The Torque Report

2015 Mazda3 Hatchback Shows up in Russia (Spy Photos)

2013-06-19T20:05:42Z

Mazda is slated to unveil the next-generation Mazda3 next week, but a photo of a 2015 Mazda3 sans camouflage has shown up on a Russian Facebook account. This is the second image of the new Mazda3 following a magazine scan.

The 2015 Mazda3 adopts Mazda's new Kodo design language like the new Mazda6 and CX-5 models. Stay tuned for all the details. Mazda has announced plans to unveil an all-new model on June 26 with Xbox. Mazda hasn't announced what it is, but it's expected to be the new Mazda3. The event will be anchored with a live concert by the band Metric--the first to be streamed live globally through Xbox.

"It's a digitally connected world, so what better way to reach our customers than through a connected platform like Xbox," said Russell Wager, vice president of marketing for Mazda. "We were looking for a way to launch a global product and tie together our five separate reveals. Xbox not only gave us the platform, but allowed us to leverage our digital assets to drive a global audience to view the event."

Source: Mazda via news.auto.ru

GM Tops Everyone in the Latest Initial Quality Study

2013-06-19T19:39:04Z

J.D. Power and Associates has released the latest results of its Initial Quality Study in which General Motors managed to grab eight segment awards, which is more than any other automaker. GMC ranked second overall in initial quality, climbing 10 spots, and was the top-ranked non-premium brand. Chevrolet also jumped 10 spots and ranked fifth overall and second among non-premium brands. Together with Buick and Cadillac, all GM brands performed better than the industry average of 113 problems per 100 vehicles.

"Nothing energizes us more than receiving the verification of quality from our customers," said Alicia Boler-Davis, vice president Global Quality and U.S. Customer Experience. "The overall ownership experience of the people who buy our cars and trucks is founded on providing vehicles with innovative technologies, while ensuring highest levels of initial and long-term quality and services they can rely on."

Source: GM

2014 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Get Up to 24 MPG with the 4.3L V6

2013-06-19T18:00:39Z

GM has released some of the specs for the 4.3L version of the all-new 2014 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups. The all-new 4.3L EcoTec V-6 packs 285-hp and 305 lb-ft. of torque. It also gets up to 24 mpg in rear-wheel-drive models and 22 mpg for four-wheel-drive models. GM claims that the 4.3L V6 will be the most capable standard V-6 in any full-size pickup truck. The 4.3L V-6 gives the full-size pickups the highest-available payload rating of 2,108 pounds and the highest available towing rating of 7,200 pounds.

The 4.3L V6 engine matches Ram HFE's 18 mpg city, while 4x4 Silverado and Sierra models achieve 17 mpg city, the best of any full-size pickup.

"Our V-6 has torque where you need it to get the job done," said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer. "With 230 lb-ft of torque available at 1,200 rpm, and more torque available from 2,400 to 5,300 rpm than competitive V-6s make at their peak.

"The average pickup on the road is more than 11 years old," said Luke. "Customers driving these trucks with V-8 engines will be amazed at the power and refinement of Sierra's new EcoTec3 V-6, which has fuel economy some 30 percent better than older V-8s with comparable performance."

Source: GM

Tesla to Reveal Model S Battery Swap Option Tomorrow

2013-06-19T12:21:35Z

Tesla has already announced plans to increase its network of fast-charging stations across the country, but tomorrow Tesla is going to unveil a new battery swap option at an event in California. The new battery swapping capability will allow drivers to quickly swap their car's battery with a charged battery, which would be even faster than waiting to charge the car's existing battery.

Tesla has confirmed that it plans to reveal a way that the Tesla Model S can be recharged faster than filling a conventional car's gas tank. Tomorrow night we should get more details about the battery swapping, including where it will take place.

Stay tuned...

Source: Tesla via Automotive News

Chrysler Gives into NHTSA's Request and Recalls 2.7 Million Jeeps

2013-06-19T12:07:51Z

Earlier this month Chrysler received a recall request from NHTSA that requested that the automaker recall 2.7 million Jeeps. Chrysler responded with an absolute no following NHTSA's investigation into fire risks on Jeep Grand Cherokee models built from 1993 to 2004 and Jeep Liberty models built from 2002 to 2007.

Chrysler has no changed its decision and has issued a voluntary recall. Chrysler will now conduct a visual inspection of the vehicle and if necessary, provide an upgrade to the rear structure of the vehicle to better manage crash forces in low-speed impacts.

Chrysler still maintains that the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Liberty models in the recall are still not defective. "Nonetheless, Chrysler Group recognizes that this matter has raised concerns for its customers and wants to take further steps, in coordination with NHTSA, to provide additional measures to supplement the safety of its vehicles."

Source: Chrysler

2014 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante Unveiled

2013-06-19T00:54:40Z

Aston Martin has unveiled the 2014 Vanquish Volante, which is a droptop version of the Vanquish supercar. The Vanquish Volante crucially is powered by the the same new AM11 6.0-liter V12 engine as the coupe and also reaches 0-62 mph sprint in just 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 183 mph.

The Vanquish Volante is the first fully carbon fiber Volante in the Aston Martin's 100-year history, while also being the stiffest Volante body structure yet created. The Vanquish Volante's fabric roof takes just 14 seconds to fold.

Announcing the arrival of the Vanquish Volante Aston Martin CEO Dr Ulrich Bez said: "This car is what luxury super GT driving is all about. Great performance, fantastic style and exhilarating Volante motoring in one superb package.

"Aston Martin is celebrating 100 years of excellence in 2013, and the arrival of this new sports car - our ultimate Volante - underlines that our mission to make the next 100 years even more successful is starting perfectly."

Aston Martin Design Director Marek Reichman explained: "Vanquish Volante is a sports car, of course, but more even than that it is the ultimate Volante. A car which follows a long line of elegant Aston Martin convertibles, this super GT is sculpted to convey sophistication as much as raw power.

The 2014 Vanquish Volante is priced from £199,995 in the UK; €264,995 in Germany; $297,995 in the United States and $323,974 in Dubai.

Source: Aston Martin

Quick Spin in the 2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (Review)

2013-06-18T18:18:23Z

Lincoln is on the cusp of a reinvention with the first of its new lineup being the 2013 Lincoln MKZ. Over the next four years Lincoln is planning on introducing four new models, which will reportedly include a new small crossover and compact entry-level model. GM managed to turn around Cadillac with sales now at their highest level in years, but can Ford pull the same success story with Lincoln?

Lincoln gave us a chance to get behind the wheel of the new 2013 MKZ Hybrid for a quick drive in New York and although traffic in Manhattan borders on insane, we were able to gather some initial impressions of the MKZ. Comparing the new MKZ to the previous model, shows that Lincoln is at least making a significant attempt at turning things around. While the outgoing MKZ was a pretty boring sedan from many angles, with a strong resemblance to the Fusion on which it was based, the new MKZ is a major departure. The new MKZ gets the Lincoln waterfall grille and an overall exterior that grabs far more attention than the last model. While the last MKZ felt more like an entry-level luxury sedan, the new MKZ's styling is more worthy of its luxury label.

The MKZ Hybrid's exterior does look good, but its interior was mostly just acceptable. With the exception of the unique push gear selector and panoramic sunroof, the rest of the interior doesn't really stand out. It would have been nice if some of the materials that were used for the center console were higher quality and the navigation system was more frustrating than most.

The 2013 MKZ is offered with three different powertrain options: a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder, a 3.7L V6 and a hybrid system. The MKZ Hybrid is powered by a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder that is mated to an electric motor and a CVT transmission. The system generates a total 188 horsepower and 129 lb-ft. of torque. The MKZ is rated at 45 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway.

Over our short 10-11 mile drive through Manhattan, we averaged 38 mpg. This was below the EPA rating, but obviously since the drive was so short we can't say that this would be a true average. The drive did give us a chance to check out the hybrid system. The hybrid system has the ability to travel to travel in EV mode from a start, which will increase its total mpg, but with the A/C on full blast this ability was limited. It would be nice if it was easier to keep the system in EV mode, since most of the time it was a little difficult, even with "light throttle." Lincoln, which is probably reacting to the flack that Ford has received for its hybrid models, was quick to point out reasons why the MKZ hybrid may not achieve its 45 mpg rating. The climate control system was one of the big reasons as well as more obvious reasons like vehicle speed and driving styles.

How does the rest of the MKZ Hybrid drive? Lincoln targeted the Lexus ES as the MKZ's main competition, but left off other major competitors from brands like Cadillac, Buick and Acura. On our quick drive the MKZ Hybrid's suspension swallowed most of Manhattan's crazy potholes and road imperfections. Was it sporty? Definitely not. The power steering was over boosted and its suspension was not firm enough to grab any sporty labels. It's interior was quiet and overall the MKZ Hybrid was comfortable and easy to operate. The push button gear selector was an interesting touch and if you select the panoramic roof option, your passengers will love the extra view. At the end of the short drive, we walked away wishing for more from the MKZ. It's stylish exterior can only take it so far and overall we'd hoped for a more "reinvented" Lincoln. We still have high hopes for the MKC crossover...

2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
Base Price: $35,925
Price as Tested: $42,850

Refreshed 2014 Buick LaCrosse Starts at $34,060

2013-06-18T17:28:23Z

GM has announced the pricing for the refreshed 2014 Buick LaCrosse will start at $34,060. The new LaCrosse gets front and rear styling updates and the interior gets updated with upgraded materials and new center console. The 2014 LaCrosse comes standard with next-generation IntelliLink connectivity, an eight-inch reconfigurable color cluster display, and an eAssist powertrain that gets up to 36 highway mpg.

A new Ultra Luxury interior package is available and includes a unique dark stained Tamo Ash wood throughout the cabin, jet black synthetic suede on the headliner and vanity mirrors, and Semi-Aniline full leather seats in sangria color. It is available on select trim levels as a $2,495 option.

The 2014 LaCrosse also gets new safety features thanks to a new Driver Confidence I package includes Forward Collision Alert, Side Blind Zone Warning, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, articulating high-intensity discharge headlights, and a head-up display for $2,125. The Driver Confidence II package includes Adaptive Cruise Control, an Automatic Collision Prep system, and a Safety Alert Seat that directs the driver's attention using vibrations through the surface of the seat bottom. It is a $1,745 option that must be paired with Driver Convenience I.

The LaCrosse can be powered by either a 304-hp 3.6L V-6 engine or the 2.4L four-cylinder with eAssist. The 2014 V6 model is rated at 18 city/28 mpg highway for front-wheel drive models and 17/26 mpg for all-wheel drive, the 2014 model gains 1 mpg highway for both models and 1 mpg city for front-drive.

Source: GM

Ford to Add More Buttons to MyFord Touch

2013-06-18T12:27:34Z

Ford is going to add more traditional buttons and knobs to its MyFord Touch infotainment system since the current system has hurt Ford in several quality surveys. Customers have complained that the current system is too complicated to use and distracting, so Ford plans to revert back to a more traditional setup.

The new Ford F-Series pickup is the first model that features more knobs and buttons and Ford expects to seek a similar balance with future models. In 2010 Ford ranked No. 5 in J.D. Power's annual Initial Quality Study, but since the MyFord Touch system launched, Ford has seen its ranking drop to below average. In 2011 Ford ranked 23 out of 32 and in last year Ford was 27 out of 34.

Last spring Ford updated the system to improve its voice recognition and fix its bugs. Another upgrade of the MyFord Touch and Sync system is planned this summer. Ford says that its Sync and MyFord Touch system is sold on 79 percent of its lineup.

Source: Ford via Automotive News

Next-Gen BMW 7 Series Will Go on a Diet

2013-06-17T22:02:38Z

BMW is hard at work on the next-generation BMW 7 Series, which will obviously go head to head with the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. To compete with the new S-Class, BMW is reportedly going to move the next 7 Series to a new platform that will employ carbon fiber, aluminum and steel to result in a significant weight loss compared to the current model.

According to Autocar, the next 7 Series will debut in Frankfurt at the end of 2015 with a final weight that could be close to the smaller 5 Series. BMW is also using some of the technologies from its i sub brand. Even with a weight that will mirror the 5 Series, the next 7 Series will still be about the same size as today's model.

The next 7 Series will again be offered with six, eight and twelve engines, but it looks like BMW wants to take on the S63 AMG. Autocar claims that BMW is working on a new 760 xDrive M Performance model that will be powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine that will compete with the high-performance S-Class.

Source: Mercedes-Benz via Autocar

Audi Prices the 2014 Audi SQ5 at $51,900

2013-06-17T15:38:01Z

The most powerful version of the Audi Q5 and of course the one we would want, has arrived. Audi has announced that the 2014 Audi SQ5 will start at $51,900. The 2014 SQ5 is the first S variant of any Audi Q model. It packs 354 horsepower and will reach 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds.

The Audi SQ5 is powered by a supercharged 3.0-liter TFSI direct-injection V6 engine that achieves 354 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque that is mated to an eight-speed transmission. In addition to a 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds, the SQ5 reaches a top track speed of 155 mph.

On the outside the Audi SQ5 rides on standard 20-inch wheels, but 21-inch wheels are optional.It also gets S model front and rear bumpers with Platinum Gray grille and diffuser, aluminum exterior mirror housings and quad exhaust tips.

Inside the SQ5 gets with a flat-bottom steering wheel with alu-optic shift paddles and contrast stitching, gray instrument face with white needles, pedals with aluminum inserts, and SQ5 specific leather/aluminum shift knob. Leather/Alcantara sport seats are standard, but Milano leather seats are available.

Source: Audi

Expect More Buick Badged Opels in the Future

2013-06-17T12:32:12Z

Buick's lineup has gone through a major reformation in the past few years. The transition from a stodgy brand that was geared more towards the retired generation to today's more stylish models is largely thanks to GM's European brand, Opel. The Buick Verano, Regal and Encore models are all re-badged Opel models that have brought a bit more excitement to the brand. Opel fans in the U.S. will be glad to hear that the relationship between the two brands will continue in the future.

GM CEO Dan Akerson has revealed that the relationship between the two brands will grow even stronger in the next few years. "What we're trying to do is bring together the product development teams much more closely," Akerson said, so that "there will be all sorts of synergies, I believe, between Opel-Vauxhall and Buick.
"

The first rebadged Opel to arrive under the Buick brand was the Opel Insignia, which arrived as the 2011 Regal. Prior to the 2011 Regal, Opel's were sold in the US under the Saturn brand. Since the demise of Saturn and the arrival of the 2011 Regal, Opel has also given the Buick brand the Verano, which is a rebadged Opel Astra and the Encore, which is known as the Opel Mokka in Europe.

By bringing Opel-Vauxhaull and Buick closer to together, GM will be able to save some of its development costs. "We think we can take costs out that way," he said. "You've got to change the rules of the game in Europe -- we do -- because of where we are today."

Since 1999 GM has lost GM lost $18 billion in Europe and last year alone the automaker lost $1.8 billion.

Source: GM via Automotive News

VW Celebrates the 30 Millionth Golf

2013-06-17T12:27:11Z

VW Golf production began in 1974 and almost 40 years VW is celebrating the production of the 30 Millionth Golf. According to VW an average of over 2,000 people have purchased a new Golf every day for the past 39 years.

Prof. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, stated, "The history of the Golf is also the history of automotive progress. With technologies such as the safe front-wheel drive of the first Golf, the debut of the TDI in the third Golf, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and the dual clutch gearbox of the fourth Golf and the standard Automatic Post-Collision Braking System of the new generation, this car has continued to democratise progress.

An optimum of safety, comfort and driving fun are no longer a question of money thanks to the Golf. And so our bestseller lives up to the Volkswagen name."

The U.S. has yet to receive the new seventh-generation Golf. Unfortunately we will have to wait until early next year when the new Golf and GTI models arrive for the 2015 model year.

Source: VW

Ford Starts Using Robots to Test its Trucks

2013-06-17T00:52:33Z

Ford has developed the industry's first robotic test driving program to test its trucks and make sure they meet the "Built Ford Tough" standard. Ford is launching the new durability testing with its new Transit van that arrives next year.

"Some of the tests we do on our commercial trucks for North America are so strenuous that we limit the exposure time for human drivers," says Dave Payne, manager, vehicle development operations. "The challenge is completing testing to meet vehicle development time lines while keeping our drivers comfortable.

"Robotic testing allows us to do both," he says. "We accelerate durability testing while simultaneously increasing the productivity of our other programs by redeploying drivers to those areas, such as noise level and vehicle dynamics testing."

The durability technology includes a robotic control module installed in the test vehicle that controls vehicle steering, acceleration and braking. The module is set to follow a preprogrammed course, and the vehicle's position is tracked via cameras in a central control room and GPS accurate to plus/minus one inch. Should the vehicle stray from its programmed course, engineers have the ability to stop the vehicle, course correct as necessary, and restart the test. Onboard sensors can command a full stop if a pedestrian or another vehicle strays into the path.

The robotically driven vehicles are expected to repeatedly perform tests on torturous surfaces with names like Silver Creek, Power Hop Hill and Curb Your Enthusiasm. The tests can compress 10 years of daily driving abuse into courses just a few hundred yards long, with surfaces that include broken concrete, cobblestones, metal grates, rough gravel, mud pits and oversized speed bumps.

Source: Ford

2014 BMW 4 Series Coupe Starts at $41,425

2013-06-14T20:22:14Z

Now we can officially say goodbye to the BMW 3 Series coupe, well partially. BMW has officially released all the details for the 2014 4 Series coupe, which is essentially still a 3 Series with a different name. The switch to the 4 Series name for the coupe also brings it in line with the larger BMW 6 Series Coupe.

The new BMW 4 Series Coupe will be offered as both a 428i with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and as a 435i with the twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline six. Both will be available with a standard 8-speed sport automatic or six-speed manual transmission. Both will also be offered with a choice of rear- wheel drive or with all-wheel drive. The 2014 BMW 428i Coupe starts at $41,425, and the 2014 BMW 435i Coupe will have a starting price of $46,925. The 2014 428i xDrive Coupe and 435i xDrive will start from $43,425 and 48,925 respectively.

The 435i Coupe packs 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, which is enough to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds with the 6-speed manual transmission, and only 5 seconds with the 8-speed automatic, on the way to an electronically limited 155 mph top speed, when equipped with performance tires.

The four-cylinder engine of the new BMW 428i Coupe generates 240 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, which allows the 428i to sprint from 0 to 60 in 5.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph when equipped with summer performance tires.

Even though the 4 Series shares most of its components with the 3 Series, the 4 Series has a lower center of gravity thanks to a revised suspension. The M Sport suspension that is part of the Sport Line and M Sport trims adds a firmer spring/shock absorber set-up and stiffer anti-roll bars, and its kinematics/ elastokinematics (bushings and bearings) have also been tweaked. The M Sport suspension also includes 18-inch or optional (435i only) 19- inch light-alloy wheels.

The 2014 BMW 428i Coupe and 435i Coupe will arrive in US showroom late this summer.

Source: BMW