William Maley

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 28, 2013 Subaru's first production hybrid vehicle made its debut at the New York Auto Show today. The XV Crosstrek Hybrid follows in the footsteps of the XV Crosstrek that was shown last year at New York. Subaru's hybrid system is made up of a the regular XV Crosstrek's 2.0L four-cylinder 148 horsepower engine and a 13.4 horsepower electric motor mated to a 13.5-kilowatt nickel-metal-hydride battery. Power is funneled through Subaru's Linetronic CVT to all four wheels. Sadly, fuel economy hasn't gone up by much. Subaru estimates that the XV Crosstrek Hybrid will get 28 City/34 Highway. The normal XV Crosstrek when equipped with the CVT gets 25 City/33 Highway. Other mechanical changes for the XV Crosstrek Hybrid include a stop/start system, active grille shutter system, and a a revised air-conditioning system that uses a temperature and humidity sensor to help reduce draw on the engine. Outside, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid gets a set specific wheels, unique Plasma Green Pearl paint color, and a set hybrid badges that differentiate the Hybrid from the normal XV Crosstrek. Inside, Subaru gets more sound dreading, a new gauge cluster, keyless start, and cool blue color scheme accented with silver trim. Cargo space is slightly smaller than the XV Crosstrek (50.2 cubic feet for the Hybrid vs. 51.9 cubic feet for the Crosstrek). The 2014 XV Crosstrek arrives at your local Subaru dealer at the end of this year. Source: Subaru 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 March 28, 2013 SUBARU INTRODUCES ITS FIRST PRODUCTION HYBRID MODEL AT THE 2013 NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW • Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid based on popular XV Crosstrek crossover • Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive crossover in America. • Subaru-engineered hybrid system uses 2.0-liter BOXER engine and integrates an electric motor into a continuously variable transmission • Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard offers solid, all-terrain performance • Same utility and versatility as the gasoline model New York - Subaru of America, Inc. today unveiled the brand’s first-ever production hybrid vehicle, the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid, at the 2013 New York International Auto Show at the Jacob K. Javits Center. Based on the popular XV Crosstrek crossover introduced for 2013, the 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid model arrives in Subaru dealerships fourth quarter of 2013. When the XV Crosstrek Hybrid goes on sale it will be the most fuel-efficient and lowest-emissions AWD hybrid crossover in America. In developing its first-ever hybrid, Subaru chose one of its popular, go-anywhere crossover vehicle platforms. As a result, the new XV Crosstrek Hybrid offers all the capability and versatility of the gasoline XV Crosstrek. The added benefits of a hybrid powertrain, including higher fuel efficiency, broaden the vehicle’s appeal. Key to this approach is that the XV Crosstrek Hybrid shares the gasoline model’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and chassis capability. For example, the 8.7 inches of ground clearance is the same as for the gas model and is higher than for some dedicated SUVs, while providing a low step-in height. With the XV Crosstrek Hybrid, Subaru re-engineered the chassis to handle the added weight of the battery system, improving handling, steering and ride. In addition to chassis changes, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid added extra sound insulation, a start/stop feature, revised HVAC, new gauge cluster, keyless start and numerous other changes. The Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine with a 13.4-hp electric motor that’s integrated into the Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). A 100v, 13.5kw nickel-metal hydride battery is located under a revised rear floor area, and the engine uses and integrated starter/generator for the automatic start/stop feature. The compact hybrid system weighs just 209 lbs. and places the electric motor just behind the transmission and in front of continuously variable transfer clutch. With the addition of all the new features, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid weighs approximately 300 lbs. more than the gasoline engine XV Crosstrek. Under light acceleration, the Subaru-engineered hybrid system uses the electric motor for initial vehicle acceleration and then starts the gasoline engine once underway. The electric motor can also provide motor assist for acceleration in parallel with the gasoline engine, and an EV mode will operate the vehicle in certain low-speed situations. Same Capability and Utility as Gas Model Significantly, the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid builds upon the utility and versatility of the gas model, while also offering enhanced handling responses and quieter driving performance. The Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical AWD provides the same operation and benefits as in the gasoline model. The system sends power to the four wheels all the time and adjusts the torque distribution in response to acceleration, cornering and road conditions. Passenger cabin room in the new XV Crosstrek Hybrid is essentially the same as in the gas model (0.7 cu. ft. difference), while the hybrid’s maximum cargo room (rear seatbacks down) measures 50.2 cu. ft., vs. 51.9 in the gas model. In addition to optimizing the 2.0-liter FB-series BOXER engine to reduce internal friction, Subaru applied a number of other efficiency-enhancing technologies to the XV Crosstrek Hybrid. An Auto Start/Stop system shuts down the gasoline engine when the vehicle is stopped. Brake regeneration works when the car is coasting or the driver has applied the brake, recapturing kinetic energy from the turning wheels to recharge the battery. All-season tires are mounted on new aluminum alloy-wheels with an aerodynamic design. Exclusive to the North American market, a new Active Grille Shutter system helps reduce air resistance. The air conditioning system uses a temperature and humidity sensor to optimize operation for reduced draw on engine power. Subaru retuned the platform’s suspension and revised the steering ratio to give the XV Crosstrek Hybrid sharper handling responses. Numerous enhancements that help to reduce noise include thicker floor sections, under-floor covers and additional sound insulation. Sophisticated Appearance In addition to the different wheels, exterior enhancements readily differentiate the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid from the gasoline model. “HYBRID” badges appear at the front edges of the front doors and on the tailgate. A new Plasma Green Pearl exterior color, exclusive to the XV Crosstrek Hybrid, spotlights the vehicle’s environmental character. Inside, the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid features a clean, cool blue theme with silver trim to underscore the advanced hybrid engineering. The instrument cluster, exclusive to this model, uses gradations of the blue color scheme to provide a sense of depth. The Color Multi-Function Display shows the hybrid system’s energy flow according to driving conditions. Using switching screens, the display was designed to combine driving operation information with entertainment content, and its screen can be easily viewed from any seat. View full article

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 28, 2013 Scion used the New York Auto Show to show off the refreshed 2014 tC coupe today. Exterior wise, Scion gave the tC a meaner front end by a new front grille, headlights, and a lower valance that is meant to callback the FR-S' design. Inside, the 2014 tC gets improved materials and a a 6.1-inch touch-screen audio system. Optional is a “BeSpoke” premium audio system that comes with navigation and Aha internet radio. The tC's powertrain remains the same 2.5L inline-four with 179 horsepower. Available transmissions include a six-speed manual or automatic. The automatic gains the FR-S' rev management technology to bilp the throttle before a downshift. Scion has also improved the tC's handling by modifying the sway bar, reviising the shock absorbers, and adding extra spot welds for a stiffer body. The new tC arrives at your local Scion dealer in June. Source: Scion 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 New, Sportier 2014 Scion tC Debuts at New York International Auto Show Limited-Production Scion 10 Series Models Celebrate Brand’s 10th Anniversary NEW YORK (March 28, 2013) – Scion revealed the new 2014 tC sports coupe at the New York International Auto Show, showing off a sporty new look, upgraded interior and an enhanced driving experience for the brand’s top-selling vehicle. “The sustained success of the tC, which accounts for 40 percent of all Scions ever sold, challenged designers to enhance the 2014 sports coupe in ways that keep it exciting to today’s drivers without losing its core appeal,” said Doug Murtha, Scion vice president. “The outstanding result is a 2014 tC with a sportier style and driving experience that will thrill buyers and hold its unique spot in the marketplace.” Aggressive Look with New Exterior Design and 18-Inch Wheels The 2014 Scion tC is defined by more assertive styling, starting from the front with distinctive new headlamps and an all-new hood that extends lower toward a more open, muscular grille with an embedded tC logo. The new upper- and lower-grille treatments are bordered by LED accent lighting. Beneath the rear bumper, a new black-out valance features an FR-S style, lower-center trim piece and lower perimeter reflectors; new advanced LED tail lamps complete the picture. New 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/45R18 tires carry the aggressive character through to the car’s profile. Standard on the tC, the wheels feature a premium dark gray finish, contrasted by eye-catching machined-spoke surfaces. The tC will be available in seven exterior paint colors, including two new additions, Absolutely Red and Blue Streak Metallic. Upgraded Materials and Scion Standard Display Audio Enhance Interior The 2014 Scion tC’s cabin adds new technology, additional convenience features and upgraded materials. The tC will be the first model in the family to come with the all-new Scion Standard Display Audio, featuring a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen. The system will be incorporated into all 2014 Scion models, making Scion the industry’s first non-luxury brand to feature a touchscreen audio system as standard equipment across its entire lineup. The new audio system comes equipped with features that Scion drivers will enjoy, including Bluetooth® compatibility, HD Radio™ Technology and steering wheel-mounted controls. The new base audio system will be joined by an available, all-new Scion BeSpoke Premium Audio system featuring Aha™. This upgraded system includes full navigation, as well as the ability to connect compatible smart phones through Aha to access 30,000 free audio stations, including Scion’s own signature station featuring a lineup of its 17 music channels. In addition to audiobook stations, sports, news and entertainment, the Aha service utilizes location–based services like Yelp and TripAdvisor, and integrates most of the popular social media applications, all at a great value for consumers. Added convenience features for the 2014 tC include auto-off headlamps and an auto-up and down driver's window. The interior is upgraded with premium materials and lighter color fabric on the seats and the headliner. Sportier Automatic Transmission and Enhanced Dynamic Handling Getting there will be more than half the fun in the 2014 tC. Its 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine delivers 179 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, and it is available either with a six-speed manual transmission or an updated six-speed automatic that can change gears nearly twice as fast as the previous model for both upshifts and downshifts. The automatic transmission now features Dynamic Rev Management technology, adopted from the FR-S, which quickly blips the engine to match its revs to gear ratios on downshifts, limiting driveline shock and adding to the visceral experience of driving the car. Handling is enhanced by making modifications to stabilizer bar hardware, optimizing the shock absorbers, and by increasing the body rigidity with additional spot welds. Driving enthusiasts will also appreciate the retuned electronic power steering that provides a more engaging response. Together, these changes help the new tC to deliver a sportier, fun-to-drive experience behind the wheel. The 2014 Scion tC will arrive in dealerships in June. Limited-Production Scion 10 Series Models Celebrate Scion’s 10th Anniversary In 2003, the first Scion xA and xB vehicles heralded the launch of the Scion brand, which was designed to bring new buyers into the Toyota family and appeal to emerging, younger drivers. The brand has accomplished both, and today it is recognized as having among the youngest median age drivers in the industry. Since its introduction, 75 percent of Scion owners have been new to the Toyota family. “The Scion 10 Series celebrates 10 years of the brand’s passionate approach, iconic products and success inviting a new, younger buyer to the Toyota family,” Murtha said. “Scion heads into its second decade revved up by a strong product line that continues to stand out on the road.” To celebrate Scion’s 10th anniversary, Scion will launch a limited-production version of each vehicle in its lineup called Scion 10 Series. Every Scion 10 Series car will be painted a premium color: Silver Ignition. The anniversary message continues when the driver enters the car to see the Scion name illuminated on the dash before fading to reveal the number 10. The unique models will number a total of 10,000 vehicles, which will begin arriving in dealerships in June. Other stand-out features include silver seat belts, a solar-powered illuminated shift knob and an LED Scion locator badge that lights up when the car is unlocked. Each vehicle also carries a sequentially numbered interior badge. The xB, iQ, and xD will feature unique alloy wheels in a graphite finish. The Scion 10 Series FR-S also comes equipped with HID headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps, dual automatic climate controls and a smart key with push-button start ignition. View full article

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 28, 2013 Mitsubishi has introduced a new subcompact model called the Mirage to help resuscitate sales in the U.S today at the New York Auto Show. The new Mirage is powered by a 1.2L three-cylinder engine with Mitsubishi's MIVEC variable valve-timing system, producing 74 horsepower and 74 pound-feet of torque. This is mated to a five-speed manual or a continuously-variable transmission. Mitsubishi says the Mirage can get 37 City/44 Highway/40 Combined when equipped with the CVT. Standard equipment on the Mirage includes seven air-bags, Stability Control, automatic climate control, and a four speaker 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with USB/iPod input. Mitsubishi says the new Mirage arrives at dealers this fall. Source: Mitsubishi 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 Mitsubishi Mirage At-A-Glance Thu, Mar 28, 2013 Making a triumphant return to the North American marketplace, the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage 5-door sub-compact is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid gasoline vehicle available in America. With a manufacturer-estimated fuel economy of 40 mpg combined/37 mpg city/44 mpg highway (CVT-equipped model; pending EPA fuel mileage rating), the all-new Mirage is an affordable and stylish hatchback with best-in-class fuel efficiency. The all-new Mirage provides eager acceleration in urban stop-and-go driving along with exemplary highway fuel economy. What's more, an ECO indicator illuminates to let the driver know when they are driving in a manner that allows for utmost fuel efficiency. Standard safety features included at no cost on this fuel-sipping 5-door subcompact consist of a comprehensive seven (7) airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) including dual front air bags, dual front seat-mounted side-impact air bags, dual side-impact curtain air bags, and a driver's knee airbag; Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS); 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD); and Brake Assist. Hill Start Assist (HSA) is also standard on all continuously-variable transmission-equipped (CVT) models. Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL) is also included on all models. The ASC/TCL helps stabilize the vehicle when it detects skidding and/or when the system detects a loss of traction on slippery road surfaces. Mitsubishi Motors engineers have fortified the all-new Mirage 5-door with an additional level of driver and passenger protection (the Mirage has seating for 5) in the event of a collision by incorporating the most advanced form of Mitsubishi's RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) impact-absorbing safety cell technology ever. The patented RISE system utilizes a body structure with an impact energy-absorbing front end along with an abundant use of high tensile steel in key areas throughout the platform. Furthermore, the stylish exterior of the all-new 2014 Mirage was penned using computer-aided design (CAD) software to maximize the 5-door's aerodynamic efficiency for a low 0.28 coefficient of drag. This advanced design/emphasis on aerodynamic efficiency is clearly exhibited in the carefully sculpted corners of the rear bumper and the way the hood gently flows into the A-pillars. To add a touch of vibrancy to Mirage's dynamic exterior styling, four fun and eye-catching colors will be available in addition to the traditional selection of White Solid, Black Mica, Silver Metallic, and Gray Mica. Standard electric power steering (EPS) further aids the fuel efficiency cause while providing the driver with communicative steering feel as well as the sharpest turning radius (15.1 feet) in the class. The entry-level Mitsubishi Mirage DE packs a long list of standard amenities. Among these features are tilt steering; automatic climate control; power windows with driver's side auto-up/down; power side mirrors; body-colored side mirrors, door handles and tailgate handle, a convenient 60/40 split folding rear seat; keyless entry with panic alarm; variable intermittent wipers; a sporty rear spoiler and a dynamic sounding 4 speaker 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 with USB/iPod® input. Every Mirage variant also features thoughtful interior design touches including ergonomically designed driver controls and instrument panel as well as upscale-looking rich high-gloss piano black trim for the center console. An especially welcome interior design feature is the 60/40 split folding rear seat that allows for plentiful and easily accessed interior cargo volume. The upmarket Mirage ES model features all of the welcome content on the DE while adding eye-catching 14-inch aluminum alloy wheels; front fog lamps; leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; F.A.S.T. (Free-hand Advanced Security Transmitter)-Key passive entry; One-Touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch; steering wheel-mounted audio controls; cruise control and a Bluetooth® hands-free phone system. Numerous amenity and accessory packages available include LED Interior Illumination, Rear Parking Assist, Navigation System and Exterior lower body kit and Chrome accent packages. Powering the all-new Mirage is an extremely efficient 1.2-liter three-cylinder DOHC engine that features the latest version of Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) variable valve-timing system that maximizes fuel efficiency and power output while greatly minimizing exhaust emissions. This engine produces 74 bhp and 74 lb.-ft. of torque. Consumers have a choice between a smooth-operating 5-speed manual and an advanced continuously-variable transmission (CVT) with Idle Neutral Logic. Rounding out this hot hatchback's remarkable affordability and extreme efficiency is the additional peace of mind that comes with Mitsubishi Motors' impressive warranty: 10-years or 100,000-miles limited powertrain; 5-years or 60,000-miles limited new vehicle and 5-years/unlimited mileage roadside assistance. Key Specifications Wheelbase: 96.5 in. Length: 148.8 in. Height: 59.1 in. Width: 65.6 in. Engine: 1.2-liter DOHC MIVEC 3-cylinder engine Horsepower: 74 @ 6000 rpm Torque: 74 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 5-speed manual or Continuously-variable transmission (CVT) Fuel Economy: 37 mpg city/44 mpg highway (40 mpg combined) (Manufacturer-estimated; pending EPA fuel mileage rating). Major Standard Features (DE Model) 4 speaker 140-watt AM/FM/CD/MP3 with USB/iPod® input RISE (Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution) chassis safety cell construction Body colored side mirrors, door handles and tailgate handle Electric power steering (EPS) Power windows with driver's side auto-up/down Power side mirrors Tilt steering 60/40 split folding rear seat Halogen headlamps with auto-off Rear spoiler 165/65R14 low rolling-resistance tires Automatic climate control Rear heater floor ducts Cargo area cover Piano black center console trim Keyless entry with panic alarm Rear wiper/washer Multi-information meter display ECO indicator Dual-stage front air bag SRS with front passenger occupant sensors, curtain side air bags, driver's knee air bag, and front seat mounted side-impact air bags Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL) Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Hill Start Assist (CVT only) ES adds over DE: One-Touch Start/Stop (OSS) engine switch F.A.S.T.-Key passive entry Bluetooth® hand-free phone system Cruise control Steering wheel-mounted audio controls Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob 14-inch alloy wheels Fog lamps Seat height adjustor Silver interior accents Upgraded seat fabric Mirage Options: Navigation Package (ES model) adds: SD navigation system with rear camera monitor Exterior Package adds: Front bumper corner extensions; side sill extensions; rear bumper corner extensions. Chrome Package adds: Fog light garnish; lower grille garnish; tailgate garnish. LED Illumination Package adds: Floor LED illumination (blue); console LED illumination (blue); cargo area LED illumination (white). Parking Assist Package adds: Front park assist sensors; rear park assist sensors. Protection Package adds: Front & rear mudguards; scuff plates; body side moldings. Cargo Package adds: Cargo tray; cargo net. View full article