Lincoln and Cadillac vs. The World

The U.S. is declaring war in some of its allies and Congressional approval is not necessary.  This isn't a military war involving guns, bombs and missiles.  This is an automotive war involving sheet metal, rubber and generous amounts of soft, supple cowhide.

2017 Lincoln Continental unveiled at
Detroit Auto Show.  (TWG Media)

Lincoln, the luxury division of Ford Motor Company, is bringing back an iconic nameplate to re-enter the flagship luxury sedan market.  Say hello to the all-new 2017 Lincoln Continental, unveiled at the 2016 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

In September 2014,  General Motors announced plans for its luxury brand, Cadillac, to produce a new flagship sedan.  That sedan is the all-new CT6 and consumers can get their first up close and personal look at the CT6 at the Detroit show.

FIRST LOOK: 2016 Cadillac CT6 flagship luxury sedan

Cadillac took the wraps off of its highly anticipated new flagship car on Wednesday night, the eve of the 2015 New York Auto Show.

It's long. It's sleek. It's elegant. Not quite Elmiraj concept elegant, in my humble opinion, but CT6 is a beautiful car. At first glance-- albeit, only via still photography and video-- CT6 is certainly flagship worthy.  For this "old school" dude, it's the 21st century Fleetwood Brougham.  CT6 also is loaded with technological firsts including a rear camera mirror which streams high definition images to the rearview mirror for an unobstructed view, according to GM, and available exclusive engines including a 3.0L twin-turbo V6.

The CT6, first announced by GM CEO Mary Barra in September 2014 at the Detroit Homecoming Conference, will be assembled at GM's Detroit-Hamtramck plant.  Production begins at the end of this year for the North American market and early 2016 for Europe, Korea, Japan, Israel and the Middle East.  Production for the Chinese market also will begin in early 2016 at an all-new plant in China.

Video: GM Media

GM to unveil 6th Generation Camaro at Special Event on Belle Isle

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet is inviting fans to see the all-new 2016 Camaro on Saturday, May 16, in Detroit.

The sixth-generation Camaro will cap a day-long celebration on Belle Isle, the 982-acre island park that is home to the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix. This year’s running is May 29-31.

“This will be an event Camaro fans will not want to miss,” said Todd Christensen, Camaro marketing manager. “This is only the sixth time we have introduced an all-new Camaro. We wanted to share the moment with the customers and fans who have helped make Camaro both America’s favorite performance car for the past five years, and a cultural icon since 1967.”

Chevrolet expects approximately 1,000 people to attend the Camaro reveal, which will also include:

• A “Camaro Museum” display of the most significant vehicles from the brand’s history
• Hot-lap rides in the 2015 Camaro Z/28 around the Belle Isle Grand Prix course
• Meet-and-greet opportunities with Camaro designers and engineers.
• Camaro-only parking for owners

The event is free, however space is limited and registration is required. Attendance will be allocated with priority given to fans who agree to bring their Camaros to Belle Isle. For more information, or to register, please visit www.thecamarosix.com.

NAIAS 2015: Chevrolet Bolt EV Concept Signals Brand’s EV Strategy

Affordable, long-range concept builds on brand’s electrification leadership

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet today made a significant statement on its commitment to electrification with the introduction of the Bolt EV concept – a vision for an affordable, long-range all-electric vehicle designed to offer more than 200 miles of range starting around $30,000.

“The Bolt EV concept is a game-changing electric vehicle designed for attainability, not exclusivity,” said General Motors CEO Mary Barra. “Chevrolet believes electrification is a pillar of future transportation and needs to be affordable for a wider segment of customers.”

Leveraging the electrification prowess established by Volt and Spark EV, the Bolt EV concept is designed to offer long-range performance in all 50 states and many global markets.

Drivers will be able to select operating modes designed around preferred driving styles such as daily commuting and spirited weekend cruising, for uncompromising electric driving. The modes adjust accelerator pedal mapping, vehicle ride height and suspension tuning. The Bolt EV concept is also designed to support DC fast charging.

“We have made tremendous strides in technologies that make it easier and more affordable for Chevrolet customers to integrate an all-electric vehicle in their daily lives,” said Barra. “The Bolt EV concept demonstrates General Motors’ commitment to electrification and the capabilities of our advanced EV technology.”

Chevrolet Bolt Concept unveiled at 2015
North American International Auto Show
in Detroit. (Photo: GM)

The Bolt EV concept also pushes the envelope for crossover aesthetics. Its unique proportion, with practically no front or rear overhang, makes the most of interior space and was designed to create a roomy environment for four that feels expansive. Lightweight materials, including aluminum, magnesium, carbon fiber and even woven mesh, complement the design, while driving down the curb weight to help maximize range. Aero-optimizing features such as vented rear fenders also help contribute to range.

NAIAS 2015: Chevrolet Introduces All-New 2016 Volt

New model features expressive, sleek design and delivers 50 miles of EV range

DETROIT (GM) – Chevrolet today unveiled the all-new 2016 Volt electric car with extended range, showcasing a sleeker, sportier design that offers 50 miles of EV range, greater efficiency and stronger acceleration.

The Volt’s new, efficient propulsion system will offer a General Motors’-estimated total driving range of more than 400 miles and with regular charging, owners are expected to travel more than 1,000 miles on average between gas fill-ups.

“The 2016 Chevrolet Volt provides our owners with a no-compromise electric driving experience,” said Alan Batey, president of GM North America. “We believe our engineering prowess combined with data from thousands of customers allows us to deliver the most capable plug-in vehicle in the industry.”

2016 Chevrolet Volt unveiled at 2015

North American International Auto Show

in Detroit. (Photo: GM)

The 2016 Chevrolet Volt’s technology and range advancements are complemented by a design that blends sculpted, muscular proportions with aerodynamic efficiency, and an all-new interior with seating for five and improved functionality.

Everything from charging the battery and checking the charge status, to the intuitiveness of instrument panel controls were designed for easier use.

“According to independent surveyors, Volt owners are the most satisfied in the industry and they were our compass for developing the next-generation model,” said Batey.

NAIAS 2015: GM unveils Buick Cascada convertible

General Motors unveils first Buick drop-top in 25 years at North American International Auto Show preview event on Sunday, January 11, 2015. The Cascada is a rebadged Opel from GM's European arm. Looks quite nice! It will be GM's first mainstream convertible since the Pontiac G6 Convertible was lost to bankruptcy.

International Auto Industry, Detroit True "SURVIVORS!"

Images from the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit set to "Survivor - Victor Calderone Club Mix" by Destiny's Child.

Following the 2008 economic downturn and the current municipal bankruptcy situation in Detroit, both have proven to be true survivors.

Photos: Mike Woolfolk/TWG Media
Music: "Survivor-Victor Caldrone Club Mix" by Destiny's Child/Copyright 2001/Columbia Records

All-New 2015 Mercedes Benz C-Class

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class at North American International Auto Show
Photo: NAIAS

Here's the next generation C-Class from Mercedes-Benz.  Lighter, sleeker and more efficient, according to Mercedes-Benz officials, while offering a new level of high-class interior design to underscore the luxurious comfort and refined sportiness of the Three-Pointed Star's entry level sedan in North America and top-selling model, globally.  The new C-Class made its US debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Photo: MBUSA

The U.S. market launches with two C-Class models:  C300 4MATIC with a 2.0L turbocharged direct-injection in-line four cylinder engine delivering preliminary power figures of 241 hp and 273 lb-ft of    torque and a C400 4MATIC with a 3.0L turbocharged direct-injection V6 at 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque.

On a visual level, the new C-Class represents a bold departure from its predecessor.  Its striking, dynamic design exudes sensuous clarity and arouses emotions.  

2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class interior
Photo: MBUSA

The interior design demonstrates a bold new approach by Mercedes-Benz. Here the designers combine in accomplished style the architecture of Mercedes-Benz sports cars with a totally new center console featuring flowing lines.  A large one-piece center console panel performs an elegant sweep from the center air vents to the armrest.  These seamless clear-cut lines create a sense of open space and convey a thrillingly purist and modern feel.

The new 2015 C-Class should arrive in Mercedes-Benz showrooms this summer.

See the new C-Class in motion.

Cadillac adds ATS Coupe to its evolving lineup

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe at North American International Auto Show
Photo: TWG Media/Mike Woolfolk

DETROIT (GM) – Cadillac introduced the all-new 2015 ATS Coupe, a quicker and more personal addition to the award-winning ATS product line. Designed to be lighter, more agile and more engaging than its competitors, it extends Cadillac’s product-driven growth and the brand’s tradition of dynamic luxury Coupes.

2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe will feature

redesigned crest logo.

Photo: TWG Media/Mike Woolfolk

Cadillac’s first-ever compact luxury Coupe goes on sale this summer, offering drivers the choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and the power from a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.6L six-cylinder. In all combinations, ATS Coupe takes advantage of its lightweight and strong structure to deliver exhilarating performance with efficiency, with a segment-leading power-to-weight ratio.

“The 2015 Cadillac ATS Coupe is a natural step in the brand's progression, and another fun-to-drive and technologically advanced product for a new generation of drivers extending our target groups,” said Uwe Ellinghaus, chief marketing officer, Global Cadillac. “It is an exclusively distinctive American alternative, unique in its class, yet delivering a sporty and sophisticated driving experience rivaling the world's best.”

Editor's Note: As displayed at NAIAS '14, the ATS Coupe is lower and sleeker than the first-generation CTS Coupe, which may or may not see a second generation. 

All-new 2015 Chrysler 200 Sedan unveiled at NAIAS

2015 Chrysler 200 Sedan
Photo: Chrysler

DETROIT (Chrysler) - Simple elegance, an exhilarating driving experience, state-of-the-art and easy-to-use technology and beautifully crafted, the all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 charts a new course for mid-size sedan customers who have earned a little luxury in their life, but demand value for their money.

The 2015 Chrysler 200 debuts a beautiful exterior design featuring the new “face” of the Chrysler brand – a thoughtful, exquisitely crafted interior and an exceptional driving experience, complements of a segment-first nine-speed automatic transmission and an Alfa Romeo-based chassis. With the choice of two world-class engines, an innovative all-wheel-drive system, available sport mode and paddle shifters for an engaged driving experience, and estimated highway fuel economy of 35 miles per gallon (mpg), the all-new Chrysler 200 makes the commute something drivers will look forward to.

The all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 offers the most available safety features in the mid-size sedan segment, and state-of-the-art, easy-to-use technology that keeps drivers and passengers connected. With a starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of just $21,700 (excluding $995 destination) the all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 is a sedan that customers will be proud to own, at a value they will appreciate.

“The all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 will be the new benchmark for mid-size sedans with an exceptional driving experience, fuel economy of up to 35 mpg highway and exquisite craftsmanship,” said Al Gardner, President and CEO — Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC.  “The all-new Chrysler 200 lays the groundwork for the future of the Chrysler Brand with a timeless, elegant design; clever functionality; a standard nine-speed automatic transmission; a class-leading all-wheel-drive system; more than 60 safety and security features and a host of new technology drivers and passengers will value.”

The 2015 Chrysler 200 is designed, engineered and built with pride in Michigan. With a major investment of more than $1 billion, Chrysler Group’s Sterling Heights (Mich.) Assembly Plant (SHAP), once slated for closure, sports an all-new paint shop using leading-edge technology, a new, fully robotic body shop and an upgraded assembly area, setting the stage for the world-class craftsmanship found in the all-new 200.

Clean Sweep: Chevy wins 2014 NACTOY Awards

2014 North American Car and Truck of the Year winners.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (left) and Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (right).

Corvette Stingray, Silverado pickup represent brand’s first double win  

DETROIT (GM) – The all-new Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and Silverado 1500 are the 2014 North American Car and Truck of the Year.

It is the first time Chevrolet has won both awards in the same year. The Silverado was last named Truck of the Year in 2007 and the Corvette was last named Car of the Year in 1998.

“Chevrolet is in the midst of the most aggressive product transformation in the brand’s more than 100-year history,” said Alan Batey, General Motors senior vice president, Global Chevrolet. “The Corvette and Silverado truly embody the passion, commitment and focus that is driving us to deliver the most expressive designs, innovative technologies and engaging performance in every vehicle that wears the bowtie,”

The Corvette received 211 points topping the Mazda3 with 185 points and the Cadillac CTS with 94 points. The Silverado received 219 points to the Jeep Cherokee with 174 points and the Acura MDX with 97 points.

GM Kicks Off 2014 NAIAS with 2015 GMC Canyon Unveiling

DETROIT (GM) – GMC revealed the 2015 Canyon Sunday night at an event kicking off the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.  Canyon is an all-new midsize truck that redefines the segment and raises the bar for everything from horsepower and efficiency to quietness and refinement.

2015 GMC Canyon SLT Crew Cab
Photo: GM Media

When it goes on sale later this year, the all-new Canyon will give GMC one of the only three-truck lineups in the industry, similar to its corporate cousin, Chevrolet, which also will have a three-truck lineup with the recently introduced 2015 Colorado joining the Silverado 1500 and Silverado 2500 HD.

Canyon is expected to deliver class-leading capabilities with the GMC's signature refinement – all in an efficiently sized, maneuverable package for customers who want the cargo-hauling and trailering versatility of a truck without the size of a full-size pickup.

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.

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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2013 North American International Auto Show

Slideshow of photos from Media Preview of the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.  (All photos courtesy of NAIAS)

2013 Detroit Auto Show

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.

A Show to Remember: NAIAS 2012 Closes with Smiles, High-Fives, and Optimism

Detroit, MI (NAIAS) - After a spectacular nine day run, the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) 2012 is in the books. Today's attendance of 101,141 topped last year's final day numbers of 98,106, bringing total attendance of the 2012 show to 770,932, the highest since 2005.

2012 NAIAS at Cobo Hall
Detroit, Michigan

Bill Perkins, chairman, NAIAS, said the show lived up to its reputation of being one of the top in the world.

"From the press to the public, everyone realized that this was a very special show," said Perkins. "People want to feel good again about the industry, which is now obviously in a better place than it was a few years ago. As a result, this year's show was a 'must-see' event, as the attendance numbers indicate," he said. "Everything that could go right.did."

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.

Honda Unveils 2013 Accord Coupe Concept

DETROIT (Honda/PRNewswire) — Honda unveiled the dynamic Accord Coupe Concept today at the North American International Auto Show, providing the first official glimpse of the athletic styling direction, as well as revealing a host of new technologies for the all-new, ninth-generation 2013 model, set to go on-sale this fall.

2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept

The 2013 Accord will feature three all-new powertrains, including the first U.S. application of both a 2.4-liter direct-injected engine and two-motor plug-in hybrid system from Honda’s suite of next-generation Earth Dreams™ powertrain technologies. In addition, the V-6 Accord will be the first Honda sedan to feature a new 6-speed automatic transmission. Both the Accord Sedan and the Accord Coupe models are expected to achieve class-leading fuel economy ratings and will be available with a number of innovative new safety and technological features.