Car Blog

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. announced it would initiate a new customer service program to address concerns raised by its customers with certain Direct Shift Gearboxes (DSG ) in Volkswagen and Audi models, and to affirm its confidence in the sophisticated technology represented by those components.

“Safety, customer satisfaction, quality and long-term reliability are top priorities at Volkswagen and Audi. We have been studying the symptoms customers have reported, and are working closely with the NHTSA,” said Stefan Jacoby, president and CEO, VWGoA. “We listened to our customers’ concerns, and are taking action to address them. We are focused on taking all the appropriate actions to ensure the complete satisfaction of our existing customers.”

This new comprehensive service program affects a limited number of model years 2007-2009 Volkswagens and Audis. Covered models are the Volkswagen R32, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, GTI, Eos, as well as Audi A3 and TT.

Some customers have reported transmission performance issues under certain driving conditions. This was due to a faulty component inside the Mechatronic unit within a limited production range. VWGoA will repair or replace the components in the transmissions of approximately 43,000 Volkswagens and 10,300 Audis at no charge to the vehicles’ owners. Additionally, VWGoA will reimburse customers who have had this repaired at their own expense.

The company has begun increasing the parts supply to expedite this customer service program. As the parts become available, owners of the affected vehicles will be contacted to schedule an appointment at their dealer. The company will make loaner vehicles available at no charge.

In the meantime, owners who may have experienced problems with their transmissions are requested to contact their dealers or the Audi/Volkswagen toll-free customer service numbers (see below).

This new customer service program is unrelated to a voluntary safety recall that VWGoA announced August 20. Under that recall, VWGoA is replacing a faulty temperature sensor in a separate and smaller group of vehicles. (The earlier action addresses a potential for a faulty temperature sensor to cause the transmission to shift into neutral while the vehicle is being driven.)

The company will extend its New Vehicle Limited Warranty to cover the DSG transmissions affected by the customer service program and the voluntary safety recall. This extended warranty is for 10-years/100,000-miles, transferrable to subsequent owners.

VWGoA is confident these actions will address issues noted by owners of the affected Volkswagen and Audi models. The DSG gearbox is an industry leading technology that combines the fuel economy of a manual gearshift with the automatic shifting capacity of an automatic transmission.

Customers who have questions or concerns should call the Volkswagen Loyalty Center at 1-800-444-8982 or the Audi Customer Relations Campaign Help Line at 1-800-253-AUDI (2834).

Unfortunately, many of United States residents have been impacted negatively by the downturn of the economy often leading to the unwise decision of either lowering or cancelling automobile insurance coverage to save money.

The serious risks and consequences of such decisions are often not realized, turning out to be more costly in the long run.

Failure to Maintain Mandatory Insurance Coverage

All but two states make having some kind of protection mandatory in order to operate vehicles legally. Driving without proof of financial responsibility may result in citations and even the impounding of vehicles. Some states may even suspend driving privileges and vehicle registrations and the penalties and fines incurred will most likely turn out to be far more costly than having maintained coverage in effect.

Furthermore, a person financing a vehicle is usually required by their lien holder to have “Comprehensive and Collision” coverage in order to protect their automobile for physical damage and theft. Failure to maintain such coverage may lead to the forced placement of a policy by the financing institution where the premium is usually much higher than what an individual would normally pay, resulting in an increased financial burden.

The Dangers of Uninsured or Underinsured Driving

Various types of coverage are designed to protect an insured’s investment in their vehicle, pay medical damages and cover legal liability to other’s injury or damages as a result of an accident. Without a policy in force or without the proper coverage, a person would have to bear the entire cost in the event of an accident, leading to a crippling financial loss.

It’s far too expensive and dangerous to cancel or lower coverage. Take the smart alternative is to find cheap auto insurance rates by instantly comparing quotes online from a variety of companies. As advised by most government-issued consumer guides, comparison shopping for the right insurer increases the chances of finding affordable premiums without having to compromise the desired protection.

For more information on maintaining coverage through tough economic times, visit http://www.insurance.oregon.gov/FAQs/maintaining-insurance-faqs.html – provided by the Department of Consumer and Business Services.

Introduction of new 360 Value Package on S models

Nissan North America, Inc. announced pricing for the 2010 Nissan Rogue crossover SUV, which is on sale now at Nissan retailers nationwide. The 2010 Nissan Rogue is offered in four high mileage models, each equipped with a standard 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and six air bags.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices* (MSRP) are:

Rogue S FWD $20,340 USD
Rogue SL FWD $21,930 USD
Rogue S AWD $21,540 USD
Rogue SL AWD $23,130 USD

For 2010, Rogue S models are available with a new 360 Value Package, which includes 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, privacy glass, integrated rearview mirror rearview monitor, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rear spoiler and chrome grille. The 360 Value Package is priced at $1,040, a $1,000 savings compared to purchasing items separately.

2010 Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue crossover SUV continues to satisfy both the functional needs of the buyers and their emotional needs – including the versatility provided by a large 58 cubic feet of cargo space. Again in 2010, Rogue is available in Rogue S and Rogue SL trim levels and with an intuitive All-Wheel Drive system. Rogue SL models include standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.

Rogue’s interior includes a driver-oriented cockpit with available leather-appointed seating surfaces, heated seats and 6-way power driver’s seat. Utility is enhanced by numerous convenient storage and ultra-functionality features, including an oversized glove compartment, a large center console and an innovative available rear cargo organizer.

Available technology features include Nissan Intelligent Key, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately) and a powerful Bose -developed audio system with Nd Richbass woofer and MP3 playback.

Rogue also offers a long list of standard safety features, including front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor for improved front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

Rogue fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg City/27 mpg Highway for 2-wheel drive models and 21 mpg City/26 mpg Highway for all-wheel drive models.

Headlined by the 2009 North American Car of the Year Award, Hyundai’s New Flagship Earns More Top Recognition than Any Other 2009 Introduction

Hyundai’s all-new flagship, the Genesis sedan, launched to significant anticipation culminating with its coronation as the 2009 North American Car of the Year – the first time a Korean brand has ever achieved the honor. But Genesis didn’t stop there, accumulating honor after prestigious honor to become the most decorated new car launch of the 2009 model year. At last count, Genesis tallied more than 20 top honors from the most prominent media outlets and automotive organizations in North America.

Genesis’ trophy case includes awards and accolades from the likes of J.D. Power and Associates, Motor Trend, AutoPacific, Cars.com and leading consumer publications. Genesis is built on Hyundai’s all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture. It offers two powertrains, the Lambda 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 290 hp, and Hyundai’s all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 375 hp. With technology rivaling more expensive luxury sedans, convenience features like push-button start and navigation system, and five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), it’s clear that Genesis is among the best new cars of 2009. But at a starting MSRP of just $32,250 and max price of just $42,000 for a fully loaded Genesis, it’s no surprise the competition was left in Hyundai’s rear-view mirror.

“Genesis was developed to rival the world’s best luxury sedans so we knew it would be a great car, but we didn’t know how it would be received by the automotive community,” said Scott Margason, director of Product & Strategic Planning for Hyundai. “As the awards accumulated, we realized not only how well designed the Genesis was, but how far the Hyundai brand had come. Consumers and automotive industry influencers really embraced the idea of Hyundai producing a luxury product.”

Genesis Sedan Awards
2009 North America Car of the Year
Motor Trend – America’s Top 40 New Cars
J.D. Power and Associates – Automotive, Performance, Execution and
Layout (APEAL) – Most appealing midsize premium car
J.D. Power and Associates – Vehicle Launch Index (VLI) – Highest ranked 2009 all-new or redesigned vehicle
The Car Book 2009 – Best Bet (intermediate category)
About.com – Best New Car
Kiplinger’s Personal Finance – Best New Model (sedans $30,000-$45,000)
NADAguides.com – Car of the Month (April)
NADAguides.com – Top 5 Luxury Cars
NADAguides.com – Best Car Buy – Top luxury cars under $35,000
Autotropolis.com – Car of the Year
Cars.com – Car of the Year
On Wheels – Car of the Year
AutoPacific – Ideal Vehicle Awards – Aspirational Luxury Category
AutoPacific -Vehicle Satisfaction Awards – Aspirational Luxury Category
Consumer Reports – Top-Rated Vehicle (upscale sedan category)
Consumer Digest – Best Buy (luxury segment)
MyRide/Autobytel – Car of the Year
Ward’s Auto World – 10 Best Engines (4.6 liter Tau V8)
Automobile Journalists Association of Canada – Canadian Car of the Year
Automobile Journalists Association of Canada – Best New Luxury Vehicle Under $50,000

Source: Hyundai Motor America

The 24 gigahertz radar system makes it less expensive to integrate advanced driver assistance systems. 360-degree hazard detection increases comfort and safety.

The development by Continental, the international automotive supplier, of a new mid-range radar reinforces the company’s strategy of making advanced driver assistance systems available to smaller vehicle categories as soon as possible. Until recently, technologies such as the intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system were mostly found in the premium segment vehicles. This new sensor generation will go into series production in 2011.

“The new mid-range radar system is tangible evidence of Continental’s belief in making all-round safety available to every car driver, and it represents an extension of our ContiGuard safety concept,” said Amrei Drechsler, Vice President of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems segment of the Chassis & Safety Division.

The radar sensor detects vehicles up to 160 yards away

The new mid-range radar generation, developed by Continental, can operate to the front, the rear and to the side, thus allowing the integration of a variety of advanced driver assistance functions. By monitoring the adjacent traffic lanes, it removes the element of danger inherent in lane changing. When facing rearwards, the radar sensor will detect a possible rear end collision early on. By detecting objects to the side of the vehicle, it can assist the driver when making turns. The radar system monitors the traffic ahead up to a distance of more than 160 yards. This makes it the ideal choice for use with ACC, not just in urban traffic or on country roads but also on freeways up to a speed of around 80 mph which applies in most countries. The multi-channel radar system works at a resolution frequency which can detect every relevant vehicle from two-wheelers to trucks. In addition, it offers cost benefits compared to radar technologies which employ higher frequencies. Savings on components and production costs and easier integration in the vehicle form the basis of a new pricing level, allowing the system to be fitted in all vehicles including the compact and sub-compact categories. One Japanese vehicle manufacturer has been successfully installing Continental’s 24 gigahertz technology for several years now as a blind-spot monitoring system.

Complete range of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) functions and Forward Collision Alert (FCA) functions

ACC based on mid-range radar provides all the usual comfort functions. Just like a standard cruise control system, it maintains a constant selected speed. It also monitors the traffic ahead and regulates both speed and vehicle distance. The radar sensor measures the speed of the vehicle in front, compares it with its own speed and determines the correct distance. Before it gets too close to the vehicle in front, ACC either reduces engine power or gently applies the brakes until the distance is again appropriate. If the vehicle in front speeds up or moves to a different lane, ACC automatically accelerates until the cruising speed previously set is reached again. If the road becomes very busy and the traffic is stop-and-start, ACC reduces the vehicle’s speed down to a standstill. This sensor is also designed to meet the NHTSA NCAP Forward Collision Alert/Warning requirements.

ACC also communicates with the Electronic Stability Control’s steering wheel sensor. As a result, in curves or multi-lane roads, it knows which of the vehicles in front it needs to keep an eye on. If the vehicle distance changes very rapidly, perhaps because the vehicle in front brakes sharply or because a car squeezes in from another lane, ACC will brake at up to 40 percent of the maximum possible braking power. If this by itself is not sufficient, the advanced driver assistance system will alert the driver to the imminent danger and request him to apply additional brake pressure. The warning may be in the form of an acoustic warning, visible information in the head-up display or instrument cluster, or felt as a slight vibration of the steering wheel, depending on whichever method fits in with the manufacturer’s philosophy.

Advanced driver assistance systems prevent accidents

The greater use of safety and advanced driver assistance systems is essential if the number of road accidents and the number of people killed or injured in road accidents is to be significantly reduced in the next few years.

Source: Continental

Distinctive new LED front and rear lighting complemented by exterior updates — 2010 Q7 models include 3G MMI 3D navigation screen and SIRIUS traffic — Interior enhancements include additional ambient lighting, decorative inlays and available ventilated front seats

Audi announced the U.S. manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for its redesigned 2010 Q7 models, scheduled to arrive at U.S. Audi dealers in September 2009.

2010 Audi Q7 (excluding $825 destination charge, taxes, title, options and dealer charges):

Q7 3.6 quattro (Tiptronic ) $46,900

Q7 TDI quattro (Tiptronic) $50,900

Q7 4.2 quattro (Tiptronic) $61,000

The modern philosophy of the new Audi Q7 reflects the attention to detail requested by customers, especially with markedly updated exterior and interior features. The 2010 Q7 lineup presents the most innovative execution to date of the Audi signature LED lighting. The redesigned Q7 SUVs offer standard LED taillights with available LED turn signals and daytime running lights.

Exterior enhancements include a new wheel program, updated front and rear bumpers, distinctive new front headlamps and tail lights, single frame grille in gloss black with vertical chrome strips, exterior mirror housings, and a new lower body panel strategy featuring contrast paint for the Q7 3.6 quattro, full body paint with Chrome package on the Q7 TDI quattro clean diesel, and S line treatment on the Q7 4.2 quattro. The equipment packages for the 2010 Q7 3.6 quattro and the 2010 Q7 TDI begin at the Premium level, while the 2010 Q7 4.2 quattro starts with the Prestige level packaging.

The Q7 3.6 quattro comes equipped with the V6 3.6 FSI engine, the Q7 TDI quattro comes with the 3.0 TDI clean diesel engine, while the Q7 4.2 employs the V8 4.2 FSI engine. Now all of the Q7 engine offerings meet stringent California ULEV emissions regulations.

Interior upgrades include optional ventilated front seats, a new decorative inlay on the passenger side of the dashboard, additional ambient lighting on all four doors, an upgraded MMI system, additional interior chrome accents, and a new instrumentation font.

The redesigned 2010 Audi Q7 features technological advancements as available features that enhance both interior and performance luxury. The 3G MMI (Multi Media Interface) provides richly detailed 3D map courtesy of an automotive grade NVIDIA(TM) chip for graphics processing, along with SIRIUS traffic and joystick control. The system also features voice-based destination input control and voice inputs, such as “I’m hungry,” “I need gas” and “I need coffee” that will point to the closest options.

Audi Q7 is also one of the safest SUVs on the road with a NHTSA 5-star crash safety rating and IIHS “Top Safety Pick” designation. Safety continues to be a top priority for Audi, which offers more models earning “Top Safety Pick” recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety than any other German luxury car brand.*

In Spring 2009, Audi launched its first-ever TDI clean diesel model in the United States in the form of an Audi Q7 TDI. Using the long-standing 20-year expertise of the Audi brand with TDI Power, this vehicle uses an innovative system that provides ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) clean emissions available in all 50 U.S. states. In addition, this vehicle provides more than 600 miles per tank full in highway driving and has an EPA fuel economy estimate of 17 mpg for city driving and 25 mpg for highway driving, which equates to 30% better fuel economy than a comparable V6 gasoline engine. Audi has a history of refined TDI clean diesel performance engines with the Le Mans-winning R10 TDI race car that won all three 24 Hours of Le Mans races from 2006-2008 in which it competed. The Audi Q7 TDI qualifies for a $1,150 Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit from the Internal Revenue Service for a limited time due to the fuel efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions of its clean diesel technology.

Audi is also the first car company in the United States to equip 100% of its gasoline engines with FSI direct injection technology beginning with model year 2010. Audi began racing with FSI direct injection technology in 2000 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the American Le Mans Series with the R8 FSI prototype racing sports car. Once this technology first became available for U.S. Audi customers in late 2004 with the introduction of the 2005 A6 3.2 FSI quattro, the list of Audi vehicles sold in the U.S. with FSI direct injection technology has continued to grow.

* – “Top Safety Pick” is based on 31 mph side-impact crash test, 40 mph frontal-offset crash test and 20 mph rear-impact test and the availability of ESC. Test performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. For details, visit www.iihs.org.

Source: Audi of America Inc.