William Maley

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 14, 2012 For awhile now, we been reporting about BMW heading to the front-wheel for certain number of their upcoming vehicles. Now, we get our first peek into that future with the Concept Active Tourer. The Concept Active Tourer is BMW’s interpretation of the tall-hatchback shape (Mercedes-Benz B-Class). The front end features the twin-kidney grille, angular headlights, and large air dams on the front bumper. Around the side, the Concept Active Tourer has a distinctive character line. The back is a mixture of BMW’s wagon and crossover design cues. The interior features an advanced, multicolor head-up display, panoramic sunroof that changes transparency at the push of a button, eight-inch infotainment screen, and a 10.3-inch customizable screen replacing a traditional instrument cluster. Power will come from from a hybrid powertrain that is made up of a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder gas engine, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery pack. Total output is 190 HP and 147 lb-ft of torque. Stats for the Active Tourer are, 0-62 MPH in 8 seconds Top speed of 124 MPH Travel up 20 Miles on EV power alone Fuel economy of 2.5 liters per 100 kilometers (about 94 MPG) BMW will show the Active Tourer Concept at the Paris Motor Show later this month. 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. Press Release is on Page 2 Combines comfort and functionality with dynamic performance and style: the BMW Concept Active Tourer. Munich. With the new BMW Concept Active Tourer, BMW presents a vehicle at the 2012 Paris Motor Show which is the first in the premium compact segment to combine comfort and space functionality with dynamic performance and style. Annual growth rates of up to five per cent are expected in the small car and compact segment of the premium class in the years to come. For this reason, the BMW Concept Active Tourer is a key component in the ongoing development of the BMW brand and its model portfolio. As a plug-in hybrid, the BMW Concept Active Tourer also provides a glimpse ahead to future drive variants in automobiles of the compact class. The eDrive concept familiar from the BMW i8 is used here for the first time in a model of the core BMW brand and will in future be the designation for all electric and plug-in hybrid drives. It covers all components of the electric drive, the electric motor developed by BMW, the lithium-ion battery and the intelligent engine control unit. Excellent combination of sporty aesthetic appeal and comfort. The new BMW Concept Active Tourer combines compact dimensions and an attractive, sporty design with hallmark BMW quality. With an exterior length of 4,353 millimetres, a width of 1,834 millimetres and a total height of 1,560 millimetres, the BMW Concept Active Tourer is geared towards customers of the premium segment who appreciate a high level of comfort, a raised seating position and a generous amount of space. The BMW Concept Active Tourer will also be attractive to families who attach importance to functionality and versatility as well as lifestyle and athletic flair. A long wheelbase of 2,670 millimetres, a high roof line and a compact transverse engine with front-wheel drive make it possible to create a generously sized interior. The spacious load compartment of the BMW Concept Active Tourer provides fully-fledged everyday suitability since the batteries of the hybrid drive are housed entirely underneath the load floor. The design: dynamic and compact. With its harmonious proportions the BMW Concept Active Tourer displays sporty elegance from every angle. It demonstrates how compact dimensions, functionality and versatility can be skilfully combined with a dynamic design. The exclusive exterior paint finish in High Reflection Silver contributes to the refined appearance of the BMW Concept Active Tourer. Meanwhile, interesting touches are provided by the additional applications at the front, side and rear. The surfaces are in high-gloss polish with brushed velvet matt on the undersurface. This subtle shimmering between matt and gloss emphasises the play of light and shadow created by the new exterior paint finish. The BMW Concept Active Tourer unmistakably retains the characteristically expressive BMW front view. The dominating element here is the distinctive, slightly front-tilted BMW radiator grille. The striking twin headlines with LED positioning lights (eyebrows) stretching far back into the side panels and the multi-faceted front apron combine to reinforce the sporty presence of the BMW Concept Active Tourer. Furthermore, the two large outer air inlets below the headlights emphasise the impression of width created by the front view. Seen from the side, the elongated silhouette with its suggested wedge shape gives the BMW Concept Active Tourer a dynamic feel even when stationary - something which is unique in the class. Integrated door openers and the strikingly contrasted side sills with their rising shadow line combine with the large 20-inch wheels to give the BMW Concept Active Tourer its sporty, elegant appearance. Short body overhangs at the front and rear and the long wheelbase make for an unusually generously sized interior considering the vehicle's compact exterior dimensions. The raised roof line and large doors at front and rear promise convenient access to all seats. Meanwhile, the rear section of the BMW Concept Active Tourer is characterised by athletic elegance. Marked, horizontal body lines define the rear view of this compact BMW. The large rear light clusters running well into the side panel highlight the broad wheel arches, visually underscoring the vehicle's solid road-holding. The large tailgate with low load sill and wide opening provides convenient access to the luggage compartment. The interior: elegant with an unhindered sense of space. The generously designed interior of the BMW Concept Active Tourer is both transparent and refreshingly new. The open-pore laminated wood milled from a single block provides the visual link between the upper and low decor surfaces of the instrument panel. This creates a very elegant and light overall impression in the front section of the interior. The door trim panels and seats are covered in light, velvety soft full-grain leather and smooth leather, providing a silky, shimmering gloss which emphasises the luxurious, elegant ambience of the interior. There are also orange contrasting seams which underscore the vehicle's sporty character. The BMW Concept Active Tourer offers an entirely new sense of space. The centre console appears to hover between the two front seats with a smooth transition to the dashboard. This arrangement guarantees maximum legroom for both driver and front passenger. The cockpit with hallmark BMW driver orientation provides optimum accessibility of all the main controls. The circular instruments in Black Panel Technology are within the driver's field of vision, as is the monitor of the central information display. As an optional extra, a full-colour Head-Up-Display appears on a special retracting glass surface between the steering wheel and windscreen - a first in the compact segment. The raised seats in the so-called semi-command position also ensure an excellent all-round view, rounding off the optimum level of operating convenience and comfort. "Cool Shade" panorama roof: changes spatial feel and temperature at the press of a button. An innovative panorama sunroof creates a unique ambience, extending across the entire roof surface of the BMW Concept Active Tourer. The composite glass roof with innovative Suspended Particle Device (SPD) technology means that the desired brightness or temperature effect can be created at the press of an electric button - either being darkened to the level of powerful sunglasses or raised to crystal clear brightness. Occupants can achieve a special lighting effect by manually adding a large-area leaf structure design to the glass roof. Electrical impulses cause the molecular structure of the glass to change at continuously varying levels between light and dark according to preference. The play of light and shadow thus created highlights the sense of space, thereby generating a pleasantly atmospheric lighting effect on all seats. Travel & Comfort System: generous lightness in the rear section. Rear passengers likewise enjoy very comfortable seating in the BMW Concept Active Tourer. The generous leg space created by the long wheelbase and slightly raised roof gives passengers plenty of freedom for movement. This also makes it particularly easy to enter and exit the vehicle. The luggage compartment is highly versatile due to the variable rear backrests, which can be split 40 : 20 : 40. A flat load floor can be created by folding down all three backrest sections. In addition to these variable luggage space expansion options, the BMW Concept Active Tourer offers rear passengers additional intelligent details as part of the Travel & Comfort System. A centrally located vertical metal track is integrated in the back of the front seats. This innovative clip-on track system allows folding tables offering a range of convenient adjustment options to be attached by means of a quick fastener, and additional storage bags can also be suspended. Use of all common models of tablet computer is especially convenient from the rear seats. Tablets can be fixed to the clip-on track system in either portrait or landscape format and used for internet search, games or relaxed movie-viewing at eye level. New information experience: the multifunctional instrument display. A particular highlight of the BMW Concept Active Tourer is the multifunction instrument display. Instead of a conventional instrument cluster with four analog circular instruments providing the driver with information on speed, engine speed, fuel level and oil temperature, there is a 10.25-inch integrated screen which makes for a modern display experience. The familiar look with four circular instruments is still retained, but the use of extended Black Panel Technology gives the drive a whole new range of display options. For example, the screen shows the drive experience modes COMFORT, SPORTand ECO PRO with differing indicators and in distinctive colour schemes, thereby ensuring increased safety and efficiency as well as exemplary driver orientation. As a result, the instrument cluster provides the driver with information which perfectly matches the situation on the road. "Seismic Surf" app for economical driving made easy. Rear passengers in the BMW Concept Active Tourer can experience fascinating technology hands-on with the new iPad app "Seismic Surf". "Seismic Surf" creates a game world in real time. It is an exciting ecological racing game which draws on the acceleration figures, engine speed and other data supplied continuously by the BMW Concept Active Tourer. Each real-life driving situation is interpreted and used to generate an infinite variety of new challenges in the computer game. The aim of the game is to collect as many points as possible along a virtual route and record the most efficient driving style. The driver can directly influence the level of difficulty. Anticipatory driving simplifies the game, while a sporty driving style creates a winding and more difficult virtual route in the game. Only perfect interaction between a fuel-efficient driver and a skilful player at the rear can maximise the point score and achieve a podium position in the BMW games universe. Head-Up Display with brilliant resolution and a full spectrum of colours. The BMW Concept Active Tourer is fitted with the latest-generation multicolour Head-Up Display. It projects all important information in brilliant resolution directly into the field of vision of the driver via a retracting glass surface. The intensity of projection automatically adapts to the light available. The day and night design is the same as that of the instrument panel. Depending on the driver's preference, not only the current speed and speed limits can be displayed but also overtaking bans. The driver can also obtain navigation assistance as well as a range of warnings. Because of the large number of driver assistance systems available, the scope of information which can be displayed in the Head-Up Display has reached a level as yet unequalled in this class of vehicle. Central information display in Black Panel look. An 8-inch display takes care of the familiar menu guidance and route planning functions in the new navigation system. What is more, the central information display also visualises the current operating state of the hybrid drive. This ensures the driver is constantly informed on deployment of the combustion engine and electric motor and is able to track the energy flow within the system. The power electronics of the hybrid drive is networked with the intelligent Plus navigation system so as to provide maximum efficiency. Based on the data collected such as route profile, speed limits and traffic situation, the vehicle is prepared in advance so as to make the most efficient use of the energy available. The drive system of the BMW Concept Active Tourer: the future begins. The drive of the BMW Concept Active Tourer follows the BMW Group's pioneering philosophy of sustainable mobility. The drive technology of all BMW plug-in hybrid models and electrically powered BMW i models bears the designation BMW eDrive, a term which includes all electric drive components. The BMW Concept Active Tourer has been designed as a so-called plug-in hybrid - ideally combining the benefits of electric drive with those of a classic combustion engine. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV = Plug-in-Hybrid Electric Vehicle) will have a particularly important role to play in future. This is because plug-in hybrid vehicles normally have a range of well over 20 kilometres when run on electricity and can therefore be used efficiently for both short and long trips as well as in mixed mode. In the case of the BMW Concept Active Tourer, a state-of-the-art 1.5-litre petrol engine from the BMW Group Efficient Dynamics family of engines interacts perfectly with a synchronous electric motor. PHEV: the best of both worlds for impressive performance. The BMW Concept Active Tourer presents a drive concept which is new to the BMW brand. The 1.5-litre petrol engine does not drive the rear wheels - as has been the case in BMW models to date - but the front wheels. The electric motor of the BMW Concept Active Tourer is designed as a fully-fledged power unit and acts on the rear axle, if necessary powering the car on its own. With a system output of over 140 kW/190 bhp, the combination of combustion engine and electric motor enables the BMW Concept Active Tourer to achieve highly sporty performance figures while maintaining extremely low fuel consumption and emission levels. The BMW Concept Active Tourer accelerates in less than eight seconds from standing to 100 km/h, while the maximum speed achieved by the dynamic plug-in hybrid is around 200 km/h. In spite of these impressive performance figures, the average fuel consumption is less than 2.5 litres per 100 kilometres, with a CO2 emissions level of less than 60 g/km. In addition to convincing performance figures, the innovative drive concept also gives the BMW Concept Active Tourer a driving response which is both comfortable and dynamic. New 1.5-litre BMW TwinPower Turbo engine: high-performance power unit with hallmark 6-cylinder genes. The combustion engine of the new BMW Concept Active Tourer is a new cutting-edge 1.5-litre engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology. Derived from the multiple award-winning 6-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, it combines the latest generation of High Precision Injection with the fully variable valve control system VALVETRONIC and ultra-modern turbocharging. BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology will be used in all power units of the BMW Group's Efficient Dynamics engine family in the future - not least because it does not depend on total capacity or number of cylinders. The new 3-cylinder engine in the BMW Concept Active Tourer is one of the first representatives of this new generation of engines. The compact in-line engine constitutes an exemplary combination of dynamic performance and efficiency. The new BMW TwinPower Turbo 3-cylinder offers character-specific benefits: running smoothness, revving power, spontaneous response and a dynamic, sporty sound. Since there are no first and second-order inertia forces, it offers an especially high level of comfort in terms of noise and vibration. The level of roll torque is lower than that of a 4-cylinder and is compensated for by a single counterbalance shaft. Among other things, this helps keep the engine extremely smooth-running in the low engine speed range, too. Synchronous electric motor: additional power without emissions. The synchronous electric motor in the BMW Concept Active Tourer was also developed by the BMW Group. With a fully charged battery, the BMW Concept Active Tourer has a maximum range of over 30 kilometres when running on electric power alone. This means that the majority of day-to-day trips dispense with local emissions entirely. What is more, the boost function can be applied to use the power provided by the synchronous electric motor for such things as highly dynamic acceleration manoeuvres. In both cases the drive power is made available spontaneously and without delay. The maximum torque of 200 Newton metres is available from standing. The lithium-ion battery of the BMW Concept Active Tourer can be charged at any 220 volt household power socket. Power can be drawn from both axes of the BMW Concept Active Tourer and fed into the lithium-ion battery so as to enhance the efficiency of the plug-in hybrid. While the electric motor automatically recuperates maximum energy at the rear axle during deceleration, a high-volt generator connected to the combustion engine additionally charges the battery whenever needed. Hybrid drive with intelligent energy management. As part of the BMW Group's Efficient Dynamics strategy, the BMW Concept Active Tourer also features a measures package specially geared towards the plug-in hybrid to increase efficiency. For example, an anticipatory operating strategy optimises the efficiency of the electric motor and the high-performance battery. The system draws on data provided by the navigation system, calculating in advance the most suitable sections of the route and driving situations in which to apply electric drive or charge the battery. This optimised charging strategy saves up to ten per cent of energy so as to extend the amount of travel time during which the vehicle runs on electrical power alone. Wide portfolio of additional BMW EfficientDynamics measures. The new BMW Concept Active Tourer naturally includes numerous other features of the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, too. In the case of the BMW Concept Active Tourer, these are all mainly geared towards maximising the range of the vehicle when running purely on electricity. This involves optimising the energy consumption of the ancillary units. Every kilowatt of stored energy saved is thus instantly available to power the electric motor. Other BMW EfficientDynamics measures include an automatic engine start/stop system geared especially towards the plug-in hybrid drive and the second generation of air flap control. ECO PRO as standard further enhances efficiency. The BMW Concept Active Tourer is fitted with the ECO PRO mode which is also available in current BMW serial production models. This additional method of cutting fuel consumption remains globally unique in the automotive sector to date in this form. At the appropriate opportunities, ECO PRO mode reduces the power of the interior air conditioning and other electrically powered comfort functions, ensuring drive components operate on maximum efficiency according to the current situation on the road. ECO PRO mode also provides the driver with valuable advice. To this end, this system is linked to the navigation system. Based on the calculated route data and the driver's individual style of driving, ECO PRO mode is able to indicate how to reach a given destination with the lowest level of fuel consumption, for example. The preview assistant gives the driver tips such as "Remove foot from accelerator" if a tight bend or speed limit is approaching which the driver cannot even see yet. The preview assistant can take into account such features as bends, built-up areas, roundabouts, T junctions and motorway exits. At the same time, an anticipatory transmission assistant optimises the electronic transmission control system for imminent situations. ECO PRO mode can also activate the so-called coasting mode at two levels between 50 and 160 km/h. Here the system completely deactivates the combustion engine at speeds of up to 125 km/h. It also decouples the engine from the drivetrain up to a speed of 160 km/h, allowing comfortable driving while making full use of the kinetic energy already generated.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 13, 2012 A day after GMC announces pricing for the new Acadia, Buick has gone ahead and revealed pricing for the new Enclave. Starting at $39,270 (includes $825 destination charge), the new Enclave is about $2,000 more than the outgoing model, but comes with a lot more standard equipment. All Enclaves come with HID headlights, LED daytime lights, rear-view camera, rear parking sensors, remote start, a seven-inch touch-screen with Buick’s IntelliLink infotainment system, GM’s new front-center air bag, a power liftgate, and a direct-injected 3.6L V6 producing 288 HP and 270 lb-ft of torque. The 2013 Enclave will come with two option packages (taking the place of CX and CXL) Leather Group (starts at $43,285): Adds leather-appointed upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power passenger seat, memory seat settings and Side Blind Zone Alert with Cross Traffic Alert. Premium Group (starts at $46,450): Adds 19-inch chrome-clad wheels, articulating headlamps, a Bose premium audio system, cooled front seats, power-folding side mirrors and a power tilting/telescoping steering column. 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. Press Release is on Page 2 New 2013 Buick Enclave Priced at $39,270 Modern style and advanced technology define new luxury crossover DETROIT – The Buick Enclave – the top-selling three-row luxury crossover SUV in the U.S. market – gets updated for 2013 with new styling, more standard equipment, added safety technologies and IntelliLink connectivity for a suggested retail price of $39,270 including an $825 destination charge. The 2013 Enclave will offer three different equipment groups, all with standard content including a seven-inch Color Touch radio with IntelliLink, high-intensity discharge headlamps, Rear Parking Assist, a Rear Vision Camera, remote start, a power liftgate and other luxury features. Every 2013 model also comes standard with the industry’s first front-center air bag, which is designed to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes. An Enclave with the Leather Group adds leather-appointed upholstery, heated front seats, an eight-way power passenger seat, memory seat settings and Side Blind Zone Alert with Cross Traffic Alert starts at $43,285. Radar sensors monitor surroundings and alert the driver when a vehicle is in a blind spot or when a vehicle is approaching from either side while the Enclave is in reverse. The available Premium Group includes all standard and leather group equipment, along with standard 19-inch chrome clad wheels, articulating headlamps, a Bose premium audio system, cooled front seats, power-folding side mirrors and a power tilting/telescoping steering column for a base price of $46,450. Enclave offers 7- or 8-passenger seating choices with no added cost for either. Additional options vary among equipment groups, but all Enclave models can be equipped with all-wheel drive ($2,000), navigation ($$795-1,540) and a trailering package ($525). New LED daytime running lamps and LED-accented taillights add design and technology on the Enclave’s exterior, while new ambient interior lighting adds a cool Ice Blue glow to the cabin. Dual-flow dampers at the front of the vehicle are among the Enclave’s chassis refinement advancements. These new components provide a smoother ride and improved handling by controlling suspension dampening across a broader range of driving conditions. “The original Enclave was a catalyst for the Buick, defining the brand’s high standards of design and refinement,” said Tony DiSalle, vice president of Buick Marketing. “The new 2013 model takes another step forward with a bolder look and advanced technologies.”

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 13, 2012 Just as Porsche is getting ready to begin selling the new Cayenne Diesel here in the states, they announce a more powerful diesel version called the Cayenne S Diesel. The Cayenne S Diesel uses a turbocharged 4.2L V8 with direct injection that produces 382 HP and 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque. Porsche says the V8 diesel is their most powerful diesel engine ever. Its easy to see why when the Cayenne S Diesel posts a 0-60 MPH time of 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 157 MPH. The diesel V8 also has a stop-start system which helps the Cayenne S Diesel fuel economy of 8.3 liters per 100 km on the European cycle (roughly 28 MPG, albeit not on the EPA cycle). Will we be seeing this turbo-diesel V8 monster here in the states? Unfortunately no. For everyone else, Cayenne S Diesel arrives next January. Source: Porsche 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. Press Release is on Page 2 Cayenne S Diesel: a measure of efficiency Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart is launching its most powerful diesel model on the market as the Cayenne S Diesel. The 4.2-litre eight-cylinder engine with biturbo charging produces 382 hp (281 kW) and offers a maximum torque of 850 Newton metres. This drives the new Cayenne S Diesel to top values in both dynamic performance and efficiency: The new top diesel completes the sprint from zero to 100 km in 5.7 seconds, and its top speed is 252 km/h. In the process, it utilises energy in an exemplary way: Its NEDC fuel consumption is just 8.3 litres per 100 km (CO2: 218 g/km). One factor contributing to this excellent value is the auto start/stop function; the new model is the world's only SUV with a diesel V8 to offer this functionality. The Cayenne S Diesel offers a driving experience that is typical of a Porsche and yet is altogether new. It is emotional like a sports car in its dynamic performance and sound. The smooth running properties and resonant sound of the eight-cylinder engine attain a level comparable to that of previous Porsche V8 engines. The Cayenne S Diesel gets its very special character from PTM active all-wheel drive. This system produces the driving qualities of a rear-wheel drive vehicle – together with all of its benefits in handling and precision. In a sporty, dynamic style of driving, front-wheel drive actions precisely adapted to the driving situation intervene to improve stability and traction. The optional Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) makes this excellent dynamic performance even sportier. The Cayenne S Diesel with its superior engine power is also the ideal vehicle when towing and manoeuvring boat or horse trailers. The Cayenne S Diesel still has sufficient power reserves even when working at its maximum towing capacity of 3.5 metric tonnes. The new vehicle also takes on the role of a long-distance champion: based on its NEDC fuel consumption the Cayenne S Diesel – equipped with an optional 100-litre fuel tank – can be driven a distance of about 1,200 km without having to stop to refuel. On its exterior, the new top diesel model is an uncompromising Cayenne S as well, and it displays the typical visual features of the eight-cylinder versions. The brake system, for example, has been sized to handle the car's power output, and it is identified by its silver brake callipers. The black fins at the front end emphasise the open air inlets. As on the Cayenne Diesel, the "diesel" badges at the front ends of the wings call attention to the operating mode of the V8 engine. The model badge at the rear identifies it as a Cayenne S. The Cayenne S Diesel will launch on the market in January 2013 and will cost 77,684 euros in Germany – including 19 per cent VAT and country-specific features.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 12, 2012 Some peculiar Ford F-150s have made their way onto the web thanks to a spy photographer. The trucks in question features awkward panel fits, shorten cabs, and modified truck beds. What is the deal with these truck. Most likely, the trucks are the mules for the next F-150, due out in 2015. Automobile Magazine also speculates the trucks are also testing aluminum body panels, something we reported back in July. This would allow engineers to gain knowledge about whether its a good idea or not to implement aluminum in the next truck. Rumor has the 2015 F-150 having a aluminum hood and bed, but this is somewhat sketchy. Source: Automobile Magazine 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.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 12, 2012 GMC has announced the pricing for the new Acadia which begins at $34,875* (includes a $825 destination charge). All Acadias come standard rear park Assist, a rear-view camera, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, color touch radio, USB port, signature LED daytime running lights and interior ambient lighting. Most Acadia models will come with GMC's Intellink infotainment system and a front-center airbag, which provides some protection between driver and front seat passenger in a crash, or hold the driver in place if he or she is alone in the vehicle. Jumping into the top of the line Acadia Denali nets you head-up display, blind spot monitoring system and GMC's new Rear Cross Traffic Alert system. Power for the Acadia will come from a 3.6L direct-injected V6 producing 288 HP and 279 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is rated at 17 City/24 Highway for front-wheel drive models and 16 City/23 Highway. 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. Press Release is on Page 2 2013 GMC Acadia Priced at $34,875 New three-row crossover arrives with updated styling, new technology DETROIT – The 2013 GMC Acadia three-row crossover SUV launches this fall with a suggested retail price of $34,875, including a destination charge of $825. The upscale Denali trim – originally added to Acadia for the 2011 model year – will return with a long list of standard equipment for $46,770, including destination. In addition to new styling and upgraded interior materials, every 2013 Acadia will include new standard features such as Rear Park Assist, a rearview camera, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, a Color Touch Radio with HD radio, USB port, signature LED daytime running lights, and interior ambient lighting. Most Acadia trim levels will come standard with IntelliLink connectivity and the industry's first front-center air bag, which is designed to protect drivers and front passengers in far-side impact crashes. Acadia Denali's standard equipment includes a power tilt and telescoping steering column, Head-Up Display, Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. "The 2013 Acadia arrives with great momentum," said Tony DiSalle, vice president of GMC Marketing. "Our design and engineering updates add even more value to an award-winning vehicle that just saw its best August ever, with retail sales up 35 percent." Acadia is a segment leader in retained value, defined as the projected residual value of a vehicle after five years of ownership. Both Edmunds.com and ALG have named the 2012 Acadia to their respective lists of the industry's residual value leaders. GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, and is one of the industry's healthiest brands. Innovation and engineering excellence is built into all GMC vehicles and the brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain small SUV and Acadia crossover. GMC is the only manufacturer to offer three full-size hybrid trucks with the Yukon, Yukon Denali SUVs and the Sierra pickup. The Sierra Heavy Duty pickups are the most capable and powerful trucks in the market. Details on all GMC models are available at http://www.gmc.com/, on Twitter at @thisisgmc or at http://www.facebook.com/gmc.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 12, 2012 A new Autocar report says Volkswagen is planning a lightweight version of the next-generation GTI. Dubbed 'Carbon GTI', this rumored model is a tribute to the original GTI and its bare-boneness. The 'Carbon GTI' will utilize a combination of new manufacturing techniques to incorporate as much carbon fiber and aluminum into the vehicle. Parts like the bulkhead, windshield frame, and floor panels will use an alloy material. The roof will be made up of carbon-fiber with a steel core. The use of lightweight materials are expected to drop about 440 lbs (about 2,480 lbs for this model). Power for the 'Carbon GTI' will be the same as the next-generation GTI, a 2.0L turbo-four producing somewhere around 222 HP. 0-60 is expected to be under six seconds. Why is Volkswagen doing this? Most likely, this vehicle is a test for for new manufacturing techniques that will possibily be used on the next-generation Audi MLB platform. Also, Volkswagen will be using the same materials and techniques for the upcoming Golf electric and hybrid models. Source: 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.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 12, 2012 The Volvo C30 is an exclusive car is in its own right (selling only 3,471 vehicles last year). Now, Volvo is going to make a certain number of 2013 C30s even more exclusive. 250 C30s will be the Polestar Limited Edition which will net you more horsepower and torque over the standard C30 (250 vs. 227 HP, 273 vs. 236 lb-ft). You'll have the choice between either a six-speed manual or automatic. Exterior changes include all 250 will be painted in the same Rebel Blue color, 17-inch Styx matte black alloy wheels, and a body kit from the C30 R-Design. Also coming from the R-Design is the chassis tuning with new dampers, stiffer bushings and a quicker steering ratio compared to the normal C30. Inside, the C30 Polestar Limited Edition is pretty much like the normal C30 when equipped with the Premium Plus package, meaning it will have sunroof, power seats, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, LED daytime running lights, and Xenon headlamps. You can step up to the Platinum which gets you navigation and a premium sound system. Pricing for the 2013 C30 Polestar Limited Edition starts at $32,445 (includes $895 destination charge). 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. Press Release is on Page 2 Volvo Introduces 2013 C30 Polestar Limited Edition Specially equipped model targets enthusiasts Production limited to 250 vehicles exclusively for U.S. market Standard Polestar performance software increases horsepower, torque ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (Sept. 11, 2012) - While the Volvo C30 has often been called the sportiest-looking Volvo, a new, limited-production version may also be called an "enthusiast magnet" when it makes its way to showrooms in November. The 2013 Volvo C30 Polestar Limited Edition will definitely be limited in volume - only 250 will be made, beginning in October. But it won't be limited when it comes to youthful exuberance and is packaged in a remarkably attractive and affordable container. The base MSRP is $32,445, which includes an $895 destination charge. The excitement begins under the hood where the C30's standard 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine receives a healthy performance upgrade. Polestar, Volvo's official performance partner, provides performance software that boosts output by 23 horsepower and 37 lb.-ft. of torque to 250 hp and 273 lb.-ft. This power boost is realized by increasing airflow into the combustion chambers and advancing spark timing. Polestar's upgrade offers the best of both worlds: Optimized power and torque without affecting fuel consumption. This is possible thanks to efficient tuning of the engine which only increases the power output when it's needed. Thus EPA fuel economy estimates are identical to the standard C30 T5 R-Design with 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway for the six-speed manual transmission and 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway with the optional five-speed Geartronic automatic. The visual magnetism of the C30 Polestar Limited Edition is enhanced with new 17-inch Styx alloy wheels with matte black finish and Polestar badges on the rear and sides of the vehicle. To signify that this C30 is special, all 250 iterations will wear the new-for-2013 exterior hue of Rebel Blue and have a special interior numbered plate. Inside, the C30 Polestar Limited Edition's sporty cabin is dressed with premium leather seating surfaces in a choice of Off-Black or two-tone Off-Black and Calcite. Standard features, equivalent to the Premier Plus trim level of the C30 T5 R-Design, include a power glass sunroof, power driver's seat with memory, soft loadcover, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, power passenger's seat, LED daytime running lights, Keyless Drive and active dual Xenon headlights. Customers can further upgrade this model by selecting the optional Platinum trim level. This includes the superb Volvo Premium Sound System with Dolby® Pro Logic® II Surround Sound, 10 loudspeakers and an astonishing 650 watts. Also included is a navigation system with real time traffic, remote control and map care plus Sirius/XM satellite radio. The C30 Polestar Limited Edition features standard R-Design cues including a color-coordinated body kit, front grille R-Design logo, R-Design watch dial instrument cluster, unique aluminum inlays, R-Design sport steering wheel and sport pedals. For 2013, this version - like all C30s - gains standard rain sensor windshield wipers and headlight washers. A Climate Package can be added to the C30 Polestar Limited Edition with heated front seats, Electronic Climate Control (ECC) and Interior Air Quality System (IAQS). A Sport Chassis, standard on the C30 T5 R-Design and C30 Polestar Limited Edition, provides improved chassis dynamics and steering reflexes. Compared to the C30 T5, spring stiffness for the R-Design is increased by 30 percent while the dampers feature a mono-tube design that builds up pressure quicker for 20 percent increased low-speed damping. Steering is more precise with stiffer bushings and a 10-percent-quicker steering ratio. Like all C30s, the C30 Polestar Limited Edition is well-equipped with standard safety features including Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC), Volvo's Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) and Whiplash Protection Seating System (WHIPS).

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 12, 2012 When the first-generation Cadillac CTS debuted in 2002, it premiered the Art & Science design language with crisp lines and sharp edges. Ask GM design chief Ed Welburn what he thinks of it and this is what he would say, "It had a dramatic presence, very angular. But when you really look at it, the surfacing of the body was not very sophisticated at all," Welburn said to Automotive News. The second-generation CTS would add some sculpture that would smooth out the angular look while remaining as interesting as the first-gen model. So what's in store for the next-generation CTS? Welburn says the car will lose more of its edgy-ness for more contours (see ATS for an example). Welburn goes onto say that the CTS "will continue to be very dramatic, but I think in some ways even more sophisticated." 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.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 11, 2012 Bloomberg is reporting that Ford will announce Mark Fields as its new Chief Operating Officer, putting him right behind CEO Alan Mulally in the chain of command. Until now, Ford has not had a COO under Mulally. This has led many to speculate that this promotion will clearly put Fields in line to be the successor for CEO. Rumors of someone replacing Mulally as CEO have been swirling for months. Although Mulally, 67, says he has no plans to step down anytime soon, it's widely believed that Ford is preparing for new leadership behind the scenes. “We do not comment on speculation about personnel actions. Regarding succession, Ford Motor Co. takes succession planning very seriously, and we have succession plans in place for each of our key leadership positions,” said Ray Day, a Ford spokesman in an e-mail. Fields isn't the only one being considered for the CEO position. Joe Hinrichs, head of Ford's Asia operations, and Jim Farley, Ford's sales and marketing head are also under consideration. The two are also being looked at for President of the Americas. Source: Bloomberg 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.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 11, 2012 Yesterday, Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne led a day-long product preview in Las Vegas for Chrysler and Fiat dealers. The preview showed products from Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Fiat, and Jeep. According to Reuters, Alfa Romeo showed two new models to dealers. Most likely, one of those models was the 4C coupe. The other one could have been a crossover or the new Giulia. Chrysler showed the 100 Subcompact and the new 200. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Chrysler is spending $2 billion on the next 200, with the expectation to double sales. The new 200 will come with a nine-speed automatic transmission to help improve fuel economy. The Wall Street Journal also reports that Fiat showed the new 500L and a electric version of the 500. Jeep had the biggest showing. Reuters says the brand showed new versions of the Compass, Patriot, and Liberty. The appearance of the Compass and Patriot is a bit of surprise, since previous reports have the Compass going away. A dealer who was at the preview says the three vehicles look more like the Grand Cherokee. The three vehicles will use Fiat platforms. Source: Reuters, The Wall Street Journal (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.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 11, 2012 When Land Rover announced the new Range Rover earlier in the month, they announced one the powertrains would be a diesel-electric model. The diesel-electric powertrain will combine a 3.0L turbo-diesel V6 model that’s mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission with an electric motor. The hybrid can hit 60 MPH in 7 seconds, get 45 MPG (on the European cycle, U.S. number will be less), and can ford water that is three feet deep. If this is your dream SUV and live in the U.S., I have some bad news. According to Automobile Magazine, Land Rover will not sell the diesel-hybrid Range Rover in the U.S. The reasoning is that the turbo-diesel V6 would need major modifications to meet emissions. For now, the U.S. will have the choice between a naturally aspirated V8 and supercharged V8. Both engines will come with an eight-speed automatic. Those who are still dreaming about a diesel-electric hybrid Range Rover can hold out some hope. Within the next year and a half, the European emission standards will closely resemble the U.S. standards. Source: Automobile Magazine 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.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com September 11, 2012 According to a report from German weekly WirtschaftsWoche, Porsche is expecting production of its new Macan crossover to reach 75,000 vehicles. That number comes from Porsche's procurement chief Uwe-Karsten Staedter who told suppliers that the company is planning to raise its production forecast from 45,000 to 75,000 Macans. 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.