JDPA Sr. VP John Humphrey Optimistic About Car Sales

The J.D. Power and Associates Roundtable sessions have begun with an optimistic future for the auto industry. John Humphrey, Sr. V.P., Global Automotive, JDPA, ran through the numbers saying emerging markets are continuing to grow and making a larger contribution to global sales, gaining from an under 20% percent consumption rate between 2000 - 2005, to 51% in 2010 to an expected 55% in 2015. The 2012 prediction is for a global increase of 5% to 79.2 million vehicles. North America will grow 8% to 16.4 million, Brazil 16%, China 9% this year. Humphrey says China could sell 19.7 million this year increasing to 35 million by 2020.

Vehicle prices are up to $28,341 on average while incentives are down to $2,680 per vehicle. The optimistic forecast is tied to the boost in new product introductions, redesigns or facelifts, a rebound in leasing to pre-crisis levels, credit history improvement and the age of the average vehicle knocking on 11 years on the road. Having said that, Humphrey says there are risks like the price of oil, the Euro-crisis, job recovery, a China bubble burst and the infrastructure, namely roads and highways, in emerging markets being able to support the new vehicles hitting the streets.

Humphrey described Retail 3.0 which encompasses younger buyers being more difficult to satisfy, different applications and sites, increased cross-shopping, innovations in consumer engagement, etc. He says by 2015, 40% of car buyers will be Gen X or Gen Y and now 81% of people go online for pricing (24% on mobile devices, 19% on tablets). Maybe not too surprising, reasons consumers reject buying a specific vehicle is 24% dealer treatment compared with 29% brand and 23% price, 12% inventory.

Vehicle quality is narrowing among all brands so the dealership experience becomes the competitive edge and very critical as the JDPA numbers clearly illustrate. Humphrey forecasts global light vehicle sales to hit 99 million by 2015 up from the expected 2012 level of 79.2 million - that's optimistic and music to dealers' ears.

Audi R8 GT Spyder Will Cost More Than $210,000

The hand-built 560 horsepower quattro all-wheel-drive Audi R8 GT Spyder, with just 333 being produced world-wide and 50 units coming to the U.S., will have an MSRP of $210,000 (excludes $1,200 Destination and Delivery and Taxes). With its 5.2-liter V10 with direct injection engine, the R8 GT Spyder accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 197 mph.

January 2012 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors reported total sales of 167,962 vehicles in the United States in January, down 6 percent compared with a very strong January 2011. 

Ford Motor Company U.S. sales totaled 136,710 vehicles in January, a 7 percent increase versus year-old levels. The Ford brand totaled 131,589 vehicles in January, making it the best January sales month for the Ford brand since 2008.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported monthly sales results of 124,540, a 7.5 percent gain over the year-ago month. Toyota Division passenger cars recorded sales of 67,602 units, up 20.1 percent over January 2012. Lexus reported passenger car sales of 6,069 units, up 9.1 percent over January 2011.

Chrysler Group LLC reported U.S. sales of 101,149, a 44 percent increase compared with sales in January 2011, the group's best January sales since 2008.

American Honda reported January 2012 monthly new-vehicle sales of 83,009, an increase of 8.8 percent over January 2011. The Honda Division posted January 2012 sales of 74,628, an increase of 9.3 percent year-over-year and the Acura Division's January sales totaled 8,381, up 5.3 percent compared to January 2011.

Nissan North America January sales of 79,313 was an increase of 10.4 percent over January 2011.  Nissan Division sales rose 12.5 percent for the month to 72,517 while sales of Infiniti vehicles fell 8.2 percent from the prior year to 6,796.

Hyundai Motor America announced all-time record January sales of 42,694 units, up 15 percent versus 2011. 

Kia Motors America had record January sales of 35,517, a 27.8 percent increase over the same period in 2011 for its 17th straight monthly sales record. 

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 27,209 in January, a 47.9 percent increase over prior January sales. Separately, Audi reported its 13th straight record-setting month of sales with 9,354 vehicles sold in January 2012, a 19.7 percent increase over 2011.

Mazda North American Operations reported its best January since 1994 with U.S. sales of 23,996, an increase of 68.2 percent versus last year.

Mercedes-Benz USA sold 21,726 vehicles in January, a 25.8 percent increase over January 2011, the highest January volume in the company's history. 

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported January sales of 19,739 vehicles, an increase of 5.8 percent from the same month a year ago.

Subaru of America reported record vehicle sales for January 2012 of 22,807 vehicles, a gain of 21 percent over January 2011.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported January 2012 sales of 4,711, down 17.6 percent from January 2011.

Volvo Cars North America had sales of 4,461 in January, a 4 percent increase over January 2011.

Jaguar sold 985 cars in January, 5 percent more than last January and Land Rover had sales of 3,205, a 41 percent jump from a year ago bringing combined JLR sales to 4,190 for January, a 31 percent rise.

Porsche Cars North America announced January 2012 sales of 2,550 vehicles a 6 percent increase over January 2011.

American Suzuki sold 1,505 vehicles in January, a 41 percent drop from a year ago.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Lexus First-Ever Super Bowl Commercial Features The All-New 2013 GS

 Lexus' first-ever commercial, "Beast", for the "big game", introduces the all-new 2013 GS.

Volkswagen Shows Off Super Bowl Ad Featuring All-New 2012 Beetle

The Dog Strikes Back: 2012 Volkswagen Game Day Commercial is out. My dogs seem to sleep most of the day, I wonder if a new Beetle would give them that get-up-and-go they may have got-up-and-went. VW says the "all-new 2012 Volkswagen Beetle inspires Bolt the dog to get in shape, and an intergalactic superstar makes a surprise appearance." VW released the game day ad shortly after their teaser.

Volkswagen Goes To The Bark Side In Their Super Bowl Ad Teaser

Volkswagen will advertise during the Super Bowl for the third consecutive year with one 60-second spot at the beginning of the third quarter of Super Bowl XLVI. VW says the spot will feature the all-new Beetle, which arrived in dealerships in September. The "Bark Side" commercial teaser has dogs barking Darth Vader's theme so let's see how it sets up what we will see on Sunday.

Hyundai Will Have Five Super Bowl TV Commercials

Hyundai, in its fifth consecutive year as a Super Bowl advertiser, will launch five total game-day ads on Sunday, including two pre-game spots, one in the highly rated pre-kick-off time slot and two ads during the game. The 60-second pre-kick-off spot, "All For One", highlights Hyundai employees teamwork as they hum “Gonna Fly Now” from the movie “Rocky”.

“Cheetah,” a 30-second spot slated for the first quarter, features a caged cheetah set to race a new 201-horsepower Veloster Turbo on a long stretch of open road. The car launches and the cage opens, but just a few yards into the race, the cat realizes he’s met his match as the car speeds ahead. The competitive cheetah then takes his frustration out on his handler.

“Think Fast,” a 30-second spot slated for the fourth quarter of the game, introduces a character that will star in Hyundai’s social media efforts named Bob. In this vignette, a young professional is driving his boss, Bob, a seasoned business pro, in his Genesis Coupe R-Spec. Bob is about to deliver a pearl of wisdom when he falls unconscious. The young driver hits the brakes hard, then throws his Genesis Coupe into drive repeatedly, generating enough force to revive Bob, at which time he delivers his piece of advice unphased by his apparent health scare.

To round out the game-day lineup, Hyundai will celebrate its 2012 North American Car of the Year victory for Elantra with a new 30-second spot called “Victory Lap.” 

“Faster Acting” showcases the new 429-horsepower Genesis R-Spec sedan and furthers the theme of performance which bridges the pre-game spots with the in-game ads.

Toyota's Super Bowl Commercial Promotes "Reinvented" Camry

Toyota's Super Bowl XLVI commercial promoting the "reinvented" Camry, is a humorous take on potential day-to-day experiences and items that could have been reinvented. The "Reinvented" spot will be broadcast during the third quarter and will mark Toyota's return to Super Bowl advertising for the first time in three years.

Honda & Acura Super Bowl Ads Feature Well-Known Personalities

Award-winning actor Matthew Broderick is starring in a fourth-quarter Super Bowl commercial to promote the all-new 2012 Honda CR-V. "Matthew's Day Off" reprises Broderick's role in the 1986 film, Ferris Bueller's Day Off.

Honda's luxury car division, Acura, for the first time, will run a commercial during the Super Bowl. This commercial, "Transactions,"  will air in the third quarter and feature comic Jerry Seinfeld and Tonight Show host Jay Leno who are trying to buy the first NSX supercar concept car that debuted in Detroit a few weeks ago.

Consumer Reports Recommends Prius V, X3 and Tiguan In March Issue

The BMW X3 xDrive28i powered by a 240 horsepower 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine beat the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque in Consumer Reports head-to-head road test match up. The X3 scored an 80 in CR's road test while the Evoque received a Road Test score of 60, scoring near the bottom of its category. The X3 is one of the few SUVs that feels sporty to drive, and a new eight-speed automatic transmission helps bring its fuel economy to a respectable 22 mpg overall on premium fuel. With its unique styling, the new Evoque turns heads, but it has many shortcomings, including a cramped cabin, stiff ride, artificial-feeling steering, and troubling emergency handling.

The new Toyota Prius V received an Excellent road test score. No other vehicle comes close to its blend of versatility and fuel economy. This wagon version of the Prius hatchback has a big cargo area and roomy rear seat yet still returns 41 mpg overall.

The Prius V, X3, and Volkswagen Tiguan are all Recommended. The Evoque and Wrangler scored too low for CR to Recommend. Consumer Reports only Recommends vehicles that have performed well in its tests, have at least average predicted reliability based on CR's Annual Auto Survey of its more than seven million print and Web subscribers, and performed at least adequately if crash-tested or included in a government rollover test.

2012 Suzuki Kizashi Featured in New Super Bowl Ad

American Suzuki's Super Bowl commercial which emphasizes the features of the 2012 Kizashi sport sedan is entitled "Sled" and is a fun, simple tale of a dog sled being traded in for a car. "Sled" will continue to run following the Super Bowl in conjunction with a new Suzuki advertising campaign scheduled to debut in March.

Audi's Super Bowl XLVI TV Commercial - Vampires Beware

Check out these headlights! Coming at you - Audi's 60 second Super Bowl XLVI commercial, which features a vampire theme, airing in the first break after kick-off promoting Audi's signature LED headlights on the new 2013 Audi S7. Audi LEDs - at 5,500 Kelvin produce the closest recreation of daylight available - good riddance vampires! See the ad on YouTube now.

Chevy Code 130R & Tru 140S Concepts Designed in Car Capitol L.A.

The Chevrolet Code 130R concept (pictured on the left) is a four-seat rear-wheel drive coupe with a turbocharged engine to be tuned to work in tandem with eAssist technology that shuts off the engine at stops, recapturing braking energy, and smoothing torque during acceleration.

The Chevrolet Tru 140S concept (pictured on the right) is a front-wheel-drive, “affordable exotic” four-seat sporty coupe based off the same platform as the Chevrolet Cruze and the Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle with extended range. Tru 140S designers want to demonstrate technologies typically found in more expensive cars, including direct injection and a starter-based stop-start technology, balancing internal combustion and electrification to deliver high value and improved fuel economy.

The concepts, designed at the GM North America Advanced Design studio in Los Angeles, are aimed at younger buyers who say they want sedan-sized functionality in performance coupe form that seats four passengers, interior connectivity and convenience featuring innovative storage, WiFi, smart phone integration with Chevrolet MyLink and heads-up display, 40 MPG with a 150 horsepower 1.4 liter Turbo Ecotec engine and with a possible production price range in the low $20,000s.

Concepts are becoming reality because of the high research and development costs so let's see if these little Chevys deliver on their promise.

2013 Cadillac ATS Goes On Sale In Second Half Of This Year

The 2013 Cadillac ATS, built on the legacy of the CTS-V Series, comes with a standard 202 horsepower 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine and choices of a 270 horsepower 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or an estimated 320 horsepower 3.6 liter V-6. The ATS, with available all-wheel drive, uses the first five-link independent suspension in a Cadillac to help keep the tires planted on all surfaces and during all hard-cornering maneuvers. Engineers focused on making the Cadillac ATS one of the lightest cars in the compact luxury segment with a curb weight of less than 3,400 pounds which helps deliver peak highway fuel economy of more than 30 mpg. The 2013 Cadillac ATS goes on sale during the second half of 2012.

2013 Buick Encore Luxury Small Crossover Arrives First Quarter Next Year

The all-new 2013 Buick Encore luxury small crossover with room for five is powered by a 140 horsepower Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. The Encore has 100.6-inch wheelbase and is 60.6-inches wide. With up to 48.4 cubic feet of storage space with the rear seat folded, the Encore offers substantial cargo capacity. Features include 10 standard air bags (driver and front passenger knee air bags), remote vehicle start, rainsense wipers, Bose premium sound system and Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control. The Buick Encore will begin arriving at U.S. Buick dealerships in the first quarter of 2013.

Audi Shows Q3 Vail, A4, S4, allroad, A5, S5, RS 5 & A8 3.0T

Audi had many debuts last week including the Q3 Vail SUV, the A4, S4, A5, S5, RS 5 and A8 3.0T sedans and the allroad that will replace the A4 Avant starting in the 2013 model year.

The Audi Q3 Vail compact SUV features a 314 horsepower 2.5-liter five-cylinder TFSI engine with direct injection and turbocharging transferred to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system via a seven-speed S tronic transmission. For winter sports fans the side wall of the trunk houses a charging station that can be used for storing flashlights and charging them inductively at the same time. The same technology is used for the Thermos bottle located in the cup holder between the front seats which is able to chill or warm drinks. In addition to LED lighting, the flashlights incorporate an infra-red heating element that can be used for warming your hands or a pair of ski boots.

The redesigned Audi A4 and S4 for 2013 model year features two engines the 2.0 liter TFSI engine with 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque for the A4 and allroad and the 3.0 liter TFSI engine with 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque for the S4. The new Audi drive select is a system that adjusts the vehicle's transmission shift characteristics, throttle response, and dynamic steering. On the S4, the Audi drive select system can also control the adaptive damping suspension and quattro sport differential. Audi drive select offers 27 distinct driving configurations, allowing drivers to configure vehicle drive characteristics exactly to their liking with their choice of Comfort, Auto, Dynamic or Individual settings.

The new Audi allroad quattro permanent all-wheel drive wagon, built on the A4 platform, makes a return after a 6 year absence replacing the A4 Avant starting in the 2013 model year featuring the 211 horsepower 2.0 liter TFSI engine with 258 lb-ft of torque mated to a standard 8-speed tiptronic transmission making it faster and more fuel efficient than its predecessor. The new allroad is 185.9 inches in length with a wheelbase of 110.4 inches. Compared to its predecessor, the new allroad has a longer wheelbase for ride comfort and more headroom for front passengers. The allroad has 27 cubic feet of cargo space and a spacious 50 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded down. The interior of the new allroad features a standard Panorama sunroof, 8-way power seats, and Aluminum Trigon inlays. An optional power tailgate is available.

The 2013 Audi A5 features the 2.0 TFSI engine and provides 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque. The A5 Cabriolet comes standard with front-wheel drive and multitronic transmission, while the A5 and S5 coupe has quattro standard and six-speed manual, The S5 Cabriolet has quattro standard and is mated to the seven-speed S tronic transmission. New for the 2013 model year, the S5 coupe features the 333 horsepower 3.0T V6 engine, which replaces the 4.2 liter V8.

Want more power? The 2013 Audi RS 5 features a 450 horsepower 4.2-liter V8 mated to a seven-speed S tronic transmission with launch control program and an electronically-governed top speed of 174 mph.

The 2013 Audi A8 flagship sedan now offers the 333 horsepower supercharged V6 engine with standard quattro all-wheel drive.

New Nissan Pathfinder Goes On Sale This Fall

The Nissan Pathfinder Concept, one of 20 new or redesigned products Nissan plans to introduce in this market within the next two years, has an all-new streamlined look. The fourth generation 7-passenger Pathfinder has a V6 engine and next-generation Continuously Variable Transmission projected to deliver a 25 percent increase in combined City/Highway fuel economy (over the previous V6-equipped design).  In addition to offering an intuitive four-wheel-drive system, the new Pathfinder will also have towing capacity competitive with the leaders in the segment. The next-gen Pathfinder goes on sale in Fall 2012 at Nissan dealers nationwide.

New Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid Available At The End Of The Year

The new Jetta Hybrid uses a turbocharged gasoline engine mated to a zero-emissions electric motor with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission allowing acceleration of 0-60 mph in less than 9.0 seconds and achieving an estimated combined fuel economy figure of 45 mpg. The Jetta Hybrid can be driven in pure electric mode at speeds of up to 44 mph. The downsized four-cylinder engine develops 150 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. A lithium-ion battery supplies the energy to the electric motor. The compact 220-volt, 1.1 kWh battery is integrated behind the rear bench seat and weighs less than 80 lb. The battery consists of 60 individual cells with a combined energy capacity of 5 Ah. As in the Touareg Hybrid SUV, the Jetta Hybrid features a clutch that decouples the gasoline engine from the drivetrain when in pure electric drive or coasting modes.

Three trims will be offered for the Jetta Hybrid. Standard features include Bluetooth® technology, LED taillights, SiriusXM® satellite radio, special 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, and a unique Hybrid body kit and badging. Available premium features will include bi-xenon headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights, a power driver's seat, heatable front seats, the RNS 315 navigation system, a rear-view camera and Volkswagen's exclusive Fender® Premium Audio System. The 2013 Jetta Hybrid will launch in the North American market at the end of 2012.

Redesigned 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe & All-New Veloster Turbo

The redesigned 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe now sports more aggressive coupe styling with the 348 horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine receiving sophisticated direct-injection technology and the 274 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine upgrading to a more precise twin-scroll turbocharger and larger intercooler. Automatic transmissions for these two models now have 8-speeds, with paddle-shift SHIFTRONIC® manual-shifting capability. Hyundai’s proprietary telematics platform, Blue Link®, is now available.

The all-new 2013 Hyundai Veloster Turbo powered by a new 201 horsepower 1.6-liter Turbocharged-Gasoline Direct Injection (T-GDI) engine and in-house six-speed automatic or manual transmission arrives in the Summer of 2012, facing off against competitors such as the Volkswagen GTI, Honda Civic Si and Mini Cooper/Clubman S with a better power-to-weight ratio than all of them, and a unique sport-tuned steering and suspension hardware set. All Velosters feature six airbags—including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags. The Veloster Turbo is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle-shifter and and Shiftronic® controls rather than the base Vesloster’s EcoShift DCT.

All-new Ford Fusion Hits U.S. Showrooms Later This Year

The all-new Ford Fusion offers gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions in S, SE and range-topping Titanium series. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine is expected to deliver 26 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine paired with a paddle-shifted six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission, available 19-inch wheels and tires, and all-wheel drive with the ability to send additional torque to the rear is the Fusion performance option. Fusion's new technology features can help drivers maintain proper lane position, adjust vehicle speed to changing traffic conditions, identify suitable parking spaces and help park, even aiding drivers backing out of parking space where visibility is obstructed. Fusion also offers the latest version of MyFord Touch®, allowing a driver to interact with vehicle systems through voice control, a touch screen tap or a conventional button.

The Fusion Hybrid has all-new lithium-ion batteries that save weight and generate more power than previous nickel-metal hydride batteries, while raising maximum speed under electric-only power from 47 mph to 62 mph. Fusion Hybrid also features an all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine, significantly downsized from the previous 2.5-liter unit while maintaining performance standards. This innovative powertrain is anticipated to deliver best-in-class fuel economy of 47 mpg in city driving and 44 mpg on the highway.

Lincoln MKZ Concept Becomes Reality Later This Year

The new Lincoln MKZ Concept strongly hints at the production model arriving in dealerships later this year, as well as Lincoln's design future. A panoramic glass roof spans uninterrupted from the windshield to the top of the backlight. Integrated into the sedan's aluminum and boron steel superstructure, the fixed-glass expanse extends to the side roof rails of the cabin, creating an airy, open interior.

The Lincoln MKZ Concept's interior features include push-button transmission gear selection, an open, tiered center console and liquid crystal instrumentation. The reconfigurable 10.1-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) LCD positioned ahead of the driver operates with the latest version of MyLincoln Touch™ as does the nearly flush-mounted center 8-inch LCD touch screen.

2013 Porsche Boxster At $50,450 & 911 Porsche Carrera Cabriolet

 
2013 Porsche Boxster open-top two-seat car receives an entirely new lightweight body and a completely revamped chassis weighing less than the previous generation and rides on a longer wheelbase and a wider track. The new Boxster base model delivers 265 horsepower from a 2.7 liter displacement, 10 more horsepower than its larger displacement predecessor and it's also up to 15 percent more fuel-efficient than previous models on the European cycle.  Technically, it is now based on the 3.4-liter engine of the Boxster S which delivers 315 horsepower, 5 horsepower more than before. Both models feature a manual six-speed gearbox as standard with the seven-speed PDK available as an option With gear changes without interruption to the power flow, the Boxster sprints from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, the Boxster S in 4.7 seconds. The new Boxster models are expected in U.S. showrooms in early summer 2012. The basic list price will be $49,500 for the Boxster and $60,900 for the Boxster S, not including a $950 destination charge.

The 911 Porsche Carrera Cabriolet with a completely new roof concept and lightweight design ensures less weight and lower fuel consumption. As with the Coupés, the new Cabriolets start with the 911 Carrera, powered by a 350 horsepower 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine and the 911 Carrera S with 400 horsepower 3.8 litre flat engine.

2013 Dodge Dart Starting At $15,995 Next Quarter

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart, with Alfa Romeo DNA and fuel-efficient powertrains will have a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $15,995 and will be available in five trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and R/T. The 2013 Dodge Dart will be powered a new 160 horsepower Tigershark 16-valve 2.0-liter engine, a 160 horsepower 16-valve 1.4-liter MultiAir® Intercooled Turbo engine and a new 184 horsepower Tigershark 16-valve 2.4-liter MultiAir 2 four-cylinder engine combined with three transmission choices: six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or six-speed dual dry clutch transmission. Production of the 2013 Dodge Dart will begin in the second quarter of 2012.

Acura Debuts 2013 RDX, ILX & NSX Concept

Acura unveiled three new vehicles last week: the ILX luxury compact sedan concept; a prototype of the 2013 RDX crossover sport utility vehicle; and the NSX Concept. Acura also announced the next-generation NSX will feature Acura's new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® technology.

The lineup of Acura ILX models will include an entry-level model powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine; a high-performance model with a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission; and a 1.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, Acura's first-ever hybrid offering.

The 2013 Acura RDX, the second generation of Acura's five-passenger crossover SUV, scheduled to launch in Spring 2012, will have as standard equipment a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 273 horsepower— 33 more than the outgoing model and is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with a new lock-up torque converter. The RDX front-wheel-drive models anticipated EPA fuel economy ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

As with the ILX, the 2013 RDX will receive a host of new technologies including Pandora internet radio interface, SMS text message feature, a smart entry keyless access system, pushbutton start, and a three view rear camera. An available Technology Package will provide a full complement of relevant technologies, including AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, and AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™ with radar image maps. New for 2013, the even more advanced navigation system utilizes a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity – including 15 gigabytes that can be allocated for music storage.

The Acura NSX Concept has a 2 Electric Motor Drive Unit with a bilateral torque adjustable control system, the all-new hybrid all-wheel-drive system can instantly generate negative or positive torque to the front wheels during cornering. The new Acura supercar, expected to debut in the next three years.

All-new 2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept With 3 New Engines

The all-new ninth-generation 2013 Honda Accord Coupe Concept will feature three all-new powertrains: the new Earth Dreams 2.4-liter, 16-valve DOHC i-VTEC® four-cylinder engine featuring direct- injection engine that will be paired to a 6-speed manual transmission or a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) producing more than 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The 2013 Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe will also be offered with a re-engineered 3.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine, paired to a new 6-speed automatic transmission or an available 6-speed manual transmission.

Hybrid
The 2013 Accord lineup will also feature the first application of a new two-motor plug-in hybrid system to the Accord Sedan. The Honda two-motor hybrid system moves continuously through three modes - all-electric, gasoline-electric and direct-drive - to maximize driving efficiency and fuel economy. In all-electric mode, the 2013 Accord Plug-In Hybrid will use a 6 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery and a powerful 120 kW electric motor to achieve an all-electric range of approximately 10-15 miles in city driving scenarios and a top speed of 62 mph. Fully recharging the battery will take less than four hours using a 120-volt, outlet and less than 1.5 hours using a 240-volt charger. In the gasoline-electric hybrid mode, the Accord is powered by its fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, i-VTEC inline four-cylinder, Atkinson cycle engine, paired with an electric Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT). For more efficient high-speed cruising, the Accord Plug-In Hybrid can engage in a direct-drive mode, in which only the engine drives the front wheels. The Accord Plug-In Hybrid will launch next winter.

2013 Lexus LX 570 Is Refreshed

The 2013 Lexus LX 570 eight-passenger SUV has a new Lexus spindle grille, new 20-inch alloy wheel design, upgraded interior and gets a new look at both the front and rear. New LED daytime running lights complement new headlamp design and new larger fog lamp bezels. Taillamps are also updated, while the rear license plate surround gets a revised look and the tow hitch cover is more integrated. Both front and rear bumpers are refreshed, and the rear bumper protector is enhanced by a stainless steel accent. Turn signals have been added to the side mirrors, and wider bodyside moldings sport a new look. The LX 570 has a 383 horsepower 5.7-liter V8.

Lexus LF-LC Hybrid 2+2 Sport Coupe Concept

The Lexus LF-LC hybrid 2+2 sport coupe concept is a new design driver-focused concept showcasing the future design direction for Lexus. The front-engine, rear-wheel drive LF-LC features Advanced Lexus Hybrid Drive with a glass roof and a lightweight, cantilevered pillar with a glass-to-glass juncture. Overall, the greenhouse design enhances driver visibility while adding to the sleek lines of the car. Twin 12.3-inch LCD screens provide information and navigation display.

Toyota NS4 Plug-in Hybrid Concept Targeted for 2015 Production

The Toyota NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept is a mid-sized concept with a Human-Machine Interface providing a user interface built around a multi-touch screen with the look and feel of a smartphone. The NS4 introduces a next generation Pre-Collision System with lane departure, rear-end and pedestrian collision avoidance technologies designed to predict collisions under certain circumstances and help avoid them. This PCS uses millimeter-wave radar and stereo cameras mounted on the front of the vehicle to detect and react to lane departure, pedestrians and other vehicles. In addition, the system emits near-infrared beams to enhance PCS recognition at night helping to avoid collisions with other vehicles, road-side obstructions, and pedestrians by applying the brakes and manipulating steering.

Adaptive Driving Beam headlights help prevent vision-impairing glare to oncoming drivers and pedestrians. Using a camera mounted behind the front grill and partial shielding inside the headlights, this feature allows drivers to maintain near-high beam illumination to improve nighttime visibility. Four new glass technologies are integrated into the windshield and front triangle, door, and rear windows to improve driver visibility, gas mileage and electric driving mode mileage efficiency: Hydrophobic coating – Fluorine coated glass causes rain drops to form into semi-spherical shapes for improved visibility and rain drop elimination (also used on the roof solar panel), Anti-fog film – High performance resin material with anti-fogging characteristics and increased durability, High ultraviolet (UV) absorbing inner-layer – Removes 99 percent of harmful UVA and UVB rays, Anti-solar film with radio-wave transparency – Reduces the internal vehicle temperature and improves electronic device functionality.

The NS4 concept is a dedicated plug-in hybrid, separate from the Prius family, for potential global market introduction by 2015.

2011 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors reported total U.S. sales of 234,351 vehicles in December, up 4.7 percent compared with December 2010.  Sales for the calendar year were 2,503,820, up 3.7 percent.

Ford Motor Company U.S. sales in December were 210,140, a 10 percent rise over 2010 and for the full year sales reached 2,148,806, an 11 percent gain over last year.
   
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported December 2011 sales results of 178,131, flat compared to the same period last year. For the full year, TMS reported annual sales of 1,644,661 vehicles, down 6.7 percent from the same period in 2010 as inventory continued to recover from shortages due to the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. 

Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales of 138,019, a 37 percent increase compared with sales in December 2010, the group's best monthly sales since May 2008. For the year, Chrysler Group sales totaled 1,369,114, up 26 percent versus sales in 2010.

American Honda reported December monthly new-vehicle sales of 105,230, a decrease of 18.8 percent on a daily selling-rate basis. American Honda's 2011 annual vehicle sales totaled 1,147,285, a decrease of 7.1 percent compared to 2010.

Nissan North America reported record December U.S. sales of 100,927, an increase of 7.7 percent.  NNA finished the calendar year with 2011 sales totaling 1,042,534, 14.7 percent higher than 2010.

Hyundai Motor America announced sales of 50,765 vehicles in December, a 13 percent increase compared with the same record-setting period a year ago. For the year, Hyundai sales were 645,691, up 20 percent versus 2010.

Kia Motors America reported record December sales of 43,390 units, a 42.5 percent increase over the same period in 2010, which contributed to the Kia's best-ever full-year sales of 485,492, a jump of 36.3 percent over 2010.

Volkswagen of America reported December sales totaled 32,502, up 36.2 percent over 2010, marking the best December since 1972. 2011 sales of 324,402 was a 26.3 percent increase over prior year sales. Separately, Audi announced December 2011 sales of 12,655, a 20 percent increase over the same period last year, a new all-time monthly record. 2011 sales were a record 117,561, 15.7 percent over 2010. 

BMW Group reported December sales of 32,545 vehicles, an increase of 17.9 percent from the same month a year ago. In 2011, the BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) achieved its best sales since the record year of 2007 retailing 305,418 vehicles, up 14.9 percent compared to the vehicles sold in 2010.

Subaru of America reported December sales of 33,701, a 26.3 percent jump over the same month a year ago. For 2011, sales of 266,989 represent a 1.2 percent gain over 2010. Subaru has now posted sales records in each of the past three years and Subaru is the only manufacturer in the US to have posted four successive years of sales growth.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported 28,006 vehicles were sold in December, a 30.4 percent improvement over December 2010 and for the year sold 264,460 vehicles in 2011, representing the highest annual volume on record with a 17.5 percent increase over 2010. 

Mazda North American Operations reported December U.S. sales of 22,353 vehicles, an increase of 4.1 percent versus last year. For 2011, Mazda's U.S. sales were 250,426, up 9.1 percent over 2010.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported December 2011 sales of 5,032, up 3.2 percent from December 2010.  Mitsubishi's 2011 sales of 79,020 finished 41.9 percent more than sales in calendar year 2010, its highest full-year sales total since 2008.

Jaguar December sales of 1,137 was a 4 percent drop from December 2010 and for the year Jag sales were 12,276 down 8 percent. Land Rover sales were 4,743 in December, up 28 percent over the same month last year and came in at 38,099 for the year, a 20 percent increase over 2011. Combined, Jaguar Land Rover December sales were 5,880, a 21 percent gain and for the year sales were 50,375, up 11 percent over 2011.    

Porsche Cars North America announced December sales of 1,834, a 28.6 drop from December 2010. Porsche 2011 sales of 29,023 vehicles is a 15 percent increase over last year.

American Suzuki sold 2,566 in December, a 3 percent drop from a year ago and for 2011 sold 26,619 vehicles, a gain over 11 percent over 2010.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid With 37 MPG Starts At $26,610

The 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid powered by a  2.4L Atkinson Cycle 4-cylinder hybrid engine and equipped with standard Blue Link® telematics has an MSRP of $26,610 including the $760 frieght charge. The 2012 Sonata Hybrid delivers a 37 mpg combined city/highway rating from the EPA. Standard features include a 4.2-inch TFT multi-function trip computer with hybrid technology display, AM/FM/SiriusXM/CD/MP3 with iPod®/USB & Aux input jacks, Integrated Bluetooth® with phonebook transfer and Hyundai Blue Link Telematics system.

Two optional packages
The Leather Package for $1,500 MSRP that has leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and rear seat bottom cushions, leather-wrapped steering wheel & shift knob and auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink® and compass. The Ultimate Package for $5,500 MSRP includes the Leather package contents plus panoramic sunroof with tilt & slide, 17-inch Eco-spoke alloy wheels with unique finish, navigation system with high-resolution touch-screen display, rear backup camera, Infinity® premium speakers, subwoofer and external amplifier (400-watt), HD Radio® Technology with multicasting, SiriusXM, NavTraffic, NavWeather and Sports & Stocks w/ 90-Day Trial, HVAC multi-mode button, Premium door sill plates, Glossy black door surround and outside mirror housing. Looks like a lot of car for the money not to mention the gas savings.

KNX Radio "Live" From L.A. Auto Show: Sedan Introductions

Richard Saxton on KNX Radio with Business Hour host Frank Mottek discussing new sedan introductions at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The focus is on new vehicles from Cadillac, Hyundai, Lincoln, BMW and Porsche.

KNX Radio "Live" From L.A. Auto Show: Compact SUV Introductions

Richard Saxton on KNX Radio with Business Hour host Frank Mottek discussing the highly popular new compact SUVs coming in 2012 - Mazda CX-5, Ford Escape and Honda CR-V.

 

2013 Mercedes-Benz SL550 Goes On Sale This Spring

 The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is almost 2 inches longer, 2.24 inches wider and 242 pounds lighter than its predecessor in an all-aluminum bodyshell with few components made from other materials. The designers used even lighter magnesium for the cover panel behind the fuel tank and roof. High-strength steel tubing is integrated into the A-pillars for added safety. The new V8 in the SL550 develops 429 horsepower from its displacement of 4663 cc, which is around 12 percent more than its predecessor despite some 0.8 liters less displacement. Fuel consumption has been reduced while at the same time the torque has increased from 391 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft, a gain of 32 percent. The SL550 takes just 4.5 seconds from 0 to 60 mph - eight tenths less than the previous SL550.

The sixth generation of the 60-year old SL model has a retractable hard top that can be operated using a space-saving electrohydraulic mechanism, converting the SL from coupe to roadster and back again in less than 20 seconds. In contrast to its predecessor, the new SL offers two versions of the retractable hard top - glass or the unique panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. The transparent roof switches between light and dark at the push of a button. In the light setting it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up in bright sunlight. The frame of both versions is made from magnesium, reducing weight by around 13 pounds compared with the outgoing model, lowering the vehicle's center of gravity and delivering greater agility.

New Features
The FrontBass system which uses of the spaces in the aluminum structures forward of the footwell as resonating chambers for the woofers delivering clear, rich bass sounds even with the top down. The new layout has the added bonus of freeing up space in the doors and interior.

MAGIC VISION CONTROL is a new wipe/wash system which dispenses wash fluid just in front of the wiper blade via channels integrated into the blade - in both directions of travel. The result is no water splash on the windshield to disrupt driver visibility and a perfectly clean windshield. The water also stays on the windshield, with no risk of overspray into the passenger cabin when the roof is down. A fully heated wiper blade is included as standard equipment, preventing the build-up of snow and ice on the blade in winter. This heating function also allows warm water to be applied directly onto the windshield for the first time, even in cold temperatures.
   
The HANDS-FREE ACCESS system allows hands-free operation of the trunk lid by the driver simply moving their foot in the vicinity below the rear bumper.

The 2013 SL550 will make its global debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show and goes on-sale in the U.S. this spring.

Stephen Cannon - New President & CEO for Mercedes-Benz USA

Stephen Cannon, 50, is the new president and CEO for Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) effective January 1, 2012.  He replaces Ernst Lieb who left the company in October.  The announcement was made by Dr. Joachim Schmidt, executive vice president of sales & marketing for Mercedes-Benz Cars in Stuttgart, Germany, to whom Cannon will report. Cannon will have overall responsibility for the Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, Sprinter and smart brands in the United States.  He will lead MBUSA's more than 1,700 employees and 356 dealers throughout the U.S.

Cannon's most recent post was vice president of marketing for MBUSA with overall responsibility for marketing communications, market research and product management of the Mercedes-Benz and Maybach brands in the U.S. Cannon began his automotive career in 1991 as executive assistant to the president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz of North America (predecessor to MBUSA).  From there, Cannon moved to Stuttgart and joined a small team tasked with the development, manufacturing and launch of the M-Class, the first Mercedes-Benz SUV ever made in and for this market.  

North American Car & Truck of the Year Finalists Announced

The Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Passat are the three finalists for the 2012 North American Car of the Year chosen from 17 vehicles: Audi A6 & A7, Buick Verano, Chevrolet Sonic, Chrysler 300/SRT-8, Fiat 500, Ford Focus, Hyundai Accent, Elantra & Veloster, Kia Rio/Rio 5, Scion iQ, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Camry & Prius V, VW Beetle & Passat.

Finalists for the 2012 North American Truck of the Year are the BMW X3, the Honda CR-V and the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque. Others considered were Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Mini Countryman, Nissan Quest and Saab 9-4X.

The Audi A7 won the first-ever Motor Press Guild Car of the Year so we'll see if that's a predictor. Last year the 2011 North American Car of the Year was the Chevrolet Volt and the 2011 North American Truck of the Year was the Ford Explorer.

The winners will be announced in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show on January 9th, 2012.

2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe Goes On Sale This Summer

 
The 2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is a new 4-door addition to the 6 Series line with 4+1 seating offered in three models in the US. The 315 horsepower TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter 6-cylinder powered 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe is the initial model arriving early this summer. Later in the summer, the 445 horsepower TwinPower Turbo 4.4-liter V-8 powered 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe and the all-wheel drive 2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe will go on sale. All with the 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission. The Gran Coupe is 4.4 inches longer than its 2-door coupe sibling to enhance seating comfort for the rear passengers.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe features the BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems and mobility services. Also available is the rear-view camera, Surround View, Parking Assistant, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Lane Departure Warning System and Active Blind Spot Detection. The standard BMW iDrive control system is the operating portal for the navigation, communications and infotainment functions. The high definition, trans-reflective technology Control Display is centrally mounted high on the dash and emulates a freestanding flatscreen. There is the optional Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System.

November 2011 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors reported total sales of 180,402 vehicles in November, up 6.9 percent compared with November 2010 and year-to-date sales are 2,269,469, a 14.7 percent increase over 2010.

Ford Motor Company's November U.S. total sales were 166,865, up 13 percent over November 2010. Year-to-date Ford sales are 1,938,666, up 11.1 percent vs. a year ago. 

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., reported November sales of 137,960, up 6.7 percent over the year-ago month. Year-to-date Toyota sales are 1,384,558, a decline of 20.5 percent from 2010.

Chrysler reported U.S. sales of 107,172, a 45 percent increase compared with sales in November 2010 and year-to-date sales are 1,231,095, up 25 percent from last year.

Nissan North America reported record November U.S. sales of 85,182, an increase of 19.4 percent. Year-to-date sales are 941,607, a gain of 15.6 percent over 2010.

American Honda posted November sales of 83,925, a decrease of 10.1 percent. American Honda year-to-date sales reached 1,042,055, down 5.7 percent versus last year.

Hyundai Motor America November sales of 49,610 was a 22 percent increase compared with the same record-setting period a year ago. Year to date, Hyundai sales are 594,926, up 21 percent versus 2010 in total.

Kia Motors America announced best-ever November sales of 37,007, a 39.1 percent increase over the same period last year and year-to-date sales are 442,102, up 35.7 percent. 

Volkswagen of America reported November sales of 28,412, a 40.7 percent increase over prior year sales.  Year-to-date sales are 291,899, up 25.3 percent over 2010. Audi reported 9,700 vehicles sold in November 2011, a 3.6 percent increase over the previous all-time record set a year earlier. Year-to-date sales of 104,906 was a gain of 15.2 percent, topping the previous annual U.S. sales record of 101,629 set at the end of last year.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported November sales of 28,255 vehicles, a 55.2 percent improvement over November 2010 for their highest November volume on record.  On a year-to-date basis, the 236,415 vehicles sold represent a 20.4 percent increase over the same period last year. 

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported November sales of 26,271 vehicles, an increase of 14.8percent from same month a year ago.  Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are 272,873, up 14.6 percent in the first eleven months of 2011 compared to the same period in 2010.

Mazda North American Operations reported November U.S. sales of 18,432, an increase of 20.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through November are 228,073, up 9.6 percent versus last year.    

Subaru of America reported November sales of 17,657, a drop of 15 percent from November 2010 and year-to-date sales of 233,288, a 1.6 percent decline compared to the same 11 months last year.

Jaguar sold 915 cars in November, an 18 percent drop from 2010 and year-to-date Jag has sold 11,139, an 8 percent drop. Land Rover November sales were 3,820, a 31 percent jump over the same month a year ago and for the 11 months of 2011 Land Rover sales are 33,356, an increase of 18 percent. Combined, JLR sales were 4,735 in November, up 17 percent and for the year 44,495, a 10 percent gain.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported November 2011 sales of 3,735, down 13 percent from November 2010.  Sales of Mitsubishi vehicles for calendar-year-to-date 2011 are at 73,988, a 45.6 percent increase over 2010.

Porsche Cars North America announced November 2011 sales of 2,255 vehicles and year-to-date sales of 27,189, a 19 percent increase from 2010.

American Suzuki sold 2,332 vehicles in November, down 22 percent from a year ago while year-to-date sales are 24,053, a 13 percent gain over 2010. 

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

SUBARU BRZ Becomes a Production Reality

Shown as a concept at the Los Angeles Auto two weeks ago with expectation of becoming a production vehicle, the SUBARU BRZ rear-wheel drive sports car featuring the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine, made its world premiere at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show 2011 as anticipated. It was developed as a joint-project between Subaru and Toyota, as a sports car with superior steering response and driving pleasure that everyone can experience. The Subaru Boxer engine in the BRZ was positioned even lower than other Subaru models so that the BRZ has one of the lowest possible centers of gravity on a light-weight chassis for handling character.

Ford's Mark Fields Says MyFordTouch Customers To Get Upgrade

Ford cars saw their J.D. Power & Associates satisfaction ranking fall from 5th to 23rd this year due to customer unhappiness with the user interface for the vehicle telematics. Mark Fields, President of the Americas for Ford Motor Company says upgrades are coming. In another J.D. Power survey, Chrysler, Hyundai and Acura vehicles' navigation systems rank in the top 5 for customer usage satisfaction.

John Maloney is the new President of Volvo Cars of North America

John Maloney is the new President of Volvo Cars of North America stepping into the role left vacant by Doug Speck who moved to Sweden June 1st as Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Car Corporation. Maloney brings close to 30 years of automotive experience with him, most recently coming from a position as Vice President, Marketing and Product Planning at Volvo Cars North America.

John Maloney joined Volvo Cars of North America in 2000, arriving from Ford Motor Company. He became Vice President Marketing Communications in 2002 and in 2008 Product Planning was added to his responsibilities. He has been acting President of Volvo Cars of North America since May this year and he replaces Doug Speck who has been appointed Senior Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Car Corporation.

Timothy Kuniskis Head of the Fiat Brand for North America

Chrysler named Timothy Kuniskis Head of the Fiat Brand for North America replacing Laura Soave who has left the Company and will pursue other interests.  Kuniskis most recently served as Director for both the Chrysler Brand and Fiat Brand Product Marketing.  In his new role, Kuniskis is responsible for the Fiat Brand in North America which includes leadership for Fiat Brand sales, marketing, dealer network and service.  Kuniskis joined Chrysler in 1992 and since then has held a series of increasingly responsible positions in the Company's business center operations and marketing organization. He will continue the reintroduction of the brand including its newest vehicle the 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth.

The new 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth, with its all-new 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine and designed for track-day enthusiasts and driving purists who want a high-performance small car was introduced at the L.A. Auto Show a few weeks ago.

L.A. Auto Show: Johan De Nysschen On New Audi S6, S7, S8

L.A. Auto Show: Mark Fields, Pres. Americas, Ford, On New Escape

L.A. Auto Show: Dave Zuchowski, EVP Hyundai Sales On New Azera

L.A. Auto Show: Chris Martin, American Honda On The New CR-V

L.A. Auto Show: Richard Steinberg On BMW i3 & i8 Electric Vehicles

L.A. Auto Show: Don Butler, VP Cadillac Marketing, On The 2013 XTS

L.A. Auto Show: Jim O'Sullivan, Pres./CEO Mazda NA On The New CX-5