Variance

Nov. 2006 Sales: Toyota Motor Sales December 1, 2006 – Torrance, CA - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever November sales of 196,695 vehicles, an increase of 15.9 percent over November 2005. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 2,314,202 units, up 12.5 percent over the same period last year. The Toyota Division posted best-ever November sales of 169,976, up 18 percent. The Lexus Division reported best-ever November sales with 26,719 units sold, an increase of 4.2 percent. Toyota Division Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever November sales of 92,970, up 14.3 percent over the same period last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry, which posted November sales of 34,189, up 15.1 percent from the year-ago month. Camry Hybrid, which went on sale in late April, reported sales of 3,100 units in November. Corolla reported best-ever November sales of 27,015, up 13.9 percent over the same period last year. The all-new Yaris subcompact, which went on sale in March, posted sales totaling 5,936 units for the month. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan posted best-ever November sales of 8,008, an increase of 1.5 percent. Toyota Division light truck sales were up 22.8 percent, with a best-ever November total of 77,006 units. Light truck sales were led by Sienna with monthly sales of 13,535, up 15 percent over the same period last year. The RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) reported best-ever November sales of 11,425, up 156.9 percent over the same period last year. The all-new FJ Cruiser, which went on sale in March, reported sales of 5,459 units. The Tundra full-size pickup truck reported November sales of 10,469. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported sales of 1,667 units for the month. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined November sales of 11,100, up 14.7 percent over the same period last year. Scion reported November sales of 10,769 units. The tC sports coupe led the way with November sales of 5,084 units. Scion xA sales were up 11.5 percent, posting best-ever November sales of 2,204 units. Lexus Division Lexus passenger cars posted best-ever November sales of 16,156 units, an increase of 15.4 percent over November 2005. Passenger car sales were led by the ES 350 luxury sedan with best-ever November sales of 6,678 units, up 44 percent. The IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans recorded combined November sales of 3,599 units. The LS 430 and the all-new LS 460 reported combined sales of 3,613, an increase of 116.3 percent. Lexus Division light trucks reported November sales totaling 10,563 units. The 2006 RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV reported sales of 1,327 units for the month. The RX 350 and RX 400h enjoyed combined November sales of 8,052 units. TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 173,859 units. In November, hybrid sales posted 14,278 units. There were 25 selling days this sales month and last November. TOYOTA RETAIL SALES (INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII) November, 2006 ---- CURRENT MONTH ---- -- CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE -- DSR % DSR % 2006 2005 CHG 2006 2005 CHG YARIS 5,936 0 -- 64,082 0 -- COROLLA 27,015 23,718 13.9 358,010 316,014 13.3 CAMRY 34,189 29,707 15.1 408,906 398,379 2.6 AVALON 7,054 8,225 -14.2 80,983 86,540 -6.4 PRIUS 8,008 7,889 1.5 97,680 98,870 -1.2 SCION xA 2,204 1,977 11.5 30,603 25,641 19.4 SCION xB 3,481 4,244 -18.0 57,976 49,696 16.7 SCION tC 5,084 5,542 -8.3 74,129 68,691 7.9 TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. PASS. CAR 92,970 81,315 14.3 1,172,402 1,049,243 11.7 ES 350 6,678 4,637 44.0 67,251 60,807 10.6 LS 430/460 3,613 1,670 116.3 15,681 23,723 -33.9 SC 430 406 628 -35.4 5,361 7,533 -28.8 GS 300 1,664 2,223 -25.1 21,676 24,834 -12.7 GS 430/450h 196 396 -50.5 3,426 5,192 -34.0 IS 250/350 3,599 4,447 -19.1 48,729 11,271 332.3 TOTAL LEXUS PASS. CAR 16,156 14,001 15.4 162,124 133,360 21.6 TOTAL TOYOTA PASS. CAR 109,126 95,316 14.5 1,334,526 1,182,603 12.8 SIENNA 13,535 11,769 15.0 147,179 146,265 0.6 RAV4 11,425 4,448 156.9 138,263 65,323 111.7 FJ CRUISER 5,459 0 -- 50,376 0 -- 4RUNNER 7,415 7,762 -4.5 94,191 93,031 1.2 HIGHLANDER 11,100 9,676 14.7 118,094 126,100 -6.3 LAND CRUISER 282 366 -23.0 3,026 4,406 -31.3 SEQUOIA 2,860 3,910 -26.9 30,938 40,564 -23.7 TOTAL SUV 38,541 26,162 47.3 434,888 329,424 32.0 4X2 TACOMA 8,201 8,124 0.9 96,087 91,549 5.0 4X4 TACOMA 6,260 5,754 8.8 66,407 61,929 7.2 TOTAL TACOMA 14,461 13,878 4.2 162,494 153,478 5.9 TUNDRA 10,469 10,892 -3.9 112,040 110,897 1.0 TOTAL PICKUP 24,930 24,770 0.6 274,534 264,375 3.8 TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. LT TRUCK 77,006 62,701 22.8 856,601 740,064 15.7 LX 470 434 732 -40.7 5,081 7,608 -33.2 GX 470 2,077 2,856 -27.3 22,425 29,740 -24.6 RX 350/400h 8,052 8,060 -0.1 95,569 97,001 -1.5 TOTAL LEXUS LIGHT TRUCK 10,563 11,648 -9.3 123,075 134,349 -8.4 TOTAL TOYOTA LIGHT TRUCK 87,569 74,349 17.8 979,676 874,413 12.0 TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. 169,976 144,016 18.0 2,029,003 1,789,307 13.4 TOTAL LEXUS 26,719 25,649 4.2 285,199 267,709 6.5 TOTAL TOYOTA 196,695 169,665 15.9 2,314,202 2,057,016 12.5 MEMO: DOM. COROLLA 24,564 23,229 5.7 308,986 306,505 0.8 DOM. CAMRY 26,815 27,695 -3.2 334,367 373,112 -10.4 DOM. PICKUP 24,930 24,770 0.6 274,534 264,375 3.8 DOM. RX 350 5,748 4,852 18.5 67,223 60,422 11.3 SELLING DAYS 25 25 280 280 TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT CAR 34,537 22,166 55.8 448,066 283,086 58.3 LEXUS IMPORT CAR 16,156 14,001 15.4 162,124 133,360 21.6 TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT CARS 58,433 59,149 -1.2 724,336 766,157 -5.5 TOTAL TOYOTA CARS 109,126 95,316 14.5 1,334,526 1,182,603 12.8 TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT LT TRUCK 35,681 22,252 60.3 403,950 288,860 39.8 LEXUS IMPORT LT TRUCK 4,815 6,796 -29.1 55,852 73,927 -24.4 TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT LT TRUCK 41,325 40,449 2.2 452,651 451,204 0.3 LEXUS NA BUILT LT TRUCK 5,748 4,852 18.5 67,223 60,422 11.3 TOTAL TOYOTA LT TRUCK 87,569 74,349 17.8 979,676 874,413 12.0 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES 43,645 37,810 15.4 507,587 463,773 9.4 Memo: Lexus Sport Utility 10,563 11,648 -9.3 123,075 134,349 -8.4 SMALL VANS 13,535 11,769 15.0 147,179 146,265 0.6 PICKUPS 24,930 24,770 0.6 274,534 264,375 3.8 * NORTH AMERICAN BUILT VEHICLES COROLLA 24,564 23,229 5.7 308,986 306,505 0.8 CAMRY 26,815 27,695 -3.2 334,367 373,112 -10.4 AVALON 7,054 8,225 -14.2 80,983 86,540 -6.4 SIENNA 13,535 11,769 15.0 147,179 146,265 0.6 PICKUP 24,930 24,770 0.6 274,534 264,375 3.8 SEQUOIA 2,860 3,910 -26.9 30,938 40,564 -23.7 RX 350 5,748 4,852 18.5 67,223 60,422 11.3 TOTAL 105,506 104,450 1.0 1,244,210 1,277,783 -2.6 N.A. VEHICLES % OF TOTAL 53.6% 61.6% 53.8% 62.1% SELLING DAYS 25 25 280 280 DSR = DAILY SELLING RATE [source: Toyota Motor Sales]

GM Sells Majority Stake in GMAC General Motors Corp. sold a majority of its General Motors Acceptance Corp. finance unit to a group led by Cerberus Capital Management LP on Thursday, raising $7.4 billion in cash and completing a transaction that began in April. GMAC will be able to borrow at a lower cost by separating from its parent, cutting GM's cost to sell cars to customers. The sale of a 51 percent stake meets a goal of CEO Rick Wagoner as he works to recover from last year's $10.6 billion loss. GM will take a $2.7 billion distribution from GMAC as part of the transaction, meaning it will get a total of $10.1 billion for the stake this year. GM will get another $4 billion over the next three years, the automaker said in a statement Thursday. The Detroit News

Chrysler Coupons: The Incentives Just Keep Coming AUBURN HILLS -- In a bid to end a difficult year on a strong note, the Chrysler Group has launched a massive direct mail campaign targeting more than 3 million Dodge, Jeep and Chrysler owners and consumers who drive competing brands. The Auburn Hills-based division of DaimlerChrysler AG is mailing coupons worth $1,000 to consumers that can be used in combination with existing incentives on many 2006 and 2007 model year vehicles. "That's some very aggressive stuff," said Jim Sanfilippo, a senior analyst with AMCI, a West Bloomfield-based automotive marketing firm. The direct mail offers, which are good through Jan. 2, come atop already heavy discounts on Chrysler vehicles. In November, Chrysler plied customers with $4,224 per vehicle in average incentives, nearly double the industry average, according to Edmunds.com, a research Web site for car buyers. The Detroit News

Nissan announced a second concept to be shown in Detroit named the Bevel. It's described as a "sleek panel truck".

Concept: HCD10 Hyundai Hellion LOS ANGELES, 11/29/2006 -- The Hyundai Design and Technical Center and Hyundai Motor America presented the world debut of the HCD10 Hyundai Hellion concept during a press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show today. Hellion is a compact three-door sport crossover designed with attitude and independence creating its unmistakable character. “The HCD10 Hyundai Hellion was designed to appeal to a diverse individualist customer,” said Joel Piaskowski, chief designer at the Hyundai Design Center. “Mindset and attitude are becoming the modern way to define new market segments and we feel the Hellion concept will do that. Hellion brings a new attitude to the Hyundai family. It’s the sibling who’s a bit mischievous and always outspoken.” ARCHITECTURE Hellion’s architecture was inspired by a tough, hardshell backpack that uses ribs to provide structural and visual strength. To support this, Hyundai used three ultra-lightweight structural ribs to create Hellion’s safety cage. These ribs connect to a suspended surfboard-shaped spine. Hellion’s ribcage not only provides protection for its occupants, but also adds visual rigidity and shape. By stretching the sheet metal skin away from the common body surface, the ribs give Hellion a new kind of organic ruggedness. EXTERIOR DESIGN “The proportions of the HCD10 Hyundai Hellion make it look and feel tough,” said Marc Mainville, senior designer at the Hyundai Design Center. “Short overhangs allow for excellent attack angles for off-roading and the skid plates, muscular wheel flares and tow hooks convey Hellion’s strength.” The Hyundai Hellion’s front design explores how new organic structural forms could look on future Hyundai trucks. Hellion’s stance is wide and its face is assertive, with piercing headlights angled towards its dominant grille. A prominent hood scoop enhances Hellion’s rally car demeanor while the clamshell hood utilizes exposed latches for easy access to the engine bay. The windshield’s fast rake provides a very sporty character to an otherwise stout profile. Front and rear bumpers are distinguished from the organic body shape with a darker, durable wrinkle-finish paint supported by functional aluminum skid plates that wrap underneath the vehicle. The rear of the Hellion continues the bold design theme. Hellion’s taillights emphasize the tapering of the greenhouse and the wide sculpture of the wheel flares by being cantilevered off the rear quarter glass. Dual chrome exhaust tips are fitted between the bumper and skid plate to complete the integrated appearance. A removable canvas soft-top roof adds to the independent spirit of the Hyundai Hellion. The roof’s fabric has a subtle abstracted camouflage pattern, but any pattern can be requested by the customer to personalize their vehicle. The exterior is finished in a Dakar Gold paint scheme recognizing the famous Rally Race and its influence on the design. The 20-inch aluminum wheels are constructed in two pieces and are Teflon®-coated to resist build-up of the elements. INTERIOR DESIGN Hellion’s efficient, two-box design and three-door package gives the driver and passengers a tidy, functional environment from which to navigate. “The HCD10 Hyundai Hellion has a consistent design theme unifying the interior and exterior resulting in a very cohesive concept car,” said Martin Frost, senior designer at the Hyundai Design Center. “The exterior is reflected throughout the interior with stretched surfaces creating interesting negative forms contributing to the perception of space.” The ribs on the exterior are evident on the interior as they grow from the side panels to encapsulate the occupants and suspend an overhead console running the length of the interior. The console houses integrated interior lighting and a drop-down LCD monitor for rear-seat entertainment. The customizable camouflage pattern used on the exterior of the removable roof has been scaled down and trimmed as accent panels on the four race-inspired bucket seats. The interior is composed of glossy white accents and matte aluminum details contrasting with the black Desert Night interior giving Hellion a crisp, modern look. The HCD10 Hyundai Hellion’s compact exterior appearance belies its abundant interior space. Inventive cargo and storage spaces make the Hellion gear-ready. The seat-mounted gear packs transform into fully functional backpacks via push-button releases, allowing drivers and passengers to continue their adventures on foot. In addition, convenient hideaway drawers push out from the front of each seat. Storage is also found along the center console and there are two lids with translucent strips for easy access to belongings. The Hyundai Hellion includes extras that will help drivers take on rugged driving conditions while providing necessary amenities to keep the driver and passengers nestled in relative comfort. As an example, the bucket seats are equipped with a unique hydration system. A removable, refillable reservoir inside each seat replaces the common cupholder. The fluids are accessed by a pump-assisted flow tube that is attached to each seat allowing the individual to hydrate with ease. This hands-free hydration system allows the driver and passengers to focus on the road and scenery. The instrument panel-mounted information display indicates the status of all in- car systems. Immediate control over climate and audio functions are facilitated via the control panel directly below the monitor. Navigation and more involved instructions are directed through the console-mounted mouse. PERFORMANCE Performance had to equal the outspoken styling, so the Hyundai Hellion has been outfitted with an eco-friendly 3.0-liter V6 Common-rail Diesel engine (CRDi) with 236 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission to fit Hellion’s performance demands. The Hellion also comes with 4WD, further underscoring the capability aspects of this CUV. TECHNOLOGY The HCD10 Hyundai Hellion is equipped with next-generation technology including: · Electronic Stability Control · Shift-by-Wire Transmission · Wireless Internet · Navigation · Adaptive Cruise Control SPECIFICATIONS Configuration: All-wheel drive, 2+2 three-door sport crossover utility vehicle Wheelbase: 2555 mm. (100.6 in.) Overall Length: 4171 mm. (164.2 in.) Overall Height: 1559.3 mm. (61.4 in.) Overall Width: 1890.4 mm. (74.4 in.) Track, f/r: 1542 mm. (60.7 in.) / 1542 mm. (60.7 in.) Wheels: 20-in. aluminum 5-spoke design with Teflon® coating Tires: P275/55 R20 Engine: 3.0-liter V6 Common-rail Diesel producing 236 horsepower Transmission: 6-speed automatic Suspension: Fully independent front and rear Exhaust: Dual chrome tips Exterior: Dakar Gold paint scheme Interior: Black Desert Night with glossy white accents and matte aluminum details Special Features: Removable sliding soft top and tilt front hood [source: Hyundai Motor America]

Nissan North America is HQed in Tenn.

Lotus Sport Exige Cup Los Angeles, CA (November 30 2006) – Lotus Cars USA, the subsidiary of Lotus Cars in North America, today unveiled the MY2007 Lotus Sport Exige Cup. Unveiled at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, the 252 hp, supercharged and intercooled sportscar is a completely out-of-the-box track car with a specification designed to prepare the budding driver for the grid at some of the finest and most challenging circuits in North America. Weight has been kept to an ultra low 1800 pounds and the phenomenal power to weight ratio has been further enhanced by increasing the power output from 243 hp to 252 hp. Weight saving (or adding lightness!) has been achieved through the effective use of lightweight materials and through the eradication of all non-essential components such roof trim, carpets, front mudflaps, central locking and bulkhead trim. Of course just having fantastic power to weight doesn’t make a car a high performer on the track, so the Lotus Sport Exige Cup has a list of standard equipment that includes track only slick tires, uprated 4-piston front brakes, adjustable dampers and adjustable anti-sway bar, the latest SCCA-compliant roll cage, FIA approved Lotus Sport branded driver’s seat with six-point driver harness (there is no passenger seat) and a lightweight rear screen (instead of glass). The options are even more race focused with a FIA approved 70 litre fuel cell, air-jack system and level two stainless steel exhaust with de-cat pipe, a plate type limited slip differential and Star Shield. The Lotus Sport Exige Cup is one of the quickest cars around a circuit. Key to this incredible performance is the aerodynamic package, which produces over 90 pounds of downforce at 100 mph increasing grip and ultimately safety at higher speeds. With a top speed of close to 160 mph and a zero to 100 mph slingshot in just less than 9.8 seconds (the 60 mph sprint takes just under 3.9 seconds), the MY2007 Lotus Sport Exige Cup is the perfect partner to a serious track day enthusiast. Even the most exotic supercars would struggle to keep up! At a MSRP of just $84,990, plus options, delivery and taxes, customer will have to queue on a first ordered, first delivered basis. Further details about the Lotus Sport Exige Cup: Engine The supercharged and intercooled engine in the Lotus Sport Exige Cup has a maximum power output of 252 hp at 8000 rpm and a torque figure of approximately 179 lb-ft, at 7000 rpm. This vast amount of extra power and torque now available means that the cam change between the low-speed cam and the high-speed cam is variable to ensure that there is a smooth and linear surge of power from low engine speeds all the way to the maximum 8000 rpm. The Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism meaning that it does not require the use of the engine’s oil) is run from the crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation. Charge air (air under pressure from the supercharger) is cooled through an air-to-air intercooler (the cooling air enters via the roof scoop) before being fed into the engine itself. All charge air ducting has been kept as short as possible with large diameter pipes making sure that the bends in these ducts are not too tight, to the benefit of throttle response and efficiency. Four high capacity injectors add additional fuel under hard acceleration or high speed driving. A sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfers the engine power and torque to the lightweight C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminum casing) – with the same perfectly spaced ratios as the Exige S. A plate type limited slip differential is fitted as an option as is the Lotus switchable traction control system (LTCS). The LTCS system works through the engine, reducing power to maintain traction, is active above 5 mph and operates much more quickly than many brake-based systems. An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole package as an oil reservoir backup for extreme track use ensuring that, under these conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant. Twin oil coolers complete the powertrain package. Wheels and Tires 5-spoke lightweight forged alloy wheels in silver are shod with Lotus specific Yokohama slick tires to maximise grip and achieve the ride and handling targets set by Lotus. Brakes The brake system includes large diameter 308 mm 2-piece aluminum belled cross drilled and ventilated front discs and 282 mm cross-drilled and ventilated discs at the rear, upgraded Pagid RS14 sports brake pads set into the brake calipers (AP Racing two piece radially mounted, 4 piston at the front and Brembo sliding at the rear), high grade silicone brake fluid, stainless steel braided brake hoses all linked to the proven Lotus track tuned servo-assisted four-channel ABS system that enhances braking performance and minimising stopping distance without taking over from the skill of the driver. Suspension Suspension is provided by Öhlins springs and two-way adjustable dampers (which have 22 compression and 60 rebound settings and ride height adjustable perches to reduce the ride height from 130 mm to 120 mm) and an adjustable front anti-sway bar (five settings). Full instructions and recommended settings are provided to allow customers to tailor the handling characteristics of the car to their own requirements. As the Lotus Sport Exige Cup cars are modified for track use, a double shear track control arm brace is provided to cope with the expected kerb abuse during racing and hard track day driving. Safety Equipment The Lotus Sport Exige Cup cars have the safety equipment that is expected for a track car with 6-point seat belt harness on the driver’s side (with an FIA approved Recaro / Lotus Sport seat) – there is no passenger seat. The full roll cage is SCCA compliant and completing the additional safety equipment is a mechanical ignition kill switch with cockpit and external activation and a plumbed electrical fire suppression system, again with cockpit and external activation. Exhaust System A “Level One” stainless steel sports exhaust is fitted with the bifurcated exhaust pipes exiting from the centre of the anodized-finished 3-piece rear diffuser. A “Level Two” stainless steel exhaust with de-cat pipe is a no cost option. Option costs: FIA approved 70 litre fuel cell – $3095 Lotus Sport limited slip differential (plate type) – $1595 Lotus Traction Control System – $495 Air jack system (special conditions apply) – $5495 Air-conditioning – $2495 Metallic paint – $590 Lifestyle Paint – $1200 Star Shield protection – $995 [source: Group Lotus]

Now that you mention HUMMER, I think they (along with Scion and MINI) are considered niche/specialty brands.

Maybe they group them with BMW? I don't see Scion mentioned, either.

Concept: Suzuki SXBox Last year, American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) launched the “Suzuki LIVE Series” (LIFE VEHICLES) – a line of brand-dedicated concept vehicles specially designed for life enthusiasts, adventurers and thrill-seekers. In concert with its “Way of Life” brand proposition, which promises products for active lifestyles, and to support the launch of the all-new XL7 and SX4, ASMC introduces four all-new “Suzuki LIVE Series” vehicles for 2007, illustrating how its cars and SUVs play an integral part of consumers’ everyday life. The vehicles, coined BaseCamp for outdoor adventure enthusiasts; Flix for film and entertainment buffs; Zuk for motorcycle and racing aficionados; and SXBox for avid gamers; will be on display at various auto shows and lifestyle events around the country. Built by ASC of Huntington Beach, Calif., and based on the all-new SX4 compact sport X-over (crossover), the SXBox is designed for ultimate video game enthusiasts. The Suzuki SX4 concept receives mild performance upgrades, including high-flow airbox/intake, cat-back exhaust, an enhanced suspension and multi-piston alloy brake calipers mated to cross-drilled, vented rotors. The SXBox also is equipped with an impressive, high-performance wheel and tire package, providing gamers with the means to get to the nearest gaming competition. When parked, the SXBox’s pearl white exterior is illuminated courtesy of a green LED accent kit. The interior design of the SXBox features an ultra-high-tech, game-inspired color scheme throughout the inside of the vehicle, including recessed LED emitters to brighten the interior of the vehicle. The SXBox is outfitted with a dashboard-integrated Xbox 360 gaming console, coupled with a close proximity digital projection system to display enthusiasts’ game of choice on the interior of the vehicle’s retractable hood, easily enabled by the push of a button. A second Xbox 360 video game system powers two separate LCD display screens in the seat backs of the SXBox to provide gaming excitement for rear passengers. For gamers who prefer to stand and play, the SXBox is equipped with a 30-inch retractable rear projection screen in the cargo area. Adding comfort and convenience to the idea of in-car gaming, the concept vehicle features high-relief, force-feedback front seats with game-station highlights to create a snug gaming environment and four wireless controllers, including a steering-wheel-mounted gaming control for the driver. In addition, the SXBox’s multi-speaker surround audio system with wide frequency response and thundering bass provides an intense atmosphere of video game stimulation. [source: American Suzuki]

?

Added more pics above. Autoblog has more: http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/29/la-auto...ra-se-r-spec-v/

No but from a bad angle, it can make the rear look longer and flatter than it actually is. I added more pics above and Autoblog has some real-world images: http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/29/la-auto...-poor-mans-g35/

I wish Nissan wouldn't use stupid camera angles and effects like in the second picture. It distorts how the cars actually look.

Wow...I haven't laughed out loud literally at a car since the 2007 Navigator.

LA 2007: 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe The Nissan Altima is a car on the move. With its next generation design for the 2007 model year, Nissan’s best-selling vehicle in the United States is poised for even greater success as it establishes segment leadership in style, design, performance and innovation. The next-generation Altima is also expanding its model offerings with a new Altima Hybrid, set to go on sale in select markets in January 2007, and a dramatically styled new Altima Coupe, which will go on sale as a 2008 model in summer 2007. The Altima Coupe, which made its debut in the shadows of Hollywood at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show, fills a desire among target customers for a more personal expression of style, individuality and fashionable appearance. The Altima Coupe’s unique exterior design is intended to stand out in a crowd of sedan-based two-door models with magnetic, perfectly proportioned styling with a shorter wheelbase, shorter overall length and lower height than the Altima Sedan. The smaller size and lighter overall weight also contribute to the Coupe’s sportier driving feel – other desired attributes of the typically younger, more performance-oriented coupe buyers. “Rather than just eliminating two doors from the Altima Sedan, we gave the Altima Coupe its own style, its own dimensions and its own interpretation of Nissan’s exhilarating driving pleasure,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. Though the new Altima Coupe shares much with the latest edition of the Altima Sedan, which went on sale in early November 2006, the Coupe’s smaller dimensions, driver-oriented cockpit and unique styling give it an extensive amount of separation from the Altima Sedan. Dimensionally, the Altima Coupe rides on a 105.3-inch wheelbase, a full 4.0 inches shorter than the Sedan. Overall length is 182.5 inches – 7.1 inches less than the Sedan. The Coupe also has a lower profile – at 55.3 inches it is 2.5 inches shorter than the Sedan. In terms of major body panels, the two cars share only a common hood, with all other panels, grille, headlights and rear combination lights unique to the Altima Coupe. Under the new Altima Coupe’s sophisticated exterior design, this latest addition to the Altima family shares the platform, powertrain and user-friendly features and innovations of the new fourth-generation Altima. “A strong sedan starting point, such as the new Altima, also gives you a tremendous advantage – if you get the basics right, you can focus your efforts on the unique desires of coupe buyers, including wanting a purely personal space,” said Bosley. The Altima Coupe, as part of the fourth-generation Altima design, utilizes Nissan’s all-new, highly acclaimed “D” platform with increased body rigidity and a redesigned suspension. This new platform was developed with the objective of making Altima one of the best performing large front-wheel drive vehicles available globally. New suspension geometry, shock absorbers with rebound springs, engine placement that is lower in the subframe and equal-length half-shafts that have equal angles and are more parallel to the ground all help to virtually eliminate torque steer. The rear multi-link independent suspension design separates the rear shocks and springs for reduced friction and the shocks are in line with the center of the rear wheels, providing better damping and less harshness. Front and rear stabilizer bars are standard. The Altima suspension has been specially tuned for use with the Altima Coupe. The new Altima Coupe is offered with a choice of two engines and two transmissions. The 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 is the “next generation” version of the 12-time Ward’s “10 Best Engines” award-winning VQ-series V6. For use in the Altima Coupe, it is rated at 270 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and offers strong acceleration and refined sound quality. The V6 features reduced friction, improved cylinder head cooling and new twin knock sensors. Also available with the new Altima Coupe is a 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve QR25 inline 4-cylinder, producing 175 horsepower (170 hp CAL) and 180 lb-ft of torque (175 lb-ft CAL). This engine has been refined from the previous version, with a larger, equal-length intake manifold, increased compression ratio and reduced friction characteristics. It features a silent chain drive and a balancer system (with balancer changed to a center-mounted location for better NVH) that effectively negates vibrations without taking up much space – combining ideal packaging and smoothness. Both engines feature continuously variable valve timing, modular engine design, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, molybdenum coated lightweight pistons and electronically controlled throttles. Both the 3.5-liter V6 and 2.5-liter 4-cylinder models are available with Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmissions. The V6 CVT features a “Sport” mode controller with a high-speed central processing unit and Adaptive Shift Controller with adaptive logic for faster shifting in both normal and manual modes. The adaptive logic feature delivers the best shift pattern based on the driving environment and driver’s perceived intentions. “The driving performance of the Altima Coupe is biased toward sporty feel, especially when equipped with our award-winning V6,” said Bosley. “Handling is also a strong point of the new Coupe, as is the responsiveness feeling provided by the Xtronic CVT transmission.” Also contributing to the Altima Coupe’s sporty performance feel are a standard twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering system and 4-wheel disc brakes with standard 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). Altima Coupe models with the 4-cylinder engine are equipped with 16-inch wheels and tires, while V6-equipped Altima Coupes come with unique-design 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and 215/55R17 tires. The Altima Coupe’s performance feeling is also enhanced by a driver-centered interior. Though sharing much of the design and features with the new Altima Sedan, the Coupe includes unique sport-style front seats with more side support, in-board release lever and front kangaroo pouches. All Altima Coupes also utilize a parking brake hand lever (versus foot release for Altima Sedans with CVT). The Coupe also includes a 60/40 split and flat fold-down rear seat. Like the Altima Sedan, the Altima Coupe’s instrument panel features a Fine Vision gauge display for enhanced readability and the L-shaped flow of the instrument panel to the center console adds to the driver-oriented cockpit feel. The center console includes a double front cup holder, among the many convenient cup and bottle areas and storage compartments. The list of impressive passenger amenities includes standard Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition and available Bose®-developed audio system with nine speakers, Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone System, satellite radio and dual-zone automatic temperature control. The new Altima Coupe also comes equipped with a number of standard safety features, including Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), which includes dual-stage front supplemental air bags. Also standard are front seat side-impact supplemental air bags for chest protection and roof-mounted curtain side-impact air bags for front and rear outboard occupant head protection. Other standard equipment includes front seat Active Head Restraints, the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) child seat anchors and tether system and Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). The 2008 Altima Coupe will be available in four well-equipped models: 2.5 S 6MT, 2.5 S CVT, 3.5 SE 6MT, 3.5 SE CVT. Available technology features include a RearView Monitor, which utilizes a small camera to help show the view behind the vehicle when in reverse gear, and Nissan Navigation System with a 6.5-inch color monitor. “Along with the Altima Coupe’s extensive list of available features and amenities, it offers one more thing to discerning coupe buyers – the reassurance of Nissan durability, quality and reliability,” said Bosley. The new Altima Coupe will be assembled at the Nissan North America Manufacturing Smyrna and Decherd, Tennessee plants. Altima Coupe becomes the seventh Nissan Altima model, joining the 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 S with SL Package, 3.5 SE, 3.5 SL and Altima Hybrid (Hybrid Electric Vehicle). “The Altima name and outstanding reputation adds great credibility to the new Altima Coupe – and the Coupe makes the Altima brand stronger by appealing to a new segment of buyers,” said Bosley. “And like the Altima Sedan, the new Coupe will be a tremendous value when it goes on sale next summer. If you’re looking for style, performance and affordability, the new Altima Coupe delivers.” [source: Nissan Sport Magazine via Nissan North America]

LA 2007: 2007 Nissan Sentra SE-R/Spec V When Nissan first launched the Sentra SE-R in 1991, it helped establish the concept of a “sport compact” car. With a high performance 4-cylinder engine stuffed into a compact body, the original SE-R offered sports car-like performance for buyers on a budget. Enthusiasts and the media recognized this unique combination of performance and value and the Sentra SE-R became an instant hit – and has maintained a loyal following through two successive generations of SE-R. The latest incarnation of the SE-R joins the Nissan lineup in March 2007 with two exciting versions, the Sentra SE-R and the higher horsepower Sentra SE-R Spec V. Both the new SE-R and SE-R Spec V are powered by Nissan’s advanced 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (QR25DE) and are equipped with a range of unique performance-oriented equipment and features, including standard 17-inch wheels and tires, 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and specially tuned electric power steering (EPS) – as well as unique exterior and interior appearance modifications. “The new SE-R takes full advantage of the redesigned 2007 Sentra and adds a level of power and performance that is usually available only through aftermarket modifications,” said Bill Bosley, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “With the 2007 model, Nissan has undertaken its most in-depth development effort yet for the SE-R.” Development of the SE-R engine was guided by Motohiro Matsumura, Chief Vehicle Engineer, who previously led the development of Nissan’s highly acclaimed “VQ” series V6 engine. Special emphasis was placed on the SE-R Spec V’s new high output version of the QR25DE 4-cylinder engine, with extensive modifications to the top end of the engine developed exclusively for the SE-R Spec V. Among the unique Spec V engine features are use of a unique resin intake manifold and dual branch exhaust manifold; revised piston crown shape to support a higher compression ratio (10.5:1); iridium tipped spark plugs for improved combustion characteristics; and a revised cam shaft profile, reinforced connecting rods and 8-counterweight crankshaft to achieve a higher redline limit of 6,800 rpm. With these modifications, the power achieved is 200 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 180 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm (when using premium unleaded fuel). Helping to put all this power to the ground is an optional Helical Limited-Slip Differential (available with Spec V only). The Spec V model is available only with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. It also has unique suspension, brakes, tires and body structure changes (versus the base SE-R). In the area of chassis, handling and braking performance, the SE-R Spec V is equipped with higher rate springs, shocks and bushings; 225/45WR17 uni-directional high performance tires; high capacity front disc brakes with 12.6-inch rotors; and a revised cowl top structure and a unique trunk mounted “V” brace, both utilized for increased body rigidity. Chassis performance and vehicle dynamics tests were conducted on the grueling Nurburgring Nordschleife closed circuit outside of Cologne, Germany. Behind the wheel of the SE-R Spec V on the Nordschleife circuit was Nissan’s chief development driver, Yukio Kamiyama, who was also responsible for Nissan’s legendary Skyline R32 and R33 models. “With Nissan’s top development staff working on Sentra SE-R, it has achieved unprecedented levels of power and performance,” said Bosley. The SE-R model offers fun-to-drive performance and aggressive, sporty appearance to those who want the convenience of an automatic transmission. The Sentra SE-R, equipped exclusively with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), is a unique offering in the sport compact market. Enhancing the driving experience of the SE-R model are steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Designed to be fun and engaging, the paddle shifters allow for quick and responsive up shifts and down shifts while driving on mountain roads or just negotiating through daily traffic. “As we’ve shown with the Xtronic CVT-equipped Altima and Maxima, CVTs are not just for smoothness and fuel economy – they can be tuned for performance also” said Bosley. Performance in the SE-R is delivered by the QR25DE engine tuned for 177 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm (on regular unleaded fuel). The new SE-R’s independent strut front / torsion beam rear suspension design, shared with the standard 2007 Sentra, has been tuned for sporty handling, while not being overly firm during everyday use. Stopping power for the SE-R is provided by 4-wheel disc brakes with 11.7-inch front rotors. Contact with the road is handled through 225/45VR17 all-season performance tires. Inside the Sentra SE-R cabin are a number of unique SE-R features, including an exclusive black interior color, sport bucket front seats with SE-R stitching, unique seat fabrics, red seat belts (Spec V only), aluminum foot pedal pads, leather-appointed steering wheel and shift knob, and an additional two-gauge meter pack. These two additional gauges, canted towards the driver, provide information on oil pressure and acceleration/deceleration g-force. Like all 2007 Sentra models, the new SE-R also offers an array of comfort and convenience features including standard power windows and door locks, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD 6-speaker audio, and an integrated overhead compact disc holder. Optional features include a 340-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system, factory installed satellite radio and Nissan’s Intelligent Key keyless entry system (SE-R only). Standard safety features for the Sentra SE-R include an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage front air bags and occupant classification system for the front passenger seat, front seat side air bags, side curtain air bags (for front and rear outboard occupant head protection), front seat Active Head Restraints and Zone Body construction. “The last great component of the new 2007 Sentra SE-R is price. We’re targeting a price of around $20,000 for the Sentra SE-R Spec V – which means 200 horsepower for $20K – which we believe makes SE-R Spec V one of the best values in the sport compact segment,” said Bosley. “This new Sentra SE-R has a lot to offer even the most demanding enthusiasts. It’ll be a thrill to drive, right out of the box.” [source: Nissan Sport Magazine via Nissan North America]

More pics of one of the ugliest convertibles in the world: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2006/11/la-sh...er-sebring.html

Lexus Premieres the LX470 Limited Edition November 28, 2006 – Torrance, CA - Lexus today announced pricing for the 2007 LX 470 Limited Edition luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV). The LX 470 Limited Edition will be available as a special option package containing unique exterior and interior features that will be priced at $410. The base manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of the 2007 LX 470 will remain unchanged at $67,395. Every LX 470 Limited Edition will receive Black Onyx exterior and color-coded scuff plates. Exterior features will include 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a Liquid Graphite finish, and chrome door handles, beltline accent and exhaust tip. Finally, chrome Limited Edition exterior badges will be displayed on the front driver and passenger doors. On the inside, all LX 470 Limited Editions will come equipped with a Stone leather interior. Features will include a Black Bird's-Eye Maple wood trim, and Black floor mats and a cargo mat, each with a Gray Limited Edition logo. Only 400 of these special LX 470s will be produced for the entire U.S. market. The LX 470 Limited Edition will make its public debut on December 1 at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show and will reach Lexus dealer showrooms in early December. [source: Toyota Motor Sales]

CAS Preview: 2008 Nissan Titan No pictures yet but Tennessean.com had an article today that glossed over the changes Nissan is making to the Titan for its MCE. It's expected to shown at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. Excerpts below: So I expect they are going to offer crew cabs with 6.5' beds and king cabs with 7' or 8' beds in 2008. I hope they have a regular cab forthcoming as well. Tennessean.com

There are cars and trucks that are ugly, slow and/or impractical. They might have cheap interiors or suck at handling. They could also be obscenely overpriced or blandest thing on four wheels. You may just plain not like them as of course, taste and priorities vary from person to person. In fact, as I'm typing this, I'm thinking the question of what is a bad car may be both subjective and objective as weird as it sounds. So I guess I have a two-part question here: -Do you see the issue of "bad cars" as being subjective, objective or something in between? -Based on that, are any "bad cars" made today?

Spied: Mercedes SLS McLaren These pictures prove that early development work is well under way on the 'baby' McLaren, with plans to sell as many as 2000 cars a year to rival the likes of the Ferrari 360 Modena, Lamborghini Gallardo and all-new Audi R8. Although McLaren engineers are remaining tight-lipped about the project, we have learnt that feasibility studies are currently being carried out on the car at one of Mercedes’ secret test-centres in Germany. World Car Fans

So...have any of you guys met any good-looking lesbians? Sounds like most if not all of the ones discussed so far are wanna-be lumberjacks.

Hate the paint.

I'm not terribly impressed. It looks almost exactly like a normal STS interior.