Ford’s New 5.0 V-8: Back In Black, And Ready For The Track
The 5.0 is back, and Ford didn't take the opportunity lightly. The 2011 Ford Mustang GT will pack a 412-horsepower, 5.0-liter V-8 that for all practical purposes is an all-new engine. A very stoutly built, race-ready one at that.
Along with the 3.7-liter V-6 that will also be introduced in the 2011 Ford Mustang, Ford suddenly has a completely refreshed powertrain lineup for the pony car and nothing to be ashamed of. Considering weight, in fact, the 'Stang now has a leg up on its rivals.
It's an about-face from the past several years, when Ford has seemed a step behind other automakers with respect to V-8 engines—especially if you take a look at power output. Even with the Mustang's lighter weight than the Camaro and Challenger, Ford's current 315-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 in the 2010 Mustang GT is no match for the larger Chevy and Chrysler V-8s.
With the '5.0' badge, the 2011 Mustang GT approaches the power output of those big-displacement engines while promising both stout construction and race-ready performance plus better fuel economy in everyday driving.
Bore is 92.2 mm (3.63 inches), with a 92.7-mm (3.65-inch) stroke, calculating out to just over 302 cubic inches and—this time—properly rounding up to 5.0 liters. And the new engine in the 2011 GT makes 412 horsepower, which should be enough for the lighter Mustang to beat both the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS and the 2010 Dodge Challenger R/T. In the Camaro SS, GM installs a huge 6.2-liter V-8, making 426 horsepower, while Chrysler puts its 372-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 in the Challenger R/T, among other vehicles, and the 425-hp, 6.1-liter V-8 in the Challenger SRT8.
At the same time, Ford projects an estimated 17 mpg city, 25 highway for the new engine (with the automatic) in the Mustang. The Camaro SS gets 16/25, while the Challenger SRT8 is rated at just 13/19.
The new engine will require just 87-octane gasoline, though 91-octane will be recommended for peak performance.
Honda And Subaru Lead Consumer Reports’ Honor Roll For 2010
Subaru (TSE: 7270) and Honda (NYSE: HMC) are tied for the number one spot from Consumer Reports this year, based on the average of its vehicles' overall road-test scores and predicted reliability ratings.
Subaru's overall score was aided by the excellent evaluations given to the new 2010 Subaru Legacy and 2010 Subaru Outback, even though the non-profit testing organization no longer recommends the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX. Honda and Acura models are altogether the most reliable vehicles, CR says, but its most recent models, including the new Honda Insight, were disappointing in the areas of emergency handling and backseat space.
Hyundai and Kia were most improved, thanks to the new Genesis sedan, plus the Elantra sedan and Santa Fe crossover. The Kia Optima sedan was another high-scoring model, while CR said that the Sedona minivan is the only Kia model that's shown below-average reliability.
Consumer Reports notes that Ford (NYSE: F) vehicles now rival some Honda and Ford models for reliability, and the organization now recommends 75 percent of the new Ford models it's tested, up from 70 percent last year—punctuated by CR's high ratings for the 2010 Ford Fusion and 2010 Ford Flex. GM's overall reliability still lags, but the organization notes that a number of the automaker's newer models—like the Cadillac CTS, Buick LaCrosse, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Acadia—score well.
Chrysler has hit rock bottom, according to CR, with even lower scores than last year and the organization saying, "Most models from the manufacturer have noisy, inefficient, unrefined powertrains; subpar interiors; and poor visibility." However Chrysler did have one Recommended vehicle this year: the new 2010 Dodge Ram—now known only by Ram—pickup.
CR has also suspended its recommendations for eight Toyota models currently affected by recall dealing with sticky accelerator pedals, though Toyota vehicles do continue to do well.
Consumer Reports points out that if performance, comfort, and safety were all that mattered, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen would have the top grades. However the Mercedes-Benz GLK320, Volkswagen Golf/Rabbit, and Volkswagen CC buck the trend and have earned excellent reliability ratings.
The results are part of Consumer Reports' Annual Auto Issue, which arrives in print March 2 or is now available on ConsumerReports.org.
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
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Five Features Every New Car Should Have…Though Many Don’t
As well as driving a lot of cars, we spend a lot of time reading here at TheCarConnection.com. And a recent drive report of the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi by Detroit News columnist Scott Burgess sparked a lot of office chat.
It wasn't his review--we liked it, he liked it--but his list of features he thought every car ought to have. We surveyed our own editors, debated our lists of five, and finally settled on a more-or-less consensus.
In order of importance, here are the five items every new 2010 car ought to have (though most of them usually don't):
(1) Auto-up-and-down windows. Our Number One peeve when it's not there, a feature automakers usually roll into pricey options packages that ought to be standard on every car. Auto-down costs almost nothing; auto-up requires a little more equipment. Should be mandatory.
(2) Fold-down rear-seat head restraints. Visibility is bad and getting worse on new cars (see our 2010 Chevrolet Equinox drive report), and fixed rear-seat head restraints get a lot of the blame. Mercedes-Benz rear head rests fold or slide; we think all of them should. The floors of our test cars are littered with the ones we've removed so we could see out the rear-view mirror.
(3) USB port. C'mon, folks! It's 2010, fer crissakes. Hundreds of millions of drivers globally own MP3 players, and we want to hear our own music. Not hate-laced talk radio, or those same 100 songs on the oldies station, or "light contemporary" musical mush. Sheesh. Give us jacks!
(4) Tilt-AND-telescope steering. Not all of us are 50th-percentile humans. One of us is 6'6", and one of us has a mum who's now 4'10". For them, a steering wheel that adjusts not only for height but distance is a necessity for safe driving. More and more cars offer tilting; why not add telescoping too?
(5) Sturdy cupholders, and NOT over the MP3 player. Even professional auto journalists are known to sip sodas while driving. Cupholders have gotten better, but some makers (you know who you are) still don't make 'em sturdy enough to withstand the occasional heavy object impact. And ... for the life of us ... do NOT put them above where we store our iPod! That's just tempting the devil.
(BONUS PERFORMANCE FEATURES) Oil pressure gauge; Off switch for traction control. Our more enthusiastic drivers insisted on a pair of of items that may be less relevant to everyday drivers, but make performance driving far more rewarding.
An oil-pressure gauge is the alert driver's first indicator of serious engine problems, but most cars now offer only warning lights. And the ability to turn off traction control gives skilled drivers more control in everything from racing to breaking loose a car stuck on ice.
As for Burgess, for the record, he listed his five as: (1) Three-blink indicators. (2) Auto-up-and-down windows. (3) USB & Bluetooth connectivity. (4) Key fob & pushbutton start. (5) Auto headlights.
We don't necessarily agree with his choices, but we thank him anyway for inspiring us.
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
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Frugal Shopper: The Most Deeply Discounted New Vehicles
If you're looking for a sweet deal and not too picky about getting the latest and greatest, you have plenty of options.
Over the past month the 2010 Ford Ranger has sold at 17 percent below MSRP, on average, and is the most deeply discounted new model, while the 2010 Hyundai Sonata and 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee are both also discounted by about 17 percent. The 2010 Jeep Commander and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt are also discounted by about 16 percent from MSRP, on average.
Both the Sonata and the Grand Cherokee are slated to be replaced by completely redesigned models for 2011. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata adopts a new four-cylinder-only powertrain that achieves 35 mpg on the highway (and a price starting under $20k), while the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee promises to be much more refined on the road without giving up its Rubicon Trail capability. The Chevrolet Cobalt will also be replaced later this year with the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze.
This information is all from TrueCar, which sources actual sales transaction data covering more than 43 percent of all new vehicles sold in the U.S., which as of January includes more than 300,000 vehicles, according to the company. The data is provided by primarily by car dealers and data aggregators, and it's used here at TheCarConnection.com in our new-car shopping area.
Among 2009 models left on the lot, the 2009 Nissan Titan and 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt are both selling at well over 20 percent below sticker. But they're officially used cars by now anyway.
As a brand, Hummer wins out—by a landslide. Though 2010 model data wasn't yet available, Hummer's 2009 models were selling at nearly 30 percent, on average, below MSRP in November and were still at about 19 percent in December even with shorter supply.
Current manufacturer rebates and other offers such as "dealer cash" would already be considered, as TrueCar looks at final transaction prices.
By body type, here are TrueCar's most deeply discounted 2010 models:
Ford Ranger (pickup) 17%
Hyundai Sonata (sedan) 17%
Jeep Grand Cherokee (SUV) 17%
Chevrolet Cobalt (Coupe) 16%
Volvo XC70 (wagon) 15%
Volvo C70 (convertible) 14%
Toyota Sienna (van) 11%
[TrueCar]
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
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2010 Chevrolet HHR Bottom Line
The editors of TheCarConnection.com have driven the Chevrolet HHR and give driving impressions, along with advice on how it compares to competing vehicles here in this Bottom Line. TheCarConnection.com has also studied road-test reviews from a wide range of sources around the Web, including their highlights in a full review.
Likes
Versatile, cargo-friendly layout
Ride comfort
Dislikes
Transmission only has four speeds
Tight headroom
Gauges too small
Placement of power window controls
The Chevy HHR is a tall-roofed crossover, sharing some common architecture with the Chevrolet Cobalt. Overall, it's a well-orchestrated machine that provides practical cargo space and decent performance. Its basic architecture is similar to that of the Chevrolet Cobalt, with a lineup of four-cylinder engines providing reasonably fuel-efficient operation.
From the outside there's not much else on the road that can match the HHR on styling. The 2010 Chevrolet HHR has a design heritage harking back half a century, thus the name HHR, which stands for Heritage High Roof. The interior is much more "normal" and carlike, with the exception of a slightly higher seating position. Once again, the vehicle is available in two different body styles: a traditional four-door, five-passenger wagon and a two-seat Panel van. The HHR Panel van is geared toward small-business use, with windowless rear cargo panel doors and windowless rear quarter panels, along with cargo-floor storage compartments and a rear 40-amp power point for electronic equipment.
The basic 2010 Chevrolet HHRs are offered with the choice of one of two different four-cylinder engines: a 2.2-liter unit or 2.4-liter mill. A standard five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic comes with either engine on this front-wheel-drive vehicle. Additionally, a remote start feature is offered with the 2.4-liter. Last year variable valve timing was added to the base 2.2-liter mill, and this saw output increase to 155 horsepower, up from 149 horses the previous year. Fuel economy was also improved, yielding a driving range of up to 500 miles between service station stops with this more efficient engine. It should be noted that regardless of the transmission, performance isn't anything to shout about, though it's still decent for this class.
The 2010 Chevrolet HHR SS is an impressive offering that targets performance enthusiasts. Powering the SS is a turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which enables the HHR SS to achieve EPA-rated highway mileage of 29 mpg with the manual transmission and 28 mpg with the automatic. Driver-selectable performance features including the "no-lift shift" help the SS achieve 0-60 mph performance in 6.3 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in 14.8 seconds at 98.5 mph. Equipped with the manual transmission, the SS has a top speed of more than 150 mph. Non-SS versions of the 2010 HHR have a very soft suspension, and it's not very nimble for tight corners or quick maneuvers, but the HHR LT and SS models include a sport-tuned suspension that doesn't sacrifice too much ride quality. The electric power steering in the HHR is a disappointment; it's just too light and imprecise in standard versions, though the revised tuning in the SS is an improvement.
Although the 2010 Chevrolet HHR has a versatile, roomy cargo space that can accommodate a lot of groceries or small pieces of furniture, the HHR is only fair for passengers. Headroom is rather tight, and the front seats provide a pushed-upward driving position that some drivers might like but others will consider odd. Interior appointments aren't anything special; there's a lot of drab plastic trim, and upholstery and materials are rental-car anonymous. On the bright side, the HHR feels tight and refined most of the time, with surprisingly little road or wind noise.
When it comes to safety, the HHR hardly impresses either. Federal crash-test results are five-star for frontal and side impact, but the insurance-supported IIHS rates the HHR just "acceptable" for side impact and a concerning "marginal" in the seat-based rear-impact test. Standard safety equipment for the 2010 Chevy HHR includes anti-lock front disc/rear drum brakes on LS and LT models, as well as anti-lock four-wheel discs on the SS. Stability control and side curtain airbags are standard as well, though front seat side-impact airbags aren't offered. GM's OnStar telematics system is also standard across the HHR model lineup.
Chevrolet has decided not to muck with the successful formula, with the only changes for 2010 consisting of an optional rearview camera and the elimination of the sporty SS trim for the HHR Panel body style. Standard features include air conditioning, an AM/FM/MP3/CD sound system with auxiliary input jack and satellite radio, power windows/locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, 16-inch wheel covers, a trip computer, and the aforementioned OnStar system.
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Chevrolet HHR has love-it-or-hate-it styling, but it should appeal to those who want good cargo capability in an economical ride.
Other Choices
If you're interested in the 2010 Chevrolet HHR, also consider:
- Chrysler PT Cruiser
- Jeep Patriot
- Honda Element
- Scion xB
Reason Why:
As the competition for boxy crossovers with tall roofs heats up, the 2010 Chevrolet HHR has a wide range of rivals now. The PT Cruiser is also a versatile people/cargo hauler and has more useful passenger space than the HHR, but the Chrysler can't match the HHR's performance with the SS edition. Base versions of the PT Cruiser ride and handle better than the HHR, however. The Jeep Patriot is a little bit smaller overall, yet it offers all-wheel drive and its interior feels roomier; it's an ideal choice for city folks who want a lot of utility but will stay on-road. The Scion xB is also a direct rival to the HHR, but it targets a more youthful, urban buyer. Like the HHR, the xB isn't as roomy inside for passengers as one might expect. The Honda Element remains one of the best choices for those who have a lot of stuff to haul, though its small rear-hinged back doors aren't quite as friendly for backseat passengers.
Buying Tip
If you want to keep your budget low, don't drive the 2010 Chevrolet HHR SS; though it's "the performance model," it's better in virtually every way, so you might not be able to step back to the other models.
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2010 Mercury Mountaineer Bottom Line
TheCarConnection.com has driven the 2010 Mercury Mountaineer—including those powered by V-6 and V-8 engines—and brings you advice on whether to pick this model over other SUVs. And to help provide a well-rounded presentation on the Mountaineer, TheCarConnection.com has looked at a range of other firsthand reports to compile a conclusive review.
Likes
Dressed-up interior
Available power-folding third-row seat
Optional Sirius Travel Link
Dislikes
Coarse V-6 engine
Ride isn't as comfortable as some competitors
Very dated exterior styling
The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer, to put it bluntly, is a 2010 Ford Explorer, rebadged and presented with slightly different trim and details. The Explorer isn't a bad place to start, but it's worth noting that this is a more traditional, truck-based SUV design, outclassed by many of the more modern and carlike passenger-oriented models. However, with three rows of seating, V-6 or V-8 power, and available all-wheel drive, the Mountaineer is a reasonably appealing vehicle altogether.
All of Mercury's current products are lightly dressed-up Ford models, with different front and rear details, slightly different sheetmetal in some cases, and a lighter, more lavish interior look. The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer is no exception; Mercury's waterfall grille and softer front end help make the Mountaineer appear just a little more carlike.
Two different powertrain choices are offered in the 2010 Mercury Mountaineer. The 4.0-liter V-6 brings adequate performance, but it's a little too coarse and rough. The available 4.6-liter V-8 provides better performance with a smoother character and real-world fuel economy that's almost as good. The V-6 comes with a five-speed automatic, and the V-8 is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. Both are available in rear- or all-wheel-drive versions. Overall, the Mountaineer feels like a truck, but it's smooth, stable, and responsive for something that weighs 5,000 pounds.
The 2010 Mountaineer can be configured to be either a five- or seven-passenger vehicle, and when equipped, the third row can be power operated. The Mountaineer is quite roomy inside, with a good driving position. Second-row occupants will also find plenty of space, though adults will have trouble entering or exiting the third row, let alone fitting in it. Ride quality is quite good, though—credit the Mountaineers SUV's independent rear suspension. The cabin feels nicely appointed, with a high-quality sensation, though up close the materials themselves could be better.
For a vehicle that is geared toward family use, safety is extremely important, and here the Mountaineer comes through on most counts. The Mountaineer offers canopy side curtain airbags and electronic stability controls to help improve passive and active safety. Crash tests aren't class-leading, but they're good, with top five-star results from the federal government in frontal and side impacts and "good" and "acceptable" ratings from the IIHS in frontal offset and side impact tests, respectively.
The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer is available in base trim or as the up-level Premier edition. The Mountaineer takes advantage of the Ford parts bin and is available with Ford-exclusive technology like Sirius Travel Link and SYNC, which uses a touchscreen and Bluetooth to control the vehicle's entertainment and communication systems. The Mountaineer also adds a capless fuel filler system, 20-inch wheels, and new option bundles like a Navigation package and the Moon and Tune Elite package. Other options include heated leather seats, a moonroof, power-adjustable brake/accelerator pedals, and power running boards.
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer is just a dressed-up Ford Explorer, though its styling is a better match for family duty.
Other Choices
If you're interested in the 2010 Mercury Mountaineer, also consider:
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Ford Flex
- Honda Pilot
- Lincoln MKX
- Toyota 4Runner
Reason Why:
Although the 2010 Mountaineer is based on the Ford Explorer, its styling is a little more carlike, and most people are buying them as minivan alternatives; people are more likely to cross-shop the Mountaineer with modern crossovers such as the Ford Flex or Chevrolet Traverse. Both vehicles have a more passenger-friendly interior, as well as better ride and handling than the Mountaineer. The Flex's Lincoln sibling, the MKX, also has better passenger comfort while offering comparable cargo versatility. The Honda Pilot boasts a little more truck toughness but still shows its car roots—and it seats up to eight. But for those who look to a vehicle like this for off-road ability, the Toyota 4Runner might be a better choice; its interior doesn't feel as spacious, but it's been redesigned for 2010 to be even more refined without sacrificing off-road ability.
Buying Tip
The Ford Explorer will be replaced for 2011 by an all-new model, so the Mercury Mountaineer's days might be numbered. Get one this year if you prefer the old-style layout.
This story originally appeared at The Car Connection
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2010 Chevrolet Colorado Bottom Line
TheCarConnection.com's editors have driven the latest 2010 Chevrolet Colorado in order to give you an expert opinion. And to help you make the most of reputable review sources on the Web, TheCarConnection.com has brought some of the most useful information together here.
Likes
Varying body styles
Powerful V-8
Good fuel economy with the four-cylinder
Dislikes
Too much plastic in the interior
Poor fuel economy with five-cylinder and V-8 models
Four- and five-cylinder engines feel rough
Substandard steering
The 2010 Chevrolet Colorado continues to be offered with a wide variety of engines, including four- and five-cylinder mills, plus a range-topping V-8 engine producing 300 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The Colorado achieves a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds and a sub-seven-second 0-60 acceleration time.
Reviewers generally find that the base 185-horsepower, 2.9-liter four-cylinder engine and the optional 242-hp, 3.7-liter five in the 2010 Colorado are not up to the mark, and the latter is especially disappointing as a step-up engine. It's rough and noisy, and it doesn't have the refined performance that some of the Colorado's rivals offer. On the other hand, the V-8 engine gives the Colorado a completely different character, and the reviewers at TheCarConnection.com recommend it for drivers in need of towing ability. The 2010 Chevrolet Colorado is also available in either rear- or four-wheel drive.
Matching the variety of powertrain options are several different body styles for the 2010 Chevrolet Colorado. These include a regular Cab, Extended Cab (with short reverse-opening doors), and Crew Cab (with four regular forward-swinging doors). Crew cabs come with a five-foot cargo box, while other Colorados feature a six-foot bed. For those who need rear space, the six-foot "long" bed won't carry a 4x8 sheet of plywood, and four-door Colorados have only a five-foot, one-inch bed anyway. On four-door versions, the rear seat stands uncomfortably upright and is just roomy enough for two adults. However, the four-door crew-cab version can seat up to six passengers.
The interior for all Colorados is nowhere close to impressive, with cheap, hard plastic as the theme. It must be noted, however, that inside the ZQ8-equipped models, unique seats unavailable in other Colorado models are rather nice.
All 2010 Chevrolet Colorado models receive StabiliTrak electronic stability control, as well as a new braking system, first introduced last year, which features better braking feel and improved stopping power. The four-door Chevrolet Colorado receives a mix of crash-test scores, with straight four-star ratings from the federal government (except for some higher five-star ratings on the Crew Cab), matched with lackluster side and rear test scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Standard equipment is decent with air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, cruise control, and folding exterior mirrors all included. Options include traction control, XM Satellite Radio, fog lamps, leather seats, a sunroof, a six-CD changer, and a sliding rear window. OnStar is offered but without a navigation feature—which would enhance the desirability of this work truck. A new ZQ8 sport suspension package for the Extended and Crew Cab models features revised suspension tuning that's 30 percent stiffer and a ride height that's one inch lower than previous years. Eighteen-inch, split six-spoke aluminum wheels, and low-profile performance tires are also part of the package that pairs with the V-8 engine option.
The Bottom Line: The 2010 Chevrolet Colorado is impressive with the V-8 engine and offers a good alternative to people who don't really need a big truck.
Other Choices
If you like the 2010 Chevrolet Colorado, also consider:
- Dodge Dakota
- Ford Ranger
- GMC Canyon
- Nissan Frontier
- Toyota Tacoma
Reason Why:
With good crash-test results and bargain prices, the base four-cylinder version of the Ford Ranger is still the most agreeable basic small pickup. The Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma are both offered with fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines and powerful V-6s, and both score well in independent crash testing. The Frontier is one of the most enjoyable, versatile mid-size pickups available in the V-6 variant, and it's surprisingly capable for towing and off-roading. The Dodge Dakota is the only real competitor for the V-8 Colorado; it's substantially larger and offers a variety of engine configurations, including a powerful V-8. Note, however, that it doesn't handle as well as the Colorado, which itself is not a shining star in this department. The GMC Canyon is essentially the same vehicle, sharing platforms, components, and all else except for trim and badging with the Colorado.
Buying Tip
It's best to avoid piling on the options; otherwise, the price of the Colorado can easily pass the $20,000 mark. Work trucks and models without the options are the best value because full-size pickups are only moderately more expensive.
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Toyota Is Tops In Brand Loyalty And Brand Perception
Ford may have swept the NACOTY awards, and Hyundai may be riding a wave of great press in the U.S., but the American public still views Toyota as the best brand -- and they're more loyal to it than to any other.
For the third year in a row, Toyota has taken the #1 spot on Consumer Reports' annual Brand Perception survey. The survey asks consumers to evaluate brands in seven areas: safety, quality, value, performance, design/style, technology/innovation, and whether the brand is environmentally friendly/green. Given the success of well-designed, high-tech hybrids like the 2010 Prius, Toyota's win isn't very surprising -- though with other stylish green models heading toward showrooms, the company will have to up its game to remain at the top of the heap.
Also faring well on Consumer Reports' survey were Ford (#2), Honda (#3), and Chevrolet (#4). At the bottom: HUMMER, which came in dead last, just below the three-way tie of Saab, Mercury, and Mazda.
Toyota did equally well at the Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards, where it was recognized for Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer, breaking General Motors' nine-year winning streak. (Honda won for Overall Loyalty to Make.) If pressed, we could've likely guessed most of the winners on Polk's list, although we were intrigued by Audi's award for Most Improved Loyalty to Make. Maybe Audi's goal of beating Mercedes and BMW in sales isn't as far-fetched as some had thought.
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2011 Chevrolet Cruze vs. 2012 Ford Focus, From The Inside Out
With the new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze and 2012 Ford Focus, as shown out on the Detroit auto show floor, you're looking at the future heart of the market. According to many who keep tabs on the industry, the so-called C-segment--the size of these two small sedans--is slated to grow rapidly over the next several years.
The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze made its production debut at this past year's Los Angeles auto show, and General Motors was showing several examples of its Chevrolet Cruze compact sedan here at the show. But the cross-town rivalry could be felt as Ford chose the Detroit auto show for the global debut of its all-new 2012 Ford Focus.
Comparing their respective exterior designs, the new Focus and Cruze are around the same size overall and, when you hold their profiles side by side, are remarkably similar in terms of overall profile.
That's about where the comparisons end. While the Cruze is clean and conservative--undoubtedly too much so for some tastes--the Focus has lots of details to be discovered, from the lipped wheel wells and flared fenders to the aggressive front end design, flowing sheetmetal leading to the taillamps, and more overt wheel designs. Topping it all off are the dual sharp 'Z' creases in the sheetmetal, which, to this reviewer's eyes effectively lower the beltline and give the proportions more of a sport-sedan pop.
In an informal poll of fellow auto journalists out on the Detroit auto show floor, nearly everyone preferred the Focus' exterior to that of the Cruze, although several noted that the Focus design was on the verge of being busy.
Take a look inside, and neither design neglects the details. Though both models are relatively affordable, their cabins have design attributes and materials that would have only been seen in luxury-brand vehicles just a few years back. For now, they serve to make the current 2010 Ford Focus and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt look downright aged.
Over the next several slides, we take a first look at some of the interior details of these new compacts from Chevy and Ford. Take a closer look with us, and let us know which one you think is the winner.
2010 Detroit Auto Show: 2010 GMC Granite Concept
The 2010 Detroit Auto Show opens in Detroit today with a new crossover concept from GM, the GMC Granite.
The Granite may be on display as a concept car, but it's closely related to a new vehicle already headed to Chevrolet dealers, the 2011 Orlando. It's a safe bet that GMC will get a version of the Granite to sell in the 2012 model year, but GM hasn't confirmed its plans for the small wagon just yet.
Still, it's easy to see how the Granite concept could translate into what would be the smallest GMC ever offered. For one, there's the powertrain, a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder that will power the Orlando as well as the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze sedan and in non-turbo form, will be the range-extender engine found in the 2011 Chevrolet Volt. In this case, it's coupled to a six-speed automatic.
Sized like the Kia Soul and Scion xB, the concept Granite sports rear-hinged rear doors that give it some of the flexibility of the Honda Element--only in the case of the Granite, the right-side seats fold for more cargo space, instead of both rear seats. GM also promises clever cargo solutions for the interior, which wears sueded cloth and buff-colored trim inside as a frame for a tech-happy dash with a large LED screen that controls the entertainment and climate-control systems.
The Granite also sports some styling cues that will look familiar to its own returning shoppers--as well as some call-outs to the Asian competition, particularly at the rear. Up front, though, it's all GMC, with blocky headlamps and a squared-off grille bearing the brand's big red-letter name.
High Gear Media is reporting live from the 2010 Detroit auto show this week. For in-depth Detroit show coverage, turn to MotorAuthority for all the latest from Detroit--and for a more in-depth look at the new Granite concept. And stay tuned tomorrow, when GM unveils another concept, this time for its top-drawer brand, Cadillac.
MORE: 2010 Detroit Auto Show coverage
MORE: GMC Granite Concept at MotorAuthority
MORE: 2011 Chevrolet Orlando previews at TheCarConnection
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