Video - Watch this well-told simple story of a BMW 3 Series owner

Here is a Video - Watch this well-told simple story of a BMW 3 Series owner. It's the stories that make cars great. Without stories, memories, or unrequited longing, any particular car or truck would just be a bunch of steel and plastic riding on some tires. The BMW E30 is a car that probably inspired an order of magnitude more stories than it ever spurred buyers. That's not because the quintessential 1980s 3 Series was uninspiring, rather the opposite. For every person able to cough up the money for a 325, there were dozens with pockets too empty to take ownership of this aspirational European standard-setter.

David Duran was one such aspirational kid in 1987 when his BMW 325 was built, not even yet old enough to drive. He bided his time, though, and in 1992, at the tender age of 18, he managed to purchase this '87 325i, which he's held onto for the last 20 years. Cars I See has given David's story the full-on video storytelling treatment. It may be one guy talking about his car, but it's compelling viewing for gearheads all the same.

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Auto News - Kia prices range-topping 2013 Optima SX Limited from $35,275*

Auto News - Kia prices range-topping 2013 Optima SX Limited from $35,275*. Kia is shortly expected to launch a new rear-wheel drive flagship sedan, but for now, the model seen here is the Korean automaker's new range topper. First introduced at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show in February, Kia has just announced that its 2013 Optima SX Limited will wear a $35,275 MSRP (*including delivery) price tag.

Carspotters will note the SX Limited's more aggressive front and rear bumper treatments (shared with the SX), as well as a chrome-highlighted decklid spoiler and 18-inch chrome alloys shrouding red-painted brake calipers. Power folding side mirrors mittened in chrome (not shown above) will also add to the brightwork count.

Performance-wise, there's little to differentiate this top-shelf Optima from lesser turbocharged models (the SXL is powered exclusively by Kia's 2.0-liter turbo four giving 274 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque).

Inside, the daddy of all Optimas is loaded to its unique black tricot headliner with equipment, packing everything from heated front and rear Nappa leather seats (the fronts are cooled as well) to wood trim. Navigation, a backup camera and an Infinity audio system with Sirius are also standard fit. Oddly, the SXL is the only 2013 Optima to get an electronic parking brake.

The new model should be hitting showroom floors as you read this, and Kia has already fired up its configurator, too. For further details, scroll down.

PRESS RELEASE

KIA MOTORS' RANGE-TOPPING OPTIMA SX LIMITED ARRIVES IN DEALERSHIPS


Fastest-Growing Automotive Brand in the U.S.1 Moves Upscale by Adding Premium Features and Materials to Critically Acclaimed Midsize Sedan

2013 Optima Limited builds on the foundation of Kia's award-winning, turbocharged Optima SX with enhanced appearance, technology, convenience and performance features

The top-tier Limited strengthens Optima's value proposition as the full Optima line provides exceptional residual values

IRVINE, Calif., July 2, 2012 - The 2013 Kia Optima SX Limited (SXL), which is the new top-tier trim level of the ultra-popular midsize Optima sedan line, is now arriving in dealerships with an MSRP under $35,000. First introduced at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show, the upscale Optima Limited went into production at Kia's U.S. manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia* in early-June and builds on the Optima SX's existing foundation of class-leading horsepower and fuel efficiency while adding a number of exclusive design and feature upgrades, including: 18-inch chrome wheels, red brake calipers, LED lighting and exterior brightwork. Within, the SXL boasts high-grade Nappa leather seating trim, rich wood grain accents and an electronic parking brake, which is exclusive to this trim level.


Top-of the-line Kia Optima SX Limited is now available with a host of premium features and materials

"With the arrival of the Optima SXL, the Kia brand propels itself into a more premium class, which is something consumers have told us they want to see when they walk into our showrooms," said Tom Loveless, executive vice president of sales, KMA. "This Optima shows buyers that value and upscale character need not be mutually exclusive. For this reason, the SXL stands apart from traditional competitors in the midsize segment."

The SXL trim arrives on the heels of the Optima's record-breaking sales success and exceptional residual value from Automotive Leasing Guide (ALG), the industry benchmark for residual values and a leading provider of data and consulting services to the automotive industry. Contrary to conventional industry residual value trends, the Optima's residual values improved for MY12 and again for MY13 following its launch as a 2011 model. Specifically, the Optima SX trim's notable rating of 57-percent of original manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for 24 months of ownership is a full 10 points higher than the previous year.

The Optima SXL is based on the fully loaded turbocharged Optima SX, which Edmunds' Inside Line hailed as an "Editors' Most Wanted℠" mid-sized sedan. Including destination and handling, the manufacturer's suggested retail price for the Optima SXL is $35,275. Offered exclusively in Ebony Black, Snow White Pearl and Titanium Metallic exterior colors, the Optima SXL features many luxury details, including LED daytime running lights, chrome-accented rear spoiler and lower door sills, and wood interior trim. Standout red brake calipers can be seen through the Optima SXL's uniquely designed chrome 18-inch wheels while the 2.0-liter turbo GDI engine delivers class-leading 274 horsepower5 and achieves 22/34 mpg (city/hwy).

Inside the cabin, high-grade black or white Nappa leather adorns the seats, door panels, center console armrest and center fascia trim for a premium feel. Wood accents can be found on the steering wheel, interior door trim and shift knob, and a black tricot fabric lends a premium feel to the headliner, sun visor, and A, B and C pillars. The Optima SXL also boasts an electronic parking brake, which is offered exclusively on this uplevel trim. A first-aid kit and cloth door weather strip round out the SXL package.


Top-of the-line Kia Optima SX Limited is now available with a host of premium features and materials

Like every Optima, the SXL projects a refined, performance-oriented aesthetic with a sleek silhouette, aggressive stance and sculpted elements that embodies the styling language chief design officer Peter Schreyer has created for the brand. Every 2013 Optima comes well equipped with a generous roster of standard features, and the Optima SXL builds on the technology, performance and convenience features found on the Optima SX, including: unique front and rear lower bumper design, sport-tuned suspension, HID headlamps, Supervision™ meter cluster with LCD display, steering wheel paddle shifters, metal pedals, illuminated door scuff plates, panoramic sunroof, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with memory, four-way power front passenger's seat, heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seats, navigation system with back-up camera and SiriusXM Traffic™ and Infinity® audio system and speakers.

Kia's Unprecedented Growth
Kia Motors is one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality9 and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking10. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan. Kia's value and technology-laden lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

About Kia Motors America
Kia Motors America is the marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 755 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and LPGA. In 2011, KMA recorded its best-ever annual sales total and became one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S. Kia is poised to continue its momentum and will continue to build the brand through design innovation, quality, value, advanced safety features and new technologies.

Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its website – www.kia.com. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.

* The Sorento and Optima GDI (EX Trims and certain LX Trims only) and GDI Turbo are built in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.
1 Based on 5-year cumulative growth between 12-month retail sales for periods ending April 2007 and April 2012 of all U.S. automotive brands.
2 MSRP excludes $775 destination and handling fee, title, taxes, license, options and dealer charges. Actual prices set by dealer and may vary.
3 Class-leading horsepower claim based on comparison of midsize sedans with (standard or available) engines as of January 2012.
4 Class-leading fuel economy claim for highway based on comparison of 2012 midsize sedans as of May 2012. EPA fuel economy estimates 22 mpg/city and 34 mpg/hwy for 2012 Optima SX. Actual mileage will vary.
5 Class-leading horsepower claim based on comparison of midsize sedans with (standard or available) engines as of May 2012
6 EPA fuel economy estimates 22 mpg/city and 34 mpg/hwy for 2012 Optima SX. Actual mileage will vary.
7 Sirius services require subscriptions, sold separately after 3-month trial included with vehicle purchase/lease. Subscriptions governed by SiriusXM Customer Agreement at siriusxm.com© 2011 SiriusXM Radio Inc. Sirius, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SiriusXM Radio Inc.
8 Infinity® is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated.
9 Source: Automotive Lease Guide Spring 2011 Perceived Quality Study.
10 Source: Experian Automotive Q2 2011 market analysis.

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Auto News - Toyota Avalon gets 40-MPG hybrid model for 2013

Auto News - Toyota Avalon gets 40-MPG hybrid model for 2013. Given that the 2013 Avalon shares a platform with the new Lexus ES, this news should come as no surprise: Toyota's largest sedan is getting its own hybrid variant for the first time ever. Judging by these first photos, carspotters will have to squint hard to tell that they're looking at a hybrid, as there are only a few small badges and blue-tinted lenses as a tip-off to this vehicle's gas-electric motivation.

As with its luxury-minded sibling, the Avalon Hybrid will arrive under the spell of a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four paired with a duo of electric motors juiced by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. Total system power is stated at 200 horsepower, but the meatier number is an EPA fuel economy rating of 40 miles per gallon city and 39 highway.

Also like its Lexus relation, Toyota is touting a trio of operation modes that includes pure EV (only good for one mile at speeds up to 25 mph), Eco, and Sport, the latter of which tweaks both steering weight and throttle response.

Toyota hasn't released any dynamic performance figures or pricing information, but the new Avalon Hybrid will be in dealers this fall, where it will square off against the Buick LaCrosse eAssist and soon-to-be-replaced Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

PRESS RELEASE

All-New 2013 Toyota Avalon Features Both Gasoline and Hybrid Powertrains

• First Full-Hybrid in the Premium Mid-Size Segment • Avalon Hybrid Expects a 40-mpg Combined EPA-Rating

TORRANCE, Calif. (June 26, 2012) – When the all-new, North American designed and engineered 2013 Avalon goes on sale later this year, consumers can choose between a powerful V6 gasoline powertrain and Toyota's proven Hybrid Synergy Drive. The efficiency offered by the new hybrid model will help the all-new premium mid-size sedan achieve excellent fuel economy with an EPA-rating of 40 mpg combined.

In addition to offering a hybrid powertrain, the new Avalon features a stunning design, improved dynamic performance, a greater degree of refinement, and a highly spacious, comfortable interior experience with an abundance of outstanding convenience technologies.

Powerful, Efficient V6 Engine
The 2013 Avalon will feature a proven 3.5-liter, DOHC V6 engine coupled with a six-speed automatic transaxle, which has been enhanced to offer more responsive and efficient performance. The all-aluminum six-cylinder engine will produce 268 horsepower and 248 lbs. ft. of torque, which will propel the new sedan to 60 mph in under seven seconds. Compared to the previous-generation Avalon, this 2013 powertrain combination offers improved fuel economy, performance, superior shift feel and response, with upgraded drivability and quietness.

This enhanced powertrain's programming has been updated to offer ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT Modes. The ECO mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by reducing power application at lower speeds and reducing energy consumed by the air-conditioning system. The SPORT Mode provides increased acceleration responses though altered engine control unit (ECU) programming, and it offers a more direct and responsive EPS programming to enhance steering feel.

In addition, the new transaxle is equipped with a numerically lower differential gear drive ratio (3.23), designed to help improve fuel economy. The V6-powered 2013 Avalon achieves an EPA-rated 25 mpg combined (21 city/ 31 hwy).

The transmission operation has been made more efficient and responsive with the adoption of a flex-start control feature lock-up clutch. With lock-up control, the transmission's torque converter fully engages at a lower RPM during standing starts to improve acceleration response and help suppress unnecessary engine revolutions. The new transmission is also kept at an optimal temperature with an automatic-transmission fluid warmer, helping enhance efficiency.

The multi-mode automatic transmission console shifter offers a D range and can be moved into an S-mode gate, which allows manually operated sequential shifting using the console shifter or available (Touring and Limited models) steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The gear can be selected by moving the shifter up to (+) position or lower using the (-) position to experience highly responsive shifts. By using the paddles or in S-range, the transmission uses a quick responding shift-logic that includes throttle blipping for downshifts. The gear changes and range-of-gear selections are displayed in the color multi-information display.

Avalon Adds Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive
For consumers seeking a premium mid-size sedan with excellent fuel economy ratings and an environmental message, the new Avalon features a full power-split hybrid system. Coupled with reductions in vehicle weight and improvements in aerodynamics, the Avalon Hybrid is expects to achieve impressive fuel economy ratings. The 2013 Avalon incorporates the latest advances in Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive technology, building upon Toyota's 14 years of hybrid-development experience. The Avalon Hybrid features a 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine, a 244.8-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and a pair of electric motor/generators within the transaxle. A power-control unit located in the engine compartment houses an inverter, a DC-DC converter, a step-up converter (raises voltage to a maximum of 650 volts) and the hybrid-drive ECU, which governs the seamless operation of electric-motor power application and regenerative braking. The power control unit relies on liquid cooling to maintain an efficient temperature.

The Avalon Hybrid achieves a total system output of 200 horsepower and offers three unique modes of operation: EV, ECO and SPORT. The Avalon Hybrid models achieve an EPA-rated 40 mpg in the city, and a 39 mpg on the highway for a combined 40 mpg EPA-rating.

The 2013 Avalon Hybrid offers an EV mode that, under certain conditions, allows the vehicle to operate solely on electric propulsion. EV mode can be engaged, provided other conditions are correct, for up to one mile at speeds up to 25 mph, providing an all-electric option that is convenient in residential areas or parking garages.

The ECO drive mode engages the gasoline motor, but reduces throttle response and HVAC output to help improve overall efficiency. The SPORT Mode takes full advantage of the new Avalon's dynamic character, improved chassis, and enhanced suspension by altering the engine's throttle response and enhancing steering feel.

The Avalon's hybrid's battery pack is comprised of 204 cells and is located in the vehicle trunk behind the rear seats, while still providing ample trunk space. The scroll casing for the battery cooling system's blower fan has been designed to produce extremely quiet and efficient airflow, helping reduce interior noise and elevating refinement. The power-control unit, located in the engine bay, houses the inverter, DC-DC converter.

The efficient hybrid transaxle in the new Avalon contains two high-output electric motor/generators, a power-split device, an open differential and the final drive ratio. Motor/Generator 1 (MG1) is used to start the gasoline engine and generate the energy that is returned to the battery to power the system. Motor/Generator 2 (MG2) is primarily responsible for electric drivetrain propulsion and regenerative braking. The hybrid vehicle transaxle also incorporates a flywheel-damper design that helps reduce noise and vibration during engine engagement.

Captivating Styling with a Spacious, Luxurious Interior Experience
The new 2013 Avalon is the product of a North American-focused design and engineering effort. The new sedan's striking exterior and luxurious interior design was conceived by a youthful, talented team at the Calty Design Research Inc., facilities in Southern California and Michigan.

The car's engineering development was led by a passionate and dedicated group based at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. Continuing a North American focus, the 2013 Avalon will be assembled at the award-winning Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) facility in Georgetown, Ky.

True to the future product mission set forth by Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda, the new Avalon's more stylish, bold, sporty exterior design and luxurious interior styling are matched by an enhanced dynamic package, a combination that foreshadows the more compelling and passionate nature of future Toyota products.

Powertrain Specs

Avalon V6
Avalon Hybrid
Gasoline
Engine
Type/Displacement
2GR-FE / 3.5L
2AR-FXE / 2.5L
Max Horsepower
268 hp
154 hp
Max Torque
248 lbs.-ft.
153 lbs.-ft.
Transaxle
Type
6-speed AT
E-CVT
Electric Motor
Max Output
-
140 hp
Max Torque
-
200 ft. lbs.
Battery
Type
-
Nickel-Metal Hydride
Nominal Voltage
-
245 volts
Number of Cells
-
204 Cells
Max Output
-
34 kw or 45.6 hp

Total System Output
-
149 kw 200hp

Key Dimensional Comparison

2013 Avalon
2012 Avalon
Overall Length
195.3 in.
197.6 in.
Overall Width
72.2 in.
72.8 in.
Overall Height
57.5 in.
58.5 in.
Wheelbase
111 in.
111 in.
Front Tread
62.6 in.
62.2 in.
Rear Tread
62.2 in.
61.6 in.
Front Overhang
38.8 in.
39.4 in.
Rear Overhang
45.5 in.
47.2 in.
Curb Weight
3,497 lbs. (V6),
3594 lbs. (Hybrid XLE)
3,616 lbs.

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Auto News - Toyota to build Yaris in France for North America

Auto News - Toyota to build Yaris in France for North America. Toyota has already made it abundantly clear the company intends to scale back production in Japan in an attempt to combat the ever-strengthening Yen, and now it looks as if we know one of the ways the automaker plans to do so. Toyota has announced it will manufacture U.S. and Canadian-spec Yaris models in its Onnaing-Valenciennes facility in France. The plant has been producing the Yaris hatchback for European buyers since 2001, though this marks the first time in Toyota history that the automaker has built a vehicle in Europe and imported the model to the States.

North American-spec Yaris models differ slightly from their European counterparts. In addition to using different fascia designs front and rear, the NA model comes available with an automatic transmission and a market-specific 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. There is some differentiation in safety equipment between the two models as well.

Japanese automakers have recently revealed that building cars in Japan and exporting them around the globe is quickly becoming a money-losing proposition. Honda has made it clear the company is seeking alternatives to producing models like the Fit and CR-Z in Japan due to the high costs associated with exporting the vehicles.

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Auto News - Audi A6 2.0T to get eight-speed auto and Quattro for 2013

Auto News - Audi A6 2.0T to get eight-speed auto and Quattro for 2013. Not much gets written about the Audi A6, which is a shame because we have found it one of the most enjoyable models in German automaker's lineup to drive. A report in Car and Driver as to the future of the A6 2.0-liter turbo might not get the model much more press, but could get it more sales. The 211-horsepower four-cylinder has only been available with a CVT and front-wheel drive; now an eight-speed automatic and Quattro appear on the option sheet.

C/D says will be a surprisingly modest $2,200 premium to move up from the FWD model to the Quattro, with $45,295 needed for the 2.0's base Premium trim – but since the front-drive CVT model will continue to be offered, we're not sure if the eight-speed Tiptronic will be a cost option as well. Even if so, there should still be a healthy stack of Benjamins between it and its German competition, and the addition of Quattro isn't expected to knock it from the top spot in fuel economy among its luxury foes. The upspec'd A6 should appear in dealerships this August.

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Auto News - Citroen launches C4 L and C-Elysée sedans for emerging markets

Auto News - Citroen launches C4 L and C-Elysée sedans for emerging markets. French automakers Citroen and Peugeot are flip sides of the same coin. So with few exceptions, when one introduces a new product, you can expect the other to follow with a version of its own.

That's what we have here with the new Citroen C-Elysée, a rebadged version of the 301 sedan that sister company Peugeot recently announced for developing markets. The 72-horsepower sedan will be manufactured in Spain and marketed in places like Central Europe, Turkey and North Africa by year's end.

Joining the C-Elysee is the new C4 L, a sedan version of Citroen's mainstream hatchback. With a larger rear seating area and a proper trunk, the C4 L will offer three engines ranging from 150 to 170 horsepower mated to a six-speed transmission. The first production vehicle to be penned at the company's new design studio in Shanghai, the C4 L is targeted at the Russian and Chinese markets and will be produced locally in both countries.

PRESS RELEASE

CITROËN STEPS UP ITS STRATEGY FOR INTERNATIONAL GROWTH WITH TWO NEW MODELS: CITROËN C- ELYSÉE & CITROËN C4 L

- Citroën introduces two new models as part of its global brand strategy
- Citroën C-Elysée& Citroën C4 L to be launched in selected international markets
- Citroën launches DS line in China on 28 June 2012

Citroën is stepping up its worldwide development and consolidating its standing as a global brand.

Already introduced in Europe, Russia and Latin America, the DS line will be launched in China on 28 June. The brand is also extending and strengthening its product offering, specifically in the C segment, with two new models for high growth international markets, such as the Mediterranean basin, China and Russia.

Citroën is extending its C range with the new Citroën C-Elysée and C4 L, a 'lounge' version of the C4. With more than 20 million vehicle registrations in 2011, the compact saloon market is the biggest automotive segment in the world, representing almost one third of all worldwide passenger car sales.

With highly specific personalities designed to suit their respective market positioning, both new models embody Citroën's trademark flair for style, technology, innovation and quality.

CITROËN C-ELYSÉE

Developed to meet the expectations of the most demanding drivers and passengers, the new Citroën C-Elysée is both stylish and readily accessible to customers in its target markets. With harmonious, prestigious and robust styling, the model's innovative design offers a roomy interior that is ideal for families. The rear compartment is befitting of a saloon in the category above and the large boot offers 506-litres VDA - thanks to a 2.65m wheelbase, the longest in its category.

A broad range of comfort-enhancing equipment is also available, from air conditioning with digital readout, to an MP3 audio system with Bluetooth®.

Depending on the market, the Citroën C-Elysée will be available with the latest generation VTi 72 petrol engine, boasting technology that combines rewarding performance with economical fuel consumption and durability.

The model also benefits from Citroën's knowledge and know-how, from chassis and suspension development to quality assurance. The car's design, including specific suspension clearance and protective guards, was tested all over the world under a full range of driving conditions. As a result, the Citroën C-Elysée offers reliability on the most demanding roads - fundamental for prospective customers who view their car as a long-term investment.

The Citroën C-Elysée will be manufactured in Spain and will be launched in Turkey, Spain, Central Europe and Algeria at the end of 2012.

CITROËN C4 L

The first production Citroën from the Shanghai style centre, the Citroën C4 L is positioned at the top of the C segment. Exuding positive energy, just like the Citroën C4, this visibly prestigious and elegant car offers all of the brand's characteristic qualities including a range-topping finish, an exceptionally relaxing ride and standard-setting onboard comfort.

With elegant and dynamic lines, highlighted by light signatures at the front and rear, all occupants can enjoy the pleasures of first-class travel, thanks to a quiet and refined interior. The lounge-like rear compartment is the direct result of model's long wheelbase, with wraparound seats, backrests inclined to 29° and headrests designed for added comfort. Innovative technologies include hands-free access and start, touch-screen GPS, reversing camera, fully heated windscreen and air ioniser.

The Citroën C4 L is fitted with the latest generation petrol engines - the THP 150 & 170 (according to country), developed in partnership with the BMW Group, and the VTi 135. All three engines can be mated to a new automatic and sequential 6-speed gearbox.

The Citroën C4 L will be manufactured in each of the zones where it will be sold; Wuhan, China by the end of 2012 and Kaluga, Russia in the first half of 2013.

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Auto News - NHTSA opens investigations on Chrysler 200 and Ford Explorer

Auto News - NHTSA opens investigations on Chrysler 200 and Ford Explorer. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened new investigations concerning the Chrysler 200 and Ford Explorer. All of the vehicles in question are from the 2011 model year, with 87,000 200s and 83,000 Explorers being investigated.

NHTSA's Chrysler investigation concerns possible stalling problems, with the organization stating that it has received 15 complaints of the 200's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 stalling. "All 15 incidents reported stalling without warning during low-speed decelerations such as braking for a stop sign or traffic light," NHTSA's official release states. This investigation does involve both the sedan and convertible models.

Moving to the Explorer, NHTSA is investigating reports of power steering failure with the electric power-assisted system. In some instances, owners have complained that the system completely stops working, while other drivers simply noted greater effort being needed to turn the wheel. NHTSA writes: "Some of the complaints indicated observing a power steering warning message when the failure occurred. In some cases, the condition was corrected by turning the vehicle off and restarting. However, some reports indicate the condition returned after restart."

No accidents have been linked to either the Ford or Chrysler issues.

Keep in mind, these investigations are not recalls – merely a way for NHTSA to probe a certain model and determine if an official recall is actually necessary. Click here and here to read both of the NHTSA investigation reports.

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Auto News - Chevy Cruze recalled for potential fire down below

Auto News - Chevy Cruze recalled for potential fire down below. No, General Motors is not recalling the Chevrolet Cruze because DVD copies of Steven Seagal's seminal 1997 hit Fire Down Below were left in the trunk of every car that's been sold. If wishing made it so. Rather, the Cruze has been recalled to modify the engine shield that's located under the vehicle. The worry is that any fluids that might leak from above could potentially collect on top of the shield and then ignite and start a fire.

You may recall that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigating the Cruze in April over engine fires and then last month expanded its investigation to include 370,000 vehicles spanning two model years. The official recall announced today affects 413,418 Cruzes for the 2011 and 2012 model years that were built in the United States through May 2012. That includes every Cruze built so far at the company's Lordstown, OH assembly plant through the end of last month.

GM is also simultaneously executing a second, smaller recall on up to 249 Cruzes that may have partially completed welds in their trunks.

This is not the first time that nearly every Cruze sold to the public has been recalled. In May 2011, GM recalled the Cruze to inspect each unit's intermediate steering shaft covers to ensure they were properly installed.

PRESS RELEASE

GM Recalls Chevrolet Cruzes for Safety Modifications

DETROIT – General Motors will recall 413,418 Chevrolet Cruzes in the United States for the 2011 and 2012 model years to modify the engine shield under the vehicle. This change will help prevent any liquids from being trapped in the engine compartment, where a fire could start and spread.

In a separate safety recall, GM will inspect certain cars included in the first recall to assure all welds in the rear compartment were properly applied. Omitted or partially completed welds in up to 249 cars may affect the fuel tank strap secondary brackets attachment to the floor structure and a sub assembly to the rear floor pan.

There are no known crashes, injuries or fatalities related to either recall. Only Cruzes built in Lordstown, Ohio, and sold in the United States and Canada and several hundred exported to Israel are affected.

"The most important thing for our customers to know is that we are proactively working to assure the Cruze is the safe and durable car they purchased," said GM vice president of Global Quality Alicia Boler-Davis. "We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by these actions."

All Cruzes with manual and automatic transmissions built in the United States from September 2010 through May 2012 are included in the engine shield modification.

Improper engine oil change procedures on these vehicles can result in the spilling or dripping of oil. If oil contacts hot engine or exhaust system surfaces, and the engine shield, the shield may ignite and burn, resulting in a possible engine compartment fire.

In Cruzes with manual transmissions, continuing to drive with a completely worn clutch may cause hydraulic fluid to be expelled from the clutch housing vent hole. Under certain circumstances, the fluid could be burning as it exits the vent hole. If it contacts the engine shield, the shield may ignite and a fire may spread to the engine compartment.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a preliminary investigation in April of this year as a result of two engine compartment fires in 2011 model year Cruzes and later added the 2012 model year.

Modifying the engine shield will take about 30 minutes in a Chevrolet dealership service department and will be conducted free of charge. No parts are involved and customers are encouraged to make an appointment with their dealer at their earliest convenience. Owner letters will mailed be beginning July 11. Inspection for the possible missing welds takes only a few minutes. In confirmed cases, the repair would take about three hours.

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