Tuesday, September 26, 2017
2018 Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo This Spring
The 2018 Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo delivers a total output of 680 horsepower derived from the 918 Spyder with a 136 horsepower electric motor and a 550 horsepower twin-turbo V8 engine delivering a zero to 60 mph time of 3.2 seconds to a top track speed of 192 mph. The electric motor is powered via a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery with an energy capacity of 14.1 kWh. Charging time is less than three hours with a 240 V, 40 amp connection to an optional 7.2 kW on-board charger. The 2018 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Sport Turismo is available to order now and is expected to reach U.S. dealers in Spring of 2018. The base MSRP is $189,450 (including $1,050 delivery, processing and handling fee).
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Volvo XC40 Goes Into Production In November
The Volvo XC40 SUV, the first model on Volvo Cars’ new Compact Modular Architecture, at launch will offer the T5 all-wheel drive Momentum trim and will start at $35,200. In summer 2018, a T4 front wheel drive will be introduced starting at $33,200 while more powertrain options, including a hybridized as well as a pure electric version, will be added later. Production of the new XC40 starts in Volvo Cars’ plant in Ghent, Belgium in November.
2018 Kia Rio Starts At $13,900 Early October
The all-new, fourth-generation 2018 Kia Rio sedan and 5-door hatchback, powered by a 130 horsepower 1.6-liter GDI four-cylinder engine and offered in LX, S and EX trim levels, has been lengthened to 172.6 inches (from 172.0 inches) and the Rio 5-door is now 160.0 inches long (from 159.4 inches) on a longer wheelbase of 101.6 inches (from 101.2 inches) and more upright A-pillars. The sedan and 5-door are also lower and wider compared to the outgoing model with the rear now more upright thanks to shorter overhangs and thinner, more expressive taillights. Like the front-end, the rear view of the car is wider. The 2018 Kia Rio starts at $13,900 (excluding destination and handling) for the LX sedan and $14,200 for the LX hatchback and is expected to arrive in Kia retailers beginning early October.
2019 Mercedes-Benz S560e Coming Mid-2019
The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560e sedan's hybrid drive system combines the 362 horsepower V6 spark-ignition engine with an electric output of 90 kW and is mated to the third-generation hybrid transmission based on the 9G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with the torque converter, clutch and electric motor housed in the hybrid drive unit. The S560e has an approximate all-electric range of 25 miles and despite the battery size remaining unchanged, the new lithium-ion battery has an increased rated capacity of 13.5 kWh. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560e Sedan is expected to go on sale in the U.S. in mid-2019.
Monday, September 18, 2017
Genesis G70 Will Join Hyundai's Luxury Brand Next Year
The Genesis G70 luxury performance sedan, offered in ten exterior colors and powered by a choice of a 365 horsepower turbocharged 3.3-liter gasoline V6, a 249 horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline I4, or a 199 horsepower 2.2-liter I4 diesel engine joins the G80 and G90 in Hyundai's luxury Genesis brand. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Blind spot Collision Warning and Driver Awareness Warning have been added as part of the ‘Genesis Active Safety Control’. When the driver’s body information is inputed into the smart posture control system, it automatically adjusts the seat, steering wheel, outside mirror and heads-up display to the optimal position. Overseas product specifications in markets including North America are planned to be announced in early 2018.
2017 Volkswagen e-Golf Starts At $31,315 With 125 mile Range
The 2017 Volkswagen e-Golf fully-electric vehicle offers a longer EPA-estimated range of 125 miles on a single charge, 50% more than its predecessor and the starting price is $31,315 (including $820 destination charge). The 7.2 kW on-board charger is now standard on all trims, which enables the battery to be charged in less than six hours at a 240V charging station. The electric motor now develops 134 horsepower compared to 115 horsepower on the 2016 model. Overall fuel economy has improved to an EPA estimated 126 MPGe for city driving, 119 MPGe highway for a combined city/ highway at 119 MPGe. There's an e-Golf Limited Edition with DC Fast Charging capability, V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces, and Park Distance Control (ParkPilot), with a new feature called Maneuver Braking (arriving late in the model year), which can help driver avoid or mitigate the effects of a collision with stationary objects while parking. The e-Golf SEL Premium offers an optional Driver Assistance package ($1,395), including the 12.3-inch Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster, Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Monitoring (Front Assist), Lane Assist, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert, Park Assist and Light Assist. (Late availability for the Driver Assistance Package).
2018 Nissan Pathfinder Starts at $31,765 Now
The seven-passenger 2018 Nissan Pathfinder starts at $31,765 (including $975 destination and handling charge) topping out at nearly $45,000 and is offered in 2-wheel-drive and 4-wheel-drive configurations, and in S, SV, SL and Platinum grade levels. New features include standard Automatic Emergency Braking, an enhanced Midnight Edition appearance package and a Rear Door Alert system to help remind Nissan owners to check the rear seat by using a series of distinctive honks as the driver is walking away from the vehicle. The 2018 Nissan Pathfinder is now on sale.
Hyundai i30 N - High Performance Sedan
The high performance Hyundai i30 N, built on the new generation i30, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine available with the standard 247 horsepower or the Performance Package 271 horsepower, is Hyundai Motor’s first high-performance car under the N line-up inspired by motorsport. The Hyundai i30 N made its debut at the 67th International Frankfurt Motor Show but will it come to the U.S.?
2018 Maserati Ghibli Offers New Trims
The new 2018 Maserati Ghibli with GranLusso (above) and GranSport trims are distinguished primarily by the restyling of the front and rear bumpers. The Ghibli GranLusso has an enhanced exterior finish and Ermenegildo Zegna silk upholstery while the Ghibli GranSport reflects Maserati’s racing heritage displaying sportier exterior design and interior contents. The top-range Ghibli S and S Q4 versions now deliver 424 horsepower. The new Ghibli has adopted the Integrated Vehicle Control system, which helps to prevent vehicle instability and the introduction of the Electric Power Steering improves the car’s handling and comfort. The new Advanced Driving Assistance Systems are available as an option in the Ghibli. In addition to the existing features, they now include active functions like Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition.
2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo For $125,650 Next Fall
The 2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo, powered by a 550 horsepower twin-turbo 4.0 liter V8 engine with Standard Porsche Traction Management all-wheel drive that works with the new eight-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, drives zero to 60 mph acceleration in as little as 3.7 seconds when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package toward a top track speed of 177 mph. The new lightweight chassis helps improve driving dynamics versus its predecessor and the combination of a new three-chamber air suspension with the Porsche Active Suspension Management active shock-absorbers extends the range considerably. By using three air chambers per spring strut, the chassis is able to map a wider range of spring rates than the previous system could, allowing for improvements in both comfort- and performance-focused settings. With six selectable height levels, the ground clearance can be manually adjusted to suit the off-road terrain.The new 2019 Cayenne Turbo will be available for ordering in the U.S. market in December, with arrival at dealers in Fall 2018. MSRP is $125,650 (including $1,050 for delivery and processing).
Land Rover Discovery SVX Goes Into Production Next Year
The Land Rover Discovery SVX, powered by a 518 horsepower supercharged 5.0 liter V8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with twin-speed transfer box, is designed to reward off-road driving enthusiasts with suspension modifications and features including Hill Descent Control, Electronic Traction Control, Adaptive Dynamics, Dynamic Stability Control, All-Terrain Progress Control and variable ratio electric power-assisted steering. The Land Rover Discovery SVX is equipped with a Pistol Shifter for gear selection in off-road manoeuvres and active center and electronic rear locking differentials which work with the specially tuned Terrain Response 2 system to optimize traction on all surfaces. The Land Rover Discovery SVX will begin production next year.
2018 Nissan LEAF EV Coming Early Next Year
The 2018 Nissan LEAF EV with a 150-mile driving range will go on sale in all 50 states in early 2018 for $30,875 (including $885 destination charge), less than the 2017 model. New features include ProPILOT™ Assist, a "hands-on" system which reduces the amount of driver acceleration, steering and braking input under certain driving conditions. e-Pedal lets drivers start, accelerate, decelerate and stop by increasing or decreasing the pressure applied to the accelerator. When the accelerator is fully released, regenerative and friction brakes are applied automatically, bringing the LEAF to a complete stop, even on uphill slopes, until the accelerator is pressed again.
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
812 Ferrari Superfast - Superdream
The 812 Ferrari Superfast powered by a front-engined 789 horsepower 6.5 liter V12 engine, 59 more horsepower than the predecessor F12berlinetta and mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 812 Ferrari Superfast has the Virtual Short Wheelbase 2.0 system which combines electric front-wheel steering assistance with the mechanical concept built around tire dimensions and the rear-wheel steering. Three pairs of curved dams were adopted on the underbody and are responsible for 30% of the increase in downforce compared to the F12berlinetta. The Brembo Extreme Design brakes combined with the Hi-Performance ABS of the 9.1 Premium ESP, improves the braking performance from 62 mph by 5.8% compare to the F12berlinetta. What a dream!
2018 BMW i3 and 2018 BMW i3s To Debut In Frankfurt
The 2018 BMW i3 has a 170 horsepower electric motor which accelerates from 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds with an electronic top speed of 93 mph. The first ever BMW i3s has a high output 184 horsepower electric motor taking it from 0-60 in 6.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 100 mph. A two-cylinder range extender gasoline engine is available as an option for all BMW i3 models which extends the car’s overall range in everyday use by 87 miles, increasing it from around 97 miles to a maximum of 180 miles. Both come with the latest version of iDrive, which provides an intuitive interface for controlling numerous vehicle, infotainment, communications and navigation functions, specifically designed for BMW i. The 2018 BMW i3 and BMW i3s will debut at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt next month with pricing being announced closer to market launch.
Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Cabriolet
The Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Cabriolet, designed as an electric car, has a drive system with four compact permanent magnet synchronous electric motors and a flat battery in the underbody producing an all-wheel drive output of 750 horsepower with acceleration from 0-60 mph in under four seconds to a top speed electronically governed at 155 mph and a range of over 200 miles. The Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Cabriolet is limited to 300 worldwide.
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
2018 BMW M5 Coming Next Spring
The 2018 BMW M5, in its 6th generation, powered by a 600 horsepower twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine mated to a new 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, will have a first ever BMW M xDrive system with 2WD capability. The rear-biased set-up ensures that the front wheels only come into play when the rear wheels are not able to transmit any more torque to the road. With 40 more horsepower than the outgoing model its 0–60 mph acceleration is 3.2 seconds. The all-new 2018 BMW M5 will be available at certified BMW Centers in Spring 2018 with pricing to be announced closer to market launch.
Volkswagen I.D. BUZZ Coming In 2022
The Volkswagen I.D. BUZZ concept car, a fully electric vehicle, shown at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show, will arrive at dealerships in 2022, after the compact four-door I.D. makes its debut. The production version of the I.D. BUZZ will incorporate many design ideas from the concept car, including multi-variable seating, interactive connectivity and highly automated driving. Volkswagen is mainly targeting markets in North America, Europe and China for the I.D. BUZZ.
New Hyundai Fuel Cell Vehicle Coming Next Year
Hyundai’s second commercially produced hydrogen model uses the company’s fourth generation of hydrogen fuel cell technology which boasts an efficiency level of 60%, or a 9% increase from the the predecessor Tucson Fuel Cell’s 55.3%. The new model targets a driving range of more than 360 miles on a single charge (based on Korean testing standards) with maximum output of 161 horsepower, a 20% increase compared to its predecessor. Hyundai will reveal the new hydrogen SUV early next year in Korea, followed by the North American and European markets.
BMW Concept 8 Series, A Preview Of Next Year's Model
After an eighteen year hiatus, the ‘8 Series’ name returns to the BMW portfolio with the BMW Concept 8 Series, a preview of a forthcoming BMW model slated for launch in 2018.
2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Starts At $20,235, GT Sport At $24,135
The 2018 Hyundai Elantra GT, powered by a 161 horsepower 2.0L GDI 4-cylinder engine with either a six-speed manual or available six-speed automatic transmission has a starting price of $20,235 (including $885 destination charge). Features include available wireless charging, Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold, heated and ventilated front seats, new generation eight-inch navigation system that features Blue Link with three-years of standard service and an Infinity premium audio system with seven speakers including a subwoofer and Clari-FiTM Music Restoration Technology.
The more powerful Elantra GT Sport has a 201 horsepower 1.6L Turbo GDI mated to a six-speed manual or seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission with paddle shifters. The manual transmission GT Sport has a starting MSRP of $24,135 (including $885 destination charge). Advanced Driver Assists are available on Elantra GT Sport through Automatic Emergency Braking w/ Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, High Beam Assist and Smart Cruise Control that features stop/start capability. Driver Attention Alert analyzes driver inputs to determine attention level and provide both a visual and audible warning if it determines the driver’s attention level has become too low.
2018 Ford Mustang GT Coming This Fall
The new 2018 Ford Mustang GT, achieving 0-to-60-mph in less than four seconds, is powered by a redesigned 460 horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine mated to an available 10-speed SelectShift® transmission. An all-new electronic control system features real-time adaptive shift-scheduling algorithms engineered to help ensure the right gear is engaged at the right time, including skip-shift and direct downshift capability. The new Mustang is due to reach showrooms this Fall.
Audi RS 5 Coupé Coming Next Year
The Audi RS 5 Coupé, the gran turismo among the RS models from Audi Sport, is 2.9 inches longer than the previous model, and powered by a standard quattro drive 450 horsepower 2.9 TFSI bi-turbo engine mated to an eight-speed tiptronic transmission. The Audi RS 5 Coupé, is already on sale in Europe and is expected in the U.S. in the first quarter of next year.
Wednesday, August 2, 2017
Rolls-Royce Phantom - All-New 8th Generation
The Rolls-Royce Phantom, in its eighth generation, has an all-new aluminium spaceframe structure that's 30 per cent more rigid than its predecessor, sits on a new double-wishbone front axle and 5-link rear axle and is powered by a completely new 563 horsepower 6.75-liter V12 engine with two turbo chargers mated to a ZF 8-Speed transmission. Peter Schwarzenbauer, Chairman of Rolls-Royce and Member of the Board of the BMW Group said, “The BMW Group remains fully committed to the future of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars".
2018 Chevrolet Traverse Starts At $30,875
The all-new 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, powered by the standard 310 horsepower 3.6L V6 engine mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission and featuring L, LS, LT, and Premier, along with the all-new sporty RS and top-of-the line High Country trim levels, starts at $30,875 (including the destination charge).
2018 Jaguar XJR575 Coming Soon
The new 2018 Jaguar XJR575, the new performance flagship for the XJ range, is powered by a 575 horsepower 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine which delivers a 0-60mph time of 4.2 seconds to its top speed of 186mph. Further announcements for the rest of the core 2018 Jaguar XJ range and U.S. pricing will follow later this year.
2018 Buick Regal GS Starts at $39,990
The 2018 Buick Regal GS, has a new 310 horsepower 3.6L V-6 engine, 51 more horsepower than the model it replaces, mated to a standard nine-speed automatic transmission and intelligent all-wheel drive with active twin clutch and five-link rear suspension. The 2018 Buick Regal GS with all-new, heated/cooled and massaging performance seats starts at $39,990 (Including destination charges). Other Regal Sportback models will offer a standard 2.0T engine with a starting price of$25,915. TourX models with a starting price of $29,995 are expected to be available at dealers in February 2018.
2018 Nissan 370Z Coupe, Roadster, NISMO Pricing Starts At $30,875
The 2018 Nissan 370Z Coupe, powered by a 332-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control and choice of 6-speed manual transmission with an available SynchroRev Match® synchronized downshift rev matching system or a 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, starts at $30,875 (including $885 Destination and Handling charge). The similarly-powered Nissan 370Z Roadster starts at $42,705. The Nissan 370Z NISMO, powered by a 350-horsepower 3.7-liter DOHC V6 engine with Variable Valve Event and Lift Control mated to a 6-speed manual transmission with standard SynchroRev Match® or a 7-speed automatic with Downshift Rev Matching, Adaptive Shift Control and manual shift mode with paddle shifters, starts at $46,575. All are on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide.
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
July 2017 U.S. Auto Sales
General Motors reported July U.S. sales of 226,107, down 15.4 percent from July 2016. Year-to-date sales are 1,640,553. a 3.8 percent decline.
Ford Motor Company reported July sales of 200,212, a drop of 7.5 percent from 2016. Year-to-date sales are 1,501,314, down 4.3 percent.
Toyota Motor North America reported July 2017 sales of 222,057, up 3.6 percent. Toyota division posted July sales of 193,155, up 3.6 percent. Year-to-date Toyota Motor North America sales are 1,377,222, down 2.5 percent.
FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported sales of 161,477, a 10 percent decrease compared with sales in July 2016. Year-to-date sales are 1,228,839, down 7 percent.
American Honda reported total July sales of 150,980 Honda and Acura vehicles, a decrease of 1.2 percent vs. July 2016. Total Honda Division sales decreased 1.7 percent on sales of 136,803. Acura Division sales were up 3.7 percent in July on sales of 14,177 vehicles. Year-to-date American Honda sales are 942,866, down 0.2 percent.
Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales of 128,295, a decrease of 3.2 percent over the prior year. Year-to-date sales are 947,983, up 1.9 percent over a year ago.
Hyundai Motor America reported July sales of Hyundai and Genesis branded vehicles of 54,063, a 28 percent decline compared with the company’s best July ever in 2016. Genesis Motor America sales of 1,644 for July pushing year-to-date sales to 11,563.
Kia Motors America announced July sales of 56,403 vehicles, down 5.9 percent. Year-to-date sales are 352,139, down 9.3 percent from a year ago.
Subaru of America reported 55,703 vehicle sales for July 2017, a 7 percent increase over July 2016, and the best July in the history of the company. Subaru reported year-to-date sales of 360,513 vehicles, a 8.7 percent gain over the same period in 2016.
Mazda North American Operations reported July U.S. sales of 27,089 vehicles, representing a decrease of 3 percent versus July of last year. Year-to-date sales through July are down 2.6 percent versus last year, with 168,713 vehicles sold.
Volkswagen of America reported sales of 27,091, a 5.8 percent decrease over July 2016. Year-to-date sales are 188,329, an increase of 5.9 percent. Separately, Audi of America reported July sales of 18,824, an increase of 2.5 percent. Year-to-date sales of 121,795 is a 5.6 percent increase over last year.
Mercedes-Benz USA reported July sales of 25,909. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 187,869, down 1.8 percent from the previous year. Adding 2,758 for Vans and 182 for smart, MBUSA achieved a grand total of 28,849 vehicles for the month.
Sales of BMW brand vehicles of 21,965 was a decrease of 14.8 percent. Year-to-date sales of 171,051 is down 4.6 percent compared to the first seven months of 2016.
Mitsubishi Motors North America reported July 2017 sales of 8,025, up 1.7 percent over July 2016. Year-to-date sales are 62,601.
Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 6,967 vehicles for the month of July.
Jaguar Land Rover North America reported July U.S. sales for both brands were 9,081, a 4 percent decrease, with Jaguar sales of 3,166, a 7 percent decrease and Land Rover sales 5,915, down 2.6 percent July 2016. Year to date, Jaguar Land Rover is up 15 percent in the United States, ahead of 2016's record sales year pace.
Porsche Cars North America announced record July 2017 sales of 3,901 vehicles, a 0.6 percent increase over July 2016. Year-to-date, deliveries are up 2.9 percent compared to 2016 with 31,469 vehicle sales.
Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.
Ford Motor Company reported July sales of 200,212, a drop of 7.5 percent from 2016. Year-to-date sales are 1,501,314, down 4.3 percent.
Toyota Motor North America reported July 2017 sales of 222,057, up 3.6 percent. Toyota division posted July sales of 193,155, up 3.6 percent. Year-to-date Toyota Motor North America sales are 1,377,222, down 2.5 percent.
FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported sales of 161,477, a 10 percent decrease compared with sales in July 2016. Year-to-date sales are 1,228,839, down 7 percent.
American Honda reported total July sales of 150,980 Honda and Acura vehicles, a decrease of 1.2 percent vs. July 2016. Total Honda Division sales decreased 1.7 percent on sales of 136,803. Acura Division sales were up 3.7 percent in July on sales of 14,177 vehicles. Year-to-date American Honda sales are 942,866, down 0.2 percent.
Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales of 128,295, a decrease of 3.2 percent over the prior year. Year-to-date sales are 947,983, up 1.9 percent over a year ago.
Hyundai Motor America reported July sales of Hyundai and Genesis branded vehicles of 54,063, a 28 percent decline compared with the company’s best July ever in 2016. Genesis Motor America sales of 1,644 for July pushing year-to-date sales to 11,563.
Kia Motors America announced July sales of 56,403 vehicles, down 5.9 percent. Year-to-date sales are 352,139, down 9.3 percent from a year ago.
Subaru of America reported 55,703 vehicle sales for July 2017, a 7 percent increase over July 2016, and the best July in the history of the company. Subaru reported year-to-date sales of 360,513 vehicles, a 8.7 percent gain over the same period in 2016.
Mazda North American Operations reported July U.S. sales of 27,089 vehicles, representing a decrease of 3 percent versus July of last year. Year-to-date sales through July are down 2.6 percent versus last year, with 168,713 vehicles sold.
Volkswagen of America reported sales of 27,091, a 5.8 percent decrease over July 2016. Year-to-date sales are 188,329, an increase of 5.9 percent. Separately, Audi of America reported July sales of 18,824, an increase of 2.5 percent. Year-to-date sales of 121,795 is a 5.6 percent increase over last year.
Mercedes-Benz USA reported July sales of 25,909. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 187,869, down 1.8 percent from the previous year. Adding 2,758 for Vans and 182 for smart, MBUSA achieved a grand total of 28,849 vehicles for the month.
Sales of BMW brand vehicles of 21,965 was a decrease of 14.8 percent. Year-to-date sales of 171,051 is down 4.6 percent compared to the first seven months of 2016.
Mitsubishi Motors North America reported July 2017 sales of 8,025, up 1.7 percent over July 2016. Year-to-date sales are 62,601.
Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 6,967 vehicles for the month of July.
Jaguar Land Rover North America reported July U.S. sales for both brands were 9,081, a 4 percent decrease, with Jaguar sales of 3,166, a 7 percent decrease and Land Rover sales 5,915, down 2.6 percent July 2016. Year to date, Jaguar Land Rover is up 15 percent in the United States, ahead of 2016's record sales year pace.
Porsche Cars North America announced record July 2017 sales of 3,901 vehicles, a 0.6 percent increase over July 2016. Year-to-date, deliveries are up 2.9 percent compared to 2016 with 31,469 vehicle sales.
Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.
Wednesday, July 5, 2017
Volvo To Go All-Electric Car Line-Up From 2019
Every Volvo that launches from 2019 will have an electric motor in a choice of fully electric cars, plug in hybrid cars and mild hybrid cars. Volvo will introduce five fully electric cars between 2019 and 2021, three of which will be Volvo models and two of which will be high performance electrified cars from Polestar, Volvo Cars’ performance car arm. Full details of these models will be announced at a later date. Volvo Cars is focused on reducing the carbon emissions of both its products as well as its operations and aims to have climate neutral manufacturing operations by 2025.
Tuesday, July 4, 2017
June 2017 U.S. Auto Sales
General Motors (Chevrolet, Buick, Cadillac, GMC) June total sales were 243,155 vehicles, down 4.7 percent from the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of 1,414,446, a 1.7 decreasefro a year ago.
Ford Motor Company reported June 2017 sales of 227,979, a 5.1 percent drop from a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 1,301,102 is a 3.8 percent drop.
Toyota Motor North America reported June 2017 sales of 202,376, up 2.1 percent. For the first half of the year, TMNA reported sales of 1,155,165, down 3.6 percent versus the same period in 2016.
FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported sales of 187,348, a 7 percent decrease compared with sales in June 2016.
Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for June 2017 of 143,328, an increase of 2 percent over the prior year and a June record. Year-to-date sales are 819,688, up a 2.7 gain over 2016.
American Honda reported total June sales of 139,793 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 0.8 percent over June 2016. Year-to-date sales of 791,886, a 0.1 percent drop from 2016.
Hyundai Motor America reported June sales of Hyundai and Genesis branded vehicles of 54,507, a 19 percent decrease compared with the all-time June sales record set last year. Genesis Motor America reported sales of 1,613 for the month of June. Year-to-date sales for both brands were
346,360, a 7.4 percent drop from 2016.
Kia Motors America announced June sales of 56,143, down 10.3 percent from 2016. Year-to-date sales of 295,736 is a 9.9 percent decline from a year ago.
Volkswagen of America reported sales of 27,377 in June 2017, a 15 percent increase over June 2016. Year-to-date sales of 161,238 is an increase of 8.2 percent. Separately, Audi of America reported a June sales increase of 5.3 percent to 19,416 vehicles. Year-to-date Audi sales of 102,971, is a 6.2 percent increase over 2016.
Subaru of America reported 52,057 vehicle sales for June 2017, an 11.7 percent increase over June 2016, and the best June in the history of the company. Subaru also reported year-to-date sales of 304,810 vehicles, a 9.1 percent gain over the same period in 2016.
Mercedes-Benz USA reported best-ever June sales of 28,994, an increase of 1.8 percent, closing out the second-quarter at 161,960 year-to-date. Mercedes-Benz Vans also reported best-ever June sales with 3,108 and smart reported 226, bringing the MBUSA grand total to 32,328 vehicles for the month, up 1.1 percent from last year.
Mazda North American Operations reported June U.S. sales of 22,342 vehicles, a decrease of 14.7 percent versus June of last year. Year-to-date sales through June are down 2.6 percent versus last year, with 141,624 vehicles sold.
Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 0.4 percent in June for a total of 28,962 compared to June 2016. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is down 2.8 percent in the U.S. on sales of 149,086 vehicles compared to the first six months of 2016.
Mitsubishi Motors North America reported June 2017 sales of 7,625, down 5 percent over June 2016. Total 2017 calendar-year sales are up 5.1 percent compared to last year at this time with 54,576 sold.
Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 7,303 vehicles for the month of June, down 15 percent from last June. Year-to-date sales of 34,105 is a 7 percent drop from 2016.
Porsche Cars North America announced June 2017 sales of 4,516 vehicles, a 0.8 percent increase over June 2016. Year-to-date, deliveries are up 3.2 percent compared to 2016 with 27,568 vehicle sales.
Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.
Ford Motor Company reported June 2017 sales of 227,979, a 5.1 percent drop from a year ago. Year-to-date sales of 1,301,102 is a 3.8 percent drop.
Toyota Motor North America reported June 2017 sales of 202,376, up 2.1 percent. For the first half of the year, TMNA reported sales of 1,155,165, down 3.6 percent versus the same period in 2016.
FCA US (Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Fiat, Alfa Romeo) reported sales of 187,348, a 7 percent decrease compared with sales in June 2016.
Nissan Group announced total U.S. sales for June 2017 of 143,328, an increase of 2 percent over the prior year and a June record. Year-to-date sales are 819,688, up a 2.7 gain over 2016.
American Honda reported total June sales of 139,793 Honda and Acura vehicles, an increase of 0.8 percent over June 2016. Year-to-date sales of 791,886, a 0.1 percent drop from 2016.
Hyundai Motor America reported June sales of Hyundai and Genesis branded vehicles of 54,507, a 19 percent decrease compared with the all-time June sales record set last year. Genesis Motor America reported sales of 1,613 for the month of June. Year-to-date sales for both brands were
346,360, a 7.4 percent drop from 2016.
Kia Motors America announced June sales of 56,143, down 10.3 percent from 2016. Year-to-date sales of 295,736 is a 9.9 percent decline from a year ago.
Volkswagen of America reported sales of 27,377 in June 2017, a 15 percent increase over June 2016. Year-to-date sales of 161,238 is an increase of 8.2 percent. Separately, Audi of America reported a June sales increase of 5.3 percent to 19,416 vehicles. Year-to-date Audi sales of 102,971, is a 6.2 percent increase over 2016.
Subaru of America reported 52,057 vehicle sales for June 2017, an 11.7 percent increase over June 2016, and the best June in the history of the company. Subaru also reported year-to-date sales of 304,810 vehicles, a 9.1 percent gain over the same period in 2016.
Mercedes-Benz USA reported best-ever June sales of 28,994, an increase of 1.8 percent, closing out the second-quarter at 161,960 year-to-date. Mercedes-Benz Vans also reported best-ever June sales with 3,108 and smart reported 226, bringing the MBUSA grand total to 32,328 vehicles for the month, up 1.1 percent from last year.
Mazda North American Operations reported June U.S. sales of 22,342 vehicles, a decrease of 14.7 percent versus June of last year. Year-to-date sales through June are down 2.6 percent versus last year, with 141,624 vehicles sold.
Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 0.4 percent in June for a total of 28,962 compared to June 2016. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is down 2.8 percent in the U.S. on sales of 149,086 vehicles compared to the first six months of 2016.
Mitsubishi Motors North America reported June 2017 sales of 7,625, down 5 percent over June 2016. Total 2017 calendar-year sales are up 5.1 percent compared to last year at this time with 54,576 sold.
Volvo Car USA reported U.S. sales of 7,303 vehicles for the month of June, down 15 percent from last June. Year-to-date sales of 34,105 is a 7 percent drop from 2016.
Porsche Cars North America announced June 2017 sales of 4,516 vehicles, a 0.8 percent increase over June 2016. Year-to-date, deliveries are up 3.2 percent compared to 2016 with 27,568 vehicle sales.
Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.
Friday, June 30, 2017
2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS Starts At $294,250 In Early 2018
The new 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS, the fastest and most powerful street-legal 911 model ever, is powered by a 700-horsepower 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine mated to a customized GT seven-speed double-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission. The two-seater accelerates from zero to 60 miles per hour in 2.7 seconds to a top track speed of 211 miles per hour, and it surpasses the 2011 911 GT2 RS by 80 horsepower. The 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS model is available to order with a base MSRP of $294,250 (including the $1,050 delivery, processing and handling fee). It will reach U.S. dealers in early 2018.
Jaguar XE SV Project 8
The new Jaguar XE SV Project 8, an all-wheel drive hand-built sedan available in two- and four-seat specification, is powered by a 592 horsepower 5.0-liter supercharged V8 gasoline engine mated to an eight-speed Quickshift® transmission with a top speed of 200 mph. No more than 300 will be created for global sale.
2018 Maserati GranTurismo
The 2018 Maserati GranTurismo is powered by a 460 horsepower 4.7-liter V8 enginemated to a six-speed ZF automatic transmission. For 2018, the GranTurismo features a new, high resolution 8.4” capacitive touch screen and Harman Kardon Premium Sound system.
Aston Martin RapidE Coming In 2019
Aston Martin RapidE, powered by an all-electric powertrain replacing the six-liter V12 engine, is based on the Rapide AMR Limited, and will enter production in 2019 with a build run of 155 cars.
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
All-New 2018 BMW X3
The all-new 2018 BMW X3, the third generation X3, is 2.2-inches longer than its predecessor and comes with a factory-installed trailer hitch. The BMW X3 xDrive30i is powered by a 248 horsepower 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder gasoline engine, 8 horsepower more than the outgoing BMW X3 xDrive28i and mated to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with shift paddles. The flagship X3 M40i has a 355 horsepower 3.0-liter M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology 6-cylinder inline engine connected to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission with Launch Control. The all-new 2018 BMW X3 will be available at certified BMW Centers this November with pricing to be announced closer to market launch.
Thursday, June 22, 2017
BMW 640i xDrive Gran Turismo Starts At $70,695 This Fall
The all-new BMW 640i xDrive Gran Turismo is powered by 335 horsepower 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder inline gasoline engine mated to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission with shift paddles and will be available at showrooms in this Fall starting at $70,695 (including $995 destination and handling charge).
All-New 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan Starts At $26,245 This Summer
The all-new 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan is powered by a 184 horsepower four-cylinder turbocharged and direct-injection 2.0-liter TSI engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and at 185.1 inches long gains 10.6 inches in length over the existing model and features up to 58 percent more cargo space and third-row seating comes standard on FWD models, and is optional on AWD models. The all-new 2018 Tiguan will have S, SE, SEl and SEL Premium trim levels with the turbocharged 2.0L TSI® S FWD model starting at $26,245 (including $900 destination fee) and $27,545 for the 2.0L TSI S 4Motion®. The 2018 Tiguan arrives in dealerships in this Summer.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek Starts At $22,710 Late This Summer
The all-new 2018 Subaru Crosstrek gets a revised 152 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine with direct fuel injection mated to either a new 6-speed manual transmission or a Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with a 7-speed manual mode function with steering wheel paddle shifters, offered in 2.0i base, Premium and Limited trims. The all-new 2018 Subaru Crosstrek pricing begins at just $100 over the last generation model at $22,710 (including $915 destination & delivery charge) with premium trim Crosstreks priced from $$23,510 and 2.0i Limited from $27,210. All 2018 Crosstrek models will have front driver and passenger seat side impact airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver’s knee airbag when they arrive at retailers late this Summer.
2017 Nissan TITAN King Cab Starts At $33,745 Now
The 2017 Nissan TITAN King Cab and TITAN XD King Cab models, on sale now at Nissan dealers, with a choice of 390-horsepower 5.6-liter Endurance® V8 engine mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission, or a 310 horsepower 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel matched to a 6-speed Aisin A466ND automatic transmission, is offered in 4x4 and 4x2 drive and S, SV and PRO-4X (4x4 only) grade levels. The new King Cab with available 6-person seating offers half-ton and XD versions with a standard 6.5-foot bed length. TITAN S King Cab 4x2 starts at $33,745 (including destination and handling $1,195). TITAN XD King Cab offers an available maximum towing capacity of 12,510 pounds (diesel engine) and maximum payload capacity of 2,710 pounds (gas engine) when properly equipped.
2018 Ford Expedition FX4 Coming This Fall
The all-new 2018 Ford Expedition FX4 Off-Road Package, with a 375 horsepower 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine with standard Auto Start-Stop, an all-new 10-speed transmission and available towing of 9,300 pounds, is made of all-new high-strength, aluminum-alloy body and redesigned high-strength steel frame to save up to 300 pounds. Expedition’s all-new Terrain Management System™ lets FX4 customers select from seven special drive modes to adapt to different road conditions. The all-new Expedition lineup, including the FX4 Off-Road Package, goes on sale this Fall.
2018 Cadillac XTS Gets Improvements
The 2018 Cadillac XTS, powered by a 304 horsepower 3.6L V-6 engine or a 410 horsepower twin-turbo 3.6L V-6 standard on the all-wheel drive V-Sport model, receives technical, chassis and appearance changes including improved ride comfort and noise reduction, freshened front and rear fascias, new fenders, and grille. The next-generation Cadillac user experience can be adjusted over time to meet a customer’s evolving connectivity needs, leveraging the cloud to enable personalization, available connected navigation and applications via the Collection app store.
Dodge Challenger SRT Demon Priced At $86,090
The new limited-production, 840-horsepower Dodge Challenger SRT Demon starts at $86,090 (including $1,700 gas guzzler tax and $1,095 destination charge) with Demons sold at or below MSRP to receive priority scheduling resulting in lower serial numbers and Demons sold at a price that exceeds MSRP will be produced after priority production is completed. Dealers can only order as many Demons as they are allocated.
Jaguar E-PACE Compact SUV Arrives Early Next Year
The Jaguar E-PACE compact SUV, the 2nd performance SUV in the ‘PACE’ line-up, will be revealed to the world on July 13, and will go on sale beginning in early 2018 priced from $39,995 (including $995 destination/handling charge).
All-New 2018 Toyota Camry Starts At $24,380
The all-new 2018 Toyota Camry, available in L, LE, XLE, SE and XSE trim levels, powered by an all-new 206 horsepower 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder D-4S gasoline engine and a new 301 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 with D-4S Fuel Injection, both paired to a new eight-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission. The 2018 Camry Hybrid is available in LE, SE, and XLE with an EPA-estimated mpg of 51 city/ 53 highway/52 combined on the LE grade, a 30 percent increase for combined mpg, and 44 city/47 highway/46 combined on the SE and XLE, reflecting an increase of 21 percent for combined mpg. The MSRP for the new 2018 Toyota Camry gas models will range from $24,380 (including the delivery, processing, and handling fee of $885) for the L grade 4-cylinder to $35,835 for the Premium XSE V6. The MSRP for the Camry hybrid will range from $28,685 for the LE to $33,135 for the XLE.
Thursday, June 15, 2017
2018 Lincoln Navigator All-New Full-Size SUV
2018 Lincoln Navigator, an all-new full-size SUV with three rows that's 200 pounds lighter with its aluminum-alloy body, is powered by a 450 horsepower twin-turbo V6 engine mated to a 10-speed transmission. The all-new Navigator’s cargo management system offers an adjustable shelf behind the rear seats that customized storage so when the vehicle parked on an incline groceries won’t roll out when the liftgate is opened. The all-new Navigator with six USB ports, four 12-volt power outlets and a 110-volt plug. An available wireless phone charger in the first-row center console media bin eliminates tangled cords. Navigator comes with three Lincoln Black Label options of interior design themes and materials.
Genesis GV80 Concept SUV
Genesis GV80 Concept SUV is a new fuel cell concept SUV that utilizes plug-in hydrogen fuel cell electric technology. The interior cabin has a bridge instrument panel that stretches from door to door and a wide 22-inch curved display set in the instrument panel cascades into the driver’s cluster, which combines the precision of a classic speedometer with the immersive flow of information from a digital display.
2018 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trackhawk Coming In 4th Quarter
2018 Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, powered by a 707 horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine mated to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and delivering 645 lb.-ft. of torque for a 0-60 miles per hour time of 3.5 seconds, quarter mile of 11.6 seconds to a top speed of 180 mph. Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is equipped with the Jeep Quadra-Trac on-demand four-wheel-drive system, which includes an electronic limited-slip rear differential and a single-speed active transfer case and capable of towing 7,200 pounds. Features include a five drive-mode Selec-Track system, an 8.4-standard touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android, AutoTrailer Hitch Camera View at Speed, which allows owners to view trailered items through the rear-mounted camera while moving, and a Valet mode. The 2018 Grand Cherokee Trackhawk will arrive in Jeep showrooms in the fourth quarter.
2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon Coming Soon
2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon, shown at the New York International Auto Show, is powered by an 840 horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI® Demon V-8 engine, the world’s most powerful factory-production V-8, delivering 770 pounds-feet of torque with a 1.8 g-force acceleration for a quarter-mile elapsed time of 9.65 seconds reaching 140 miles per hour. The Demon's 0-30 mph time is 1.0 second and 0-60 mph time is 2.3 seconds. The SRT Demon is first-ever, street-legal factory-production car designed to run on 100+ unleaded high-octane fuel available at select gas stations, specialty shops and drag strips.
Production is limited to 3,000 in the United States and 300 in Canada with sales starting later this summer and deliveries to Dodge//SRT dealers this Fall. All customers who buy the new 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon receive one full-day session at Bob Bondurant School of High-performance Driving.
Monday, June 12, 2017
Hyundai Kona All-New Compact SUV
The Hyundai Kona, with an all-new compact SUV platform developed for the Kona, will offer a 147 horsepower 2.0-liter MPI Atkinson engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission or the 175 horsepower Gamma 1.6T-GDI engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Safety features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist and Driver Attention Warning. The car’s radar systems also assist with the Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Collison Warning. Different rear suspension systems have been developed for both 2WD and 4WD. The Kona will go on sale in Korea later this month, followed by North America and Europe.
Wednesday, May 31, 2017
Tuesday, May 30, 2017
James Kuffner, Toyota Research Institute On Self-Driving Cars
James Kuffner, Chief Technology Officer at the Toyota Research Institute in Palo Alto, California, discusses Toyota's role in developing autonomous self-driving cars with automotive journalist Richard Saxton. Kuffner led Google’s robotics program until joining Toyota In January of 2016.
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