William Maley

I think it would be safe to assume Sweden for the time being.

Some good news for Volkswagen as the Environmental Protection Agency has approved a fix for a select number of vehicles equipped with the 2.0L TDI. Reuters reports that the fix available for 70,000 vehicles will come in two phases. Right now, vehicles eligible for the fix will get a software update. The following year, Volkswagen will install more software, diesel particulate filter, diesel oxidation catalyst, and NOx catalyst. Now for the bad news, this fix is only available on the 2015 Audi A3, Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, Golf SportWagen, Jetta, and Passat. Volkswagen is still waiting on approval for fixes on the remaining 400,000 vehicles. "With today's approval, VW can offer vehicle owners the choice to keep and fix their car, or to have it bought back," the EPA said in a statement. The agency also noted the fix would "not affect vehicle fuel economy, reliability, or durability." We have to wonder how many owners will take Volkswagen up on the fix. The buyback option has proven to be very popular - getting the value of the vehicle before the scandal was brought to light. If there is one silver lining, Volkswagen will be able to sell the 2015 model year diesel vehicles once fixed. Source: Reuters View full article

Some good news for Volkswagen as the Environmental Protection Agency has approved a fix for a select number of vehicles equipped with the 2.0L TDI. Reuters reports that the fix available for 70,000 vehicles will come in two phases. Right now, vehicles eligible for the fix will get a software update. The following year, Volkswagen will install more software, diesel particulate filter, diesel oxidation catalyst, and NOx catalyst. Now for the bad news, this fix is only available on the 2015 Audi A3, Volkswagen Beetle, Golf, Golf SportWagen, Jetta, and Passat. Volkswagen is still waiting on approval for fixes on the remaining 400,000 vehicles. "With today's approval, VW can offer vehicle owners the choice to keep and fix their car, or to have it bought back," the EPA said in a statement. The agency also noted the fix would "not affect vehicle fuel economy, reliability, or durability." We have to wonder how many owners will take Volkswagen up on the fix. The buyback option has proven to be very popular - getting the value of the vehicle before the scandal was brought to light. If there is one silver lining, Volkswagen will be able to sell the 2015 model year diesel vehicles once fixed. Source: Reuters View full article

Next week at the Detroit Auto Show, Volvo will unveil the V90 wagon for North America. Completing the 90 series lineup, the V90 will be available with the T5 or T6 powertrains, and in either Inscription or R-Design trims. The V90 also marks a first for Volvo. Unlike other 90 series models, the V90 will be sold exclusively as custom order vehicle. You can do this through Volvo’s Online Concierge or Overseas Delivery service. "The V90 is a fantastic vehicle for the true wagon enthusiast. As we now introduce the most luxurious wagon ever, we choose to do so giving our customers a range of personalized customer order production alternatives like the Volvo online concierge and Overseas Delivery. This way we provide the fullest range of options to wagon lovers" said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Car USA in a statement. Pricing will be announced sometime next month. Source: Volvo Press Release is on Page 2 The Volvo V90 Arrives in America The Volvo V90 is coming to the United States in 2017 and builds on over 60 years of wagon heritage that started with the Volvo Duett. The V90 will make its North American debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit and will be available as a model year 2018 later this year. “Wagons are an important part of Volvo’s history” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Car USA, “after successfully launching the XC90 SUV, S90 sedan and most recently V90 Cross Country, we complete our 90 range with the introduction of our new luxury wagon.” The V90 has received international praise for its combination of style and utility. Based on the new Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) and the new Volvo design language, the V90 will share interior design attributes with the award-winning XC90, such as the 12” Sensus Connect Touchscreen, open-pore wood trim and Nappa leather. Like the S90 the V90, drivers can expect the feeling of relaxed confidence and sedan-like driving dynamics with the storage capability of a crossover. The V90 will be available with both T5 FWD and T6 AWD powertrains in either Inscription or R-Design trim. To provide a full range of options and personalization, the V90 will be sold exclusively as custom order vehicles starting soon via Volvo’s Online Concierge or Overseas Delivery. Both options offer unique buying experiences. Vehicles will be delivered to customers in summer 2017. "The V90 is a fantastic vehicle for the true wagon enthusiast. As we now introduce the most luxurious wagon ever, we choose to do so giving our customers a range of personalized customer order production alternatives like the Volvo online concierge and Overseas Delivery. This way we provide the fullest range of options to wagon lovers" said Kerssemakers. With Volvo Concierge, customers can choose the vehicle’s features online with a Volvo representative, who will personally guide customers through the ordering process. The vehicle will be delivered to their local Volvo retailer where customers can complete the purchase. With Overseas Delivery, customers can pick the color, interior, trim and engine with their Volvo retailer and receive two paid airline tickets and hotel accommodations to pick up the vehicle at Volvo’s Torslanda, Sweden factory. “Luxury buyers seek to fully customize their vehicle while enjoying a personalized experience,” said Bodil Eriksson, Vice President, Product, Marketing and Communication. “The Volvo V90 attracts buyers who are determined to oversee every detail and customer order production via Concierge allows them to realize this.” Currently, the S90 sedan, XC90 Excellence and S60 and V60 Polestar can be ordered through Volvo Concierge. The V90 wagon is the first carline exclusively available through Volvo Concierge or Overseas Delivery. Pricing and trim details will be announced next month. View full article

There will be one less compact car on sale come August. Motor1 has learned from Mitsubishi Motors North America’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, Don Swearingen that production of the Lancer compact sedan will end this August. Of course. you are probably saying to yourself that Mitsubishi was still building the Lancer?! The answer is yes. Will Mitsubishi have a replacement for the Lancer, especially considering the partnership with Nissan? Swearingen said no. He told Autoblog that the sedan marketplace is shrinking and the Japanese needs to focus on products that make them money. Hence why they are focusing on crossovers with a new model that is slated to slot between the Outlander Sport and Outlander due later this year. The Lancer was never a big seller for Mitsubishi. Its best year was back in 2002 when the company moved 69,000 Lancers. In 2016, Mitsubishi only sold 14,304 Lancers. Source: Motor1, Autoblog View full article

We're a few years out from the next-generation Subaru WRX and WRX STI. To help tide us over till then, Subaru has unveiled the refreshed 2018 WRX and WRX STI. Subaru has made some changes to the exterior, though it may be hard to notice at first since they look like the current model. There are new grilles and a set of larger air intakes. The Limited models of the WRX and WRX STI also get LED headlights that swivel when the steering wheel is turned. Inside, Subaru has both models a bit more bearable to live with thicker glass and added sound insulation to help reduce outside noise. Other improvements include better interior materials and larger infotainment systems for both models. Under the skin, both the WRX and STI see tweaks to the chassis and power steering. WRX models equipped with the six-speed manual feature a redesigned synchro design to improve feel and a new clutch that is smoother during gear changes. On STI models, the Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) - vary the amount the torque being distributed - switches to a fully electronically controlled limited-slip differential. (The previous system used a combination of electronic and mechanical bits.) Subaru says the switch to an electronic system for the DCCD makes it smoother and quicker to respond. Other changes of note: WRX Premium is now available with a Performance package that features eight-way power Recaro seats, Jurid brake pads, brake calipers painted red, and 18-inch wheels with a double-spoke design. WRX STI gets a set of Brembo brakes - 6-Piston calipers up front, 2-piston in the rear, and larger discs. 19-inch alloy wheels come standard on the STI Both WRX and STI get revised crash structures up front Pricing hasn't been announced, but the two are expected to arrive at Subaru dealers later this spring. Source: Subaru Press Release is on Page 2 January 5, 2017 SUBARU DEBUTS 2018 WRX® AND WRX STI® WITH PERFORMANCE, COMFORT AND SAFETY UPGRADES Revised front styling for a more aggressive look Suspension optimized for better handling and ride comfort New 19-inch wheels, upgraded Brembo® brakes and revised DCCD All-Wheel Drive give WRX STI wider performance envelope New available Recaro® power seats Performance Package option for WRX models New EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology safety features Upgraded interior materials and quieter cabin Cherry Hill, N.J. - Subaru of America, Inc., which this month posted its eighth consecutive year of record-breaking sales, today introduced the 2018 WRX and WRX STI, each debuting performance, comfort, design and safety enhancements for a more rewarding driving experience. The new models reach Subaru retailers in spring. A restyled front fascia WRX and WRX STI shows a sportier attitude, highlighted by a more pronounced grille design, along with a larger lower grille opening. The WRX Limited and all STI feature redesigned LED Steering Responsive Headlights that help illuminate curves in nighttime driving. For greater versatility, all WRX and STI models now feature new roof rack mounting brackets. WRX for 2018 With its 268-hp, 2.0-liter direct injection turbocharged BOXER engine, Symmetrical All Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring, the rally-bred WRX is a performance and value benchmark in the high-performance AWD sport-compact segment. The WRX comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission and offers an optional performance automatic transmission, the Sport Lineartronic® CVT with manual mode. The WRX features new front and rear suspension tuning for improved steering stability and ride comfort, while retaining the car’s high cornering performance capability. Subaru significantly enhanced shifter feel for the 6-speed manual transmission, with a new synchro design and reduced friction, along with smoother clutch take-up. The WRX electric power steering (EPS) was revised to provide an even smoother, more natural feel, while integrating the steering motor and electronic control unit reduces weight. A new optional Performance Package for the WRX Premium features Recaro 8-way power seats, red-painted brake calipers and upgraded JURID brake pads, and deletes the moonroof to reduce weight. The standard 18-inch wheels feature a bold new double-spoke design. WRX STI for 2018 A comprehensive handling enhancement for the 2018 STI includes the revised suspension tuning as featured on the WRX, plus a revised DCCD AWD system, significantly upgraded brakes and this model’s first-ever 19-inch wheels. The DCCD system, which previously used a combination of mechanical and electronic center limited slip differential control, now uses electronic control for quicker and smoother response. The 19-inch alloy wheels feature a striking Y-shaped spoke design and carry 245/35R19 tires that help raise cornering performance while giving the STI an even more aggressive stance. The yellow-painted brake calipers identify a significantly upgraded Brembo Performance Brake System that now uses stronger monoblock 6-piston calipers in front, monoblock 2-piston calipers in the rear and larger, drilled rotors all around for better heat dissipation. New brake pads provide significantly greater surface area for improved braking feel and fade resistance. The STI also offers the Recaro seats (standard on STI Limited, optional for base trim). Powered by a 305-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, the WRX STI brings rally-bred performance technology to the road with Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Standard handling technologies include Active Torque Vectoring and Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control. Improved Usability with a Sporting Edge The everyday usability that has contributed to WRX and STI popularity gets even better for 2018. All models feature upgraded interior materials, rear seat armrest with cup holders, redesigned interior door grips and faster remote trunk opening. New measures that reduce unwanted noise include thicker door glass, revised door sealing and a foam-filled windshield header beam. A new, larger high-definition multi-function display (5.9-inch vs. 4.3-inch before) makes it easier to see vehicle functions at a glance. WRX Limited models feature power driver’s seat lumbar adjustment. The standard WRX adds heated exterior mirrors (already standard on others), while the WRX Premium upgrades to a SUBARU STARLINK™ 7.0” multimedia unit from the previous STARLINK 6.2” unit. Safety Subaru revised the front structure of the WRX and WRX STI for enhanced frontal collision performance. The WRX Limited, when equipped with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology now features Vehicle Hold (AVH), and a new EyeSight Assist Monitor (EAM). The EAM uses LED indicators to display EyeSight status and alerts on the windshield, allowing the driver to see them without diverting eyes from the road ahead. The AVH feature replaces the Hill Holder and Hill Start Assist functions and offers greater functionality, holding the vehicle on all road grades, not only inclines. For example, AVH can help reduce driver fatigue by holding the car at traffic lights, and then can seamlessly transition to acceleration. View full article

Are you one of those people who can't seem to decide if they want a sports sedan or a luxury crossover? Then listen up as Cadillac has announced something you might be interested in. Next month, Cadillac will be launching 'Book by Cadillac' for the New York Metro Area. For $1,500 a month, members will be able to choose from Cadillac's Platinum trim and V-Series lineup. This is done through a smartphone app where a member can request a vehicle. From there, a concierge will drop off your selected vehicle to your requested location. Vehicles can be kept for as long as a member wants and can be easily swapped. The $1,500 monthly fee covers insurance, registration, and maintenance of the vehicle. Cadillac plans on launching Book into other markets down the road. Source: Cadillac Press Release is on Page 2 Introducing BOOK by Cadillac, a Bold New Luxury Vehicle Subscription Model Rather than owning a single vehicle, members can switch between different Cadillacs to best suit their needs with this first-of-its-kind subscription service from an OEM. NEW YORK — Cadillac is continuing to push the boundaries of the driving experience with a first-of-its kind luxury vehicle subscription service, BOOK by Cadillac. For a flat monthly fee, BOOK by Cadillac gives members access to popular Cadillac vehicles without the commitment of leasing, financing or buying. “BOOK by Cadillac is an innovative new option targeted at a growing class of luxury drivers searching for access to various cars over time, dependent on their individual needs, coupled with a hassle-free white-glove exchange,” said Uwe Ellinghaus, Cadillac chief marketing officer. BOOK by Cadillac members will have app-enabled on-demand access to the latest premium trim Cadillac models to keep in their possession. The vehicles will be delivered via white-glove concierge to members’ requested locations and exchanged at their leisure or as their needs change. Members can just as easily take to the winding roads in a performance V Series and enjoy a back-mountain winter ski trip in an Escalade in the same week. Alternatively, they can keep an SUV during the winter months and switch to a performance sedan during the summer, with each vehicle picked up and delivered to their doorstep. With maintenance, insurance and detailing of the vehicle handled by Cadillac, members are freed from the baggage that comes with traditional vehicle ownership and given the freedom and flexibility to fit their lifestyle. BOOK by Cadillac will launch first in the New York metro area, with plans to debut in other markets. The Details: A flat monthly fee of $1,500 eliminates the hassles of car ownership so members can experience uninhibited driving. Membership is month-to-month with no long-term commitment required. Members can use a mobile app to reserve vehicles that will be delivered to their specified locations via a white-glove concierge service. Certain location restrictions apply. Members will have access to the current year Platinum Level Trim Cadillacs, including the XT5, CT6, Escalade and V Series. Registration, taxes, insurance and maintenance costs are included in the monthly rate and there is no limit on mileage. Other fees may apply. For detailed information on all the benefits of membership and how to join, please visit www.BOOKByCadillac.com. View full article

Technology is moving at a rapid rate and it seems every aspect of our lives are affected by it. Take for example cars, many believe in the future that cars will be fully self-driving and be powered by some sort of alternative powertrain. One person believes that kids born now will not even need a driver's license because of this technology. Henrik Christensen, head of UC San Diego’s Contextual Robotics Institute said in an interview with The San Diego Union-Tribune said in about 10 to 15 years, autonomous vehicles will be a regular part of our lives. “My own prediction is that kids born today will never get to drive a car. Autonomous, driverless cars are 10, 15 years out. All the automotive companies — Daimler, GM, Ford — are saying that within five years they will have autonomous, driverless cars on the road,” said Christensen. The paper asked Christensen his feelings on future generations not driving, he said, “I love to drive my car, but it’s a question of how much time people waste sitting in traffic and not doing something else. The average person in San Diego probably spends an hour commuting every day. If they could become more productive, that would be good. With autonomous, driverless cars, we can put twice as many vehicles on the road as we have today, and do it without improving the infrastructure.” Christensen also believes car ownership will be a thing of the past as well. “There would be no need to have parking garages in downtown San Diego. In theory, you’d get out of the car and say, ‘Pick me up at 4 PM.’ Long-term — we’re talking 20 years into the future — you’re not even going to own a car. A car becomes a service.” Do you think Christensen is on the right track or is his head in the clouds? Source: The San Diego Union-Tribune View full article

Nope as the BBC story says, "Despite Volvo's car business now being owned by a Chinese firm, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, it is still viewed as an iconic Swedish brand. And it still sells the most cars in Sweden, with more than one in five cars (21.5%) on the country's roads, compared with Volkswagen's 15.7%."

UPDATE: The folks at Temple of VTEC were able to find the quote from Car Magazine that the CivicX forums referenced. "Doubtless power will continue to be transmitted by today's magical six-speed manual gearbox, with its tightly packed ratios. There's no indication of a dual-clutch gearbox for the Civic: the announced automated option is a CVT, although engineer Kariya hastily adds that he's tried to head-off the typical rev-metal thrash by making the cooking engines tractable at low revs." We can see how some may think the Civic Type R could be getting a CVT from reading this (emphasis ours). But there is one key thing to be aware of. The line bolded mentions the Civic, not the Civic Type-R. To put this story to rest, Temple of VTEC reached out to Honda for comment. Honda said that the Type R would only come with a six-speed manual. Those worried that Honda was going mad can breath a sigh of relief. Source: Temple of VTEC We're finally getting our chance to sample some forbidden fruit in the form of the Honda Civic Type R when it launches later this year. For awhile, we've known that the Type R would be coming with a six-speed manual transmission only. But it seems there is another transmission option on the horizon and one that will disappoint a number of enthusiasts. (SEE UPDATE ABOVE). In the November issue of Car Magazine (via the CivicX forums), the publication spoke with three senior Honda folks, Mirsuru Kariya - Head engineer of Civic Daisuke Tsutamori - Head designer of Civic Katsushi Inoue - Head of Honda Europe One interesting bit of information that came out of this was the Type R getting the option of a CVT transmission. Yes, we can already hear the cries of those who believe Honda is watering the vehicle down. First, this an option as the manual will be standard. Second, engineers have reportedly tuned the transmission for low-end acceleration. Source: CivicX View full article

Mercedes-Benz USA Reports Best Year Ever With 2016 Sales Of 380,752 Units ATLANTA, Jan. 4, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) closed out 2016 with its highest annual volume in the U.S. market, topping 2015's best ever record. MBUSA today reported December sales of 37,057 vehicles. Mercedes-Benz Vans reported December sales with 3,860 units, and smart reported 1,186 units, bringing MBUSA's grand total to 37,057 vehicles for the month. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 340,237. Adding year-to-date-sales of 34,304 for Vans and 6,211 for smart, MBUSA posted a grand total of 380,752 units in December, increasing 0.1% from the previous year. "MBUSA maintained a consistent pace throughout the year, which led us to our best sales result ever. In 2016, Mercedes-Benz was the best-selling luxury franchise in the U.S.," said Dietmar Exler, president and CEO of MBUSA. "I want to thank Stuttgart, our dealers and everyone at MBUSA for helping us to have such an incredible year." Mercedes-Benz volume leaders in December included the C-Class, GLE and E-Class (including the CLS) model lines. The C-Class took the lead at 7,345, followed by the GLE at 5,574. The E-Class rounded out the top three with 4,851 units sold. Mercedes-AMG high-performance models sold 3,126 units in December, with a total of 23,261 units sold year-to-date (up 33.3%). MERCEDES-BENZ USA Sales -- December 2016 Mercedes-Benz Passenger Vehicles Dec-16 Dec-15 Monthly % YTD 2016 YTD 2015 Yearly % B-CLASS 54 97 -44.3% 632 1,906 -66.8% CLA 1,876 1,912 -1.9% 25,792 29,643 -13.0% C-CLASS 7,345 7,023 4.6% 77,167 86,080 -10.4% E-CLASS/CLS 4,851 5,580 -13.1% 50,896 55,888 -8.9% S-CLASS 1,494 2,163 -30.9% 18,803 21,988 -14.5% SLC/SLK 330 290 13.8% 3,397 4,182 -18.8% SL 304 380 -20.0% 3,722 4,060 -8.3% AMG GT 99 162 -38.9% 1,227 1,277 -3.9% *SLS AMG 0 0 - 1 29 - GLA 2,351 2,200 6.9% 24,545 25,593 -4.1% GLC/GLK 4,018 4,366 -8.0% 47,872 27,902 71.6% GLE/M-CLASS 5,574 6,640 -16.1% 51,791 53,217 -2.7% GL/GLS 3,262 2,849 14.5% 30,442 27,707 9.9% G-CLASS 453 541 -16.3% 3,950 3,616 9.2% TOTAL 32,011 34,203 -6.4% 340,237 343,088 -0.8% Vans1 3,860 4,046 -4.6% 34,304 29,889 14.8% smart 1,186 669 77.3% 6,211 7,484 -17.0% MBUSA Combined Total Dec-16 Dec-15 Monthly % YTD 2016 YTD 2015 Yearly % GRAND TOTAL 37,057 38,918 -4.8% 380,752 380,461 0.1% 1Mercedes-Benz, Freightliner Sprinter and Metris Vans are sold and marketed in the U.S. by Mercedes-Benz USA and Daimler Vans USA, respectively. *out of production

Hyundai Motor America Reports Seventh Consecutive Year Of Record Sales Best All-Time Sales for Tucson Best December for Santa Fe FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Jan. 4, 2017 – Hyundai Motor America today announced its seventh consecutive year of record U.S. sales of 775,005 units, an increase of 1.75 percent. For the month of December, sales were down 1.9 percent. Hyundai Division posts sales of 60,572 units in December “As consumer confidence surged in December, to the highest level in more than a decade, we were able to capitalize on that and set a new record for sales in 2016,” said Derrick Hatami, vice president of national sales for Hyundai Motor America. The SUV/CUV segment led the charge for Hyundai with Tucson setting not only a record in December, but also for the year, with sales up four percent for the month and 41 percent for the year. Combined sales of Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport were up 14 percent for the month, making it the best Santa Fe December ever, while also achieving double digit growth on the year. Genesis Division posts sales of 1,733 units in December “The G90, a finalist for North American Car of the Year, saw sales move up 26 percent over the previous month, as dealer inventory continues to improve,” said Erwin Raphael, general manager of Genesis in the U.S. market. “The brand overall was up 33 percent and we look forward to building upon that momentum in 2017.” SALES BY BRAND DEC/2016 DEC/2015 CY/2016 CY/2015 HYUNDAI 60,572 63,508 768,057 761,710 GENESIS 1,733 0 6,948 0 TOTAL 62,305 63,508 775,005 761,710 MODELS CARLINE DEC/2016 DEC/2015 CY/2016 CY/2015 ACCENT 4,159 2,718 79,766 61,486 SONATA 13,802 22,820 199,416 213,303 ELANTRA 19,556 14,242 208,319 241,706 SANTA FE 10,862 9,518 131,257 118,134 AZERA 384 358 4,942 5,539 TUCSON 8,676 8,311 89,713 63,591 VELOSTER 2,699 2,246 30,053 24,245 GENESIS 426 3,094 23,230 31,374 EQUUS 8 201 1,361 2,332 G80 1,354 n/a 6,166 n/a G90 379 n/a 782 n/a

Subaru Of America, Inc. Announces December 2016 As Best Ever Sales Month; Sets Eighth Consecutive Yearly Sales Record Subaru sets a new all-time sales record of 615,132 vehicles; up 5.6 percent over 2015 Record December - monthly sales increase 12.3 percent over December 2015 61 consecutive months of yearly month-over-month growth Best December ever for Outback, Crosstrek, Forester and Legacy Best month ever for Outback and Crosstrek 5 consecutive months of more than 15,000 Outbacks sold Outback sells over 20,000 units; first Subaru model ever to do so Cherry Hill, N.J. - Subaru of America, Inc. today reported record-breaking sales of 615,132 vehicles for the 2016 calendar year; an increase of 5.6 percent over the previous annual record of 582,675 vehicles set in 2015. This is the eighth consecutive year of sales records for Subaru of America and ninth consecutive year of sales increases. The December sales total of 63,177 vehicles marks the company’s best-ever sales month, eclipsing the previous best month of August 2016 (60,418). December also marks the sixth consecutive month of 50,000+ vehicle sales for the company which continues to outpace the industry. Many of the company’s current models contributed to its sales success in 2016. The Forester, Legacy, Outback and Crosstrek sales were notably strong as each carline achieved new annual sales records. The Forester and Outback mid-size CUVs finished the year with sales of 178,593 and 182,898, up 1.9 percent and 20.1 percent, respectively. The small CUV entrant, Crosstrek, added 95,677 sales to the year-end total, while the Legacy sedan achieved 65,306 sales in 2016. The Impreza, all-new for 2017, added 55,238 annual sales. On the performance side, the company’s WRX and STI models achieved annual sales of 33,279. “We are thrilled to close 2016 with our eighth consecutive sales record for Subaru,” said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. “We would like to thank all of our retailers for their continued commitment in making these record-breaking sales results possible and we look forward to making 2017 our next record year.” “December represented the best month ever for Subaru of America, topping off the best year in the company’s history, in both sales and market share,” said Jeff Walters, senior vice president of sales. “Subaru is well positioned to continue its success into 2017,” added Walters. Carline Dec-16 Dec-15 % Chg Dec-16 Dec-15 % Chg MTD MTD MTD YTD YTD YTD Forester 18,015 16,797 7.3% 178,593 175,192 1.9% Impreza 5,126 6,059 -15.4% 55,238 66,785 -17.3% WRX/STI 2,938 3,089 -4.9% 33,279 33,734 -1.4% Legacy 5,960 5,759 3.5% 65,306 60,447 8.0% Outback 20,695 16,067 28.8% 182,898 152,294 20.1% BRZ 214 413 -48.2% 4,141 5,296 -21.8% Crosstrek 10,229 8,090 26.4% 95,677 88,927 7.6% TOTAL 63,177 56,274 12.3% 615,132 582,675 5.6%

Porsche Sets Record in 2016 with 54,280 Vehicles Delivered in the U.S. Porsche dealers sell 4,015 vehicles in December ATLANTA, Jan. 4, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche 911, Boxster, and Cayman sports cars, Macan and Cayenne SUVs, and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, today announced 4,015 vehicle sales in December. This brings 2016 to a close with 54,280 vehicles sold, a 4.9 percent increase over 2015 and a new PCNA sales record. "Our product offensive continued to thrive with the arrival of 23 new model variants in 2016. As a result, we achieved our seventh consecutive year of increased sales," commented Klaus Zellmer, President and CEO, Porsche Cars North America. "I am confident we will see steady growth in 2017 with balanced supply and demand." "Macan sales accelerated strongly in 2016 with the introduction of new variants. Porsche plug-in hybrid sales were also promising with 2,111 Cayenne S E-Hybrid models retailed, a 92 percent increase over 2015," said Joe Lawrence, Executive Vice President and COO, Porsche Cars North America. "In 2017, we look forward to the highly anticipated, all-new Panamera, as well as the first full year of sales for our new 911 and 718 sports car models." Model December Sales Year-to-Date 2016 2015 2016 2015 ALL BOXSTER/CAYMAN 373 414 6260 6,663 ALL 911 711 654 8901 9,898 ALL CAYENNE 1099 1,229 15383 16,473 ALL PANAMERA 36 257 4403 4,986 ALL MACAN 1796 1,382 19332 13,533 GRAND TOTALS* 4,015 3,936 54,280 51,756 *2015 grand totals include 918 Spyder sales; 2016 grand totals include one 918 Spyder sale

Mitsubishi Motors Closes 2016 With 4th Consecutive Year Of Annual Sales Growth Annual sales of 96,267 are the highest since 2008 Outlander remains strong with sales up 39.5 percent over 2015 Outlander Sport remains the brands volume leader with total 2016 sales of 33,067 Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today reported December 2016 sales of 7,383. Total sales recorded for 2016 were 96,267 up 1.0 percent over 2015, marking the fourth consecutive year of annual sales growth for the brand. Mitsubishi's three-row crossover utility vehicle (CUV) Outlander popularity continues to grow in 2016 with total sales of 26,576, up 39.5 percent over 2015. Mitsubishi's strong CUV lineup of Outlander and Outlander Sport reported total 2016 sales of 59,643, up 6.5 percent over 2015. December YTD 2016 2015 2016 2015 i‐MiEV 3 9 94 115 Mirage 1555 1262 22226 21515 Lancer 860 1324 14304 17691 Outlander Sport 2500 3356 33067 36966 Outlander 2465 1936 26576 19055 Total 7383 7887 96267 95342

Record December Propels Kia Motors To Best-Ever Annual Sales In The U.S. Kia Closes 2016 Up 3.5 Percent, Surpassing Previous Record by More Than 20,000 Units IRVINE, Calif., January 4, 2017 – Capping off an historic year that saw the Kia brand collect more third-party awards and accolades for quality and reliability than ever before, Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced all-time best annual sales of 647,598 vehicles in 2016, up 3.5 percent over 2015. The year concluded with best-ever fourth quarter sales, including the highest December total in company history of 54,353 units. Kia’s record-breaking year included several standout performances, including: Four nameplates – Soul, Optima, Sorento and Forte – surpassing the 100,000 unit mark for the first time in company history The iconic Soul urban passenger vehicle earning the title of best-selling Kia in the U.S. Best-ever annual sales for the Sportage compact CUV and Forte family of compact cars, up more than 50 percent and 30 percent, respectively, over 2015 Double digit year-over-year increases for Rio and Sedona “From J.D. Power and Consumer Reports to many other respected third-party experts, Kia has never been more highly rated for quality and dependability, and customers flocked to our showrooms in December and throughout 2016 to experience all that the ‘New Kia’ offers,” said Michael Sprague, chief operating officer and EVP, KMA. “No auto brand has experienced greater growth in the U.S. over the last 20-plus years, and Kia will be on the offensive once again in 2017 with several new products in the pipeline that will continue challenging everything people think they know about this brand, starting with a major world debut next week in Detroit.” MONTH OF DECEMBER YEAR-TO-DATE Model 2016 2015 2016 2015 Rio 1,269 997 28,700 23,742 Forte 7,560 5,411 103,292 78,919 Optima 12,572 13,682 124,203 159,414 Cadenza 428 598 4,738 7,343 K900 80 162 834 2,524 Sportage 6,207 6,044 81,066 53,739 Sorento 11,782 12,872 114,733 116,249 Sedona 2,028 2,316 44,264 36,755 Soul 12,427 12,159 145,768 147,133 Total 54,353 54,241 647,598 625,818

Jaguar Land Rover Sets New All Time U.S. Sales Record With 24 Percent Increase In 2016 Jaguar Land Rover 2016 full year U.S. sales reach 105,104 for a new U.S. annual sales record for the two brands combined For 2016, the Land Rover brand reaches a new U.S. annual high mark of 73,861 units, an increase of 5 percent from 2015 Range Rover Sport sets a new full year sales record of 21,612 For 2016, the Jaguar brand outpaces industry with 116 percent increase, driven by breakout performance of three new models: F-PACE, XE & XF For December, Jaguar Land Rover increases 30 percent setting a new record for the month. MAHWAH, N.J., Jan. 4, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported December 2016 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 4,294 units, a 259 percent increase from 1,197 units in December 2015; Land Rover sales reached 8,279 units, a 2 percent decrease from 8,441 units in December 2015. Jaguar Land Rover North America December U.S. sales for both brands hit 12,573 units, a 30 percent increase from 9,638 units in December 2015; making it the best ever December retail month. For the full year 2016, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales were up 24 percent to 105,104 units sold, compared to 85,048 units sold in 2015. With this performance, 2016 becomes the new U.S. high water mark for Jaguar and Land Rover brands' combined sales, surpassing previous high of 102,191 sales achieved in 2002. For the Land Rover brand, 2016 U.S. sales also reached a new all-time high of 73,861 units, an increase of 5 percent, surpassing 2015's previous U.S. high of 70,582 units. For Jaguar, 2016 U.S. sales reached 31,243 units, an increase of 116 percent, placing Jaguar among the industry's growth leaders and dramatically changing the scale of the brand in the U.S. market. The Jaguar F-PACE performance SUV became the brand's top seller in its first year. "2016 has been a transformative year for our company, employees and retailers, as record numbers of customers purchased our vehicles in both the United States and Canada," said Joe Eberhardt, President and CEO, Jaguar Land Rover, North America, LLC. "Building on this momentum, our retailers have committed to invest more than $1.5 Billion to further enhance our facilities and owner experience." "From a brand perspective, Land Rover built on last year's success to establish a new high water mark in the market and set the stage for the Discovery launch in 2017. Jaguar has been transformed with the launch of three new vehicles, including its first SUV, and is setting the stage for the future introduction of its first battery electric vehicle, the Jaguar I-PACE." U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS Land Rover For the month of December, Land Rover sales hit 8,279 units sold, down 2 percent from 8,441 units sold in December 2015. December was an all-time record sales month for the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles. The Range Rover hit 2,165 units in December; increasing 18 percent from 1,835 units sold in December 2015. The Range Rover Sport hit 2,802 units in December, increasing 25 percent from 2,246 units sold in December 2015. For the full year 2016, Land Rover brand U.S. sales reached a new all-time high of 73,861 units, an increase of 5 percent and surpassing last year's sales of 70,582 units. Full year sales were led by the brand volume leader Range Rover Sport, which reached a new U.S. full year record of 21,612 sales versus previous record of 21,459 units in 2015. Diesel powered versions of Range Rover and Range Rover Sport continue to play an important role in the Land Rover lineup with a 15 percent take rate. The Discovery Sport celebrated its first full year of sales with 14,243 units sold, up 87 percent from 7,611 units in 2015. The outgoing Land Rover LR4 experienced strong demand in its final year, up 19 percent for the year to 10,772 units. The all-new Discovery, which replaces the LR4 in summer, 2017, features a luxurious new design language for the full-size, optional seven passenger SUV and all-new levels of refinement, passenger technology and driver assistance options. Jaguar For the month of December, Jaguar sales hit 4,294 up 259 percent from 1,197 units in December 2015; making it the best December retail month since 2003. In the US, year to date through December, Jaguar has more than doubled its volume with sales up 116 percent to 31,243 units sold versus 14,466 in 2015. Full year sales were led by the brand's new volume leader F-PACE with 10,016 sales. The XE hit 6,656 units sold. The all new Jaguar XF increased 12 percent to 6,665 units sold for the year.