Chevrolet Silverado Has Lowest Total Cost of Ownership

DETROIT – The Chevrolet Silverado has the lowest total cost of ownership of any full-size pickup in the U.S. retail market, according to the automotive data compilation and analysis firm Vincentric.
“We know from talking to our truck customers that they expect their vehicles to work hard for them for several years, and the less money they have to spend on routine maintenance, repairs and other operating costs, the more they can invest in their businesses and lives,” said Don Johnson, vice president of Chevrolet Sales and Service. “There are nearly 10 million Silverado full-size pickups on the road today – a true testament to their reliability and operating efficiency,”

Copyright General Motors

 

The Vincentric recognition shows that Silverado full-size pickups have the segment’s lowest combined ownership costs, which include items such as cost of depreciation, insurance, financing, repairs, fuel, fees and maintenance.

“For several years running, the Silverado has performed well in our analysis,” said David Wurster, president of Vincentric. “With low depreciation, maintenance and fuel costs, it's no wonder why the Silverado leads the segment with the lowest cost of ownership.”

About Vincentric
Vincentric provides data, knowledge, and insight to the automotive industry by identifying and applying the many aspects of automotive ownership costs. Vincentric data is used by organizations such as Yahoo! Autos, AOL, Cars.com, Chevrolet, Toyota, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Kiplinger.com, Business Fleet Magazine, Volvo, NADA Guides, and Fleet-Central.com as a means of providing automotive insight to their clientele. Vincentric, LLC is a privately held automotive data compilation and analysis firm headquartered in Bingham Farms, Michigan.

About Chevrolet
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Recalls Of The Day, November 3, 2012

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has issued one recall.  The issue is wheels could come off.  That could ruin your whole day!

Equipment Brand Name / Part No. or Model No.: Production Dates: HAYES LEMMERZ / STEEL WHEELS Information not Available Manufacturer: Maxion Wheels/Hayes Lemmerz Report Receipt Date: NOV 02, 2012 NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12E044000 N/A NHTSA Action Number: N/A

Component: WHEELS

Potential Number of Units Affected: 7,721

Summary: Hayes Lemmerz International Commercial Highway, Inc. (Hayes Lemmerz), is recalling certain commercial steel wheels, models 90262, 90541 and 10073 with date codes ending in 030512, 030612, 030712, 030812 and 030912. These wheels were sold as aftermarket/replacement equipment or installed as original equipment in various commercial highway tractors, trucks and bus applications. Due to an inadequate weld between the wheel disc and rim, the disc can separate from the rim.

Consequence: Separation of the rim and tire from the vehicle can result in a loss of control and a vehicle crash.

Remedy: Hayes Lemmerz will notify affected aftermarket/replacement wheel distributors and vehicle manufacturers. The vehicle manufacturers will notify owners of vehicles that may have had the affected wheels installed as original equipment. The recall is expected to begin on, or before, November 5, 2012. Vehicle owners should contact their vehicle manufacturer and owners of the aftermarket wheels should contact their aftermarket distributor. For further information and questions, Hayes Lemmerz may be contacted at 1-734-737-5205.

Notes: Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

From Concept to Reality: Chevrolet Announces Sonic Dusk

Along with Sonic Dusk and Sonic RS, Chevrolet’s subcompact seeks to fit all lifestyles

 

LAS VEGAS – Chevrolet today announced production of the Sonic Dusk sedan, designed to bring a higher degree of sophistication and refinement to the subcompact segment. The production intent Sonic Dusk will be displayed at the SEMA Show, opening Oct. 30 in Las Vegas and leads a diverse range of stylized Chevy small cars.

“Just like we’ve done with Corvettes and Camaros, we’re taking another one of our core products and adapting it to our customers’ lifestyles,” said Chris Perry, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “The reaction to the Sonic Dusk concept last year was overwhelmingly positive and proved customers are interested in a more-refined subcompact. We’re moving quickly to bring Sonic Dusk to Chevrolet showrooms.”

The SEMA show vehicle features a production-intent package with ground effects, a rear spoiler and large, 18-inch aluminum wheels with a Pearl Nickel finish. Sophisticated touches lend the Ashen Grey Sonic Dusk a refined, contemporary aesthetic. The upper and lower grilles, door handle inserts and rear license plate trim are finished with a matte appearance, while stainless steel lower window moldings add an upscale accent to the body.

Copyright General Motors

Inside, Sonic Dusk features Jet Black leather-trimmed seats with suede accents and Mojave tan inserts. Mojave accent stitching and tan-color door panel and instrument panel accents were designed to enhance the cabin’s ambience. It is also equipped with Chevrolet’s MyLink infotainment system, which integrates a smartphone and stored media – via Bluetooth, plug-in outlet or USB – with the radio.

“With a year under our belt, we’ve learned our Sonic sedan buyers are looking at exterior styling as a key purchase driver,” said Cristi Landy, marketing director of Chevrolet small cars. “While the RS hatchback is our sporty interpretation of Sonic, Dusk is a sophisticated, well contented option – both unique to this segment. It’s all about choices and personalization.”

Sonic Dusk is powered by the Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine, rated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb.-ft. of torque (200 Nm) between 1,850 rpm and 4,900 rpm. The wide rpm range for the maximum torque – a specific trait of turbocharged engines – helps the engine deliver a better driving experience and performance. The engine is mated with a six-speed transmission – and production models offer a six-speed manual or automatic.

The 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is positioned between the all-new Spark and the Cruze in Chevy’s small car portfolio. As the only subcompact built in America, Sonic comes with a segment-leading 10 standard air bags and leads in interior roominess. The performance-inspired Sonic RS hits dealerships in late 2012 and features Chevrolet’s exclusive infotainment system MyLink , with a seven-inch color touch screen radio capable of displaying smartphone-based music, videos, photos and contacts for hands-free calling. To learn more about Sonic, visit the Chevy Sonic Facebook page, follow on Twitter at @ChevyLife or check out letsdothis.com.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

Recalls Of The Day, November 2, 2012

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is back in business and has survived Superstorm Sandy. Welcome back!

They have issued two recalls.  The first recall addresses wheels that could come off.  The second recall addresses egress windows that may not open in an emergency.  Both recalls obviously could cause injury or worse.  

Equipment Brand Name / Part No. or Model No.: Production Dates: TIMKEN / FRONT WHEEL HUB Information not Available Manufacturer: TIMKEN CORPORATION Report Receipt Date: OCT 22, 2012 NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12E047000 N/A NHTSA Action Number: N/A

Component: SUSPENSION:FRONT:HUB

Potential Number of Units Affected: 892

Summary: Timken is recalling certain non-formed, front wheel hubs, part number HA599467, which were sold to retail and automotive distributors in the automobile aftermarket as front wheel hub replacements designed only for use on certain 2002 through 2005, 4X4, non-ABS, Jeep Liberty vehicles. These front wheel hub units can be mistakenly sold to owners and installed on 4X2 versions of the Jeep vehicles.

Consequence: If the non-formed hub unit is installed on a Jeep Liberty 4x2 model (which does not use an axle nut for hub retention), the vehicle wheel will not be secure and a front wheel separation may occur, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Timken has notified retail stores that have received the subject parts. The front wheel hubs will be replaced free of charge. Owners who may have purchased the affected units should contact Timken at 1-330-471-3693 for more information. This recall is being conducted by Timken, not Chrysler/Jeep.

Notes: Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s): ELDORADO / AXESS 2011 ELDORADO / E-Z RIDER II MAX 2011 Manufacturer: Eldorado National- California, Inc. Report Receipt Date: OCT 19, 2012 NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V513000 N/A NHTSA Action Number: N/A Component: EQUIPMENT Potential Number of Units Affected: 9 Summary: Eldorado National is recalling certain model year 2011 Axess and EZ Rider II Max buses, manufactured between October 1, 2010 and October 31, 2010 and equipped with Ricon 3-Minute Urban Transit Bus egress window sets. The composition of the material used to cast the handle that opens the egress window is incorrect, resulting in a reduction in material strength. The handle(s) on the emergency egress passenger windows may break before the window latch is released. Consequence: In the event that the egress window handle fails during an actual emergency situation, passengers may be trapped in the vehicle placing them at risk of injury. Remedy: Eldorado National will notify owners, and dealers will replace the defective handles, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in November 2012. Owners may contact Eldorado National at 1-937-596-7965 for more information. Notes: Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Ford Motor Company, Along with Local Dealers and Ford Credit, Offers Customers Affected by Hurricane Sandy Financial Relief

 

• Ford Motor Company will offer consumers impacted by the storm an opportunity to receive $500 Ford Bonus Cash toward the purchase of a new Ford or Lincoln vehicle through January 2013

• Ford Motor Credit Company is implementing its Disaster Relief Program, allowing qualified customers to delay one or two monthly payments and resume their regular payment schedules when their situations improve

• Ford employees and Ford Motor Company Fund are contributing $50,000 to the American Red Cross and its local chapters for areas hit by Hurricane Sandy

DEARBORN, Mich. – Ford Motor Company is offering customers affected by Hurricane Sandy $500 Bonus Cash savings off vehicle MSRP toward the purchase or lease of any eligible 2012 or 2013 model year Ford or Lincoln vehicle. The $500 Disaster Relief Bonus Cash program is open to current residents of the mid-Atlantic and Northeast affected by Hurricane Sandy until January 2013. The $500 incentive is available on both retail and leases, and is transferrable within the household.

Ford Credit also will offer help for customers. Ford Credit’s Disaster Relief Program allows qualified customers to delay one or two monthly payments, resuming their regular payment schedules when their situations improve. Customers are being sent postcards with contact instructions, or they can get information at fordcredit.com and lincolnafs.com.

“Severe weather has ravaged the East Coast and the loss in personal property as a result is enormous,” stated Curt Skaluba, East Region manager of Sales, Parts and Service Operations for Ford Motor Company. “To help with the recovery, Ford is pleased to announce a special offer to help those in need replace vehicles destroyed by this devastating storm.”

Through this offer, consumers affected by Hurricane Sandy can experience savings on vehicles from Ford’s exciting new lineup of hardworking and technologically advanced cars and trucks
.
Program details

• Offer valid Oct. 30, 2012 to Jan. 2, 2013
• Customers must provide a copy of their insurance claim detailing property loss as a result of Hurricane Sandy
• Excludes Mustang Shelby GT/GT500, Mustang Boss, Focus Electric, Edge SE AWD, F-150 SVT Raptor and Taurus SE
• Cannot be used in conjunction with other Ford Motor Company private incentives or AXZD plans

“We know it will be a long, hard road to recovery for those living across the eastern corridor,” added Skaluba. “And our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by Hurricane Sandy.”

In addition to the programs being offered by Ford and Ford Credit, the Ford Motor Company
Fund and Ford employees are donating $50,000 to the American Red Cross and its chapters to assist with disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. This donation is part of Ford’s involvement in the 2012 Red Cross Disaster Responder Program. Ford Motor Company has partnered with the American Red Cross for more than 30 years.

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About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 172,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.

Recalls Of The Day, November 1, 2012

It appears that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offices are not up and running as a result of Superstorm Sandy.  No recalls have been issued.  Our thoughts and prayers go to all the people adversely affected by the storm.

We will keep you posted of any recalls as the NHTSA issues them.  Have a great day!   

SUBARU REVEALS ALL-NEW 2014 FORESTER CROSSOVER SUV;

 

CHERRY HILL, NJ, Nov. 1, 2012 – Subaru of America, Inc. today released the first official photos of the all-new 2014 Forester crossover SUV, which will make its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The new Forester combines a bolder profile than before while offering a roomier interior with virtually the same footprint as the previous model.

 

The fourth generation of Subaru’s popular Forester will offer a new 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged BOXER^® engine producing 250 horsepower. The standard naturally aspirated 2.5-liter BOXER engine debuted in the outgoing Forestermodel. Fuel economy will be higher across the line with the debut of a new six-speed manual transmission and available Lineartronic^® continuously variable transmissions (CVT).

 

The all-new five-passenger 2014 Forester preserves the optimal blend of SUV capability and car-like ride and handling that have made the Forester one of the Subaru brand’s best-selling models for the past 15 years. Refined (or New) suspension system delivers agile handling and a highly compliant ride quality. Generous 8.7 inches ofground clearance enhances off-pavement driving capability.

 

The 2014 Forester will offer an exceptionally roomy interior, featuring increased rear seat legroom, and an enlarged cargo area. In-demand infotainment features will be offered, including smartphone integration, navigation, rear view camera, and harman/kardon^® premium audio amplifier and speakers.

 

Basic Vehicle Specifications

Engine types and output	2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER, naturally aspirated 170 hp @ 5,800 rpm   174 lb.-ft. peak torque @ 4,100 rpm   2.0-liter 4-cylinder BOXER, direct fuel injection, turbocharging, intercooler 250 hp @ 5,600 rpm* 258 lb.-ft. peak torque @ 2,000-4,800 rpm
Transmission	2.5-liter models: 6-speed manual or Lineartronic CVT 2.0-liter turbo: high-torque CVT with 6-speed and 8-speed manual modes and Hill Descent Control
Drivetrain	Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard for all models
Wheelbase	103.9 in.
Vehicle length	180.9 in.
Vehicle height	68.2 in (with roof rails)
Vehicle width	70.7 in.
Wheels/tires	2.5-liter: 17 x 7 in. aluminum alloy with 225/60 R17 all-season 2.0-liter turbo: 18 x 7 in. aluminum alloy with 225/55 R18 all-season

* With premium grade gasoline

 

About Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 600 dealers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit http://www.subaru.com.

 

“Subaru”, “BOXER”, “Forester”, all model names, and the Subaru logo are registered trademarks of the Subaru subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd, Japan.

Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.