2014 BMW 4-Series

Just as predicted, nothing more than a 2 door 3 series.

If they gave it a new name. you'd think they could make it just a little different. Maybe a new dashboard??
Looks like the 4 series name is just a trick to raise prices.
At least Audi made the A5 coupe different from the A4 sedan it is based on...

I am sure this will look fine in real life. In a better color. With a small chrome line around the windows. And a classier color inside.
Who at BMW picked this interior color combo to represent the car???
This is the 1st impression we get of an all new model, and they pick the most vulgar color they offer...

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2014 Nissan Versa Note pricing

 The versa Note will replace the old Versa hatchback. Overseas, it is known as just the "Note".
What we are getting here in the US will be a cheapo version of the Note.

The base model will start at $14 000. Or about $1500 less than the Honda Fit.
The "S Plus CVT" model will be $15 240.
While the top of the line SV model will cost $16 000.
SL and SL Tech packages are available for $1700 and $800.

The base model is about $700 cheaper than the old Versa Hatchback.

All models are powered by the same 1.6 Liter engine, and rated at 31/40MPG when equipped with the CVT.

This is the Note. The more upscale one sold overseas. With a nicer interior and available glass roof.

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Alfa Romeo 4C video

Watch the car being built.

After seeing this, you get why this will not be an affordable small sports car.
There is a rumor of a $78 000 asking price in the US.

Quite a lot. Much more than the new $53 000 Porsche Cayman. Which seems to be its main competition.
But also , with only 1200 units shipped here, much more exclusive.

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Death Valley VWs

This was sent to me and taken just a few days ago.

VW is testing in Death Valley. Obviously nothing all new. Although I notice slightly different wheels on the Jetta GLI.
I guess on the Passat and Beetle, it must be the new 1.8 Liter Turbo, which will replace the 2.5 Liter soon.
Not sure what on the GLI, since I think the revised 210hp 2.0 Liter Turbo is already out, at least on the Beetle Turbo.

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2014 Cadillac CTS price

The all new, larger, CTS will start at $46 025.
For the base model powered by a 2.0 Liter Turbo with 272HP.

About $6000 more than the current model.

Since it now compete with larger and more expensive cars like the $50 000 BMS 5 series, $53 000 Mercedes E class, $49 000 Infiniti M37 or the $47 500 Lexus GS.
Only the Audi A6 is a bit cheaper starting at under $45 000. But that car comes with a 2.0 Turbo with only 211HP (Yes, really...)

The Vsport version powered by the new V6 Turbo with 420HP will start at $60 000.

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Lincoln MKZ quick drive

 I attended a Lincoln event a few days ago, and was able to drive the all new MKZ for a bit.
So I though I'd share my feelings about the car. Even though this is not a full test drive.
That will come later as I will have access to the car for a few days.

The model I was the most interested in was the Hybrid.
First, I have to say the car looks very nice in person. It does look quite upscale and very modern. Much more so than a Lexus ES.

 The giant opening roof does make the rear of the car look heavy and awkward when opened all the way.
But since you are inside the car, it is something you'll never actually see.

Inside, things are really modern, and a bit futuristic. Which is how it should be in 2013.

Everything feels really solid and well put together.
But, the overall feel is still a bit close to the cheaper Ford Fusion.

I was not able to check gas mileage so I won't comment on that. I know most test drivers are not able to achieve the official MPG numbers. I will figure this out when I get to drive the car for a few days.

The ride is very comfortable. The steering feels precise.

The thing I noticed the most was the switch from electric to gas. The engine isn't that quiet around town. Pretty much like a Prius.
The CVT was a bit annoying and slow to react, again, like the Prius.

These are just a few quick observations. But I do think the car deserves more attention than what it is getting.

Lincoln is facing an tough time trying to convince people to even step into its showrooms.

Cadillac and Buick did it, so there might be hope...

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2014 Nissan Terrano

 Nissan will sell its own version of the Renault/Dacia Duster as the Terrano, in some markets.
Including India, where the Duster is already sold as a Renault.

I have seen the Duster in Europe, and it looks quite nice in person. And pretty cheap too. As it starts at around 12 000 Euros in some markets.
It would make a great Xterra replacement here in the US. Where it would be cheaper than the Rogue.

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