Crash Avoidance System Added to GMC's Terrain SUV

 

"The 2012 GMC Terrain crossover SUV will feature a new crash avoidance system that'll also serve as a lane departure system, according to GM. It will be the first such system in a General Motors vehicle.

Unlike other precollision and lane departure systems, which typically use a series of radar or laser sensors to detect vehicles in front of them, the GMC system uses a digital camera mounted on the windshield in front of the rear-view mirror.

The digital camera, combined with object- and range-detecting software, determines if an accident is eminent. If it is, the system illuminates a warning icon and beeps to warn the driver. The system also will pre-charge the brakes, like other systems, if it deems an smashup as unavoidable. GM doesn't mention if the system will pre-emptively tighten seat belts, adjust seating position, raise head restraints or close the windows as similar systems do. GMC's precollision system only works at speeds above 25 miles per hour." [Continue reading...]

Volkswagen Teams up with Berghaus on Special Edition California Camper Van

 

"Volkswagen has a rich heritage when it comes to camper vans. But while the German automaker may only offer the Chrysler-built Routan in North America, overseas, it tends to that heritage quite closely, and for its latest model, Wolfsburg has partnered with outdoor outfitter Berghaus for the special edition you see here.

Spun off the Transporter's California line (which somewhat ironically isn't offered in its namesake or any other state in the union), the Berghaus edition packs all the regular features of the standard model and upgrades with some unique touches. That means four seats, an electrically-operated pop-up roof, onboard kitchen and folding dinette. What distinguishes the Berghaus edition, however, is its long list of extra equipment, including a bike rack, folding awning, 18-inch alloys and special badging both inside and out." [Continue reading...]

Volkswagen Passes on Showing Phaeton Concept in Frankfurt, New Car Expected for 2015

 

"The Volkswagen Group had a whole lot and then more to show off at the Frankfurt Motor Show this year. There were about a dozen vehicles rolled out at the pre-show VW Group evening, and then more once the show opened the following morning. For the Volkswagen brand itself, the new production Up! was the main focus, sharing the stage with the Nils concept, the Beetle R showcar and the Polo rally car. But there was, according to the UK's CAR magazine, to be one more major debut.

That additional concept car would have been a preview of the next-generation Phaeton, but apparently VW's corporate strategists opted to hold it back so as not to detract from the Up! runabout. Instead, it will likely show off the concept second-generation luxury sedan at another show in the near future, but the production model isn't expected to come until 2015.

When it does, we'll find out what strategy the Phaeton will have switched to. Insiders suggest it will be downsized to slot in between the Audi A6 and A8 (rather than compete directly with the latter) and could include one or several less traditional (and more practical) bodystyles in addition to a traditional four-door sedan.

We're also likely to be looking at smaller engines than the eight, ten and twelve-cylinder mills currently on offer, all in an effort to sell the new Phaeton to more customers than the current model, one in two of which reportedly stay in Volkswagen's hands as VIP shuttles."

News Source: Car Magazine

2012 Star Wars Passat

  

Comic book artist Ken Lashley designed the Star Wars Edition Passat. This unique 2012 Passat is being auctioned off at www.ebay.com/usetheforceforgood

Jeep Brand at the 64th International Frankfurt Motor Show

"The Jeep brand is in Frankfurt with four previews for the European public. The star of this year’s motor show is the high-performance SRT8^® model of the brand’s flagship Grand Cherokee, powered by the all-new 6.4-liter HEMI^® V-8 engine producing 470 horsepower SAE (351 kW). The new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 displayed for its European premiere on the Jeep stand in Frankfurt features a Deep Cherry Red exterior color and Black leather interior. The new generation of Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the most powerful and high-speed Jeep vehicle ever produced, boasting performance of an authentic super-car.

Together with the introduction of the all-new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with 284 horsepower DIN (209 kW) that will join the 2012 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited lineup – now also enhanced by improved on-road driving comfort – the American brand showcases in Frankfurt the all-new Jeep Wrangler Arctic special-edition model, adding a new factory-customized model for Wrangler.

In the spotlights of the Jeep stand in Frankfurt, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee Interior Concept is a design study created to explore the stylistic potential of the Jeep flagship. The exclusive White Gold exterior delivers additional refinement and style to Grand Cherokee. The cabin of the Interior Concept introduces a new concept of elegance and accommodates driver and passengers in an exclusive living room of soft blue leather." [Continue reading...]

2012 Buick Verano Starts at $23,470

 

The all-new 2012 Buick Verano luxury sedan, which goes on sale later this year, will have a starting price of $23,470 including $885 in destination charges.

The Verano offers more passenger and cargo volume than the Acura TSX sedan or Lexus IS 250.

“Verano is a great new addition to Buick because it expands the brand’s reach,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing. “With Verano, we’re inviting new customers into the Buick family, giving us the opportunity and privilege of building longtime Buick loyalty.”

Verano is Buick’s third all-new model in the past three years and the first in the compact segment, delivering the premium features and luxury characteristics that have helped make Buick one of the fastest-growing automotive brands in North America.

The car will be offered in three models, with the top model carrying a suggested retail price of $26,850, including destination charge. All models are powered by a fuel-efficient 2.4L four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that delivers 180 hp at 6,700 rpm with 171 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,900 rpm.

The Verano’s exterior is distinguished by sleek lines, blue translucent projector beam headlamps and standard fog lamps and 18-inch multi-spoke, forged alloy, silver-finish wheels, with a premium 18-inch split spoke wheel design available on certain models.[Continue reading...]

Dodge to Offer Mopar Packages on New 2012 Charger Pursuit

 

Dodge and Mopar^® are in hot pursuit of police car sales.

Today Dodge and Mopar announced six all-new quality-tested and factory-installed police-equipment packages for the high-performance 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit. Vehicles are ready-for-duty right from the manufacturer.

“Mopar is adding even more value to our all-new 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “We are adding proven, quality-tested tactical equipment to this pursuit vehicle and creating a one-stop shop for police customers. With six quick-order packages, police departments have the ability to customize their vehicles to exact specifications.”

To enhance Dodge Charger Pursuit’s world-class levels of technology, safety, handling and efficient power, Mopar teamed up with industry-equipment leader Crown North America to develop six police packages that are designed to provide law-enforcement officers with the best combination of tactical equipment and performance. These police-equipment packages feature emergency lighting, audible warning, communications and safety equipment. Industry-leading suppliers involved in the development include Whelen Engineering, Setina Manufacturing and Havis, Inc.

“With rear-wheel-drive, best-in-class V-8 power, seven air bags and up to 27 miles per gallon during highway cruising, the Dodge Charger Pursuit is an excellent police car on its own merits,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. “Our partnership with Mopar to produce these six police packages takes the car to the next level by allowing our customers to customize their cruisers to meet their specific needs.”[Continue reading...]