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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 12, 2012 When the news broke of Suzuki leaving the U.S., there was chorus of people who said this; “How long does Mitsubishi have in the U.S.?” This a good question considering the evidence. Mitsubishi sales through October have dropped 29% to 50,103 vehicles. Mitsubishi’s market share has also dropped from 0.7% to 0.4% in the same period last year. Also, Mitsubishi’s dealers lead all automakers in the U.S. with backlogged inventory. "We have no intention whatsoever of withdrawing from the U.S. market. The U.S. market is a very important market," said Mitsubishi President Osamu Masuko. Masuko says the decline in sales is due to departure of four Mitsubishi models; the Eclipse coupe and convertible, Endeavor, and Galant. While sales are expected to totaled 55,000 vehicles in this fiscal year, Masuko says he expect sales to rebound to 80,000 vehicles in the next fiscal year thanks to new vehicles including the Outlander. Mitsubishi is also planning to expand production at its factory in Normal, Illinois from 50,000 to 70,000 vehicles to fill demand for markets including Russia, Latin America and the Middle East. Finally, Mitsubishi has appointed Gayu Uesugi as the chairman of Mitsubishi Motors North America. Uesugi duties will include crafting a profitable product plan, strategy for growth, and manufacturing blueprint for the U.S. Whether all of the moves work or not, we'll have to wait and see. 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 November 12, 2012 When the news broke of Suzuki leaving the U.S., there was chorus of people who said this; “How long does Mitsubishi have in the U.S.?” This a good question considering the evidence. Mitsubishi sales through October have dropped 29% to 50,103 vehicles. Mitsubishi’s market share has also dropped from 0.7% to 0.4% in the same period last year. Also, Mitsubishi’s dealers lead all automakers in the U.S. with backlogged inventory. "We have no intention whatsoever of withdrawing from the U.S. market. The U.S. market is a very important market," said Mitsubishi President Osamu Masuko. Masuko says the decline in sales is due to departure of four Mitsubishi models; the Eclipse coupe and convertible, Endeavor, and Galant. While sales are expected to totaled 55,000 vehicles in this fiscal year, Masuko says he expect sales to rebound to 80,000 vehicles in the next fiscal year thanks to new vehicles including the Outlander. Mitsubishi is also planning to expand production at its factory in Normal, Illinois from 50,000 to 70,000 vehicles to fill demand for markets including Russia, Latin America and the Middle East. Finally, Mitsubishi has appointed Gayu Uesugi as the chairman of Mitsubishi Motors North America. Uesugi duties will include crafting a profitable product plan, strategy for growth, and manufacturing blueprint for the U.S. Whether all of the moves work or not, we'll have to wait and see. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article -
Despite the mess and tepid reception given to diesel models in the U.S. due to Volkswagen emission scandal, there are still some automakers who believe in it. A BMW spokesperson has confirmed to Car and Driver that diesel variant of the new 5-Series would be arriving in the U.S., although no timeframe was given. The model will be named the 540d. Car and Driver believe the model will be powered by the 3.0L inline-six turbodiesel found in the European-market 530d producing 262 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque. The 540d possibly means our version will produce slightly more power. Source: Car and Driver View full article
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Despite the mess and tepid reception given to diesel models in the U.S. due to Volkswagen emission scandal, there are still some automakers who believe in it. A BMW spokesperson has confirmed to Car and Driver that diesel variant of the new 5-Series would be arriving in the U.S., although no timeframe was given. The model will be named the 540d. Car and Driver believe the model will be powered by the 3.0L inline-six turbodiesel found in the European-market 530d producing 262 horsepower and 457 pound-feet of torque. The 540d possibly means our version will produce slightly more power. Source: Car and Driver -
Last week, we reported on comments made by Volkswagen NA CEO Hinrich Woebcken on wanting to expand the number of crossovers in their lineup. It seems there is another crossover possible destined for the U.S. According to a source, Volkswagen is planning to launch the T-Roc compact crossover for the U.S. beginning in 2019. First shown as a concept back at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, the production model will launch this summer in Europe. The decision was made by Volkswagen once dealers in the U.S. gave a firm commitment to the company they would be able to sell enough T-Rocs to make a profit. It also appears this decision was made only last week judging from a comment made by VW brand chief Herbert Diess. "It was only yesterday that we decided on an additional SUV for 2019," Diess told reporters when asked about product strategy for the U.S. There are still a number of items up in the air, however. For one, Volkswagen needs to decide where it will build the T-Roc. It could import the model from Volkswagen's Portugal plant, build it in Puebla, Mexico, or have it in the same assembly plant as the Atlas in Chattanooga, TN. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Pic Credit: Newspress -
Last week, we reported on comments made by Volkswagen NA CEO Hinrich Woebcken on wanting to expand the number of crossovers in their lineup. It seems there is another crossover possible destined for the U.S. According to a source, Volkswagen is planning to launch the T-Roc compact crossover for the U.S. beginning in 2019. First shown as a concept back at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, the production model will launch this summer in Europe. The decision was made by Volkswagen once dealers in the U.S. gave a firm commitment to the company they would be able to sell enough T-Rocs to make a profit. It also appears this decision was made only last week judging from a comment made by VW brand chief Herbert Diess. "It was only yesterday that we decided on an additional SUV for 2019," Diess told reporters when asked about product strategy for the U.S. There are still a number of items up in the air, however. For one, Volkswagen needs to decide where it will build the T-Roc. It could import the model from Volkswagen's Portugal plant, build it in Puebla, Mexico, or have it in the same assembly plant as the Atlas in Chattanooga, TN. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) Pic Credit: Newspress View full article
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Back in June, we learned that Skoda (a Czech brand under the Volkswagen group) was investigating possibly entering new markets. One of those new markets was North America, a place where 20 percent of global car sales take place. At the time our original report, Skoda hasn't set a timeframe for a decision. Also as we noted, Skoda would need to get more crossovers and SUVs ready if they want to try and make inroads in the U.S. Speaking of SUVs and the U.S., a recent article done by Autocar piqued our interest. Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier said if they were to launch the brand in the U.S. in the near future, they would have their upcoming seven-seat Kodiaq leading the charge. “If we do decide to compete in the US, we will have one chance to make a good first impression. We feel that if we were there now, the Kodiaq would be a home-run car,” said Maier. Maier did stress that the U.S. isn't on Skoda's immediate radar. At the moment, the brand is looking closely at Iran, Singapore, and South Korea as possible new markets. But Maier isn't saying the U.S. isn't on their radar at all. “America is the one that we don't currently compete in with the biggest potential.” Skoda appears to have taken a page out of PSA Peugeot Citroën's playbook. Autocar says the automaker has begun a feasibility study as to whether or not it makes sense to enter the U.S. Source: Autocar View full article
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Skoda's CEO Says New SUV Could Lead A Possible Charge In the U.S.
William Maley posted an article in Volkswagen
Back in June, we learned that Skoda (a Czech brand under the Volkswagen group) was investigating possibly entering new markets. One of those new markets was North America, a place where 20 percent of global car sales take place. At the time our original report, Skoda hasn't set a timeframe for a decision. Also as we noted, Skoda would need to get more crossovers and SUVs ready if they want to try and make inroads in the U.S. Speaking of SUVs and the U.S., a recent article done by Autocar piqued our interest. Skoda CEO Bernhard Maier said if they were to launch the brand in the U.S. in the near future, they would have their upcoming seven-seat Kodiaq leading the charge. “If we do decide to compete in the US, we will have one chance to make a good first impression. We feel that if we were there now, the Kodiaq would be a home-run car,” said Maier. Maier did stress that the U.S. isn't on Skoda's immediate radar. At the moment, the brand is looking closely at Iran, Singapore, and South Korea as possible new markets. But Maier isn't saying the U.S. isn't on their radar at all. “America is the one that we don't currently compete in with the biggest potential.” Skoda appears to have taken a page out of PSA Peugeot Citroën's playbook. Autocar says the automaker has begun a feasibility study as to whether or not it makes sense to enter the U.S. Source: Autocar -
There is some good news for Volvo fans as the company is planning to launch the next-generation of the 40-Series to U.S. within three years. Speaking with Automotive News, Volvo's senior vice president for r&d Peter Mertens said the next-generation V40, along with a new sedan and crossover. "We will have the next-generation 40 cars absolutely in the U.S. I think it was a mistake not having the V40, not being prepared for the U.S. It was a mistake, but it was in that time when the company was in extreme trouble," Mertens explained. Volvo's U.S. dealers and certain staff at the U.S. office have been clamoring for the V40 for a few years. At the time, Volvo couldn't send over the V40 since it wasn't developed for the U.S, and it would take a lot of time and money for it to meet the various standards. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) -
There is some good news for Volvo fans as the company is planning to launch the next-generation of the 40-Series to U.S. within three years. Speaking with Automotive News, Volvo's senior vice president for r&d Peter Mertens said the next-generation V40, along with a new sedan and crossover. "We will have the next-generation 40 cars absolutely in the U.S. I think it was a mistake not having the V40, not being prepared for the U.S. It was a mistake, but it was in that time when the company was in extreme trouble," Mertens explained. Volvo's U.S. dealers and certain staff at the U.S. office have been clamoring for the V40 for a few years. At the time, Volvo couldn't send over the V40 since it wasn't developed for the U.S, and it would take a lot of time and money for it to meet the various standards. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article
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Last year, Volkswagen made an announcement that shocked many of us. The Golf GTD, a GTI with a diesel was slated to come to the U.S. within the next couple years. But news coming out of New York may dash those dreams many of us had. Volkswagen of America's CEO, Michael Horn told reporters that the 2.0L turbodiesel engine used in the GTD cannot be built at company's engine plant in Silao, Mexico, and that the engine would have to be imported from Germany, rasing the cost. “The GTD would be a great car,” said Horn, but with that added cost, “the price point is not really attractive. So the probability is sort of diminishing.” Horn didn't say why the engine couldn't be built at the plant in Mexico. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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Last year, Volkswagen made an announcement that shocked many of us. The Golf GTD, a GTI with a diesel was slated to come to the U.S. within the next couple years. But news coming out of New York may dash those dreams many of us had. Volkswagen of America's CEO, Michael Horn told reporters that the 2.0L turbodiesel engine used in the GTD cannot be built at company's engine plant in Silao, Mexico, and that the engine would have to be imported from Germany, rasing the cost. “The GTD would be a great car,” said Horn, but with that added cost, “the price point is not really attractive. So the probability is sort of diminishing.” Horn didn't say why the engine couldn't be built at the plant in Mexico. 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. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com May 24, 2013 Fiat has announced pricing for the 2014 500L that will be arriving at dealers in June. The base 500L Pop starts at $19,900 (includes $800 destination charge) and comes equipped with a 160 horsepower, 1.4L MultiAir turbocharged inline-four engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Standard equipment includes sixteen-inch chrome-accented wheel covers, five-inch UConnect infotainment system, and the usual equipment that most cars come with (air conditioning, power locks and windows, and seven airbags). Next up is the 500L Easy with a price tag of $20,995. The Easy model comes equipped with sixteen-inch aluminum wheels, tinted rear glass, body-colored mirror caps, and a premium audio system. Following that is the 500L Trekking with a price tag of $21,995. That comes equipped with a two-piece front and rear fascias with graphite inserts, fog lamps, and seventeen-inch aluminum wheels. Finally there is the 500L Lounge with a price tag of $24,995. The Lounge model features dual-clutch six-speed transmission, unique sixteen-inch wheels, heated leather seats, and much more. Easy, Trekking, and Lounge models can be equipped with a a no-cost* Premier Package that such items as rear park assist and a 6.5-inch touchscreen Uconnect infotainment interface. (*Note: the Premier Package is only available as a no-cost for this year). Source: Fiat Press Release is on Page 2 ALL-NEW 2014 FIAT 500L EXPANDS THE FIAT BRAND'S PRODUCT LINEUP AND ITS COMMITMENT TO INNOVATIVE AND VALUE-LOADED CARS - All-new 2014 Fiat 500L arrives to FIAT studios this June with a starting price of $19,100 and four value-loaded models - No-charge Premier Package on 500L Easy, Trekking and Lounge models - All-new Fiat 500L expands the appeal of the iconic 500, while adding two more doors, accommodations for five passengers, best-in-class interior volume (120.1 cu. ft.) and advanced European technology May 24, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Expanding on the style, efficiency and driving enjoyment that has made the Fiat 500 an icon for nearly 57 years, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L expands the Cinquecento's appeal by offering 42 percent extra interior space with comfortable seating for five, engaging driving dynamics and a 160-horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with two fuel-saving, six-speed transmissions. All this comfort and technology is wrapped in contemporary Italian design with a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $19,100 (plus $800 destination). "The all-new Fiat 500L expands the reach of the FIAT brand in North America, appealing to customers who like the contemporary Italian style of the Fiat 500 but need more space and functionality to match their lifestyle needs," said Jason Stoicevich, Head of FIAT Brand North America, Chrysler Group LLC. "The Fiat 500L offers the whole package, with best-in-class interior space, class-leading horsepower, exclusive technology features and the style that only Italians can create." Value-loaded Models Leveraging the style, technology, efficiency and convenience features that made the modern Fiat 500 an international success, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L builds upon these attributes through four exciting models. Fiat 500L Pop Designed for customers who want Italian style, versatility, efficiency and personalization options, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Pop includes a 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with six-speed manual transmission, premium Koni frequency selective damping (FSD) front struts and rear shock absorbers, bi-halogen headlamps with daytime running lamps, 16-inch chrome-accented wheel covers, all-season tires, stainless-steel exhaust tip, black exterior mirrors with driver- and passenger-side spotter mirrors; heat, air conditioning, power lock and windows with one-touch up/down, cruise control, body-color instrument panel, six speakers, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with trip computer, miles-to-empty, average fuel economy and tire-pressure monitoring (TPM) display; steering wheel controls, six-way cloth seats with driver and front-passenger height adjust, 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks with segment-exclusive fore-aft adjustment, recline and tumble/slide feature; tilt and telescoping steering column, 12-volt console and auxiliary power outlets, multi-position cargo area trunk panel, cap-less fuel-filler door, floor mats, interior observation mirror and dual sun visors with vanity mirrors. In addition, the Fiat 500L Pop includes the innovative Uconnect 5.0 with its 5-inch touchscreen display, radio voice commands, handsfree phone, Bluetooth-audio streaming, text message reader, personalization settings and media hub (USB and auxiliary ports) for seamless integration of portable devices. Safety features include seven standard air bags, reactive front head restraints, vehicle theft security alarm, child seat anchor system and electronic stability control (ESC) with Hill-start Assist. The 2014 Fiat 500L Pop model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $19,100 (plus $800 destination charge). Fiat 500L Easy Providing customers with versatility and efficiency and even more style and comfort features, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Easy takes the Fiat 500L Pop model and adds standard 16-inch aluminum wheels, deep-tint rear glass, body-color exterior mirror caps, front-seat center console with armrest, leather-wrapped square-in-circle designed steering wheel, premium leather-wrapped shift knob with chrome accent, vinyl-wrapped instrument panel available in three colors, unique cloth seat fabric and six-speaker FIAT premium audio system with 520-watt amplifier. The 2014 Fiat 500L Easy model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $20,195 (plus $800 destination charge). Fiat 500L Trekking For customers who want the perfect blend of rugged styling and versatility to match their active lifestyle, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking adds to the Fiat 500L Easy model with aggressively designed two-piece front and rear fascias with Grigio Chiaro (graphite) inserts, fog lamps, satin-finished "whiskers," door handles and unique lower front- and rear-fascia accents, Grigio Chiaro wheel arch and body-side sill moldings, Grigio Chiaro recessed license plate area and lower left- and right-side reflector surrounds, and larger 17 x 7-inch aluminum wheels with wider 225/45R17 all-season tires. Inside, the Fiat 500L Trekking features a painted instrument panel bezel and a unique two-tone Nero/Marrone (black/brown) interior environment that carries through on its leather-wrapped steering wheel, door and door-panel armrest bolsters, low-back bucket premium cloth seats and floor mats. The 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $21,195 (plus $800 destination charge). Fiat 500L Lounge Tailored for individuals who want their all-new Fiat 500L to reflect their stylish lifestyle and need for premium appointments and convenience technologies, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Lounge model adds on to the Fiat 500L Easy model with an innovative Euro Twin Clutch six-speed transmission, 16-inch aluminum wheels, fog lamps, chrome body-side moldings and mirror caps, dual sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, premium vinyl-wrapped instrument panel available in two colors, premium heated leather front seats with power four-way adjust, two-way power driver's side lumbar, 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks with segment-exclusive fore-aft adjustment, recline and tumble feature; integrated armrest with cup holders, automatic dual-zone climate control and auto-dimming rear-view mirror with compass. The 2014 Fiat 500L Lounge model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $24,195 (plus $800 destination charge). Premier Packages Include No-charge Technology Features and More than $1,700 of Added Value During the first year of Fiat 500L production, a no-charge Premier Package will be included with Easy, Trekking and Lounge models. This limited-time launch package will include ParkSense rear-park assist, ParkView rear back-up camera and Uconnect 6.5 with a larger 6.5-inch touchscreen and navigation. The Uconnect 6.5 features voice operation of navigation, AM/FM and mobile phones; handsfree phone and Bluetooth-streaming audio, text message reader, personalization settings, premium media hub with SD card reader, auxiliary jack and USB inputs. For customers that want even more technology on the Fiat 500L Easy and Trekking models, the Premier Package +Beats/SiriusXM is available and adds SiriusXM and Beats Audio studio-quality sound system with six premium speakers, 6.5-inch dual-voice coil (DVC) subwoofer with trunk-mounted enclosure and eight-channel amplifier with Beats Audio digital sound processing (DSP) algorithm. View full article
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By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com May 24, 2013 Fiat has announced pricing for the 2014 500L that will be arriving at dealers in June. The base 500L Pop starts at $19,900 (includes $800 destination charge) and comes equipped with a 160 horsepower, 1.4L MultiAir turbocharged inline-four engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Standard equipment includes sixteen-inch chrome-accented wheel covers, five-inch UConnect infotainment system, and the usual equipment that most cars come with (air conditioning, power locks and windows, and seven airbags). Next up is the 500L Easy with a price tag of $20,995. The Easy model comes equipped with sixteen-inch aluminum wheels, tinted rear glass, body-colored mirror caps, and a premium audio system. Following that is the 500L Trekking with a price tag of $21,995. That comes equipped with a two-piece front and rear fascias with graphite inserts, fog lamps, and seventeen-inch aluminum wheels. Finally there is the 500L Lounge with a price tag of $24,995. The Lounge model features dual-clutch six-speed transmission, unique sixteen-inch wheels, heated leather seats, and much more. Easy, Trekking, and Lounge models can be equipped with a a no-cost* Premier Package that such items as rear park assist and a 6.5-inch touchscreen Uconnect infotainment interface. (*Note: the Premier Package is only available as a no-cost for this year). Source: Fiat Press Release is on Page 2 ALL-NEW 2014 FIAT 500L EXPANDS THE FIAT BRAND'S PRODUCT LINEUP AND ITS COMMITMENT TO INNOVATIVE AND VALUE-LOADED CARS - All-new 2014 Fiat 500L arrives to FIAT studios this June with a starting price of $19,100 and four value-loaded models - No-charge Premier Package on 500L Easy, Trekking and Lounge models - All-new Fiat 500L expands the appeal of the iconic 500, while adding two more doors, accommodations for five passengers, best-in-class interior volume (120.1 cu. ft.) and advanced European technology May 24, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Expanding on the style, efficiency and driving enjoyment that has made the Fiat 500 an icon for nearly 57 years, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L expands the Cinquecento's appeal by offering 42 percent extra interior space with comfortable seating for five, engaging driving dynamics and a 160-horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with two fuel-saving, six-speed transmissions. All this comfort and technology is wrapped in contemporary Italian design with a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $19,100 (plus $800 destination). "The all-new Fiat 500L expands the reach of the FIAT brand in North America, appealing to customers who like the contemporary Italian style of the Fiat 500 but need more space and functionality to match their lifestyle needs," said Jason Stoicevich, Head of FIAT Brand North America, Chrysler Group LLC. "The Fiat 500L offers the whole package, with best-in-class interior space, class-leading horsepower, exclusive technology features and the style that only Italians can create." Value-loaded Models Leveraging the style, technology, efficiency and convenience features that made the modern Fiat 500 an international success, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L builds upon these attributes through four exciting models. Fiat 500L Pop Designed for customers who want Italian style, versatility, efficiency and personalization options, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Pop includes a 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with six-speed manual transmission, premium Koni frequency selective damping (FSD) front struts and rear shock absorbers, bi-halogen headlamps with daytime running lamps, 16-inch chrome-accented wheel covers, all-season tires, stainless-steel exhaust tip, black exterior mirrors with driver- and passenger-side spotter mirrors; heat, air conditioning, power lock and windows with one-touch up/down, cruise control, body-color instrument panel, six speakers, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with trip computer, miles-to-empty, average fuel economy and tire-pressure monitoring (TPM) display; steering wheel controls, six-way cloth seats with driver and front-passenger height adjust, 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks with segment-exclusive fore-aft adjustment, recline and tumble/slide feature; tilt and telescoping steering column, 12-volt console and auxiliary power outlets, multi-position cargo area trunk panel, cap-less fuel-filler door, floor mats, interior observation mirror and dual sun visors with vanity mirrors. In addition, the Fiat 500L Pop includes the innovative Uconnect 5.0 with its 5-inch touchscreen display, radio voice commands, handsfree phone, Bluetooth-audio streaming, text message reader, personalization settings and media hub (USB and auxiliary ports) for seamless integration of portable devices. Safety features include seven standard air bags, reactive front head restraints, vehicle theft security alarm, child seat anchor system and electronic stability control (ESC) with Hill-start Assist. The 2014 Fiat 500L Pop model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $19,100 (plus $800 destination charge). Fiat 500L Easy Providing customers with versatility and efficiency and even more style and comfort features, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Easy takes the Fiat 500L Pop model and adds standard 16-inch aluminum wheels, deep-tint rear glass, body-color exterior mirror caps, front-seat center console with armrest, leather-wrapped square-in-circle designed steering wheel, premium leather-wrapped shift knob with chrome accent, vinyl-wrapped instrument panel available in three colors, unique cloth seat fabric and six-speaker FIAT premium audio system with 520-watt amplifier. The 2014 Fiat 500L Easy model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $20,195 (plus $800 destination charge). Fiat 500L Trekking For customers who want the perfect blend of rugged styling and versatility to match their active lifestyle, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking adds to the Fiat 500L Easy model with aggressively designed two-piece front and rear fascias with Grigio Chiaro (graphite) inserts, fog lamps, satin-finished "whiskers," door handles and unique lower front- and rear-fascia accents, Grigio Chiaro wheel arch and body-side sill moldings, Grigio Chiaro recessed license plate area and lower left- and right-side reflector surrounds, and larger 17 x 7-inch aluminum wheels with wider 225/45R17 all-season tires. Inside, the Fiat 500L Trekking features a painted instrument panel bezel and a unique two-tone Nero/Marrone (black/brown) interior environment that carries through on its leather-wrapped steering wheel, door and door-panel armrest bolsters, low-back bucket premium cloth seats and floor mats. The 2014 Fiat 500L Trekking model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $21,195 (plus $800 destination charge). Fiat 500L Lounge Tailored for individuals who want their all-new Fiat 500L to reflect their stylish lifestyle and need for premium appointments and convenience technologies, the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L Lounge model adds on to the Fiat 500L Easy model with an innovative Euro Twin Clutch six-speed transmission, 16-inch aluminum wheels, fog lamps, chrome body-side moldings and mirror caps, dual sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors, premium vinyl-wrapped instrument panel available in two colors, premium heated leather front seats with power four-way adjust, two-way power driver's side lumbar, 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks with segment-exclusive fore-aft adjustment, recline and tumble feature; integrated armrest with cup holders, automatic dual-zone climate control and auto-dimming rear-view mirror with compass. The 2014 Fiat 500L Lounge model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $24,195 (plus $800 destination charge). Premier Packages Include No-charge Technology Features and More than $1,700 of Added Value During the first year of Fiat 500L production, a no-charge Premier Package will be included with Easy, Trekking and Lounge models. This limited-time launch package will include ParkSense rear-park assist, ParkView rear back-up camera and Uconnect 6.5 with a larger 6.5-inch touchscreen and navigation. The Uconnect 6.5 features voice operation of navigation, AM/FM and mobile phones; handsfree phone and Bluetooth-streaming audio, text message reader, personalization settings, premium media hub with SD card reader, auxiliary jack and USB inputs. For customers that want even more technology on the Fiat 500L Easy and Trekking models, the Premier Package +Beats/SiriusXM is available and adds SiriusXM and Beats Audio studio-quality sound system with six premium speakers, 6.5-inch dual-voice coil (DVC) subwoofer with trunk-mounted enclosure and eight-channel amplifier with Beats Audio digital sound processing (DSP) algorithm. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com May 13, 2013 Nissan's CEO has a small request for its U.S. arm: Double sales by 2017. "China was not our biggest, I would say, disappointment. It was mainly the United States. We were expecting a strong year in the United States. It didn't happen," Ghosn told reporters after announcing Nissan's 2012 fiscal results. In 2012, Nissan's sales in the U.S. rose to 1.1 million - up five percent (and a record year as well). However Nissan lost 0.5 percent of market share (7.7 percent) in the U.S., which puts them further away from reaching a market share goal of ten percent. So how will Nissan USA pull off this feat? According to Automotive News, the company will streamline production, increase the number of dealers in certain regions, and boosting marketing efforts with key groups. 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. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com May 13, 2013 Nissan's CEO has a small request for its U.S. arm: Double sales by 2017. "China was not our biggest, I would say, disappointment. It was mainly the United States. We were expecting a strong year in the United States. It didn't happen," Ghosn told reporters after announcing Nissan's 2012 fiscal results. In 2012, Nissan's sales in the U.S. rose to 1.1 million - up five percent (and a record year as well). However Nissan lost 0.5 percent of market share (7.7 percent) in the U.S., which puts them further away from reaching a market share goal of ten percent. So how will Nissan USA pull off this feat? According to Automotive News, the company will streamline production, increase the number of dealers in certain regions, and boosting marketing efforts with key groups. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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Industry News: Will The Tata Nano Be Sold In The U.S.?
William Maley posted a topic in Industry News
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 15, 2012 The Tata Nano, introduced in 2009 as the world's cheapest car could be making its way to other countries. Ratan Tata, head of the Tata Group recently revealed in an interview that they are working on a redesigned version to be sold in the U.S. and Europe that could go on sale within three years. "The U.S. is a very enticing market. We are redesigning the Nano for both Europe and the U.S." The redesign will involve a larger engine and adding "more bells and whistles," including such items as power steering and traction control. Tata says the Nano will be under $10,000. "The Smart and the Fiat 500 have high sticker prices, and people buy them because they are small cars. But everyone knows you put a lot of money into it. We hope that the sub-$10,000 car has appeal." When asked where the Nano would be sold, Tata said its too early to talk about that. We have to give a lot of thought to how we would distribute the car," he said. Source: Autoweek William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 15, 2012 The Tata Nano, introduced in 2009 as the world's cheapest car could be making its way to other countries. Ratan Tata, head of the Tata Group recently revealed in an interview that they are working on a redesigned version to be sold in the U.S. and Europe that could go on sale within three years. "The U.S. is a very enticing market. We are redesigning the Nano for both Europe and the U.S." The redesign will involve a larger engine and adding "more bells and whistles," including such items as power steering and traction control. Tata says the Nano will be under $10,000. "The Smart and the Fiat 500 have high sticker prices, and people buy them because they are small cars. But everyone knows you put a lot of money into it. We hope that the sub-$10,000 car has appeal." When asked where the Nano would be sold, Tata said its too early to talk about that. We have to give a lot of thought to how we would distribute the car," he said. Source: Autoweek 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 August 8, 2013 The Chicken Tax, a fifty year-old tariff put in place to tax 25 percent on all imported trucks could be gone in the near future. The U.S. is currently in talks currently in negotiations with the the Trans-Pacific Partnership over free-trade agreements. One of the countries in the Trans-Pacific Partnership is Japan, a country that currently imposes strict restrictions on U.S. imports. The U.S. is using the elimination of the Chicken Tax as bargaining chip in the negotiations to hopefully open up and let domestic automakers come in. “The automakers see it as some leverage to getting other countries to open up their markets. The tariff doesn’t seem to make any sense now, particularly since the industry has globalized, or at least regionalized, but this is what happens with transfer programs, with protectionism, with social safety nets," said Daniel Ikenson, director of the Cato Institute’s Herbert A. Stiefel Center for Trade Policy Studies. Cases in point: Honda, Nissan, and Toyota build their trucks in U.S. Ford and for a time Chrysler used a loophole in the Chicken Tax to bring their vans into U.S. The Chicken Tax has also hurt automakers. For example, MINI pulled the Clubvan in the U.S. partly due to the Chicken Tax. If the U.S. is not successful in their negotiations, the Chicken Tax could stay on the books for another 25 to 30 years. Source: The Detroit News William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 8, 2013 The Chicken Tax, a fifty year-old tariff put in place to tax 25 percent on all imported trucks could be gone in the near future. The U.S. is currently in talks currently in negotiations with the the Trans-Pacific Partnership over free-trade agreements. One of the countries in the Trans-Pacific Partnership is Japan, a country that currently imposes strict restrictions on U.S. imports. The U.S. is using the elimination of the Chicken Tax as bargaining chip in the negotiations to hopefully open up and let domestic automakers come in. “The automakers see it as some leverage to getting other countries to open up their markets. The tariff doesn’t seem to make any sense now, particularly since the industry has globalized, or at least regionalized, but this is what happens with transfer programs, with protectionism, with social safety nets," said Daniel Ikenson, director of the Cato Institute’s Herbert A. Stiefel Center for Trade Policy Studies. Cases in point: Honda, Nissan, and Toyota build their trucks in U.S. Ford and for a time Chrysler used a loophole in the Chicken Tax to bring their vans into U.S. The Chicken Tax has also hurt automakers. For example, MINI pulled the Clubvan in the U.S. partly due to the Chicken Tax. If the U.S. is not successful in their negotiations, the Chicken Tax could stay on the books for another 25 to 30 years. Source: The Detroit News William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 19, 2013 Mitsubishi is mounting a comeback in the U.S. The brand which only sold 57,790 vehicles last year, a 27% drop in sales compared to 2011, has big plans that involves more marketing and beginning to fill the holes in the lineup. Masatoshi Hasegawa, executive vice president of corporate planning for Mitsubishi Motors North America told Automotive News the brand is looking at a new midsize sedan and a larger crossover. "We are looking into a possibility for the [mid-sized sedan] segment, and we may look into maybe a bigger brother to the Outlander." Hasegawa also noted that a replacement for the aging Lancer compact is sorely needed. But any decision and/or appearance of these new models isn't likely to happen until 2015, the year that Mitsubishi hopes to be selling 100,000 vehicles per year, A comeback is "not going to happen overnight," Hasegawa said. "We went into a descent, so it's going to take time to get back up again. But I think now we will definitely go into an upward trend." So what will happen in the meantime? Well for starters, Mitsubishi will show the new Mirage subcompact at the New York Auto Show next week that will go on sale in the fall. Next will be the new 2014 Outlander crossover that will be coming out in June along with a massive marketing behind it. 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. -
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com March 19, 2013 Mitsubishi is mounting a comeback in the U.S. The brand which only sold 57,790 vehicles last year, a 27% drop in sales compared to 2011, has big plans that involves more marketing and beginning to fill the holes in the lineup. Masatoshi Hasegawa, executive vice president of corporate planning for Mitsubishi Motors North America told Automotive News the brand is looking at a new midsize sedan and a larger crossover. "We are looking into a possibility for the [mid-sized sedan] segment, and we may look into maybe a bigger brother to the Outlander." Hasegawa also noted that a replacement for the aging Lancer compact is sorely needed. But any decision and/or appearance of these new models isn't likely to happen until 2015, the year that Mitsubishi hopes to be selling 100,000 vehicles per year, A comeback is "not going to happen overnight," Hasegawa said. "We went into a descent, so it's going to take time to get back up again. But I think now we will definitely go into an upward trend." So what will happen in the meantime? Well for starters, Mitsubishi will show the new Mirage subcompact at the New York Auto Show next week that will go on sale in the fall. Next will be the new 2014 Outlander crossover that will be coming out in June along with a massive marketing behind it. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com January 20, 2013 The saga of Alfa Romeo arriving in the U.S. could be coming to end. Chrysler Group LLC and Fiat SpA CEO Sergio Marchionne told reporters on Friday that the Alfa Romeo 4C, a lightweight sports car will be arriving in late 2013. "We're finalizing the car now, so it should be here by the end of the year, It's ready in the sense of all the work with architecture and types of models," Marchionne said after an InForum breakfast Friday in Detroit. This contradicts a statement made by Marchionne earlier this week when he said the 4C would be delayed. "The car is not where it needs to be," he said. Dealers were surprised by the announcement. "I am really happy. I've been waiting a long time," said Carl Galeana, owner of Galeana Automotive Group and a Fiat dealer in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Source: Detroit Free Press 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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Alfa Romeo 4C To Come To The U.S. By The End Of 2013 (We Hope)
William Maley posted an article in Alfa Romeo
By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com January 20, 2013 The saga of Alfa Romeo arriving in the U.S. could be coming to end. Chrysler Group LLC and Fiat SpA CEO Sergio Marchionne told reporters on Friday that the Alfa Romeo 4C, a lightweight sports car will be arriving in late 2013. "We're finalizing the car now, so it should be here by the end of the year, It's ready in the sense of all the work with architecture and types of models," Marchionne said after an InForum breakfast Friday in Detroit. This contradicts a statement made by Marchionne earlier this week when he said the 4C would be delayed. "The car is not where it needs to be," he said. Dealers were surprised by the announcement. "I am really happy. I've been waiting a long time," said Carl Galeana, owner of Galeana Automotive Group and a Fiat dealer in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Source: Detroit Free Press 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. -
Good-Bye Mr.Oshawa - Next-Gen Camaro Production Moves Lansing
William Maley posted an article in Chevrolet
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 19, 2012 General Motors is moving production of the next-generation Camaro from its current home of Oshawa, Ontario to Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant in Lansing, Michigan according to a statement released today. GM cites “lower capital investment and improved production efficiencies” as the reason for the move. The Camaro is the only RWD vehicle built at Oshawa, so the move the Lansing Grand River to join alongside the Cadillac ATS and CTS makes complete sense. Also, the next-generation Camaro and CTS will move onto the Alpha platform which currently underpins the ATS. For the time-being, the current Camaro will still be built at Oshawa, alongside the Buick Regal and Cadillac XTS. Starting in 2013, GM will produce the new Impala. Source: GM William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Next-Generation Chevy Camaro to Be Built in the U.S. 2012-12-19 GM announced today the next-generation Chevrolet Camaro will be assembled at the Lansing Grand River (LGR) Assembly Plant in Lansing, Michigan. This decision is based on a comprehensive business case. Lower capital investment and improved production efficiencies were key factors in the business case. The Camaro is the only rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicle built at Oshawa. Assembling the next-generation Camaro at LGR consolidates the RWD assembly with the Cadillac CTS and ATS. As a result, GM will continue to deliver top-quality vehicles as efficiently as possible. GM will continue to meet the production targets agreed to with the Canadian and Ontario governments during the 2009 restructuring. Production of the current generation Chevrolet Camaro will continue on the flexible manufacturing line at Oshawa Assembly until the end of the current product lifecycle. The Buick Regal continues to be produced there, and GM recently invested $185 million to support the launch of two new products on the flex line as well: the all-new Cadillac XTS and the next-generation Chevrolet Impala scheduled to launch in 2013. In addition, GM recently announced it will add a third shift to support the launch of the new Impala there. The consolidated line at Oshawa Assembly will continue to produce the current generation Chevrolet Impala and Equinox until June 2014.
