2017 Skoda Kodiaq: Paris debut, U.S. next?

Skoda is an auto brand unfamiliar to most Americans, but the Czech automaker is part of the global VW Group and recently took out trademarks in the U.S.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-skoda-kodiaq-paris1/2100001177/

Buick announces Avenir sub-brand

Buick has announced that it is making the Avenir a reality.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/buick-announces-avenir-sub-brand/2100001190/

2018 Audi RS3 Sedan coming to U.S. with 400 horsepower

Making its global debut in Paris, the new Audi RS3 Sedan promises to set the little luxo 4-door arena on its ear courtesy of a 400-horsepower 5-cylinder turbocharged engine and all the proper go-faster RS goodies.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2018-audi-rs3-unveiled-paris/2100001189/

Electric Mini and BMW X3 Are a Go, Says CEO

An electric Mini? There’s a weak Austin Powers joke in there somewhere, maybe, but that movie (alarmingly) came out 19 years ago. After teasing the possibility earlier this year, BMW CEO Harald Krüger confirmed an all-electric Mini will arrive in 2019, Bloomberg reports. Krüger claims a Mini EV, as well as an electric version of the compact X3 […]

The post Electric Mini and BMW X3 Are a Go, Says CEO appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Ferrari LaFerrari Aperta arrives in style

First seen on its Twitter page in early July but without a formal name, the limited-edition Ferrari LeFerrari Aperta made its official debut in Paris along with the Ferrari GTC4Lusso T.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-ferrari-laferrari-spider-revealed/2100000848/

Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain gears up for adventure

Adding a new dimension to the E-Class Wagon, the Mercedes-Benz All-Terrain made its public debut in Paris.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/mercedes-benz-e-class-all-terrain-paris/2100001188/

AutoNews Now: 'Highest expression' of Buick

Buick finds 'signature' in Avenir; Tesla execs on 'empty gesture' from Mich., discount ban; Report: Takata suitors offering $1-2 billion; No Jeep recall; Nissan tips hat to Texas.

from http://www.autonews.com/article/20160930/VIDEO/309309954/autonews-now-highest-expression-of-buick

Ford announces 2017 Raptor horsepower

At the State Fair of Texas, Ford announced horsepower and torque for the new 2017 Raptor, Ford's ultimate off-road race machine.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/ford-announces-2017-raptor-horsepower/2100001187/

Renault Finds a New Partner to Help Boost Sales: Iran

Few good news stories seem to originate in Iran, but Renault wouldn’t agree. The French automaker has inked a deal with the government of Iran to massively boost vehicle production in the middle eastern country. The joint venture announced today between Groupe Renault and the Industrial Development and Renovation Organization of Iran (IDRO) seeks to increase investment […]

The post Renault Finds a New Partner to Help Boost Sales: Iran appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Land Rover Defender Lands in 2018, Borrows Discovery Platform

The regulator-friendly replacement for the recently departed Land Rover Defender is on the way, and has already begun on-road testing, the automaker’s CEO confirms. Speaking to Britain’s Autocar, Jaguar Land Rover boss Ralf Speth says the new Defender adopts the lightweight aluminum architecture of the fifth-generation Land Rover Discovery. The platform and design upgrade is good […]

The post Land Rover Defender Lands in 2018, Borrows Discovery Platform appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

UAW Plant Chairman Confirms Ford Ranger, Bronco Revival in Trump Comments

Will they, or won’t they? That’s the question nagging the minds of Ford Ranger and Bronco fans as they patiently await an official announcement from the automaker on the models’ return. The Blue Oval will only confirm that two new products will take the place of the soon-to-depart Focus and C-Max at the Michigan Assembly […]

The post UAW Plant Chairman Confirms Ford Ranger, Bronco Revival in Trump Comments appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Buick Goes Upmarket With Avenir Sub-Brand, Toe-Stepping Be Damned

Buick’s stunning Avenir Concept from the 2015 North American International Auto Show will not reach production, but the concept’s Avenir nameplate will be used as a Buick sub-brand. In the same vein as GMC’s upmarket Denali sub-brand, Avenir will become the high-end trim level “on three [Buick] models around the globe in the next 18 months,” […]

The post Buick Goes Upmarket With Avenir Sub-Brand, Toe-Stepping Be Damned appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

‘Good Times’ Return for Volkswagen Around 2020, Diess Predicts

After the awkward auto show apologies of the past year, Volkswagen executives are looking forward to a rosy time in the near future after the brand stabilizes itself. Those “good times” will return, according to global brand chief Herbert Diess, but not before three to four years of rough slogging. In a Bloomberg TV interview from […]

The post ‘Good Times’ Return for Volkswagen Around 2020, Diess Predicts appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Ford UK, Always the Optimist, Enters Mustang GT in MPG Marathon

Throughout its life, the Mustang GT has been called many things, from sexy, to speedy, to downright stupid — but never has it been called a fuel sipper. Ford UK doesn’t seem to care. For the UK’s annual fuel economy challenge, one of Ford’s entries will be the 410-horse Mustang GT convertible, which is rated for an optimistic […]

The post Ford UK, Always the Optimist, Enters Mustang GT in MPG Marathon appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Ram Trucks enhanced for 2017

The State Fair of Texas is one of the largest truck-focused events in the country, serving as an ideal location for manufacturers to announce what's around the corner for the next model year.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/ram-truck-updates-for-2017/2100001186/

This Week in Car Buying: Price war looms; Hatchback renaissance

Last week we told you about the reluctance of manufacturers to raise prices and the fact that there seem to be more incentives on 2017 models earlier in the sales cycle.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/this-week-in-car-buying-price-war-looms-hatchback-renaissance/2100001168/

Hyundai RN30 Concept previews new high-performance model line

As promised, the first of Hyundai’s new family of high-performance N models got its global preview in Paris in the form of the absolutely stunning RN30 Concept.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/hyundai-rn30-concept-paris/2100001185/

2018 Audi Q5 recasting brings defining refinements

The comprehensively redesigned Audi Q5 made its global debut in Paris and while presented in Euro trim, the compact luxury SUV offered an early look at what we can expect to see arrive here in the U.S.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2018-audi-q5-debut-paris/2100001184/

Ram Rebel TRX Concept: Fiat Chrysler Floats a Raptor Fighter

It looks like the media attention heaped on Ford’s newly improved 2017 F-150 Raptor has made Fiat Chrysler Automobiles a little jealous. The automaker unveiled a brash off-road truck concept at the Texas State Fair today, testing the waters for a possible production version. Think of the Ram Rebel TRX as a Hellcat 1500. From […]

The post Ram Rebel TRX Concept: Fiat Chrysler Floats a Raptor Fighter appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

AutoNews Now: Paris pizzazz ... and Texas truck stars

Paris pizzazz, Texas truck stars: Lexus, Infiniti debuts; Micra revolution; Kia keeps Telluride hopes alive, Ram reveals pickups; GM, Ford engine feats; Ford's new mobility boss.

from http://www.autonews.com/article/20160929/VIDEO/309299925/autonews-now-paris-pizzazz-and-texas-truck-stars

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor: More Power, More Speeds, More MPG

Ford Motor Company has issued specifications for its 2017 F-150 Raptor off-road performance pickup, and you can thank the company’s engineers for the attractive numbers. The next-generation Raptor makes serious gains not just in horsepower and torque, but also in fuel economy. The mileage boost should make those dirt-flinging romps through the countryside just a […]

The post 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor: More Power, More Speeds, More MPG appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

BMW’s Concept X2 Previews a Meaner Crossover; 3 Series Gran Turismo Goes Wide

It looks like BMW isn’t interested in slotting a slightly larger crossover above the X1 that resembles both it and the larger X3. The automaker’s Concept X2, unveiled at the Paris Motor Show, is a departure from the brand’s existing utility lineup, with styling designed to appeal to a sportier buying demographic.  If the concept’s […]

The post BMW’s Concept X2 Previews a Meaner Crossover; 3 Series Gran Turismo Goes Wide appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Lexus UX Concept: Radical chic from the inside out

Debuting in Paris, the Lexus UX Concept is a one-off compact crossover that dramatically reinterprets the automaker’s existing design language.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/lexus-ux-concept-paris/2100001183/

Mercedes-Benz Generation EQ Concept previews new lineup

Showing where it plans to head with a new generation of battery-powered models, Mercedes-Benz took the wraps off its slick Generation EQ Concept in Paris.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/mercedes-benz-generation-eq-concept-paris/2100001182/

BMW Concept X2: Compact charmer headed to the showroom

Offering a bold new take on an upcoming small sporting crossover, the BMW Concept X2 made its debut in Paris.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/bmw-concept-x2-paris/2100001181/

2017 Honda Civic Type R Debuts

Following up on the launch of the Civic hatchback, the Japanese automaker announced at the Paris Motor Show that it will offer a high performance Type R version of the compact for the first time in the U.S.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-honda-civic-type-r-debuts/2100001180/

Toyota C-HR Powertrain Details Revealed in Paris

Toyota first showed off its funky C-HR small crossover at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year, but it waited until Paris to reveal the model’s powertrain lineup. Unlike the its Nissan Juke competitor, don’t expect a high-performance C-HR when the model bows in 2017. At least, not just yet. While the C-HR is poised […]

The post Toyota C-HR Powertrain Details Revealed in Paris appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Honda Civic Type R Prototype: The Wing You’ve Been Waiting For

Honda has provided a glimpse of the U.S.-bound Civic Type R at the Paris Auto Show, albeit in concept form (though the automaker prefers the near-production term “prototype”). This Type R — designed in Japan, built in the UK, and destined (at last) for America — uses the Civic Hatchback as a canvas, then adds every visual […]

The post Honda Civic Type R Prototype: The Wing You’ve Been Waiting For appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

All-New Nissan Micra Goes On Sale In Europe In March, Not In Canada Anytime Soon

Remaining relatively faithful to the Sway Concept from last year’s Geneva Motor Show, Nissan unveiled the fifth-generation Micra at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, more than six years after the fourth-generation Micra arrived. Directed at the European market, which Nissan says is the world’s largest market for hatchbacks, the Micra is not at all intended for […]

The post All-New Nissan Micra Goes On Sale In Europe In March, Not In Canada Anytime Soon appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Volkswagen I.D. Concept previews production EV with 373-mile range

Providing a first look at a revolutionary model that will go on sale in 2020, the Volkswagen I.D.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/volkswagen-id-concept-previews-production-ev-with-373-mile-range/2100001179/

Mercedes-Benz’s Generation EQ Teases Its Electric Sub-brand

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an all-electric SUV concept at the Paris Auto Show, strongly hinting at what we can expect from its recently announced EQ sub-brand. The Generation EQ concept offers impressive range and up to 400 horsepower, which the automaker needs to compete with the likes of Tesla and rival BMW’s “i” sub-brand. Sporting all-important […]

The post Mercedes-Benz’s Generation EQ Teases Its Electric Sub-brand appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Hyundai RN30 Concept previews upcoming high-performance model line

Inspired by racing and ready to roll into showrooms within the next year in some world markets, the first of Hyundai’s new family of high-performance N models makes its global debut in Paris.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/hyundai-rn30-concept-previews-upcoming-high-performance-model-line/2100001174/

Next-gen Hyundai i30 Hatchback previews the 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT

Making its public debut in Paris, the new Hyundai i30 Hatchback will serve as the global precursor of a recast 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT that goes on sale in America during the first half of next year.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/next-gen-hyundai-i30-hatchback-previews-the-2018-hyundai-elantra-gt/2100001173/

2018 Land Rover Discovery Introduced in Paris

The fact that one of the most touted features of the just-unveiled-today fifth-generation Land Rover Discovery is a smartphone app –- one that lets you configure the interior seating remotely –- would surely come as a shock to Maurice Wilks, the British auto exec most responsible for the creation of the original Land Rover.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2018-land-rover-discovery-introduced-in-paris/2100001167/

Fifth-generation Land Rover Discovery Brings a Diesel to America

Land Rover pulled the wraps off the next-generation Discovery today at the Paris Auto Show, revealing a host of changes to the brand’s storied nameplate. Not wanting anyone to mistake it for another SUV, the automaker kept some exterior styling cues from the outgoing LR4, but moved the overall shape in the direction of the […]

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GM 6.6-liter Duramax Diesel V8 Power Figures Confirmed

General Motors quickly deleted the power figures for its new 6.6-liter Duramax turbodiesel V8 after they were posted to the GM Powertrain website, but we now have confirmation of the heavy-duty engine’s output. TTAC’s Matthew Guy has just sent us the figures from the Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, where GM is debuting its […]

The post GM 6.6-liter Duramax Diesel V8 Power Figures Confirmed appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

KBB study finds American drivers still prefer a hands-on approach

  A new national study commissioned by Kelley Blue Book has found that despite all of the efforts being made today towards advancing self-driving technology, American motorists are not exactly racing to embrace it.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/kbb-future-autonomous-vehicle-study-2016/2100001166/

2017 Toyota Highlander First Review

The Highlander is a solidly established family hauler, slotting in at the bigger end of Toyota’s growing SUV lineup with seats for seven or eight, lots of small object storage, lots of family-oriented features, lots of safety technology, the only hybrid option in its class, and attractive styling—at least by the utilitarian standards of this two-box vehicle class. While this Toyota mainstay isn’t due for a major makeover until model year 2019—the current generation bowed in 2014—it gets some significant updates for 2017: freshened styling, more safety features, interior updates, and, tops on the list, a new V-6 powertrain. The 3.5-liter displacement is familiar, but a new intake system, combining direct and port fuel injection, raises V-6 output from 270 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque to 295 and 263, respectively.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-toyota-highlander-first-review/2100001165/

Toyota’s Future Prius Hybrids Could be Plug-in Only

Toyota invested plenty of time, money and effort into making its plug-in Prius Prime stand out from its lesser hybrids, and the result may have convinced the company to change its future plans. According to Autoblog, the automaker now has doubts about keeping the regular Prius as a standalone, hybrid-only model beneath the plug-in version. […]

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AutoNews Now: EVs all the buzz at Paris show

Mercedes, VW, Opel electrify in Paris; Land Rover's new Discovery; Ford flying-roof risk; Long-haul Ubers?; Honda reports fatal Takata inflator rupture; Musk's Mars mission.

from http://www.autonews.com/article/20160928/VIDEO/309289950/autonews-now-evs-all-the-buzz-at-paris-show

Hoping to Turn the Page, Volkswagen Shows Its I.D.

Looking something like an unborn child peering with sightless eyes from inside an amniotic sack, the Volkswagen I.D. concept vehicle has been revealed ahead of the Paris Auto Show. The description is apt, as Volkswagen sees the I.D. as an embryo, heralding a long-range electric vehicle slated for production within four years. Built on the […]

The post Hoping to Turn the Page, Volkswagen Shows Its I.D. appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Aston Martin AM37: Congratulations, It’s a Boat!

Cue the yacht rock. Aston Martin’s latest offering isn’t a curvaceous, high-performance car. Nor is it an SUV. It’s a boat, and a nice one at that — but it’s also a gamble. The British automaker wants to squeeze money out of previously untapped markets, starting with the boaty set. After this, the sky’s the […]

The post Aston Martin AM37: Congratulations, It’s a Boat! appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Mercedes-Benz EV Crossover Concept teased for Paris

Save for a mini-teaser video, Mercedes-Benz has offered no details about a new electric crossover concept that will make its world debut in Paris.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/mercedes-benz-ev-crossover-concept-teased-for-paris/2100001164/

Audi Ends Ultra-Hot Four-Cylinder Development, Claiming Lack of Panache

Four-cylinder engines have come a long way since the tepid entry-level powerplants of yesteryear, but despite gains in power and refinement, it’s still a four-banger. That stigma, as well as cost, has led Audi to ditch its production plans for one of the hottest four-cylinders ever developed, reports Autoblog. The high-performing version of the automaker’s […]

The post Audi Ends Ultra-Hot Four-Cylinder Development, Claiming Lack of Panache appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Americans Prefer Patriot, So Why Is Jeep Killing It and Keeping Compass Name Instead?

Searching for new buyers with car-based Jeeps in 2006, DaimlerChrysler assumed the more obviously car-like of the two new Jeeps, the Compass, would be more popular. Square, boxy, and later to the party, the Patriot would fill in the gaps with a more male-centric demographic. Incorrect. From the get-go, the Jeep Patriot was the more popular […]

The post Americans Prefer Patriot, So Why Is Jeep Killing It and Keeping Compass Name Instead? appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

2017 Jeep Compass Unveiled: On sale next spring

The wraps have finally come off the new 2017 Jeep Compass during a global reveal held at FCA’s Jeep Assembly Plant in Goiana, Pernambuco, Brazil, where initial production will take place.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-jeep-compass-unveiled-on-sale-next-spring/2100001163/

2017 Nissan GT-R Nismo arrives and opens at $176,585

As promised, the upgraded 2017 Nissan GT-R Nismo has now officially gone on sale in the U.S.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-nissan-gt-r-nismo-arrives-and-opens-at-176585/2100001162/

2017 Jeep Cherokee Buyer's Guide

#6 of 13 in Compact SUV Sales  |  Next Starting Price: $24,590 | Build Above Average: Legitimate off-road capability, unique, attractive styling Below Average: So-so transmission, weak base engine Consensus: A refined compact SUV that hasn't forgotten its Jeep off-road roots The mainstream compact SUV of choice for SUV purists. There are very few compact SUVs that can boast any ability in the dirt.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/jeep-cherokee-new/2000010084/

Compact Car Buyer's Guide

Today's compact cars might not be quite as roomy, quiet or comfortable as their midsize counterparts, but the fit, finish and features are increasingly comparable.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/best-compact-cars/2000010127/

Former ‘Clean Diesel’ Maker Wins Notorious Harvard Prize

It has been a year since we learned that Volkswagen’s tranquil and oh-so-green “clean diesel” utopia was actually a carefully constructed facade hiding a scorched wasteland of pollution and lies. Apparently, that doesn’t mean the jokes need to stop. The brainiacs at Harvard University have awarded the financially hurting automaker with a notorious prize that […]

The post Former ‘Clean Diesel’ Maker Wins Notorious Harvard Prize appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Next-Generation Ram 1500’s Tight Timeline Gets a Helping Hand

The soon-to-be-dead Chrysler 200’s legendary unpopularity saw many Fiat Chrysler Automobiles workers laid off, but a next-generation pickup is bringing them all back — and then some. The automaker has received a handout from the Michigan Strategic Fund, allowing it to add an extra 700 autoworkers at its Sterling Heights assembly plant to work on a […]

The post Next-Generation Ram 1500’s Tight Timeline Gets a Helping Hand appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

AutoNews Now: Turning the corner at Volvo

Turning the corner at Volvo; VW offers financial reassurance amid report; Audi, BMW, Daimler tech alliance; Self-driving startup seeks funds; Jeep, Audi ads take political twist.

from http://www.autonews.com/article/20160927/VIDEO/309279974/autonews-now-turning-the-corner-at-volvo

Chill Factor: Ford Owner Learns Harsh Hybrid Lesson

It’s become a trend. For some reason, perhaps just coincidence, Canadian Ford owners with vehicle complaints seem to air their issues on that country’s national broadcaster. Recently, it was a man whose 2009 F-150 needs an HVAC module that no one can find. This time, it’s a lady’s whose gas-sipping 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid has developed […]

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$56,410 Per Job? GM Could Get a Hefty Government Payout For Assembly Plant Investment

It looks like the prospect of getting a partial payback for its investment could have hastened the deal reached between General Motors Canada and its autoworkers’ union. The automaker could have up to 40 percent of the money invested in its Canadian operations handed back by the Ontario and Canadian governments, according to a report […]

The post $56,410 Per Job? GM Could Get a Hefty Government Payout For Assembly Plant Investment appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

U.S. Pondering a Criminal Fine that Stops Just Short of Killing Volkswagen: Report

How much can we chop away while keeping the body alive? The U.S. Justice Department’s plans for Volkswagen’s criminal fine is like a horror movie, only with corporate finances playing the role of a writhing human subject. According to two sources close to the negotiations, the DOJ wants to extract as much monetary lifeblood from […]

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Patriot Name is Truly Dead as Fiat Chrysler Unveils 2017 Jeep Compass

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has released the first official images of the 2017 Jeep Compass, the solitary model replacing both the original Compass and its slab-sided Patriot compatriot. Say goodbye to the flag-waving Patriot name, as this is a world model, and global Jeep customers are more familiar with the Compass name. Fittingly, the small SUV’s […]

The post Patriot Name is Truly Dead as Fiat Chrysler Unveils 2017 Jeep Compass appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Ticketed Or Warned? I Was Pulled Over For Speeding In Our Long-Term 2015 Honda Odyssey

“How do I name drop, how do I name drop, how do I name drop?” I couldn’t find the words. Last Tuesday, I was driving GCBC’s long-term 2015 Honda Odyssey across Halifax, Nova Scotia (where my best friend Ken is a police officer) to a very expensive dental appointment. As soon as I noticed flashing […]

The post Ticketed Or Warned? I Was Pulled Over For Speeding In Our Long-Term 2015 Honda Odyssey appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

2018 Chevrolet Equinox Redesign Bows

Intent on grabbing a larger share of the hot compact crossover/SUV market both here and abroad, Chevrolet unveiled an all-new 2018 Equinox.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2018-chevrolet-equinox-redesign-bows/2100001157/

Infiniti Says ‘No Thanks’ to Convertibles, Unless Something Changes

Convertibles are a niche market, and Infiniti doesn’t feel it’s a market worth pursuing. At least, not right now. The automaker’s product strategy chief confirmed to Car Advice that a droptop version of its second-generation Q60 coupe isn’t in the cards, eliminating the open-air option from the brand’s lineup. Let the Germans have at it, the […]

The post Infiniti Says ‘No Thanks’ to Convertibles, Unless Something Changes appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Audi Tech Boss Leaves Company as Heat Rises on Ex-VW CEO Winterkorn

After German media reported his suspension last week, Audi announced today technical development boss Stefan Knirsch is stepping down and leaving the automaker. The executive, who sat on Audi’s management board, found himself caught up in the investigation surrounding Volkswagen’s diesel emissions scandal. Meanwhile, a German newspaper claims that newly discovered documents show ex-Volkswagen CEO […]

The post Audi Tech Boss Leaves Company as Heat Rises on Ex-VW CEO Winterkorn appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

AutoNews Now: Ford dealer's $2 million nightmare

Ford dealer's $2 million nightmare; Audi exec out; Renault-Nissan Microsoft deal; Jeep Compass, Subaru 7-seater spied; Focus EV to go further, faster; Arnold Palmer's car ties.

from http://www.autonews.com/article/20160926/VIDEO/309269921/autonews-now-ford-dealers-2-million-nightmare

GM Posts (then Deletes) New 6.6-Liter Duramax Turbo Diesel Power Specs

A document containing official horsepower and torque numbers for General Motors’ new 6.6-liter V8 Duramax turbo-diesel was found buried on the GM Powertrain website — before the company quickly deleted it.  GM’s new 2017 heavy-duty pickup trucks will wade into the nuclear torque war with a whopping 910 lb-ft of twist, with peak torque coming on […]

The post GM Posts (then Deletes) New 6.6-Liter Duramax Turbo Diesel Power Specs appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback starts at $20,535

Previewed in concept form earlier this year at the Geneva Auto Show, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback is going on sale in the U.S.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-honda-civic-hatchback-starts-at-20535/2100001156/

Audi Capitalizes on Presidential Debate Viewership with Action-packed Ad

To disenfranchised voters, sitting through the first of the presidential debates tonight will be akin to laying back in a 19th century dentist’s chair. Open wide. Politics (mostly) aside, Audi saw the potential viewership and wasn’t about to let a TV audience of that size pass it by. In its new spot for the Audi […]

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2017 Ferrari GTC4Lusso T Debuts in Paris

The first variation of the Ferrari GTC4Lusso unveiled last spring in Geneva is bowing at the Paris Motor Show.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-ferrari-gtc4lusso-t-debuts-in-paris/2100001154/

Who’s Your Daddy: Lotus Could Gain a New Parent Company as Proton Looks for Partners

Lotus is waiting to see whose car pulls up to the orphanage, now that its parent company’s owners are looking for someone to take Proton off its hands. The struggling Malaysian automaker, which bought a majority stake in Lotus in 1996, is being courted by at least three major automakers, Reuters reports. Proton is controlled […]

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Rental Review: 2017 Jeep Renegade Trailhawk

I’ve told epic tales before. Specifically, I’ve told you a story or two about the times I’ve spent at EPIC Hotel in Miami. In your author’s humble opinion, it’s the best hotel in America. The combination of the brilliant customer service, the enormous suites overlooking Biscayne Bay, the rooftop pool, the jazz club, and the best […]

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Volkswagen Eyeing U.S. Van and Truck Market: Report

Move over Chevrolet, Ram and Ford? It’s hard to say if American van and truck builders have anything to worry about after the head of Volkswagen’s commercial vehicles division publicly mused about jumping into the U.S. market. According to Reuters, the potential for future sales has the automaker considering a stateside foray, given the booming […]

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GM Autoworkers Ratify $421 Million Contract; Fiat Chrysler Negotiations Come Next

Unionized General Motors workers in Canada ratified a new collective agreement yesterday, with the automaker agreeing to invest $421 million ($554 million CAD) into its northern operations. The deal, which sees full-size pickup final assembly come to Oshawa, was sealed after 64.7 percent of the Unifor members voted to approve it. With this nail-biter of a […]

The post GM Autoworkers Ratify $421 Million Contract; Fiat Chrysler Negotiations Come Next appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

Junkyard Find: 1995 Dodge Dakota, with K-Car engine

The plenitude of vehicles based on the Chrysler K Platform helped the company bounce back from its humiliating 1979 near-bankruptcy and government bailout, and the modern overhead-cam four-cylinder engine Chrysler developed for the K was a big part of that success. We think of that 2.2/2.5 as a transverse-front-wheel-drive-only engine, but Chrysler made a longitudinal […]

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Ford Patents the Simplest Car You Can Imagine

Harkening back to its early days as a purveyor of horseless carriages, Ford Motor Company has patented a no-frills folding vehicle for those who want something more than a bicycle. Intended for developing countries with poor infrastructure, the patent filing uncovered by Autoblog details a lightweight, endlessly configurable vehicle with a collapsible frame. Ford describes […]

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Audi CEO Could Be in the Clear after Emissions Probe Grilling

Despite witnesses claiming Audi CEO Rupert Stadler was involved in the Volkswagen emissions scandal, the law firm investigating the company has reportedly found no evidence to support the claim. According to company sources, U.S. law firm Jones Day found nothing that suggests the company chairman had any prior knowledge of the brand’s rigged diesel engines, […]

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2017 Porsche 718 Cayman/Cayman S First Review

The remake of the now-renamed 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman and its more-potent 718 Cayman S sibling has raised performance and endowed these coupes a bolder look that closely resembles their just-introduced soft-top 718 Boxster/Boxster S siblings.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-porsche-718-cayman-cayman-s-first-review/2100001153/

Chevrolet Volt Could Wear a ‘Buick Velite’ Nametag in China

American Chevrolet Volt fans have long discussed how the quasi-upscale extended-range EV might have fared with a Buick badge instead of being branded as a bread-and-butter Chevrolet. It appears the Chinese have gone beyond the discussion phase. According to Chinese website Autohome, Shanghai GM gets it, and has pulled the strings to rename the Chevy […]

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2017 Honda Civic Hatchback: Pricing, Power Announced for Compact Cavern on Wheels

Starting next Monday, North American shoppers will be able to stroll into Honda dealers across the nation and take delivery of a Civic Hatchback. Mercifully, it looks a lot better than the pug-nosed, bent-nail-shifter Si oddity of the early 2000s. Joining the sedan and coupe models to round out Honda’s 10th-generation US Civic lineup, the […]

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Syncro-Nined: An Ennead of Surprising All-Wheel-Drive Golfs That Predate the R32

The recent news that Volkswagen is pondering an all-wheel-drive Golf for U.S. customers surprised many. “All-wheel drive is now part of the Volkswagen DNA,” commented Dr. Hendrik Muth of Volkswagen at the U.S. launch of the Alltrack. That means Volkswagen will be taking on Subaru, the reigning king of all-wheel drive for the masses in the U.S. And since the […]

The post Syncro-Nined: An Ennead of Surprising All-Wheel-Drive Golfs That Predate the R32 appeared first on The Truth About Cars.

2015 Mazda Mazda3 Grand Touring: Long Term Wrap-Up Video

Mazda has topped our list of fun-to-drive cars and the 2015 Mazda3 lived up to those expectations exhibiting a nimble and spirited character during its year-long stint in the Kelley Blue Book long term fleet.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2015-mazda-mazda3-grand-touring--long-term-wrap-up-video/2100001146/

AutoNews Now: A way out for Cadillac, dealers

A way out for Cadillac, and its smallest dealers; Audi chief in the clear?; Subaru global recall; More self-driving taxis; High-tech mail trucks ... and deliveries by drone.

from http://www.autonews.com/article/20160923/VIDEO/309239941/autonews-now-a-way-out-for-cadillac-dealers

Cadillac President Will Pay Dealers to Disappear

If dealership owners spring for a recent offer by the president of Cadillac, expect to see a vastly reduced brand presence in towns and cities across the U.S. Johan de Nysschen is offering 400 low-volume Cadillac dealers cash to close up shop and walk away, Automotive News reports. It’s nothing personal, the brand’s performance-focused leader […]

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With 30 Extra Horses, 2017 Toyota Sienna Becomes America’s Most Powerful Minivan

Updated for 2015 with a revised interior, an invisible facelift, and improved LATCH access, the 2015 Toyota Sienna was nevertheless mechanically identical to the Sienna of 2011-2014. The Toyota Sienna was America’s best-selling minivan in calendar year 2015. For model year 2017, the Sienna remains visually identical and continues on the third-generation platform, but Toyota […]

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2017 Smart ForTwo EV Cruises to Paris

The latest and greenest members of the 2017 Smart set debut at the Paris Motor Show as the wraps come off of the 2017 Smart ForTwo Electric Drive Coupe and Cabrio.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/2017-smart-fortwo-ev-cruises-to-paris/2100001152/

New Audi Q5 Teased

Completely redesigned and set to arrive here as a 2018 model, the all-new Audi Q5 SUV debuts at the Paris Motor Show.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/new-audi-q5-teased/2100001151/

2017 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive: America’s Smallest EV Gets a Makeover

Smart, the plucky and perplexing subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz, has the unique distinction of offering an EV variant of its sole U.S. model that’s generally accepted as being an improvement over the gas-powered model. Certainly, a vastly reduced range doesn’t boost the tiny package’s appeal, but the two-seat city car really isn’t meant for those long-legged […]

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This Week in Car Buying: Makers hold line on 2017 pricing

In addition to incentives already showing up on 2017 models, manufacturers are looking at holding the line on model changeover pricing, limiting increases to only a percent or two on average, or in some cases holding the line or dropping prices and adding features.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/this-week-in-car-buying-makers-hold-line-on-2017-pricing/2100001150/

2018 Chevrolet Equinox Revealed with Malibu-esque Styling, Turbo Engine Lineup, Diesel Option

Chevrolet has lifted the curtain on its next-generation Equinox, revealing a host of technological and styling updates for a long-running model that had grown long in the tooth. The changes coming for the 2018 model year put the Equinox as a proper compact SUV, as the slimmed-down model sheds significant weight and adopts a trio […]

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Even Mazda Is Now Selling More Crossovers Than Cars, But Overall Mazda Sales Are Still Down

Over the last two months, Mazda, that great tiny bastion of four-cylinder engines and SkyActiv and adding lightness, has sold more crossovers than cars in the United States. Yes, that Mazda. The Mazda that had to rebadge Fords to bring its first two SUVs to market. The Mazda that, only four years ago, produced two-thirds […]

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Fiat Chrysler Next in Line for Contract Talks; Brampton Assembly a Major Bargaining Point

After securing hundreds of millions of dollars in investments from General Motors and a new lease on life for the Oshawa assembly plant, Canadian Detroit Three autoworkers union Unifor is sharpening its bargaining pens to tackle Fiat Chrysler. Today, the union identified the automaker as the company next in line to hammer out a contract […]

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2017 Hyundai Tucson Buyer's Guide

#10 of 13 in Compact SUV Sales  |  Next Starting Price: $23,595 | Build Above Average: Quiet cabin, quality materials, engaging design Below Average: Lack of adaptive cruise control, no cargo area rear-seat releases, unrefined transmission Consensus: A stylish, value-packed alternative to more established nameplates Growing into its Segment The Hyundai Tucson was totally redesigned last year, making it far more competitive with segment stalwarts like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/hyundai-tucson-new/2000010081/

2017 Toyota Sienna Buyer's Guide

A Minivan Mainstay Made Even Better The Toyota Sienna became a minivan favorite for its combination of practicality, reliability and resale value.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/toyota-sienna-minivan-new/2000010698/

AutoNews Now: Bolt offers chance to redeem EV1 missteps

Chevy Bolt offers chance to redeem EV1 missteps; Unifor's next target: FCA; In D.C., debating the costs, benefits of MPG boost; Tesla sues Mich.; Vacuum cleaners, fans and EVs?

from http://www.autonews.com/article/20160922/VIDEO/309229977/autonews-now-bolt-offers-chance-to-redeem-ev1-missteps

Bring on a Sales Slump, We Can Take It!: GM

General Motors is searching for savings under every RenCen couch cushion as it ramps up a profit-boosting cost-cutting effort. The automaker has already chopped plenty of what it sees as fat, and is so confident in its streamlining abilities that it now claims it could weather a major plunge in sales. Even, say, a 40-percent […]

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Tesla Sues Michigan After State Bars Vehicle Sales

After its two-year-long bid to gain a sales foothold in Michigan hit a brick wall, Tesla has filed a lawsuit against the state. The suit, filed in a U.S. District Court in Michigan, targets governor Rick Snyder and other top officials, Reuters reports. Unlike other automakers, Tesla uses a direct sales model to get its […]

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Jeep Compass/Patriot Replacement Spied, Looks Jeepier than Recent Jeeps

The unveiling of the Jeep Cherokee and Renegade prompted many unplanned chiropractor visits after their, erm, interesting proportions elicited neck-snapping double takes. As the final months of Compass and Patriot production sell like discount cigarettes on a WW2 airbase, Jeep likely felt pressure to keep styling on the safe side when it came time to craft […]

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2017 Dodge Grand Caravan Buyer's Guide

Last Laps for the Original The Dodge Grand Caravan is the minivan that started it all, way back in 1983.

from http://www.kbb.com/car-news/all-the-latest/dodge-grand-caravan-minivan-new/2000010763/