2012 GMC Terrain New

The 2012 GMC Terrain is putting downward pressure on the price of camera-based forward collision detection and lane departure systems. The GMC system employs a camera for both collision warning and lane departure functions, relying on software to detect vehicles.

For 2012, the GMC Terrain gets a standard touchscreen audio interface that can be paired through Bluetooth audio streaming to Internet-based services like Pandora and Stitcher (late availability). More important to most buyers are the high-tech standard feature upgrades in the passenger cabin, including a touchscreen audio interface that also integrates the standard rearview camera display.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2012 GMC Terrain is a midsize crossover SUV available in SLE and SLT trim levels, each of which is subdivided into two different models.

The SLE-2 adds roof rails, automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat with power lumbar adjustment, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, upgraded cloth upholstery, Bluetooth and a premium eight-speaker Pioneer audio system. Options vary by trim level and include a 3.0-liter V6, 19-inch chrome-clad wheels, a trailer towing package, a voice-controlled navigation system (with digital music storage) and a dual-screen rear video entertainment system. A lane departure warning and forward collision alert system is also available on SLT-2 models.

Every 2012 GMC Terrain comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. In performance testing, a front-wheel-drive, four-cylinder Terrain went from zero to 60 mph in 9.4 seconds -- on the slow end for the class. EPA estimated fuel economy stands at 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 20/29/23 mpg with all-wheel drive.

Front-wheel-drive and a six-speed automatic transmission are also standard, while all-wheel drive is an option. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 17/24/20 with all-wheel drive.

Safety
The 2012 GMC Terrain comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, a rearview camera and OnStar. In Edmunds brake testing, a four-cylinder Terrain came to a stop from 60 mph in 121 feet.

Driving Impressions
The 2012 GMC Terrain's standard four-cylinder engine should suit most buyers' needs nicely.

2012 GMC Acadia New

Other than receiving some minor feature changes, the GMC Acadia carries over unchanged for 2012.

The Acadia is roomier than other competing large crossovers as well.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2012 GMC Acadia is a large crossover SUV offered in five trims: base SL, SLE, SLT-1, SLT-2 and Denali. The Acadia SLE gets the Preferred package standard, plus a power liftgate, rear parking sensors, an eight-way power driver seat, a two-way power passenger seat (manual recline), an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a rearview camera.

The SLT-1 adds 19-inch wheels, upgraded steering, heated mirrors with turn signal repeaters and integrated blind-spot mirrors, tri-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery in the first and second rows (third row vinyl), heated front seats, an enhanced trip computer, rear seat audio controls and a 10-speaker Bose sound system with an iPod/USB audio interface. Every 2012 GMC Acadia is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 288 hp and 270 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive are standard, but all-wheel drive is optional.

According to EPA estimates, a front-drive Acadia will return 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined. Opting for all-wheel drive drops this to 16/23/19.

Antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, front seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags for all three rows are all standard on the 2012 GMC Acadia. In Edmunds brake testing, an Acadia with 18-inch wheels and tires came to a stop in 135 feet. Depending on the configuration chosen, the Acadia seats either seven passengers (with second-row captain's chairs) or eight passengers (with a split-folding second-row bench seat) in three rows.

Driving Impressions
Like the other large crossovers from General Motors, the 2012 GMC Acadia delivers a nice balance between secure handling and a comfortable ride.

2013 BMW M5

BMW M5 revealed its new M5 in the flesh to journalists at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca yesterday prior to the Pebble Beach Concours/Monterey Historics weekend. Of course, much of the fifth-generation M5's development occurred on the famous Nordschleife race track.

The 4.4-liter direct-injected reverse-flow twin-turbo V8 develops 560 horsepower from 5,750-7,000 rpm (with a 7,200-rpm redline), along with an even 500 pound-feet of torque from 1,500-5,750 rpm. Maximum boost is 22 psi. And yes, that makes it the most powerful engine ever fitted to a production BMW.

For one thing, it has all new heads, as it's the first M engine to feature BMW's Valvetronic variable valve control system, which the M SUVs don't have.
BMW claims the new M5 with the M DCT will hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.
You'd think BMW would've spruced it up a bit to make it a bit more special.

Is the new BMW M5 what we’re accustomed to expect from BMW’s M division? Um, well, as we discovered during a session in southern Spain, the future of M is big, blustery, red-hot, torque-gushing turbos fitted to smaller engines with mass-production roots. (Despite employing aluminum doors and an aluminum hood, the new M5’s mass creeps to 4300 pounds or so.) So it may not eclipse its predecessor’s 158-foot 70-mph-to-0 braking figure.

Smokes If You Got ’Em
Along with three driver-selectable stability-control modes, three settings for throttle response, three firmness levels for the shocks, and three shift-speed options, the have-it-your-way M5 offers you three steering modes, which progressively reduce boost. There’s so much torque steaming aft that even with an electronically locked clutch-plate differential and larger 295/35 Michelin Pilot SuperSport rear tires, the back end easily breaks grip from a standstill under wide-open acceleration.

The stated reason for the 4.4’s lofty redline is track lappers who may want to hold gears longer, but we suspect the real reason is to pay tribute to M’s heritage of lofty top ends: The old E60’s V-10 spun to 8250.

Manual Transmission in Limbo?

The basics remain the same, but BMW’s throttle-less Valvetronic induction control is deployed on the S63 TU, as are larger turbos and intercoolers, different injectors and control electronics, and a higher compression ratio of 10.0:1.

The power delivery is—dare we say it—almost diesel-like. The Getrag seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, a reinforced version of the M3’s optional unit, is geared tall, with a double overdrive and a 3.15:1 final drive, both to save fuel and to take advantage of the engine’s power curve, or relative lack of curve, as it were. ” says Albert Biermann, vice president of engineering for BMW’s M division. “Solution: scream louder.

One thing BMW M5 did hear were the complaints about the E60’s small fuel tank.

New Audi A8

A new New Audi A8 245-horsepower gasoline-electric hybrid edition of Audi's A8 flagship sedan is on the way in 2012. The Audi A8 Hybrid will officially debut next month at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show.

Power is delivered to the front wheels through an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission.

The parallel hybrid setup enables the A8 Hybrid to run on either the gas engine or the electric motor, or a combination of both.

Audi A8 Hybrid limousine
Ingolstadt has revealed the planet saving, tree-hugging version of their flagship limousine, the Audi A8.
Fuel economy is what customers of the new Audi A8 Hybrid will be looking for.

Audi A8- dials
Coming to the more important bit i.e. fuel economy, the Audi A8 Hybrid delivers a respectable 36.8 mpg (15.64 kpl). Emissions from the flagship Audi limousine stand at 148 grams. The new Audi A8 Hybrid will be at the Frankfurt motor show.

Infiniti M35h hybrid First Drive

Gallery: Audi A8
Audi’s new hybrid drivetrain combines a 211hp 2.0-litre TFSI engine (as seen in the Golf GTI) with a 54hp electric motor. Factor in the immediate response of an electric motor and it suggests the Audi A8 hybrid will offer neck-snapping response.

However, instead of using a quattro drivetrain to handle this drive, the A8 hybrid sticks with the standard car’s front-drive layout, in the interests of efficiency.

Unique 10-spoke turbine-design alloys are fitted, and Audi will paint it in a unique A8 hybrid colour called ‘Arctic Silver’.

4.2 FSI® V8 Engine
The Audi A8 delivers performance and handling typically reserved for cars half its size. Thanks to FSI® technology, the 4.2 is powerful, responsive and offers impressive fuel efficiency. Making the most of the fuel and air combustion results in maximum efficiency and responsive power at any RPM.

Eight-speed Automatic Tiptronic® Transmission
Power is transmitted via the new shift-by-wire eight-speed Tiptronic® Transmission. With optimally spread gear ratios that produce dynamic acceleration, the eight-speed transmission also helps reduce fuel consumption by an estimated 6 percent when compared to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Available Sport Rear Differential
Permanent all-wheel drive systems are not created equal. Under normal driving situations, quattro distributes the power between each axle by sending 40 percent to the front wheels and 60 percent to the rear wheels, enhancing the driving dynamics while helping maintain optimum control. quattro with Sport Rear Differential additionally senses which rear wheel to deliver an optimum level of torque.

Servotronic® Steering
Handling is further increased by Servotronic® speed sensitive steering. The dynamic technology of this steering system varies the power assistance based on vehicle speed.

Audi drive select
Progressive Audi technology flourishes with hundreds available vehicle handling and performance combinations thanks to Audi drive select.

Adaptive air suspension
Audi A8 handling is even more evolved with the standard adaptive air suspension. It's designed to react to driving forces nearly instantaneously producing a comfortable, responsive ride in any driving condition.

New Camaro zl1

General Motors has just revealed exact power figures for its new 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and they’re suitably impressive.

Al Oppenheiser, chief engineer of the Camaro, said, “The Camaro ZL1 delivers supercar performance and technology in the sports-car segment. The answer is GM’s Performance Traction Management (PTM) system fitted as standard equipment.

In a case of automotive striptease, Chevrolet continues to reveal more about the 2012 Camaro ZL1 and updated ZR1 Corvette. Only unseasonal rain today at Chevy’s Milford Proving Grounds prevent us from gushing about the super-‘vette’s glue-like stick thanks to new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires.

Centennial Corvette
More coy is the New Camaro zl1. Missing is the hydraulic power steering pump; the ZL1 uses electrically assisted power steering to free up power and provide an expanded range of variable assist and steering ratios.

It’s part of an upgraded fuel system that accesses even the last cup of fuel during high-g track action.

Manual and automatic transmissions are both in store. Chevy says the auto is a sweetie on the street, launching in second gear and shifting smoothly, but is a tiger on the track with aggressive, high-speed shifts in either auto or the truly manual control.

Durability is enhanced by standard oil coolers for both transmissions and the differential, along with the ZR1 ‘vette’s engine oil cooling system carried over intact.

Chevy stresses these modes provide significantly different performance, ranging from a rain mode to a barely-there track aid. In all, Chevy says 30 percent of the New Camaro zl1 has been upgraded in the ZL1.

New Volkswagen Touareg

The Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid has a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain and it replaces the previous V8 petrol model as the top-of-the-line Touareg.

With hybrid drive, there is no performance deficit - the supercharged 3.0-litre petrol engine works with an electric motor to produce the power of an eight-cylinder engine while providing the fuel economy of a six- or four- cylinder unit. Combined with the E-motor electric motor's 46hp, the total system output is 380hp and total maximum torque surges to 580Nm.

The big Hybrid literally zips along when the accelerator pedal is floored. The performance advantage is clear despite the Touareg Hybrid weighing in at 2,240kg, or 205kg heavier than the 3.6-litre V6 petrol version.

The SUV employs a parallel hybrid drive configuration, which essentially means the Touareg can be powered by either engine or motor alone if required, and hence is more efficient for expressway driving. This eliminates drag torque losses and boosts fuel economy significantly.

Each trim line offers two different engines: a 3.6-liter 280 horsepower V6 and a 3.0-liter 225 horsepower V6 turbo diesel. The fuel economy of these engines is 16-mpg city and 23-mpg highway and 19-mpg city and 28-mpg, respectively.

The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg V6 Executive has an MSRP of a whopping $54,255 with standard leather seats, heated rear seats, 10-speakers, power tinted panoramic sunroof, and 20” wheels. VW also offers the Touareg Supercharged Hybrid, a model that blends performance and fuel-efficiency. The Touareg is a safe and secure SUV. It offers standard engine braking assist, hill descent assist, and anti-intrusion side door beams.

New Peugeot 407

All models are elegant, distinctive and dynamic, in a segment based around traditional yet conventional saloon and estates, designed with style and practicality in mind. The rear bumper now incorporates a diffuser style number-plate surround.

New Peugeot 407 equipment like front parking assistance enhances the car’s world-wide reputation for ease of driving and dynamic performance. This engine, which complies with anticipated future Euro 5 emission standards, testifies Peugeot’s ongoing commitment to achieve the best possible environmental

performance.
For example, an additive-enhanced diesel particulate filter system (FAP) is standard on all HDi Diesel powered 407s, following the introduction of the 1.6-litre HDi 110FAP engine. All Peugeot HDi engines, back to 1998, can operate on B30 (Biodiesel at a 30% mixture).

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Fiat 500 Abarth New

Development mules are currently testing at Chrysler's Technical Center in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and it's assumed that the Fiat 500 Abarth New EV will have a range of around 100 miles.
Expect the mini 'ute to debut at next year's Geneva Motor Show, with sales beginning in Europe late next year with the U.S. version arriving in 2013.

Fiat's LA Show debut is the sport version of 500 mini called the Abarth. It features an aggressive bodykit along with a tuned chassis and a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine capable of delivering between 140HP and 180HP, depending on the model.

The Fiat 500 Abarth New spare tire is hung under the vehicle. Fiat, always listening to feedback from its customers, has come up with a solution:

The MOPAR Compact Spare Tire Kit for the FIAT 500. Part number - 82212995.

The dealer installed MOPAR Compact Spare Tire Kit will be priced at $275 plus installation.

The MOPAR kit now provides the flexibility for Studios to order the standard Tire Inflator Kit and then add the Compact Spare Tire kit at the time of sale. The North American debut of the Fiat 500 Abarth New by Gucci will be this Thursday during Fashion's Night Out in New York City. The European Tour for the launch of the convertible 500C by Gucci started officially on 19th August in Saint-Tropez. The first stop will be at Saint Tropez (from19 to 27 August) followed by Berlin (8 - 14 September), Barcelona (25 September - 2 October), London (16 - 23 October) and Geneva (23 - 30 October).

2012 Land Rover Defender,New

The roots of the Land Rover Defender can be traced back to 1948 when Land Rover vehicles established themselves as the most capable and rugged off-roaders in the world.

The 2012 Land Rover Defender will get a new Euro 5 compliant 2.2 liter diesel engine. The new engine has lower emissions than the old engine courtesy a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The six-speed gearbox has been retained from the outgoing defender. The other optional pack is called the off-road pack.

Land Rover's utilitarian off-road SUV became known as the Defender Ninety and Defender One Ten in 1985, with the numbers respectively representing the two- and four-door models' wheelbases (rounded to the nearest 10). Of course, this is the history of the Land Rover Defender in the United Kingdom and elsewhere in the world.

Most Recent Land Rover Defender
The two-door Land Rover Defender 90 was sold for 1994, 1995 and 1997. There were two body styles available. The hardtop body style debuted in 1995 featuring an aluminum roof with pop-up sunroof, an internal/external "safari cage" and four center-facing rear seats. For 1997, Land Rover fitted the Discovery's 4.0-liter aluminum V8 that yielded 182 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque into the Defender. (Even to this day, the thoroughly updated Defender sold elsewhere doesn't have them.) The Land Rover Defender 90 does the job it was intended to do well.

Other off-road specialists like the Jeep Wrangler will probably suit your trail needs just as well as the Defender at a lower price, although none boast the Land Rover's British pedigree.

Past Land Rover Defender Models
In 1993, Land Rover sold 500 units of the four-door Defender 110 in the United States. Featuring a stretched version of the later two-door model's frame, it featured a wheelbase that surpassed that time's Range Rover.

Peugeot 107 New

Model Peugeot 107 is equipped with trehtsilindrovym 12-valve gasoline engine power 68 hp, which is fully like environmental standards of Euro-4. Dynamic quantity of cars furnished with passive and active safety, the greatest standards to safeguard passengers.

Peugeot 107 New Peugeot 107 did not call: the compact city hatchback total length 3.4 meters and a width of a single.6 — the ideal car for that conditions Small maneuverable four Peugeot 107 is presented in three-and body and has two choices for completion: Urban and chic.

Peugeot 107 is really a tiny 4-seats hatchback, ideal car for the mega city. The Peugeot 107 was just what I became seeking inside a car.

The Peugeot 107 a simple to drive and cheap to run small car - ideal for driving in busy built-up areas. The 107 is available in either a 3-door or 5-door version. The three-cylinder 1.0-litre engine is happy to be revved hard which, when combined with the sharp handling and good body control, makes the Peugeot 107 great fun to drive.

Toyota Camry 2012

2012 Toyota Camry interior
We all know how the 2012 Toyota Camry looks like. We first saw numerous images of the new Camry under disguise then Toyota went on to release a teaser video of the car. The exterior design of the car is not what you would ‘groundbreaking’. The first interior image which is apparently of the dashboard on the new Toyota Camry looks pretty plain and practical.

Honda too has come under criticism for the new Honda Civic. Ref: The 2012 Toyota Camry leaked in video and pictures and Another new 2012 Toyota Camry teaser unveiled Fact is, the 2012 Toyota Camry is scheduled for release in the fall. Toyota needs a winner to spark a return to profitability.

Assessing Toyota Stock From technical chart perspective, Toyota stock is in a funk along with the rest of the auto sector stocks. In my opinion, if that level is broken, it will likely be the general market and global credit issues driving the stock down, not Toyota as a company.

Last month as Toyota stock was challenging a price gap at 84 level, I asked the question: Will that 2012 Toyota Camry be enough news to empower the stock through an upside gap? Introduction The new 2012 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid are set to debut in the fall of 2011. Entune is Toyota's brand-new cloud-based data system.

A Camry prototype spotted recently revealed a slightly more aggressive design, with sharper edges and intricately detailed headlights. In an official promotional video, Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda promised that this Camry "would be a remarkable car in terms of handling, safety and fuel economy."

2012 Chevrolet Camaro,Reviews

For 2012, the Chevrolet Camaro sees a number of improvements. The new Camaro ZL1 is a fitting homage to the legendary ZL1 high-performance engine option for the 1969 Camaro that was favored among acceleration addicts and bench-racing braggarts.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a six-speed automatic being optional. Although not as glamorous as the mighty ZL1, other 2012 Chevrolet Camaro trims get notable updates for 2012. This year's rearview camera helps for parking, but the Camaro's low-profile windows still make it difficult to park and even slightly disconcerting place while cornering at speed.

The 2012 Chevy Camaro is a four-seat coupe or convertible available in V6-powered 1LS and 2LS (coupe only), 1LT and 2LT trim levels, and V8-powered 1SS and 2SS trim levels. The RS package (available on all trims but the LS) adds 20-inch wheels and xenon headlights. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg with the manual. Every 2012 Chevy Camaro comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and OnStar. More important, the 2012 Camaro has a new steering wheel that's much more ergonomic and comfortable to grip than last year's.

General Motors revealed a high-performance 2012 Chevrolet Camaro at the Chicago Auto Show Wednesday, saying the car will be the fastest-ever Camaro it has ever built.
20-inch aluminum wheels support specially-developed Goodyear Supercar F2 tires.

Packed with performance technologies, highlighted by Magnetic Ride Control, and advanced materials – including a vented carbon fiber hood insert. Extensive aerodynamic development designed for high-performance driving
CHICAGO – The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 debuted today at the Chicago Auto Show. It is the highest-performing Camaro and the most technically advanced car ever developed in its class.

Motivated by a supercharged V-8 engine producing an estimated 550 horsepower (410 kW), the Camaro ZL1 will be the fastest 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ever offered by Chevrolet. Camaro ZL1's design communicates and supports its performance mission. "Everything about the ZL1's design is directly related to its technology and serious performance, especially aerodynamics," said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. Major elements of the ZL1's design are a new front fascia and hood with air extractors, designed in tandem to create aerodynamic downforce to aid handling.

Components and design elements that contribute to the LSA's
performance include:
High-strength hypereutectic pistons
Because the Camaro ZL1 uses electric power steering, the engine does not incorporate a conventional hydraulic power steering pump on its accessory drive system. Camaro ZL1 is a complete high-performance car, not just a Camaro with more power. Transmission – The high-performance Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual is matched with the LSA engine. Exhaust – ZL1 is equipped with a dual-mode exhaust system, which alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm. This patent-pending system is designed to ensure that ZL1's tremendous power is delivered smoothly to the ground.

Other chassis elements are redesigned to support the car's high-performance limits. Brakes and Steering – Camaro ZL1 features an advanced track-capable braking system, developed in conjunction with experts from Brembo. ZL1 marks the entry of a new electric power steering system to Camaro. Exterior – ZL1's signature from the front is the redesigned fascia and aluminum hood with a raised, carbon fiber insert. The hood features front-mounted air extractors that direct air precisely over the car.

Visually, this center section, in satin black carbon fiber, communicates the car's high-performance intent as a visual contrast to the car's exterior color. Interior – ZL1 is tailored for high-performance driving.

GMC trucka Sierra 1500,Reviews

More recent times have seen GMC's full-size truck adopt the name Sierra, which was previously an upscale trim level.

As with its rivals, the modern-day GMC trucka Sierra 1500 full-size pickup is available with a wide variety of body styles, powertrains and trim levels.

Older versions of the GMC Sierra 1500 pickup have been praised for their strong work ethic, but soundly criticized for their bland, cheap cabins.

Current GMC trucka Sierra 1500
The GMC Sierra 1500 offers three body styles (regular, extended and crew cabs) and trim levels ranging from no-frills "Work Truck" to ultra-plush Denali. Powertrain choices, traditionally a strong point, encompass everything from a frugal 4.3-liter 195-horsepower V6 to a muscular 6.2-liter V8 with 403 hp. Most Sierras, however, will be fitted with either a 295-hp 4.8-liter V8 or a 315-hp 5.3-liter V8.

Calling cards of the GMC trucka Sierra 1500 include strong performance, a refined and quiet ride (even with the heavy-duty towing package) and a comfortable, well-finished cabin.

Used GMC trucka Sierra 1500 Models
The 6.2-liter V8 option for non-Denali models had arrived the previous year along with its six-speed automatic transmission. Many GMC pickup trucks considered by used-vehicle shoppers will be the previous-generation truck, which was sold for the 1999-2006 model years.

The previous generation of GMC trucka Sierra 1500 pickups ran from 1988-'98.

2012 Volkswagen Beetle New

The 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be fully redesigned.

Introduction
Then there was the vehicle sequel, the 1998 New Beetle. Now for 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, there's finally a new Beetle to replace the New Beetle, though it will just be called the Beetle. With the 2012 Beetle, Volkswagen has taken a cautious approach in terms of design. The new Beetle coupe is 3.3 inches wider and 6 inches longer than the outgoing model. Inside, VW has drawn upon elements from the original Beetle, such as incorporating two gloveboxes.

The 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will first be available in the limited-edition Black Turbo launch edition model, which features the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine matched to VW's dual-clutch automated manual transmission. Later in the model year the Beetle TDI will debut, boasting VW's clean and thrifty (estimated at 40 mpg for highway fuel mileage) 140-hp turbodiesel engine.
Our cover story on the Beetle is here.

2012 Volkswagen Beetle | Beetle through history
Conventional auto industry wisdom, like it or not, is that -- at least in America -- you can sell girls a boys' car, but you can't sell boys a girls' car. It's a bit like the belief also held in the industry that you can sell an old man a young man's car, but you can't sell a young man an old man's car.

The 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is bigger by a notable amount: 168.4 inches long, up 6 inches; 71.2 inhes wide, an increase of 3.3 inches.
The engine lineup:
Base: 2.5-liter, five-cylinder gasoline vs. 1.8-liter four in last model. Expected mpg ratings: 22 city, 31 highway (manual transmission) 22/29 (automatic).
Coming later as option: 2-liter turbo-diesel, 140 hp, 236 lbs.-ft. Mpg: 29/40/33.
Somewhat confusingly, VW also proposes the Mini Cooper as a possible Beetle rival -- and the Mini's isn't cheap.

Cadillac ATS,Reviews

GM also released a sketch of the compact rear-wheel drive sports car. It's smaller than Cadillac's popular CTS, also made at Lansing Grand River.

About 1,000 hourly and salaried employees work at the plant. The ATS is designed to compete with foreign automakers' compact luxury cars, including the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.

Cadillac ATS also is launching a large front-wheel drive sedan called the XTS in spring 2012.

Along with that exciting announcement, the upmarket GM division also released this teaser image previewing the new ATS. Eventually, coupe and convertiblemodels could be launched to better align the ATS range with its intended rivals. A high-performance ATS-V model is a given, also.

In terms of styling, the prototype confirms Cadillac'S ATS designers are sticking with the brand’s ‘Art and Science’ design language, with plenty of influences from the CTS evident in this teaser.

Cadillac announced today that it will launch two new models next year starting with the XTS full-size sedan in the spring of 2012 and the Cadillac ATS compact sedan in the summer.

Along with that exciting announcement, the upmarket GM division also released this teaser image previewing the new Cadillac ATS. Eventually, coupe and convertible models could be launched to better align the ATS range with its intended rivals. A high-performance ATS-V model is a given.

2011 BMW M3,Reviews

There is a sports car that doesn't look like a sports car.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 BMW M3 is available in sedan, coupe and convertible body styles. The coupe adds a carbon-fiber roof and split-folding rear seat, while the convertible adds a fully powered retractable hardtop and sun-reflective leather.

The Cold Weather package adds heated front seats and retractable headlight washers. The Premium package adds power-folding auto-dimming mirrors, 2011 BMW M3 Assist telematics, Bluetooth, leather upholstery and different interior trim.

The Technology package adds electronic damping control, M Drive adjustable settings, keyless ignition/entry, the iDrive electronics interface and a navigation system with voice controls and real-time traffic. Most of the above items are available as stand-alone options along with 19-inch wheels, a sunroof (deletes carbon-fiber roof on the coupe), rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, power rear sunshade (coupe and sedan), a split-folding rear seat (sedan), satellite radio, an iPod/USB adapter and a 16-speaker premium sound system.

The coupe and sedan can be equipped with the Competition package, which adds EDC (electronic damping control), 19-inch wheels with high-performance tires, a lowered suspension and different programming for EDC and stability control.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automated-manual transmission (M DCT) is optional. The latter offers manual operation via steering-wheel paddles as well as a full automatic mode. All M3s feature a specialized locking rear differential.
A manual-equipped convertible gets 13 mpg city.

Safety
Standard safety features for the 2010 BMW M3 include front seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes, traction control and stability control. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests gave the 3 Series sedan "Good" ratings (the highest possible) in both frontal-offset and side-impact crash testing, although the convertible received a second-lowest "Marginal" score.

2012 Chevrolet Sonic,Reviews

General Motors has officially yanked back the sheets on the newest sub-compact from Chevrolet, the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. The Sonic hatchback packs more back seat room than its Blue Oval competitor and, with the rear bench folded flat, delivers more cargo room, as well.

Up front, the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic benefits from a MacPherson strut design, while a torsion beam handles suspension duties out back.

Stay tuned for live photos from the show floor of the 2011 Detroit Auto Show and hit the jump for the full press release.
ORION TOWNSHIP, Mich. — The only subcompact car being built on American soil will soon roll out of an assembly plant here in suburban Detroit that is as unusual as the car itself

The production line has been squeezed into half the space of a traditional plant. One of the oldest axioms in the auto industry is that no company can build a subcompact car in the United States and make money because they are priced too low. The Ford Fiesta is built in Mexico. The Sonic will be G.M.’s littlest, and most fuel-efficient, conventionally powered vehicle. The U.A.W. tried to persuade the Ford Motor Company to build the Fiesta subcompact in the United States. Even an entry-level wage employee costs about $30 an hour in wages and benefits.

While it is not the only factor in producing a profitable subcompact, lower employment costs were critical to the decision to build the Chevrolet Sonic in Michigan. In a groundbreaking labor agreement, the union allowed G.M. to pay 40 percent of its union workers at Orion Township an “entry-level” wage that sharply reduces overall production costs.

“The entry-level wage structure was an important enabler, because obviously the smaller the car the less the margin,” said Ms. Tremblay.
The smallest car in its lineup now is the Chevrolet Aveo, a subcompact developed by G.M.’s South Korean subsidiary. A version of the Sonic to be sold overseas will be built in South Korea.

The plant over all employs 1,800, a reduction of 25 percent. Overall capacity at the plant is 160,000 cars a year. Every dollar saved is essential for the Sonic to compete, auto experts said. And if the car is a winner with consumers — production begins in August — the Orion factory could become a model.

2012 Hyundai Veloster,Reviews

The 2012 Hyundai Veloster is an all-new hatchback model.
Introduction
Unlike the small access-style door found on the Mini Cooper Clubman, the Veloster's third door is a normal, front-hinged door; the exterior door release has been disguised to help keep the coupe look intact.

The front-wheel-drive Veloster will be powered by a 1.6-liter direct-injected inline-4 that's good for 138 horsepower.Hyundai Veloster is projecting a 40 mpg highway rating.

The new hatchback - uniquely configured with one driver door and two passenger doors - is parked on the low end of the model range, promoted as a compact coupe offering fun-to-drive chassis dynamics, a long list of standard innovative technology and hybrid-beating fuel economy in one cool-looking package.

2012 Hyundai Veloste (Rumor says that nobody outside Hyundai's inner circle has driven the Veloster and lived to talk about it.)
While the exterior features more than handful of complex curves, from the cutout containing the standard LED running lamps to the lower bodyside door sculpture, Hyundai has still found room for its familiar high beltline A-line crease running from the front fender through the door handle.

First, let's talk about those doors. From the driver's side, the Veloster appears to be a coupe, with one large traditional entry door. The door opens and closes independent on the front passenger door - it is not a smaller "suicide" access door like those of the Mazda RX-8 or the Mini Clubman. To open the rear hatch, just find the handle conveniently hidden under the rear badge. Hyundai says the Veloster's total interior volume beats the current-generation Scion tC, Honda CR-Z, Mini Cooper hardtop and Mini Clubman, and we believe them.

We begrudgingly settle our six-foot, two-inch frame into the front passenger seat of the white Veloster - we want to be driving - with Krafcik (five-foot, ten-inches) at the wheel. Fellow Autoblog associate editor, Jeff Glucker (six-foot, three-inches) occupies the right rear seat.

2012 Hyundai Veloste reiterates that the design of its Veloster is inspired by high-performance sport bikes. The four-passenger Veloster (there are cup holders in the center of the rear bench) accommodates his frame nicely when the front passenger seat is moved up a few inches.

We depart the parking lot of Hyundai's Orange County headquarters and he immediately puts his right foot to the floor. In an attempt to demonstrate the Veloster's handling, Krafcik swerves abruptly left, right, left and then right again.

Most everyone, including Hyundai, brings up the old Honda CRX when discussing the Veloster. The Hyundai Veloster will likely deliver performance numbers comparable to the performance-oriented CRX Si of yore, but with much more interior room, refinement and better fuel economy – all while meeting much more stringent safety standards and offering a back seat.

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8,Review‎s

If we made a list of unforgettable cars of the pr

evious decade, the first-gen er atio n Chrysler 300 SRT8 and Dodge 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 would be on it.

(For more details on the new Hemi, check out our 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 test.)
Status Elevated: The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8
(The Dodge should return identical numbers.)
Even at 130 mph along the back straight—top speed is 175, says 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 remained firmly planted, and there was virtually no wind noise. Rounding out the SRT8’s performance enhancements are seriously beefed-up brakes. Other accents, including side-sill extensions, door handles, mirrors, and the rear spoiler, are painted body color. Out back, the rear fascia contains a darkened lower section punctuated by a pair of four-inch chrome exhaust tips. The SRT8 includes most every 300/300C option as standard. Now for Something Completely, Uh, Similar: The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8
If for all of its dash the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 seems low on flash, behold “the outspoken one,” according to SRT CEO Ralph Gilles. Indeed, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 couldn’t be more outspoken if Ann Coulter, Keith Olbermann, Rush Limbaugh, and Bill Maher were piled inside. The Dodge offers only one wheel design, a split five-spoke forged aluminum 20-incher with black painted pockets.

But the Charger SRT8’s single greatest point of distinction from its Chrysler sibling is the controversial front end. (Of course, if you hate it, you could always just get your Charger SRT8 in black.) It represents a stark contrast to the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 reserved looks.

Like the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 the Charger SRT8 offers the option of red-and-black seat hides, and likewise gets most of its lesser siblings’ available features as standard, although the equipment list itself varies slightly from that of the Chrysler. The Charger SRT8 is mechanically identical to the 300 SRT8 in every respect save the tuning of the active shocks, which are, not surprisingly, stiffer in the Dodge. Both SRT8 sedans feature an 8.4-inch touch-screen display that includes a “Performance Pages” function that displays vehicle performance data, including instantaneous g forces; lap times; eighth-mile, quarter-mile, 0-to-60, and 0-to-60-to-0 figures; braking distances and more. Speaking of purchasing, the Charger SRT8 will start at $46,620 and the 300 SRT8 at $47,995 when they arrive in showrooms this fall.
VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger,
4-door sedan

BASE PRICES: $47,995 (300 SRT8); $46,620 (Charger SRT8)
TRANSMISSION: 5-speed automatic with manual shifting mode
If we made a list of unforgettable cars of the previous decade, the first-generation Chrysler 300 SRT8 and Dodge Charger SRT8 would be on it. Status Elevated:
The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8
Rounding out the SRT8’s performance enhancements are seriously beefed-up brakes. The SRT8 includes most every 300/300C option as standard. Now for Something Complet ely, Uh, Similar: The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8
If for all of its dash the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 seems low on flash, behold “the outspoken one,” according to SRT CEO Ralph Gilles. Speaking of purchasing, the Charger SRT8 will start at $46,620 and the 300 SRT8 at $47,995 when they arrive in showrooms this fall.
BASE PRICES: $47,995 (300 SRT8); $46,620 (Charger SRT8)

The New Opel,Reviews

When General Motors entered negotiations to sell a majority stake in its long-time European brands, New Opel and Vauxhall, it worried those who remembered how Chrysler Corporation's Carter-era government loans forced it to sell off foreign interests and concentrate on North American production.

TERMS DESCRIBED IN THE MOU ARE:
Magna and its partner, Russian government-controlled Sberbank, will own 55 percent in exchange for about $500 million, $450 million of that in cash. Sberbank is proxy for Russian automaker GAZ, which is undergoing its own reorganization, and will take over as Magna's partner in 2010.

M retains 35 percent. The remaining 10 percent goes to Opel and Vauxhall employees.
German and/or European Union banks will extend a total of about 4.5 billion euros in loans to Opel/Vauxhall (about U.S. $6.6 billion at the time of the MOU announcement).

Any new Opel technology under development may have to be shared with the rest of GM after the deal is completed, only if Opel's new majority owners agree. Magna and GAZ will control technology and platforms that Opel designs and/or builds in Germany.