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Ford C-Max Energi Is Done, C-Max Hybrid To Follow Sometime Next Year
William Maley posted an article in Ford
Ford has quietly ended production of the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid and will be ending C-Max Hybrid production sometime next year at their Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, MI. "Ford C-Max Energi production has ended," said Dan Jones, Ford's North America Car Communications Manager to Green Car Reports. "We will continue to make C-Max Hybrid [models] at [the] Michigan Assembly Plant until mid-2018." The C-Max Hybrid and Energi were introduced in late 2012 as 2013 model year vehicles to take on the likes of the Toyota Prius. But the two models would be hit with a double whammy. First was a number of complaints and lawsuits from owners saying the real-world fuel economy didn't match up with EPA figures. Ford would revise the numbers for the hybrid twice, while the Energi would only be adjusted once. The second was the decline in sales. In 2013, Ford would sell 35,210 C-Max models. So far in 2017, Ford has only moved 15,512 models. Source: Green Car Reports -
The Toyota Prius V is an odd duck in the Prius family. The wagon/van shape offered buyers more space to carry stuff while returning high fuel economy numbers. But its run in the U.S. will be coming to a close at the end of this year. "After six years and nearly 160,000 units sold in the U.S., the decision was made to end Prius V production for the U.S. and Puerto Rico this December," said Toyota's East Coast communications manager Corey Proffitt to Green Car Reports. Proffitt went on to say the Prius V would continue to be sold in other markets around the world, but it is unclear whether Canada will be part of that or not. Declining sales is the key reason Toyota is pulling the Prius V out of the U.S. 2011: 8,399 2012: 40,669 2013: 34,989 2014: 30,762 2015: 28,290 2016: 14,840 2017 (YTD): 8,299 The reason for the massive drop-off in 2016 is due to Toyota launching the RAV4 Hybrid with sales of 45,000 models. In 2017, Toyota has moved around 41,400 units. Source: Green Car Reports -
The Toyota Prius V is an odd duck in the Prius family. The wagon/van shape offered buyers more space to carry stuff while returning high fuel economy numbers. But its run in the U.S. will be coming to a close at the end of this year. "After six years and nearly 160,000 units sold in the U.S., the decision was made to end Prius V production for the U.S. and Puerto Rico this December," said Toyota's East Coast communications manager Corey Proffitt to Green Car Reports. Proffitt went on to say the Prius V would continue to be sold in other markets around the world, but it is unclear whether Canada will be part of that or not. Declining sales is the key reason Toyota is pulling the Prius V out of the U.S. 2011: 8,399 2012: 40,669 2013: 34,989 2014: 30,762 2015: 28,290 2016: 14,840 2017 (YTD): 8,299 The reason for the massive drop-off in 2016 is due to Toyota launching the RAV4 Hybrid with sales of 45,000 models. In 2017, Toyota has moved around 41,400 units. Source: Green Car Reports View full article
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Ford has quietly ended production of the C-Max Energi plug-in hybrid and will be ending C-Max Hybrid production sometime next year at their Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, MI. "Ford C-Max Energi production has ended," said Dan Jones, Ford's North America Car Communications Manager to Green Car Reports. "We will continue to make C-Max Hybrid [models] at [the] Michigan Assembly Plant until mid-2018." The C-Max Hybrid and Energi were introduced in late 2012 as 2013 model year vehicles to take on the likes of the Toyota Prius. But the two models would be hit with a double whammy. First was a number of complaints and lawsuits from owners saying the real-world fuel economy didn't match up with EPA figures. Ford would revise the numbers for the hybrid twice, while the Energi would only be adjusted once. The second was the decline in sales. In 2013, Ford would sell 35,210 C-Max models. So far in 2017, Ford has only moved 15,512 models. Source: Green Car Reports View full article
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As the Dodge Viper drives off into the sunset, its home since 1995 will be shut down. NBC Detroit affiliate WDIV reports that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' will be closing down the Conner Avenue Assembly in Detroit at the end of August. At the moment, more than 80 people work at the plant. In a notice filed with the state of Michigan in June, FCA said it would be offering positions at other locations to those affected. Formally a plant for Champion spark plugs, FCA took it over in 1995 to produce the Viper. Connor would also be home to the Plymouth Prowler from 1997 to 2002. Source: WDIV Detroit, Automotive News (Subscription Required)- 7 comments
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As the Dodge Viper drives off into the sunset, its home since 1995 will be shut down. NBC Detroit affiliate WDIV reports that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' will be closing down the Conner Avenue Assembly in Detroit at the end of August. At the moment, more than 80 people work at the plant. In a notice filed with the state of Michigan in June, FCA said it would be offering positions at other locations to those affected. Formally a plant for Champion spark plugs, FCA took it over in 1995 to produce the Viper. Connor would also be home to the Plymouth Prowler from 1997 to 2002. Source: WDIV Detroit, Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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We knew that the Cadillac ELR would be driving off into the sunset, but we didn't know when. "I plan to continue admiring it as one of the most beautiful cars on four wheels. But we don't plan further investment" in the coupe, said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen back in February. This lead many to believe that Cadillac was going to keep the ELR until the end of the 2016 model year. That would not be the case as General Motors quietly stopped production in the same month. “Cadillac ELR production recently concluded. A very small quantity of ELR units remain available at dealers today,” said Cadillac Product Communications Manager David Caldwell in a statement to Hybrid Cars. Through April, Cadillac only moved 357 ELRs. Source: Hybrid Cars View full article
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The Cadillac ELR Has Left the Building... Back in February
William Maley posted an article in Cadillac
We knew that the Cadillac ELR would be driving off into the sunset, but we didn't know when. "I plan to continue admiring it as one of the most beautiful cars on four wheels. But we don't plan further investment" in the coupe, said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen back in February. This lead many to believe that Cadillac was going to keep the ELR until the end of the 2016 model year. That would not be the case as General Motors quietly stopped production in the same month. “Cadillac ELR production recently concluded. A very small quantity of ELR units remain available at dealers today,” said Cadillac Product Communications Manager David Caldwell in a statement to Hybrid Cars. Through April, Cadillac only moved 357 ELRs. Source: Hybrid Cars -
Rolls-Royce has announced that 2016 will mark the end of the current Phantom lineup. The sedan will make a return in 2018, but the coupe and drophead coupe will not. To mark the end of the coupe and drophead, the British automaker has announced a new special edition. The Phantom Zenith coupe and drophead coupe will come equipped with a Tailgate Hosting Area; laser-etched armrests featuring the locations of where the 100EX and 101EX concepts were revealed, unique instrument dials, a Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, and more. “As the name promises, Zenith will be the pinnacle; the best of its kind; the highest standard achievable by which everything else is judged. Zenith will be the sum of all the best features of Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé, with a few surprises added," said Rolls' Director of Design, Giles Taylor. Rolls will only be building 50 Zenith models before both models say good-bye later this year. As for the next-generation Phantom sedan, it will utilize a new aluminum platform that will find its way underneath all of Rolls-Royce models. The Phantom will also use lightweight metal and carbon fiber to help reduce weight. Design is expected to be the same as the current Phantom. Source: Rolls-Royce Press Release is on Page 2 ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS BRINGS SEVENTH GENERATION OF PHANTOM TO AN END 23.02.2016 Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, has announced that the current Phantom will enter the last stages of its celebrated life in 2016. This announcement follows the recent news that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has begun testing its all-new aluminium architecture, which will underpin every future Rolls-Royce arriving in-market from early 2018. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, has announced that the current Phantom will enter the last stages of its celebrated life in 2016. This announcement follows the recent news that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has begun testing its all-new aluminium architecture, which will underpin every future Rolls-Royce arriving in-market from early 2018. He also announced that Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé models will not be renewed in the future. These two magnificent Phantom models will end their lives with a special collection of only 50 highly desirable cars to be called Phantom Zenith. The current seventh generation of Phantom started production in Goodwood over 13 years ago and quickly became the foundation upon which the renaissance of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was built. A magnificent, graceful and powerful statement of the marque’s claim to the very pinnacle of super luxury, Phantom VII is now approaching the end of its production. During November this year, the build of the very last Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé at Goodwood will be completed. These models will not be replaced. Collectors around the world will be excited to learn that a spectacular collection of 50 unique Coupé’s and Drophead Coupés, called Phantom Zenith, will be built to celebrate the end of production of these truly exceptional cars. Rolls-Royce will also build the last Phantom VII limousines this year. Torsten Müller-Ötvös, said, “I am proud and excited to announce that a new Phantom is on the way – a contemporary and beautiful Phantom enhanced with cutting-edge technologies and design innovations. Any new Phantom is an historic and important moment in automotive history and we are working hard on perfecting the Phantom VIII.” Rolls-Royce Motor Cars reset the benchmark for luxury motor cars in 2003 when it launched Phantom VII, a motor car that has remained the pinnacle of pure luxury for the last 13 years. Over those years Rolls-Royce created many fantastic Phantoms that stunned the world with their beauty and redefined the notion of pure luxury motoring. Now it is time to take the next step in the luxury journey. Phantom VII – Continuing to set the luxury benchmark even as it prepares to leave the world stage Even as it prepares to leave the world stage, Phantom VII will continue to set the benchmark for luxury motoring with a number of limited-run collector’s pieces, each of which will be the last of their line. To mark their exit, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Bespoke design department will create the most highly Bespoke examples of each Phantom model to date – Coupé, Drophead Coupé and Limousine. At the same time the craftspeople who build each Rolls-Royce motor car to roll down the line at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood are already preparing themselves for the painstaking work that will go into these very special final motor cars. Zenith – The very pinnacle of automotive excellence The first of these special collections will be named Zenith, and will be the last ever Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé models available to commission from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “As the name promises, Zenith will be the pinnacle; the best of its kind; the highest standard achievable by which everything else is judged,” comments Director of Design, Giles Taylor. “Zenith will be the sum of all the best features of Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé, with a few surprises added. We expect huge demand for these 50 fine motor cars as we shall not look upon their like again.” Such surprise features will include a Tailgate Hosting Area; laser etched armrests depicting the original launch locations of 100EX in Villa D’Este and 101EX in Geneva; Bespoke instrument dials and a special treatment of the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. Each customer will also receive a ‘money cannot buy’ portable memento of his or her purchase, whilst the motor cars will be offered to clients in a palate of memorable colour combinations from Rolls-Royce’s history. Phantom VII – The return of the pinnacle of automotive excellence The launch of the seventh generation Rolls-Royce Phantom, on 1 January 2003, was much more than the reveal of a new super-luxury car; it signalled the 21st Century renaissance of the world’s most famous luxury automobile brand and the first glimpse of a masterpiece that quickly established itself at the pinnacle of automotive excellence, leading where others could only try to follow. For the preceding five years, and in the absence of publicity, designers, engineers and craftspeople had overseen the birth of a flagship Rolls-Royce motor car and state-of-the-art production facility on the Goodwood Estate in Southern England. Without parallel in the car industry, the achievement was all the more astonishing for a brand which shouldered the weight of automotive history and for which expectations for the future were rightly very high. From launch, the Rolls-Royce Phantom proved itself a worthy recipient of the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. From its Pantheon grille to long rear overhang, the design was clearly a Rolls-Royce. Every angle revealed a bold yet elegant car with road presence that was second to none. From 2005, new variants of Phantom VII were added. First was the Phantom Extended Wheelbase, followed by the ultimate in luxurious open-top motoring, the Phantom Drophead Coupé in 2007 and, in 2008, the Phantom Coupé, Rolls-Royce’s sophisticated grand tourer. All these beautiful cars are timeless in their appeal, and have been the cornerstone of Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke offering to its clients’ sophisticated requirements, allowing them to create individual works of art with their superlative cars. Today, every Phantom that leaves the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood has Bespoke features. ‘Waterspeed’, ‘Aviator’, ‘Metropolitan’, ‘Maharajah’ and ‘Serenity’ are a few of the names of Iconic Bespoke Phantoms which have entered private collections around the world and will live down the years as some of the most beloved Rolls-Royces ever. -
Rolls-Royce has announced that 2016 will mark the end of the current Phantom lineup. The sedan will make a return in 2018, but the coupe and drophead coupe will not. To mark the end of the coupe and drophead, the British automaker has announced a new special edition. The Phantom Zenith coupe and drophead coupe will come equipped with a Tailgate Hosting Area; laser-etched armrests featuring the locations of where the 100EX and 101EX concepts were revealed, unique instrument dials, a Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, and more. “As the name promises, Zenith will be the pinnacle; the best of its kind; the highest standard achievable by which everything else is judged. Zenith will be the sum of all the best features of Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé, with a few surprises added," said Rolls' Director of Design, Giles Taylor. Rolls will only be building 50 Zenith models before both models say good-bye later this year. As for the next-generation Phantom sedan, it will utilize a new aluminum platform that will find its way underneath all of Rolls-Royce models. The Phantom will also use lightweight metal and carbon fiber to help reduce weight. Design is expected to be the same as the current Phantom. Source: Rolls-Royce Press Release is on Page 2 ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS BRINGS SEVENTH GENERATION OF PHANTOM TO AN END 23.02.2016 Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, has announced that the current Phantom will enter the last stages of its celebrated life in 2016. This announcement follows the recent news that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has begun testing its all-new aluminium architecture, which will underpin every future Rolls-Royce arriving in-market from early 2018. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, has announced that the current Phantom will enter the last stages of its celebrated life in 2016. This announcement follows the recent news that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has begun testing its all-new aluminium architecture, which will underpin every future Rolls-Royce arriving in-market from early 2018. He also announced that Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé models will not be renewed in the future. These two magnificent Phantom models will end their lives with a special collection of only 50 highly desirable cars to be called Phantom Zenith. The current seventh generation of Phantom started production in Goodwood over 13 years ago and quickly became the foundation upon which the renaissance of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars was built. A magnificent, graceful and powerful statement of the marque’s claim to the very pinnacle of super luxury, Phantom VII is now approaching the end of its production. During November this year, the build of the very last Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé at Goodwood will be completed. These models will not be replaced. Collectors around the world will be excited to learn that a spectacular collection of 50 unique Coupé’s and Drophead Coupés, called Phantom Zenith, will be built to celebrate the end of production of these truly exceptional cars. Rolls-Royce will also build the last Phantom VII limousines this year. Torsten Müller-Ötvös, said, “I am proud and excited to announce that a new Phantom is on the way – a contemporary and beautiful Phantom enhanced with cutting-edge technologies and design innovations. Any new Phantom is an historic and important moment in automotive history and we are working hard on perfecting the Phantom VIII.” Rolls-Royce Motor Cars reset the benchmark for luxury motor cars in 2003 when it launched Phantom VII, a motor car that has remained the pinnacle of pure luxury for the last 13 years. Over those years Rolls-Royce created many fantastic Phantoms that stunned the world with their beauty and redefined the notion of pure luxury motoring. Now it is time to take the next step in the luxury journey. Phantom VII – Continuing to set the luxury benchmark even as it prepares to leave the world stage Even as it prepares to leave the world stage, Phantom VII will continue to set the benchmark for luxury motoring with a number of limited-run collector’s pieces, each of which will be the last of their line. To mark their exit, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ Bespoke design department will create the most highly Bespoke examples of each Phantom model to date – Coupé, Drophead Coupé and Limousine. At the same time the craftspeople who build each Rolls-Royce motor car to roll down the line at the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood are already preparing themselves for the painstaking work that will go into these very special final motor cars. Zenith – The very pinnacle of automotive excellence The first of these special collections will be named Zenith, and will be the last ever Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé models available to commission from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “As the name promises, Zenith will be the pinnacle; the best of its kind; the highest standard achievable by which everything else is judged,” comments Director of Design, Giles Taylor. “Zenith will be the sum of all the best features of Phantom Coupé and Drophead Coupé, with a few surprises added. We expect huge demand for these 50 fine motor cars as we shall not look upon their like again.” Such surprise features will include a Tailgate Hosting Area; laser etched armrests depicting the original launch locations of 100EX in Villa D’Este and 101EX in Geneva; Bespoke instrument dials and a special treatment of the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. Each customer will also receive a ‘money cannot buy’ portable memento of his or her purchase, whilst the motor cars will be offered to clients in a palate of memorable colour combinations from Rolls-Royce’s history. Phantom VII – The return of the pinnacle of automotive excellence The launch of the seventh generation Rolls-Royce Phantom, on 1 January 2003, was much more than the reveal of a new super-luxury car; it signalled the 21st Century renaissance of the world’s most famous luxury automobile brand and the first glimpse of a masterpiece that quickly established itself at the pinnacle of automotive excellence, leading where others could only try to follow. For the preceding five years, and in the absence of publicity, designers, engineers and craftspeople had overseen the birth of a flagship Rolls-Royce motor car and state-of-the-art production facility on the Goodwood Estate in Southern England. Without parallel in the car industry, the achievement was all the more astonishing for a brand which shouldered the weight of automotive history and for which expectations for the future were rightly very high. From launch, the Rolls-Royce Phantom proved itself a worthy recipient of the famous Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. From its Pantheon grille to long rear overhang, the design was clearly a Rolls-Royce. Every angle revealed a bold yet elegant car with road presence that was second to none. From 2005, new variants of Phantom VII were added. First was the Phantom Extended Wheelbase, followed by the ultimate in luxurious open-top motoring, the Phantom Drophead Coupé in 2007 and, in 2008, the Phantom Coupé, Rolls-Royce’s sophisticated grand tourer. All these beautiful cars are timeless in their appeal, and have been the cornerstone of Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke offering to its clients’ sophisticated requirements, allowing them to create individual works of art with their superlative cars. Today, every Phantom that leaves the Home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood has Bespoke features. ‘Waterspeed’, ‘Aviator’, ‘Metropolitan’, ‘Maharajah’ and ‘Serenity’ are a few of the names of Iconic Bespoke Phantoms which have entered private collections around the world and will live down the years as some of the most beloved Rolls-Royces ever. View full article
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2016 Holden Commodore VF-Series II Marks The End Of An Era
William Maley posted an article in Holden
Holden has revealed to everyone the final Australian-Built Commodore, the VF-Series II. The new Commodore, which will go on sale this October, gets some minor changes to the exterior such as a new grille, front bumper, headlights, and taillights. The big changes come under the hood. Commodore SS and trims above it get the 6.2L LS3 V8 with 304kW of power and 570Nm of torque (about 407 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque). A six-speed manual and six-speed automatic are available on the sedan and Ute, while the Sportswagon gets the automatic only. Holden has made sure the V8 makes an excellent exhaust note thanks to a bi-modal exhaust system and a sound enhancer. The suspension has been retuned for sharper handling and increased comfort, while the SSV Redline gets Brembo brakes on all corners. “We made a commitment to keep this iconic car exciting and relevant for Australian motorists, and that is exactly what we have done. This is the vehicle that our Commodore customers have been asking for,” said Mark Bernhard, Chairman and Managing Director of Holden. “Holden’s design, engineering and manufacturing teams have produced the best Commodore ever - a vehicle that truly lives up to its reputation and one that the entire company is incredibly proud of." Source: Holden Press Release is on Page 2 Holden Commodore VFII; The Quickest, Most Powerful, Most Advanced Commodore Ever Holden reveals most powerful Commodore ever built - 37 years in the making Commodore VFII V8 models boast new, more powerful 6.2-litre LS3 engine Bi-modal exhaust and mechanical sound enhancer standard on all V8 sports models Front and rear Brembo brakes standard for top of the range SS V Redline Commodore VFII developed and engineered for Australian conditions in numerous locations including Phillip Island, Alpine Ranges and the Surf Coast Today, Holden has taken the covers off the quickest, most powerful, most advanced Commodore ever built, the Commodore VFII. VFII introduces a new 6.2-litre LS3 engine to all V8 models, along with numerous upgrades including bi-modal exhaust, mechanical sound enhancer and all-new styling cues. Making its debut at a special, custom-built Commodore Gallery at the brand’s headquarters in Port Melbourne, Holden today celebrated 37 years of Commodore by bringing together more than 30 Commodores, from one of the very first 1978 VB Commodores, to concepts, exports and motorsport heroes, illustrating the history and evolution of Australia’s favourite car. The 2016 Commodore VFII is equipped with the powerful LS3 6.2-litre V8 engine and delivers 304kW of power and an exhilarating 570Nm of torque, ensuring that this is the quickest Commodore ever. An engine of this caliber deserves a pure V8 soundtrack, so Holden engineers developed a distinct and fitting engine sound; the result of endless hours of local testing and courtesy of a newly introduced bi-modal exhaust with unique Holden designed “Baillie Tip” and mechanical sound enhancer. Building on the performance of the LS3 V8 engine, Holden’s track focused, top of the range, SSV Redline sees the introduction of Brembo brakes on all four wheels, providing exceptional braking performance under all conditions and specifically designed to perform under closed circuit and track day conditions. Holden’s Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Bernhard, described the Commodore VFII as the culmination of nearly four decades of design, engineering and manufacturing expertise, combined with unrivaled Australian experience. “We made a commitment to keep this iconic car exciting and relevant for Australian motorists, and that is exactly what we have done. This is the vehicle that our Commodore customers have been asking for,” said Mr. Bernhard. “Commodore VFII is powerful and refined, it will evoke emotion in its driver and exhibits all of the hallmarks Commodore has become renowned for over the years. “Commodore represents 37-years of innovation, performance and technological advancements and has earned its place as Holden’s longest-standing and most successful nameplate. “Holden’s design, engineering and manufacturing teams have produced the best Commodore ever - a vehicle that truly lives up to its reputation and one that the entire company is incredibly proud of. “This is the reason Holden is committed to ensuring we will continue to have engineering and design input into Commodore, and every other Holden vehicle in our range, for generations to come.” In addition to being the most powerful Commodore ever, VFII also boasts the exceptional refinement and handling that Holden has become famous for. Tuned at Holden’s Lang Lang proving ground and tested across Australia, VFII’s revised FE3 rear sports suspension increases ride comfort whilst retaining its sharp handling. Holden’s Lead Development Engineer, Amelinda Watt, said the extensive development work combined with Holden’s Australian expertise ensured the new engine, sound and handling was unique and thrilling. “The new 6.2-litre LS3 engine and its distinctive sound character is the result of years of hard work, testing, developing and evaluating this vehicle and I’m so proud of the end result,” said Ms. Watt. “This is absolutely the best car we have ever engineered and we are confident we are giving all our customers a compelling reason to put the latest Commodore in their driveway. We know that they will enjoy driving VFII as much as we enjoyed creating it.” The introduction of functional hood vents and fascia ducts were developed by Holden engineers with support from Melbourne’s Monash University wind tunnel, improving aerodynamics around the front corners of the vehicle. Hood vents, a stunning new front fascia as well as the introduction of clear lens tail lamps on sedan models and new LED tail lamps on all Sportwagon models gives VFII a more aggressive exterior to match the LS3 V8 under the bonnet. Commodore VFII goes on sale in October with demand for the unbridled V8 variant expected to be extremely strong. Customers wishing to register their interests can do so at their local Holden dealer or via the Holden website. New Features to Commodore VFII Range SV6 Passive entry / Passive start New front fascia and grille New 18 inch alloy wheels New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) SS 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine Bi-modal exhaust with mechanical sound enhancer Passive entry / Passive start New front fascia and grille New 18 inch alloy wheels New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Performance brake option SSV 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine Bi-modal exhaust with mechanical sound enhancer New front fascia and grille Hood vents Colour Head Up Display New 19 inch alloy wheels Clear lens on tail lamps (sedan only) New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Performance brake option SSV Redline 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine Bi-modal exhaust with mechanical sound enhancer Rear Brembo brakes New front fascia and grille Hood vents Clear lens on tail lamps (sedan only) New 20 inch forged wheel option New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Calais Heated front seats (with memory) 8 way power passenger seat New 18 inch alloy wheels Clear lens on tail lamps (sedan only) New decklid lettering New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Calais V Optional 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine New 19 inch alloy wheels Clear lens on tail lamps (sedan only) New decklid lettering Limited Slip Diff (V8 models only) New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Performance brake option (V8 models only) Caprice V 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine Lip spoiler New 19 inch alloy wheels Single exhaust tips Performance brake option Colour Range Slipstream Blue* (NEW) – available on all models (except Caprice V) Empire Bronze* (NEW) – available on Evoke, Calais, Calais V and Caprice V only Phantom Black* Nitrate Silver* Prussian Steel Grey* Jungle Green* – available on sports models only Some Like It Hot Red* Heron White Red Hot Regal Peacock Green* Holden’s Lifetime Capped Price Servicing, the largest of its kind in Australia, will also available on the Commodore VFII range rewarding customers with complete peace of mind. -
Holden has revealed to everyone the final Australian-Built Commodore, the VF-Series II. The new Commodore, which will go on sale this October, gets some minor changes to the exterior such as a new grille, front bumper, headlights, and taillights. The big changes come under the hood. Commodore SS and trims above it get the 6.2L LS3 V8 with 304kW of power and 570Nm of torque (about 407 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque). A six-speed manual and six-speed automatic are available on the sedan and Ute, while the Sportswagon gets the automatic only. Holden has made sure the V8 makes an excellent exhaust note thanks to a bi-modal exhaust system and a sound enhancer. The suspension has been retuned for sharper handling and increased comfort, while the SSV Redline gets Brembo brakes on all corners. “We made a commitment to keep this iconic car exciting and relevant for Australian motorists, and that is exactly what we have done. This is the vehicle that our Commodore customers have been asking for,” said Mark Bernhard, Chairman and Managing Director of Holden. “Holden’s design, engineering and manufacturing teams have produced the best Commodore ever - a vehicle that truly lives up to its reputation and one that the entire company is incredibly proud of." Source: Holden Press Release is on Page 2 Holden Commodore VFII; The Quickest, Most Powerful, Most Advanced Commodore Ever Holden reveals most powerful Commodore ever built - 37 years in the making Commodore VFII V8 models boast new, more powerful 6.2-litre LS3 engine Bi-modal exhaust and mechanical sound enhancer standard on all V8 sports models Front and rear Brembo brakes standard for top of the range SS V Redline Commodore VFII developed and engineered for Australian conditions in numerous locations including Phillip Island, Alpine Ranges and the Surf Coast Today, Holden has taken the covers off the quickest, most powerful, most advanced Commodore ever built, the Commodore VFII. VFII introduces a new 6.2-litre LS3 engine to all V8 models, along with numerous upgrades including bi-modal exhaust, mechanical sound enhancer and all-new styling cues. Making its debut at a special, custom-built Commodore Gallery at the brand’s headquarters in Port Melbourne, Holden today celebrated 37 years of Commodore by bringing together more than 30 Commodores, from one of the very first 1978 VB Commodores, to concepts, exports and motorsport heroes, illustrating the history and evolution of Australia’s favourite car. The 2016 Commodore VFII is equipped with the powerful LS3 6.2-litre V8 engine and delivers 304kW of power and an exhilarating 570Nm of torque, ensuring that this is the quickest Commodore ever. An engine of this caliber deserves a pure V8 soundtrack, so Holden engineers developed a distinct and fitting engine sound; the result of endless hours of local testing and courtesy of a newly introduced bi-modal exhaust with unique Holden designed “Baillie Tip” and mechanical sound enhancer. Building on the performance of the LS3 V8 engine, Holden’s track focused, top of the range, SSV Redline sees the introduction of Brembo brakes on all four wheels, providing exceptional braking performance under all conditions and specifically designed to perform under closed circuit and track day conditions. Holden’s Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Bernhard, described the Commodore VFII as the culmination of nearly four decades of design, engineering and manufacturing expertise, combined with unrivaled Australian experience. “We made a commitment to keep this iconic car exciting and relevant for Australian motorists, and that is exactly what we have done. This is the vehicle that our Commodore customers have been asking for,” said Mr. Bernhard. “Commodore VFII is powerful and refined, it will evoke emotion in its driver and exhibits all of the hallmarks Commodore has become renowned for over the years. “Commodore represents 37-years of innovation, performance and technological advancements and has earned its place as Holden’s longest-standing and most successful nameplate. “Holden’s design, engineering and manufacturing teams have produced the best Commodore ever - a vehicle that truly lives up to its reputation and one that the entire company is incredibly proud of. “This is the reason Holden is committed to ensuring we will continue to have engineering and design input into Commodore, and every other Holden vehicle in our range, for generations to come.” In addition to being the most powerful Commodore ever, VFII also boasts the exceptional refinement and handling that Holden has become famous for. Tuned at Holden’s Lang Lang proving ground and tested across Australia, VFII’s revised FE3 rear sports suspension increases ride comfort whilst retaining its sharp handling. Holden’s Lead Development Engineer, Amelinda Watt, said the extensive development work combined with Holden’s Australian expertise ensured the new engine, sound and handling was unique and thrilling. “The new 6.2-litre LS3 engine and its distinctive sound character is the result of years of hard work, testing, developing and evaluating this vehicle and I’m so proud of the end result,” said Ms. Watt. “This is absolutely the best car we have ever engineered and we are confident we are giving all our customers a compelling reason to put the latest Commodore in their driveway. We know that they will enjoy driving VFII as much as we enjoyed creating it.” The introduction of functional hood vents and fascia ducts were developed by Holden engineers with support from Melbourne’s Monash University wind tunnel, improving aerodynamics around the front corners of the vehicle. Hood vents, a stunning new front fascia as well as the introduction of clear lens tail lamps on sedan models and new LED tail lamps on all Sportwagon models gives VFII a more aggressive exterior to match the LS3 V8 under the bonnet. Commodore VFII goes on sale in October with demand for the unbridled V8 variant expected to be extremely strong. Customers wishing to register their interests can do so at their local Holden dealer or via the Holden website. New Features to Commodore VFII Range SV6 Passive entry / Passive start New front fascia and grille New 18 inch alloy wheels New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) SS 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine Bi-modal exhaust with mechanical sound enhancer Passive entry / Passive start New front fascia and grille New 18 inch alloy wheels New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Performance brake option SSV 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine Bi-modal exhaust with mechanical sound enhancer New front fascia and grille Hood vents Colour Head Up Display New 19 inch alloy wheels Clear lens on tail lamps (sedan only) New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Performance brake option SSV Redline 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine Bi-modal exhaust with mechanical sound enhancer Rear Brembo brakes New front fascia and grille Hood vents Clear lens on tail lamps (sedan only) New 20 inch forged wheel option New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Calais Heated front seats (with memory) 8 way power passenger seat New 18 inch alloy wheels Clear lens on tail lamps (sedan only) New decklid lettering New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Calais V Optional 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine New 19 inch alloy wheels Clear lens on tail lamps (sedan only) New decklid lettering Limited Slip Diff (V8 models only) New LED tail lamp (Sportwagon only) Performance brake option (V8 models only) Caprice V 6.2 litre LS3 V8 engine Lip spoiler New 19 inch alloy wheels Single exhaust tips Performance brake option Colour Range Slipstream Blue* (NEW) – available on all models (except Caprice V) Empire Bronze* (NEW) – available on Evoke, Calais, Calais V and Caprice V only Phantom Black* Nitrate Silver* Prussian Steel Grey* Jungle Green* – available on sports models only Some Like It Hot Red* Heron White Red Hot Regal Peacock Green* Holden’s Lifetime Capped Price Servicing, the largest of its kind in Australia, will also available on the Commodore VFII range rewarding customers with complete peace of mind. 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Imagine a world where there isn't hearses and limousines wearing the Cadillac badge. According to GM Inside News, that will be happening when production of the XTS ends in 2019. Johan de Nysschen, head of Cadillac revealed that when the lifecycle of the XTS ends, there will be no replacement. This is due to the brand realigning their product lineup to better compete with the German automakers. With the upcoming loss of the XTS, this will also signal the end of Cadillac's livery business. "We will not have a car that will lend itself to these kind of modifications and we will probably withdrawal from those markets," said de Nysschen. Source: GM Inside News Pic Credit: William Maley -
Imagine a world where there isn't hearses and limousines wearing the Cadillac badge. According to GM Inside News, that will be happening when production of the XTS ends in 2019. Johan de Nysschen, head of Cadillac revealed that when the lifecycle of the XTS ends, there will be no replacement. This is due to the brand realigning their product lineup to better compete with the German automakers. With the upcoming loss of the XTS, this will also signal the end of Cadillac's livery business. "We will not have a car that will lend itself to these kind of modifications and we will probably withdrawal from those markets," said de Nysschen. Source: GM Inside News Pic Credit: William Maley View full article
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From the not surprising news department; the Honda Crosstour will be saying good-bye. In a statement from American Honda, Executive Vice President John Mendel announced the model's departure after the 2015 model year. The Honda Crosstour has never been a big seller. Designed as a comprise between a crossover and station wagon, the model never caught the success that other models such as the Subaru Outback had. In 2014, Honda only moved 11,802 Crosstours, a 29.9 percent drop when compared to 2013. "However, the crossover segment has evolved and we believe the all-new 2016 Honda HR-V launching later this spring will create new value for crossover shoppers and play a more significant role as a gateway model for the Honda brand to drive light truck sales growth," said Mendel. There is an upside to the Crossover leaving Honda's lineup. The East Liberty Plant in Ohio will now be able to focus on production of the Acura RDX, Honda CR-V, and in 2017, the Acura MDX. Source: Honda Press Release is on Page 2 Statement by John Mendel, Executive Vice President, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Re: North American Production Portfolio Apr 8, 2015 Honda's growth strategy in North America is keyed to aligning our product portfolio and related production around the needs of our customers and growth segments in the marketplace. This includes the fortification of our light truck line-up with the recent introduction of a refreshed version of America's best- selling SUV, the CR-V, as well as the all-new 2016 HR-V, a new 2016 Pilot, and the next generation Ridgeline truck, coming to market next year. The strategy also includes strengthening our leading lineup of passenger cars with the introduction this fall of an all-new Civic lineup that will include more variants than ever before, including a new five-door model. In order to fulfill this customer-focused strategy, we are making several changes to the lineup of vehicles we build in our auto plants in Ohio. Effective with the 2016 model year, we will discontinue production of the Honda Crosstour at the East Liberty Plant in Ohio, also home to the hot-selling Honda CR-V and Acura RDX models, and transfer production of the Accord Hybrid from the Marysville Auto Plant to the Sayama Plant in Japan. The Crosstour, introduced in 2010, served a positive role in helping the Honda brand target crossover buyers. However, the crossover segment has evolved and we believe the all-new 2016 Honda HR-V launching later this spring will create new value for crossover shoppers and play a more significant role as a gateway model for the Honda brand to drive light truck sales growth. This move will allow the East Liberty Plant to focus on meeting demand for the CR-V and a refreshed 2016 Acura RDX and, as announced last month, expand light truck production in early 2017 with the Acura MDX. The transfer of the Accord Hybrid from the Marysville Auto Plant (MAP) to Honda's Sayama Plant in Japan, will better optimize our global production capabilities, enabling MAP to focus on its significant role in producing popular models including the Honda Accord Sedan and Coupe and the Acura TLX and ILX performance sedans. ILX production began at MAP in February 2015. Honda will continue to evolve its customer-focused product strategy in North America by leveraging the flexibility of its production operations in the region. Last year, more than 97 percent of the Honda and Acura vehicles sold in America were produced in North America. View full article
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From the not surprising news department; the Honda Crosstour will be saying good-bye. In a statement from American Honda, Executive Vice President John Mendel announced the model's departure after the 2015 model year. The Honda Crosstour has never been a big seller. Designed as a comprise between a crossover and station wagon, the model never caught the success that other models such as the Subaru Outback had. In 2014, Honda only moved 11,802 Crosstours, a 29.9 percent drop when compared to 2013. "However, the crossover segment has evolved and we believe the all-new 2016 Honda HR-V launching later this spring will create new value for crossover shoppers and play a more significant role as a gateway model for the Honda brand to drive light truck sales growth," said Mendel. There is an upside to the Crossover leaving Honda's lineup. The East Liberty Plant in Ohio will now be able to focus on production of the Acura RDX, Honda CR-V, and in 2017, the Acura MDX. Source: Honda Press Release is on Page 2 Statement by John Mendel, Executive Vice President, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Re: North American Production Portfolio Apr 8, 2015 Honda's growth strategy in North America is keyed to aligning our product portfolio and related production around the needs of our customers and growth segments in the marketplace. This includes the fortification of our light truck line-up with the recent introduction of a refreshed version of America's best- selling SUV, the CR-V, as well as the all-new 2016 HR-V, a new 2016 Pilot, and the next generation Ridgeline truck, coming to market next year. The strategy also includes strengthening our leading lineup of passenger cars with the introduction this fall of an all-new Civic lineup that will include more variants than ever before, including a new five-door model. In order to fulfill this customer-focused strategy, we are making several changes to the lineup of vehicles we build in our auto plants in Ohio. Effective with the 2016 model year, we will discontinue production of the Honda Crosstour at the East Liberty Plant in Ohio, also home to the hot-selling Honda CR-V and Acura RDX models, and transfer production of the Accord Hybrid from the Marysville Auto Plant to the Sayama Plant in Japan. The Crosstour, introduced in 2010, served a positive role in helping the Honda brand target crossover buyers. However, the crossover segment has evolved and we believe the all-new 2016 Honda HR-V launching later this spring will create new value for crossover shoppers and play a more significant role as a gateway model for the Honda brand to drive light truck sales growth. This move will allow the East Liberty Plant to focus on meeting demand for the CR-V and a refreshed 2016 Acura RDX and, as announced last month, expand light truck production in early 2017 with the Acura MDX. The transfer of the Accord Hybrid from the Marysville Auto Plant (MAP) to Honda's Sayama Plant in Japan, will better optimize our global production capabilities, enabling MAP to focus on its significant role in producing popular models including the Honda Accord Sedan and Coupe and the Acura TLX and ILX performance sedans. ILX production began at MAP in February 2015. Honda will continue to evolve its customer-focused product strategy in North America by leveraging the flexibility of its production operations in the region. Last year, more than 97 percent of the Honda and Acura vehicles sold in America were produced in North America. -
Rumorpile: End of the Line For Subaru's Six-Cylinder Engine?
William Maley posted an article in Subaru
Subaru might be the next automaker to follow the downsizing trend. Speaking with Australian outlet CarAdvice.com.au, Yoichi Hori, Subaru's deputy general manager engineering department mentioned the possibility of dropping their six-cylinder engine - used in the Legacy and Outback models - and replacing it with a turbocharged four-cylinder. “Our research said the six-cylinder model is decreasing in the world. So that’s why probably the future, many companies take the smaller displacement with a turbocharger, or diesel, or hybrid," said Hori. As for a possible engine size, Hori mentioned that a 2.0L would be just right. “In terms of the body size, a 2.0-litre with a turbocharger is enough, I think.” Source: CarAdvice.com.au -
Subaru might be the next automaker to follow the downsizing trend. Speaking with Australian outlet CarAdvice.com.au, Yoichi Hori, Subaru's deputy general manager engineering department mentioned the possibility of dropping their six-cylinder engine - used in the Legacy and Outback models - and replacing it with a turbocharged four-cylinder. “Our research said the six-cylinder model is decreasing in the world. So that’s why probably the future, many companies take the smaller displacement with a turbocharger, or diesel, or hybrid," said Hori. As for a possible engine size, Hori mentioned that a 2.0L would be just right. “In terms of the body size, a 2.0-litre with a turbocharger is enough, I think.” Source: CarAdvice.com.au View full article
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Rumorpile: End of the Line For Chevrolet SS, RHD Camaro
William Maley posted an article in Chevrolet
Since Holden announced that it would end Australian production in 2017 and that the Commodore would go to a front-wheel drive platform (rumored to be the next-generation Opel Insignia), questions have been raised as to what would happen to the Chevrolet SS. The SS is American-ized version of the Holden Commodore with a 6.2L V8 engine and the choice of either a six-speed manual or automatic. For a time, it was rumored that the SS would live on. But a new report says the SS is a dead car walking. Motoring.com.au spoke with a unnamed GM executive at the SEMA Show who said that a replacement for the Chevrolet SS will not happen when the current Commodore ends production in 2017. Early reports had the Chevrolet SS living on after 2017 and that the new model would be imported to Australia. That's not all of the bad news though. The unnamed executive also said plans for a right-hand drive next-generation Camaro are 'highly unlikely'. This puts GM in a bad spot in certain markets as Ford will be selling the Mustang in right-hand drive. Source: Motoring.com.au 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. -
Since Holden announced that it would end Australian production in 2017 and that the Commodore would go to a front-wheel drive platform (rumored to be the next-generation Opel Insignia), questions have been raised as to what would happen to the Chevrolet SS. The SS is American-ized version of the Holden Commodore with a 6.2L V8 engine and the choice of either a six-speed manual or automatic. For a time, it was rumored that the SS would live on. But a new report says the SS is a dead car walking. Motoring.com.au spoke with a unnamed GM executive at the SEMA Show who said that a replacement for the Chevrolet SS will not happen when the current Commodore ends production in 2017. Early reports had the Chevrolet SS living on after 2017 and that the new model would be imported to Australia. That's not all of the bad news though. The unnamed executive also said plans for a right-hand drive next-generation Camaro are 'highly unlikely'. This puts GM in a bad spot in certain markets as Ford will be selling the Mustang in right-hand drive. Source: Motoring.com.au 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
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Since the announcement came down that Holden would shutter its operations in 2017, the rumors and speculations began flying about the fate of the Commodore. Would it become a big front-wheel drive model or stick to its rear-drive roots? Was the nameplate destined to stay around? It seems we might have answer to the latter question. CarsGuide.com.au reports that Holden has been fighting with General Motors to keep the Commodore name around. Sources say Philip Brook, Holden’s sales and marketing executive has been begging Mike Devereux, formerly the head of Holden and now GM's ice president of sales and marketing for international operations to keep the Commodore name around. “I need the Commodore name to help sell this car.” Brook has allegedly said. When asked, Brook denied making those comments. “It’s up for discussion. You’ve got to talk to customers, at the end of the day you’ve got to do what makes the most sense from a customer perspective and from a market perspective,” Brook told Drive.com.au. Asked if the Commodore name would live on, Brook said that a decision on that is way down the road. “We’re just going to work through that. It’s a significant decision that we need to make in amongst a whole lot of other significant decisions we need to make.” Source: CarsGuide.com.au, Drive.com.au 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
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Since the announcement came down that Holden would shutter its operations in 2017, the rumors and speculations began flying about the fate of the Commodore. Would it become a big front-wheel drive model or stick to its rear-drive roots? Was the nameplate destined to stay around? It seems we might have answer to the latter question. CarsGuide.com.au reports that Holden has been fighting with General Motors to keep the Commodore name around. Sources say Philip Brook, Holden’s sales and marketing executive has been begging Mike Devereux, formerly the head of Holden and now GM's ice president of sales and marketing for international operations to keep the Commodore name around. “I need the Commodore name to help sell this car.” Brook has allegedly said. When asked, Brook denied making those comments. “It’s up for discussion. You’ve got to talk to customers, at the end of the day you’ve got to do what makes the most sense from a customer perspective and from a market perspective,” Brook told Drive.com.au. Asked if the Commodore name would live on, Brook said that a decision on that is way down the road. “We’re just going to work through that. It’s a significant decision that we need to make in amongst a whole lot of other significant decisions we need to make.” Source: CarsGuide.com.au, Drive.com.au 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.
