Ford launches ad campaign for 2015 F-150 trucks

This is one of three new commercials, released on December 30, for the all-new 2015 Ford F-150 full-size trucks.

Cadillac ELR delivers shock in more ways than one!

Before you read further, go to your liquor cabinet and pour yourself a shot of vodka, bourbon, tequila or whatever you prefer.  You'll need it momentarily.

Got the drink?  OK.  Proceed.

I patiently waited for General Motors to announce pricing for the soon-to-be released Cadillac ELR luxury electric car.  That announcement finally came last week.

2014 Cadillac ELR
Photo: GM

According to the information GM released on October 10, 2013, the ELR will go on sale in January in all major American metropolitan markets with a shockingly high starting price of-- take a deep, deep breath-- $75,995.

Exhale and take the shot, now! (Pour yourself another, if necessary.)

Talk about sticker shock!

2014 Cadillac ELR interior.
Photo: GM

Now, I'm no dummy.  I realize that Cadillac is GM's premier line.  You're supposed to pay a bit more for a CTS than you pay for a Chevy Malibu.  But, while I certainly expected the ELR to be more expensive than its corporate cousin, the Volt, I certainly did not expect it be $41,000+ more expensive!!!  2014 Volts carry a starting price of $34,185 and that's after a $5,000 price cut from the previous model year.

So, aside from the added pedigree of the Cadillac name, what do you get for all of those extra Benjamins?  Let's see.

GM Unveils All-New 2015 Cadillac Escalade

NEW YORK (GM) – Cadillac has introduced the all-new 2015 Escalade, a sophisticated luxury SUV designed to establish new benchmarks for hand-tailored craftsmanship and technology.

2015 Cadillac Escalade
Photo: GM

The fourth-generation Escalade is an entirely new design yet instantly recognizable. Much of the story of Cadillac’s redesigned flagship SUV is on the interior, where new levels of luxury combine with the latest technology.

“Cadillac’s growth provides the ideal stage for the all-new Escalade to take a major leap forward,” said Bob Ferguson, senior vice president, Global Cadillac. “The 2015 Escalade is completely new and elevated in design and technology, inside and out. The clear objective is to once again assume the leadership position among luxury SUVs.”

From its introduction, Escalade quickly became the standard among luxury SUVs with a formula of bold design, powerful capability and luxurious accommodations for up to eight occupants. Three succeeding generations led luxury SUV customers to confer icon status on it. The 2015 Escalade takes design and technical elements from Cadillac’s product expansion to elevate the brand’s signature SUV.

Surpise: Chevy Brings Back Camaro Z28!!!

General Motors surprised everyone with the unveiling of the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 at the 2013 New York Auto Show on Monday.  According to reports, the new model was received with massive cheers from automotive journalists in attendance. More details to come! (Photos: GM)

Chevy Sets 2014 Corvette Stingray Pricing

DETROIT (GM) – The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe will have a suggested starting retail price of $51,995, and the Corvette Stingray Convertible will start at $56,995. Both prices include a $995 destination fee but exclude tax, title, and license.

“The 2014 Corvette Stingray perfectly embodies Chevrolet’s mission to deliver more than expected for our customers,” said Chris Perry, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “The Corvette Stingray delivers a combination of performance, design and technology that very few manufacturers can match, and none can even come close for $52,000.”

Standard features on the all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray include:

• Seating with lightweight magnesium frames for exceptional support, and eight-way power adjustment
• Five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors up to 12 vehicle attributes
• New seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching
• 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine with direct injection, Active Fuel Management, continuously variable valve timing and an advanced combustion system
• Carbon fiber hood on all models, and a carbon fiber removable roof panel on coupes
• Aluminum frame that is 99 pounds lighter (45 kg) and 57-percent stiffer than the previous model’s structure
• Advanced, high-intensity discharge (HID) and light-emitting diode (LED) lighting
• Dual, eight-inch configurable driver/infotainment screens, with next-generation Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and rear vision camera
• Bose nine-speaker audio system with SiriusXM Satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, USB and SD card and auxiliary input jack
• Keyless access with push-button start
• Power tilt/telescope steering wheel
• An all-new, fully electronic top on the convertible that can be lowered remotely using the key fob

New Corvette Stingray unveiled in January at 2013 North
American International Auto Show in Detroit. (Photo: GM)

As shown at the North American International Auto Show, the Stingray coupe fitted with the major available options would be $73,360, including:

• 3LT interior package, with leather-wrapped interior ($8,005)
• Z51 Performance Package ($2,800)
• Competition sports seats ($2,495)
• Exposed-carbon-fiber roof panel ($1,995)
• Magnetic Ride Control with Performance Traction Management ($1,795)
• Dual-mode exhaust system ($1,195)
• Carbon fiber interior trim ($995)
• Sueded, microfiber-wrapped upper interior trim ($995)
• Red-painted calipers ($595)
• Black-painted wheels ($495)

The 3LT interior package includes: Bose 10-speaker surround-sound audio system; SiriusXM Satellite radio with one-year subscription and HD radio receiver; color head-up display; memory package; navigation system; heated and ventilated seats with power lumbar and bolster adjustment; premium Napa leather seating surfaces; and leather-wrapped dash and instrument panel, console and door panels.

The Z51 Performance Package includes: high-performance gear ratios; transmission-cooling system; larger 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels and tires; larger, slotted rotors and brake-cooling ducts; electronic limited-slip differential and differential cooling system; unique chassis tuning; and available Magnetic Ride Control active-handling system with Performance Traction Management. Equipped with the Z51 package, the Corvette Stingray is capable of accelerating from 0–60 mph in under four seconds, and more than 1 g in cornering.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4.5 million cars and trucks a year.  Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

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Cadillac ready to debut ELR extended range electric car

Cadillac ELR going through testing in California. (Photo: GM)

The Cadillac ELR electric vehicle with extended range is wrapped in camouflage and driven through the mountains of southern California for key development tests including steep grade performance and higher altitude operation Tuesday, September 18, 2012. The Cadillac ELR, an upscale corporate cousin of the Chevrolet Volt, will make its official public debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 15, 2013.  The car is expected to hit Cadillac showrooms later this year. Pricing has not been announced, but with the Volt starting at $31.645, expect a hefty up charge for the Caddy.

2013 Buick Encore

	2013 Buick Encore Luxury Crossover
	Learn about the Encore Luxury Crossover | Follow on Twitter | Facebook

Improve Mileage, Save Money!

(NewsUSA) - While gas prices are getting seasonally lower, they remain above $3 a gallon forcing many drivers to continue penny pinching.  Finding ways to get better gas mileage is more important than ever.

Fortunately, affordable technology is finally catching up to the escalating problem. Some auto companies are trying to ease the burden of astronomical gas prices by improving technology and making it accessible. Vision Motor Company is priming its widespread release of alternative vehicles using compressed natural gas (CNG), which can cut fuel costs by up to 80 percent. Besides polluting as much as 90 percent less than traditional gasoline, natural gas vehicles can get 45 miles per gallon on CNG fuel. But, according to Vision chairman Bob Smith, new fuel-efficient spark plugs called Pulstar Pulse Plugs have truly enabled the newest car, SEERngv, to go mainstream.

Toyota reveals NS4 Advanced Plug-In Hybrid Concept

DETROIT (TMS/PRNewswire) -- Toyota Motor Sales, USA revealed the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept vehicle at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The NS4 signifies Toyota’s vision for future mobility with a focus on connectivity and the human interface.

Toyota engineers were challenged to design a new mid-sized concept for potential global market introduction by 2015. The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, designed with future mobility requirements in mind.

“In this digital age, cars are becoming another spoke in the wheel of our electronic connectivity,” said Jim Lentz, TMS president and chief operating officer. “NS4 demonstrates Toyota’s take on the human connection to the car with technology that considers both emotional and rational relationships, person-to-car and car-to-society.”

NS4’s advanced powertrain targets a next-generation Hybrid Synergy Drive plug-in system featuring reductions in component size and weight with improved overall fuel economy, better acceleration and longer all-electric range, while maintaining a short charge time.

Don't Tread Lightly On Winter Tire Safety

(NewsUSA) - With winter upon us, tire safety in cold weather is something every car owner should be familiar with. Most drivers concentrate on tire safety in hot weather to avoid blowouts, but the same precautions should be exercised in the winter. One of the most effective ways to be safe on the road is to use a winter tire specially designed for cold weather.

Common all-season tires contain a tread compound that gradually hardens when temperatures dip below 45 degrees, resulting in a decrease in traction. These tires also tend to collect winter road debris, like snow and ice, which can impact a vehicle's performance on wintry roads.

Mark Ballard, spokesman for Discount Tire Company, America's largest independent tire and wheel retailer, advises motorists to replace all four tires with winter tires if they can expect to encounter snow and ice during the winter months. "It's best to use winter tires, especially if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions where temperatures are below 45 degrees on a consistent basis," he explains. "Relying on an all-season tire to do the work of a winter tire can be dangerous to you and other motorists."

BMW Confirms 6-Speed Manual Transmission for the 2013 M5

Detroit, MI (BMW) -- On the occasion of the North American International Auto Show, BMW confirmed on January 9, 2012 that it will offer a 6-speed manual transmission on the North American version of the upcoming 2013 BMW M5. The 6-speed manual will be available from the start of production this summer and will be offered as a no-cost alternative to the standard 7-speed M-Double Clutch Transmission (DCT). The manual gearbox was a popular choice for U.S. customers of the previous generation M5 and continues to be a unique offer in the segment.

Chevrolet Unveils Two Concepts at Detroit Auto Show

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet today introduced two concept coupes at the 2012 North American International Auto Show aimed at inspiring next-generation buyers to take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create.

“Chevrolet has always stood for making the aspirational attainable for all generations” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. “These two concepts interpret that vision for a new generation. We’re seeking out our newest customers’ opinions, listening to their advice, and engaging them in new ways.”

According to U.S. Census data, there are 80 million American consumers approaching 30. They represent 40 percent of today’s potential car-buying public and a combined $1 trillion in purchasing power.  Over the past year, Chevrolet has conversed with young consumers across the United States.  Based on their feedback, the Chevrolet concepts explore the styling and functionality this group of new buyers says they are looking for in a car.

GM Kicks-Off 2012 NAIAS with Debut of New ATS Sedan

The eyes of the automotive world are focused on the Motor City as the 2012 North American International Auto Show gets underway in Detroit this week.  The official media previews begin on Monday morning.  However, General Motors kicked things off on Sunday night with a special media event at the College for Creative Studies, home to one of the world's most recognized programs for transportation design.

GM-North America President
Mark Reuss unveils all-new
Cadillac ATS in Detroit on
January 8, 2012.

The highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the all-new Cadillac ATS sedan, which GM officials say will challenge the world's best premium cars.

The rear-drive ATS brings Cadillac’s blend of technologically driven performance, elegance and design to a new audience of spirited drivers. Its sophisticated driving experience is enhanced with Cadillac CUE, a comprehensive, in-vehicle user experience that merges intuitive design with industry-first controls and commands for information and media data.

“Designed with quick, nimble and fun-to-drive dynamics, ATS expands Cadillac’s portfolio into a crucial global segment,” said Don Butler, vice president of marketing for Cadillac. “For a new group of luxury consumers, this is a car that will fit their lifestyle and challenge the segment’s status quo.”

Honda Expands Recall to Fix Airbag Problem

TORRANCE, CA (HONDA) -- Honda has expanded a previously announced recall of certain 2001 through 2003 model-year Honda and Acura vehicles to replace the driver's airbag inflator originally installed in approximately 273,000 additional vehicles sold in the U.S. Affected driver's airbag inflators may deploy with too much pressure, which can cause the inflator casing to rupture and could result in injury or fatality.

Separately, Honda has also determined that approximately 640 affected driver's airbag service parts were sold for installation in vehicles for collision repair or other vehicle service. Because Honda is unable to determine the specific vehicles that may have received the affected service parts through existing information, Honda will inspect an additional approximately 603,000 vehicles and replace those parts as necessary.

National Geographic Channel to Feature BMW's South Carolina Plant in Documentary, Ultimate Factories: BMW X3

BMW assembly plant in South Carolina. (Photo: BMW)

Spartanburg, S.C. (BMW) – BMW announced today that the National Geographic Channel (NGC) will air an hour-long documentary on the making of the BMW X3 Sports Activity Vehicle as part of the popular Ultimate Factories series.

Cadillac Ciel Concept

Cadillac Ciel Concept (Photo: GM)

Check out this HOT Cadillac concept courtesy of car collector and NBC Tonight Show host Jay Leno and GM's VP of Global Design Ed Welburn. Click link to view video tour.

Cadillac Ciel Concept

Chrysler scores a hit promoting itself and the Motor City in Super Bowl XLV commercial

Deja Vu: A subcompact Cadillac?!?

I woke up this morning to the news that Cadillac plans to publicly unveil a new concept this week at the Los Angeles International Auto Show.  That, in and of itself, is not big news.  Pulling the wraps off of upcoming and potentially upcoming new vehicles is what car companies do at the major auto shows.  But, news of this particular vehicle from America's premier domestic luxury brand jolted me awake nearly as fast as my morning cup of extra-strong java.  Caddy is seriously considering another mini-sized offering.  Hmmm....

1982 Cadillac Cimarron
Photo Credit: GM Media

My first thought was, "been there, done that, and it was a very bad move."  Remember the Cimarron debacle of the early 1980's?  For many car consumers, luxury equates with size, spaciousness, suppleness, not to mention power.  In 1981, Cadillac introduced the Cimarron as an entry-level compact car in hopes of drawing in younger buyers and holding on to older folks who might want to downsize from their humongous Fleetwood or De'Ville models.  It was a major flop.  The Cimarron was a Chevrolet Cavalier clone-- literally.  The only real differences, a few minor cosmetic modifications and the leather interior.

2011 Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept
Photo Credit: GM Media

That considered, I found myself thinking, why go down this road again?  While the Fleetwood and De'Ville models are gone, Cadillac is still known for spacious, powerful luxury with its various Escalade and CTS models. And, a new flagship-- the XTS-- is coming soon. So, do Caddy buyers really want something the size of a Toyota Yaris or Nissan Versa?

But, before condemning the concept, I jumped out of bed and got online to search for more information and photos, of course.  I needed to see this concept.  Wow... I'm impressed.

“While small in size, this concept is an exploration of what Cadillac could be in the future, as the brand continues to focus on redefining industry standards for advanced vehicle design and integrated technology,” said Don Butler, vice president for Cadillac marketing.

GM pink slips Mr. Goodwrench

As General Motors continues to reshape its future after bankruptcy, the company has announced that longtime service leader, Mr. Goodwrench, will leave the company.

Yes, that's tongue-in-cheek humor but the news is real.  GM is discontinuing its Goodwrench brand of service centers at dealerships, first introduced in 1974.  The company will introduce new, individual service  brands for each of its core auto brands-- Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac.  Dealerships will get details of the plan from GM officials on Wednesday.

Farewell, Mr. Goodwrench.  Your last day on the job will be February 1, 2011 at the latest.

BMW announces pricing for new X3 SAV

2011 BMW X3 SAV
Photo Credit: BMW USA

BMW announced pricing for its all-new 2011 X3 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) models on Wednesday. The X3 xDrive28i will start at $37,625 which is $2,100 less than its 2010 predecessor. The X3 xDrive35i will have a base price $41,925.  Both prices include a Destination & Handling fee of $875.

The second-generation BMW X3 draws inspiration from the original X3 which had a seven-year life cycle.  The X3 xDrive28i has a 240-horsepower engine while the X3 xDrive35i will sport a turbocharged, 300-horsepower engine.  Both models will arrive in dealer showrooms by the end of this year.

Among the new feature is the latest BMW ConnectedDrive technologies, including an available rearview camera with Top View.  BMW also offers what officials call "the most comprehensive integration for the latest Blackberry smartphone devices allowing owners to read emails from a Navigation screen while the car is stationary and, through innovative text-to-speech technology, listen to e-mails while driving.

The BMW X3 is manufactured at the companies North American plant in Greer, South Carolina.  New models will be in dealer showrooms by the end of this year.