Auto Body Gilroy News: 2-19-13

2014 Chevrolet SS Photos and Info: A 415-hp Real American Hero (Via Australia)

by Don Sherman

Ages from now, when we look back at 2008–2013 with 20/200 hindsight, we’ll likely deem GM’s quick-rinse bankruptcy a blessing. Case in point: the 2014 Chevrolet SS sedan arriving later this year. This car is an amalgam of a once-revered nameplate (SS) and one of the best cars developed by pre-Chapter 11 GM, the Pontiac G8. Without GM’s trip through the reorganization wringer, a rear-drive Chevy flagship might not have happened. READ MORE ››

 

Tesla test drive report had problems, Times editor writes | AutoNews

 The New York Times auto critic who had a Tesla Model S stall during a test drive took imprecise notes that left him open to valid criticism, the paper’s public editor wrote. [Read More]

 

Acura pushes new car technologies in 2014 RLX | CNET

by Wayne Cunningham

The RLX, Acura’s new technology flagship, replaces the old RL model.  (Credit: Wayne Cunningham/CNET)

For years Acura struggled with the fact that its biggest and best sedan was a far cry from the $100,000 luxury cruisers produced by the likes of Mercedes-Benz and Lexus. The 2014 RLX also does not punch in that uberweight class, but delivers a big luxury upgrade over its predecessor, the RL.

Although only slightly longer than the RL, the all new RLX comes in at almost 2 inches wider, and the cabin feels much roomier. Acura rightly compares the RLX to the Lexus GS, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

More than just an upgrade to the RL, Acura uses the RLX to showcase technology such as four-wheel steering, LED headlights, direct injection, and connected features. Most of these features may not be entirely new, but they are new to Acura.
Acura sets new luxury standard for itself with 2014 RLX (pictures)

GEICO Joins State Farm in Seeking Gag Order Against Gunder’s Auto Center | BodyShopBusiness

Insurer sends notice to Gunder’s attorney that they will also seek delay/continuance for several scheduled depositions. [Read More]

Auto Body Gilroy News: 7-31-12

Five sweet and small SUVs – CNET

As Americans downsize their vehicles to get better fuel economy and fit on increasingly congested urban streets, automakers have met the demand with a range of small SUVs. Unlike the lumbering beasts of the ’90s, these little SUVs use independent suspensions to improve ride comfort and new technologies to aggressively pursue better fuel economy. Versatile seating means these vehicles can seat five or haul large amounts of cargo.


2013 Acura RDX – CNET

Acura’s recently redesigned RDX marks the second generation for this premium SUV. A bit smaller than Acura’s full-size MDX, it still boasts plenty of cargo space and room for five.

Read the full review.


2011 BMW X3 xDrive35i – CNET

Although the X3’s last model update was in 2011, BMW’s tech still puts it ahead of many other cars. Features such as an adaptive suspension let it drive like a sports car, while all-wheel-drive helps it out in slippery conditions. … [Read more]

 

BMW Financial edges Mercedes unit in satisfaction study (AutoNews)

BMW Financial Services topped Mercedes-Benz’s finance unit to lead the industry in a study measuring dealers’ satisfaction with lenders.

 

Mitchell Examines Parts Price Inflation in Latest Industry Trends Repor – BodyShopBusiness

August 01, 2012 8:58:17 AM

Mitchell has announced the availability of its Industry Trends Report (ITR) for the third quarter of 2012. Mitchell’s quarterly publication has served the auto physical damage collision and casualty industries with emerging industry trend highlights and key performance indicators for more than a decade.