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加拿大中英汽車網誌
REGISTERED in February of 2000
First and Only Canadian Chinese/English Automotive Online Magazine
Chief Editor and Publisher: Sammy Chan
 

Latest Motor News 車壇快訊 :

Lexus CT 200h, sport hybrid getting sportier with new F-Sport package
Mazda CX-5- the hottest compact SUV to arrive in spring of 2012
Honda CR-V unveiled at Los Angeles Auto Show
Panamera GTS unveiled at Los Angeles Auto Show
Chevrolet Spark mini car to be destined for Canadian market after a successful run in Europe
Infiniti adds IPL G Convertible to G Series in spring of 2012
Cadillac XTS to compete against BMW 5 Series and Audi A6
Mitsubishi's first electric vehicle i-MiEV scored first in EPA fuel economy and has a starting price of $32,998.00
2012 Toyota Yaris Hatchback arrives in dealerships across Canada in mid-October with a starting MSRP of $13,990
GM Verano utilizes Z-link to deliver sports car performance
MINI Roadster to join MINI's lineup as MINI's first 2-seater convertible
2013 Chevrolet Malibu brings athleticism and sophistication to a new level
Volvo C70 Inscription for convertible connoisseiurs
Hyundai Veloster priced attractively and aggressively at $18,999.00

Lexus CT 200h, sport hybrid getting sportier with new F-Sport package

Chevrolet Spark mini car to be destined for Canadian market after a successful run in Europe

Text and photo supplied by GM Canada Inc.

Infiniti adds IPL G Convertible to G Series in spring of 2012

Text adapted from Infiniti:
The 2013 IPL G Convertible, the second model in the Infiniti Performance Line lineup, unleashes performance from a top-down, wide-open, wind-in-your-face perspective.
Like the standard Infiniti G37 Convertible that serves as its foundation, the new IPL G Convertible combines seductive style with a highly engaging driving experience.  The IPL G Convertible’s VQ37HR 3.7-litre V6 engine generates 343 horsepower – an increase of 18 horsepower over the non-IPL G Convertible models – and 273 lb-ft of torque (+6 lb-ft). It is available with an electronically controlled 7-speed automatic transmission with Downshift Rev Matching and magnesium paddle shifters. The enhancements are not limited to engine performance only.  The IPL G Convertible also features an IPL-tuned suspension and Sport brakes.
Exterior modifications over the stock Infiniti G Convertible include: a dramatic front bumper/fascia design with integrated fog lights and black finishers, sculpted side sills and chrome exhaust tips.  Exclusive 19-inch IPL split 7-spoke graphite-finish wheels and low-profile W-rated Bridgestone Potenza RE050A performance tires add a confident stance and road-ready attitude, while its two available exterior colours, Aspen Pearl and Malbec Black, add to its exclusive jewel-like presence.
The IPL G Convertible’s interior is similarly offered in just two colour treatments – Stone and IPL-exclusive Monaco Red – and include red-stitched leather-appointed front sport seats, red-stitched steering wheel, Silk Obi aluminum trim, power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, iPod interface, IPL-embroidered front seatback and front floor mats, and aluminum trimmed pedals and footrest.
Other standard IPL G Convertible interior features include: a 13-speaker Bose ^Ò Open Air sound system, Climate-controlled front seats, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Infiniti Voice Recognition for audio navigation, memory system for driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, RearView Monitor and Rear Sonar System.
The IPL G Convertible is scheduled to go on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide in spring 2012.

 

Honda unveiled 2 new models at Los Angeles Auto Show

Text from Honda Canada Inc.- Two all-new production Honda vehicles -- 2012 CR-V and 2013 Fit EV -- made their debut during Press Day at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16.  As one of the best-selling SUV's in North America, the fourth-generation 2012 CR-V will showcase all-new exterior and interior styling, improved fuel economy, added technology features and more as part of its "total package" approach.  The all-electric, zero-emissions Fit EV concept vehicle debuted at last year's Los Angeles Auto Show and the production model will be revealed at this year's show.  Honda Canada is currently studying the Canadian market regarding the Fit EV as well as other alternative fuel vehicles.

Panamera GTS unveiled at Los Angeles Auto Show

Text provided by Porsche Canada Inc.:
Porsche has just unveiled the Panamera GTS, the purest expression of a four-door sports car in the Porsche family, at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Based on the Panamera 4S, the Panamera GTS focuses on performance and includes more power, upgraded brakes and a lowered, sportier suspension, making it even more capable on the race track without sacrificing practicality.

The Panamera GTS conveys its extra capability with distinctive design features such as bi-xenon headlights with black inner bezels, high-gloss black window trim, black side skirts, black lower rear fascia and matte black tailpipes. With large air intakes, the SportDesign front bumper emphasizes the vehicle’s sportiness and ensures an optimal air supply. At the rear, the adaptive four-way rear spoiler from the Panamera Turbo positions itself to generate downforce at high speeds. Optional Carmine Red paint, available exclusively for the Panamera GTS, emphasizes the vehicle’s sportiness and provides an ideal contrast with the black exterior accessories.

The Panamera GTS is powered by a modified 4.8-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering 430 hp at 6,700 rpm – increasing the output over the Panamera S and 4S by 30 hp thanks to a combination of a higher rev limit and a higher-flow intake system. The maximum torque also increases, from 369 to 384 lb. ft. Exhaust gases exit through a standard sport exhaust system. Featuring two tuning flaps, which expose additional exhaust openings at the push of a button on the console, it emits an even more powerful sound.

With the launch control feature of the standard Sport Chrono package, the 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) transmission delivers thrust to the all-wheel drive system without interrupting the power flow, enabling the Panamera GTS to sprint to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, accelerating on to a top track speed of 288 km/h.

Acceleration figures and top speed only scratch the surface of the Panamera GTS’s sporty character. The adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) constantly adapt to the driving challenges by regulating leveling settings, adjusting height, adjusting the spring rate and electrically adjusting the damping system. The body has also been lowered by 10 mm.

Deceleration is provided by the braking system from the Panamera Turbo, which includes larger front brake rotors; like other Porsche models, the Panamera GTS is available with optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB), featuring yellow brake calipers. Cornering grip is provided by standard 255/45 19-inch tires on the front axle and 285/40 19-inch tires on the rear.

The Panamera GTS comes standard with the Sport Chrono package, which offers normal, Sport and Sport Plus modes. Specific characteristics of the car are further accentuated depending on which mode is selected: for example, activating Sport Plus enhances gear-shift parameters and throttle response, lowers the adaptive air suspension and switches to a harder spring rate, while the Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system intervenes later.

Optional features include Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which prevents the body from rolling by using active stabilizers on the front and rear axle, and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, which varies the torque distribution to the rear wheels with an electronically regulated rear differential lock.

Inside, the standard adaptive 18-way sport seats feature Alcantara center panels; Alcantara is also used on the upper sections of the door armrests, front center console armrest and roofliner. The SportDesign steering wheel with shift paddles combines dynamic looks with sporty functionality. Two optional interior equipment packages marry a black interior with decorative stitching on the seats, floor mats, dashboard, door panels, center console armrest and doors, in Carmine Red or GT silver, with matching seatbelts and embroidered GTS lettering on the headrests and safety belts.

The 2013 Panamera GTS will be available in the spring of 2012 at a base MSRP of $125,400.

Cadillac XTS to compete against BMW 5 Series and Audi A6

Mitsubishi's first electric vehicle i-MiEV will have a starting price of $32,998.00

Text sourced from Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada Inc.-  MMSCAN has just announced competitive pricing for their all new zero-emission electric car, the 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV (Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle). The Mitsubishi i-MiEV is a five-door, 4-passenger, subcompact hatchback that has been designed and packaged to be efficient, ecological and fun to drive. It will be the most affordable, mass-produced, all-electric vehicle in the Canadian marketplace, and with a targeted range of 135 kilometers, and a top speed of 130 km/h, i-MiEV will make an excellent commuter vehicle for many Canadians living in urban areas.

The fully equipped i-MiEV will be available in two trim levels. The standard i-MiEV will have a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $32,998.00 and the top of the line i-MiEV with the Premium Package will have a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $35,998.00.

The provinces of Ontario and Quebec have already announced subsidies towards the purchase of electric vehicles (a credit of $8,230.00 in Ontario and $7,769.00 in Quebec). Therefore, the net MSRP of the i-MiEV in these two provinces will be $24,768.00 in Ontario and $25,229.00 in Quebec. Furthermore, Quebec will also offer a 50 percent subsidy on the purchase and installation of a home charger, up to a maximum of $1,000.

The 2012 Mitsubishi i electric vehicle has also scored first-place honors on the EPA's list of "Fuel Economy Leaders: 2012 Model Year" in the governmental agency's annual Fuel Economy Guide thanks to its astonishing EPA-rated 112 combined/ 126 city/ 99 highway MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent).

The Mitsubishi i-MiEV represents the height of Mitsubishi Motors' green technologies, and our Canadian partnership program is the largest of its kind in North America. The i-MiEV will be available to Canadians at Mitsubishi dealerships, later this year.

GM Verano utilizes Z-link to deliver sports car performance

Text sourced from GM Canada Inc.- When engineers set out to give the all-new 2012 Buick Verano the agile driving dynamics and smooth quiet ride that drivers expect of the luxury brand, they put a new twist on a technology that pre-dates the automotive industry by more than century.

Verano, which arrives at Buick dealerships later this year, uses a Z-link design in its rear suspension to centre the car’s rear axle during turns to provide a more-balanced driving experience.

Z-link is based on the Watt’s linkage, a device invented by James Watt in 1784 to drive a steam engine piston in a straight up-and-down motion. Automotive engineers have since used Watt’s linkage to prevent sideways motion between the axle and body of a vehicle. General Motors’ exclusive Z-link design is a refinement of that technology.

“By using a Z-link on Verano, we were able to achieve the crisp chassis dynamics, a smooth ride, and hushed road noise that Buick customers have come to expect,” said Matt Purdy, Verano vehicle performance manager. “Z-link and other chassis refinements implemented on Verano are expected to deliver unmatched ride quality in the luxury compact car segment.”

The Z-link is carried on a small cross-member attached to the vehicle’s underbody, just behind the rear wheel centre line. It consists of a short, pivoting centre link with a ball joints at each end, to which the lateral links from the wheels are bolted. During cornering, the Z-link provides greater lateral stiffness that results in more positive vehicle responses to steering inputs and helps keep the rear suspension aligned with the front suspension.  When the Verano is traveling on a straight road, it allows the suspension to travel up and down freely for excellent ride comfort.

Verano’s front suspension uses MacPherson struts that help manage road inputs, and high-strength aluminum components that help improve handling and durability and prevent vibrations while contributing to better fuel efficiency due to their light weight. Verano’s ride also benefits from the use of urethane cushions on the top and bottom of the springs to reduce vibrations, and a 10-percent larger twin-tube damper to increase ride control and isolate road noise.

“Verano couples these chassis technologies with remarkable acoustic refinement to deliver the quiet cabin, agile handling and superior ride that our customers have come to expect from Buick,” said Chuck Russell, Verano vehicle line director.

MINI Roadster to join MINI's lineup as MINI's first 2-seater convertible

Text sourced from MINI Canada Inc.- Continuing a vigorous expansion of the MINI model family, MINI is proud to announce the sixth model in the lineup, the all-new MINI Roadster.

The cutting-edge, typically MINI interpretation of the compact, two-seater sports car concept becomes the first premium vehicle of its type in the small car segment. The three-box body structure stands more than 20 mm lower than the MINI Convertible and is equipped with a manually operated soft-top roof with a simplified latching mechanism for quick and easy opening and closing.

When opened, the roof folds down flat behind the seats, keeping the car’s elegantly sweeping lines intact. Since the outer skin of the roof faces upwards, there is no need for any additional cover.

The MINI Roadster will be available in three versions, with powertrains familiar from the Roadster’s stablemate MINI Coupés.

The MINI John Cooper Works Roadster is equipped with a high-performance version of the well-known MINI 1.6 liter four-cylinder engine with twin-scroll turbocharging, variable valve control and direct injection along with a host of enhancements lifted directly from MINI’s motor sport program. With an output of 208 hp at 6,000 rpm and 192 ft-lb or torque from 1,850 – 5,600 rpm, the JCW Roadster accelerates from 0-100 km/h in just 6.5 seconds (preliminary), maintaining an average fuel consumption of 7.3 L/100km (in the EU cycle).

The MINI Cooper S Roadster sports MINI’s familiar 1.6 liter four-cylinder engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, variable valve control and direction injection, outputting 181 hp at 5,500 rpm and generating 177 ft-lb of torque from 1,600 - 5,000 rpm, thrusting the Cooper S Roadster from 0 – 100 km/h in 7.0 seconds (preliminary). Average fuel consumption (in the EU cycle) clocks in at 6.0 L/100 km).

The MINI Cooper Roadster is powered by the naturally aspirated1.6 liter four-cylinder engine with direct injection and fully variable valve management based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology. Generating121 hp at 6,000 rpm and 114 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm, the Cooper Roadster sprints from 0–100 km/h in 9.2 seconds (preliminary), rendering a thrifty average fuel consumption of 5.7 L/100 km (in the EU cycle).

With a significant storage area immediately behind the driver and passenger seats, a wide-aperture through-loading door, a 240-liter luggage area and a wide-opening tailgate, the MINI Roadster provides provides generous amenities for its two-seater configuration. An accessory wind deflector is also available, fitting between the roll-over bars.

Additional technical details, pricing and options information will be available closer to the market launch of the new MINI Roadster in spring of 2012.

All-new Toyota Yaris Hatchback arrives in dealerships across Canada in mid-October with a starting MSRP of $13,990

Text sourced from Toyota Canada Inc.: With the right size for drivers who need an agile and functional vehicle, the new 2012 Toyota Yaris Hatchback arrives this fall with sporty styling, class-leading safety features and improved fuel economy.

The all-new Yaris features a remarkable attention to detail in the design and engineering of the vehicle. From its smart, interior design and quiet, refined passenger cabin to its responsive driving dynamics, the 2012 Yaris Hatchback answers car-shoppers’ demands for a no-compromise vehicle.

The hatchback body styles dominate the subcompact vehicle segment in Canada. The new Yaris Hatchback has been completely redesigned for 2012, featuring a sportier, aggressive look. The wheelbase has been lengthened to 2,510 mm (98.8 in.), with the overall length of the vehicle growing to 3,900 mm (153.5 in.). The height of the new Yaris is also reduced by 15.2 mm (0.6 in.) for a stance that is both lower and longer. The result is more cargo room along with additional headroom and passenger volume, all within a highly aerodynamic body yielding a 0.29 coefficient of drag.

The new Yaris will be offered in three grades, with the entry-level CE and value-packaged LE editions available either as a three-door liftback or five-door hatchback. The sport-tuned SE is available only as a five-door. Standard equipment levels have been improved across all grades while simplifying options to make it easier for customers to find the car they want at an affordable price.

The new 2012 Yaris was designed for fun and functionality. Both three-door and five-door models are powered by a 1.5-litre, 16-valve, four-cylinder DOHC engine equipped with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i), producing 106 hp at 6,000 rpm and 103 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,200 rpm. The broad torque curve provides plenty of response for both manual transmission and automatic transmission vehicles.

All Yaris CE, LE and SE models are available with a new four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, featuring a more compact, lighter-weight design and reduced friction for greater fuel efficiency. A smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission is standard on all models.

For the all-new Yaris, both the front MacPherson-strut and rear torsion-beam suspension have been tuned to deliver a better ride and improved driving feel. The front stabilizer bar has been increased to 24.2 mm (0.95 in.). Standard tire sizes are increased as well to 15-inch on CE and LE versions, and 16-inch on the SE.

Starting with nine standard airbags, the all-new Yaris offers an impressive array of safety features. Standard driver and front-passenger dual-stage airbags (SRS) are complemented by front-seat mounted side airbags and a knee airbag for the driver. Roll-sensing side airbags are fitted on front seats and there are two front seat cushion airbags for a total of nine standard airbags.

In common with all Toyota vehicles, the Yaris features Toyota’s Star Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The new Yaris also features Smart Stop Technology, Toyota’s brake-override system, as standard.

New to the 2012 Yaris is Toyota’s Advanced Whiplash Injury-Lessening (WIL) front-seat structure. The design helps to ensure that all areas from the head to the lower back are equally supported, helping to reduce whiplash-type injuries during certain types of collisions. The new Yaris features an impact-absorbing body structure utilizing high-tensile strength steel to effectively distribute collision forces.

For the first time, Toyota has engineered a single-windshield wiper with wet-arm system for reduced weight and better performance. The system sprays washer fluid from the base of the wiper arm directly in the path of the blade for improved cleaning and wiping action. In addition to its many safety features, all Yaris models are well equipped with popular comfort, convenience and technology features.

Starting with the Yaris CE, all models include standard electric power steering, power-assisted ventilated front disc brakes, power door locks and Cold Weather Package. Other standard features include six cup and bottle holders, and storage cover for the cargo area, Halogen headlamps, intermittent front windshield wiper and a rear window wiper. All models also feature full audio connectivity via USB and auxiliary ports, along with a standard AM/FM/CD player with MP3 and WMA playback compatibility. CE and LE models feature an audio system with HD radio, four speakers and Bluetooth music streaming technology and the SE features six speakers and Bluetooth music streaming technology.

The bold new design of the 2012 Yaris is longer and lower, with a longer wheelbase. Its assertive presence is visible from all angles, starting with the distinctive protruding front profile with wide headlamps and integrated turn signals. The side profile displays a steeply sloped beltline, and flowing curves that appear to stretch the image of the vehicle. The shoulder lines continue around to the rear, creating a sharp, solid look. Eight colors are available for the new Yaris, including Alpine White, Classic Silver Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black Sand Pearl, Absolutely Red, Lagoon Blue Mica, Wave Line Pearl and Blazing Blue Metallic.

The interior has been completely redesigned on the new Yaris, providing a level of detail not often seen on cars in this price class. The doors close with a smooth, solid feel. Additional sound-absorbing and insulating materials make for a quieter ride. Upgraded fabrics and soft-touch dash highlight a more premium, sporty interior. The front seats are now wider, and sculpted to reduce fatigue on long trips. The driver experience is heightened with a new tilt three-spoke steering wheel, featuring a thicker grip and a flat-bottom shape to reduce knee interference. The instrument cluster, center-mounted in the previous Yaris, is relocated in front of the driver and includes a multi-instrument display with odometer, twin trip meters, clock, outside temperature reading, fuel economy display, average speed and Eco-Driving indicator (Automatic transmission only). CE, LE and SE editions include a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat.

The luggage compartment area has been lengthened by 144.8 mm (5.7 in.), and widened by 53.3 mm (2.1 in.), to increase cargo volume by 64 percent in the 3-door and 68 percent in the 5-door. Cargo capacity with the seat up is 433 L (15.3 cu. ft.) on the 3-door and 442 L (15.6 cu. ft.) on the 5-door.

The Yaris SE provides even more driving fun with its sport-tuned suspension, quicker ratio steering, standout styling and driver-oriented interior. The SE features both front and rear disc brakes, with the front disc nearly an inch larger in diameter than L and LE versions. The SE is equipped with P195/50R16 tires and alloy wheels. The SE makes a distinctive statement with smoke-trim multi-reflector halogen headlamps, integrated fog lamps and color-keyed grille with sport mesh insert. It features color-keyed front and rear underbody spoilers, rear spoiler and rear diffuser, set off by a chrome exhaust tip and SE badge.

Inside, a sporty instrumentation package faces the driver, with an analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and digital Multi-Instrument Display. The leather-trimmed tilt three-spoke steering wheel includes audio controls and standard cruise control. Exclusive sport seats help add shoulder-level support for more comfort and control. The Yaris SE also includes a six-way adjustable driver’s seat and four-way adjustable passenger seat with sport fabric trim.

The 2012 Yaris Hatchback arrives in dealerships across Canada in mid-October with a starting MSRP of $13,990.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu brings athleticism and sophistication to a new level

The all-new 2013 Chevrolet Malibu made its global debut with simultaneous introductions in the United States and China – two of the nearly 100 countries on six continents where it will be sold. Chevrolet’s first global midsize sedan will provide customers from Shanghai to New York and Sydney to Sao Paulo with expressive design, advanced technologies, ride performance and fuel-efficient powertrains.

A wider stance, broad shoulders and an integrated rear spoiler bring a new athleticism to Malibu and give it a more aggressive appearance. The new Malibu has a 4.5-inch (114 mm) shorter wheelbase and 62-inch (1,574 mm) front and rear tracks that are more than 2 inches (51 mm) wider than the model it replaces. Other exterior design cues include Chevrolet’s dual-port grille, projector HID headlamps, larger Chevrolet bow-tie badges front and rear, and new Camaro-inspired LED dual-element taillamps. The look is complemented by a range of large 17-, 18- and 19-inch wheels. Malibu also has electronically controlled and integrated active aero shutters (select models in North American markets) to improve aerodynamics and enhance fuel economy without sacrificing the exterior design.

The new Malibu interior was designed to bring an element of sophistication to everyday driving, featuring an all-new dual cockpit design that creates an inviting, roomy and comfortable environment. The increased width of the new Malibu means a more spacious cabin. Compared to the previous model, it has nearly 4 cubic feet (113 L) of additional interior volume, along with more shoulder and hip room.

The Malibu interior features metallic, chrome or wood accents located around the shifter, surrounding the center stack, around the instrument cluster and on doors and the steering wheel. Soft, ice blue ambient lighting reflects off of and complements chrome accents and ensures even, consistent illumination along the instrument panel and in storage pockets. Ice blue lighting on the center stack dials, exposed ice blue French contrast stitching, soft-touch and textured surfaces, and strategic applications of noise-deadening materials add to Malibu’s interior refinement. Malibu will include Chevrolet’s new MyLink infotainment package at launch. It builds on the safety and security of OnStar and seamlessly integrates online services like Pandora® internet radio and Stitcher SmartRadio®. MyLink integrates wireless connectivity through Bluetooth to enable hands-free use of selected smart phone apps while the device remains safely stowed. MyLink features a high-resolution, full-color touch screen display designed to manage the number of steps required to complete a task. MyLink also adds stereo audio streaming and wireless control of smart phones, building on the Bluetooth hands-free calling capability already offered in most Chevrolet vehicles.

The 2013 Malibu features a global lineup of fuel-efficient and powerful four-cylinder engines that complements its European-inspired driving characteristics. An all-new Ecotec 2.5L dual overhead cam, four-cylinder engine with direct injection leads Malibu’s engine lineup in North America. It is expected to be one of the most efficient of its size in the market. New features include enhanced authority continuously variable valve timing, variable-displacement oil pump and electronic thermostat that save fuel, while delivering V-6-like performance. It is estimated the engine will be SAE-certified at more than 190 horsepower (141 kW) and 180 lb.-ft. of torque (245 Nm). The new engine has noise-reducing features such as a cast exhaust manifold, steel crank, low-noise timing chain and direct mount accessories that contribute to a quiet-cabin experience. The 2.5L is mated to a Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic with features designed to enhance powertrain efficiency. They include changes to clutch controls and hardware that improves shift response and time. These changes enabled engineers to specify higher gearing to improve cruising efficiency while maintaining acceleration performance and driveability.

When it comes to safety features, the new Malibu will be one of the best-equipped in the segment. The Malibu will also be pedestrian protection-compliant in all markets where it is sold, and for the first time in North America. Pedestrian protection design in the front of the vehicle reduces the chance of secondary collision between the pedestrian and engine block in car-pedestrian accidents.

The new Malibu comes in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels, with 10 exterior colors and four interior color combination choices in North America, depending on the model. Malibu production in the United States begins in early 2012. It will be built in multiple locations around the globe, including the Fairfax, Kan. and Detroit-Hamtramck assembly plants in the United States. Pricing will be announced later this year.

Volvo C70 Inscription for convertible connosseiurs

Text sourced from Volvo Canada Inc.: The Volvo C70 convertible reappears in the sunlight in a new limited edition Inscription version with a number of unique and desirable features. The Inscription blends distinctive exterior details such as the painted grille and black 18-inch wheels with exclusive interior features, including Sovereign Hide upholstery and a leather-covered dashboard.

"The C70 is a true icon in our model range. The Inscription is based on our human-centric Designed Around You philosophy, offering those who love convertibles and coupes a beautifully detailed version with a lot of curb appeal," says Doug Speck, Senior Vice President Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at the Volvo Car Corporation.

The C70 Inscription boasts a turbocharged five-cylinder T5 with 250 hp and 273 ft-lbs. of torque. The Inscription will be available in two colours: Black Sapphire (Metallic) and Ice White (Solid). The stunning 18-inch wheels enhance the exclusive look of the sleek convertible. This expressive version of the "Midir" rim comes in black with polished spokes and outer perimeter. Up front, the high-gloss paint on the grille and the LED Daytime Running Lights, both surrounded by contrasting chrome, give the C70 Inscription a distinctive "face".

The interior also features a distinctive new look that echoes the unique exterior, including:

The Volvo C70 Inscription will be shown for the first time at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show that will start November 16th. Sales will also start November 2011. The C70 Inscription is available worldwide with local adaptations. Production volume is limited to 500 units a year in North America.

Hyundai brand new Veloster priced attractively at $18,999.00

Text sourced from Hyundai Auto Canada Corp.: Hyundai's brand new model, the 2012 Veloster 3-door coupe, will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price starting at $18,999. As a Hyundai, the Veloster will be very well equipped with features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, proximity keyless entry with push-button start, Gasoline Direct Injection fuel-saving technology, back-up camera and a 7-inch touch screen display as standard equipment.

The Veloster arrives with the most aggressive adaptation of Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design language. First launched in 2010, Fluidic Sculpture evokes the interplay of wind with rigid surfaces to create the illusion of constant motion. With the Veloster, Hyundai has enhanced the design to give the car more visual appeal on the road.

Equipped with a 138-horsepower, 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 123 lb.-ft. of torque, the Veloster can be paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or Hyundai’s first 6-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission. With Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) technology, the Veloster can achieve highway fuel efficiency of 4.9 L/100km – better than the Honda CR-Z Hybrid.

“The Veloster is a new type of vehicle for Hyundai,” said Steve Kelleher, President and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada Corp.  “The car was designed to appeal to people looking for a compact, stylish coupe with sporty handling to navigate the modern urban jungle and an efficient engine in this era of high fuel prices. We’ve also infused the Veloster with the latest technology to help buyers get the most out of their car. We believe there simply is nothing else like the Veloster on the market right now.”

Pricing for the Veloster starts at $18,999 for a very well equipped model with a 6-speed manual transmission.  Additional standard equipment includes heated seats, Bluetooth, telescopic steering wheel, fog lights, LED position lights, centre-mounted dual chrome exhaust outlets and a sophisticated trip computer.  The 6-speed EcoShift Dual Clutch Transmission can be added for $1,400.

A single, optional $3,500 Tech Package is available, upgrading the Veloster with 18-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, satellite navigation, premium 450-watt Dimension audio system with subwoofer, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, upgraded seat covers and armrest, high-gloss black interior accents, alloy pedals and automatic light control.

A full complement of standard safety equipment includes six airbags, disc brakes at all four wheels and Hyundai’s Vehicle Stability Management system. Braking aids include ABS, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist.

Veloster combines the style of a coupe with the functionality of a hatchback, all while incorporating an additional passenger-side door. Hinged conventionally, the rear passenger side door of the Veloster provides safe and easy access to the rear seats. In order to maintain the classic coupe style, the passenger-side rear door handle is hidden in the C-pillar.

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