New Models
2012 LA Auto Show Highlights
Dec 2nd
California is widely known for its influence on car culture. With over 37 million residents, California ranks higher than many countries in terms of annual automotive purchases. Whereas the LA Auto Show was once just another mid-sized auto show, over the last few years it joined the ranks amongst the big three shows. And many argue that the LA Auto Show is the most important show for all but domestic manufacturers.
This past week we made the trip out to the show for press days and we are excited to give you a glimpse at the highlights. While we were sure to checkout all vehicles on display, our main goal was to see what our brands had to offer.
We will be piecing together our video footage shortly for each of our brands, but in the meantime we’ve put together the synopsis below to tide you over.
Bentley
Undoubtedly, the most noticeable vehicle at Bentley was the new GT3 concept. The Bentley GT3 Coupe and 2014 GT Speed made their North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto show. The GT3 racecar, first revealed at the Paris Auto Show, marks Bentley’s return to competitive GT sport car racing. While the car is still considered a concept, it is currently undergoing testing with the goal of participated in motorsports events towards the end of 2013.
One thing we do know is that the GT3 coupe is loosely based on the new 2014 Bentley GT Speed, which also debuted at the show. The 205 mpg GT Speed is Bentley’s fastest car ever. The reworked bi-turbo 6.0l W12 that propels it generates 616hp and reaches 60 miles per hour in 4 seconds. Bentley reports that the GT Speed can sprint from 0 to 60 in 4 seconds and I have no reason to doubt them. The GT Speed rolls on unique 21 inch wheels, which accompanied with the 10mm decrease in ride height, really make the GTSpeed pop. Stiffened springs and anti-roll bars reportedly sharpen handling and massive 16.5 inch carbon brakes with 8-piston calipers provide substantial stopping power.
Bentley also displayed the latest Mulliner driving specification on the Mulsanne, but the two GT models certainly garnered the most attention.
Ford
This year Ford’s emphasis was on the Fiesta. For 2014 the Fiesta gets a mild refresh, but the biggest news was what is to come under the hood. At the show, amidst much pomp and circumstance including a live outdoor Ken Block Gymkhana show, Ford confirmed that their 1.0 liter Ecoboost engine will join the Fiesta lineup. Ford expects the Ecoboost Fiesta to be the most fuel efficient non-hybrid vehicle on the market in the US. Despite exceeding the current 1.6 liter engines horsepower and torque figures, the 1.0liter turbocharged 3-cylinder is expected to deliver fuel economy in the neighborhood of 45 miles per gallon. This makes the Fiesta a legitimate competitor to more expensive, fuel sipping hybrids.
Ford also announced the addition of an ST model to the Fiesta range. The Fiesta ST massages the 1.6 liter Ecoboost engine to generate 197 horsepower and 214 lb./ft. of torque. Despite the cars elevated levels of performance, it is still projected to return up to 34 miles per gallon. This of course assumes that you’re not constantly flooring the loud pedal.
Overshadowed by all of the Fiesta fan-fare, Ford also debuted the new Transit Connect 7-seat van.
Over the River and to the Mall in a 2013 Nissan Pathfinder
Nov 25th
Ahhhh Thanksgiving. A holiday to give thanks, stuff our faces with an embarrassingly array of calorie laden treats and for some, an opportunity to brave the crowds at the mall in hopes of getting a deal that’s too good to be true. I for one checked all the boxes in this trifecta and added one more. I spent the extended holiday weekend enjoying the all-new 2013 Nissan Pathfinder.
When it first debuted in 1986, the Nissan Pathfinder was a true body on frame 4-wheel drive truck that was arguably better suited for off-road hijinks than on-road comfort. Throughout the years, the Pathfinder has evolved away from its off-road, path finding roots, and more towards suburban errand running. Don’t take this as a bad thing, though. Just consider it a different kind of path finding that better aligns with consumer preference.
2013 Mazda CX-9 Reveal
Nov 12th
In advance of its arrival at US dealers later this fall, Mazda posted this teaser of the redesigned 2013 Mazda CX-9. While the original CX-9 is a tough act to follow, the latest iteration employs Mazda’s bold KODO Design in Motion styling. Check out the video to see how Mazda has brought the 2013 CX-9 to the next level.
2013 Nissan Sentra First Drive
Oct 29th
With over 10 brands to choose from within the Morrie’s Automotive group, one could easily find a number of cars that he or she would love to take on a road trip. Cars like the Nissan GT-R, Cadillac CTS-V and Bentley GT come to mind, but what would you think about spending 200 miles in a Nissan Sentra. Admittedly, the Nissan Sentra would not be my first choice for a half-day road trip, but I must say that after spending four-plus hours in a new Sentra I was pleasantly surprised. For a number of reasons, the Sentra easily complements any road trip. More >
The 2013 Lincoln MKZ is a Visual Stunner
Oct 15th
Morrie’s Minnetonka Lincoln is excited to give you a sneak peek of the brand new 2013 Lincoln MKZ. In advance of its official arrival in November, we were able to spend a few minutes and film this beautiful MKZ when a Lincoln training representative stopped by our store.
Completely redesigned for 2013, the new MKZ is a visual stunner that is arguably the best integration of Lincoln’s signature split-wing grille. Further complemented by LED head and taillights the MKZ is sure to get your attention the first time you see one on the road. On the inside, the standard My Lincoln Touch controls a range of multi-media systems, while the large panoramic sunroof fills the cabin with an abundance of natural light.
The 2013 MKZ offers three powertrain options to suit a wide range of needs. This includes a 2.0 liter EcoBoost combining the best of turbocharging and direct injections technologies, a 3.7 liter V6 and 2.0 liter Atkinson Cycle Hybrid electric powertrain. Lincoln Drive Control offers the thrill of a performance car without sacrificing the smooth ride you come to expect from a Lincoln.
We are currently taking orders for the 2013 Lincoln MKZ and expect to see our first cars hit the lot in November.
Morrie’s Gives You a Sneak Peek of the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
Aug 8th
Morrie’s Minnetonka Subaru is excited to bring you a sneak peek of the brand new 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek. While it will not be available at dealers until this fall we had the opportunity get up close and personal with an early production model that stopped by our store.
The adventure friendly Subaru XV Crosstrek was designed to get you in and out of all the places where you make life happen. On top of Subaru’s legendary symmetrical all-wheel drive system, the XV Crosstrek offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance to get you into places other cars cannot. Despite the added ruggedness the XV Crosstrek does not sacrifice fuel economy and is the most fuel efficient crossover on the market.
Check out the video to learn more about the XV Crosstrek.
Morrie’s Minnetonka Subaru Has the First Subaru BRZ in the Twin Cities
May 29th
The much anticipated 2013 Subaru BRZ has arrived and Morrie’s Minnetonka Subaru is the first dealer in the Twin Cities to have one available in inventory. The BRZ offers a dynamic driving experience rarely seen at the $25k price point, thanks in part to its near 50/50 weight distribution and curb weight just under 2,900 pounds. Furthermore, the 2.0 liter boxer engine mounted low in the chassis and routed through the rear wheels provides nimble handling that is sure to spice up your commute. This particular BRZ sports dark gray metallic paint complemented by black interior with the Limited package and an automatic transmission. Stop by to see the BRZ in person soon.
Winding Road takes two Saabs out for a drive
May 19th
The Winding Road has added two new Saab road tests to their online magazine – and they’re both worth a read. First up is the Saab 9-4X Aero, pictured here. There is the inevitable who\what is Saab storyline in both reviews, but once you get past that and on to the cars, they’re both quite good. More >
Nissan Leaf Preview at Brooklyn Park Nissan
Mar 28th
As a true-blue petrolhead, you might assume it would be hard for me to get excited about an electric car. Surprisingly though – that couldn’t be farther from the truth. More >
2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet
Mar 9th
Have you heard of a mashup before? It’s like when DJ Danger Mouse took Jay-Z’s Black Album, overlaid the Beatles White Album and created the Grey Album. Take two things – mash them together, and sometimes magic happens. That’s exactly what Nissan was hoping for when they created this – the 2011 Murano CrossCabriolet. Nissan appears to have taken their Murano and mashed it up with their 370z, and quite possible invented a new segment along the way. More >
