Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Ford to cease Australian automaking operations after 90 years]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/ford-to-cease-australian-automaking-operations-after-90-years/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/ford-to-cease-australian-automaking-operations-after-90-years/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/23/ford-to-cease-australian-automaking-operations-after-90-years/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2013 Ford Falcon - front three-quarter view


Ford began manufacturing cars in Australia in 1925 with the Model T. In 2016, Ford will stop manufacturing cars Down Under, including the Falcon and the Territory SUV. Ford Australia CEO Bob Graziano has reportedly confirmed the closure of the company's Broadmeadows assembly plant and the Geelong engine plant, both in the state of Victoria. There will be 650 jobs lost at Broadmeadows, 510 sacrificed at Geelong. Of the roughly 3,000 workers the Blue Oval has in Australia, it's said it will try to retain about 1,000 of them at its R&D and product development facilities.

The writing hasn't just been on the wall, it's been a regular item in all the papers and on Ford's bottom line for years. As recently as 2003, Ford sold nearly 75,000 Falcons, but over the next four years, annual sales dropped by something like 10,000 units, and over the last two years, it has sold less than 20,000 per year. It isn't only Ford that has suffered - sales of the other large, locally produced sedan, the Holden Commodore, have also gone over the precipice, triggering the same kind of angst about Holden's continued existence. Ford is the smallest of Australia's local automakers, Holden and Toyota the others, and has posted losses of $AUD141 million last year ($141,253,000 CAD) and $AUD600 million ($601,566,000 CAD) in the past five years. Graziano said the cost of manufacturing is simply too expensive in the country, twice as high as Europe and three times as high as Asia, and there no way to make a business case for staying in the country.

In January 2012, Ford Australia announced it would stay in the country until at least 2016, but by July of the same year, most outside observers were quietly declaring that 2016 would be the last year of Ford Down Under, and even the speculation was making other observers nervous. Ford received money from the Victorian government last year to aid its refresh of the Falcon and Territory, which will continue on schedule for the 2014 model year. A front- and all-wheel-drive sedan on a global platform is predicted to replace the Falcon, with some other SUV expected to replace the Territory. The company says it still intends to expand its lineup in the country.

As for what will replace the employment hole at the factories and the supplier base, no one is quite sure. Ford has said that the employees will receive their entitlements, and workers do have three years to prepare for what's coming. As well, the state and national governments have already committed tens of millions to a fund to assist the employees. To watch a video on the topic, click through.

Gallery: Holden Hurricane Concept






Continue reading Ford to cease Australian automaking operations after 90 years

Ford to cease Australian automaking operations after 90 years originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> australian manufacturingbob grazianobroadmeadowsfordford auford australiaford falconford territorygeelongmanufacturing Thu, 23 May 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20581123/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/23/ford-to-cease-australian-automaking-operations-after-90-years/20581123/article-detail.xml 20581123 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-ford-falcon_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-ford-falcon.jpg <![CDATA[2014 Subaru Forester gets big nod of approval from Consumer Reports]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-subaru-forester-gets-big-approval-consumer-repo/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-subaru-forester-gets-big-approval-consumer-repo/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/22/2014-subaru-forester-gets-big-approval-consumer-repo/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,




While more and more buyers seem to be opting for the functionality of car-based crossover vehicles every day, it's rare that your read much in the way of passionate praise for one. And, while Consumer Reports doesn't exactly lavish written paeans on the Subaru Forester in its latest review - that's just not its style - it did give the CUV a remarkably high overall score.

Praising its excellent fuel economy, visibility, roomy interior and a whole lot more, the testing publication bestowed an overall score of 88 out of 100 on the Forester. That's a really excellent number for just about any vehicle, but it's also a top-of-the-class mark for the Forester's small CUV division. Just about the only major gripe was that of ride quality.

Most of the direct competitors to the Forester have earned CR marks in the mid-70s. The Honda CR-V is some 11 points behind, for instance, while the Toyota RAV4 and the Mazda CX-5 earn scores of 75 and 74, respectively.

Scroll down to watch the new Forester being tested off-road in deep mud.

Gallery: 2014 Subaru Forester XT: Review






Continue reading 2014 Subaru Forester gets big nod of approval from Consumer Reports

2014 Subaru Forester gets big nod of approval from Consumer Reports originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 22 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 subaru foresterbest crossoverconsumer reportssubarusubaru forester Wed, 22 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20579475/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/22/2014-subaru-forester-gets-big-approval-consumer-repo/20579475/article-detail.xml 20579475 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/014-subaru-forester-xt-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/014-subaru-forester-xt-628.jpg <![CDATA[Acura NSX to be built in North America in 2015]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/acura-nsx-to-be-built-in-north-america-in-2015/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/acura-nsx-to-be-built-in-north-america-in-2015/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/acura-nsx-to-be-built-in-north-america-in-2015/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Acura NSX Concept - live at Detroit Auto Show

Honda has confirmed that the forthcoming Acura NSX hybrid supercar will be built at a brand-new facility in Ohio, USA. This will be the company's third plant in Ohio, and will come as the result of a US$70 million investment. Honda first hinted that NSX production would be coming to Ohio when the original concept car was revealed at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show.

Honda's new facility, called the Performance Manufacturing Center, will encompass a 17,094 square metre (184,000-square foot) space inside of the automaker's former North American Logistics building and will employ 100 associates. As you might expect, the Performance Manufacturing Center is located just a few kilometres from Honda's American-based R&D facility, as well as the Marysville auto plant, where production of the 2014 Accord Hybrid will kick off this fall.

"The location of this facility is in the midst of one of the greatest collections of engineering and production talent in the world. So it makes sense that we will renew the dream and build this high-tech, supercar in Marysville, Ohio," said Hidenobu Iwata, president and CEO of Honda of America, in a press release.

Production of the Acura NSX will begin sometime in 2015. We have already seen the hybrid hero several times in conceptual form, with the latest reveal at this year's Detroit Auto Show giving us a glimpse at the car's interior.

Scroll down for the full details in Honda's press release as well as a video showing the NSX.

Gallery: Acura NSX Concept


Continue reading Acura NSX to be built in North America in 2015

Acura NSX to be built in North America in 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 18 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2015 acura nsx2016 acura nsxacuraacura nsxhondahonda performance manufacturing centernsxnsx conceptohio Sat, 18 May 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20568160/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/acura-nsx-to-be-built-in-north-america-in-2015/20568160/article-detail.xml 20568160 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-acura-nsx-concept-detroit_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-acura-nsx-concept-detroit.jpg <![CDATA[Wall Street loves Tesla's Elon Musk, values the brand higher than Fiat]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/tesla-stock-value-extremely-high-elon-musk/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/tesla-stock-value-extremely-high-elon-musk/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/tesla-stock-value-extremely-high-elon-musk/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

Tesla side marker

Tesla's value on the stock market far exceeds the number of vehicles it contributes to the automotive market. According to a report from Automotive News, Tesla is currently valued at US$8.8 billion. Almost unbelievably, though we've never claimed to have a firm grasp on the inner workings of the stock market, that's a full billion dollars more valuable than Fiat and three times more valuable than PSA Peugeot Citroën, says the report.

How unfathomable is that statistic? Consider the fact that Tesla, a ten-year-old company, just managed to turn its very first profit last quarter and has produced fewer than 10,000 vehicles in its lifetime. How does that compare to an automotive giant like Fiat? Well... it doesn't - The brand sold well over 50,000 cars in North America alone in 2012, and it owns or controls the Chrysler portfolio of brands along with Ferrari and Maserati... not to mention the hundreds of thousands of cars Fiat Group sells yearly in the rest of the world.

Granted, the number of vehicles sold by a brand is just a small portion of its value, but you may still wonder, why is such a seemingly small player in the global automotive marketplace such a big deal on Wall Street? According to AN, it has a lot to do with its controversial and headline-grabbing CEO, Elon Musk, and the way he disseminates company information to his investors. How so? We suggest you take a good look at the article here for the whole story.

Click through to get Musk's advice on starting a new business in the following video clip.

Gallery: Review: 2010 Tesla Roadster Sport






Continue reading Wall Street loves Tesla's Elon Musk, values the brand higher than Fiat

Wall Street loves Tesla's Elon Musk, values the brand higher than Fiat originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 18 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> elon muskfiatmuskstock marketteslatesla motorstesla roadstertesla stockTeslaMotorstsla Sat, 18 May 2013 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20568101/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/tesla-stock-value-extremely-high-elon-musk/20568101/article-detail.xml 20568101 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tesla-side-marker_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tesla-side-marker.jpg <![CDATA[Domestics win majority of annual Total Quality awards]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/domestics-win-majority-of-annual-total-quality-awards/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/domestics-win-majority-of-annual-total-quality-awards/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/18/domestics-win-majority-of-annual-total-quality-awards/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2013 Strategic Vision Total Quality

Strategic Vision has released its annual Total Quality awards, and some of the winners may come as a surprise. To quote Alexander Edwards, President of Strategic Vision, "For the first time in over a decade our comprehensive and complete study of Quality resulted in more domestic winners than imports."

That's not to say import brands performed poorly. Volkswagen was voted the best overall corporation in Total Quality for the eighth-straight year, and Audi tied with Lexus for the best individual brand. Breaking things down on a model-by-model basis, here are some notable victories: Scroll down below for the full list of winners, both import and domestic, in each and every category.

Gallery: Top 5 Celebrity Cars You Can Actually Afford






Continue reading Domestics win majority of annual Total Quality awards

Domestics win majority of annual Total Quality awards originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 18 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> auto qualityawardscar qualityquality awardsstrategic visiontestingtotal quality awards Sat, 18 May 2013 10:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20569919/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/18/domestics-win-majority-of-annual-total-quality-awards/20569919/article-detail.xml 20569919 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-total-quality_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-total-quality.png <![CDATA[Millionth Jeep Wrangler to roll off line this morning]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-roll-off-line/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-roll-off-line/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/17/millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-roll-off-line/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



According to a report on the Chrysler Communications Facebook page and one fairly grainy image of the production line, at around 11:00AM Eastern this morning, the one-millionth Jeep Wrangler JK will roll out of the company's Toledo assembly plant.

The third-generation or "JK" Jeep Wrangler has been around since the 2007 model year, and has obviously been more popular than ever. With a greater than ever number of trim levels, two-door and four-door Unlimited models and hardy off-roading Rubicon packages, the JK offers more to choose from than ever for those looking for something in a traditional Jeep. In fact, with the modern 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 powering it, the 2012 model year saw record sales.

With a model refresh due out for the Wrangler in 2015 (along with the likely addition of a diesel engine option), we expect that sales will continue to roll right along, too.

Click through to watch a Wrangler frolicking in the snow.

Gallery: 2013 Easter Jeep Safari Concepts






Continue reading Millionth Jeep Wrangler to roll off line this morning

Millionth Jeep Wrangler to roll off line this morning originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 jeep wranglerjeepjeep wranglerjk wranglerone millionth jeep wrangler jk Fri, 17 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20573814/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/17/millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-roll-off-line/20573814/article-detail.xml 20573814 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1-millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/1-millionth-jeep-wrangler-jk-628.jpg <![CDATA['Worldwide, every third Audi will be an SUV by 2020']]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/worldwide-every-third-audi-will-be-an-suv-by-2020/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/worldwide-every-third-audi-will-be-an-suv-by-2020/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/worldwide-every-third-audi-will-be-an-suv-by-2020/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,

2013 Audi Q5

Automotive News Europe reports the new Audi manufacturing facility in San Jose Chiapa, Mexico will increase the automaker's production capacity for the Q5 SUV by 150,000 units per year. While the plant will supply every market with the exception of China, most of the production is slated to head to the US market. Of course, plenty of units will be heading to all-wheel drive and SUV-hungry Canadian drivers.

While speaking with ANE, Audi CEO Rupert Stradler said, "Worldwide, every third Audi will be an SUV by 2020." So far this year, 40 per cent of Audi vehicles sold in the US market have been light trucks, with the company's sales in that segment jumping by 53 per cent. By comparison, Audi passenger car sales have increased by just one per cent.

The first Q5 vehicles from the San Hose Chiapa plant will show up on dealer lots in 2016. Click through to watch a video review of the Audi Q5 SUV.

Gallery: Audi Q5 S: Spy Shots






Continue reading 'Worldwide, every third Audi will be an SUV by 2020'

'Worldwide, every third Audi will be an SUV by 2020' originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 09 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 4wdall wheel driveaudiaudi crossoveraudi q5audi suvawdmexicosuv Thu, 09 May 2013 10:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20559015/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/worldwide-every-third-audi-will-be-an-suv-by-2020/20559015/article-detail.xml 20559015 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-audi-q5-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2013-audi-q5-628.jpg <![CDATA[Fisker-based Destino V8 still in the works, hundreds of Karma owners seek conversion]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/fisker-based-destino-still-in-the-works-100s-of-karma-owners-se/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/fisker-based-destino-still-in-the-works-100s-of-karma-owners-se/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/fisker-based-destino-still-in-the-works-100s-of-karma-owners-se/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , , , ,




Wards Auto reports the VL Productions Destino is still moving forward. As you may recall, that machine takes a Fisker Karma hybrid, guts the drivetrain and replaces it with a honking 556 horsepower V8 from General Motors. Bob Lutz, while speaking with Wards, confirmed that VL Productions had obtained 20 Karma "gliders" without a battery, engine or electric motor before Fisker announced its bankruptcy, and that VL may purchase Karma hybrids from dealers currently looking to dump their inventory. Lutz also says that hundreds of current Karma owners have approached VL Productions about the possibility of converting their hybrids to V8 power.

That conversion could cost between $85,000 and $95,000. Right now, VL has around 100 orders for standard Destino models, each with a price tag of $185,000. Not surprisingly, much of that demand has come from the Middle East. Wards reports that the first wave of deliveries are set to begin in the third quarter of this year. Buyers can expect to find a 6.2-litre, supercharged V8 engine lifted from the Cadillac CTS-V under the hood, coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Click through to watch a Fisker Karma test drive review.

Gallery: Fisker Karma second drive






Continue reading Fisker-based Destino V8 still in the works, hundreds of Karma owners seek conversion

Fisker-based Destino V8 still in the works, hundreds of Karma owners seek conversion originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 06 May 2013 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bob lutzdestinofiskerfisker karmakarmavl productions destino Mon, 06 May 2013 09:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20558994/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/fisker-based-destino-still-in-the-works-100s-of-karma-owners-se/20558994/article-detail.xml 20558994 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2012-fisker-karma-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/01-2012-fisker-karma-fd.jpg <![CDATA[BMW says current M3 sold out, no new AWD M models planned]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/bmw-says-current-m3-sold-out-no-new-awd-m-models-planned/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/bmw-says-current-m3-sold-out-no-new-awd-m-models-planned/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/06/bmw-says-current-m3-sold-out-no-new-awd-m-models-planned/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , , ,



Car and Driver asked the head of BMW M, Friedrich Nitschke, a few questions about what the go-fast division had in mind for the future, and was rewarded with some enlightening answers. The best news to purist ears is that Nitschke said customers don't want all-wheel drive on their M cars, so it's the rear wheels alone that will propel new product into the future. If you want both an M badge and four driven wheels, it's the X5 M, X6 M and M Performance models you're looking for in the catalog.

"Mixed bag" is the phrase you're looking for regarding the other answers. Nitschke said that future M engines "at the core of their architecture" would "be closer to BMW AG engines" that are optimized for M cars, instead of following in the line of unique marvels like the V10 and naturally aspirated V8. They will keep the high redlines, however, with Nitschke saying "there is room beyond" the 7,000 rpm mark in BMW's current V8 turbos.

Managing weight will keep the same priority for M that it is for every other brand, so electrically assisted power steering is coming, as is an "unconventional" materials mix. At the smaller end of the M scale, Nitschke described three-cylinder engines as "attractive," saying that the brand can produce more than 310 horsepower from a three-pot.

As for the current M3, it's all gone. Nitschke said the company has about six more months of coupe and convertible production, but the units to come already have customers "on principle." But if you've got cash-in-hand, don't be dismayed - we're confident your local Canadian BMW dealership can wrangle up an shiny new M3 on demand... while they last.

Click through to watch a video showing the M3 that started it all.

Gallery: BMW M3 CRT






Continue reading BMW says current M3 sold out, no new AWD M models planned

BMW says current M3 sold out, no new AWD M models planned originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 06 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bmwbmw mbmw m3bmw m4friedrich nitschkemm4 Mon, 06 May 2013 09:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20558989/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/06/bmw-says-current-m3-sold-out-no-new-awd-m-models-planned/20558989/article-detail.xml 20558989 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-m-future-details_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/bmw-m-future-details.jpg <![CDATA[Ford, Chyrsler and GM gain market share simultaneously for first time in 20 years]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/04/ford-gm-chrysler-detroit-automakers-gain-market-share-simultaneously-for-first-ti/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/04/ford-gm-chrysler-detroit-automakers-gain-market-share-simultaneously-for-first-ti/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/04/ford-gm-chrysler-detroit-automakers-gain-market-share-simultaneously-for-first-ti/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

General Motors, Ford and Chrysler logos

While monthly sales figures might be an easy way of tracking the progression of the auto industry and individual automakers, looking at market share might be more indicative of how each company is actually standing up against its competitors. For the Detroit Three automakers, they have collectively lost almost 30 per cent of the market over the last 20 years, but now, for the first time since 1993, Ford, General Motors and Chrysler have each posted market share gains at the same time.

According to Automotive News, Ford's share increased the most by 0.7 per cent, GM was up 0.5 per cent and Chrysler rose marginally by 0.2 per cent, giving the Detroit automakers a total market share of 45.6 percent. As for Japan's Big Three, the article reports that Toyota is up by 0.7 per cent, Nissan is down the same amount and Honda has seen "little change."

Scroll down to watch a video showing the history of the 'Big Three.'

Gallery: 2014 SRT Viper TA NYIAS




Continue reading Ford, Chyrsler and GM gain market share simultaneously for first time in 20 years

Ford, Chyrsler and GM gain market share simultaneously for first time in 20 years originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 04 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> big threechryslerdetroit threedomestic automakersearningsfinancial crisisfinancialsfordgeneral motorsgmprofitprofitsus market share Sat, 04 May 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20554641/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/04/ford-gm-chrysler-detroit-automakers-gain-market-share-simultaneously-for-first-ti/20554641/article-detail.xml 20554641 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/big-three-logos_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/big-three-logos.jpg <![CDATA[Honda boss says Chinese drivers don't want green cars]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/honda-boss-says-chinese-drivers-dont-want-green-cars/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/honda-boss-says-chinese-drivers-dont-want-green-cars/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/27/honda-boss-says-chinese-drivers-dont-want-green-cars/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Honda Concept M minivan for 2013 Shanghai Motor Show

According to The Wall Street Journal, Honda CEO Takanobu Ito believes that China's nascent car-buying demographic isn't all that interested in hybrid cars - at least not yet. The emissions story doesn't resonate with them, and certainly not for the higher purchase premium such models usually carry. What they really want, Ito believes, is reliable, affordable cars that fit their needs. When it comes to Honda sales, the numbers would appear to jibe with his thoughts: Honda sold 598,577 vehicles in China last year through its two joint ventures, yet just 542 of them were hybrids - not even a tenth of a per cent. However, Toyota sold 840,500 cars in China last year, and two per cent of that total, 17,300 units, were hybrids, which is closer to the still-piddling three-per cent ratio of sales that Toyota posted in the North American market last year.

Honda offers the Insight, Fit Hybrid and CR-Z in China and plans to make components for its Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system there from next year, the hope being it will reduce the cost of hybrid cars for local buyers. That was one part of the plan Honda laid out last year to popularize its IMA system in China. Other initiatives include the introduction of a new hybrid system for mid-sized and large vehicles and a plug-in hybrid. Among the four new vehicles Honda showed during this weekend's press day for the Shanghai Motor Show (including the Concept M minivan pictured above) there was not a single hybrid among them.

Click through to watch a video on the progress of Chinese cars in the global market.

Gallery: Honda Concept C & Concept S







Continue reading Honda boss says Chinese drivers don't want green cars

Honda boss says Chinese drivers don't want green cars originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 27 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> car saleschinachina hybridsChinese car marketchinese car saleshondahonda hybridhybridtakanobu ito Sat, 27 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20548218/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/27/honda-boss-says-chinese-drivers-dont-want-green-cars/20548218/article-detail.xml 20548218 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/honda-concept-m_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/honda-concept-m.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat builds 1 millionth 500, still a ways to go before passing original]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/fiat-builds-1-millionth-500-still-a-ways-to-go-before-passing-o/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/fiat-builds-1-millionth-500-still-a-ways-to-go-before-passing-o/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/fiat-builds-1-millionth-500-still-a-ways-to-go-before-passing-o/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , , ,



Canadians have a soft spot for diminutive hatchbacks, note our love affair with the Volkswagen Golf, Mini Cooper and Fiat 500. There are now 1.1 million examples of the new Fiat 500 cruising the roads of 83 countries, one million of them made at the Fiat's Tychy plant in Poland, the rest in the Fiat plant in Toluca, Mexico. It's taken 69 months since the car's 2007 launch to reach the milestone, the capstone hatchback being an Abarth 500.

Where does that fit into the historical context? We'll never know, since you can't really compare. But if we played with the numbers, according to Automania, Fiat built 3,893,294 of the original 500 (and variants) from its inception in 1957 to the last model being sent off in 1975. If we average the output over time, and assume an even 18-year production run, the total production divided by 216 months is about 18,025 cars per month, which would make for 1,243,725 cars in 69 months.

On the other hand, the first two generations of the early 500 didn't equate to a million units in eight years, so congratulations Fiat. There's a brief press release below with a few more details on the achievement.

Scroll down to watch a video review of the Fiat 500 Abarth convertible.

Gallery: 2014 Fiat 500L: First Drive






Continue reading Fiat builds 1 millionth 500, still a ways to go before passing original

Fiat builds 1 millionth 500, still a ways to go before passing original originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> abarthby the numberscar plantcar plantscar productioncar salesfiatfiat 500fiat 500 abarthfinancialsmanufacturingpolandproductionsalessales figurestychy Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20547091/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/fiat-builds-1-millionth-500-still-a-ways-to-go-before-passing-o/20547091/article-detail.xml 20547091 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/million-fiat-500_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/million-fiat-500.jpg <![CDATA[Buyers want a good deal more than latest design]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/buyers-want-a-good-deal-more-than-latest-design/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/buyers-want-a-good-deal-more-than-latest-design/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/24/buyers-want-a-good-deal-more-than-latest-design/#comments Filed under: , , ,



A new study by AutoTrader.com indicates buyers are less interested in new designs than automakers may think. In an online survey of car shoppers, 57 per cent said they do not feel it's important to have the latest redesign, while 79 per cent said they would rather take advantage of a good deal on a current model rather than delay their purchase to wait for the newest iteration. We feel inclined to point out that the results may be skewed toward the inclinations of bargain shoppers, as the survey polled AutoTrader.com users.

Even so, the numbers indicate the automotive sector may be experiencing the same shift in buyer trends as the consumer electronics market. Apple, for instance, saw a huge swell in sales when the company began offering older generation iPhone units at a lower cost alongside the newest models.

Still, buyers keep a close eye on the newest cars. The survey revealed 47 per cent of respondents believe it's important to be aware of upcoming redesigns, while 56 per cent actively search for those redesigns, though buyers are using that information as a bargaining tool to get a good deal on vehicles currently for sale.

You can check out the full press release below for more information, then check out the end-of-year car buying video tutorial.

Gallery: Citation Motors abandoned BMW dealership

Continue reading Buyers want a good deal more than latest design

Buyers want a good deal more than latest design originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> car buyingcar designdealdealsdesignredesignstyle Wed, 24 Apr 2013 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20542212/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/24/buyers-want-a-good-deal-more-than-latest-design/20542212/article-detail.xml 20542212 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-fusion-car-lot-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-fusion-car-lot-628.jpg <![CDATA[All you ever wanted to know about '57 Chevy thefts]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-57-chevy-thefts/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-57-chevy-thefts/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/21/all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-57-chevy-thefts/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

1957 Chevrolet

The US-based National Insurance Crime Bureau has taken a closer look at just how often 1957 Chevrolet vehicles have been stolen since the car first rolled off the assembly line some 56 years ago. As you may recollect, someone pilfered TV personality Phil McGraw's example from a repair shop in Burbank, CA. As one of 42 '57 Chevy thefts in 2012, the US$100,000 two-door wasn't alone. All told, California accounts for the bulk of the classic model's thefts at 6,700 between 1958 and last year, followed by Texas at 2,171 and New York at 1,286.

The car was particularly popular in 1972, when 3,071 examples were stolen from their owners nationwide. Thieves targeted the cars heavily for a five-year run between 1969 and 1974. There is some good news for McGraw, however. Police busted an auto theft ring in the LA area in December, and his '57 was among those found at the location. Check out the full press release below for more information.

Gallery: 22nd Seal Beach Classic Car Show






Continue reading All you ever wanted to know about '57 Chevy thefts

All you ever wanted to know about '57 Chevy thefts originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1957 chevrolet57 chevycar theftcar theftscar theivesdoctor philgrand theft autophil mcgraw Sun, 21 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20544684/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/21/all-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-57-chevy-thefts/20544684/article-detail.xml 20544684 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/1957-chevrolet-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/1957-chevrolet-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ford celebrates 1 millionth Mustang built at Flat Rock]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/ford-celebrates-1-millionth-mustang-built-at-flat-rock/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/ford-celebrates-1-millionth-mustang-built-at-flat-rock/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/18/ford-celebrates-1-millionth-mustang-built-at-flat-rock/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Yesterday, the Ford Mustang turned 49 years old, and Ford didn't miss the opportunity to celebrate the one millionth version of the Mustang rolling off the assembly line at the Flat Rock Assembly plant in the US. Production of the Mustang at Flat Rock coincided with the fifth-generation design launching in 2004, and the one millionth car was the car shown above, a 2014 GT convertible painted in Ruby Red.

In total, Ford has sold more than 8.5 million Mustangs since the original car went on sale, but some of the key milestones over the car's nine years at Flat Rock include the Shelby GT-H, Bullitt, Boss 302 and, of course, the 662-horsepower Shelby GT500.

Scroll down to watch a video review of the 2013 Ford Mustang GT 5.0, then check out Ford's press release celebrating Flat Rock's milestone Mustang.

Gallery: Retrobuilt 1969 Mustang Fastback: First Drive






Continue reading Ford celebrates 1 millionth Mustang built at Flat Rock

Ford celebrates 1 millionth Mustang built at Flat Rock originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 1 million mustang1 millionth mustang2014 ford mustangflat rock assemblyfordford mustangone million mustangone millionth ford mustangone millionth mustang Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20544625/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/18/ford-celebrates-1-millionth-mustang-built-at-flat-rock/20544625/article-detail.xml 20544625 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/millionth-ford-mustang_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/millionth-ford-mustang.jpg <![CDATA[Ford to build Explorer in Russia to meet high demand [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/ford-to-build-explorer-in-russia-to-meet-demand-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/ford-to-build-explorer-in-russia-to-meet-demand-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/16/ford-to-build-explorer-in-russia-to-meet-demand-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



The current Ford Explorer is sold in more than 64 countries, and this three-row vehicle continues to grow in popularity worldwide. To keep up with demand, Ford began producing the Explorer at Ford Sollers Elabuga Assembly Plant in Tatarstan, Russia, a joint venture facility. This partnership will build Russian-market Explorers only, and production of export vehicles not destined for Russian buyers will continue to be built at Ford's assembly plant in Chicago.

Before this plant went online, Ford would ship Explorers to Russia (and other regions around the world) as partially assembled knock-down units where final assembly would eventually take place. While there is no indication as to how many Explorers Ford Sollers will build for Russia, Ford did add that exports of the SUV were up 65 per cent last year (from 2011) accounting for more than 24,000 units.

Scroll down for a press release about the Russian Explorer as well as a video (bad music and all) showing the SUV being produced in Tatarstan, then check out a video review comparison between the Explorer and its competition.

Gallery: 2013 Ford Explorer Sport


Continue reading Ford to build Explorer in Russia to meet high demand [w/video]

Ford to build Explorer in Russia to meet high demand [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> car plantfordford explorerford russiamanufacturingnaftaplantrussiarussian carrussian car plantrussian industry Tue, 16 Apr 2013 18:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20540727/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/16/ford-to-build-explorer-in-russia-to-meet-demand-w-video/20540727/article-detail.xml 20540727 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-explorer-russia_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/ford-explorer-russia.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota unintended acceleration lawsuit settled for $16M]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/toyota-unintended-acceleration-lawsuit-settled-for-16m/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/toyota-unintended-acceleration-lawsuit-settled-for-16m/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/toyota-unintended-acceleration-lawsuit-settled-for-16m/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



Slowly, the many loose threads still dangling after the unintended acceleration issue Toyota faced a few years ago are being resolved. Many have decided to take Toyota to court, their suits alleging that Toyota knew its cars had defects and continued to sell them. A recent suit sought to "permanently enjoin Toyota from continued unlawful, unfair, deceptive, and fraudulent business practices as it pertains to both consumers and competitors" and asked for $2,500 "for every violation of the Unfair Business Practices Act," plus costs.

That suit has now been settled, Toyota - without admitting fault or wrongdoing - agreed to pay US$16 million to the US government after being sued by the district attorney. Half of the money will go to the Orange County Gang Reduction Intervention Partnership, another four million dollars to the Orange County DA's office to investigate economic crime, the remaining four million being used to pay for the case.

Scroll down to watch a video on the unintended acceleration debacle.

Gallery: 2014 Toyota Highlander






Continue reading Toyota unintended acceleration lawsuit settled for $16M

Toyota unintended acceleration lawsuit settled for $16M originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> californiacourtlawsuitlegalorange countytony rackauckastoyotatoyota accelerationtoyota unintended acceleratonunintended acceleration Sat, 13 Apr 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20533527/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/13/toyota-unintended-acceleration-lawsuit-settled-for-16m/20533527/article-detail.xml 20533527 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/gyi0059502379opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/gyi0059502379opt.jpg <![CDATA[BMW planning Zhi Nuo Chinese sub-brand, may export models]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/bmw-planning-zhi-nuo-chinese-sub-brand-may-export-models/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/bmw-planning-zhi-nuo-chinese-sub-brand-may-export-models/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/13/bmw-planning-zhi-nuo-chinese-sub-brand-may-export-models/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2012 BMW X1 - front three-quarter view

Automakers continue to pour big money into the developing market that is China, and new sub-brands born of joint ventures with domestic partners crop up on what seems like a weekly basis. The latest? According to reports, BMW and its Chinese ally Brilliance are forming a new sub-brand called Zhi Nuo ("The Promise") that will likely rely on existing or older BMW products as a basis for new models.

Previous reports had indicated that the sub-brand could build its offerings based on an older 3 Series model (presumably the E90 series), but newer rumours have the X1 crossover (shown) factoring in. The Zhi Nuo brand could receive its official unveiling as soon as late this month at the Shanghai Motor Show.

Perhaps most interestingly, Automotive News Europe reports that the automaker's ambitions for Zhi Nuo may extend beyond China's borders. It's not clear what markets BMW may be eying, but executives admit the company hasn't ruled out Europe.

Scroll down to watch a video showing BMW engine production in a Chinese factory.

Gallery: BMW X4 Concept Photos






Continue reading BMW planning Zhi Nuo Chinese sub-brand, may export models

BMW planning Zhi Nuo Chinese sub-brand, may export models originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 13 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 3 seriesauto plantauto plantsbmwbmw chinabrilliancebrilliance automotivechinachinesechinese carchinese carse90manufacturingplantproductionx1zhi nuo Sat, 13 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20533819/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/13/bmw-planning-zhi-nuo-chinese-sub-brand-may-export-models/20533819/article-detail.xml 20533819 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-bmw-x1-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2013-bmw-x1-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Lincoln needs a farewell address, not a new marketing plan]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/lincoln-needs-a-farewell-address-not-a-new-marketing-plan/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/lincoln-needs-a-farewell-address-not-a-new-marketing-plan/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/lincoln-needs-a-farewell-address-not-a-new-marketing-plan/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Lincoln grille

The trouble with Ford's Lincoln brand is that no one cares about it any more.

Not long after I heard that Mark LaNeve, chief operating officer of Ford agency Team Detroit, was moving to take over direct operations of the New York ad agency Hudson Rouge for Lincoln, I heard that JCPenney CEO Ron Johnson was ousted (JCPenney is a US chain store not unlike Sears Canada - and yes, there are parallels here). The two events are connected.

There can be all sorts of reasons why LaNeve, former head of sales and marketing at General Motors, is taking over the office that was under the direction of Cameron McNaughton since it was opened last year to serve Lincoln. But the bottom line reason: The plan to save Lincoln is not working.

As I was listening to the discussion about JCPenney's Johnson and his mistakes, I heard two talking heads discussing it. One said it perfectly: "Johnson's mistake was not in moving JCPenney to an everyday low-pricing strategy, it was taking the job in the first place. JCPenney has no reason to exist. It's reason for being is gone. It was once the place where America bought its underwear, but now they buy their underwear all sorts of other places."

I have been saying for about two years now that the trouble with Ford's Lincoln brand is that no one cares about it any more. Okay, Lincoln dealers and some current and ex-Ford employees, some of those in the airport livery and hearse businesses care. That's not a business model, though. Ford is going to try and force Lincoln on China, I hear. The Chinese want Lincoln? I doubt that.

Continue reading Lincoln needs a farewell address, not a new marketing plan

Lincoln needs a farewell address, not a new marketing plan originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> bankruptbankruptcycar buyingearningsfinancialsfordlincolnopinion Tue, 09 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20536249/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/lincoln-needs-a-farewell-address-not-a-new-marketing-plan/20536249/article-detail.xml 20536249 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/630x397xlinocln-emblem.jpg.pagespeed.ic.mzUqDHU_ci_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/630x397xlinocln-emblem.jpg.pagespeed.ic.mzUqDHU_ci.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac ATS fuels brand revival]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/cadillac-cts-revival-is-taking-hold/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/cadillac-cts-revival-is-taking-hold/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/08/cadillac-cts-revival-is-taking-hold/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



Only a flatworm would not have predicted the Cadillac ATS would help increase sales for America's erstwhile luxury brand of record; however, even the best automotive oracles didn't realize by how much: The ATS fueled a 49 per cent increase of the brand's year-on-year sales in March, the sixth straight month of growth for Cadillac. The momentum helped push General Motors to post a 6.4 per cent increase in sales in March versus 2012, leading its domestic competitors.

Dealership salesmen are among the first to register the shift occurring at Cadillac. A dealer related an incident in which he helped a mother affix a baby seat in a car for a test drive, explaining that as opposed to the older buyers that are still a Cadillac mainstay he's getting "a pretty diverse group that's coming through the door now" who are "younger and better educated." Aided by incentives on the ATS, Cadillac's sales are up 38 per cent so far this year, overtaking Acura as the fourth best selling luxury brand, and GM stock is benefiting with incremental gains because of it. Based on early response, the new 2014 Cadillac CTS should keep things going in the same direction.

The trend at the Wreath and Crest is part of a larger sales trend happening among domestics - with other models like the Dodge Dart and Ford Fusion doing well - and overall North American car sales. Head over to Bloomberg for the big picture and role the ATS plays in it.

Click through to watch the new 2014 Cadillac CTS in video action.

Gallery: 2014 Cadillac CTS: New York 2013





Continue reading Cadillac ATS fuels brand revival

Cadillac ATS fuels brand revival originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 08 Apr 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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