Purpose

I will try my best to provide detailed info on various cars and what is like to live with them, I have already produced a few for Jaguar-car-forums, I will do my best to be unbiased, but it will be hard for some cars. I will re-produce press releases and copy from other motoring news.

Monday, 13 February 2017

Mercedes-AMG launches an all New E63 S Wagon, massive power with space to spare.

  • Sportiness meets space and intelligence
In the new E63 S Wagon, Mercedes-AMG combines the brand's hallmark Driving Performance with high utility value and the intelligence of the E-Class. As in the E63 S Sedan, the hand-crafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine with an output of up to 603 hp and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive deliver outstanding driving dynamics. 

Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds sets a new record in this class. At the same time the engine is now even more efficient thanks to a cylinder deactivation system fitted as standard.
Like the E63 S Sedan, the E63 S Wagon offers innovative drive technology and outstanding performance coupled with a unique design, exclusive appointments and the latest infotainment features for a wide range of connected multimedia applications.
The new Wagon boasts even more agile response than its predecessor: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT (Multi Clutch Technology) 9-speed sport transmission is combined with a wet clutch. 
Another highlight is the new AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel- drive system, which combines the advantages of various drive configurations. Torque distribution on the front and rear axles, which is fully variable for the first time, ensures optimum traction in all road conditions.
"The new AMG E63 Wagon combines our brand's hallmark driving dynamics with high everyday practicality. It is not for nothing that the model has been a permanent fixture in the AMG portfolio for 40 years. The powerful engine and the intelligent all- wheel drive underpin our claim to always be at the forefront of development when it comes to performance," states Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
Technical data at a glance          

E63 S Wagon
Engine
Hand-crafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo
Displacement
3,982 cc
Output
603 hp at 5,750–6,500 rpm
Max. torque
627 lb-ft at 2,500–4,500 rpm
Drive system
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ permanent all-wheel drive with variable torque distribution and drift mode
Transmission
AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed sports transmission
Acceleration 0-100 mph
3.4 s
Top speed
180 mph (electronically limited)
Exterior design
Every detail of the exterior is designed to enable AMG Driving Performance to be experienced at first hand from every perspective. The distinctive, sporty design of the front end forward of the A-pillar demonstrates the lengths AMG goes to when it comes to development: For the first time on an AMG wagon, the hood is inset between the fenders and bumper like on a coupe, thus exhibiting an entirely new, more dynamic approach to the sculpting. More powerful-looking and 1.1-inches wider, the wheel arches accommodate the greater track width and the larger wheels on the front axle.
A wide front bumper inspired by the design of a jet wing, with flics in black and a large front splitter, impressively epitomises the power of the new E63 S Wagon. It also showcases sophisticated cooling technology – a typical feature from motorsport and another visual reference to the powerful engine.
The side sill panels make the wagon appear to sit lower on the road and elongate the overall line, culminating in a muscular rear end with an bumper insert sporting a diffuser look and the two high-gloss chrome-plated twin tailpipe trims of the exhaust system. The hallmark AMG V8 sound has been tuned specifically for the Wagon model.
Designers and aerodynamics experts worked closely together to develop the E63 S Wagon. Their insights not only resulted in the striking AMG bodystyling but also the performance-oriented lift balance – for agile handling characteristics on country roads and optimum driving stability at high speed on the motorway.
The new E63 S Wagon likewise sets standards in its segment when it comes to everyday practicality: boasting a generous 35 cu.ft. (SAE) of trunk capacity with the second row of seats upright, its trunk is the largest in the performance wagon segment. The rear seat back comes as standard with a new cargo-related functionality: it can be positioned at a 10-degree steeper angle creating even more usable trunk space. In addition, the rear seat back can be folded down in a 40:20:40 split.
New peak of performance: Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine with twin-scroll turbochargers
The versatile Hand-crafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine in the E63 S Wagon takes peak output to a new level at 603 hp. The maximum torque of 627 lb-ft is likewise a new high. It is available over a broad engine speed range of 2,500 to 4,500 rpm and so provides a feeling of effortless superiority in every accelerator pedal position. The E63 S Wagon completes the sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds.
The standard-fit AMG Cylinder Management and a number of other measures make the new performance wagon exceptionally efficient. Twin-scroll turbochargers are installed for the first time to further enhance the performance and response of the AMG 4.0-liter V8 engine. They reduce the exhaust gas backpressure and optimize the gas cycle, resulting in higher output, exceptionally spontaneous response and higher torque at low revs.
AMG Performance 4MATIC+ variable all-wheel drive
The E63 S wagon comes with the innovative AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel- drive system fitted as standard. This newly engineered, intelligent system brings together the advantages of various drive configurations— torque distribution on the front and rear axles, which is fully variable for the first time, ensures optimum traction on any surface. The driver can rely on a high level of handling safety.
An electromechanically controlled coupling connects the permanently driven rear axle variably to the front axle. The best possible torque distribution is calculated continuously. The performance wagon can thus be driven in a continuously variable way from traction-oriented all-wheel drive to purely rear-wheel drive. In addition to traction and lateral dynamics, the all-wheel-drive system also improves the longitudinal dynamics for even more powerful acceleration.
Short shift times, high efficiency: the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 9-speed transmission is specially tuned to the requirements of the E63 S Wagon, and features re-engineered hardware and software. The software enables extremely short shift times and fast multiple downshifts, while the double-clutching function makes for an emotional gearshifting experience. A wet clutch replaces the torque converter, saving weight and optimizing response, especially when accelerating.
For a personalised experience: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs
The E63 S Wagon comes equipped with five different AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs: "Comfort," "Sport," "Sport +," "RACE" and "Individual." These modes allow drivers to extensively influence the characteristics of the E63 S Wagon. Key parameters are modified - such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, ESP®  and all-wheel-drive system. Independent of the drive programs, the driver has the option of pressing the "M" button to switch directly to manual shifting mode, in which gearshifts are performed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. Individual suspension settings can be selected as required. The "RACE" drive program has been designed for highly dynamic driving on closed race circuits and all parameters are set for maximum performance.
Specially developed suspension for maximum lateral and longitudinal dynamics
The agility and high cornering speeds of the new E63 S Wagon are attributable to the all-new AMG suspension with full-support multi-chamber air suspension. This suspension ensures exceptionally high levels of camber stability, driving dynamics and steering precision.
A four-link front axle design uses forged aluminium components with wishbones, strut rod and spring link. Independent wheel control and wheel suspension parts enable higher lateral acceleration, but minimal torque steer on the steering system. The likewise model-specific, completely redesigned rear axle was specially adapted to the higher vehicle dynamics. The suspension thus ensures hallmark E-Class comfort with high levels of precision and driving dynamics.
Personalised driving experience thanks to three-chamber air suspension system
Thanks to a sporty spring and damper set-up and continuously variable damping, the new three-chamber air suspension system combines exemplary driving dynamics with excellent road roar and tire vibration characteristics. The stiffness of the air springs can be adjusted over a wide range by activating or deactivating individual air chambers, which enhances comfort and handling.
There are three degrees of spring tuning, depending on the selected drive program and current driving status. The spring rate is hardened automatically in the event of sudden load changes, fast cornering, heavy acceleration or heavy braking, which effectively reduces roll and pitching while stabilising the performance wagon.
The adaptive damping can be set in three stages – "Comfort," "Sport" and Sport +" – to choose between relaxed comfort on long journeys and maximum sportiness. The rebound and compression levels are adjusted independently of each other, and the freely programmable characteristics map permits a wide spread between the minimum and maximum damper force. The difference between the comfortable and sporty suspension settings are refined and are clearly perceptible.
Rear differential lock: optimum traction
For improved traction and vehicle dynamics, the E63 S Wagon comes with an electronically controlled rear limited slip differential. The electronically-controlled limited slip differential reduces slip on the inside wheel when cornering without braking system intervention, resulting in the ability to accelerate out of bends earlier and more powerfully. Additionally, this limited-slip unit allows the E63 S Wagon to remain more stable when braking from high speeds and improves traction when moving off.
The greatest benefit of the electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential is the sensitive and proactive control it allows, which pushes the thresholds higher and makes it easier to drive at the vehicle's limits. The three-stage ESP® with "ESP ON." "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" and "ESP OFF" settings works in precise unison with the rear-axle limited-slip differential and the all-wheel drive system, and is optimally tuned for outstanding dynamics.
E63 S 4MATIC+ with dynamic engine mounts as standard
Uniquely in this segment, the E63 S Wagon is fitted with dynamic engine mounts, which solve the conflicting goals of achieving as soft a connection as possible to the powertrain for high comfort and as rigid a connection as possible for optimum driving dynamics. The dynamic engine mounts are quickly and variably able to adapt their stiffness to the driving conditions and handling requirements. These measures enhance the vehicle's precision when driven dynamically, while the soft setting increases comfort.
Direct and with clear feedback: the AMG speed-sensitive steering
The E63 S Wagon features electromechanical, speed-sensitive sports steering with a variable ratio, which impresses thanks to the rack ratio with precise and authentic feedback. Steering power assistance is variably adjusted in the stages "Comfort," "Sport" or "Sport Plus." Relevant steering feel characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive program or can be personalised in "Individual" mode.
Good sensitivity and fade-resistant: the AMG high-performance braking system
The large-sized high-performance compound braking system is reliable, quick and fade-resistant, even under high loads. The E63 S Wagon is fitted with internally ventilated and perforated 15.4" x 1.4" compound brake discs on the front axle with six-piston fixed callipers. In the rear, 14.2" x .9" discs and single-piston floating brake callipers are equipped.
Optionally available is an AMG Ceramic Composite braking system, with 15.8" x 1.5" brake discs in on the front axle and and 14.2" x 1.3" discs on the rear axle.
Sporty characteristics: the interior design
The interior of the E63 S Wagon reinforces the consistently dynamic bias with numerous, specially designed details. The AMG Performance Steering Wheel in black nappa leather is ideal for a sporty driving style. The driver and front passenger enjoy a secure position in the front sport seats, whatever the driving style, thanks to improved lateral support. AMG Performance Seats with integral head restraints can be ordered as an option. Additional interior touches include nappa leather trim for the dashboard and beltlines, seat belts available in crystal grey and a steering wheel with a grey '12-o'clock' marking.
All important speed, safety and performance information appears within the driver's field of vision on the standard-fitment dual-12.3"screen digital instrument cluster. Gauges in a carbon-fiber look and distinctive typography lend the displays an especially sporty touch. The widescreen display also allows the driver can choose from three display designs unique to AMG: "Classic," "Sport" and "Progressive."
Intelligent Drive
The E63 S Wagon features all the connectivity and Intelligent Drive functions of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon, such as DRIVE PILOT, which assists the driver with semi-automated driving in traffic jams or on routine trips.
The world premiere of the E63 S wagon will take place at the Geneva Motor Show in March, 2017.
The E63 S Wagon is scheduled to be on-sale in the US by fall of this year.

USA SALES JANUARY - JLR - Jaguar posts Massive growth, LR posts record sales.

  • Best Ever Jaguar Land Rover U.S. January Sales Month, up 30 percent
  • Jaguar XE sports sedan and F-PACE SUV drive Jaguar U.S. sales up 117 percent for best January sales month since 2004
  • Best Ever Land Rover U.S. January Sales Month, up 9 percent
  • Best Ever Range Rover Sport, Range Rover and Discovery Sport January Sales Month
Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC today reported January 2017 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 2,939 units, a 117 percent increase from 1,352 units in January 2016; Land Rover sales reached 6,163 units, up 9 percent from record sales of 5,655 units in January 2016; Jaguar Land Rover January U.S. sales for both brands hit 9,102 units, a 30 percent increase from 7,007 units in January 2016; making it the best ever Jaguar Land Rover January sales month.
“After coming off a record-setting year in 2016, we are starting 2017 with a successful January sales month for Jaguar Land Rover and are proud to report a 30 percent sales increase," said Joe Eberhardt, President and CEO, Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC. “This strong performance is a testament to our expanded product offering, highly desirable brands and dedicated retailer network. We are in prime position for sales growth in the coming year.”
For the full year 2016, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales were up 24 percent to 105,104 units sold, compared to 85,048 units sold in 2015. With this performance, 2016 becomes the new U.S. high water mark for Jaguar and Land Rover brands’ combined sales, surpassing previous high of 102,191 sales achieved in 2002.
U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS
Land Rover
For the month of January, Land Rover sales hit 6,163 units sold, the best ever January retail month for the brand (January of 2016 was the all-time January high for the brand in the U.S.). For the month of January, the Range Rover Sport was the volume leader hitting 1,918 units sold.
Range Rover hit 1,833 units sold and sales of the Discovery Sport hit 1,369 units. The Discovery family will be expanded in 2017 with the introduction of the new 2017 Land Rover Discovery which goes on sale this summer and priced from $49,990. (1)
The 2017 Land Rover model line-up features five models: The all-new Discovery, which replaces the LR4, features a radical new design language for the full-size, optional seven passenger SUV and all-new levels of refinement, passenger technology and driver assistance options.
The Discovery Sport and Range Rover Evoque continue steadfast, both powered by 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engines. The Range Rover and Range Rover Sport model lines expand for 2017 each with a new model. 
Replacing the limited edition HST model in the Range Rover Sport line-up, the Range Rover Sport HSE Dynamic features a 380-hp supercharged V6 engine, dynamic body trim appointments and black trim finishes. Within the full-size Range Rover line-up, Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations has introduced the SVAutobiography Dynamic. 
Based off of the long wheelbase SVAutobiography, the SVAutobiography Dynamic offers a driver focused experience through a standard wheelbase, suspension and chassis tuning and a lowered ride height. 
Both Range Rover model lines feature five powertrain options – a 340-hp supercharged V6, a 380-hp supercharged V6, a 510-hp supercharged V8, a 550-hp supercharged V8 and a new 254-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 diesel.
Jaguar
For the month of January, Jaguar sales were 2,939 units, a 117 percent increase from 1,352 units in January 2016; making it the best Jaguar January sales month since 2004.
The Jaguar F-PACE hit 1,458 units sold, making it the brand’s volume leader for the month, and the XE hit 693 units sold.
Jaguar launched two new entry luxury vehicles in 2016: the 2017 XE compact luxury sedan, starting at $34,900(1), and the 2017 F-PACE compact luxury SUV, starting at $40,990.(1) Competitively priced within their respective segments, these two new models appeal to an all-new segment of buyers for the brand. 
The XE is available with two gasoline engines, a 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder and a 340-hp supercharged V6. The F-PACE is available with the same 340-hp supercharged V6, as well as a 380-hp supercharged V6 in the ‘S’ model. 
Both vehicles are available with a 180-hp turbocharged diesel engine, which returns 42mpg highway(2) on Jaguar XE models and 33mpg highway(2) on F-PACE models.
The Jaguar XF is now offered with three available powertrains, two supercharged V6 powertrains producing 340- and 380-hp and a 180-hp turbocharged four-cylinder diesel offering an EPA certified 42mpg highway.(2) The 2017 Jaguar XJ retains its position within the Jaguar line-up as the pinnacle in luxury for the brand. 
It continues to be available with three powertrain options – a 340-hp supercharged V6, a 470-hp supercharged V8 and a 550-hp supercharged V8 – is offered in both standard and long wheelbase lengths in both rear- and all-wheel drive configurations. 
For 2017, the Jaguar F-TYPE offers buyers with an all-new derivative in the F-TYPE SVR. Powered by the brand’s proven supercharged V8 engine, the F-TYPE SVR has been further enhanced to offer 575-hp and 516-lb. ft. of torque enabling a top speed of 200mph (4,5) and a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds.(4)
All new Jaguar models come standard with Jaguar EliteCare, an ownership package with class-leading five-years or 60,000-mile warranty, complimentary scheduled maintenance coverage, roadside assistance and Jaguar InControl®Protect & Remote™.(3)
(1) All prices shown are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. Excludes $995 destination/handling charge, tax, title, license, and retailer fees, all due at signing, and optional equipment. Retailer price, terms and vehicle availability January vary. See your local authorized Jaguar or Land Rover Retailer for details.
(2) EPA estimates the diesel powertrain on the F-PACE will offer 26mpg city/ 33mpg highway. EPA estimates the diesel powertrain on the XE will offer 32mpg city/ 42mpg highway. EPA estimates 31mpg city/ 42mpg highway for the diesel XF.  Actual mileage may vary.
(3) Class is cars sold by luxury automobile brands and claim is based on total package of warranty, maintenance and other coverage programs. For complete details regarding Jaguar EliteCare coverage, please visit JAGUARUSA.COM, call 1.800.4.JAGUAR or visit your local Jaguar Retailer.   
(4) Always follow local speed limits.
(5) F-TYPE SVR Coupe top speed is 200mph. F-TYPE SVR Convertible top speed is 195mph.

USA SALES JANUARY - VOLVO - After a huge 2016, 2017 has started negatively.

Volvo Car USA, LLC, (VCUSA) reported U.S. sales of 3,472 vehicles for the month of January, an 18.2 percent decrease. 
“Strong global demand will impact availability of XC90 throughout Q1,” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO, Volvo Car USA. “We are increasing XC90 production capacity which will result in progressively greater availability for the duration of the year.”
Total sales excluding XC90 were up 2.5 percent year-over-year, with S60 sales up 30.8 percent.

Volvo is implementing a sweeping $11 billion transformation plan that has involved the development of its own modular vehicle architecture, a new engine range, global manufacturing capability, a completely renewed product range and world leading developments in safety, autonomous driving and connectivity.

USA SALES JANUARY - MERCEDES/SMART - The three pointed Star saw more records tumble.

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported record January sales of 25,527, topping last January’s record volume of 24,664 units sold. 
Adding 2,049 units for Vans and 324 units for smart, MBUSA achieved its highest January to date with a grand total of 27,900 vehicles, up 3.5% from a year ago. 
“This is the strong start we look for following a record year,” said Dietmar Exler, president and CEO of MBUSA. “We will continue this momentum in 2017, as our product offensive continues with our flagship the new S-Class Sedan and new product offerings rounding out several model lines.” 

Mercedes-Benz volume leaders in January included the C-Class, E-Class (including the CLS) and GLE model lines. The C-Class took the lead at 6,453, followed by the E-Class sales of 4,155. The GLE rounded out the top three with 3,970 units sold. 

Mercedes-AMG high-performance models sold 2,596 units in January, up 36.3% from last year (1,904). Separately, Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) models recorded sales of 10,496 vehicles in January, an increase of 5.7% when compared to the same month last year (9,934).

USA SALES JANUARY - PORSCHE - The Sportscar brand saw sales grow in the first month of the year

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche 911, 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman sports cars, Macan and Cayenne SUVs, and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, delivered 4,602 vehicles in January. This was the strongest January sales month ever recorded by the company.
January 2017 sales were up 5.7 percent over the same period last year with a well-balanced sales result across model lines. Sports car model sales were robust with 911 and 718 model lines exceeding previous year results, up 12.6 and 2.8 percent, respectively. 
Macan sales continued a positive trend with 1,960 vehicles sold, a 33.4 percent sales increase over January of last year. Additionally, the all-new Panamera models are expected to arrive in the coming weeks.
Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned sales for January were 1,296, which is an 11.6 percent increase compared to the same period in 2016.
ModelJanuary SalesYear-to-Date

2017201620172016
ALL BOXSTER/CAYMAN443431443431




ALL 911814723814723




ALL CAYENNE1,3501,3951,3501,395




ALL PANAMERA3533635336




ALL MACAN1,9601,4691,9601,469
GRAND TOTALS*4,6024,3544,6024,354