2014 Cadillac CTS Vsport Lengthy-Term Update: Heading into the House Stretch

Extended-Term Road Test Update

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Our long-term CTS is coming in hot—and a tiny battered.

WHAT WE LIKE: Our CTS has been picking up steam, piling on the miles and charging hard into the property stretch. We’ve been obtaining it out on the open road a lot lately, where we’ve been relishing its lengthy-haul comfort, easy 400-mile range, and the 3.6-liter’s frugality. On a couple of legs to and from Ithaca, New York, we logged as high as 27 mpg. And, as it nears the 40,000-mile finish line, the CTS nonetheless feels remarkably tight, with no squeaks or rattles. Cadillac’s Premium Care Upkeep program implies that our last 2 solutions have come at no charge.

WHAT WE Don’t LIKE: We’ll skip the straightforward pickin’s—okay, no we won’t. We’re just holding onto our CUE complaints for one more minute or so. Anyway, whilst we applaud GM for extracting 420 strong horsepower from 3.6 liters, the engine has a challenging time making moderate amounts of that power, taking much more of an all-or-nothing at all approach. Try to drive the Vsport just moderately fast, and you finish up obtaining a lot more energy than intended. And in the cold, it idles rough sufficient that we’re surprised it hasn’t thrown a code.

WHAT WENT Wrong: As previously detailed, we have been carrying out about 70 mph on the highway a single day final fall when a chunk of truck tire jumped up and yelled, “Slappa da face, mon!” A new bumper, hood, and left-side headlight assembly later, we were $ 5971 poorer and far more vigilant about our following distances. Just 10,000 miles later, we had to create another check for $ 673 to replace the windshield, which had been gradually developing a crack directly in the driver’s line of sight.

Exactly where WE WENT: The CTS has ultimately been pulling the sort of lengthy-variety duty at which it excels. Because our last update, it is been to Atlanta, Georgia Ithaca, New York and to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. That final trip was more than a extended weekend with a GM electrical engineer riding shotgun. After 4 days of punching in destinations and DJ’ing from phones each plugged in and paired by way of Bluetooth, our proud, self-described “company man” concluded that CUE is “indefensible.” “The guys who program this point sit on the other side of the floor from me,” he said. “I’m gonna have to go more than there and ask them what the [forceful expletive] they have been thinking.” But on the UP’s 2-lanes, we had plenty of possibilities to wow ourselves and other drivers with the twin-turbo 6’s eye-opening passing energy. In our initial testing, the vehicle required just 2.5 seconds to get from 30 to 50 mph and just 3.3 to go from 50 to 70. In this automobile, if we weren’t complaining about CUE, we’d hardly complain about anything at all.

Months in Fleet: 13 months
Current Mileage: 38,333 miles Typical Fuel Economy: 21 mpg
Fuel Tank Size: 19 gal Fuel Range: 400 miles
Service: $ Normal Put on: $ 1457 Repair: $ 90
Harm and Destruction: $ 6784

Continued…

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2014 Cadillac CTS Vsport Lengthy-Term Update: Heading into the House Stretch

Excellent News, Poor News for GM: Recalls Cut 2014 Income by More Than Half—But Sales Are Rockin’

Basic Motors coasted by way of 2014 with a $ 2.8 billion net profit and record international sales of more than 9.9 million cars and trucks.

Also negative GM broke another record: for most recalls ever in a single year. Otherwise it would have made one more $ 3.5 billion. That is what the business spent on much more than 80 recall campaigns totaling some 36 million vehicles. And that does not incorporate the $ 315 million hit it expects to take on the ignition-switch settlement fund, which so far has counted 51 deaths and has paid out $ 93 million.

But hey, the ceaseless waves of recall news in 2014 didn’t quit Americans from taking residence a lot more than 2.9 million GM autos, a 5.3-% achieve more than 2013. And when it comes to money, GM has lots of that, as well: $ 3 billion in cash or “cash equivalents” and one more $ 5.3 billion in credit it can draw upon immediately.

Yes, GM is under investigation by 49 states, the Department of Justice, and has individuals virtually banging on the Renaissance Center’s glass for billions worth of potential legal damages, but none of that has hit property but and almost everything is peachy.

It’s so excellent, in fact, that GM sales had been up 18.3 percent last month versus January 2014. New Escalades are flying out the door at more than double final year’s price Chevrolet recorded its greatest retail sales month considering that 2008 and GMC had its ideal since 2004. Much better however, according to J.D. Power people are spending $ 2400 much more on a GM car this year than they did final (the typical transaction price tag is $ 34,800).

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GM is off to yet another rocket launch of a year, but the automaker possibly wants to preserve in thoughts the old adage: Keep your clients close and your lawyers closer.

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Excellent News, Poor News for GM: Recalls Cut 2014 Income by More Than Half—But Sales Are Rockin’

2014 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Test: Laughing in the Face of Compromise

Instrumented Test

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Porsche’;s newest Targa demands tiny in the way of compromise.

It was in no way Porsche’s first selection to construct the original 911 Targa. Porsche planned to develop an open-air 911, but back in the 1960s, the future of the convertible was under threat by impending U.S. regulations, so the business came out with the Targa, an almost-convertible with a permanent roll bar.

With no droptop to compete with in the 911 lineup, the Targa gained a following regardless of its slightly awkward appears. A glass rear window soon replaced the original, zip-out plastic version. The stainless-steel roll hoop was eventually painted black. Even after Porsche released a genuine convertible 911 in 1983, Targa sales continued.

It wasn’t until September of 1993 that Porsche stopped developing the basket-deal with Targa with the lift-off best. The name continued, but subsequent versions had what was primarily a giant glass sunroof. These glass-topped Targas are now gone—and the new Targa looks a lot like the old Targa.

Retro Appears, Modern Mechanicals

Primarily based on the newest 911, known among Porsche-philes as the 991, the new Targa is a clear homage to the original design and style, with a brushed-aluminum roll bar and that distinctive, curved-glass rear window. The roof’s operation, however, is thoroughly modern. With the push of a button, the rear glass lifts and glides backward along with what appears to be the whole rear end of the car. The trim at the top of the bar opens, the black-fabric-covered roof panel moves up and then back, nestling behind the rear seats, and the rear window whirs back into location. This automated metamorphosis requires 19 seconds. In the original Targa, this method essential tools to release the best, acquiring out of the vehicle, lifting the vinyl-covered top off the auto, and then awkwardly folding the accordion-like roof to get it to fit in the front trunk. With a bit of practice, you might get it carried out in much less than 2 minutes. For very first-timers, it was closer to 5.

The new Targa comes standard with 4-wheel drive and can be had with either a 3.4-liter flat-6 with 350 horsepower or the 4S’s 3.8-liter flat-6 with 400 ponies. There’s no 2-wheel-drive Targa, which tends to make us believe that the Targa is the “convertible” for folks whose pants are stained with salt for 5 months of the year.

Testing the Targa

Although removing the leading may not take as extended as ahead of, in 4S guise, the Targa proved to be a bit slower than the Carrera 4S. Our Targa 4S, which was equipped with the 6-speed dual-clutch automatic, hit 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and 25 mph in 9.7 The quarter-mile comes up in 12.6 seconds at 113 mph. As noted, these numbers are a couple of ticks behind those of a PDK-equipped Carrera 4S we previously tested. We’d surmise that the distinction is largely due to the added 144 pounds the Targa carries. The rear glass and its integral lid weighs 55 pounds, and Targas also start life with the additional bracing discovered in the convertible 911. At 3630 pounds, the Targa 4S is the heaviest 991 we’ve tested it is even 42 pounds heavier than the Turbo S. On the plus side, we didn’t notice any structural quivers.

Despite carrying the equivalent of an added passenger, the Targa 4S nonetheless grips to the tune of .99 g and stops from 70 mph in a very powerful 148 feet. When pressed, it is extremely stable and secure. There’s virtually no physique roll, and Porsche’s optional Dynamic Chassis Handle ($ 3160) keeps the eventual loss of grip neutral and safe. It’s tough to think that 61 % of the mass presses on the rear wheels. Now, a fast whine about the continued growth of the 911 species: Some of the toylike character and liveliness we’ve come to really like in 911s is gone in the most current version. That mentioned, the 991 nonetheless feels smaller than its rivals such as the Nissan GT-R and the Chevrolet Corvette.

With the prime in place, the Targa acts considerably like the coupe. There’s no further wind noise and the sound-level meter registers 71 decibels at 70 mph—actually quieter than the aforementioned 4S coupe. In our earlier initial drive of the Targa, we noticed some squeaks exactly where the roof seals meet the windshield frame. Porsche have to have addressed the difficulty, as our test automobile didn’t utter a peep. Opening the top brings in the wind and noise, but at reduce speeds the raspy sound of the flat-6 playing via the $ 2950 Sport exhaust is all you will don’;t forget.

That louder exhaust was but a single of the several choices on our test automobile. Costs start at $ 117,195, but our car came equipped with $ 29,815 in extras. How is that feasible? The biggies are the 2-tone leather interior that adds $ 4120, the dual-clutch automatic fees $ 4080, LED headlights are $ 3110, the Premium Package Plus commands $ 2330, 14-way Sport seats with memory are $ 2120, and the Sport Chrono Package boosts the cost by $ 2370. If those numbers sound ridiculous, bear in mind that, like the look of the new Targa, the higher cost of the 911 is also a tradition at Porsche.

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2014 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Test: Laughing in the Face of Compromise

2014 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Test: Laughing in the Face of Compromise

Instrumented Test

arrow

Porsche’;s newest Targa demands little in the way of compromise.

It was never Porsche’s initial selection to construct the original 911 Targa. Porsche planned to create an open-air 911, but back in the 1960s, the future of the convertible was below threat by impending U.S. regulations, so the business came out with the Targa, an virtually-convertible with a permanent roll bar.

With no droptop to compete with in the 911 lineup, the Targa gained a following regardless of its slightly awkward appears. A glass rear window soon replaced the original, zip-out plastic version. The stainless-steel roll hoop was sooner or later painted black. Even after Porsche released a true convertible 911 in 1983, Targa sales continued.

It wasn’t till September of 1993 that Porsche stopped developing the basket-handle Targa with the lift-off prime. The name continued, but subsequent versions had what was basically a giant glass sunroof. These glass-topped Targas are now gone—and the new Targa appears a lot like the old Targa.

Retro Appears, Contemporary Mechanicals

Primarily based on the latest 911, recognized amongst Porsche-philes as the 991, the new Targa is a clear homage to the original design and style, with a brushed-aluminum roll bar and that distinctive, curved-glass rear window. The roof’s operation, nevertheless, is completely modern. With the push of a button, the rear glass lifts and glides backward along with what appears to be the whole rear finish of the vehicle. The trim at the leading of the bar opens, the black-fabric-covered roof panel moves up and then back, nestling behind the rear seats, and the rear window whirs back into location. This automated metamorphosis takes 19 seconds. In the original Targa, this process required tools to release the best, obtaining out of the car, lifting the vinyl-covered best off the auto, and then awkwardly folding the accordion-like roof to get it to match in the front trunk. With a bit of practice, you might get it accomplished in significantly less than 2 minutes. For very first-timers, it was closer to 5.

The new Targa comes normal with 4-wheel drive and can be had with either a 3.4-liter flat-6 with 350 horsepower or the 4S’s 3.8-liter flat-6 with 400 ponies. There’s no 2-wheel-drive Targa, which makes us believe that the Targa is the “convertible” for folks whose pants are stained with salt for 5 months of the year.

Testing the Targa

Despite the fact that removing the best might not take as long as ahead of, in 4S guise, the Targa proved to be a bit slower than the Carrera 4S. Our Targa 4S, which was equipped with the 6-speed dual-clutch automatic, hit 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and 25 mph in 9.7 The quarter-mile comes up in 12.6 seconds at 113 mph. As noted, these numbers are a couple of ticks behind those of a PDK-equipped Carrera 4S we previously tested. We’d surmise that the difference is largely due to the further 144 pounds the Targa carries. The rear glass and its integral lid weighs 55 pounds, and Targas also start life with the additional bracing identified in the convertible 911. At 3630 pounds, the Targa 4S is the heaviest 991 we’ve tested it’s even 42 pounds heavier than the Turbo S. On the plus side, we didn’t notice any structural quivers.

In spite of carrying the equivalent of an additional passenger, the Targa 4S nevertheless grips to the tune of .99 g and stops from 70 mph in a extremely sturdy 148 feet. When pressed, it’s extremely steady and secure. There’s virtually no physique roll, and Porsche’s optional Dynamic Chassis Control ($ 3160) keeps the eventual loss of grip neutral and secure. It is tough to think that 61 % of the mass presses on the rear wheels. Now, a fast whine about the continued development of the 911 species: Some of the toylike character and liveliness we’ve come to enjoy in 911s is gone in the newest version. That said, the 991 nonetheless feels smaller sized than its rivals such as the Nissan GT-R and the Chevrolet Corvette.

With the top in location, the Targa acts much like the coupe. There’s no extra wind noise and the sound-level meter registers 71 decibels at 70 mph—actually quieter than the aforementioned 4S coupe. In our earlier first drive of the Targa, we noticed some squeaks exactly where the roof seals meet the windshield frame. Porsche must have addressed the difficulty, as our test car didn’t utter a peep. Opening the best brings in the wind and noise, but at decrease speeds the raspy sound of the flat-6 playing via the $ 2950 Sport exhaust is all you will remember.

That louder exhaust was but one particular of the several choices on our test automobile. Costs start at $ 117,195, but our car came equipped with $ 29,815 in extras. How is that attainable? The biggies are the 2-tone leather interior that adds $ 4120, the dual-clutch automatic charges $ 4080, LED headlights are $ 3110, the Premium Package Plus commands $ 2330, 14-way Sport seats with memory are $ 2120, and the Sport Chrono Package boosts the value by $ 2370. If these numbers sound ridiculous, bear in mind that, like the appear of the new Targa, the high value of the 911 is also a tradition at Porsche.

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2014 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Test: Laughing in the Face of Compromise

2015 Ram 1500 Rebel to Debut at the 2014 NAIAS

2015 Ram 1500 Rebel to Debut at the 2014 NAIAS

My Very best Truck of 2014

For me this is the ideal truck I have seen in 2014. It may possibly not be the newest, it may not be most practical for most of Europe and it undoubtedly won’t be everyones taste but for me, spot on.

If you live in the UK and haven’t been to one I strongly advise that you make 2015 your very first trip to a European truck show, the normal of trucks is amazing. I can’t deny that the trucks right here in the UK are receiving greater and much better but the Europeans just appear to have it appropriate, they all look very good. To me the ideal trucks have often been out of reach of what I could afford or achieve and the T560 is no diverse. We all joke about winning the lottery but a Tcab would be quite close to the leading of my list. It is blue, it’s got 2 sets of pipes, it is got a subtle custom interior and sufficient lights to make it look great but not over the top. As with anything I would make a couple of subtle modifications as I’d want to place my mark on it.

2014 has seen a huge rise in the blogs recognition by way of all mediums, the Facebook page, twitter and the excellent old fashioned http://www.truckblog.co.uk site. I’m not going to link to any of these this time round as I’m certain you all could do with a break from the ruthless hyperlinks and plugs for the weblog. I have no concept exactly where the weblog will be in an additional 12 months, hopefully you’ll all still send me stuff, pictures, info and the odd piece of trucking memorabilia to decorate TBHQ and I’ll maintain bugging the Television firms in the vague hope they’ll see that we require Truckblog Television!

Hopefully I’ll be visiting, Truckfest Peterborough, Crowfield Truck Rally, Gathering of the Griffin, Retro Truck Show at Gaydon, far more than likely (and hopefully) Truckstar Festival at Assen as my foreign trip, though I have heard on the grapevine that there is very a convoy of English motors heading to the International Trucker & Nation Show held at Interlaken, CH. I have often wanted to go James?? Lastly if the offer is nevertheless there then I may well just make it to Belfast as well.

Anyway thank you for following and thank you for creating the blog what it is, without your contributions I’m confident you’d all be bored silly of 143’s, MAN TGL LX’s and Mercedes-Benz pictures! As we all do secretly say now and once again Maintain on Trucking!

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My Very best Truck of 2014

Vote: Greatest UK Truck Show 2014

Please vote for the best show you have been to in the UK or Ireland this year. The far more votes the better, so please feel free of charge to share the poll on your Facebooks, Twitter-spheres or what ever else you have. The far more votes we get the better thought we’ll have of the kind of show your all enjoying. Get voting!!

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2014 Mini Cooper S Hardtop Extended-Term Update: Back in Michigan for Winter

Long-Term Road Test Update

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Our long-term Mini rattles back to Michigan just in time for winter.

• DAVE BEARD AND


• MICHAEL SIMARI

WHAT WE LIKE AND WHY: We haven’t noticed our lengthy-term Mini Cooper S in a while, as it spent the summer time on assignment in Los Angeles. But receiving back behind the wheel reminds us of how considerably a lot more refined the most current Mini is than prior generations. The feel is more akin to a small BMW than an eager runabout, with enhanced ergonomics and instrumentation. The light, precise action of the clutch and shifter are practically perfect for spirited driving, and even though the go-kart really feel has been somewhat watered down, the Mini can still deliver smiles when hitting an apex. And there’s lots of grunt from the S’s turbocharged 2.-liter, and with all 207 lb-ft of torque peaking at a superlow 1250 rpm, it’s easier to deal with thick traffic. We’re still averaging 30 mpg overall with normal flogging, which equates to 350 miles of range.

WHAT WE Don’t LIKE AND WHY: In spite of higher initial compliance from the suspension versus prior models, the most current Mini nevertheless crashes over most bumps and has currently created several creaks and rattles in its structure. Although not as prominent as in earlier Minis, such as our flimsy extended-term 2009 JCW convertible, the clatter nevertheless lends a feeling of cheapness. Eighteen-inch wheels and 40-series rubber certainly do not assist the ride, either. And even though the most current Mini’s enlarged dimensions permit a slightly more capacious cargo region and rear seat, squeezing 2 adults in the back of the 3-door hardtop is a terrible thought.

WHAT WENT Incorrect AND WHY: In spite of the lackluster structural integrity, our Mini has been reasonably easy to reside with. The vehicle visited the dealer twice while in California about 11,000 miles, but neither stop expense us a dime. The very first was a scheduled oil and filter modify and inspection, which was covered under Mini’s integrated free of charge upkeep for 3 years or 36,000 miles. An oil leak prompted the second check out shortly thereafter, with the problem being a faulty oil-filter housing, which was tended to below warranty as a identified issue. Being Michigan in December, our biggest expense given that the vehicle returned to HQ has been a set of 205/45-17 Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60 run-flat winter tires ($ 736 from Tire Rack), which we mounted on a set of replacement 17-inch wheels provided by Mini (we were unable to acquire run-flat winter rubber in the OE size for the car’s stock 18s). Then, since we’re vain, we spent $ 62.63 for 4 new center caps that weren’t incorporated with the winter wheels. Even though the squishy winter tires make it hard to analyze any changes in dynamic overall performance from the taller sidewalls, they do at least provide a bit a lot more cushion to the ride over frozen, pockmarked pavement.

Where WE WENT AND WHY: As we talked about, the Mini just returned from California and has served mostly as a local commuter even though back residence in Michigan. It did, nonetheless, travel often while out west, which includes treks from Los Angeles to Las Vegas and the higher desert about Barstow, California. Although the onset of winter and the car’s diminutive size will surely limit its road-trip possible in the coming months, its pluckiness need to entertain on the several shorter voyages about the holidays. —Mike Sutton

Months in Fleet: 6 months
Present Mileage: 15,148 miles Typical Fuel Economy: 30 mpg
Fuel Tank Size: 11.6 gal Fuel Variety: 350 miles
Service: $ Regular Wear: $ Repair: $
Harm and Destruction: $

Continued…

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2014 Mini Cooper S Hardtop Extended-Term Update: Back in Michigan for Winter

2014 Mini Cooper S Hardtop Lengthy-Term Update: Back in Michigan for Winter

Extended-Term Road Test Update

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Our extended-term Mini rattles back to Michigan just in time for winter.

• DAVE BEARD AND


• MICHAEL SIMARI

WHAT WE LIKE AND WHY: We haven’t observed our long-term Mini Cooper S in a although, as it spent the summer season on assignment in Los Angeles. But receiving back behind the wheel reminds us of how much more refined the newest Mini is than previous generations. The feel is far more akin to a tiny BMW than an eager runabout, with enhanced ergonomics and instrumentation. The light, precise action of the clutch and shifter are almost excellent for spirited driving, and while the go-kart really feel has been somewhat watered down, the Mini can nonetheless deliver smiles when hitting an apex. And there’s lots of grunt from the S’s turbocharged 2.-liter, and with all 207 lb-ft of torque peaking at a superlow 1250 rpm, it’s easier to deal with thick traffic. We’re still averaging 30 mpg overall with typical flogging, which equates to 350 miles of range.

WHAT WE Don’t LIKE AND WHY: Regardless of greater initial compliance from the suspension versus previous models, the newest Mini nonetheless crashes over most bumps and has currently created many creaks and rattles in its structure. Though not as prominent as in preceding Minis, such as our flimsy long-term 2009 JCW convertible, the clatter nonetheless lends a feeling of cheapness. Eighteen-inch wheels and 40-series rubber certainly do not aid the ride, either. And although the newest Mini’s enlarged dimensions permit a slightly more capacious cargo location and rear seat, squeezing 2 adults in the back of the 3-door hardtop is a terrible thought.

WHAT WENT Incorrect AND WHY: Despite the lackluster structural integrity, our Mini has been reasonably easy to reside with. The vehicle visited the dealer twice although in California around 11,000 miles, but neither stop cost us a dime. The 1st was a scheduled oil and filter modify and inspection, which was covered below Mini’s included totally free maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles. An oil leak prompted the second pay a visit to shortly thereafter, with the difficulty being a faulty oil-filter housing, which was tended to under warranty as a identified concern. Becoming Michigan in December, our biggest expense since the auto returned to HQ has been a set of 205/45-17 Bridgestone Blizzak LM-60 run-flat winter tires ($ 736 from Tire Rack), which we mounted on a set of replacement 17-inch wheels provided by Mini (we had been unable to receive run-flat winter rubber in the OE size for the car’s stock 18s). Then, since we’re vain, we spent $ 62.63 for 4 new center caps that weren’t incorporated with the winter wheels. Despite the fact that the squishy winter tires make it tough to analyze any changes in dynamic functionality from the taller sidewalls, they do at least provide a bit more cushion to the ride over frozen, pockmarked pavement.

Where WE WENT AND WHY: As we talked about, the Mini just returned from California and has served mainly as a local commuter while back residence in Michigan. It did, nonetheless, travel regularly whilst out west, which includes treks from Los Angeles to Las Vegas and the high desert about Barstow, California. While the onset of winter and the car’s diminutive size will surely limit its road-trip possible in the coming months, its pluckiness should entertain on the many shorter voyages around the holidays. —Mike Sutton

Months in Fleet: 6 months
Current Mileage: 15,148 miles Average Fuel Economy: 30 mpg
Fuel Tank Size: 11.6 gal Fuel Range: 350 miles
Service: $ Normal Put on: $ Repair: $
Harm and Destruction: $

Continued…

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2014 Mini Cooper S Hardtop Lengthy-Term Update: Back in Michigan for Winter

Totally free Stuff Alert! This Is the Very best Swag We Nabbed at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

Everything’;s better when it’;s totally free

In between sprinting from press conference to press conference, conducting interviews with auto execs, taking hundreds of photographs, and all the selfies we take in front of new supercars, 1 of our preferred issues to do at auto shows is gathering swag. We’;re talkin’; totally free stuff here, the tiny trinkets, posters and pamphlets, and press materials—info on new debuts, existing models, and concept cars—that automakers give away at their booths to haggard journalists like us. Normally, these things are not obtainable to the public, so at the 2014 Los Angeles auto show, we snatched up a bunch of swag to give you a taste of the auto-journalist life.

Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, and Ram—in a pen

The pen, as they say, is mightier than the sword. That statement counts for double when the pen is equipped with an 8-GB USB stick stacked with the most current on Fiat-Chrysler’;s products.

Jaguar saves the manuals

Jaguar is literally saving the manuals—both the of the transmission and paper how-to assortment. As portion of its rollout of the stick-shift 2016 F-kind, Jaguar released a valuable guide to driving a common transmission and performing so is the very best thing ever. As a bonus, Jag even threw these sweet Save the Manuals–style buttons in for excellent measure.

Mopar crucial and cylinder press kit

What far better way to provide an overview of Mopar’;s comprehensive replacement-parts and accessories catalog than to load that details onto, effectively, components?

Mopar important and cylinder press kit

Fiat-Chrysler is identified for providing away inventive swag, and this essential/cylinder combination does not disappoint. In case you have been wondering, the USB stick is constructed into the end of the key.

Lincoln Black Label booklet

It might look basic and outdated, but a nicely simple booklet is by no implies undesirable if it’;s accomplished proper.

Lincoln Black Label booklet

This pamphlet’;s 4 pages briefly but efficiently cover the 4 interior and exterior style themes accessible on the new Black Label MKZ and MKC models. As a bonus, it really is recyclable. Or edible. (We consider so, at least.)

Maserati 100th anniversary celebration

This year marks Maserati’;s 100th anniversary, so as you’;d count on, the firm was celebrating in complete force at the L.A. show. The prize for us? 2 booklets, a single of which turned out to be practically 50 pages extended and covers the brand’;s history and its present lineup.

Maserati 100th anniversary celebration

You would not count on Maserati to use ho-hum photography, would you?

2015 Chrysler 300 press kit

2015 Chrysler 300 press kit

2015 Chrysler 300 press kit

Totally free Stuff Alert! This Is the Very best Swag We Nabbed at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show

All-New Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 In Japan

The soon to be launched in South Africa, all-new Mazda2 wins Good Design’;s Gold Award in Japan

After just recently winning Car Of The Year Japan, Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that the all-new Mazda2 received the Good Design Award’;s Good Design Gold Award (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Minister’;s Award), sponsored by public interest incorporated foundation, Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

Following the Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3 the soon to be launched in South Africa, all-new Mazda2 is the 4th in Mazda’;s line-up of new-generation products which feature the full range of SKYACTIV technology* and KODO-Soul of Motion design.

Aspiring to create a new-generation subcompact that would shatter people’;s preconceived notions about this class of vehicle, Mazda packed all the new technology and design ideas that have defined the automaker’;s new-generation models into the compact body of the Mazda2. KODO design has been evolved to give the model a sense of life and an undeniable presence that belies the vehicle’;s compact size. With the interior, Mazda designers aimed to set a new global benchmark for the segment. Every element, from spatial composition and forms, through to colour coordination and textures, was drastically transformed to realize a feeling of quality that exceeds the class.

The Japan Institute of Design Promotion said about the Mazda2, “Mazda has taken all of the KODO design from the last few years and condensed it into this compact body. The tense undulations of the body surfaces remind one of a wild animal in pursuit of prey, and every line expresses a sense of speed. The exterior is so dynamic it is hard to believe this form was achieved on a small city car. Not only does the quality feel of the interior exceed the standards of the class, the natural driving position made possible by moving the front wheels forward means you never feel like you are driving a small car. Along with the SKYACTIV clean diesel engine this model lets you enjoy the most fundamental pleasure of the automobile-moving your own hands and feet to get where you want to go-with all 5 senses.”

Established in 1957, the Good Design Award is Japan’;s only comprehensive program for the evaluation and commendation of design. In 2014, a total of 1,258 designs were awarded the Good Design Award, among which the highest scoring 100 were named to the Good Design Best 100. The Good Design Gold Award is awarded to the most outstanding designs among the Good Design Best 100.

For more information about the Japan Institute of Design Promotion’;s Good Design Award:

http://www.g-mark.org/?locale=en

“Mazda Southern Africa is inspired and enthusiastic about launching this now multi award winning all-new Mazda2 in South Africa early 2015.” Says David Hughes – MD of Mazda South Africa

*SKYACTIV is the umbrella term for Mazda’;s range of next-generation technologies-including gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, body and chassis – developed under Mazda’;s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom vision to provide both driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance.

All-New Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 In Japan

All-New Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 In Japan

The soon to be launched in South Africa, all-new Mazda2 wins Good Design’;s Gold Award in Japan

After just recently winning Car Of The Year Japan, Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that the all-new Mazda2 received the Good Design Award’;s Good Design Gold Award (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Minister’;s Award), sponsored by public interest incorporated foundation, Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

Following the Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3 the soon to be launched in South Africa, all-new Mazda2 is the 4th in Mazda’;s line-up of new-generation products which feature the full range of SKYACTIV technology* and KODO-Soul of Motion design.

Aspiring to create a new-generation subcompact that would shatter people’;s preconceived notions about this class of vehicle, Mazda packed all the new technology and design ideas that have defined the automaker’;s new-generation models into the compact body of the Mazda2. KODO design has been evolved to give the model a sense of life and an undeniable presence that belies the vehicle’;s compact size. With the interior, Mazda designers aimed to set a new global benchmark for the segment. Every element, from spatial composition and forms, through to colour coordination and textures, was drastically transformed to realize a feeling of quality that exceeds the class.

The Japan Institute of Design Promotion said about the Mazda2, “Mazda has taken all of the KODO design from the last few years and condensed it into this compact body. The tense undulations of the body surfaces remind one of a wild animal in pursuit of prey, and every line expresses a sense of speed. The exterior is so dynamic it is hard to believe this form was achieved on a small city car. Not only does the quality feel of the interior exceed the standards of the class, the natural driving position made possible by moving the front wheels forward means you never feel like you are driving a small car. Along with the SKYACTIV clean diesel engine this model lets you enjoy the most fundamental pleasure of the automobile-moving your own hands and feet to get where you want to go-with all 5 senses.”

Established in 1957, the Good Design Award is Japan’;s only comprehensive program for the evaluation and commendation of design. In 2014, a total of 1,258 designs were awarded the Good Design Award, among which the highest scoring 100 were named to the Good Design Best 100. The Good Design Gold Award is awarded to the most outstanding designs among the Good Design Best 100.

For more information about the Japan Institute of Design Promotion’;s Good Design Award:

http://www.g-mark.org/?locale=en

“Mazda Southern Africa is inspired and enthusiastic about launching this now multi award winning all-new Mazda2 in South Africa early 2015.” Says David Hughes – MD of Mazda South Africa

*SKYACTIV is the umbrella term for Mazda’;s range of next-generation technologies-including gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, body and chassis – developed under Mazda’;s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom vision to provide both driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance.

All-New Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 In Japan

All-New Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 In Japan

The soon to be launched in South Africa, all-new Mazda2 wins Good Design’;s Gold Award in Japan

After just recently winning Car Of The Year Japan, Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that the all-new Mazda2 received the Good Design Award’;s Good Design Gold Award (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Minister’;s Award), sponsored by public interest incorporated foundation, Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

Following the Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3 the soon to be launched in South Africa, all-new Mazda2 is the 4th in Mazda’;s line-up of new-generation products which feature the full range of SKYACTIV technology* and KODO-Soul of Motion design.

Aspiring to create a new-generation subcompact that would shatter people’;s preconceived notions about this class of vehicle, Mazda packed all the new technology and design ideas that have defined the automaker’;s new-generation models into the compact body of the Mazda2. KODO design has been evolved to give the model a sense of life and an undeniable presence that belies the vehicle’;s compact size. With the interior, Mazda designers aimed to set a new global benchmark for the segment. Every element, from spatial composition and forms, through to colour coordination and textures, was drastically transformed to realize a feeling of quality that exceeds the class.

The Japan Institute of Design Promotion said about the Mazda2, “Mazda has taken all of the KODO design from the last few years and condensed it into this compact body. The tense undulations of the body surfaces remind one of a wild animal in pursuit of prey, and every line expresses a sense of speed. The exterior is so dynamic it is hard to believe this form was achieved on a small city car. Not only does the quality feel of the interior exceed the standards of the class, the natural driving position made possible by moving the front wheels forward means you never feel like you are driving a small car. Along with the SKYACTIV clean diesel engine this model lets you enjoy the most fundamental pleasure of the automobile-moving your own hands and feet to get where you want to go-with all 5 senses.”

Established in 1957, the Good Design Award is Japan’;s only comprehensive program for the evaluation and commendation of design. In 2014, a total of 1,258 designs were awarded the Good Design Award, among which the highest scoring 100 were named to the Good Design Best 100. The Good Design Gold Award is awarded to the most outstanding designs among the Good Design Best 100.

For more information about the Japan Institute of Design Promotion’;s Good Design Award:

http://www.g-mark.org/?locale=en

“Mazda Southern Africa is inspired and enthusiastic about launching this now multi award winning all-new Mazda2 in South Africa early 2015.” Says David Hughes – MD of Mazda South Africa

*SKYACTIV is the umbrella term for Mazda’;s range of next-generation technologies-including gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, body and chassis – developed under Mazda’;s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom vision to provide both driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance.

All-New Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 In Japan

All-New Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 In Japan

The soon to be launched in South Africa, all-new Mazda2 wins Good Design’;s Gold Award in Japan

After just recently winning Car Of The Year Japan, Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that the all-new Mazda2 received the Good Design Award’;s Good Design Gold Award (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Minister’;s Award), sponsored by public interest incorporated foundation, Japan Institute of Design Promotion.

Following the Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 and Mazda3 the soon to be launched in South Africa, all-new Mazda2 is the 4th in Mazda’;s line-up of new-generation products which feature the full range of SKYACTIV technology* and KODO-Soul of Motion design.

Aspiring to create a new-generation subcompact that would shatter people’;s preconceived notions about this class of vehicle, Mazda packed all the new technology and design ideas that have defined the automaker’;s new-generation models into the compact body of the Mazda2. KODO design has been evolved to give the model a sense of life and an undeniable presence that belies the vehicle’;s compact size. With the interior, Mazda designers aimed to set a new global benchmark for the segment. Every element, from spatial composition and forms, through to colour coordination and textures, was drastically transformed to realize a feeling of quality that exceeds the class.

The Japan Institute of Design Promotion said about the Mazda2, “Mazda has taken all of the KODO design from the last few years and condensed it into this compact body. The tense undulations of the body surfaces remind one of a wild animal in pursuit of prey, and every line expresses a sense of speed. The exterior is so dynamic it is hard to believe this form was achieved on a small city car. Not only does the quality feel of the interior exceed the standards of the class, the natural driving position made possible by moving the front wheels forward means you never feel like you are driving a small car. Along with the SKYACTIV clean diesel engine this model lets you enjoy the most fundamental pleasure of the automobile-moving your own hands and feet to get where you want to go-with all 5 senses.”

Established in 1957, the Good Design Award is Japan’;s only comprehensive program for the evaluation and commendation of design. In 2014, a total of 1,258 designs were awarded the Good Design Award, among which the highest scoring 100 were named to the Good Design Best 100. The Good Design Gold Award is awarded to the most outstanding designs among the Good Design Best 100.

For more information about the Japan Institute of Design Promotion’;s Good Design Award:

http://www.g-mark.org/?locale=en

“Mazda Southern Africa is inspired and enthusiastic about launching this now multi award winning all-new Mazda2 in South Africa early 2015.” Says David Hughes – MD of Mazda South Africa

*SKYACTIV is the umbrella term for Mazda’;s range of next-generation technologies-including gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, body and chassis – developed under Mazda’;s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom vision to provide both driving pleasure and outstanding environmental and safety performance.

All-New Mazda2 Wins Good Design Gold Award 2014 In Japan

October 2014 vehicle sales: new car sales show resilience driven by 1.6% growth year on year in passenger vehicles sales

“Despite a poor economic outlook, new car sales continue to show resilience driven by 1.6% growth year on year in passenger vehicles sales. This is driven by new model launches, incentive packages  and pre-emptive buy to avoid car price increases. Despite the new car sales growth, an increasing number of buyers continue to seek value in the used car market, which has also seen a positive growth of 8.1% month on month.”

General Comments on October 2014 NAAMSA sales:

• The month of October 2014 experienced a 2.36% decrease in sales compared to September 2014.


• Month on Month Passenger vehicles declined by 5.24% while Light Commercial Vehicles increased by 4.42%.


• Year on Year monthly comparison shows an increase of 4.90% in October 2014 compared to October 2013.


• Year to date (January – October 2014) comparisons shows that vehicle sales are down by 1.83% in the first 10 months of the year when compared to last year.


• Month on month Exports increased in October 2014 (4.49%) with Passenger vehicles decreasing by -5.95% and Light Commercial Vehicles growing by 22.17%.


• Year on year monthly comparison shows an improvement in exports of 32.97% in October 2014 compared to October 2013.


• AMH & AAD decreased in October 2014, 6.44% month on month.

General Comments on October 2014 Standard Bank VAF Personal Applications:

• In October 2014 applications for both new and used vehicles experienced positive month on month growth, 7.1% and 8.0% respectively.


• Applications in both Passenger (8.1%) and Light Commercial vehicles (5.7%) had positive month on month growth in October 2014.


• The number of applications with RV’s increased by 12.4% month on month while the number of applications with deposits increased by 3.4% month on month.


• The Average Contract Term on applications increased from 67 months to 69 months (October 2013 to October 2014), year on year growth of 3.0%.


• The average application size increased from R189 818 in October 2013 to R211 704 in October 2014, a 11.5% year on year increase.

General Comments on October 2014 Standard Bank VAF Personal New Business:

• In October 2014 new business experienced positive month on month growth in both new (25.5%) and used (22.1%) vehicle markets.


• Passenger vehicles and Light Commercial vehicles both had positive month on month growth, 28.6% and 24.6% respectively.


• New business deals with deposits increased month on month by 10.0% and declined by 25.5% year on year.


• New business deals with RVs increased month on month by 37.9% and 43.9% year on year.


• The Average Contract Term increased from 65 months in October 2013 to 67 months in October 2014 (3.4% year on year growth).


• The average deal size increased from R262 100 in October 2013 to R307 465 in October 2014, a 17.3% year on year increase.

General Macro and Industry Comments:

• The SARB left the repo rate unchanged at 5.75% following its September MPC meeting. The outcome was in line with the industry’s forecast. According to Standard Bank this was based on the SARB’s revised forecasts for headline inflation.


• Headline CPI annual inflation rate in September 2014 was 5.9%. This rate was 0.5 of a percentage point lower than the corresponding annual rate of 6.4% in August 2014.


• The transport index decreased by 1.5% between August 2014 and September 2014. The annual rate decreased to 6.9% in September 2014 from 7.1% in August 2014.


• SARB’s growth was revised lower, from 1.7%, 2.9% and 3.2% y/y in 2014, 2015 and 2016 respectively to 1.5%, 2.8% and 3.1%. Standard Bank expects GDP for 2015 and 2016 to continue to disappoint to the downside. The SARB has lowered its growth forecast for 2014 successively at each of the last 6 meetings (starting from 3.3% at the September 2013 meeting).


• Year to date petrol prices have dropped by 2.8% (inland) and diesel by 7.9% (inland).


• The price of Petrol will drop by 45 cents per litre from the 5^th of November 2014 while the price of diesel will go down between 60 and 61 cents per litre.

[Comments by Nicholas Nkosi – Head of Standard Bank Vehicle and Asset Finance - Personal Markets]

For more info on buying a vehicle also view:

Vehicle Finance, Car Insurance and Road Safety

Buying and Selling a Vehicle – Informed decisions and the Vehicle Retailer

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October 2014 vehicle sales: new car sales show resilience driven by 1.6% growth year on year in passenger vehicles sales