The all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe is set to debut at dealers on August 24, 2010, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $19,200, plus a destination and handling charge of $750, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced.

Developed as a stylish, driver-focused vehicle with an emphasis on efficient performance, the all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z introduces a sleek two-passenger coupe design with quick, sporty handling to the gasoline-electric hybrid segment. A 1.5-liter VTEC 4-cylinder engine works with Hondas unique, compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system to supply both power and efficiency to the CR-Z. A sport-focused, six-speed manual transmission is a first for any mass-produced hybrid. An automatic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is available and includes steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual-like gear-ratio control.

A new, exclusive 3-mode drive system allows the driver to configure the vehicle’s responsiveness for Sport, Normal or Econ (Economy) driving modes. Driver efficiency tools include Eco Assist and Eco Scoring, which together can help drivers find improvements to efficient driving styles, while also comparing economy achievements to previous trips as well as the life of the vehicle.

The CR-Z is available in two equipment grades the well-equipped CR-Z (base) and the feature-rich CR-Z EX. Standard features on the CR-Z include an AM/FM/CD/USB audio system with six speakers, automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, remote entry, cruise control, and more.

The CR-Z EX adds a 360-watt AM/FM/CD high-power audio system with seven speakers including a subwoofer Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, leather-wrapped steering wheel and more. The CR-Z EX is available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition.

The CR-Z demonstrates the Honda commitment to safety in the vehicle’s design and construction. The Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure is designed to help protect vehicle occupants in a frontal collision. Additional safety technologies include Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA); standard dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; standard front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); side-curtain airbags; active head restraints; an anti-lock braking system; a tire pressure monitoring system; and a pedestrian injury mitigation design in the front of the vehicle.

The “Top Safety Pick” is the highest safety designation awarded by the IIHS.  To qualify for the award, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of “good” in the IIHS’ front, side, rollover, and rear impact tests and be equipped with electronic stability control.  The IIHS testing was made more stringent in 2010 with the addition of the rollover test.

The new Sienna is the first, and currently the only minivan to earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick since the rollover test was added to the criteria.

To earn a “good” rollover rating, a roof must be able to support the equivalent of four times the vehicle’s weight compared with the current federal standard of 1.5.  In the IIHS testing, the Sienna roof withstood a force equal to 4.12 times its vehicle weight.  The Avalon’s weight withstood 4.07 times its vehicle weight.

The IIHS is an independent non-profit research and communications organization funded by auto insurance companies.

All Toyota models meet or exceed the safety requirements of the federal government and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Modifications and towing packages

If you are willing to make some modifications to your tow vehicle, you can protect it from the stresses of towing, reduce engine wear and possibly see more engine power. If your tow vehicle is still under warranty, making modifications could void your manufacturer’s warranty. Be sure to check your warranty and with your dealer before you make any modifications. Another point to consider is that adding performance components may give you more engine power, but should not exceed your vehicle’s factory towing capacity. Modifications may increase your vehicle’s margin of safety, but not its capabilities.

If you are purchasing a new vehicle specifically for towing, consider adding the optional “Towing” or “Camping” packages that are offered. These options are installed by the automaker and will be covered under the factory warranty. If your towing will be primarily on pavement, it is recommended to buy a two-wheel drive model instead of a four-wheel drive that is heavier and has a lower towing capability than a two-wheel drive vehicle.

Springs and shocks

Heavy-duty springs are considered an aftermarket improvement, but are worth the investment if you do a lot of towing. Find a reputable spring and suspension shop to have the heavy-duty springs installed for rear or front suspensions.

It’s also a good idea to outfit your vehicle with the best shock absorbers available for towing. Good shocks will keep your vehicle stable and reduce sway should you encounter potholes or rough pavement.

Upgrade your lubricants

Towing can cause increased stress on your vehicle and force the engine to run hotter as a result. Anything you can do to keep those temperatures down will extend the life of your tow vehicle. One simple and inexpensive way to prepare your tow vehicle is to change and upgrade your fluids and lubricants.

High performance synthetic lubrication offers several products that will alleviate stress and extend the intervals of maintenance. A Radiator Coolant Additive is a perfect product for your tow vehicle. This synthetic, radiator coolant additive reduces engine heat by reducing the surface tension of the radiator fluids for improved heat transfer. It also provides additional protection against rust, corrosion and erosion, and can be used in diesel and gas engines.

Chrysler Group vehicles represent more than 20 percent of the total mid-size SUVs awarded Top Safety Pick status by IIHS to automakers and more than 12 percent of the overall Top Safety Picks in all segments. The awards recognize automobiles with ESC that perform well in the Institute’s front-impact, side-impact, rear-impact and new for 2010, roof-strength evaluations.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2010 Jeep Patriot, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010 Dodge Avenger and 2010 Dodge Journey encompass a two-fold approach to safety—passive features combined with accident-avoidance features. Standard or available safety and security features on all five vehicles include ESC with traction control, Brake Assist and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), driver and front-passenger active head restraints, front seat-mounted side airbags and advanced multi-stage front airbags.
Chrysler Group’s five Top Safety Picks encompass a two-fold approach to safety—passive features combined with accident-avoidance systems. The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2010 Jeep Patriot, 2010 Chrysler Sebring, 2010 Dodge Avenger and 2010 Dodge Journey also feature the company’s new active head restraint system for front-seat occupants. This new system augments the head restraints ability to minimize neck injuries caused by rear-impact accidents. In the event of a rear impact, the head restraints deploy to remove the space between the occupants head and the restraint to help minimize whiplash type injuries.
Nearly two decades ago, Jeep invented the premium sport-utility vehicle segment with the introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Now, more than 4 million sales later, Jeep delivers an all-new Grand Cherokee that balances legendary Jeep capability with improved, sophisticated on-road dynamics that deliver a premium driving experience.
Capability highlights include a choice of three 4×4 systems, new Jeep Quadra-Lift Air Suspension and Selec-Terrain systems, and towing capability of 7,400 lbs. On-road dynamics are improved courtesy of new independent front and rear suspension systems and a new body structure that dramatically increases torsional stiffness for reduced Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) levels.

The design of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee boasts an all-new sculpted body and athletic profile that define a sleek exterior and aerodynamic finesse. CommandView® - a new dual-pane panoramic sun roof - extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle. A world-class interior design is highlighted by premium soft-touch interior materials for all models. The interior provides consumers with more than four inches of increased rear-seat knee and leg room, and 17 percent more cargo volume.
Chrysler Group’s all-new 290-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine boasts an 11 percent improvement in fuel economy for the Jeep Grand Cherokee, delivering up to 23 mpg and over 500 miles on one tank of gas. The all-new flexible-fuel engine is standard on the Grand Cherokee, and features Variable-valve Timing (VVT), double overhead camshafts and a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block in a 60-degree configuration.
Numerous advanced technology features are offered, including live mobile TV (FLO TV), SIRIUS Backseat TV and Uconnect™ Web, which transforms the vehicle into a “hot spot” to deliver the Internet directly to the vehicle.

The all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be available in 3 models: Laredo, Limited and Overland.
2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4×2 pricing starts at $30,995 - $495 lower than the outgoing model. Laredo 4×4 pricing starts at $32,995 - $465 lower than the outgoing model.
More than 45 safety and security features are available in the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, including standard Active Head Restraints, full-length side-curtain and seat-mounted side thorax air bags, Electronic Stability Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Hill-start Assist, and Trailer-sway Control. A Blind-spot/Rear Cross-path detection system and Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Collision Warning are available.

The first 2011 Regals begin to roll off dealer lots

Not even on the dealer lot for 24 hours, the first 2011 Buick Regal was sold in Elgin, Ill. by the Woody Buick GMC dealership outside Chicago. The owner of the Regal is a 44 year old executive at a manufacturing company in the Chicago area.

“The Regal is a superb car to drive on the road, with more of a European feel than any other car we looked at,” said the new owner. “My 15 year-old daughter has already said she wants to take the car to college with her in a few years.”

The new Regal owner traded in a 2007 Saturn Outlook and stated that the Regal offered all the right features in the right size. He also looked at the Toyota Camry and Audi A4, but decided on the Regal because it had all the amenities of a premium vehicle without the costly price tag.

“We are encouraged to see that the first Regal was sold within 24 hours of hitting the dealership lot,” said Roger McCormack, director of marketing for Buick. “The Regal is the next chapter in Buick’s modern transformation and will continue attracting new buyers to the brand.”

Rooted on the award-winning Opel Insignia, the Regal is armed with two 4-cylinder engines, including one with turbocharged horsepower coming late this year, a driver-selectable suspension system and a firm, European-tuned chassis that delivers a driving experience that rivals the best import sport sedans in the segment.

The Regal has attracted praise from automotive critics, including:

• Joe DeMatio of Automobile magazine called the Regal “a very well tuned, near-luxury sport sedan that, in terms of sheer driving pleasure, surpasses anything else in its class made in Detroit these days, not to mention imports like the Acura TSX and the Lexus ES350.”
• Motor Trend’s editor-in-chief, Angus MacKenzie said, “Well-equipped and beautifully styled inside and out, the Regal CSX and Turbo are suave and sophisticated sedans that have what it takes to appeal to buyers who would normally drive right past the Buick showroom on their way to the Acura or Lexus store.”
• Patrick Hong with Road & Track wrote, “The new Buick Regal sports sleek styling and a rich interior that rivals the Japanese and European brands. The driving dynamics on the road are akin to those of a European sports sedan.”

The new Regal is now arriving at dealerships across the country.  It is currently assembled in Rüsselsheim, Germany.  Starting in the first quarter of 2011 the Regal will be manufactured at the Oshawa Car Assembly plant in Oshawa, Ontario Canada. Pricing start at $26,995 for the premium CXL model and the turbo model will start at $29,495, including a $750 destination charge.

About Buick

Buick is in the midst of a transformation that started with the Enclave luxury crossover and continues with the completely redesigned LaCrosse luxury sedan and Regal sport sedan. Buick is emerging as a modern, premium brand with vehicles characterized by sculpted designs, personal technologies, luxurious interiors and responsive performance. Future new sedans and crossovers are planned and will continue to expand Buick’s portfolio both in North America and China. More information can be found at www.buick.com.

Four Honda vehicles earned recognition from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) as among the greenest vehicles of 2010 with the Civic GX natural gas car earning the title of American’s greenest vehicle for the seventh consecutive year, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced. In the annual ACEEE’s Green Book Online ranking of environmentally responsible vehicles), the near-zero emissions natural gas-powered Civic GX ranked first with the Civic Hybrid, Insight and Fit joining the list on the ACEEE’s 12 most environmentally responsible vehicles available to the public.

This is the tenth year in a row that a Honda vehicle received the number one ranking and the ninth consecutive year that Honda vehicles held at least three positions in the top 12. This year’s list also marks the first appearance of the next-generation Insight in its first year on the market.

Honda’s rankings in the ACEEE study are emblematic of our commitment to lowering emissions and increasing fuel efficiency in all of our models, said John Mendel, executive vice president of American Honda. “Honda continues to set the standard for socially and environmentally responsible vehicles with products like the Insight and Civic GX.

The ACEEE’s ranking system uses a singular measure that incorporates fuel economy, health-related pollution impacts, and global warming emissions. All vehicles are analyzed and given a “Green Score which is used to rank a vehicle’s total environmental performance, including a list of the 12 “greenest” and 12 “meanest” vehicles. The Civic GX, first introduced in 1998 and currently built at Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, is the cleanest internal combustion vehicle certified by the U.S. EPA.

Honda has a long history of environmental innovation, including the introduction of America’s first hybrid, the Honda Insight (1999), delivery of the first fuel cell vehicle in the U.S., the FCX (2002) and the first gasoline-powered vehicles in the hands of consumers to meet stricter emissions standards, including:

• The first gasoline Low Emissions Vehicle (LEV), the 1996 Honda Civic.
• The first gasoline Ultra-Low Emissions vehicle (ULEV), the 1998 Honda Accord.
• The 1st gasoline Super Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV), the 2000 Honda Accord.
• The first Advanced Technology Partial-Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), the 2001 Civic GX natural gas vehicle.

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting both economic prosperity and environmental protection.

The 2010 Ram Heavy Duty brings increased capability and innovative new features to the heavy-duty segment with an uncompromising attitude that remains the standard for all full-size heavy-duty pickups.

The Rocky Mountain Automotive Press association is comprised of more than 30 automotive journalists, who provide expert reviews and content to publications and media outlets across Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.
For 2010, the Ram Heavy Duty is available for the first time in a crew-size cab model, providing Ram with a formidable entry in the highest-volume part of the heavy-duty pickup segment (approximately 50 percent).

Ram Heavy Duty also delivers the performance and amenities customers demand. The 2010 Ram Heavy Duty pickups feature a hydro-formed, fully boxed frame with advanced torsional rigidity and stiffness. A coil-spring suspension setup is used up front, while the multi-leaf spring design is maintained in the rear for heavy-duty capability. Front and rear shocks and springs are tuned for optimum ride quality and capability.

Improved suspension tuning and new C-pillar hydro mounts were added to the 2010 Ram Heavy Duty models to improve damping through the frame-bending mode frequency in order to better manage shake and after-shake response. The result is reduced shake, which means an improved ride for the customer.

Powertrain choices include the legendary 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, which produces 350 horsepower (261 kW) at 3,000 rpm and 650 lb.-ft. of torque (881 Nm) at only 1,500 rpm.

The most durable and reliable engine in its class, the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel features standard oil-change intervals of 7,500 miles. It also has major-overhaul intervals of 350,000 miles, providing more than a 100,000-mile advantage versus the competition.

The Cummins 6.7-liter Turbo Diesel engine uses a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to virtually eliminate particulate matter emissions and an adsorber catalyst to reduce oxides of nitrogen (NOx) by as much as 90 percent, in order to meet stringent 2010.5 diesel emissions requirements.

Ram Heavy Duty is the only 3/4 and one-ton pickup truck to offer a lower cost, lower maintenance alternative to Diesel Emission Fluid (DEF) injection systems to be used by competitors. It’s also the only truck in the segment to offer a manual transmission.

The 2010 Ram Heavy Duty comes standard with the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 gasoline engine, delivering 383 horsepower (286 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 400 lb.-ft. of torque (542 Nm) at 4,000 rpm. The 5.7-liter HEMI was redesigned for 2009, with several new and improved technologies including Variable-valve Timing (VVT), increased compression ratio, active intake manifold with long runners for low-end torque and short runners for high-rpm power, improved cylinder head port flow efficiency and reduced-restriction exhaust and induction systems.

The new 2010 Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups offer the only standard exhaust brake in the segment (diesel-equipped models only). This feature reduces brake fade, prolongs brake life and provides confidence and safety when hauling heavy loads on downhill grades. Large front (360 mm) and rear (358 mm) brakes with integrated Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) increase brake life and braking stability.

Customers in the heavy-duty segment have a range of needs, and most of them involve high levels of capability. The new 2010 Ram 2500 and 3500 are designed to deliver a total package.

Ram Heavy Duty towing, payload and axle capacity all have been increased for 2010. Suspension upgrades and larger front-axle U-joints, combined with increased front GAWR, result in increased front weight-carrying capability – a must for larger snowplows.

The Ram Power Wagon also returns for the 2010 model year, equipped with electric-locking front and rear differentials, electronic disconnecting sway bar, Bilstein shocks, 32-inch BFGoodrich off-road tires, underbody skid plate protection, 4.56 axle ratio for hill climbing and a custom-built Warn® 12,000-pound winch that is accessible through the front bumper. The 2010 Ram Power Wagon features new exterior graphics and a lower two-tone paint scheme.

Plan your route. One of the most exciting parts of a summer road trip is the planning stage. By getting everyone involved, you can ensure that everyone gets to visit the stops they want to see along the way. The most important part of planning your summer road trip is mapping out your route.

Book reservations for your accommodations. If you’re not able to stay with friends and family along your route, it is recommended you make hotel or campground reservations in advance. Also, research what each company’s policy is for late check-ins or canceled reservations in case you get delayed by weather or road construction.

Perform maintenance on your vehicle. Have your vehicle, RV or travel trailer well inspected and serviced before you leave. Check fluid levels, belts, fans, hoses, filters, tires and brakes. Make sure your spare tire is usable and if you’ll be traveling over a lot of rough, gravel roads consider taking along more than one spare tire.

Pack the vehicle for safety and fun. While a summer road trip can be a lot of fun, there will also be times when being in the vehicle for several hours together could get tiresome. To ensure everyone stays in good spirits, pack a few items for entertainment and travel-friendly snacks like pretzels, animal crackers, raisins, cereal, fruit, granola bars and trail mix. Stop at grocery stores along the way and stock up on bottled drinks, sandwich supplies and ice.

If you are driving a pickup on your big summer adventure, you can see immediate gas mileage improvement by installing a truck bed cover on your pickup. A truck bed cover, also known as a tonneau cover, will reduce drag, making your vehicle more aerodynamic at high speeds.

By making these preparations ahead of time, you’ll ensure that your unforgettable adventure won’t be ruined by setbacks along the way.

iQ Defines Premium Micro-Subcompact

Meeting the needs of a new trendsetting generation of urban drivers, the iQ succeeds at taking big ideas and concentrating them into a small package.  Made possible by intelligent and functional packaging, the iQ is a small car that offers the functionality and comfort that drivers expect from a car twice its size.

The iQ’s profile, defined by a strong and high beltline, glides from the large, stout headlamps, up the A-pillar, across the roof and wraps around the rear, emphasizing the iQ’s geometric shape. Side mirrors with integrated turn signals accent the clean design.

The rear emphasizes the vehicle’s modern style.  Trapezoidal lines run toward the wheels, from the hatch to the bumper’s rear diffuser-like accent, creating a substantial presence. With a 78.7-inch wheelbase and a unique suspension design – consisting of MacPherson struts up front, and a torsion beam rear suspension – the three-door hatchback can deftly maneuver through city traffic.  In addition, its overall length of only 120.1-inches, width of 66.1-inches, and short front and rear overhangs create a confident stance that still allows the iQ to fit into virtually any urban parking scenario.

Engineering innovations like a compact air-conditioning unit, inverted front-mounted differential, and electronic power-steering system with compact steering column, all amount to significant decreases in front-end length.  In addition, the iQ is equipped with a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor that reduces rear overhang.

The iQ’s functional “3+1” seating equates to the world’s smallest four-passenger vehicle.  With the driver’s and front-passenger’s seats being slightly off set, this innovative seating arrangement allows for one adult behind the front passenger and a child, small package, or pet behind the driver.  A first for Scion, extra-slim front seat backs are utilized to provide rear passengers with ample legroom.  The rear seats are extremely versatile, featuring a 50/50 split and the ability to fold flat, creating enough storage to accommodate up to two golf bags.

The iQ is small in size but large on safety.  Active safety features include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Traction Control (TRAC).

The iQ will come standard with 10 SRS airbags, including the world’s first rear-window curtain airbag.  Other airbags include driver- and front-passenger airbags; driver- and front-passenger seat-mounted side airbags; side curtain airbags; driver- and front-passenger knee airbags; and a Scion-first driver seat-cushion airbag.

The 2011 iQ is equipped with a 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces over 90 horsepower and features the latest dual VVT-i, which allows it to be impressively efficient, providing a broader powerband yet requiring less fuel and generating fewer emissions.

The iQ’s engine is combined with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that helps deliver smooth acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency.  The iQ will be rated as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV-II), and it is expected to achieve a combined fuel economy in the high 30s, comparable to similar vehicles that feature less passenger and cargo capacity.

The iQ comes standard with a six-speaker audio system and is available with multiple audio head units for various degrees of audiophiles.  All iQs will be outfitted with USB and auxiliary ports, allowing personal devices to be easily integrated into the car.  Steering-wheel-mounted controls command the audio system to adjust volume and shuffle through music sources such as CD, AM/FM, auxiliary input, or a library from your iPod® or other USB device.

All-New tC Sports Coupe Adds Power, Performance

Launched in 2004, the tC quickly became Scion’s top-selling vehicle, at the same time attracting the youngest buyer in the entire industry.  Six years later, the second-generation tC emerges with an aggressive new look, increased driving performance, and a more premium feel.

Enhanced performance is accomplished in the second-generation tC with an all-new 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with dual VVT-i that generates 180 horsepower, 19 more than the previous model, and 11 additional lbs.-ft of torque.  In addition to increases in power, the new engine delivers an increase in fuel economy all while lowering emissions.  Performance is further improved and heard through a new intake manifold design and a sport-tuned exhaust system that delivers a bold and aggressive sound.

The tC features two all-new transmissions: the six-speed manual transmission has improved shift-feel and adds to the car’s already fun-to-drive character, and a new six-speed automatic gains two gears along with sequential-shift.

The 2011 tC enters its second-generation riding on a new platform, including a specially tuned MacPherson strut front-suspension and a double-wishbone rear-suspension that rides lower than the previous model.   Larger 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are wrapped in wider tires, giving the tC a broader stance and elevated handling characteristics.  The new model also comes standard with larger 16-inch disc brakes on all corners.  A new performance-tuned electronic power-steering system provides the driver a confident feel that is more in-tune with the road.  The elements brought together in the new chassis result in a premium performance that expands the tC into a new dimension of driving enjoyment.

The all-new design of the 2011 tC projects a bolder and more aggressive stance.  Important design cues like the helmet-inspired cabin shape were adopted from the Calty-designed Scion FUSE concept, which was unveiled at the 2006 New York Auto Show.  The protruding fender flares amplify its wider, lower stance and are aggressively complemented by a sleek front grille and projector headlamps.  The shape of the rear taillights flow cleanly into the overall shape of the trunk.

Inside, a driver-focused cockpit starts with a sporty new three-spoke steering wheel that features a flat bottom and a new shape that offers a confident grip.  Front seats feature robust bolsters that provide secure positioning while still offering spaciousness and comfort.  The instrument-panel, gauge cluster and center-console all face inward in a V-shape, making controls easily accessible.

Overall, the cabin has been lengthened for a more comfortable passenger experience with increased versatility.  Utility is enhanced with reclining rear seats that split 60/40, providing more storage capacity.  The panoramic moonroof remains standard in the new tC.

The new tC comes standard with an AM/FM/CD/USB audio system that features eight speakers.  As with all Scion models, steering-wheel-mounted controls allow the driver to easily navigate through all of their music.

The new tC is also reinforced with key safety features and is expected to achieve top safety ratings.  In addition to standard Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), the new tC also gains standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), traction control (TRAC), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).  Active front-headrests and eight airbags are also standard, including both driver and front-passenger knee airbags.