Autocade is an international car cyclopædia that’s geographically unbiased, carefully edited for enthusiasts and media who want a quick, accurate reference. There is a greater emphasis on models produced after 1970.
Inside Autocade
Jeep Compass (MP). 2016 to date (prod. n/a). 5-door SUV. F/F, F/A, 1368, 1995 cm³ petrol, 1598, 1956 cm³ diesel (I4 DOHC), 2359 cm³ (I4 OHC). Another Jeep on the Fiat Grande Punto platform, stretched compared to the one underpinning the Renegade. Launched in Brazil first, and built at a new plant there. Not as useful as traditional Jeeps, and Trailhawk version is more about appearance than off-road capability. Poor performance from 2·4, mated to nine-speed automatic. Vague steering, average ride, basic interior, and poor refinement. Handling acceptable. Infotainment system fairly easy to use. Sales began with 2017 model year in the US.
Manufacturing locations: Toluca, México; Goiana, Pernambuco, Brazil; Guangzhou, China; Ranjangaon, Maharashtra, India
Marque: Jeep | Model: Jeep Compass | Predecessors: Jeep Compass (MK), Jeep Patriot
Buick Skyhawk (J-car). 1982–9 (prod. n/a). 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon, 2- and 3-door coupé. F/F, 1835, 1999 cm³ (I4 OHV), 1796 cm³ (I4 OHC). Buick version of J-body “world car”. OHV engines built locally, but OHC engine imported from Brazil and shared with that country’s Chevrolet Monza (1982–96). Turbo OHC on T-Type model from 1983 to 1986. Two-litre only from 1987. No convertible. Sedan and two-door coupé in 1982, wagon from 1983, hatch from 1986. Coupés dropped for 1987 as Buick refocused on selling premium automobiles. Plusher than Chevrolet Cavalier (1982–94), always with a more sporting grille, beginning with a droop-snoot style akin to 1970s’ Vauxhalls, and ending the run with pop-up headlights (from 1986). Never a match for Japanese rivals though better regarded than fragile Cavalier.
Manufacturing locations: Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Janesville, Wisconsin, USA
Marque: Buick | Model: Buick Skyhawk | Predecessor: Buick Skyhawk (1975–80)
Dacia Sandero (B52/M0). 2012 to date (prod. n/a). 5-door saloon. F/F, 898 cm³ (I3 DOHC), 1149 cm³ petrol, 1461 cm³ diesel (I4 OHC). Restyled Sandero has more upmarket looks and greater perceived quality; initial tests show huge improvement in assembly. Related to Dacia Logan II. Faux off-roader, Sandero Stepway, continues with new shape.
Manufacturing locations: Pitesti, Romania; Casablanca, Morocco
Marque: Dacia | Model: Dacia Sandero | Predecessor: Renault Sandero I | Successor: Dacia Sandero III
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