Variance

I don't know what happened but about ten or eleven of my posts have disappeared. Anybody know what happened? Did I miss something?

More Prius Variations Could Emerge Toyota Motor Corp., the world's top seller of gasoline-electric autos, may turn its Prius car into a line of vehicles as the company tries to triple annual U.S. sales of hybrids. The U.S. will account for more than half of the 1 million hybrid cars and light trucks Toyota plans to sell worldwide each year by early next decade, Jim Lentz, executive vice president of the company's U.S. sales unit, said yesterday. Prius-based models might include a wagon and a smaller car, he said. Bloomberg

Edmunds Evaluation: 2007 Hyundai Accent What is the Hyundai Accent SE? After a week behind the wheel, it does not strike us as a cheap car. It's roomy, solid, well equipped, and offers a decent dollop of true driving fun. Plus there's that Hyundai 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with its EPA-estimated fuel economy of 32 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. If you're in the market for a cheap — no, make that "affordable" — vehicle, what's not to like? Edmunds

We Get Smart in 2008 Smart GmbH and United Auto Group Inc. said Thursday they will bring the two-seat smart fortwo to the U.S. in early 2008. Boeblingen-based Smart, part of DaimlerChrysler AG's Mercedes Car Group, said President Ulrich Walker had signed a general distributor agreement with United Auto Chairman Roger Penske on Wednesday. "This is absolutely the right car in the right place at the right time. It embodies the unique combination of a lifestyle and design-oriented vehicle that is ecologically appealing," Walker said. "Smart is uniquely designed, offers the lowest cost of ownership and is very fun to drive." The Detroit News

Oct. 2006 Sales: Audi of America AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – Audi of America, Inc. today reported that October 2006 sales totaled 6,431, a decrease of 3.4 percent compared to strong results a year ago. For the year, Audi sales are up 4.1 percent over the same period in 2005. Consumers showed strong interest in the all-new Audi Q7 SUV and A8 models. Audi Q7 sales totaled 1,653 during October, bringing the year total to 5,663 since its launch in June. The A8 model line had 442 sales during October, a 12.5 percent increase over the same month last year. Sales of Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles rose during October and totaled 1,882, a 0.5 percent increase over last year. CPO sales for the year are 20,723, up 4.9 percent over the same period last year. Audi’s history in America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Today, a network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the Audi A3 compact; the sporty A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high-revving RS 4 sports sedan; the design-leading A6 sedan and Avant; the all-new Audi Q7 SUV; the all-aluminum Audi A8; and the new V10-powered S6 and S8 performance sedans. AUDI OF AMERICA, INC OCTOBER 2006 SALES Audi US Snapshot ------ Year To Date ------ Oct-06 Oct-05 Yr/Yr % Oct-06 Oct-05 Yr/Yr % Actual Actual Change YTD YTD Change Actual Actual A3 429 631 -32.0% 7,019 4,053 73.2% TT 13 128 -89.9% 916 2,443 -62.5% A4 2,656 3,586 -25.9% 30,823 31,321 -1.6% A4/S4 Cabriolet 394 483 -18.4% 6,193 7,029 -11.9% A6 844 1,382 -38.9% 14,149 14,682 -3.6% allroad - 56 - 3 2,336 -99.9% Q7 1,653 N/A N/A 5,663 N/A N/A A8 442 393 12.5% 4,244 4,451 -4.7% Total 6,431 6,659 -3.4% 69,010 66,315 4.1% [source: Audi of America]

Oct. 2006 Sales: Mitsubishi Motors North America CYPRESS, Calif., Nov. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) today reported October sales of 9,288 units, virtually unchanged from last October's total of 9,292. MMNA's sales have shown consistent growth over the past six months, the first six months of the business year. Sales are expected to increase significantly in November with the addition of the Outlander, Mitsubishi's all new fuel efficient crossover SUV. October sales highlights: * Lancer was the volume leader at 2,382, up 47.4% from October 2005. * Eclipse Spyder sales of 518 for the month, was an increase of 469.2% over last October. [source: Mitsubishi Motors North America] --- Note the convienent lack of a sales chart...

Here's are the recent trademarks that have been through the entire process and are officially registered: Ford "It begs to be driven" (Oct. 24, 2006): Tagline DCX Steer Control (Oct. 24, 2006): "sensors for measuring speed, power and momentum; data processing apparatus" Jeep 65 (October 17, 2006): Street Cruiser (Oct. 3, 2006)

Oct. 2006 Sales: American Honda Motor Co. TORRANCE, Calif., Nov. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Honda and Acura total vehicle sales of 110,624 for October increased 3.7 percent over last year on a daily selling rate basis, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. American Honda light truck sales of 52,789 led the increase with a 15.6 percent gain that broke the previous October record of 49,193 set in 2004. Sales of the all-new 2007 Honda CR-V totaled 20,413, representing an increase of 95.7 percent in its first full month of sales while shattering the previous all-time record by 3,744 units from July 2005. Total year-to-date sales for American Honda continued on a record-setting pace of 1,271,134 cars and light trucks for the year, up 3.9 percent and on-track for a 13th consecutive year-over-year sales increase. "The increased diversity of both our Honda and Acura lineups is helping to push sales up across the board," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda. "Judging by the new all-time sales record, the all-new 2007 Honda CR-V is a hit with consumers, too." The Honda Division posted record October sales of 94,747 cars and light trucks, a year-to-date sales increase of 5.7 percent to 1,106,167. The Civic Hybrid model posted record October sales with 2,288 units. In addition, Honda Division light truck sales increased 12.4 percent for the month to record 46,659. Acura posted record October light truck sales of 6,130 units. The MDX sport luxury SUV is up 6.4 percent to 4,429 and the all-new RDX crossover SUV posted 1,701 sales during its second full month of sales. The TL performance luxury sedan remained Acura's best selling model in October, delivering 5,790 units. American Honda Vehicle Sales For October 2006 Month-to-Date Year-to-Date October October DSR** October October DSR** 2006 2005 % Chg. 2006 2005 % Chg. American Honda Total 110,624 110,895 3.7% 1,271,134 1,223,812 3.9% Total Car Sales 57,835 63,401 -5.1% 722,847 712,965 1.4% Total Truck Sales 52,789 47,494 15.6% 548,287 510,847 7.3% Honda Total Car Sales 48,088 51,334 -2.6% 604,454 584,636 3.4% Honda Total Truck Sales 46,659 43,163 12.4% 501,713 462,069 8.6% Acura Total Car Sales 9,747 12,067 -16.0% 118,393 128,329 -7.7% Acura Total Truck Sales 6,130 4,331 47.2% 46,574 48,778 -4.5% Domestic Car Sales * 45,312 54,175 -13.0% 574,928 584,798 -1.7% Honda Division 39,522 47,896 -14.2% 514,864 519,988 -1.0% Acura Division 5,790 6,279 -4.1% 60,064 64,810 -7.3% Domestic Truck Sales * 32,376 36,644 -8.1% 411,850 385,253 6.9% Honda Division 26,246 32,313 -15.5% 365,276 336,475 8.6% Acura Division 6,130 4,331 47.2% 46,574 48,778 -4.5% Import Car Sales 12,523 9,226 41.2% 147,919 128,167 15.4% Honda Division 8,566 3,438 159.1% 89,590 64,648 38.6% Acura Division 3,957 5,788 -28.9% 58,329 63,519 -8.2% Import Truck Sales 20,413 10,850 95.7% 136,437 125,594 8.6% Honda Division 20,413 10,850 95.7% 136,437 125,594 8.6% MODEL BREAKOUTS BY DIVISION Honda Division Total 94,747 94,497 4.3% 1,106,167 1,046,705 5.7% Fit 2,797 23,099 Accord * 23,645 26,977 -8.8% 302,067 319,375 -5.4% Memo: Accord Hybrid 287 1,266 -76.4% 4,924 15,269 -67.8% Civic * 21,343 23,911 -7.2% 272,886 257,749 5.9% Memo: Civic Hybrid 2,288 231 930.1% 26,637 21,253 25.3% S2000 294 409 -25.2% 5,685 6,942 -18.1% Insight 9 37 -74.7% 717 564 27.1% FCX 0 0 0 6 Odyssey * 11,172 12,116 -4.1% 150,550 145,755 3.3% Pilot * 8,335 10,872 -20.3% 127,672 112,525 13.5% CR-V 20,413 10,850 95.7% 136,437 125,594 8.6% Element * 3,314 4,351 -20.8% 45,016 47,434 -5.1% Ridgeline 3,425 4,974 -28.4% 42,038 30,761 36.7% Acura Division Total 15,877 16,398 0.7% 164,967 177,107 -6.9% RSX 761 1,488 -46.8% 16,158 17,775 -9.1% CL * 0 0 0 1 TL * 5,790 6,279 -4.1% 60,064 64,809 -7.3% TSX 2,209 2,742 -16.2% 32,046 30,559 4.9% RL 987 1,550 -33.8% 10,068 14,996 -32.9% NSX 0 8 57 189 -69.8% MDX * 4,429 4,331 6.4% 41,808 48,778 -14.3% RDX * 1,701 4,766 Selling Days 25 26 255 255 * Honda and Acura vehicles are made of domestic and global sourced parts. ** Daily Selling Rate [source: American Honda Motor Co.] --- Let me be the first to comment on the absolute ridiculous amount of CR-V sales.

Oct. 2006 Sales: Volkswagen of America AUBURN HILLS, Mich. —Volkswagen of America, Inc. today reported October sales of 15,942 units, a 7.4 percent decrease over October 2005 sales of 17,207. October 2006 sales of Volkswagen’s recently introduced Rabbit were 1,675, comparing very favorably to its Golf predecessor, which posted 650 units for October 2005. Year to date, Volkswagen sales are up 9.9 percent as compared to last year. Below is a breakdown of the model line for the Volkswagen brand for October 2006. VW-US Snapshot ---------- YEAR-TO-DATE ---------- Oct-06 Oct-05 Yr/Yr Oct-06 Oct-05 Yr/Yr Actual Actual % change YTD YTD % change Actual Actual New Beetle - Coupe 1,020 1,489 -31.5% 16,205 13,961 16.1% - Convertible 942 1,013 -7.0% 15,203 17,033 -10.7% Total New Beetle 1,962 2,502 -21.6% 31,408 30,994 1.3% Jetta Sdn 5,580 7,510 -25.7% 85,869 79,334 8.2% Wgn - 39 100.0% 21 3,844 -99.5% Total Jetta 5,580 7,549 -26.1% 85,890 83,178 3.3% Eos 724 - N/A 2,072 - N/A Golf/GTI/R32 1,059 1,244 -14.9% 15,195 13,205 15.1% Rabbit 1,675 - N/A 8,245 - N/A Passat Sdn 3,126 4,065 -23.1% 38,719 28,650 35.1% Wgn 1,005 541 85.8% 7,745 9,105 -14.9% Total Passat 4,131 4,606 -10.3% 46,464 37,755 23.1% Phaeton 6 63 -90.5% 224 686 -67.3% Touareg 805 1,243 -35.2% 8,618 14,375 -40.0% TOTAL 15,942 17,207 -7.4% 198,116 180,193 9.9% Memo: new GTI 999 - N/A 12,125 - N/A Memo: new Jetta Sdn 5,575 7,397 -24.6% 85,762 57,209 49.9% Memo: new Passat Sdn 3,117 3,703 -15.8% 38,526 11,397 238.0% Memo: new Passat Wgn 1,003 - N/A 7,588 - N/A [source: Volkswagen of America]

Oct. 2006 Sales: Toyota Motor Company November 1, 2006 – Torrance, CA - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported best-ever October sales of 189,011 vehicles, an increase of 13.6 percent over October 2005. Calendar-year-to-date (CYTD) sales total 2,117,507 units, up 12.2 percent over the same period last year. "What a difference a year makes," said Jim Lentz, TMS executive vice president. "Last October the industry plunged to a seven-year low, weaning itself from an incentive binge. Today the industry is seeing modest gains on the strength of fresh products." The Toyota Division posted best-ever October sales of 165,005, up 14.6 percent. The Lexus Division reported best-ever October sales with 24,006 units sold, an increase of seven percent. Toyota Division Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever October sales of 92,955, up 6.5 percent over the same period last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry, which posted best-ever October sales of 33,812, an increase of 8.8 percent. The Camry Hybrid, which went on sale in late April, reported sales of 2,806 units in October. The all-new Yaris subcompact, which went on sale in March, posted sales totaling 6,398 units. The Prius gas-electric hybrid mid-size sedan posted October sales of 8,733. Toyota Division light truck sales were up 27 percent, with a best-ever October total of 72,050 units. Light truck sales were led by the Sienna with monthly sales of 11,870, up 11.4 percent over the same period last year. The RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) reported best-ever October sales of 11,154, up 163.1 percent over the same period last year. The all-new FJ Cruiser, which went on sale in March, reported sales of 5,334 units. The Tundra full-size pickup truck reported October sales of 10,046, up 17.1 percent over the same period last year. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported sales of 1,643 units for the month. The Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined October sales of 10,296, an increase of 18.1 percent. Scion reported October sales of 12,344 units. The tC sports coupe led the way with October sales of 5,788 units. Scion xB sales were up 1.3 percent, posting monthly sales of 3,963 units. The Scion xA posted sales of 2,593 units, an increase of 2.1 percent. Lexus Division Lexus passenger cars posted best-ever October sales of 14,373 units, an increase of 23.4 percent over October 2005. Passenger car sales were led by the ES 350 luxury sedan with best-ever October sales of 6,357 units, up 46.7 percent. The IS 250 and IS 350 luxury sport sedans recorded combined best-ever October sales of 3,464 units, an increase of 40.6 percent. The LS 430 and the all-new LS 460 reported combined sales of 2,097 units, an increase of 33.2 percent. Lexus Division light trucks reported October sales totaling 9,633 units. The 2006 RX 400h luxury hybrid SUV reported sales of 1,239 units for the month. The RX 350 and RX 400h enjoyed combined October sales of 7,250 units. TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 159,581 units. In October, hybrid sales posted 14,598 units. There were 25 selling days this sales month compared to 26 selling days last October. TOYOTA RETAIL SALES (INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII) October, 2006 ----- CURRENT MONTH ----- -- CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE -- DSR % DSR % 2006 2005 CHG 2006 2005 CHG YARIS 6,398 0 -- 58,146 0 -- COROLLA 24,642 26,870 -4.6 330,995 292,296 13.2 CAMRY 33,812 32,323 8.8 374,717 368,672 1.6 AVALON 7,024 8,195 -10.9 73,929 78,315 -5.6 PRIUS 8,733 9,939 -8.6 89,672 90,981 -1.4 SCION xA 2,593 2,640 2.1 28,399 23,664 20.0 SCION xB 3,963 4,070 1.3 54,495 45,452 19.9 SCION tC 5,788 6,682 -9.9 69,045 63,149 9.3 TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. PASS. CAR 92,955 90,756 6.5 1,079,432 967,928 11.5 ES 350 6,357 4,507 46.7 60,573 56,170 7.8 LS 430/460 2,097 1,637 33.2 12,068 22,053 -45.3 SC 430 458 761 -37.4 4,955 6,905 -28.2 GS 300 1,793 2,279 -18.2 20,012 22,611 -11.5 GS 430/450h 204 366 -42.0 3,230 4,796 -32.7 IS 250/350 3,464 2,563 40.6 45,130 6,824 561.3 TOTAL LEXUS PASS. CAR 14,373 12,113 23.4 145,968 119,359 22.3 TOTAL TOYOTA PASS. CAR 107,328 102,869 8.5 1,225,400 1,087,287 12.7 SIENNA 11,870 11,081 11.4 133,644 134,496 -0.6 RAV4 11,154 4,409 163.1 126,838 60,875 108.4 FJ CRUISER 5,334 0 -- 44,917 0 -- 4RUNNER 6,242 8,057 -19.4 86,776 85,269 1.8 HIGHLANDER 10,296 9,063 18.1 106,994 116,424 -8.1 LAND CRUISER 282 319 -8.1 2,744 4,040 -32.1 SEQUOIA 2,705 2,664 5.6 28,078 36,654 -23.4 TOTAL SUV 36,013 24,512 52.8 396,347 303,262 30.7 4X2 TACOMA 7,855 8,406 -2.8 87,886 83,425 5.3 4X4 TACOMA 6,266 6,080 7.2 60,147 56,175 7.1 TOTAL TACOMA 14,121 14,486 1.4 148,033 139,600 6.0 TUNDRA 10,046 8,919 17.1 101,571 100,005 1.6 TOTAL PICKUP 24,167 23,405 7.4 249,604 239,605 4.2 TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. LT TRUCK 72,050 58,998 27.0 779,595 677,363 15.1 LX 470 512 657 -19.0 4,647 6,876 -32.4 GX 470 1,871 2,549 -23.7 20,348 26,884 -24.3 RX 350/400h 7,250 8,012 -5.9 87,517 88,941 -1.6 TOTAL LEXUS LIGHT TRUCK 9,633 11,218 -10.7 112,512 122,701 -8.3 TOTAL TOYOTA LIGHT TRUCK 81,683 70,216 21.0 892,107 800,064 11.5 TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. 165,005 149,754 14.6 1,859,027 1,645,291 13.0 TOTAL LEXUS 24,006 23,331 7.0 258,480 242,060 6.8 TOTAL TOYOTA 189,011 173,085 13.6 2,117,507 1,887,351 12.2 MEMO: DOM. COROLLA 22,606 25,847 -9.0 284,422 283,276 0.4 DOM. CAMRY 26,779 29,912 -6.9 307,552 345,417 -11.0 DOM. PICKUP 24,167 23,405 7.4 249,604 239,605 4.2 DOM. RX 350 5,693 4,937 19.9 61,475 55,570 10.6 SELLING DAYS 25 26 255 255 TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT CAR 36,546 26,802 41.8 413,529 260,920 58.5 LEXUS IMPORT CAR 14,373 12,113 23.4 145,968 119,359 22.3 TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT CARS 56,409 63,954 -8.3 665,903 707,008 -5.8 TOTAL TOYOTA CARS 107,328 102,869 8.5 1,225,400 1,087,287 12.7 TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT LT TRUCK 33,308 21,848 58.6 368,269 266,608 38.1 LEXUS IMPORT LT TRUCK 3,940 6,281 -34.8 51,037 67,131 -24.0 TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT LT TRUCK 38,742 37,150 8.5 411,326 410,755 0.1 LEXUS NA BUILT LT TRUCK 5,693 4,937 19.9 61,475 55,570 10.6 TOTAL TOYOTA LT TRUCK 81,683 70,216 21.0 892,107 800,064 11.5 SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES 40,312 35,730 17.3 463,942 425,963 8.9 Memo: Lexus Sport Utility 9,633 11,218 -10.7 112,512 122,701 -8.3 SMALL VANS 11,870 11,081 11.4 133,644 134,496 -0.6 PICKUPS 24,167 23,405 7.4 249,604 239,605 4.2 * NORTH AMERICAN BUILT VEHICLES COROLLA 22,606 25,847 -9.0 284,422 283,276 0.4 CAMRY 26,779 29,912 -6.9 307,552 345,417 -11.0 AVALON 7,024 8,195 -10.9 73,929 78,315 -5.6 SIENNA 11,870 11,081 11.4 133,644 134,496 -0.6 PICKUP 24,167 23,405 7.4 249,604 239,605 4.2 SEQUOIA 2,705 2,664 5.6 28,078 36,654 -23.4 RX 350 5,693 4,937 19.9 61,475 55,570 10.6 TOTAL 100,844 106,041 -1.1 1,138,704 1,173,333 -3.0 N.A. VEHICLES % OF TOTAL 53.4% 61.3% 53.8% 62.2% SELLING DAYS 25 26 255 255 DSR = DAILY SELLING RATE [source: Toyota Motor Company]

Oct. 2006 Sales: Hyundai Motor America FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., 11/01/2006 Hyundai Motor America sold 30,479 units during the month of October, up 3.6 percent over October 2005. With the strong sales of the Elantra and the all-new 2007 Santa Fe, sales were up 13.5 percent and 22.2 percent respectively over October 2005. The Hyundai Azera also continued to perform well, up 48.3 percent compared with October 2005 XG350 sales. “We are very pleased to see a strong start to the fourth quarter of 2006 as we close in on our year-end sales targets and as our dealer inventory of ’06 models continues a strong selldown,” said Mark Barnes, vice president, National Sales, Hyundai Motor America. “Our model line-up will get a boost from the all-new 2007 Elantra entering dealerships this month and we look forward to a strong end to the sales year.” All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection. Following is the sales breakdown for October 2006: [source: Hyundai Motor America]

Oct. 2006 Sales: Nissan North America NASHVILLE, Tenn. (November 1, 2006) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported sales of 75,095 units in October, an increase of 8.1 percent from the prior year. Nissan Division sales increased by 9.6 percent over last year. Infiniti Division posted a sales decrease of -1.8 percent versus the prior year. NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS • October sales for Nissan-brand vehicles of 65,689 units increased by 9.6 percent on a daily sales rate basis compared with last year’s 62,317 units sold. • The all-new Sentra was off to a good start with sales of 1,900 units, contributing to the total Sentra sales of 8,406 units. • The new Versa subcompact continued to build momentum with sales of 3,056 units. • The Murano and Armada had their best October ever with sales of 6,440 units for Murano and 3,376 units for Armada. INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS • Sales for Infiniti were down 1.8 percent, with 9,406 units sold, as compared with last October’s 9,962 units. • The FX luxury crossover vehicle posted sales of 2,320 units in October, a gain of 32.4 percent over the prior year. • The all-new G35 sedan, released a few days ago, reported sales of 317 units, contributing to the total G35 sedan sales of 2,771 units. NNA INFORMATION • Combined October sales for Nissan and Infiniti totaled 75,095 units, a 8.1 percent increase when compared with last year with 72,279 units. • The all-new 2007 Sentra was released mid-October. November will mark the first full month of sales of the all-new Altima and Infiniti G35 sport sedan. [source: Nissan North America]

November Update GM Chevrolet Spark: Consideration for U.S. sale to substitute now missing Aveo hatch? Published for Opposition Skyscape (Oct. 26, 2006): Listed for sunroofs, likely a panoramic unit. Ford F-150 Platinum: Looks like Hyundai won't be the only one with a coming Platinum Edition. SVTOA: Listed as "Association services; namely, promoting general interest of and education regarding automobiles." Ford/Lincoln/Mercury Sync: Listed as "electronic interface modules for wired and wireless interface of mobile phones and electronic media players with an automotive electrical system." Published for Opposition Supreme (Dec. 5, 2006): Listed for windshield wiper blades. (???) Lincoln MKR (Nov. 14, 2006) DCX Published for Opposition Westfalia (Nov. 21, 2006): "MOTOR HOMES, CAMPER VANS, AND THEIR STRUCTURAL PARTS, EXCLUSIVE OF COUPLINGS AND TRAILER COUPLINGS FOR LAND VEHICLES" Sportsman (Nov. 7, 2006): Description of logo: The color(s) gray, black and red is/are claimed as a feature of the mark. The color(s) gray appear in the lettering, black in the backgrounds and red appears in the crosshairs design. The mark consists of the word "SPORTSMAN" with a cross hair over the letter "O". Nissan CX25 and CX35 have been declared "dead". That is, either Nissan cancelled the registration process or the USPTO denied the patent. This likely happened because of Mazda's CX SUVs. Toyota F: It's basically a badge design, a stylized "F".

To close out the month: -Lincoln Blackwood -Black and yellow Nissan Titan done up Baja-style with Caterpillar logo (on the road) -Maserati Quattroporte

Well, aside from a couple of factual errors (Nissan HQ moved from Cali to Tennessee and the unreported bank of vehicles was at it peak, 100,000 units [currently ~50,000, I believe]), I mostly agree with your sentiment that Ghosn need not get involved with Chrysler. Besides, both Ghosn and Zetsche have recently stated they have no interest in partnerships with anyone. So really, the BusinessWeek article isn't that well in tune with the reality what avenues the DCX and/or the Chrysler Group may take, I think.

SEMA: Honda Civic MUGEN Si Sedan LAS VEGAS 10/31/2006 -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today revealed a prototype Civic MUGEN Si Sedan prepared by legendary Honda tuner MUGEN equipped with a high performance suspension, forged aluminum wheels, aerodynamic body styling and a sport exhaust system at the 2006 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. Planned for production in a limited quantity of 500 units a year, the Civic MUGEN Si will be available at U.S. Honda dealers starting in spring 2007 with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of less than $30,000 and a full factory warranty. "Enthusiasts have equated the name MUGEN with JDM Honda performance for decades, and with the introduction of the Civic Si Sedan, the time is right for the two companies to once again join forces," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "A MUGEN-tuned vehicle available directly from the factory provides the ultimate level of performance, quality and refinement in a specially-tuned car." The track tuned suspension, tested at the Twin Ring Motegi racing circuit in Japan, lowers the vehicle by 0.6 inches with aggressive spring and damper tuning for enhanced handling performance while still maintaining a high level of ride comfort. Compared to the stock Civic Si Sedan, front and rear damping force (both bump and rebound) was increased between 8- and 24-percent (the rate varies depending on condition). Lightweight 16.7-pound 18x7.5-inch forged aluminum wheels (27 percent lighter than the stock 17x7 alloy wheel) and high-grip BFGoodrich® g-Force KDW 215/40ZR18 summer tires help to further create MUGEN's rewarding and well-balanced handling performance character. The full-vehicle aero-package adds a front spoiler with a sports grille (with special MUGEN Si emblem), side spoilers, a rear bumper diffuser and a rear wing. The sports exhaust system reduces exhaust system back pressure from the catalytic converter back, resulting in an enhanced power curve. Additional accoutrements include front and rear MUGEN emblems outside. Inside, a serial number placard is located on the instrument panel along with a spherical 50 mm MUGEN shift knob. The name MUGEN symbolizes Honda performance throughout Asia and around the globe. MUGEN, under license by M-TEC Co., Ltd., of Japan, has been closely associated with Honda for more than three decades in the design and manufacture of racing and premium aftermarket performance products. Honda's activities at SEMA coincide with the November 1 on-sale date of the new-for-2007 Civic Si Sedan. The Civic Si Sedan embraces the style and performance of the Civic Si Coupe and marks the first time that "Si" performance has become available in a sedan body style. Civic MUGEN Si Sedan Prototype Specs: Ride Height = -0.6 inches (5.3 inches total) Overall Length = +1.1 inches (177.8 inches total) Wheels: Forged GP 18x7.5 (pattern 5H-114.3 +48) Color: Fiji Blue Pearl [source: American Honda]

Pricing: 2007 Honda Civic Si Sedan LAS VEGAS 10/31/2006 -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today announced pricing for the all-new 2007 Honda Civic Si Sedan at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show. The Civic Si Sedan officially goes on sale on November 1st with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $21,290, plus $595 for destination and handling. 2007 Civic Si Sedan models include: *197-horsepower, 2.0-liter i-VTEC™ 4-cylinder engine *6-speed manual transmission with helical-type limited slip differential *Exclusive exterior features include rear deck spoiler wing and Si emblems *Standard 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/45 R17 87V tires *Side curtain airbags, front side airbags and dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags *Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) Body Structure *Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) *Anti-lock brakes (with 4-channel ABS and Electronic Brake Distribution) *EPA-estimated city/highway fuel economy of 23/32 miles per gallon* High-performance summer tires are available as a factory option, bringing the suggested retail price to $21,490. The Civic Si Sedan is also available with a Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Activation and XM® Satellite Radio for the suggested retail price of $23,040 ($23,240 on vehicles with the high performance summer tire). [source: American Honda]

SEMA: Mitsubishi Evolander Headlining the marquee of Mitsubishi's SEMA display is the Evolander concept. This unique vehicle, created by the Mitsubishi Research and Design of America (MRDA) team in Cypress, California started life as a 2007 Outlander, which is an all-new addition to Mitsubishi's line-up that goes on sale in November. The creative minds at MRDA sought to infuse the Evolander concept with performance elements and design cues inspired by Mitsubishi's omnipotent, race-ready, super-sedan, the Lancer Evolution. An exploratory concept, the Evolander represents the design and engineering possibilities of what could be an Outlander Ralliart production model in the future. For the Evolander, the output of the Outlander's 3.0-liter V6 engine (normally rated at 220 hp) swells to 300 hp with the help of an ATI/Roadrace Engineering Procharger system that uses a centrifugal compressor to produce 6 psi of boost. The increased power is fed through a 6-speed automatic transmission that is actuated by the same magnesium-alloy paddle shifters that will be equipped on the next generation performance model. The Evolander puts power to pavement using Mitsubishi's newest electronically-controlled AWD system offering exceptional, rally-car like roadholding in an SUV. The list of Evolander's dynamic enhancements also includes a Roadrace Engineering/Muellerized coilover suspension system that enhances handling to help dice corners with precision and exceptional control. The Evolander rides on lightweight 20-inch OZ wheels wrapped in high performance Yokohama Advan ST performance rubber. Brembo's new 6-piston monobloc-style brakes squeeze massive cross-drilled front rotors, and a set of cross-drilled rear rotors were added to help bring the vehicle to a swift, safe sudden halt. The Evolander's exterior design follows along an "urban performance" theme, and shares several characteristics with the Lancer Evolution sedan. The Evolander's fascia design mimics that of the Evolution vehicles with its cavernous cooling and brake duct intakes and an aggressively vented hood. The Lancer Evolution also lends its iconic, rally-inspired, box flares to the Evolander, increasing the width of the vehicle at the fenders by 28 mm. The Evolander also features a more aggressive aerodynamic treatment, with lowered side sills, fender vents, a rear diffuser and a Ralliart rear spoiler that add a "sporty urban" look to the SUV. The Evolander's stylish interior fuses sporting elements of Evolution with the technology features found on Outlander. Recaro Sport form fitting, reclining racing seats cradle and support driver and passenger helping improve a driver's seating position and vehicle control during aggressive driving. The interior still maintains full use of the 2007 Outlander's new 30 GB hard-drive navigation system (with 1200 song music storage capability), as well as the rear DVD entertainment system, and the eardrum-rattling Rockford Fosgate 650 watt audio system. Exterior: Urban performance concept Aggressive 'evolution' style front fascia Ralliart grill w/ polished mesh insert Widened fender flares Vented hood for underhood heat dissipation Fender vents w/ integrated side marker lighting Lowered side sill w/ embossed 'EVOlander' logo Aggressive rear fascia w/ lower air diffuser and center mount exhaust Ralliart rear spoiler OZ 20-inch Canyon wheels Brembo 6 piston front brakes w/ cross-drilled front and rear rotors Yokohama Advan ST high performance tires Interior: Contemporary performance interior concept Recaro Sport form-fitting and reclining race seats w/ alcantara Seat inserts front and rear Mitsubishi SatNav system w/ integrated 30 gig hard drive and 1200 song Storage capability Sirius satellite radio and Bluetooth compatible Chrome accent interior pieces Mitsubishi DVD rear seat entertainment system Rockford Fosgate 650 watt audio system Performance: 3.0L V6 engine 6 speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted 'magnesium' Shift paddles ATI/ Roadrace Engineering Procharger system Tuned center mount exhaust system Roadrace/ Muellerized coilover suspension system Vehicle tuned to 300hp at 6psi of boost [source: Mitsubishi Motors N.A.]

-2.4L Ecotec ported/tuned engine -Hahn Racecraft 16G intercooled stage 3 turbo -348 horsepower -341 lb.-ft. of torque -Gravana Custom 3-inch downpipe and center exit exhaust -Spec stage 3 clutch kit -Spec billet aluminum flywheel ...are "meh"? You're harder to please than me.

The reports/rumors mount: http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic.../610310361/1148

Is that the actual truck? It looks like a really crappy Photoshop job. Not that it really matters, it looks terrible anyway.

Nothing. I rarely even have breakfast. I should probaly change that...

Most Satanic-looking truck ever.

Black Box Brouhaha A new federal rule to standardize minimum requirements for "black boxes" in vehicles wasn't expected to be controversial, but it has ignited a firestorm of protests from groups that largely agree the information collected by the devices improves auto safety. All U.S. and foreign automakers have asked the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to rewrite the rule because they say it's too vague and will cost too much to implement. Safety advocates say it doesn't go far enough. Read "Black boxes spark uproar" @ The Detroit News

Funny, I think the amount of chrome is pretty tasteful. I'd rock that thing anyday.