Canadian Fiat 500 sells out

The first 500 of the "first edition" (Prima Edizione) Fiat 500s available in Canada were snapped up in just twelve hours according to Chrysler Canada. As you may remember, the Fiat 500 Prima Edizione is exclusively available in three colors: Bianco (White), Rosso (Red) and Grigio (Gray). Two equipment levels are offered, and the vehicle features the state-of-the-art 1.4-litre MultiAir® engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

I just saw the Fiat 500 at the LA Auto Show and the car is a good size and is attractive (or dare I say, "cute"). The littlest Fiats are well equipped and are styled differently than anything on US roads today, which is a good thing in this case. The cars were getting a lot of attention at the show, but a lot of folks opined about Fiat's spotty quality in the past and the phrase "Fix It Again Tony" was heard - a lot. Fiat better get the quality and reliability right or they can forget about the US market, no matter how cute the product is. Early European reports are favorable where Fiat has sold more than 200,000 500s. We will get them in the US in January as 2012 models. Find your dealer here.

Source: Fiat/Chrysler Canada - Press release after the jump.

Jeep Grand Cherokee adds accolade to growing list

Jeep's Grand Cherokee has added a new award to its roster, "Urban Truck of the Year." Decisive Auto Magazine chose the all-new Grand Cherokee based on the fact that the vehicle "is new and improved in every way,” said Lyndon Bell, Editor-in-chief – Decisive Auto magazine. “The Jeep’s over-the-road dynamics easily rivals that of its competitors’ less capable crossover vehicles. Meanwhile, the Jeep is also perfectly proficient at traversing any terrain. Luxurious interior appointments – along with the fact that drivers aren’t penalized into accepting a lower trim level if they opt for the more fuel-efficient engine – speaks volumes to the way Jeep’s engineers and product planners incorporated 21st century realities into America’s most iconic SUV.” Yea, and it looks good too and can go just about anywhere. Check out the full press releases from Jeep and Decisive Auto Mag. after the jump

Source: Jeep, Decisive Auto Magazine - Press Releases after the jump.

Porsche "Cajun" gets the greenlight

Utilizing the working name "Cajun" (another "spicy" C name after Cayenne - shown right), Porsche has announced a new model range for the German sports vehicle maker. Probably based on corporate-sibling Audi's Q5 crossover, the Cajun would give Porsche entry into a new market segment (entry-level luxury crossovers) that would be placed below the Cayenne in the sports car maker's line-up. This expansion of Porsche's offerings is just one further step towards VW's goal of world automotive dominance. Audi's Q5 is a nice CUV and this bodes well for Porsche's entry not to mention the next-generation Q5.

Source: Porsche - Brief press release after the jump.

Nissan Leaf named "European Car of the Year" for 2011

Nissan's Leaf has been named the 2011 "European Car of the Year" and has become the first electric vehicle to win the award. The European Car of the Year jury is made up of 58 senior motoring journalists from 23 countries. The Leaf EV has won other awards in the UK and around the globe. This year, the Leaf beat out the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the Citroen C3/DS3, the Dacia Duster, the Ford C-Max, the Opel/Vauxhall Meriva, and the Volvo S60/V60 to clench the Euro COTY trophy. "The jury acknowledged today that the Nissan LEAF is a breakthrough for electric cars. Nissan LEAF is the first EV that can match conventional cars in many respects," said Håkan Matson, President of the Jury, Car of the Year. Deliveries of the Leaf begin in Japan and the United States in December. In Europe, deliveries start in early 2011 to Portugal, the Republic of Ireland, the UK and the Netherlands. The Leaf is currently being built in Japan, but will also be produced in North America and Europe when new manufacturing facilities open in late 2012 and early 2013.

Source: Nissan and Autocar - Euro press releases after the jump.

Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid hits dealers

Porsche purists are probably grumbling in their cereal about Porsche's latest Cayenne model, the Cayenne S Hybrid. You may remember that the Cayenne was the vehicle that not only saved Porsche, but allowed the company to grow and almost takeover Volkswagen (VW ultimately won the war). The Cayenne S Hybrid uses a 333 hp, supercharged V6 mated to a 47 hp hybrid drive that provides performance similar to the V8-engined Cayenne S but with economy like the regular V6 Cayenne. In fact, the S moniker (usually used on higher-performance Porsches) was added to the Hybrid's name to reflect the crossover's performance. The Cayenne S Hybrid is EPA-rated at 21/city and 26/highway, which is pretty good for a luxury crossover. In fact the Cayenne line-up was named the "Motor Trend SUV/CUV of the Year for 2011." The 2011 Cayennes all received updated styling (the profile and rear views are especially nice) for the new year and all models were subject to an automotive diet with the crossovers losing 400 pounds on average. The Cayenne S Hybrid is at your local dealer now with a starting price of $67,700 (+destination, license, taxes, and fees). Don't forget that all Porsches come with huge options lists, so check you loan or checking/savings balance before you order your new vehicle.

Source: Porsche - Press release and pic after the jump.

Infiniti gives the 2012 M the hybrid treatment

Infiniti has added a hybrid model to its M series of luxury sedans, the M35H. Infiniti's M sedans were restyled for 2010 and the look is conservative, yet sporty. Seen alone, the M can be mistaken for the Infiniti's G series of sedans, coupes, and convertibles. But put a new M next to a G sedan and the M's more sculpted, muscular styling is evident as is the M's larger size. (the M is downright sensual in black). The good news, the hybrid drive is Infiniti's first and combines Infiniti's proven V6
to the Infiniti Direct Response Hybrid™ system (which is an advanced one-motor, two-clutch parallel hybrid design) that utilizes the M's seven-speed automatic to get the 360 hp and more than 450 lb. ft. of torque to the asphalt. More good news - the mpgs have been estimated at 30/highway and 25/city. Or as Infiniti Vice President Ben Poore stated, “Simply put, the Infiniti M Hybrid will be the most advanced performance luxury sedan hybrid in the market, delivering V8 power and 4-cylinder fuel efficiency.” Hyperbole? Maybe, but it is a nice piece. Deliveries begin in the Spring of 2011. No price was given but expect at least a $5,000 price bump over the "base" M35. Looks, luxury, and good fuel economy - a winning combination that will be available soon at your local Infiniti dealer.

Source: Infiniti - Press release after the jump.

This week's most-viewed posts (as of 11/27)

Click on the title to view.
In order of popularity:

Jeep Black Ops Edition (right) Breaks cover
(by almost 4 to 1 over the next viewed post)

2012 Focus makes US debut in LA

Juke named "CUV of Texas"

Nissan's Ellure Concept impresses

New Mercedes CLS four-door coupe revealed

New Dodge Durango revealed

Acura TSX gets updates for 2011

Nissan's Juke wins another award
These last four tied.

uautoknow.net - Classic top five most-viewed...

New small Range Rover revealed
(Five-door Evoque shown below)

Acura TL to get refresh

Focus Electric markets announced

Nissan Leaf EPA-rated at 99 mpg

Chevy Volt's numbers are in

New Mercedes CLS four-door Coupe revealed

Mercedes pioneered the four-door coupe with the original CLS way back in 2003 (yes Monica, it's been that long). Now everybody has one, like the Volkswagen CC, the Hyundai Sonata, and others with more to come. Actually, with the success of the Sonata and the CC expect the four-door coupe shape to become the sedan roofline of the future. The 2011 CLS had been completely redone with more sensual shaping and muscularity than the previous generation. The side sculpting is much more successful here than on other recent MB designs (I'm talking to you E-Class). Expect a line-up similar to today's offerings with V6 and V8 engines, but no word on which diesel (or possible hybrid) we might see in the US. The CLS slots into the Mercedes line-up between the S- and E-Classes, so it won't be cheap. It is a stunning piece of automotive sculpture though and one worth having if you've got the bucks. Expect the new CLS at your Mercedes dealer early next year. For more info, check out the Euro press release after the jump.

Source: Press release and pics after the jump.

2011 Dodge Durango video

Source: Dodge

New Dodge Durango introduced

Dodge's new Durango SUV shares the new Jeep Grand Cherokee's platform which sorta makes it a CUV or crossover since it doesn't have a separate frame and body, but I guess Dodge can market the new Durango anyway they want. The big difference between the two 'utes is that the Dodge will be more pavement-oriented and have three rows of seats (the Jeep GC has two rows) with capacity for seven and lots of stuff. Since the new Grand Cherokee is a nice piece, this bodes well for the Dodge iteration with higher levels of capability and more refined fitments. The new Pentastar V6 and several Hemi V8s will be available as will rear- or all-wheel drive and all the options your wallet can handle including (but not limited to) SIRIUS Satellite Radio™, SIRIUS Backseat TV™, and Uconnect® Web.

Source: Dodge - Detailed press release after the jump.

Nissan's Juke wins another award

Nissan's diminutive Juke crossover continues its winning ways being named the Continental Irish Car of the Year for 2011 (previously named "CUV of Texas"). The Juke beat out the BMW 5-Series (named Continental Irish Executive / Luxury Car of the Year), the Skoda Yeti (named Continental Irish Compact Family Car of the Year), the Kia Venga, and the Opel Astra (which was available previously, last gen, as a Saturn). As car markets overlap, we will see more cars that are available in the US win accolades abroad. Plus it is interesting to see other country's tastes in automotive conveyances.

Source: Newspress - Press release and pics (of other winners) after the jump.

Acura TSX gets updates for 2011

Acura has updated the 2011 TSX with new front and rear clips and a revised interior. The revisions are modest but address the front end problems (especially) that have plagued recent Acuras. The grille is more refined even though the TSX was the least objectionable. The revisions also improve aerodynamics. The one disappointment is that even with the appearance updates, Acura saw fit to remain with the old tech five-speed automatic. MPG numbers are improved for 2011, but they would have been even better with Acura's new six-speed automatic. Maybe the TSX will get the good stuff when it is redone in a couple of years. The TSX is available with two engine options a 2.4-liter four (with a five-speed auto or six-speed manual) or a 3.5-liter V6 (mated to a five-speed auto only). The TSX SportWagon was added last year and gets the updates for 2011. Prices start at just over $29,000 and top out at over $38,000, which strikes me as TL territory. Thoughts?

Source: Acura - Press release and pics after the jump.

Nissan's Ellure concept impresses

Nissan's Ellure Concept is what Nissan calls the "sedan re-imagined." While they won't say that this is Nissan's future design direction, they should. The Ellure is sleek, modern and the type of sedan one looks forward to looking at, if not driving. The Ellure has the motive force of the future (at least in the US), a hybrid drivetrain with lithium-ion batteries and a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The interior is a serene place with simplified forms but with all the amenities. The back seat is cool in a sort of lounge/cocoon space sort of way (photo after the jump). Let's hope that this concept either sees production or at least influences Nissan design going forward. The Ellure would make a nice Infiniti don't you think?

Source: Nissan - Press release and pics after the jump.

Fiat zips into LA with US 500

The diminutive Fiat 500 made its US debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The 500 marks Fiat's return to the American market. The 500 has been very popular in Europe where Fiat has sold more than 500,000 of the little runabouts, where the model's economy, handling, and design have won many a heart (and pocketbook). While Fiat sees the 500 as a premium small car for the US market, the starting price is just $15,500 (+ taxes, license, and fees) although the addition of available options will run the car's price into the $20s. The 500 will be available in three models at introduction, Pop, Sport, and Lounge (check the press release after the jump for feature specifics). An Abarth performance edition will be available next year as will a convertible (actually a full-body fabric sunroof). The 500 has 14 exterior color options and 14 seat combinations of color and material choice that allow for increased personalization of your 500. Fiat's 1.4-liter MultiAir four (101 hp) will be standard with a five-speed manual and an available six-speed automatic as the transmission choices. Expect sporty handling although the 500 has been altered to fit American tastes. In fact, the 500 has been given numerous updates to meet US consumer likes and to meet US regs. You can configure your 500 at Fiat's website www.fiatusa.com. Check my previous post to help you find your closest dealer.

Source: Fiat - Detailed press releases after the jump.

Fiat names first US dealers

Fiat has named the first 130 dealers that will handle the Fiat brand's return to the US market. The Fiat 500 (Cinquecento) will be the first Italian model offered in the US with others to follow. The 500 is very popular in Europe for its design, economy, and "zippiness." In the US, the 500 is expected to go up against the Mini and other premium small cars. An Abarth performance model and a convertible (more of a full-body vinyl sunroof) will be added next year. The 500 is built at Chrysler's Toluca, Mexico plant and dealers will have lots of cars for sale next month. Orders are being taken now. Check the list (in a kind of alphabetic order by state) after the jump and see how close your Fiat dealer is to your abode. Expect more dealers to be added in the future.

Source: Fiat - Press release and list after the jump.

This week's most-viewed posts (as of 10-19)

Click on the titles to view posts.

2012 Focus makes US debut in LA (right)

Jeep Black Ops Edition breaks cover

Range Rover Evoque 5-Door to debut in LA

Chevrolet's Volt named "Motor Trend Car of the Year" for 2011

Jeep brings a little "Jet" to LA

Nissan CrossCabriolet debuts (below)


And from uautoknow.net - Classic

2011 Rogue debuts

Focus Electric markets announced

Mitsubishi i-Miev to debut US version in LA

 Nissan CrossCabriolet

Hyundai introduces the all-new 2011 Elantra

The C-segment or compact market in the US is heating up. Just like Hyundai's Sonata is challenging the mid-size champs, Accord and Camry,  the Elantra is set to beat-up on the Civic and Corolla. How you might ask? With value and good-looks. It's wonderful that we finally have cars in the marketplace that we actually want to buy, especially in the smaller sizes. About time. Chevy's Cruze is a looker as is Ford's 2012 Focus and VW's Jetta is a much more attractive piece than its predecessor which wasn't bad. See, heating up. And the C-segment cars aren't poorly outfitted anymore with more upscale options and equipment for the asking. Remember, it wasn't long ago that you couldn't get navigation or even leather in compacts and now they all offer it and more. The 2011 Elantra offers class-leading power and economy (see charts after the jump), although the 2012 Focus beats it in power and matches the economy number of 40 mpg/highway (the Cruze ECO hits 42/highway). The Elantra is in production now and cars should be getting to your local dealer by the end of the year starting at $14,830 (+ taxes, license, and fees). I won't get in to more specifics since the press release is so detailed (including full pricing), but the all-new Elantra for 2011 is a very good-looking compact. Who'da thunk it?

Source: Hyundai - Detailed press release and additional pics after the jump.

New family-friendly Transit Connect unveiled

Ford has taken the wraps off of the new XLT Premier Wagon trim package for the popular Transit Connect van. The XLT package makes the little van more acceptable for use as a family and stuff hauler. By add the XLT package, you get upgraded full interior trim (including the rear cargo area), rear quarter windows (that flip open for ventilation), full seating for five, raised rear seats for better visibility, integrated blind-spot mirrors, a rear-view camera, larger alloy wheels, fog lamps, and a revised grille and exterior trim. The Transit Connect achieves EPA mileage ratings of  21/city and 26/highway. The new TC XLT Premier Wagon gives consumers a smaller alternative to larger vans and broadens the appeal of Ford's littlest hauler. I think it looks good in the bright red with the blacked-out windows and dark trim. You?

Source: Ford - Press release after the jump.

Kia Optima Hybrid bows

Kia has taken the opportunity that is the LA Auto Show and used it to introduce the company's first hybrid model, the 2011 Optima Hybrid. Based on the Optima's sibling, the Sonata Hybrid, the Optima Hybrid distinguishes itself by being one of the first hybrids to use a regular six-speed automatic transmission and not a continuously-variable transmission (CVT) for more direct shifts and feel. Kia will also use lithium-polymer batteries for lighter weight and longer charge life. The mid-size Optima was updated and redesigned for 2011 with sharper styling and an interior with a decidedly Germanic look and feel. Most will probably prefer the Sonata's swoopier look, but the Optima does provide a somewhat blocky, unique design that should find many takers.

Consumers opting for the Optima Hybrid will enjoy additional standard features above the Optima LX A/T trim level, including, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, dual zone automatic temperature control with rear vents, push-button start with smart key, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, automatic up/down on front windows, 16-inch alloy wheels, model specific headlamp design and grille, fog lamps, heated outside mirrors, LED tail lamp design, a rear lip spoiler and the Virtual Engine Sound System (VESS) that plays a pre-recorded engine sound during electric-only operation to notify people outside the vehicle that it is approaching. Overkill? The available Optima Hybrid Premium Technology Package adds a panoramic sunroof, unique 17-inch alloy wheel design, four-way power adjustable front passenger's seat, driver's seat memory, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and steering wheel, HID headlamps with automatic leveling, leatherette-wrapped center fascia, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with Homelink™ and compass, a navigation system with back-up camera and SIRIUS Traffic™, and an eight-speaker Infinity®2 audio system. It looks like Kia is getting serious about the mid-size car segment with a vehicle that can challenge the best from Toyota, Nissan, Ford, and GM. Mileage figures were not announced but are expected to match or better the Fusion Hybrid's numbers with highway mileage expected to be in the 40s. We shall see.

Source: Kia - Detailed press release after the jump.

New BMW 6-Series Convertible video

Source: BMW

New BMW 6-Series Convertible shines

 

Beauty ain't cheap. Just ask anyone who's dated a supermodel. Well folks the new BMW 6-Series Convertible (and coupe) aren't going to be cheap, but they sure are beautiful. The design is brought up-to-date with BMW's current design language with the taller front clip (to meet European pedestrian safety standards) and the cleaned-up tail (the last gen's most controversial design element). All the luxury and performance you might want are available including a 10.2-inch  iDrive/Navigation screen, Napa leather everywhere, and so much more that we would be here for hours just listing it (a lot of it is in the press release after the jump). The insulated folding soft-top remains standard but there is a new top fabric option that has a metallic sheen (more bling I guess). Expect the 407-hp V8 first in the 650i with the 320-hp V6 (640i) later on. No word on M versions or hybrid options but who knows. Click on the pics to bask in the hi-res beautiousness. No word on US intro dates (or prices), so more to come...

Source: BMW - Detailed press release and additional pics after the jump.

Porsche Cayman R makes LA debut

There are many ways to increase performance such as increasing power and reducing weight. Porsche has done both with the new Cayman R. The mid-engine beauty gains 10 horses (330 hp) and drops weight to 2,845 lbs. to see 60 from zero in just 4.4 seconds (with the optional seven-speed dual-clutch PDK [Doppelkupplungsgetriebe] transmission and the Sport Chrono package). Top speed jumps to 175 mph. While many supercars can beat these numbers, few can beat this price - $66,300. Starting in February, you can get your own Cayman R starting at just 66 large although options can bump the price quickly (like the PDK transmission and the Chrono package) and really, who wants a base Porsche? All right most would take it, but for a few dollars more you can get the two-seat, mid-engined beauty of your dreams. This could be a true performance bargain. Oh yeah, don't forget that few cars can handle like a Porsche (especially the Cayman). Now, about that green...

Source: Porsche - Press Release after the jump.

Subaru unveils Imprezza "concept"

 

Automakers often preview new design directions with thinly-veiled "design concepts" and this is one of those. The Subaru Imprezza Design Concept shows the shape of the next Imprezza and features Subaru's new 2.0-liter "boxer" engine, an upgraded CVT transmission, and Subaru's latest all-wheel-drive system. This is one good-looking Subie. Expect smaller wheels, but everything else should make it to production. Subaru's Legacy Design Concept looks almost identical to the eventual production model, so this bodes well for the next Imprezza. More info and pics to come...

Source: Subaru - Press release after the jump. Photos: Newspress

Nissan CrossCabriolet debuts - Update

I'm always amazed when an automaker does something really "outside the box" and this one's way outside. But is it really? In some ways it makes perfect sense in these days where car companies are making crossovers that are targeted at more well-defined market segments and looking for the niche that no one else saw. I love convertibles. One of my first cars was an MGB. I learned how to drive in a Mustang convertible. So I'm predisposed to like the CrossCabriolet and so far, I do. The Murano CrossCabriolet arrives as one fully-equipped model that comes equipped with everything. The two sole options deal with special interior/top combinations and special leather. You get power everything, Bose sound, climate control, Nissan's 3.5-liter V6, second-gen CVT (darn), all-wheel-drive, power fabric convertible top, and more. Let's see how many we see on the streets. Here in LA, the car could be a hit. Ditto in Miami. For all the info, check out the press release after the jump. Outside the box indeed...

Update: The CrossCabriolet will retail for $46,390 (plus taxes, license, fees).

Source: Nissan - Press release and pics after the jump.