January 2011 Auto Sales Up Over January 2010

General Motors reported January U.S. sales of 178,896, a 23 percent increase from a year ago for Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac and GMC. Retail sales were 36 percent higher than a strong January a year ago.

Ford’s total January sales (including fleet sales) were 127,317, up 13 percent, including a planned 27 percent decline in sales to daily rental companies.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported January sales of 115,856, up 17.3 percent over the year-ago month. The Toyota Division had sales of 102,996 units, an increase of 23.7 percent over the same period last year and the Lexus Division reported sales of 12,860 units, a decrease of 17.1 percent from last January.

American Honda posted January sales of 76,269 vehicles, an increase of 13 percent. Honda Division posted January sales of 68,308, an increase of 13.2 percent versus January 2010. Acura with 4,268 units sold was up 32.1 percent.

Nissan North America reported January U.S. sales of 71,847, an increase of 14.8 percent.  Nissan Division sales were up 15.4 percent for the month. Sales of Infiniti vehicles rose 10.3 percent over the prior year.

Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales of 70,118, a 23 percent increase compared with sales in January 2010.

Hyundai Motor America announced record January sales of 37,214 units, up 22 percent versus 2010.

Kia Motors America announced record January sales of 27,789 units, a 25.6 percent increase over the same period in 2010  and besting the previous January record of 22,524 set in 2007 by 23.4 percent.

Volkswagen reported 18,401 vehicles in January 2011, a 2.1 percent increase over prior year sales. Separately, Audi reported record January U.S. sales of 7,812, a 20 percent overall increase from January 2010. The previous January sales record for Audi in the U.S. was the 6,510 vehicles sold in 2010.

Subaru of America reported record January sales of 18,858, up 21 percent versus January 2010.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported January sales of 18,656 vehicles, an increase of 21.1 percent from the the same month a year ago. 

Mercedes-Benz USA sold 17,273 vehicles in January, a 14% increase over January 2010.

Mazda North American Operations reported January 2011 sales of 14,267, a decrease of 9.1 percent versus January of 2010, primarily due to a substantial reduction in fleet sales this month.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported January 2011 sales of 5,714 units, an increase of 37 percent compared to January 2010.

Jaguar Land Rover North America January U.S. sales for both brands totaled 3,206 units, up 24 percent from January 2010. Jaguar sales were 935 units, up 48 percent from January 2010 and Land Rover sales were 2,271 units, 16 percent up January 2010.

American Suzuki sold 2,562 vehicles in January, a 26 percent rise over January 2010.

Blog will be updated as manufacturers report.

Audi Will Feature A8 In Super Bowl Ad

Audi will have a 60-second TV spot set to air in the first break after kick-off of Super Bowl XLV.  The spot called "Release the Hounds" will feature an irreverent, satirical overtone and follow two well-dressed inmates as they attempt to break out of a luxury prison. Challenging viewers to re-think luxury, the ad will humorously feature a number of elements that recall the heyday of old luxury and will culminate with an unforgettable and comical cameo at the end. Audi's 2011 Super Bowl spot also will feature the 2011 A8, Audi's flagship sedan. The 60-second TV advertisement is being created by San Francisco-based Venables Bell & Partners.

Super Bowl MVP Will Get A 2011 Chevy Camaro Convertible

The Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl XLV, to be decided by a media panel and fan vote on www.superbowl.com from the Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers on February 6th,  will receive a 2011 Camaro Convertible which arrives in dealerships in February. The 2011 Camaro Convertible is available with offered with a standard 312-horsepower Direct Injection V6 engine (29 miles per gallon on the highway) or with a  426 horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine in the SS model. What's next - replacing the hardtop on Hawaii Five-0?

Kia Returns To Super Bowl With 2011 Optima Ad

 Kia returns with a new 60-second spot that will air in the first quarter of Super Bowl XLV titled “One Epic Ride,” and Kia will extend the campaign by giving away up to five Optimas through its “One Epic Contest,” which challenges consumers to solve a series of puzzles using clues provided in pre-Super Bowl and game day advertisements and social media postings. In “One Epic Ride,” people across space and time — from a police officer and an international villain to aliens and an ancient chief — will go to great lengths to snatch the all-new Optima from the clutches of others and put themselves behind the wheel. The Optima becomes an object of desire, and even Poseidon, the king of the sea, does his best to get his hands on the car.

Created by David&Goliath, “One Epic Ride” demonstrates the extreme measures people will go to get their hands on a midsize sedan that defies the conventions of the segment with a combination of striking design, exhilarating performance and outstanding value not found anywhere else in the category.

Volkswagen With 2 Super Bowl Ads: Passat & Beetle

Volkswagen will premiere two 30 second spots during the 2nd and 4th quarters of Super Bowl XLV showcasing two new vehicles that won't hit showrooms until later this year. The  all-new 2012 Passat and the 21st Century Beetle, are part of a pre-launch advertising and marketing campaign that includes television, digital, experiential, and retail activations to maintain momentum throughout the year.

With its all-new 2012 Passat ad, Volkswagen brings Star Wars™ to one of TV's most talked about events.  Accompanied by John Williams' iconic "The Imperial March," the spot features the most infamous villain in the galaxy, a pint-sized Darth Vader, who uses the Force when he discovers the all-new 2012 Passat in the driveway. The two iconic brands leverage humor and the unforgettable Star Wars score to create an emotional spot and make Super Bowl ad history.

In "Black Beetle," the first spot for The 21st Century Beetle,  there's CGI-generated lush kingdom where the Black Beetle rules, runs, navigates and out performs all the other creatures. With the song "Black Betty," rerecorded by Jon Spencer and the Blues Explosion, the Beetle ad does not feature any actual images of the car, a building anticipation of the reveal.

The ads come from Deutsch LA, Volkswagen’s new ad agency of record.

2011 Chrysler Town & Country & Dodge Grand Caravan In Production

The new 2011 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan had their production launch this week in Windsor, Canada, as two of the 16 new or significantly refreshed products Chrysler has debuted recently. The Chrysler Town & Country was 2010's best selling minivan with 112, 275 sold, a 33 percent increase compared with 2009, and Chrysler's second best-selling vehicle last year. The new 2011 model was shown in Detroit last week and the Dodge Grand Caravan in Los Angeles in November.

The 2011 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan both have the all-new 3.6-litre Pentastar V-6 engine with up to 2 miles per gallon improved fuel economy of 36 MPG Highway . Both feature a new fuel-economizer mode that helps maximize fuel efficiency and more than 40 safety features including a new driver-side knee blocker airbag, front seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags, electronic stability control and tire pressure monitoring.

The newest features include the Super Stow 'n Go seating and storage system, with larger, more comfortable seats and with a new, easy to use one-touch fold down function, the Stow 'n' Place™ roof rack system that lets owners stow the roof bows in the side rails when they're not using them and snap them easily into place when needed to reduce aerodynamic drag and wind buffeting and there's a heated steering wheel. The Uconnect system offers touch-screen and voice command for control of multiple media sources, navigation and hands-free phone.

Chrysler claims to be the inventor of the modern minivan with the Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager first launched in 1983 followed by the upscale Chrysler Town & Country in 1989 adding up to 13 million sold since. In 2010, 460,154 minivans were sold in the United States, up 11 percent compared with 2009.

General Motors Executive Shuffle Again - Effective Feb. 1,2011

Thomas G. Stephens, 62, is the new Global Chief Technology Officer in a move to bring greater focus and urgency to developing leading edge technology for all General Motors vehicles. Stephens, 62, will continue to report to GM Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson who says  “Tom will make sure that GM technology keeps up with our customers and keeps ahead of our competitors.” The new CTO position is a major element of Akerson’s goal to make the company more customer driven and technology focused.  In December, Akerson elevated Joel Ewanick to Global Chief Marketing Officer, responsible for GM’s brands globally. Stephens also will be responsible for the company’s research and development organization led by GM vice president Alan Taub. The successor for Stephens is Mary Barra, named senior vice president, Global Product Development, to lead the design, engineering, program management and quality of vehicles for the company’s 11 brands around the world. Barra began her career with General Motors in 1980 as a General Motors Institute (Kettering University) co-op student at the Pontiac Motor Division. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. In 1988, Barra received a GM fellowship to the Stanford Graduate School of Business and in 1990 graduated with an MBA.

Linda Marshall has been appointed president of OnStar succeeding J. Christopher Preuss, who has elected to leave the company to launch a communications consultancy practice. Marshall joined GM in November 2010 as executive director, OnStar global business strategy and development from  the position of chief operating officer for Revol Wireless. She will report to Stephen J. Girsky, vice chairman, corporate strategy and business development. Marshall has more than two decades of experience in the telecommunications industry, including senior executive-level roles at both Sprint Nextel and Verizon Wireless.  She holds a bachelors of science in accounting and business from Elmhurst College and completed the Executive Management Program at Stanford University.

General Motors is making changes in its U.S. marketing operations with former Chevy Marketing V.P. Chris Perry going to vice president, U.S. marketing, replacing Joel Ewanick who was named Global Chief Marketing Officer on Dec. 17, 2010.  Perry, 50, who will report to Ewanick, had served as U.S. vice president, Chevrolet Marketing, since September 2010. Prior to joining GM, Perry was vice president, marketing, Hyundai Motor America.  Perry also spent nearly 10 years at American Isuzu Motors, where he held a variety of marketing and advertising positions. In his new role, Perry 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.

Rick Scheidt, currently executive director, Chevrolet product marketing, is named U.S. vice president, Chevrolet Marketing, replacing Perry.  Scheidt, 57, joined GM in 1980, and has held several marketing positions within GM, primarily with the Chevrolet brand.

John Schwegman, currently U.S. vice president, Buick-GMC Marketing, is named U.S. vice president, GMC Marketing. Schwegman, 46, began his career with General Motors in 1988.  He has held numerous sales and marketing assignments, including positions at the former Pontiac and Saturn divisions and in General Motors Market and Industry Analysis.  Most recently, he led the Marketing launches for Chevrolet’s current generation full-size trucks brands.

Tony DiSalle, currently product and marketing director, Chevrolet Volt, is named U.S. vice president, Buick Marketing. DiSalle, 46, began his career with GM in 1988.  He has held several management positions, including key assignments at OnStar and within GM’s marketing operations.

“These moves support our plans to continue building very clear and distinct swim lanes for our four brands, “said Joel Ewanick, Global Chief Marketing Director.  “These individuals have great track records for leading very aggressive and creative marketing strategies.”

BMW's Ian Robertson On In-Vehicle Technology

 

2011 NAIAS: Media Day 1 Was Overwhelming, Day 2 Was Empty

The North American International Auto Show kicked off with its first of two media days on Monday January 10th with 18 manufacturer media conferences, that's right 18! Beginning at 6:30am, or 3:30am for those of us who flew in from the West Coast, Porsche debuted the Porsche 918 RSR hybrid concept medium-sized coupe that will only be driven by the race car driver assigned to the vehicle, not the masses. A big deal for Porsche being their first Detroit appearance in years because Porsche doesn't sell many cars in Michigan, unlike Los Angeles where it always has a lavish, expansive display in its own exhibit hall. So, exhausted from the outset after a 5:30ET/2:30PT wake up call, it's race and scramble to make the media conferences. Just 10 to 15 minutes between the vehicle introductions so no time for lunch because you would miss BMW, Audi and Toyota. Nearly 12 hours later, the challenge was staying awake for the 6:15pm Chevy Sonic unveiling, by using the toothpicks from GM's mini-burgers to keep my eyelids open. As it turns out, it was Chris Perry's last Chevy announcement as he now takes over U.S. marketing under GM's global marketing chief Joel Ewanick.

The only manufacturer to present on Day 2 was Volvo which is going through a product realignment so they showed off a crashed electric C30 and only got some audience because Wall Street analysts were gathering to hear Ford CEO Alan Mulally next door explaining their global strategy to Wall Street analysts. Fitting that Volvo had a crashed car given the state of many of us West Coast journalists. Otherwise, Day 2 was for getting photos and videos of the cars that were so mobbed on Day 1, but unfortunately without the executives to provide commentary on their new products. My personal show disappointment was the absence of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, apparently shown in a sneak preview to a select group of invited journalists. Talk is that show organizers will have to go back to spreading out the OEM presentations over a few days. It will help the local economy, not to mention the health of the sleep-deprived California journalists. Twitter may have tweeted out on Day 1, too. On a positive note, by viewing this website, you can see the quantity of material gathered. Next stop is NADA in San Francisco where manufacturers and dealers mix to examine their industry and its challenges.

Toyota's Jim Lentz Forecasts Better 2011 Sales vs. Flat 2010

2011 NAIAS: MINI Paceman Concept Is Peppy 2-Door Countryman

The all-wheel drive MINI Paceman has a 211 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the same 1.6 liter John Cooper Works twin-scroll turbo engine that's in the John Cooper Works version of the Mini hatchback. Though still being billed as a concept, the Paceman will very likely go into production and showrooms. With so many tech-loaded small vehicles hitting U.S. streets, the MINI buyer must have an acquired taste and larger wallet than other compact car shoppers. The powerful Paceman promises to please those picky personalities.

2011 NAIAS: 2011 Jeep Compass Takes Cues From Grand Cherokee

 The new 2011 Jeep® Compass, taking design cues from the new Jeep Grand Cherokee, is available in three drivetrain configurations: Standard front-wheel-drive, the Freedom Drive I four-wheel-drive system and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package four-wheel-drive system that delivers Jeep Trail Rated® capability in Compass form. Compass features a standard 158 horsepower 2.0-liter World Engine with the continuously variable transmission and delivers 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway when mated to the five-speed manual transmission. The 172-horsepower 2.4-liter World Engine with dual Variable Valve Timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts, is available on all models.

 The 2011 Jeep Compass is available in three configurations: Compass, Latitude and Limited. All are available with front-wheel drive, the Freedom Drive I full-time, active 4x4 system or the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package full-time, active 4x4 system with low-range capability. There's a long history of affection for the Jeep Grand Cherokee so its smaller sibling is hitting a market and loyalty sweet spot.

2011 NAIAS: Ford Vertrek Concept

The Ford Vertrek concept, built on Ford's global C-segment platform, has new 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine from the global Ford EcoBoost family mated to a new, fuel-saving Ford Auto Start-Stop technology. By 2012, the C-segment platform will underpin more than 2 million vehicles globally and by 2013, 80 percent of Ford's global nameplates and 90 percent of Ford's North American nameplates will have an EcoBoost option.

 Looks like Ford's latest charge into the growing mid-size CUV segment that Lexus started and built into a huge success with the RX.

Chrysler 200 Convertible: Retractable Hard Top Or Cloth Soft Top

The new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible has been redesigned and re-engineered as a mid-sized convertible that seats four adults with ample room in the trunk, even when the power top is dropped. There are two automatically latching tops, a body-color painted steel, retractable hard top, or a cloth soft top, both of which can drop with the press of a button on the key fob. The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible is offered with the available new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and 2.4-liter I4 World Gas Engine, both mated to a six-speed transmission.

One of my favorites excursions was a 5-day, 1,100 mile late August drive behind the wheel of a Sebring retractable hard top through upstate New York and Massachusetts. If successor, the 200 convertible, is better, it will be a big hit.

AN World Congress: VW's Jonathan Browning On Tracking Quality

2011 NAIAS: Ford's Latest Techology Innovations

2011 NAIAS: Audi Chairman Rupert Stadler On Technology

2011 NAIAS: BMW's Ian Robertson On Manufacturing Expansion

2011 NAIAS: Volvo Pres. & CEO Stefan Jacoby On Strategy

2011 NAIAS: Audi A6 & A7 Are Loaded With High Tech Features

 

The new Audi A6 will arrive at dealerships in early 2011 with a 300 horsepower 3.0 TFSI supercharged V6 and an optional 1,300-watt Advanced Sound System from Bang & Olufsen has 15 speakers and the Bluetooth car phone online which connects to the Internet, in partnership with Google. The MMI navigation plus has a touchpad allowing the driver to write the digits of telephone numbers and the letters of the navigation destination with a finger or scrolling lists and maps. The driver’s eyes can stay on the road because the system acknowledges every input acoustically.

The Audi A7 five-door coupe features a 204 horsepower 3.0 TDI engine as standard in a body that measures 16.31 ft. long and 6.27 ft. wide, but only 4.66 ft high.  Audi will initially offer the A7 with a choice of four V6 engines: two gasoline and two TDI units ranging in power 204 to 300 horsepower with two different transmissions depending on the engines.
Tech
All of the high tech features offered in the A6 will be on the A7 such as the radar-based distance control that accelerates the new A6 and decelerates within certain limits and active lane assist that helps the driver keep the A6 on course at speeds of 37.28 mph and above. The new parking system takes over steering from the driver when parallel parking or parking perpendicular to the road. It detects suitable spaces and automatically guides the A6 into and back out of parallel parking spaces – in several moves, if necessary. Audi also offers conventional parking assistance with and without a reversing camera. At speeds of 18.64 mph and above, Audi side assist system monitors the blind spot areas, as well as fast-approaching vehicles, at a range of about 150 ft. to the rear of the car.

An S line sport package is also available. The A6 won the EyesOn Design Award in Detroit and will  impress everyone who sees it. Two more winners from Audi!

2011 NAIAS: General Motors Debuts Buick Verano & Chevrolet Sonic

General Motors introduced two entry level vehicles in Detroit. The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic and 2012 Buick Verano.

The Chevrolet Sonic will come in a 4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback powered by a standard 1.8 liter engine or an optional 138 horsepower 1.4 liter turbo mated to a 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Replacing, the Korean Aveo, the Michigan-made Sonic arrives this Fall with 10 airbags.

The all-new 2012 Buick Verano is powered by a 177 horsepower Ecotec 2.4 liter delivering an estimated 31mpg on the highway. A 2.0 liter turbo engine will be offered in the future.

NAIAS: 2011 Chrysler 300, All-New In the Spring Starting at $27,995

The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 and 300 Limited models have a new look and powertrains while preserving that initial startle - "wait, is that a Bentley?" The 300 and 300 Limited have a 292 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with EPA-ratings of 18 city/27 highway. The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C (pictured) has a 363 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine delivering up to 25 highway mpg with Fuel Saver Technology that allows for seamless transition between four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. When running in four-cylinder fuel saver mode, the engine delivers up to 20 percent improved fuel efficiency.

Uconnect® Touch with an 8.4-inch standard touchscreen radio offers connectivity, Garmin® navigation and SIRIUS Travel Link for real-time weather, fuel prices and more. New active safety features include adaptive-forward lighting, Forward Collision Warning and Blind-spot Monitoring.
The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan arrives in dealerships in Spring 2011, starting at $27,995 (including destination).

NAIAS 2011: Toyota Prius V, C & Plug-In Join The Prius Family

The new Prius v midsize hybrid-electric vehicle and the Prius c Concept vehicle join the Prius midsize liftback which has accounted for more than 955,000 sales in the U.S. since it was introduced in 2000 becoming the third-best selling Toyota passenger car in the U.S. The new Prius v, with "v" for versatility is aimed at families with over 50-percent more interior cargo space than the current Prius - 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.

Also available is a resin Panoramic View moonroof with power retractable sun shades and Prius v will have the Entune™ multimedia system engaging mobile apps, such as Bing, OpenTable,  and movietickets.com, along with accessing travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, news and sports. With an advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver to stay focused on the road, Entune eliminates the need to memorize thousands of voice commands and helps reduce driver distraction.

Prius c Concept, the Small "city"-centric Hybrid Vehicle will come to market in the first half of 2012.

The third addition is the Plug-in to be initially offered in 14 West and East Coast states (Arizona, California, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Virginia and New Hampshire) where nearly 60 percent of all Prius models are currently sold.  Availability in all remaining states will be a year later. Depending on driving conditions, Prius Plug-in can be driven approximately 13 miles on battery power at speeds up to 60 mph.  Its compact Lithium-ion battery provides less weight and a quicker recharging time, taking three hours on 110 volts and 1.7 hours on 220 volts.  It can be "topped off" anytime with a convenient short charge.

With the success of the Prius hybrid, Toyota is simple expanding the appeal of the brand by catering to more tastes and needs. You might say they are entune with the market.

2011 NAIAS: Kia KV7 Concept Blends Practicality With Flare

Kia Motors’ U.S. design studio unveiled — the “KV7” concept van that has a futuristic blend of curves around a boxy frame which some critics say borrows from the Ford Flex. It has corporate jet lounge-like seating where passengers can face each other to engage in conversation. It reminds me of the station wagon of the future which I saw as a kid at the 1962 Seattle World's fair. The front passenger seat that swivels around is a practical idea that more manufacturers should embrace to make an easy exit from the vehicle for our aging population - turn towards the door and step out rather than kicking your legs to the side. The large gullwing door that swings up to open may present some problems in tight parking spaces.

The KV7 concept is powered by Kia’s new Theta II 2.0-liter GDI turbocharged engine, which is capable of delivering up to 285 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission to deliver V6-type power and performance while achieving better than 30 miles per gallon on the highway. The KV7 concept is my choice for the most radically inspiring concept vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show because it mixes practically and personality into a van, a segment which many moms avoiding because of the stereo-type that goes with them. The KV7, if it becomes reality, could lure the crowd of minivan moms that have opted for SUVs and CUVs back to the van segment.

NAIAS: Honda Civic Concepts To Become Reality In A Few Months

Honda showed off their new 2 and 4 door Civics in Detroit as concepts when, in fact, they'll be in showrooms in a few months. Shortly after the 4 door version was unveiled it was shipped to the Montreal Auto Show because Civic is a top seller in Canada.

That 4 door Civic had an unfinished interior with clay sculpting so it appears to be a concept that will be quickly transformed. Some critics were expecting a more drastic design change in the Civic but if it's not broke it doesn't need to be fixed, maybe just tweaked. Both models looked sleek and ready for personalization by their huge, loyal Civic fan base. Let's see if the production models and pricing details are released by or at the mid-April New York Auto Show.

NAIAS: Hyundai Veloster Shines In Detroit

Hyundai Veloster, the Korean carmaker's new entry level hatchback is anything but jurassic as the name might imply. The Veloster fits with the company's new branding which was unveiled just before the car itself in Detroit. New thinking. New Possibilities. Here's a small hatchback with a 1.6 liter 138 horsepower engine with possible 40mpg fuel economy and an option to mate it to their DSG transmission.

The Veloster looks like a 2-door car from the driver's side that has one larger door but on the passenger side there are two doors for easy access to the back seat behind which there may even be enough room for golf clubs. Hyundai continues to impress and this vehicle could catch on with twenty-somethings or even families with small kids who are on tight budgets demanding fuel economy. With a $17,000 price tag this could be another hit from Hyundai. Watch for it in showrooms this summer.

2012 VW Passat From Tennessee in Mid-August In $20K Range

The all-new 2012 Volkswagen Passat made in Chattanooga, Tennessee, is larger (191.7 inches) and will launch in mid-August in the $20,000 price range to boost U.S. sales. The exact price will be announced in March. There are 3 engine options: a 5 cylinder expected to get 31mpg, a diesel at 43mpg and a 6 cylinder at 28mpg. Plans are to produce about a million over the next 7 years. VW's goal is to triple current annual volume to 800,000 by 2018.

North American International Auto Show Preview - NAIAS - Detroit

Four auto shows in North America have media days for manufacturers to unveil vehicles as World or North American debuts - Los Angeles (November), Detroit (January), Chicago (February) and New York (Easter week which is in mid-April this year). It's usually today, the day before leaving for Detroit, that I get excited with anticipation and this year should produce some surprises.

Surprises
Porsche, which historically doesn't display in Detroit because they have few buyers in that market, will have a vehicle debut this year to kick off the show at the crack of dawn Monday. Tomorrow night, on the eve of the show Volkswagen will show off their American-made mid-size sedan that will be assemble in Chattanooga, Tennessee, a plant run by longtime Toyota manufacturing boss Don Jackson. Also, somewhat surprising is the fact Nissan and Infiniti are saving a lot of money by not having displays in Detroit.

Debuts
As already written in Saxton On Cars, we'll have a first-hand look at the 2011 BMW M Coupe, 2012 BMW 1-Series coupe and convertible, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Buick Verano and 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan. Also expected is the 2012 Audi A6, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic (formerly Aveo), 2012 Ford C-Max (from Europe), 2012 Ford Focus Electric, 2012 Hyundai Velster, 2012 Toyota Prius MPV and 2011 Jeep Compass.

Concepts we're expecting to see include Kia KV7, MINI Paceman, Ford Escape, GMC Sierra All-Terrain HD, 2012 Honda Civic and Hyundai Club. On the high performance side, Chrysler will have the Mopar 300, Ram Runner and Fiat 500 while Cadillac will show off their CTS-V Coupe racecar. Detroit is the home of GM, Ford and Chrysler so there could be some added surprises.

Awards
The North American Car and Truck of the Year picks to be announced Monday morning will be significant with so many great vehicles. Ford Focus Electric, Honda Civic, Volkswagen's new mid-size sedan and Mercedes new C-Class have got the gas in my veins flowing as all of them have huge sales potential.

Stay tuned for the latest from Detroit on vehicle debuts and executive comments on the industry.

KPMG's Global Auto Executive Survey - 2010 - Brand & Vehicle Growth

KPMG's 11th Annual Global Auto Executive Survey 2010 forecasts low cost automakers will have the biggest increase in global market share in the next five years taking the top three places (see chart above) while Toyota & Honda will fall in the ratings for first time in 3 years. VW is seen as strongest European OEM with Ford as the strongest U.S. OEM.

Hybrid vehicles will grow the most in all global markets.

Source: KPMG LLP

2010 U.S. Auto Sales Rise Sharply For Just About All Manufacturers

General Motors reported 223,932 total sales in December, a 16-percent increase from a year ago for the company’s four brands. For the calendar year, total sales for GM’s four brands increased 21 percent to 2,202,927, while retail sales rose 16 percent for the year.

Ford's December sales (including fleet deliveries) were 190,976, up 7 percent versus a year ago. Ford's full-year sales totaled 1.935 million, up 19 percent versus a year ago.

Toyota Motor Sales reported December sales of 177,488 units, down 5.5 percent compared to the same period last year. For the year, TMS reported annual sales of 1,763,595 vehicles, flat from the same period in 2009, on an unadjusted raw volume basis.

American Honda December new vehicle sales of 129,616 was an increase of 25.5 percent while American Honda’s 2010 annual vehicle sales totaled 1,230,480, an increase of 7.6 percent compared to 2009.

Chrysler Group LLC reported U.S. sales of 100,702, a 16 percent increase compared with December 2009 and for all 2010 Chrysler Group sold 1,085,211 vehicles up 17 percent compared with 2009 sales.

Nissan North America reported record December U.S. sales of 93,730, an increase of 27.7 percent. For 2010, NNA full-year sales were 908,570, up 18 percent from 2009.

Hyundai Motor America December sales of 44,802 units was up 33 percent versus 2009.  For the full year, Hyundai reported 538,228 sales, up 24 percent, an all-time Hyundai sales and market share record for the year.

Kia Motors America reported best-ever December sales of 30,444 units, up 44.6 percent from December 2009 and led to KMA’s 16th consecutive year of increased market share in the U.S. and all-time record sales in 2010 of 356,268, up 18.7 percent over 2009 and a 16.6-percent increase over the annual mark set in 2007. 

Volkswagen of America December 2010  sales of 23,867 was a 17 percent increase over prior year sales. For all, VW 2010 sales were 256,830, a 20 percent increase over 2009 total year sales, the best annual sales since 2003. Audi reported December sales of 10,546, a 16.8 percent increase over 2009. For the full year of 2010, Audi new sales of 101,629 vehicles was up 22.9 percent versus its prior full-year total.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported December sales of 27,600 vehicles, an increase of 16.9 percent from  the same month a year ago.  For 2010, the BMW Group in the U.S. reported total sales of 265,757 vehicles, up 9.9 percent compared to 2009. 

Subaru of America reported December sales of 26,694, its best-ever  December by a wide margin, exceeding the previous record set in 2009 by 16 percent and full-year results for 2010 were a record 263,820, a 22 percent increase over 2009.

Mazda North American Operations reported December 2010 sales of 21,479, up 17.7 percent versus December 2009 while year-to-date 2010 sales came in at 229,566, up 10.5 percent versus 2009.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported December sales of 21,469 vehicles, a 7.2 percent rise, bringing MBUSA's 2010 total to 225,007, an increase of 18 percent over 2009.

Jaguar Land Rover sold 4,875 vehicles in December 2010 a 1 percent gain from 2009 and for the year sales were 45,204, up 18 percent.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported December sales of 4,874 units, an increase of almost 12 percent compared to December 2009. Mitsubishi sales for the year were up more than 4 percent.

American Suzuki sold 2,647 vehicles in December up 40 percent from December 2009 and for all 2010 sold 23,994, 38 percent fewer than last year.

Mercedes-Benz Popular C-Class Sedan "Enhanced" For 2012 Model Year

The restyled 2012 C-Class sedan coming in C250, C300 4MATIC and C350 trim levels is scheduled to arrive in the U.S. in the summer of 2011 with the front and rear end "enhanced with a more distinctive design". A total of more than 2,000 new parts distinguish the newest generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class from its predecessor. Five new driver assistance systems ranging from the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system through to the Blind Spot Assist are now available in the C-Class lineup. New- generation telematics offer new infotainment and navigation features.

The new V6 gasoline engine in the C350 Sport Sedan features the BlueDIRECT process and now generates 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque (previously 268 hp and 258 lb-ft), while fuel economy has been improved by 5 percent compared with the outgoing C350 model. The four-cylinder engine is new for the U.S. market featuring direct injection and turbocharger with combined fuel economy of 24 mpg, an improvement of nearly 15 percent compared with the 2011 model year C300 due to all-new direct-injection mated to the redesigned seven-speed automatic transmission with the gear ratios optimized for fuel economy.

The C-Class is Mercedes-Benz's highest volume model range with global sales of more than one million units since its launch in March 2007. Since the market introduction of the first C-Class in 1982, known then as the 190, Mercedes-Benz has sold more than 8.5 million vehicles around the world.

2012 BMW 650i Convertible & 2011 1 Series M Coupe Debut At NAIAS

BMW will unveil the new 2012 BMW 650i Convertible and the all-new BMW 1 Series M Coupe with the updated BMW 1 Series Coupe and Convertible in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show in two weeks. The new BMW 650i Convertible is powered by a 400 horsepower 4.4-liter V-8 engine which makes peak torque of 450 lb-ft between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm and is mated to an 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission. The new 650i Convertible will go on sale in the spring of 2011 as a 2012 model for the United States. The current model 650i Convertible starts at $85,550.

The 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe has a twin-turbocharged, all-aluminum, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe will be available in limited quantities and with a limited range of options at Authorized BMW Centers in Spring, 2011. My guess is that it will cost close to $50,000 as the current model M3 Coupe starts at $58,400. We'll find out January 10th or 11th in Detroit.

The updated 1 Series Coupe and Convertible will go on sale this Spring powered by a 230 horsepower 3.0-liter inline-6 engine that generates 200 lb-ft of torque for the 128i Coupe and Convertible. The 2012 BMW 135i Coupe and Convertible feature BMW’s newest, 3.0-liter inline-6 engine with a single, twin-scroll turbocharger producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. The current model 128i sedan starts at $29,450, the 128i Convertible at $34,500, the 135i at $36,350 and 135i Convertible at $40,650.

Toyota Settles With NHTSA For $32.425 Million On Recall Timeliness

Toyota Motor Corporation has reached two settlement agreements with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration related to the timeliness of recalls conducted by the company in 2005 to address potential concerns with steering relay rods and from 2007 to early 2010 to address the potential for pedal entrapment by unsecured, incompatible or improperly installed floor mats. Toyota has agreed to pay $32.425 million as part of these settlements, without admitting to any violation of its obligations under the U.S. Safety Act.

All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Arrives In First Quarter of 2011

The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 has an all-new grille featuring the new Chrysler wing badge with added design refinement from its predecessor. Chrysler luxury flagship's windshield has been raked back 3 inches, while rolled-framed doors with thinner pillars improve outward visibility by 15 percent. To take in the sky above, a new dual-pane panoramic sunroof provides Chrysler 300 passengers with twice the outward visibility of a standard sunroof.  The all-new Chrysler 300's interior has substantial upgrades consisting of soft touch materials, premium interior trim, available heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, and real wood appliques on the instrument panel, doors, center console and steering wheel.

A new instrument cluster features two large gauge faces with sapphire blue illumination and chrome ring accents. Providing a premium and contemporary environment is an all-new sapphire blue LED-illuminated ambient interior lighting. The all-new Chrysler 300 sedans feature the segment's largest standard touchscreen display, a  8.4-inch Uconnect® Touch infotainment center. The 2011 Chrysler 300 arrives in showrooms in the first quarter of 2011.

Again, will a quick glance at the Chrysler 300 force the question, "is that a Bentley?" That was the comment I got a few years when test driving the new 300 at the time when I pulled up to the foyer of the Los Angeles Century Plaza hotel in front of a crowd of doctors attending a medical convention.

2011 North American Car of the Year Awards "Short List"

The General Motors and Nissan each have three models on the "short list" of 14 cars being considered for the 18th annual 2011 North American Car of the Year chosen from the 27 vehicles eligible this year. The list includes two electric vehicles, Chevrolet Volt and the Nissan Leaf. There are four European models, four domestic, four from Japan and two are from Korea.

Domestic automakers have won North American Car of the Year nine times. European automakers have won four times, Japanese automakers have won three times. A Korean automaker has won once. Domestic automakers have won North American Truck of the Year 11 times. Japanese automakers have won four times. European automakers have won twice.

2011 North American Car of the Year Short List:
Audi A8, Buick Regal, Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Volt, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Sonata/2.0T/Hybrid, Infiniti M37/56, Jaguar XJ, Kia Optima, Mazda Mazda2, Nissan Juke, Nissan Leaf, Volkswagen Jetta, Volvo S60.

North American Truck of the Year Short List:
Dodge Durango, Ford Edge, Ford Explorer, Honda Odyssey, Hyundai Tucson, Infiniti QX56, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Sorento, Kia Sportage, Lincoln MKX, Mercedes-Benz R-Class, Porsche Cayenne, Toyota Sienna, Volkswagen Touareg.

A jury of 49 independent automotive journalists evaluated all the new cars introduced this year and chose three that will compete for the top honor, to be announced at the 2011 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 10, 2011.

2011 Lexus CT 200h Hybrid Priced At $29,995 For Early March

The all-new 2011 Lexus CT 200h hybrid will be priced at $29,120 plus a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875 for a total of $29,995 when it arrives at dealerships in early March with an overall combined fuel economy at 42 mpg. The CT 200h emits approximately 60 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new car, and has EPA-estimated ratings of 43 mpg city and 40 mpg on the highway utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Moreover, the CT 200h can be operated in a switchable EV mode which generates zero emissions.

In addition to the EV and Normal drive modes, the CT 200h offers Sport and Eco modes which can help enhance either performance and dynamic ability or driving efficiency, fuel economy and emissions. EV, Eco and Normal drive modes emphasize ride comfort and smooth acceleration. When Sport mode is selected, instrument panel lighting changes from blue to red and the hybrid power indicator is replaced with a tachometer.

Standard features on the CT 200h include SmartAccess with push-button Start/Stop and touch sensors on exterior front-door handles; leather steering wheel; a six-speaker, audio system with a CD player, and Bluetooth® for phone and music streaming capabilities; integrated satellite radio receiver (includes complimentary 90-day trial subscription); USB/iPod® connectivity; 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels; and dual zone automatic climate control.  The CT 200h also incorporates a standard eight-airbag Supplemental Restraint System.

The optional sixth-generation navigation system features a backup camera and Lexus' exclusive Remote Touch controller with user-adjustable haptic feedback.  The controller, similar to a computer mouse, eliminates the need for touch screen controls, allowing the pop-up navigation system screen to be mounted further up the center stack and away from the driver.  This helps the driver benefit with a clear, high-resolution screen, improved site lines and reduced eye movement.     

November 2010 U.S. Auto Sales Show Big Gains over 2009

The increased sales seem to be coming at the expense of Toyota with sales up just 6 tenths of a percent for 11 months of 2010.

General Motors' four brands reported 168,704 total sales in November, a 20.8 percent increase from the prior year. Year-to-date GM's four brands have sold 1,978,995 vehicles, up 22 percent.

Ford, Lincoln and Mercury November sales totaled 147,338, up 24 percent versus year ago. Ford’s year-to-date sales total 1.74 million, up 21 percent over 2009.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. including Lexus and Scion reported November sales of 129,317 units, on a raw volume basis, that's a drop of 3.2 percent compared to the same period last year. Year-to-date Toyota has sold 1,586,107 vehicles, up 6 tenths of a percent over 2009.

American Honda posted November sales of 89,617 vehicles, an increase of 16.1 percent based on the daily selling rate. American Honda year-to-date sales reached 1,100,864, an increase of 5.9 percent versus last year based on the daily selling rate. 
   
Chrysler Group LLC reported U.S. sales of 74,152, a 17 percent increase compared with sales in November 2009. Year-to-date Chrysler has sold 984,509 vehicles, also a 17 percent gain.

Nissan North America reported November U.S. sales of 71,366, an increase of 26.8 percent. For all of 2010, NNA sales are 814,840, up 17 percent.

Hyundai Motor America announced an all-time record for November sales of 40,723 units, up 45 percent versus 2009. For the year-to-date, Hyundai has already established a new annual sales record with total volume of 493,426, up 23 percent versus the same 11 month period in 2009.

Volkswagen of America reported that November 2010 sales of 20,189 was a 24.2 percent increase over prior year sales and year-to-date sales are 232,963, a 20.7 percent rise over 2009. Audi surpassed the prior November record set in 2006 selling 9,365 vehicles last month, a 37.5 percent increase over November 2009. Year-to-date Audi new sales are 91,083, up 23.6 percent versus 2009 through November. 

Kia Motors America announced record November sales of 26,601 vehicles, a 48.2 percent increase over the same period last year and with one month remaining in 2010, KMA's sales of 325,824 are up 16.8 percent over 2009 and already exceeding its previous full-year sales record set in 2007.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported November sales of 22,883 vehicles, an increase of 27.1 percent from the 18,002 vehicles sold in November 2009. Year-to-date, the BMW Group has sold 238,157 vehicles, up 9.3 percent from 2009.

Subaru of America, Inc. continues its record-breaking run with the best November in the company's history with sales of 20,792, a 22 percent increase on November 2009. Subaru's year-to-date sales are 237,126, up 23 percent over 2009 through November and already 10% ahead of the 2009 full year with December sales still to come.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported its highest November sales volume since 2007 with sales of 19,037, an increase of 13.3 percent for the month. On a year-to-date basis, sales increased 19.4 percent to 203,468.

Mazda North American Operations reported sales of 15,304 vehicles in November 2010, an increase of 7.4 percent over the same month last year.  Year-to-date sales through November 2010 stand at 208,087, and are outpacing last year's sales at this time by 9.8 percent.

Mitsubishi Motors sold 4,306 vehicle in November, a 47 percent gain over 2009 and year-to-date is at 50,809, up 2 percent versus 11 months of 2009.

Jaguar Land Rover has sold 4,039, a 22 percent rise while year-to-date sales stand at 40,329, up 21 percent over last year.

American Suzuki sales jumped to 2,332, a 51 percent increase, bringing year-to-date sales to 21,347, a 42 slide from this time in 2009.

This blog will be updated as manufacturers report.  

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