2017 Audi A4 ultra With 31MPG Rating Goes On Sale This Fall

The 2017 Audi A4 ultra FWD, starting at $35,850 (excluding $950 destination charge) for the Premium trim level, offers a more efficient variant of the 190 horsepower 2.0-liter TFSI® engine, to produce a 31-mpg combined EPA-estimated fuel economy (27-mpg city and 37-mpg highway). The A4 ultra’s 2.0T engine utilizes a combustion method with shorter compression and longer-expansion phases. The compression ratio was increased from 9.6:1 to 11.7:1, further improving the engine’s efficiency and allowing for greater power and torque delivery. The A4 ultra goes on sale this Fall.

Lexus UX Concept To Be Shown At Paris Show

The Lexus UX Concept, will make its world debut on September 29 at the Paris Auto Show.

Bentley Flying Spur W12 S Coming at Year End

Bentley Motors' new flagship for the Flying Spur line is the Flying Spur W12 S with a 626 horsepower 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 engine powering an all-wheel-drive system capable of 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds to a top speed of 202 mph. Customer deliveries start at the end of the year.

New Land Rover Discovery Debuts Sept. 28

The Land Rover Discovery full-sized, seven-seat SUV, going on sale in U.S. in mid-2017, will come in Discovery and Discovery Sport models. Its world premiere is September 28, ahead of the Paris Auto Show.

Genesis G90 Starts At $69,050 At The End Of The Month

The Genesis G90 flagship luxury sedan, which will compete at the top of the premium luxury car segment, has a starting price of $69,050 (including $950 freight charge), with an all-new 365 horsepower 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine. The G90 also offers a 420 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 GDI engine with a starting price of $70,650 and adds premium amenities. Standard safety & technology features include Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Driver Attention Alert, Smart Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning, Dynamic Bending Light and High Beam Assist, Multi-view and forward-view cornering camera and front and rear parking sensors. The G90 will be available in Genesis retailers at the end of this month, and is offered in both rear-wheel and all–wheel drive.

Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe Coming In The First Quarter Of 2017

The new Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe powered by a 362 horsepower AMG-enhanced 3.0L V6 biturbo engine mated to an AMG-enhanced 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission with shortened shift times and the AMG Performance 4MATIC® all-wheel drive, joins the Mercedes product portfolio as the AMG-engineered version of the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe announced earlier this year. The Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe has AMG Sport Suspension based on the multi-chamber air suspension system, AIR BODY CONTROL, with adaptive damping adjustment, is able adjust ground clearance at the touch of a button and has pneumatic all-round self-levelling to ensure constant vehicle level at all times. The new Mercedes-AMG GLC43 Coupe will have its world premiere on September 28th at the Paris Auto Show and will be available in U.S. dealerships in the first quarter of 2017.

August 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac) sold a total of 256,429 vehicles in August, down 5.2 percent from last August while year-to-date sales of 1,962,602 is a decline of 4.2 percent from the first eight months of 2015.

Ford Motor Company August sales totaled 214,482 vehicles, an 8.4 percent decline. Lincoln sales rose 7 percent in the U.S. in August versus a year ago with 9,243 vehicles sold. Year-to-date total sales of 1,784,009, is a 1.9 percent increase.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported August 2016 sales of 213,125, a decrease of 5 percent from August 2015. Toyota division posted August sales of 182,187, down 4.6 percent. Lexus posted August sales of 30,938, down 7.6 percent. Year-to-date sales of 1,625,158 is a 2.9 percent drop from a year ago.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 196,756, a 3 percent increase compared with sales in August 2015 while year-to-date sales of 1,531,247 is up 5 percent from 2015.

American Honda reported strong August sales of 149,571 Honda and Acura vehicles, a 3.8 percent decrease over August 2015. Honda Division sales totaled 135,325 down 3.5 percent while Acura Division sales were down 7 percent on sales of 14,246. Year-to-date American Honda sales of 1,094,725 is 3.8 percent higher than 2015.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for August 2016 of 124,638, a decrease of 6.5 percent over the prior year. Nisan division sales 114,199 was a 6.9 percent decline and Infiniti sales of 10,439 was a 18. percent drop over last year. Year-to-date Nissan Group sales of 1,055,227 is a 5.4 percent increase of 2015.

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai & Genesis brands) delivered its best August ever with sales of 72,015, 3 more vehicles over one year ago while year-to-date sales of 521,078 is 1.3 percent higher than a year ago.

Kia Motors America announced August sales of 54,248, a 7.9 percent decrease from a year ago while year-to-date sales of 442,544 is an increase of 3.8 percent over 2015.

Subaru of America reported 60,418 vehicle sales for August 2016, a 14.7 percent increase over August 2015 sales for the best-ever sales month in company history, breaking the previous record set in December 2015 while year-to-date sales of 391,969 vehicles, a 4.4 percent gain over the same period in 2015.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported record August sales of 28,404 vehicles, increasing 0.1 percent from the same month last year. Mercedes-Benz Vans also reported best-ever August sales with 3,152, up 39.5 percent and smart reported 353, bringing MBUSA grand total to 31,909 vehicles for the month, up 2.1 percent from last year. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 219,704. Adding year-to-date-sales of 22,186 for Vans and 3,439 for smart, MBUSA posted a grand total of 245,329 units in August, increasing 0.7 percent from the previous year.

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported August sales of 30,500 vehicles, a decrease of 7.2 percent from the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are down 9.2 percent on sales of 239,631 vehicles in the first eight months of 2016 compared to the same period in 2015. Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 8.0 percent in August for a total of 25,531 compared to vehicles sold in August 2015. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is down 8.3 percent in the U.S. on sales of 204,744 vehicles compared to the first eight months of 2015.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 29,384, a 9.1 percent fall from last August while year-to-date sales of 207,156 is a 13 percent decline from 2015. Separately, Audi of America reported its best-ever August sales of 19,264 vehicles, an increase of 2.5 percent while year-to-date sales have risen 3.5 percent to 134,562 vehicles sold.

Mazda North American Operations reported August U.S. sales of 26,109 vehicles, representing a decrease of 12.8 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through August are 199,378 vehicles, down 7.7 percent.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 7,682 vehicles, a 30.9 percent increase versus August 2015 while year-to-date sales are up 29.5 percent year-over-year.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported August 2016 sales of 7,336 down 11.5 percent from August of 2015. Year-to-date sales of 67,160 is up 2.2 percent from 2015.

Porsche Cars North America announced August 2016 retail sales of 5,181 vehicles, a 3.5 percent increase compared to August 2015 for the second best sales month in company history. Year-to-date retail sales of 35,767 vehicles is up 2.6 percent from the previous year.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Hyundai Hydrogen Fuel Cell Tucson Lease Still Offered With Free Fuel

The Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell zero-emissions, hydrogen-powered vehicle, which began mass production in February 2013, continues its lease program to Califronia customers for $499 per month for a 36-month term, with a $2,999 down payment with unlimited complimentary hydrogen refueling and At Your Service Valet Maintenance at no extra cost. The Hyundai Tucson Fuel Cell vehicle has a driving range of 265 miles and a refueling time similar to gasoline vehicle of same size at about five minutes.

2017 Chevrolet Colorado Adds New Engine In The 4th Quarter

The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado, like its GMC Canyon sibling, offers an all-new 308 horsepower V-6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) which disables two cylinders under light throttle applications. It is the latest major update for Colorado, which entered the market for model year 2015. The 2017 model year updates, including the new V-6 and eight-speed combination, will arrive at dealerships in the fourth quarter of this year.

General Motors Chevy-based TARDEC Truck

General Motors and the U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) will reveal a Chevrolet Colorado-based fuel cell electric vehicle in October at the Fall meeting of the Association of the United States Army in Washington, D.C.

2017 GMC Canyon Adds Denali and All Terrain X Models

The 2017 GMC Canyon lineup adds a new range-topping Canyon Denali, with chrome exterior details and unique wheels, and new off-road-inspired All Terrain X, both powered by a new 308 horsepower 3.6L V-6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The All Terrain model features like off-road suspension and transfer case shield and Hill Descent Control, along with an optional 2.8L Duramax turbo-diesel engine available. The 2017 model year updates, including the new V-6 and eight-speed combination, will arrive at dealerships in the fourth quarter of this year.

Toyota Connected CEO, President Zack Hicks Discusses Start-Up

Zack Hicks, CEO & President of Toyota Connected discusses new Toyota start-up aimed at providing user-friendly technology for drivers. Toyota Connected, Inc., based in Plano, Texas, will expand data management and data services development serving as a data science hub for Toyota’s global operations and will support a broad range of consumer-, business- and government- facing initiatives. Toyota Connected will leverage the power of data science through Microsoft’s Azure cloud technology to develop predictive, contextual, and intuitive services that help to humanize the driving experience. Program areas will include in-car services and telematics; home/IoT connectivity; personalization; safety; smart city integration; and a broad range data services for Toyota affiliates, its dealers; fleet services and more. Toyota Connected says it will operate in full support of Federal Trade Commission’s Privacy Principles for Vehicle Technologies and Services.

Cadillac Escala Concept

The Cadillac Escala Concept large 4-door sedan powered by a new 4.2-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine utilizes Cadillac’s new RWD-centric large luxury car architecture and features an expansive liftback design is 210.5 inches long overall, roughly 6 inches longer than today’s CT6.

Lamborghini Centenario Roadster Sold Out At $2.26 Million Each

The Lamborghini Centenario Roadster with limited production of 20 worldwide to be delivered through 2017, is powered by a 770 horsepower V12 naturally aspirated engine in a body made completely of carbon fiber. The car is equipped with an extending rear wing for downforce at high speeds and rear-wheel steering. Accelerating from 0-62 mph in just 2.9 seconds the Centenario Roadster’s top speed is more than 217 mph. Like the Lamborghini Centenario Coupé all 20 Roadsters have already been sold for a starting price of $2,264,900.

2017 Nissan Armada Starts At $45,395 Now

The all-new 2017 Nissan Armada full-size, 8-passenger SUV, offered in SV, SL and Platinum trim levels, is powered by a new 390-horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 engine mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission and is 1.2 inches longer on a 2.1-inch shorter wheelbase, 0.6-inch wider and 2.2-inches lower in height than its predecessor. The new Armada offers standard towing capacity of 8,500 pounds for both 4WD and 2WD models (when properly equipped). Pricing for the Armada SV two-wheel drive model, which is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide, starts at $45,395 (including $995 Destination and Handling) and goes up to $60,985 for the Armada Platinum AWD. Fuel economy will be announced at a later date.

2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Starts At $62,135 Later This Year

The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 powered by a 650-horsepower supercharged LT4 6.2L V-8 engine
mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission will be priced at $62,135 (including destination charge) for coupe models and $69,135 for convertibles, when they go on sale later this year. The 1LE package is a $4,500 MSRP option on Camaro V-6 LT coupe models and $6,500 on the V-8 1SS coupe model. For LT coupes, the 1LE package features the Camaro SS’s FE3 suspension, while the 1SS has the ZL1’s electronic limited-slip differential and FE4 suspension with Magnetic Ride dampers.

2017 BMW 740e xDrive Starts At $90,095 This Month

The new 2017 BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance is powered by a plug-in hybrid drive system using a 255 horsepower four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo gasoline engine and an electrical unit with maximum output of 111 horsepower integrated into the 8-speed Steptronic transmission to generate a system output of 322 horsepower. The BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance can be driven in all-electric mode up to 75 mph. Combined fuel economy of 64 MPGe and an all-electric range of 14 miles is possible (EPA official figures). The 0 to 60 mph time is 5.1 seconds with a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph.The eDrive button on the center console allows the driver to select from the AUTO eDRIVE, MAX eDRIVE and Battery Control settings, to determine the operating approach of the plug-in hybrid drive system. The high-voltage lithium-ion battery has a gross capacity of 9.2 kWh (net capacity: 6.5 kWh) and consists of 96 cells arranged in six modules with its own cooling system integrated into the climate control system for the interior. The 2017 BMW 740e xDrive iPerformance is already in production and will arrive at U.S. dealerships in August starting at $90.095 (including $995 Destination and Handling).

July 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick and Cadillac) total sales in July were 267,258 vehicles, down 1.9 percent. Through the first seven months of the year, total GM sales are 1,706,173, down 4 percent.

Ford Motor Company’s U.S. sales were 216,479, down 3 percent. Year-to-date sales of 1,569,527 is 3.5 percent higher than last year.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported July 2016 sales of 214,233, a decrease of 1.4 percent from July 2015. Toyota division posted July 2016 sales of 186,343, down 0.5 percent while Lexus posted July sales of 27,890, down 6.5 percent. Year-to-date total Toyota sales of 1,412,033 is a 2.5 percent decline from a year ago.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 180,727, up 0.3 percent compared with sales in July 2015. Year-to-date sales of 1,325,536 is a 4 percent gain over last year.

American Honda Motor reported July sales of 152,799 Honda and Acura vehicles, a 4.4 percent gain over last July and a new July record. The Honda Division set a new July total vehicle sales record, rising 5.9 percent on sales of 139,125.

Nissan Group (Nissan and Infiniti)  announced total U.S. sales for July 2016 of 132,475, an increase of 1 percent over the prior year, setting a July record. Year-to-date sales of 930,589 is a 7.3 percent increase over a year ago.

Hyundai Motor America reported sales of 75,003 for July, up 5.6 percent over a year ago and the company’s best July ever. Year-to-date sales of 449,063 is a 1.3 percent increase over a year ago.

Kia Motors America reported best-ever July sales of 59,969, up 6.5 percent over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 388,296 is a 5.7 percent gain over a year ago.

Subaru of America reported record July 2016 sales of 52,093 vehicles, a 3.1 percent gain over the same month a year ago. Subaru also reported year-to-date sales of 331,551 vehicles, a 2.7 percent gain over the same period in 2015.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 28,758 delivered in July. Year-to-dates sales of 177,772, are down 13.6 percent. Separately, Audi reported that its July sales increased 4 percent to 18,364 vehicles for its best July in the brand’s U.S. history. Year-to-date sales have risen 3.6 percent to 115,298 vehicles sold.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported record July sales of 28,523 vehicles, increasing 3.6 percent from the same month last year. Mercedes-Benz Vans also reported best-ever July sales of 3,272, and smart reported sales of 493, up 11.8 percent bringing MBUSA grand total to 32,288 vehicles for the month, up 7.2 percent from last year.

Mazda North American Operations reported July U.S. sales of 27,915 vehicles, representing an increase of 2.8 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through July are 173,269 vehicles.

Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 4.4 percent in July for a total of 25,777 compared to July 2015. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is down 8.4 percent in the U.S. on sales of 179,213 compared to the first seven months of 2015.

Jaguar Land Rover sales hit 9,473, a 51 percent increase from July 2015 for the best July sales month ever, with Jaguar sales at 3,398, up 174 percent and Land Rover sales reached 6,075, up 21 percent. Year-to-date, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales reached 57,112, up 23 percent from 2015 with Jaguar sales at 14,389, up 59 percent and Land Rover at 42,723, up 14 percent from 2015.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 8,584 vehicles, a 52.8 percent increase versus July 2015 and marking the thirteenth consecutive month the company posted double digit sales growth. Year-to-date sales are up 29.3 percent year-over-year.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported July 2016 sales of 7,890 up slightly from July of last year. Year-to-date sales of 59,824 is a 4.2 percent gain over a year ago.

Porsche Cars North America announced July 2016 sales of 3,878 vehicles, an 18 percent decrease in vehicle deliveries compared to July 2015. Year-to-date, sales stand at 30,586, a year-over-year increase of 2.4 percent.

2017 Genesis G80 - Hyundai's Luxury Brand Flaghip Car

The 2017 Genesis G80 mid-luxury sedan, offered in rear-wheel-drive or HTRAC® All-Wheel-Drive, is powered by either a 311 horsepower 3.8-liter Lambda engine or a 420 horsepower 5.0-liter Tau V8 engine, both mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual shift capability with steering wheel paddle shifters. Saftey features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist and Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-traffic Alert. The Genesis G80, Hyundai's luxury brand's new flagship car, targets shoppers of the Cadillac CTS, Lexus GS, Infiniti Q70, BMW 5-Series and Mercedes E-Class.

2017 Nissan Pathfinder Coming This Fall

The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder has a new 284 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine ((up from the previous 260 horsepower) with maximum towing capacity increasing by 1,000 pounds to 6,000 pounds (when properly equipped). Exterior enhancements include new front bumper, fog lights, outside rearview mirrors with integrated turn signals and new 18-inch and 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheel designs. In the rear, changes include new taillight and bumper designs. Available advanced Driver Assistance technology includes new Forward Emergency Braking and Intelligent Cruise Control. Moving Object Detection has been added to the available Around View® Monitor and Blind Spot Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also offered. There's an available Motion-Activated liftgate with liftgate position memory, which is standard on SL and Platinum grades. The 2017 Nissan Pathfinder goes on sale at Nissan dealerships nationwide this Fall.

2017 Porsche Panamera

The new 2017 Porsche Panamera offers a choice of the 550 horsepower Panamera Turbo and the 440 horsepower Panamera 4S mated to a new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and equipped with all-wheel drive as standard. The Panamera now features a new three-chamber air suspension, rear axle steering and the new electronic 4D Chassis Control chassis management system. Porsche Connect is being introduced in all models. Since it launched in 2009, over 150,000 Panameras have been sold.

June 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, GMC) sold 255,210 vehicles, down 1.6 percent and through the first six months of the year, GM sales are 1,438,915, down 4.4 percent from the first half of 2015.

Ford Motor Company’s June sales were 240,109 vehicles, up 6 percent with first-half total U.S. sales of 1,353,048, up 5 percent for its best first-half performance since 2006.

Toyota Motor Sales reported June 2016 sales of 198,257, a decrease of 5.6 percent from June 2015. For the first half of the year, TMS reported sales of 1,197,800, down 2.7 percent versus the same period in 2015. Toyota division posted June 2016 sales of 172,478, down 6.2 percent and Lexus posted June sales of 25,779, down 1.3 percent.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 197,073, a 7 percent increase compared with sales in June 2015 and the group’s best June sales in 11 years. Year-to-date sales of 1,152,259 is a 6 percent rise over the first of 2015.

Nissan Group (Nissan and Infiniti) announced total U.S. sales for June 2016 of 140,553, an increase of 13 percent over the prior year and a June record. Year-to-date sales of 798,114 is an 8.4 percent rise over 2015. Nissan Division June sales were 129,495, up 13.4 percent over June 2015 while Infinti June sales were 11,058, a gain of 10.7 percent.

American Honda reported June sales of 138,715 Honda and Acura vehicles, a year-over-year increase of 3.2 percent. Total American Honda six-month sales of Honda and Acura vehicles are 792,355, up 5.2 percent versus year-ago results.

Hyundai Motor America reported sales of 67,511 for the month of June, up 9 vehicles over a year ago and the company’s best June ever. Year-to-date sales of 374,061 is up 0.8 percent over last year and represents Hyundai’s best first six months ever.

Kia Motors America’s June sales of 62,572 is a 15.6 percent jump over the same period last year capping the greatest quarter and half-year performances in company history. Kia’s year-to-date sales of 328,327 is up 5.6 percent over 2015.

Subaru of America reported record sales for June 2016 totaling 46,598 vehicles, a 5.1 percent gain over June 2015. Year-to-date sales of 279,458 vehicles is a 2.6 percent gain over the same period in 2015.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 23,809 in June down 21.8 percent from a year ago and year-to-date sales of 149,014 is a 14.6 percent drop from the first half of 2015. Separately, Audi reported that its June 2016 sales increased 1 percent to 18,445 vehicles with year-to-date sales of 96,934, up 3.5 percent.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported June sales of 28,473 vehicles, which closes out the second-quarter at 162,777 year-to-date. Mercedes-Benz Vans also reported best-ever June sales with 3,085 units, and smart reported 407 units, bringing MBUSA grand total to 31,965 vehicles for the month, up 2.3 percent from last year.

BMW brand vehicle June sales of 28,855 is a decrease of 10.3 percent in June compared to June 2015. Year-to-date, BMW brand sales of 153,436 is down 9 percent compared to the first half of 2015.

Mazda North American Operations reported June U.S. sales of 26,188 vehicles, representing a decrease of 3.8 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through June are 145,354 vehicles, down 8.6 percent from a year ago.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 8,454 vehicles, a 41.3 percent increase versus June 2015. Year-to-date sales are up 24.4 percent year-over-year.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported June 2016 sales of 8,023 up one percent from June of last year. Total calendar year 2016 sales are 51,934, up five percent over last year.

2017 Honda Accord Starts at $23,190

2017 Honda Accord Sedan and Coupe with a new Sport Special Edition, are available in a variety of trims, with 4-cylinder and V6 powertrains, 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions, and a continuously variable transmission. The Accord Sedan with the 185 horsepower 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine with manual transmission starts at $23,190 (including $835 destination charge). Topping the Accord sedan line-up is the Touring model with a 278 horsepower 3.5 liter V6 engine mated to an automatic transmission that starts at $35,665. The refreshed 2017 Accord Hybrid, featuring a new version of Honda's two-motor hybrid powertrain technology launched earlier this month.

2017 Honda Ridgeline On Sale Now

2017 Honda Ridgeline mid-size pickup, completely redesigned with a direct-injected 280 horsepower 3.5-liter i-VTEC™ V-6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and available new Intelligent Variable Torque Management™ torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, starts at $29,475 for the RT 2WD and $31,275 for RT AWD.

2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback Starts At $22,190 This Fall

The all-new 2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback with the Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine, offered in LT and Premier trims, and RS package, will start at $22,190 (including the destination charge) when it arrives in dealerships this Fall.

Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Coupe Coming In First Quarter 2017

Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Coupe, with a 592 horsepower 6.0L V12 engine and a projected 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds, will have a limited production run of 99 cars with deliveries starting in the first quarter of 2017.

May 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac) sold 240,450 vehicles in May, down 18 percent from last May. Year-to-date sales of 1,183,705, is 5.0 percent lower than the first five months of last year.

Ford Motor Company had May U.S. sales of 235,997 vehicles, a decline of 6 percent versus a year ago. Ford division May sales were 226,190, down 6.4 percent and year-to-date are 1,068,451, up 3.8 percent. Lincoln sales for May were 9,807, up 6.9 percent and year-to-date are 44,488, up 14.7 percent. Year-to-date total Ford sales are 1,112,939, up 4.2 percent over the first five months of last year.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported May 2016 sales of 219,339, a decrease of 9.6 percent from May 2015. Toyota division posted May 2016 sales of 192,657, down 9.5 percent. Lexus posted sales of 26,682, down 10.1 percent. Total year-to-date sales of 1,021,528 is a 2.2 percent drop from 2015.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 204,452, a 1 percent increase compared with sales in May 2015 for the best May sales in 11 years. Year-to-date sales of 955,186 is a 6 percent rise over 2015.

American Honda reported May sales of 147,108, a year-over-year decline of 4.8 percent and year-to-date American Honda sales of 653,640 is up 5.7 percent versus year-ago. Honda division May sales of 133,547 was a drop of 1.3 percent and Acura sales of 13,561 was a 20.4 percent drop from last May.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for May 2016 of 133,496, a decrease of 1 percent over the prior year. Year-to-date sales are 612,255, up 7.4 percent. Infiniti Division sales of 10,828 in May was down 0.7 percent from May 2015.

Hyundai Motor America reported their best all-time sales of 71,006 for the month of May, up 12 percent versus one year ago and year-to-date sales of 306,549 is 1 percent higher than a year ago.

Kia Motors America announced best-ever May sales of 62,926, 0.8 percent higher than May 2015 and year-to-dates sales of 265,755 is a 3.5 percent increase over 2015.

Subaru of America reported record May sales totaling 50,083 vehicles, a 1.1 percent gain over May 2015 and year-to-date sales of 232,860 vehicles was a 2.1 percent gain over the same period in 2015.

Volkswagen of America reported May sales of 28,779, down 17.2 percent from May 2015. Year-to-date sales of 125,205 is a 13.1 percent drop from year ago. Separately, Audi of America reported May sales of 18,728 vehicles, an increase of 1.6 percent for its fourth-best monthly result in the U.S. and year-to-date sales of 75,353 is a gain of 4.2 percent of 2015.      

Mercedes-Benz USA reported May sales of 29,299 vehicles, down 1 percent compared to May 2015. Mercedes-Benz Vans sales were 2,848, and smart reported 420 for the month, bringing MBUSA grand total to 32,567 vehicles down 1.9 percent compared to May 2015, and 149,167 sold year-to-date, a drop of 1.1 percent vs. last year.

BMW brand vehicles were 29,017 in May, a decrease of 6.4 percent compared to May, 2015. Year-to-date, BMW brand sales of 124,581 is down 8.7 percent compared to the first five months of 2015.

Mazda North American Operations reported May U.S. sales of 28,328 vehicles, representing a decrease of 4.3 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through May are 119,166 vehicles, down 9.6 percent.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported May 2016 sales of 9,025, down 5.7 percent from last May and year-to-date sales of 43,911 up 5.6 percent for the year.

Porsche Cars North America announced May 2016 sales of 4,578 vehicles, up 7.3 percent compared to May 2015. Year-to-date sales of 22,226 is a 6.3 percent gain over a year ago.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 5,536 vehicles, a 10.2 percent increase versus May 2015. Year-to-date sales are up 20 percent versus 2015.

All sales are reported as total volume despite this May having two fewer selling days.

2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO Makes World Debut At The Nürburgring

The new all-wheel-drive 2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO, with new fascia, reinforced hood and interior along with a redesigned dashboard and steering wheel, is powered by a 600 horsepower twin-turbocharged 3.8 liter V6 engine mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission. The car's new shape generates more downforce than any other Nissan production car to date for high-speed stability. The 2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO will be available in four exterior colors.

2017 Subaru BRZ Coming In September

The 2017 Subaru BRZ receives several internal updates for friction reduction including new valves, camshaft and cylinder heads in its 205 horsepower 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER engine with the 6-speed manual transmission and accompanied with a new aluminum intake manifold and redesigned exhaust manifold for increased air flow. Subaru offers the 2017 BRZ in Premium and Limited trims and a Performance Package is available on the Limited model with the manual transmission that includes Brembo® calipers and larger rotors on both front and rear brakes. All trims now receive an aluminum rear spoiler in matching body color and black finish. The Premium and Limited models will begin arriving at retailers in early September while the Limited with the Performance Package will arrive at retailers Winter 2017.

2017 Subaru Outback and Legacy Coming Next Month

The 2017 Subaru Outback, the fifth generation Outback, offered in four trim levels, starts at $26,520 (including $875 Destination & Delivery). Outback comes standard with a 2.5-liter Boxer engine and Lineartronic CVT with manual mode and paddle shifters that achieves 25 mpg city/32 mpg EPA-estimated fuel economy. New for 2017, Limited and Touring trim models receive Reverse Automatic Braking, which detects object when reversing and automatically triggers an alert and brakes the vehicle to avoid a collision and High Beam Assist as standard, in addition to Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Outback Limited and Touring models are also available with a 256-horsepower 3.6 liter, 6-cylinder Boxer engine teamed to a high-torque Lineartronic CVT with manual mode and paddle shifters.

The 2017 Subaru Legacy 2.5i, featuring a 175-horsepower 2.5-liter Boxer engine and standard Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with manual mode and paddle shifters, has a starting MSRP of $22,870 (including $875 Destination & Delivery). Legacy Limited models are also available with a 256-horsepower 3.6 liter, 6-cylinder Boxer engine.

Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Concept

The Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Concept, the fifth car from the Aston Martin collaboration with Zagato's design language, is entirely shaped from carbon fiber, with the split lines on the body reduced by the use of large one-piece panels and is powered by a 592 horsepower V12 engine.

2016 Infiniti Q50 3.0t Starts At $40,805 Now

The 2016 Infiniti Q50 3.0t with the all-new 300-horsepower 3.0-liter V6 twin turbo engine, starts at $40,805 (including $905 destination and handling) for the Premium rear wheel drive model. The 2016 Infiniti Q50 with a new 2.0-liter I4 turbo starts at $34,855. The Q50 also offers a 3.5-liter V6 hybrid, and the performance flagship of the Q50 portfolio, the Q50 Red Sport 400 equipped with an 400-horsepower version of the 3.0-liter V6 twin turbo engine has a starting MSRP of $48,885. The new Q50 3.0t models complete the 2016 Q50 lineup, which now offers a choice of four powerplants and 12 models now at Infiniti retailers nationwide.

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.