assistance. In addition, VW Car-Net adds: remote vehicle access; boundary and speed alerts; a vehicle health report; and an enhanced POI service on vehicles equipped with a navigation system. Most of the features can be administered through a handy smartphone app. Finally, all Volkswagen models are E15 capable, across all powertrains for 2014. CARS Beetle Beetle GSR goes on sale as a limited-edition model Base 2.5-liter engine is replaced by 170-hp 1.8-liter turbocharged four cylinder during the 2014 model year Highway fuel economy predicted by manufacturer to improve by up to 17 percent with the 1.8-liter engine Beetle Turbo lineup now becomes the Beetle R-Line VW Car-Net connectivity becomes available Rearview camera fitted to top-of-the-line models (late availability) Then as now, the GSR features a unique interior with a yellow/black theme, sport seats, and a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel. The black-trimmed leather seating surfaces and high-grip leather-wrapped steering wheel both have contrasting yellow stitching. Other interior changes include a GSR shift lever, a leather-wrapped handbrake, and black floormats with contrasting yellow embroidery. A badge on the steering wheel is marked with the special-edition number (1 through 3500) to emphasize the uniqueness of the car. The base Beetle’s 2.5-liter engine will be phased out later in the 2014 model year and replaced by a new, locally sourced, turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. This will produce 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque and is expected to offer highly competitive fuel economy. Electro-mechanical power steering replaces the 2.5’s hydraulic setup. The Beetle Turbo lineup is renamed as the R-Line for 2014, adding aggressively styled bumpers front and rear as well as R-Line exterior badging and R-Line sill kickplates. The top R-Line Sunroof and Sound with Navigation also features unique 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs, and leather seating surfaces; black interiors also get an R-Line badge on the steering wheel and a “metallic finish” dash pad. All Beetle R-Line models and the GSR are fitted with the latest version of the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which makes 210hp. Among other changes to the Beetle, the TDI® with Sunroof model is removed from the lineup, while a rearview camera will be available on the Sunroof, Sound, and Navigation trim levels on the Beetle, Beetle TDI Clean Diesel, and Beetle R-Line models. Beetle Convertible Beetle receives 170-horsepower turbocharged 1.8-liter engine in place of 2.5-liter unit partway through 2014 model year Beetle Turbo Convertible is renamed the Beetle R-Line Convertible Rearview camera on top-of-the-line Convertible models (late availability) VW Car-Net connectivity becomes available Like the Beetle Coupe, the Turbo Convertible range is renamed the R-Line. The topline R-Line with Sound and Navigation has additional R-Line-specific features, such as unique 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs, and leather seating surfaces: black interiors add an R-Line badge on the steering wheel and a “metallic finish” dash pad. The base 2.5-liter engine will be phased out in favor of a 1.8-liter TSI unit that is expected to offer significantly better highway and overall fuel economy figures. Finally, the topline trim in each engine configuration—Beetle Convertible, Beetle TDI Convertible, and Beetle R-Line Convertible—will feature a rearview camera later in the model year. CC VW Car-Net becomes available on all CC models New 2.0T Executive trim joins lineup, while Sport model replaces Sport with Lighting Package Rearview camera added to Sport and R-Line trim (late availability) V6 Executive models get Keyless access with push-button start, “Easy Open” motion-activated trunk opener, and new 18-inch “Lakeville” alloy wheels For 2014, a new 2.0T Executive trim joins the lineup and gains: the RNS® 510 premium navigation system with four-year SiriusXM® Traffic and three-month trial to SiriusXM TravelLink™; Keyless access and push-button start; “Easy Open” motion-activated trunk opener; leather seating surfaces; sunroof; rearview camera; 18-inch “St.Louis” alloy wheels; ambient lighting; engineered ebony interior trim, and available Truffle Brown interior. At the same time, the Sport with Lighting Package is replaced by the Sport model. This package includes LED daytime running lights and the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), the RNS 315 navigation system, and a rearview camera (late availability). Eos For 2014, the Eos incorporates minor changes over the 2013 models. VW Car-Net becomes available on all trims RNS 315 navigation system is added to the Komfort and Sport trims Keyless access with push-button start added to the Sport model Lux model is discontinued Golf/GTI There will be a limited number of 2014 Golfs and GTIs sold in the U.S. market, as four-door models only. Jetta New 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder engine replaces 2.5-liter five cylinder; electro-mechanical power steering replaces a hydraulic setup Jetta 1.8T, 2.0, and TDI models receive rear multilink suspensions Media Device Interface (MDI) cable moved from glovebox to center console on SE and higher trims VW Car-Net becomes available on SE with Connectivity and higher trims Rearview cameras added to SEL, TDI Premium, and TDI Premium and Navigation 30th Anniversary edition GLI (late availability) Jetta Hybrid SE, SEL and SEL Premium trims receive new high-resolution MFI display in the instrument cluster The best-selling model in Volkswagen’s lineup receives a number of key enhancements for 2014, including powertrain, chassis, and technology updates. The SE model will add a new 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder engine, electro-mechanical power steering, a multilink independent rear suspension, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio, and power reclining front seats. The SE with Connectivity trim adds the option of VW Car-Net connected services, while the SE with Connectivity and Sunroof adds Keyless access with push-button start. The SEL trim is now available with an automatic transmission only. It also offers VW Car-Net, a rearview camera, the RNS 315 navigation system, and the Fender® Premium Audio System. Similar to the 1.8-liter gasoline trims, all TDI Clean Diesel models will offer VW Car-Net, a relocated MDI cable (now in the center console), and new independent rear suspension. TDI Premium and Premium and Navigation trims also get a rearview camera. The performance-driven Jetta GLI model now has the relocated MDI cable and the option of VW Car-Net, as well as the latest 210-hp version of the EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Volkswagen’s first hybrid compact, the Jetta Hybrid, was launched late last year. For 2014, updates are minimal and include the availability of VW Car-Net and the addition of a new high-resolution color MFI display in the instrument cluster. Jetta SportWagen For 2014, the Jetta SportWagen incorporates only minor changes over the 2013 models. All models receive LED license-plate lights TDI trims gain a rearview camera Passat For 2014, the 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine will be replaced by a 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder engine that makes 170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Along with the engine comes a change from hydraulic to electro-mechanical power steering. Other changes include: Wolfsburg Edition carries over from 2013; now includes leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob, and parking brake VW Car-Net connectivity system available on Wolfsburg and higher trims Two-tone seats available on all SE trims Rearview camera introduced on SE and higher trims Keyless access with push-button start and new “Bristol” 18-inch wheels available on select SE trims. A Sport trim will be introduced later this year. Details will be released closer to launch MDI now standard on Wolfsburg Edition and higher trims MINIVAN, SUVs Routan For 2014, the Routan carries over unchanged as a fleet model only. Tiguan Tiguan R-Line model added to the lineup VW Car-Net connectivity option widely available across trim lines Introduction of Fender Premium Audio System on R-Line and SEL trims Content added across the Tiguan lineup; Keyless access with push-button start, Climatronic® automatic air conditioning, MDI with iPod® cable, and rearview camera The Tiguan R-Line joins the expanded lineup of R-Line models. This performance and appearance package adds aggressive styling and a sport suspension. The exterior is further enhanced with 19-inch aluminum-alloy Mallory wheels, an R-Line roof spoiler, body-color side skirts, and R-Line badging. The interior receives R-Line front door kickplates, a flat-bottomed leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters, black headliner, and stainless steel pedals. Additionally, the Tiguan R-Line offers Bi-Xenon headlights with LED DRLs and leather seating surfaces. Overall, there is added value across the Tiguan lineup with enhanced SE and SEL models, as well as a new SE with Appearance trim line. The SE adds heated seats, leatherette seating surfaces, and an MDI with iPod® adapter; the SE with Appearance’s added features include Keyless access with push-button start and a rearview camera; and the SEL adds the Fender Premium Audio System. Touareg R-Line model features special interior and exterior styling, sport suspension Rear hatch now has “Easy Open” feature on all models except Sport and R-Line Area-view camera feature on Executive and Hybrid models LED taillights on the Executive models Keyless access with push-button start now fitted to more than 90 percent of Touareg models Trailer hitch now standard on all Touareg models except V6 Sport and R-Line The most important addition to the Touareg lineup for the 2014 model year is the R-Line, which is based on the Lux trim for V6 and TDI Clean Diesel models. This model adds a sport suspension, 20-inch “Mallory” aluminum-alloy wheels, and a bevy of exterior and interior enhancements. On the outside, the R-Line model receives: R-Line badging; LED taillights; sportier front and rear bumpers; and side skirts. Inside, the R-Line gets brushed aluminum trim, stainless-steel pedals, a black headliner, an R-badged steering wheel, and unique sill kickplates. Sport with Navigation and Lux models receive Keyless access with push-button start, while all models except the R-Line and Sport have a new “Easy Open” motion-activated trunk opening feature, which is a real boon to owners who have their hands full and want to access the cargo area. View full article

I have a feeling there are some

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 10, 2013 According to a report from carsales.com.au, Mercedes-Benz is readying a Plug-In Hybrid version of the new S-Class for the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. This news comes from David McCarthy, Senior Manager Corporate Communications at Mercedes-Benz Australia. Autocar has a bit more information on this, saying the hybrid will use a V6 engine paired with an electric motor and a battery pack. No word on horsepower, range, or fuel economy at the moment. Source: carsales.com.au, 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 10, 2013 Convertibles have a small slice of the new car market. That slice seems to shinking even further. According to data from R.L. Polk, sales of convertibles last year barely reached one percent. That's a major drop when compared to convertible sales of 1.6 percent in 2009 and 2 percent in 2006. In all, 151,636 convertibles were registered last year. While that is an increase in number of registations over the past few years, it still is lagging behind other vehicles. The reason for this? Automakers are putting more development into more volume models such as midsize sedans and crossovers. "They're sitting down and going through every potential product program and looking at the returns. When they see the volumes right now for convertibles, they're saying, 'Why would we do this?'" said R.L. Polk lead analyst Tom Libby. There is some new metal on the way within the next few years. Jaguar has launched the new F-Type, a new Mazda Miata with an Alfa Romeo twin is just around the corner, and we have such models as the Corvette to look forward to. The question is of course is can this new crop help turn the tide. 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 9, 2013 Yesterday, Fiat exercised its option to purchase another 3.3 percent of Chrysler shares from the UAW's VEBA retirement fund. This brings Fiat's current share of Chrysler to 68.49 percent. This is the third time that Fiat has purchased shares from VEBA. Last July and earlier this year, the Italian automaker purchased 3.3 percent of the VEBA shares. Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne wants to buy up the remaining shares so Fiat can have full control of the company and hopefully help curb the large losses the Italian automaker is currently experiencing. That doesn't look like it will happen anytime soon. Currently, Fiat and VEBA are in court to try and reach agreement on buying the remaining shares. 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 8, 2013 Alongside the new Insignia Country Tourer, Opel will also be showing off a new concept car at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The Opel Monza Concept pays homage to the Monza coupe of the eighties and signals what's in store for the designs of the next-generation models from Opel and Vauxhall. The Monza's design borrows some ideas from luxury brands with a low stance, heavily sculpted hood, and a set of small headlights. In addition to the design, the Monza concept has two major themes; efficiency and connectivity. With efficiency, Opel says the Monza concept “demonstrates outstanding efficiency through its architecture and use of materials, as well as in its aerodynamics and ground-breaking powertrain solution.” As for connectivity, the Monza will offer, “a quantum leap in the development of infotainment systems.” “With the Monza Concept, we make our automotive future tangible today. I can’t yet go into detail about how the Monza Concept’s interior design – and especially its trend-setting technologies – will change the driving experience. However, I can guarantee that viewed from any angle, its innovative body design and perfect proportions will turn heads,” said Opel/Vauxhall CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann. Source: Opel 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 “Opel Monza Concept: Our Vision of Opel’s Future” 2013-07-08 Ground-breaking concept: Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann reveals first glimpse of IAA study Next generation of Opel design philosophy: Evolution of sculptural styling New athleticism: Maximum efficiency of vehicle architecture, powertrain and materials Modern: Innovative connectivity solutions for individual mobility Pioneering: Visionary IAA studies from Opel since Experimental GT in 1965 Rüsselsheim. After more than 150 years of company history packed with strong innovations, Opel now introduces its newest highlight – at least partially. The ground-breaking Opel Monza Concept will make its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show from September 12 – 22 (Press Days September 10 and 11), but today Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann gives a first glimpse of this exciting study. “DRIVE!2022 is a clear strategy for the future of Opel as a company and a brand,” says Dr. Neumann. “It covers a whole range of subject areas and elements, and in terms of the future of our models, we’ve bundled all our targets together in the Opel Monza Concept. It is our vision of Opel’s future and stands for our fundamental values: German engineering and precision, combined with enthralling design and innovations suitable for everyday use. The Monza Concept carries these elements forward in a visionary fashion, expressing them with fresh inspiration and clarity. This car is a study that will have a long-term impact on the next generation of Opel models.” Monza Concept: Beginning the next generation of Opel mobility The Monza Concept shows what Opel customers can expect to see in the future. It focuses on two major themes which will be top priorities for the more than 6,000 engineers, technicians and designers in Rüsselsheim developing the next generation of Opel models: efficiency and connectivity. The Monza Concept demonstrates outstanding efficiency through its architecture and use of materials, as well as in its aerodynamics and ground-breaking powertrain solution. In terms of connectivity, it offers trailblazing possibilities that are a quantum leap in the development of infotainment systems. The Monza Concept is a recognizable further development of Opel’s design language.. To visibly express Opel’s quest for increased efficiency, the study presents an evolution of Opel’s design philosophy of sculptural artistry and German precision, with body contours conveying a sense of lithe athleticism rather than pure muscle power. This design emphasis is immediately apparent in the vehicle’s frontal styling. A low stance with flowing lines, the clearly defined hood and a striking headlamp treatment all combine to give the car an extra dose of assertive self-confidence. Further developed signature Opel themes are embedded in the overall look: the typical crease on the hood appears more three-dimensional and thus more prominent, while the chrome grille bar carrying the Opel logo now sweeps up with winglets at its tips. Two characteristic blades under the head lamps add to the sporty appeal. Overall, the Monza Concept has a light, athletic look designed to convey efficiency, excitement and great driving fun. The sporty appeal of Opel models has always been inseparably linked to functionality and, in this respect, the Monza Concept pays homage to the seminal Opel Monza Coupé, built between 1978 and 1986. It also combined elegant, dynamic styling with clever, functional solutions for drivers and passengers. Similarities between the two cars are visible in design elements such as their large, glazed surfaces and low belt-line. The original Monza was the first car on the market to feature a digital dashboard display and the Monza Concept continues this innovative theme. It introduces ground-breaking technologies for future infotainment and connectivity possibilities, showing how next-generation Opel cars will address the needs of a closely connected and sharing society. They will enable future individual mobility that’s more than simply a driving experience alone. Opel Experimental GT: Start of visionary IAA studies The trendsetting Monza Concept is the latest in a line of visionary IAA studies from Opel which began in 1965 with the spectacular Opel Experimental GT. At that time, Opel was the first automaker to build a concept study in Europe and present it at an automotive trade show – with overwhelming success. The Experimental GT created enthusiasm among the media and public alike, and was the starting point for ongoing presentations of concept cars to showcase innovative ideas and future developments for the brand portfolio. Opel studies in the 1960s were so successful that all European competitors subsequently began developing and presenting their own concepts. “With the Opel Monza Concept, we make our automotive future tangible today,” says Opel CEO Neumann. And fueling curiosity about Rüsselsheim’s newest study ahead of its world premiere, he adds: “I can’t yet go into detail about how the Monza Concept’s interior design, and especially its trend-setting technologies, will change the driving experience. However, I can guarantee that viewed from any angle, its innovative body design and perfect proportions will turn heads. But they are just a visible expression of the great substance you will find under the bodywork. Everyone should visit us at the Opel stand at the IAA to get a look at Opel’s exciting future!” View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com July 8, 2013 According to a report from Motor Trend, Volkswagen is planning to bring over the next-generation Polo and a new subscompact crossover to the U.S. within the next few years. The reason is due to the upcoming CAFE standards and Volkswagen apparently needs a few more vehicles to help out. The new Polo and subcompact crossover will utilize Volkswagen's MQB platform which has the flexibility to support a wide range of gasoline, diesel, hybrid, and all-electric powertrains. No one knows what's in store for these two models in the U.S. The only thing that we know is that the subcompact crossover will be underneath the Tiguan and be around the same size as a Buick Encore. Source: Motor Trend 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 5, 2013 When Volkswagen pulled the covers off the new Golf GTD at the Geneva Motor Show this year, questions arose whether or not the model would arrive in the U.S. Answers were mixed between yes and no. But we now have an answer. The GTD will be coming. Volkswagen made the announcement this week, saying the GTD will be here in 2015 as a 2016 model. The model will use a 2.0L TDI engine with 184 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. "We see it as a very important part of our full range of offerings, a technology halo for our diesel technology," said Andreas Valbuena, VW's product manager for the Golf. 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 3, 2013 Ahead of the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, Vauxhall has revealed the new Insignia Country Tourer. The Insignia Country Tourer borrows the same recipe used by Subaru and Audi that takes a wagon and raises the ride height, adds an all-wheel drive system, and gives the exterior a more butch appearance. The Insignia Country Tourer starts with a fair amount of body cladding and increased ground clearance of 0.79 inches. Under the skin is a new all-wheel-drive that utilizes a Haldex clutch and an electronic limited slip differential to maintain grip. There are two diesel engines available, 2.0L CDTi: 163 horsepower and 280 pound-feet 2.0L BiTurbo CDTi: 192 horsepower and 295 pound-feet. The 2.0L CDTI is available with a six-speed manual or automatic, while the BiTurbo is only available with an automatic. Now don't expect the Insignia Country Tourer to make the Atlantic crossing to the U.S. However if I was betting man, I think General Motors could make a better case with this than the Insignia Tourer as a Buick for the states. Source: Vauxhall 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 VAUXHALL’S NEW COUNTRY ESTATE MOVES INSIGNIA UPMARKET 2013-07-03 Top-of-the-range Sports Tourer with SUV characteristics Higher ground clearance and distinct protective body elements Advanced all-wheel drive with variable torque delivery Two powerful turbo-diesel engines with up to 400Nm torque Luton – Vauxhall is set to add a rugged SUV-inspired all-purpose estate to its New Insignia range later this year. Known as the Insignia Country Tourer, and based on the Sports Tourer model, but with all-wheel drive, higher ground clearance and tougher styling, the new car will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September. DESIGN With its signature griffin grille, now wider and deeper, the front styling is distinctively Vauxhall. The grille’s horizontal chrome bar carries the central brand emblem and is sculpted in a wing form, with its outer tips turned upwards alongside the headlamps. A protective panel, in a gleaming silver finish, sweeps out from under the engine compartment; a prominent design theme echoed at the rear. Another feature is the anthracite-coloured protective cladding on the side sills and lower body sections, which gives the wheel-arches a more pronounced, flared look. A final visual flourish is provided by distinctive front and rear light units. The headlamps, with embedded chrome accents, incorporate wing-style LED daytime running lights. This theme is repeated at the rear, with LED brake and taillights. POWERTRAINS State-of-the-art all-wheel drive is combined with two powerful turbo-diesel engines: a 2.0-litre BiTurbo CDTi, producing 195PS and 400Nm of torque, and a 2.0-litre CDTi with 165PS and up to 380Nm torque available. A choice of six-speed manual or a low-friction, six-speed automatic transmission is available on the 2.0-litre (165PS) diesel engine. The 2.0-litre (195PS) BiTurbo diesel engine is available in automatic only. DRIVETRAIN The electronically controlled 4x4 drivetrain incorporates a high-quality clutch, operating on Haldex principles, and an electronic limited-slip differential to ensure superb traction on both paved and unpaved surfaces. It constantly adapts to the prevailing road conditions, and can vary torque distribution seamlessly between the front and rear axles, as well as between the rear wheels, even before a wheel begins to slip. When necessary, the clutch controlling drive distribution immediately sends more torque to the rear axle. The 4x4 system’s sensors constantly feed individual control modules with information on yaw rate, acceleration, steering angle, wheel speed, throttle pedal position, engine speed and torque. The front/rear power distribution is constantly adapted to the driving situation based on this information. Ultimate stability and higher dynamics are ensured by the electronically-controlled rear-axle Limited Slip Differential (eLSD). The eLSD controls the distribution of torque between the rear wheels, transferring drive torque to the wheel that has the most grip. While offering better traction in slippery conditions, the sophisticated operation of this adaptive 4x4 drive system guarantees the highest levels of driver control and active safety in all situations. The Insignia Country Tourer can even provide propulsion when three wheels are on loose or slippery ground and only one rear wheel has traction. The adaptive all-wheel system also supports drivers in non-critical situations. To reduce frictional losses and save fuel, the system automatically reverts to front-wheel drive whenever it senses that no adaptive interventions are required. Off road, the new Insignia Country Tourer also benefits from larger tyres and a raised ride height, in addition to its four-wheel drive traction. Ground clearance is 20mm higher than on a standard model, a major advantage when encountering loose, uneven terrain. “The Insignia Country Tourer is perfect for a winter holiday, on snowy roads, or simply when the going gets tough,” said Stuart Harris, Vauxhall’s Head of Carline Brand. “Even on urban roads its robust looks give it strong stand-out appeal.” Prices and full equipment details will coincide with the vehicle’s world premiere on the 10th September at the Frankfurt Motor Show. View full article