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[2014 Jeep Cherokee facing production delay]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/2014-jeep-cherokee-facing-production-delay/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/2014-jeep-cherokee-facing-production-delay/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/25/2014-jeep-cherokee-facing-production-delay/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

2014 Jeep Cherokee - front three-quarter view

Jeep's bold-faced new direction spearheaded by the 2014 Cherokee is facing some teething issues. According to a report by the Detroit Free Press, production start-up of the controversial new utility vehicle at its Toledo North facility is running about a month behind schedule "due to a wide range of issues." That's according to Mark Chernoby, senior vice president of engineering at Chrysler.

Chernoby maintains that the issues being encountered aren't unusual for the launch of a new vehicle - particularly one with a new powertrain - and he downplayed the delay, telling Jeep dealers that they "will have ample inventory of the midsize SUV by fall." Among the kinks being worked out? Calibrating the Cherokee's cutting-edge ZF nine-speed automatic transmission and refining assembly line tasks to make the process more efficient.

Chrysler expects to start building retail-ready versions of the Cherokee around mid-June, with official sales slated to start in September.

Scroll down to watch a video showing the Cherokee off-road.

Gallery: 2014 Jeep Cherokee: New York 2013






Continue reading 2014 Jeep Cherokee facing production delay

2014 Jeep Cherokee facing production delay originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 25 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 jeep cherokeejeepjeep cherokeemark chernoby Sat, 25 May 2013 14:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20574001/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/25/2014-jeep-cherokee-facing-production-delay/20574001/article-detail.xml 20574001 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-jeep-cherokee-628-2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2014-jeep-cherokee-628-2.jpg <![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[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[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[Harley-Davidson killing six models for 2014]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/harley-davidson-killing-six-models-for-2014/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/harley-davidson-killing-six-models-for-2014/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/12/harley-davidson-killing-six-models-for-2014/#comments Filed under: ,

Harley-Davidson FLHRC Road King Classic - profile view

Harley-Davidson is making some room on its dealers' showroom floors. The motorcycle manufacturer has announced it will kill off a total of six models for 2014, including the XR1200X Sportster, FXS Softail Blackline and the FLHTC Electra Glide Classic. The company says it's pulling the plug on the bikes to "optimize the number of choices available," according to VisorDown, and to "reduce product overlap." We imagine it also has something to do with the fact that Harley-Davidson saw sales decline by more than 9 per cent year over year despite an increase in profits in 2012.

Much of that sales decline can be attributed to lackluster demand in the USA. The manufacturer will axe the FLHRC Road King Classic in North America only, while the FLHR Road King will fall off of the order books in other markets. Don't expect to see the FLTRX Road Glide Custom or the FLTRU Road Glide Ultra in 2014, either, though Harley-Davidson promises both bikes will return after a redesign.

Click here to take a trip to the Harley-Davidson museum in the video below.

Gallery: 2011 Harley-Davidson CVO Road Glide Ultra










Continue reading Harley-Davidson killing six models for 2014

Harley-Davidson killing six models for 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 12 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> harley davidsonharley davidson fxs softail blacklineharley-davidsonharley-davidson flhr road kingharley-davidson flhtc electra glide classicharley-davidson fltru road glide ultraharley-davidson fltrx road glide customharley-davidson xr1200xmotorcycle Sun, 12 May 2013 10:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20553378/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/12/harley-davidson-killing-six-models-for-2014/20553378/article-detail.xml 20553378 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/flhrc-road-king-classic-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/flhrc-road-king-classic-628.jpg <![CDATA[Ferrari looking to become even more exclusive]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/ferrari-looking-to-become-even-more-exclusive/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/ferrari-looking-to-become-even-more-exclusive/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/ferrari-looking-to-become-even-more-exclusive/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



While most automakers are clawing and scratching for every possible sale, it sounds like Ferrari is content in losing a few potential customers in the name of better exclusivity and higher profits. Autocar reports that Ferrari chairman Luca di Montezemolo recently stated that the Italian automaker hopes to sell fewer than 7,000 units globally in 2013 compared to last year's tally of 7,318.

As a part of this plan, Ferrari will be slowing its production lines and trying to create a balanced market for its cars in the North America, the Middle East, Europe and China - the latter two being the automaker's biggest markets. Montezemolo also said that Ferrari would not be expanding its model lineup with SUVs, sedans or small cars.

Click here to watch what happens when a few kids get the keys to a Ferrari from their dad.

Continue reading Ferrari looking to become even more exclusive

Ferrari looking to become even more exclusive originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> ferrariferrari productionferrari salesluca di montezemolo Fri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20564557/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/ferrari-looking-to-become-even-more-exclusive/20564557/article-detail.xml 20564557 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-ferrari-f12-berlinetta-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/2013-ferrari-f12-berlinetta-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Ford rethinking vehicle launch strategy]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/ford-rethinking-vehicle-launch-strategy/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/ford-rethinking-vehicle-launch-strategy/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/07/ford-rethinking-vehicle-launch-strategy/#comments Filed under: , ,



With a new boss at the helm, Ford is looking at new ways to improve its vehicle launches in North America to prevent recent issues that have popped up with models like the Lincoln MKZ, Ford Escape and Ford Fusion. Speaking with Automotive News, Ford's new president of the Americas, Joe Hinrichs, revealed a few ways the automaker plans to avoid early build issues such as the engine fires on certain 2013 Escape and Fusion models and months-long delays for customers to receive their MKZs.

It sounds like the root of the problems may have been Ford's relationship with suppliers compounded by the fact that the product surge came on the heels of the recent industry-crippling recession, and in the AN article, Hinrichs says improvements are being made to reduce problems during the launch of new or redesigned models. Three such improvements that were implemented during the first quarter of this year including more rigorous quality comparisons, better use of computer technology to catch major problems sooner and hiring engineers to work closer with suppliers.

Click here to watch an interview with the workers of the Ford Louisville assembly plant, where the new Ford Escape is being assembled.

Gallery: 2013 Ford Escape VS. 2013 Mazda CX-5

Continue reading Ford rethinking vehicle launch strategy

Ford rethinking vehicle launch strategy originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 07 May 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fordford motor companyjoe hinrichslincolnquality control Tue, 07 May 2013 17:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20560933/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/07/ford-rethinking-vehicle-launch-strategy/20560933/article-detail.xml 20560933 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-lincoln-mkz-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-lincoln-mkz-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Explosion at Magna auto parts plant in Newmarket, Ontario injures nine]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/explosion-at-magna-auto-parts-plant-in-newmarket-injures-six/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/explosion-at-magna-auto-parts-plant-in-newmarket-injures-six/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/05/02/explosion-at-magna-auto-parts-plant-in-newmarket-injures-six/#comments Filed under: ,


A dangerous explosion and fire suddenly erupted at a Magna International auto parts factory in Newmarket, Ontario, leaving nine workers injured and six of them sent to hospital. The factory was quickly evacuated following the blast and the exact cause of the explosion is still unclear.

Fortunately, the victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries, as Magna released a written statement indicating the incident occurred on a manufacturing line at their Dortec Industries plant which manufactures door modules, locks, latches and other components for vehicles.

The incident could cause issues with the supply chain for many vehicle manufacturing plants here in North America. Magna International is a major automotive supplier with BMW, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Toyota and Volkswagen among its clients.

According to reports, Police say there is no evidence that the explosion is criminal in nature, as York Regional Police and Ontario Ministry of Labour officials continue investigating the incident.

Click here to watch the news report for yourself.

Gallery: Man survives acetylene explosion inside inside FJ Cruiser

Continue reading Explosion at Magna auto parts plant in Newmarket, Ontario injures nine

Explosion at Magna auto parts plant in Newmarket, Ontario injures nine originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 02 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dortecdortec industriesexplosionfactoryfactory explosionmagnamagna internationalnewmarket explosionnewmarket magnaplant explosion Thu, 02 May 2013 11:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20554820/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/02/explosion-at-magna-auto-parts-plant-in-newmarket-injures-six/20554820/article-detail.xml 20554820 http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/magna_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/ca.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/magna.jpg <![CDATA[Toyota keeps world's largest automaker crown, GM and VW close behind [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/toyota-maintains-worlds-largest-automaker-crown-gm-and-vw-clos/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/toyota-maintains-worlds-largest-automaker-crown-gm-and-vw-clos/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/25/toyota-maintains-worlds-largest-automaker-crown-gm-and-vw-clos/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

Toyota badge

Toyota still holds the title of World's Largest Automaker. The Japanese automaker ceded the claim to General Motors in 2011 following a series of natural and man-made disasters that stifled production in Asia. Production is back up to full speed and, coupled with the introduction of a new Camry midsize sedan, Toyota retook the title in 2012 and has so far been able to keep it by selling 2.43 million vehicles in the first quarter of 2013.

The race is still tight - General Motors reports sales of 2.36 million vehicles, earning it the second spot globally with Volkswagen's 2.27 million sales nabbing the German automaker third place. It's not all smooth sailing for Toyota, either, as the brand's first-quarter figures were down 2.2 per cent when compared to last year. GM posted a 3.6 per cent gain and VW managed a 5.1 per cent gain over the same period.

Sales in China may be a deciding factor as to which automaker performs best in 2013. Toyota's figures were down 13 per cent in China. Meanwhile, GM and VW are continuing their upward trajectories in the crucial Chinese market.

As ever, each of the automakers says publicly it doesn't care much about the title. Shino Yamada, a spokesperson for Toyota, told The Washington Post, "Rather than pursuing numbers, we try to sell one car at a time, producing good cars. We aren't focused on being number one." GM spokesperson Jim Cain echoed a similar note, saying, "A day doesn't go by that we don't try to increase our sales all over the world."

Click here to watch a video report on the close car sales battle that's been brewing.


Gallery: Top 10 Cheapest Cars in Canada

Volkswagen Jetta - $14,990Honda Fit DX - $14,580Smart fortwo coupe - $14,400Toyota Yaris hatchback CE - $14,250Mazda2 - $14,095

Continue reading Toyota keeps world's largest automaker crown, GM and VW close behind [w/video]

Toyota keeps world's largest automaker crown, GM and VW close behind [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> automaker salesgmtoyotavwworlds largest automaker Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:59:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20549100/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/25/toyota-maintains-worlds-largest-automaker-crown-gm-and-vw-clos/20549100/article-detail.xml 20549100 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/toyota-fascia-badge_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/toyota-fascia-badge.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[Acura built just 91 examples of the ILX last month, here's why]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/acura-built-just-91-examples-of-the-ilx-last-month-heres-why/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/acura-built-just-91-examples-of-the-ilx-last-month-heres-why/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/acura-built-just-91-examples-of-the-ilx-last-month-heres-why/#comments Filed under: , ,

2013 Acura ILX

The short life of the Acura ILX has been vexed by one glaringly odd standard equipment choice, mediocre reviews, getting outsold by its competition as it posted slower-than-projected sales and a pledge by Honda to upgrade its supposedly upgraded offering. Therefore, when Automotive News reports that just 91 of the Civic-based Acura sedans were manufactured last month - after a string of production months in double-digits - it would be easy to press the button for the alarm bells.

But that would be hasty, because it is actually the 2013 Honda Civic that is crimping the production pipeline of the ILX. The vastly higher sales numbers of the Honda meant that all three North American plants that produce it needed to crank up output to satisfy dealer inventory needs, including the Greenburg, Indiana plant that makes both the Civic and the ILX. As the classic guns-vs-butter Economy 101 lesson taught us - in which making more of one necessarily means making less of the other - well, the Civic is the gun.

Honda prepared for this eventuality by cranking out the Acuras while it got ready for Civic production. The ILX has held steady at about 500 units shy of company projections every month, and the current inventory represents about 90 days worth of sales. That makes Greenburg's ostensibly low numbers in line with the realities of the ILX, and the situation probably won't change much as Acura gets ready for the improved 2014 ILX.

Click to check out a video overview of the 2013 ILX.

Continue reading Acura built just 91 examples of the ILX last month, here's why

Acura built just 91 examples of the ILX last month, here's why originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 acura ilxacuraacura ilxgreenburghondahonda civicindiana Sat, 20 Apr 2013 18:50:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20545351/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/acura-built-just-91-examples-of-the-ilx-last-month-heres-why/20545351/article-detail.xml 20545351 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/01-2013-acura-ilx-review-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/01-2013-acura-ilx-review-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Lexus ES350 confirmed for US production starting in 2015]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/lexus-es350-confirmed-for-kentucky-production-starting-in-2015/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/lexus-es350-confirmed-for-kentucky-production-starting-in-2015/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/20/lexus-es350-confirmed-for-kentucky-production-starting-in-2015/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



Following Thursday's report, Toyota has confirmed that production of the Lexus ES will move to its Georgetown, KY assembly plant starting in 2015. To accommodate the extra 50,000 units of capacity that the ES represents, Toyota will be investing US$360 million in the plant and hiring 750 new workers.

In the previous report, sources stated that the state of Kentucky had offered Toyota as much as US$146.5 million to move ES production to the Georgetown facility.

The press release, posted below, specifies that only the ES350 will be built in Kentucky, so it's likely that the ES300h hybrid will continue to be built in Japan - where all ES models have been built since the car was introduced in 1989. Toyota's Georgetown plant, which currently builds the Toyota Camry, will also be getting an expansion to its engine plant to produce more four-cylinder engines at a cost of $30 million and will create an additional 80 jobs.

Continue reading Lexus ES350 confirmed for US production starting in 2015

Lexus ES350 confirmed for US production starting in 2015 originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> georgetown kentuckylexuslexus eslexus es350made in americatoyota motor manufacturing kentucky Sat, 20 Apr 2013 17:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20545793/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/20/lexus-es350-confirmed-for-kentucky-production-starting-in-2015/20545793/article-detail.xml 20545793 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-lexus-es-350-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-lexus-es-350-review.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[2014 Jeep Cherokee will keep Liberty designation in China... sort of]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/2014-jeep-cherokee-will-keep-liberty-designation-in-china-sor/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/2014-jeep-cherokee-will-keep-liberty-designation-in-china-sor/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/17/2014-jeep-cherokee-will-keep-liberty-designation-in-china-sor/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2014 Jeep Cherokee

Chinese buyers will get their first live look at the 2014 Jeep Cherokee during the Shanghai Motor Show, but CarNewsChina is reporting that it will go by a different name - Ziyou Guan, which translates to "Liberty Light." The article states that the Jeep Liberty was never sold in China, but the iconic XJ Cherokee was sold and produced there as the Qinuoji (a phonetic translation of Cherokee).

The new Jeep Liberty Light will be built alongside the Fiat Viaggio (China's Fiat-badged version of the Dodge Dart) at the Guangzhou-Fiat plant, and the two models will share the same powertrains: a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder base engine paired to a five-speed manual or a dual-clutch transmission and a 2.4-litre four-cylinder (the base engine for the North American-spec 2014 Cherokee) as an optional engine. It doesn't sound like the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 will be offered in China.

We'll be on hand when the new Jeep debuts in Shanghai, so stay tuned to Autoblog this Friday night and Saturday for our live coverage of the show and click here for a closer look in our previous Jeep photo gallery and video below.


Gallery: 2014 Jeep Cherokee

Continue reading 2014 Jeep Cherokee will keep Liberty designation in China... sort of

2014 Jeep Cherokee will keep Liberty designation in China... sort of originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 jeep cherokeejeepjeep cherokeejeep ziyou guanshanghaishanghai 2013shanghai motor show Wed, 17 Apr 2013 13:31:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20543614/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/17/2014-jeep-cherokee-will-keep-liberty-designation-in-china-sor/20543614/article-detail.xml 20543614 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/jeepcherokee11-opt_thumbnail.png http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/jeepcherokee11-opt.png <![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[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[2014 Chevy Impala production commences in Oshawa]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2014-chevy-impala-production-commences/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2014-chevy-impala-production-commences/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/01/2014-chevy-impala-production-commences/#comments Filed under: , ,

2014 Chevrolet Impala production gets underway in Canada - image of cars coming off the line

Production of the tenth-generation Chevrolet Impala began today on April Fools' Day, with the first 2014 model rolling of the line at the company's Oshawa, Ontario assembly plant. The new Impala, which will be produced at General Motors' Detroit-Hamtramck plant in addition to the Oshawa plant, is expected to make an appearance in showrooms later this month. Impala assembly in Detroit will begin in May of this year.

The full-size Impala will come to market with an engine lineup that includes a 2.5-litre four-cylinder, a 2.4-litre four with the company's eAssist mild hybrid technology, and the 3.6-litre V6 that we sampled a few weeks ago. Sadly for the trivia buffs among us, Chevy didn't provide any specification information or other facts about the first-ever 2014 Impala.

Scroll down to read Chevy's brief press release and view our full photo gallery.


Gallery: 2014 Chevrolet Impala

Continue reading 2014 Chevy Impala production commences in Oshawa

2014 Chevy Impala production commences in Oshawa originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2014 chevy impalachevychevy impalaoshawa Mon, 01 Apr 2013 17:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20525397/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/01/2014-chevy-impala-production-commences/20525397/article-detail.xml 20525397 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-chevrolet-impala-oshawa-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/2014-chevrolet-impala-oshawa-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lincoln says MKZ supply crisis over]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/lincoln-says-mkz-supply-crisis-over/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/lincoln-says-mkz-supply-crisis-over/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/lincoln-says-mkz-supply-crisis-over/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



After an excessive number of recalls on the 2013 Escape and Fusion, we can't really fault Ford for being a little extra cautious with the launch of the 2013 Lincoln MKZ. Dealer supply of the car has been extremely limited due to more attention being paid to quality checks of cars rolling off the assembly line, which led to a 73 per cent drop in MKZ sales from last year on top of a 32-year low in monthly sales for Lincoln in January.

The reason for the delay was that the sedans were being shipped from the Hermosillo, Mexico assembly plant to be inspected even closer at Ford's Flat Rock, Michigan plant before they were able to head to dealers. Things seem to be straightening out for Lincoln and the MKZ's production now, as Automotive News is reporting that supply should be up to a "normal level" by the end of this month.

Click through to watch a video on the MKZ's unique sunroof.

Gallery: 2013 Lincoln MKZ: New York 2012

Continue reading Lincoln says MKZ supply crisis over

Lincoln says MKZ supply crisis over originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 30 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 lincoln mkzlincolnlincoln mkzlincoln mkz productionlincoln mkz supplymkz Sat, 30 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20516557/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/30/lincoln-says-mkz-supply-crisis-over/20516557/article-detail.xml 20516557 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-lincoln-mkz-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/2013-lincoln-mkz-fd.jpg <![CDATA[How do you say 'dead VW' in Spanish? Seat needs to double its sales if it wants to survive]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/vws-seat-unit-needs-to-double-its-sales-if-it-wants-to-survive/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/vws-seat-unit-needs-to-double-its-sales-if-it-wants-to-survive/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/30/vws-seat-unit-needs-to-double-its-sales-if-it-wants-to-survive/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,



Almost four years ago Seat got a new CEO, James Muir, tasked with the job of creating a sustainably profitable division out of Volkswagen's Spanish brand. Three years ago Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn publicly explained that the Spanish VW brand was getting its last chance, but Muir and a healthy shot of new investment and new product worked like a trick: 18 months later Winterkorn publicly stated his pleasure at Seat's continuing turnaround, and earlier this month Muir was talking up the brand's increased sales in the UK and Germany.

There's more to be done, though. Muir has said that last year's sales of 320,000 cars is half of what is needed for Seat to gain long-term success. It currently makes 15 models in seven model lines, and Muir believes that Seat ultimately needs to get to one million unit sales per year. The division is continuing its expansion into new segments in order to reach that target, a report in Autocar saying it has another model on the way as it seeks to "expand into every area of the crossover market."

Click through to watch how Seat cars are designed in Barcelona, Spain.

Gallery: 2012 SEAT Concepts






Continue reading How do you say 'dead VW' in Spanish? Seat needs to double its sales if it wants to survive

How do you say 'dead VW' in Spanish? Seat needs to double its sales if it wants to survive originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 30 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> james muirmartin winterkornseatspainspainish economyspanish carspanish carsvolkswagenvw Sat, 30 Mar 2013 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20518176/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/30/vws-seat-unit-needs-to-double-its-sales-if-it-wants-to-survive/20518176/article-detail.xml 20518176 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-seat-leon-sc-1364225650_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-seat-leon-sc-1364225650.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler begins shipping 2013 SRT Viper]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/chrysler-begins-shipping-2013-srt-viper/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/chrysler-begins-shipping-2013-srt-viper/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/29/chrysler-begins-shipping-2013-srt-viper/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2013 SRT Viper - front three-quarter view at speed in the rain

Almost a year to the day after SRT president and CEO Ralph Gilles first introduced - and kissed the fender of - the 2013 SRT Viper at the 2012 New York Auto Show, the high-performance coupe has begun shipping to dealers. The first production cars started rolling off the line at Chrysler's Conner Avenue Assembly plant in Detroit back in January (a facility Gilles lovingly compares to Santa's workshop), but The Detroit News is reporting that the cars just started heading to customers across on Sunday.

Two of the first examples destined for driveways include a Stryker Red example that was the very 2013 Viper to be sold (the car was won by Scott Thomas of Oklahoma City at a Barrett-Jackson charity auction for cancer for US$300,000), along with a white example headed to Gilles' personal collection. The report says that Gilles took delivery of his Viper and put just 48 km (30 miles) on it before heading to New York for this week's auto show. What, he didn't drive?

Click here to watch the first 2013 SRT Viper claimed by its owner at Detroit's assembly plant.


Gallery: SRT Viper

Continue reading Chrysler begins shipping 2013 SRT Viper

Chrysler begins shipping 2013 SRT Viper originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 srt viper2013 srt viper productionconner avenue assembly plantralph gillessrtsrt viper Fri, 29 Mar 2013 16:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20523359/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/29/chrysler-begins-shipping-2013-srt-viper/20523359/article-detail.xml 20523359 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-srt-viper-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2013-srt-viper-fd.jpg -1 2