2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS Coming In Late March

The new 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS seven passenger SUV is powered by a 362 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 bi-turbo engine in the GLS450 4MATIC, a 449 horsepower V8 bi-turbo engine in the GLS550 4MATIC, and a 577 horsepower powerplant in the Mercedes-AMG GLS63. The GLS350d 4MATIC offers 255 horsepower V6 diesel engine. All versions mated to the nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission as standard, except the Mercedes-AMG GLS63 which gets the revised AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC transmission. With DYNAMIC SELECT, the new GLS provides COMFORT, SLIPPERY and SPORT transmission modes, in addition to INDIVIDUAL or an OFF-ROAD mode.

Standard driver assistance systems include COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, Crosswind Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST. Other systems available as standard on the GLS include: PRE-SAFE® system, Brake Assist BAS, electronic all- wheel drive traction system 4ETS, ESP®, and cruise control. The optional Driver Assistance Package has systems including DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection, BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Speed Limit Assist. The GLS will be available to order from December, with deliveries in in the US market from late-March 2016.

2016 Cadillac Touring 6 Sedan Starts At $54,490 In March

The 2016 Cadillac Touring 6 sedan offers an all-new 400 horsepower Cadillac 3.0L Twin Turbo V-6 engine, an all-new 335-horsepower 3.6L V-6 and a 265 horsepower 2.0T four-cylinder engine all engines paired with eight-speed automatic transmissions. The CT6 2.0L Turbo starts at $54,490, the CT6 3.6L V6 with AWD starts at $56,490 and the CT6 3.0L Twin Turbo V6 with AWD starting at $65,390 (including $995 destination fees). The highest level 2016 Cadillac CT6 Platinum model starting at $84,460. The CT6 features active-on-demand all-wheel drive, active rear steering and Magnetic Ride Control on the available Active Chassis System and new technology includes Rear Camera Mirror, Enhanced Night Vision technology and a 34-speaker Bose® Panaray® audio system. Shipments to dealers begin in March.

October 2015 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors’ Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac brands sold 262,993 vehicles in the United States in October 2015, up 15.9 percent from a year ago, with Chevrolet posting its best October sales since 2004. Year-to-date total GM sales of 2,562,840 is 5.3 percent higher than the first ten months of last year.

Ford Motor Company U.S. sales totaled 213,938 vehicles last month, up 13.4 percent from a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 2,186,126 is a 5.4 percent increase over 2014.

Toyota U.S. October sales of 204,045 is a 13 percent increase over October 2014. Year-to-date sales of 2,071,446, up 4.9 percent. Toyota Division October sales of 177,609 is up 13 percent and Lexus sales of 273,881 is up 12.2 percent from October last year.

FCA US  (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 195,545 last month, a 15 percent increase compared with sales in October 2014 for the company’s best October sales since 2001. Year-to-date sales of 1,850,406 is a 7 percent gain over last year.

American Honda reported record-breaking October sales of 131,651 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 8.6 percent. Honda Division sales rose to an October record of 115,572, up 9.3 percent. Acura sales were 16,079, a rise of 4.2 percent. Year-to-date American Honda sales of 1,320,217 is up 3 percent over 2014.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for October 2015 of 116,047, an increase of 12.5 percent over the prior year. Year-to-date sales of 1,238,535 is a 6.2 percent increase over the first ten months of 2014.

Hyundai Motor America posted its best October ever, with sales of 60,005, up 19.8 percent compared with October 2014. Year-to-date sales are 638,195, a 5 percent rise over last year.

Kia Motors America announced best-ever October sales of 50,044 vehicles, a 12 percent increase over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 526,024 is 7.4 percent higher than a year ago.

Subaru of America reported record sales for October 2015 totaling 51,629 vehicles, a 20 percent increase over the previous October record set in 2014. Year-to-date sales of 480,331 vehicles is a 14.8 percent gain over the same period in 2014.

Volkswagen of America reported October sales of 30,387, a 0.24 percent increase over October 2014. Year-to-date sales of 294,602, a 2.2 percent drop from last year. Separately, Audi reported  October 2015 sales of 17,700, an increase of 16.8 percent. Year-to-date Audi sales of 165,103 is a 13 percent increase over last year.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported October sales of 33,526 vehicles, a decrease of 6.6 percent from the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are up 5.4 percent from the same period last year with 328,456 vehicles sold. Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 3.8 percent in October for a total of 29,439 compared to 30,602 vehicles sold in October, 2014. Year-to-date, BMW brand is up 4.6 percent from the same period last year with sales of 279,395 vehicles.

Mazda North American Operations reported October U.S. sales of 25,451 vehicles, representing an increase of 35.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date, Mazda has sold 267,158 vehicles, up 2.9 percent.

Jaguar Land Rover North America reported October 2015 U.S. sales for both brands of 8,187, a 76 percent increase from October 2014.  Land Rover sales reached 7,199, up 98 percent from  October 2014 while Jaguar sales were 998, down 2 percent from October 2014. Year-to-date Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales hit 67,806, an increase of 23 percent over 2014.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported October 2015 sales of 7,426, an increase of 19.8 percent from October 2014. Year-to-date sales are up 25 percent over the same period in 2014.

Mazda North American Operations reported October U.S. sales of 25,451 vehicles, representing an increase of 35.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date, Mazda has sold 267,158 vehicles, up 2.9 percent.

Volvo Cars in the United States reported 7,422 retail sales in October. Year-to-date U.S. of 53,803 sales in the US, up 12.5 per cent.

Porsche Cars North America announced October 2015 sales of 4,070 vehicles, up 11 percent over October 2014.  This is the strongest October sales month in PCNA history. Year-to-date sales of 43,370 is 11.1 percent higher than a year ago.


Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Kia's SEMA A1A Optima

Kia's SEMA A1A Optima a convertible spin of the all-new 2016 Optima with a 245-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, takes inspiration from the iconic Florida A1A highway with its shortened windshield and room for four.  Reinforced steel tubes have been discretely hidden within the body so that the vehicle retains a rigid structure. The back doors of the A1A Optima swing open on rear-mounted hinges.

Crooks & Castles Scion iM 5-door Hatchback For SEMA

The Crooks & Castles Scion iM 5-door hatchback created by the clothing company is one entry for the 11th Annual SEMA Scion Tuner Challenge in Las Vegas. They received a Scion iM and a $15,000 build budget to put a unique spin on the car. Crooks & Castles features a black and white scheme, with an all-white leather wrapped rollcage and black rewrapped race seats for the interior. The car was finished off with custom white mesh wheels, mirroring the theme of his existing fleet of customized cars.

2016 Scion FR-S Release Series 2.0 Starts At $30,305

The 2016 Scion FR-S Release Series 2.0, a black and camel themed 1,000 vehicle offering with a 200 horsepower 2.0L DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder with Dual Variable Valve Timing rear wheel drive flat boxer engine, will come with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Dynamic Rev Management® technology. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price will be $30,305 for the manual transmission and $31,405 for the automatic transmission (including the $795 delivery, processing and handling fee).

Lexus LF-FC Concept

The Lexus LF-FC all-wheel-drive flagship concept powered by a high output hydrogen fuel cell power system that energizes the rear wheels and also sends power to two in-wheel motors in the front, is an advanced human machine interface that can be operated by simple hand gestures, without the need to touch a panel or controls. A small holographic image on the center console indicates where the system can interpret your hand gestures to control the audio system and ventilation.

2017 Porsche Macan GTS Coming In March For $67,200

The new Porsche Macan GTS, powered by a 360 horsepower 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine mated to a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission is combined with Porsche's Traction Management system that actuates an electro-hydraulic, multi-plate clutch to variably engage the front axle depending on traction needs. The Macan GTS accelerates to 60 mph in as little as 4.8 seconds in conjunction with the optional Sport Chrono Package and up to a top track speed of 159 mph. The 2017 Macan GTS goes on sale in March 2016, and is priced between the Macan S and Macan Turbo with a base MSRP of $67,200 excluding a destination change.

Nissan IDS Concept - A Self Driving EV

The Nissan IDS Concept, fitted with a high-capacity 60 kWh battery into a full-carbon-fiber body, represents the future of autonomous driving and zero emission EVs by integrating advanced vehicle control and safety technologies with artificial intelligence. The Nissan IDS Concept has Piloted Park that can be operated by a smartphone or tablet, coupled with wireless charging technologies that leave parking and charging to the car. Nissan says, by 202X, expect to see Nissan Intelligent Driving technology deployed on cars in cities around the world.

New MINI Convertible Is Larger Than Previous Model

The new MINI Convertible, larger than its predecessor model, is powered by a 136 horsepower 3-cylinder gas engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology in the MINI Cooper Convertible, a192 horsepower 4-cylinder gas engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology in the MINI Cooper S Convertible and a 116 horsepower 3-cylinder diesel engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology in the MINI Cooper D Convertible. The opening and closing of the soft top and side windows takes 18 seconds and can be done at speeds of up to 18 mph.

Mazda RX-VISION Sports Car Concept Brings Back The Rotary Engine

The Mazda RX-VISION front-engine, rear-wheel drive sports car concept is powered by the next-generation rotary engine that has been named SKYACTIV-R. Mazda commercialized the rotary engine in the Cosmo Sport (known as Mazda 110S overseas) in 1967.

Audi A8 L 4.0T Sport Starts At $91,425

The Audi A8 L 4.0T Sport model powered by a 450 horsepower 4.0T twin turbo V8 engine is 15 horsepower more than the previous 4.0T model. Its sport style exterior has a completely new lower bumper and a reshaped rear bumper, more prominent side rocker panels and less chrome accents. The Audi A8 L 4.0T Sport has an MSRP of $91,425 (including destination charge, taxes, title, options and dealer charges).

Aston Martin Rapide S Electric Concept

Aston Martin Rapide S fully electric concept developed in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering at its facility in Grove, Oxfordshire.

2016 Volkswagen Passat Starts At $22,440

The new 2016 Volkswagen Passat midsize sedan built in Chattanooga, Tennessee starts at $22,440 for the 1.8T S model with a 170 horsepower 1.8-liter TSI® turbocharged and direct-injection four cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. For the first time, Volkswagen is offering an R-Line version of the Passat for the U.S. market with pricing starting at $23,975. The SE starts at $26,280, the SE w/Technology starts at $28,410, and the 1.8T SEL starts at $30,495. At the top of the 1.8T range, the SEL Premium starts at $34,270. The V6 SEL Premium, which features the 280 horsepower 3.6-liter VR6 engine has a starting MSRP of $36,835.

2016 BMW M2 Coming This Spring

The all-new 2016 BMW M2 powered by a 365 horsepower 3.0-liter 6-cylinder inline engine is more powerful than its predecessor, the BMW 1 M Coupe. With the optional M Double Clutch Transmission, the new BMW M2 sprints from zero to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds (4.4 s with the six-speed manual transmission). The top speed of the all-new BMW M2 is electronically limited to 155 mph. The Active M Differential in the all-new BMW M2 optimizes traction and maximizes directional stability. The BMW M2 will be available at authorized BMW centers with a limited range of options starting in spring of 2016. Price will be disclosed closer to market launch.

All-New 2016 Kia Optima Starts At $21,840

The all-new 2016 Kia Optima, offered in LX, LX 1.6T, EX, SX and SXL, starts at $21,840 (excluding destination and handling, taxes, title, license fees, options and retailer charges) for the LX with a 2.4-liter engine. The LX Convenience Package ($1,850) includes Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Rear Parking Assist System. The LX 1.6T, starting at $23,990, is offered with a new 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission. The LX Turbo Technology Package ($2,600) includes navigation, Sirius® XM Traffic and rear LED taillights, USB chargers for both front and rear seat passengers. The Optima EX, starting at $24,890, is offered with the 2.4-liter engine. The EX Premium Audio Package ($1,200) includes a Harman/Kardon QuantumLogic™ Premium Surround Sound Audio System, which includes 10 speakers, Clari-Fi™ technology and an upgraded 630-watt digital amplifier. The Optima SX priced at $29,690 and Optima SXL priced at $35,790 both come standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder engine.

September 2015 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors’ Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac brands sold 251,310 vehicles in the United States in September 2015. Retail deliveries climbed 17 percent compared with a year ago, which makes September the sixth month in a row that GM has increased retail market share year over year. Total sales were up 12 percent. Year-to-date sales of 2,299,847, is a 4.2 percent increase over a year ago.

Ford total U.S. sales increased 23 percent in September, with 221,599 vehicles sold. Retail sales also gained 23 percent, with sales of 168,522 vehicles, its best September performance in 11 years. Lincoln sales totaled 8,680 vehicles, a 20 percent increase and year-to-date Lincoln sales are 73,964, up 9.1 percent. Year-to-date total Ford sales of 1,972,188 is a 4.6 percent gain over 2014.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported September 2015 sales of 194,370, an increase of 16.2 percent from September 2014. Toyota Division posted September 2015 sales of 169,076, up 16.3 percent. Lexus reported September 2015 sales of 25,294, up 15.8 percent from September 2014. Year-to-date sales of 1,867,372 is up 4 percent over last year.

FCA (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram Truck, FIAT & Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 193,019 last month, a 14 percent increase compared with sales in September 2014, the best September sales since 2000. Year-to-date sales of 1,654,861 is a 6 percent gain over last year.

American Honda reported total sales of 133,750 Honda and Acura vehicles, a 13.1 percent September 2015 sales increase for a new September benchmark. Honda Division sales totaled 119,046, up 14 percent for a new September record. Acura reported 14,704 vehicle sales for a 6.3 percent gain. Year-to-date sales of 1,188,566 is a 2.4 percent rise over last year.

Nissan Group total U.S. sales for September 2015 was 121,782, an increase of 18.3 percent over the prior year and a September record. Nissan Division finished September with 111,562 sales, up 17.3 percent and also a September record. Infiniti sales 10,220 is a 30.4 percent gain over the same month a year ago. Nissan Group year-to-date sales of 1,122,488 is up 5.6 percent over the first 9 months of 2014.

Hyundai Motor America posted its best September ever, with sales of 64,015, up 14.3 percent compared with September 2014. Year-to-date sales of 578,190 is a 3.7 percent gain over 2014.

Kia Motors America had a September sales record of 49,820, a 22.6 percent increase over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 475,978 is a 7 percent increase over last year.

Subaru of America reported 53,070 vehicle sales for September 2015, a 27.8 percent increase over September 2014, the best-ever sales month in company history, breaking the previous record set in August 2015. Subaru year-to-date sales of 428,702 vehicles, a 14.2 percent gain over the same period in 2014.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported all-time record September sales of 32,087, an increase of 6 percent from the same month last year. Sales of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars tallied 29,020, a 6.2 percent increase over September 2014. Sprinter delivered 2,317 sales for the month of September, up 14 percent, while smart recorded 750 in sales in September. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 249,890, up 7.2 percent. Adding year-to-date sales of 20,274 for Sprinter Vans and 5,432 for smart, MBUSA posted a grand total of 275,596 through September, up 6.4 percent.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 26,141 in September 2015, an 0.6 percent increase over September 2014. Year-to-date VW sales are 264,215, down 2.5 percent from a year ago. Separately, Audi reported September 2015 sales of 17,340, an increase of 16.2 percent, the 57th straight month of record U.S. sales. Through the first nine months of 2015, Audi U.S. sales of 147,403 is up 12.5 percent from last year.

BMW brand vehicle sales increased 4.0 percent in September for a total of 26,608 compared to September, 2014. Year-to-date, BMW brand sales are 249,956 vehicles, a 5.6 percent increase from the same period last year.

Mazda North American Operations reported best September U.S. sales since 1994 with 25,616 vehicles, representing an increase of 6.8 percent versus last year. September 1994 sales were 30,735. Year-to-date, Mazda has sold 241,701 vehicles, a gain of 0.3 percent.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported September 2015 sales of 7,556, an increase of 35.9 percent from September 2014. Year-to-date sales are 73,257, up 25.5 percent over the same period in 2014.

Volvo Cars of North America reported U.S. sales of 5,527, an 18.4 percent increase versus September 2014. Year-to-date sales are up 5.8 percent over the first nine months of 2014.

Porsche Cars North America September 2015 sales of 4,424 vehicles, was up 22.7 percent over September 2014, the strongest September sales month in PCNA history. Year-to-date sales of 39,300 is an 11.1 percent increase over 2014.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

BMW X4 M40i With New 355 HP Inline Six Engine

The new BMW X4 M40i has a newly developed M Performance 355 horsepower TwinPower Turbo inline 6 cylinder gasoline engine mated to an 8-speed STEPTRONIC sports transmission that takes the X4 from 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, The BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system has been recalibrated with more power routed to the rear wheels during normal operation.

Dynamic Damper Control, Variable Sport Steering, Performance Control, Park Distance Control front and rear, Xenon adaptive headlights and LED fog lights are all standard, as well as Sport seats, M leather steering wheel and 19-inch M light-alloy wheels. With an array of BMW ConnectedDrive options include a full-color head-up display, Active Driving Assistant + ACC Stop & Go including Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning and City Collision Mitigation.

2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Starts At $17,595

The 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer featuring a new design, new seat fabrics, a newly designed center console with built-in USB port, and two new colors with a starting MSRP of $17,595. Standard ES trim features include FUSE Hands-free Link System®, automatic air condition climate control, fog lights, alloy wheels and new LED daytime running lights. The SE trim level features all-wheel control, heated front seats, rearview camera and display audio with HD radio, while the new SEL trim level adds leather seats, rain sensing wipers with auto on/off headlights, auto-dimming mirror and more. The GT trim level (pictured above) has sport-tuned suspension, larger disc brakes, 18 inch two-tone alloy wheels, sunroof and rear spoiler, and is available as a 5-speed manual or with the new generation CVT8. Sportronic Steering wheel paddle shifters are available for the GT trim.

Winfried Vahland To Head Volkswagen North America

Prof. Dr. Winfried Vahland will take over responsibility for Volkswagen Group's newly formed North American Region combining the USA, Mexico and Canada, effective November 1st. Most recently, since 2010, he has been ŠKODA CEO. Vahland graduated from the Technical University Darmstadt with a major in Mechanical Engineering and Economics, and began his professional career with GM in 1984. He joined Audi AG in 1990 and Volkswagen AG in 1993. From 1997, he was Vice President for Volkswagen in Brazil. He was appointed Member of ŠKODA AUTO’s Board of Management in 2002, and became Vice Chairman one year later. In 2005, he assumed the position of President and CEO of Volkswagen Group in China.

2016 MINI Clubman Starts At $24,950 In January

The all-new 2016 MINI Clubman has an MSRP of $24,950 ($850 Destination & Handling fee) for the Cooper model and $28,500 for the Cooper S. The Clubman will go on sale in January 2016.

VW Says 5 Million Vehicles Affected By Diesel Emission Defeat Software

Approximately five million Volkswagen vehicles are affected worldwide, according to a VW internal evaluation. Sixth generation Volkswagen Golf, seventh generation Volkswagen Passat and first generation Volkswagen Tiguan are equipped exclusively with type EA 189 diesel engines. All new Volkswagen passenger car brand vehicles that fulfill the EU6 norm valid throughout Europe are not affected including the current Golf, Passat and Touran models.

Dr. Herbert Diess, CEO of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand says "We are working at full speed on a technical solution that we will present to partners, to our customers and to the public as swiftly as possible. Our aim is to inform our customers as quickly as possible, so that their vehicles comply fully with regulations. I assure you that Volkswagen will do everything humanly possible to win back the trust of our customers, the dealerships and the public."

The statement goes on to say that Volkswagen will inform all markets worldwide how many of vehicles are affected locally. "We are working intensively on remedial measures in close coordination with the certification authorities. The vehicles are and remain technically safe and roadworthy."

Berthold Huber, Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board, said: "The test manipulations are a moral and political disaster for Volkswagen. The unlawful behavior of engineers and technicians involved in engine development shocked Volkswagen just as much as it shocked the public. We can only apologize and ask our customers, the public, the authorities and our investors to give us a chance to make amends." The Supervisory Board commissioned an American law firm to assist in further clarification and in preparing the necessary steps.

Matthias Müller Appointed CEO of Volkswagen AG

Matthias Müller, 62, a Board member of Volkswagen AG and Chairman of Porsche AG in Stuttgart, has been appointed CEO of Volkswagen AG effective immediately succeeding Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn who offered his resignation on Wednesday.

Müller followed high school in Ingolstadt with an apprenticeship with AUDI AG and after obtaining his master's degree in computer science resumed his career with AUDI AG in 1978 and has a variety of positions with Volkswagen including Head of Product Management of the Volkswagen Group and the Volkswagen brand. Müller said "My most urgent task is to win back trust for the Volkswagen Group – by leaving no stone unturned and with maximum transparency, as well as drawing the right conclusions from the current situation."

2016 Hyundai Sonata Starts At $22,585 Now

The 2016 Hyundai Sonata, arriving in dealerships now, gets minor styling updates and improved fuel economy on models equipped with the 2.4L engine. The 2016 Sonata adds Automatic Emergency Braking on models previously equipped with Forward Collision Warning, a 7-inch color touchscreen Display Audio with Android Auto applied on SE, Sport, Limited, Eco and Sport 2.0T, aluminum suspension components, and a conventional sunroof available on Sport (optional) and Limited (standard).

A 185 horsepower 2.4-liter Theta II GDI engine powers the SE, Limited and Sport models and a 245 horsepower 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI goes in the Sport 2.0T and Limited 2.0T trims. Both are paired with a six-speed SHIFTRONIC ® automatic transmission. The Eco model has a 177 horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged Gamma four-cylinder engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Eco models receive a 28 mpg EPA fuel economy rating in the city and 38 mpg on the highway for 32 mpg combined. The 2016 Sonata starts at $22,585 (including $835 freight charge).

2017 Buick LaCrosse To Debut At L.A. Auto Show In November

The all-new 2017 Buick LaCrosse, based on the Avenir concept design cues and inspired by the 1954 Wildcat II concept will influence all Buick models by 2018. The design was introduced on the Avenir concept and was inspired by the 1954 Wildcat II concept. The next-generation LaCrosse’s design is framed on an all-new chassis that is stronger yet lighter than the current model with a new a five-link rear suspension. The 2017 LaCrosse debuts in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

2016 Volkswagen Passat Starts At $22,440 Later This Year

The new 2016 Volkswagen Passat midsize sedan, unveiled in the midst of Volkswagen's diesel emissions scandal, is powered by 1.8-liter turbocharged and direct-injection TSI® four cylinder engine, with an EPA estimated highway fuel economy rating of 38 mpg with the automatic transmission, a 2.0-liter TDI® diesel or a 280 horsepower 3.6-liter VR6® engine. The 2016 Passat gets a new hood, front fenders, grille, front and rear bumpers, trunklid and available LED headlights and taillights. Full pricing for the new 2016 Passat will be available closer to launch later this year, but the 1.8T S model starts at $22,440, which is the same price as the previous base model when equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Professor Dr. Winterkorn Resigns As VW Group CEO Over Diesel Defeat Devices

Professor Dr. Winterkorn has resigned as Volkswagen CEO after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a Notice of Violation (NOV) to Volkswagen for “using a defeat device in cars to evade clean air standards" which "is illegal and a threat to public health”. Exposure to these nitrogen oxides (NOx) pollutants has been linked to a range of serious respiratory illnesses that can cause hospitalization or even premature death. Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory disease are at higher health risk from these pollutants.

In a statement Winterkorn said, "I accept responsibility for the irregularities that have been found in diesel engines and have therefore requested the Supervisory Board to agree on terminating my function as CEO of the Volkswagen Group. I am doing this in the interests of the company even though I am not aware of any wrong doing on my part."

The NOV alleges that four-cylinder Volkswagen and Audi diesel cars from model years 2009-2015 included a sophisticated software algorithm that detects when the car is undergoing official emissions testing, and turns full emissions controls on only during the test. This results in cars that meet emissions standards in the laboratory or testing station, but during normal operation when they emit nitrogen oxides (NOx) that contribute to nitrogen dioxide, ground-level ozone, and fine particulate matter, at up to 40 times the standard.

The software produced by Volkswagen is a “defeat device,” as defined by the Clean Air Act. The software circumvents EPA emissions standards for certain air pollutants. California is separately issuing an In-Use Compliance letter to Volkswagen. The EPA and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) have both initiated investigations based on Volkswagen’s alleged actions.

The allegations cover roughly 482,000 diesel passenger cars sold in the United States since 2008: Jetta (Model Years 2009 – 2015), Beetle (Model Years 2009 – 2015), Audi A3 (Model Years 2009 – 2015), Golf (Model Years 2009 – 2015) and Passat (Model Years 2014-2015).

The Clean Air Act requires vehicle manufacturers to certify to EPA that their products will meet applicable federal emission standards to control air pollution, and every vehicle sold in the U.S. must be covered by an EPA-issued certificate of conformity. Motor vehicles equipped with defeat devices, which reduce the effectiveness of the emission control system during normal driving conditions, cannot be certified. By making and selling vehicles with defeat devices that allowed for higher levels of air emissions than were certified to EPA, Volkswagen violated two important provisions of the Clean Air Act.

EPA and CARB uncovered the defeat device software after independent analysis by researchers at West Virginia University, working with the International Council on Clean Transportation, a non-governmental organization, raised questions about emissions levels, and the agencies began further investigations into the issue. In September, after EPA and CARB demanded an explanation for the identified emission problems, Volkswagen admitted that the cars contained defeat devices.

VW may be liable for large civil penalties and injunctive relief for the violations alleged in the NOV which could cost VW billions of dollars not only in fines but owners' class action lawsuits and lost business due to distrust.

Before announcing his resignation, Winterkorn pledged to "do everything necessary in order to reverse the damage this has caused."

2016 Infiniti QX50 Starts At $35,445 This Month

The 2016 Infiniti QX50 luxury crossover, redesigned on a 3.2 inch longer wheelbase stretching its overall length by 4.5 inches, is equipped with a standard 325-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission and starts at $35,445 (including $995 destination and handling) for the rear-wheel drive and $36,845 for the all-wheel drive when it goes on sale in this month at Infiniti retailers nationwide. Optional equipment packages have been revised for 2016, with a new Premium Plus Package added to the previously available Premium, Deluxe Touring and Technology packages.

Ferrari 488 Spider

The Ferrari 488 Spider mid-rear-engine sports car is powered by a 660 horsepower turbo V8 engine. The turbos are on ball-bearing-mounted shafts, while the compressor wheels are in TiAl, a low-density titanium-aluminium alloy. Additionally, the twin-scroll turbines are designed and built to maximize power. The Retractable Hard Top unfolds and retracts in 14 seconds and can be raised or lowered when the car is moving. The Ferrari 488 Spider also has a glass electric rear window that can be adjusted regardless of whether the RHT is deployed or retracted. The 488 Spider has a spaceframe chassis made of 11 different aluminium alloys combined with other metals such as magnesium providing the same torsional rigidity and beam stiffness figures as the Coupé to improve chassis’ performance by 23% over its predecessor.

2016 Chevrolet Malibu Starts at $22,500

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, in L, LS, LT, Hybrid and Premier. Standard trims, starts at $22,500 (includes $875 destination charges) for the L model with 10 airbags, cruise control, push-button start with passive entry and fuel-saving stop/start technology on the base 1.5L 4-cylinder engine. The LS model, starting at $23,995, includes standard Chevrolet MyLink Radio with 7-inch diagonal color touch screen. The LT model starts at $25,895 and is projected to offer a General Motors-estimated 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, when equipped with the Ecotec 1.5L turbo engine with stop/start. A 2.0L turbo with an 8-speed transmission is available in the LT and Premier models as well, starting at $29,495 and $31,795 respectively. Malibu 2.0T models offer a GM-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway. I just rented the current Malibu model as was very impressed with fuel economy and dash layout which included smartphone storage slots in the middle console for driver and passenger.

Porsche Mission E Concept

Porsche Mission E Concept, the first all-electrically powered four-seat sports car in the brand's history, has an 800-volt drive system (double current electric cars), over 600 horsepower and over 310 mile driving range. Porsche Mission E has all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering, zero to 62 mph acceleration in under 3.5 seconds and a charging time of around 15 minutes to reach an 80 per cent charge of electrical energy. Instruments are intuitively operated by eye-tracking and gesture control, some even via holograms.

BMW M6 Competition Edition - Only 100 For U.S.

The BMW M6 Competition Edition, limited to 120 worldwide and 100 in the U.S., comes in Coupe, Grand Coupe and Convertible powered by a 600 horsepower 4.4 liter V8 BMW M TwinPower Turbo in Alpine White (above) or Austin Yellow metallic colors. The BMW M6 Competition Edition is available at selected retailers for $164,900 plus Destination and Handling.

2016 Civic Sedan Coming This Fall With Turbo Engine Choice

The all-new 10th-generation 2016 Civic Sedan, on a 1.2-inch longer wheelbase, nearly 2 inches wider and 1 inch lower, gets a 2.0-liter, 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC™ 4-cylinder engine mated to either a 6-speed manual (LX trim) or continuously variable automatic transmission for the LX and EX trims.  A new 1.5-liter, direct-injected and turbocharged 16-valve DOHC inline-4 engine mated to a unique CVT will be in EX-T, EX-L trims and Touring trims. Both engines are targeted to receive EPA highway fuel economy ratings in excess of 40 mpg. Torsional rigidity of the new body is improved by 25 percent, aided in part by more intensive use of ultra-high-strength steel. New standard equipment includes automatic climate control with dual-zone on EX-L and higher trims, auto-up/down front power windows, an electronic parking brake with Brake Hold, Walk-Away auto door locks and an adjustable driver's seat thigh support with 14 degrees of tilt (EX-L and above). All Civic Sedan models also feature a larger, reconfigurable new center console with up to 7.2 liters of secure storage space, approaching SUV levels of console utility.

Ford Focus RS Starts at $36,605 In Spring 2016

The all-new Ford Focus RS with a new 350 horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine distributing torque through the all-wheel-drive system will sprint from 0-62 mph in 4.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 165 mph. Focus RS drivers can select from four different drive modes that configure the all-wheel-drive system, damper controls, electronic stability control, steering and engine responses, and exhaust sound to deliver optimum performance in road or circuit driving conditions. Normal, sport or track settings are available, along with a special drift mode to help the driver achieve controlled oversteer drifts at the track. For North America, Focus RS pricing will start at $36,605 in Spring 2016.

Infiniti Q30 Goes On Sale Later This Year

Infiniti Q30 active compact offers a 208 horsepower 2.0-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in the U.S. for the Premium and Sport models. Infiniti's InTouch infotainment system, first introduced on the Q50, has been evolved and upgraded for the Q30, with a tablet-like experience from the driver's seat via a delivering touch-screen HMI (human machine interface). The Infiniti Q30 goes on sale in selected markets later in 2015.

Spectre Spectacle - Land Rover Defender, Jaguar C-X75, Range Rover Sport SVR

The 24th James Bond film adventure, SPECTRE, opening at theaters in November, features the Land Rover Defender, Jaguar C-X75 and Range Rover Sport SVR. With the vehicles pictured above are actors Naomie Harris (Moneypenny) and David Bautista (Hinx).

2017 Audi S4 With 354 Horsepower Coming Next Year

The new 2017 Audi S4 with a newly developed 354 horsepower 3.0 TFSI V6 engine mated to a new eight-speed tiptronic transmission accelerates 0 to 62 mph in 4.7 seconds. The fully digital instrument cluster displays all key information on a high-resolution 12.3 inch screen using detailed graphics. The driver can choose between three views,  one of them is an exclusive Sport screen, which moves the rev counter into the center. The S4 model has the MMI operating system similar to the latest smartphones, including the intelligent free text search function. MMI offers the driver three operating methods: voice control, the new multifunction steering wheel, or the terminal on the center console. On the top infotainment system, MMI navigation plus with MMI touch and 8.3 inch monitor, the rotary pushbutton features an integrated touch pad for zooming and scrolling, and for entering characters. The all-new A4 and S4 are expected to go on sale in the U.S. market in 2016.

Toyota C-HR Concept Hybrid May Become Reality

The Toyota C-HR concept compact hybrid crossover has been updated and may go into production in the not-so-distant future.

Nissan Gripz Concept

The Nissan Gripz Concept is equipped with an EV technology based Series hybrid system "Pure Drive e-Power" with a gasoline engine used to power the electric motor found in the Nissan LEAF. There is no B-pillar, allowing easy access to the 2+2 interior.

Mazda KOERU Crossover Concept

The all-new Mazda KOERU (means “exceed” or “go beyond” in Japanese) crossover concept adopts the latest SKYACTIV technologies.

Audi e-tron quattro concept Electric SUV Coming In 2018

The Audi e-tron quattro concept uses one electric motor to drive the front axle and two others act on the rear axle for a total output of 429 horsepower, sprints from  a standstill to 62.1 mph in 4.6 seconds and reaches an electronically governed top speed of 130.5 mph. “Audi will present an all-electric, luxury-class sport SUV in early 2018. The Audi e-tron quattro concept provides a concrete foretaste of this,” says Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Audi Board of Management for Technical Development.

Mercedes-Benz "Concept IAA" All-Electric 4-Door Coupé

The Mercedes-Benz "Concept IAA" (Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile) four-door coupé which switches automatically from design mode to aerodynamic mode when the vehicle reaches a speed of 50 mph, is powered by a gas/electric plug-in hybrid drive with a total output of 279 horsepower with a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited) and an all-electric range of 41 miles.

New Generation Volkswagen Tiguan Coming Next Fall

The new generation Volkswagen Tiguan, more than 110 pounds lighter, 2.4 inches longer and 1.2 inches wider compared to the previous model, has two different length wheelbases, with the "long" Tiguan to be introduced to specific markets starting in the Fall of 2016. There are a total of eight Euro-6 compliant engines, all of which have turbocharging, direct injection, a stop-start system and battery regeneration as standard. There are four TSI® gasoline engines with front-wheel drive and available  all-wheel drive powertrains either as an option or as standard. Compared to the previous model with Euro-5 engines, the four-cylinder engines in the new Tiguan are up to 24 per cent more fuel-efficient. Compared to previous Tiguans with Euro-6 engines, there is up to 10 percent better fuel efficiency. We'll know more about U.S.-configured vehicles closer to the sales date.

2016 Camaro SS On Sale This Fall For $37,295

The 2016 Camaro SS with an all-new, 455 horsepower 6.2L V-8 engine is 223 pounds lighter sprints from 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds and covers the quarter-mile in 12.3 seconds, when equipped with the all-new eight-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission. The other Gen Six Camaro coupe models have either a 275 horsepower 2.0L Turbo with the six-speed manual transmission or a 335 horsepower 3.6L V-6 with the eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2016 Camaro goes on sale this Fall, with a suggested retail price of $26,695 for the Camaro LT and $37,295 for the SS.

2016 Toyota Prius - The 4th Generation

The all-new fourth-generation 2016 Toyota Prius is 2.4 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and 0.8 inches lower than the model it replaces. The Prius will be among the first U.S. models to offer Toyota Safety Sense, a new multi-feature advanced safety package including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams. Not much more info other than 350 journalists were wined and dined in Las Vegas.

Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport - Special Edition Golf

The Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport is a special edition with a 261 horsepwoer turbocharged, direct-injection engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission or the optional 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The manual transmission car has fuel consumption of 33.8 mpg and with the DSG, fuel economy improves to 34.8 mpg.

Bentley Bentayga SUV Coming Early Next Year

The Bentley Bentayga SUV with an all-new 600 horsepower 12-cylinder engine that uses both direct and indirect fuel injection delivering a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph will start being delivered in early 2016.

Features include a full-length panoramic sunroof, up to eight modes of Drive Dynamics for any surface or road condition, Bentley Dynamic Ride (electrically activated 48V active roll control) and Electric Power-Assisted Steering, Adaptive Cruise Control including Stop & Go, predictive ACC and Traffic Assist that enables the driver to maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. Traffic Sign Recognition detects a wide variety of traffic signs and displays information to the driver. Rear Crossing Traffic Warning uses radar technology to detect crossing traffic when reversing out of a parking space. Top View uses four cameras to display an overall picture of the vehicle’s surroundings. Park Assist detects suitable parking spaces (both parallel and perpendicular) before autonomous steering takes over to support parking manoeuvres, even in narrow and tricky spaces.
Electronic Night Vision uses infra-red technology identifies potential obstacles ahead, and a Head-Up Display reduces driver distraction and increases safety.

Rolls-Royce Dawn Convertible

The new Rolls-Royce Dawn four-seater convertible is powered by a 563 horsepower twin-turbo 6.6-liter V12 powertrain and mated to an 8-speed ZF transmission. The fabric roof takes 22 seconds to move up or down at a cruising speed of up to 30 mph.

Porsche 911 Carrera Enhanced For March 2016 U.S. Delivery

The new Porsche 911 Carrera gets new turbocharged engines with a 20 horsepower increase with the 3.0 liter engine in the standard Carrera now 370 horsepower and the 911 Carrera S 420 horsepower and for the first time, rear-axle steering is available as an option for the Carrera S. Also new are headlights with four-point daytime running lights to integrated door handle recesses, a redesigned rear deck lid with vertical louvers, and new rear lights including four-point brake lights.

The new Porsche 911 Carrera models will be launched in the United States in March of 2016 with an MSRP for the 911 Carrera at $89,400, Carrera S $102,400, Carrera Cabriolet $101,700 and the Carrera S Cabriolet $115,700.

Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo Concept To Be At Frankfurt Auto Show

Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo concept developed with Polyphony Digital, creator of the Gran Turismo video game franchise, as a real show car for Bugatti fans, car enthusiasts and gamers will be on display at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

Jaguar F-PACE Compact SUV Goes On Sale In The Spring In U.S.

The all-new 2017 Jaguar F-PACE, a five seater luxury SUV, with a ground clearance of 8.4-inches and choice of a 3.0l 340 horsepower supercharged gasoline V6 engine priced from $42,390 or, exclusive to the F-PACE S model, a 380 horsepower supercharged gasoline V6 engine priced from $56,700. Both V6 engines are mated to an 8-speed transmission with power being routed to all four wheels via a torque-on-demand all-wheel drive system. Later in 2016, a 180 horsepower four cylinder Ingenium diesel engine will be added to the model lineup priced from $40,990. The all-new F-PACE range will consist of: F-PACE, F-PACE Premium, F-PACE Prestige, F-PACE R-Sport, F-PACE S and F-PACE First Edition (available in limited numbers, in the first year of production only). F-PACE offers 18-inch wheels to 22-inch wheels which were developed for the F-PACE by the Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations division from forged aluminum to make them lighter and stiffer. The all-new 2017 Jaguar F-PACE goes on sale in the U.S. beginning Spring 2016.

Tesla Model X SUV Starts At $133,200 On Sept. 29

From Tesla Motors Club

From @elonmusk tweet

August 2015 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors' Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac brands sold 270,480 vehicles in the United States in August 2015, a drop of 0.7 percent from August 2014. Year-to-date sales of 2,048,537 is a 3.2 percent gain. Cadillac sales of 15,738 is a 5.5 percent decline while year-to-date sales of 100,094 is a 5 percent drop from a year ago.

Ford Motor Company delivered its best August U.S. sales in nine years with sales of 234,237 vehicles, a 5.4 percent increase while year-to-date sales 1,750,589, a 2.7 percent gain. Lincoln sold 8,636 vehicle in August a 6 percent gain and for the year 65,284 is up 7.9 percent over 2014.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported August 2015 sales of 224,381, a decrease of 8.8 percent from August 2014. Toyota Division posted August 2015 sales of 190,894, down 10.5 percent. Lexus reported August sales of 33,487, up 2.1 percent from August 2014 and year-to-date sales of 222,151 is 11.7 percent higher than last year.

FCA US (Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 201,672, a 2 percent increase compared with sales in August 2014 for the best August sales since 2002. Year-to-date sales of 1,461,842, up 5 percent from last year.

American Honda reported August 2015 sales of 155,491 Honda and Acura vehicles, a decrease of 6.9 percent over August 2014, when the industry had one additional selling day and an early Labor Day weekend. The Honda Division sold a total of 140,178, a 7.5 percent drop from last August while Acura reported 15,313 vehicles sold in August, a 1.1 percent decline. Year-to-date American Honda sales of 1,054,816 is a 1.2 percent rise over 2014.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for August 2015 of 133,351, a decrease of 1 percent over the prior year. Year-to-date Nissan Group sales of 1,000,706 is a 4.2 percent gain over last year. Nissan division sales of 122,716 is a 2 percent drop from a year ago and year-to-date sales of  915,358 is a 3.6 percent gain over 2014. Infinti August sales of 10,635 is a 16.1 percent jump over August 2014 and year-to-date Infiniti sales of 85,348 is 10.8 percent higher versus eight months of 2014.

Hyundai Motor America posted its best August ever, with 72,012 vehicles sold, up 2.9 percent compared to August 2014. Year-to-date sales of 514,175 is 2.5 percent higher than 2014 through August.

Kia Motors America reported best-ever August sales of 58,897 vehicles, a 7.7-percent increase over the same period last year and the brand’s fourth straight monthly sales record. Year-to-date Kia sales are 426,160, up 5.4 percent.

Subaru of America reported 52,679 vehicle sales for August 2015, a 4.9 percent increase over August 2014, the best-ever sales month in company history, breaking the previous record set in July 2015. Subaru also reported year-to-date sales of 375,632 vehicles, a 12.5 percent gain over the same period in 2014.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 32,332 in August 2015, 8.1 percent lower than a year ago while year-to-date sales of 238,074 is a 2.8 percent drop from 2014. Separately, Audi achieved its best-ever August sales in the U.S. with 17,101 vehicles sold. Through the first eight months of 2015, Audi U.S. sales are 116,066 vehicles, up 12.1 percent from last year.

BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported August sales of 32,864 vehicles, an increase of 2.0 percent from the 32,219 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are 263,908 vehicles, a 7.3 percent increase from the same period last year. Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 2.0 percent in August for a total of 27,755, a new August record, compared to August, 2014. Year-to-date, BMW brand sales are 223,348 vehicles, a 5.9 percent increase from the same period last year.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported all-time record August sales of 31,250, an increase of 3.2 percent from the same month last year. The Mercedes-Benz brand tallied 28,373, a 4.8 percent increase over August 2014. Sprinter delivered 2,260 sales for the month of August, up 15.3 percent for the year, while smart recorded sales of  617 in August. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 220,870, up 7.3 percent. Adding year-to-date sales of 17,957 for Sprinter Vans and 4,682 for smart, MBUSA posted grand total sales of 243,509 through August.

Mazda North American Operations reported August U.S. sales of 29,938 vehicles, representing a decrease of 4.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date, Mazda has sold 216,091 vehicles, down 0.4 percent.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported August 2015 sales of 8,289, an increase of 22.1 percent from August 2014 for the brand's 18th consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases. Year-to-date sales of 65,701 are up 24.4 percent over the same period in 2014.

Jaguar Land Rover North America reported August 2015 U.S. sales for both brands of 6,368, a 12 percent increase from August 2014. Land Rover sales reached 5,225, up 16 percent and Jaguar sales were 1,143, down 3 percent from August 2014. Year-to-date 2015, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales hit 52,769, an increase of 15 percent over 2014.

Volvo U.S. sales of 5,870 represents a 18.3 per cent increase versus the same month last year. Year-to-date sales of 40,854 is a 4.2 percent gain over last year.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.