Dead Brands: Saturn, Pontiac And Now Mercedes-Benz's Maybach

Its tough out here these days, especially with this topsy turvy economy, even for car brands. A vehicle that was once seen as step above the top of the line Mercedes-Benz S-Class is ending its nine-year run soon. They have plans on shifting the snob effect to a feature rich S-class, which will replace the vehicle. Sean Comb (also known as Puff Daddy) gave one of his boys' one of these prize possessions. According to Wikepedia, the Maybach 57 and 62  were the first automobile models of the Maybach brand since the brand's revival by DaimlerChrysler AG.

The Luxury Brand Status Index 2008 voted the Maybach 1st place, ahead of both Rolls and Bentley. The models will end production in 2013 due to financial losses and sagging sales. In fact,  its being reported that sales of the Mayback were at one fifth the level of the profitable Rolls Royce models.

Just wondering: Will Sean trade-in his son's Maybach for another vehicle that offers snob appeal or will his son be stuck with a discontinued vehicle? 

2011 Kia Forte SX Hatchback: A Sporty, Fun-To-Drive Compact

Highlights: Kia is the sister brand to Hyundai. These days Kia is pitching itself as a performance-oriented brand, going after the Dodge division., while at the same time filling in for the now defunct Pontiac division.

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $23,640 (Base price of starts at $16,895 for EX Trim)

Seating Capacity: 5 occupants

Standard Safety Features: Traction Control, Dual Front Airbags; Front-Seat Mounted Airbags; Side Mounted Airbags; Tire Pressure Monitoring System; and ABS

Standard Equipment: 17-inch wheels; air condition; power windows; power door locks; remote keyless entry; automatic on/off headlights; leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; cloth manually adjustable seats; manual tilt/telescopic steering wheel; cruise control; outside exterior temperature display; front fog lights; and rear-seat center armrest

Standard Audio: 6-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3; Sirius satellite radio with a 3-month subscription

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Trim Levels:

EX and SX

Bluetooth Compatibility: Yes.

MP3 Capability: Yes.

iPod and USB adaptor: Optional

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder/173-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular Unleaded

Standard Fuel Mileage: 23-city/32-hwy

What’s New: The Forte line up expands this model-year from just offering a sedan and a coupe (Koup) to now adding on a hatchback. With the new addition, Kia's hatchback offers the versatility and room compact buyers are seeking, but in an extremely sporty package, especially when one opts for cool looking SX trim.

Pros: Kia has come a long way over the past few years. Our top-end Kia Forte SX hatchback was equipped with such optional features as (heated front) leather seats, an automatic dimming mirror, a power sunroof, a rear view camera, a navigation system and a push-button starter with a smart key, which allowed us to lock and unlock the exterior doors without the use of a key. A few years ago this would have been unheard for a Kia.

The sporty hatchback we reviewed was not only roomy, but it also handled extremely well since it was outfitted with a specially tuned, Kia-developed suspension adjusted perfectly for responsive handling. The handling was complimented by Kia’s signature red gauges. Furthermore, the black leather seats in our Kia were outlined by red stitching.
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Also with the addition of the hatchback to the Forte line, buyers can not only expect additional cargo room when the rear seat is folded down, but an attachable security cargo cover when the rear seats are occupied too.

While Gov't Investigates GM's Electric Vehicles, Automaker Offers Free Loaners

GM is currently under fire after the government's recent investigation into the Chevy Volt, the automaker's first mass produced electric vehicle, literally caught fire. Here's the response from the folks from GM as it relates to the investigation.......
 
General Motors announced Monday initiatives for customer satisfaction and battery safety research to ensure ongoing confidence in the Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle.
The initiatives follow six months of research and testing in the United States with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration designed to induce electric vehicle battery failure after severe crash situations.

The agency advised GM on Friday that it would open a preliminary evaluation of Volt battery assemblies after NHTSA test results caused electrical fires up to three weeks after an initial vehicle New Car Assessment Program side pole crash test.

Mark Reuss, president, GM North America, said the company would take every precaution to assure the driving public of GM’s commitment to the safety of the Volt being handled after a severe incident and the total satisfaction of everyone who owned one.

“The Volt is a five-star safety car.  Even though no customer has experienced in the real world what was identified in this latest testing of post-crash situations, we're taking critical steps to ensure customer satisfaction and safety,” Reuss said.

“Our customers' peace of mind is too important to us for there to be any concern or any worry. This technology should inspire confidence and pride, not raise any concern or doubt. “The question is about how to deal with the battery days and weeks after a severe crash, making it a matter of interest not just for the Volt, but for our industry as we continue to advance the pursuit of electric vehicles.”

Senior GM engineering investigation team

Mary Barra, senior vice president, Global Product Development, said GM had established a senior engineering team to develop changes to eliminate concern of potential post-crash electrical fires and work with industry to ensure appropriate electric vehicle protocols were in place. Barra said such electrical fires had not occurred on public roads and NHTSA was not investigating any such potential imminent failure on the roads.

“GM and the agency's focus and research continue to be on the performance, handling, storage and disposal of batteries after a crash or other significant event,” she said.

“We’re working with NHTSA so we all have an understanding about these risks and how they can be avoided in the future.  This isn’t just a Volt issue.  We’re already leading a joint electric vehicle activity with Society of Automotive Engineers and other automotive companies to address new issues, such as this protocol of depowering batteries after a severe crash.”

Barra said the team would continue to work closely with NHTSA, suppliers, dealers and manufacturing teams to initiate any necessary changes as soon as possible.

Volt owner loan program

Reuss said GM would establish a Volt owner satisfaction program.  Any Volt owner concerned about safety can contact his or her Volt advisor to arrange for a free GM vehicle loan until resolution of the issue.

“A vehicle loan program of this nature is well beyond the norm for a preliminary investigation, and it underlines our commitment to the vehicle and its owners,” he said.  “These steps are the right ones to take regardless of any immediate impact on our operations.”

Editor's Note: Five Things I Am Thankful For This Year

As we take a moment this holiday season to slow things down and pump the brakes, I wanted to reflect upon the top five things I am truly thankful for this year.

1. Attended the Black Enterprise Entrepreneur Conference And Expo. On the same day that Oprah wrapped-up her 25 year-old daytime talk show, I had an opportunity to witness history, attending a one-on-one personal conservation with Earl G. Graves Sr., the founder of Black Enterprise Magazine, and his son, Earl G. Graves Jr., president and CEO of the magazine. The intimate conversation, which revealed both their professional and personal lives, was led by President Obama's (and Michelle's) Harvard law professor, Charles Ogletree. I was just glad to be in the house to witness history. This is the first time that the Graves held a forum such as this. It was spell bounding to witness the respect interaction between a black father and his son. ( As a side note, I periodically provide auto content to the magazine.)
2. First Published Car-Buying Feature Story In Essence Magazine. Earlier this year a good friend of mine, who happens to be a senior editor at Essence, gave me a once in the lifetime opportunity to write a feature story for the magazine. Unlike my other published articles, I wasn't required to quote other experts in the article. I was allowed to write the article from my point of view, sharing my own personal experiences and referencing my website. I guess this seals the deal and truly makes me an expert (LOL).
3. Having the Opportunity to Review A New-Vehicle Weekly. In many ways, I still feel like a big kid. Every week I have an opportunity to review a different ride. I no longer have to depend upon the opinion of others in the industry regarding today's hottest (or not so hot) rides.
4. Attended the American Black Film Festival in Miami. During the fourth of July holiday weekend, GM provided me a front row seat to the American Black Film Festival. Not only did I get a chance to have lunch with the founder of the festival, but to also hang out with some of the movers and shakers in the film industry, while at the same time getting a chance to kick-up my hills and chill on Miami's infamous South Beach. All I can say is what an experience. This once in a lifetime experience rated right up there with being a VIP guest of Toyota at last year's Soul Train Music Award where I was caught on tape dancing. I still marvel at the fact that I was in attendance for both events.
5. Of Course, I Am Thankful for Family and Friends. Just a few months ago my independent mom, who is in her early seventies, had major eye surgery to restore her failing sight. I thought my aging parents were going to become dependent upon me for everything, since I am the youngest in the family for all of their errands plus more. Thank God due to the miracle of modern medicine she now has 20/20 vision and she no longer needs me (or my brothers) to take her to the store (or run other errands). She actually has her independence back again, allowing her the ability to tool around town in her Ford Mustang convertible. Since eye surgery, I think her vision is actually better than mine. And, I am extremely thankful for everyone who continues to use my website as a point of reference, before buying or servicing a vehicle. You just don't know how much I truly appreciate you.

L. A. Auto Show Debut: 2013 Ford Escape Drives Upscale

Ford is breaking all of the rules with the soon-to-be-released 2013 Escape, which made its debut at last weeks L. A. Int'l Auto Show. The compact SUV moves from a SUV platform to a crossover platform, while also adding a few more curves. The 2013 Escape has been redesigned from the inside out. Besides the radical exterior design, the Escape provides more cargo volume behind the first and second rows than today’s vehicle along with 11 features no other compact crossover or SUV offers.  Some of those features include:

• Clever technologies that make Escape even more versatile, including an available hands-free power liftgate that allows quick and easy access to cargo with the kick of a foot
• Projected best fuel economy of any compact SUV, up to 5 mpg better than previous Escape
• Driving dynamics that make the drive experience more engaging on-road and a new Ford Intelligent 4WD System that provides even better traction off-road
• Sleek new design, with better interior materials and more finishing touches

• Available hands-free power liftgate brings new technology to the SUV market and is enabled by motion technology used in today’s video game systems. A gentle kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper activates, unlocks and raises the liftgate when the driver has the Escape key fob. This allows quick and easy access to the cargo area without needing to set down packages or dig out keys. The same process closes the hatch

ABC News Video: Confessions From A Former Car Salesman

Yes, the tips in this video should help you steer clear of expensive financial mistakes, while at the same time keep you in control of your next car deal.

Los Angeles Auto Show Debut: Another Entry-Luxury Ride From Hyundai

The second-generation Hyundai Azera will be hitting the showrooms next year. The redesigned Azera will include such features as an optional panoramic sunroof, which allows more natural light into the cabin and 3D Carbon interior accents.

Other unexpected luxury appointments include an electrochromic auto-dimming mirror with HomeLink® and power rear sunshade and manual rear side window shades. The side shades can be inconspicuously tucked away when not in use and no other car in the segment offers them.
Seats are extremely important in this segment. The 2012 Azera offers first class seating assignments for all passengers. Leather seating surfaces are standard. A ten-way power driver and eight-way front passenger’s seats are standard equipment. The driver’s seat has an optional cushion extension and an integrated memory system for the seat, steering wheel and side mirrors. Azera’s climate and seat temperature controls keep occupants in total comfort.

Pricing hasn't been announced as of yet. However, we know it will be competitive.

The 2012 Buick Verano: The Brand's Newest Upscale Compact Sedan (First Drive)

What’s New: It’s been a while since Buick offered a luxury compact sedan. The last time Buick was a player in the compact segment was back in the eighties with the Buick Somerset.

Models/MSRP Range:

Base/$23,470
Convenience/$24,670
Leather/$26,850

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Equipment: 18-inch wheels; dual zone automatic climate control; a sliding front center armrest; steering wheel radio controls; tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a remote starter system; an electronic parking brake; manual operated cloth (front) seats; and fog lights

Standard Safety Features: 10 airbags; a collapsible gas pedal; GM’s electronic stability control system; a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Audio System: a 6-speaker AM/FM/Sirius XM stereo with MP3 CD player, USB and AUX port, IntelliLink

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Battery Warranty: 5 years or 100,000 miles

Bluetooth Compatibility: Yes.

USB/iPod Port:Yes.

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.4-liter/180-hp (This is the same 4-cylinder engine found in the base Regal.)

Recommended Fuel: Unleaded

Standard Fuel Mileage: GM is estimating 31 mpg on the highway. (However, we’re still awaiting the official test results from NHTSA.)

What Makes This A Buick: The all-new Verano mimics larger Buicks by offering ice-blue ambient lighting like what’s found in the interior cabin of the upscale LaCrosse to the brand’s signature chrome waterfall grille and portholes. 

Will Cadillac Win Over Import Luxury Buyers With The New XTS Luxury Sedan?

After successfully reviving the Cadillac brand, GM is finally back in the game of offering a true fullsize luxury sedan. The 2013 Cadillac XTS will join the line up in the spring of 2012,  replacing the dated DTS and STS sedans. Cadillac unveiled the 2013 XTS today, the newest addition to the Cadillac luxury sedan lineup.

Larger than the CTS, the new XTS delivers the space, elegance and dramatic presence that are Cadillac signatures, but with entirely new and technically advanced methods tuned for a new generation of luxury customers, according to the folks from GM. It also marks the debut of CUE, a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and media control.

Consumers Allowed To Order Ford's First Electric Vehicle

Drivers that want to go completely gasoline-free will be able to configure the all-new 2012 Ford Focus Electric online at Ford.com and place their orders with a Certified Electric Vehicle (EV) dealer.

Ford recently opened up the order banks for the company’s first full production, all-electric passenger vehicle – the Focus Electric.
Drivers interested in learning more about the 2012 Focus Electric will be able to see detailed product specs and virtually build and price one at a dedicated online website: http://www.ford.com/electric/focuselectric/2012/. Like the Chevy Volt, which is a gas/electric vehicle, the Focus will start out a just under $40,000.

Study Reveals Automakers Not Courting Black Consumers for Hybrid/Electric Vehicles

The hybrid and electric vehicle market is having a tough year in 2011. Sales for hybrid vehicles are down 2.7% through August 2011, despite the fact that U.S. vehicle sales are up 10.5%. While automotive companies would suggest that a sluggish economy and lack of supply are hurting hybrid vehicle sales, a recent report from Mintel suggests instead that there is a lack of desirable product for certain demographics.
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“Most believe the profile of the hybrid vehicle owner is a person between the ages of 35-55, with a household income over $75K, and a college education or higher. While this may be the current owner, the biggest potential in the market is with Black consumers,” says George Augustaitis senior automotive analyst at Mintel.

Consumer research shows that nearly 12.5% of the Black demographic.... to continue reading, click here.

Toyota And Lexus Recalls 420,200 Vehicles for Steering Concerns

November 9, 2011 – Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. (TMS), today announced that it will conduct a voluntary safety recall involving approximately 283,200 Toyota and 137,000 Lexus vehicles to replace the crankshaft pulley on the V6 engine.

There is a possibility that the outer ring of the crankshaft pulley may become misaligned with the inner ring, causing noise and/or illumination of the discharge warning light. If this condition is not corrected, the belt for the power steering pump may become detached from the pulley and the driver may notice a sudden increase in steering effort. There are no reports of accidents or injuries related to this condition.

The vehicles involved are certain:

• 2004 Avalon
• 2004 and 2005 Camry, Highlander, Sienna, and Solara
• 2006 Highlander HV
• 2004 and 2005 ES330 and RX330
• And 2006 RX400h

No other Toyota or Lexus vehicles or these Toyota models with 4 cylinder engines are involved.
Toyota is currently working on obtaining the necessary replacement parts. Once the replacement parts have been produced in sufficient quantities, Toyota will send an owner notification by first class mail advising owners to make an appointment with an authorized Toyota or Lexus dealer to have the crankshaft pulley inspected and if necessary, replaced at no charge. The owner notifications will be mailed by first class mail beginning in January, 2012.

In the meantime, if an abnormal noise is heard coming from the engine compartment, the owner is asked to make an appointment with any Toyota or Lexus dealer to have the vehicle inspected for this condition.

Detailed information and answers to questions are available to customers at www.toyota.com/recall and the Toyota Customer Experience Center (1 800-331-4331) or www.lexus.com/recall and Lexus Customer Satisfaction (1 800-255-3987).

2011 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite: Roomier And Curvier

Highlights: The Odyssey was introduced in 1995 as Honda's first minivan. The vehicle was based on the Accord platform.

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $44,335* (Base price of starts at $28,885)

Seating Capacity: 7 to 8 occupants

Standard Equipment: 17-inch tires; wheel covers; 5-speed automatic transmission; manual a/c; 4 cargo area bag hooks; front seats occupants illuminated vanity mirrors; front-center tray table with beverage holder; steering-wheel mounted cruise control; manual tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel; three-row side curtain airbag with rollover sensors; 10 cup (beverage) holders; rear privacy glass; automatic headlights; remote entry system; two, 12-volt power outlets; 8-way power cloth driver’s seat; second-row lateral sliding seat; and three rows of seats

Standard Audio: 229-Watt AM/FM/CD Audio System with 5 Speakers - including Subwoofer

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

Trim Levels: LX, EX, EX-L, Touring and Touring Elite

Bluetooth Compatibility: EX-L Trim and above

USB and iPod Capability: EX-L Trim and above

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 3.5-liter, 6cylinder/248-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular Unleaded

Standard Fuel Mileage: 18-city/27-hwy

What’s New: The fourth-generation 2011 Honda Odyssey has been redesigned for the 2011 model year, allowing for a roomier and more spacious interior, when compared to the previous model.

Pros: The redesigned Honda Odyssey with its car-like ride due to its front MacPherson suspension and rear double-wishbone suspension is available in five trim levels. We were fortunate to get our hands on the top of the well-equipped Touring Elite model. This model was outfitted with Honda’s first new six-speed transmission, which slightly improved the fuel-economy from the standard five-speed model.
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Also our luxurious minivan was equipped with leather power (heated) front seats; a rear entertainment system with a 16.2-inch screen; an upgraded 12-speaker, 650-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with a 15GB HDD- based audio system which digitally holds 175 CDs; XM satellite radio; a 2GB memory CD-Library  which digitally holds approximately 18 CDs, eliminating the need for the 6-disc changer; second-row power windows; 18-inch alloy wheels, dual power sliding doors; a power tailgate; HID (High Intensity Discharge Headlights); an exterior temperature gauge; a power moonroof; a rear back up mirror; front-and-rear audible parking sensors; and blind-spot electronic mirrors, which warns the driver of occupants in its blind-spot before changing lanes.

Furthermore, just like with a truck or SUV, the minivan provides versatility, allowing the ability to carry loads of cargo. However, unlike a truck or SUV, the Odyssey offers a variety of seating arrangements. For instance, the second-row slides on a track five inches forward and about 1.5 inches to the side, providing more leg room and space for other occupants.  

Moreover, the third-row seats are capable of disappearing into the floor, allowing for more cargo space and room to carry four other occupants.

And our vehicle was equipped with a removable front center console, which provided easy access to the second-row. So, the interchangeable seats allows the vehicle to go from being a people mover to carrying loads of cargo, even a sheet of 4x2 plywood.

Beyond the seating arrangements and the cargo space, the Odyssey is also equipped with power second-row windows, a tri-zone automatic climate control system and power sliding doors.

Cons: The downside of the Odyssey, just like every other minivan, is the cool factor. No matter how futuristic the vehicle is or how many gadgets the vehicle contains, the vehicle is still a minivan.

Also since Honda uses a simplified ordering system, buyers will have to gravitate toward a  higher price minivan for such luxury features as a back-up camera, a navigation system or leather seats. Unfortunately, these features aren’t available in the entry-level models nor or the features available as a stand alone option.

Also where's the fixed skyroof for the rear occupants and the power telescopic steering wheel on the high-end models? 

The Verdict:  Honda has been in the minivan game for almost two decades now. The Japanese automaker now offers a minivan which compete toe-to-toe with the minivan creator, Chrysler. Like Chrysler, Honda offers everything one has come to expect in the people mover. For those looking for space, style, versatility and the latest high-tech features, the Odyssey should fit the bill. In fact, J. D. Power, latest dependability study gives the vehicle 4.5 out of 5 stars for long-term dependability. So, consumers in the market for a versatile people mover know that by choosing the Honda it will be around for years to come even if the style fades. 

Odyssey’s Competition: Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan, Nissan Quest and Toyota Sienna Limited

GM's Defunct Pontiac Division Announces Air Bag Recall

Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s): PONTIAC / G8 2008-2009

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS LLC

Mfr's Report Date: NOV 03, 2011

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number:11V534000 N/A

NHTSA Action Number:N/A

Component:AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE

Potential Number of Units Affected:38,444

Summary:

GENERAL MOTORS (GM) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 PONTIAC G8 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM NOVEMBER 2, 2007 THROUGH JANUARY 22, 2009. A 5TH PERCENTILE FEMALE ANTHROPOMORPHIC TEST DEVICE (ATD) IN A 30 MPH FRONTAL BARRIER TEST EXCEEDED THE HEAD INJURY CRITERIA (HIC) REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD. WITH THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT POSITIONED FULL FORWARD, THE SEAT POSITION SENSOR WILL CAUSE A 30 MILLISECONDS DEPLOYMENT DELAY BETWEEN THE FIRST AND SECOND STAGES OF THE DUAL-STAGE FRONTAL PASSENGER AIR BAG.

Consequence:

IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THIS DELAY MAY RESULT IN INCREASED HEAD INJURY TO CERTAIN FRONT SEAT OCCUPANTS.

Remedy:

GM DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE SENSING AND DIAGNOSTIC MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668.

Notes:

OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV .

Keyless Ignition Systems: Is This New Technology a Luxury Convenience Or a Safety Hazard?

I-Team: Keyless Ignition Could be Deadly: MyFoxATLANTA.com

Keyless ignition systems are the latest fad to hit the new-car scene. In fact, the use of the keyless ignition system no longer require the use of a key to start the vehicle. It merely requires one to push a button. However, with this new technology, means that there is a downside too. We too, have fallen in the trap of leaving our vehicle running, just as noted itn the Fox5 Atlanta invetigative report. Is this a safety issue or do we need to adjust to this technology? To read more about the concerns of this new-technology, check out last year's article in the LA Times.

2013 VW CC: The Mercedes-Like Sedan Wears a New Grille

The 2012 VW CC

The 2013 VW CC

The stylish, coupe-like Volkswagen CC debuted four years ago. It was the first affordably priced four-door coupe on sale in the U.S, patterning the upscale Mercedes CLS. Since its introductory, nearly 270,000 people around the world have bought Volkswagen’s sedan, according to the folks at VW.

2011 Chevy Volt: The World's Only Semi- Affordable Mass-Produced Electric (Gas)- Powered Vehicle

Highlights: This is GM’s first gas and electric-powered mass marketed vehicle. Early statistics reveal that 78% of Volt buyers didn't own a GM vehicle at the time of the purchase. On average, about 43% of Chevy buyers are conquests buyers, consumers outside of the GM brand purchasing a vehicle, according to R.L. Polk, a Michigan-based data mining company.

Test vehicle’s MSRP: $44,180* (Base price of starts at $41,000)* The price will be lower once the $7,500 federal (and the applicable local tax credits) are applied.

Seating Capacity: 4 Bucket Seats

Standard Charging Cord: a 120-volt portable charging cord (takes 10 hours or more to fully charge the vehicle)

Standard Equipment: 17-inch wheels; tire sealant and inflator kit; GM’s remote start system; heated outside mirrors; manual controlled cloth driver/front passenger seats; remote keyless entry; tilt/telescopic steering wheel; display screens with charging times; steering wheel radio controls; cruise control; power windows; efficiency display gauges (screens) with programmable charging times; and automatic a/c

Standard Audio System: AM/FM stereo with DVD-ROM and MP3 playback - Includes voice recognition, Radio Data System (RDS) with a 30GB hard drive, and a limited subscription XM satellite radio

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

Battery Warranty: 8 years or 100,000 miles

Bluetooth Compatibility: Yes.

USB Port: Yes.

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 1.4-liter, 4-cylinder turbo/149-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage:
Electric Only: 95-city/90-hwy
Gas Only: 35-city/40-hwy

What’s New: GM’s gas-powered, electric vehicle is all-new for 2011. This is the only mass-produced electric, gas-powered vehicle available in the market place. Other than this vehicle being fueled by electricity, the Volt rides and drives like any other vehicle. The Volt can be recharged simply by plugging the standard cord into a wall unit with a 120v outlet. However, an optional 240v outlet is worth the expense to cut down on the charging time.

Pros: After arriving to much fanfare, the Chevy Volt hatchback has finally arrived with its solar panel roof. This high-tech vehicle not only runs off electricity, but gas too. Just like any gas-powered vehicle, the well-equipped Volt offers many of the same amenities. The only major options available on the vehicle are a rear camera with audible sensors, 17-inch polished alloy wheels, a 240v charger, which we strongly recommend, and a Premium Trim Package, which consists of leather seats, heated front seats and a leather steering wheel.

The Volt also offers an array of user friendly gauges, helping drivers understand the operation of this unique vehicle and monitor the miles when using either the gas or the electricity. With the Volt, drivers can schedule either immediate or delayed charges, as to eliminate charging the vehicle during peak hours.

Drivers can also monitor the usage of the electricity remotely via a Smartphone application or a computer.

Furthermore, with this vehicle running off of both gas and electricity, drivers don’t have to be overly concerned about locating a charging station, when they venture away from home base of their charging station, since the vehicle is equipped with a 9.3 gallon steel fuel tank, which is capable of achieving 344 miles. When the electric charge is depleted, the Volt immediately seamlessly switches over to gas mode.

Overall this vehicle will allow drivers to achieve maximum highway or city mileage, whether the vehicle is in gas or electric mode. There are some reports coming out of GM stating that some Volt owners are achieving up to 1,000 miles between fill ups. For the first 35 miles, the Volt can drive gas- and tailpipe emissions-free using a full electric charge. By drivers depending on the electric charge, this should help to eliminate pollution.