Audi R8 5.2 Convertible, Bentley & Tesla's Musk In Iron Man 2 Movie

I waited for the crowds to die down and went to see the movie Iron Man 2 which took in $211 million in its first two weeks in U.S. theaters. There's lots of product placement, especially on the car front. The film features Iron Man Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) driving an Audi R8 as he did in the first Iron Man film but this time it's the convertible R8 5.2 FSI quattro which starts at $146,000 and has a 525 horsepower V10 engine able to thrust the R8 5.2 to 60 mph in only 3.7 seconds on the way up to a top track speed of 196.4 mph. Bentley, another VW brand, also makes an appearance as it drives head on into Formula One traffic at the Monaco Grand Prix.

 A cameo appearance is made by Elon Musk (pictured on the left), a real life Iron Man who is behind the electric Tesla vehicles. In Iron Man 2, Musk says he working on an electric airplane and, in reality, he tells me he'll start that project in a year or two. As with electric cars, I'm sure range, recharging and batteries will also be big issues for electric jets.

Tesla News
On Thursday Tesla Motors said it purchased the former NUMMI factory in Fremont, California, where it will build the Model S sedan and future Tesla vehicles. As recently as April, the NUMMI factory was used by Toyota to produce the Corolla and Tacoma. It's billed as one of the largest, most advanced and cleanest automotive production plants in the world capable of producing half a million vehicles per year or approximately 1 percent of total worldwide car production. Last August, GM stopped making the Pontiac Vibe, the re-badged Toyota Matrix, at the Fremont plant which is conveniently close to Tesla's Palo Alto headquarters.

2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe to Start at $38,990 In Early August

The all-new 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe with a 304 horsepower 3.6 liter Direct Injection V6 engine will start at $38,990 including destination charge for the standard rear wheel drive model and $40,890 for the standard all-wheel drive version that includes a six-speed automatic transmission with tap up/down shifting, 18-inch wheels, performance suspension, rear park assist, Bose audio, MP3 input, EZ Key, remote start, power driver and front passenger seats.

There are three other CTS Coupe packages: The Performance Collection rear wheel drive CTS Coupe is $43,430 and the all-wheel drive is $45,330 equipped with HID Xenon headlamps, adaptive forward lighting, 10-way power leather seats, Bose 5.1 Surround Sound, USB integration and 40GB hard drive. The Premium Collection rear wheel drive CTS Coupe is $47,835 and all-wheel drive is with interior ambient lighting, rear-view camera, heated/vented front seats, heated steering wheel, wood trim, Bose 5.1 Surround Sound with navigation and sunroof. The CTS Coupe has the same wheelbase as the sedan but is lower, wider and shorter.

The high-performance V-Series edition with 556 horsepower 6.2 liter Supercharged V8 engine, paddle shift controls, Brembo brakes, Magnetic Ride Control, 19-inch wheels with performance tires goes on sale later this summer at $62,990 including destination charge. The doors of the CTS Coupe are opened via touch-pads, eliminating traditional handles and OnStar is standard and includes Turn-by-Turn Navigation.

The CTS Coupe goes on sale in early August in the United States.

Bob Lutz Retires From General Motors

Bob Lutz, after a colorful 47-year career in the global automotive industry, retired from General Motors on May 1st and gave his employee farewell speech earlier this week. The 78 year old Lutz, born in Zurich, Switzerland, began his automotive career in 1963 at GM, after serving as a jet-attack aviator in the United States Marine Corps. Lutz held held a variety of senior sales and marketing positions at GM in Europe until 1971 when he went to BMW in Munich for the next three years serving as executive vice president of global sales and marketing and Board member. In 1974, Lutz started a twelve year run at Ford, followed by twelve years at Chrysler where he held executive and Board positions at both companies. Prior to rejoining GM as vice chairman of product development in 2001, Lutz was chairman and chief executive officer of Exide Technologies. Shortly after rejoining GM, Lutz was named chairman of GM North America and served in that capacity until April 2005, when he assumed responsibility for Global Product Development. 

Lutz was a jet-attack aviator in the United States Marine Corps from 1954 to 1965 while earning his bachelor's degree in production management in 1961 and master's degree in marketing in 1962 from the University of California-Berkeley.

I've heard Bob speak many times in multiple languages and he's truly a one-of-a-kind straight shooter who had simple common sense goals to make the best vehicles. He is a great friend of the media and may be retiring, again, but we'll keep hearing from and quoting Bob for a long time. All the best Bob - see you soon!

(photo at North American International Auto Show - Detroit, January 2010 - with yours truly)

2011 Ford Fiesta In Idol Tonight, In Showrooms This Summer

Ford is launching the all-new 2011 Ford Fiesta with an ad campaign built around "It's a pretty big deal" theme and it debuts with a new 60-second tv spot tonight during  "American Idol," which airs 8 to 9 p.m. on FOX. It opens with two people sitting in a Fiesta talking about the vehicle's push-button start feature. The 60-second ad also will be running in cinemas this summer, appearing on the big screen just before the movies start. The campaign includes national broadcast, print, digital and out-of-home components as well as a multicultural marketing strategy.

The print ads get straight to the point with headlines like, "The Fiesta gets 40 miles per gallon. 21 hybrids do not," and "The Fiesta has enough new-world technology to put a 50-grand car to shame." The ads will be featured in a variety of publications – from women's magazines like "In Style" to men's lifestyle titles like "GQ." 

In addition to television commercials, print ads and billboards, the new campaign also includes extensive digital advertising, which directs consumers to the website.  There will be a total of 16 webisodes. The first set is already online with more than 500,000 people having viewed the first six webisodes since they debuted last week. The second group will post in June.

To illustrate the benefit of having Intelligent Access with push-button start, one of the agents decided to put the Fiesta up against the Toyota Yaris, which doesn't even have keyless entry, and the Honda Fit, which has keyless entry but doesn't have push-button start. In "Dawn of the New Key Fob," a zombie chases all three drivers through the woods. The Yaris and Fit owners don't make it into their vehicles in time, but the Fiesta driver gets into his car and drives away before the zombie attack. Fiesta agent Brittani Taylor (above) appears in a webisode titled "Fiesta vs. Lamborghini," which pits the Fiesta against a $200,000-plus Lamborghini sports car.

Ford has developed a multicultural marketing and advertising campaign designed specifically to communicate the Fiesta message to young African Americans and Hispanics which research shows are two of the largest consumer groups in the small car segment.  Ford will increase Fiesta awareness in the Hispanic community through print and broadcast advertising predominantly Spanish with some English phrasing.

Hyundai Veteran Chris Perry Moves Up to VP of Marketing

Chris Perry, a 10 year Hyundai Motor America veteran, moves from Director of Marketing Communications to Vice President of Marketing replacing Joel Ewanick who jumped to Nissan in February then General Motors a few weeks ago.

Perry will be responsible for all Hyundai marketing communications and brand development in the United States and report to Hyundai Motor America President and Chief Executive Officer John Krafcik. Prior to joining Hyundai in 2000, Perry worked in strategic planning and advertising for Isuzu, and held marketing positions at the Della Femina McNamee agency. Prior to that he worked at the consulting firm Diagnostic Research. Perry received a Bachelors of Science in Marketing from California State University Northridge. He lives with his wife and two children in Irvine, California.

All-New 2011 Volvo S60 Will Start At $38,550 In Late 2010

The all-new 2011 Volvo S60 sport sedan will start at $38,550 including the $850 destination charges. VCNA President and CEO Doug Speck says "When you consider you can own an extremely well-equipped 2011 Volvo S60 for only $41,400, and that you will pay nothing to repair or maintain the all-new S60 for 5 years or 60,000 miles, it really becomes a no-brainer."

The all-new Volvo S60 sport sedan comes standard with a new infotainment system which includes a 7-inch high-definition color monitor accessed through steering-wheel mounted controls. Information regarding the audio system, in-dash DVD video player, climate and vehicle settings are monitored and controlled through a thumb-activated rotator. Other standard features include a six-speed Geartronic transmission, 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned Dynamic chassis, speed sensitive steering with driver-selectable settings, Bluetooth, HD Radio and Sirius Satellite Radio with a complimentary six-month subscription. The all-new Volvo S60 comes standard with City Safety, an auto braking system which is active from 2 - 18 mph and automatically stops the S60 if the car in front unexpectedly stops.

Volvo will also offer Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake in which 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.

The all-new 2011 Volvo S60 sport sedan goes on sale in late 2010 around the time when Geely of China completes its purchase of Sweden-based Volvo Car Corporation.

2010 Lexus GX 460 SUV Lift-off Oversteer Problem Corrected

Consumer Reports is lifting the Don't Buy: Safety Risk designation from the 2010 Lexus GX 460 SUV after recall work corrected the problem in a test where the vehicle is driven through a turn and the driver quickly lifts his foot off the accelerator pedal to see how the vehicle reacts. Consumer Report's testers found the GX460 rear end slid out until the vehicle was almost sideways. Although the GX 460 has electronic stability control, which is designed to prevent a vehicle from sliding, the system wasn't intervening quickly enough to stop the slide. Lexus duplicated the problem on its own test track and developed a software upgrade for the vehicle's ESC system that would prevent the problem from happening. The software fix takes about an hour and a half at the dealership.

After the fix, Consumer Report's engineers again put the SUV through the full series of emergency handling tests and found that this time, the ESC system intervened earlier and its rear did not slide out in the lift-off oversteer test.

2011 Jaguar XJ Is Hitting U.S. Showrooms Now With a Media Blitz

The all-new 2011 Jaguar XJ, which was first introduced in London last July and officially shown at the Frankfurt Auto Show in September (see photos), is hitting U.S. showrooms now. Along with their U.S. launch is City Takeover, a national marketing initiative that consists of extensive broadcast, print, digital and outdoor advertising across the U.S. with a focus on sponsorship and public relations initiatives in Los Angeles and New York and Miami. Also, a new national television advertising campaign and branded entertainment initiatives are hitting the airwaves, including an appearance in JAY-Z's music video, "On to the Next One." 

Jaguar will execute more than 50 events, media and consumer test drive events, partnerships and collaborations in each city with an emphasis on engaging consumers and tastemakers in the areas of fashion, design and entertainment.

The XJ has a starting price of $72,500 MSRP with standard (XJ) and long wheelbase (XJL) models and three engine choices for the U.S.:
* 385 horsepower 5.0 liter V8: XJ $72,500 and XJL $79,500 MSRP,
* 470 horsepower 5.0 liter supercharged V8:  XJ $87,500 and XJL $90,500 MSRP,
* 510 horsepower supercharged 5.0 liter V8: XJ $112,000 and XJL  $115,000 MSRP.
All prices include an $850 destination and delivery charge. Tax, title, and registration fees not included.

Along with the XJ launch is the new Jaguar Platinum Coverage which features a five year/50,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and complimentary scheduled maintenance for the duration of the warranty period, including no-cost replacement of select wear and tear components, and 24/7 roadside assistance.  This no-cost coverage includes oil changes, filters, brake pads, brake discs, brake fluids and wiper blade inserts.

Jaguar, like Land Rover, is owned by Tata Motors of India. The Jaguar name celebrates 75 years in 2010. 

Joel Ewanick Hired As VP Marketing At General Motors

After three years at Hyundai in Fountain Valley, California and a quick two month stop at Nissan in Nashville, Joel Ewanick (right) is headed for Detroit to replace Susan Docherty at General Motors as vice president, U.S. Marketing, effective May 24.  Ewanick, 49, will report to Mark Reuss, president, GM North America.

As the single point for marketing, Ewanick will have responsibility for improving the positioning of the Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac brands and consumer consideration of GM vehicles in the United States.

If awards mean anything, during his three year tenure, Ewanick earned industry recognition as the most impactful automotive marketer in America; Automotive News’ 2009 Marketing All Star of the Year; Brandweek’s 2009 Marketer of the Year; and Forbes’ Chief Marketing Officer of the Year.

Ewanick joined Hyundai in 2007 from The Richards Group, an ad firm, where he served as director of Brand Planning responsible for overall brand and advertising strategy. Ewanick has held executive-level positions at Porsche Cars North America, Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., Hinckley Yachts and Saatchi & Saatchi Team One Advertising where he led the Lexus account as planning supervisor.

Ewanick earned his Bachelors of Science in Marketing from California State University, Northridge and attended the Wharton School of Executive Training at the University of Pennsylvania.

Susan Docherty's new position at GM will be announced soon.  With extensive sales, service and marketing experience, Docherty has held positions of increasing responsibility in Canada, the U.S., Europe and Asia. Most notable is her brand work, including the launch of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse and GMC Terrain.

"Susan has been deeply involved in GM's sales and marketing initiatives for many years," Reuss said.  “With her drive and focus, she has laid the groundwork for solid plans and rejuvenated our agency relationships, placing us in good stead for the future. We look forward to her contribution across the business moving forward.”

I got to know Joel while he was at Hyundai and he's a very likable, easy to talk-to executive but how Nissan let him slip away after just two months is somewhat of a mystery we'll have to investigate.

Top 10 Selling Vehicles in 2010 Through April - Ford Leads With 3

TOP 10 Vehicle Sales In 2010 Through April

1. Ford F-Series                 143,985
2. Honda Accord                104,101
3. Chevrolet Silverado         102,098
4. Toyota Camry                   96,509
5. Toyota Corolla                  91,672
6. Honda Civic                      78,669
7. Nissan Altima                    74,245
8. Ford Fusion                       70,382
9. Chevrolet Malibu               65,875
10. Ford Escape                    64,237

The Ford F-Series is the top selling vehicle overall, the Honda Accord is the top selling sedan and the Ford Escape has surged to the top of the SUV/CUV race after four months of sales in 2010, almost 9,000 ahead of the Toyota RAV4 and more than 11,000 units ahead of the Honda CR-V.

Chrysler's top seller is the Ram pickup truck at 51,707, slightly more than Hyundai's leading seller, the Sonata at 50,283 in the first four months of 2010.

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.