Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
2012 Toyota Camry Starts At $22,715 On October 3rd
The Camry L has a base MSRP of $21,955 excluding a $760 delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee which is applied to all models. The Camry LE is $545 more, carrying a base MSRP of $22,500, a decrease of $200 or 0.9 percent compared to the 2011 model. Four-cylinder SE models will have an MSRP of $23,000, a decrease of $965 or 4.0 percent. The 2012 SE V6 model will remain priced at $26,640. The Camry XLE will start at $24,725 for four-cylinder models, a decrease of $2,000 or 7.5 percent compared to previous model year. The MSRP for XLE V6 models will be $29,845, which is the same price as the 2011 model.
The new Camry models with four-cylinder and V6 engines will begin reaching Toyota dealers in October and Camry Hybrid models will arrive in November.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
2012 Subaru Impreza Starts At $18,245 In November
2013 Infiniti IPL G Convertible Coming in the Spring of 2012
2013 Infiniti IPL G Convertible, based on G37 Convertible, with a 3.7-liter V6 and three-piece power retractable hardtop is coming in spring 2012. Additional information on the 2013 IPL G Convertible will be available during the production version debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
2012 Infiniti JX 3-Row Crossover Coming In The Spring of 2012
The Infiniti JX Concept is a preview of a new 7-passenger, 3-row luxury crossover with a V6 engine powering an all-wheel or front-wheel drive powertrain and will join the Infiniti lineup in spring 2012. The Infiniti JX will have Blind Spot Intervention available and Backup Collision Intervention which, when the transmission is in reverse, helps the driver detect crossing objects behind the vehicle and, if necessary, the system will automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision. Also on th JX, a 14-speaker Bose® Studio Surround® sound system with Waveguide bass technology and an Infiniti Connection Telematics system that can automatically synch the owner’s calendar and provide navigation guidance to appointments. It will also feature the Infiniti Personal Assistant concierge service with 24-hour access to a live team of professional assistants which comes free-of-charge with every 2012 Infiniti vehicle purchase. The debut of the production version of the all-new Infiniti JX will be at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.
2013 Lexus GS 350 Will Be Launched in Early 2012
The all-new 2013 Lexus GS 350, on a more rigid platform, is powered by a 306 horsepower 3.5-liter V6, four cams, and four valves per cylinder with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) with both direct and sequential injection taking the GS from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The transmission incorporates many features adopted from the Lexus IS F high-performance sedan, including faster shifts, earlier torque converter lockup and downshift throttle blips. There's Normal mode, ECO for better fuel economy, SPORT S to fully exploit the capabilities of the powertrain and SPORT S+ mode (available on some models) that engages handling enhancements via a sport setting of the adaptive variable suspension, steering system, and vehicle stability control (VSC) together with the powertrain enhancements of SPORT S mode.
Cool stuff includes enhanced Bluetooth® capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio, DVD audio and video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, 5.1 Surround Sound, a high-resolution eight-inch central control display centrally located high up in the instrument panel, an SMS text-to-speech feature allows the driver to be read text messages and send preset responses with a compatible smart phone. HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio are standard. The Gracenote Media management system creates dynamic music playlists and a voice recognition solution recognizes nicknames for music artists and even some mispronunciations.
Also available is a pre-collision system, which uses the radar cruise control system to provide early warning of upcoming objects that might result in a collision. The system also uses an infrared camera to monitor the driver's eyes to check on driver status. In the event that the driver does not appear to be looking forward when a collision appears imminent, the system will initiate the warning at an earlier threshold. If the driver still does not respond and make the appropriate maneuver, the system will initiate braking intervention up to two seconds prior to impact, helping to lessen the severity of the collision. Other available safety systems include a Night Vision System, Heads Up Display, a Blind Spot Monitor and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning.
The 2013 GS 350, equipped with 10 airbags including a knee airbag for both front driver and passenger and be available in rear or all-wheel drive, will be launched in early 2012 and be offered in hybrid and F Sport versions.
2012 Toyota Yaris Liftback Starts At $14,115 This Fall
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| 2012 Toyota Yaris Liftback LE |
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| 2012 Toyota Yaris Liftback SE |
Thursday, August 4, 2011
GM North America President Reuss Announces Two New Cadillacs
General Motors North America President Mark Reuss announced the launch the 2012 Cadillac XTS large luxury sedan for the Spring of 2012 and a compact luxury sports sedan codenamed ATS for the summer of 2012.
The XTS is based on the XTS Platinum Concept unveiled at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It will offer an advanced front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive system.
The Cadillac codenamed ATS is a rear-wheel drive luxury sports car to compete head-to-head with the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4 in the luxury market's largest segment.
Reuss also announced the eAssist light electrification feature on the 2012 Buick Regal will be a $2,000 option that delivers an estimated 25-percent improvement in fuel economy, giving Regal eAssist an EPA fuel economy rating of 36 mpg highway/25 mpg city. Regal with eAssist will start at $29,530, and Regal GS will start at $35,310; both prices include $860 in destination charges. The eAssist system is a $2,000 option on the Regal base model, mated to a 2.4L Ecotec engine. Buick will continue to offer the base model without eAssist as well as the 2.0L turbo.Regal eAssist, which goes on sale this fall, captures energy created during braking to charge a 115V lithium-ion battery that powers a 11-kW (15 horsepower) motor-generator, augmenting a 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder engine. The eAssist system also allows the engine to shut down fuel delivery in certain deceleration conditions, saving additional fuel. Based on $4-per-gallon gasoline, the eAssist option on the Regal should pay for itself in about 3 1/2 years.
The XTS is based on the XTS Platinum Concept unveiled at the 2010 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It will offer an advanced front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive system.
The Cadillac codenamed ATS is a rear-wheel drive luxury sports car to compete head-to-head with the BMW 3-Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4 in the luxury market's largest segment.
Reuss also announced the eAssist light electrification feature on the 2012 Buick Regal will be a $2,000 option that delivers an estimated 25-percent improvement in fuel economy, giving Regal eAssist an EPA fuel economy rating of 36 mpg highway/25 mpg city. Regal with eAssist will start at $29,530, and Regal GS will start at $35,310; both prices include $860 in destination charges. The eAssist system is a $2,000 option on the Regal base model, mated to a 2.4L Ecotec engine. Buick will continue to offer the base model without eAssist as well as the 2.0L turbo.Regal eAssist, which goes on sale this fall, captures energy created during braking to charge a 115V lithium-ion battery that powers a 11-kW (15 horsepower) motor-generator, augmenting a 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinder engine. The eAssist system also allows the engine to shut down fuel delivery in certain deceleration conditions, saving additional fuel. Based on $4-per-gallon gasoline, the eAssist option on the Regal should pay for itself in about 3 1/2 years.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
2011 July Auto Sales - All Up Except Toyota & Honda
General Motors dealers in the United States reported 214,915 total sales in July, an 8 percent gain compared to July 2010. A 36.4 percent jump in GMC sales offset a 25.5 percent fall in July Cadillac sales. Year-to-date sales GM sales are 1,476,548, a gain of 15.3 percent.
Ford's July sales totaled 180,865, up 8.9 percent versus a year ago – driven by 13 percent higher Ford brand sales and 40 percent higher sales for Lincoln. Year-to-date Ford sales are 1,253,579, up 11.8 percent over the first 11 months of 2010.
Toyota Motor Sales USA reported July sales of 130,802, a decrease of 19.7 percent from the year-ago month. Year-to-date Toyota sales are 943,590, down 7.1 percent from last year.
Chrysler Group LLC reported U.S. sales of 112,026, the best July sales since 2007 and a 20 percent increase compared with July 2010. Year-to-date Chrysler has sold 751,958 vehicles, up 21 percent over 2010.
Nissan North America reported July U.S. sales of 84,601, an increase of 2.7 percent. Nissan Division sales increased 6.4 percent and Infiniti sales decreased 24.1 percent from the prior year.
American Honda Motor posted July sales of 80,502 vehicles, a decrease of 25.6 percent, based on the daily selling rate. American Honda year-to-date sales reached 687,944, down 2.6 percent versus last year.
Hyundai Motor America announced sales of 59,561 vehicles in July, a 10 percent increase compared with the same period a year ago, an all-time sales record for both the month of July and the first seven months of the year for Hyundai, breaking the marks set last year. Year to date, Hyundai sales are 382,358, up 23.4 percent versus 2010.
Kia Motors America recorded its best-ever July sales of 45,504 vehicles, up 28.5 percent over the same period last year. Year-to-date Kia sales are 290,608, a jump of 41.4 percent over 2010.
Volkswagen of America reported sales of 29,066 in July 2011, a 21.7 percent increase over prior year sales. Year-to-date sales are 183,191, up 22.2 percent. Separately, Audi of America reported record July U.S. sales of 9,146 vehicles, topping the previous record of 7,974 vehicles sold in July 2001. Year to date, Audi sales in the U.S. grew 15.6% to 65,055 luxury vehicles sold from January 2011 through July 2011.
The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported July sales of 26,120 vehicles, an increase of 11.7% from the 23,390 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are up 17% to 169,641 in the first seven months of 2011 compared to 144,975 in the same period in 2010.
Subaru of America announced July 2011 sales of 21,730 down 9.4 percent and 153,779 year-to-date, an increase of 2.6 percent.
Mercedes-Benz USA reported July sales of 21,065 vehicles, a 16.7 percent improvement over July 2010, and the highest July volume since 2006. On a year-to-date basis, the 139,086 vehicles sold represent an 11.3 percent increase.
Mazda North American Operations reported July sales of 20,783 vehicles, up slightly at 0.2 percent versus July of 2010. Sales through the first half of the year are up 4.9 percent versus last year with 143,162 vehicles sold.
Mitsubishi Motors North America reported July 2011 sales of 7,972 units, an increase of 41.1 percent compared to the same month in 2010. The increase continues a sales surge that, for the first seven months of 2011, makes Mitsubishi the fastest growing automaker in the United States.
Jaguar U.S. sales of 984 was a 35 percent drop from July 2010 while year-to-date sales are up slightly to 7,394 from 7,367 last year. Land Rover sold 2,811 vehicles, a 23 percent gain bring year-to-date sales to 20,103, a 17 percent increase. Jaguar Land Rover's July total was 3,795 about the same as the 3,808 sold last year. JLR's year-to-date total through July is 27,497, a 12 percent rise.
Porsche Cars North America announced July 2011 sales of 2,768 units, an increase of 2 percent compared to the same period last year. So far in 2011, Porsche has sold 18,310, a 34 percent increase over last year.
American Suzuki sold 2,447 vehicles in July, a 25 percent rise over 2010 and year-to-date Suzuki has sold 15,849, up 17 percent over the first seven months of last year.
Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.
Ford's July sales totaled 180,865, up 8.9 percent versus a year ago – driven by 13 percent higher Ford brand sales and 40 percent higher sales for Lincoln. Year-to-date Ford sales are 1,253,579, up 11.8 percent over the first 11 months of 2010.
Toyota Motor Sales USA reported July sales of 130,802, a decrease of 19.7 percent from the year-ago month. Year-to-date Toyota sales are 943,590, down 7.1 percent from last year.
Chrysler Group LLC reported U.S. sales of 112,026, the best July sales since 2007 and a 20 percent increase compared with July 2010. Year-to-date Chrysler has sold 751,958 vehicles, up 21 percent over 2010.
Nissan North America reported July U.S. sales of 84,601, an increase of 2.7 percent. Nissan Division sales increased 6.4 percent and Infiniti sales decreased 24.1 percent from the prior year.
American Honda Motor posted July sales of 80,502 vehicles, a decrease of 25.6 percent, based on the daily selling rate. American Honda year-to-date sales reached 687,944, down 2.6 percent versus last year.
Hyundai Motor America announced sales of 59,561 vehicles in July, a 10 percent increase compared with the same period a year ago, an all-time sales record for both the month of July and the first seven months of the year for Hyundai, breaking the marks set last year. Year to date, Hyundai sales are 382,358, up 23.4 percent versus 2010.
Kia Motors America recorded its best-ever July sales of 45,504 vehicles, up 28.5 percent over the same period last year. Year-to-date Kia sales are 290,608, a jump of 41.4 percent over 2010.
Volkswagen of America reported sales of 29,066 in July 2011, a 21.7 percent increase over prior year sales. Year-to-date sales are 183,191, up 22.2 percent. Separately, Audi of America reported record July U.S. sales of 9,146 vehicles, topping the previous record of 7,974 vehicles sold in July 2001. Year to date, Audi sales in the U.S. grew 15.6% to 65,055 luxury vehicles sold from January 2011 through July 2011.
The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported July sales of 26,120 vehicles, an increase of 11.7% from the 23,390 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are up 17% to 169,641 in the first seven months of 2011 compared to 144,975 in the same period in 2010.
Subaru of America announced July 2011 sales of 21,730 down 9.4 percent and 153,779 year-to-date, an increase of 2.6 percent.
Mercedes-Benz USA reported July sales of 21,065 vehicles, a 16.7 percent improvement over July 2010, and the highest July volume since 2006. On a year-to-date basis, the 139,086 vehicles sold represent an 11.3 percent increase.
Mazda North American Operations reported July sales of 20,783 vehicles, up slightly at 0.2 percent versus July of 2010. Sales through the first half of the year are up 4.9 percent versus last year with 143,162 vehicles sold.
Mitsubishi Motors North America reported July 2011 sales of 7,972 units, an increase of 41.1 percent compared to the same month in 2010. The increase continues a sales surge that, for the first seven months of 2011, makes Mitsubishi the fastest growing automaker in the United States.
Jaguar U.S. sales of 984 was a 35 percent drop from July 2010 while year-to-date sales are up slightly to 7,394 from 7,367 last year. Land Rover sold 2,811 vehicles, a 23 percent gain bring year-to-date sales to 20,103, a 17 percent increase. Jaguar Land Rover's July total was 3,795 about the same as the 3,808 sold last year. JLR's year-to-date total through July is 27,497, a 12 percent rise.
Porsche Cars North America announced July 2011 sales of 2,768 units, an increase of 2 percent compared to the same period last year. So far in 2011, Porsche has sold 18,310, a 34 percent increase over last year.
American Suzuki sold 2,447 vehicles in July, a 25 percent rise over 2010 and year-to-date Suzuki has sold 15,849, up 17 percent over the first seven months of last year.
Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
2011 J.D. Power APEAL Study Hits All-Time High Vehicle Appeal Level
The J.D. Power and Associates 2011 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study finds that overall vehicle appeal has reached an all-time high since the study’s inception in 1996 with the recently launched all-new and redesigned models substantially more appealing than their carryover counterparts. The improvement is partially driven by higher ratings for vehicle styling and fuel economy provided by owners of recently launched vehicles.
BMW and Dodge each capture three segment-level awards. BMW models receiving awards are the X3, Z4 Roadster and 5 Series, while Dodge receives awards for the Challenger, Charger and Durango. The Charger, Durango, X3 and 5 Series are all redesigned for the 2011 model year. Ford and Honda capture two model-level awards each, with Ford receiving awards for the all-new Fiesta and F-150 LD and Honda receiving awards for the Ridgeline and redesigned Odyssey.
Also receiving awards are the Chevrolet Volt, Hyundai Equus, Land Rover Range Rover, Lexus IS, MINI Countryman, Nissan Armada, Porsche Cayenne, Scion xB, Suzuki Kizashi and Volkswagen GTI. Of these, the Countryman, Equus and Volt are all-new models, while the Cayenne is redesigned. The Equus achieves the highest APEAL score of any model in the industry in 2011. This is the first year that a model other than the BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS or Mercedes-Benz S-Class has led the overall model ranking.
Three models rank highest in their respective segments in both the 2011 APEAL Study and the 2011 IQS: the Dodge Challenger, Ford F-150 LD and Honda Ridgeline.
Porsche is the highest-ranking nameplate in the 2011 APEAL Study for a seventh consecutive year. Hyundai improves from 2010 more than any other nameplate this year, while Jeep and Chrysler also improve considerably.
The APEAL Study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive, based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes. The 2011 APEAL Study is based on responses gathered between February and May 2011 from more than 73,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2011 model-year cars and trucks who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership.
Source: J.D. Power & Associates
BMW and Dodge each capture three segment-level awards. BMW models receiving awards are the X3, Z4 Roadster and 5 Series, while Dodge receives awards for the Challenger, Charger and Durango. The Charger, Durango, X3 and 5 Series are all redesigned for the 2011 model year. Ford and Honda capture two model-level awards each, with Ford receiving awards for the all-new Fiesta and F-150 LD and Honda receiving awards for the Ridgeline and redesigned Odyssey.
Also receiving awards are the Chevrolet Volt, Hyundai Equus, Land Rover Range Rover, Lexus IS, MINI Countryman, Nissan Armada, Porsche Cayenne, Scion xB, Suzuki Kizashi and Volkswagen GTI. Of these, the Countryman, Equus and Volt are all-new models, while the Cayenne is redesigned. The Equus achieves the highest APEAL score of any model in the industry in 2011. This is the first year that a model other than the BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS or Mercedes-Benz S-Class has led the overall model ranking.
Three models rank highest in their respective segments in both the 2011 APEAL Study and the 2011 IQS: the Dodge Challenger, Ford F-150 LD and Honda Ridgeline.
Porsche is the highest-ranking nameplate in the 2011 APEAL Study for a seventh consecutive year. Hyundai improves from 2010 more than any other nameplate this year, while Jeep and Chrysler also improve considerably.
The APEAL Study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive, based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes. The 2011 APEAL Study is based on responses gathered between February and May 2011 from more than 73,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2011 model-year cars and trucks who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership.
Source: J.D. Power & Associates
2012 Scion iQ Starts At $15,995 In October
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Volvo S60 & XC60 T6 R-Design To Debut This Summer
The all-new Volvo S60 T6 R-Design and enhanced XC60 T6 R-Design will debut in North America this summer with a 325 horsepower turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine delivering 354 lb-ft. of torque on a sport chassis that features a strut brace under the hood that ties together the suspension strut towers, stiffening the body structure and improving steering response. New rear dampers feature a monotube concept which delivers compression and return damping via the same valve, giving a shorter, faster fluid flow. This in turn means the damper responds more quickly. Springs are shortened by 15mm and have an increased stiffness of 15%, while rear bushings are 20% stiffer. The S60 T6 R-Design is available with Pedestrian Detection with Full Auto Brake which helps the car avoid hitting a pedestrian at speeds up to 22 miles per hour.
Monday, July 11, 2011
2012 Nissan Versa Sedan Starts At $10,990 In Early August
The new 2012 Nissan Versa Sedan is totally redesigned on the all-new front-wheel drive global "V" for Versatile platform utilizing nearly 20 percent fewer platform components and weighing around 150 pounds less than the previous "B" platform. The Versa Sedan is powered by a 109 horsepower 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine with a dual injector system and twin Continuously Variable Timing Control delivering 107 lb-ft of torque. Nissan brags that the new Versa has the lowest starting M.S.R.P. in America at just $10,990 (excluding applicable tax, title, license fees and destination charges). The Versa Sedan is available in three models: the 1.6 S starting at $10,990, 1.6 SV starting at $14,560 and 1.6 SL starting at $15,560. Among the available 2012 Versa Sedan optional equipment packages are a Convenience Package (1.6 S CVT), Convenience Package (1.6 SV) and Tech Package (1.6 SL) including such features as a Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, XM Satellite Radio (XM subscription required, sold separately) and an in-dash 5-inch touch-screen navigation system with XM NavTraffic (XM subscription required, sold separately) and USB input for iPod and other compatible devices.
The base 1.6 S 5MT includes standard air conditioning, 6-way adjustable driver's seat, AM/FM/CD/Aux-in audio system. The 2012 Versa Sedan is available with a 5-speed manual transmission (1.6 S model only) and with a next-generation Xtronic CVT™ transmission with an estimated 30 mpg City, 38 mpg Highway and 33 mpg Combined with the CVT transmission (27/36/30 mpg with the 5-speed manual transmission). The Versa is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early August.
Friday, July 1, 2011
June 2011 U.S. Auto Sales
General Motors reported 215,358 total U.S. sales in June, an 11 percent gain compared to June 2010. In the first half of 2011, GM reported 1,261,633 vehicles sold, a 16.8 percent increase over the first half of 2010.
Ford Motor Company June sales were 194,114, up 14 percent versus a year ago. Year-to-date, total sales are 1,072,714, up 12.4 percent.
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported June sales of 110,937, a decrease of 21.1 percent from the year-ago month. For the first half of the year, TMS reported sales of 812,788, down 3.9 percent during the first half of the year.
Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales of 120,394, a 30 percent increase compared with sales in June 2010 for the best June sales since 2007. First half 2011 Chrysler Group sales are 639,932, an increase of 21 percent versus the first half of 2010.
American Honda posted June sales of 83,892 vehicles, a decrease of 24.3 percent, based on the daily selling rate. American Honda year-to-date sales reached 607,442, an increase of 1.6 percent versus last year, based on the daily selling rate. Although production limitations caused by the March 11 earthquake in Japan continued to improve, reduced vehicle supplies adversely affected June sales results.
Nissan North America reported June U.S. sales of 71,941, an increase of 11.4 percent. Nissan Division sales increased 16.7 percent for the month at 65,659 units. Sales of Infiniti vehicles decreased 24.3 percent from the prior year, to 6,282 units. For 2011, NNA sales have increased 14.7 percent to 504,973 units.
Hyundai Motor America had sales of 59,209 in June, a 16 percent increase compared with the same period a year ago. For the first six months of the year, total sales are 322,797, up 26 percent, with retail volume rising 38 percent.
Kia Motors America June sales of 45,044 vehicles represents a 41.2 percent increase from the same period a year earlier. KMA's year-to-date sales of 140,330 is up 44.1 percent over 2010.
Volkswagen of America reported sales of 28,444, a 35.1 percent increase over prior year sales. Year-to-date sales are 154,125, up 22.3 percent. Separately, Audi reported sales of 10,051, an 16.9 percent. Year-to-date Audi sales are 55,909, an increase of 15.4 percent.
The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported June sales of 26,865 vehicles, an increase of 15.1% from the 23,331 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group is up 18% on sales of 143,521 in the first six months of 2011 compared to the same period in 2010.
Mercedes-Benz USA reported June sales of 22,563 vehicles, an 18.8 percent improvement over June 2010. On a year-to-date basis, the 118,021 vehicles sold represent a 10.4 percent increase.
Subaru of America announced June 2011 sales of 19,794, an 8.4 percent drop from a year ago. Overall year-to-date sales were 132, 049 up 4.8 percent from the same period in 2010.
Mazda North American Operations reported June sales of 19,307 vehicles, up 5.9 percent versus June of 2010. Sales through the first half of the year are 122,379, up 5.8 percent versus last year.
Mitsubishi Motors North America reported June 2011 sales of 8,299 units, nearly doubling June 2010 sales with an increase of 97.7 percent. Year-to date sales are up 66.5 percent.
Jaguar June sales of 1,389 represents a 14 percent decrease from June 2010 while year-to-date Jaguar sales are 6,410, a 10 percent gain over 2010. Land Rover sold 3,152 vehicles in June, a 13 percent rise and year-to-date sales are 17,292, up 16 percent. Combined JLR sales are 4,541 for June, up 3 percent from 2010 and 20,815 for the year so far, a 14 percent increase.
Porsche Cars North America announced June sales of 2,546, an increase of 19 percent. So far in 2011, sales are 15,542, a 42 percent increase.
American Suzuki sold 2,278 in June, a 12 percent increase over June 2010 and year-to-date sales are 13,402, a 16 percent gain.
Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.
Ford Motor Company June sales were 194,114, up 14 percent versus a year ago. Year-to-date, total sales are 1,072,714, up 12.4 percent.
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. reported June sales of 110,937, a decrease of 21.1 percent from the year-ago month. For the first half of the year, TMS reported sales of 812,788, down 3.9 percent during the first half of the year.
Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales of 120,394, a 30 percent increase compared with sales in June 2010 for the best June sales since 2007. First half 2011 Chrysler Group sales are 639,932, an increase of 21 percent versus the first half of 2010.
American Honda posted June sales of 83,892 vehicles, a decrease of 24.3 percent, based on the daily selling rate. American Honda year-to-date sales reached 607,442, an increase of 1.6 percent versus last year, based on the daily selling rate. Although production limitations caused by the March 11 earthquake in Japan continued to improve, reduced vehicle supplies adversely affected June sales results.
Nissan North America reported June U.S. sales of 71,941, an increase of 11.4 percent. Nissan Division sales increased 16.7 percent for the month at 65,659 units. Sales of Infiniti vehicles decreased 24.3 percent from the prior year, to 6,282 units. For 2011, NNA sales have increased 14.7 percent to 504,973 units.
Hyundai Motor America had sales of 59,209 in June, a 16 percent increase compared with the same period a year ago. For the first six months of the year, total sales are 322,797, up 26 percent, with retail volume rising 38 percent.
Kia Motors America June sales of 45,044 vehicles represents a 41.2 percent increase from the same period a year earlier. KMA's year-to-date sales of 140,330 is up 44.1 percent over 2010.
Volkswagen of America reported sales of 28,444, a 35.1 percent increase over prior year sales. Year-to-date sales are 154,125, up 22.3 percent. Separately, Audi reported sales of 10,051, an 16.9 percent. Year-to-date Audi sales are 55,909, an increase of 15.4 percent.
The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported June sales of 26,865 vehicles, an increase of 15.1% from the 23,331 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group is up 18% on sales of 143,521 in the first six months of 2011 compared to the same period in 2010.
Mercedes-Benz USA reported June sales of 22,563 vehicles, an 18.8 percent improvement over June 2010. On a year-to-date basis, the 118,021 vehicles sold represent a 10.4 percent increase.
Subaru of America announced June 2011 sales of 19,794, an 8.4 percent drop from a year ago. Overall year-to-date sales were 132, 049 up 4.8 percent from the same period in 2010.
Mazda North American Operations reported June sales of 19,307 vehicles, up 5.9 percent versus June of 2010. Sales through the first half of the year are 122,379, up 5.8 percent versus last year.
Mitsubishi Motors North America reported June 2011 sales of 8,299 units, nearly doubling June 2010 sales with an increase of 97.7 percent. Year-to date sales are up 66.5 percent.
Jaguar June sales of 1,389 represents a 14 percent decrease from June 2010 while year-to-date Jaguar sales are 6,410, a 10 percent gain over 2010. Land Rover sold 3,152 vehicles in June, a 13 percent rise and year-to-date sales are 17,292, up 16 percent. Combined JLR sales are 4,541 for June, up 3 percent from 2010 and 20,815 for the year so far, a 14 percent increase.
Porsche Cars North America announced June sales of 2,546, an increase of 19 percent. So far in 2011, sales are 15,542, a 42 percent increase.
American Suzuki sold 2,278 in June, a 12 percent increase over June 2010 and year-to-date sales are 13,402, a 16 percent gain.
Sales will be updated as manufacturers report.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
2012 Range Rover Evoque Starts At $43,995 This Fall
The all-new 2012 Range Rover Evoque will have a starting price of $43,995 for the five-door (pictured above) and $44,995 for the coupe (pictured below) including destination and delivery charges. The Range Rover Evoque achieves 28 MPG highway and 19 MPG city based on EPA estimates.
The Evoque comes standard as an all-wheel drive in 3 styles: Pure - the purest expression of the LRX concept car; Prestige - the ultimate in Range Rover luxury; and, Dynamic - a sports-orientated take on the Range Rover Evoque. The Evoque is powered by an all-new 240 horsepower 2.0-liter engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that features Drive Select, a rotary gearshift, which rises up to ‘handshake’ the driver when the engine is switched on. ‘Rally-style’ Paddle Shift controls on the steering wheel allow you to change gear manually, when you want to. This vehicle will be sold in 160 countries worldwide with North American deliveries beginning in Fall 2011.
Monday, June 27, 2011
29th Annual Dana Point Concours d'Elegance - A Day At The Beach
Nowhere near the size of the August Pebble Beach event but quite a show - all round - in a perfect beach setting with clear and not foggy skies. Dave Kuntz of ABC provided commentary of the cars being driven through the show area.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
2011 J.D. Power IQS (Initial Quality Study) Results
Here are the JDPA 2011 IQS (Initial Quality Study) Results from a mail out survey of 228 questions in 8 categories that drew 73,000 customer responses for vehicles representing 32 brands in service for 3 months in the Nov. 2010 to Feb. 2011 time frame.
Overall initial quality improves to an average of 107 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) in 2011 from 109 PP100 in 2010. However, the initial quality of launch models—those that are all-new or have had major redesigns—worsens by 10 percent to an average of 122 PP100 in 2011 from 111 PP100 in 2010. Conversely, carryover models—those that have had no significant redesign in the past year—have better initial quality than ever before. Owners of these vehicles report an average of just 103 PP100 in 2011, compared with 108 PP100 in 2010. Lower PP100 scores indicate a lower rate of problem incidences and therefore higher initial quality.
Highlights:
Ford tumbles from 5th to 23rd, Toyota bounces back from 21st to 7th, Land Rover cuts problems per 100 (pp/100) by an industry-best 47, next most-improved Jaguar & Toyota by 16pp/100, industry average flat. Most improved by ranking: GMC to #10 from #25 (15 places) and Mazda to #5 from #18 (13 places).
Nameplate PP100 Comments
1. Lexus 73 improved from 88pp/100 & #4 last year, beats 2010 #1 by 10pp/100
2. Honda 86 improved from 95pp/100 & #6 last year
3. Acura 89 holding steady after 86pp/100 and #2 last year
4. Mercedes 94 was 87pp/100 & #3 last year
5tie. Mazda 100 improved from 114 & #18tie last year
5tie. Porsche 100 was #1 ranked last year, new Cayenne had impact
7. Toyota 101 improved from 117pp/100 & #21 so big recovery from its bad publicity
8. Infiniti 102 improved from 107pp/100 & #9 last year
9. Cadillac 103 improved from 111pp/100 & #12tie last year
10. GMC 104 improved from 126pp/100 & #25tie last year
Average 107 was 109 last year so essentially flat
11. Hyundai 108 fell from 102pp/100 & #7 last year, two-thirds of sales volume were new vehicles
12. Subaru 108 improved from 121pp/100 & #22 last year
13tie. BMW 109 improved from 113pp/100 & #16 last year
13tie. Chevrolet 109 improved slightly from 111pp/100 & was #12tie last year
13tie. Volvo 109 stayed at 109pp/100 & ranked fell from #10 last year
16. Chrysler 110 improved from 122pp/100 & #23 last year
17. Lincoln 111 was 106pp/100 & #8 last year, added technology features made a difference
18. Audi 113 was 111pp/100 & #12tie last year
18tie. Kia 113 improved from 126pp/100 & #25tie last year, 60% of sales volume were new launches
20tie. Buick 114 stayed at 114pp/100 & ranked slipped from #18tie last year
20tie. Jaguar 114 improved from 130pp/100 & #28tie last year
20tie. Ram 114 was 110pp/100 & #11 last year
23. Ford 116 was 93pp/100 & #5 last year, MyFordTouch difficulties a big culprit: JDPA
24. Nissan 117 was 111pp/100 & #12tie last year
25. Jeep 122 was 129pp/100 & #27 last year
26tie. Land Rover 123 biggest improvement in the industry - by 47pp/100, #33 last year
26tie. Scion 123 was 114pp/100 & #18tie last year
28tie. MINI 131 was 133pp/100 & #30 last year
28tie. Volkswagen 131 was 135 & #31 last year
30. Mitsubishi 133 improved from 146pp/100 & #32 last year
31. Suzuki 136 was 122pp/100 & #23tie last year
32. Dodge 137 was 130pp/100 & #28tie last year but many older vehicles dragged average down. Durango was best launch vehicle ever and Challenger did well.
Note: 2010 #17 ranked Mercury brand is gone.
Top Three Models per Segment
Sub-Compact Car: Highest Ranked: Honda Fit then Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent
Compact Car: Highest Ranked: Honda Civic & Honda Insight (tie), then Toyota Prius
Compact Sporty Car: Highest Ranked: Mazda MX-5 Miata then Volkswagen Eos, Volkswagen GTI
Compact Premium Sporty Car: Highest Ranked: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet/Coupe
Entry Premium Car: Highest Ranked: Lexus ES then Acura TSX, Lexus IS
Midsize Premium Car: Highest Ranked: Lexus GS, then Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan/Wagon
Midsize Sporty Car: Highest Ranked: Dodge Challenger then Chevrolet Camaro
Large Premium Car: Highest Ranked: Lexus LS then Hyundai Equus, Porsche Panamera
Midsize Car: Highest Ranked: Honda Accord then Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry
Large Car: Highest Ranked: Ford Taurus then Buick Lucerne, Nissan Maxima
Compact Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Honda Element, then Honda CR-V, Toyota FJ Cruiser
Compact MPV: Highest Ranked: Chevrolet HHR
Entry Premium Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class then Acura RDX, Volvo XC60
Midsize Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Honda Accord Crosstour then Dodge Durango (tie) & Subaru Outback Wagon (tie)
Large Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Chevrolet Tahoe then GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban
Midsize Premium Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Lexus GX then Lexus RX, BMW X6 (tie) & Infiniti FX-Series (tie) & Volvo XC70 (tie)
Large Premium Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Cadillac Escalade then Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, Lincoln Navigator
Large Pickup: Highest Ranked: Ford F-150 LD then Toyota Tundra, Chevrolet Avalanche
Midsize Pickup: Highest Ranked: Honda Ridgeline then Nissan Frontier, Ram Dakota
Minivan: Highest Ranked: Chrysler Town & Country then Honda Odyssey, Dodge Grand Caravan
Source: J.D. Power and Associates
Overall initial quality improves to an average of 107 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) in 2011 from 109 PP100 in 2010. However, the initial quality of launch models—those that are all-new or have had major redesigns—worsens by 10 percent to an average of 122 PP100 in 2011 from 111 PP100 in 2010. Conversely, carryover models—those that have had no significant redesign in the past year—have better initial quality than ever before. Owners of these vehicles report an average of just 103 PP100 in 2011, compared with 108 PP100 in 2010. Lower PP100 scores indicate a lower rate of problem incidences and therefore higher initial quality.
Highlights:
Ford tumbles from 5th to 23rd, Toyota bounces back from 21st to 7th, Land Rover cuts problems per 100 (pp/100) by an industry-best 47, next most-improved Jaguar & Toyota by 16pp/100, industry average flat. Most improved by ranking: GMC to #10 from #25 (15 places) and Mazda to #5 from #18 (13 places).
Nameplate PP100 Comments
1. Lexus 73 improved from 88pp/100 & #4 last year, beats 2010 #1 by 10pp/100
2. Honda 86 improved from 95pp/100 & #6 last year
3. Acura 89 holding steady after 86pp/100 and #2 last year
4. Mercedes 94 was 87pp/100 & #3 last year
5tie. Mazda 100 improved from 114 & #18tie last year
5tie. Porsche 100 was #1 ranked last year, new Cayenne had impact
7. Toyota 101 improved from 117pp/100 & #21 so big recovery from its bad publicity
8. Infiniti 102 improved from 107pp/100 & #9 last year
9. Cadillac 103 improved from 111pp/100 & #12tie last year
10. GMC 104 improved from 126pp/100 & #25tie last year
Average 107 was 109 last year so essentially flat
11. Hyundai 108 fell from 102pp/100 & #7 last year, two-thirds of sales volume were new vehicles
12. Subaru 108 improved from 121pp/100 & #22 last year
13tie. BMW 109 improved from 113pp/100 & #16 last year
13tie. Chevrolet 109 improved slightly from 111pp/100 & was #12tie last year
13tie. Volvo 109 stayed at 109pp/100 & ranked fell from #10 last year
16. Chrysler 110 improved from 122pp/100 & #23 last year
17. Lincoln 111 was 106pp/100 & #8 last year, added technology features made a difference
18. Audi 113 was 111pp/100 & #12tie last year
18tie. Kia 113 improved from 126pp/100 & #25tie last year, 60% of sales volume were new launches
20tie. Buick 114 stayed at 114pp/100 & ranked slipped from #18tie last year
20tie. Jaguar 114 improved from 130pp/100 & #28tie last year
20tie. Ram 114 was 110pp/100 & #11 last year
23. Ford 116 was 93pp/100 & #5 last year, MyFordTouch difficulties a big culprit: JDPA
24. Nissan 117 was 111pp/100 & #12tie last year
25. Jeep 122 was 129pp/100 & #27 last year
26tie. Land Rover 123 biggest improvement in the industry - by 47pp/100, #33 last year
26tie. Scion 123 was 114pp/100 & #18tie last year
28tie. MINI 131 was 133pp/100 & #30 last year
28tie. Volkswagen 131 was 135 & #31 last year
30. Mitsubishi 133 improved from 146pp/100 & #32 last year
31. Suzuki 136 was 122pp/100 & #23tie last year
32. Dodge 137 was 130pp/100 & #28tie last year but many older vehicles dragged average down. Durango was best launch vehicle ever and Challenger did well.
Note: 2010 #17 ranked Mercury brand is gone.
Top Three Models per Segment
Sub-Compact Car: Highest Ranked: Honda Fit then Kia Rio, Hyundai Accent
Compact Car: Highest Ranked: Honda Civic & Honda Insight (tie), then Toyota Prius
Compact Sporty Car: Highest Ranked: Mazda MX-5 Miata then Volkswagen Eos, Volkswagen GTI
Compact Premium Sporty Car: Highest Ranked: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet/Coupe
Entry Premium Car: Highest Ranked: Lexus ES then Acura TSX, Lexus IS
Midsize Premium Car: Highest Ranked: Lexus GS, then Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan/Wagon
Midsize Sporty Car: Highest Ranked: Dodge Challenger then Chevrolet Camaro
Large Premium Car: Highest Ranked: Lexus LS then Hyundai Equus, Porsche Panamera
Midsize Car: Highest Ranked: Honda Accord then Subaru Legacy, Toyota Camry
Large Car: Highest Ranked: Ford Taurus then Buick Lucerne, Nissan Maxima
Compact Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Honda Element, then Honda CR-V, Toyota FJ Cruiser
Compact MPV: Highest Ranked: Chevrolet HHR
Entry Premium Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class then Acura RDX, Volvo XC60
Midsize Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Honda Accord Crosstour then Dodge Durango (tie) & Subaru Outback Wagon (tie)
Large Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Chevrolet Tahoe then GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban
Midsize Premium Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Lexus GX then Lexus RX, BMW X6 (tie) & Infiniti FX-Series (tie) & Volvo XC70 (tie)
Large Premium Crossover/SUV: Highest Ranked: Cadillac Escalade then Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, Lincoln Navigator
Large Pickup: Highest Ranked: Ford F-150 LD then Toyota Tundra, Chevrolet Avalanche
Midsize Pickup: Highest Ranked: Honda Ridgeline then Nissan Frontier, Ram Dakota
Minivan: Highest Ranked: Chrysler Town & Country then Honda Odyssey, Dodge Grand Caravan
Source: J.D. Power and Associates
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Consumer Reports' Tests Show Dodge Durango & Charger Improve Most
Over the past three years, Consumer Reports has recommended only one Chrysler-built model, the DodgeRam 1500 pickup but that is changing since all the model redesigns and new launches over the past two years. Consumer Reports found that Chrysler’s vehicles are getting better, but their level of improvement varies considerably. They tested eight Chrysler models for their current issue: Chrysler 200, Dodge Avenger, and Dodge Charger sedans; the Chrysler Town & Country minivan; and Dodge Durango, Dodge Journey, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot SUVs.
The Durango (pictured above) and Charger, which received significant redesigns, have improved the most. Consumer Reports tested two all-wheel-drive versions of the large Durango, one with a V6 and the other with a V8. Their overall test scores—65 and 66, respectively—are dramatically better than the class-low 45 of the previous Durango V8. Their scores are comparable with that of the redesigned 2011 Ford Explorer (65), although they are well below rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Chevrolet Traverse.
The V6-powered Charger Rallye (pictured above) tested improved to 71, compared with the previous Charger V6’s dismal 58. It now scores close to the Ford Taurus and Buick LaCrosse. The freshened Town & Country, which is a virtual twin of the Dodge Grand Caravan, is also considerably improved, although its 17-mpg overall fuel economy remains the lowest of all minivans we’ve recently tested. Although they performed well enough, none of those three are recommended because they are too new for Consumer Reports to have reliability information.
They were not impressed with the 200, Avenger, Compass, Journey, or Patriot. Despite some improvements, they’re still mediocre overall, scoring at or near the bottom of their respective categories and too low to be recommended.
Good news on improvement for a company that was in bankruptcy two years ago.
The Durango (pictured above) and Charger, which received significant redesigns, have improved the most. Consumer Reports tested two all-wheel-drive versions of the large Durango, one with a V6 and the other with a V8. Their overall test scores—65 and 66, respectively—are dramatically better than the class-low 45 of the previous Durango V8. Their scores are comparable with that of the redesigned 2011 Ford Explorer (65), although they are well below rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Chevrolet Traverse.
The V6-powered Charger Rallye (pictured above) tested improved to 71, compared with the previous Charger V6’s dismal 58. It now scores close to the Ford Taurus and Buick LaCrosse. The freshened Town & Country, which is a virtual twin of the Dodge Grand Caravan, is also considerably improved, although its 17-mpg overall fuel economy remains the lowest of all minivans we’ve recently tested. Although they performed well enough, none of those three are recommended because they are too new for Consumer Reports to have reliability information.
They were not impressed with the 200, Avenger, Compass, Journey, or Patriot. Despite some improvements, they’re still mediocre overall, scoring at or near the bottom of their respective categories and too low to be recommended.
Good news on improvement for a company that was in bankruptcy two years ago.
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