Market Cars

Ford Reports could take Lincoln global

Just a few years ago, Ford had so many luxury brands in its then considerable suite of marques that there were upscale offerings for just about any taste in every region of the world. Aston Martin, Land Rover and Jaguar are now in the hands of other owners and Volvo is on the outs, so how will Ford deliver luxury goods to other regions of the world? How about Lincoln?

The idea has been kicked around to no avail in the past, but with a growing luxury market in emerging markets like China, the Blue Oval may need a new global plan for its lone luxury marquee. Automotive News reports that Ford will only discuss expanding Lincoln globally when its North American operation gets turned around. Ford President of the Americas Mark Fields told AN, "We don't have any plans at this point to take it global. That doesn't mean in the future we wouldn't look at that, but it's very important for us to focus on North America."

If Ford waits for Lincoln to turn around in North America before looking at other markets, the process could take a while. Lincoln sales were down 23 percent in 2009, with sales dipping to a 28-year low of 82,847 units. Many of Lincolns newer models have arrived with a luke-warm reception from both journalists and the car-buying public, though there are high hopes for the recently introduced 2011 Lincoln MKX and its trick MyLincoln Touch interface. Another Lincoln that could help spur sales overseas is a smaller model based off of the Concept C from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show.

[Source: Automotive News – sub. req.]

Posted on Friday, January 15, 2010 / 0 nhận xét / Read More

Detroit: BMW ActiveE Concept Cornered

BMW introduced the new BMW ActiveE Concept at Detroit's NAIAS yesterday. The all-electric concept, based on the 1-Series coupe, sprints from 0-100 km/h in about nine seconds, before topping out at the electronically limited 145 km/h (90 mph).

Unfortunately, the time posted by BMW's second electric vehicle is over a half-second slower than their first electric car, the MINI E. Sprint times are likely hampered by its heavy weight, roughly 350 kilos more than the MINI.

Like the E, range remains at 160 kilometers, or just under 100 miles.

The ActiveE features a 125-kiloWatt motor, which receives power from a lithium-ion battery that is liquid-cooled. Charging the battery from 0-100% takes three-to-five hours, depending on location.

Posted on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 / 0 nhận xét / Read More

2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Mountain Edition

Two different Jeep limited edition vehicles will get their debut next week at the North American International Auto Show. The Jeep Wrangler Islander and the Jeep Wrangler Mountain will each feature 17-inch Moab wheels wrapped in 32-inch tires, but the similarities end there.

Nostalgic customers purchasing the Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited 4x4 models will be able to add the Islander package for the first time in 20 years. Included is a new exterior color, Surf Blue Pearl Coat, unimpressive graphics, and the "Tiki Bob" decal emblazoned outside and embroidered onto the dark gray seatback. Each seat comes with Surf Blue insterts and blue stitching. Rubber floormats and a blue-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel are also included. Those not liking the new blue paint color may instead opt for Stone White, Bright Silver, or Black Crystal. Total cost for the Islander upgrade is $1,120.

For another $700, customers can instead choose the Mountain package. Based on the Sport S option, the Mountain kit comes with glossy gray wheels, grille and bumper mods, tubular side step, tail light guards, and a new fuel door. Similar boring decals are present on the vehicle inside and out. The car is available in Rescue Green metallic Clear Coat, but Black Crystal and Deep Water Blue are also available. Anodized graphite rings around the interior vents rounds out the kit.

Posted on Sunday, January 10, 2010 / 0 nhận xét / Read More

2010 Chrysler 300 S6 VS 300 S8 Announced for Detroit

Chrysler has announced plans to introduce a revised 300, dubbed the 300 S6 and the 300 S8, at the North American International Auto Show.

In terms of styling, the updated model features a blacked-out grille, body-color accents, darkened headlights, cleanly "shaved" doors, chrome door handles, and 20-inch wheels.

Inside, the 300 has a revised steering wheel (with red stitching and brushed silver spokes), brushed aluminum accents, faux carbon fiber trim, and dark gray seats upholstered in leather and suede.

Other goodies include a 13-speaker Kicker audio system (with a 322-watt amplifier and 100-watt subwoofer), SIRIUS satellite radio, HomeLink, remote start, heated front seats, and power-adjustable pedals.

The 300 S6 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 250 hp (186 kW), while the 300 S8 has a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 360 hp (268 kW) and 389 lb-ft (527 Nm) of torque.