August 2013

BMW Concept M4 Coupe — the true essence of BMW M

(August 16, 2013) PEBBLE BEACH —  Surrounded by both current and historic BMW models, BMW M on Aug. 15 offered a first outlook on a high-performance sports car of tomorrow — the BMW Concept M4 Coupe. The car was unveiled at the BMW opening media reception for the iconic annual Pebble Beach/Monterey automobile weekend.

As criticism mounts, Ford lowers EPA rating on C-Max Hybrid

(August 16, 2013) DEARBORN — Ford has announced that it is cutting the fuel-economy rating of its C-Max Hybrid car 8.5 percent to 43 mpg from 47 mpg — a rare and costly move that Ford spent months feverishly working to avoid.

Ford has faced heavy criticism and lawsuits about worse-than-expected fuel economy for several new models, including the C-Max, whose window stickers have advertised 47 mpg for city, highway and combined driving. The ratings are based on tests Ford conducted and data it submitted to the EPA.

New Lincoln Black Label Collection previewed at Pebble Beach

(August 16, 2013) Lincoln today previewed the Lincoln Black Label, a collection of ultra-premium exterior and interior themes mated to an even higher level of personal services and experiences that mark the next step in the brand’s reinvention.

Scion says it's first non-luxury brand to make touchscreen audio standard

(August 16, 2013) TORRANCE, Calif. — Scion is the first non-luxury car brand to feature a touchscreen audio system as standard equipment across its entire lineup.

All 2014 Scion models will come standard with the Scion Display Audio System featuring a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen, AM/FM/CD/HD Radio technology, hands-free phone capability, music streaming via Bluetooth wireless technology and AUX/USB port with iPod connectivity. In addition, all 2013 xB models that began production in August will come standard with the new audio system.

Elmiraj Concept explores top of Cadillac’s range

(August 16, 2013) CARMEL, Calif. — Cadillac has revealed the Elmiraj Concept, a grand coupe expressing the pure enjoyment of driving and exploring new dimensions for Cadillac’s ongoing expansion. The Elmiraj Concept showcases a new vision for luxury driving and the top of the brand’s expanding range.

New Audi A8 gets innovative turn signal light

(August 15, 2013) The new Audi A8 will come with a the turn signal light consisting of lighting elements that illuminate in a defined sequence making it easier for others to perceive the driver’s turning intentions, even under difficult conditions.

Audi says the new signals have the potential to significantly enhance traffic safety. That's because the lights provide a visual signal that can be clearly and quickly perceived, even at long distances and in poor visibility.

Honda delivers Accord Plug-In to city of Torrance

(August 15, 2013) TORRANCE, Calif. — Honda has delivered a 2014 Accord Plug-In vehicle to the city of Torrance as a continuation of Honda's advanced vehicle testing efforts, a critical component of Honda's measured approach to furthering its advancement of electric-drive vehicles.

Mustang Alley features nearly 50 years of Ford Mustang heritage

(August 15, 2013) It’s summertime in Detroit so that means it’s time to go cruising once again on Woodward Avenue. As fans around the world celebrate the 50th consecutive year of Ford Mustang production, the intersection of 9 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue in Ferndale, just north of Detroit city limits, will again be the home for Mustang Alley during the Woodward Dream Cruise.

Ferris Bueller's Ferrari to cross the block this weekend

(August 14, 2013) MONTEREY, Calif. — Mecum Auctions will offer more than 750 classic and collector vehicles at the fifth annual Daytime Auction at the Hyatt Regency in Monterey this weekend, and among the hefty and impressive lineup is a true celebrity. The famed Ferrari California Spyder Replica from the ‘80s classic “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” will cross the block on Saturday as Lot S163.

2014 Ford Shelby GT500 convertible goes for $500,000 at charity event

(August 14, 2013) RENO, Nev. — The last retail 2014 Ford Shelby GT500 convertible auctioned by Ford Motor Company to benefit the Brain Injury Association of America fetched $500,000 at the inaugural Hot August Nights Auction presented by Barrett-Jackson.