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GM in Europe (Vauxhall & Opel) have some cars that are sold in USA. But here we're lucky to get two engine choices while in Europe they get a wide range of choices (not including diesels). Opel Astra and Chevy Cruze are pretty much the same car. So why is the Cruze limited to a base engine 1.8L and an optional 1.4L turbo (same HP as 1.8L but more torque)? Why not 1.4L turbo base and 1.6L (168 HP) next level up then a 2.0L turbo SS version? Is it the cost of developing these existing engines to meet US emission standards?
I'm going to assume that it is because the marketplace is much more discriminating in Europe, and demands the choice. They have to be, because the high price of gas, which is 2 or 3 times what it is in the USA. In America, a car buyer just wants his car to have "plenty of power", so most have an engine that is more than big enough for the car, and the carmaker sells an engine, with a car that it can lift. But the European, who has to pay for the gas, does not want his car to be overpowered, so demands a gradient of choices that are appropriate for the car.
Automatic transmission is maybe also a factor. The driver of the automatic seldom has a sense of nor a use for the power that is under the hood, he just lets the machine choose a suitable gear range and starts texting. But with a need to keep shifting up and down in traffic situations, the European driver in a test drive will notice how well the engine power is matched to the needs of the particular car.
For the same reason americans have always wanted different choice form Europeans.just look at the car themselves and remember driving in many Europeans areas is like driving in old Boston.very limited space.As to engine they even have different EPA standards. Americans have always loved the V8. just look at truck sales as example of differences in preference.Its alos more expensive as pointed out and US driver averages many more miles a year.All adds up to different wants.
Different pollution standards and many more small cars in Europe = small engines
Add to it that over 50% engines are diesel in Europe, while Americans still have to understand that diesel is a better choice...
GM in Europe (Vauxhall & Opel) have some cars that are sold in USA. But here we're lucky to get two engine choices while in Europe they get a wide range of choices (not including diesels). Opel Astra and Chevy Cruze are pretty much the same car. So why is the Cruze limited to a base engine 1.8L and an optional 1.4L turbo (same HP as 1.8L but more torque)? Why not 1.4L turbo base and 1.6L (168 HP) next level up then a 2.0L turbo SS version? Is it the cost of developing these existing engines to meet US emission standards?
The other issue not mentioned here is cost to get certified to sell. If you gave the government your fist dozen cars to sell as quick as possible the first day it would be approved, you are looking at 28 months from now! In Europe, they can get that down to 3 months! This is a huge investment for something that may not even be liked over 2 years from now in the States ! Every model requires recert in the USA, while Europe only needs a model of that vehicle and if it passes, all the optional model trims are approved at the same time. This is why you see the choices down to color and moonroof or not? on US sold cars. As Reagan said, Government is the problem !
Politics. Politics and money. Germans openly admit that they can not sell quality engines here due to politics. Read an article on this in Pop Mech not so long ago.
Plus, you are not really supporting our economy, are you?
Politics. Politics and money. Germans openly admit that they can not sell quality engines here due to politics. Read an article on this in Pop Mech not so long ago.
Plus, you are not really supporting our economy, are you?
Got a link? I'm too lazy to go find it myself.
Most European countries have to be creative about adding power, as engines get taxed above 2.0L based on displacement. Which is why 2.0T is such a popular European engine size.
Diesel is very popular in Europe. Many cars that are gas-only in the US have a diesel engine option.
I think modern diesel would be more popular in the US if it weren't for the political restrictions. 1. The tax on diesel to nail the trucking industry and 2. the fact that ethanol/corn subsidies don't benefit from diesel.
It's too bad, as it's a much more efficient fuel than gas.
EPA and DOT are a hassle in the USA.....more cars to certify means more money for R+D.....so offer less options, make more money!
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As Reagan said, Government is the problem !
