Honda Urban SUV Concept Coming To U.S. In 2014

The all-new Honda "Urban SUV Concept" vehicle featuring fuel-efficient Earth Dreams™ Technology and be priced and positioned below the CR-V and is slated to launch in Japan by the end of 2013, followed by the U.S. market in 2014. Part of Honda's Global Compact Series, and utilizing the Honda-original center-tank layout featured on the Fit, the model will include Honda's configurable Magic Seat® setup that can provide a host of passenger and cargo options, including a fold-flat mode for maximum cargo capacity. The all-new model will also feature next-generation telematics and a modern interior.

2014 Acura MDX Coming Mid-Year

The 2014 Acura MDX Prototype is the direction for the third generation of the 7-passenger Acura MDX performance luxury SUV, 1.5-inches lower than the outgoing model, and launching by mid-year in both all-wheel-drive and front-wheel-drive layouts. The 2014 MDX will also feature an all-new, more rigid and lightweight chassis and an all-new, direct-injected 3.5-liter i-VTEC SOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management.

2013 BMW 320i For $33,445 In Late-Spring

The new 2013 BMW 320i Sedan for the US market with a 180-horsepower 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine goes on sale in late-Spring priced from $33,445 (including $895 Destination & Handling). The BMW 320i xDrive Sedan featuring BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system will also be available from $35,445 (including $895 Destination & Handling). Preliminary fuel economy estimates for the 320i with 6-speed manual transmission are 22 City / 34 Highway, while 23 City / 33 Highway are estimated for the 320i equipped with 8-speed automatic. The 320i xDrive model is expected to achieve 22 City / 33 Highway. The broad palette of standard equipment includes Bluetooth smartphone integration and BMW’s Auto Start-Stop function. It's lowered the entry into a new 3 Series sedan by more than $3,000.

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Offers EcoDiesel Engine

 
2014 Jeep® Grand Cherokee has a new 240 horsepower 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine mated to a new eight-speed transmission delivering 30 miles per gallon with a driving range of more than 730 miles and a towing capability of 7,400 pounds. Other engine options are the 290 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine achieving up to 25 mpg highway and more than 600-miles driving range and the 360 horsepower 5.7-liter V-8 getting up to 21 mpg highway. The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in Laredo, Limited, Overland and Summit models.

A new Eco Mode optimizes the transmission’s shift schedule and, in V-8 models, Fuel Saver cylinder deactivation. The Eco Mode also activates Grand Cherokee’s air suspension system, lowering it to “Aero Ride Height” when the vehicle speed remains between 52 mph and 56 mph, or exceeds 56 mph. The new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee features three available 4x4 systems (Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II), an available Quadra-Lift air suspension and a Selec-Terrain traction management system which offers five different driving conditions: Sand, Mud, Auto, Snow, Rock.

2014 Jeep Compass Arrives In The 2nd Quarter

 
The 2014 Jeep Compass features a standard 158 horsepower 2.0-liter World Gas Engine for the Sport and Latitude models coupled with the standard five-speed manual transmission or the available new PowerTech six-speed automatic transmission, and delivers fuel economy of up to 30 mpg on the highway when mated to the five-speed manual transmission. The 172 horsepower 2.4-liter I-4 World Engine with dual variable-valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, is available on all models and standard on the Limited. The Jeep Compass’ 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transaxle in front-wheel drive configuration delivers 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

The 2014 Jeep Compass is available in three configurations: Sport, 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 full-time active 4x4 system with low-range capability. The 2014 Jeep Compass provides up to 2,000 pounds of towing capacity and all models will begin arriving in dealer showrooms in the second quarter.

2014 Infinti Q50 Sedan Arrives This Summer

The all-new 2014 Infiniti Q50 luxury sports sedan takes its styling cues from the Infiniti Essence concept, and has a choice of a 328 horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine or new Q50 Hybrid featuring Infiniti's Direct Response Hybrid System™ with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control.  Both powertrains will be offered with rear-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.  The all-new 2014 Infiniti Q50 goes on sale at Infiniti retailers in the United States and Canada this Summer.

Cadillac ATS and Ram 1500 Win North American Awards

The Cadillac ATS took the 2013 North American Car of the Year. The jurors gave the ATS 207 points, the Accord 159 points and the Fusion 124 points.

The Ram 1500 won the 2013 North American Truck/Utility of the Year. The jurors gave the Ram 1500 261 points, the CX-5 142 points and the C-Max 87 points.

Get the tour of the Ram 1500.

The awards, now in their 20th year, were chosen by a jury of 49 automotive journalists from the United States and Canada.

2014 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S This Spring At $146,975

Porsche Cayenne Turbo S with a 550 horsepower 4.8-liter twin-turbocharged engine that accelerates from zero to 60 in 4.3 seconds and a top track speed of 175 mph is scheduled to arrive in dealerships in the Spring at a starting price of $146,975 (including a $975 destination charge).

Lincoln MKC Concept Makes Debut

The Lincoln MKC Concept small luxury utility vehicle makes its debut in Detroit.

2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Arrives In 3rd Quarter

The all-new 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray with an estimated 450 horsepower from an all-new 6.2L LT1 V-8 engine is able to accelerate from 0-60 in less than four seconds and will exceed the EPA-estimated 26 mpg of the current model when it goes on sale in the third quarter of this year. America's finest sports car? Could be.

Lightweight materials include a carbon fiber hood and removable roof panel, composite fenders, doors and rear quarter panels,  carbon-nano composite underbody panels and a new aluminum frame help shift weight rearward for an optimal 50/50 weight balance. The Z51 Performance Package includes an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling, as well as an aero package that further improves high-speed stability. This looks like the best answer to mid-life crisis and the ultimate retirement self-reward.

Toyota Furia Concept Sedan Debuts Next Week

The Toyota Furia Concept sedan will make its world debut next week at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Furia will be revealed using a structure housing thirty of Samsung Display’s new 46-inch transparent LCD screens to partially obstruct or completely block view of the vehicle until the panels are made completely clear to show the car.

The global reveal of the Furia Concept will be broadcast live via Livestream at http://new.livestream.com/toyota.

2014 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG 4MATIC Coming This Summer

The new 2014 E63 AMG 4MATIC with all-wheel-drive as standard equipment on all U.S. models makes its debut in Detroit next week and goes on sale this Summer. There's a 550 horsepower 5.5-liter AMG V8 Biturbo engine mated to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission and an available 577 horsepower S-Model with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 3.5 seconds. The top-of-the-line E-Class AMG model comes in a sedan and wagon. The E63 AMG and the CLS63 AMG all-wheel-drive passenger car models are part of the Mercedes-AMG line-up along with the ML63 AMG, GL63 AMG, and G63 AMG SUV's. 

Rolls-Royce Has Record Global Sales In 2012

 
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars reported record global sales of 3,575 cars for 2012, the third consecutive record and the best sales result in its 108-year history with notable gains in the Middle East (up 26%), Mainland Europe (up 21%), and Asia Pacific (up 18%), The United States and China remained the most significant individual markets for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. A number of markets reported record sales, including Saudi Arabia (up 63%) and Germany (up 15%).

Rolls-Royce has the Phantom family of products – Phantom, Phantom Extended Wheelbase, Phantom Drophead Coupe and Phantom Coupe – and the Ghost family – Ghost and Ghost Extended Wheelbase.Thirty new or refurbished dealerships opened across the world, taking the total to over 100 for the first time in the company's history. Rolls-Royce also expanded into new markets, including Latin America, and sold motor cars in more than 40 countries worldwide.

All-new Lexus IS and IS F-Sport To Debut Next Week

 
The all-new Lexus IS, inspired by the LF-CC concept, is wider and longer and will make its world debut at the Detroit Auto Show next week and expected to go on sale this Summer. The F Sport model of the Lexus IS (above) has an exclusive grille and front bumper design with the ‘waistline’ of the grille is higher than on standard models, increasing the area of the lower grille to make it capable of drawing in a larger volume of cooling air appropriate to a sportier performance. The center console incorporates Lexus first, electrostatic switches to control the air conditioning temperature with the touch of a finger. More next week.

Dodge Throws Another Dart - 2013 Dart GT In Q2

 
2013 Dodge Dart GT with the 184 horsepower 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir2 four-cylinder engine mated to either a six-speed manual or available six-speed PowerTech automatic AutoStick for an MSRP of $20,995 (excluding destination charges) will debut at North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week and go on sale in the second quarter. Standard equipment on the 2013 Dart GT model includes Nappa leather, 18-inch aluminum wheels, sport suspension with frequency sensing damping shocks, an 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen and ParkView rear backup camera. Seems like a lot of car for the money. Check out the 2013 Dodge Darts.

Sid Is Gone, But Harman Is A Hit With Aha At CES

Sid Harman would love this. The Canadian-born genius who died last year at age 92 worked hard at putting his audio and infotainment systems in cars and now Aha, a unit of HARMAN International Industries, the interactive service that makes Web content as easy and safe to use as radio, is revolutionizing the latest model vehicles and just may be the hit of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week. Aha uses the Harman Cloud Platform to organize content from the Web into personalized radio stations that consumers can listen to from anywhere – at home, on the go, or safely from the driver's seat.

Porsche Aha

By the end of 2013, more than ten automotive manufacturers will launch vehicles using Aha to enable safe access to Web content for drivers, including Acura, Ford, Honda, Porsche and Subaru. The Aha platform and service was started in 2008 in Silicon Valley by a group of Web and multimedia veterans with a shared passion for delivering an "always on" audio experience to connect drivers to the content they really want. HARMAN, named after its founder Sid, designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets, acquired Aha in September 2010.

Sid who passed away in April of 2012 will be remembered every time someone decides to switch on one of his Harman Kardon®, JBL®, Mark Levinson® or Infinity® systems or use Aha to create music for their ears.

Consumer Electronics Show: Subaru

The International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the largest annual attraction in Las Vegas, that starts Tuesday is once again heavily weighted to automotive with Subaru demonstrating in-car connectivity.

On the all-new 2014 Forester at CES, Subaru will debut its new STARLINK in-car connectivity brand demonstrating its Aha integration from its partner HARMAN International and its Eyesight® driver-assist system that integrates adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, and vehicle lane departure and sway warning. Eyesight® has two charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras mounted inside the car on the upper edge of the windshield (see above) and, under certain circumstances, is able to bring the car to a complete stop, thus avoiding a collision. Below closing speeds of approximately 19mph, Eyesight® is capable of detecting pedestrians in the vehicle's path and can activate in order to mitigate or even avoid a collision.

Consumer Electronics Show: Hyundai

The International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the largest annual attraction in Las Vegas, that starts Tuesday is once again heavily weighted to automotive with Hyundai showing off new next-generation concepts and future infotainment systems.

Hyundai will integrate Siri, the voice activated Apple assistant, through its Eyes Free infotainment system for drivers with a compatible iPhones running iOS 6. Dragon Drive, developed by Nuance, is an automotive-grade voice services platform for the connected car that enables drivers to speak naturally and conversationally with in-car systems like dictating messages or searching for music, weather and restaurants. MHL technology (Mobile High-Definition Link) integrates mobile devices into the car infotainment experience by delivering 1080p60 uncompressed video with up to eight channels of digital audio from a mobile device to a dashboard display, all while charging the device. Hyundai will also feature the latest hardware with high resolution, multi-touch displays, Bluetooth® 3.0 and Wi-Fi/3G connectivity options with user-centric interface design. Drivers will be able to access connectivity features such as web browsing, mobile hot-spot, and media streaming through the support of DLNA and Mirror Link and Aha by HARMAN. These next-generation systems will also showcase entertainment features like Pandora®, HD Radio® and SIRIUSXM®.

Check out Hyundai's latest Bluelink videos.

2014 Mazda6 Starts At $21,675 MSRP Now

The all-new 2014 Mazda6 mid-size sedan is on sale now with a starting MSRP of $21,675 (includes $795 destination charge) for the entry i Sport, $25,290 for the mid-level i Touring trim on larger 19-inch alloy wheels with Blind Spot Monitoring system and Rear Cross Traffic Alert and $30,290 for the i Grand Touring that includes all the equipment features of the i Touring with Touring Technology Package. The 2014 Mazda6 has the 184 horsepower SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine mated to either the SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission getting 25 city/37 highway/29 combined MPG or achieving 26 city/38 highway/30 combined with the optional automatic transmission. The 2014 Mazda6 with the SKYACTIV-D 2.2-liter clean diesel engine will be offered during the second half of the year. 

MazdaUSA President Jim O'Sullivan discusses Mazda6 at L.A. Auto Show.

2014 Audi R8 And RS 5 Cabriolet Coming This Spring

 
Audi has the U.S. debut of the 2014 Audi R8 model line at the NAIAS in Detroit in about a week. At the top of the R8 line-up is the new R8 V10 Plus with 550 horsepower and 398 lb.-ft. of torque. The Audi R8 V10 generates 525 horsepower with 391 lb.-ft. of torque. The Audi R8 V8 FSI® produces 430 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. All Audi R8 models have the option of the gated 6-speed manual transmission or the new seven-speed S tronic double-clutch transmission that boosts the performance of the Audi R8 with smoother shifts.

The new 2014 Audi RS 5 Cabriolet, a four-seat convertible with a cloth soft top, will also premiere at the Detroit show in mid-January. The RS 5 Cabriolet is powered by a naturally aspirated 450 horsepower 4.2 liter V8 engine with FSI direct injection. Fuel economy is16 city / 22 highway / 18 combined. The Audi R8 and RS 5 Cabriolet will both go on sale this Spring.Audi says there will be more to see at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit that starts in about 10 days.

2014 BMW Z4 Among Detroit Debuts A Week Away

BMW has lots to show in Detroit next week including the updated 2014 BMW Z4 (above) The BMW Z4 sDrive28i features a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder that goes 0-60 mph in about five-and-a-half seconds and delivers up to 34 mpg. The Z4 sDrive35i and Z4 sDrive35is both use versions of BMW’s 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-six.

The BMW 4 Series Concept Coupe will make its world debut at the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on Monday, January 14th. According to BMW, the new “4” segment, is the latest addition to a nomenclature that sees BMW building on the fine tradition of its large BMW 6 Series and BMW 8 Series Coupes, the “4” stands for greater sportiness, greater exclusivity and even clearer differentiation from the BMW 3 Series range.

Also in Detroit, BMW will have the world premiere of the 2013 BMW M6 Gran Coupe with its 560 horsepower V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology coupled with a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. BMW will have the North American Premiere of the 4-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon.

2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe, Cabriolet This Summer

Mercedes-Benz E-Class four-seat Coupe and Cabriolet get restyled for the 2014 model year and go on sale in the U.S. this Summer. The E350 has a 302 horsepower direct injection V6 gasoline engine and the E550 is powered by a 402 horsepower twin-turbo direct-injection V8 both with an ECO start/stop system and a 7-speed automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever and shift paddles. The E350 Coupe is also available in the U.S. with 4MATIC All-Wheel-Drive.

Standard equipment includes the COMAND system featuring a 7-inch high resolution color display, sound system w/ AM/FM/WB radio, in-dash DVD/CD player, in-dash memory card slot, auxiliary input jack and Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling. The 2014 Coupe and Cabriolet are fitted with standard COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive brake assist systems to reduce the risk of a collision. ATTENTION ASSIST is now able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, and also inform the driver about his level of fatigue and the amount of driving time which has elapsed since the last break with an adjustable sensitivity level.

Options include:

• DISTRONIC PLUS® with Steering Assist can help the driver keep the vehicle centered in its lane and can semi-autonomously track lines of traffic;
• Brake Assist system BAS PLUS® with Intersection Assist is able to detect crossing traffic and pedestrians too, and boost the braking power applied by the driver accordingly; PRE-SAFE® Brake can detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 30 mph;  
• PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognize an imminent rear-end collision, then prompts the PRE-SAFE® system to trigger occupant protection measures to reduce the forces to which occupants are subjected;
• Active Lane Keeping Assist now can detect when the adjacent lane is not clear, including when it is occupied by oncoming traffic. If a collision threatens, even if the lane marking is not a solid line the system can prevent the vehicle from leaving its lane unintentionally by applying the brakes on one side;
• Active Parking Assist enables automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and perpendicular spaces;
• 360-degree camera covers all four sides of the vehicle and enables a seamless all-around view including a virtual bird's-eye perspective – with a top view of the vehicle and its direct surroundings.

December 2012 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors December U.S. sales were 245,733, a 4.9 percent increase over 2011. For the year, GM sales were 2,595,717, a 3.7 percent rise over 2011. For 2012, Chevrolet sales were 1,851,646, up 4.3 percent. GMC sales were 413,881, up 4 percent. Buick sales were 180,408, up 1.6 percent and Cadillac sales were 149,782, down 1.7 percent from 2011.

Ford's U.S. December sales were 214,222, up 1.9 percent over the same month a year ago, its best December sales results since 2006. For 2012 Ford's U.S. sales were 2,250,165, a 4.7 percent gain with cars up 5 percent, utilities up 7 percent, and trucks up 2 percent for the year. The Ford brand ended 2012 with 2,168,015 vehicles sold, the only brand to top 2 million U.S. sales. Lincoln brand sales were 82,150, down 4.1 percent in 2012 from the previous year.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported December sales of 194,143, up 9 percent. 2012 sales were 2,082,504, up 26.6 percent. Lexus brand year-end sales of 132,741 represent a 31.2 percent increase over 2011.

Chrysler Group reported U.S. December sales of 152,367, a 10 percent increase compared with sales in December 2011, the group's best December sales since 2007. For the year, Chrysler Group sales totaled 1,651,787, up 21 percent compared with sales in 2011.

American Honda's December 2012 U.S. sales of 132,774 was an increase of 26.2 percent compared with December 2011. For the year, sales of 1,422,785 was up 24 percent compared with 2011. This makes 2012 American Honda's fourth-best sales year ever, and its best sales result since 2008. The Acura Division's year-end sales totaled 156,216, up 26.7 percent compared with 2011 results

Nissan North America reported December sales were 99,290, down 1.6 percent from the prior year. For 2012, sales were 1,141,656, an increase of 9.5 percent and the first time that the Nissan brand sold more than 1 million units in a calendar year. Infiniti sales of 119,877 in 2012 were up 21.8 percent compared to 2011.

Hyundai Motor America announced record sales of 59,435 vehicles in December, a 17 percent total sales increase compared with the same record-setting period a year ago. For the year, Hyundai sales were 703,007, up 9 percent versus 2011. Sales to fleet accounts represented 10 percent of total sales for 2012.

Kia Motors America reported December sales of 39,178 and all-time record sales in 2012 of 557,599, a 14.9 percent increase over the previous best-ever mark set in 2011. 

Volkswagen of America reported December deliveries totaled 44,005, up 35.4 percent over 2011, marking the best December since 1970. VW of America delivered 438,133 vehicles in 2012, a 35.1 percent increase over prior year sales. Separately, Audi sold 14,841 vehicles in December, a 17.3 percent increase over the previous December sales record. Audi ended the year with its 24th consecutive month of record sales with 2012 Audi's best year. For the full year, Audi sold 139,310 vehicles, a 18.5 percent rise. Audi sales in the U.S. have increased 68.4 percent since 2009.

BMW Group reported December sales of 43,855 vehicles, an increase of 34.8 percent from the same month a year ago. In 2012, the BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) achieved its best sales since the previous record year of 2007 retailing 347,583 vehicles, up 13.8 percent compared to 2011.

Mercedes-Benz posted December sales of 28,145, up 9.5 percent from last year bringing MBUSA sales to a best-ever 31,372, up 12.0 percent from December 2011. Mercedes-Benz USA reported its highest year on record with 305,072 vehicles sold in 2012, representing a 15.4 percent increase over 2011. The Mercedes-Benz model line alone also recorded a record year with sales of 274,134 for the year, up 11.8 percent. Smart and Sprinter model lines both achieved their highest volumes under the MBUSA umbrella with smart sales increasing 92.2 percent to 10,009 while a record month for Sprinter took the brand to 20,929 for 2012, an increase of 26.3 percent.

Subaru of America reported record sales of 36,653 vehicles in December 2012, the best sales month in Subaru history and up 8.8 percent from a year ago.  Subaru also announced record-breaking annual sales of 336,441, a 26 percent increase over 2011. This is the fourth consecutive year of sales records for Subaru of America and fifth consecutive year of sales increases. Subaru is the only manufacturer to increase sales each year for the last five years.

Mazda North American Operations reported December 2012 U.S. sales of 27,25, an increase of 21.9 percent versus 2011, and the best December since 1994. On a year-to-date basis, MNAO reported 277,046 vehicles sold in 2012, exceeding 2011 by 10.6 percent, and representing the company's best full calendar-year of sales since 2007.

Volvo Cars of North America reported U.S. sales of 6,150, a 15.1 percent increase from December 2011 and the best since 2007. For the year, U.S. sales of 68,117, 1.3 percent higher than 2011.

Jaguar December sales of 1,049 was an 8 percent drop from December 2011 leaving 2012 sales at 12,011, a 2 percent decline from the prior year. Land Rover December sales of 5,174 was a 9 percent gain helping 2012 sales reach 43,664, a 15 percent rise over 2011. Combined, JLR sales were 6,223 in December, a 6 percent increase and for all 2012, sales were 55,675, an 11 percent gain.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported December sales were 4,113, down 18 percent compared to December 2011. 

Porsche Cars North America announced December sales of 2,952, an increase of 61 percent. Porsche has achieved an all-time record for U.S. sales, with 35,043 cars sold in the U.S. in 2012, an increase of 21 percent. The previous record year for Porsche in the U.S. was 2007 when PCNA sold 34,693 cars.

American Suzuki, which is exiting the car business, reported December 2012 automobile sales of 1,946 units, a 620 unit decline compared to the same period last year. The results were attributed to a decrease in available inventory as the company allocates its remaining automobiles in the U.S. to retail auto dealerships.


Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Peter Schreyer Becomes President of Kia Motors

Kia's design chief Peter Schreyer, 59, was appointed as President to oversee Hyundai and Kia's design centers in order to streamline its resources and create synergy between the two brands.thus, becoming the first non-Korean to hold that title in Kia's history.

Schreyer joined Kia in 2006 from the Volkswagen Group to lead Kia's design transformation and will keep that role of Chief Design Officer in addition to being one of three Kia presidents. Schreyer, originally from Bavaria, is based in Frankfurt, Germany, married with two children. He studied at the Royal College of Art in Germany before becoming part of the Volkswagen Group's design team and contributing to the distinct appearance of several VW and Audi models including the Passat and the Audi TT.

Hear my interview with Peter Schreyer at a design panel event in June 2012 where he discusses design and Kia's highly-recognizable "tiger nose".

Schreyer was named Automobile Magazine's 2012 Man of the Year.

Diesel Math With the VW Jetta

Diesel price in green

Clean diesel systems offer fuel efficiency - 30 percent better than gas - and environmental friendliness - up to 25 percent less CO2 emissions with no loss of power or performance vs. gas. When it comes to cost - the diesel vehicle and fuel - are more expensive. Diesel engines are said to be very dependable, require less maintenance and have a lower depreciation rate after 100,000 miles of use than gasoline engines and hybrid vehicles. According to www.fueleconomy.gov there are now no federal tax credits for owning a diesel engine vehicle.

The Volkswagen Jetta with the 140 horsepower 2.0 liter TDI diesel engine starts at $22,990 MSRP, 13.2% more than the 170 horsepower 2.5 liter gas engine Jetta SE with the convenience package which starts at $20,310. The diesel engine gets 43 miles per gallon, 27.3% better highway mileage and 30.4% better city mileage than the gas engine. Take this recent fuel price sign in California where the unleaded cash price is $3.49 per gallon and the cash diesel price is $3.97 per gallon. Diesel costs 13.75% more than gasoline.

Let's assume you drive 12,000 miles per year, half the time in the city and half on the highway. With the Jetta TDI diesel at 36mpg you will use 333 gallons, so at $3.97 per gallon will spend $1,322. With the gas Jetta at 28mpg you will use 429 gallons, so at $3.49 per gallon your annual fuel cost is $1,497. The diesel saves just $175 per year. The diesel vehicle costs $2,680 more so it would take 15.3 years for diesel to pay off despite diesel being 28.6% more fuel efficient. Also, it's a little more difficult finding service stations that sell diesel fuel.

In Europe, governments subsidize diesel through lower taxes to make the pump price cheaper than gas in most countries which helps explain why more than half the cars sold in Europe are diesel. In the U.S., consumer diesel vehicle sales are fewer than hybrids at about a 3 percent market share with Volkswagen offering the most choices at affordable prices. Conclusion is that there's no major advantage in owning a diesel sedan in the U.S. with the current diesel vehicle and fuel price differences and lack of government incentives.

Now if you're comparing a large SUV, like the Audi Q7, the TDI gets a combined city/highway of 22 mpg while the gas engine is at 18 mpg. At 12,000 miles per year, you're saving about $300 per year on fuel cost with the diesel but you're paying $5,200 more for the TDI vehicle, so it takes more than 17 years to breakeven. If you're mainly a highway driver then the Q7 TDI's 28 mpg highway is 6 mpg more than the Q7 gas at 22 mpg but still only saves you $312 per year in fuel cost. (Using the premium unleaded gas cost for the gas version). In any case, with the pricing, you need to own the vehicle nearly 20 years to make it pay off. I invite your comments and discussion.

Happy Holidays!

Acura NSX Hybrid All-Wheel Drive Concept

Thank you for your support! Wishing you a happy, healthy, warm and relaxing holiday season!

2013 IIHS Top Safety Picks

 The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is awarding the new Top Safety Pick+ accolade to 13 cars. All earn good or acceptable ratings in the new IIHS small overlap test as well as top marks in other IIHS evaluations.

Courtesy of:  http://www.iihs.org/

"Of the 29 models evaluated so far in our small overlap frontal crash test, these 13 cars offer the highest level of all-around crash protection," says Adrian Lund, IIHS president. "We're pleased to recognize them with our new Top Safety Pick+ award for 2013."

IIHS rates vehicles good, acceptable, marginal or poor based on performance in a moderate overlap frontal crash, small overlap frontal crash, side impact and rollover, plus evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. Top Safety Pick+ winners must earn good ratings for occupant protection in at least 4 of 5 evaluations, with no less than acceptable in the fifth test.

For 2013, 117 additional vehicles earn Top Safety Pick. To qualify for Top Safety Pick vehicles must have good ratings for occupant protection in the moderate overlap frontal test, side impact, rollover and rear tests, regardless of their small overlap rating.

2013 North American Car and Truck of The Year Finalists

Finalists for the 2013 North American Car and Truck/Utility of the Year have been narrowed down to three in each category with the winners to be announced in Detroit on January 14th. Last year the Hyundai Elantra and Range Rover Evoque were chosen.

North American Car of the Year finalists:
Cadillac ATS (winner of the Motor Press Guild Car of the Year)
Ford Fusion (2013 Green Car of the Year & KBB Best Redesigned)
Honda Accord

North American Truck/Utility of the Year finalists:
Ford C-Max
Mazda CX-5 
Ram 1500 (2013 Motor Trend Truck of the Year)

Let's look at other recent significant award winners and finalists for some insight while realizing that each publication has it's own criteria for making their choices:

This year's Motor Trend Awards:
2013 Motor Trend SUV of the Year: Mercedes-Benz GL
2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year: Tesla Model S
2013 Truck of the Year: Ram 1500

Kelley Blue Book's Best Redesigned Vehicle: 2013 Ford Fusion
 
Automobile Magazine: 2013 Automobile of the Year: Tesla Model S

Autoweek: Best of the Best: Porsche Boxster S and Mercedes-Benz GL
2013 Best of the Best/Car finalists included: Cadillac ATS, Dodge Dart, Porsche 911, Porsche Boxster S and Subaru BRZ.
2013 Best of the Best/Truck finalists included: Acura RDX, Ford Escape, Infiniti JX35, Mazda CX-5 and Mercedes-Benz GL.

Green Car Journal's 2013 Green Car of the Year®: 2013 Ford Fusion
Finalists included the 2013 Dodge Dart Aero, Ford C-MAX, Mazda CX-5 SKYACTIV and the Toyota Prius c.

The 16th Annual Strategic Vision Total Value Awards may surprise you.

LA Auto Show Video: Jeff Conrad On 2014 Acura RLX

The all-new 2014 Acura RLX sedan, powered by an all-new 310-horsepower 3.5-liter direct-injected SOHC i-VTEC® SOHC 24-Valve i-VTEC® V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management, has a lightweight body structure and the first-ever application of Acura Precision All-Wheel Steer™ which is an independent and continuous control of the left and right rear-wheel steering angles for handling agility and high- and low-speed maneuverability. The next-generation AcuraLink® cloud-based connected car system also makes its debut on the new RLX. 

The 2014 Acura RLX is slated to go on-sale at U.S. Acura dealers nationwide in the spring of 2013 and will be available in five grades – the well-equipped RLX, the RLX with Navigation, the feature-packed RLX with Technology package, the RLX with Krell Audio package, and the top-of-the-line RLX with Advance package. Pricing details will be announced closer to launch. A version of RLX featuring Acura's new Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive® (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD®) technology, producing 370 horsepower with expected fuel economy ratings of 30 city/30 highway/30 combined, will debut later in 2013.

Jeff Conrad, VP of Acura Sales at American Honda shares his enthusiasm for Acura's new flagship luxury sedan.

LA Auto Show Video: Jim O'Sullivan On The All-New 2014 Mazda6

Mazda's SKYACTIV-D 2.2-liter clean diesel engine has arrived for the all-new 2014 Mazda6 and both made their North American debuts at the LA Auto Show a few weeks ago. The Mazda6 made its global debut in late August in Moscow. The Mazda6 arrives next month followed by the diesel version during the second half of the year. Mazda6 has two engine choices: the 184 horsepower SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine or the new SKYACTIV-D 2.2-liter clean diesel engine with a choice of SKYACTIV transmissions in either the SKYACTIV-Drive six-speed automatic or SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual. Final specifications and pricing for all 2014 Mazda6 models will be available closer to the on-sale date.

The racing version of the 2014 Mazda6, powered by a Mazda SKYACTIV-D Clean Diesel engine, will make its motorsports debut at the Rolex 24 endurance race on January 26-27, 2013 in Daytona Beach, Florida.  This will be the first time a diesel-powered vehicle of any type has ever raced at the Rolex 24 and Mazda is after their 24th class win in the American endurance classic, having most recently won in 2008 and 2010.

Also announced at the LA Show was an updated CX-9 and the more powerful 2.5 liter engine choice for the CX-5. The CX-7 is no longer in the Mazda lineup.

Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations discusses the new Mazda6 and more.

LA Auto Show Video: Tim Philippo On Jaguar F-Type

The all-new Jaguar F-TYPE two-seater lightweight aluminum architecture sports car is a front-engine, rear-wheel drive convertible coming next summer in three models: the F-TYPE with a 340 horsepower supercharged 3.0 liter V6, F-TYPE S with a 380 horsepower version of the 3.0 liter V6 and the F-TYPE V8 S with a 495 horsepower 5.0 liter V8 engine. All engines are mated to an eight-speed 'Quickshift' transmission with a centrally mounted SportShift selector offering full manual sequential control and steering wheel-mounted paddles. Jaguar Sports Cars Product Manager Tim Philippo discusses the new F-TYPE and the XFR-S shown at the LA Auto Show.

LA Auto Show Video: John Mendel On 2013 Honda Civic

The 2013 Honda Civic Sedan, the best-selling compact car in the U.S., receives all-new front and rear exterior styling, extensive interior upgrades and a host of new standard equipment just 18 months after a total redesign. Retuned steering and suspension, extensive chassis upgrades including Honda's ACE™ II body structure along with standard features including Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink®, rearview camera, Pandora® Interface, SMS text message feature, and steering wheel audio controls. The 2013 Civic has an MSRP increase of only $160 across the lineup. Pricing for the 2013 Civic LX Sedan starts at at $18,165. John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of Sales discusses the early major upgrades to the Civic.

At the LA Auto Show Honda also announced that the 2014 Accord Plug-In Hybrid earned an EPA-certified 115 MPGe rating and will go on sale in New York and California on January 15 with an MSRP of $39,7801. Separately, the Accord Hybrid, featuring Honda's new two-motor hybrid system, will launch nationwide next summer with anticipated fuel economy of 49/45/47 city/hwy/combined. The revised 2013 Honda Crosstour and 2013 Honda CR-Z also made their auto-show debuts.

LA Auto Show Video: Megan Gillam On Lincoln MKZ

Lincoln, Ford's luxury brand, has a new advertising campaign that launched on December 3rd: “Introducing the Lincoln Motor Company.” Lincoln was originally called the Lincoln Motor Company in 1922, when Edsel Ford signed the agreement purchasing the company from its founder Henry Leland. The first campaign begins with “Does the World Need Another Luxury Car?”, followed by “Hello. Again” that just debuted on Dec. 10. The all-new entry level Lincoln MKZ will be featured heavily. Megan Gillam, the market manager for the MKZ discusses the new vehicle at a special event at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Certainly good timing with the name Lincoln being so widely talked about with all the praise around the feature film on President Lincoln. And if you have a penny in your pocket...

LA Auto Show Video: Al Castignetti On Nissan's 2013 Line-up

Nissan showed off its new line-up at the Los Angeles Auto Show, including the new 2013 Sentra, 2013 Altima and 2013 Pathfinder and the Nissan Hi-Cross Concept, which provides design cues for a future Nissan SUV according to Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America. The Hi-Cross Concept couples an electric motor powered by a Nissan-developed compact lithium-ion battery similar to that utilized in the Nissan LEAF electric vehicle with a 2.0-liter direct injection gasoline engine. The hybrid system is linked to Nissan's next-generation Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission) used on the recently introduced 2013 Nissan Pathfinder and has smaller shaft-diameter pulleys to provide the widest possible ratio coverage for enhanced efficiency.

Castignetti responds to Nissan President & CEO Carlos Ghosn's call for increased sales by boasting about Nissan's "Five All-new Models in 15 Months" product revolution representing a high percentage of Nissan's volume and discusses Leaf lovers.

LA Auto Show Video: Steve Hirashiki On 2014 Kia Sorento

 
Just three years into its product lifecycle, Kia brings the new 2014 Sorento to market on an all-new chassis that increases torsional rigidity by 18-percent. Over 80-percent of the parts in the 2014 Sorento are either all-new or significantly redesigned, including a new 290 horsepower 3.3-liter GDI V6 engine and a substantially redesigned interior and a next-generation infotainment system with Kia’s next-generation UVO eServices voice-activated telematics system. There are now four trim levels: LX V6, EX V6, SX and SX Limited. The SX Limited is new and will arrive within the second quarter of 2013, shortly after the arrival of the other new 2014 Sorento models. Steve Hirashiki, Senior Product Strategy Manager at Kia Motors America describes the new 2014 Sorento.

LA Auto Show Video: Jacob Harb On BMW i3 Concept Coupe

Jacob Harb, BMW's North American Manager of Electric Vehicle Sales and Strategy, says the i3 Concept is closer to reality though the actual model, expected in about a year, will be a 4-door version of the BMW i3 Concept Coupe shown at the LA Auto Show in the world premiere.

LA Auto Show Video: Andres Valbuena On VW Beetle Convertible

 
Andres Valbuena, Product Manager at Volkswagen of America, discusses new Beetle Convertible offerings at the LA Auto Show. The New Beetle Convertible is the third-generation Beetle Convertible with three special editions from the 1950s, the 1960s, and the 1970s. The ‘50s Edition Beetle Convertible is black with a tan interior, the ‘60s Edition has two-tone seats and Denim Blue paint and the ‘70s Edition Convertible has a Toffee Brown exterior and chrome-look disc wheels. Compared with the 2006 version of the older car, the latest Beetle Convertible is 3.3 inches wider at 71.2 inches; 1.1 inches lower at 58.0 inches tall; and 6.0 inches longer at 168.4 inches overall. The 2013 Beetle Convertible offers a 170 horsepower 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. There's also a 200 horsepower dual-overhead-cam, 16-valve 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with six-speed manual or six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmissions getting an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The third choice is a 140 horsepower 2.0-liter TDI turbocharged Clean Diesel with the same manual or DSG options which gets an EPA estimated fuel economy rating of 28 mpg city and 41 mpg highway with the manual transmission.

The Beetle Convertible has a starting MSRP of $24,995. The ‘50s Edition costs $26,095. The Beetle Convertible with Technology starts at $26,695. The Beetle Convertible with Sound and Navigation starts at $28,495. The ‘70s Edition has an MSRP of $28,595. Beetle TDI Convertible starts at $27,895. The Beetle TDI Convertible with Sound and Navigation has a base price of $29,195. The Beetle Turbo Convertible starts at $27,795. The Beetle Turbo Convertible with Sound is $29,195. The Beetle Turbo Convertible with Sound and Navigation starts at $31,195 and the ‘60s Edition is priced at $32,395. The are on sale this month.

LA Auto Show Video: Simon Turner On All-New Range Rover

The all-new Land Rover flagship fourth generation Range Rover is on display at the LA Auto Show following its UK introduction in early September. The Range Rover keeps much of the original design from over 40 years ago with a very similar footprint to the outgoing model but now has a lightweight all-aluminium body and a rear compartment that offers more space. Simon Turner, Manager Service Engineering Support and Tech Center at Jaguar & Land Rover was on hand in L.A. to discuss the new vehicle.

LA Auto Show Video: Toyota's Bill Fay On All-New Rav4

Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager of the Toyota division at Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. discusses the all-new Rav4 at the LA Auto Show. So far this year 157,526 Rav4s have been sold in the U.S., a 33.3 percent increase over last year.

The all-new 2013 RAV4, the fourth-generation Rav4, made its world debut at the 2012 Los Angeles International Auto Show and arrives early next year. RAV4 will be available in LE, XLE and Limited  with a 176 horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a new six-speed transmission. RAV4 front-wheel-drive models have received EPA- estimated fuel efficiency ratings of 24 mpg city/31 highway, while all-wheel-drive models are EPA-estimated at 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway.  All 2013 RAV4s will have eight standard airbags and feature the Star Safety System, which includes Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Brake Assist, an Anti-lock Braking System and Smart Stop Technology.  Standard on all RAV4 models is a Display Audio with a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen and includes a standard backup camera and Bluetooth connectivity.  When shifted into reverse, the audio display will show the image of what the backup camera captures. 

LA Auto Show Video: Phil Jansen On Fiat 500L

Philip Jansen, the Chrysler Vehicle Line Executive for the this segment size discusses the new Fiat shown at the LA Auto Show. The all-new 2014 Fiat 500L offers more than 42 percent more interior space than the two-door with seating for five, powered by a 160 horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine with two six-speed transmission offerings. The all-new 2014 Fiat 500L and all-new Fiat 500L Trekking models are produced at FIAT Automobiles’ manufacturing plant in Kragujevac, Serbia and will arrive to FIAT Studios in North America in mid-2013.

November 2012 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors reported its highest November sales in the United States since 2007, with sales of 186,505, a 3 percent rise over last year. Year-over-year sales are 2,349,984, a 3.3 percent increase over 2011.

Ford's total November sales of 177,673 was a 6 percent increase versus last year, with retail sales up 12 percent. Year-to-date Ford sales are 2,035,943, a 5 percent gain over 2011.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported November 2012 sales results of 161,695, an increase of 17.2 percent compared to the same period last year. The Toyota Division posted November total sales of 138,976, an increase of 17.3 percent from November 2011. Year-to-date sales are 1,888,361, a 28.8 percent increase.

Chrysler reported U.S. sales of 122,565, a 14 percent increase compared with sales in November 2011 (107,172 units), and the group's best November sales since 2007. Year-to-date sales are 1,499,420, 22 percent higher than 2011.

American Honda reported an all-time record for the month of November, with sales of 116,580, an increase of 38.9 percent compared with November 2011. The Honda Division posted November 2012 sales of 104,334, an increase of 41 percent compared with November 2011. Acura U.S. November sales of 12,246, an increase of 23.6 percent over November 2011. Year-to-date American Honda sales are 1,290,011, a 23.8 percent increase.

Nissan North America reported record November U.S. sales of 96,197, up 12.9 percent. Nissan Division set a new November record, with sales up 9.8 percent for the month over the prior year at 84,300 units. Sales of Infiniti vehicles were 11,897, up 41.2 percent over the prior year, also a November record. Year-to-date sales are 1,042,366, a 10.7 percent rise over last year.

Hyundai Motor America announced record sales of 53,487 vehicles in November, an eight percent total sales increase compared with the same record-setting period a year ago. Sales are 643,572, also up eight percent for the first eleven months of the year.

Kia Motors America November sales was its 27th straight month of record sales with 41,055 sold, a 10.9-percent increase over the same period in 2011. Year-to-date sales are 518,421, up 17.3 percent over 2011, and Kia sold its 500,000th vehicle in 2012, for the first time ever in a single year in the U.S.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 36,728 in November, a 29.3 percent increase over prior year sales, and year-to-date sales of 291,900, a 35 percent increase and the best November since 1973. Separately, Audi reported November sales of 12,067, a 24.4 percent increase over the same month a year ago with year-to-date sales of 124,469 vehicles, up 18.6 percent, eclipsing the annual sales record set last year.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported an all-time sales record with November sales of 32,649 for combined sales of Mercedes-Benz, smart and Sprinter models, up 15.6 percent and delivering a record year-to-date total of 273,622 up 14.5 percent. The Mercedes-Benz model line alone recorded its highest November on record with sales of 30,315 for the month, up 13.1 percent, and 245,910 for the year up 12.0 percent.

Subaru of America reported 28,206 sales for the month of November, a 60 percent increase over November 2011. The company also announced record-breaking annual sales of 299,788 vehicles which represent a 28 percent increase over 2011 and just 222 vehicles short of achieving 300,000 sales for the first time in company history.  Following the November close, on Dec. 1, 2012, Subaru achieved the 300,000th sales milestone for the first time in company history.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported November sales of 36,461 vehicles, an increase of 38.8 percent from the 26,271 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago.  Year-to-date, BMW Group is up 11.3 percent on sales of 303,728 in the first eleven months of 2012 compared to 272,873 in the same period in 2011.

Mazda North American Operations reported November U.S. sales of 21,691, an increase of 17.7 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales are 249,795 through November, up 9.1 percent versus last year.

Porsche Cars North America announced a record November 2012 sales of 3,865 vehicles, an increase of 71 percent. November 2012 was the best sales month ever for Porsche in the United States. For the year, Porsche has sold 32,091 cars in the U.S., an 18 percent increase over the same period last year.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported November sales of the Outlander Sport were 1,520, up 34.2 percent compared to November 2011.

American Suzuki Motor Corporation reported November 2012 sales of 2,224 units, a 22 percent increase compared to the same period last year. 

Sales with be updated as manufacturers report.

LA Auto Show Day 2 Highlights

Honda Civic - refreshed, updated & more!

All-new Mazda6 - coming soon with a diesel engine

All-new Mazda CX-9

Mitsubishi Outlander GT

These are the photo highlights from new introductions at the LA Auto Show. Lots more to come - interviews, videos and details - come back and visit to the updates.

LA Auto Show Day 1 Highlights

Toyota Rav4

Hyundai Santa Fe

Acura RLX

Jaguar F-type

Nissan Sentra

Subaru Forester

MINI Paceman

Porsche Cayman

BMW i3 Concept

Fiat 500L

Kia Sorento

There were 17 media conferences to debut all-new, refreshed or concept vehicles during the first day of the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. We'll have the details and video interviews about these vehicles in the days ahead. Stay tuned for Day 2 unveilings.