Saturday, March 31, 2012

A spaghetti dinner will benefit the families of Gary Wilson and Ken Stiver



spaghetti dinner

A spaghetti dinner will benefit the families of Gary Wilson and Ken Stiver, the two Struthers men who were burned in an explosion March 1 at the Struthers Wastewater Treatment Plant.

When: 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 14.

Where: St. Nicholas Hall, 764 Fifth St., Struthers.

Donations: Tickets are $8 per person and are available at the door or from Bill Cabuno. Cabuno, Wilson’s brother-in law, is organizing the event. He is also the person businesses can contact about donations for a silent auction at the dinner. Call him at 330-519-0031.

Monday, March 26, 2012

Barrett-Jackson to build permanent $40 million facility in Scottsdale



The massive tent at Barrett-Jackson's Scottsdale auction is an impressive sight. Occupying 120,000 square feet and stretching a quarter mile, it sufficiently houses the hundreds of collector cars and thousands of visitors that pass through it every January. Even so, the tent needs to be rebuilt annually, and the auction company has been pushing for a permanent facility for more than a decade. Now it looks like their wish will be granted, as the Scottsdale, AZ city council has approved construction of a new building on the WestWorld grounds where the current event is held.

The new facility is estimated to cost around $40 million, but Barrett-Jackson says that it'll save money in the long run on temporary infrastructure costs. The building will also be designed to better accommodate the constant flow of cars driving up to the auction block as, well as have dedicated areas for SPEED's TV crews and food and vendor services. Barrett-Jackson says that it also plans to build a new headquarters and car museum on land adjacent to WestWorld.

Official details on the plans for the new building are in the press release from Barrett-Jackson after the jump.
Show full PR text
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. (March 21, 2012) – It has been talked about for years. Now, thanks to collaboration among Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane, a majority of the Scottsdale City Council, city staff, Barrett-Jackson, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, Arizona Sun Circuit Quarter Horse Show and others a $40 million expansion of the Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center is a reality.

WestWorld of Scottsdale, site of Scottsdale's signature horse and horsepower events, has seen a variety of improvements recently, but none bigger than Tuesday night's landmark decision.

It will create expanded opportunities for new and existing equestrian shows and, for the "World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions™," a permanent, main auction arena, replacing the 120,000 square foot tent now dominating WestWorld.

"For over a decade we have been talking with the City of Scottsdale about a permanent facility like this in order to make what has always been a desire for a long-term agreement with our hometown," said Barrett-Jackson CEO Craig Jackson. "Thanks to the leadership of this Mayor and Council it finally got done."

Jackson said the decision is terrific news for the event's guests, bidders, consignors, vendors and sponsors.

"We get to replace a challenging, temporary tent with a better, permanent auction arena. We can park fewer cars on the polo field with more on higher ground. And, this will allow us to realize a long-time goal of building our new corporate headquarters and car museum on private land I own next to WestWorld," Jackson said.

Jackson said his relationship with the City of Scottsdale and equestrian users at WestWorld has never been better. While Barrett-Jackson will continue to erect hundreds of thousands of square feet of tents for automobiles, vendors and lifestyle components, WestWorld's new facility will allow Barrett-Jackson to save money on certain, temporary infrastructure costs, amounts that will now be used to help pay for the expanded Equestrian Center, as the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show and Arizona Sun Circuit Quarter Horse Show are doing.

Jeep blacks out with crowdsourced Altitude edition Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot




If you were in Houston back in January for the car show there, you may have seen a murdered-out Grand Cherokee there which Jeep dubbed a "production-intent concept." The most iconic of Chrysler brands then rolled into Geneva with a similar GC with more of a Storm Trooper look, joined by a blacked-out Compass. These, too, were called "production-intent concepts" – a name that wasn't all that dynamic. So Jeep opened a contest called "Name My Ride," and the handle chosen was "Altitude." Now Jeep is putting the Altitude into its product catalog for the Grand Cherokee, Compass and the Patriot, too.

Like the concepts, the production Altitude special editions are characterized by their blacked-out approach. For the Grand Cherokee, that means a black grille surround, black headlamp trim, black liftgate light bar, blacked-out 20-inch alloys and a black interior, complemented by "platinum chrome" on the lower fascia and the mesh grille. For the Compass, the Altitude edition blacks out the grille, headlamp bezels, roof rails, step pad and 18-inch alloys (as well as the interior), whole the Patriot Altitude gets black 17-inch alloys and cabin but trades in most of the rest for chrome and polished steel.

If this all strikes you as just too dark, each model is available in other colors for the bodywork, in which case the black trim provides the contrast. They all come packed with optional extras as well, with prices starting at $20,240 for the Patriot Altitude edition, $22,190 for the Compass Altitude and $35,595 for the Grand Cherokee Altitude. Like what you see? Check 'em out in the high-res image gallery and the full press release after the jump.
Show full PR text
Jeep® Introduces New Limited-edition 'Altitude' Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Models

- Unprecedented consumer interest in Jeep® Grand Cherokee concept confirms production; drives creation of Compass and Patriot limited-edition models
- Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude first shown as concept at Houston Auto Show in January
- Winning "Altitude" name chosen from more than 100,000 entries in Jeep "Name My Ride" consumer contest
- New Jeep vehicles boast "blacked-out" exteriors with distinct, aggressive flair
- Jeep brand vehicle sales up 34 percent in 2012 (through February)

March 26, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Following an overwhelmingly positive consumer response to the recently introduced Grand Cherokee concept and related "Name My Ride" contest, the Jeep® brand has announced it will produce not just one, but three new limited-edition Jeep vehicles: the Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Altitude models.

In January, Jeep introduced a distinctive, "blacked-out" production-intent concept Grand Cherokee at the Houston Auto Show, and connected with consumers to name the model. With more than 100,000 entries from enthusiasts of the Jeep brand – which boasts more than 2 million Facebook fans – "Altitude" emerged as the winning vehicle name.

"The fact that well over 100,000 consumers entered our 'Name My Ride' contest reinforces the passion behind the Jeep brand, and its position as one of the most recognizable and popular brands in the world," said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "The extraordinary response to both the concept and the contest resulted in an easy decision to produce 'blacked-out' editions of the Grand Cherokee – and the Compass and Patriot. These new Jeep Altitude editions will clearly have a broad appeal among consumers, especially those looking for something distinctive, edgy, and just plain cool."

The new, limited-edition Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot Altitude models will arrive in Jeep showrooms in May.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude
Jeep's premium icon – the Grand Cherokee – is the most awarded SUV ever over its lifetime compared to any other SUV. The Grand Cherokee Altitude edition combines a variety of exterior design changes to create a unique model with an aggressive chrome and "blacked-out" look.

The vehicle's grille surround appears in black gloss, and mesh grille texture in platinum chrome. A platinum chrome lower fascia applique completes the unique front-end appearance. Black headlamp bezels and a black liftgate light bar continue the "blacked-out" theme throughout the vehicle's exterior.

The Grand Cherokee Altitude rides on 20-inch tires that surround black-gloss aluminum wheels.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude model includes standard leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, a 9-speaker 506-watt amp sound system with subwoofer, iPod/MP3 connectivity, Parkview™ rear back-up camera, ParkSense® rear-park assist system, Keyless Enter-N-Go, Chrysler Group's Uconnect hands-free communications system, and more than 50 advanced safety and security features.

Available in Deep Cherry Red, Brilliant Black, Mineral Gray, Bright Silver Metallic, Maximum Steel Metallic and Stone White, the Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude starts at a U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $35,595 for 4x2 models and $37,595 for 4x4 models.

Jeep Compass Altitude
The new limited-edition Compass Altitude continues the "from-the-factory" customized look first seen in the Grand Cherokee concept shown in January.

A distinctive black gloss finish surrounds Compass' trademark seven-slot Jeep grille and headlamps, and the treatment continues with black roof rails and a black step pad. The Compass Altitude rides on exclusive 18-inch black gloss aluminum wheels wearing Firestone BSW all-season performance tires.

The Jeep Compass Altitude model is available in three drivetrain configurations (including available Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-Road packages), and features power heated exterior mirrors and heated seats, remote start, continuously variable automatic transaxle, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and includes numerous safety and security features, such as electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows.

Available in Deep Cherry Red, Black, Mineral Gray and Bright White, the Jeep Compass Altitude's starting U.S. MSRP is $22,190 for 4x2 models and $23,940 for 4x4 models.

Jeep Patriot Altitude
The Jeep Patriot Altitude continues the "blacked-out" theme found on Grand Cherokee and Compass versions, but features more chrome and polished steel than its Compass sibling.

Riding on 17-inch high-gloss black aluminum wheels and Firestone BSW all-season touring tires, the Jeep Patriot Altitude boasts a bright chrome lower fascia and rear step pad appliques, and bright polished steel roof rails.

Jeep Patriot is the best-priced SUV in America, was recently named an Edmunds.com Lowest True Cost To Own® vehicle, and has earned an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) "Top Safety Pick."

The Patriot Altitude edition is available in three drivetrain configurations (including available Freedom Drive I and Freedom Drive II Off-Road packages), and features power heated exterior mirrors and heated seats, power windows (driver one-touch) and locks, continuously variable automatic transaxle, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and includes numerous safety and security features, such as electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows.

Available in Deep Cherry Red, Black, Mineral Gray and Bright White, the Jeep Patriot Altitude's starting U.S. MSRP is $20,240 for 4x2 models and $23,275 for 4x4 models.

Jeep "Name My Ride" Contest
For several weeks following the Houston Auto Show, consumers had the opportunity to name the Jeep Grand Cherokee concept vehicle by visiting Jeep.com. The brand then compiled entries and narrowed them down to three favored choices:

- Altitude: representing the new heights the Jeep brand is reaching, with an array of new vehicles and special-edition models consumers have been seeking, a wide variety of vehicle and brand awards, and a string of recent sales successes that includes 23 months of increased sales – up 24 percent in 2010, 44 percent in 2011 and 34 percent so far in 2012

- Midnight: for the distinctive, mysterious, deep and dark "blacked out" appearance of the vehicle; and

- Obsidan: a dark-colored – usually jet black – volcanic rock that displays curved surfaces – and may tie to a potential future Jeep model name.

After two weeks of online voting, "Altitude" was chosen as the winning name. Mark Johnson, of Sanger, Calif., submitted the name and will receive a new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Jeep Sales Highlights
In 2011, Jeep brand sales increased 44 percent in the U.S. – with each Jeep model up more than 30 percent – while industry sales rose 11 percent. Globally, Jeep sales increased 41 percent in 2011. Through the end of February, Jeep sales are up 34 percent in 2012 (versus industry increase of 14 percent), and 35 percent globally.

Jeep Brand
Built on more than 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.

The Jeep vehicle lineup consists of the Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand around the world, all six Jeep models are sold outside North America – and all are available in right-hand drive versions and with gasoline and diesel powertrain options. Chrysler Group LLC sells and services vehicles in approximately 120 countries around the world.

Sunday, March 25, 2012

Bentley to show SUV concept unaltered in Beijing




Automotive News reports Bentley is staying the course with the company's EXP 9 F SUV Concept. The ultra-luxury automaker plans to bring the vehicle to the Beijing Motor Show exactly as it appeared at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this month, despite the fact that the concept didn't exactly debut to resounding acclaim. Critics described the design as awkward and unbecoming of nameplate like Bentley, but the automaker says it wants to vet the design in as many markets as possible before finalizing the exterior. Here's hoping the crowds in China are as repulsed as those in Switzerland.

The EXP 9 F has already been green-lit for production, and while we have no qualm with the thought of a high-riding luxury brute with a twin-turbo 12-cylinder engine under the hood, we'd like to see something a little less muddled outside. Bentley says an SUV will give the company a leg up in markets like the Middle East and China, where luxury SUVs remain king. Through the first two months of this year, the company's sales are up 66 percent in China, putting the country ahead of the United States as the largest market for Bentley products.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

2013 Subaru models to see with optional EyeSight safety system




Trickle-down technology is how four-wheel anti-lock braking systems went from their production debut on a 1978 Mercedes-Benz S-Class to being standard equipment across the board for all vehicles on the road today. It also explains how advanced technologies like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision auto-braking and, to a lesser extent, lane departure warning, has made its way down the funnel to Subaru's mainstream sedans, the 2013 Legacy and Outback.

Beginning with the 2013 model year, both models will be available with the new Subaru EyeSight driver assistance system that consists of a pair of charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras mounted at the top of the windshield on either side of the rearview mirror. This is different from most car-based camera systems on the market today that use a radar-based system mounted somewhere in the front of the car, usually in the grille or front bumper. Subaru says the placement of its EyeSight cameras should help reduce the potential for damage – and likely very expensive repairs – from minor collisions.

What can EyeSight do exactly? For one, it takes stereo images of the view ahead and can detect obstacles, including pedestrians. Under 19 miles per hour, a Pre-Collision Braking System can slow the vehicle or stop it completely if an obstacle is detected and the driver doesn't act. Above 19 mph, EyeSight can still detect objects and slow the car to mitigate damage from a collision. Likewise, the system can see when you wander outside of a lane without using your turn signal and issue an alert. Finally, EyeSight allows for Adaptive Cruise Control that's functional between a wide range of speeds: from 1-87 mph.

Pricing for this option isn't known yet, but EyeSight will officially debut at the 2012 New York Auto Show on the 2013 Subaru Legacy and Outback, though buyers interested in the brand's other products won't have to wait long for it to trickle down to the rest of the lineup.
Show full PR text
Subaru Debuts New EyeSight™ System

- Stereo Camera Based Driver Assist System
- Pre-Collision Braking
- System Capable of Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Optional in 2013 Legacy and Outback

CHERRY HILL, N.J., March 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. has announced the debut of its EyeSight™ driver assistance system. The suite of safety and driver assist technologies will debut at the New York International Auto Show on 2013 Legacy and Outback models. EyeSight will subsequently appear on other products in the Subaru line-up. EyeSight integrates adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and vehicle lane departure warning. The new technology, which can also detect obstacles in front of a parked car and limit potential damage in an impact, will become available later this year.

Combining safety and convenience features, the Subaru EyeSight system will be one of the most affordable of such technologies available in the United States market. EyeSight uses two charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras developed by Subaru. EyeSight is mounted inside the car on the upper edge of the windshield, thus reducing the potential for damage that could occur in bumper-mounted systems, such as radar. The EyeSight system processes stereo images to identify the vehicles traveling in front, as well as obstacles, traffic lanes and other items. The video information is relayed to the EyeSight computer, which is also networked with the car's braking system and electronic throttle control. Below speeds of approximately 19mph, EyeSight is capable of detecting pedestrians in the vehicle's path and can activate in order to mitigate or even avoid the collision. Under certain circumstances, Eyesight is able to bring the car to a complete stop, thus avoiding a collision.

Pre-Collision Braking Control and Collision Mitigation

At relative speeds under approximately 19 mph, EyeSight's Pre-Collision Braking System can detect obstacles in the car's path and, if the driver has not applied the brakes in time, the system can do so to slow the vehicle or bring it to a full stop to help avoid the potential collision. Pre-Collision Braking is always on in the background to act like a second set of eyes for the driver. It can also be turned off temporarily for off-road or rough road travel.

At relative speeds above approximately 19 mph, EyeSight can apply the brakes when an object is detected, and will attempt to brake if the driver takes no evasive action, or does not brake appropriately. In this way it will mitigate potential damage from a collision. The system, which can recognize programmed objects such as vehicles, motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians, can help mitigate collision damage.

Lane Departure and Sway Warning

By monitoring traffic lane markers and lines, the Subaru EyeSight system can detect if the car begins to wander outside the intended lane without a turn signal being used, or if the car begins to sway within the travel lane. Using the turn signal cancels the warning.

Adaptive Cruise Control

Intended for freeway use, Eyesight's Adaptive Cruise Control system can maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, braking and/or accelerating the car as needed to maintain the driver-selected target speed and traveling distance. Adaptive Cruise Control is operational from 1-87 mph and can fully brake the vehicle to a stop if the system "locks on" to a vehicle ahead.

As an added convenience, Adaptive Cruise Control assists the driver in heavy "stop and go" freeway traffic by maintaining distance from the vehicle ahead. This feature can help reduce driver fatigue, which can therefore help keep the driver alert.

Additional EyeSight Benefits

In heavy traffic conditions, EyeSight will also alert the driver when the vehicle ahead has moved if he or she doesn't react within several seconds. The technology can also help reduce collision damages by cutting the throttle when it senses an obstacle in front, but the accelerator pedal continues to be pushed. The system is also effective when a driver shifts into 'Drive' inadvertently instead of 'Reverse' when backing out of a parking space. The stereo camera design of EyeSight provides a detection angle wider than that of radar-based systems.

Cautions

EyeSight is not designed as a substitute for due care and attention to the road. The system may not react in every situation. There are certain operational limitations, such as when weather conditions obscure the view of the cameras. Finally, even with the advanced technology used, a driver with good vision and who is paying attention will always be the best safety system.

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 www.subaru.com.

Volkswagen to start building Porsches this fall


Volkswagen still has to go over the river and through the woods before it can close the deal to take over Porsche, but this fall it will begin building them. Primary Boxster production will commence this summer at Porsche's factory in Zuffenhausen, where the 911 is also built.

Overflow production will be handled by VW at its Osnabrück plant, which also handles assembly for the VW Golf Cabriolet and overflow Porsche Cayman production. The arrangement isn't unexpected, with plans for the Osnabrück option mentioned as far back as 2010.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

HAUS AUTO GROUP WANTS TO BUY YOUR VEHICLE

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Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Buick recalls 2012 Regal over lighting concern




General Motors is recalling 2012 model year Buick Regal sedans for, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard number 108: lamps, reflective devices and associated equipment." Specifically (and in layman's terms), it means that the Regal's parking lamps may be defective.

Vehicles affected by this recall were built between February 22, 2011 and February 22, 2012 – a grand total of 3,633 Regals.

GM will begin notifying owners about the recall this week, and dealers will reprogram the Regal's body control module (that controls the parking lights) free of charge. Follow the jump for the full details in NHTSA's official statement.
Show full PR text
Vehicle Make / Model: BUICK / REGAL
Model Year(s): 2012
Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS LLC
Mfr's Report Date: MAR 06, 2012
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 12V093000
NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Potential Number of Units Affected: 3,633

Summary

GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2012 BUICK REGAL VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM FEBRUARY 22, 2011, THROUGH FEBRUARY 22, 2012 FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108 "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." DUE TO A SOFTWARE ERROR, THE PARKING LAMPS DO NOT ACTIVATE WHEN EITHER THE PARKING LAMPS OR HEADLAMPS ARE TURNED ON.

Consequence

INADEQUATE LIGHTING COULD REDUCE THE VISIBILITY OF THE VEHICLE, INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A CRASH.

Remedy

GENERAL MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE BODY CONTROL MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON MARCH 12, 2012. OWNERS MAY CONTACT GM AT 1-800-521-7300.

Notes

GENERAL MOTORS RECALL NO. 12048. CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

2010 Ford Edge SE canfield, Ohio | Haus Auto Group

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CHECK IT OUT !!! 2014 Chevrolet Impala takes shape



There isn't a whole lot to get excited about in the world of near-luxury, full-size, front-wheel-drive sedans. Stalwarts like the Ford Taurus and Toyota Avalon continue to make their way into the driveways of gray-haired shoppers, and new entries like the redesigned Hyundai Azera are attempting to add a little bit of spice to an otherwise bland segment. In recent years, the Chevrolet Impala has nearly fallen off the map in this class simply because it hasn't been seriously updated since its launch in 2005 as a 2006 model. (The big four-door did get a new engine for 2012, finally.) But that's all about to change.

The 2014 Impala will be based on the same front-wheel-drive Epsilon-II architecture that underpins the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu and Cadillac XTS. But instead of sharing many of its components with the 'Bu, reports indicate that the Impala will use a lot of the features of the XTS in an effort to give it a much more premium feel than the current model. And while the majority of the new car's styling details are still covered up by the heavy camouflage, we can see premium features like large alloy wheels and what appear to be LED running lights up front. We just hope General Motors hasn't just taken the easy way out and created a Malibu on steroids.

Mum's the word on powertrain offerings, but earlier reports have suggested that GM's direct-injected 3.6-liter V6 will be on board, as well as the new 2.0-liter turbo four that's slated for use in the Cadillac ATS. An eAssist version is also rumored to be in the cards.

Look for the 2014 Impala to launch sometime during the 2013 calendar year. Production is slated to be split between GM's Oshawa, Ontario plant, as well as the Detroit-Hamtramck facility where the Malibu and Volt are built.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

Jim Lentz becomes first American CEO of Toyota Motor Sales

Jim Lentz is named CEO of Toyota Motor Sales, effective April 1. Lentz is the first American to take that position in the company.

TMA is the holding company under which all of Toyota's North American operations are grouped. Terashi will fulfill two roles when his new appointment is official on April 1, the new one and his current one as president of Toyota Engineering and Manufacturing, NA.

Lentz will rise from his current position as COO. He became one of the prominent faces of Toyota during the company's recent recall issues, publicly making the interview rounds and testifying before Congress to address the situation.

Follow the jump for Toyota's press release on the management shuffle.
Show full PR text
Toyota Announces North American Leadership Changes

(March 07, 2012) -- Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) announced various global leadership changes today, including the naming of Shigeki Terashi as president and COO of Toyota Motor North America, Inc. (TMA) effective April 1.

In this new role, Mr. Terashi will be Toyota's chief regional officer for North America, and will chair Toyota's cross-affiliate North American Executive Committee.

Mr. Terashi, who will also retain his current position as president of Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing, North America, Inc. (TEMA), joined Toyota in 1980 in the body engineering design division and began by working on the Camry project. Before being named president of TEMA last year, Mr. Terashi led the Toyota Technical Center (TTC) and oversaw the development and launch of the Venza, Sienna and other key products in North America.

Other North American changes announced today, also effective April 1, include:
- Yoshi Inaba, currently president and COO of TMA, will remain on Toyota's North American Executive Committee to support Mr. Terashi in his new role, but will be moving back to Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. (TMS), to focus mainly on his role as Chairman of TMS.
- Jim Lentz, currently president and COO of TMS, will become president and CEO of TMS. Mr. Lentz is the first American to be named CEO of TMS.
- Massy Tomozoe, previously senior vice president of North America business planning and chief coordinating officer for TMA, will return to Japan to accept a senior management position, which will be announced at a later date.

Under Mr. Terashi's leadership, Toyota's North American Executive Committee will continue to meet monthly. Other members of the Executive Committee include: Yoshi Inaba, Dian Ogilvie, George Borst, Jim Lentz, Kazuhiro Miyauchi, Ray Tanguay and Steve St. Angelo.
Tags: jim lentz, toyota, toyota ceo

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Mazda CX-7 leaving the U.S. market after 2012




We had a feeling this was coming, but the cat's now officially out of the bag: The Mazda CX-7 is being discontinued in the United States.

The recently launched 2013 CX-5 will effectively replace the CX-7 (as well as the Ford-sourced Tribute), meaning there won't really be a void in Mazda's product lineup. "CX-5 has a clearer competitive set, unlike CX-7, which was in the middle of two segments," explains Mazda product communications specialist Beverly Braga.

Dimensionally, the CX-5 is slightly smaller than the CX-7, but actually boasts more cargo capacity and overall interior volume. With the rear seats folded, the CX-5 can hold up to 65.4 cubic feet of cargo (compared to 58.6 cubic feet in the CX-7) and has a total of 103.8 cubic feet of overall passenger space (101.7 in CX-7).

What's more, the CX-5's nifty new 2.0-liter Skyactiv four-cylinder engine offers substantially better fuel economy than the base 2.5-liter four of the CX-7. And while we'll certainly miss the potency of the optional 2.3-liter turbo four of the CX-7 – a version of the mill used in the Mazdaspeed3 – we can easily do without its fuel economy ratings of 18/24 miles per gallon city/highway (or 17/21 when paired with all-wheel drive – ouch!).

This may be the end of the road for the CX-7 in the U.S., but Mazda says that sales of the crossover will still continue in other markets. The CX-7 will officially be phased out at the end of the 2012 model year.

Saturday, March 10, 2012

2013 Ford Taurus SHO gets $1,045 price increase




Ford has announced pricing for the refreshed 2013 Taurus SHO, and buyers can look forward to paying a little more for the big performance sedan. Inside Line reports the price has inched up to $39,995 including destination, or $1,045 more than the 2012 model.

As before, that kind of cash will buy you a turbocharged, direct-injection Ecoboost 3.5-liter V6 good for 365 horsepower as well as a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. If that isn't enough to raise your eyebrows, Ford is continuing to offer the SHO performance package, complete with a more robust cooling system, more serious brake hardware and flashy 20-inch wheels.

Of course, that package also throws in a traction control system with a true 'off' mode. Yes, we're grinning from ear to ear. Unfortunately, the performance package has also climbed a bit compared to last year. The pieces will set you back $1,995, or about a grand more than in 2012.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

JOB OPENING AT HAUS AUTO GROUP CALL TODAY!!!

The Haus Auto Group in Canfield is growing and is seeking a Certified Automotive Technician to add to its Service Department Team. A successful applicant will have experience in Drivability Diagnostics, Air Conditioning, Electrical Diagnostics, and general advanced mechanical repair abilities. The pay is commensurate with ability and experience. The pay is flat-rate with no shortage of work or available hours. Our service department primarily services domestic makes and models with very little “heavy-work.” No nightsor weekends and we do not do factory warranty work. All work is customary customer-pay and our benefit package provides health insurance benefits. Please contact Mike Horne, Service Manager at 330-702-0000 or at 330-501-1401. or call chris haus 330501-0593

2013 Chevy Malibus turbo four rated at 269 HP 0-60 in 6.3 seconds



We weren't exactly smitten with the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco when we got the chance to tae one out for a spin, thanks in part to the eAssist wizardry aimed at improving the vehicle's fuel economy. With a lackluster drivetrain, regenerative brakes and low rolling resistance tries, the Malibu Eco simply isn't capable of keeping its head high among the competition. Even so, we were told to wait for the Ecotec 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder set to debut this year. Now we know why. According to General Motors, the engine is good for 269 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. More importantly, all that torque comes on at a very low 1,700 rpm.

The direct-injection engine helps the Malibu hit 60 mph in a scant 6.3 seconds. Trust us when we say that's an improvement over the Eco model. While there's no word on fuel economy, we would expect the engine to return well better than the 17 mpg city and 26 mpg highway supplied by the outgoing 3.6-liter V6, an engine that was only good for 252 horsepower.

This isn't the first time GM has dabbled with a turbocharged four-cylinder. The company supplied buyers with a 2.0-liter Ecotec in vehicles like the Pontiac Solstice GXP, HHR SS and Cobalt SS that put out 260 horsepower. See below for the full press release.
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Power-Dense Powertrains Drive Malibu's Global Rollout

Chevrolet midsize style and performance introduced to more than 70 countries this year

DETROIT – The all-new Ecotec 2.5L debuting on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu midsize sedan this summer is one of the most-powerful naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines in the midsize segment, topping the output from the new Ford Fusion and Toyota Camry. It will be joined this fall by a new Ecotec 2.0L turbo engine, delivering more horsepower than any previous V-6 offered in a Malibu.

Malibu's Ecotec 2.5L delivers an SAE-certified 197 horsepower (147 kW) and 191 lb.-ft. of torque (259 Nm) – the most torque of any naturally aspirated four-cylinder in the segment. And when compared with the competition, it delivers 19 more horsepower (14 kW) and 21 more lb.-ft. of torque (28 Nm) than the 2012 Toyota Camry LE's 2.5L I4 engine, and 27 more horsepower (20 kW) and 21 more lb.-ft. (28 Nm) than the 2013 Ford Fusion's 2.5L four-cylinder.

The Ecotec 2.0L turbo is SAE-certified at 259 horsepower (193 kW) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (353 Nm). Its peak torque is sustained from 1,700 to 5,500 rpm – a broad range that provides an immediate feeling of power in all driving conditions and helps produce 0-60 performance in 6.3 seconds.

The new engines feature direct injection for increased fuel efficiency and higher power, and help drive Malibu's performance around the world. Both will be offered in the United States, Canada, Israel and other markets, while rounding out a diverse North American powertrain lineup that also includes the segment-exclusive, fuel-saving eAssist™ technology in the Malibu Eco. It combines start-stop technology with regenerative braking and a lightweight lithium-ion battery to provide an electric boost in certain conditions, delivering a GM-estimated 25 mpg in the city 37 mpg on the highway. That's better fuel economy than any non-hybrid midsize sedan currently available.

"The 2013 Malibu is the latest entry in Chevrolet's growing global car portfolio, which has seen almost an entirely revamped lineup in the last 15 months," said Chris Perry, global Chevrolet marketing vice president. "We sold 4.76 million Chevys worldwide in 2011 – one every 6.5 seconds – and the new Malibu will help us grow the brand globally even more this year, where it will be introduced for the first time in many markets."

The 2013 Malibu is Chevrolet's first global midsize sedan and will eventually be sold in nearly 100 countries on six continents. It is already on sale in South Korea and China, with sales to begin this year in more than 70 additional countries, including Canada, throughout Europe, Scandinavia, the Middle East, Africa and other Asia-Pacific markets.

In the United States, current generation Malibu sales are up 4.4 percent for the first two months of the year, building on 2011's near-record U.S. sales of nearly 205,000.

The new Malibu was designed to be the most finely tuned Chevrolet midsize sedan ever and is built on an award-winning global architecture that helps deliver a more confident, responsive and connected driving experience. The body structure is 20-percent stiffer for a greater feeling of solidity, quietness and quality.

Inside, the 2013 Malibu delivers:

1.5 inches (38 mm) more front shoulder room
3.5 inches (89 mm) more rear shoulder room
2.7 inches (68 mm) more front hip room
2.8 inches (71 mm) more rear hip room
More than 1 cubic foot (28 liters) more trunk space
Nearly 4 cubic feet (113 liters) of additional EPA interior volume.

Malibu's driving experience is also enhanced with Chevrolet MyLink, an all-new in-car infotainment package that gives customers a higher level of wireless connectivity and customized infotainment options while building on the safety and security of OnStar. MyLink is safe and easy to use. It adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smartphones, building on the voice-activated Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in most Chevy vehicles. MyLink is standard in LT, LTZ and Eco Malibu models, along with a seven-inch, high-resolution, full-color touch screen display that makes media selection easy to navigate. The radio face also swivels up to reveal a hidden and illuminated storage area.

The Chevrolet Malibu Eco is on sale now and priced less than a full hybrid vehicle, with a suggested retail price of $25,995, including a $760 destination charge. Additional models go on sale this summer, followed by the Malibu Turbo this fall.
Tags: 2.0, 2.0-liter turbo, 2013, 2013 chevrolet malibu, 2013 malibu, chevrolet, chevrolet malibu, malibu

HAUS AUTO GROUP IS HIRING CALL TODAY!!!!!l



The Haus Auto Group in Canfield is growing and is seeking a Certified Automotive Technician to add to its Service Department Team. A successful applicant will have experience in Drivability Diagnostics, Air Conditioning, Electrical Diagnostics, and general advanced mechanical repair abilities. The pay is commensurate with ability and experience. The pay is flat-rate with no shortage of work or available hours. Our service department primarily services domestic makes and models with very little “heavy-work.” No nightsor weekends and we do not do factory warranty work. All work is customary customer-pay and our benefit package provides health insurance benefits. Please contact Mike Horne, Service Manager at 330-702-0000 or at 330-501-1401. or call chris haus 330501-0593

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Is the Mini brand big enough for two convertibles?


When we first drove the Mini Roadster barely a month ago, we couldn't help but feel that it had, essentially, usurped the place that had until now been taken by the Mini Convertible. The Roadster is, after all, sleeker, more stylish, that much more fun and – for some reason – even a little cheaper ($600 lower MSRP) than the four-seat cabriolet. But does that leave the Convertible without a place in the brand's ever-expanding lineup?

Since both are based on more than just the same platform, the specs are just about identical. That is, except when it comes down to interior space. While the Convertible has a pair of seats in the back – however small, still good for taking the kids for a spin or tossing an extra duffel – the Roadster has none. The Roadster, however, makes up for that with a relatively usable trunk where the Convertible has practically none. The Roadster also weighs 66 pounds less, and has more headroom (up front, of course), though front elbow room takes a three-inch hit.

So with a fresh crop of images released by Mini showing its two droptops side by side, our question is which, if any, you'd choose if you were in the market for a little retro convertible. Cast your vote in the poll below.

Porsche driver busted for using toothpaste to alter license plate

A Chinese Porsche Boxster driver is in trouble for using toothpaste to avoid the law. The owner used the cavity-preventing goo to change the 1s on his license plates to 7s. This ended up attracting the attention of Qingdao police, who thought the 7s didn't look right.

The owner will be able to reflect on his mistake over some long walks: he was fined 2,200 yuan ($349 USD) and got six points taken off his licence. Since he only had six points left to give, he won't be driving for a while.

Friday, March 2, 2012

2013 Ford Super Duty teased, new trim coming



The Ford F-Series Super Duty pickup truck is a pretty big deal. Not only is it physically large and imposing, it's also a huge seller for Ford and a vehicle that practically generates its own weight in gold profit. That being the case, it's no surprise that Ford is keen to make some noise about a new trim level for the 2013 Super Duty.

Judging from the lone teaser image let out by Ford, we can all expect the 2013 F-Series Super Duty to retain its massive, upright and in-your-face grille, flanked on either side by squared-off headlamps. We'd also expect to see enough chrome to bling the teeth of a dozen rappers, though nothing much is visible behind the curtain of the image above.

What will the trim level be called? We have no idea, but Ford is announcing the truck alongside its Professional Bull Riding partner, so we're figuring there may be some sort of tie-in along those lines. In any case, we'll just have to wait until Friday, March 9 for all the details. Stay tuned, truck lovers, and feel free to click on the image above for the full-size version.

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Chevy boasts one out of three sports cars sold are Camaro or Corvette




Over at Chevrolet HQ, the bubbly is flowing like high-octane unleaded. Of all the sports cars sold in the U.S. in 2011, 30 percent were either a Camaro or Corvette. Woo hoo! *POP!*

Take that, Ford Mustang! Take that, Dodge Challenger! Take that, um, Hyundai Veloster? and Honda CR-Z? Yeah, Camaro trounced all y'all! Beat Mustang by almost 18,000 cars and the Dodge Challenger by, wow, more than 48,000 units! And don't even think about lining up your CR-Z next to a Camaro, 'cause you'll get smoked!

In the big-ticket sports car class, the Corvette is still king. In fact, nearly as many Vettes were sold in 2011 as the Porsche 911, BMW 6 Series and the Z4 combined.

But back to the Camaro. Why is the (at minimum) 323-horsepower Camaro listed alongside the relatively anemic 122-hp Honda and 138-hp Hyundai? Smoke and mirrors from Chevy? Maybe, but probably not. They're all two-door coupes... except for the Veloster which has three. They're also all available in red and considered compact cars by the EPA.... except for the CR-Z, which is a two-seater. More likely, the three are in the same GM target market of 25-40-year-old males... who want to get 40 mpg while going 150 mph with the convenience of a hatchback?

We give up. Feel free to peruse the press release after the break.


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Chevrolet Ranks as Top Performance Brand in U.S.
Corvette and Camaro accounted for one in three sports car sales in 2011

DETROIT – Chevrolet is America's favorite performance brand, with Camaro and Corvette accounting for one out of every three sports cars sold in the United States in 2011.

Chevrolet accounted for 37 percent of the sports-car segment last year, selling 88,249 Camaros, which surpassed its nearest competitor, the Ford Mustang, by more than 18,000 units. That lead is expected to increase when the new Camaro ZL1 goes on sale this month.

Chevrolet accounted for 28 percent of the luxury-sports-car segment in 2011, selling 13,164 Corvettes. Currently the only domestic car in the segment, Corvette more than doubled the sales of its nearest competitor, the Porsche 911.


Top 5 Sports Cars by 2011 Total Sales and Market Share

1. Chevrolet Camaro - 88,249, 37%
2. Ford Mustang - 70,438, 29%
3. Dodge Challenger - 39,534, 16%
4. Honda CR-Z - 11,330, 5%
5. Hyundai Veloster - 9,284, 4%

Top 5 Luxury Sports Cars by 2011 Total Sales and Market Share

1. Chevrolet Corvette - 13,164, 28%
2. Porsche 911 - 6,016, 13%
3. BMW 6-Series - 3,903, 8%
4. BMW Z4 - 3,479, 7%
5. Mercedes SLK - 3,220, 7%

"With the addition of the Camaro ZL1, there are only a handful of brands in the world with two cars that can match the performance, technology, and excitement of Corvette and Camaro," said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss. "Unlike many competitors' performance cars, the Corvette ZR1 and Camaro ZL1 are appropriate for both daily drivers and track use from the factory – with standard coolers for brakes and drivetrain."

"And we challenge any company to bring two cars to compete with the Corvette ZR1 and Camaro ZL1, dollar for dollar," Reuss said. "They will discover what enthusiasts already know – that Chevrolet Camaro and Corvette are the world's best performance cars for the money."

To demonstrate the capabilities of the Corvette and Camaro, Chevrolet recently tested full-production models with no performance modifications on the "Grand Course" at Virginia International Raceway. The Grand Course configuration is a challenge for production cars because it requires prodigious power, precise handling and tenacious grip to record a fast lap.

In a 2012 Corvette ZR1, equipped with new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires, Corvette engineer Jim Mero lapped the Grand Course in 2:45.6 – faster than the published lap time for any production car.

In a 2012 Camaro ZL1, Camaro engineer Aaron Link lapped the Grand Course in 2:52.4 – more than six seconds faster than the published lap time of a 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 on the same track.

Car and Driver Magazine, which conducts the annual Lightning Lap shootout at Virginia International Raceway, called the track "the nearest thing to the Nurburgring's fabled Nordschleife."

"The Grand Course at VIR is an excellent test of all-around vehicle performance," said Reuss. "Like the Nurburgring, a single lap at VIR tests every aspect of a car, including power, brakes, steering, tire grip and chassis balance. To break a three-minute lap on the four-mile Grand Course is an incredible accomplishment for any car."

The Corvette ZR1 is the most powerful vehicle Chevrolet has ever produced, with a supercharged, 6.2L, LS9 V-8 delivering 638 horsepower and 604 pound-feet of torque. Of all mass-production companies, Chevrolet is the leader in carbon fiber use, with the lightweight material used for structural components on the ZR1 including the front fenders, hood, roof, front splitter, rocker panels and floor pans. With a curb weight of 3,353 pounds, the ZR1 features a power-to-weight ratio of just 5.2 pounds per horsepower. As a result, the ZR1 is also the fastest Chevrolet ever produced, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, and reaching a top speed of 205 mph. The Corvette ZR1 starts at $112,575, including destination.

The Camaro ZL1 is the most-powerful Camaro ever produced, with a supercharged, 6.2L, LSA V-8 delivering 580-horsepower, and 556 pound-feet of torque. It is also the most-sophisticated Camaro ever, with exclusive performance technologies including Performance Traction Management and Magnetic Ride suspension. Other standard performance features include six-piston Brembo brakes, and coolers for the rear differential, brakes, and transmission. As a result, the ZL1 is also the most-capable Camaro ever, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 184 mph, and lapping the famed Nurburgring in just 7:41.27. The Camaro ZL1 starts at $54,995, including destination.

Both Corvette and Camaro have also recently been recognized by IntelliChoice as the best overall value in their segments – further evidence that consumers get more performance for their money from 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