Merry Christmas!

 

All of us at Client ConneXion join in sending you best wishes for the holiday and the new year!

2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Coupe Interior

Kia Sorento Named ‘Best SUV’ Second Year in a Row

 

"The Kia Sorento has been named as Total 4x4’s Best SUV for the second in a row. Editor Alan Kidd said ‘the Sorento was our reigning champion in the full-size SUV class, and it impressed us every bit as much this year as last. Its style, poise, kit and practicality all score heavily in its favor.

Michael Cole, Managing Director of Kia Motors (UK) Ltd said “from the day of its launch we knew that the latest Sorento continued the car’s impressive record of delivering excellent go-anywhere ability coupled with on-road sophistication at a great value price. 

Sorento has been a long-time favourite in the Kia range and its popularity amongst a wide variety of customers, from those who want on-road towing security or all-weather ability to the more adventurous owner who needs to head away from the main roads." [Continue reading...]

Under the Pentastar

Buick Ecotec 2.0L Turbo Named Among WardsAuto 10 Best Engines

 

"This award by WardsAuto World recognizes the four-cylinder as industry leader in the 2012 Buick Regal GS. It is built at General Motors' Spring Hill, Tenn. powertrain facility.


While Buick, a division of General Motors company (NYSE: GM) is more often known as a modern luxury brand, offering vehicles with sculpted designs, luxurious interiors with thoughtful personal technologies, along with responsive-yet-efficient performance, the engine award from WardsAuto World returns Buick to the world of engine power performance, albeit in a smaller displacement than in the past.


Just look at the power-to-displacement ratio. According to the GM news release, the Ecotec 2.0L turbo’s 270 horsepower is the highest specific output of any GM production engine, and at 135 hp per liter, is the most power-dense engine certified by the Society of Automotive Engineers.


“The turbocharged Ecotec 2.0L belongs on the list this year because it makes an outrageous 135 hp per liter in the Regal GS, and it’s a blast to drive,” said WardsAuto World Editor-in-Chief Drew Winter. “This engine delivers a level of power and sophistication that redefines Buick.”


The Regal GS achieves 0-60 mph in less than 6.7 seconds and runs the quarter-mile in 15.2 seconds at 98 mph. It also recently claimed victory in the 120-mph Grand Touring class at the Silver State Classic Challenge open road rally, with only a .019 deviation from a perfect time. A variation of the same engine powers the Regal Turbo.


For the record, Ward’s reviewed 35 engines from 15 automakers in this year’s competition. Winners were chosen based on several factors, including power; noise, vibration and harshness; fuel efficiency; new technology; and comparative data for similar engines.


The Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine includes the latest in technology combinations, whereby the turbo engine is an all-aluminum, dual overhead cam, four-valve design with forged steel connecting rods. The A356 aluminum cylinder head is cast using a rotocast process for high strength, reduced machining and improved port flow. The exhaust valves have sodium-filled stems that promote valve cooling." [Continue reading...]

Happy Birthday to the Nissan LEAF

Nissan Pathfinder Prepares to Cross Over

 

"If automakers have learned anything from the 2011 Ford Explorer, it's that changing a popular SUV nameplate to a crossover platform won't necessarily hurt the vehicle's image (or sales numbers). Nissan is hoping to capture that same sort of magic with its Pathfinder – judging by these spy shots, the traditionally body-on-frame SUV stalwart appears to be crossing over for its next generation.

The next-gen Pathfinder will likely be based on Nissan's FF-L platform that currently underpins vehicles like the Murano crossover and Quest minivan. Our best guess is that this Pathfinder, which will still remain a seven-passenger vehicle, could share many of its bits with the recently revealed Infiniti JX. Either way, whatever Nissan has planned for the new Pathfinder will surely be better than the aging, Titan-based model that's currently on sale." [Continue reading...]

Dodge Hits the Mark With the All-new 2013 Dodge Dart Compact Car

 

"Dodge redefines performance in the compact car segment with an all-new, state-of-the-art four-door sedan delivering class-leading aerodynamics – the 2013 Dodge Dart. 

With Alfa Romeo DNA and Dodge’s passion for performance at its core, the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart is a thoroughly modern vehicle that’s fuel-efficient, beautifully designed and crafted, agile and brings fun back to driving in the segment. 

Similar to the Dodge Dart of the late 1960s, the 2013 Dart offers a special blend of style, performance and innovation. The Dodge brand leveraged its nearly 100-year history of passion for building high-quality, innovative vehicles that stand apart in performance and style, as well as from its partner Fiat’s global compact car expertise, to develop the all-new Dodge Dart. 

ALFA ROMEO DNAThe all-new Dart is the first Chrysler Group vehicle based upon a Fiat architecture – adapted from the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The Giulietta is renowned for satisfying the most demanding customers in terms of road-holding, agility and safety, with exceptional driving dynamics. The Dart leverages all of these attributes within a lengthened and widened platform delivering segment-leading levels of interior roominess. 

The all-new Compact U.S. Wide (CUSW) architecture underpinning the Dart is a state-of-the-art architecture with an industry-leading 68 percent of the body composed of high-strength steel, resulting in a very strong and rigid structure. Combined with responsive steering, four-wheel independent suspension, and available 18-inch wheels, the Dart brings fun back to driving in the compact car segment.

UNMISTAKABLE STYLEThe all-new 2013 Dart marks the Dodge brand’s re-entry into the compact sedan segment, hitting the bulls-eye with a modern, unmistakable Dodge design that builds upon its performance heritage while evoking emotion, efficiency and fluidity of movement. 

Eye-catching exterior proportions are set off from every angle by dynamic lines and curves, along with advanced technology, to deliver class-leading aerodynamic performance. The personality-packed front view is instantly recognizable as an all-new Dodge with its tailored split-crosshair grille, projector headlamps and fog lamps and accentuated fenders. Signature Dodge full-width LED ‘racetrack’ tail lamps and class-exclusive integrated dual exhaust – both inspired by Dodge Charger – accentuate the athletic and muscular stance of this dynamic and passionate new design. 

THREE SOPHISTICATED, FUEL-EFFICIENT & POWERFUL ENGINESThe 2013 Dodge Dart will be powered by three fuel-efficient, powerful, state-of-the-art four-cylinder engines that add to Dart’s fun-to-drive quotient.

Drivers can select from a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir Intercooled Turbo engine, and a new Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-liter MultiAir four cylinder engine. These three engines, combined with three transmission choices, combine to redefine performance by providing the most diverse powertrain lineup in its class.

MultiAir technology delivers optimum combustion at any speed under all driving conditions by allowing direct and dynamic control of air intake and combustion. The result is up to a 15 percent increase in low engine rpm torque, a 7.5 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 10 percent reduction in C02 emissions. " [Continue reading...]

Chrysler Group: Under the Pentastar

Nissan Introduces Low-cost EV Quick Charger

 

"To provide a low-cost, high-quality charging solution for faster EV “refills,” Nissan and Sumitomo are collaborating to launch a new EV quick charger for the U.S. market. And not only will the innovative quick charger cost about one third the price of traditional units, but it also will be able to support all plug-in vehicles capable of quick charging on the increasingly-used CHAdeMO standard—including the Nissan LEAF. The only 100 percent electric car designed for the mass market, the LEAF can be refilled from a fully depleted state to an 80 percent charge in less than 30 minutes using this new charger.

The Nissan/Sumitomo charging system was designed primarily for fleet and commercial applications—including public charging points, rental fleets, corporate and educational campuses, and even shopping malls—and it will be available in two different configurations: One specifically for outdoor use, one for indoor locations.

Other fast facts about the quick charger:" [Continue reading...]

The Best Roast Turkey Recipe For Thanksgiving

Chrysler Invests $1.7 Billion To Build 2013 Jeep Liberty Replacement

 

"Chrysler said it will invest $1.7 billion to develop and build a successor to the Jeep Liberty, including $500 million to retool and expand the Jeep assembly plant here.

Chrysler confirmed the Liberty will be replaced in model year 2013 by a new D-segment model that will be exported to markets around the world.

It said the remainder of the $1.7-billion investment will be spent on other Chrysler facilities in the U.S. as well as supplier tooling and related development costs for the new model.

The Toledo North Assembly Plant builds the 2012 Jeep Liberty and Dodge Nitro. The Toledo announcement suggested there is no replacement planned for the Nitro." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Juke-R Engine Bark

Volkswagen Passat Named Motor Trend 2012 Car of the Year

 

"They grow up so fast. It seems like just yesterday that the first Volkswagen Passat rolled off the production line at our state-of-the art factory in Chattanooga, Tennessee. We’ve always thought highly of the Passat, and as it turns out, we’re not alone: no less an automotive authority than Motor Trend named the Passat the 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year. In a field of 35 vehicles, the American-made midsize sedan took top honors. The award was presented to Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen of America, by Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Angus Mackenzie during a press conference at the 2011 LA Auto Show. Needless to say, we’re thrilled. 

Not only did Motor Trend designate the Passat as the best new car for 2012, but they also said think that it outclasses the current segment leaders: The Passat SE, TDI SE and VR6 SEL each came out on top in comparisons against comparable models of the 2011 and 2012 Hyundai Sonata and 2012 Toyota Camry.

The German-engineered and designed Passat delivers the complete Volkswagen driving experience. Make that experience last as long as possible in the Passat TDI Clean Diesel model, which gets an estimated 43 MPG* and can go up to 795 miles before refueling. Tell your passengers to feel free to stretch out in its tastefully designed interior and get comfy for that long drive, because the Passat also offers class-leading rear-seat legroom, automatic dual-zone climate control and standard Bluetooth®. Even when you reach your destination, you and your passengers may not want to get out of the car, thanks to the crisp, booming sound provided by the optional Fender Premium Audio System, designed exclusively for Volkswagen." [Continue reading...]

LaCrosse GL Concept Refines Buick’s Signature Style

 

"When designers set out to capture the essence of Buick luxury for the LaCrosse GL concept vehicle, they looked to the fine cuisine, heirloom objects and enriching experiences the brand’s customers savor. The design study is on display at the L.A. Auto Show through Nov. 17.

Buick’s color and trim designers worked from a palette of cabernet red, dark cocoa brown and caramel choccachino. They took inspiration from the burnished metal of antique jewelry, ombré patina on vintage guitars and flocked lining of keepsake boxes. For GL’s French-stitched premium leather seats, the designers looked to the understated elegance of classic club chairs and contours of windswept sand dunes. And their use of smooth suede for the headliner is designed to invite one’s touch like a favorite pair of gloves.

“The LaCrosse GL concept expresses Buick’s distinctly human kind of luxury – one that is as warmly inviting as it is elegant and refined,” said David Lyon, executive director of design. “The design cues that already distinguish the production LaCrosse – such as the premium leather-upholstered seats, ice blue ambient lighting and soft touch surfaces – are amplified in the GL and serve as inspiration for future Buick models.”

LaCrosse GL’s cabernet red exterior paint is complemented by brushed and tinted chrome accents on the grille, door handles and deck lid, as well as around the windows, taillights and headlights. Machine-face, satin-finish 20-inch rims fill the wheel wells for a firmly planted appearance.

“The brushed-and-tinted chrome trim gives the GL a more subdued appearance than if we had used bright chrome. The overall effect is more in keeping with Buick’s quietly confident aesthetic,” said Magdalena Kokoszynska, creative designer on LaCrosse GL.

Open the GL’s doors and backlit Buick-emblazoned sill plates invite one to enter like illuminated welcome mats.

Take a seat and one is ensconced in luxury, enveloped by flowing sculptural surfaces finished in a rich blend of warm-hued materials. They offer soft-touch refinement and surprise-and-delight details. The seats, doors and instrument panel surfaces are finished in contrasting dark cocoa brown and caramel choccachino leather. The seat cushions’ pillowed surfaces evoke windswept sand dunes, and the ice-blue French stitching along their seams harmonize with Buick’s signature ambient lighting." [Continue reading...]

Chrysler Group: Under the Pentastar 11-11-11

Ryan Hall Joins Nissan At ING New York City Marathon 2011

 

"Olympic Marathoner Ryan Hall will help runners take performance to the next level at the ING New York City Marathon 2011 as part of the Innovation for Endurance program with Rodale, Inc and Nissan North America. As official automotive partner for the second year, Nissan will provide the official vehicles on the course and display vehicles throughout the event. The new 100% electric Nissan LEAF will be pace vehicle for the marathon on Sunday, November 6.

Hall will have prominent involvement in the New York City Marathon but won’t compete. In addition to training videos and running tips, he’ll greet runners at the Innovation for Endurance display at the ING New York City Marathon Health and Fitness Expo at the Jacob Javits Convention Center on November 4 from 1-2pm, and on November 5 from 12-1pm.

In addition to being the marathon pace car, the Nissan LEAF will be on a “Breathe Easy Tour” of New York City from October 24- Nov.5, making stops at various high-traffic locations including Times Square, Battery Park, and the New York City Marathon finish line. At each stop consumers can enter a sweepstakes to win a new LEAF." [Continue reading...]

Chrysler Prices 2012 Jeep Wrangler 'Call of Duty: MW3' Special Edition at $36,495

 

"Chrysler Group LLC is taking its Jeep partnership with video game publisher Activision to a whole new level with"Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3,"according to officials.

In preparation for the game’s midnight release, the Auburn Hills-based automaker Monday launched a “groundbreaking campaign for the 2012 Wrangler Call of Duty: MW3 Special Edition.”

“This is more than an advertising campaign, this is a true experience that captures the excitement one feels when playing ‘Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3’ and when driving the all-new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: MW3 Special Edition,” said Olivier Francois, Chrysler chief marketing officer.

The campaign dubs the Wrangler as, “The toughest vehicle in the world. Any world.” Ads will introduce the new tagline, as well as the soon-to-be released special edition version of the brand’s popular vehicle." [Continue reading...]

Nissan's Taxi of Tomorrow

Happy Halloween!

 

We would like to wish everyone a very Happy Halloween! Be safe and try not to eat too much candy!

GM Debuts New Front Center Airbag

"Just when you thought automakers couldn't shove any more inflatables into a vehicle's cabin, General Motors has introduced yet another new airbag. The company's new front center airbag is basically designed to keep the driver in place during a solo far-side impact, as well as prevent occupants from bouncing off of one another if there is more than one person in the car. The new device is set to be introduced as standard equipment on models like the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia with power seats beginning in the 2013 model year. The tethered, tube-shaped airbag deploys from the right side of the driver's seat and positions itself in the center of the vehicle.

GM says that the company's analysis of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data revealed that far-side impact crashes accounted for 11 percent of the belted front occupant fatalities in non-rollover incidents between 2004 and 2009, and that those deaths represented 29 percent of all fatalities in all side-impact crashes." [Continue reading...]

Nissan Announces Latest Hybrid, CVT Advances

 

"In addition to selling the only mass-market all-electric no-emissions vehicle in the world – the LEAF – Nissan is continuing its efforts to bring innovation to all with notable tech enhancements to its vehicles powered by internal-combustion engines. This includes recently unveiling two next-generation powertrain systems that will help U.S. drivers achieve higher levels of fuel efficiency beginning in 2012.

The automaker’s all-new XTRONIC continuously variable transmission (CVT), designed specifically for engines with 2.0 to 3.5 liters of displacement, is set to reach North American products starting next year. The advanced transmission builds on Nissan’s longtime industry leadership role in CVT technology with:

• Ratio coverage of a full 7.0 – the widest of any CVT in the world for the aforementioned engine sizes – providing enhanced drivability
• 40 percent less friction for further fuel-economy gains
• The latest version of Nissan’s Adaptive Shift Control, which adapts a vehicle’s shifting patterns to better match different driving styles and road conditions

Thanks to upgrades like these, the new transmission is expected to significantly reduce unwanted powertrain noise and help eliminate over-revving, while also reducing fuel consumption by up to 10 percent – and more when mated to the automaker’s affordable new hybrid propulsion setup. It’s a system that integrates a compact lithium-ion battery, two separate clutches, a leading-edge electric motor and a 2.5-liter supercharged engine, all in a streamlined package that affords the same power as a 3.5-liter V6, but with much better fuel economy." [Continue reading...]

The Ultimate Performance SUV Lands Front and Center on Chrysler Group’s World Headquarters

 

"The most powerful, technologically advanced, high-performance Jeep® vehicle ever has made its way on to Chrysler Group LLC’s Headquarters building in Auburn Hills, Mich. 

Early this morning, workers put the finishing touches on a massive building wrap featuring an image of the all-new 2012 Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT8®. The wrap covers 10 floors on the front of the company’s world headquarters building.

“The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 takes performance to a new level by combining the brand’s legendary capability and utility and merging it with the renowned advanced performance engineering from the company’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO - SRT Brand. “This vehicle not only represents the newly formed SRT brand, but the hard work and determination given by the designers and engineers who continue to bring world-class performance, luxury and refinement to a vehicle that is fast and fun to drive.”

Designed and built using the proven SRT formula that raises the performance to astonishing levels, the new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 runs from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, 0-100-0 mph in the mid-16 second range, can cover the quarter mile in the mid-13 second range, has a top speed of 160 mph, and brakes from 60-0 mph in 116 feet." [Continue reading...]

VW Announces Pricing for the New Golf R

 

"Intelligent downsizing. That’s what the new Golf R represents. The heir to the 2004 and 2008 Golf R32 models, the new R manages to have more power, more performance, and consume less gasoline than its illustrious iconic performance forebears. And it offers all this for just $33,990, plus destination, for the two-door Golf R model.

Whereas the R32 models used 3.2-liter VR6 engines, the new Golf R is fitted with a high-output version of the award-winning turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI® engine. This engine makes 256 horsepower, six more than the VR6 fitted into the 2008 R32. As well as offering more power and performance, the Golf R is also more economical, with manufacturer estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway compared with EPA estimated mileage of 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for the prior model.

Like the previous R32 models, the Golf R is equipped with Volkswagen’s 4Motion® all-wheel-drive system: the latest generation of this system can divert up to 100 percent of the torque to the rear wheels, if needed. All Golf R models sold in the U.S will be equipped with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission. For the first time, the Golf R will be available in two- and four-door guises as well as in two trim levels: well-equipped Golf R and luxurious Golf R with Sunroof and Navigation." [Continue reading...]

Chrysler Group: Under the Pentastar

Chevy Volt Update: Drivers Top 1 Million All-Electric Miles

 

"As demand for the groundbreaking Chevrolet Volt continues to grow, so does the number of owners who are letting Chevy know just how far they can go on a gallon of gas—or no gas at all. In fact, just part way through this summer, Volt owners had already covered more than 1.2 million miles on electricity alone.

They include Kory Levoy, a manufacturing manager from Yorba Linda, Calif., who had been spending $50-$60 every week putting gasoline in his Audi TT roadster. But since buying his new Volt, he has covered 7,500 miles and had to fill up the tank just three times. Today, Levoy—like many other Volt drivers—is averaging 40 miles of driving range on a single charge, allowing him to cover his 25-mile round-trip commute entirely on electricity.

“I was tired of spending roughly $200 plus a month on gas,” said Levoy. “The ability to not even consider finding a gas station or worry about fuel pricing is a phenomenal experience.”

Big-time fuel savings are part of the package for Volt owner Carey Bailer, too. An electrical engineer in Cottage Grove, Ore., Bailey has a 75-mile daily commute that used to cost him about $500 a month in gasoline. Now, driving his new Volt, Bailey has sliced that to just $100 per month—and he expects his fuel costs to come down even further." [Continue reading...]

Subaru Plans Product, Technology Blitz in MPG Hunt

 

"Subaru plans to introduce turbocharging, new transmissions, and hybrid drivetrains in a bid to boost its fleetwide fuel efficiency 30 percent between 2010 and 2015.

The technology blitz also includes a new, lightweight vehicle platform that will be introduced by 2015 and will replace the platform now used for all Subaru nameplates.

Motohisa Miyawaki, head of product planning and engineering, said there will be one full model change each year from 2012 through 2015 on top of this year's introduction of the XV small crossover in Japan and next year's debut of the BRZ sporty car.

The XV will come to the United States in the 2013 or 2014 model year.

Subaru's technology push comes as the company, best known for all-wheel-drive crossovers and SUVs, tries to respond to more stringent government emissions regulations and public demand for greener cars.

"By 2015, we aim to improve fuel efficiency 30 percent compared with 2010 levels to become top level in the industry," Miyawaki said at a September 29 press briefing.

Most of the improvement will come from new engines and transmissions, starting with a third-generation horizontally opposed engine dubbed the FB. It appeared last fall in a refreshed Forester SUV and goes into the new Impreza and XV before being introduced across the lineup." [Continue reading...]

2013 Lexus GS 350 F Sport unveiled in Johannesburg

 

"Lexus has unveiled the 2013 GS 350 F Sport at the Johannesburg International Motor Show in South Africa.

Unfortunately, all we have to go on are the images as Lexus has left out any specs on the model.

From previous reports we can surmise that the GS 350 F Sport features a 3.5 liter V6, an adaptive suspension, bigger brakes and high-performance tires." [Continue reading...]

GM Confirms CNG Bi-Fuel Pickup For 2012

 

"General Motors will soon expand its offerings of alternative fuel vehicles with the launch of a compressed natural gas bi-fuel commercial pickup truck early next year. GM is the only manufacturer currently providing a single-source commercial option with the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana CNG cargo vans.

Many commercial vehicle buyers are looking for vehicles that run on alternative fuels from the factory. The new pickup will be able to enable business owners to focus on their business instead of the complexities associated with vehicle up-fitting." [Continue reading...]

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...]