Toyota and NHTSA Spar Over Floor Mats

Toyota and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration seem to be getting along once again. Accidents stemming from Toyota floor mats sparked an investigation from the NHTSA, but the automaker stressed that a defective product was not the cause of the accidents in question.

Toyota and the NHTSA had previously warned drivers about floor mats that could potentially cause the accelerator pedal to stick. But when Toyota issued a letter to owners stressing that the issue was not related to defects and was merely about floor mat compatibility, the NHTSA felt that Toyota had been a bit misleading in their warnings. Concord NH Toyota dealers had always stressed that drivers should check that their vehicles floor mats were the proper size and designed for their specific model to ensure safety and functionality.

As an interim measure, the NHTSA issued a recommendation to owners stating they should remove the floor mats from their vehicles completely until Toyota delivers a more appropriate solution. Rather than escalating the issue, Arlington Car Loans says Toyota did acknowledge that removing the floor mats completely was indeed a reasonable position. Toyota also agreed that a recall is in the works to ensure each vehicle has the correct floor mats with the appropriate fit.

The floor mat controversy was originally sparked by an accident in Southern California that resulted in the death of four people. According to San Diego Used Cars, the vehicles identified for necessary inspection and/or replacement include the 2007-2010 Camry, 2005-2010 Avalon, 2004-2009 Prius, 2005-2010 Tacoma, and 2007-2010 Tundra.

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Mazda 2 Officially Heading to the U.S.

Despite automakers’ reluctance to bring subcompacts to the U.S. in recent years, consumers are now demanding cars that are fun to drive, affordable, and fuel efficient. Already Toyota has expanded its Yaris range and plans more subcompact models in the near future. Nissan introduced the Versa and recently launched the Cube which has witness high demand at Nissan Service Auburn. Even Ford now has the European Fiesta finally making its way to the U.S. next year.

One of the latest entries to this burgeoning segment is Mazda. By late next year, the Japanese automaker is planning to bring the Mazda 2 to the U.S.

Already on sale in Japan under another name, Used Mazda Houston says the Mazda 2 will be on sale in the U.S. and Canada and will compete directly with the aforementioned range of small cars. Based on the same platform that underpins the Ford Fiesta, the Mazda 2 should demonstrate similar driving characteristics as the Ford, and it will also feature similar body styles.

With the rapidly changing tastes of American consumers, Boonville MO Auto Repair suggests that Mazda and other automakers are realizing that there is room in their U.S. lineups for their even their smallest and least expensive vehicles. Don’t expect this trend to disappear anytime soon.

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Quick Look at the 2009 Honda Fit

The Honda Fit has managed to win praise by Car and Driver Magazine by making it to their 10Best Cars list three years running. However, for the 2009 model year the Honda Fit is all-new and features more room, and a slightly larger price tag.

When equipped with the automatic transmission, the Honda Fit Sport is modestly slower than its predecessor, with a 0-60 time of 9.9 seconds. Although performance took a hit, Honda Parts Tuscaloosa say the Honda Fit is not slow by any means when compared to other subcompacts. Although the Honda Fit is not a "fast" car, customers at one dealer specializing in car loans Hartford repeatedly stress that one of its strengths is certainly fuel economy. Even with the automatic transmission, the 2009 Fit achieves 27 miles per gallon in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.

The Honda Fit's interior is equally as sporty as the exterior. Among the available accessories include USB audio connectivity, the keyless entry, and even a satellite navigation system. Other features that can be had on the exterior include a spoiler, a body kit, and a chrome exhaust tip.

With the 2009 Honda Fit, affordability, efficiency, and fun-to-drive characteristics can be had in one complete package. According to Macon Auto Service, the automatic transmission will help simplify the commute, but it will dampen performance. That said, the Honda Fit remains one of the best choices in its class, and car shoppers can simply find Car and Driver’s 10Best List to find proof of that.

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Nissan EV Teaser Photo Released

In the not too distant future, Nissan will be launching its first electric car to the public. In 2010, consumers in the U.S. and Japan will be able to see the upcoming Nissan EV first hand, and already a teaser photo has been released via the automaker’s new microsite.

The new Nissan electric vehicle will be based on a dedicated electric vehicle platform. Powering the EV will be an electric motor propelled by a lithium ion battery. Although the teaser photo doesn’t reveal much, Tacoma Nissan dealers believe the Nissan EV will likely feature futuristic styling that any proper electric vehicle should have, including a sloping hood and raked windshield for optimal aerodynamics.

Power for the Nissan EV will be equivalent to about 190 horsepower, with torque around 206 lb ft. The large battery that powers the motor will be housed underneath the floor of the vehicle. According to a used cars Tacoma dealer, a regenerative braking system, similar to those used on hybrid vehicles, will help keep the battery charged as the brakes are activated.

On board, drivers will have access to the EV-IT support system, which provides round the clock support for drivers concerning their vehicle. Thanks to the on-board transmission system, Nissan will receive data concerning the car’s battery and using the navigation system, the car will easily tell drivers where the nearest charging stations are located, which Nissan Parts Bremerton says will be helpful for those consumers concerned about running on a low charge. The system will also allow drivers to monitor the status of their battery remotely via the Web or mobile device.

For more information about the upcoming Nissan EV, check back to the new EV microsite for more information, and hopefully more photos soon.

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Hyundai Promises $1.49 Gas for a Year

While numerous automakers got a dismal start to 2009, Hyundai’s performance was not nearly as bleak. As car buyers steered clear of most dealerships, Hyundai was able to attract buyers thanks to excellent pricing and exciting new models. But it was also the unique Hyundai Assurance Program that helped spur consumer confidence in a time when the economy was not on stable ground.

With the economy still creeping forward, many car buyers are weary of what’s ahead. Summertime gas prices mean drivers will likely be paying much more at the pump warns Hyundai Service Saint Louis. But luckily, Hyundai buyers won’t have to worry, thanks to the automaker’s latest promotion which promises drivers $1.49 per gallon for a full year or 12,000 miles.

The new Hyundai Assurance Gas Lock program entitles anyone buying a Hyundai before August 31 to save big since one used car dealer Chicago expects gas prices to rise as they do each summer. Hyundai is hoping to attract the wide range of potential car buyers that remain weary of gas prices and are desperate to save money. On top of Hyundai’s already competitive prices, the capped gas program will likely put plenty of car buyers at ease hopes Hyundai Service Shreveport.

Last month, Hyundai sold as many cars as Chrysler and Nissan, making the brand increasingly competitive in the U.S. market. Hyundai Assurance not only helped attract buyers, but it was also copied by other automakers. Perhaps their latest promotion will also garner copycats.

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Strong Fuel Economy Apart of All-New 2010 Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy has been redesigned for the 2010 model year. To better address current market conditions, Subaru had not forgotten about efficiency in this new model. With every Subaru having standard with all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency is sacrificed to achieve greater traction. Luckily, the new Legacy does not suffer from this typical trade-off.

Subaru Legacy models equipped with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and mated to the available Continuously Variable Transmission can deliver 23 miles per gallon in city driving and 31 miles per gallon on the highway, averaging around 26 mpg according to Used Cars Salinas, which also has ample Subaru inventory. While these fuel economy ratings are by no means stunning, the ratings do put the new Legacy ahead of many other vehicles in its own class suggests Hartford CT Subaru dealers, while still being one of the few available with all-wheel drive.

Needless to say, the other 2010 Subaru Legacy trim levels did not produce impressive results. The Legacy 2.5 GT and the 3.6 R both deliver about 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. Still, bad credit car loans Salinas specialists say for those consumers that need the added traction of all-wheel drive, the Subaru Legacy is still a more efficient choice than many SUVs that have comparable power and performance.

While the 2010 Subaru Legacy is also available with a six-speed manual, don’t expect it to impact mileage. Stick with the CVT for the best fuel economy. Either way, the latest generation of this model is far more efficient than its predecessor, and should be able to deliver plenty of value for the price.

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Nissan Releases Pricing for Nismo 370Z

With the unveiling of the all-new Nissan 370Z, it was only a matter of time before the Nismo-tuned version made its way to showrooms. Finally consumers can get their hands on the Nismo 370Z and Nissan has priced this Z from $39,130. Nismo accessories are of course also available to compliment the Z’s already stunning look and spirited performance.

The Nismo Nissan 370Z features motorsports-inspired performance with a 350 horsepower engine and a completely retuned suspension system. Finishing out the Nismo treatment, says one Hartford Nissan CT dealer, are lightweight alloy wheels developed by Rays. The Nismo model here in the States is loosely based on the S-Tune version of the Z which is available in Japan.

One of the great features of the latest Nissan Z-car is the new six speed transmission with SynchroRev Match, which is already a hit with Z-car enthusiasts at the leading Nissan 370Z Boston dealer. This system adjusts the throttle and engine speed to provide smoother shifting. Ultimately the system delivers greater balance on the chassis and removes the jolt of the clutch when it’s activated.

Although the base Nissan 370Z is a solid performer, the Nismo Z gets plenty of modifications to improve upon the Z’s stellar moves. According to Boston Infiniti G Coupe dealer, this includes tweaks to the chassis, stiffer strut tower bar brace, improved four-link suspension, and stiffer spring rates. Aside from these updates, the Nismo Z also receives larger brakes. The exterior also gets an update, including a full body kit and bi-xenon lights.

Interior updates are less noticeable than exterior and performance mods as Manchester CT Used Nissan points out, but you can expect plenty of Nismo logos inside. With a price under $40K, the latest Nismo Nissan 370Z model certainly delivers value for true performance enthusiasts.

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Nissan 370Z May Be the Perfect Balance

The new Nissan 370Z is perhaps the best Z car so far. With improved performance and technology, the Nissan 370Z still offers customer an attractive balance of performance and value as it was always intended. Quality is also apparent as the Z car gains plenty of Infiniti-esque materials and design cues.

Nissan has done a good job of providing a high-value sports car in the latest 350 and 370 Z cars says Nissan Service Saint Louis. Before it was discontinued in the late 90s, the Nissan Z had become overpriced and simply not worth it. The car had moved away from the formula that had made the original Z the best selling sports cars of all time.

For under $30,000, the Nissan 370Z delivers incredible performance with relative comfort. Powering the 370Z is a 332 horsepower and 270lb ft of toque variant of the award winning VQ V6 engine. This powerplant can propel the 3,359 lb car to 60 miles per hour in a mere 5 seconds, which has continued to impress car buyers at Richmond VA Nissan. Although Nissan Z is only a two seater, the Z even has ample space in the rear hatch for personal items.

The new Nissan 370Z comes into a product segment with plenty of competition. Not only is the Z going against other imports, but Used Cars Boston is quick to point out that there are also new sports cars from domestic automakers such as the new Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. With a well-rounded sports car on their hands, Nissan dealers don't seem to be too worried.

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Toyota vs. Volkswagen for Largest Automaker Title

Volkswagen appears to be on track to overtake Toyota as the top selling automaker in the world, thanks to gains in market share despite an overall decline in vehicle sales. A large component of growing Volkswagen market share is gains when it comes to incentives in key markets.

Despite strong gains in sales and market share in the U.S. and in other markets in recent years, Toyota has been hit hard by slowing sales in North American and at home in Japan according to Toyota Partz Store. Meanwhile, Volkswagen has been aided not only by its car brands, but also by its truck brands. And thanks to government stimulus plans in Germany, China, and Brazil, VW improved sales in these key markets.

Volkswagen is particularly on a roll at home in Germany says Dartmouth Volkswagen. The Wolfsburg-based automaker is responsible for every third new car sold, which certainly it’s a testament to its market dominance. While Toyota has been stagnant in key markets, Volkswagen remains on the offensive, boosting sales and releasing new products that have seen strong demand.

In 2008, Toyota was able to sell more vehicles than any other manufacturer with high demand at Kentucky Toyota dealers and other retail locations, but has since witnessed devastating sales declines. In Toyota’s third largest market, China, the automaker has seen sales decreases every month, while Volkswagen has seen sales grow. With the current market challenges and Toyota’s recent dominance at stake, expect to see intense competitive from these two large automakers in the coming year in the wake of the Big Three’s market weaknesses. Already Tustin Toyota and others are ramping up their inventories of all-new 2010 Prius hybrids. Stay tuned to see if this will reinvigorate North American sales as well as sales abroad. 

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Kia Soul to be Leader in Youth Segment

The all-new Kia Soul is shaping up to be a solid competitor to the Scion xB. As a compact and boxy vehicle, the Kia Soul features a bit of the original xB in its styling, although the Kia has a unique sloping roofline that provides a more distinctive look.

Although the Kia Soul provides a fresh take in this burgeoning youth-oriented segment, it has its work cut out for it. Recently, the Scion xB was updated, providing a larger, heavier, and relatively more curvaceous exterior than the previous generation. In addition to Scion, Nissan will soon offer yet another competitor as it is set to release the Cube, a boxy compact that should arrive in at Manchester CT Nissan dealers and in other showrooms soon.

The upcoming Kia Soul has already made its rounds at various auto shows, and Philadelphia Kia says it has successful garnered plenty of attention for its youth oriented image. With ample opportunities for Kis Soul buyers to customize their vehicle, drivers can easily put their own touches on the vehicle in a way that is also found on Scion models.

Kia is marketing the Soul towards those who are “young-at-heat” regardless of their actual age according to Kia New Mexico. Interestingly, Kia may not target the youth segment quite as hard as Scion since there are plenty of xB drivers that are above the age of 40. But between the updated Scion xB and the upcoming Nissan Cube, it will be an interesting battle between these niche compact crossovers.

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Quick Look at the Hyundai Elantra Touring

The Hyundai Elantra Touring is basically the reintroduction of the Elantra GT, a five-door model that was discontinued in 2006. As hatchbacks are really catching on these days, the Elantra is available again as a five-door for 2009.

In addition to its five-door versatility, Chicago Hyundai test drivers felt that the Elantra Touring provides a surprisingly comfortable road feel, excellent handling and steering, and even provides decent power. While the Elantra Touring is comfortable, if you’re in the market for something sporty, you may want to consider the Honda Fit as an option, which has seen plenty of demand among Gardena Honda dealers for its taut, sporty ride.

Powering the Hyundai Elantra Touring is a 141 horsepower four-cylinder engine. The Elantra also comes standard with a slew of safety features including stability control, ABS, traction control, and even side curtain airbags. Like all Hyundai models these days, says Hyundai Boston dealers, the Elantra Touring packs value, thanks to its standard safety features, as well as its long list of standard conveniences including air conditioning, power windows, keyless entry, cruise control, and even a decent sound system.

Available amenities on the Hyundai Elantra include a power sunroof, heated seats, and 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels just to name a few. With 65 cu. ft. of space in the rear, the Hyundai Elantra Touring can provide more the enough space for passengers and cargo. Plus, with 23 mpg in city driving and 31 mpg on the highway, you won’t be spending much on gas either. Used Cars Chicago says the Elantra GT was an incredible value, and the latest variant is no different. For under $20K, a well-appointed Elantra may be just what you were looking for as a fuel efficient and safe daily driver.

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Honda’s NSX Project May Still Come to Life

It seems as though Honda can’t make up its mind on the fate of the beloved NSX supercar. The on and off again Honda NSX project was recently shelved, but new reports have surfaced indicating that the NSX is back in the works.

Honda, despite attractive fuel-efficient and affordable offerings, has faced steep sales declines in North American and in Japan. This has contributed to the premium NSX project to be shelved indefinitely, despite interest among Acura dealer Pittsburgh PA. Pre-owned NSX models have even passed quickly throughout used car Trenton showrooms, thanks to its the NSX's cult fan following. Interestingly, the project was shelved even though development on the next generation NSX was mostly complete, according to comments from executive VP of Honda America, Dick Colliver.

Honda may be taking the NSX back off the shelf to appease dealers that want the dramatic NSX in showrooms. Acura, Honda’s premium brand, has long strived to be perceived as a top tier luxury brand that’s on par with the likes of BMW and Mercedes. Despite noble efforts with a fresh lineup, Alabama used Honda believe that Acura could perhaps be helped by the NSX to do exactly that. Already Honda has shelved a RWD V8-powered platform for Acura, which would help it compete with German luxury brands. Without this platform, a NSX could help change brand perceptions for the better.

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Updates on the Honda NSX can be found here.

Porsche Takes Over Volkswagen

In a surprising move, German sports car maker Porsche has just taken over the largest European car manufacturer, Volkswagen. After purchasing more than 50 percent of VW’s shares, Porsche is now in the driver’s seat of a massive conglomeration controlled by its shareholders and unions.

This isn’t the first time that Porsche has attempted to overtake Volkswagen. In 2005 the automaker made a failed attempt to acquire more than 50 percent of VW due to unstable market speculation, which had sent VW shares as high as $1,350 per share. With such growth, VW claimed in August to have overtaken Ford to become the third largest automaker in the world, behind GM and Toyota.

Reports claim that Porsche intends to increase its stake to 75 percent this year, gaining complete control of the auto group. At dealers such as Volkswagen Saint Louis, the relationship between VW and Porsche has already been apparent. Vehicles such as the VW Touareg and Porsche Cayenne already share many components with each other. VW and Porsche have much to benefit from each other strategically observes Mercedes Benz Pittsburgh dealers.

Trade unions are powerful at VW, and reports also indicate that Porsche control may upset the balance currently established. While Porsche claims to be a long-term investor, job cuts at VW plants could ultimately result. At the retail end, Dartmouth Volkswagen expects plenty of long-term changes and exciting new products, perhaps further blending components and design across the likes of Porsche, Volkswagen, and Audi.

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