Orange County Auto Show Offers Ride and Drives

What To See In OC This Weekend

Take a test drive on the streets around the Anaheim Convention Center or bounce around on the rugged terrain inside at Camp Jeep.

This Chevrolet Camaro 2SS with a 640 horsepower supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission is priced at $54,780.

Hyundai's new luxury Genesis brand displays the Genesis G90 (left) both the 365 horsepower 3.3 liter V6 that starts at $68,100 and 420 horsepower 5.0 liter V8 that starts at $69,700 and the Genesis G80 (in the background) with its 311 horsepower 3.8 liter V6 that starts at $41,400.

Maserati Levante SUV with its 350 horsepower 3.0L twin-turbo GDI V6 starts at $72,000.

2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan will get an EPA-expected 80 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) in the city with an all-electric range of 30 miles.

Subaru WRX STI Limited/w wing/HUV 305-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged/intercooled BOXER enginemated to a 6-speed manual transmission starts at $35,195, this one costs $41,374.

2016 Ford Focus RS all-wheel-drive is powered by a 350-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine.

For the first time there's a commercial truck display at the OC Auto Show.

There's a basement full of exotics, like this Ferrari, to feed your dreams or drain your wallet.

The Orange County Auto Show opened yesterday and runs through Sunday.

Rinspeed Oasis EV Concept Coming To CES In January

The Oasis two-seat self-driving electric concept vehicle, created by Rinspeed's Swiss boss Frank Rinderknecht, offers an interior like a modern-day family room with armchair, sideboard, TV, and a multifunctional steering wheel and the windshield also serves as a screen for virtual as well as augmented reality. Oasis will be on display at CES in Las Vegas in January 2017.

2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Coming In Early 2017 Starting At $32,390

The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF (Retractable Fastback) two seater with a 155 horsepower 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G direct-injection engine paired with either a six-speed SKYACTIV-MT manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission starts from $32,390 (including $835 for destination and handling). The Retractable Fastback has a 4.6-inch full-color TFT gauge and the availability of Machine Gray Metallic paint in substitution of Meteor Gray Mica that is available on the soft top. For 2017, all MX-5 Club models will come standard with Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, regardless of their roof option. Presale orders are being taken as production just began for North American and European markets, where sales launches begin in early 2017.

September 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac) sold 249,795 vehicles, down 0.6 percent. Year-to-date sales of 2,212,397 is a 3.8 percent decline from a year ago.

Ford and Lincoln U.S. September sales totaled 204,447 vehicles, a 7.7 percent decline versus a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 1,988,456 is a gain of 0.8 percent from a year ago.

Toyota Motor Sales (including Lexus) reported September 2016 sales of 197,260, an increase of 1.5 percent from September 2015. Toyota Division posted September sales of 171,459, up 1.4 percent. Year-to-date sales of 1,822,419 is down 2.4 percent.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 192,883 units, a 1 percent decrease compared with sales in September 2015. Year-to-date sales of 1,714,360 is up 4 percent from a year ago.

American Honda (including Acura) reported September sales of 133,655 Honda and Acura vehicles, a 0.1 percent decrease from September 2015. Honda Division set a new September mark, gaining 1.5 percent on total sales of 120,842. Year-to-date American Honda sales of 1,228,380 is up 3.3 percent from 2015.

Nissan Group (Nissan and Infiniti) total U.S. sales for September 2016 of 127,797, is an increase of 4.9 percent over the prior year and a September record. Year-to-date sales of 1,183,024 is a 5.4 percent increase over 2015.

Hyundai Motor America posted its best September ever, with sales of 66,610, up 4 percent year-over-year. Year-to-date sales of 587,688 is a 1.6 percent gain over 2015.

Kia Motors America September sales of 49,220 was down 1.2 percent from a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 491,764 are up 3.3 percent.

Subaru of America reported 54,918 vehicle sales for September 2016, a 3.5 percent increase over September 2015 while year-to-date sales of 446,887 vehicles is a 4.2 percent gain over the same period in 2015.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported best-ever September sales of 29,500 vehicles, increasing 1.7 percent from the same month last year. Mercedes-Benz Vans also reported best-ever September sales with 2,970 up 28.2 percent and smart reported 605, bringing MBUSA total sales to 33,075 vehicles for the month, up 3.1 percent from last year. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 249,204. Adding year-to-date-sales of 25,156 for Vans and 4,044 for smart, MBUSA posted a sales total of 278,404 increasing 1 percent from the previous year.

Sales of BMW brand vehicles of 25,389 was a decrease of 4.6 percent in September. Year-to-date, BMW brand sales are 249,956, down 7.9 percent.

Mazda North American Operations reported September U.S. sales of 24,889 vehicles, a decrease of 2.8 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through September are 224,267 vehicles, down 7.2 percent.

Volkswagen of America reported September sales of 24,112, a 7.8 percent drop from a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 231,268 is a 12.5 percent decline from a year ago. Separately, Audi reported sales for September increased 1.6 percent to 17,617 vehicles, while year-to-date sales have risen 3.2 percent to 152,179.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported September 2016 sales of 7,191, down 4.8 percent from September of 2015. Sales for the year of 74, 351 are up at 1.5 percent over the previous year.

Volvo Car USA, reported U.S. sales of 5,615 vehicles, a 1.6 percent increase versus September 2015. Year-to-date sales of 58,532 are up 26.2 percent year-over-year.

Porsche Cars North America announced an all-time September sales record of 4,479 vehicles, up 1.2 percent compared to the same month last year. Year-to-date retail sales stand at 40,246 vehicles, up 2.4 percent compared to last year.

Garia Luxury Electric Golf Carts Use Lithium Batteries

Garia, the high-end Danish golf car manufacturer, has released a new Golf model (above left) that weighs 880 lbs. including batteries. Garia’s lithium batteries offer benefits of having no maintenance, reduced weight resulting in less turf compaction, overall lower cost of ownership, a 5-year battery warranty, and a battery life of 10 years, double conventional electric cart lead-acid batteries.

The $50,000 Mercedes Benz Style Edition Garia Golf Car (above right) which debuted at The Open in Scotland in mid-June, was recently on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum. Garia is a privately held company, founded in 2005 and is headquartered in Denmark, with a subsidiary in the U.S. and Sales offices in UK and Asia Pacific. Garia golf cart prices start at $15,000.

Energica Eva High Performance Electric Motorcycle For $34,000

Energica Eva has a 95 horsepower permanent magnet AC oil cooled motor without a clutch or transmission providing seamless acceleration similar to a Tesla car. Energica Eva has a range up to 124 miles (ECO mode) and can reach a top speed of 124 mph in Sport mode. Each component assembled on the $34,000 Eva is made by double layer carbon fiber, three layers for specific reinforced parts, autoclaved. It comes in electric green or dark blue. The streetfighter is fully compatible with commercial recharging stations or can be charged at home. Energica Eva is the only electric streetfighter in the world with an integrated fast charge system on board.

On sale since early July at Galleria Energica at 53 Page Street in San Francisco, orders can be made online at: http://www.energicamotor.com/en/configuratore/EA

Energica, a subsidiary of 46-year old high-performance auto supplier CRP Group, is the first Italian manufacturer of supersport electric motorcycles and are manufactured in Modena, Italy.

Mercedes-Benz "Generation EQ" Concept

Mercedes-Benz "Generation EQ" concept vehicle, with four individual seats, is powered by 402 horsepower in two electric motors on the front and rear axles and a battery in the vehicle floor, with a range of up to 310 miles. "Generation EQ" accelerates to 62 mph in under five seconds.

Volkswagen I.D. Concept Car Arrives In 2020

The Volkswagen I.D. concept car, the first Volkswagen built off the Modular Electric Drive kit, uses a 168-horsepower electric motor and has a range of between 249 and 373 miles on a single battery charge with zero to 62 mph acceleration in less than 8 seconds and a top speed of 99 mph. The rapid charging system brings the battery to 80 percent charged after just 30 minutes. I.D. is the first Volkswagen that is capable of fully automated driving. It is due to go on sale in 2020, fueling Volkswagen's goal of selling a million electric cars a year by 2025.

BMW Concept X2

BMW Concept X2 makes its world premiere.

Honda Civic Type R Prototype Coming Next Year

The new Honda Civic Type R Prototype, with styling insight into the next-generation Civic Type R, will make its North American debut at the 2016 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, November 1-4, 2016, marking the arrival of the first-ever Honda-badged Type R in the U.S. It will be officially unveiled in 2017.

2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO On Sale Now For $176,585

The new 2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO is powered by a 600-horsepower twin turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine with independent rear transaxle all-wheel drive system controlled by a paddle-shifted sequential 6-speed dual clutch transmission, which can be driver selected to shift at race car-like speeds. The new 2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO, with 35 more horsepower than 2017 GT-R Premium models, is priced at $176,585 (including destination and handling of $1,595) and is on sale now after the new 2017 GT-R Premium model went on sale earlier this summer for $111,585.

2017 Jeep Compass Makes Worldwide Debut

The all-new 2017 Jeep Compass compact SUV made its world debut in Brazil and will be produced with 17 powertrain options for consumers in more than 100 countries around the world. The all-new Jeep Compass will make its North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November and be available in North America in the first quarter of 2017.

Land Rover Discovery Starts At $50,985 Mid-2017

The all-new full-size Land Rover Discovery three-row, seven-seat SUV, cutting more than 1,000 pounds from the weight of the outgoing LR4, offers a 340 horsepower supercharged 3.0L gas V-6 engine mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission or a 254 horsepower turbocharged diesel V-6. The new Discovery features a flexible seating that’s instantly configurable from Apple and Android smartphones using remote Intelligent Seat Fold technology. In the US, the all-new Discovery has a maximum towing capacity of 8,201 pounds and will go on sale from mid-2017, priced from $50,985 (including the $995 destination/handling charge).

2018 Chevrolet Equinox Coming First Quarter 2017

The all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox, five-passenger, four-door SUV, approximately 400 pounds lighter than the current model, is offered with a 170 horsepower 1.5L turbo engine mated to a six-speed automatic, a 252 horsepower 2.0L turbo engine matched with GM’s new nine-speed automatic transmission, or a 136 horsepower 1.6L turbo-diesel engine linked to a six-speed automatic transmission. The 2018 Equinox goes on sale in the first quarter of 2017 in North America.

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Starts At $20,535 On Monday

The 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback, available in five trims, is equipped with a 174 horsepower 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected and turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder engine in LX, EX and EX-L Navi trims, and 180 horsepower in the Sport and Sport Touring trims and mated to either a sporty CVT (all trims) or a 6-speed manual transmission. The LX with 6-speed manual transmission that achieves 30 city/39 highway/33 combined MPG has a starting price of $20,535 (including $835 destination charge). The 2017 Civic Hatchback joins the 2016 Civic Sedan and Coupe as the third body style in the 10th-generation Civic lineup, arriving in showrooms starting next Monday.

2017 Mercedes-Benz B250e Starts At $39,900

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz B250e, has a 177 horsepower electric motor, and, depending on driving cycle, has a range of 87 miles (EPA) with a charging time at 240V in the United States of less than 2 hours and can be charged from any standard domestic power socket. For a starting price of $39,900, the B250e drives from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds to an electronically limited top speed of 100 mph. By pressing a button on the console prior to charging, the maximum charge level of the battery will be  increased for the next charge cycle. The higher-capacity charge can provide up to approximately 17 additional miles of range.

2017 Hyundai Elantra GT

The 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT, powered by a standard 173 horsepower 2.0-liter gasoline direct injection engine mated to either a 6-speed manual, or 6-speed automatic, transmission, starts at $19,635 (including $835 freight charge) and delivers EPA rated fuel economy of 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway/27 combined mpg.

smart electric drive Coming In Spring 2017

The new smart electric drive (ED) has an 80 horsepower electric motor that works at the rear of the vehicle and transmits its power via a constant ratio to the wheels. A fully charged battery has sufficient power to cover approximately 99 miles with the maximum speed electronically limited to 81 mph to maximize the range. The U.S. range and overall electric motor specifications to be announced at launch. The high-performance on-board charger cuts charge time giving the U.S. preliminary new generation charge time of 2.5 hours vs. the previous generation charge time of 5.5 hours). The new smart fortwo electric drive will be launched in the U.S. in spring 2017 and the smart fortwo cabrio electric drive in summer 2017. The smart forfour will not be available in the U.S.

2017 Subaru Crosstrek Starts At $22,550 In November

The 2017 Subaru 2.0i Crosstrek with a 148 horsepower 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive starts at $22,550 (including $875 destination & delivery charge). The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) has a 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters and is optional on the 2.0i Premium that starts at $23,370 with additional features like the All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer). Lineartronic CVT is standard on Limited which starts at $26,090. For 2017, a new Premium Special Edition adds additional equipment and is priced at $26,690. The 2017 Crosstrek models will arrive at retailers November 2016.

2017 Audi A4 Offers Six-Speed Manual Transmission For $40,350

The 2017 Audi A4 powered by a 252 horsepower 2.0 TFSI® engine now has an optional six-speed manual transmission that accelerates the car from 0-60 in 5.7 seconds, a 0.7 second improvement over the previous generation. The quattro® with ultra® technology, and the Sport plus package offers S model performance in the entry level variant with S line interior, dynamic steering, sport adaptive suspension, and 18” wheels. The A4 quattro manual starts at $40,350 (including $950 destination charge). The 2017 A4 is also available with a seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch automatic transmission with front-wheel drive or available quattro® all-wheel drive.

Chevrolet Bolt EV Later This Year For $37,495 Before Rebates

The Chevrolet Bolt EV capable of going an EPA-rated 238 miles on a full charge, has a base price of $37,495 (including destination charge) for the well-equipped LT trim. Depending on individual tax situations, customers may receive an available federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for a net value of $29,995. The Bolt EV will be available at select dealerships in late 2016.

Audi R8 In 68th Annual Emmy Awards TV Commercial

Audi of America returns for the sixth consecutive year as the official automotive sponsor and vehicle provider for the Television Academy for the 68th Annual Emmy® Awards. The 2017 Audi R8, with either a 540 horsepower V10 engine or a 610 horsepower V10 plus engine, stars in a new commercial called “Desolation”. The 2017 Audi R8 features Audi Virtual Cockpit, which replaces the classic instrument panel, Audi connect® with 4G LTE connectivity and available Google Earth™ satellite maps. The spot will also air multiple times during the Emmy Awards telecast on Sunday, Sept. 18. “Desolation” was created by Venables Bell & Partners.

Mitsubishi GT-PHEV Concept

The Mitsubishi GT-PHEV Concept next-generation SUV is powered by three motors with an electric-only range of 75 miles and a combined hybrid cruising range of over 745 miles. The triple-motor powertrain, with one unit at the front and two at the rear, delivers full-time four-wheel drive.

Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Roadsters Arrive In The Fall Of 2017

The AMG GT Roadster with 469 horsepower and the AMG GT C Roadster with 550 horsepower produced from 4.0-liter V-8 engines with twin turbochargers mated to AMG SPEEDSHIFT® DCT 7-speed dual-clutch transmissions have a fabric roof that opens and closes in around eleven seconds, up to 31 mph. The AMG GT Roadster accelerates to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and to a top speed of 188 mph and the AMG GT C from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds to a top speed of 196 mph. The AMG GT Roadster has "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport Plus) and the individually programmable setup "I" (Individual) modes while AMG GT C adds a "RACE" setting. The Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster and Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster will arrive in US dealers by Fall of 2017.
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2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid EV Starts At $35,435 Now

The 2017 Hyundai Sonata Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) has 27 miles of all-electric range and can recharge in less than three hours with a Level-Two charger and has a total estimated range of 590 miles. Sonata PHEV’s Nu engine produces 154 horsepower and 140 lb. ft. of torque and the total system output is 202 horsepower. A 2.0-liter Nu four-cylinder GDI engine coupled with the electric motor allows the Sonata Plug-in Hybrid to operate just like the Sonata Hybrid once the onboard battery charge is depleted. Available now starting at $35,435 (including $835 freight charge).

2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo Coming This Fall

The new 2017 Nissan Sentra SR Turbo has a new 188 horsepower 1.6-liter direct injection gas turbocharged engine that delivers 64 more horsepower and 52 more lb-ft of torque than the non-turbo 2017 Sentra S, SV, SR and SL trims and also offers an enhanced body structure, revised steering system, larger front disc brakes, new 6-speed manual or Xtronic transmission with manual mode and unique suspension tuning. The 2017 Sentra SR Turbo includes a standard power sliding glass moonroof and SR Turbo badging. The available SR Turbo Premium Package includes Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, leather-appointed seating and Bose® Premium audio system with eight speakers. The new Sentra SR Turbo joins the popular Sentra sedan lineup later this Fall in Nissan showrooms nationwide.

2018 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid Coming Next Summer

The 2018 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, with standard all-wheel drive and total system output of 462 horsepower (136 horsepower electric motor combining with a new 330 horsepower 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6), always starts in electric mode and continues as a zero-emission vehicle with a maximum all-electric range of 31 miles to a maximum speed on battery power of 86 mph. The Panamera 4 E-Hybrid achieves 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds to a top track speed of 172 mph. The new 2018 Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid is expected to become available in North America by the summer 2017. Pricing will be announced at a later date.

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.