DEARBORN, Michigan — Ford bills its new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid as “the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America.” The gas-electric edition of the MKZ — the first-ever hybrid sold under the Lincoln brand name — is rated by the EPA at 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, the same numbers as its sibling, the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid.

Ford observes that the city fuel-economy figure for the MKZ Hybrid is 6 mpg higher than that of the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, which is EPA-certified at 35 city/34 highway. The smaller 2011 Lexus CT 200h, however, is expected to get much higher fuel-economy numbers, similar to those of its companion, the Toyota Prius, which is EPA-rated at 51/48.

Ford said the MKZ Hybrid will be able to travel up to 47 mpg in pure electric mode, just like the Fusion Hybrid. Both models share a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and electric motor.

The 2011 MKZ Hybrid goes on sale this fall. Pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date. (source:  edmunds)

Mini will be debuting a new system dubbed Mini Connected at the Geneva Motor Show, which the brand describes as a new, exciting innovation in infotainment. However, we have little idea of what Mini Connected actually does beyond using “a newly developed USB interface whose unique functionality allows maximum integration of the iPhone into the in-car audio and infotainment system.”

We do know you can get web radio in your Mini now, and there’s Mini: Mission Control in which “vehicle-related signals are used to generate constantly changing, situation-dependent messages.” Other than that, Mini Connected will be launched as an option on the Countryman. We’ll have to wait until Geneva to bring you the rest, but you can make the jump to glean all you can from the press release in the meantime.
[Source: Mini & AutoBlog]

PRESS RELEASE:

More driving enjoyment with new connectivity solution: MINI Connected.

 

• World-first in-car entertainment solution with innovative, unique-to-MINI technology for integration of the Apple iPhone.
• Safe, convenient, intuitive control of all functions via the MINI operating system.
• World debut of in-car web radio; unique possibilities for customisation and integration of additional functions.
• MINI Connected brings enhanced user functionality and customisation to the MINI-exclusive Mission Control function.

Munich. MINI has chosen the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show to launch an all-new, world-first in-car entertainment solution: MINI Connected. Through intelligent connectivity between the driver, his MINI and the outside world, MINI Connected offers new options for further enhancing the hallmark driving fun associated with the brand. Some of these new possibilities will be presented in Geneva. MINI Connected will be launched simultaneously with the MINI Countryman, as an optional specification.

All the functions integrated in the MINI courtesy of the Apple iPhone are activated and controlled using the vehicle’s own operating system. When the system is fitted in conjunction with the – likewise new – MINI Visual Boost radio, the full range of MINI Connected functions can be used. The radio’s high-resolution colour display, which is integrated in the Centre Speedo, and the centre console-mounted MINI joystick provide the ideal basis for convenient, simple and intuitive operation. Information and instructions follow the MINI’s particular display logic, while the familiar MINI operating structure allows drivers to select and activate any function with minimal distraction from the road and traffic. To customise the system, applications can be selected or deselected quickly and conveniently using the vehicle controls.

World-first: the MINI Connected web radio function.
The web radio function will be showcased in Geneva as a typical example of the extended possibilities opened up by MINI Connected. In a “hooked up” MINI – linked to the outside world via MINI Connected – the driver will be able to have his choice of radio station streamed to him anywhere in the world, provided the station is available in the extensive station database. The desired station is selected using the familiar controls on the MINI audio system, ensuring highly safe and convenient operation even while on the road. MINI is the world’s first carmaker to offer such a function as an option for production vehicles.

In addition, MINI Connected allows a variety of other services and functions to be integrated into the car as well. The innovative iPhone interface provides unique data exchange capabilities, allowing a huge range of infotainment, navigation and communication functions to be used on board the vehicle. MINI Connected also allows functions to be enhanced or personalised to the driver’s individual preferences.

The diversity and flexibility offered by MINI Connected across a host of different functions is new in the car industry. The unique, future-adaptable MINI Connected technology will guarantee customers instant access to future innovations in the fields of entertainment, communication, navigation and information.

Exclusive to MINI: Mission Control.
MINI Connected also incorporates the Mission Control module, which made its debut in the MINI 50 Camden anniversary model. Mission Control evaluates a vast range of vehicle, driving situation and vehicle environment-related signals and supplies the driver with relevant information and instructions in customary MINI style. Mission Control gives the driver an even stronger sense of interacting directly with the vehicle, reinforcing the whole concept of the MINI as a car with character and personality.

The vehicle-related signals are used to generate constantly changing, situation-dependent messages. The dialogue may take the form of safety and comfort-related advice – for example prompts to fasten a seatbelt or guidance on the air conditioning system – or may provide information relating to the current driving situation and operating status (for example outside temperatures or fuel tank level). The wide repertoire of messages, which marks a significant advance over previous systems, makes for a continually varied dialogue between the MINI and its driver, even in familiar and frequently recurring everyday driving situations. And thanks to MINI Connected, Mission Control now offers extensive functional enhancement and personalisation options including, for example, a choice of language versions and driving modes.

[SinglePic not found]An energy bill currently making its way through congress includes a “Cash for Clunkers” program that will essentially pay you up to $4,500 to get a “greener” vehicle. 

The way it currently reads is if your new car got 4 to 9 miles per gallon more than the old one, going by EPA ratings at www.fueleconomy.gov, the payment would be $3,500. If the new car got at least 10 mpg more, the vehicle owner would get $4,500. For light trucks, the mileage gain would have to be at least 2 mpg for the $3,500 payment and 5 mpg for the $4,500.

Keep in mind that this is in-addition to the auto tax credit that will allow you to deduct the entire sales tax you pay while purchasing your new vehicle.  (There are some limitations – see our previous post by Clicking Here)

As of today – this bill has gained House approval and is waiting approval in the Senate.  Keep in mind that by the time approval will come – the entire outline of the proposal may be rewritten, or even dropped completly.  I will keep you updated so please check back soon.

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Here is an excellent list put together by Cars.com detailing the top sellers for the month of May 2009.  Since gas prices had trended lower, the domestic trucks have reclaimed the 2 top spots – but the Camry is approaching fast.  The Civic typically outsells the Accord, but lower gas prices have changed that as well. 

This list still reminds us that we love our trucks!

1.) Ford F-Series: 33,381
2.) Chevy Silverado: 31,463
3.) Toyota Camry: 31,325
4.) Toyota Corolla: 23,576
5.) Honda Accord: 22,597
6.) Honda Civic: 20,723
7.) Ford Fusion: 19,786
8.) Chevy Impala: 18,709
9.) Nissan Altima: 18,408
10.) Ford Escape: 16,391

I recently spent some time with the all new Hyundai Genesis and I have got to say that Hyundai has truly made a sedan that rivals vehicles that are priced as much as $20,000 higher.  Judging by the look of these spy shots the 2011 Sonata will follow the groundwork laid by the Genesis.

Hyundai has already announced that the 2011 Sonata would feature a turbo charged motor featuring direct injection which could boost fuel economy significantly.  If you look hard at the right front fender,  There appears to be a chrome trim strip going the length of the car. (which would be a first of such on any current vehicle to my knowledge)  I really like the style of the wheel, lets hope they make it to production!

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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The 2010 MazdaSpeed 3 was announced today and the specs coming from Mazda sound great.  Mazda has decided against changing the engine from the previous generation 3, which is a good thing in my eyes.  With all of the praise Mazda was receiveing I think its a good move to upgrade the exterior and cockpit – and even some essential components, but leave the engine alone.  I mean what could you really do with more than 263 HP in a compact vehicle?

After spending some time with the new 3 last week, the exterior styling grew on me to the point of seeing myself driving one.  To be honest, I’m a bit suprised that the smiling lower grill on the MazdaSpeed version made it through the focus groups, but I still think that Mazda will have no trouble selling these once they hit land. 

According to Rod Trask, Sales Manager at Classic Mazda in Mentor, dealers will be able to place orders for these in next few weeks. 

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If you have not seen the 2010 Buick LaCrosse as of yet, It looks amazing.  Today GM has announced that the LaCrosse will start at $27,835.  It comes equipped with a 255 HP 3.0 Liter Direct Injection V6 mated to a six-speed automatic and 17″ alloys. 

The CXL model will add a 3.6 Liter version of the V6 (+25 HP), 18″ wheels, dual climate control, and leather interior for $30,395. 

The loaded CXS starts at $33,765 and will provide all-wheel-drive as a standard feature along with several other enhancements. 

The LaCrosse is aimed directly at competition from Lexus (ES350) and should be a real hit fo GM seeing that the decked out LaCrosse starts at approx $4,000 less than the ES350.  And keep in mind that the shots below are production model shots – not a prototype that looks great followed by a much more conservative production model.  (Which GM has been go good at)

I look forward to driving this one.  What do you think?

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Chrysler has announced the all new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee which they claim to be all new from the ground up.  Although Chrysler has not confirmed it at this point, according to a few sources, the Jeep’s underpinnings are taken straight from the new Mercedes SL SUV.  (Who said that Chrysler didn’t get anything from that partnership?)  With that being said, this should be a very driveable, yet capable SUV with some features that have carried over like the Quadra-Drive 4×4 and a 4.5″ air lift system.

The styling in my eyes is a evolutionary change, which could be a good thing, but could also lead to consumers not realizing the re-design & upgrades.

Is it bold enough?  With competition ranging from the re-designed Lexus RX and the all new Cadillac SRX – What do you think?
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General Motors has made a quick move to turn around recent bad press by rolling out a comprehensive buyer protection plan it’s calling GM Total Confidence.  Here are the details:

Purchase or lease any eligible new 2008, 2009 or 2010 GM vehicle from Classic by June 1, 2009, and if you should lose your job due to economic reasons in the first two years of ownership, GM can make your payments up to $500 per month for 9 months. You have to be employed when you buy the vehicle and remain employed for 90 more days.  If you lose your job for other reasons, you may not be covered. You are not eligible if you are an active GM employee, a seasonal worker, are self-employed, retired or receiving a severance.

It appears that only Saab vehicles and medium and heavy duty trucks are excluded.  If you want to read all of the detailed terms and conditions of this program, go to http://www.GM.com, which leads to a sample set of terms and conditions for the program. As soon as more details are announced I will pass them along.