September 2011

Hyundai to unveil next evolution of fluidic sculpture design language

(September 8, 2011) Hyundai has revealed the first photos of the new-generation i30, ahead of the car’s world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, showing an exciting new look for the company’s best-selling C-segment hatchback.

Hyundai expects the new-generation i30 to build on the success of the original model — the company’s first car launched with the ‘i’ prefix, introducing a new nomenclature and heralding a new era for Hyundai in Europe.

Buick Verano small sedan to start at $23,470

(September 7, 2011) DETROIT — The all-new 2012 Buick Verano luxury sedan, which goes on sale later this year, will have a starting price of $23,470 including $885 in destination charges.

The Verano offers more passenger and cargo volume than the Acura TSX sedan or Lexus IS 250.

Jaguar C-X16 hybrid concept to be unveiled at Frankfurt show

(September 7, 2011) Jaguar has released details of the C-X16 concept ahead of its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Looking firmly to the future, the C-X16 marks a new chapter for Jaguar. The two-seater concept has inspired new advances in design, in engineering and in vehicle technology to create the most compact and responsive Jaguar in a generation.  A hybrid, the C-X16 combines searing performance with beautifully realized styling.

Dodge to offer Mopar packages on 2012 Charger Pursuit

(September 7, 2011) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Today Dodge and Mopar announced six all-new factory-installed police-equipment packages for the high-performance 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit. Vehicles are ready-for-duty right from the manufacturer.

"Mopar is adding even more value to our all-new 2012 Dodge Charger Pursuit," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler's service, parts and customer-care brand.

Ford Transit Connect taxis making debut in New York City

(September 7, 2011) NEW YORK — The first Ford Transit Connect Taxis in New York City are now in service and soon will be joined by hundreds more as orders and interest soar for the versatile vehicle.

The initial Transit Connect Taxis are part of the first order for the vehicle in New York City following the New York Taxi and Limousine Commission’s approval of it for use in the Big Apple.

Struggling Saab files for voluntary reorganization

(September 7, 2011) Saab is filing for protection from creditors in a Swedish district court, the automaker's owner, Swedish Automobile, said today.

The proposed voluntary reorganization will be a self-managed, legal process under Swedish law headed by an independent administrator appointed by the court who will work closely with the Saab Automobile management team.

Honda recalls continue, this time 960,000 Fit subcompacts

(September 6, 2011) Honda said today it would recall about 960,000 Fit subcompacts and other models globally to repair defects including malfunctioning power window switches.

No accidents have been reported due to the defects, a Honda spokesman in Tokyo said.

New-found popularity in California helps GMC to 40 percent gain in 2011

(September 6, 2011) California has for many years been a hard sale for the Detroit Three automakers. Californians have leaned toward foreign-made vehicles opting for Japanese and German brands.

But the GMC division of General Motors reports this week that trend may be changing.

Toyota Tacoma gets exterior facelift, updated interior for 2012

(September 6, 2011) Toyota hopes to keep its best-selling mid-sized Tacoma pickup truck fresh looking for the 2012 model year with an restyled front end and an updated interior. The Tacoma is the best-selling compact pickup truck in the U.S. market by a wide margin.

Toyota sold more than 106,000 Tacoma models for 2010, outselling its nearest competitor by nearly two-to-one.

Ford breaks ground for manufacturing facility in India

(September 6, 2011) SANAND, GUJARAT, India — Ford India broke ground Monday for its new, state-of-the-art integrated manufacturing facility in Sanand, Gujarat.

As part of its aggressive growth and expansion in Asia, Ford is investing approximately $1 billion to build new vehicle manufacturing and engine plants in Gujarat.