USA - Infiniti announces pricing and specification for the flagship QX80 Sports Utility Vehicle.

● Pricing for INFINITI’s flagship premium SUV starts at $63,850

● Driver Assistance Package adds advanced Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection – along with Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention and Blind Spot Intervention®, Backup Collision Intervention, Intelligent Cruise Control, Distance Control Assist and Predictive Forward Collision Warning

● New Trailer Sway Control added to all models, enhances QX80’s 8,500-pound standard towing capacity (when properly equipped)

● Wi-Fi capability now available in conjunction with Theater Package

INFINITI today announced pricing for the 2017 QX80, which is available now at INFINITI retailers nationwide. 

The flagship premium full-size SUV adds several new features, including available Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Trailer Sway Control and Wi-Fi capability. In addition, the Mocha Almond exterior color is now available on all models.

The QX80 is available in three well-equipped models – QX80, QX80 4WD and QX80 4WD Limited – and six five optional equipment packages. 

All models come equipped with an advanced 400-horsepower 5.6-liter DOHC V8 engine featuring Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) and VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology, along with a 7-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control and manual shift mode with Downshift Rev-Matching. 

QX80 4WD models feature INFINITI All-Mode 4WD® with computer-controlled transfer case and three settings (Auto, 4H and 4L).

Also standard are 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, LED headlights with integrated LED fog lights, rear automatic self-leveling suspension, power liftgate and integrated Class IV tow hitch (8,500-pound towing capacity, when properly equipped).

The QX80 4WD Limited’s exterior is highlighted by dark chrome 22-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, stainless steel running board caps, under running board welcome lighting, darkened headlight and taillight inner lens, dark chrome trim and exclusive exterior colors. Inside, the QX80 4WD Limited offers an extensive list of comfort, convenience and driving aid features, including semi-aniline Truffle Brown leather appointments with unique quilted pattern, and open pore matte finish ash wood trim.

As expected from INFINITI, the 2017 QX80 also offers advanced safety and driving technologies, including Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Backup Collision Intervention, Intelligent Cruise Control, Blind Spot Warning, Distance Control Assist, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention, Blind Spot Intervention and the newly added Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection.

More information on the 2017 INFINITI QX80, along with the full 2017 INFINITI lineup, is available at InfinitiNews.com.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) for the 2017 INFINITI QX80 are:

Model	Engine/Drive	MSRP
QX80	5.6-liter V8 / RWD	$63,850 USD
QX80 4WD	5.6-liter V8 / 4WD	$66,950 USD
QX80 Limited Edition 4WD	5.6-liter V8 / 4WD	$89,450 USD

   Destination and Handling $995 USD

LA SHOW - Mazda unveils a brand new race car that will take part in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.

The Mazda RT24-P will race in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship

The new Mazda RT24-P race car was unveiled today at the Los Angeles Auto Show, ushering a new era in the prominent history of Mazda Motorsports’ flagship endeavors in North America. 

The new car will compete under Daytona Prototype international (DPi) rules in the Prototype class, the top level of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. 

After significant on-track testing, it will make its racing debut at the 2017 Rolex 24 at Daytona in late January.

KODO Design

Mazda is known globally for the engineering and design excellence of its vehicles, and the new Prototype is no exception. 

The bodywork of the race car was developed by Mazda designers utilizing the KODO—Soul of Motion design philosophy. KODO represents the instant that energy becomes motion, such as the muscular beauty as an animal pounces or a human leaps into action. 

The KODO design cues on the Mazda RT24-P include the sleek body contours and the five-point Mazda grille.

“KODO design is at the heart of any vehicle that carries a Mazda badge, and that is very evident in the design of the 2017 Prototype,” said Ken Saward, senior manager of Design at Mazda Design Americas, which falls under the Mazda North American Operations umbrella. 

“We considered the two main parameters of designing a successful race car for this series: aerodynamic performance and the new-for-2017 technical regulations. Working with Multimatic’s aerodynamicist and engineers, we discovered that applying the KODO design philosophy to the surfaces and the silhouette of the car enabled us to create a dynamic, purposeful-looking design and a very aerodynamically efficient one.”

Managing the two-car Mazda Prototype factory race team is Florida-based SpeedSource Race Engineering. The team will race the new Riley Mk. 30 chassis, developed by Riley Technologies in relationship with Multimatic. Riley Technologies is a prominent chassis design and development company with 99 race wins and nine Prototype season championships in North American endurance racing since 2004. Canadian-based Multimatic has worked with Mazda since 2014 in the Prototype category, and has developed and built some of the world’s premier on-road supercars and successful sports cars for the race track. The Mazda team will be the first to test the Riley Mk. 30 chassis later this month.

The Mazda RT24-P will be powered by the Mazda MZ-2.0T engine which raced during the 2016 IMSA season. The approximately 600-horsepower engine, developed and raced with Advanced Engine Research (AER), is a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder turbocharged engine.

“This is a huge moment for Mazda Motorsports and the entire Mazda family,” said John Doonan, director of Mazda Motorsports North America. “To have a car which features Mazda design language at the top level of our motorsports program is meaningful for us as a brand. We believe we have the right team, the right drivers and the right chassis to win races and championships.

“Mazda has good, long-standing relationships with Riley and Multimatic, and is happy to be the first to test their new chassis. We look forward to seeing it make its racing debut at Daytona with Mazda bodywork and the Mazda MZ-2.0T engine. The strategic vision of IMSA to give auto manufacturers this opportunity to integrate our branding —to better engage our passionate fans— is unique and we’re proud to be the first to unveil what is possible.”

What’s in a Name? 

The Mazda RT24-P name echoes the Mazda Road to 24, a driver development program that provides scholarships to help championship-winning drivers progress from grassroots into the upper categories of professional sports car racing. The “24” also represents the two-liter, four-cylinder race engine. The “P” signifies Prototype.

Mazda currently holds a more-than-55-percent market share in grassroots racing, and the Mazda Road to 24 helps provide championship-winning drivers an opportunity to earn scholarships to compete in pro categories such as the Battery Tender Global Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by BF Goodrich Tires. Mazda’s similar scholarship system in open-wheel racing is known as the Mazda Road to Indy. By the start of the 2017 season, Mazda will have provided $14.9 million in driver development scholarships to 53 drivers since 2007.

USA - The Golf family has been awarded inclusion on the Car and Driver magazines 10Best List.

The Golf, Golf Alltrack, GTI and Golf R land one of the most coveted automotive awards

Volkswagen of America, Inc. is pleased to announce today that Car and Driver magazine has named the Volkswagen Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf GTI and Golf R to its 2017 “10Best” list. Taking home an eleventh consecutive “10Best” award in a competition against 60 vehicles, the Golf models were praised for exceptional versatility, dynamics and value.

“There are currently five different versions of the Golf for sale in all 50 states, a sweeping armada of excellence that includes three gas engines, front- or all-wheel drive, and wagon or hatch­­­back body styles,” said Car and Driver. “Attitudes range from the save-some-fuel base Golf to the kill-some-apexes Golf R. 

Volkswagen manages to imbue every trim level with the same understated feel, regardless of specification or price. All Golfs drive with a solid composure and predictability, with controlled body motions and the ride quality of a far more expensive machine.”

“We are honored that Car and Driver has named the Volkswagen Golf models to its 2017 ‘10Best’ list,” said Hinrich J. Woebcken, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “Earning this award for the eleventh consecutive year validates the consistency of the Golf family in delivering unmatched quality and performance at a competitive price point.”

The Car and Driver annual “10Best” list features 10 of the magazine’s most favored new vehicles. Cars are judged on value, performance and the ability to satisfy the comprehensive driving needs of the consumer.  

All production vehicles for sale in the current calendar year are considered, with the following restrictions: the vehicle must be on sale by January; it must be priced below 2.5 times the average car price for that year; the manufacturer must provide a vehicle for testing; and only substantially changed vehicles and the past year’s “10Best” winners are nominated.

With a starting price of $19,895 for the Golf S model, the 2017 Golf family offers advances in interior refinement, exterior styling, and a wealth of new equipment at even the lowest trim lines.

The Golf Alltrack joins the Golf family for 2017 with a starting price of $25,850. Building on the popular Golf SportWagen, Alltrack offers a raised ground clearance, standard 4Motion all-wheel drive and rugged exterior styling.

Starting at $25,595 for the S model, the 2017 Golf GTI features Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI engine, providing 210 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque (achieved with premium fuel). For 2017, Sport models and above add the Performance Package as standard equipment—raising horsepower to 220.

Golf R is the most powerful version of the Golf ever to be sold in the U.S. market, with a starting price of $35,655. The R model is fuel-efficient for a car with 292 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, posting an EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating of 31 mpg with the six-speed manual transmission.

The Golf, Golf Alltrack, Golf GTI and Golf R will be featured in Car and Driver’s January 2017 “10Best” issue.

USA - Next-generation Volkswagen e-Golf offers improved driving range and new technology throughout

Next-generation e-Golf offers improved driving range and new technology throughout

• Increased battery capacity offers potential for 50 percent improved driving range
• Power and torque are boosted to 134 horsepower and 214 pound-feet
• New infotainment options: 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment screen and Volkswagen Digital Cockpit with interactive instruments
• New Front Assist with Pedestrian Monitoring driver assistance system
• Upgraded Driver Assistance Package now includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Blind Spot Monitor Plus with Rear Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning (Lane Assist) and High Beam Control (Light Assist)
• Redesigned front and rear ends upgraded with full-LED headlights and taillights

In a world premiere at Automobility LA today, Volkswagen of America, Inc. presented the latest generation of the e-Golf. Compared to its predecessor, the 2017 e-Golf offers an improved range, more power and new features.

For 2017, Volkswagen is using a new lithium-ion battery whose energy capacity has been increased from 24.2 kWh to 35.8 kWh. The new battery increases the range by about 50 percent, with the aim of a driving range of up to 124 miles on a single charge. 

The 7.2 kW on-board charger is now standard on both SE and SEL Premium trims, which enables the battery to be fully charged in less than six hours at a traditional charging station. 

When equipped with DC Fast Charging (optional on SE, standard on SEL Premium), the battery can be charged to 80 percent within an hour at a DC fast charging station.

The electric motor has been upgraded as well. It now develops 134 horsepower, which is 19 hp more than the first version of the e-Golf. At the same time, the maximum torque of the electric motor has been boosted from 199 pound-feet to 214 lb-ft. The 2017 e-Golf runs zero to 60 mph more than a second faster than its predecessor—now in just 9.6 seconds, and its top speed increases to 93 mph.

The 2017 e-Golf offers new, high-tech features like the fully digital and interactive Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. With this optional system, all instruments—including specific e-Golf instruments such as the power meter—are virtually implemented on the 12.3-inch color screen. There are different information profiles which change the type of information displayed and the graphics in certain areas. Information can be integrated on driving, navigation and assistance functions and display phone contact images or album cover art.

The available Discover Pro infotainment system trim has a large 9.2-inch glass display with a completely new design. For the first time in a Golf, it is possible to individually configure the home screen. In addition, the innovative gesture control system, first debuted at CES 2015, is planned to become reality in the next two years for the U.S. market. Gesture control works in a wide variety of menus. All it takes is a hand swipe gesture to move the horizontally arranged menu items to the left or right, allowing the user to navigate through the main menu, change radio stations, or skip to the next song. The e-Golf continues to offer remote access via the Volkswagen Car-Net app (including battery charging and auxiliary air conditioning), as well as Car-Net App-Connect for compatible smartphones that offers Apple CarPlay^™, Android Auto^™, and MirrorLink^®integration and Guide & Inform services.

Volkswagen is also extending the range of driver assistance systems for the e-Golf in the 2017 model year. Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) adds pedestrian monitoring, which will warn the driver acoustically and visually, supply increased braking pressure, and if the driver does not react, apply the brakes in order to help mitigate a collision with a pedestrian as well as other vehicles. An optional Driver Assistance Package for the SEL Premium will include the following features: Volkswagen Digital Cockpit, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) with Pedestrian Monitoring, Blind Spot Monitor Plus, Lane Assist, Park Assist and Light Assist.

The facelifted Golf family debuted in Europe just a week ago, and the 2017 e-Golf introduces those design changes to the U.S. market. The standout exterior changes include new bumpers, front fenders and LED headlights and taillights. In the front, the new bumper integrates the unmistakable C-shaped LED auxiliary Daytime Running Lights and is accented by the traditional blue grille trim strip, which carries into the redesigned headlights. The rear was also designed to be more charismatic. Along with a new bumper, new LED taillights define the design. Inside, new décor and seat trim gives e-Golf a fresh look.

October European sales dip slightly but not enough to being the YTD figure down, which is 6.6% higher than 2015.

• Despite a small fall of 0.5%, Europe’s Big 5 markets experienced the best year-to-date registrations since 2009
• SUVs and Vans are the only segments to grow in October, with MPVs, city-cars and midsize sedans experiencing the biggest losses in market share
• Volkswagen Tiguan overtakes the Nissan Qashqai as Europe’s best-selling SUV

Car registrations in Europe’s ‘Big 5’ markets saw a small decrease of 0.5% in October 2016, with total registrations for the month at 829,980 – slightly down from the 834,464 registrations seen in October 2015. However, year-to-date registrations totalled 9,339,623 at the end of October – a 6.6% increase when compared to the same period in 2015.

The biggest falls were seen in Germany and France, whose registrations decreased by 5.6% and 4.4% respectively. Despite this, the car market in both France and Germany has grown considerably in 2016, with YtD registrations up by 4.6% and 4.9% respectively.

Elsewhere, Italy, Spain and the UK all posted modest growth. Italy grew by 9.7%, with rental registrations increasing by 44.6%, compared to the same time last year. Private registrations were the only negative performers in Italy during October, posting a decrease of 4%. The UK managed a small growth of 1.4% thanks to low interest rates, affordable finance packages and a wider variety of new models. Spain’s growth of 3.3% was modest compared to previous months, due to one less working day in the month, and the end of the PIVE plan (Efficient Vehicles Incentives Plan in Spanish) which affected private registrations.

“The small decline last month shows that the European car market is reaching its peak in terms of volume.

It is noteworthy that despite the declines seen in the German and French markets last month, the European car market is still growing overall for the year to date. However, we expect to see only moderate growth in Europe’s Big 5 markets over the coming months as the market stabilises following a strong year so far,” said Felipe Munoz, Global Automotive Analyst at JATO Dynamics.

Volkswagen Group maintained its position as Europe’s largest car maker in October 2016, despite experiencing a drop in market share of 0.7 percentage points. While their compact cars posted a 12.3% decline, their SUV registrations increased by 26.6%. Keeping their second place position, the Renault- Nissan alliance also lost ground - with its market share decreasing by 0.4 percentage points. Their SUV registrations failed to maintain the growth seen in previous months (-0.4%), and their MPV range dropped by 34.2%.

The biggest drop among the top 10 best-selling groups was posted by PSA, whose sales dropped by 6%. This decline was driven by the performance of Citroen and DS Auto, who declined by 10% and 27.2% respectively. FCA gained 0.6 percentage points of market share and overtook Ford to become the 4th best-selling car group in Europe. BMW Group and Daimler posted growth of 2.1% and 4.5% respectively, their growth was tempered by a poor performance in Germany.

Compared to October 2015, SUVs and Vans were the only segments to grow their sales across the five markets - posting increases of 11.5% and 4.5% respectively. Conversely, the biggest market share losses were experienced by MPVs, city- cars and midsize sedans.

October registrations for the Volkswagen Golf dropped dramatically when compared to the same month last year, registering 25,125 units – a 21.7% decline. Despite this, it maintained its first-place position as Europe’s best-sellingmodel. Meanwhile, the Golf’s rivals - Opel/Vauxhall Astra and Renault Megane - increased their sales by 50% and 35.8% respectively.

The Ford Fiesta led the subcompact segment, gaining market share as its registrations grew by 8.9%, while its rivals posted falls – Volkswagen Polo (-11.4%), Peugeot 208 (-2.3%) and Opel/Vauxhall Corsa (-9.6%). The Fiat Panda was the best- selling city-car of the month, while the Volkswagen Tiguan outsold the Nissan Qashqai and became the best-selling SUV. The biggest market share winner was the Fiat Tipo. It was followed by the Opel/Vauxhall Astra, Seat Ateca, Volkswagen Tiguan and BMW X1. By contrast, the biggest market share losers were the Volkswagen Golf, Volkswagen Passat, Renault Scenic, Volkskwagen Golf Sportsvan and Ford Ka.

“The Volkswagen Tiguan has helped the brand offset the drops posted by their traditional vehicles, with the model becoming the best-selling SUV across Europe’s Big 5 markets,” concluded Munoz.

USA - The Audi A4 sedan has been named as Kelley Blue Book's best luxury car, really, i can think of far more !

• 2017 Audi A4 is named as the Best Buy among all luxury cars available this model year
• Kelley Blue Book’s Best Buy Awards compare vehicles based on everything from ride quality, to safety ratings to 5-year cost to own data and more
• The A4’s refined styling, advanced suite of driver assistance systems and driving dynamics helped it stand out from the competition

The 2017 Audi A4 has been named winner of the 2017 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards in the Luxury Car category. The annual awards from Kelley Blue Book, the leading provider of new and used vehicle information, recognize the top new model-year vehicle choices available in the U.S. market.

Editors praised the A4 for its modern styling, advanced suite of available driver-friendly technologies and dynamic driving experience.

“Refined design, efficient, yet powerful performance and benchmark technologies are the key pillars of Audi vehicles that contribute to overall excellent value,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “We are proud to see the 2017 Audi A4 continue that trend with a Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award.”

The A4 sedan offers customers a sporty driving experience with a 2.0-liter TFSI® engine that delivers class-leading horsepower and a newly developed S tronic® dual clutch transmission which helps to optimize fuel efficiency. Available quattro® all-wheel drive offers superior traction and handling and standard Audi drive select including four different drive modes allowing for a greater customization.

“The new Audi A4 is a stunning combination of good looks, excellent drivability and intelligent ergonomics,” said Jack R. Nerad, Executive Editorial Director and Executive Market Analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com. “In a segment that is filled with stellar vehicles, the A4 stands out for its forward-thinking vehicle-driver interface and its driver-assist technologies that enhance both convenience and driver awareness.”

The refined interior of the A4 includes driver-focused technologies such as the available Audi virtual cockpit and a newly designed infotainment system with standard Audi smartphone interface that supports Apple CarPlay™ and Google™ Android Auto integration. Advanced driver assistance systems such as standard Audi pre sense city® and available adaptive cruise control with stop & go and traffic jam assist help drivers navgate the road and traffic while making their driving experience more enjoyable.

The Audi A4 model line continues in 2017 with the A4 ultra model, which sets new standards for fuel efficiency in the luxury sedan segment. In addition, the recently introduced A4 allroad couples the driving dynamics of the A4 sedan with the versatility of a wagon and a standard adaptive suspension system.

Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com has a dedicated 12-person editorial staff who collectively drive and review nearly every new vehicle on the road each year. The awards are the culmination of a year-long regimen of expert vehicle evaluation and testing of nearly every new vehicle available in America, along with analysis of a broad swath of vehicle-related data.

USA - The Ford F-Series Super Duty has been named as the Motor Trend Truck of the year for 2017

• 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty – the toughest, smartest, most capable Super Duty ever – has been named 2017 Motor Trend Truck of the Year
• All-new Super Duty features best-in-class towing and hauling capability along with 17 segment-first productivity technologies including adaptive steering and 360-degree camera system
• 6.7-liter Power Stroke^® V8, with best-in-class 925 lb.-ft. of torque and 440 horsepower, earns Motor Trend recognition as one of the best engineered, most capable diesel engines – outperforming its competitors

The all-new 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty – the toughest, smartest, most capable Super Duty ever – has won the 2017 Motor Trend Truck of the Year title – the first time the Super Duty has taken home this prize.

“We are honored to win this year’s Motor Trend Truck of the Year Award as it underscores how the all-new 2017 Ford Super Dutys are the toughest, smartest and most capable trucks we’ve ever built,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford’s president of The Americas.  

“For 39 consecutive years, Ford F-Series has been America’s favorite truck, and now Motor Trend has given one of our F-Series top honors for the fifth time.”

Using advanced materials to reduce weight, Super Duty introduces all-new segment-exclusive smart technology features to help increase customer productivity, comfort and convenience.

The backbone of the truck is an all-new fully boxed frame comprising more than 95 percent high-strength steel that’s up to 24 times stiffer than the previous frame – enabling best-in-class towing and hauling capability. High-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy for the body is more dent- and ding-resistant than outgoing steel and not subject to red rust corrosion.

These materials combine to help reduce weight by up to 350 pounds, with Ford engineers reinvesting that savings everywhere it counts to give customers more towing and hauling capability than ever.

The all-new F-Series Super Duty also features heavier-duty four-wheel-drive components, driveline, axles and towing hardware.

With towing central to the mission, driving and work situations are made easier and more comfortable with 17 segment-first productivity technologies. Up to seven cameras help drivers see angles and monitor conditions surrounding the truck to make not just conventional towing, but gooseneck and fifth-wheel towing simpler and more efficient than ever. Available adaptive steering also results in improved efficiency and effort.

With more power than ever, the Ford-designed, Ford-engineered, Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke® turbo diesel V8 now delivers a best-in-class combination of 440 horsepower and a staggering 925 lb.-ft. of torque. That power is standard for every diesel pickup, from F-250 to F-450, with no special tuning or unique hardware required – making the all-new F-Series Super Duty the undisputed powerhouse. 

“We judge the contenders based on six categories – from design to efficiency to performance – characterizing the things consumers want most in their next vehicle,” said Ed Loh, Motor Trend editor-in-chief. “The all-new 2017 Ford Super Duty met and exceeded our criteria, truly proving it is the undisputed leader in towing, capability and power – exactly what truck customers want. Motor Trend is excited to crown this purpose-built machine this year’s Truck of the Year.”