Volvo Cars New Small Cars Coming Next Year

Volvo Cars two new 40 series concepts (40.1 above - 40.2 below) demonstrate how Volvo plans to expand into the large and lucrative global market for premium small cars built around Volvo’s new Compact Modular Architecture, which has been specially created for smaller cars. Volvo’s new global small car range will include a pure battery electric vehicle as well as Twin Engine plug-in hybrid powertrain variants. Volvo plans to sell up to 1 million electrified cars by 2025 globally. The first new 40 series car is expected to go into production in 2017.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe Coming Early Next Year

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe, almost 3.2-inches longer and 1.6-inches lower than the GLC which shares its basic architecture, comes in a GLC300 4MATIC with a 241 horsepower four-cylinder engine mated to a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission while the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe boasts a 362 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine. The GLC300 4MATIC Coupe comes standard with an off-road suspension including DYNAMIC SELECT with the five transmission modes: ECO, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and INDIVIDUAL. The GLC300 4MATIC Coupe and AMG GLC43 Coupe will go on sale by early 2017.

2017 BMW 2 Series Get New Engines This Summer

The new 2017 BMW 230i Coupe and BMW 230i Convertible are powered by the latest generation 248 horsepower 4-cylinder 2.0 liter engine while the new BMW M240i Coupe (pictured above) and BMW M240i Convertible feature a new 335 horsepower 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder gasoline engine mated to the 8 speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission as standard and rear wheel drive models are also available with a six-speed manual gearbox as a no cost option. These M Performance vehicle can also be ordered with BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. Prices for these models will be released closer to its market launch this summer.

2017 BMW i3 (94 Ah) Coming With More Battery Capacity

The new 2017 BMW i3 (94 Ah) is a new model of the i3 compact electric car, that has more than a 50% increase in battery capacity to 33 kilowatt hours (kWh) due to the higher energy density of the lithium ion cells which is expected to deliver up to 114 miles combined city/highway driving range under everyday conditions and an expected EPA electricity consumption of 27 kWh/100mi.. The driving performance figures of the 170 hp AC synchronous electric motor remain virtually unchanged with a 0 to 60 mph time of just over 7 seconds. When equipped with the Range Extender, if the driver requires additional range, the 2-cylinder gasoline engine is switched on once the battery is depleted to 6.5 percent state of charge and keeps the charge level of the battery constant while driving and provides an additional range with a 25 percent larger fuel tank (2.4 gallons). With the introduction of the BMW i3 (94 Ah), BMW i now also offers a new BMW Home Charger Connect, a residential charging station designed for comfortable and fast home charging featuring additional connected functions. Pricing for the 2017 BMW i3 (94 Ah) will be released closer to market launch.

2017 Ford F-150 With New EcoBoost Engine This Fall

2017 Ford F-150 gets the all-new second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost® V6 engine, providing 30 lb.-ft. more peak torque up to 450 lb.-ft., and a 10-speed transmission for improved acceleration and performance. The engine features dual-direct and port fuel-injection system with two injectors per cylinder to improve power output, efficiency, and emissions. All-new turbochargers deliver more boost thanks to improved twin turbos and a lighter turbine wheel. The 2017 Ford F-150 goes on sale this Fall.

2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid To Be Self-Driven By Google Technology

Google’s self-driving technology will be integrated into around a hundred 2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans to expand Google’s existing self-driving test program as Google for the first time collaborates directly with an automaker, in this case FCA, to put its autonomous driving sensors and software, into a passenger vehicle. The self-driving Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivans will be tested by Google’s self-driving car team on its private test track in California prior to operating on public roads. Google’s self-driving cars are currently being tested in four U.S. cities. Both companies will co-locate part of their engineering teams at a facility in southeastern Michigan to accelerate the design, testing and manufacturing of the self-driving Chrysler Pacifica.

2017 Subaru Legacy Sport and Outback Touring Coming This Summer

The Subaru Legacy Sport debuts as a 2017 model powered by the all-wheel drive 175 horsepower 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine paired with a standard Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission) with manual mode and paddle shifters delivering a combined 29 MPG EPA-estimated fuel economy rating. Sport features include a dark gray front grille, fog lights with gloss black housings, newly designed 18-in. sport-styled wheels, chrome-accented rocker trim and high luster silver-finished turn-signal mirrors. Inside, two-tone pairing of gray and black cloth upholstery and blue stitching on the seats, door panels, and steering wheel, a carbon fiber pattern dash and door panel trim. The Sport package includes a standard SUBARU STARLINK 7.0” Multimedia Plus system with a high-resolution 7-inch LCD screen with Bluetooth® hands-free SMS text messaging and dual USB ports. The new Sport trim also offers Reverse Automatic Braking and High Beam Assist as part of the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology option package.

2017 Subaru Outback Touring, the new flagship model, is available in both the 175 horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and the 256 horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder engines.  Debuting on the 2017 Outback model line, Reverse Automatic Braking helps the driver avoid a possible collision when the vehicle is moving in reverse. EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology along with Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are standard and are paired with the new High Beam Assist feature. The models will arrive into retailers later this Summer.

April 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac) total April sales were 259,557 vehicles, down about 4 percent while retail sales of 200,656 was up 3 percent.

Ford Motor Company’s U.S. sales of 231,316 vehicles was an increase of 4 percent in April versus a year ago with retail sales also up 3 percent, for its best April retail results since 2006. Lincoln April sales of 9,776 was a 20.2 percent jump over a year ago. Year-to-date Ford sales of 876,942 is a 7.3 percent increase over 2015.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., reported April 2016 sales of 211,125 an increase of 3.8 percent from April 2015. Toyota division posted April 2016 sales of 186,243, up 5 percent while Lexus posted sales of 24,882, down 3.8 percent.
 
FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 199,631, a 6 percent increase compared with sales in April 2015 for the group’s best April sales in 11 years.

American Honda reported a new April sales record of 148,829 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 14.4 percent for the month. Year to date American Honda sales reached 506,532, up 9.2 percent. The Honda Division set a new monthly record with 132,623 units sold in April, an increase of 15.1 percent compared to April 2015 with year to date sales up 10.5 percent. Acura Division sales totaled 16,206, an increase of 9 percent in April with year to date sales reaching 54,081.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for April 2016 of 123,861, an increase of 13 percent over the prior year and an April record. Nissan Division finished April with 113,429 sales, up 14 percent, an April record. Year-to-date Nissan Group sales are 524,065, up 9.8 percent.

Hyundai Motor America reported sales of 62,213 for April, down 8.5 percent versus a record-setting April 2015. Year-to-date sales of 235,543, is a 1.9 percent decline from 2015.

Kia Motors America reported all-time high April sales of 56,508, up 6.1 percent over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 202,829 is a 4.3 percent increase over 2015.

Subaru of America reported record sales for April 2016 totaling 50,380 vehicles, a 6.6 percent gain over April 2015. Subaru reported year-to-date sales of 182,777 vehicles, a 2.4 percent gain over the same period in 2015.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 27,112 vehicles delivered in April 2016. Year-to-date sales of 96,426 is down 11.7 percent froma  year ago. Separately, Audi set its 64th consecutive U.S. sales record for April with 17,801 vehicles sold, an increase of 5.8 percent over last year while year-to-date sales increased 5 percent to 59,761 vehicles sold.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported best-ever April sales with 29,236 vehicles sold, up 0.2 percent for the month. Vans reported 2,589 units, and smart reported 466 units for the month, bringing MBUSA grand total to 32,291 vehicles for the month, down 0.4 percent and 116,600 sold year-to-date, a drop of 0.9 percent.

Mazda North American Operations reported April U.S. sales of 26,195 vehicles, representing an increase of 8.6 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through April are 90,838 vehicles.

BMW brand vehicle sales of 24,951 is a decrease of 7.4 percent compared to April, 2015. Year-to-date, BMW brand is down 9.4 percent on sales of 95,564 compared to the first four months of 2015.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported April 2016 sales of 9,674 up 17.7 percent from April of last year and is the best April sales since 2007. Year-to-dates sales of 34,866 is an 8.9 percent increase over a year ago.

Jaguar Land Rover North America reported for both brands hit 6,275, a 2 percent decrease. Land Rover sales reached 5,188, a 2 percent decrease from April 2015 and Jaguar sales were 1,087, a 1 percent increase.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 6,169 vehicles, a 33.1 percent increase versus April 2015. Year-to-date sales are up 22.7 percent over the first four months of 2015.

Porsche Cars North America announced April 2016 sales of 5,410 vehicles, up 3.7 percent compared to April 2015. Year-to-date sales are
17,648, up 6 percent over last year.

Sales will be updates as manufacturers report.

2017 FIAT 124 Spider Starts At $25,990 This Summer

The all-new 2017 FIAT 124 Spider roadster, a highlight introduction at last November's Los Angeles Auto show, will be powered by a turbocharged 160 horsepower MultiAir 1.4-liter engine with a six-speed manual transmission and will start at $25,990 (including $995 destination charge). The Classica trim with a six-speed automatic transmission is $27,340, the Lusso with a six-speed manual transmission is $28,490, and the Lusso with a six-speed automatic transmission is $29,840. The Abarth with 165 horsepower offers a sportier, more responsive driving experience and starts at $29,190 and the top-end Prima Edizione Lusso has a U.S. MSRP of $35,995. The six-speed manual transmission is expected to get 26 city / 35 highway MPG and the six-speed automatic transmission 25 city / 36 highway MPG.

Porsche 718 Cayman Starts At $54,950 In November

The new Porsche 718 Cayman is in its third generation, with a 300 horsepower 2.0 liter engine has a starting MSRP of $54,950 (including the $1,050 delivery, processing and handling fee) and the 718 Cayman S with a 350 horsepower 2.5 liter engine starts at $67,350. Both are on sale now and will reach U.S. dealers in late November 2016. Following the debut of the new 718 Boxster, the new 718 Cayman complements the roadster in the mid-engine model line-up. The 718 Cayman with PDK and optional Sport Chrono Package reaches 60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds to a top speed of 170 miles per hour and the Cayman S accelerates from 0 to 60 in 4.0 seconds to a top track speed of 177 miles per hour.

New Lexus IS Shown In China

The new Lexus IS, shown at the Beijing Auto Show, has a fresh new look for its three models. The rear-wheel-drive IS 200t will be powered by the recently-added 240 horsepower 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline-4 with intercooler, which comes mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The new IS’s safety equipment includes the Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam and Radar Cruise Control.

Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration SUV Concept

The Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration, the brand's vision for a next-generation, premium mid-size SUV.

J.D. Power To Be Acquired By XIO Group For $1.1 Billion

J.D. Power, the global marketing information services company best known for customer satisfaction insights based in Weslake Village, California, is being sold by McGraw Hill Financial after 11 years of ownership to London-headquatered XIO Group, a global alternative investments firm, for $1.1 billion in cash. The transaction is expected to close during the third quarter of 2016, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. J.D. Power's prominent automotive studies include: U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS), U.S. Tech Choice Study, U.S. Driver Interactive Vehicle Experience (DrIVE) Study, and U.S. Original Equipment Tire Customer Satisfaction Study.

J.D. "Dave" Power III established J.D. Power in 1968 from his kitchen table, with a primary focus in the automotive industry. In 2005, J.D. Power was acquired by The McGraw-Hill Companies for an undisclosed sum believed to be around $400 million.

Headquartered in London, XIO Group has operations in the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, Israel, Hong Kong and mainland China. XIO Group's strategy is to identify and invest in market-leading businesses located across North America and Europe and help these companies to capitalize on untapped opportunities in fast growing markets, particularly in Asia.

On April 27, 2016, subject to shareholder approval, McGraw Hill Financial will be renamed S&P Global to reflect a their direct focus on the financial intelligence businesses.

Tesla Model 3 Starting At $35,000 In Late 2017

Tesla Model 3, with seating for 5 adults, autopilot safety features and designed to exceed a five star safety rating, achieves 215 miles of range per charge with a zero to 60 mph time of under 6 seconds. Supercharging is standard. The price starts at $35,000 before incentives, like a $7,500 Federal rebate. Deliveries begin in late 2017 with orders being taken now at the Tesla website with a $1,000 deposit.

As of last night at the Tesla Model 3 launch, Tesla founder Elon Musk said orders had reached 115,000 in the first 24 hours. Musk is confident its Freemont, California, factory can produce 500,000 a year. Batteries will be made at its gigafactory which will produce more lithium-ion batteries than anywhere else in the world combined in a building to have the largest footprint of any building in the world.

March 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors delivered 252,128 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac vehicles in March, a 0.9 percent increase, and 193,524 to individual or “retail” customers, up 6 percent year over year, driven by a 7 percent increase at Chevrolet and a 13 percent increase at GMC. Year-to-date sales of 683,698 is slightly less than the year ago first quarter.

Ford Motor Company sold 254,711 vehicles in the U.S. in March, an 8 percent gain versus a year ago, while first quarter sales of 645,626 vehicles were up 9 percent, for the best sales performance for March and first quarter since 2006.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported March 2016 sales of 219,842, a decrease of 2.7 percent from March 2015. Toyota division posted March 2016 sales of 189,644, also down 2.7 percent Lexus posted sales of 30,198, down 2.8 percent. Year-to-date sales of 569,079 is a 1.1percent decline from last year.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 213,187, an 8 percent increase compared with March 2015, and the group’s best March sales in a decade. Year-to-date sales of 551,103 is a 9 percent rise over 2015.

American Honda reported March sales of 138,221, an increase of 1.3 percent for the month. Honda Division sales were 123,369, up 10.5 percent while Acura sales totaled 14,852 in March, gaining 1.2 percent. Year-to-date Honda and Acura sales are 357,703, a gain of 7.1 percent over 2015.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. March sales of 163,559, an increase of 13 percent over the prior year. Nissan Division finished March with 149,784 sales, up 13 percent, a best month ever record. Infiniti reported sales of 13,775 vehicles in the U.S. during March, an increase of 10 percent versus prior year.

Hyundai Motor America reported its best month ever, selling 75,310 units in March. Year-to-date sales of 173,330 is the best first quarter ever, up 0.9 percent from 2015.

Kia Motors America announced March sales of 58,279 down slightly from a year ago but pushing first quarter sales to a record of 146,321 vehicles, up 3.7 percent from 2015.

Subaru of America reported record sales for March 2016 totaling 49,285 vehicles, a supply-constrained 0.4 percent gain over March 2015. The company also reported year-to-date sales of 132,397 vehicles, a 0.9 percent gain over the same period in 2015. March marked the 25th consecutive month of 40,000+ vehicle sales for the company, as well as the best first quarter in the history of the Subaru franchise.

Volkswagen of America reported March sales of 26,914, down 10.4 percent from a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 69,314 is a 12.5 percent decline from 2015. Separtely, Audi reported March sales of 18,392 vehicles sold, an increase of 7.5 percent over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 41,960 vehicles is an increase of 4.6 percent over 2015.

Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 12.5 percent in March for a total of 30,033 compared to March, 2015. Year-to-date, BMW brand is down 10.0 percent on sales of 70,613 compared to the first three months of 2015.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported March total sales of 31,715 with the Mercedes-Benz brand having sales of 28,164, which closes the first-quarter at 75,769, down 3 percent from last year. Smart contributed 479 and Vans reported a best-ever March with 3,072, up 29.1 percent from the same time last year.

Mazda North American Operations reported March U.S. sales of 23,396 vehicles, representing a decrease of 27.2 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through March are down 17.2 percent versus last year, with 64,643 vehicles sold.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported its best March sales since 2007 with sales of 11,078, an increase of 13.5 percent over March of 2015. Total sales for the year through the first quarter of 2016 are 25,212, up 6.0 percent compared to the same period last year.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 6,857 vehicles, a 15.9 percent increase versus March 2015. Year-to-date sales are up 19.2 percent.

Porsche Cars North America announced March 2016 sales of 4,323 vehicles up slightly from a year ago raising first quarter sales to 12,238, 7.1 percent higher in comparison to the same period in 2015.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid Electric Coming This Fall

The all-new 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-In Hybrid Electric has a full-time, twin-electric motor-powered all-wheel control system that provides distribution between the front and rear wheels. A 2.0-liter gasoline engine and two electric motors drive Mitsubishi's Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system. The Outlander PHEV will arrive at Mitsubishi Motors showrooms in Fall 2016.

2017 Nissan TITAN Crew Cab Arrives Late This Summer

The 2017 Nissan TITAN Crew Cab, powered by Nissan's 390 horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 gasoline engine, is built on a separate chassis from TITAN XD which was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November, and is approximately 228.1 inches long (14.7 inches less than XD) and 79.5 inches wide (same as XD), with the cab size shared between the two vehicles. This volume model, half-ton TITAN will go on sale in the late summer of 2016. TITAN will initially launch as a Crew Cab model with Single and King Cab variants planned for later in the model year.

The TITAN XD with Cummins® 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel is on sale now with the 2016 TITAN XD models powered by the new 5.6-liter Endurance V8 gasoline engine starting at $36,485 (including $1,195 destination charge) for the TITAN XD S Crew Cab 4x2 model.

2017 Infiniti QX70 Limited Coming This Summer

The new 2017 Infiniti QX70 Limited, a specially equipped version of the QX70 with different lights and finishes, will be powered by a 325-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 with VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) matched with a 7-speed automatic transmission featuring Adaptive Shift Control. It features an Around View® Monitor system with Moving Objection Detection, Intelligent Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention. Available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, it is scheduled to go on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide beginning in summer 2016.

Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, Electric - Three Choices

The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and Electric models offer three distinct electrified powertrains on a single, dedicated vehicle platform. The Ioniq Hybrid and Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid both feature a new Kappa 1.6 direct-injected Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine delivering an estimated 104 horsepower while the electric motor delivers an estimated 32 kW or 43 horsepower, powered by a lithium-ion polymer battery with 1.56 kWh capacity for an estimated total system output of 139 horsepower. The Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid provides an estimated all-electric range of more than 25 miles, powered by an 8.9 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. The Ioniq Plug-in’s estimated 45 kW or 60 horsepower electric motor is coupled with the 1.6 direct-injected Atkinson four-cylinder Kappa engine. The Ioniq Electric offers pure electric mobility with a 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery for an estimated driving range of 110 miles with an estimated maximum output of 88 kW or 120 horsepower giving the Ioniq Electric an estimated 125 MPGe rating. Ioniq offers Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®, wireless smartphone charging, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Smart Cruise Control.

Volkswagen BUDD-e Concept

The Volkswagen BUDD-e Concept is 181 inches long, 76.3 inches wide and 72.2 inches high and based on the all-new Modular Electric Platform to demonstrate what electric mobility could be like by the year 2019. The 101 kWh battery is flat, to save space, and integrated into almost the entire vehicle floor and powers two electric motors, one to drive each axle distributing power to all four wheels for a top speed of 93 mph and estimated total range of up 233 miles (based on EPA drive cycle) on a full charge. The BUDDE-e offers several levels of plugged-in charging with the added benefit of cordless inductive charging. All of BUDD-e’s systems are operated intuitively by gesture control, touchscreen (displays and touch slider) or voice control.

2017 Acura MDX Coming This Summer, Sport Hybrid Later

The restyled and refreshed 2017 Acura MDX luxury SUV adds an Electric Parking Brake with Automatic Brake Hold, Auto High Beam headlights, SiriusXM Radio® 2.0, four 2.5-amp USB charging ports, Bi-Directional Keyless Remote Engine Start, two new 20-inch wheel and tire options, power folding side mirrors, and HD Traffic. All 2017 MDX models receive the AcuraWatch as standard equipment, including Collision Mitigation Braking System with automatic emergency braking, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and Road Departure Mitigation.

The 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid is the third model to feature Acura's three-motor Sport Hybrid SH-AWD powertrain powered by a 3.0-liter DOHC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™ mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission with an integrated electric motor powering the front wheels, and a Twin Motor Unit with two electric motors providing power to the rear wheels. The 2017 MDX is slated to go on sale at Acura dealerships nationwide this summer and will be joined by the MDX Sport Hybrid later in the year.

2017 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-In Hybrid - All-New Late This Fall

The new 2017 Toyota Prius Prime plug-in hybrid, 2.4 inches longer, 0.6 inches wider and about an inch lower than its predecessor, will get a manufacturer-estimated 120 or above MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) and achieve two times the electric range of the previous model at 22 miles, meeting the daily commuter distance of over half of U.S. drivers, and drive at speeds up to 84 mph without leaving EV mode. In hybrid mode, the Prius Prime is targeting a hybrid MPG equal to or better than the Prius liftback. Charging takes approximately 5.5 hours using a standard household outlet and less than half the time with a 240V source. The 2017 Prius Prime will begin arriving in Toyota showrooms in late Fall.

Mazda MX-5 RF

The Mazda MX-5 RF (“retractable fastback”) with a power roof that opens and closes with the press of a button while moving at speeds of up to 6 mph and stows away compactly offering the same trunk space as the soft-top model. The Mazda MX-5 RF will have the 155 horsepower SKYACTIV-G 2.0 mated to a a six-speed automatic transmission in the North American model.

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible Arrives In Early 2017

The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible, like the 2+2 coupe, has a 640 horsepower supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 Small Block engine, with intake and exhaust systems tailored for Camaro, mated to either a standard six-speed manual transmission with active rev matching or all-new, available paddle-shift 10-speed automatic. The lightweight, stiffer structure all-new sixth-Gen Camaro has Magnetic Ride suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential. The Camaro ZL1 goes on sale late this year and the Camaro ZL1 convertible goes on sale in early 2017.

2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet Coming This Fall

The new 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 Cabriolet, with a multi-layered fabric soft top roof with glass window, is powered by the 469 horsepower 4.0-liter AMG V8 biturbo engine accelerating to 60 in 4.1 seconds to a top speed of 155 mph while the S puts out 503 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds to a top speed of 174 mph. Both have the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sport transmission with "Sport" and "Sport +"modes and the C63 S also comes with the "RACE" mode. The AMG C63 Cabriolet will be on sale at US dealerships by Fall of 2016.

2017 Nissan GT-R Coming This Summer With More Power

The new 2017 Nissan GT-R has a 565 horsepower 3.8-liter V6 24-valve twin-turbocharged engine with each unit handcrafted by its own Takumi technician. The exterior receives a thorough makeover, the cabin is redesigned and the entire dashboard is new, including an instrument panel wrapped in a single, seamless piece of hand-selected Nappa leather. The 2017 Nissan GT-R will be available this summer.

2017 Kia Cadenza Coming Later This Year

The all-new 2017 Kia Cadenza gets a revised version of Kia’s 3.3-liter V6 engine sending an estimated 290 horsepower to the front wheels via Kia’s first FWD-based eight-speed automatic transmission.The 2017 Cadenza is composed of more than 50 percent Advanced High Strength Steel, more than twice the amount used in the outgoing model. A driver’s knee airbag brings the total number of airbags in the vehicle to nine.The Cadenza is first Kia to be sold in the U.S. under the DRIVE WISE sub-brand, with features like Advanced Smart Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning. The Smart Blind Spot Detection System senses unintentional drifting toward an adjacent vehicle and automatically brakes the opposite side front wheel to help maintain the vehicle’s intended course. The second-generation Cadenza is set to go on-sale in late 2016, and pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s launch date.

2017 Subaru Impreza 5-Door Coming Late This Year

The all-new 2017 Subaru Impreza 5-Door, powered by a revised version of the FB 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, gains direct fuel injection and is now 152 horsepower vs. 148 before and rides on a 105.1-in. wheelbase, up 1.0-in. over the last generation Impreza. Both the Sedan and 5-Door are 1.6-in. longer than the outgoing models, and both are 1.5 in. wider. The 2017 Impreza adds new driver-assist technologies, including Reverse Automatic Braking and the display of steering lines for the standard rear vision camera and a new 4-way Tire Pressure Monitoring System can detect pressure drops at individual wheels. The new Impreza will be available in base, Premium, Sport and Limited trim lines when it arrives in Subaru dealerships in late 2016.

Lincoln Navigator Concept

The all-new Lincoln Navigator Concept has a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering more than 400 horsepower and features Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, a 360-degree camera, enhanced park assist and a lane-keeping system that vibrates the steering wheel to alert drivers they are straying from their lane.

2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack Coming This Fall

The all-wheel-drive 2017 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack, based on the Golf SportWagen, has a 170 horsepower 1.8-liter, four-cylinder TSI® gasoline engine mated to a six-speed dual-clutch DSG® automatic transmission with a six-speed manual transmission will be available at a later date. A Drive Mode selector includes “Off-Road Mode,” which adds hill descent control and optimizes traction control for off-road terrain. Six airbags are standard along with Electronic Stability Control, the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and an Intelligent Crash Response System. Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist), Lane Assist, and front and rear Park Distance Control with Park Assist are available options. The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack goes on sale in the Fall as a 2017 model.

2017 Chevrolet Sonic Coming This Fall

The 2017 Chevrolet Sonic, offered in LS, LT and Premier trims and an RS package on sedan models and LT, Premier and RS for the hatchback, comes standard with an Ecotec 1.8L engine and an available 138 horsepower Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine, mated to a six-speed automatic or manual transmission. Sonic also offers 10 standard air bags, with Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning available active safety features along with Stabilitrak electronic stability control and an antilock braking system. Rear Park Assist is new for 2017 and a rearview camera is now standard on all models. The 2017 Sonic goes on sale this Fall.

2017 Toyota 86 Coming This Fall

The 2017 Toyota 86 is the new name for the former Scion FR-S, which, on the manual version of the car, gets a gear ratio change, a torque increase to 156 lb.-ft, and a five-horsepower increase to 205 horsepower along with Hill Start Assist Control that helps prevent the car from rolling back on steep hills. The new Toyota 86 will go on sale at all Toyota dealerships this Fall. With the elimination of the Scion brand, two other former Scion vehicles will be called the Toyota Corolla iM and Toyota Yaris iA.

2017 Toyota Highlander With More Choices This Fall

The 2017 Toyota Highlander three-row SUV gets a new 3.5-liter V6 Direct Injection engine paired to a new Direct Shift 8AT automatic transmission while the standard powertrain on Highlander 4x2 LE gas models will remain the 2.7-liter 4- cylinder paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The six Highlander gas models will continue to be (LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited and Limited Platinum) available in both front-wheel and AWD. The Highlander Hybrid adds two new grades, (LE and XLE) to its existing lineup of Limited and Platinum models for a total of four. The 2017 Highlander will come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, a new multi- feature advanced safety package that includes Pre-Collision System with Forward Collision Warning and automatic emergency brake, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, Pedestrian Pre- Collision System and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The 2017 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid will begin arriving at Toyota showrooms this Fall.

Toyota C-HR Becomes A Reality

The Toyota C-HR, shown last November at the LA Auto Show as the Scion C-HR concept, will be Toyota's entry in the compact SUV or C-segment crossover market.

2017 Corvette Grand Sport Goes On Sale This Summer

The all-new 2017 Corvette Grand Sport coupe and convertible are powered by the 460 horsepower LT1 V8 engine mated to a seven-speed manual transmission with active rev match or the available eight-speed paddle-shift automatic with specific performance calibration. The available Z07 package adds carbon ceramic-matrix brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires. The all-new 2017 Corvette Grand Sport coupe and convertible go on sale this summer in the U.S.

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Coming Later This Year

The 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Prototype previews the design of the 2017 Civic Hatchback, launching later this year as the third new Civic variant, including the 2016 Sedan and Coupe and still-to-come Civic Si variants and new Civic Type R. Honda discontinued the Accord Crosstour for 2016 so this may satisfy those five-door hatchback enthusiasts.

Aston Martin DB11 Starts At $211,995 In 4th Quarter

The Aston Martin DB11, powered by a 600 horsepower 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine mated to an 8-speed automatic ZF transmission, has electric power steering and torque vectoring by braking and accelerates from 0-62 mph in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 200 mph. Multiple driver-selectable dynamic modes - GT, Sport and Sport Plus - progressively intensify the response of the engine. There's a full-colour 12” TFT LCD display for the all-new instrument cluster that has an intuitive rotary control, with an optional touchpad offering character recognition, multi-touch and gesture support and an additional centrally-mounted 8” TFT screen dedicated to infotainment. The Aston Martin DB11 starts at $211,995 in US with first deliveries scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year.

Lamborghini Centenario - Only 40 - All Sold

The Lamborghini Centenario, built entirely of carbon fiber, celebrates the centenary of founder Ferruccio Lamborghini's birth with only 20 coupé and 20 roadster versions to be produced and all 40 cars are already sold, at a starting price of 1.75 million euros or $1.9 million U.S. dollars plus tax. The Centenario has a 770 horsepower V12 engine that provides 0-100 km/h or 0-62 mph in 2.8 seconds and from 0-300 km/h or 186 mph in 23.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of more than 350 km/h or 217 mph.

February 2016 U.S. Vehicle Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac) February total deliveries were 227,825, down 1.5 percent while retail sales of 179,958 is a 6.6 percent gain over 2015. Year-to-date sales of 343,013 is up 7.7 percent over last year's first two months of the year.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., reported February 2016 sales of 187,954 vehicles, an increase of 4.1 percent from February 2015 on a volume basis. Toyota division February 2016 sales were 164.864, up 4.7 percent. Lexus reported February 2016 sales of 23,090, up 0.4 percent. Year-to-date sales of 349,237 is 0.4 percent increase over last year.

Ford Motor Company’s U.S. sales were 217,192, up 20 percent in February versus a year ago. Retail sales grew 11 percent, the best February since 2005. Lincoln had sales of 8,039 vehicles, a 30 percent increase. Year-to-date Ford sales are 390,915, up 9 percent over the first two months of 2015.

FCA (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 182,879, a 12 percent increase compared with sales in February 2015 for the best February sales in 10 years. Year-to- date sales of 337,916 is a 10 percent increase over last year.

American Honda reported record February sales of 118,985 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 12.8 percent. Honda Division set a new February record with 106,212 units sold, up 14.9 percent; Honda car sales reached 57,267 while record February truck sales totaled 48,945 for the month.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for February 2016 of 130,911, an increase of 11 percent over the prior year and a February record. Infiniti sales of 10,371 vehicles in the U.S. during February, was a decrease of 11 percent versus the prior year. Year-to-date sales of 236,645 is a 6.3 percent gain over 2015.

Hyundai Motor America reported its best February in company history, selling 53,009 vehicles for the month, up one percent versus the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 98,020, also a one gain over 2015.

Kia Motors America announced best-ever February sales of 49,737 vehicles, a 13 percent increase over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 88,042 is a 6.9 percent gain over last year.

Subaru of America reported record sales for February 2016 totaling 42,011 vehicles, a 1.6 percent gain over February 2015. The company also reported year-to-date sales of 83,112 vehicles, a 1.2 percent gain over the same period in 2015.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 22,321, a drop of 13.2 percent from February 2015. Year-to-date sales of 42,400 is a 13.8 percent fall from a year ago. Separately, Audi reported February 2016 sales of 11,718 vehicles, an increase of 2.3 percent with year-to-date sales of 23,568, up 2.5 percent over 2015.

BMW brand February vehicle sales of 22,498 was a decrease of 10.7 percent compared to February 2015. Year-to-date, BMW brand sales of 40,580 is down 8.2 percent from the same period last year.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported February sales of 25,632 vehicles, a 0.5 percent drop from last year, with 22,941 Mercedes-Benz brand sales down 2.9 percent, 2,269 for Daimler Vans and 422 for smart. Year-to-date sales of 52,594 is a 0.4 percent increase over 2015.

Mazda North American Operations reported February U.S. sales of 21,544 vehicles, representing a decrease of 16 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through February are down 10.2 percent versus last year, with 41,247 vehicles sold.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported February 2016 sales of 7,870, an increase of 4.5 percent over February of 2015. For the calendar year, Mitsubishi sales are 14,134.

Jaguar Land Rover North America February U.S. sales for both brands hit 7,929, a 25 percent increase from February 2015. Land Rover sales were 6,417, a 31 percent increase while Jaguar sales were 1,512 for a 7 percent increase. For the full year 2015, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales were 85,048, up 26 percent.

Volvo Car USA, reported U.S. sales of 5,260 vehicles, a 33.1 percent increase versus February 2015. Year-to-date sales are up 21.8 percent.

Porsche Cars North America announced February 2016 sales of 3,561 vehicles, up 11.2 percent over February 2015, a new February sales record for PCNA.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe Joins C-Class

The new Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe with a 362 horsepower 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine combined with the new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive, is the latest addition to the C-Class family. There are five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes: "Eco," "Comfort," "Sport," "Sport Plus" and "Individual."

2017 Kia Sportage Starts At $23,885

The all-new fourth-generation 2017 Kia Sportage CUV, 1.6 inches longer than the outgoing model and offered in LX, EX, and SX Turbo trim levels, with a 181 horsepower 2.4-liter GDI four cylinder engine combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, starts at $23,885 (including $895 destination charges) for the FWD LX. The 2017 Sportage LX comes standard with LED Daytime Running Lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler, chrome window surround, rear privacy glass, 5-inch touchscreen with Rear Camera Display, Bluetooth®, 3.5-inch LCD cluster, keyless entry system, auto-on/off dual projector headlights, and Normal, Eco, and Sport Drive Mode Select options. The fully-loaded $33,395 Sportage SX Turbo comes standard with a 240 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

Maserati Levante SUV Coming Later This Year

The Maserati Levante, the brand's first SUV, has an adjustable electronic suspension with controlled damping and air springs, “Q4” intelligent all-wheel drive and a specially calibrated 8-speed automatic transmission. The Maserati Levante has already come off the assembly line at the Mirafiori plant in Turin, Italy, with the launch planned for this Spring in Europe, to be followed by the rest of the world later this year.

Bentley Flying Spur V8 S Arrives This Summer

The Bentley Flying Spur V8 S, with a 521 horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 S engine, is more powerful than the 500 horsepower Flying Spur V8, has a top speed of 190 mph and a combined fuel economy of 25.9 mpg helped by variable displacement, in which four of the eight cylinders shut down when cruising, reducing fuel consumption. ‘S’ mode provides drivers with a sharp throttle response and additional engine braking from the transmission. Power is delivered via an all-wheel-drive system with a 40:60 rear-biased torque split. The aluminium double-wishbone front and trapezoidal multi-link rear self-levelling air suspension with continuous damping control provides a refined ride. The Bentley Flying Spur V8 S will start being delivered this Summer.

Lexus LC 500h Will Debut In Geneva

The all-new Lexus LC 500h luxury coupe, with Lexus’ next generation hybrid powertrain, was inspired by the LF-LC concept that debuted in 2012 and will debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show on March 1st. It features an advanced touchless human machine interface as well as automated driving technologies.

2017 GMC Acadia Starts At $29,995 This Spring

The all-new 2017 GMC Acadia, 700 pounds lighter in weight than the 2016 model and $1,905 less in price, will start at $29,995 (including $925 destination charge) for Acadia SL FWD and run up to a starting price of $47,845 for the Acadia Denali AWD. There will be a new, 2.5L engine as standard and an available 310 horsepower 3.6L V-6 engine with 4,000 pounds estimated trailering capability (with the available towing package). when it goes on sale this Spring.

2017 Ram Power Wagon Coming In The Fourth Quarter

The 2017 Ram Power Wagon, with all-new exterior and interior design and based on the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty 4x4 Crew Cab, is powered by a 410 horsepower 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 engine offered with the 66RFE six-speed automatic transmission connected to a part-time, manual-engagement Borg Warner BW 44-47 transfer case. Hill-descent Control allows drivers to control Power Wagon’s speed down steep, rugged grades with the buttons on the column shifter without the need for throttle or brake pedals. Power Wagon will top a lineup of off-road trucks that includes Rebel and the 4x4 Off-road Package when it goes on sale in the fourth quarter of this year.

2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Coming This Fall

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, powered by a 3.5-Liter V6 DOHC 24-valve direct-injection Atkinson-cycle engine, will have all-new factory-installed off-road equipment when it goes on sale this Fall. The Crawl Control, on automatics only, automatically modulates the throttle and brakes to regulate wheel spin on five low-speed settings for navigating across difficult terrain. Every Tacoma TRD Pro will be equipped with  electronically-controlled 4WDemand part-time 4WD with a transfer case and Automatic Limited-Slip Differential, a V6 Tow Package that includes a Class-IV towing receiver hitch, ATF cooler (automatic only), engine oil cooler, power steering cooler, 130-amp alternator, 4- and 7-pin connector with convertor, and Trailer-Sway Control. As in all Tacoma models, a GoPro® mount is located on the windshield with GoPro® HERO cameras.

BMW M760i xDrive Coming Early Next Year

The all-new BMW M760i xDrive with a 600 horsepower TwinPower Turbo 12-cylinder gasoline engine mated to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission will join the sixth generation BMW 7 Series line-up early in 2017.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid, 2017 Optima Plug-In Hybrid, 2017 Kia Niro HUV

The all-new 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid and 2017 Kia Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle are being introduced under the Kia Motors EcoDynamics environmentally friendly sub-brand. The Optima Hybrid replaces the previous generation’s 2.4-liter engine with a 154 horsepower 2.0-liter GDI four cylinder engine coupled with a hybrid starter generator and tied to an upgraded six-speed transmission. A 38 kW electric motor and clutch replaces the traditional torque converter to provide strong off-the-line acceleration and power assistance to the engine when necessary. Total combined output for the Optima Hybrid is estimated at 193 horsepower

The all-new 2017 Optima Plug-in Hybrid, expected to go on sale in the fourth quarter of this year, has a 2.0-liter “Nu” four-cylinder GDI engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, power output is targeted for a class-leading 154 hp @ 6,000 rpm.  Electric power is produced by a transmission-mounted 50 kW motor, which is 42 percent more powerful than in the previous Optima Hybrid to allow for greater all-electric capability. With an estimated 600 miles of total driving range, the Optima PHEV’s next-generation battery system features a 9.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack, which produces roughly 60 percent more energy output than the battery pack found in the outgoing Optima’s hybrid system, and is estimated to achieve 27 miles in full EV mode.

The all-new 2017 Niro Hybrid Utility Vehicle on a 106.3-inch wheelbase is powered by is an all-new Kappa 103 horsepower 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine combined with a 43 horsepower tractive motor, known as the transmission-mounted electric device that works in tandem with the gasoline engine to produce a robust 146 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. Bringing the whole system together is a 1.56-kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery located underneath the rear seat.

2017 Nissan Armada Coming This Summer

The all-new second-generation 2017 Nissan Armada, equipped with a new 390-horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission, is 1.2 inches longer on a 2.1-inch shorter wheelbase than the outgoing model and comes in SV, SL and Platinum trims in both 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive configurations. The Armada offers a 3rd row seat power-folding feature standard on SL and Platinum grades. Armada Platinum models are also available with optional 2nd row Captain’s Chairs with removable 2nd row console (resulting in 7-passenger seating capacity). Available safety and security features include Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Intervention, Backup Collision Intervention and Around View® Monitor with Moving Object Detection. The new generation of Nissan’s flagship SUV is due to arrive this summer.

Toyota's Scion Brand To Be Re-badged Under Toyota Nameplate

Toyota's Scion brand, which launched in 2003 targeting young customers, will disappear and the FR-S sports car, iA sedan and iM 5-door hatchback will become part of Toyota beginning this August with model year 2017 Scion vehicles re-badged as Toyotas. The C-HR, (pictured above) which debuted at the L.A. Auto Show will be a part of the Toyota line-up. Scion service and repair will be handled by Toyota dealerships’ service departments. The 1,004 Scion dealers will be affected and Scion’s 22 employees at headquarters "will have the opportunity to take on new jobs at Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. in Torrance. Scion regional representatives will assume different responsibilities in their respective Toyota sales offices."

With more than a million cars sold, 70 percent of Scions were purchased by customers new to Toyota and 50 percent were under 35 years old. Scion buyers average age is 36 years old and at 29, the tC sports coupe has the lowest-average age buyer in the industry, according to Toyota. Seventy percent of the iA sedan and iM 5-door hatchback purchasers are first-time new car buyers and more than 50 percent of iM and iA buyers are under 35 years old.

January 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors’ Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac dealers in the United States delivered 203,745 vehicles in January 2016, the company’s best January sales performance in eight years. GM’s retail sales were up 9 percent year over year on a 12 percent increase at Chevrolet and a 45 percent increase at Buick. Total sales were up 0.5 percent.

Ford Motor Company’s total U.S. sales of 173,723 vehicles declined 3 percent last month versus a year ago. Lincoln brand sales of 7,177 vehicles increased 8 percent, for the best start of the year since 2008.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., reported January 2016 sales were 161,283, a decrease of 4.7 percent from January 2015 on a volume basis. Toyota division January 2016 sales were 140,350, down 3.9 percent.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 155,037, a 7 percent increase compared with sales in January 2015 for the group’s best January sales in nine years.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for January 2016 of 105,734, an increase of 2 percent over the prior year and a January record. Nissan Division finished January with 97,220 sales, up 3 percent and also a January record. Infiniti sales of 8,514 was an 11.8 percent drop from a year ago.

American Honda reported January sales of 100,497 Honda and Acura vehicles, a decrease of 1.7 percent. Honda Division set a new January record with 90,247, while Acura sales totaled 10,250.

Hyundai Motor America reported its best January in company history, selling 45,011 vehicles, up one percent versus the same period last year.

Subaru of America reported 41,101 vehicle sales for January 2016, a one percent increase over January 2015.

Kia Motors America recorded best-ever January sales of 38,305 vehicles, 6 more vehicles than a year ago.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 20,079, a drop of 14.6 percent from January 2015. Separately, Audi of America reported January 2016 sales of 11,850 vehicles, a 2.7 percent increase for a 61st consecutive monthly record.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported record January sales of 24,664, topping last January's record volume of 24,619 units sold. Adding 1,899 for Vans and 399 for smart, MBUSA achieved its highest January to date with a grand total of 26,962 vehicles, up 1.3 percent from a year ago.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported January sales of 21,320 vehicles, a decrease of 4.0 percent from the same month a year ago. Sales of BMW brand vehicle sales of 18,082 decreased 4.7 percent in January compared to January 2015.

Mazda North American Operations reported January U.S. sales of 19,703 vehicles, representing a decrease of 2.8 percent versus last year.

Jaguar Land Rover North America January U.S. sales for both brands hit 7,007, a 7 percent increase from January 2015. Land Rover sales reached 5,655, a 7 percent increase and Jaguar sales were 1,352, a 7 percent increase from January 2015.

Mitsubishi Motors North America total January 2016 sales were 6,264, down 3.5 percent year-over-year.

Porsche Cars North America announced January 2016 sales of 4,354 vehicles, up 10.6 percent over January 2015 for a record-setting January.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 4,244, an 11.9 percent increase versus January 2015.