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Buick dealers recently were given a sneak peek of a Buick-badged Opel Cascada convertible, which is slated for a U.S. launch in late 2015 as a '16 model.

Wireless telecommunications giant Verizon today announced plans to introduce a new smartphone app that would allow rental car customers to unlock a vehicle.

GM stores are by far the most sold and acquired in the dealership buy-sell market this year. Buy-sell expert Alan Haig says "it's a sign that their profits are strong, and buyers are seeing momentum in the GM brands that didn't exist in prior years."

For employees in a dealership's finance and insurance office, spotting a potentially fraudulent deal is top priority. A mistake not only can cost a dealership a vehicle, it can hurt the store's reputation and its relationships with lenders.

Since the Viper's reintroduction at the 2012 New York auto show, the sports coupe has moved fast everywhere except where it matters most: off dealer lots. Now Dodge has a plan to boost Viper sales.

By converting its best-selling F-150 pickup from a steel body to aluminum, Ford is replacing the tried-and-true spot-welding process with a far more complex technique that uses a combination of rivets and industrial adhesives.

Big recalls by General Motors and Toyota Motor Corp. in recent years raise questions about whether dangerous problems could lurk in little-noticed service bulletins or customer-satisfaction campaigns.

GM says dealers ordered 28,000 Colorados and another 14,000 Canyons during the first 30 days after it began taking orders, more than five times its forecast.

August culminated one of the best four-month periods ever for the auto industry, as surging demand for SUVs and other light trucks propelled the industry to its highest annualized selling rate since January 2006: 17.5 million.

Mazda Motor Corp. unveiled a shorter and lighter MX-5 Miata to burnish its brand image with a sportier yet more fuel-efficient roadster.

From GMM

Toto Wolff is still working on offloading his stake in the Williams team.

Ever since the Austrian bought into Mercedes and began working as the German marque's F1 and motor racing chief, his more than 15 per cent stake in Williams has been quietly on the market.

In June, it emerged that 5 per cent of Wolff's stake was bought by US private healthcare businessman Brad Hollinger.

And now, the Daily Telegraph reports that Hollinger in fact has an additional 2 per cent option on the Grove based team worth about $5.7 million.

F1 business journalists Christian Sylt and Caroline Reid quoted Wolff as confirming: "I am now on slightly more than 10 per cent and Brad has an option to buy another 2pc. So if I find somebody who is suitable, maybe I will sell a little bit more."

From GMM

McLaren could wait another year for a top name to join the newly Honda-powered outfit.

In recent days and weeks, it has become increasingly clear that the Woking team is bidding to lure a star champion like Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton or Sebastian Vettel to the British-Japanese works collaboration for 2015.

All three, however, are under contract to their existing teams, which may be good news for the nervous incumbent, F1 veteran Jenson Button, who otherwise might be staring at retirement.

"If I'm not racing at the end of the season, so be it," he said at Monza. "I can't do much about that."

Jenson Button, McLaren-Mercedes, at Monza. (Photo: WRi2)

But Britain's The Observer newspaper reports that McLaren is in fact now most likely to sign Button and his rookie teammate Kevin Magnussen for at least another season.

"We are happy with the drivers we have, to be honest," team boss Eric Boullier confirmed. "You can rate them or not rate them, I don't care. We are happy and lucky to have the good drivers we have. If we have them next year we will be happy with that."

The Frenchman hinted that a better "strategy" for McLaren might be to let the all-new McLaren-Honda partnership bed in for a year before thinking again about a driver change for 2016.

"We are thinking about strategy," Eric Boullier said. "We have to think about 2016. We are seeking who, when, how, how much, because we need to know how we want to build for the future. It is usual in formula one, especially with A-list drivers, to have discussions not for next year but for the year after."

It is obvious that drivers of Alonso, Hamilton and Vettel's calibre might be unlikely to take a gamble with a move to McLaren without first assessing the new Honda era.

"We are in favour of having the best car," said Eric Boullier, "because then we can attract the best driver and have the winning package. At some stage you have to open the negotiations."

The upcoming Paris Auto Show will feature the world debut of the new Fiat 500X, which shares its platform with the equally new Jeep Renegade and is expected to become the MINI Countryman's new nemesis.

In the following video, the company gives a preview of the Fiat 500X. Look for it to land in showrooms next year.

Source : 500x.fiat500.com

From press release

McLaren confirmed at Monza that iconic coffee brand Segafredo Zanetti - which returns to Formula 1 after a 20-year absence - has become a new partner of the team.

The Italian brand is part of the Massimo Zanetti Beverage Group - the largest private company in the international coffee industry.

Segafredo Zanetti was first involved in Formula 1 between 1984 and '94. It partnered with McLaren between 1984 and '86, working with iconic world champions Niki Lauda, Alain Prost and Keke Rosberg. The brand also sponsored the car, overalls and helmet of legendary champion Ayrton Senna during his first year in Formula 1 in 1984, and during his final season in the sport in 1994.

Group president Massimo Zanetti said: "The Segafredo Zanetti name has long been associated with motorsport, and Formula 1 in particular, and our decision to return to grand prix racing with the renowned McLaren team signals our intention to further strengthen and grow the powerful Segafredo Zanetti brand.

"When you think of Formula 1, you doubtless think of McLaren; one of the teams that has achieved truly legendary status. Equally, in the coffee world, exactly the same is true of Segafredo Zanetti - and, together, we can achieve something special.

"Emotionally, too, my long friendship with Ayrton Senna also influenced my decision to return to McLaren. On the 20thanniversary of his death, it seems appropriate to restart Segafredo Zanetti's involvement with Formula 1, as well as underline my commitment to my long-standing relationship with Ron Dennis."

McLaren Group chairman & CEO Ron Dennis CBE said: "I'm personally delighted that Massimo Zanetti has chosen to return to Formula 1 with McLaren. He's long supported both McLaren and Ayrton Senna, and his passion for motorsport courses through the Segafredo Zanetti brand. As a McLaren partner, together we have a long backstory; today, more importantly, we have a lot more that we can say together.

Since qualifying session at Monza, Segafredo Zanetti branding appear on the rear-wing endplates and driver overalls.

Segafredo logo on the McLaren MP4-29 at Monza. (Photo: McLaren F1 Team)

Today marks the official launch of the all-new Jaguar XE compact luxury sedan. Before the car hits the spotlight at 1:15 p.m. ET, fans can watch several interviews and features.

From GMM

Prior to Max Verstappen's signing by Red Bull, the teen Dutchman came close to being snapped up by Mercedes.

At the height of the Verstappen-Mercedes rumours, sources said the German marque intended to place the talented 16-year-old in GP2 next year.

Toto Wolff confirmed to the Austrian news agency APA: "We would have gone with him first into GP2 and given him a few formula one days."

Ultimately, however, advised and managed by his F1-famous father Jos Verstappen, the F3 sensation signed with Red Bull on the promise of a now highly controversial Toro Rosso race debut in 2015.

"He is ready for formula one now," insisted Red Bull's driver manager Dr Helmut Marko.

Helmut Marko and Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing. (Photo: WRi2)

But on his first official demonstration run in a F1 car in Rotterdam recently, Verstappen crashed at low speed into the barriers whilst doing donuts.

Red Bull played down the incident, and this week near Venice Verstappen will reportedly be back in a two-year-old Toro Rosso to qualify for his super license and make his Friday practice debut early next month at Suzuka.

Some think F1 is coming way too soon for the boyish Verstappen.

"Max is an extraordinary talent. He is definitely formula one material and possibly a star of the future," Wolff agreed.

"Whether it's good for formula one - putting a 17-year-old on the grid - is another thing. Formula one is not a playground where you develop somebody," he insisted.

Pros: In spite of weighing-in at close to two tons, the 2015 Land Rover Range Rover is capable of breathtaking acceleration. In addition, it provides unrivalled off-road skills. It offers a level of luxury and comfort that matches its prestige.

Cons: Alas, the 2015 Range rover is not without fault. Starting with a V8 version that is always thirsty. But, when one can afford such an enormous vehicle, is this really an issue? The third-row seating is not really accessible for adults; it is better suited for children. In addition, as is the case for most Land Rover products, reliability remains an Achilles Heel.

Photo: Land Rover

2015 Land Rover Range Rover Price: The 2015 Land Rover Range Rover is offered in four versions: the Range Rover at $102,555, the Range Rover HSE at $106,555, the Supercharged Range Rover at $117,555 and the Autobiography Range Rover at $152,555.

2015 Range Rover Fuel Economy: Fuel economy ratings for the 2015 Range Rover are not available at this time.

Improvements and Changes: No major changes for 2015.

2015 Land Rover Range Rover Powertrain: Land Rover proposes two engine options based on the selected Range Rover model: a supercharged 3.0 litre DOHC V6 that produces 340 hp or a supercharged 5.0 litre V8 that produces an impressive 510 hp. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission with stop-start technology.

Cargo Capacity: The Range Rover luggage compartment can hold up to 909 litres.

Safety: Safety features in the 2015 Land Rover Range Rover include ABS brakes, electronic braking assistance, electronic brake-force distribution, dynamic stability and anti roll stability control, trailer stability control, terrain response auto adjustment, electronic traction control, active speed limiter, dynamic route guidance and lateral and rear obstacle warnings.

Comparing the 2015 Land Rover Range Rover: This luxury SUV category includes the BMW X5, the Cadillac Escalade, the Infiniti QX80, the Lexus LX570, the Lincoln Navigator and the Porsche Cayenne.

Adapted from GMM

According to paddock insiders, disgruntled and struggling reigning champion Vettel is the man most likely to be looking for a change of scene.

When asked about the McLaren-Vettel rumours, former driver turned pundit Patrick Tambay told RMC it is clear the German is feeling increasingly uncomfortable at Red Bull.

"Next year Adrian Newey will not be in the same position," he said. "He (Vettel) is losing his favourite engineer (Guillaume 'Rocky' Rocquelin). It may be time for him to look elsewhere, especially with what is happening with Daniel Ricciardo."

But even though Australian Ricciardo appears more than comfortable at Red Bull, even he is in McLaren's sights.

"We may consider Daniel Ricciardo. Nico Rosberg as well is doing well. So there are a lot of drivers we may consider," Eric Boullier admitted.

Ricciardo might be tempted to leave Red Bull because, despite his clear superiority over Vettel in 2014, he is earning much less money than the quadruple champion.

Christian Horner and Sebastian Vettel, Red Bull Racing. (Photo: WRi2)

At Monza, team boss Christian Horner dodged a specific question about whether, in light of his season, Red Bull intends to "adjust" Ricciardo's "earnings" to bring him more in line with Vettel.

Not only that, he finds himself in the awkward situation of being the only driver able to challenge the two Mercedes for the 2014 title, but not being the clear number 1 at Red Bull.

"I would love to be quicker on merit and not need team orders," Daniel Ricciardo said after Monza, "but the next couple of tracks are perfect for us so if we need to make any decisions if we can challenge Mercedes for the title then I am sure they will be made."

No so, according to Christian Horner.

"We are so far back at the moment that it is not worth getting involved (in team orders). We will let the drivers race," he insisted.

Horner adds that in the end, despite all the 'silly season' noise, he thinks all the main players will stay put for 2015.

"The music is playing at full volume now, but when it stops I think you'll see everyone in the same chairs as they were before," he is quoted by Spain's Marca.

Pros: The exterior styling of the 2015 Kia Rio is unanimously praised. It is solidly built with quality fit and finish. As is often the case with South-Korean vehicles, the Rio comes with equipment that is not usually present in this type of vehicle. In addition, the interior is surprisingly spacious for such a small vehicle. To top it all off, it is reasonably priced, and lives up to the fuel economy expectations of its category.

Cons: The 2015 Kia Rio is equipped with a firm suspension that is likely to make excursions on less than perfect roads somewhat disagreeable, while offering exceptional road handling characteristics on smoother road surfaces. Its engine is a bit on the rough side when compared to its Japanese competitors.

Photo: Kia

2015 Kia Rio Price: Kia markets the 2015 Rio in two versions: Sedan and 5-door hatchback. The sedan is available in four versions: LX, LX+, EX and SX. The LX manual is priced at $14,095, the LX+ is offered in manual version at $15 695, and automatic at $16,995; the EX automatic is listed at $18,195, while the automatic SX is priced at $20,195.

As for the 5-door Rio, prices are: $14,495 for the LX; $16,095 for the manual LX+ while the automatic LX+ starts at $17,395; the automatic EX starts at $18,595; while the manual SX starts at $19,295 and the automatic version starts at $20,595.

2015 Kia Rio Fuel Economy: Whether you choose sedan or coupe, the fuel economy rating for the Kia Rio is an estimated: 8.7/6.4 L/100 km manual transmission, 8.8/6.3 automatic transmission, and 8.5/6.3 in Eco mode.
Improvements and Changes: The Kia Rio has not undergone any significant change for 2015.

2015 Kia Rio Powertrain: The only available engine option for the 2015 Kia Rio is a 1.6 litre all-aluminum direct-injection 4-cylinder engine that produces 138 hp. This engine is mated to either a 6-speed manual or Sportmatic automatic transmission.

Cargo Capacity: If the Rio sedan is your vehicle of choice, you will benefit from 387 litres of cargo capacity in its trunk. If you choose the Rio 5-door, the cargo capacity varies from 425 litres with the rear seat back raised to 1,410 with the rear seat back lowered.

Photo: Kia

Safety: Safety features in the 2015 Kia Rio include ABS brakes, electronic braking assistance, electronic brake force distribution, electronic stability control, launch control, automatic headlights and hill assist. 

Comparing the 2015 Kia Rio: Comparable vehicles in the subcompact category include the Honda Fit, the Ford Fiesta, the Hyundai Accent, the Mazda2, the Nissan Versa, the Scion xD and the Toyota Yaris.

Left with more than 600 unsold Vipers in stock — a 434-day supply — Chrysler has a bold plan to boost the sales of its excessively pricey supercar: cut the sticker price by $15,000 and offer $15,000 coupons to recent Viper buyers to trade in their 2013 or 2014 model on another one or to buy an additional Viper.

Also, instead of limiting the Viper to select Dodge dealers, the automaker will sell it with the rest of the lineup, treating the 640-hp, V10-powered car as a halo vehicle.

Despite temporarily suspending production of the high-end GTS and TA models, Chrysler will start taking orders for 2015 Vipers this month. Dodge brand manager Tim Kuniskis also told Automotive News that a new GT trim featuring the most popular equipment sought by Viper customers will be introduced shortly.

Source : autonews.com

Photo: SRT