New powertrain for Subaru Outback; Former Ikea boss joins Volvo board; Cadillac won’t feature a diesel until after 2014; Maserati has received 20,000 orders this year
The Subaru Outback is now available with a 2.0-litre Boxer diesel mated to a Lineartronic CVT gearbox; a world first, according to its maker. It claims 44.8mpg on the combined cycle and emissions of 166g/km. Other revisons include interior and exterior styling tweaks and changes to the suspension setup for improved ride comfort.
Volvo Cars has appointed Mikael Ohlsson to its board of directors. Ohlsson is a former IKEA Group boss and takes over the position on the board of directors that was occupied by Håkan Samuelsson. Volvo says he brings a “deep knowledge of customer-focused retail operations”.
The much-needed diesel engine for the Cadillac range won’t be here next year, says the brand’s European boss, Thomas Sedran. Caddy owner GM is currently considering what Sedran describes as “two timing options” for the diesel, but neither includes 2014.
Infinti has appointed its first Europe-based product boss. Nicolas Tschann will co-ordinate all new model development across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He previously headed up the Q30 Concept development team. Infiniti Europe boss, Fintan Knight said: “we have the ambition to disrupt and lead the premium segment with great technology, fast innovation and seductive styling. The fact that we have created this senior role shows how crucial it is to Infiniti’s future here. Nicolas brings with him a wealth of Infiniti experience, local knowledge and product passion.”
Maserati has gathered 20,000 orders so far this year following the release of its 5-series rival, the Ghibli, and the the new Quattroporte. The bulk are for the Ghibli. Last year Maserati sold 6300 cars.