New radar- and camera-based safety features help surround the new LaCrosse with protection. They include Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic Collision Preparation.

DETROIT- General Motors Co. Monday released images of the 2014 Buick LaCrosse ahead of its debut at the 2013 New York International Auto Show.

The refreshed sedan features new front and rear fascias, a larger grille and a host of new technology and safety features.

“We evolved the interior and exterior design, increased luxury amenities and materials, and enhanced the safety and personal technologies to give customers more reasons than ever to rediscover Buick,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing, in a statement.

The 2014 LaCrosse is offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models and offers two powertrains: a 2.4L engine with eAssist light electrification technology or a 3.6L direct-injected V-6. Each is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

New radar- and camera-based safety features help surround the new LaCrosse with protection. They include Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic Collision Preparation.

Globally, LaCrosse sales have exceeded 500,000 since its 2009 introduction and U.S. sales topped 57,000 in 2012.

The LaCrosse is set to make its official debut this week at the New York auto show alongside other GM vehicles like the 2014 Buick Regal, 2014 Cadillac CTS and 2014 Chevrolet Camaro.

For a second consecutive year, the Auburn Hills-based automaker reports in was the fastest-growing manufacturer in the state in 2012 with retail sales up 50 percent.

AUBURN HILLS- Chrysler Group LLC is working its way to better sales in California, an extremely important market for the auto industry.

For a second consecutive year, the Auburn Hills-based automaker reports it was the fastest-growing manufacturer in the state in 2012 with retail sales up 50 percent.

Chrysler volume increased 50 percent to 77,266 registrations in California in 2012, up from 51,517 registrations in 2011. In comparison, industry sales in California last year grew by only 26 percent.

The automaker’s share of the California market, based on retail registrations, has grown to 5.8 percent, up 2.3 percentage points from a 3.5 percent share in 2010.

“Seven of our vehicles recorded their best ever annual sales in 2012 demonstrating how the quality, design and fuel efficiency of our product line up continues to resonate with consumers,” said Reid Bigland, Chrysler head of U.S. sales, in a statement.

Chrysler attributed its success to a number of it limited- and special-edition models, California Business Center and increase in overall brand exposure and sales.

Regarding its brands’ retail sales, Fiat led the way for Chrysler with sales up 254 percent in 2012 versus 2011, followed by Ram Truck up 47 percent; Chrysler up 43 percent; Dodge up 37 percent; and Jeep up 38 percent in 2012 versus sales in 2011

Chrysler Brand CEO and President Saad Chehab last week at an Automotive Press Association in Detroit said the brand will continue to try and grow its sales in California by using Detroit-focused branding.

“There is an American factor and Detroit factor that we need to maintain and own and be proud of. And it differentiates us,” he said. “As long as we’re differentiated, that’s the part that's important.”

The Chrysler brand sold nearly 308,000 vehicles in 2012, a 39 percent increase from 2011. This year, sales have remained steady, up 3 percent to 45,779 vehicle sold through February.

According to Chehab, Chrysler brand’s “S” models for the 200, 300 full-size sedan and Town & Country minivan have performed extremely well and now account for about 25 percent of its sales. The “S” models, he said, also have attracted younger buyers with higher household incomes and helped attract buyers in non-traditional markets for Chrysler, such as California.

The brand, which only offers three vehicles, has utilized partnerships recently to release a handful of special- and limited-edition models, including a 300 C Varvatos Edition created with Detroit native and fashion designer John Varvatos; a 2013 Chrysler 300 Motown Edition; and a Town & Country S minivan Glacier Edition; and the newly announced 2013.5 200 S Special Edition.

Email Michael Wayland: MWayland@mlive.comand follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/MikeWayland

Hyundai Motor Co. gave enthusiasts a sinister-looking teaser of its 2014 Equus earlier this month. The flagship luxury sedan from the South Korean automaker is set to debut Wednesday at the 2013 New York International Auto Show.

DETROIT- Hyundai Motor Co. gave enthusiasts a sinister-looking teaser of its 2014 Equus earlier this month.

The flagship luxury sedan from the South Korean automaker is set to debut Wednesday at the 2013 New York International Auto Show.

“NEWS: 2014 Equus will come out of the shadows in #NewYork at #NYIAS @NYAutoShow,” @Hyundai tweeted about the vehicle on March 7.

In the teaser photo, the vehicle is dark in shadows with only the lights of the vehicle in color.

The mid-cycle update follows Hyundai selling nearly 4,000 of the vehicles last year, a 24 percent increase compared to 2011.

For the year, Hyundai sales were up 9 percent versus 2011 in both retail and total sales of 703,007. Sales to fleet accounts represented just 10 percent of total sales for 2012, among the lowest in the industry.

The 2013 New York International Auto Show is expected to be no different. Here’s a look at live streams available from GM and Chrysler, as well as a handful of other notables this week in connection to the show:

NEW YORK- More automakers, including General Motors Co. and Chrysler Group LLC, are live streaming their world debuts from auto shows around the world.

And the 2013 New York International Auto Show is expected to be no different. Below is a look at live streams available from GM and Chrysler, as well as a handful of other notables this week in connection to the show.

Also, continue to check back to MLive.com/auto for embedded videos of the unveilings and New York International Auto Show.

Tuesday (today)

- 2014 Buick LaCrosse, Regal and Regal GS reveals

Program begins at 11:30 a.m. EDT

To view: http://www.ustream.tv/buickreveal

- All-New 2014 Cadillac CTS reveal

Program begins at 7:15 p.m. ET

To view: http://www.ustream.tv/cadillac

Social media hashtag: #CTSReveal

Details: Participants will be able to view and control a series of cameras, including a 360-degree camera, offering multiple vantage points of the all-new CTS and unobstructed access inside the event. For more information visit: http://spr.ly/CTSlive

Wednesday, March 27

- Chevrolet performance press conference

Program begins at 12:45 p.m. ET.

To view: http://www.youtube.com/embed/5qVWNxvV_Yw

- Jeep Cherokee reveal and press conference

Program begins at 1:45 p.m.

To view: http://host4video.com/nyias13/jeep/

- Hyundai news conference

Program begins at 4:25 p.m.

To view: http://new.livestream.com/cdg/Hyundai

Thursday, March 28

- Scion tC reveal and press conference

Program beings: 9:55 a.m.

To view: http://new.livestream.com/toyota/scionlive

- Dodge Durango reveal and press conference

Program begins at 11:40 a.m.

To view: Webcast at http://host4video.com/nyias13/dodge/ (On-demand webcast replays available beginning about two hours after)

GM did not release the expected fuel economy of the 2014 model, which will make its public debut at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, but here’s a look at the preliminary specifications compared to the 2013 model.

NEW YORK- General Motors Co. on Monday released details and specifications on the 2014 Buick LaCrosse prior to its expected debut later today in New York.

So how does the new sedan stack up with the current model? Pretty well, according to officials and preliminary specifications released by GM on Monday.

The vehicle, when released this summer, will offer the same fuel-efficient powertrains with new interior and exterior design cues, advanced safety technologies and enhanced in-vehicle connectivity.

GM did not release the expected fuel economy of the 2014 model, which will make its public debut at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, but here’s a look at the preliminary specifications compared to the 2013 model:

2013 Buick LaCrosse Specifications

Model:	2013 LaCrosse FWD/AWD
Body style / driveline:	front-drive/all-wheel-drive, front-engine, four-door, five- passenger sedan
Construction:	integral
EPA vehicle class:	midsize sedan
Manufacturing location:	Fairfax (Kan.) Assembly
Key competitors:	Acura TL, Lincoln MKZ, Lexus ES350

Engines

Type:	Ecotec 2.4L DOHC I-4	3.6L V-6 VVT DI
Displacement (cu in / cc):	145 / 2384	217 / 3564
Bore & stroke (in / mm):	3.46 x 3.85 / 88 x 98	3.7 x 3.37 / 94 x 85.6
Block material:	cast aluminum	aluminum
Cylinder head material:	cast aluminum	cast aluminum
Valvetrain:	overhead camshafts, four-valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing for intake and exhaust	DOHC with four valves per cylinder; continuously variable valve timing
Ignition system:	individual coil-on-plug	individual coil-on-plug; individual cylinder knock control
Fuel delivery:	direct injection and electronic throttle control	direct injection
Compression ratio:	11.2:1	11.5:1
Horsepower (hp / kW @ rpm):	182 / 136 @ 6700 rpm SAE certified	303 / 226 @ 6800 SAE certified*
Torque (lb.-ft. / Nm @ rpm):	172 / 233 @ 4900 rpm* SAE certified	264 / 358 @ 5300* SAE certified (FWD certified – AWD certification pending)
Recommended fuel:	regular unleaded	regular unleaded
Emissions controls:	close-coupled, catalytic converter; variable valve timing; positive crankcase ventilation evaporative system	dual close-coupled catalysts and single underfloor catalyst; variable valve timing, evaporative system
EPA-estimated fuel economy (city / hwy):	25 / 36	17 / 27

Transmissions

Type:	Hydra-Matic 6T40 six-speed automatic	Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic
Application:	2.4L four-cylinder	3.6L V-6
Gear ratios: (:1):
First:	4.58	4.48
Second:	2.96	2.87
Third:	1.91	1.84
Fourth	1.45	1.41
Fifth:	1.00	1.00
Sixth:	0.75	0.74
Reverse:	2.94	2.88
Final drive ratio:	2.64	2.77

Electric Drive System (for eAssist)

Type:	belt-driven, liquid-cooled motor/generator unit and lithium-ion battery system; air-cooled power electronics and battery pack
Maximum electric generating power:	15 kW @ 1570-3180 rpm
Maximum electric motor torque (cranking):	110 lb.-ft. / 150 Nm
Maximum electric motor torque (electric assist):	79 lb.-ft. / 107 Nm @ 1,000 rpm
Maximum electric motor power (electric assist):	15 hp / 11.2 kW @ 1,000-2,200 rpm
Lithium-ion battery:	115V, 0.5-kWh, 15 kW peak power

Chassis/Suspension

Suspension (front):	MacPherson strut coil-over-spring; twin-tube dampers with gas-charged valving; hollow direct-acting stabilizer bar; HiPer Strut w/ 1SR 1ST
Suspension (rear):	four-link (18-inch wheels); (Touring Package -- “H”-arm, real-time damping and Sport Mode Selectivity)
Steering type:	power, non-variable electric (eAssist); power variable effort: (AWD models); electric power steering (FWD models w/ V-6)
Steering ratio:	15.2:1
Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock:	2.75
Turning circle (ft / m):	36.8 / 11.2 (eAssist); 38.8 / 11.75

Brakes

Type:	split, dual-circuit four-wheel-disc with power assist
Rotor diameter x thickness (in / mm):	V-6: front: 12.6 x 1.2 / 321 x 30 (vented) rear: 12.4 x 0.9 / 315 x 23 (solid) eAssist: front: 11.7 x 1.2 / 297 x 30 (vented) rear: 11.5 x 1.2 / 292 x 30 (solid)

Wheels/Tires

Wheel size and type:	17-in machined alloy (std w/ eAssist) 18-in machine-faced alloy, painted (std on 1SB, 1SL, 1SP w/V-6) 18-in chrome plated (std on 1SR, opt on 1SL, 1SP w/ V-6)) 19-in painted, machined alloy , painted (std on 1ST)
Tires:	P245/50R17 low rolling-resistance all-season blackwall (std on eAssist) P245/45R18 all-season blackwall P245/40R19 all-season blackwall

Dimensions

Exterior

Wheelbase (in / mm):	111.7 / 2837
Overall length (in / mm):	197 / 5001
Overall width (in / mm):	73.1 / 1857
Overall height (in / mm):	59.2 / 1504
Track (in / mm):	front: 61.7 / 1567 rear: 62 / 1575
Curb weight (lb / kg):	3835 / 1740 (eAssist) 4045 / 1835 (3.6L V-6)

 

Interior

Seating capacity:	2 / 3
Headroom (in / mm):	front: 38 / 965 rear: 37.3 / 947
Legroom (in / mm):	front: 41.7 / 1059 rear: 40.5 / 1029
Shoulder room (in / mm):	front: 57.4 / 1459 rear: 56 / 1423
Hip room (in / mm):	front: 55.2 / 1402 rear: 53.9 / 1369

Capacities

EPA interior volume (cu ft / L):	99 / 2805
Passenger volume (cu ft / L):	101.7 / 2878
Cargo volume (cu ft / L):	11.4 / 323.3 (eAssist) 13.3 / 376.7 (3.6L V-6)
Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg):	1000 / 454 (3.6L V-6)
Fuel capacity (gal / L):	15.7 / 59.4 (eAssist) 18 / 70 (3.6L V-6)
Engine oil (qt / L):	5 / 4.7 (2.4L) 5.5 / 5.2 (3.6L)
Cooling system ( qt / L):	9.6 /12 (2.4L) 7.6 / 7.2 (3.6L)

*SAE certified.

Note: Information shown is current at time of publication.

General Motors Co., which is set to officially unveil the sedan later today in New York, says the 2014 Buick LaCrosse offers new interior and exterior design cues, advanced safety technologies and enhanced in-vehicle connectivity.

NEW YORK- A refreshed design and a host of new technologies could help the Buick LaCrosse become the brand’s best-selling vehicle for a fourth-consecutive year.

General Motors Co., which is set to officially unveil the sedan later today in New York, says the 2014 Buick LaCrosse offers new interior and exterior design cues, advanced safety technologies and enhanced in-vehicle connectivity.

“We evolved the interior and exterior design, increased luxury amenities and materials, and enhanced the safety and personal technologies to give customers more reasons than ever to rediscover Buick,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick marketing.

The vehicle, when released this summer, will be offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models and offer two powertrains: a 2.4L engine with eAssist light electrification technology and a 3.6L direct-injected V6. Each is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The interior is more contemporary than the current model, according to GM, with new seats, enhanced materials, redesigned central instrument panel and console – and an all-new, optional "Ultra Luxury Interior Package." The cabin also incorporates Buick’s next-generation IntelliLink infotainment system, with intuitive controls and natural voice recognition.

“The warm color combinations, premium interior materials and advanced technology in the 2014 LaCrosse provide the interior environment our discerning luxury customers are seeking,” said Ven Lai, Buick creative designer for color and trim, in a statement.

Other new features include radar- and camera-based safety features. They include Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Change Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Automatic Collision Preparation. GM’s patented Safety Alert Seat works with these features, providing seat vibration pulses – previously only on Cadillac models -- indicating the direction of a potential crash threat.

Adaptive Cruise Control is also offered. It senses traffic in front of the LaCrosse to adjust vehicle speed, including stopping the vehicle in heavy traffic and accelerating again.

All models feature Buick’s QuietTuning engineering process that reduces, blocks and absorbs unwanted noise from the LaCrosse’s cabin, making it one of the quietest in the segment.

Globally, LaCrosse sales have exceeded 500,000 since the current generation’s 2009 introduction, including U.S. sales topping 57,000 in 2012. 

In the U.S., LaCrosse sales have topped 204,500 units since 2009.

The Regal, when it goes on sale this fall, will be offered with a new 2.0-liter turbo engine that delivers 18 percent more horsepower in the Regal Turbo, for a greater feeling of on-demand power.

NEW YORK- The 2014 Buick Regal and its GS sibling are “sportier and smarter” than ever before, according to officials.

The new vehicles will all offer a host of new safety features new radar- and camera-based safety features – including Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Collision Mitigation Braking – for surround protection.

“The new Regal gives those discerning buyers more of the technologically advanced features they want in a modern luxury sedan, all with the style and refinement they expect from Buick,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick marketing, in a statement.

General Motors Co. unveiled the vehicles today alongside the 2014 Buick LaCrosse in New York City, ahead of their public debuts at the 2013 New York International Auto Show.

As on the 2014 LaCrosse, the Regals also will offer Buick’s next-generation 

infotainment system and Adaptive Cruise Control, which senses traffic to adjust vehicle speed, including stopping the vehicle in heavy traffic and accelerating again.

Both the 2014 LaCrosse and Regal feature smoother, sportier designs. But the new Regal takes it to another level, according to GM.

The Regal, when it goes on sale this fall, will be offered with a new 2.0-liter turbo engine that delivers 18 percent more horsepower in the Regal Turbo, for a greater feeling of on-demand power.

A 2.4-liter engine with eAssist light electrification technology is also available on the 2014 Regal. Six-speed automatic transmissions are matched with both engines and a six-speed manual is available in the Regal GS. Electric power steering is now featured on all models.

For the Regal, four interior color/trim combinations are available for 2014, including a new, high-fashion two-tone leather combination.

The 2013 New York International Auto Show is expected to be a very important show for the U.S. automotive industry with dozens of debuts. The show is open to the public from March 29 through April 7.

Check back to MLive.com/auto shortly for more information on the Buick reveals.

Follow of all of MLive.com’s coverage of the New York Auto Show at mlive.com/auto or by clicking here.

Siri is just one of the new technologies that Buick brought the 2014 Regal and LaCrosse. The vehicles also feature new radar- and camera-based safety features and Buick’s next-generation IntelliLink infotainment system, with intuitive controls and natural voice recognition.Watch video

NEW YORK- Buick will be the second brand for General Motors Co. to offer Apple Inc’s Siri.

The 2014 Buick LaCrosse and 2014 Buick Regal, which were unveiled today in New York will be first luxury vehicles from the Detroit-based automaker to offer the technology. The first vehicles to be announced with Siri were was the 2013 Chevrolet Spark and Sonic.

“When it comes to introducing new technologies to the brand, LaCrosse continues to lead the way, said Buick LaCrosse vehicle chief engineer Jeanne Merchant, during the unveiling. “One technology that has everyone’s attention lately is infotainment."

The 2014 LaCrosse is scheduled to arrive in dealerships this summer. The 2014 Regal will arrive in dealerships in the fall, officials said.

Siri, which debuted on the iPhone 4S in 2011, is an “intelligent personal assistant” and knowledge navigator which works as an application for Apple's iOS system. The application uses a natural language user interface to answer questions, make recommendations, and perform actions when commanded.

The brand’s next-generation IntelliLink system, which Siri is a part of, is also compatible with voice recognition on Android phones.

“Infotainment has really become the new competitive battle ground,” Merchant said.

GM first announced the marriage or Sis and its vehicles in November. At that time, officials would not say if “she” would be offered on vehicles in the future, but said the company is "always evaluating and assessing the need for further integration."

Siri is just one of the new technologies that Buick brought the 2014 Regal and LaCrosse. The vehicles also feature new radar- and camera-based safety features and Buick’s next-generation IntelliLink infotainment system, with intuitive controls and natural voice recognition.

Adaptive Cruise Control is also offered. It senses traffic in front of the LaCrosse to adjust vehicle speed, including stopping the vehicle in heavy traffic and accelerating again.

Officials would not comment on what other vehicles Siri might integrate into, but said the technology is part of Buick's next-generation infotainment system.

The 2014 LaCrosse and Regal are scheduled to make their public debuts this week at the the 2013 New York International Auto Show, which is expected to be a very important show for the U.S. automotive industry with dozens of debuts. The show is open to the public from March 29 through April 7.

The vehicle, which is set to make its official debut at 7:15 p.m. tonight in New York City, is five inches longer than the current model, 1 inch lower in roof height and features a l inch larger wheel base. Engineers used a number of new aluminum parts, which are significantly lighter than steel, including weight reduction of 55 pounds by using aluminum doors.

NEW YORK- Although Cadillac’s vehicle portfolio is growing, officials expect the Cadillac CTS to continue being the “heartbeat” of the General Motors Co. luxury brand.

With a “longer, lower, leaner” body, as the brand’s head of design Mark Adams puts it, the 2014 Cadillac CTS will lead the brand into a new, more muscular direction.

“That’s what you’re going to see from Cadillac going forward,” Adams said during a media briefing on the vehicle March 18 in Detroit. “We want to keep our bold, progressive design with sharp crisp lines, but at the same time, add (much more sophistication).”

The vehicle, which is set to make its official debut at 7:15 p.m. tonight in New York City, is five inches longer than the current model, 1 inch lower in roof height and features a l inch larger wheel base. Engineers used a number of new aluminum parts, which are significantly lighter than steel, including weight reduction of 55 pounds by using aluminum doors.

While stretched in overall length and wheelbase, the all-new CTS has a lower curb weight than the preceding model and weighs about 200 pounds less than the BMW 528i, officials said.

"This vehicle is sort of the heartbeat of Cadillac," Adams said. 

Cadillac chief engineer Dave Leone said the third-generation CTS sedan will “have the most agile driving dynamics in its class.” The new CTS is based on the high-performing rear-drive architecture of the award-winning ATS sport sedan.

Production of the 2014 CTS begins this fall in Lansing, Mich.

As previously announced, the 2014 CTS is also available with a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6 rated at an estimated 321 horsepower and also matched with the new paddle-shift eight-speed automatic in rear-wheel-drive models or six-speed automatic with all-wheel drive; and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine rated at an estimated 272 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic.

The new Twin-Turbo V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission combination will lead the CTS’ powertrain lineup in the new CTS Vsport. It is the first twin-turbocharged engine ever offered by Cadillac and is the brand’s first eight-speed automatic.

The Cadillac Twin-Turbo is SAE-certified at 420 horsepower (313 kW) and 430 lb.-ft. of torque (583 Nm), making it the most power-dense six-cylinder engine in the segment.

As for the inside of the vehicle, Cadillac has redesigned the interior and will give customers eight "interior environment" options, including a top-of-the-line interior with available full semi-aniline leather, with hand-crafted, cut-and-sewn executions.

“I think it’s a really beautiful interior, and again, it represents where Cadillac is moving to in the next generation of vehicles," Adams said.

The vehicle is set to make its public debut at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, which is expected to be a very important show for the U.S. automotive industry with dozens of debuts. The show is open to the public from March 29 through April 7.

Check back to MLive.com/auto for more information on the new 2014 Cadillac CTS.

By the looks of it, General Motors Co. has set up a theatrical experience for the world premiere of the 2014 Cadillac CTS in New York. The vehicle – set to be unveiled at 7:15 p.m. – is inside of a theater in the Big Apple called the Frederick P. Rose Hall: Rose Theater.

NEW YORK- By the looks of it, General Motors Co. has set up a theatrical experience for the world premiere of the 2014 Cadillac CTS in New York.

The vehicle – set to be unveiled at 7:15 p.m. – is inside of a theater in the Big Apple called the Frederick P. Rose Hall: Rose Theater.

The third-generation CTS is very important to GM and has been the “heartbeat” of Cadillac for more than a decade, as the company and brand went through restructuring.

But now, the brand is at the beginning of a new age, and according to officials, the 2014 CTS will lead the brand into a new, more muscular direction.

GM released images of the vehicle about an hour ago, and the world debut will be live streamed below if you weren’t able to make it to New York.

NEW YORK- The stage was set, the audience was seated and the 2014 Cadillac CTS made its grand entrance in New York City's Frederick P. Rose Hall: Rose Theater.Watch video

 NEW YORK- The stage was set, the audience was seated and the 2014 Cadillac CTS made its grand entrance in New York City’s Frederick P. Rose Hall: Rose Theater.

“Since the projects inception, our design team clearly envisioned the final result: a completely new CTS, rising to the next level,” said  Cadillac global head of design Mark Adams. “But no matter how dramatic our vision is, the design starts the same way - a pencil, a sketch pad, and the designer's imagination ... “

The theatrical, yet simple, unveiling was to show that engineers and designers paid close attention to every line of the new 2014 CTS, which officials expect to not only rival its competitors, but outperform them.

With a “longer, lower, leaner” body, Adams said, the 2014 CTS is expected to continue to lead the brand into a new, more muscular direction.

The 2014 CTS is five inches longer than the current model, 1 inch lower in roof height and features a l inch larger wheel base. Engineers used a number of new aluminum parts, which are significantly lighter than steel, including weight reduction of 55 pounds by using aluminum doors. 

Overall, the vehicle is 250 pounds lighter than the current model, according to Adams.

If you weren’t able to attend the unveiling or watch the live stream online, follow all of MLive.com’s coverage of the new Cadillac CTS by clicking here.

Ahead of the mid-size SUV’s world debut later today at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, the Auburn Hills-based automaker released images of the Cherokee Trailhawk edition off-roading and the Cherokee Limited cruising the coast.

NEW YORK- The 2014 Cherokee may not look like any other Jeep on the market, but Chrysler Group LLC wants everyone to know that it can still hold its own with the rest of its siblings.

Ahead of the mid-size SUV’s world debut later today at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, the Auburn Hills-based automaker released images of the Cherokee Trailhawk edition off-roading and the Cherokee Limited cruising the coast.

“The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee will be the benchmark for mid-size SUVs with a new level of on-road driving dynamics and fuel economy, while at the same time improving the 4x4 capability that customers expect from Jeep,” said Jeep president and CEO Mike Manley, in a statement.

According to Chrysler, the vehicle, which replaces the Liberty, offers best-in-class V6 towing capability of 4,500 pounds, three 4x4 systems for best-in-class capability in all weather conditions and fuel economy up to 31 miles per gallon.

The untraditionally high mpg for Cherokee is a result of “a number of efforts by Jeep engineers” that include a segment-first nine-speed automatic transmission and Chrysler’s 16-valve, 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 I-4 engine, which comes standard in the Cherokee.

The Cherokee is scheduled to be unveiled later today during a press conference at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, which is expected to be a very important show for the U.S. automotive industry with dozens of debuts. The show is open to the public from March 29 through April 7.

Since Jeep released images of the vehicle in February, some analysts have praised the vehicle's new, smoother design. 

Check back to MLive.com/auto for more information on the new 2014 Jeep Cherokee.

Email Michael Wayland: MWayland@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/MikeWayland 

The 2013 New York International Auto Show is the end of the U.S. auto show season, and many automakers have saved their most luxurious, sporty vehicles for last. Luxury automakers, even some brands not traditionally known for luxurious vehicles, are expected to grab numerous headlines at this year’s show.

NEW YORK- The 2013 New York International Auto Show is the end of the U.S. auto show season, and many automakers have saved their most luxurious, sporty vehicles for last.

“This is kind of it for the manufacturers,” said Karl Brauer, editor in chief and CEO of TotalCarScore.com. “This is the ‘Swan Song’ of the auto show season.”

Luxury automakers, even some brands not traditionally known for luxurious vehicles, are expected to grab numerous headlines at this year’s show.

Automakers such as Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Acura, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Porsche and Volvo all have press conferences at the show, which begins Wednesday with the first of two press preview days.

“It’s a glitz and glamour show,” “There’s a lot of people that go to the show, which is ironic given how many people own cars in New York.

“The show is hugely important.”

Hyundai, a brand not always known for luxury, is also expected to debut its 2014 Equus on Wednesday.

Brauer said some of his most-anticipated unveilings not from the Detroit Three, which are expected to debut about 10 vehicles, are the 2014 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, 2015 Volkswagen Golf and Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG.

The show, however, isn’t slated as much as it once was toward luxury vehicles, according to TrueCar.com senior analyst Jesse Toprak.

“We have a whole rainbow of different vehicles,” he said. “Historically, it’s skewed toward imports, European imports, but as the auto shows have become more international, things have balanced out.

“We have a balanced portfolio of introductions this year.”

Non-luxury automakers expected to take some bites out of the Big Apple are Toyota, Volkswagen, Kia, Nissan, Scion, Subaru, Mitsubishi and brands from the Detroit Three.

Here’s a look at some of the most-anticipated debuts of this year’s show. Click on the links for more information and/or photos.

• Acura MDX

• Audi A3

• BMW 328d

• Honda Odyssey

• Hyundai Equus

• Hyundai Tucson

• Infiniti QX60

• Kia Optima

• Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG

• Land Rover Range Rover Sport

• Toyota Highlander

• Scion tC

• Subaru Hybrid

• Volkswagen Golf

• Volkswagen GTI

• Wonder Woman Kia Sportage

If you missed the 2014 Cadillac CTS' unveiling, below is a look at MLive.com’s coverage of the third-generation vehicle’s unveiling, as well as the overall preliminary specifications of the vehicle and how it compares to the current model.

NEW YORK- General Motors Co. unveiled the 2014 Cadillac CTS in a grand fashion Tuesday night in New York City.

If you missed it, below is a look at MLive.com’s coverage of the third-generation vehicle’s unveiling, as well as the overall preliminary specifications of the vehicle and how they compares to the current model.

Continue to check back to MLive.com/auto for more information about the 2014 CTS and NY Auto Show coverage.

CTS coverage:

- Video: GM unveils 2014 Cadillac CTS in New York with 3D sketch of Columbus Ciricle

- Photo gallery: Cadillac CTS makes world debut

- Photo gallery: 2014 Cadillac CTS

- GM theatrically unveils Cadillac CTS in New York

- Live video: 2014 Cadillac CTS world debut

- 2014 Cadillac CTS 'longer, lower, leaner' for muscular look

- GM, Chrysler bringing speed and luxury to 2013 New York Auto Show

The new vacuum was developed in conjunction with Shop-Vac, and is composed of a powerful vacuum, replaceable filter and canister bag, with nozzle accessories neatly integrated into a dedicated space on the driver's side bulkhead of the rear cargo area.

NEW YORK- Honda Motor Co. unveiled its 2014 Honda Odyssey Tuesday night in New York with a new, one-of-a-kind feature.

The minivan’s top trim level will debut the “HondaVAC,” the first-ever in-vehicle vacuum system.

"The Odyssey is already the leader in its segment, and for 2014, Honda has made the modern family hauler even better," said Michael Accavitti, vice president of marketing operations at American Honda, in a statement. "Honda is once again showcasing its reputation for innovation with HondaVAC, and its ability to provide true value to our customers."

Honda said the system is part of a thorough refresh of the Honda Odyssey for the 2014 model year, adding to its class-leading fuel economy ratings and unmatched safety ratings. The 2014 Odyssey will go on sale at Honda dealerships nationwide this summer.

The new vacuum was developed in conjunction with Shop-Vac, and is composed of a powerful vacuum, replaceable filter and canister bag, with nozzle accessories neatly integrated into a dedicated space on the driver's side bulkhead of the rear cargo area.

“HondaVAC makes quick cleanups a snap no matter the location, offering powerful cleaning suction and an integrated hose and cleaning attachments that reach into every corner of the Odyssey's cabin,” Honda said in a release. “The HondaVAC system's powerful electric motor never needs an outlet or recharging, can operate continuously when the engine is running, and will continue to operate for up to eight minutes when the vehicle is turned off for additional family duties.”

The 2014 Honda Odyssey, which also features a sleeker design, is set to make its public debut at the 2013 New York International Auto Show.

The signature vehicle for the South Korean automaker features a new chassis that is stiffer, longer and wider.Watch video

NEW YORK- Kia Motors Wednesday unveiled its new 2014 Kia Soul with the help of some dancing hamsters at the 2013 New York International Auto Show.

The signature vehicle for the South Korean automaker features a new chassis that is stiffer, longer and wider.

“When the first Soul was introduced in 2009, everyone at Kia believed we had a hit on our hands, but we didn’t realize how big that hit was going to be,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of marketing and communications at Kia Motors America (KMA), in a statement.

The vehicle will be available three trim -- Base, Plus and Exclaim -- when it goes on sale this fall. Pricing will be announced closer to the Soul’s launch date.

The 2014 Soul was one of three vehicles to debut at the show for Kia. The others were the 2014 Optima and 2014 Forte Koup. The three vehicles are the last of seven promised new or significantly redesigned vehicles.

Here's a video of the dancing hamsters:

 

General Motors Co. will unveil the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro today at the 2013 New York International Auto Show. Little is known about the vehicle, but it will join arguably the strongest of lineup of Chevrolet performance vehicles in decades

NEW YORK- General Motors Co. will unveil the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro today at the 2013 New York International Auto Show.

Little is known about the vehicle, but it will arguably join the strongest lineup of Chevrolet performance vehicles in decades.

The refreshed sports car will join the newly unveiled 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible, 2014 SS sedan and 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe to round out the brand’s performance lineup.

“Chevrolet customers have validated our performance credentials with their enthusiasm,” said GM North America President Mark Reuss, in a previously released statement. “We're going to give them even more reasons to be enthused about Chevrolet performance, design and technology.”

Below is a live stream of the unveiling, which will start at 12:45 p.m. Come back and watch the world premiere of the vehicle, and let us know what you think about the new vehicle following in the comments section.

The refreshed sports car will join the newly unveiled 2014 Corvette Stingray convertible, 2014 SS sedan and 2014 Corvette Stingray coupe to round out the brand’s performance lineup.Watch video

NEW YORK- General Motors Co. unveiled the highly-anticipated 2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS and a special surpise during the 2013 New York International Auto Show early Wednesday afternoon.

Following the unveiling of the Camaro SS, the Detroit-based automaker unveiled a new Chevrolet Camaro Z28.

"We think this car will help 2013 be another great year for Camaro," said GM North America President Mark Reuss during the SS unveiling.

The news came in conjunction with the announcement of a $1 million grant by the Michigan Business Development Program.

Cory Morse | MLive.com 

GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Auto parts supplier Challenge Manufacturing Co. will add 180 new jobs and $10 million in new equipment at its metal stamping operations in Walker and Holland, the Right Place Inc. and Lakeshore Advantage announced Wednesday, March 27.

The news came in conjunction with the announcement of a $1 million grant by the Michigan Business Development Program.

The grant will be instrumental in keeping Challenge Manufacturing in the West Michigan market, according to the announcement.

“As a proud West Michigan-based manufacturer, we are very pleased that this latest expansion of our business will happen at home,” said Boyd Vor Broker, Challenge’s vice president of finance, in a news release.

“The support of state and local economic development made expanding in West Michigan much more economically feasible.”

The City of Walker and the City of Holland have both offered local tax abatements in support of this project, according to the announcement.

The new jobs will be full-time and will include benefits, the news release said. The positions will range from technical to skilled and unskilled production opportunities, with the majority of the jobs being in production. No salary ranges were disclosed.

About 90 percent of the new equipment and 80 percent of the new jobs will go to the Challenge Manufacturing’s Holland plant at 1401 S Washington Avenue, said Right Place spokesman Tim Mroz. The remaining equipment and jobs will be located at the Walker plant at 3079 Three Mile Road NW.

Mroz said Challenge is expanding in response to a new contract to supply parts to a domestic automaker. The company is contractually barred from naming its customer, he said.

Challenge Manufacturing employs more than 1,000 people at four plants in West Michigan, three in Walker and one in the City of Holland.

“This project exemplifies the comprehensive teamwork required to support growing West Michigan businesses,” said Right Place President and CEO Birgit Klohs.

“Two economic development organizations working together with state and local support were able to assemble a business package that ensured 180 new jobs and $10 million in capital investment stayed in West Michigan.”

"With three expansions in the past three years, Challenge Manufacturing is among the fastest growing companies throughout West Michigan," said Randy Thelen, president of Lakeshore Advantage.

"By working quickly and efficiently with our economic development partners, we were able to successfully capture additional jobs and investment in our region, which is what economic development is all about."

E-mail Jim Harger: jharger@mlive.com and follow him on Twitter at twitter.com/JHHarger

Center for Automotive Research vice president Sean McAlinden told the Washtenaw County Economic Club that the "Big 3" auto companies are as profitable as they've ever been. Courtney Sacco | AnnArbor.com Related: Michigan already is one of the top research and development centers in the country, but the state will need more highly trained engineers and programmers to keep...

Center for Automotive Research vice president Sean McAlinden told the Washtenaw County Economic Club that the "Big 3" auto companies are as profitable as they've ever been.

Courtney Sacco | AnnArbor.com

• Washtenaw County in the midst of a six-year economic rebound, adding 25,000 jobs


• Economic forecast sure to provide interesting look into Washtenaw County's future

Speaking at the Washtenaw County Economic Outlook Luncheon on Wednesday, economists George Fulton and Sean McAlinden said that while manufacturing is returning to Southeast Michigan, greater gains are being made in the development and creation of automotive components than in the heavy manufacturing that was once a central component of the local economy.

“Michigan has 65,000 automotive engineers working at 360 technical centers and is the largest industrial R&D center in the United States outside California,” said McAlinden, executive vice president for research and chief economist at the Ann Arbor-based Center for Automotive Research, said.

The economists agreed that these knowledge-based jobs are the future of the economy for the region and that while many positions are filled, there is room for a lot more talent to come to the area.

“For every engineer with at least five years of experience, there are three or four job openings right now,” McAlinden said.

“Some engineers right out of school have had some difficulty because companies are hesitant to train new hires in case they are then hired away by competitors for just a few thousand dollars more, but I think that’s going to go away soon and you’ll see an increase in entry level positions being hired.”

This issue of a gap in available talent and hiring practices of companies was addressed at the Governor’s Economic Summit held in Detroit March 18 and 19.

The one area where the auto industry is outpacing the talent supply available in Michigan by a wide margin is software developers. According to McAlinden’s presentation, Michigan is not a top 10 state in terms of the density of software developers and programmers.

“When we talk about this kind of talent we always say Ann Arbor is where that is,” he said. “Well, we need even more now, even Ann Arbor isn’t enough of that.”

The increase in engineering and design jobs helped support one of the primary theses in Fulton’s presentation, that future job growth in Washtenaw County will be driven by “high-wage” jobs. Fulton, director of the Center for Labor Market Research at the University of Michigan, predicts that over the next three years, jobs with annual wages higher than $62,000 will grow by 8.5 percent, far and away the highest gaining sector in the local economy.

Both agreed, however, that the increase in available jobs will have to be met by an increase in talent which means more university graduates choosing to remain in the area or the retraining of older unemployed residents.

While the number of Washtenaw County jobs in automobile manufacturing has dropped from a peak of 19,120 in 1990 to just 4,656 today, the industry is still a major factor in the economic health of the region.

“The high unemployment, the housing crash, everything that happened in 2008 and 2009, those were body shots,” McAlinden said in an interview. “They were reminders to the county that ‘you’re still in Michigan.’”

In delivering his 28th economic forecast for Washtenaw County, George Fulton said "it's been another good year."

Courtney Sacco | AnnArbor.com

“Washtenaw County (and Livingston County) will replenish all of the jobs lost from the recession by 2013,” he said. “That’s a big deal to people outside the area because they are still really struggling.”

Fulton attributed the recovery to the county’s relatively diverse economy and said that the gains were spread across most major sectors, especially private sector service providing.

“It’s better to see the whole economy improving slightly more gradually than to have it dominated by a couple of industries that are really taking off while others still struggle,” he said in an interview.

Just as the automotive recovery has helped the local economy regain its footing, the recovery of the residential real estate market has in turn come full circle and has helped the recovery the automotive industry, the economists said.

Fulton saw the increase in home construction as a sign that the housing market is tight and that prices are increasing. For McAlinden, the upswing means that customers have higher net worth and that construction workers need new trucks.

“We saw a 10.7 percent increase in light truck sales, much of that being pickup trucks as construction of new homes has increased,” he said.

“…And when you sell a driveway, we sell some cars. Especially when there’s a garage behind it.”Ben Freed covers business for AnnArbor.com. You can sign up here to receive Business Review updates every week. Reach out to Ben at 734-623-2528 or email him at benfreed@annarbor.com. Follow him on twitter @BFreedinA2