The Classic AutoBlog

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid: “America’s Most Fuel-Efficient Luxury Sedan”

Cliff Murphy — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 19:55:06 +0000

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)

Will the Mini Countryman be the first car to stream Internet Radio?

Cliff Murphy — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 22:45:01 +0000

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.

New technology unique to MINI opens up a whole new dimension of in-car entertainment – system debut at the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show.

• 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.

With MINI Connected, MINI is the world’s first carmaker to offer a newly developed USB interface whose unique functionality allows maximum integration of the iPhone into the in-car audio and infotainment system. This MINI-exclusive technology provides the basis for new and unprecedented integration of smartphone functions, taking the in-car integration of modern smartphone telecommunications, entertainment and online functions to a whole new level.

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.

Nissan: What’s New for 2010?

Layne Rodehorst — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 20:59:03 +0000

2010 Nissan 370Z: The 2010 370Z lineup expands to include the 370Z Roadster. The roadster was an integral part of the Z development plan this time around, and this has big payoffs in terms of structural rigidity and exterior styling. The 370Z convertible still has a cloth top, but Nissan has come up with a simpler, latch-less design for 2010 and there’s more cargo space to boot. The 2010 370Z Roadster is available in base and Touring models, and it has the same drivetrains and options sheet as the 370Z coupe. Well, all except for ventilated seats, which are an exclusive 370Z roadster feature. The Nissan 370Z coupe sees only minor changes for 2010 (though you’ll recall the Nismo 370Z was a late 2009-model-year addition to the line). An upgraded navigation system includes streaming Bluetooth capability and automatic phonebook download for paired cell phones. Heated mirrors and a cabin air filter are standard this year. And Chicane Yellow paint gives way to a more mature Black Cherry hue.

2010 Nissan Altima: The grille and headlights are reshaped on all 2010 Nissan Altima coupes and sedans. Nissan has also simplified the trim levels. There’s still a base 2.5 sedan for dealers to advertise, but otherwise you have your pick of the four-cylinder 2.5 S and the V6-equipped 3.5 SR on both the sedan and coupe. Stability control is now standard across the board. Inside, the seat fabrics are new. A USB input is available this year as an option, and the navigation system now includes real-time weather updates, streaming Bluetooth and a back-up camera.

2010 Nissan Armada: Nissan has revised the trim levels, so the 2010 Armada comes in a base SE trim, plus Titanium and Platinum special-edition models, all of which are available in two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations. Front-seat side airbags become standard across the board this year; engine mounts are revised; and Lakeshore Slate, Tuscan Sun and Navy Blue are added to the color palette. Standard feature content on the new Armada Titanium model includes 20-inch wheels (versus 18s on the SE), a self-leveling rear suspension, a power-fold feature for the third-row seat, keyless start, leather upholstery, a Bose sound system, a rearview camera and Bluetooth. The Platinum model adds chrome wheels; a power liftgate; a sunroof; a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic; a rear DVD entertainment system; and heated seats and steering wheel.

2010 Nissan Cube: After a late 2009-model-year introduction, the Cube sees only minor equipment changes for 2010.

2010 Nissan Frontier: All Frontiers come with side and head curtain airbags for 2010, and all V6 trucks have stability control. All V6-equipped SE and LE models get Active Brake Limited Slip (ABLS), which isn’t a true limited-slip differential, but a brake-based feature to keep the rear wheels from spinning excessively on low-grip surfaces. Four-wheel-drive SE and LE models have hill start assist and descent control as standard. Night Armor is the sole new exterior color.

2010 Nissan GT-R: Godzilla gets 5 additional horsepower for 2010, so its twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 is now rated at 485. Nissan has reprogrammed the transmission control module (TCM) for the six-speed dual-clutch gearbox as well. The brake lines have been made more rigid on 2010 GT-Rs, and the calipers now carry both Brembo and Nissan logos. The Bilstein dampers have a new valve body design, and Nissan has fiddled with spring and damper rates. Wheel finishes are darker this year, and the base Nissan GT-R’s Dunlop tires have a revised compound. Seat-mounted side-impact and side curtain airbags are standard this year. Pearl White is a new paint choice, and Super Silver GT-Rs now have a polished front bumper.

2011 Nissan Leaf: Although officially a 2011 model, Nissan will begin taking orders for the Leaf in the spring of 2010, and the cars are expected to arrive at dealerships in late 2010. This five-passenger hatchback will be the company’s first mass-production electric vehicle. The Leaf is said to have a top speed of 90 mph, a range of 100 miles per charge with a 30-minute recharge where quick-charging stations are available (six hours with a 220-volt current). Nissan also claims the Leaf will accelerate from zero to 30 mph faster than an Infiniti G37, thanks to 207 pound-feet of torque from its 80-kilowatt (107-hp) electric motor. Nissan’s EV is expected to cost between $28,000 and $35,000 before any government incentives are applied.

2010 Nissan Maxima: Wheel finishes are revised on the 2010 Maxima, and both models now come with Bluetooth. Satellite radio is standard on the Maxima SV. Option packages for the SV model are revised this year. The Monitor package includes a rearview monitor, a 2GB hard drive for music storage, and USB and auxiliary jacks. DVD playback capability, Bluetooth streaming audio and real-time weather updates have been added to the Technology package. Crimson Black and Ocean Gray are new exterior colors.

2010 Nissan Murano: Nissan adds a front-wheel-drive Murano LE model to the lineup and makes keyless start and privacy glass standard across the line. Roof rails and an alarm system are now included on the midrange SL model, while the high-line LE picks up the dual-pane moonroof as standard.

2010 Nissan Pathfinder: A sunroof is now standard on all Pathfinder LE V6 models. If you get the V8 on your LE, you’ll have to buy the LE V8 Value package to get a sunroof (said package also includes a rear DVD entertainment system). As consolation, Nissan has made a navigation system standard on the LE V8. A new Journey package for the Pathfinder SE comes with machined alloy wheels, roof rack crossbars, keyless ignition, a rearview monitor, Bose audio, satellite radio and Bluetooth. Dark Slate is a new exterior paint choice.

2010 Nissan Quest: Nissan will continue to sell 2009 Quests through the fall of 2009, but ‘09 will be the final year of the current generation. The next-gen Quest will debut as either a 2010 or 2011 model. The new minivan will be built in Kyushu, Japan, as production at Nissan’s Canton, Mississippi, plant shifts to commercial vehicles.

2010 Nissan Rogue: Nissan adds a special-edition Krom (pronounced “chrome”) model to the Rogue lineup for 2010. It’s available in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, and distinguishable by its horizontal-slat grille, roof-mounted spoiler, center-exit exhaust and, yes, its 17-inch chrome-finish wheels. Inside, the major upgrade is steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. Paint choices are limited to Venom Red, Wicked Black and Gotham Gray. In other news, all 2010 Nissan Rogues get chrome door handles. There’s a new 360 Degree Value package available on the base S model. It includes 16-inch alloy wheels, a back-up camera (with its display integrated in the auto-dimming rearview mirror), privacy glass, a rear spoiler and a chrome grille.

2010 Nissan Sentra: All 2010 Sentras get revised headlights and taillights, and base 2.0, 2.0 S and 2.0 SL models also get an updated grille and fascia design, along with new body-side moldings. Inside, the instrument panel and seat fabrics are revised, and 2.0 SL, SE-R and SE-R Spec V models have a new audio head unit with a USB port. Cars sold in California-emissions states are PZEV-rated this year, and stability control is standard on the 2.0 SL, SE-R and SE-R Spec V. You can no longer get a manual transmission on the 2.0 S. Option packages are revised this year, and the updates include a Technology package with a rearview camera and Rockford Fosgate sound for the 2.0 SL. The optional navigation package for the 2.0 SL, SE-R and SE-R Spec V provides an SD-card-based navigation unit with real-time traffic capability. New paint choices include A
nodized Orange, Aspen White and Espresso Black.

2010 Nissan Titan: Side curtain airbags, stability control and Active Brake Limited Slip (a brake-based feature to keep the rear wheels from spinning excessively on low-grip surfaces) are standard on all 2010 Titans. The PRO-4X model gets standard Bluetooth and a trailer hitch with a seven-pin wiring harness and trailer brake pre-wiring (this is all optional on the SE model), along with a chrome “PRO-4X” badge. Base XE King Cabs get a revised vinyl floor that’s apparently easier to clean. Option packages are also revised for 2010, and Blue Steel and Navy Blue are new exterior colors.

2010 Nissan Versa: Antilock brakes are standard on 2010 Versa 1.8 S models. Stability control is standard on the 1.8 SL and optional on the 1.8 S. Grilles and wheel designs are updated, and the 1.8 SL hatchback gets foglights, new side sills and a desperately needed rear spoiler. Inside, seat fabrics are updated, and the base audio head unit has an auxiliary jack. Nissan Versas with upgraded audio have iPod connectivity. Option packages are revised, and there’s now a package that combines a navigation system and satellite radio.

2010 Nissan Xterra: A manual transmission is no longer available on the Xterra S model. Nissan has made the contents of last year’s Technology package (Rockford Fosgate sound, Bluetooth and satellite radio) standard on the SE and Off-Road trim levels.

JD Powers says Hyundai Genesis “Highest Ranked Vehicle”

Layne Rodehorst — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:03:05 +0000

[SinglePic not found]Hyundai seems to have got it right with the launch of the Genesis. After winning the 2009 North American Car of the Year and being ranked Consumer Reports “Top New Upscale Sedan”, the Genesis sedan has taken JD Powers top honors in the “Highest Ranked – Newly Launched Vehicle”. The Vehicle Launch index rates how well a newly released or newly re-designed vehicle performs during the first 8 months after launch. Based on a 1000 point scale, the nearest car was over 50 points less. Here is the full Press Release from JD Powers and Associates:

“WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif.: 22 July 2009 – The 2009 Hyundai Genesis ranks highest in launch performance among vehicle models introduced during the first ten months of 2008, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009 Vehicle Launch Index SM (VLI) released today.

The inaugural Vehicle Launch Index quantifies how well new vehicle models-including new entries to the market and all-new and redesigned models-perform during the first eight months after launch. The VLI examines various factors that are critical to the financial success of a launch, including turn rate, vehicle revenue, dealer gross profit, incentive spend, credit quality and residual value. In addition, VLI includes the key factors of vehicle quality and design, based on the J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study SM (IQS) and Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.SM

The Vehicle Launch Index is an independent measure designed to help automakers plan and execute successful vehicle launches in order to maximize revenue and profits, minimize incentive spending and maintain high residual values during a model’s lifecycle.

“Launching new vehicles successfully is critical to the financial success of every automaker,” said Gary Dilts, senior vice president of global automotive at J.D. Power and Associates. “Given lower consumer demand, vehicle proliferation and the financial pressures on the auto industry, every manufacturer must get it ‘right’ from the start. By carefully analyzing more than 90 vehicle launches that have been executed in the United States, we have determined the key factors for launch success.”

The 2009 Hyundai Genesis is the leading example of initial launch success and ranks highest among the 27 models examined in the 2009 VLI, with a score of 689 on a 1,000-point scale. Following the Hyundai Genesis in the rankings are the 2009 Ford F-150 (673) and 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan (663).

J.D. Power and Associates forecasts that automakers will conduct 205 new-model launches in the U.S. between 2009 and 2012 and will invest approximately $50 billion in the process. Of the 205 new models, 80 will be new entries to the market, 52 will be all-new models, and 73 will be major redesigns.

“With so much at stake, it is more critical than ever for manufacturers to launch new models that meet their financial targets, as well as product quality and consumer appeal benchmarks,” said Dilts. “While some domestic manufacturers are facing tight scrutiny from the federal government and taxpayers, every automaker across the globe is being closely monitored both by governments and shareholders. Strong showings by new models are vital to the economic security of the automakers and will be instrumental in rebuilding Americans’ confidence in the auto industry.”

The VLI has identified the following key elements that drive the success of newly-launched models:

* Optimal vehicle price and volume levels are established prior to launch;

* Manufacturers sustain the proper product mix and incentive support;

* Automakers and dealers effectively manage inventory levels and turn rates;

* The model is attractively designed and provides high levels of consumer appeal in terms of styling, performance, functionality and ease of operation;

* The model launches with high initial quality, enhancing the automaker’s image and supporting residual values.

Conversely, the following conditions lead to less-successful model launches:

* Unrealistic expectations regarding pricing and sales volumes;

* Poor balance of supply and demand, leading to excessive inventory levels;

* Inadequate vehicle appeal and poor initial quality leading to low consumer acceptance and a tarnished brand image.

The 2009 Vehicle Launch Index includes 2008 and 2009 model-year vehicles first sold between January and October 2008. Vehicles must be all-new or major redesigns and must sell at least 5,000 units during the first eight months to be included. The index is based on proprietary information collected through the Power Information Network and J.D. Power and Associates’ consumer research.

The Vehicle Launch Index is part of J.D. Power and Associates’ 10-module Launch Assurance Program designed to provide automakers with immediate and actionable insights about their vehicle models from initial concept and product development through manufacturing and distribution to the initial ownership experience.”

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2010 Saab 9-5 is Bringin’ Sexy Back

Layne Rodehorst — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:49:39 +0000

[SinglePic not found]General Motors has had a difficult time trying to figure out exactly what to do with its Swedish car brand since they took the reins of Saab’s division a few years back. It appears that Saab/GM designers had big plans before its pending sale to Koenigsegg judging by the pictures. Rumors have been circulating for years that the Saab 9-5 was undergoing an extensive face lift, and now it is finally happening. The 9-5’s new unique styling is definitely going to give its competitors like BMW and Lexus a run for their money but at the same time keeping some of the staple characteristics that are loved by Saab’s loyal fan base.

The interior has maintained Saab’s traditional driver oriented "cockpit" feel but now looks more inviting with glossy black finishes and matte metal accents. On the option list you will see a rear entertainment system, xenon headlamps, a Harmon Kardon stereo system and a large 8 inch navigation system. The increased size offers more room for the passenger compartment as well as added cargo capacity.

For now, we know that the car will feature several different engine trims including a turbocharged 1.6 liter 4cylinder 160HP engine, a 2.0 liter 4cylinder 210HP engine and a 2.8 liter V6 300HP engine. Additionally, the car will ship with two different 2.0 liter diesel powered engines with one sporting 160HP and the other with 190HP. Rumor has it that an all wheel drive system will be available in the States as well.

This new design is going to attract buyers that may have never considered a Saab before and it will keep the current Saab owners coming back for more.

Post a comment below and let me know what you think.

TTYS,
Layne

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Local NBC Affiliate WKYC Interviews Classic BMW

Ty Whiting — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 05:00:02 +0000

Below is the piece WKYC Channel 3 did on local Cleveland area businesses using social media. Our BMW center was asked how we use social media to connect with people. Classic believes using Facebook & Twitter as an alternative to conventional advertising.

Trade your Gas Guzzler and Get up to $4,500

Cliff Murphy — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:51:58 +0000

[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.

Top 10 Selling Cars in America – MAY 2009

Cliff Murphy — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:08:16 +0000

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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

Video: Production Model of 2010 BMW 5 Series 550i Gran Turismo

Ty Whiting — Wed, 27 May 2009 03:03:16 +0000

Below is a video released by BMW of the 55oi version of the BMW GT. In case you haven’t heard about this controversial model, here is a short summary:

Limousine levels of interior space
Rear seats can be moved fore & aft
2nd largest luggage room after the X5
Dual-Tailgate (trunk or liftgate adaptability)
3 Engines: Turbo 6 cyl, 8 cyl, and diesel

We are beginning to compile a waiting list for this exciting new addition to the BMW model line-up. We already have one customer who reserved the 1st order slot! Who will be the second? Please contact us for more information.

BMW Enhances May Programs

Ty Whiting — Fri, 22 May 2009 04:58:42 +0000

BMW is getting reports revealing sales are increasing nationally. BMW, however, is not content and wants to increase sales even more. With the following enhancements, BMW should have no problem doing just that.

Lease Cash- On select models, with what was originally "Loyalty" cash is now available to ALL customers. Up to $1,750 off!
7 Series Lease Rate Reduction- BMW FS is now offering an extraordinary lease rate of .00090 to ALL prospects! Originally this special rate was available only to current BMW FS lessees.
2009 5 Series Support-At the start of June, 2009 5 Series vehicles will not have as much support from BMW programs as there is during May. If you’re working on a 5 Series deal and it’s a 2009 model, close the deal in May! Otherwise, you will lose out on better incentives.

Please contact us at DriveClassicBMW.com or twitter.com/ClassicBMW

or 440-585-9990 for more information!