Audi e-tron quattro Concept With A Range Of More Than 310 Miles

The Audi e-tron quattro concept is an electric SUV positioned between the Audi Q5 and the Q7 in size, so a Q6 on that metric, and borrows from the Audi R8 e-tron sports car for the drive system, with a predicted range of more than 310 miles. Audi will show the e-tron quattro SUV concept at the Frankfurt Auto Show next month. This will compete with Tesla's Model X electric SUV coming soon for those already in line and early next year for new reservations. Currently the maximum posted range for Tesla is 270 miles.

2016 Honda Accord Gets Mid-Cycle Refresh - On Sale Tomorrow

The 2016 Honda Accord gets a mid-cycle refresh offered with the direct-injected 2.4-liter inline i-VTEC™ 4-cylinder engine in LX/LX-S, Sport, EX and EX-L trims and the 3.5-liter VTEC™ V-6 in EX-L and Touring trims and mated to a CVT (continuously variable transmission) for the 4-cylinder engines, 6-speed manuals for the 4-cylinder and V-6 engines, and a 6-speed automatic for V-6 models. The MSRP for the 2016 Accord Sedan LX with 6-speed manual transmission remains at $22,925 (including $820 destination charge) and $23,725 for the Sedan LX with continuously variable transmission.

The Accord Coupe LX-S is also unchanged at $24,595 for the 6-MT and $25,445 for the CVT. All 2016 Accords feature a standard Multi-Angle Rearview Camera and Expanded View Driver's Mirror and on Touring trim models, new auto high-beam headlights. The Accord sedan goes on sale tomorrow and the Accord Coupe on August 26.

2016 Toyota Land Cruiser - New and Fully Loaded

The 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser, new from the A-pillar forward, with a full-time 4WD system powered by a 381 horsepower 5.7-liter DOHC V8 engine featuring Variable Valve Timing with intelligence mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, comes fully equipped and with seating for eight. Downhill Assist Control helps hold the vehicle to a target speed with minimal driver intervention and Hill-start Assist Control helps prevent roll-back when stopping and then starting again on a steep incline or slippery surface. The new Toyota Safety Sense-P system includes Frontal Collision Avoidance, at speeds below 24 mph (including pedestrian protection), Frontal Collision Mitigation (also for speeds below 24 mph); Lane Departure Alert; Auto High Beams and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. There's a new Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a backup camera. EPA fuel efficiency is 13 mpg in the city, 18 mpg on the highway and 15 combined. Land Cruiser’s rear-seat DVD entertainment system features two individual 11.6-inch display monitors, RCA jacks and separate HDMI input for individual playback.

Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce Roadster For $530,075

The new Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce Roadster featuring a two-piece carbon fiber hardtop, with only 500 available worldwide, has a 750 horsepower 6.5-liter V12 engine mated to a 7-speed ISR transmission driving all four wheels producing 0-62 mph acceleration of 2.9 seconds to a a top speed of more than 217 mph. Deliveries of the Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce Roadster begin in early 2016 with base MSRP pricing of $530,075.

2016 Toyota Tacoma Starts At $24,200

The all-new 2016 Toyota Tacoma (Access cab above) will feature a 159 horsepower 2.7-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with VVT-i that gets EPA estimated 19 city/23 highway/ 21 combined mpg for the 4x2 with an automatic transmission and Tacoma also offers an all-new 278 horsepower V6 with a 3.5-liter Atkinson cycle with VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligent Wider Intake) equipped with Toyota’s D-4S technology, featuring both direct and port fuel injection getting an estimated 19 city/24 highway/21 combined mpg for the 4x2 automatic. Both engines will be paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift and the V6 can also be mated to a new six-speed manual transmission and the four-cylinder to a five-speed manual.

The MSRP for the 2016 Tacoma 4x2 will range from $24,200 (including $900 delivery, processing, and handling fee) for the SR Access Cab with a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission to $35,645 for the Double Cab Limited 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic transmission. The MSRP for the 2016 Tacoma 4x4 will range from $25,725 for the SR 4-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual transmission to $38,720 for the V6 Limited with the six-speed automatic. (Double cab pictured above)

The Tacoma comes in Access cab or Double cab in SR, SR5, TRD, TRD Sport, TRD Off Road, Limited (double cab only) trims in either two-wheel and four wheel drive with two engine options and mated to a six-speed automatic or new six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed manual for the four-cylinder engine.

2016 Lexus GS 200t, 350, 450h Debut

The 2016 Lexus GS 200t rear-wheel drive sedan with a 241 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine teamed with an eight-speed automatic transmission gets an estimated of 33 mpg highway as the newest member of GS line-up. The GS 350 has a 311 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. The GS 450h, with an Atkinson cycle 3.5-liter V6 engine and a water-cooled permanent-magnet electric motor for 338 total system horsepower, has EPA estimated 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined fuel economy ratings.

BMW Concept M4 GTS World Premiere

The BMW Concept M4 GTS, in frozen dark grey metallic, with the acid orange accent, with manually adjustable front splitter and rear wing is powered by a turbocharged six-cylinder in-line engine with a water injection system to increase output and torque. More details on the production version will be revealed at a later date.

2017 C300 and C300 4MATIC Coupe Coming In The Spring

The all-new 2017 C300 and C300 4MATIC Coupe, with a 3.1 inch longer wheelbase is 3.7 inches longer, 1.6 inches wider and lighter than its predecessor, powered by a 241 horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder engine. The Coupe comes with an optional AIRMATIC air suspension on the front and rear axle giving the driver ride mode choices of "ECO", "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport +" and "Individual.” ATTENTION ASSIST warns the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS features an acoustic warning for the driver at speeds above 4 mph and Adaptive Brake Assist to help avoid collisions, DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist can adjust the speed of the vehicle in line with a slower-moving vehicle ahead in a speed range from 0 to 124 mph if required, and the PRE-SAFE® Brake can detect pedestrians and brake autonomously if the driver fails to react. The all-new MY2017 C300 and C300 4MATIC Coupe arrives at U.S. dealers in Spring of 2016.

2016 Buick Sport Touring Models Coming This Fall

2016 Buick LaCrosse, Regal (pictured above) and Verano Sport Touring (ST) models features special 18-inch wheels with machined faces and black “pockets,” and a rear spoiler, go on sale this Fall along with the Encore Sport Touring.

2016 Infiniti Q70 Premium Select Edition Coming In November

The new 2016 Infiniti Q70 Premium Select Edition, on standard wheelbase Q70 3.7, Q70 3.7 AWD, Q70 5.6 and Q70 5.6 AWD models (non-Hybrid), offers dark chrome trim, a darkened lower rear bumper, a rear decklid spoiler and color 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 245/40R20 all-season performance tires. This Q70 will be available at Infiniti retailers nationwide beginning in November.

2016 Lexus LX 570 Debuts At Pebble Beach

The 2016 Lexus LX 570 eight passenger body-on-frame SUV gets a restyled front end, new standard LED headlights, turn signals and fog lights, taillights, rear bumper, 20-inch split 10-spoke wheels, and available 21-inch 10-spoke wheels. Powered by a 383 horsepower 5.7-liter V8 engine now mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission which replaces the former six-speed. The new Drive Mode Select tailors powertrain and suspension responses with a dial on the console. ECO adjusts powertrain responses and air conditioning to prioritize fuel-efficient driving, COMFORT mode optimizes AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension) damping for a smooth ride, SPORT S mode dials up powertrain response and dials down power steering assist for a sportier driving feel, and SPORT S+ mode adds firmer damping control from AVS to prioritize handling agility.
         

All-New Ford F-650/F-750 Trucks Made In Ohio Now

All-new Ford F-650/F-750 medium-duty trucks, with a new look inside and out, rolled off the line today for the first time in the United States at Ford's Ohio Assembly Plant after previously being built in Mexico. Along with its 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 diesel engine option, Ford remains the only automaker to offer a gasoline-powered engine in the medium-duty truck segment. The 2016 Ford F-650/F-750 trucks offer a 320 horsepower 6.8-liter V10 with the heavy-duty TorqShift six-speed automatic transmission and can be factory-prepped for converting to compressed natural gas or liquid propane gas as cost-effective alternatives to gasoline and a 6.7-liter Power Stroke® V8 diesel engine option. The move from Mexico to Ohio helps secure more than 1,000 hourly UAW jobs and a $168 million plant investment in the United States.

Hyundai “Vision G” Concept Coupe Is On Tour

The Hyundai “Vision G” Concept Coupe, from Hyundai's U.S design team led by Christopher Chapman, resembling a Bentley with luxury in mind, is powered by their high-pressure direct injection 420 horsepower 5.0-liter Tau V8 engine. The Hyundai “Vision G” Concept Coupe is on tour, first Los Angeles, then Pebble Beach.

Lexus IS 200t With 241 Horsepower New For 2016

The Lexus IS luxury sport sedan, with rear-wheel drive, all-weather drive and F SPORT variants, adds the 200t, available as RWD only, powered by a 241 horsepower 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with intercooler paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The IS 200t joins the IS 300 AWD with a 255 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and the IS 350, in both RWD and AWD and now with standard 18-inch five-spoke wheels with all-season tires, powered by a 306 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 mated to an eight-speed, Sport Direct Shift automatic transmission. Also new for 2016 is a heated steering wheel as a standalone option, a Premium Plus Package with power/tilt telescopic steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers and Lexus Enform Service Connect. The IS 250 and IS 250 AWD are discontinued.

2016 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron® Coming In October Starting At $38,825

The all-new 2016 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron® plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, the first electrified Audi sold in the U.S. has a 204 horsepower 1.4 liter TFSI® engine combined with a liquid-cooled, permanent magnet-driven electric motor mated to a six-speed S tronic® transmission. The Audi A3 Sportback e-tron® will start at $38,825 (including $925 destination charges), the Premium Plus model starts at $42,925 and the Prestige at $47,725 - or less depending on the buyer's qualification for applicable state and federal incentives and tax credits. 240-volt charging replenishes the battery in about 2 hours and 15 minutes. The plug-in hybrid will launch at dealerships nationwide in October.

It qualifies for a federal tax credit of $4,168 with buyers in some states qualifying for additional incentives. Tax credits and incentives are subject to availability, and customers should consult their tax professionals and IRS.gov for more information about tax credits and incentives.

All-New BMW 7 Series Featured In Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation Movie

The all-new BMW 7 Series, in its sixth generation, is driven hard in the film “Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation,” from Paramount Pictures and Skydance, now in theaters. BMW previously partnered with Paramount on 2011’s “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.” BMW of North America has a series of “Mission to Drive” marketing initiatives around the film including television, radio and digital advertising. The all-new BMW 7 Series features the world’s first Gesture Control. Pre-selected hand movements in the vicinity of the center console allow the driver to adjust the audio volume control and accept or reject incoming phone calls, among other functions. Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation topped the box office in its debut weekend bringing in $55.52 million.

2016 Honda Odyssey On Sale Now Starting At $30,155

The 2016 Honda Odyssey, powered by a 248 horsepower 3.5-liter, 24-valve V-6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, is now on sale with eight trim levels starting at $30,155 (including $880 destination charge) and running up to a starting price of $45,630 for top-of-the-line Touring Elite. Odyssey comes in LX, EX, SE, EX-L, EX-L with Rear Entertainment System, EX-L with Navi, Touring and Touring Elite models delivering EPA fuel-economy ratings of 19/28/22 mpg city/highway/combined.

July 2015 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac) sold 272,512 vehicles in the United States in July 2015, a 6.4 percent increase for the best July since 2007. Year-to-date sales of 1,778,057, is up 3.9 percent over 2014.

Ford Motor Company sold 222,731 vehicles last month, up 4.9 percent for its best July U.S. sales performance since 2006. Of that, Lincoln accounted for 9,536, a 21.3 percent jump over July 2014. Year-to-date total Ford sales of 1,516,352 is a 2.3 percent increase over 2014.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported July 2015 sales of 217,181, an increase of 0.6 percent from July 2014. Toyota Division posted sales of 187,365, down 0.6 percent while year-to-date sales are 1,259,957, a 3.7 percent gain and Lexus reported July sales of 29,816, up 9.1 percent from July 2014 bring year-to-date sales to 188,664, a 13.6 percent rise over last year. Year-to-date total sales for both brands is 1,448,621, up 4.9 percent over last year.

FCA US (Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 178,027 units, a 6 percent increase compared with sales in July 2014 for the group’s best July sales since 2005. Year-to-date sales of 1,260,170 is also a 6 percent rise versus last year.

American Honda Motor reported sales of 146,324 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 7.7 percent in July 2015. Honda Division sales rose 6.5 percent overall on sales of 131,409 units, while Acura reported a gain of 19.5 percent with 14,915 vehicles sold in July. Year-to-date sales of 899,325 is a 2.7 percent gain over 2014.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for July 2015 of 130,872, an increase of 7.8 percent over the prior year and a July record. Nissan Division finished July with 120,439 sales, up 6.7 percent and also a July record. Infiniti sales of 10,433 is a 22.2 percent gain over a year ago. Year-to-date Nissan Group sales is 867,355, a 5 percent increase over 2014.

Hyundai Motor America reported its best July ever with 71,013 sold, up 6 percent compared to July 2014. Year-to-date sales of 442,163 is up 2.5 percent over the first seven months of 2014.

Kia Motors America had a July sales record of 56,311 vehicles sold, up 7.7 percent over 2014. Kia year-to-date sales of 367,263  is up 5 percent over last year.

Subaru of America reported 50,517 vehicle sales for July 2015, a 10.5 percent increase over July 2014 for the best-ever sales month in company history, breaking the previous record set in August 2014 (50,246). Subaru reported year-to-date sales of 322,935 vehicles, a 13.8 percent gain over the same period in 2014.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 31,300, up 2.4 percent over July 2014. Year-to-date sales of 205,742, down 1.9 percent from 2014. Separately, Audi of America reported sales of 17,654 vehicles, an increase of 20.8 pecent. Year-to-date Audi sales of 111,269 is up 12.4 percent over last year.          

BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported July sales of 32,161 vehicles, a decrease of 0.2 percent from the same month a year ago. Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 2.1 percent in July for a total of 26,970 compared to July, 2014. For July, MINI USA reports 5,191 automobiles sold, a decrease of 10.7 percent from the same month a year ago. BMW Group year-to-date sales of 231,044 is up 8.1 percent.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported record July sales for the Mercedes-Benz brand at 27,526, increasing 1.2 percent from the same month last year. Sprinter delivered 2,163 sales for the month of July, combining with 441 units at smart for a monthly total of 30,130 for MBUSA. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz sales totaled 192,496, up 7.7 percent. Adding year-to-date sales of 15,697 for Sprinter Vans and 4,065 for smart, MBUSA posted a grand total of 212,258 units through July.

Mazda North American Operations reported U.S. sales for July 2015 of 27,157 vehicles, a 7.1-percent decrease versus July 2014. Through July, Mazda has sold 186,153 vehicles year-to-date, representing a year-over-year increase.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported sales of 7,868, an increase of 23.9 percent from July 2014. Year-to-date sales of 57,412 is up 24.8 percent.

Jaguar Land Rover North America reported July 2015 U.S. sales. Sales for both brands hit 6,253, a 7 percent increase from July 2014.  Land Rover sales reached 5,011, up 8 percent from July 2014; Jaguar sales were 1,242, up 5 percent from July 2014. Year-to-date in 2015, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales hit 46,401, an increase of 15 percent over 2014.

Volvo Cars of North America reported U.S. sales of 5,619, a 14.8 percent increase versus July 2014. Year-to-date sales are up 2 percent over the first seven months of 2014.

Porsche Cars North America announced July 2015 sales of 4,730 vehicles, up 10 percent over July 2014. Year-to-date sales of 29,868 is 9.7 percent higher than last year.

2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 - 2016 GMC Sierra Coming In The 4th Quarter

The 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 full-size pickup (above) will get a new front end design including bumpers, more 8-speed automatic transmission options, updated Chevy MyLink with support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, LED “C-shaped” signature daytime running lights, and LED headlights, taillights and fog lamps when it arrives in the fourth quarter of this year.

The new 2016 GMC Sierra will be available in the fourth quarter of this year, with additional details and information on the new model released in the coming months.

2016 Buick Encore Sport Touring Goes On Sale This Fall

The 2016 Buick Encore Sport Touring with an all-new 153 horsepower direct injection 1.4L turbocharged engine matched with a six-speed automatic transmission goes on sale this Fall. All-wheel drive, a premium Bose® audio system, navigation radio and a moonroof are available.

2016 Hyundai Tucson Starts At $23,595 Now

The 2016 Hyundai Tucson, 3.0 inches longer and 1.1 inches wider than the previous model, powered by 164 horsepower 2.0-liter, direct-injected four-cylinder engine coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC™ manual shifting mode, goes on sale this month with a starting price of $23,595 (including $895 freight charges) for the FWD SE model with EPA fuel economy rated at 23 mpg (city), 31 mpg (highway), and 26 mpg (combined). The FWD or AWD Tucson comes in SE, Eco, Sport and Limited trim levels with the latter three available with a more powerful engine. The top-of the-line AWD Tucson Limited with the 175 horsepower 1.6L Turbo 4-Cylinder engine mated to a 7-Speed EcoShift Dual Clutch transmission starts at $32,195.

J.D. Power 2015 U.S. APEAL Study

The J.D. Power 2015 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, in its 20th year, measures how gratifying 77 ownership and driving attributes are in a new vehicle.  The average APEAL Index score in the non-premium segment (790) has improved by 5 points from 2014, while the average score in the premium segment (841) has improved by only 1 point. Porsche ranks highest in APEAL for an 11th consecutive year, with a score of 874 index points, followed by Jaguar (855), BMW (854), Mercedes-Benz (853) and Audi (852). MINI is the highest-ranking non-premium brand in the study with a score of 825.

The following brands receive multiple model-level APEAL awards:

Chevrolet (three): Colorado, Corvette and Sonic
Ford (three): C-Max, Expedition and F-150
Porsche (three): Cayenne, Cayman and Macan
Audi (two): A3 and Q3
BMW (two): 4 Series and 6 Series
Dodge (two): Challenger and Charger
Mazda (two): CX-5 and MAZDA6
MINI (two): Cooper and Countryman

Other models receiving awards are Fiat 500; GMC Sierra HD; Infiniti QX80; Kia Sedona; Mercedes-Benz S-Class; Nissan Murano; and Volkswagen Golf.

2016 Mazda CX-3 Starts At $20,840 In Mid-August

The 2016 Mazda CX-3 subcompact crossover with a 146 horsepower SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine, going on sale in mid-August, starts at $20,840 (including $880 for destination and handling) for the Sport trim, $22,8840 for CX-3 Touring model and $25,870 for the CX-3 Grand Touring. EPA-estimated fuel economy for front-wheel drive models is 29 mpg city/35 mpg highway/31 mpg combined and 27 mpg city/32 mpg highway/29 mpg combined with i-ACTIV AWD which is a $1,250 upgrade. The Touring Technology Package is $1,410 and the i-ACTIVSENSE safety package with Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Smart City Brake Support, Smart Brake Support, High Beam Control System, Lane Departure Warning System, rain-sensing wipers and auto on/off headlights is $1,920.

All CX-3 models come with MAZDA CONNECT™, a seven-inch, full-color touchscreen infotainment suite that is integrated with a commander control knob and Bluetooth hands-free phone pairing and audio streaming. All 2016 CX-3s also have backup camera and push-button starter as well as power windows, power door locks and remote keyless entry.

Toyota Mirai Offers EPA-estimated 67 MPGe This Fall

The new Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle will offer an EPA-estimated 67 miles per gallon equivalent (mpge) city/highway/combined when it hits dealerships in California this Fall, and an EPA-estimated driving range rating of 312 miles on a single fill of hydrogen.

June 2015 U.S. Vehicle Sales

General Motors' Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac dealers in the United States delivered 259,353 vehicles in June 2015, a drop of 3 percent. It was GM's best June for retail deliveries since 2007 climbing 6.8 percent year over year. Year-to-date General Motors sales of 1,505,545, up 3.4 percent from 2014.

Ford Motor Company total U.S. June sales of  225,647 vehicles sold was a 1.6 percent gain over last year. Year-to-date sales of 1,293,621 is a 1.9 percent increase over 2014.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported June 2015 sales of 209,912, an increase of 4.1 percent from June 2014. Toyota division posted June 2015 sales of 183,791, up 3.1 percent. Lexus reported June sales of 26,121, up 11.1 percent from June 2014. For the first half of the year, TMS reported sales of 1,231,440, up 5.6 percent versus the same period in 2014.

FCA US (Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 185,035, an 8 percent increase compared with sales in June 2014 for the group’s best June sales since 2006. Year-to-date sales of 1,082,143 is a 6 percent gain over 2014.

American Honda reported June 2015 Honda and Acura vehicle sales of 134,397, an increase of 4.2 percent. Year-to-date sales of 739,436 is a 1.8 percent gain over last year. June Honda brand sales reached 118,870 for a gain of 0.9 percent. Acura division June sales of 15,527 is a 33 percent jump.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for June 2015 of 124,228, an increase of 13.3 percent for a June record. Nissan Division finished June with 114,243 sales, up 13 percent and also a June record. Infiniti June sales of 9,985 is up 16.5 percent over last year. Year-to-date Nissan Group sales of 736,483 is a 4.5 percent gain over 2014.

Hyundai Motor America reported its best June sales ever of 67,502, up less than one percent, surpassing the record-setting month of June 2014. Year-to-date sales of 371,150 represents a 1.8 percent increase and marks Hyundai’s best opening six months ever.

Kia Motors America had its best-ever June sales of 54,137 vehicles, up 6.9 percent. Year-to-date Kia sales are 310,952, up 4.6 percent, the best first half in company history.

Subaru of America reported record sales for June 2015 totaling 44,335 vehicles, a 7.2 percent gain over June 2014. Year-to-date sales of 272,418 vehicles is a 14.5 percent gain over the same period in 2014.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 30,436, up 5.6 percent from last June while year-to-date sales of 174,442 is a decline of 2.6 percent from 2014. Separately, Audi of America reported its best-ever June sales of 18,262 vehicles, an 8.3 percent gain over last June.Year-to-date Audi sales of 93,615 is up 11 percent over 2014.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported June sales of 38,350 vehicles, an increase of 7.8 percent versus the same month a year ago. Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 6.5 percent in June for a total of 32,176 compared to 30,201 vehicles sold in June, 2014. For June, MINI USA reports 6,174 automobiles sold, an increase of 14.8 percent from the same month a year ago. Year-to-date BMW Group sales of 198,883 is a 9.6 percent gain over 2014.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported record June sales for the Mercedes-Benz brand at 28,044, climbing 5.8 percent from the same month last year. Sprinter delivered 2,442, a 10.9 percent increase in June  with 774  at smart for a monthly total of 31,260 for MBUSA. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 164,970, up 8.8 percent. Adding 13,534 for Sprinter and 3,624 for smart, MBUSA achieved a record grand total of 182,128 for the first six months of 2015.

Mazda North American Operations reported June U.S. sales of 27,223 vehicles, representing an increase of 3.9 percent versus last year. Through June, Mazda has sold 158,996 vehicles, up 1.6 percent year-to-date.

Mitsubishi Motors North America sold 7,963, an increase of 32.3 percent from June 2014. Sales for the first half of the year are 49,544, up 24.9 percent over 2014.

Volvo Cars sold 5,984 in the U.S. in June, flat from a year ago while year-to-date sales of 29,367 is a 0.1 percent gain over last year.

Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported June 2015 U.S. sales for both brands of  5,860, an 11 percent increase from June 2014. Land Rover sales reached 4,643, up 15 percent and Jaguar sales were 1,217, down 4 percent. Year-to-date in 2015, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales are up 16 percent from 2014.

Porsche Cars North America June 2015 sales of 4,223 vehicles is up 2.9 percent from a year ago for its strongest June sales month in PCNA history. Year-to-date sales of 25,138 is 9.7 percent higher than 2014.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Former Ford President Phil Benton Passes Away

Philip Benton Jr., former President of Ford Motor Company, died at age 86 at his home in Massachusetts on June 14, according to Automotive News. Benton spent 40 years at Ford, retiring as President and COO in July 1992. The photo (above) was taken from a 1992 KWHY-TV Business Channel interview where Benton discussed the company, cars, challenges and the restructuring of First Nationwide Bank which Ford eventually sold in 1994.

Get Your Kicks On Route 66 - Great Race Finishes At Santa Monica Pier

HEMMINGS MOTOR NEWS GREAT RACE presented by Hagerty, June 20 to June 28 from Kirkwood, Missouri, to Santa Monica, California, traveling along much of Historic US 66, finished today with about a hundred vehicles manufactured in 1972 or earlier crossing the finish line on Santa Monica Pier.

Nissan JUKE-R 2.0 With 600 Horsepower

The Nissan JUKE-R 2.0, based on the newer JUKE model launched in Europe in 2014, has redesigned 100 percent carbon fiber front and rear bumpers and the front fenders, front headlights, taillights and hood are from the new 2015 JUKE. The engine power, according to the Nissan release, has been increased and is rated at 600 horsepower, "the same output as the GT-R, the NISMO."

2016 Chevrolet Cruze - Larger, Lighter Coming In Early 2016

The all-new 2016 Chevrolet Cruze on a 106.3-inch wheelbase is larger, up to 250 pounds lighter and more efficient with a new, standard 153 horsepower 1.4L turbocharged engine with direct injection mated to either a standard six-speed manual or available six-speed automatic transmission that General Motors estimates helps get 40 mpg on the highway. Stop/start technology helps enhance the Cruze’s efficiency in stop-and-go driving. New model range for North America including L, LS, LT and Premier and a more expressive RS package. Standard features include 10 air bags, four-wheel disc brakes, rearview camera and available OnStar 4G LTE with Wi-Fi hotspot. New, available features include wireless phone charging, heated rear leather seats and a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Available advanced safety features include Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert. The all-new 2016 Chevrolet Cruze will be offered in more than 40 global markets and goes on sale first in North America in early 2016, with a diesel model to follow in 2017.

Alfa Romeo Giulia Makes World Debut

Alfa Romeo Giulia, the brand's top-of-the-range model, made its World Debut in Italy. The Giulia is powered by a 510 horsepower Ferrari-inspired turbo six-cylinder engine, made entirely of aluminium, accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds, and will be introduced on the Quadrifoglio version. The Giulia comes in rear or four-wheel drive. The Guilia features torque vectoring with a double clutch to allow the rear differential to control the torque delivery to each wheel separately. A.L.F.A. (standing for ‘Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili’, which translates as ‘Lombard Automobile Factory, Public Company’ in English) was established on June 24, 1910.

2016 MINI Clubman Goes On Sale In January In U.S.

The new MINI Clubman, with a length of 168.3 inches, a width of 70.9 inches and a height of 56.7 inches, is 10.9 inches longer and 2.9 inches wider than the MINI Hardtop 4 Door, and its wheelbase is 4 inches larger. Its luggage compartment has a volume of 17.5 ft, which can be extended to as much as 47.9 ft by folding down the rear backrest. The new MINI Clubman will have a 134 horsepower TwinPower Turbo 3-cylinder gas engine and the new MINI Cooper S Clubman will have a 189 horsepower TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine. All variants of the new MINI Clubman are fitted as standard with a 6-speed transmission and an 8-speed Steptronic transmission is available as an option for the MINI Cooper S Clubman. The Clubman will go on sale in the U.S. in January 2016. Pricing will be announced in September.

2016 Aston Martin DB9 GT Open For Orders At $199,950

The 2016 Aston Martin DB9 GT powered by an all-alloy, quad overhead cam, 48-valve front mid-mounted 540 horsepower 6.0-liter V12 engine mated to the rear mid-mounted Touchtronic II six-speed transmission with electronic shift-by-wire control system fueling a zero to 62 mph time of 4.5 seconds to a top speed of 183 mph. The DB9 GT is now available to order for $199,950.        

2016 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Arrives Early Next Year

The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro convertible, in its sixth-generation, offered in in LT and SS models, has six all-new powertrain combinations, including a 275 horsepower 2.0L Turbo, a 335 horsepower 3.6L V-6 producing, and the 455 horsepower LT1 6.2L V-8, each available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. The Camero convertible top is capable of opening or closing at speeds up to 30 mph, fully automatic with latches that automatically release and secure the top and can be opened remotely with the key fob. The new Camaro convertible arrives in early 2016.

Porsche 918 Spyder Comes Off Assembly Line

The Porsche 918 Spyder, with 887 total system horsepower is a performance hybrid with plug-in technology producing an EPA rating of 67 MPGe, featuring five separate cooling circuits and the hybrid cooling of the rear electric motor using air and water. After 21 months of production, the final Porsche 918 Spyder came off the assembly line in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

Infiniti Q30 Goes On Sale in Europe In Q4

The Infiniti Q30, the brand's first-ever compact car, will debut at the Frankfurt International Auto Show in September, two years after the Infiniti Q30 Concept was revealed at the 2013 Frankfurt show. The Q30 will go on sale in Europe towards the end of 2015 with other markets to follow.

Mercedes-Benz GLC - Larger and Lighter Than GLK It Replaces

The second generation of the mid-size Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV, renamed from GLK, is larger and yet 110 pounds lighter than the predecessor, and the GLC 300 and GLC 300 4MATIC will be powered by a 241 horsepower 2.0 liter inline 4 cylinder engine mated to a nine-stage 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.

J.D. Power 2015 U.S. Initial Quality Study

The J.D. Power 2015 U.S. Initial Quality Study examines problems experienced by more than 84,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2015 model-year vehicles surveyed after 90 days of ownership. Initial quality is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles, with a lower score reflecting higher quality. Korean brands lead the industry in initial quality by the widest margin ever, averaging 90 PP100, which is an 11 PP100 improvement from 2014. For the first time in the study, European brands (113 PP100) surpass Japanese brands (114 PP100), while domestic makes (114 PP100) equal the Japanese for only a second time. Entertainment and connectivity systems remain the most problem-prone area for a third consecutive year, with voice recognition and Bluetooth pairing continuing to top the problem list.

Alfa Romeo 4C Arrives For $65,495 This Summer

All-new Alfa Romeo 4C Spider with an all-aluminum 237 horsepower 1750 turbocharged and intercooled engine with dual (intake and exhaust) continuous variable-valve timing, arrives at U.S. and Canadian dealerships this summer with an MSRP of $65,495 (including $1,595 destination). There are Dynamic, Natural or All-weather driving modes and the Alfa Romeo TCT (twin-clutch transmission) can utilize an “auto” mode. With four modes, including “Race” mode, the Alfa DNA selector can optimize the engine, transmission, Alfa Electronic Q2 differential and electronic stability control calibrations to the levels needed by the driver.

2016 Honda Pioneer 1000 Coming This Fall

2016 Honda Pioneer 1000 and Pioneer 1000-5 is powered by a purpose-built inline, twin-cylinder, Unicam® 999cc engine with a 6-speed fully automatic Dual Clutch Transmission. Built in the USA using domestically and globally sourced parts, the Pioneer 1000 is offered in four different configurations, from the base three-person version to the Deluxe five-person model, which features 14-inch aluminum wheels, 27-inch radial tires, LED headlights and electric power steering. Every Pioneer 1000 comes standard with four-wheel-drive, as well as a high-low sub-transmission and 4-mode differential lock, while the five-person model features auto-leveling rear suspension and a full-size convertible bed with Honda's QuickFlip™ seating.

2016 Fiat 500X Arriving Now Offers Mopar Accessories

The all-new 2016 Fiat 500X, arriving now, will offer more than 100 Mopar accessories for additional cost to personalize the latest addition to the FIAT lineup in North America that include: 14 different exterior graphics packages; 18-inch wheels in three different and color options, with a fourth option available in July; racks and carriers for bikes, skis, snowboards, luggage and more; premium leather Katzkin seats; a GPS-enabled stolen vehicle recovery system; Mopar Web Wi-Fi service kit. The 2016 Fiat 500X offers two engine options, an available nine-speed transmission and an all-wheel drive system with a disconnecting rear axle for improved fuel efficiency. The Fiat 500X is available in five trim models and 12 exterior colors. The Fiat 500X was introduced last November at the Los Angeles Auto Show. 

2016 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

The 2016 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, the sedan equivalent of the Golf GTI, with a 210 horsepower, 2.0-literTSI® turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder engine has new front fascia with a honeycomb grille and foglights, along with a new rear bumper design. A new standard feature is Automatic Post-Collision Braking system which applies the brakes when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors. The GLI SEL adds Blind Spot Detection with rear traffic alert, a navigation system, Bi-Xenon headlights with the Adaptive Front-lighting System, and Homelink®. The AFS system swivels the main headlight beams by up to 15 percent as the steering wheel is turned to help illuminate bends in the road more effectively at speeds of more than 6 mph.

2016 BMW 7 Series Starts At $82,250 This Fall

The all-new 2016 BMW 7 Series, in its sixth generation, is 190 pounds lighter with the extensive use of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic and will be introduced in the US this Fall as a long wheelbase version, more than one inch longer than its predecessor, with the 320 horsepower 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine in the 740i and a redesigned 445 horsepower 4.4 liter TwinPower Turbo engine in the 750i xDrive model. Both mated to an eight-speed Sport Automatic Steptronic transmission and featuring Gesture Control, Wireless Charging and the standalone option of the Display Key.

The iDrive system also works in conjunction with standard Gesture Control, which uses 3D sensors to capture pre-selected hand movements in the vicinity of the center console to adjust the audio volume control and accept or reject incoming phone calls.The 740e xDrive joins the BMW plug-in hybrid model lineup in 2016. The MSRP for the BMW 740i will be $82,250 and the BMW 750i xDrive will be $98,350 (prices include $950 Destination and Handling).

2016 Ford Transit Coming In September

The 2016 Ford Transit adds available SYNC 3, rearview camera and new customization options. The flexible-fuel vehicle system will be standard equipment on 2016 Transit Connect vans with 2.5-liter I-4 engines destined for non-California emissions states engineered to run on E85 (85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline), unleaded gasoline or any blend of the two. A 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine is available on Transit Connect vans and Transit Connect Wagon XLT. The bucket seats are available as a no-charge option on the XLT long-wheelbase model, while a six-way power driver’s seat is available in cloth for the first time on XLT. 2016 Transit Connect vans will be available at Ford dealerships beginning in September.

2016 Audi Q3 Starts At $34,625 With More Standard Features

The 2016 Audi Q3, powered by a 200 horsepower 2.0-liter TFSI® four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed Tiptronic® transmission has redesigned front lights, grille, bumper, side sills and rear lights and standard front and rear parking sensors and rearview camera, starts at $34,625 (including $925 destination charges) for the Premium Plus FWD model, $36,725 for the Premium Plus quattro, $39,525 for the Prestige FWD and $41,625 for the Prestige quattro trim level. Combined city/highway EPA estimate is 23 mpg.

May 2015 U.S. Auto Sales

Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac dealers in the United States delivered 293,097 vehicles in May 2015, for General Motors' best May sales since 2007 and its best month since August 2008. Total sales were up 3 percent year over year and retail sales were up 7 percent. General Motors year-to-date sales of 1,246,192 is a 4.9 percent increase over last year.

Ford Motor Company’s total U.S. sales of 250,813 vehicles for May declined 1 percent from a year ago. Retail sales of 171,535 vehicles decline 2 percent. Fleet sales of 79,278 vehicles are flat.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported May 2015 sales of 242,579, a decrease of 0.3 percent from May 2014. Year-to-date sales of 1,021,528, up 6 percent from last year. Toyota division posted May 2015 sales of 212,908, down 1.6 percent while Lexus sales of 29,671 is a 10.2 percent gain.

FCA US (Chrysler, Ram, Dodge, Jeep, Fiat) reported U.S. sales of 202,227, a 4 percent increase compared with sales in May 2014 for the group’s best May sales since 2005. Year-to-date sales are 194,868, up 9 percent over 2014.

American Honda reported May 2015 Honda and Acura vehicle sales of 154,593, up 1.3 percent year-over-year. The Acura Division gaining 16.1 percent on sales of 17,042 vehicles in May and the Honda Division posting sales of 137,551 vehicles, a decrease of 0.3 percent for the month.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for May 2015 of 134,779, dow 0.8 percent from May 2014. Year-to-date sales of 612,255 is 2.9 percent higher than a year ago. Nissan Division finished May with 124,305, a 1 percent drop from 2014 while Infiniti May sales of 10,474 is a 0.9 percent rise.

Hyundai Motor America reported May sales of 63,610, down 10 percent compared with its record-setting month of May 2014. Year-to-date sales of 303,648 are up 2 percent for the year.

Kia Motors America announced all-time best monthly sales of 62,433 vehicles in May, up 3.9 percent over May 2014 and marking the second time Kia has surpassed 60,000 units in a single month. Year-to-date sales are 256,815, up 4.1 percent over last year.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 34,758 in May 2015, up 8.1 percent from a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 144,006 is a 4.2 percent decline from 2014. Separately, Audi reported May 2015 sales of 18,428 vehicles, an increase of 11 percent, the second-best month since the brand entered the U.S. market in 1970. Audi year-to-date sales of 75,353 is an 11.7 percent gain over last year.

Subaru of America reported record sales for May 2015 totaling 49,561 vehicles, a 12.2 percent gain over May 2014. Year-to-date sales of 228,083 vehicles is a 16 percent gain over the same period in 2014.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported May sales of 36,836 vehicles, an increase of 4.3 percent from the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 160,533 is a 10 percent rise over 2014. Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 4.7 percent in May for a total of 31,003 compared to May, 2014 while MINI USA reports 5,833 automobiles sold, an increase of 1.8 percent from the same month a year ago.  

Mazda North American Operations reported May U.S. sales of 29,606 vehicles, a decrease of 0.4 percent versus last year. Through May, Mazda has sold 131,773 vehicles year-to-date, up 1.2 percent over 2014.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported best-ever May sales volumes for the Mercedes-Benz brand at 29,583, an 11.1 percent increase from May 2014. Sprinter sales totaled 2,769 for the month, up 22.3 percent, combining with 837 units at smart for a May total of 33,189 for MBUSA. Year-to-date, Mercedes-Benz delivered 136,926 units, climbing 9.4 percent from the same time last year. Adding 11,092 units at Sprinter (up 19.5 percent) and 2,850 units at smart, MBUSA posted a year-to-date grand total of 150,868, up 9 percent.

Mitsubishi Motors North America sold 9,575 vehicle in May, an increase of 31.7 percent and MMNA's best May sales total in the last seven years.

Jaguar Land Rover North America reported May 2015 U.S. both brands of 6,586, a 13 percent increase from May 2014.  Land Rover sales reached 5,382, up 19 percent and Jaguar sales were 1,204, down 8 percent. Year-to-date in 2015, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales are up 17 percent from 2014.

Volvo Cars of North America reported U.S. sales of 5,023, holding steady compared to May 2014. Year-to-date sales remain similar to last year.

Porsche Cars North America announced May 2015 sales of 4,268 vehicles, a 7.4 percent drop. Year-to-date sales are 20,915, up 11.1 percent over last year.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.