April 2010 U.S. Auto Sales - Big Gains Over April 2009

General Motors combined April sales for Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac was 183,091, a 20-percent increase from a year ago. For the calendar year-to-date, combined total sales for Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac are 652,444, up 31 percent from the first four months of 2009.

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealers delivered 162,996 new vehicles in April, a 25 percent increase versus a year ago. It marks the fifth month in a row Ford sales have increased more than 20 percent. Year-to-date sales totaled 591,592, up 34 percent.   

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported April sales of 157,439 vehicles, up 24.4 percent over a year ago. Year-to-date Toyota sales are 543,125, up 12.8 percent.
   
American Honda posted April sales of 113,697, an increase of 12.5 percent compared to April 2009. American Honda year-to-date sales of 370,109 represent an increase of 12.6 percent.

Chrysler Group LLC reported total U.S. sales for April of 95,703 units, an increase of 25 percent versus April 2009. Year-to-date Chrysler has sold 329,918 vehicles, a 2 percent gain over 2009.

Nissan North America reported April 2010 sales of 63,769 units, an increase of 35.1 percent, compared with April 2009.  Nissan Division sales rose 33.8 percent for the month, while sales of Infiniti vehicles were 46.2 percent higher than a year before. Year-to-date Nissan has sold 291,998 vehicles, a gain of  31.6 percent over 2009.

Hyundai Motor America announced an all-time sales record for the month of April selling 44,023 vehicles, up 30 percent versus one year ago, marking the sixteenth consecutive month of year-over-year retail market share gains for Hyundai. Year-to-date, Hyundai sales are 155,532, up 19.8 percent over 2009.

Kia Motors America announced April sales of 30,036 units sold, a 17.3 percent increase over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales are 106,732, up 12.9 percent from the first four months of 2009.

Volkswagen of America reported April 2010 sales of 23,135 total units, for a 42 percent increase over April 2009, and its tenth consecutive month of sales growth. For the year-to-date, Volkswagen's sales are 81,418, up 39.4% versus the same time frame in 2009. Separately, Audi reported record April sales of 9,319 in the U.S., an increase of 32.9 percent compared to April 2009. This topped the previous record, set in 2007, of 8,106 vehicles sold.

Subaru of America sales for April 2010 were up 48-percent over April 2009 with 23,198 units sold. Year-to-date sales increased 41-percent with 80,692 units sold over the same period last year.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported April sales of 21,111 vehicles, an increase of 9 percent from same month of 2009.  Year to date, the BMW Group total sales volume is 76,162 vehicles, up 7.9 percent compared to the first four months of last year.

Mazda North American Operations reported its seventh consecutive month of sales increases with April 2010 sales of 18,935, an increase of 17.3 percent versus April 2009. Year-to-date, Mazda sales are 74,876, up 7.1 percent.

Daimler AG reported U.S. sales of 18,908 Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles. smart USA recorded 680 sales in April 2010. On a year-to-date basis, the company sold 68,794 new vehicles, an increase of 25.5% over last year.

Mitsubishi Motors North America April 2010 sales were 3,932, 0.3 % higher than April 2009 and for the year Mitsubishi has sold 17,555 vehicles a drop of 1.1 percent from 2009.

Jaguar Land Rover North America April U.S. sales for both brands totaled 3,645 units, a 10 percent increase from 3,324 in April 2009. On a calendar year to date basis versus 2009, Jaguar Land Rover North America sales are up 7 percent to 12,736 units. Jaguar sales in April were 896 units, down 30 percent  from  April 2009, Land Rover sales were 2,749 units, up 35 percent from April 2009. 

American Suzuki sold 1,950 vehicles in the U.S. in April down 23 percent from April 2009 and year-to-date sales are 7,661, a 57 percent drop from the same four month period.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

American Suzuki Offers "Free Gas for Summer" To Boost Sales

 American Suzuki "Free Gas for Summer" sales promotion offers car buyers three months of free gasoline on retail purchases of any new 2010 Suzuki model, including the all-new Kizashi (above), SX4 SportBack, SX4 Sport sedan, SX4 Crossover, Grand Vitara and Equator. The Suzuki "Free Gas for Summer" sales program kicks off May 1  and runs through Aug. 31. Customers will receive a stored value debit card, ranging in value from $280 to $442, which can be used for fuel purchases. The amount of each stored value gas card is determined by several factors, including an assumed three-month timeframe for summer driving, the car's EPA estimated highway mpg, the Federal Highway Administration's estimated average of 1,000 miles driven per month and the U.S. national average price of one gallon of regular gasoline as determined by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The 2011 Kizashi Sport, shown in New York International a month ago, is offered on Kizashi GTS and SLS trim levels and goes on sale in the United States this August. Pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle's arrival in dealer showrooms. Features include a more muscular front fascia with chrome accents and lower grille, body side sill extensions, lower body side molding with chrome accents, a trunk mounted spoiler, custom light weight 18-inch alloy wheels and a 10mm lower ride height.

American Suzuki sales in March were a dismal 2,246, a 72 percent tumble from March 2009 and year-to-date sales through March are 5,661, a 63 percent drop from 2009. We'll find out Monday how the month of April treated Suzuki sales in the U.S. and we'll see how the just-announced free gas for summer promotion and the Sport version of the Kizashi will help move metal.

2010 Saab Aero Sedan Starts At $49,900 In July

The all-new 2010 9-5 Saab top-of-the-line Aero Sedan, arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in July,  will be priced at $49,990 MSRP.  The Aero will have a 300 horsepower 2.8-litre V6 turbo engine with dual overhead camshaft valvetrain and a twin-scroll intercooled turbocharger mated to the Sentronic six-speed automatic with transmission with paddle shifting. Then it will be shortly followed by the 9-5 Aero introduction with a 2.0-litre turbo variant. Pricing for these 2011 model year vehicles will start at under $40,000 MSRP.

Volvo's VP Design Peter Horbury

2011 Kia Sportage Goes On Sale This Summer

The all-new 2011 Kia Sportage compact CUV, drawing from the styling elements of the Kue concept, is longer, wider and lower than the previous model and displays the new face of Kia, or the “Schreyer” line, coming from its designer Peter Schreyer who joined Kia almost 4 years ago after a long career at VW/Audi where he was famous for his A6 and TT designs. The 2011 Sportage, on an all-new platform, has an overall length of 174.8 inches, overall width of 73 inches, wheelbase of 104 inches, and utilizes independent front-and-rear suspension systems. The all-new Sportage comes standard with a 176 horsepower 2.4-liter DOHC 16-value four-cylinder engine with Continuously Variable Value Timing. A more powerful fuel efficient 2.0 liter Gas Direct Injected turbo powerplant will be available in the 2011 model year. 

 Offered with two-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations paired to either a six-speed manual transmission (base) or a six-speed automatic transmission, Sportage is available in two trims, LX and EX. Sportage EX models have available features, including leather-trimmed seats, heated and ventilated front seats, push button start, rear sonar detector and a panoramic sunroof. The 2011 Sportage will be the second Kia model to offer UVO powered by Microsoft®3, the hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system (standard on EX models) enabling drivers and passengers to answer and place phone calls, receive and respond to SMS text messages, access music from a variety of media sources and create custom music experiences.

MINI USA President Jim McDowell On Countryman Coming Feb. 2011

2010 Lexus GX 460 A Don’t Buy: Safety Risk Says Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports Press Release:

Consumer Reports has judged the 2010 Lexus GX 460 SUV a Don’t Buy: Safety Risk because of a problem we experienced during our standard emergency-handling tests. When pushed to its limits on our track’s handling course, the rear of the GX we bought slid out until the vehicle was almost sideways before the electronic stability control system was able to regain control.

We believe that in real-world driving, that situation could lead to a rollover accident, which could cause serious injury or death. We are not aware, however, of any such reports.

All four of our auto engineers who conduct the test experienced the problem in an exercise used to evaluate what’s called lift-off oversteer. In the test, as the vehicle is driven through a turn, the driver quickly lifts his foot off the accelerator pedal to see how the vehicle reacts.

We perform this evaluation on every vehicle we test, which includes the 95 SUVs in our current auto Ratings. No other SUV in recent years slid out as far as the GX 460, including the Toyota 4Runner, which shares the same platform as the GX.

To confirm our results, we paid for the use of another GX 460 from Lexus and experienced the same problem.

In real-world driving, lift-off oversteer could occur when a driver enters a highway’s exit ramp or drives through a sweeping turn and encounters an unexpected obstacle or suddenly finds that the turn is too tight for the vehicle’s speed. A natural impulse is to quickly lift off the accelerator pedal. If that were to happen in the GX, the rear could slide around far enough that a wheel could strike a curb or slide off the pavement.

Either of those scenarios can cause a vehicle to roll over. And because the GX is a tall SUV with a high center of gravity, our concern for rollover safety is heightened.

Like almost all current SUVs, the GX has standard ESC. That system is designed to prevent a vehicle from sliding out in a turn and has generally worked very effectively in the vehicles we’ve tested. It does that by applying individual brakes and cutting engine power to help keep the vehicle on its intended path. But the GX’s system doesn’t intervene quickly enough to stop the slide, and the rear end swings around too far.

As a result, we are urging consumers not to buy the GX 460 until the problem has been fixed. The GX 460 has been on sale for about three months and about 5,000 vehicles have been sold. We have notified Toyota, Lexus’ parent company, of the problem. We urge the company to develop a remedy as quickly as possible and implement it in new vehicles produced at the assembly plant and those already purchased.

In an e-mail response, Toyota spokesman Joe Tetherow said, “We’re concerned with the results of Consumer Reports testing on the Lexus GX 460 and their suggested buyer recommendation. Our engineers conducted similar tests during the development of the new GX and had no issues. However, we will try to duplicate the Consumer Reports’ test to determine if appropriate steps need to be taken. Please keep in mind that the 2010 GX 460 meets or exceeds all Federal Government test requirements. Customer safety and satisfaction remain our highest priorities. We take the Consumer Reports’ test results very seriously and appreciate them bringing it to our attention.”

We have also informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The designation is rare for Consumer Reports; the last time we judged a vehicle’s performance not acceptable was with the 2001 Mitsubishi Montero Limited in the August 2001 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Current GX 460 owners: If you own a 2010 Lexus GX 460, we recommend exercising care when exiting the highway or traveling twisty roads. Obeying the speed limit and being alert for potential road hazards should limit the risk of experiencing a problem, like that recorded at the test track. We hope that Toyota can quickly develop a software update for the stability control system and update current models with revised programming.

Lexus response:

"For more than 20 years, Lexus has made customer safety and satisfaction our highest priorities. We are taking the situation with the GX 460 very seriously and are determined to identify and correct the issue Consumer Reports identified. At this time we have asked our dealers to temporarily suspend sales of the 2010 GX 460.

Lexus' extensive vehicle testing provides a good indication of how our vehicles perform and we are confident that the GX meets our high safety standards. Our engineering teams are vigorously testing the GX using Consumer Reports' specific parameters to identify how we can make the GX's performance even better.

For any customer who has purchased a 2010 GX 460 and is concerned about driving their vehicle, we will provide a loaner car until a remedy is available.

As always, Lexus is committed to providing our customers with outstanding products and service.

Nissan Exec. VP Carlos Tavares on JUKE

Scion's Dawn Ahmed On New iQ and tC

Volkswagen's John Ryan On All-New Touareg

Hyundai Equus Product Manager Derek Joyce

BMW's Jim O'Donnell On New 5 Series

Ford's Group VP Marketing Jim Farley On Technology

Volvo Cars North America CEO Doug Speck on Geely

Subaru's COO Tom Doll On Continuing Record Sales

NY Auto Show: 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon Coming This Fall

The all-new 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon with a 2.4-liter, DOHC i-VTEC®, inline four-cylinder engine made its world debut at the New York International Auto Show. The TSX Sport Wagon delivers an EPA-estimated 30 mpg on the highway and features technologies including an available hard disk drive-based Acura Navigation System™ with an all-new 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display and AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic and Weather™ featuring radar image mapping. The TSX Sport Wagon will be available with an Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Audio System and a hard disk drive (HDD) for media storage. Additionally, the TSX Sport Wagon is equipped with standard features, including a power glass moonroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seats, a premium sound system, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, and USB port and AUX jack music interface. The TSX Sport Wagon will come with standard safety features, including Acura's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ body structure. The 2011 TSX Sport Wagon arrives at Acura dealerships in the late Fall.

NY Auto Show: Mitsubishi Sport Coming This Fall For Under $19,000

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, an all-new crossover utility vehicle, joins the Outlander family lineup with a 148 horsepower MIVEC-equipped 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine giving an estimated highway fuel economy in the 31mpg range with a price tag under $19,000.  The Outlander Sport features standard technologies such as Active Stability Control (ASC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Electric Power Steering (EPS), a comprehensive seven-airbag safety system, and a high-contrast LCD instrument display. Also available is a LED-accented Panoramic Glass Roof, 710W nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate audio system and FUSE Hands-free Link system. Two trims will be offered in the U.S. market for 2010: the  ES with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or the premium SE with a standard sportronic ™ 6-speed CVT with magnesium-alloy paddle shifters.

SE models include a number of convenience features such as standard automatic climate control, rain-sensing windshield wipers and the keyless FAST-key passive entry system with push-button, One-Touch Start/Stop (OSS). Also available on SE models, the optional 40GB hard disk drive navigation system provides accurate mapping and lifetime real-time traffic updates with its 7-inch LCD display and doubles as a music server. The optional Rockford Fosgate in-car entertainment system has a full 710 watts of power and nine speakers for greater sound detail and quality. Expect to see the Outlander Sport in U.S. showrooms this Fall.

NY Auto Show: Hyundai Equus At Mid-$50,000, Turbo & Hybrid Sonata

 Hyundai's all-new flagship 2011 Equus, like its Genesis sibling, is built on Hyundai's rear-wheel-drive architecture and powered by the 4.6-liter Tau® V8 engine producing an estimated 385 horsepower using premium fuel and 378 horsepower using regular fuel and mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual control. Equus is 7.2 inches longer (203.1 inches vs. 195.9 inches) than Genesis. At the New York Show, Hyundai announced such features as an iPad owners manual in the glove box, a service department that comes to you and pampering optional features including passenger massage seats.

 Equus will also have technology including a lane departure warning system, electronic air suspension, smart cruise control and a Lexicon® audio system. Equus' total of nine airbags include advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants and a driver's knee airbag. Equus has an optional camera located on the front grille and a standard camera on the rear decklid delivering a picture to an in-dash LCD monitor to help detect how close objects are when parking. The Equus will launch with a starting price in the mid $50,000 range.


New Turbo and Hybrid Engines For 2011 Sonata
Hyundai debuted its 274 horsepower 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged gasoline direct-injection four-cylinder engine with an estimated 22 mpg city and 34 mpg highway rating for the 2011 Sonata at the New York Auto Show.

Hyundai also unveiled its 209 horsepower 2011 Sonata Hybrid delivering electric-vehicle operation at steady-state speeds of up to 62 miles per hour - that's double most hybrids on the road today! I can't wait to test it. The Hyundai-developed Hybrid Blue Drive architecture, using lithium polymer battery technology, is a full parallel hybrid drive system, which can operate on an electric motor, gasoline internal combustion engine, and a combination of the two depending on driving conditions and driver demands. Sonata Hybrid’s projected highway fuel economy is 39 mpg and city fuel economy of 37 mpg.

2011 Nissan Leaf EV Will Cost $25,280 After Fed Tax Credit, Maybe Less

The 2011 Nissan LEAF electric vehicle will have a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $32,780, which includes three years of roadside assistance. Including the $7,500 federal tax credit for which the Nissan LEAF will be fully eligible, the consumer's after-tax net value of the vehicle will be $25,280. Additionally, Nissan says there is an array of state and local incentives that may further defray the costs and increase the benefits of owning and charging a Nissan LEAF such as a $5,000 statewide tax rebate in California; a $5,000 tax credit in Georgia; a $1,500 tax credit in Oregon; and carpool-lane access in some states, including California. As a result Nissan will be able to offer a monthly lease payment beginning at $349, not including state or local incentives, which could further reduce the net cost of the Nissan LEAF. The SL trim level, available for an additional $940 (MSRP), adds features including rearview monitor, solar panel spoiler, fog lights, and automatic headlights.

Nissan will offer personal charging docks, which operate on a 220-volt supply, as well as their installation for an average cost of $2,200 which Nissan says is eligible for a 50 percent federal tax credit up to $2,000. Nissan is providing these home-charging stations, which will be built and installed by AeroVironment, as part of a one-stop-shop process that includes a home assessment. Using current national electricity averages, Nissan LEAF will cost less than $3 to "fill up."

NY Auto Show: 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid On Sale This Fall

The new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, Lincoln's first hybrid, uses a the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine, Ford's second-generation hybrid technology. The new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is expected to deliver at least 41 miles per gallon in the city when it goes on sale this Fall. Lincoln says Lincoln MKZ Hybrid's projected fuel economy tops its nearest competitor, the 2010 Lexus HS 250h, by 6 mpg. The combined gasoline engine and electric motor provide 191 net horsepower. Plus, the pure electric mode on the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid extends to 47 mph compared with the Lexus HS 250h battery-only mode which reaches just 25 mph.The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid uses a the 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle I-4 hybrid engine, Ford's second-generation hybrid technology.

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid comes standard with features and technologies like the SmartGauge with EcoGuide, Ford's interactive technology providing real-time information on efficiency and driving performance, Lincoln SYNC, a voice-activated communications and entertainment system, and MyKey which allows parents to program a key to limit speed and audio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency.

Microsoft Hohm
Also, Ford and Microsoft announced Microsoft Hohm™, an energy management application for Ford’s electric vehicles that will help owners determine when and how to most efficiently and affordably recharge battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles. It also should help utility companies manage the added demands of electric vehicles on the electric grid.make electric vehicle ownership easier and more affordable for consumers.

NY Auto Show: 2011 Mazda2 Starts At $14,730 In July, New Engines In 2011

The all-new 2011 MAZDA2, powered by a 100 horsepower 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, will have a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $14,730, including destination charges of $750 when it arrives in U.S. showrooms in July. The 2011 MAZDA2 is available in two trim levels – the entry level Sport will have either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission and the Touring which has a starting price of $16,185, is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission or available four-speed automatic transmission.

Standard features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control System (TCS), Electric Power Assist (EPAS) steering system, 185/55/R15 all-weather tires mounted on 15-inch steel wheels with full wheel covers, body-colored door handles and power mirrors, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with four speakers, audio auxiliary jack, tilt steering wheel, remote keyless entry system, rear window wiper/washer and 60/40 split fold-down rear seats.  

All Touring models feature upgraded cloth seat fabric with red piping, 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, rear roof spoiler, chrome exhaust tip, leather-wrapped steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, trip computer and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo system.

New Engines Coming Next Year
Mazda plans to launch its all-new SKY Concept powertrains into the U.S. market, beginning as early as 2011. The Mazda SKY-G, Mazda's next-generation gasoline engine, will be the core powertrain in future Mazda vehicles. SKY-G is expected to boost fuel efficiency by approximately 15 percent while also increasing engine power. Mazda plans to put its SKY-D engine into its next-generation mid-sized diesel car, achieving highway fuel economy of up to 43 miles per gallon, a 20-percent improvement in fuel efficiency over Mazda's current 2.2-liter diesel.

NY Auto Show: 2011 Scion tC Coming This Fall, iQ Arrives in Early 2011

The all-new 2011 Scion iQ, equipped with a 90 horsepower 1.3-liter, four-cylinder engine, was touted as MINI-er and smart-er at the New York Auto Show which clearly defines its target competitors. The iQ has a 78.7-inch wheelbase, overall length of 120.1-inches and width of 66.1-inches. The iQ will come standard with 10 SRS airbags, including the world's first rear-window curtain airbag. The iQ comes standard with a six-speaker audio system, USB and auxiliary ports. The 2011 iQ will go on sale in early 2011.

Six years after its launch, the second-generation Scion tC sports coupe emerges on a new platform with an all-new 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with dual VVT-i that generates 180 horsepower, 19 more than the previous model, and 11 additional lbs.-ft of torque. The tC features two all-new transmissions, a six-speed manual transmission and a new six-speed automatic which gains two gears along with sequential-shift.

Overall, the cabin has been lengthened and reclining rear seats that split 60/40, provide more storage capacity. The panoramic moonroof remains standard in the new tC. The new tC comes standard with an AM/FM/CD/USB audio system that features eight speakers and, as with all Scion models, steering-wheel-mounted controls allow the driver to easily navigate through all of their music. The tC is scheduled to arrive in dealerships later this Fall.

NY Auto Show: Infiniti QX Arrives Early Summer, Nissan JUKE This Fall

The all-new Nissan JUKE sports cross is built on the Versa platform and looks like a smaller version of the Rogue crossover. JUKE is powered by a 180+ horsepower 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder Direct Injection Gasoline turbo engine delivering 170+ lb-ft of torque. The JUKE will be offered with both front wheel drive and a torque vectoring all-wheel drive system. The two transmissions offered are Nissan’s Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission with S-Mode and a 6-speed manual transmission on the SV FWD and SL FWD models only. Nissan says that JUKE is expected to start at just under $20,000 when it arrives in showrooms this Fall.

The all-new 2011 Infiniti QX Luxury Sport Utility Vehicle has a new 400 horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine with Infiniti’s VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) and Direct Injection Gasoline technologies producing 25% more power and more than a 10% increase in fuel efficiency versus the previous design. A new standard 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Downshift Rev Matching replaces the previous 5-speed automatic.

Features include Standard Around View™ Monitor, upgraded Bose® Premium Audio System, Automatic Temperature Control System. In addition, the new QX offers a new Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, a Theater Package with dual 7-inch monitors, Advanced Climate Control System, Lane Departure Warning , Lane Departure Prevention and new Blind Spot Warning.

The 2011 Infiniti QX will start at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $56,700 for the QX56 2WD and $59,800 for the QX56 4WD, excluding applicable tax, title, license and Destination & Handling fees which is the same pricing as the previous generation QX. The 2011 QX is scheduled to go on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide in early summer 2010.

NY Auto Show: 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Coming This Summer

Subaru introduced the new 2011 4-door Impreza WRX STI to join its 5-door performance flagship model with revised suspension tuning and lighter 18-inch wheels. The WRX STI has a high-boost 305 horsepower turbocharged/intercooled 4-cylinder boxer engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with the Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with three "Auto" modes, as well as a manual mode with six driver-selectable differential locking settings.

The 4-door WRX STI has a newly designed front grille with black base, wider rear fenders, lowered ride height and the Brembo Performance Brake System which uses ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution. The 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI models arrive in Subaru dealerships late this summer.

NY Auto Show: 2011 Volvo S60 Coming This Fall

The all-new all-wheel drive 2011 Volvo S60 sport sedan, another highlight from the New York Auto Show, comes with a 300 horsepower in-line 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 325 lb-ft of torque and mated to a six-speed "Geartronic" automatic transmission. The 2011 Volvo S60 will have Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake that actively helps the driver avoid accidents. Volvo’s radar- and camera-based system can detect pedestrians in front of the car, warn the driver if anyone walks out into its path – and then automatically activate the S60’s full braking power if the driver fails to respond in time.

Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake consists of a newly developed radar unit integrated into the all-new S60’s grille, a camera fitted in front of the inside rearview mirror and a central control unit. The radar’s task is to detect any object in front of the car and to determine the distance to it while the camera determines what type of object it is. The Volvo S60 will arrive at dealerships later this Fall.

NY Auto Show: All-New Volkswagen Touareg & Porsche Cayenne

 
The Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne, built together with the Audi Q7, had their latest incarnations introduced at almost the same time this week at the New York International Auto Show.

The new VW Touareg whose first generation model came out in 2004,  is wider, lower, longer with more interior room and nearly 450 pounds lighter than the previous one. The Touareg will have three available engines: A V6 FSI® gasoline engine, a V6 TDI® Clean Diesel engine, and a V6 TSI® gasoline hybrid engine.

With the Touareg Hybrid model, a 3.0-liter supercharged, direct injection V6 gasoline engine is paired with a electric motor that reduces fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by about 40 percent. The V6 engine and electric motor combined produce a total of 375 horsepower and 428 lbs.-ft. of torque allowing for full towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. The Touareg will hit showrooms at end of year with the gas & diesel engines with the hybrid (pictured above) to follow.

The Porsche Cayenne has four models starting at $46,700 for the 300 horsepower V6, $63,700 for the 400 horsepower Cayenne S, $67,700 for the 380 horsepower S Hybrid and $104,800 for the 500 horsepower Cayenne Turbo. The Hybrid model combines a 333 horsepower supercharged gas engine with a 47 horsepower electric motor. The Cayenne has adjustable sliding back seats, more cargo space and an interior that has taken its cue from the four-door Panamera sedan. The S and Turbo models hit showrooms on July 10 and the Hybrid and V6 come out in the Fall.

NY Auto Show: MINI Countryman - Bigger With All-Wheel Drive

The all new MINI Countryman with a MINI-first four-wheel-drive system debuted during the New York International Auto Show. Measuring 161.3 inches long and with a wheelbase of 102.2 inches, nearly six inches compared to the hardtop, the MINI Countryman offers more passenger space than any other MINI, along with nearly 40 cubic feet of cargo space.

In addition to the circular instrumentation on the dash, a key feature is the Center Rail aluminum track that stretches from the front to the rear of the cabin for storage of personal items, electrical and USB connections for  integration of smartphones and other devices.

MINI Countryman powertrain options include Cooper, Cooper S or Cooper S with ALL4. The Countryman will be the first crossover on the market to feature a turbocharged and direct-injected engine with VALVETRONIC technology for optimum performance and efficiency. Its a MINI on steroids that will go on sale in early 2011.

NY Auto Show: BMW Debuts New 5 Series, 335i, New X5 Engines

BMW's North American debuts at the New York International Auto Show were the all-new 5 Series, the 335is Coupe and Convertible and BMW X5 SAV while the BMW Alpina B7 xDrive made its World debut. All will be 2011 models. The new 5 series was most impressive and one of the highlights of the show.

The two new BMW 5 Series Sedans which arrives on June 19th are the new 535i Sedan, powered by a 300 horsepower 3.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline engine, starting at $50,475, and the 550i with the 400 horsepower reverse-flow 4.4-liter Twin Power turbo V8 starting at $60,575 (including $875 Destination & Handling). Both will feature the new 8-speed automatic transmission. BMW says a 528i model will arrive later.

The driver assistance systems offered with the new 5 Series include an all-new Parking Assistant, Top View cameras, and Frontal Collision Warning with application of the brakes when ordered with Active Cruise Control plus Stop & Go. Other driver assistance features available include Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning, a Head-Up Display, BMW Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection.


Also, this spring the BMW X5 will have new powertrains and updated design for 2011.  Two of the X5’s powertrains will be all-new for 2011, creating the new X5 xDrive50i and X5 xDrive35i, in addition to the familiar BMW Advanced Diesel X5 xDrive35d. The gasoline models receive BMW’s new 8-speed automatic transmission for better acceleration and fuel efficiency.

Enhancements to the 2011 3 Series Coupe and Convertible include style updates for 328i and 335i models and a new engine for 335i models. The 2011 3 Series Coupe and Convertible models will go on sale this Spring. All BMW vehicles come with the BMW Ultimate Service, $0 maintenance for the first 4 years or 50,000 miles, is included.

Kia Tops New York Show With Optima, Sportage, Forte 5-door & Sorento SX

The New York Auto Show media days debuted an impressive line of vehicles from a variety of manufacturers but it was the Koreans that ran away with the most stunning introductions, specifically Kia. Kia showed the all-new 2011 Sportage crossover, the all-new 2011 Optima sedan, an upscale verion of the all-new Sorento called the "Sorento SX". Adding to the Korean frenzy Hyundai detailed all the bells and whistles, including massage seats, for its new $50,000-plus Equus. Hyundai also showed hybrid and turbo powered versions of the Sonata which was the top introduction at the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The biggest surprise, was the Forte five-door hatchback which will appeal to Mazda3 buyers. All, with maybe the exception of the Sorento SX have the potential to be high volume sellers. More deatils from the New York Auto Show will follow - stay tuned.

March 2010 Auto Sales, Toyota Rebounds With The Most Sales

Toyota Motor Sales reported March sales of 186,863 units, an increase of 40.7 percent for the month, compared to the same period last year.

General Motors' core brands, Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac, had sales of 185,406, a gain of 43 percent over a year ago March.

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury March sales totaled 178,546, up 43 percent versus year ago. First quarter sales totaled 428,596, up 37 percent.

American Honda Motor posted March sales of 108,262 vehicles, an increase of 17.8 percent bringing the year-to-date sales to 256,412, an increase of 12.5 percent.

Nissan North America reported March 2010 sales of 95,468 units, an increase of 43.3 percent, compared with March 2009.

Chrysler Group reported total U.S. sales for March of 92,623 units, a decrease of 8 percent compared with March 2009.

Hyundai Motor America reported March sales of 47,002 vehicles, up 15.4 percent versus one year ago, and for the quarter, Hyundai sold 111,509 vehicles, outpacing the previous record first quarter of 2006.

Kia Motors America reported its all-time best March sales of 30,522, a 23.5-percent increase over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales are up 11.3-percent for a record best first quarter ever.

Volkswagen of America reported March sales of 22,148, for a 40.9% increase over March 2009. Year-to-date, Volkswagen's sales have risen 38.4% versus the same timeframe in 2009. Separately, Audi reported March U.S. sales of 8,589, up 33.5% from a year earlier leading to Audi's best first-quarter sales since it began marketing cars in the U.S., and sent 2010 year-to-date sales up 34.8%

Subaru of America had another monthly sales record with 23,785 units sold in March making its best first quarter sales ever with 57,494 units sold.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported March sales of 21,670 vehicles, an increase of 2.6 percent from the same month of 2009.  For the first quarter, the BMW Group also reported a total sales volume of 55,051 vehicles, up 7.4 percent compared to the first three months of last year.

Daimler reported U.S. sales of 20,700 Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles. Mercedes-Benz USA reported March sales of 20,023 vehicles, up 28.3%, propelling the company to a 25.7% increase for the first quarter.

Mazda North American Operations reported March 2010 sales of 23,193, an increase of 5.5 percent versus March 2009.

Mitsubishi Motors North America had March 2010 sales of 5,434, a 17.6 percent increase over March 2009, and its highest monthly sales total since August.

American Suzuki reported sales of 2,246, a 72 percent tumble from March 2009 and year-to-date sales are 5,661, a 63 percent drop from 2009.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon & Chevy Cruze ECO & RS At New York

Media Days at the New York Auto are Wednesday and Thursday this week and General Motors has pre-announced that they'll be showing the 556 horsepower Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon show car with a supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine.

GM also announced that it will put on display the Chevrolet 2011 Cruze Eco with an Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine with variable valve timing that achieves an estimated 40 mpg on the highway when combined with a six-speed manual transmission. Along with the Eco, the 2011 Cruze will be offered in LS, LT and LTZ trims. Standard on LS models is a 136 horsepower Ecotec 1.8L four-cylinder engine. The Cruze Eco will be available in the fourth quarter of 2010.

 The Chevrolet 2011 Cruze RS is an optional appearance package for the LT and LTZ trim levels, with unique fascias, rocker moldings, rear spoiler, fog lamps and an uplevel instrument cluster which includes chrome accent rings in place of the standard silver finish..

March auto sales will be released on Thursday and there's much anticipation as to how Toyota will do after the recalls and re-starting of the factories that were shutdown to deal with the recall. Also, we'll see if Ford remains in top spot after outselling GM in February. More for the New York Auto Show later this week so stay tuned.

Ford's Sale Of Volvo Cars To Chinese Geely To Close In 3rd Quarter

Two Swedish car companies now have had their fate sealed, with ownership transferring from U.S. companies. General Motors recently sold Saab to Dutch company Spyker and today, after a long drawn out ordeal, the much anticipated Ford sale of Volvo to Chinese company Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company Limited is vitually done after a definitive agreement was signed.



The purchase price for Volvo Cars and related assets (primarily intellectual property) is $1.8 billion (U.S.), which will be paid in the form of a note in the amount of $200 million (U.S.), and the remainder in cash. The cash portion of the purchase price will be adjusted at close for customary purchase price adjustments relating to pension deficits, debt, cash and working capital, the net effect of which could be a significant decrease in the cash proceeds to Ford. The sale is expected to close in the third quarter of 2010, and is subject to customary closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory approvals.

Ford will continue to cooperate with Volvo Cars in several areas after the sale has been completed in order to ensure a smooth transition, but will not retain any ownership in the Volvo Cars business. Following completion of the sale, Ford will continue to supply Volvo Cars with, for differing periods, powertrains, stampings and other vehicle components. As part of the sale, Ford also has committed to provide engineering support, information technology, access to tooling for common components, and other selected services for a transition period to ensure a smooth separation process.

Stephen Odell, CEO of Volvo Cars, added, “The Volvo management team fully endorses Ford’s sale of Volvo Cars to Geely. We believe this is the right outcome for the business, and will provide Volvo Cars with the necessary resources, including the capital investment, to strengthen the business and to continue to move it forward in the future.

2011 Subaru Impreza WRX Coming This Summer

Subaru has introduced the new 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX models, which have taken the wide-body design from the WRX STI performance flagship model with an approximately 1.5-inch increase in front and rear track, firmer rear subframe bushings and wider 17-inch wheels that are now 17 x 8-in. vs. 17 x 7-in. and bigger tire size at 235/45R17 vs. 225/45R17 in the current model.

The 2011 Impreza WRX 4- and 5-door models are powered by a 265-horsepower turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter 4-cylinder SUBARU-BOXER® engine producing 244 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. and mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

The 2011 Impreza WRX uses the Continuous AWD version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and the Vehicle Dynamics Control stability and traction control system are standard. Incline Start Assist, featured on all Impreza models equipped with a manual transmission, can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

The 2010 Impreza WRX starts at $26,190 and the WRX Premium starts at $28,690. No pricing yet of the 2011 Impreza WRX which will arrive in Subaru dealerships this summer.

Lexus CT200h Compact Hybrid Goes On Sale In Early 2011

 The all-new Lexus CT 200h premium five-door compact hybrid, shown in Geneva last month, will be on display in New York next week, and will go on sale in the U.S. in early 2011 joining the HS 250h as Lexus' second dedicated hybrid. 

The CT 200h is powered by a 1.8L Atkinson cycle four-cylinder gas engine with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and Lexus Hybrid Drive technology. The CT 200h's Lexus Hybrid Drive technology features two motor generators which can operate as both a motor and generator.  The engine-driven generator can charge the battery pack or provide additional power to the drive motor as needed.  The drive motor is driven by electrical power from the hybrid battery pack or generator and provides motive force for the front wheels. The CT 200h will be equipped with four drive-modes: Normal, Eco, Sport and EV. 

Fiat 500 Electric Vehicle Will Come From Michigan in 2012

 Chrysler Group plans to produce a pure electric vehicle using the Fiat 500 platform with a powertrain comprised of a high power electric powertrain module, advance lithium ion battery, and an EV control unit to manage power flows. (The Fiat 500EV is pictured above at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit - January 2010.) All powertrain engineering and vehicle development will take place at Chrysler headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan. Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but will be competitive with similar electric vehicles in the market.

Later this year Chrysler Group will debut a Fiat 500 with a combustion engine for North America. Beginning in 2012, Chrysler  will manufacture the Fiat 500EV for the United States market.

Vehicle Dependability Continues To Improve According to J.D. Power

Twenty-five of 36 vehicle brands have improved in long-term dependability in 2010, compared with their performance in 2009 according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study.

Japanese models capture nine segment awards, domestic models seven and Europeans three: Toyota Highlander, Prius, Sequoia and Tundra all received four segment awards, more than any other nameplate in 2010. Honda receives three segment awards for the CR-V, Fit and Ridgeline. Lincoln captures two awards for the Mark LT and MKZ. In addition, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Ford, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz and Mercury each receive a model segment award.

Porsche leads the overall nameplate rankings in 2010, which is consistent with its performance in the J.D. Power and Associates 2007 Initial Quality Study which measures new-vehicle quality at 90 days of ownership. Lincoln improves by six rank positions from 2009 to follow Porsche in the nameplate rankings. Rounding out the top five nameplates are Buick, Lexus and Mercury. In addition, seven of the 10 models with the lowest incidence of problems in the industry are from Ford and General Motors, including the 2007 model-year Buick Lacrosse, Buick Lucerne, Cadillac DTS, Ford Five Hundred, Lincoln MKZ, Mercury Milan, and Mercury Montego.

 The Cadillac DTS has the fewest problems in the industry, with just 76 problems per 100 vehicles. This marks the first time in more than a decade that a model from a domestic automaker has achieved the lowest PP100 score in the Vehicle Dependability Study.

The study measures problems experienced by original owners of three-year-old (2007 model year) vehicles and includes 198 different problem symptoms across all areas of the vehicle. Overall dependability is determined by the level of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100), with a lower score reflecting higher quality. The 2010 Vehicle Dependability Study is based on responses from more than 52,000 original owners of 2007 model-year vehicles. The study was fielded between October and December 2009.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Saab Cars North America Moves Headquarters To Detroit Suburb

Saab Cars North America, after its parent company Saab Automobile AB of Sweden was recently purchased by Spyker Cars NV of Holland, is splitting away from under the General Motors umbrella and establishing  its own headquarters in the Detroit suburb of Royal Oak. Saab Cars North America says it will create or retain approximately 2000 jobs in North America with plans to invest $2.4 million to enhance its U.S. Sales and Marketing operations.

"Saab Cars North America appreciates the assistance and cooperation of the City of Royal Oak and the Governor's office in helping make the company's decision a reality during tough economic times," said Mike Colleran, President and COO, Saab Cars North America. "As a direct result in acquiring local and state assistance, we look forward to renewing our U.S. presence as an independent, premium luxury automotive brand with Swedish heritage while maintaining our loyal following and potentially attracting new customers."

New Saab 9-5 pictured above.

Kia Sponsors LPGA Kia Classic At LaCosta Mar. 25 & Signs Michelle Wie

Kia has jumped into a pro golf tournament sponsorship when many car companies have pulled out. On February 10th, just a month ago, Kia announced that it's sponsoring an LPGA tournament which tees off for the pros on March 25th at the famed LaCosta Resort & Spa in North County San Diego where the Tournament of Champions was held for 30 years, including an Infiniti sponsorship for a few years, and more recently LaCosta hosted the World Golf Championship men's match play events until 2006. At the same time, Kia announced it has signed LPGA golfer Michelle Wie to promote the brand.

Until the announcement by Kia, Honda and BMW were the only only car companies with lead sponsorship of a U.S. pro golf tournament with the PGA Honda Classic, played last week in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, the Honda PTT LPGA Thailand and BMW's Charity Pro-Am on the Nationwide Tour. BMW sponsors three tournaments and Volvo one on the European PGA tour.

Over the years golf has been an important marketing venue for car companies. Buick  was lead sponsor on four annual PGA tournaments until last year's General Motors' bankruptcy. Both Infiniti and Mercedes sponsored the event that hosted the previous year's PGA winners and in Los Angeles, Nissan sponsored the PGA event at Riviera Country Club for 21 years, until 2007. In the1980's, even Isuzu, a now-defunct U.S. brand, sponsored the San Diego Open.

The Kia sponsorship comes at a perfect time after their best February sales month ever with new products doing well and it's a good fit. Kia, headquartered in Korea, is sponsoring an event on the LPGA Tour, dominated by Korean players. Globally, Kia's sports sponsorships cover soccer, tennis, basketball and now golf at the highest professional levels.

Michael Sprague, Vice President, Marketing for Kia Motors America says the Kia Classic "is an ideal platform to showcase the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, Forte compact sedan and Soul urban passenger vehicle."

UCLA alums will be happy to hear that recent grad and four-year Bruin Varsity team golfer, Tiffany Joh, received a sponsor's exemption to play in the Kia Classic which has a total purse of $1.7 million. This will be Tiffany's third LPGA event, first as a pro after graduating last June. She's a great golfer with a wonderful personality and lots of fun to play with - I enjoyed every minute of my 18 holes with her on Tuesday. Go Tiffany!

Saab Story: Price Cuts On 2010 9-3 Models - Starting At $29,725 MSRP

Saab Cars North America, which on February 23rd had its ownership officially transferred from General Motors to Spyker Cars NV, is cutting prices anywhere from 4 to 12 percent on all 2010 model year 9-3 cars.

The 9-3 Sport Sedan is available in two trim levels, 2.0T and Aero, and both can be specified with either front wheel drive or with Saab's Cross-Wheel Drive system with starting prices ranging from $29,725 MSRP for the 2.0T to $38,940 MSRP for the Aero model. MSRP includes destination and freight charges. The 4-cylinder 2.0 turbo delivers 210 horsepower and the 6-cylinder 2.8 turbo Aero is rated at 280 horsepower.

The 9-3 SportCombi starts at $31,155 MSRP for the 2.0T to $37,845 MSRP for the Aero model.  The all-new premium 9-3X with a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine starts at $37,800 MSRP including destination and freight charges.

The 9-3 Convertible model prices range from $40,815 MSRP for the 2.0T to $45,905 MSRP for the Aero.  The convertible offers a special edition package with leather steering wheel, Xenon headlamps and XM Satellite Radio for $695.

2010 vehicles will arrive during the next few weeks to dealer showrooms across the United States.

February 2010 Auto Sales - Ford Tops GM Last Month, Toyota Falls

Ford, including Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo brands, sold 142,285 vehicles in February, a 43.1 percent sales increase in February a year ago. Among brands, Ford sales were up 46 percent, Lincoln sales were up 19 percent, Mercury sales were up 24 percent, Volvo sales jumped 38 percent. Year-to-date through February, Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo sales totaled 258,819, up 34.2 percent versus a year ago. Volvo February sales of 4,641 for a two month total of 8,769, up 39.9 percent over 2009. In February, Ford sales to retail customers were 28 percent higher versus a year ago, and sales to fleet customers were up 74 percent.

General Motors' Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac dealers in the U.S. reported February 2010 sales of 138,849, up a combined 32 percent compared to February 2009. Sales of brands being phased out, Hummer, Pontiac, Saab and Saturn, amounted to just 3,102 vehicles bringing the total to 141,951. Retail sales for GM’s four brands were up 7 percent for the month. Year-to-date GM has sold 288,776 vehicles, a 12.6 percent gain over the first two months of 2009.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., reported February sales of 100,027 vehicles, down 8.7 percent from the year-ago month.The Toyota Division posted February sales of 86,240 units, a decrease of 10.6 percent from the same period last year. The Lexus Division reported February sales of 13,787 units, an increase of 5.2 percent over the year-ago month. Year-to-date, Toyota has sold 198,823 vehicles, a drop of  8.7 percent from the first two months of 2009.

Chrysler Group LLC reported total U.S. sales for February of 84,449 units, a slight increase versus the same time period last year (84,050 units). Year-to-date Chrysler has sold 141,592 vehicles, a 3 percent decline from 2009.

American Honda posted February sales of 80,671, an increase of 12.7 percent when compared to February 2009. American Honda year-to-date sales of 148,150 is an increase of 8.2 percent.

Nissan North America reported February 2010 sales of 70,189, an increase of 29.4 percent, compared with February 2009.  Nissan Division sales rose 31.9 percent for the month, while sales of Infiniti vehicles were 10.7 percent higher than a year before. Nissan year-to-date sales are 132,761, up 22.8 percent over 2009.

Hyundai Motor America February sales of 34,004 was up 11 percent versus February 2009. This marks the fourteenth consecutive month of year-over-year retail market share gains for Hyundai. For the first two months of 2010 Hyundai has sold 64,507 vehicles, up 17 percent.

Kia Motors America reported its best February sales ever of 24,052 units, a 9-percent increase over the same period last year and 2.3-percent over the previous February sales record of 23,512 set in 2007. Year-to-date Kia has sold 46,174 vehicles, up 4.5 percent.

Volkswagen of America reported February 2010 sales of 18,116, a 32.6 percent increase over February 2009. 2010 year-to-date sales of 36,135 is up 36.9 percent over the same period of 2009. Separately Audi had February U.S. sales of  6,216, a 33.6 percent rise from a year earlier. Through the first two months of 2010, Audi sales are 12,726 cars a 35.7 percent jump over the same period in 2009. Audi February U.S. sales of  6,216 sales was a 33.6 percent rise from a year earlier. Through the first two months of 2010, Audi sales are 12,726 cars a 35.7 percent jump over the same period in 2009.

Daimler reported U.S. sales of 15,827 Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles. Mercedes-Benz USA reported February sales of 15,385 vehicles, an 8.4 percent improvement over February 2009. On a year-to-date basis, the company sold 30,543 new vehicles, up 24% when compared to the same time last year.

BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) sold 17,971 vehicles in February, a 13.7 percent increase compared to the same month in 2009.  Both the BMW and MINI brands improved performance with BMW reporting a sales increase of 16.3 percent to 15,100 units and MINI a 1.6 percent increase to 2,871 vehicles. In the first two months of 2010, BMW has sold 33,381, a 10.8 percent rise over 2009.

Subaru of America sold 18,098 units in February, a 38-percent sales increase over February 2009, resulting in a February sales record. Year-to-date sales increased 33-percent with 33,710 units sold versus 25,282 units sold over the same period last year.

Mazda North American Operations reported February 2010 sales of 17,054, an increase of 4.0 percent versus February 2009. Year-to-date, Mazda sales are 32,748, up 2.9 percent.

Mitsubishi Motors North America February 2010 sales of 4,019 was a 10.4 percent drop from February 2009 sales. In the first two months of this year, Mitsubishi sales are 8,189, down 11.1 percent versus 2009.

American Suzuki February sales were 1,375, a 61 percent tumble from the same month in 2009 and year-to-date sales are 3,415, down 52 percent from last year.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

General Motors Recalls 1.3 Million Compact Cars For Power Steering

Vehicle recalls are standard practice, happens all the time with hundreds of recalls every year, most voluntary by the manufacturer, not mandated by NHTSA. In fact, many dealers like recalls because it brings customers back into their showrooms while the vehicle is being fixed. A showroom visit ignites new car enthusiasm and a good look at the new products. I'm not going to fill my blog with every recall, it's an ongoing reality with every car company. High volume recalls on popular models are worth mentioning especially if they result in death, severe injury or crashes. Here's the latest one you're hearing in the news:

General Motors will conduct a safety recall of 1.3 million compact cars to replace a motor in the power steering system. Vehicles affected are the 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt; 2007-2010 Pontiac G5; 2005-2006 Pontiac Pursuit sold in Canada, and the 2005-2006 Pontiac G4 sold in Mexico.

GM told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration about the voluntary recall on Monday after concluding an investigation that began in 2009. NHTSA opened an investigation Jan. 27 into approximately 905,000 Cobalt models in the United States after receiving more than 1,100 complaints of loss of power steering assist, 14 crashes and one injury. GM says plans for the remedy are being developed. Customers will be notified when the plan is finalized.

J.D. Power 2010 Customer Service Index Study - Luxury & Mass Market

Lexus wins the gold medal among luxury brands in the 2010 Customer Service Index rankings for the second consecutive year with an index score of 837. Ranked No. 2 among luxury brands is Cadillac at 827, showing a huge improvement from last year. Third luxury brand is Jaguar at 822 after having the highest overall rank in 2008 and second in 2009. Other top luxury brands include Acura at 817 and BMW at 816. The luxury brand industry average is 813. The study examines satisfaction among vehicle owners who visit a service department for maintenance or repair work. The CSI rankings are based on dealer performance during the first three years of ownership, which typically represents the majority of the vehicle warranty period. Five measures are examined to determine overall customer satisfaction with dealer service (listed in order of importance): service quality; service initiation; service advisor; service facility; and vehicle pick-up.

GM's outgoing Hummer brand has the top score among mass market brands with a score of 815, thanks to its service quality and service facility scores. Second is another soon-to-be-extinct GM brand, Saturn at 808. Buick with a score of 805 is third among mass market brands. Six of the top seven brands in the mass market segment are from General Motors. Ford brands hold the No. 7 and No. 8 rank positions, while no Chrysler brands perform at or above the mass market industry average of 758.

The 2010 J.D. Power CSI Study is based on responses from more than 114,200 owners and lessees of 2005 to 2009 model-year vehicles. The study was fielded between October and December 2009.

(Charts courtesy of J.D. Power and Associates)