Riverside, California Inland Empire News Thursday, September 02, 2010
Instant Wheels - Riverside Automotive News
2011 Ford Fiesta is at the Riverside Auto Center
"Instant Wheels: 2010" program on KVCR-TV tonight
Deadly off-road racing crash in Mojave leads to federal investigation
Video of the production version of Chevrolet's Volt
Chevrolet Volt purchase price announced by Chevrolet
Chevrolet Cruze will be GM's next new car
An end to HOV stickers for individual-hybrid drivers to use California carpool lanes
Mazda2 Coming To North America
General Motors appears eager to return to the stock market
The Chevrolet Volt being tested in Arizona
GM recalls 1.5 million vehicles; auto company to stop using heated washer fluid systems
Ford to cancel production of the Mercury brand of vehicles
Driving the 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost
Driving the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO
GM's Bob Lutz ends career at General Motors
Zipcars drive into Riverside; car rental by the hour
2010 Kia Soul is small and green
Toyota may see $10 billion in liability; lawsuits coming
Zipcars drive into Riverside; car rental by the hour
Lexus temporarily stops sales of its luxo-SUV
Doug Magnon and his Riverside car museum
Rotolo Chevrolet seeing an increase in auto sales along with GM
Chinese company to invest $900 million in Volvo
2010 Ford Fusion Sport
GM's Buick Regal GS
GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz to leave the company in May
GMC's 2010 Terrain
Akio Toyoda on the safety of Toyota vehicles; Capitol Hill hearing
He is the president and CEO of Toyota Motor Corporation, and grandson of Toyota founder Kiichiro Toyoda. [Watch]
Recording of plane crash that killed 3 Tesla electric-car company workers
Toyota might have to recall the Corolla
Toyota's troubles may still not be over. [Watch]
Toyota recalls 2010 Prius for software problem; Lexus hybrid included too
2010 Toyota Prius and Lexus HS 250h included in safety concerns
Company answers consumer questions. [Watch]
2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport
Ford posts profit; Toyota recall expands
Toyota halts sales of some cars because of sticking accelerator pedals
Former interim CEO at GM isn't leaving
Fox Performing Arts Center shows off auto history too
Cadillac reveals the XTS Platinum Concept; it's a hybrid
Auto show in Detroit is about electric cars
GM expects to make money this year
Does GM have a buyer for Saab?
Cars news that made headlines
GM still appears interested in selling Saab
2010 Kia Soul auto review
Good things can come in small packages. [Watch]
Driving the 2010 Buick LaCrosse
Buick claims it's "the new class of world class." [Watch]
GM's Cruze gets some attention in Los Angeles
A look at the Chevrolet Cruze. [Watch]
No Land Rover or Jaguar reviews-- here's why
"Thank you for your interest but at this time the fleet is very small and quite busy," says their representative. [Watch]
GM's Fritz Henderson abruptly resigns
He was to speak to automotive media on Wednesday in Los Angeles. [Watch]
2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe official pictures
Edgy is a good way to describe it. [Watch]
Revealing the 2011 Buick Regal
It was encouraging to see a lively "welcome home" to a new Buick. [Watch]
Driving the 2009 Dodge Ram
There's a clear effort to smooth out the typical rough edges of its flagship truck. [Watch]
2011 Buick Regal to be unveiled
It was once the top-selling car. [Watch]
2009 Chrysler Town & Country 25th Anniversary Edition
It has more open-rectangular spaces inside than any vehicle on the road. [Watch]
2011 Chevrolet Caprice made for police
A consumer-version Caprice hit the road in 1965. [Watch]
Test driving the 2010 V6 Camaro
It boasts good fuel mileage, and a lower monthly payment. [Watch]
GM says, 'May the best car win'
Program gives buyers a window for returns. [Watch]
Japan's eco-recovery plan includes the Prius
Japanese auto companies have struggled too. [Watch]
How does the Escalade hybrid system work?
Vehicle is long on luxury and technology. [Watch]
Driving the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid
A very exclusive American machine. [Watch]
Hate DMV lines? Just go online
Log on to take care of everything from renewals to ordering personalized plates. [Watch]
2010 Camaro test drive
It's been 8 model years, and 43 yrs since its debut in response to the Mustang. [Watch]
The Chevy Volt boasts 230 MPG
Driving the 2010 Ford Mustang GT
The biggest changes are mechanical. [Watch]
Small-car crash-test results
A group of 2009 vehicles get good marks. [Watch]
GM promises better performance
Company even expects early repayment of some loans. [Watch]
Reviewing Ford's 2010 Transit Connect
It gets 22 MPG in the city. [Watch]
Vehicles owned by Michael Jackson
Many were on display at Neverland. [Watch]
Driving the 2010 Ford Fusion Sport
It's been redesigned inside and out. [Watch]
GM sells Saab
General Motors begins focus on core brands. [Watch]
2009 Cadillac CTS-V has power
This is GM at its finest. [Watch]
GM's recovery
There will be more focus on fewer brands. [Watch]
GM to sell Hummer
The company also says it has potential buyers for its Saturn and Saab brands. [Watch]
GM files for bankruptcy, Pontiac badge to leave
Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, and GMC would become GM's core products. [Watch]
GM: A former auto giant
Michigan garage owner says he never thought his business would outlast GM. [Watch]
GM's future: Less debt, mostly US-owned
Bankruptcy still on the table. [Watch]
2010 Lincoln MKZ uses Bowie music in ads
It resembles the launch of a space vehicle. [Watch]
Glendale Chrysler dealership slashes prices
Local dealership not on closure list. [Watch]
New standards will hurt new-vehicle sales
Proposed emissions, fuel standards will add to the sticker price. [Watch]
National emissions rule for cars and trucks
New standard might shock you. [Watch]
2009 Malibu Hybrid test drive
Hybrid gets 26 mpg on the highway. [Watch]
2009 Ford F150 includes new features
Ford touts it as 'America's Best Selling Truck.' [Watch]
Chrysler will be forced into bankruptcy
President Obama made the announcement. [Watch]
Talks to reduce Chrysler's debt break down
The company may be forced to file chapter 11 bankruptcy. [Watch]
Will GM become 'Government Motors'?
Concerns rise about GM's future. [Watch]
Obama: 'I don't want to run auto companies'
President talks cars in press conference. [Watch]
GM forced to eliminate Pontiac
The badge has been around for 83 years. [Watch]
Pontiac brand will be phased out
GM announces tough decisions. [Watch]
GM expected to let go of Pontiac brand
Formal announcement expected Monday. [Watch]
GM struggles; Chrysler needs Fiat merger
The future is uncertain for two of America's largest auto giants. [Watch]
McCartney's Coachella staging includes Motorama footage
'Drive My Car' visuals offers retro look at auto industry. [Watch]
Ford introduces MyKey to control teen driving
It monitors driving habits. [Watch]
Colorado bans 'tofu' license plate
The plate apparently can be read two ways. [Watch]
Lightning Hybrids' LH4 prototype at the Denver Auto Show
It's a sporty hybrid. [Watch]
GM's new leader explains his recovery plan
Instructions: accelerate restructuring. [Watch]
GM CEO Rick Waggoner asked to step down
Move was requested by the White House, administration officials said Sunday. [Watch]
Chevy Aveo5 test drive
It's Chevy's smallest-available car in the US. [Watch]
2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
It's the blue oval's green machine. [Watch]
Consumer spending moods ticking up
One survey holds promising news. [Watch]
2009 Kia Borrego review
It's easy on the eyes. [Watch]
2009 Ford Flex at Fritts Ford
My test vehicle was impressive. [Watch]
GM workers in Michigan worried
Company employees talk about their concerns. [Watch]
GM stock tumbles to 1933 levels
The company is at risk for BK. [Watch]
General Motors and banking news drive stock decline
GM is in a tough spot. [Watch]
2009 Inland Empire Auto Show
What will we see this year? [Watch]
Mitsubishi Motors restructures
The company also plans to plug into alternative fuel. [Watch]
Hyundai uses Assurance program to drive car sales
Are you willing to bet you'll fail? [Watch]
Obama cuts plan for car czar
Instead there will be a larger presidential task force. [Watch]
The Chevrolet Traverse
Is it an SUV or a CUV [Watch]
See the Fisker Karma hybrid
A new American automaker has unveiled a pricey hybrid. [Watch]
Chrysler leads drop in US auto sales
Hot Wheels sales take a dip
Toy cars and real cars feel the economic pinch. [Watch]
U.S. automakers absent from Super Bowl commercials
Ads reflect the economy. [Watch]
Take a sneak peek at a Super Bowl tire commercial
Bridgestone Tires will use a familiar toy to catch your eye on Sunday. [Watch]
A closer look at President Obama's Cadillac limo
Grilles most resemble Cadillac STS. [Watch]
The new presidential limousine
Heavily armored vehicle is known as 'the Beast.' [Watch]
GM lowers minimum credit score for car buyers
Many are slowly becoming more confident in car manufacturers. [Watch]
Volvo's City Safety System
Volvo says it's making a car that can't crash. [Watch]
Bush approves emergency bailout
Automakers offered $17.4 billion in rescue loans in exchange for tough concessions. [Watch]
GM denies rumors of merger with Chrysler
Companies are denying report in the Wall Street Journal. [Watch]
Lee Iacocca saw the auto storm coming
He's credited with saving Chrysler in the '80s. [Watch]
Ford Mustang GT500 test drive
The wicked snake on the grille represents a car with a serious bite. [Watch]
GM must shrink
Saturn may be sold. [Watch]
The auto execs drive to D.C.
They each want government money. [Watch]
One Chevy dealer says "sales down 50%"
Riverside car dealers are weathering the storm. [Watch]
Detroit wants $25 billion
Uncertain future for auto industry. [Watch]
Big 3 automakers return to congress
Ford's chief will travel to D.C. in a hybrid. [Watch]
All-electric Mini E to be sold in U.S.
Car makes its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. [Watch]
Cars are getting safer; Ford tops list
Credit is given to anti-rollover technology. [Watch]
LA Auto Show Opens
A distressed auto industry puts it best vehicles forward. [Watch]
The LA Auto Show
Ford stands out. [Watch]
GM, Ford and Chrysler need cash
Senate cancels vote on doomed auto bailout. [Watch]
GM, Ford and Chrysler on Capital Hill
The Riverside Auto Center is home to several large dealerships. [Watch]
Chevrolet Volt will make appearance at LA Auto Show
It's the first look at a production model of the Volt. [Watch]
2010 Camaro looks hot
One car stole the show. [Watch]
State license fees may increase
Money could help projected $28 billion budget deficit. [Watch]
GM says it's in a cash crunch
Automaker makes cuts. [Watch]
2009 Ford Mustang
Watch a preview. [Watch]
GM will build Volt plant in U.S.
Nearly $359 million invested in plant. [Watch]
Ford Flex reviews impress
A look at its 'green' features. [Watch]
Driverless car from GM
The 2010 Camaro
Car boasts sleek new design [Watch]
Electric cars on display
On sale in 2010. [Watch]
2009 Ford Flex is big -- really big
It's not quite an SUV and not quite a minivan. [Watch]
Ford Mustang Bullitt
Not an average Mustang. [Watch]
The Chevy Volt
Targeted launch is 2010. [Watch]
Ford Escape Hybrid auto review
2008 Dodge Avenger
Aggressive good looks, but pricey. [Watch]
Ford Mustang Bullitt
The Bullitt
Not your average Mustang. [Watch]
GM's Chevy Volt holds a lot of promise
Launch 2010? [Watch]
Chevrolet Volt concept car in TV ads
GM has started to promote its plug-in vehicle. We'll have a special report on Saturday. [Watch]
Riverside couple first with Dodge Challenger SRT-8
It's a mix of classic beauty. [Watch]
Owning a Challenger SRT-8
Local couple enjoys life in the fast lane. [Watch]
The tire-pressure test
Can we solve our oil woes four tires at a time? [Watch]
Hot air -- or gas in your tank?
Obama says tire pressure can reduce demand for gas; McCain mocks the idea. We're challenging Riversiders to help us put it to the test. [Watch]
$2.99-a-gallon gas
You have to buy a car to get it. [Watch]
Driving the 2008 Jeep Rubicon
Driving the 2009 Ford Flex
'It's always exciting to see a new vehicle for the first time.' Instant Wheels Editor Paul Batista gets behind the wheel. [Watch]
2009 Dodge Journey
Our 'Instant Wheels' editor says the new Journey is a total "mom rod." [Watch]
Driving the Challenger SRT-8
'Instant Wheels' editor Paul Batista is the first Southern California reporter to spend "quality time" with the Dodge Challenger SRT-8. [Watch]
Dodge Challenger SRT-8 is in town
It turns heads. The Dodge Challenger SRT-8 begins its visit to the Inland Empire. See it this Saturday. [Watch]
Dodge Challenger SRT-8 Preview
See it. Sit in it. Look under the hood. The Challenger SRT-8 debut will happen next weekend. [Watch]
Watch the amphibious sports car
It's the sQuba, the world’s first real submersible car, at the Geneva Motor Show. [Watch]
The 2008 Lincoln MKZ
Get behind the wheel of a compact luxury sedan; it handled nicely in the rain. [Watch]
Inside the tiny Smart Car
The smallest US-production car commands big attention. [Watch]
The 2008 Dodge Challenger
Watch a preview of our program featuring the Inland Empire Auto Show. [Watch]
Show and Go car show dazzles Riversiders
2008 car show delivers horsepower, beauty -- and money for charity. [Watch]
The Inland Empire Auto Show
The hot rods are back in town. [Watch]
Are hybrids too quiet?
At slow speeds, hybrids have to be 40 percent closer before they can be heard, according to professor Lawrence Rosenblum. [Watch]
Quiet hybrids may pose risk to pedestrians
UCR professor conducting study on safety issue. [Watch]
Electronics are star of Mercury Sable
The car is another example of the ongoing merger between cars and electronics. [Watch]
Behind the scenes at NASCAR
Rain, moisture made the track slippery for Sunday's big race, which had to be finished on Monday. [Watch]
The ultimate green machine
It's the car you can charge up at home. Learn more about a modified version of the Toyota Prius. [Watch]
THE 2008 FORD TAURUS
FANS OF THE CAR COULDN'T WAIT TO CHECK IT OUT. [Watch]
There's an office packed inside
It's big! Watch a review of what's described as a "luxury crossover." Instant Wheels editor Paul Batista drives the 2008 Buick Enclave. [Watch]
Fuel up at home
HONDA IS SELLING A CAR THAT NEVER NEEDS A GAS STATION; FORD OFFERS A HYBRID SUV; AND 55-AND-A-HALF CORVETTES AT THE RIVERSIDE PLAZA. WATCH THE MOST POPULAR AUTO REVIEWS OF 2007. [Watch]
THE FORD ESCAPE HYBRID
WATCH A REVIEW OF THE SUV FROM FORD THAT'S ALSO A HYBRID. [Watch]
Altura Instant Wheels
GM SAYS ITS NEW OnSTAR TECHNOLOGY COULD END HIGH SPEED CHASES. WATCH IT, AND SEE WHAT YOU THINK. [Watch]
The Flexstreme
GM says it will travel 40 miles before it needs a drop of fuel. [Watch]
THE VOLVO S 80 AND C 30
WILL THIS BE THE NEW LOOK FOR VOLVO? [Watch]
THE FORD MUSTANG GT CONVERTIBLE
WATCH A REVIEW OF THE FORD MUSTANG GT CONVERTIBLE. [Watch]
55-AND-A-HALF CORVETTES
WATCH THE MILLENNIUM CORVETTE SHOW AT THE RIVERSIDE PLAZA. [Watch]
The Ford Edge
Instant Wheels Auto Editor reviews the Ford Edge. [Watch]
2009 Ford F150 includes new features
Click below to watch Paul’s video review on the 2009 Ford F-150.
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
Paul Batista
Instant Wheels Editor, InstantRiverside.com
The F150 gets a make-over for 2009. It has been available on dealer lots since the end of ‘08. The economy makes for a tough time to be releasing a new vehicle. But this vehicle, which Ford touts as America’s Best Selling Truck AND America’s Best Selling Vehicle, still offers a lot to buyers who are in the market for a pickup.
Some new features contribute to the redesign:
1. The tailgate step– which was originally available on the 2008 F250. When the tailgate is down, a bar lifts vertically and locks into place. A step then folds out of the center of the tailgate, and together, this system provides assisted entry and exit into the cargo area.
2. Rear-view camera, hidden directly under the huge Blue Oval on the tailgate. Put the truck in reverse, and day or night, a very clear, small video image appears in the rear-view mirror and shows the driver what’s behind the vehicle.
3. Easy Fuel capless fuel fill system
4. New 6-speed automatic transmission - assists with towing & hauling, as well as better acceleration & fuel mileage.
My test vehicle is the Lariat SuperCrew model, one of 35 different F150 configurations. The paint on the truck is called Razor Red Dual-Coat
Metallic, a $250 option. It also features a towing package, moonroof, heated/cooled leather seating, SYNC, 6CD changer w/MP3, and a reverse
sensing system.
Safety features are standard, including 4 wheel ABS, Advancetrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Front & Side Airbags, and the Safety Canopy
system. A new tougher, stronger, yet lighter frame helps with the ride & handling.
Fuel mileage averaged 13.7 MPG over a mix of city & highway driving. EPA estimates are 14 city/20 highway.
This version of the new F150 topped out at $37,990. The most decked-out version of the F150, the Platinum, can cost as much as $49,615. The base model F150 XL starts at $20,815.
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