Trucks

The official videographer of the Internet Car and Truck jury is Roosevelt Gist of AutoNetwork.com. It’s not a real press event unless Roosevelt is there with a video camera pressed to his right eye. Follow him through a walkaround of the Mini Clubman with a Mini product manager.

What’s especially good about this presentation is you can hear auto journalists asking questions about the product while the camera is rolling. It’s unedited comments that you won’t get at most websites.

Also, if you go to AutoNetwork.com, you can also see the manufacturer’s presentations for all the cars and trucks Roosevelt videotapes. That’s an added bonus you can’t find anywhere else that we’re aware of.

Thanks Roosevelt!

2011 Sierra Denali HD

DETROIT – GMC today announces the new 2011 Sierra Denali HD, the first offering of the exclusive Denali line on a heavy-duty GMC pickup, will now be available in both 2500 (3/4 ton) and 3500 series (1-ton) configurations. The new Sierra Denali HDs lead a comprehensively redesigned lineup of 2011 Sierra heavy duty trucks that go on sale this summer – including the most powerful diesel engine in the segment.

Due to positive responses received from consumers, media and dealers to the recently announced 2011 Sierra Denali HD 2500 series, GMC is adding additional Denali variants to the Sierra full-size pickups. Already announced is the 2500 series (3/4 ton), crew cab, 4WD version. Now, a 2WD version of the Denali HD 2500 series (3/4 ton) will be available as well as Denali HD crew cab versions of the 3500 Series (1-ton) for both single rear wheel and dually versions in 2WD and 4WD applications. The 3500 series is also available in standard (6-foot 6-inches) and dually long box (8-foot) versions.

“Our Denali line sets the premium standard for the industry,” said Lisa Hutchinson, GMC product marketing director. “We received such an overwhelming response to the new Sierra Denali 2500HD, that we worked quickly and decided to extend the model into the 3500HD series so those GMC buyers can also benefit from blending capability with premium features and styling.”

A Vortec 6.0L gas V-8/six-speed automatic powertrain is standard and the new Duramax 6.6L turbo diesel/Allison 1000 six-speed transmission powertrain is available on all Denali HDs. The workhorse Duramax 6.6L turbo diesel V-8 is more powerful and durable for 2011, delivering segment-best horsepower and torque – 397 horsepower (296 kW) at 3,000 rpm and 765 lb.-ft. of torque (1,037 Nm) at 1,600 rpm – lower emissions and B20 biodiesel capability that promotes a domestically produced renewable fuel.

The iconic Denali four-bar, chrome grille with round air inlets distinguishes the Sierra Denali HDs on the outside, along with body-color bumpers, chrome door handles, chrome accents and 17- (Dually), 18- and 20-inch polished forged aluminum wheels. On the inside they include Denali-specific brushed aluminum trim, power-adjustable pedals, a Bose premium surround audio system and 12-way power seats. Along with an optional heated steering wheel, heated and cooled leather-appointed seating is available. The exterior is offered in three colors: Black, Stealth Gray and White.

All 2011 Sierra 2500HD and 3500HD trucks have the best warranty coverage in America: a five-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, plus roadside assistance, courtesy transportation and other features that provide assurance that GMC backs its trucks for everything the road offers.

(SOUTHFIELD, MI) April 12, 2010 – Ward’s Auto Interior of the Year Awards, North America’s only honors for excellence in automotive interiors, have been announced for 2010. The list features winners in pricing and vehicle type categories, as well as special award winners for design, versatility and brand expression.

The 2010 Ward’s Auto Interior of the Year winners are:

• Subaru Outback (Popular-priced car under $29,999)
• Infiniti M56 (Premium-priced car)
• Lexus HS 250h (Hybrid car)
• Chevrolet Camaro (Sports car)
• Chevrolet Equinox (Popular-priced truck under $39,999)
• Volvo XC60 (Premium-priced truck)
• Acura ZDX (Design Breakthrough)
• Mazdaspeed3 (Brand Expression)
• BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo (Design Versatility)
• Porsche Panamera (Inspired Design)

“For years, the focus on safety and functionality has given us drab, uninspired vehicle interiors,” said Ward’s AutoWorld Editor-in-Chief Drew Winter. “This year’s winners show style and original design is becoming as important inside the vehicle as it already is to the sheet metal outside.”

A team of eight Ward’s editors evaluated 40 vehicles that have either all-new or significantly upgraded interiors this year. The vehicles – both car and truck – were divided into segments, with one winner named in each category. In addition, Ward’s bestowed special awards for outstanding achievements in key areas. Having both designations allowed judges to rank vehicles against the entire field, regardless of segment and price. Judging criteria included aesthetics and design harmony, comfort, driver information, ergonomics, fit and finish, materials, safety and overall value.

The awards will be presented during a ceremony held as part of the Ward’s Auto Interiors Conference on May 19 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Dearborn, MI.

Now Expects To Deliver 1.5 Million Annually by 2013

• Ford to launch three more EcoBoost™ engines by the end of 2010
• The company remains on track to equip as much as 90 percent of its North American nameplates with EcoBoost, which would deliver worldwide sales of about 1.5 million units – 200,000 more than earlier estimates
• By 2014, nearly 20 percent of Ford’s global vehicle nameplates will be available with a fuel-saving stop/start system

DETROIT, April 12, 2010 – Ford Motor Company announced today that three more engines with the company’s patented EcoBoost fuel-saving technology are scheduled to be launched by the end of the year. By 2013 Ford expects to be producing approximately 1.5 million EcoBoost engines globally, about 200,000 more than originally expected.

Plans call for an EcoBoost engine to be available in 80 percent of the company’s global nameplates and 90 percent of North American nameplates. About half of the 1.5 million EcoBoost engines are expected to be sold in North America, while the rest are to be sold in Europe, South America and Asia Pacific regions.

“We are focused on sustainable technology solutions that can be used not for hundreds or thousands of cars, but for millions of cars, because that’s how Ford will truly make a difference,” said Barb Samardzich, Ford’s vice president of powertrain engineering.

Samardzich is expected to detail EcoBoost production plans as well as the next three EcoBoost engines scheduled for launch by the end of the year during remarks Tuesday at the SAE World Congress.

The next three EcoBoost engines include:

• 1.6-liter four-cylinder that will be offered in the European C-Max people mover. The 1.6-liter EcoBoost will deliver quick acceleration and class-leading fuel economy.
• 2.0-liter four-cylinder for the next-generation Ford Explorer SUV and Edge CUV. This new engine will deliver best-in-class fuel economy and V-6 performance.
• 3.5-liter V-6 for the F-150. Ford engineers have upgraded the 3.5-liter V-6 for rear-wheel-drive applications. The EcoBoost F-150 is expected to deliver best-in-class fuel economy along with the power and towing capability of a V-8.

The three new engines will increase the number of global nameplates available with EcoBoost to 11. EcoBoost is available now in the Ford Flex and Taurus and Lincoln MKS and MKT.

EcoBoost technology combines direct fuel injection, variable cam timing and turbocharging to reduce fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and cut vehicle weight, while giving drivers the performance of a bigger engine.

While Ford is rolling out the first generation of EcoBoost engines, researchers are studying ways to further downsize future EcoBoost engines, while preserving performance and raising fuel economy. More efficient turbochargers, super-precise control of the direct-injection fuel system, optimum gearing of the transmission and final drive will enable a smaller engine to run in what engineers call its “sweet spot” more often, said Dan Kapp, Ford’s director of powertrain research and advanced engineering.

When an engine is in its sweet spot, it is running at its most efficient. That, combined with dramatic reductions in vehicle weight, will improve performance and fuel economy. Ford has committed to reducing vehicle weight by between 250 and 750 pounds per vehicle.

“We are trying to get in front of the pack in leveraging EcoBoost for fuel economy,” Kapp said. “It’s going to be a trend in the industry, and we can’t rest on our laurels for one minute. We are going to keep wringing more efficiency out of EcoBoost.”

EcoBoost is a key technology that will enable Ford not only to fulfill the company’s goal to be among the leaders in fuel economy in every segment, but also to meet the federal government’s new 35.5 mpg fuel economy standard, which takes effect in 2016. Samardzich said Ford could develop EcoBoost engines smaller than 1.6-liter.

In addition to high volume, affordability will be another key attribute of not just EcoBoost, but Ford’s other fuel-saving powertrain technologies.

The new Fiesta, for example, is available with an optional fuel-saving six-speed dual-clutch PowerShift automatic transmission. When equipped with PowerShift, Fiesta is expected to get an EPA-rated 40 mpg on the highway. The PowerShift transmission also will be used in the next-generation Focus due in early 2011. PowerShift improves fuel economy as much as 9 percent over a four-speed automatic.

In addition to EcoBoost, other near-term powertrain technologies Samardzich outlined include:

Electrification: Ford has committed $1 billion to build plug-in, hybrid and battery electric vehicles and a plant that will assemble battery packs for these vehicles. The Transit Connect Electric is being launched later this year, while the Focus Electric is due next year. A hybrid and a plug-in hybrid will be built off Ford’s global C platform, which underpins the Focus. Ford also plans to move battery pack production from Mexico to Michigan to support the production of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Six-speed transmissions: By the end of 2012, 98 percent of Ford North American vehicles will be equipped with fuel-efficient six-speed transmissions. A six-speed transmission can improve fuel economy between 4 and 6 percent. The latest vehicles to get six-speed transmissions are Mustang, which gets a new six-speed manual and a new six-speed automatic; Super Duty, which gets a new six-speed automatic; and Fiesta, which will introduce the segment’s first dual-clutch six-speed automatic transmission.

Stop/Start systems: By 2014, as many as 20 percent of Ford’s global nameplates could be equipped with stop/start systems, which turn off the gasoline or diesel engine when the vehicle comes to a stop and quickly restarts the engine when the driver’s foot leaves the brake pedal. A stop/start system can reduce fuel consumption and emissions by around 5 percent, depending on conditions

NEW YORK, March 25 — As New York becomes the center of the automotive universe for the 10-day run of the New York International Automobile Show, the show organizers have assembled a host of other scorching-hot new 2011 vehicles that are just a few weeks away from hitting the new car showrooms.

Here’s a look at the some of the ‘It’ cars that’ll be breaking-out in 2010:

Audi A8

With its light aluminum body, powerful and highly efficient engines, improved MMI control system and elegant interior with a craftsman’s level of fit and finish, the new Audi A8 brand flagship will arrive in dealerships later in the year. With new standards of efficiency, fuel consumption in each of the A8’s engines has been substantially reduced by as much as 22 percent. The new luxury sedan’s elegant and powerful body is aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF), weighing about 40 percent less than a comparable steel structure. The new full LED headlights, which use light emitting diodes for all light functions, are a completely exclusive high-end solution on board the new A8 and give the luxury sedan an unmistakable appearance in daylight and even more so after the fall of darkness.

SAAB 9-5

Sleek, sophisticated and unmistakably Saab, the all-new 9-5 saloon offers Scandinavian design purity with advanced technology. Engineered for a sporty driving experience combined with ‘high-tech’ features, the 9-5 signals the dawn of a new era for the Saab brand. With its clean, sculpted shape inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car and a muscular, low-slung stance, the new 9-5, also offers an array of high-tech features including: an aircraft-inspired heads-up information display (HUD); adaptive headlights (Bi-Xenon Smart Beam); adaptive cruise control; Saab DriveSense adaptive chassis with real-time damping control; keyless entry and starting; dual-zone climate control; dynamic parking assistance, and Saab XWD with eLSD: the industry-leading all-wheel-drive system.

Buick Regal

Designed to deliver a driving experience that rivals the best import sports sedans, the 2011 Regal sedan is armed with turbocharged horsepower, a driver-selectable suspension system and a firm, European-tuned chassis. Regal will initially be offered in premium CXL trim only, with additional trim levels to be offered in the 2012 model year. The CXL will be powered by a standard 182 hp 2.4L Ecotec direct injected engine and a 220 hp 2.0L Ecotec turbocharged and direct injected engine, estimated to be available in late-summer 2010. Both engines have a six-speed automatic transmission standard with driver-shifting control. A six-speed manual transmission will be available following the introduction of the turbocharged model.

Lincoln MKX

Powered by a new 305hp 3.7-liter Duratec® V-6 engine, the dramatic refreshening of the 2011 Lincoln MKX extends to all areas of the vehicle: new exterior design, new interior design with increased use of genuine materials, new powertrain with increased fuel economy, improved driving dynamics and new tires and wheels. With its modern, flowing exterior design and split-wing grille, the new luxury crossover also features the first application of industry-exclusive MyLincoln Touch™ driver connect technology, which creates a whole new way for customers to interact with digital and vehicle technology.

Ford Edge

The dramatic freshening of the 2011 Ford Edge and Edge Sport includes extensive exterior redesign, improved materials and craftsmanship on the interior and class-exclusive technology (MyFord Touch™). New powertrains include North America’s first application of Ford’s global 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine, delivering class-leading fuel economy, plus the new 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V-6 with unsurpassed fuel economy and 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V-6 for Edge Sport.

Ford Fiesta

Designed to be versatile, personal and adaptable the all-new Ford Fiesta features an expressive, vibrant design, with sharp reflexes, 15 class-exclusive technologies, and is projected to deliver highway fuel economy of 40 mpg, with a responsive 1.6-liter DOHC I-4 engine, advanced PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission and Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS). The 2011 Fiesta – available in four- and five-door body styles – also will set a new small car benchmark for safety, connectivity and powertrain technology.

Ford Shelby GT500

Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) engineers are taking high performance to a new level with the 2011 Ford Shelby GT500, resulting in a car that has an all-new aluminum-block engine, even better driving dynamics and handling, improved fuel economy and more horsepower than ever. With 550 horsepower and 510 ft.-lb. of torque from an all-new 5.4-liter all-aluminum engine that is 102 pounds lighter than its predecessor, the tarmac-scorching GT500 has a better power-to-weight ratio, improved fuel economy, acceleration, handling and steering precision.

Volvo S60

With its groundbreaking Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake safety feature, the all-new Volvo S60 promises to deliver a thrilling driving experience combined with innovative safety. In the U.S., the S60 will be offered with the sporty “Dynamic” chassis as standard, while other markets will be offered with a “Comfort” chassis as standard and the “Dynamic” chassis as an option. Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake can detect pedestrians who walk into the road in front of the car, warn the driver – and automatically apply full braking power if the driver does not respond in time.

Ford Focus

Sleek, stylish and sporty, both the four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles of the next-generation Focus are designed to provide affordable technologies, detailed craftsmanship, outstanding fuel economy and a new standard for driving quality. The all-new Focus plans to raise the benchmark once more, targeting class-leading driving quality that blends outstanding steering precision and road feedback with significantly improved refinement and ride control.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

The open-top two-door four-passenger E-Class Cabriolet, which features a classic fabric soft top, includes the AIRCAP automatic draught-stop that reduces turbulence substantially for all four seat occupants; modified AIRSCARF, neck-level heating system, and the soft top can be opened and closed fully automatically within 20 seconds. The Cabriolet also features a best in class cd figure of 0.28 marking a continuation of the E-Class success story in the field of aerodynamics.

Honda CR-Z

Introducing sleek styling and sporty handling to the hybrid segment, the all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe is designed to maximize style and fun, in addition to efficiency and economy. Powered by a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine with Honda’s compact and lightweight Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid-electric system, the two-passenger CR-Z introduces a new three-mode drive system that allows the driver to select between Sport, Econ (Economy) and Normal driving modes and is expected to achieve 36 city/38 highway miles per gallon on CVT-equipped models.

Infiniti M

The all-new Infiniti M56 and M37 is a stylish performance sedan packed with a raft of new technology and luxury features including: Infiniti Drive, a four-mode driver-selectable control of throttle and transmission mapping that helps optimize vehicle performance; Active Noise Control, which reduces undesirable engine harmonics, providing a quieter cabin; Blind Spot Intervention™ (BSI), a world’s first system that helps the driver return the vehicle back toward the center of the lane of travel away from the vehicle in the blind spot area; Forest Air™ system, which helps reduce the intrusion of unpleasant odors into the cabin and provides a more natural breeze-like airflow and Eco Pedal, which provides driver feedback to encourage eco-driving behavior. The 2011 Infiniti M will be offered in M37 and M56 model designations when it goes on sale.

Hyundai Sonata

The all-new 2011 Sonata is the latest version of the popular midsize sedan, introducing Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design language and an all four-cylinder engine lineup to the U.S. market. Initially powered by the new Theta II 2.4-liter gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine, the new Sonata gets 22 mpg city/35 mpg highway, a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine and Hybrid Blue Drive models will to debut by 2010 year-end.

Hyundai Tucson

The all-new Tucson, the first Hyundai CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle) to be designed and engineered in Europe, features the eco-efficient Theta II 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivering up to 31 mpg on the highway as well as offering, for the first time, Downhill Brake Control (DBC) and Hillstart Assist Control (HAC). The sleek all-new Tucson crossover delivers better fuel economy and more power wrapped up in a sleek new exterior offering a roomier cabin with extra cargo space to its leap in fuel economy and technology.

Kia Sorento

The first U.S.-built Kia, the new Sorento encompasses both the brand’s signature design cues as well as its distinct combination of value, safety and style. Completely redesigned for 2011, the Sorento now employs a unibody design with the ability to comfortably fit up to seven passengers, offering more space and ride comfort than the previous-generation model.

Nissan Juke

With its robust stance, high waistline, complex curves, and coupe, the all-new small Nissan Juke crossover SUV, was designed and developed to be a sporty crossover alternative to traditional small hatchback vehicles by providing both dynamic style and an exhilarating driving experience. The bold interior design features a wide center console that takes its inspiration from a motorcycle fuel tank.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG captivates with its purist design, intelligent lightweight construction, Gullwing doors and superior handling dynamics. Powered by an AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid-engine developing 571 hp combined with a seven-speed double-declutch transmission in a transaxle configuration and sports suspension and with aluminum double wishbones, the SLS guarantees sensational driving dynamics.

Kia Sportage

With a fresh, bold, athletic and sporty design that blends the key features of an SUV – the commanding driving position, heightened sense of security and raised ground clearance – in a sleek and urban-friendly design, the all-new Sportage represents a dramatic shift in design. Longer, lower and wider than the previous generation model, the all-new Sportage will offer more space for people and cargo, with improved ride quality thanks to a longer wheelbase.

Porsche Cayenne

The new generation Porsche Cayenne is lighter, more agile, with more power, increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact with a complete exterior and interior styling re-design. The Cayenne S Hybrid model is the highlight of the new line-up, with a technically sophisticated parallel full hybrid drive-train which combines the sporting performance of an eight-cylinder with the economy of a six-cylinder and a unique ’sailing mode’ for even lower fuel consumption. The new Cayenne also features a new Tiptronic S eight-speed automatic transmission featuring a wider spread of gear ratios, an Auto Start Stop function, optimized thermal management on the engine and transmission cooling system, on-board network recuperation, and intelligent lightweight construction to reduce fuel consumption while improving speed and handling. Inside, the most significant feature within the brand new, high-quality interior is the rising centre console that extends to surround the gearshift selector and which gives the interior the typical Porsche ‘cockpit’ character.

Reveal Also Includes All-New Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo

ATLANTA — MARCH 24, 2010 — Porsche will introduce the next-generation Cayenne sport utility vehicle, including a hybrid gas-electric version, to the North American market on March 31during a press conference at the New York International Automobile Show. Led by a highly advanced hybrid model, the new Porsche Cayenne sport-utility vehicle delivers improved performance while using less fuel and producing fewer emissions throughout the entire model lineup.

The North American Cayenne model range will include four models: the 2011 Cayenne, Cayenne S, Cayenne Turbo and the Cayenne S Hybrid. The S and Turbo models go on sale in July, with the Cayenne and Cayenne S Hybrid in dealer showrooms this fall. All the new Cayenne models embody the Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy, the evolution of vehicles sportier than their predecessors, yet more fuel and emissions efficient.

“Porsche Intelligent Performance philosophy is more than a slogan. It is nothing less than Porsche keeping pace with the modern automotive landscape by dramatically lowering emissions, becoming greener and saving fuel,” explained Detlev von Platen, Porsche Cars North America President and CEO. “We will we accomplish this through technology and innovative ideas, just as we have throughout our history, and show that Porsche’s high performance and efficiency are not contradictory terms.”

Cayenne’s dynamic new design offers less weight and more room

The Cayenne’s new exterior leaves no doubt it is part of the Porsche family. Its sporting character is evident from all angles, and its Porsche shape and highlights are more distinct than before. From a dimensions standpoint, it is 1.9 inches longer than its predecessor, and its wheelbase adds 1.6 inches, ensuring extra interior space and greater versatility. Still, despite its larger exterior, this next-generation Cayenne looks even more compact and dynamic.

Thanks to a special combination of materials as well as changes in the overall vehicle concept, such as a new all-wheel drive system, weight has been reduced on all models. Despite a higher standard of safety features, the Cayenne S, for example, is almost 400 lbs lighter, which not only improves fuel consumption and lowers emissions, but also boosts performance, agility, and handling.

Inside, the luxurious interior features a high center console that, like the Panamera, rises up at an incline to meet the dashboard center stack and a touch-screen infotainment interface. Porsche’s traditional set of five round instruments in the driver’s gauge cluster includes a high-resolution circular TFT screen to the right of the tachometer. It can be used to change radio stations, vehicle settings, access the navigation system or view the map. Rear-seat comfort is improved, as well. The bench slides fore-and-aft by 6.3 inches, while the backrest can be adjusted.

The advanced Cayenne S Hybrid

The high-tech Cayenne S Hybrid that is debuting at the New York show next week features a highly sophisticated parallel full hybrid system. With a combined power output of 380 horsepower from the supercharged V6 combustion engine and an electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid combines the performance of a V8 with the economy of a V6.

Through continuous interaction between the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 and electric motor, the Cayenne S Hybrid focuses on maximum efficiency. Depending on driving conditions, either drive unit can operate independently or together. The 47-horsepower (34 kW) electric motor is the ideal partner for the 333-horsepower engine, which produces high torque at low engine speeds. With peak torque at 428 lb-ft at just 1,000 rpm, the Cayenne S Hybrid’s performance is on par with a V8- powered Cayenne S.

The Cayenne S Hybrid’s two drive units are connected by a decoupling clutch. A hybrid controller constantly coordinates their complex interaction, and intelligent management of the clutch makes the transition among various driving modes seamless. Like many hybrids, the Cayenne S Hybrid can cover short distances on electric power alone, free of emissions and noise up to 60 km/h or almost 40 mph. For aggressive acceleration, the motor provides an extra ‘boost’ to the gasoline engine.

Like many hybrids, the Cayenne S Hybrid can cover short distances on electric power alone, free of emissions and noise up to 60 km/h or almost 40 mph. For aggressive acceleration, the motor provides an extra ‘boost’ to the gasoline engine.

A new standard for Sport Utility Vehicles

All new-generation Cayenne SUVs set high standards for efficiency and performance. Compared with the former models, fuel consumption is down by up to 23 percent in the New European Driving Cycle and CO2 emissions are reduced. Actual EPA-certified fuel economy figures will be available when the cars go on sale in North America in July.

A new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission with a wide range of gear ratios and the Automatic Start Stop function (first introduced on the Panamera) contribute to these improvements. So does efficient thermal management of the engine and transmission cooling circuits, on-board electrical network recuperation, variable deceleration fuel cut-off and the Cayenne’s intelligent lightweight construction.

The entry-level Cayenne with its 300-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine and mated to the new eight- speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission consumes 20 percent less fuel than its predecessor. Fuel consumption is also down significantly on the high-torque Cayenne S. Its 4.8-liter V8 produces 400 horsepower, 15 more than the previous model. The Cayenne Turbo, with its 500-horsepower, 4.8-liter twin-turbocharged V8 also consumes less fuel than its predecessor despite its improved performance and acceleration.

Three other new Porsche models are making their New York debuts next week. Most prominent is the agile, light and dynamic 2011 Boxster Spyder roadster, a purer Porsche roadster weighing in at just 2,811 lbs. This sleek version of Porsche’s popular mid-engine sports car is the lightest Porsche available is on sale now with an MSRP of $61,200. Also on display will be the 2011 911 Turbo Cabriolet featuring a 500-horsepower 3.8-liter engine, the first entirely new engine in 911 Turbo’s storied 35-year- history. Finally, the new Porsche Panamera, the company’s first four-door Gran Turismo, will grace the Porsche display in New York.

Winners Announced at Chicago Auto Show – Automotive Journalist of the Year Named

The Internet Car and Truck of the Year website, an online venue not dependent on OEM advertising, held its inaugural Internet Pros and Average Joes vote for their favorite new cars.

The Internet Pros are comprised of a select team of 12 online writers from some of the leading automotive Internet sites, while the Average Joes consisted of more than 50,000 votes from the motoring public.

The winners, announced from the Chicago Auto Show today, are:
Internet Pros:
Car of the Year: 2010 Mazda3
Truck of the Year: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox

Average Joes:
Car of the Year: 2010 Chevrolet Camaro
Truck of the Year: 2010 Chevrolet Equinox

Automotive Analyst Lauren Fix, one of the 12-member jury for the Internet Pros, had this to say about the Mazda3: “It’s just the right size and has great performance. It comes standard with all the available bells and whistles and it’s really edgy looking. I just wanted to take it to the track because it handled tightly, has great throttle response, and it’s a blast to drive.”

Another juror, Dan Roth from Autoblog.com, said he voted for the Chevrolet Equinox because “”…it’s a clear signal of General Motors newfound realization that it not only needs great products, it needs the *right* great products. Cars like the Camaro, Cadillac CTS-V, and of course the Corvette – we all expect those to be great, and they are. Greatness in a niche is fine, but what’s really going to breathe new life into the stumbling behemoth are the bread-and-butter cars.”

So while the Internet Pros and Average Joes agree on the Truck of the Year they have very differing opinions when it comes to their favorite car. The Pros opted for practicality while the Joes chose power. However, both demonstrated their respect for American Sheet metal with the Equinox.

Between the semi-finals and finals rounds, more than 50,000 votes were cast for the Consumer Internet Car and Truck of the Year. Percent of males vs. females was 79 to 21 percent. Forty-seven percent of the voters were between the ages of 40-55.

College graduates made up 39 percent of the voters, with 30 percent having a graduate degree. Thirty percent of voters reported household income between $100-$149,000. The next largest group at 20 percent was $80,000 to $99,999.

Also announced was the selection of John Neff as Internet Automotive Journalist of the Year. Neff, editor-in-chief of Autoblog.com, was selected for his talented stewardship of the Internet’s largest automotive news site and his advocacy for Internet automotive journalists.

The Internet Car and Truck of the Year awards were created by Keith Griffin, the Guide to Used Cars for About.com, and the Hartford (CT) Auto Examiner for Examiner.com, as well as a print automotive journalist and vice president of the New England Motor Press Association.

For more information on Internet Car and Truck of the Year, email Keith Griffin at
keith@internetcarandtruckoftheyear.com or call (860) 292-0618.

Just hours remain before the four winners of the inaugural Internet Car and Truck of the Year awards are announced. Care to hazard a guess who the winners will be?

The Internet Car of the Year finalists are:

• Mazda Mazda3
• Ford Fusion Hybrid
• Shelby GT500

The Consumer Internet Car of the Year finalists are:

• The Chevy Camaro
• Ford Shelby GT500
• The Taurus SHO

The Internet Truck of the Year finalists are:

• Chevy Equinox
• Ford Raptor
• Volvo XC60

The Consumer Internet Truck of the Year finalists are:

• Chevy Equinox
• Ford Raptor
• Audi Q7 TDI

Comment below on who you think the winners will be. The awards will be announced on Feb. 10 at 4 p.m., Central Standard Time, at the Chicago Auto Show.