The new 2015 Nissan Murano.

2015 Nissan Murano Resets The Standard In The Midsize Crossover Segment With Breakthrough Design, Premium Interior And Purposeful Technology.

• Third generation of Nissan's popular flagship crossover symbolizes Nissan's design-led product and brand renaissance
• Murano styling delivers bold Resonance Concept's refined intensity exterior and social lounge interior
• Carries forward new Nissan design direction with V-Motion front end, boomerang lights, floating roof treatment and efficient aerodynamics
• All-new Murano arrives in Nissan showrooms in late 2014

The first-generation Nissan Murano had a profound impact on the SUV market when it was introduced for the 2003 model year. In addition to being one of the first crossovers on the market, it offered a fresh design sensibility that combined an elegant style with premium features – without a luxury price tag. Murano quickly attracted a loyal, enthusiastic owner base and remained a "class of one" as other manufacturers scrambled to catch up.

The second-generation Murano, introduced for model year 2009, maintained its strong position as the halo vehicle for Nissan crossovers – even as new Nissan SUVs like the bold JUKE sports crossover, all-new unibody Pathfinder and compact Rogue joined the product portfolio.

When it came time to consider an all-new third generation, Murano had a high standard to meet – its own. So while the original was inspired by the elegance of the famed Italian Murano glassware from which the model took its name, the third-generation took its cues from the future, expressed in the form of the Nissan Resonance Concept vehicle.

A Concept Brought to the Showroom

"At Nissan, we create concept vehicles with an eye toward production, rather than just for entertaining auto show audiences," said Andy Palmer, chief planning officer and executive vice president, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. "Likely few people who saw Resonance in its North American International Auto Show debut imagined that we could build such a futuristic design. But here it is, ready to hit Nissan showrooms less than 24 months later."

Though one was conceptual and the other production-based, Resonance and the new Murano were created on parallel tracks – with shared design themes and key attributes such as their boomerang lights and unique floating roof treatment.

Like the first-generation Murano, the 2015 version is a highly sculptural, highly emotional design – one that once again stands out in a field known more for uniformity and utility-based styling.

"Murano owners live in an environment – home, work and car – that is beautiful, well-designed and efficiently run. They are social and embrace technology," said Palmer. "The new Murano had to embrace all of these values, while also taking a major leap forward in terms of its 'Wow' factor."

Working to capture the breathtaking spirit and artistry of the first Murano, the designers began by concentrating on the new vehicle's sculptural qualities. Breaking the usual order of sketching, computer renderings and then clay modelling, the Murano team started working with small three-dimensional clay forms – literally exploring organic shapes and volumes with mini desktop sculptures. The process helped narrow down a new Nissan design direction focused on lightness and efficiency.

A Lightness of Form

"One of the central constructs for both the exterior and interior of the new Murano was to 'elevate your experience,' which is counterintuitive to the heaviness and chunkiness of the traditional sport utility vehicle," said Nakamura. "This helped inspire the push for leading-edge aerodynamic and three key elements of our future designs – the V-Motion front end, signature lighting and the 'floating' roofline."

In keeping with the idea of futuristic travel, the designers sought to create a gravity-like power to pull viewers into the design visually, while defying gravity with a lightness of form through the use of glass and flowing lines. The prominent glass areas of the first-generation Murano were retained and expanded with the new design, including the use of its jet-inspired roof and D-pillars that appear disconnected from the roof that help visually lighten the cabin. The result is a unique floating feeling that can be recognised from very far away.

Another key element is the continued refinement of the boomerang-style headlights and taillights, which were originally introduced on the Nissan 370Z. For use with the new Murano, the shapes were slimmed and pushed to extremes to look like they flow with the wind. "The lights' LED Daytime Running Light accents are instantly recognisable at night. While becoming a Murano signature, they were an engineering challenge," explained Nakamura.

The available LED headlights, while providing excellent efficiency and durability (versus halogen and xenon lights), required extensive tuning to refine the shape and light intensity. The design of the standard LED taillights had to be balanced with the required crossover utility, with the final shape seamlessly integrated into the rear glass, conveying a high-tech quality.

Murano's sculptural bodysides also created an engineering challenge, especially in the strong curvature of the rear fender stampings. While similar in dimensions to the previous generation Muranos, the new design is slightly lower, wider and longer, enhancing the aerodynamics while not compromising the desired crossover height and stance. The lower rocker panels offer a balance of aerodynamics and ruggedness. Other critical details, such as the grille shutter, fender lip mouldings, rear bumper surfacing, rear tyre deflectors and integrated rear spoiler help achieve a more than 16 percent improvement in overall aerodynamics (versus the previous generation design).

"The designers and engineers invested three times the normal wind tunnel testing of the new Murano to get to its 0.31 coefficient of drag, on par with many sports cars," added Nakamura.

A New Way to Travel

"Beyond the sense of elegant style and premium features, owners of the first two generations often tell us about the 'effortlessness of Murano' – the great front view, the low instrument panel, the comfort and ease of operation. These are all things we kept and exaggerated in the new model," said Nakamura.

The exterior theme of futuristic travel and refined intensity continue throughout the Murano interior, starting the moment the doors are opened with its available advanced lighting system, open and comfortable feeling and use of premium materials.

Continuing the idea of a concept car brought to production, the new Murano shares the look and feel of the Resonance. The upscale social lounge interior, for example, creates an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. The instrument panel height is lower than previous Muranos. Centered between the outer wings is a large information and control centre with an available 8.0-inch color display with multi-touch control. Keeping with the idea of "beauty with simplicity," the number of audio and navigation switches has been reduced by 60 percent – from 25 to 10 – for a more user-friendly experience.

"We've learned from personal electronics that consumers aren't always looking for devices that do more, they just want it done better," said Nakamura. "People rarely read the directions for their smartphone because they know intuitively how to operate them. We believe vehicles should behave the same way – it's a new and better way to travel."

Adding to the driver's sense of connectedness with security is Nissan's Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display - an enhanced version of the popular instrument panel feature offered in the new Altima and Pathfinder. For use in the new Murano, it includes a number of new features, including a 7.0-inch high-resolution color display.

Available audio systems include an advanced Bose® design with 11 speakers (including dual subwoofers), HD Radio® and SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately). Also offered are NissanConnectSM with Navigation and Mobile Apps.

Nissan's advanced NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats are standard for front and rear outboard occupants. The rear seats are a three-cushion design, a first for a Nissan vehicle. Climate-controlled seats (heating and cooling) are available in front, along with available Quick Comfort™ heated rear seats.

Other interior features include standard Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control and Nissan Intelligent Key® with Push Button Ignition, along with available leather-appointed seating, heated steering wheel, steering wheel position memory, driver's seat and outside mirror memory, power folding rear seats and Remote Engine Start with Intelligent Climate Control.

Overhead, the available Power Panoramic Moonroof enhances the open, airy feeling. The moonroof has a 40 percent longer sliding length and 29 percent larger opening than the previous generation design. It is projected to be among the largest moonroofs in the segment.

Conversation between front and rear occupants is encouraged by the new Murano's "communication alley" created by the wide, low centre console. The console also includes a compartment for rear occupants' smartphone. There is also an available USB port for the rear seats that allows for control of music and display, along with ample storage areas and compartments throughout the interior.

"We want everyone to feel like they are being taken care of, not just the driver. It's a continuation of the social lounge theme introduced in the Resonance Concept – a place you want to share with friends," added Nakamura. "Of course, not to be overlooked is Murano's crossover versatility, which is why the segment has become so popular in the first place."

The new Murano's cargo area has been reconfigured (versus the previous generation) to provide a projected best storage space in the segment (with seats up). The rear cargo area, for example, accommodates four large suitcases, while the rear seats fold flat for greater cargo convenience. With the easy rear seat release and available power rear seat return, Murano converts from people hauler to cargo ship or back within seconds. All configurations can be done from the back, with no walking to each door.

Standard 3.5-liter V6 and an Extra Set of Eyes

The 2015 Murano will be available at launch with a standard 3.5-litre DOHC V6 rated at 260 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. Also standard is an advanced Xtronic transmission tuned for quick response and smoothness. Fuel economy is projected to be enhanced by approximately 20 percent versus the current generation Murano, due to the approximate 130-pound overall weight reduction, enhanced aerodynamics and engine/transmission efficiencies.

Like the previous generation, the new Murano will offer responsive handling and a comfortable ride through use of a 4-wheel independent suspension featuring a front strut/rear multi-link design. Also standard are 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering. Sporty 18-inch or 20-inch machine-finished aluminum-alloy wheels are also available. The 2015 Murano is offered in front-wheel drive or intuitive all-wheel drive.

"While driving a new Murano is designed to be an exciting social experience, we also intend it to be a safe one," said Andy Palmer, chief planning officer and executive vice president, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. "We've given Murano 'an extra set of eyes' – a suite of advanced safety features designed to help look out for you."

The new Murano incorporates up to four onboard cameras (front, rear, two side) and three radar systems (one front, two side) to provide input to a range of available technologies, including Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) Forward Emergency Braking (FEB) and Intelligent Cruise Control. The new Cross Traffic Alert (CTA) system utilizses radar to detect a vehicle approaching from either side of the Murano when backing out of a parking space.

Parking a new Murano is made easier with the available class-exclusive Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection, which is designed to reduce the normal complexity of parallel parking by giving an all-around view of the surrounding area from front, rear and side cameras.

The system is not just for parallel parking, however, helping view the vehicle's placement in pull-in spots, garages and against curbs. The Moving Object Detection (MOD) system helps the driver to detect moving objects such as shopping carts or strollers when backing out via an on-screen notification and
warning chime.

Murano also includes as standard the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor, front-seat mounted side-impact supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor and driver's seat knee air bag.

"With advanced, purposeful technology designed to keep you safe and connected, along with its refined everyday driving experience, this all-new Murano adds the solid substance to go with its unmatched emotional style," said Palmer.

A Range of Models, Now Assembled in America

The 2015 Nissan Murano will be offered in four grade levels when it goes on sale in late 2014: S, SV, SL and Platinum. Each is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

The new Murano also becomes the first Murano (and the ninth vehicle) assembled in Nissan's Canton, Mississippi plant, which is the most diverse facility by number of models in Nissan's North American network. The Canton Vehicle Assembly Plant becomes the global source for Murano production, creating export opportunities to more than 100 markets. Murano will be assembled on the same line as Xterra, Frontier, Titan and Armada.

"Murano resets the standard in class once again," concluded Palmer.

Next Chevrolet Volt to Offer Cheaper Entry Price.

When the next Chevrolet Volt arrives for the 2016 model year, it will be available in a lower-priced trim that comes with a smaller battery pack. According to a report from Reuters, the second-generation Volt is set to start production at General Motors' Detroit Hamtramck plant in about 16 months.

The new entry level model, expected to cost just over $30,000, will come with a reduced driving range of less than 300 miles. It will be available in addition to the standard Volt, which can drive for 380 miles and costs around $35,000. According to suppliers, the new Volt will also share its underpinnings with the next-generation Chevrolet Cruze, presumably to take advantage of economies of scale.

Introduced for the 2011 model year, the Chevrolet Volt has not lived up to its sales expectations. Only 23,094 Volts were sold last year, and this has been on the decline ever since. Recently, the Volt has been losing out against its chief rival, the Nissan Leaf, which has seen its base price plummet to $29,000.

Plug-in cars currently make up less than 1 percent of the auto market, but this may change as cars like the Chevrolet Volt become more accessible to the masses.

REPORT HERE

2015 FIAT 500 to debut at New York.

What's New

For the 2015 model year, Fiat has decided to switch up its lineup and bring new features to the table. The automaker will introduce a new advanced instrument panel with a 7-inch TFT (thin film transistor) cluster display. This will allow drivers to monitor speed, fuel, and trip info. Slip the car into Sport mode, and that same display offers a more aggressive appearance. Expect this feature to be standard on all Fiat 500 models, excluding the Pop.

For the first time, Fiat will be offering an automatic transmission on 500 Abarth and Abarth Cabrio models. This specially-tuned automatic transmission maintains the high-performance of the manual transmission, but delivers that performance to a wider customer base. To keep the level of performance at its peak, Fiat has reinforced the transmission with more clutch plates and a better heat treatment to allow for higher torque capabilities.

Who It's For

If you enjoy a small, peppy car with plenty of personality, the new 2015 Fiat 500 is the ideal choice. It offers great fuel economy, is small enough to go almost anywhere, but it offers a level of performance not many of its competitors can match. The Abarth ups the ante this year, going from a more aggressive version of the popular 500 to a toned down, but still enjoyable version with the addition of the six-speed auto. We were big fans of the Abarth when we had it in, but a manual transmission may not be for everyone. With the addition of the new transmission, Fiat will no doubt bring in more customers looking for a compact car that breaks from the mundane and offers an exciting driving experience.
Key Features

• Here's what we're liking on the 2015 Fiat 500 and 500 Abarth
• New infotainment system that changes with the drive modes
• Automatic transmission on the Abarth, offering a wider appeal
• New exterior colors, redesigned center console and cup holders, and Bluetooth streaming audio

What Automotive.com Thinks

Fiat has been making some waves here in the States with its sporty and efficient lineup of compacts. While they may not be all that sensible when looking at the price, the performance and driving enjoyment make up for that in spades. We had the chance to get behind the wheel of the 2013 Fiat 500 Abarth Cabrio, and we can't remember having that much fun. Although we may be biased when it comes to manual transmissions, if Fiat can make the driving characteristics anything like what we experienced during our short time in the Abarth, we have a feeling that the automaker's audience will widen and the new automatic transmission will be an instant hit.

REPORT HERE

2015 Volkswagen Jetta Heads to New York.

Volkswagen is pulling out all the stops at the 2014 New York Auto Show, bringing with it more than a few refreshed and new models. The German automaker will also be celebrating 40 years of the Golf, along with the new Sportwagen and 2015 Jetta.

The Volkswagen Jetta, which has been in its sixth generation since 2011, is in serious need of an update. Luckily, Volkswagen announced in a statement that it will "debut the 2015 Model Year Jetta at the New York International Auto Show," and that the new Jetta "will feature a refreshed exterior, improved fuel economy and a host of new safety and technology features."

With the current Jetta receiving an overall 5-Star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, we can expect the automaker to improve from there. The 2014 Jetta didn't manage to earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating, thanks to its "Marginal" rating in the difficult small overlap front crash test. However, this may change for the 2015 model year.

Although a full redesign isn't expected until 2017, Volkswagen will feature a new optional diesel engine that has a projected 45-46 mpg highway. It is still under testing, but the automaker hopes to target the popular Chevrolet Cruze diesel.

REPORT HERE

Oh Lord, The Escort is making a comeback, but for China only, SHAME !

A production version of the Ford Escort is to make its world debut at the Beijing motor show, Autocar understands. The car is targeted at the Chinese market, and will be built locally. 

Although no official information has been revealed, internet rumours suggest the front-drive saloon will use the powertrain from the Chinese-market Focus.

Ford revealed an Escort concept at the Shanghai motor show last year. Of the concept, Ford said it would offer “a fun driving experience, high level of technology, exceptional roominess, uncompromised functionality and sophisticated design". 

The model is intended to grow Ford’s presence in China’s compact saloon segment, which generates more than five million sales annually. The marque currently sells second- and third-generation Focus models in China.

 

There are no plans for the model to be sold outside of China.

REPORT HERE

Peugeot at Beijing 2014

PEUGEOT AT THE BEIJING MOTOR SHOW - LAUNCH OF THE PEUGEOT 2008, EXALT CONCEPT CAR, ROLAND GARROS SPECIAL EDITIONS AND A NEW SALES RECORD

• PEUGEOT accelerating fast in China with a growth of 18.6%
• The popular PEUGEOT 2008 urban Crossover is launched into the growing Chinese market
• EXALT Concept Car set to wow attendees of the Beijing Motor Show with its combined cultures

On a show stand presenting 16 production vehicles and concept cars, PEUGEOT is showcasing the youngest and widest range in its history in China: an expression of French allure with the launch of the 2008 urban Crossover, a complete range of Roland Garros special edition vehicles, the ‘EXALT’ Concept Car and unique technological expertise with the PEUGEOT 2008 HYbrid Air.  

PEUGEOT accelerating fast in China

The Beijing Motor Show opens its doors against a background of unprecedented sales results in China for PEUGEOT. During the first quarter of 2014, the Brand invoiced more than 85,000 cars, a growth of 18.6% compared to the first quarter of 2013, in an overall market up by 13.3% in the same period, establishing a new historic sales record for PEUGEOT in China.

Recent launches have all met with success. The PEUGEOT 3008, launched in January 2013 in Chengdu, recorded more than 52,000 orders last year, above its initial objectives, and the PEUGEOT 301 has already attracted 23,000 customers since its launch in Canton last November. 

2008 out to conquer the Chinese market

The 2008, the urban Crossover by PEUGEOT, launched in Spring 2013, has been very well received by European customers with more than 130,000 orders after less than a year on sale.

Its launch in China, in a market for small SUVs that is growing rapidly, should allow the 2008 to achieve its sales objective worldwide of 221,000 units in a full year during 2015.

The PEUGEOT urban Crossover, which competes in the Chinese B+ segment, aims at leadership of this category in the biggest car market in the world. 

In China, the 2008 will help the Brand to win over a population of young first-time buyers, with an average age just under 30, belonging to the new, quickly growing Chinese middle class.

EXALT: all of PEUGEOT’s DNA with the association of French and Chinese culture

Directly inspired by the ONYX Concept, the PEUGEOT EXALT Concept Car achieves an alliance of differences for a completely original result. Its specification includes traditional and technological materials with expertise from French and Chinese cultures.

In homage to the art of the French motor car from the twenties and thirties, its bare steel bodywork is hand-formed by a master panel beater. A unique item, it seizes the historical cues that excite automobile passion.

The vehicle presents a ‘coupe franche’ (clean cut): separating bare steel from an innovative material, Shark Skin, which is red and which covers the whole rear end of the vehicle. 

The interior of this exceptional saloon, with four doors and four individual seats, offers the traditional Chinese craft of working in wood, a quite exceptional field for expression. Accordingly, Macassar ebony, selected for the area in Asia where it grows and its warm colour, which covers the upper parts of the door panels, has been worked on by a pair of Chinese artists. The trio PINWU Design agency created a motif combining a lion with bamboo stems and leaves. A Chinese craftsman sculpted it using a traditional technique for creating prints on fabric and paper.

Secure in their bucket seat, the driver has the use of the PEUGEOT i-Cockpit, designed for complete driving enjoyment.

The PEUGEOT EXALT Concept Car is equipped with a plug-in HYbrid4 drive train with a total power of 340bhp, made up of a 1.6-litre THP 270bhp engine, coupled to a 6-speed automatic gearbox and a 50kW electric motor in the rear axle, allowing four-wheel drive. 

Roland Garros range: French elegance supported by a prestigious ambassador

Making the most of the very strong recognition in China for the Roland-Garros French Open and the greatly prized image of French chic that accompanies it, PEUGEOT is presenting, for the third year in a row, three special editions: the 3008, 508 and 308 CC Roland Garros.

These very special editions, fully equipped, will benefit from the dual impact of the 30th anniversary of PEUGEOT’s partnership with the tournament at the ‘Porte d’Auteuil’ and the signing earlier this year of a worldwide partnership with Novak Djokovic, world number two and tennis icon. 

RCZ R: performance and efficiency by PEUGEOT SPORT

A few months after its first presentation at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the RCZ R, the high performance version of the RCZ Sports Coupé, emblematic of the Brand’s expertise in design and driving sensations, will be presented to the Chinese public. 

The new 1.6-litre, 270bhp engine with well contained CO₂ emissions of just 145g/km, places the RCZ R in a quite exceptional position of performance and efficiency.

So PEUGEOT offers the Chinese public the best of its automobile know-how, elevated by the expertise of PEUGEOT SPORT engineers.

Grandstyle appeal to boost outgoing Smart FORTWO.

Drivers of the iconic smart fortwo can enjoy greater luxury, convenience, style and value with the launch of the new grandstyle edition.

Based on the well-appointed passion line, the grandstyle edition features an even more impressive specification.

But while the striking smart is big on equipment levels and eye-catching exclusivity, it can be enjoyed for surprisingly little. The grandstyle edition is available with a 0% interest finance package that puts drivers in the 71 bhp mhd coupé for only £99 per month, or in the 84 bhp version for just £109/m. 

There’s certainly no chance of missing the grandstyle edition. Cool and sophisticated, the new model is distinguished by distinctive gleaming black 15” three-double-spoke alloy wheels, headlamps with titanium-coloured surrounds and subtle ‘grandstyle’ logos in the door mirror triangles. LED daytime running lights heighten safety as well as looks, while the contemporary appearance is completed with a choice of five exterior and tridion colours.

Its inside is equally attractive.  Black Artico upholstery provides a classy, upmarket ambience and the feel of a leather-trimmed two-spoke steering wheel adds even more compact opulence. There’s also a handy cup holder and if customers desire even more comfort, they can specify the optional new Comfort Package that adds heated seats and electrically-adjustable and heated door mirrors. 

The standard Audio system Navigation Highline with its 6.5 inch touch  screen ensures grandstyle edition drivers reach their destination with ease, and air conditioning makes every journey as chilled or as heated as the driver desires.       

Available as a coupé with a panoramic roof, or cabrio with a fully automatic soft top, the grandstyle edition offers a choice of 71 bhp mhd or 84 bhp turbocharged petrol engines. Both combine strong, nippy performance with the smart’s renowned efficiency.

The smart grandstyle edition is priced from £10,330 OTR.   

“smart has always been small and stylish but the grandstyle edition moves it up a level,” said Gary Savage, Chief Executive Officer Mercedes-Benz UK Limited.

“Everything about the grandstyle edition is designed to enhance driver enjoyment, and it’s a car that will create a real stir in its sector.”

More than one Million Skyactive Mazda's produced since 2009

• Milestone achieved two years and four months since production of Mazda CX-5 began
• Full-SKYACTIV models are produced in Japan, Mexico, Thailand and China and sold in over 100 different countries and regions

Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that global production of its three full-SKYACTIV vehicles, the Mazda CX-5, Mazda6 (known as Atenza in Japan) and Mazda3 (Axela in Japan) has surpassed one million units, reaching 1,040,000 units as of the end of March 2014. All three models adopt the full range of Mazda’s SKYACTIV technologies. The milestone was achieved approximately two years and four months after production of the Mazda CX-5 began in November 2011.  

Mazda developed SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY with the aim of offering every customer outstanding environmental and safety performance, without sacrificing the brand’s renowned driving pleasure. The innovative range of technologies is the result of an uncompromising overhaul aimed at improving the efficiency of the base components that dictate the fundamental performance of the automobile, such as the engine and transmission, while reducing vehicle weight. The new generation vehicles that feature SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY also adopt Mazda’s KODO—Soul of Motion design theme which aims to express the strength, beauty and tension found in the movements of untamed animals.

On reaching one million units, Mazda’s Representative Director, President and CEO, Masamichi Kogai said, “At Mazda we put everything into developing our SKYACTIV vehicles, and it is because these models have struck a chord with a wide range of customers all over the world that we have reached the one million-unit landmark. On behalf of Mazda, let me express my gratitude to each and every person who bought one of our cars. With our undying challenging spirit and a great deal of hard work, Mazda will continue to make even more appealing cars that will enrich the lives of their owners, and help us build a strong and lasting bond with our customers.”

As of the end of March 2014, Mazda is producing its three full-SKYACTIV models in Japan, Mexico, Thailand and China, and selling them in over 100 different countries and regions. The automaker is continuing efforts to expand the lineup and plans to introduce another five all-new models with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY by fiscal year ending March 2016.

History of full-SKYACTIV models

M-Sport Bentleys make a great start to the season.

• 2014 Blancpain Endurance Series underway after opening round
• Continental GT3s finish a hard-fought 7^th and 8^th at Monza
• Great foundation to build on over the season

Team M-Sport Bentley open their 2014 racing account with a strong performance at the first race of the Blancpain Endurance Series in Monza, Italy. After three hours of racing in sunny and warm conditions at the famous circuit, the two Continental GT3s finished line astern in 7^th and 8^th positions. Car 8, driven by Antoine Leclerc, Jérôme D’Ambrosio and Duncan Tappy moved from 13^th on the grid to finish 7^th, just ahead of Car 7 piloted by Andy Meyrick, Guy Smith and Steven Kane. 

While the racing was challenging in itself, the really hard work started after the Saturday qualifying session. With Steven Kane having set the fourth fastest lap time, on his final lap just before the end of the session he carried too much speed in to the Ascari chicane and hit the wall nose-first. Fortunately, a combination of the strength of the Continental GT body from which the GT3 is built and the skill of the mechanics from M-Sport Bentley meant an overnight rebuild was possible, and by 10am on Sunday morning the car was ready to race. 

Brian Gush, Bentley’s Director of Motorsport, comments:
“This weekend has been a very good opening test of our cars and team. We’ve learnt a great deal and have many areas where we can make small improvements, but the whole team worked extremely hard and we’re very pleased with two top ten finishes in our first competition race. During the race the cars were strong and our drivers put in great performances, and I’m looking forward to being able to build from here at the next race at Silverstone.” 

Steven Kane drove the final stint of the race in Car 7. He comments:
“I’m really pleased with our performance here this weekend. Fortunately my pride was damaged more than the car after the crash on Saturday afternoon, and the mechanics did an amazing job overnight to have our car ready. In the race, Andy and Guy put in two very good stints to mean I could focus on bringing the car home safely. This is good start to our season and I already can’t wait to be back behind the wheel in a few weeks for the next round.”

Car 8 had an even better race, after Jérôme D’Ambrosio drove a superb stint that brought the car from 12^th to 6^th. He says:
“Before this weekend I’d only driven the Continental GT3 once, so to be able to get in this weekend and be straight on the pace shows how well balanced the car is. I thoroughly enjoyed my stint, and I was able to lean on the car and make up a few places. We’ve learnt a lot about our car and our competition, and despite our good finish I know there’s more to come.” 

The story of the race

Car 7 started the race in 4^th, with opening driver Andy Meyrick able to overtake two Ferrari 458s off the line to lie 2^nd after the opening lap. He then held off the same two Ferraris for 15 laps, despite repeated contact from one, before eventually needing to manage his rear tyres and ceding the place. When two cars ahead of him touched on lap 28 and dropped oil, Andy lost time but managed to stay on the track. He pitted from 7^thplace on lap 32, when Guy Smith took over. Traffic in the pit lane and a failed wheel nut meant a slow stop, and Guy resumed in 15^th. Guy’s racing experience then shone through, and over the 34 laps of his stint he made up five places to bring the car in on lap 66 in 10^th place to hand over to Steven Kane with a quick and efficient pit stop. After the rest of the field had pitted, Steven was in 9^th and immediately among the quickest cars on the track. He made up one place over his 30 laps to finish 8^th, just behind the sister Continental GT3. 

Car 8 started further back on the grid in 13^th, despite setting a qualifying time just 0.3 secs slower than that of Car 7. Antoine Leclerc started the race, also passing two cars on the opening lap. By the time he entered the pits to hand the car to Jérôme D’Ambrosio, he’d progressed to 8^th place. After the field had stopped Jérôme found himself 12^th, but then went on a charge – taking six places to then pit on lap 64 in 6^th place. Duncan Tappy emerged from the pit stop window in 7^th after a very fast service from the pit crew, and despite chasing down the ROAL BMW over the course of his 32 lap stint he settled for a 7^th place finish at the chequered flag.

Looking forward

With an encouraging result from their first race, M-Sport Bentley is looking forward to the next race and the rest of the Blancpain Endurance Series. The next race is the British round, at the internationally renowned Silverstone circuit in Northamptonshire over the weekend of 24^th-25^th May.

PSA to halve lineup in push for 2% margins by 2018

PSA/Peugeot-Citroen outlined plans to cut its model lineup by almost half and to turn Citroen's DS unit into a separate brand in a bid to restore the automotive division’s profit.

By 2018 the carmaking unit’s operating margin will amount to 2 percent of sales, with the figure rising to 5 percent in the 2019-2023 period, CEO Carlos Tavares said today in his strategic review of the Paris-based automaker. 

Tavares, 55, became head of PSA at the end of March to guide a reorganization after cumulative net losses exceeded 7.5 billion euros ($10.4 billion) in the past two and a half years.

PSA said today that the strategy hinges on reducing the number of models to 26 vehicles from 45, as well as a push into markets outside Europe, funded in part by bringing in Chinese partner Dongfeng Motor Corp. and the French state as investors alongside the Peugeot founding family.

"The group will continue to reposition the three brands, while clarifying their lineups," PSA said in a statement. Scaling back the range of models will allow the company to "improve market coverage and improve margins by targeting the most profitable segments." 

The DS nameplate, revived five years ago as a higher-priced small-car range, will get its own separate management team amid an "aggressive" push into China. The brand will sell six vehicles by 2022.

PSA said it is reorganizing sales operations, and reiterating a target to triple Chinese deliveries in partnership with Dongfeng by 2020, along with restoring profit in Russian and Latin American businesses.

"What we're going to stop is a mindset where in order to cover fixed costs, we're going to sell cars at a loss," Tavares said today on a conference call with analysts. "The profit culture is something that we need to put ahead of everything else."

Spending on research and development will average 7 percent to 8 percent of revenue in the next three years, Tavares said today on a conference call. PSA is targeting 2 billion euros in operating free cash flow in 2016 through 2018, the company said.

'Minimum requirement'

Erich Hauser, a London-based automotive analyst at International Strategy & Investment Group, said: "It seems to be the minimum requirement, but it’s a start. When you run a big ship like this, you can’t expect to turn it around in a few years."

Dongfeng and France will each contribute about half the money for a 3 billion-euro capital increase planned by PSA in exchange for 14 percent stakes apiece, according to an agreement reached in February. The family’s ownership will drop to 14 percent from the current 25.5 percent, ending their control of the 118-year-old carmaker. 

Tavares joined PSA in January from French rival Renault, where he was chief operating officer, to succeed Philippe Varin as CEO. The business plan puts Tavares’s stamp on the carmaker’s revival after Varin, 61, arranged to bring in the outside investors and started developing upscale models for the Peugeot brand.

Varin introduced Citroen’s premium DS vehicles in 2009, taking the name from an iconic model produced from 1955 to 1975.

“What’s really interesting is that Tavares is clearly taking a leaf out of Renault’s Drive the Change plan,” International Strategy’s Hauser said. “It’s very similar: in the very near term, it’s about fixing cash and in the longer run, it’s about returning to profitability.”

PSA was among the carmakers hardest hit as industrywide European auto sales contracted over six years to a two-decade low, with the company’s market share narrowing to 10.9 percent in 2013 from 12.8 percent in 2007.

Job cuts

Varin set a target about four years ago for PSA to generate 50 percent of its deliveries outside Europe by 2015.

Varin responded by starting a cutback of 11,200 jobs in France, or 17 percent of its work force in the country, shutting a plant near Paris last year and bringing out new models, such as the 2008 small SUV, to revive demand.

The proportion of PSA’s non-European sales increased last year to 42 percent, with China accounting for 20 percent of the total, from 38 percent in 2012.

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USA - March sales, a good month over all, with just a few showing declines.

Sales day is here once again and this year falls upon April Fool's Day. And for good measure, as some of these numbers are hard to take at face value. The upward trend of sales continues into the third month of the year, with many automakers reporting either best-ever sales months or best March sales within the last decade.

Audi continues its strong performance for the first quarter of the new year, outpacing its 2013 record sales with a 7.5 increase over the same month last year. In what we thought was a surprising turn of good fortune, GM brands saw an increase in sales over last year, with all brands aside from Cadillac posting positive sales numbers. It looks like the recalls aren't dropping those sales numbers too much.

Ford also saw its best March in eight years, with help from the ever-popular F-Series which broke 70,000 units. Other brands like Jeep, Fiat, Mazda, Subaru, and Mercedes-Benz reported strong sales numbers, along with broken records.

We expect more positive sales numbers as the weather heats up for summer, but you can check out all the sales numbers for March 2014 in the chart below.

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USA - ALL new cars by 2018 to have rear view cameras as standard.

The U.S. Department of Transportation today finalized a rule that will effectively require all new vehicles to come standard with backup cameras by 2018. The new rule requiring "rear visibility technology" on all new vehicles will be phased in gradually over the next few years.

Starting May 1, 2016, automakers will need to have rearview systems on 10 percent of the vehicles they build. This will increase to 40 percent for the next year, and up to 100 percent beginning May 1, 2018. According to the rule, new vehicles will have to give the driver a 10-foot by 20-foot view of the area directly behind the vehicle.

The systems must also meet specific requirements for image size, response time, durability, and deactivation. The rearview camera rule applies to all vehicles under 10,000 pounds, including buses and trucks. Congress made a push to get these rules underway in 2008 as a response to numerous incidents of parents accidentally backing over their children in vehicles. The government has delayed the rules several times over the years due to cost concerns.

The government estimates that the rearview systems will cost between $43 to $142 per vehicle, depending on whether or not the car already has a display screen. On average, around 210 deaths and 15,000 injuries per year are caused by backover accidents.

The government estimates that between 58 and 69 lives can be saved each year once every vehicle on the road is equipped with rearview cameras. The vast majority of new cars today come with rearview camera, at least as optional equipment. More and more, automakers are spreading this feature throughout their lineups. So much so, that by the time 2018 rolls around, all cars will have this feature anyway. The government estimates that 73 percent of light vehicles will already voluntarily have rear cameras by the deadline.

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USA - Toyota Avalon Recalled for Faulty Airbags

The 2003-2004 Toyota Avalon is being recalled to fix faulty front airbags and seatbelt pretensioners. In Avalon models built from June 5, 2002 through December 20, 2004, internal shorting can cause the electronics to malfunction, leading to airbags deploying or seatbelt pretensioners activating without warning. In either case, it can cause an accident or other on-road safety hazards.

The recall affects 119,140 vehicles in the U.S.

Toyota's remedy is to install a "noise filter" between the airbag control module and the car's wiring harness, helping keep the flow of electricity current steady so that wiring shorts do not occur. Toyota has not yet set a schedule for which it will notify owners to fix their cars--free of charge.

But owners of such cars can contact Toyota at (800) 331-4331, or they can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at (888) 327-4236, referencing campaign number 14V147000.

Mitsubishi to Stop Lancer Evolution Production

Perhaps another setback for U.S. Mitsubishi dealers, the automaker announced that it will stop production on the Lancer Evolution performance sedan when the current generation comes to an end. This marks the death of the last sporty vehicle in the company's U.S. lineup, and as of yet, there are no plans to introduce a successor.

Spokeswoman Namie Koketsu told Automotive News that "Mitsubishi Motors does not have any plans to design a successor with the current concept, as a high-performance four-wheel drive gasoline-powered sedan. Mitsubishi Motors will explore the possibilities of high-performance models that incorporate electric vehicle technology." The automaker is shifting its focus from performance sedans to crossovers and SUVs along with electric vehicles.

There will definitely be a hole left in the Mitsubishi lineup when the Lancer Evo leaves, but the company believes it will be able to increase global sales 29 percent by March 31, 2017. Between now and then, the automaker plans to introduce many new or refreshed SUVs, vans, and crossovers globally, along with narrowing its nine-platform lineup down to two, and reducing its portfolio from 18 models to just 13. Looking to sedans, Mitsubishi will explore sourcing them through the Renault-Nissan Alliance, focusing the majority of its budget on utilities and electric drivetrains.

By 2020, Mitsubishi hopes to have 20 percent of its lineup all-electric or plug-in hybrids, keeping with the upcoming emission regulations. While a Renault-based midsized sedan is in the works for the U.S., we're curious to see how the automaker will do without a high performance vehicle in its lineup.

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USA - 2014 Honda Civic Recalled for Possible Tire Problems.

Honda is recalling certain 2014 Civic LX models because the tires may be defective. According to the automaker, the tires may have been pinched between the assembly equipment and the vehicle's steel wheel rims during the construction process.

This pinching may cause a tear in the bead of the tire. If this occurs, the tires may rapidly lose air, making the vehicle more difficult to maneuver and increasing the possibility of a crash. Honda discovered the error during quality checks in the factory. The company said it is not aware of any complaints, crashes, or injuries related to the tire error. Around 9,817 Civic models in the U.S. are affected by the Honda recall. Not all 2014 Honda Civic recalled cars may need to be repaired,

Honda said. In late March or early April, Honda will contact consumers via mail. At that time, owners will also be able to determine if their specific vehicle needs attention by visiting www.recalls.honda.com or by calling (800) 999-1009 and selection option 4. For owners of Civic models that need repair, Honda dealerships will replace the tires free of charge.

For information on all vehicle recalls in the U.S., visit the National Highway Safety Administration's website, www.safercar.gov.

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USA - Toyota Aims to Dramatically Improve New York-Bound 2015 Camry.

What can be said of the Toyota Camry other than it's a bit on the milquetoast side. Okay, we're being generous. In a segment of quick-moving players, Toyota has sat on the sidelines, accumulating sales but losing market share. Its profits are down because the Camry has been heavily incentivized to keep its sales lead.

In February, the Nissan Altima outsold it. So for 2015, the Toyota Camry is going under the knife. But unlike most mid-cycle refreshes, the 2015 Toyota Camry will reportedly be the recipient of multiple extensive upgrades. Like the 2014.5 Camry, it will have a new front structure that will allow it to ace the IIHS's new front-narrow offset crash test.

And it will likely share the same basic structure all around. But the 2015 Toyota Camry will benefit from all-new, less boring styling that should align it better with the Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata, and other midsize sedans that are markedly more exciting than much of their predecessors. Curiously, the 2015 Toyota Camry will be debuting on the same day as the 2015 Hyundai Sonata at the New York Auto Show, allowing the public to draw a direct comparison to what many see as the car that jump started the midsize sedan segment's reinvigoration.

We expect that Toyota will go over its powertrain options in addition to its suspension, steering, and nearly everything else in the car. It may even get standard LED headlights after the cheaper Toyota Corolla did. But we don't have any details quite yet. For those, we'll be waiting for the dramatically restyled 2015 Toyota Camry to land on April 16.

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CHEVY SCOOP: 2015 Chevrolet Cruze is Naked in China

The very first Spy Shots of the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze without any camouflage, seen here completely naked on a factory parking lot in Shanghai, China. The new Chevrolet Cruze will debut on the 2014 Beijing Auto Show and will be launched on the China car market in the second half of the year.

The Chevrolet Cruze is manufactured in China by the Shanghai-GM joint venture. Price of the current car starts at 108.900 yuan and ends at 159.900 yuan. Engines: 121hp 1.6 and a 147hp 1.8.

The current Chevrolet Cruze (more than one million made) will continue alongside the new 2015 Chevrolet Cruze. It will be called ‘Cruze Classic’ and positioned as a budget alternative to the new Cruze, in the same fashion as Ford does with the Focus Classic and new Focus. Price of the Cruze Classic will start around 90.000 yuan.

Price of the 2015 Chevrolet Cruze will start around 120.000 yuan. The 2015 Cruze will be powered by a new 1.5 that will replace the old 1.6, and by a new 1.4 turbo that will replace the old 1.8.

The 1.5 has an output of 112hp and 146nm and will be mated to a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. The 1.4 turbo has an output of 148hp and 235nm and will be mated to a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG.

Shanghai-GM badge on the left. This particular car is a 1.4 turbo.

Split grille stays on, now with the Chevy bow tie sitting kinda cramped in the upper part. Headlights having a tad of Kia.

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