Friday, April 7, 2017

2018 Subaru Outback Arrives This Summer


The 2018 Subaru Outback, with revised front and rear styling, has Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring powered by a 175 horsepower double overhead cam 2.5-liter BOXER engine or a 256 horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder BOXER engine in the Outback 3.6R Lineartronic both mated to a CVT (continuously variable transmission) now with a seven-speed manual mode and paddle shift control switches. The 2018 Outback 2.5i will be available in standard, Premium, Limited and Touring trims while the 3.6R will offer Limited and Touring trims. The 2018 Outback adds available new Steering Responsive Headlights with LED headlights that aim the lights into turns as the driver steers. The Limited and Touring models offer EyeSight Driver Assist Technology feature High Beam Assist, which automatically turns the high beams on and off depending on traffic conditions. Also new for 2018, the tire pressure monitoring system that detects pressure changes at individual tires. The Blind Spot Detection/Rear Cross Traffic Alert indicator lamp is larger and has been moved from the mirror’s surface to its side. Automatic locking doors are also new, and improved LATCH anchors make child seat installation easier. The 2018 Outback arrives this summer.

Monday, April 3, 2017

March 2017 U.S Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac) total March sales were 256,224, up 1.6 percent. Year-to-date sales are 689,521, a gain of 1.9 percent.

Ford Motor Company U.S. March 2017 sales totaled 236,250 vehicles, a 7.2 percent decline versus a year ago. Year-to-date sales are 617,302, down 4.4 percent.

Toyota Motor North America reported its U.S. March 2017 sales of 215,224 units, a decrease of 2.1 percent from March 2016. Toyota division posted March 2017 sales of 187,289 units, down 1.2 percent while Lexus posted sales of 27,935, down 7.5 percent.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 190,254, a 5 percent decrease compared with sales in March 2016. Year-to-date sales are 510,798, down 8 percent.

Nissan Group announced U.S. sales in March 2017 set an all-time record at 168,832 units, an increase of 3 percent over the prior year.

American Honda Motor reported total March sales of 137,227 Honda and Acura vehicles, a decrease of 0.7 percent over March 2016. Honda Division was up 1.8 percent on sales of 125,531 units while Acura Division sales were down 21.2 percent in March, on sales of 11,696 vehicles.

Hyundai Motor America reported sales of 69,265 for the month of March, down eight percent versus a record-setting March 2016. Year-to-date sales are 168,792.

Kia Motors America announced March sales of 49,429 units. Year-to-date sales are 127,728.

Subaru of America reported 54,871 vehicle sales for March 2017, an 11.3 percent increase over March 2016, and the best March in the history of the company. The automaker also reported year-to-date sales of 144,250 vehicles, a 9 percent gain over the same period in 2016.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 27,635 in March 2017, a 2.7 percent increase over March 2016. Year-to-date sales through March are 76,290, an increase of 10.1 percent. Separately,  Audi of America reported March sales of 18,705, an increase of 2 percent.

Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 3.3 percent in March for a total of 31,015 compared to March, 2016. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 1.5 percent in the U.S. on sales of 71,682 vehicles compared to the first three months of 2016.

Mercedes-Benz reported March sales of 29,092, up 3.3 percent from the same month last year. Adding 2,871 units for Vans and 389 units for smart, Mercedes-Benz USA achieved a grand total of 32,352 vehicles for the month, up 2 percent from a year ago. Year-to-date, MBUSA also achieved a record close of 87,635 units, up 3.9 percent.

Mazda North American Operations reported March U.S. sales of 24,549 vehicles, representing an increase of 4.9 percent versus March of last year. Year-to-date sales through March are 69,071, up 6.8 percent versus last year.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported March 2017 sales of 11,766 an increase of 6.2 percent over March 2016.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 5,356 vehicles for the month of March, a 21.9 percent decrease. Year to date sales are down 17.6 percent.

Porsche Cars North America announced March 2017 sales of 4,479 vehicles, a 3.6 percent sales increase over March 2016 and a first quarter gain of 3.9 percent over the same period last year. Year-to-date 2017 sales stand at 12,718 vehicles.

Monday, March 27, 2017

2018 Toyota Yaris Coming This Summer


The 2018 Toyota Yaris hatchback with a new front and restyled rear for a wider look and stance comes in three-door and five-door body styles in three grades, the three-door L and LE, and the five-door Sporty SE. will now be equipped standard the Entune™ Multimedia Bundle with a 6.1-inch touch-screen display, AM/FM CD player, MP3/WMA playback capability, six speakers, auxiliary audio jack, USB 2.0 port with iPod®  connectivity and control, advanced voice recognition, hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology, and Siri® Eyes Free. The 2018 Yaris will be available this Summer.

2018 Toyota Sienna Coming This Fall


The 2018 Toyota Sienna, powered by a 296 horsepower 3.5-liter V6, is available in L, LE, SE, XLE and Limited grades with available all-wheel-drive. Safety features include Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Automatic High Beams. The 2018 Sienna will be reaching Toyota dealerships in the Fall of 2017.

Saturday, March 18, 2017

2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid Arrives In Early April For $52,935


The 2017 Acura MDX Sport Hybrid, with a total system output of 321 horsepower, has more than 30 additional horsepower and a 45 percent higher EPA city fuel economy rating as compared to the conventionally-powered MDX SH-AWD with its three-motor Sport Hybrid SH-AWD® powertrain, a 3.0-liter and the SOHC i-VTEC V-6 engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 2017 MDX Sport Hybrid will arrive at showrooms in early April with a starting MSRP of $52,935 (including $975 destination charge). It comes in MDX with Technology Package and the MDX with Advance Package for another $6,040.

All 2017 Acura MDX models come equipped with Collision Mitigation Braking System™, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with low-speed follow and Road Departure Mitigation. All models also come equipped with a multi-angle rearview camera, and the top grade adds blind spot information, front and rear parking sensors, Rear Cross Traffic Monitor and new Auto High Beam.

Friday, March 10, 2017

McLaren 720S


The McLaren 720S, powered by a 710 horsepower new, twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that accelerates from 0-60mph in 2.8 seconds to reach a maximum speed of 212mph, is lighter, faster and even more dynamically capable than its McLaren 650S predecessor.

Hyundai FE Fuel Cell Concept


Hyundai FE Fuel Cell Concept is Hyundai's fourth generation of hydrogen fuel cell technology and when compared with the current generation system used in the Tucson ix35 Fuel Cell, the new technology is 20% lighter, and achieves 10% greater efficiency. In addition, the power density of the fuel cell stack is increased by 30%, boosting the car’s range significantly. Elements of the FE Fuel Cell Concept will influence an SUV Fuel Cell model set for launch in 2018, which will feature advanced ‘Hyundai Smart Sense’ driver assistance technologies, alongside an extensive hydrogen-powered range.

New Volvo XC60 Goes Into Production In Mid-April


The new Volvo XC60 powered by a 400  horsepower T8 Twin Engine gas plug-in hybrid at the top of the powertrain range delivers acceleration from 0-62 mph in 5.3 seconds. Steer Assist has been added to the City Safety system and a new safety system called Oncoming Lane Mitigation uses steer assist to help mitigate head-on collisions, while Volvo’s Blind Spot Indication System now uses Steer Assist functionality to reduce the risk of lane-changing collisions. The new XC60 is set to go into production in mid-April at the Torslanda Plant in Sweden.

2018 Lexus LS 500h


The 2018 Lexus LS 500h, the full hybrid version of Lexus’ new flagship sedan, with a 3.5-liter V6 Dual VVT-i gasoline engine and two electric motors together delivering maximum system power of 354 horsepower. The Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System Compact, lightweight, lithium-ion hybrid battery is 20 percent smaller with a higher power density than the current LS 600h L and at 123 inches, the wheelbase of the new LS is 1.3-inches longer than on the current long wheelbase LS 600h L.

2017 Honda Civic Type R Coming In Late Spring


The 2017 Honda Civic Type R, powered by a 306 horsepower 2.0-liter i-VTEC® DI TURBO delivering 295 lb-ft. of torque mated exclusively to a short-throw 6-speed manual transmission with rev matching capability, shares the body style of the 5-door hatchback variant and is slated to go on sale in the U.S. in late Spring with an MSRP in the mid-$30k range.

Aston Martin Valkyrie


The Aston Martin Valkyrie, co-developed by Aston Martin and Red Bull Advanced Technologies.

Thursday, March 2, 2017

Bentley Bentayga Mulliner SUV This Spring


Bentley Bentayga Mulliner with a 600 horsepower 6.0-liter W12 engine with a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph will be available to order this Spring. Features include Bentley Dynamic Ride which instantly counteracts lateral rolling forces when cornering, the Naim for Bentley Audio system with twenty speakers driven by a 1,950-watt, 21-channel amplifier, and a remote-controlled Parking Heater function that allows the interior to be heated or cooled when the engine is switched off, while electric rear window blinds and a double sun-visor are also available with the Sunshine Specification. Standard driver assistance features include Park Assist, Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Assist, Night Vision and a Head-Up Display.

2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet On Sale By Year End


The all-new 2018 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet, powered by a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine mated to the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission, has a soft-top that can be fully opened and closed in 20 seconds when travelling at a speed of up to 30 mph. The four-seat convertible offers 4MATIC all-wheel drive and an AIRCAP® and AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system to enhance comfort when driving with the roof down. The new E-Class Cabriolet has grown in length, width and wheelbase with a vehicle length of 190-in, a width of 73.2-in and a height of 56.2-in. The all-new 2018 E-Class Cabriolet will go on sale in the U.S. by the end of the year.

February 2017 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac) total sales were 237,388, up 4 percent.

Ford Motor Company U.S. sales totaled 208,440 vehicles in February, a 4 percent decline versus a year ago. Lincoln sales totaled 8,744 vehicles, a 9 percent increase.

Toyota Motor North America reported its US February 2017 sales of 174,339 vehicles, a decrease of 7.2 percent from February 2016. Toyota division posted February sales of 156,001, down 5.4 percent while Lexus posted February sales of 18,338 vehicles, down 20.6 percent.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 168,326, a 10 percent decrease compared with sales in February 2016. Separately Maserati reported sales of 1,087, a gain of 49 percent over 2016.

American Honda reported total February sales of 121,686 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 2.3 percent over February 2016 and a new record for the month. Honda Division sales gained 4.3 percent on sales of 110,822 while Acura Division sales were down 14.9 percent, with 10,864 vehicles sold in February.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for February 2017 of 135,740, an increase of 4 percent over the prior year and a February record. Nissan Division finished February with 122,003 sales, up 1 percent and also a February record.

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai & Genesis) announced its best February ever, with sales totaling 53,020 for the month, 11 vehicles more than a year ago.

Kia Motors America announced February sales of 42,673, a 14.2 percent decrease from 2016.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 25,145 in February 2017, a 12.7 percent increase over February 2016. With 48,655 units delivered year-to-date in 2017, VW is reporting an increase of 14.7 percent in year-over-year sales. Separately, Audi of America’s February sales increased 17 percent to 13,741 vehicles. Through the first two months of 2017, Audi U.S. sales have risen 14 percent to 26,942 vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz reported the highest February sales in its history with 24,522 units up 6.9 percent from February 2016. Adding 2,513 units for Vans and 348 units for smart, Mercedes-Benz USA achieved its highest February to date with a grand total of 27,383 vehicles, up 6.8 percent from a year ago.

Mazda North American Operations reported February U.S. sales of 22,824 vehicles, representing an increase of 5.9 percent versus February of last year. Year-to-date sales of 44,522 through February are up 7.9 percent versus last year.

Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 0.3 percent in February for a total of 22,558. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 0.2 percent in the U.S. on sales of 40,667 vehicles compared to 40,580 sold in the first two months of 2016.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported February 2017 sales of 10,924, an increase of 38.8 percent over February 2016.

Jaguar Land Rover North America reported February 2017 U.S. sales for both brands hit 9,231, a 16 percent increase making it the best ever Jaguar Land Rover February sales month. Jaguar sales were 3,484, a 130 percent increase while Land Rover sales reached 5,747, down 10 percent.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 4,651 vehicles for the month of February, an 11.6 percent decrease. Year to date sales are down 14.5 percent.

Porsche Cars North America announced February 2017 sales of 3,637 vehicles, up 2.1 percent over February 2016. Year-to-date Porsche recorded 8,239 vehicle sales, a 4.1 percent increase over the same period last year.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Thursday, February 23, 2017

Volkswagen Arteon Fastback Coupe Coming Soon


The Volkswagen Arteon is a new fastback model positioned above the Passat offering a spacious interior for this type of body style, with ample head and legroom for all the seats. The Arteon has the latest generation of driver assistance systems that are typically found in luxury automobiles. The new Volkswagen Arteon will makes its world debut soon at the Geneva Auto Show.

Wednesday, February 22, 2017

Range Rover Velar To Join Range Rover Line Up


The new Range Rover Velar, the fourth member of the Range Rover family that fits between the Range Rover Evoque and the Range Rover Sport, will be unveiled on March 1, at the at the 2017 New York International Auto Show.

Saturday, February 18, 2017

Lexus LS 500h Coming Soon


The all-new Lexus LS 500h will debut at the Geneva Auto Show on March 7th.

Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Volvo V90 Wagon Will Start At $49,950


The Volvo V90 Wagon comes with either Volvo’s T5 FWD, turbo-charged Drive-E engine or T6 AWD, turbo and super-charged powertrain in Inscription or R-Design trim. Leather seats, a Panoramic moonroof, Blind Spot Information System, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard along with City Safety, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian, cyclist and large animal detection. The T5 FWD R-Design V90 will start at $49,950 and is now available to order for U.S. customers via Volvo Concierge, one-to-one interaction with a Volvo representative online.

Tuesday, February 7, 2017

2018 Ford Expedition Coming This Fall


The all-new 2018 Ford Expedition full-size SUV, available in XLT, Limited and Platinum series, with an all-new high-strength, aluminum-alloy body and redesigned high-strength steel frame making it 300 pounds lighter, is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. New driver-assist technologies include enhanced active park assist to easily pull in and out of parking spots, available 360-degree camera technology, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, collision avoidance detection and available Blind Spot Information.
The all-new Expedition arrives this Fall.

2018 Dodge Durango SRT Coming In The 4th Quarter


The new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT three-row SUV is powered by a 475 horsepower 392-cubic-inch HEMI® V-8 engine mated to a standard TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission specifically calibrated for the Dodge Durango SRT to optimize shift points and deliver maximum torque to all four wheels for a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds.

A new electronic T-shifter provides the driver with intuitive gear selection while a new SRT seven-mode drive system gives the driver a wide choice of settings, including the new Sport Mode which reduces shift times by up to 50 percent versus Auto Mode to deliver up to 65 percent of the 392 HEMI engine’s torque to the rear wheels. The new Track Mode provides 160-millisecond shifts and up to 70 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels. All customers who buy a new Durango SRT will receive one full-day session at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving. The new 2018 Dodge Durango SRT will start arriving in Dodge dealerships during fourth quarter of this year.

Monday, February 6, 2017

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Limited Edition


The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Limited Edition boasts bold new exterior aesthetics including an alloy fuel door, black painted door mirrors and 18" alloy wheels, fog lamps, HID headlamps, a rear view camera and a Limited Edition badge. The Outlander Sport Limited Edition will be in dealerships later this month for $21,995 and available through the end of the model year.

2017 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition Coming This Month


The new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition, with a 285 horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, is equipped with Wrangler’s part-time four-wheel-drive system that has electronic-locking front and rear Dana 44 axles with power being sent to each through a Rock-Trac transfer case and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. The new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition has a stronger front axle, enhanced rock rails, heavy-duty cast differential covers and a standard eight-speaker audio system with an optional Premium Alpine Audio Package that includes nine Alpine speakers, a subwoofer and a 552-watt amplifier. The new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition is priced at $39,145 for the two-door model and $42,945 for the Wrangler Unlimited (four-door) model and arrives in showrooms later this month.

2018 Subaru Legacy Coming This Summer


The 2018 Subaru Legacy midsize sedan, with revised styling and upgrades, is powered by a 175 horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine, or, as the Legacy 3.6R with a 256 horsepower 3.6-liter 6-cylinder BOXER engine mated to a Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) with manual mode, paddle shift control switches and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. New for 2018 includes tire pressure monitoring, a larger Blind Spot Detection/Rear Cross Traffic Alert indicator lamp and redesigned LED turn signals in the mirrors. All Legacy trim lines come standard with a rear-view camera. The 2018 Subaru Legacy will go on sale this summer.

Wednesday, February 1, 2017

January 2017 U.S. Auto Sales


General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac) delivered 195,909 vehicles in January, down 3.8 percent year over year.

Ford sales of 172,612 vehicles for January was a 0.6 percent decline from February 2016. Of that total, Lincoln sales were 8,785 vehicles, up 22 percent over a year ago.

Toyota Motor North America reported its U.S. January 2017 sales of 143,048 vehicles, a decrease of 11.3 percent from January 2016. Toyota division posted January sales of 127,476, down 9.2 percent while Lexus posted January sales of 15,572 vehicles, down 25.6 percent.

FCA (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 152,218, an 11 percent decrease compared with sales in January 2016.

American Honda reported total January sales of 106,380 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 5.9 percent over January 2016 and a new record for the month. Honda Division sales were 97,178 rising 7.7 percent while Acura Division sales totaled 9,202 vehicles in January, a decrease of 10.2 percent.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for January 2017 of 112,319, an increase of 6 percent over the prior year and a January record. while Infiniti reported sales of 11,558 vehicles in the U.S. during January, an increase of 36 percent, an all-time record January for the brand.

Subaru of America reported 43,879 vehicle sales for January 2017, a 6.8 percent increase over January 2016, and the best January in the history of the company.

Volkswagen of America reported sales of 23,510 in January 2017, a 17.1 percent increase over January 2016. Separately, Audi of America’s January sales increased 11 percent to 13,201 vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported record January sales of 25,527, topping last January’s record volume. Adding 2,049 for Vans and 324 for smart, MBUSA achieved its highest January to date with a grand total of 27,900 vehicles, up 3.5 percent from a year ago.

Mazda North American Operations reported January U.S. sales of 21,698 vehicles, an increase of 10.1 percent versus January of last year, and the best January sales month in five years.

BMW brand sold 18,109 vehicles in January, an increase of 0.1 percent compared to January, 2016.

Jaguar Land Rover North America had its best ever January with U.S. sales for both brands of 9,102, a 30 percent increase. Jaguar sales were 2,939, a 117 percent increase and Land Rover sales reached 6,163, up 9 percent from January 2016.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported January 2017 sales of 6,457, an increase of 3.1 percent over January 2016.

Porsche Cars North America delivered 4,602 vehicles in January, up 5.7 percent over the same period last year, for the strongest January sales month ever recorded by the company.

Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 3,472 vehicles for the month of January, an 18.2 percent decrease.

Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.

Tuesday, January 31, 2017

2017 Kia Niro NiroBot Commercial


Kia Motors will have a Super Bowl commercial called "Iceberg" featuring the NiroBot for Messenger, an chat experience that includes guided vehicle discovery, expansive technical knowledge, step-by-step tutorials and test drive scheduling. Actress Melissa McCarthy is the centerpiece of a multi-faceted marketing campaign for the all-new 2017 Niro crossover.

Friday, January 27, 2017

Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster In Super Bowl Commerical


Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster with actor Peter Fonda and the music of Steppenwolf's "Born to Be Wild," is featured in Mercedes-Benz "Easy Driver," commercial which will appear in the fourth quarter of the Feb. 5th game commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Mercedes-Benz performance sub-brand AMG. The comical spot is directed by the Academy-Award-winning Coen Brothers, Joel and Ethan, known for writing and/or directing many films including Fargo, The Big Lebowski, The Ladykillers, No Country for Old Men, Inside Llewyn Davis, Unbroken, Bridge of Spies.

2018 BMW 4 Series Coming This March


The 2018 BMW 4 Series, Coupe, Convertible and Gran Coupe, have a 248 horsepower twin-turbo engine on the 430i and a 320 horsepower for the top-of-the-line 440i, mated to the eight-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission or an available six-speed manual transmission on the BMW 4 Series Coupe (430i, 440i, and 440i xDrive). The new BMW 4 Series Coupe and new BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe both now come with stiffer suspension featuring more advanced damping technology, an upgraded steering set-up and a lower center of gravity than the BMW 3 Series. The BMW M4 Coupe and BMW M4 Convertible will have a 425 horsepower six-cylinder engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology. The 2018 BMW 4 Series will be available as 430i, 440i xDrive models starting this March and pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle launch.

2017 Nissan Rogue Hybrid Starts At $27,180


The new 2017 Nissan Rogue Hybrid, offered in SV and SL grade levels and with one option package and available in both FWD and AWD, starts at $27,180 (including $940 destination and handling), $1,000 above a non-hybrid Rogue SV front-wheel drive model. The new Rogue Hybrid produces estimated fuel economy of 33 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and 34 mpg combined for the front-wheel drive model with all-wheel drive models estimated at 31 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined. The Rogue Hybrid combines a 141 horsepower 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy inline 4-cylinder engine and a compact lithium-ion battery with a 40 horsepower electric motor, two-clutch control for a system net 176 horsepower. Rogue Hybrid is on sale now in 18 West, Northwest and Mountain states and goes on sale nationwide this Spring.

2017 Audi R8 V10 Spyder Starts At $176,350


The 2017 Audi R8 V10 Spyder, with its naturally-aspirated 540 horsepower 5.2-liter V10 engine mated to a seven-speed S-tronic® dual-clutch transmission that enables a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds to a top speed of 198 mph, has a light 97 pound cloth roof that opens or closes in 20 seconds at speeds of up to 31 mph. The Audi R8 V10 Spyder has newly developed ASF® aluminum and carbon fiber construction that makes it more than 50 percent stiffer than its predecessor. The second generation R8 V10 Spyder features a quattro® system that by default delivers the majority of torque to the rear wheels, but under certain driving conditions can send up to 100 percent of all available torque to the front axle. The Audi R8 V10 Spyder with a fully digital Audi virtual cockpit starts at $176,350 (including $1,250 destination charge).

Thursday, January 26, 2017

2017 Niro Crossover Hybrid Starts At $23,785 Soon


The all-new 2017 Niro crossover hybrid, offered in FE, LX, EX, Touring and limited-production Launch Edition trim levels, starts at $23,785 for the FE and runs up to $30,545 for the top-of-the-line Touring model (including $895 destination charges). Three option packages are available.

2017 Kia Niro Crossover Commercial In Super Bowl


The all-new 2017 Kia Niro crossover, with fuel economy of up to 50 miles per gallon, will be featured in Kia's Super Bowl commercial airing in the third quarter of the game and stars Melissa McCarthy.

Monday, January 23, 2017

Hyundai Will Shoot Super Bowl Commercial During Game


Hyundai, the official car and SUV of the NFL, will film a 90-second documentary during Super Bowl LI and will run it in the first commercial break after the game ends and just before the trophy ceremony. Director Peter Berg (Patriots Day, Deepwater Horizon, Lone Survivor, among many others) will shoot, edit and produce the 90-second documentary in real time. 2017 will mark the ninth time in the last 10 years that Hyundai has participated in the game.

Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h In Super Bowl Commercial


“Man & Machine,” a 60-second Super Bowl spot features the Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h coupes with movement artist Lil Buck and music from recording artist Sia. A 30-second version of “Man & Machine” that also includes the all-new LS 500 will air during the second quarter of Super Bowl LI on Sunday, Feb. 5 with the New England Patriots going against the Atlanta Falcons in Houston.

2018 Ford Mustang Convertible


The new 2018 Ford Mustang convertible, like the hardtop, has a 12-inch all-digital instrument cluster that can be customized, MyMode with memory function, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection for greater confidence behind the wheel and is powered by either a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine or 5.0-liter V8 (for the GT pictured above) with an all-new available 10-speed automatic transmission and MagneRide suspension. The convertible is likely coming this Fall with the new hardtop coupe.

Thursday, January 19, 2017

2018 Ford Mustang Coming This Fall


The new 2018 Ford Mustang has a new front and rear-end design, and a host of new features including a 12-inch all-digital instrument cluster that can be customized, MyMode memory function that remembers your driving preferences, new MagneRide™ suspension technology and Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection. The new Mustang is powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine or a reworked 5.0-liter V8 engine for the Mustang GT (pictured above) and both models offer manual or all-new available 10-speed automatic transmissions. Ford SYNC® Connect with FordPass™ is available on Mustang for the first time. The new Mustang goes on sale in North America this Fall.

Wednesday, January 11, 2017

VIDEO: Hyundai's Derek Joyce On Ioniq Lease


Hyundai Motor America Product PR Manager Derek Joyce explains Hyundai  “Ioniq Unlimited” electric vehicle subscription-based ownership for the zero-emission, eco-focused 2017 Ioniq Electric which begins in California in early this year.

View on YouTube

Tuesday, January 10, 2017

Nissan Vmotion 2.0 Concept


The Nissan Vmotion 2.0 concept offers hints at the future of "Nissan Intelligent Mobility," the company's roadmap to achieve zero emissions and zero fatalities.

Audi Q8 Concept - A Year Away From Production


The Audi Q8 concept, on a 9.8 foot wheelbase, is the basis for a production plug-in hybrid model that Audi will launch on the market in 2018. The Audi Q8 concept uses a 3.0 TFSI producing 333 horsepower combined with an electric motor that generates total system output of 443 horsepower integrated into the eight-speed tiptronic transmission.

Lexus LC 500 Starts At $92,975 In May


The all-new Lexus LC 500, a new flagship 2+2 performance coupe powered by 471 horsepower 5.0-liter V8, matched with a direct shift 10-speed automatic transmission will have a starting MSRP of $92,975 (including delivery, processing and handling fee of $975). The LC 500h, powered by 354 horsepower 3.5-liter, V6 full hybrid powertrain will have a starting MSRP of $97,485. They arrive at dealerships this May.

2018 Toyota Camry Has A New Look


The eighth-generation 2018 Toyota Camry sedan, on a two inch longer wheelbase and available in LE, XLE, SE and XSE trims, has a new 3.5-liter V6 with D-4S Fuel Injection and an all-new 2.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine, which comes paired to a new 8-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission and a next-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS II). All 2018 Camry’s have 10 standard airbags and Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, and Smart Stop Technology®. All Camry’s also come equipped with a standard backup camera.

2018 Honda Odyssey Arrives This Spring


The new 2018 Honda Odyssey minivan will be powered by a 280 horsepower 3.5-liter, direct-injected i-VTEC™ V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management™ connected to a 9-speed automatic and, for upper grades an all-new, 10-speed automatic transmission when it launches at dealerships nationwide this Spring. New features include a Magic Slide™ second-row seat and CabinWatch which, using a camera, lets the driver and front passenger keep tabs on passengers both day and night via the 8-inch Display Audio screen while CabinTalk enables the driver to talk to second and third-row passengers through speakers and rear entertainment system headphones. A new hands-free power tailgate with foot activation is available.

Monday, January 9, 2017

2018 Lexus LS Sedan Is Longer, Lower, Lighter


The all-new, fifth-generation 2018 Lexus LS flagship sedan, on a 123-inch wheelbase is 1.3-inch longer, lower and more than 200 pounds lighter than the current LS long-wheelbase model, and is powered by an all-new 415 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine with all-new twin turbos matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 2018 Lexus LS goes on sale in U.S. near the end of this year.

All-New Audi SQ5 Arrives This Spring


The all-new Audi SQ5, second-generation SQ5, offers a 354 horsepower 3.0-liter TFSI® engine mated to eight-speed tiptronic® transmission and arrives this Spring. The available S sport package has a sport adaptive air suspension, which lowers vehicle height by 30 mm (when in auto mode) compared to the standard adaptive suspension.

2018 Chevrolet Traverse Coming This Fall


The all-new 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, with available seating for up to eight and a longer wheelbase than the current model, will have a new 3.6L V-6 and nine-speed automatic transmission that's expected to offer nearly 10 percent more horsepower delivering a GM-estimated 25 mpg highway (FWD) with an estimated 5,000-pound trailering capacity when properly equipped. The all-new 2018 Chevrolet Traverse goes on sale this Fall with two new trim levels, the RS with a 2.0L turbocharged engine and the High Country.

2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA250, Mercedes-AMG GLA45 This Summer


The newly redesigned 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 is powered by a 208 horsepower 2.0L inline-4 turbo engine mated to a 7-speed DCT dual-clutch transmission and the new Mercedes-AMG GLA45 has a 375 horsepower AMG 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine tied to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sport transmission with a zero to 60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. The refreshed 2018 GLA will go on sale in the U.S. this summer.

2018 GMC Terrain Arriving This Summer


The all-new 2018 GMC Terrain has a choice of a new 1.5L and 2.0L turbocharged gas engines matched with new nine-speed automatic transmissions and an all-new 1.6L turbo-diesel. The 2018 Terrain goes on sale this summer in SL, SLE, SLT and Denali models.

2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Is Longer


The all-new 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan, powered by a 184 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged and direct injection TSI® engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, is 185.2 inches long, making it 10.7 inches longer than the current version to accommodate an optional third row and it has up to 57 percent more cargo capacity. The Tiguan is either front wheel drive or has an optional 4Motion with Active Control all-wheel-drive.

2018 Kia Stinger Coming Later This Year


The all-new 2018 Kia Stinger five-passenger fastback sports sedan will offer a standard estimated 255 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder Theta II engine or an available 365 horsepower 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 Lambda II engine with an expected 5.1 second zero to 62 mph time to a top speed of 167 mph. The Stinger features a second-generation eight-speed rear-drive automatic transmission. The Stinger is planned to go on sale in the U.S. late this year.

2018 Ford F-150 Coming With New Engines This Fall


The new 2018 Ford F-150, with new front and rear styling in XL to top-of-the-line Limited trim levels, offers an all-new 3.0-liter Power Stroke® V6 turbo diesel, an all-new standard 282 horsepower 3.3-liter V6, an all-new second-generation 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a 5.0-liter V8 also paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission for the first time. The new 2018 F-150 goes on sale this Fall.

Saturday, January 7, 2017

2018 Genesis G80 Sport Coming This Spring


The 2018 Genesis G80 model, with a new 365 horsepower 3.3-liter turbocharged V6 engine paired with a sport-tuned eight-speed automatic transmission, will have a Sport trim featuring 19-inch wheels, carbon fiber interior trim, leather sport seats and steering wheel along with Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Driver Attention Alert and a multi-view camera. The 2018 Genesis G80 is scheduled to arrive this Spring, and the 2017 Genesis G90 is available now at Genesis retailers.

2018 Audi A5 and S5 Cabriolets Debut


The all-new 2018 Audi A5 Cabriolet comes equipped with a 252 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a seven-speed S tronic® dual-clutch automatic transmission and sprints from 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds. The 2018 Audi S5 Cabriolet is equipped with a re-engineered 354 horsepower 3.0-liter TFSI® V6 engine mated to a newly equipped with an eight-speed Tiptronic® automatic transmission and sprints from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds. The A5 and S5 Cabriolet feature standard-equipped with quattro® all-wheel drive  and a fully electronic top that can be lowered using the new one-touch opening function, in just 15 seconds, at speeds of up to 31 mph.

2018 Subaru WRX and WRX STI Arrive This Spring


The 2018 Subaru WRX with a 268 horsepower 2.0-liter direct injection turbocharged BOXER engine, Symmetrical All Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and offers an optional performance automatic transmission, the Sport Lineartronic® CVT with manual mode. The WRX STI is powered by a 305 horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine with Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Both have a restyled front fascia, a more pronounced grille design, along with a larger lower grille opening and new roof rack mounting brackets and will reach Subaru retailers this Spring.

2018 Volvo V90 Coming This Summer


The 2018 Volvo V90, with both T5 FWD and T6 AWD powertrains in either Inscription or R-Design trim, is coming to the United States this Summer.

Wednesday, January 4, 2017

December 2016 U.S. Auto Sales

General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac) total U.S. sales in December were 319,108, up 10 percent from last year. General Motors 2016 sales of 3,042,775 is down 1.3 percent from 2015.

Ford Motor Company’s total December U.S. sales of 239,854 vehicles were up 0.3 percent. 2016 U.S. sales of 2,614,697 vehicles mark Ford Motor Company’s best annual sales in a decade.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported December 2016 sales of 243,229 vehicles, an increase of 2.0 percent from December 2015. For the year, TMS reported sales of 2,449,630 vehicles, a 2.0 percent decrease.

FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported U.S. sales of 192,519, a 10 percent decrease compared with sales in December 2015. FCA US full-year sales of 2,244,315 were flat in 2016 compared with sales in 2015.

American Honda reported a new December record of 160,477, a 6.4 percent gain leading to an all-time annual sales record of 1,637,942 for Honda and Acura vehicles for 2016, an increase of 3.2 percent to eclipse the previous best set in 2015. Honda Division sales also set a new annual record of 1,476,582 vehicles, a 4.8 percent rise while Acura total annual sales reached 161,360, down 8.9 percent for the 2016 year.

Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for December 2016 of 152,743, an increase of 9.7 percent for a December record. For calendar year 2016, Nissan set an all-time record with 1,564,423 total U.S. sales, an increase of 5.4 percent.

Hyundai Motor America announced December sales of 60,572, down 1.9 percent but leading to its seventh consecutive year of record U.S. sales of 775,005, an increase of 1.7 percent.

Kia Motors America announced its highest December total in company history of 54,353 for an all-time best annual sales of 647,598 vehicles in 2016, up 3.5 percent over 2015.

Subaru of America reported December sales total of 63,177 vehicles for its best-ever sales month contributing to record-breaking sales of 615,132 vehicles for 2016, an increase of 5.6 percent for the eighth consecutive year of sales records and ninth consecutive year of sales increases.

Volkswagen of America today reported sales of 37,229 in December, a 20.3 percent increase over December 2015. VW sales for 2016 totaled 322,948, a 7.6 percent decrease over 2015. Separately, Audi December 2016 sales increased of 23,195 vehicles, a 13.7 percent rise, and for a 2016 total of 210,213 vehicles, up 4 percent for the brand’s best annual performance.

Mazda North American Operations reported December U.S. sales of 28,754 vehicles, a decrease of 1.8 percent versus December of last year. For calendar year 2016 total sales of 297,773 was down 6.7 percent.

BMW brand vehicles totaled 32,835 in December. For the year, BMW brand sales of 313,174 is down 9.5 percent from last year.

Mercedes-Benz USA reported December sales of 37,057 vehicles with Mercedes-Benz Vans reporting December sales of 3,860 and smart 1,186, bringing MBUSA's grand total to 37,057 vehicles for the month. On a year- to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz totaled 340,237, Vans 34,304 and smart 6,211 for an MBUSA grand total of 380,752, a 0.1 percent increase from the previous year.

Jaguar Land Rover North America reported December sales of 12,573, a 30 percent increase over 2015, while Jaguar sales were 4,294, a 259 percent increase and Land Rover 8,279, a 2 percent decrease. Jaguar Land Rover North America December U.S. sales for both brands hit 12,573, a 30 percent increase. For the full year 2016, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales were 105,104, up 24 percent beating the previous sales record achieved in 2002.

Mitsubishi Motors North America reported December 2016 sales of 7,383 for a 2016 total of 96,267, up 1.0 percent over 2015.

Porsche Cars North America announced 4,015 vehicle sales in December bringing 2016 to 54,280 vehicles sold, a 4.9 percent increase over 2015 and a new PCNA sales record.