Auto News - Scion iQ fails dearly to impress Consumer Reports

Auto News - Scion iQ fails dearly to impress Consumer Reports. Slow, uncomfortable and noisy. That's what Consumer Reports says about the Scion iQ. After giving it a good going-over, the magazine gives it a road test score of 29. That ranks it near the bottom of all new cars CR has reviewed. Very near. In fact, the only new car currently rated lower is the Smart ForTwo, iQ's direct competitor, which scored a 28.

While CR is sometimes criticized for going too easy in its car reviews, it unloaded on the Scion. Ride comfort was dinged for being stiff and jittery with "road, wind and engine noise" that drowned out normal conversation. CR said the engine and CVT was "barely enough to stay up with highway traffic" but praised the 34 mpg it saw during testing, though the institute expected more from a car so small.

Inside, the rear seat is described as awful, tight and "best avoided all together." And while the upholstery wasn't bad to look at, the headliner "resembled fuzzy cardboard" and the car's carpeting "looks like it was taken from some other car's trunk."

CR liked the car's safety test results and praised the iQ's braking and easy parkability and... that's about it.

In our recent review, we shared CR's concerns but still found that there's some fun to be had in the iQ, if only because of its tiny size. We also deemed the Scion to be massively more appealing than the Smart ForTwo.

In addition to the iQ, Consumer Reports has also posted new reviews of the BMW 328i (quicker, more fun), Mercedes C250 (quiet, more refined), the Chevrolet Malibu Eco (comfortable, lackluster) and Camaro Convertible (quick), Dodge Challenger (better handling) and the Fiat 500C (agile but choppy ride).

Read the full Consumer Reports press release below.

PRESS RELEASE

CONSUMER REPORTS FINDS SCION iQ NOT SUCH A WISE CHOICE

Classic rivals face-off: BMW 328i beats Mercedes C250 in a close contest

YONKERS, NY- Consumer Reports tests of the tiny Scion iQ found it to be slow, uncomfortable and noisy, among other drawbacks. With a road test score of 29, it joins the ranks of the lowest-scoring cars Consumer Reports has tested in recent years.

At only 10 feet long, the new iQ is slightly bigger than the tiny Smart ForTwo, which is also among the lowest-scoring cars Consumer Reports has tested. Unlike the Smart, a token rear seat adds some flexibility, but it is very small and takes up almost all of the iQ's luggage space when in place. Consumer Reports testers found its choppy ride, noisy cabin, and uncomfortable driving position severely limit its appeal.

"While the iQ's fuel economy is good within its class, it requires drivers to endure a lot of trade-offs just to save at the pump. Its $16,205 sticker price is no bargain either," said David Champion, Sr. Director of Consumer Reports Automotive Test Center.

Among the iQ's few high points: Its stubby body gives it an amazingly tight turning circle, making it easy to park and best suited to urban driving. And its 34 mpg overall helps out at the pump.

Consumer Reports' latest tests also include a face-off featuring one of the auto world's greatest rivalries: The BMW 3 series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class sport sedans. Redesigned for 2012, the BMW 328i beat out the updated Mercedes C250 by only one point in CR's road test scores: 86 vs. 85. Each car now comes with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine instead of a six-cylinder as its base powertrain, following an increasingly popular trend towards better fuel economy. Both are improved over the previous models Consumer Reports tested, but they still score below the Infiniti G37 in this category.

The 328i is quicker, handles better and is more fun to drive, although its steering is less communicative than in the previous model. And CR recorded an impressive 28 mpg overall, easily the best fuel economy in the class. But the C250 is quieter and provides a more refined powertrain and simpler controls. Each car provides taut, agile handling, with little body lean and high cornering limits.

Also tested: The redesigned 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco has a mild hybrid system that delivered 29 mpg overall, beating all conventional (non-hybrid or diesel) family sedans in Consumer Reports' tests. Highlights of the Malibu Eco include a comfortable ride, a quiet and well-finished cabin, and straightforward controls. But it has uninspiring handling, low cornering limits, and a tight rear seat for this category. Its overall road test score of 76 is lackluster among midsized family sedans. While the hybrid Eco version was the first of the redesigned Malibus to go on sale, two conventional four-cylinder engines come later.

CR also tested three stylish and sporty cars for summer: the V8-powered Chevrolet Camaro convertible and Dodge Challenger R/T coupe, and the sleek, if tiny, Fiat 500C drop-top. Though each delivers on fun driving, none is an overall standout in its category. The Camaro and Challenger are modern muscle cars, reminiscent of another era. The Camaro is very quick with excellent brakes and sharper steering than previously tested Camaros. Recent handling changes have improved the Challenger's steering and body control. But overall, they both fall short of the Ford Mustang GT coupe and convertible that CR previously tested. The Fiat 500C has agile handling, impressive fuel economy at 34 mpg overall, and a clever top design that can open as a huge sunroof or can be fully lowered. But it has a choppy ride, cramped driving position, and slow acceleration.

Among this group of tested cars, only the Dodge Challenger is Recommended by Consumer Reports because it scores high enough and has above average reliability. The BMW 328i, Mercedes-Benz C250, Chevrolet Malibu Eco, and Camaro convertible are still too new for CR to have reliability information and the Scion iQ and the 500C scored too low to be Recommended. To be Recommended, a vehicle must perform well in CR's battery of tests, have average or better reliability in CR's Annual Auto Survey and perform well in government and industry crash tests.

The full report and road test results on Consumer Reports' latest tests are available on www.ConsumerReports.org on June 26th and in the August issue of Consumer Reports on newsstands July 5. Updated daily, ConsumerReports.org is the go-to Website for the latest auto reviews, product news, blogs on breaking news and car buying information. Check out CR's ongoing Twitter feed at @CRCars.

Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, food and product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

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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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Video - Yes, Virginia, you can drift a 17-horsepower Renault Twizy

Video - Yes, Virginia, you can drift a 17-horsepower Renault Twizy. On one side of the Renault Twizy ledger you have a mid-engined, rear-wheel drive "coupe" with instant torque and a RenaultSport-tuned suspension. On the other, you have the equivalent of 17 horsepower. None of those figures would keep Autocar's Steve Sutcliffe from getting to the bottom line, which was to see if he could make the Twizy drift.

Before you ask, no, the video does not contain any electronic music nor a panda in a suit. But it's still worth watching the segment below. As an added bonus, we've included a video of the scissor-doored city car hooking up on the dyno, as well.

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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 - 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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