Monday Recall Roundup: February 8, 2010
8 hours ago SMARTCARBUYERS --
Each Monday, Edmunds takes a look at the most recent recalls published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). NHTSA's recall coverage is extensive, addressing everything from tractor trailers to motor homes. We pore over this coverage and whittle it down, spotlighting only those recalls that are of pressing concern to owners of passenger cars and trucks.
Listed after the jump is this week's batch.
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Edmunds Roundup: February 8, 2010
10 hours ago SMARTCARBUYERS --
Inside Line: 2011 Toyota Sienna vs. 2010 Honda Odyssey Minivan Comparison
The current-generation Odyssey has prevailed in these comparisons for more than three years.Meanwhile, the fully redesigned 2011 Toyota Sienna has come to the market with a barrage of features and a new transmission.
Auto Observer: Ford Tiptoes Around Toyota Storm with Its Own Hybrid Fix
Ford is seemingly just as anxious to stay clear of the net of bad public perception tossed around Toyota, staying far away from the word recall in terming its action for the Fusion and Milan Hybrids a "customer satisfaction program."
Green Car Advisor: Capstone, Velozzi to Put Range-Extending Microturbines Into PHEVs
Capstone Turbine, a developer and manufacturer of microturbines for industrial purposes, has announced that Los Angeles car maker Velozzi plans to begin selling a pair of extended-range hybrids using a Capstone microturbine to generate electricity.
The More Subtle Art of Seat Belt Commercials
11 hours ago SMARTCARBUYERS --
"Click it or ticket!" We hear this all the time and see it on billboards, as the government implores us to follow the law and buckle our seatbelts. Despite it being a good message, is it really the most effective way of getting the point across? Americans don't exactly like the government telling them what to do.
From England and the Sussex Safer Roads Partnership comes a more subtle approach; one that avoids a finger-waving policeman or gorey images of a post-accident aftermath. Instead of saying "buckle up or the fuzz will write you a ticket," it says in a subtle, arty way "buckle up or your wife and daughter will be alone when you fly through the windshield and die."
Videos after the jump
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BMW Offers Free Maintenance Extension on 2007 CPO Models
Saturday, 6 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
From now until March 31, BMW is offering a free two-year/50,000-mile extension of its Free Maintenance program on 2007 Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) models. The offer extends the standard four-year free maintenance warranty for an additional two years or 50,000 miles, in addition to the two-year extension of the factory warranty included with the CPO program. This adds up to six years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first) of warranty and maintenance coverage.
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First IIHS Test for Small Pickups Rollover Protection Yields Disappointment
Friday, 5 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently tested five compact pickup trucks (all 2010s) for rollover protection and exactly one fared well. In its first-ever rollover protection test for this segment, IIHS evaluated the Chevrolet Colorado, Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma. 
But only the Frontier (and ostensibly its Suzuki Equator twin) scored "Good", the agency's
highest rating. You can see how poorly the Colorado did in the pictures above, as compared to the Frontier, pictured on the right.
More details on the how the test itself is conducted and how each truck fared can be seen here and here.
Edmunds Roundup: February 5, 2010
Friday, 5 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Auto Observer: President Toyoda Assures Toyotas Are Safe, Customers Are Top Priority
In his first public appearance since Toyota's quality issues captured global headlines, Akio Toyoda, Toyota Motor Corp. CEO and grandson of the company founder, told the media in Japan Friday that Toyotas insisted are safe to drive and customers remain the automaker's top priority.
Green Car Advisor: Vehicles or Infrastructure? Question Divides EV Proponents
Vigorous debates remain as to what kind of electric drive systems are best and whether there is a need to increase emphasis on improving electric fueling infrastructure, even if that means reducing private and public investment in vehicle technology.
Inside Line News: 2010 World Car of the Year Nominees Named
The WCOTY awards, will be presented at the New York auto show, are becoming ever more prestigious and influential. A year ago, it was the Volkswagen Golf and Nissan GT-R that drove off with two of the top prizes. So, how about 2010?
2010 JEEP LIBERTY Recall
Friday, 5 February 2010 AUTOBLOG (Dodge Nitro) -- Chrysler has announced that they are recalling certain models of the 2010 Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger and Dodge Nitro, Jeep Liberty, Commander, and Grand Cherokee, and 2009 through 2010 Dodge Ram...
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Ford Announces "Update" for 2010 Fusion/Milan Hybrid Brake Software
Friday, 5 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Ford is initiating a "customer satisfaction program" (CSP) to update the software for the regenerative braking system on 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid. The current programming allows what Ford has labeled "different brake feel" when the hybrid vehicles' regenerative system transitions over to conventional brakes.
What may be better described as a safety recall as opposed to a CSP, Ford will notify owners by mail of the fix, which involves reprogramming software to make the brakes perform in a more predictable manner. Ford makes no mention if this may be related to licensed technology from Toyota, which is facing similar issues with the regenerative braking system on the 2010 Prius. You can read the short release in its entirety after the jump.
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Savvy Shopper: Toyota's Resale Values Fluctuate Over Misfortunes
Friday, 5 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Toyota has run into an amazing stretch of bad luck with all these recalls which has many so-called pundits are predicting disaster for the once invincible automaker.
I was one of these pundits until I walked across the office and talked with our data team. They had been looking at resale values for Toyotas at auctions across the country. And they surprised me with their findings.
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2010 GMC Terrain Review
Thursday, 4 February 2010 AUTOMOTIVEMANIA -- The 2010 GMC Terrain doesn't offer anything different when compared to the Equinox which is actually a good thing. Although Chevrolet can almost claim the new GMC SUV is a knock off, GMC has created something competitive.The 2010 GMC Terrain has the beauty of the Equinox with something smart not found in Chevrolet's popular vehicle.The most attractive feature of the 2010 GMC Terrain is its fuel
Edmunds Roundup: February 4, 2010
Thursday, 4 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
IL News: 2005-'09 Chevrolet Cobalt Focus of Federal Investigation
The Prius isn't the only car being investigated be the feds. An estimated 905,000 Chevy Cobalt vehicles are the subject of a new investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration due to complaints of electric power steering failure.
Green Car Advisor: Audi's Diesels Double January Sales of A3 and Q7 Models
Audi reported that sales of its A3 model soared 107 percent - to 468 units from 227 a year earlier - thanks to the A3 TDI, which accounted for 51 percent of the total.
Auto Observer: January Sales: Automakers Joust for New Sales Slots
January car sales had automakers jousting for new positions in the sales rankings.
General Motors retained its No. 1 sales spot. But Toyota's recall and stop-sale order on eight of its best-selling models caused the Japanese automaker to slip to No. 3, behind Ford.
2010 Toyota Prius Braking Issues Investigation Begun by Feds
Thursday, 4 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a formal investigation of the 2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid, after receiving reports of vehicles experiencing temporary loss of braking power on bumpy roads. According to Toyota, this issue is caused by the lag time between the car's regenerative braking system cycling off and the antilock braking system taking over.
Toyota claims that cars built since January 2010 have included a software fix for this issue, but it has not yet decided how to address the problem with customer cars. Despite recalls, stoppage of sales on some of its best-selling models and other media-fed perceptions of quality concerns, Toyota announced that its profits rose 10 percent last quarter, and the company is poised to surpass its financial forecast.
Ferrari Offers 24 Month Extended Warranty on Approved Cars
Thursday, 4 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Have you been putting off buying that Ferrari of your dreams because you were leery of maintenance costs? Probably not. In any case, Ferrari announced it will now offer an optional 24-month Power Warranty on select pre-owned vehicles purchased at official dealers. The Program includes roadside assistance and a subscription to the Ferrari Magazine, along with the peace of mind that your vehicle is covered. There are plenty of restrictions, though, as this warranty is only good for vehicles no older than eight years with less than 90,000 kilometers (or just under 56,000 miles) on the clock. Full details can be found at www.ferrariapproved.com.
Deal of the Week: 2010 Mazda6
Thursday, 4 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
The Mazda6 is one of Edmunds' editors top picks for mid-sized family sedans. Yet it is often overlooked by buyers who tend to focus their attention on the better known Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata or Toyota Camry. However, buyers are be doing themselves a disservice by not considering the Mazda6.
While it can't match the long warranty of the Sonata, the vast dealer body of the Fusion or the reputation for reliability and resale value of the Accord or Camry, the Mazda6 does offer an impressive combination of sporty personality, roomy cabin, unique looks and powerful V6. Added on are some incentives that should help warrant the Mazda6 a second look.
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Edmunds Recommended Reading: How to Test Drive a Car
Thursday, 4 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
It's easy to make this mistake. You go to a dealership and don't bother test driving the vehicle. You figure "It's a new car. Anything is bound to drive better than the clunker I'm trading in." But once you've purchased the vehicle, you realize that you can't get comfortable in the seats, the trunk opening is too small, and the suspension is too stiff.
These are things you can easily tell by going on a test drive. This article will give you a few tips on what to look for during your test drive. Just be careful not to let the "feel of the wheel" distract you from your negotiating.
Priced: 2011 Infiniti M Sedan
Wednesday, 3 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Infiniti has announced pricing for its new 5 Series/E-Class fighter, the redesigned M sedan. The musclebound M will be available in two trim levels -- V6-powered M37 (330 horsepower) and V8-powered M56 (420 hp) -- with an all-wheel-drive "x" variant for each. The M37 starts at $46,250 (an increase of $450 over the outgoing M35), while the M56 starts at $57,550. All-wheel drive will add $2,150-2,500 to the bottom line.
Look for the new M in dealerships starting March 18.
Josh Sadlier, Associate Editor
Edmunds Roundup: February 3, 2010
Wednesday, 3 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Auto Observer: January Whacks Toyota, But Sales Firm for Other Makers
The U.S. auto market in January continued its recent strengthening trend, with overall sales just shy of 700,000 vehicles for the month rising by nearly 7 percent compared with 654,757 vehicles in a very weak January 2009.
Green Car Advisor: Truckers, Oil Refiners Sue Calif. to Overturn State's Fuel Standard
The suit, filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, alleges that the Low Carbon Fuel Standard violates the Constitution's commerce clause, which reserves for the federal government the right to regulate interstate business.
Inside Line: Mini Countryman- 2010 Geneva Auto Show
BMW believes the Countryman will significantly widen the appeal of the Mini brand by providing the space and convenience to satisfy family-car buyers for the first time. Its loftier ride height and bulkier body may also tempt those who consider the standard Mini too small.
Used Car Corner: 2007-'09 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Wednesday, 3 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
With the advent of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class for 2010, the previous-generation model has become old news. It shouldn't be, though, at least not the 2007-'09 models. They had the same engines and most of the same features as the new E, as well as more understated exterior styling, and their price points may pleasantly surprise you.
Starting in '07, the E550 got the 382-horsepower V8 that graces the current E550, and the AMG model was upgraded to E63 status (from E55), receiving a 507-hp, 6.2-liter V8 that's almost identical to the current E63 AMG's 518-hp mill (albeit with an older conventional automatic). Also, the clean-diesel E320 Bluetec debuted for '07, and the volume-selling E350's 3.5-liter V6 -- same as the one in the current E350 -- actually dates to 2006.
Pricing? With average miles (figure 30-40k), a base '07 E350 runs about $27,000, whereas a '10 E350 will set you back $48 grand. Savings on E550s are comparable, and the E63 AMG takes the cake: $50,000 for an '07, $85,000 for a new one. Moral of the story: the 2007-'09 E-Class is a lot of car, and it can be had for less money than you might think.
Pricing: 2011 Hyundai Sonata
Wednesday, 3 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
The Hyundai Sonata has been redesigned for the 2011 model year. Despite the absence of an available V6, the all-new car is solid enough to inspire talk of world domination. This is the sixth generation of Hyundai's sedan; changes include a more upscale new look, a new four-cylinder that manages to be both more powerful and more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, and the addition of standard Bluetooth.
Today, Hyundai announced pricing. More after the jump.
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Edmunds Roundup: February 2, 2010
Tuesday, 2 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Green Car Advisor: Analysts Doubt Tesla's Ability to Survive Next Several Years
The company said it would continue to post losses until it begins making "significant" deliveries of its Model S sedan, which is not expected to launch until 2012, barring any delays in setting up an assembly plant - a process that has not yet begun.
Auto Observer: Incentive Plans Take Aim at Vulnerable Toyota with Mixed Reviews
Sales results posted by all automakers today will reveal if these shark-like maneuvers are working. Meantime, the promotions themselves have been earnings mixed reviews by visitors to Edmunds.com.
Inside Line News: Spyker Outlines Saab Future Product Plans
With Spyker Cars edging nearer to closing the deal to buy Saab from General Motors, the company offered a detailed look at how it plans to merge the Swedish brand into its organization and which products are on tap. The shakiest product is the small Saab 9-1, which is not in the business plan at this point.
10 Tips for Surviving a Disaster in Your Vehicle
Tuesday, 2 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Haiti's devastating tragedy has left many of us thinking about natural disasters. It's easy to feel helpless when faced with the unpredictability of these types of events; still, by ensuring proper preparedness, you can do a great deal to take your safety into your own hands. These 10 tips offer advice to help you make sure your vehicle is your ally should the worst happen while you're on the road.
BMW Announces Pricing Information on 2011 Models
Tuesday, 2 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
BMW has announced the details to its 2011 U.S. lineup. Most of their vehicles receive minor changes for 2011 in the form of options and new or revised packages. Some models are either all-new (for example, the new BMW 5 Series sedan, Gran Turismo, and BMW ALPINA B7) or substantially updated (3 Series Coupe and Convertible). The good news for existing models is that their MSRP will not increase from the prior year.
The 2011 BMW 5 Series will make its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show in late March. Pricing information will be released closer to when the vehicle hits showrooms.
For a wide overview of pricing and features on BMW's entire 2011 lineup, see the lengthy, range-encompassing press release after the jump.
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Tech Tuesdays: Road Test of Google Maps Navigation (Beta)
Tuesday, 2 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Mobile-phone based navigation has been around for several years, but in 2009 the trend really found its place. You can thank the formidable iPhone and all of its attendant apps for this. Or curse it if you hate entering a destination using tiny buttons and squinting at a phone's small screen. Like it or not, in-car nav is moving in the direction of phone-based apps. Or at least that's where the growth and consumer demand is heading in navigation.
Cost is, of course, one factor, and the convenience of having nav capability wherever you go and in every car you drive is another. Cost is a crucial factor with the Google Maps Navigation (Beta) app: It's free on compatible Andriod OS 1.6 and higher phones. As as we found out while testing the Google nav app on the Verizon Droid, in some ways it beats other smartphone nav apps as well as portable and in-dash systems that cost lots of dough. And in some ways it doesn't.
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Chrysler Offers Incentives for Certain Toyota Owners
Monday, 1 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Chrysler has joined Ford, GM and Hyundai in taking advantage of Toyota's recent recall problems. Beginning last week, Chrysler is offering current Tundra, Tacoma and Sienna owners an additional $1,000 trade-in bonus cash with the purchase or lease of any new Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge. This incentive expires March 1, 2010.
Interestingly, the Tacoma and Sienna are not part of the most recent Toyota recall for accelerator pedals. The Tacoma (and Tundra) was involved in the earlier floormat recall.
Monday Recall Roundup: February 1, 2010
Monday, 1 February 2010 SMARTCARBUYERS --
Each Monday, Edmunds takes a look at the most recent recalls published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). NHTSA's recall coverage is extensive, addressing everything from tractor trailers to motor homes. We pore over this coverage and whittle it down, spotlighting only those recalls that are of pressing concern to owners of passenger cars and trucks.
The big news this week is the expansion of Toyota's accelerator-pedal recall. Note that a non-Toyota vehicle has joined the fray: the Pontiac Vibe, which is the corporate twin of the recalled Toyota Matrix. Be sure to check out our industry-news page for more details on the Toyota recall, and for advice on how to proceed if your vehicle is affected.
The latest recalls, after the jump.
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