William Maley

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 3, 2013 Someone at Ford and Autoweek Magazine aren't having a very good day as the first shots of the 2015 Mustang have leaked out before the official reveal on Thursday. SVTPerformance.com member Screamin 40th posted images of the December 9th Autoweek that happened to be delivered early and features the 2015 Mustang prominently. The 2015 Mustang's design is an obvious evolution of the current model with elements of the new Fusion on the front end and side profile. The back end features an updated three-bar taillight setup, rear diffuser, and the lack of a faux gas cap. Inside is a deep-dish steering wheel, dual-gauge instrument cluster, and a revised center stack with MyFordTouch. We can't make out much of the article from the pictures, but there a few items that we able to make out: 2015 Mustang will feature a independent rear suspension setup Curb weight will drop around 200 pounds Keyless ignition will be standard Mention of a performance pack for the 2.3L EcoBoost and 5.0L V8 Luckily we don't have to wait much longer as Ford will spill the beans on the 2015 Mustang on Thursday. Source: SVTPerformance.com Pic Credit: Screamin 40th William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

JAGUAR LAND ROVER REPORTS U.S. SALES FOR NOVEMBER 2013 Jaguar Land Rover North America increases 37 percent in November, for its best November sales result since 2005 Jaguar continues industry-leading growth streak with 103 percent growth in November on new XF and XJ All Wheel Drive models and F-TYPE sales Land Rover brand has its best ever November sales increasing 25 percent on strong Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque demand (MAHWAH, NJ) - December 3, 2013 - Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported November 2013 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 1,446 units, 103 percent up from 713 units in November 2012; Land Rover sales reached an all-time November high of 4,601 units, up 25 percent from 3,687 units in November 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America November U.S. sales for both brands hit 6,047 units, a 37 percent increase from 4,400 units in November 2012. Year to date through November, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 21 percent, with Jaguar up 41 percent and Land Rover up 15 percent. "Jaguar Land Rover's U.S. business is growing for both brands and across SUVs, sports cars and luxury sedans," said Andy Goss, Group Sales Operations Director, Jaguar Land Rover. "The Jaguar brand has doubled its November U.S. business and Land Rover had its best U.S. November sales ever. We look forward to a strong end-of-year as we strive for benchmark annual results for both brands." U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS Land Rover Range Rover sales were 1,292 units, up 267 percent from 352 in its run out month in November, 2012. Year to date, the Range Rover model is up 60 percent from 2012. In the 2013 J.D. Power 2013 U.S. APEAL Study, the Range Rover was the industry's highest scoring model. Range Rover Evoque increased 21 percent to 1091 units from 904 units in November, 2012. Year to date, the Range Rover Evoque is up 31 percent. Year to date, Land Rover brand is up 15 percent from 2012. Jaguar For the month of November, the Jaguar XF was the Jaguar volume and growth leader with 656 units sold, up 92 percent from 341 sales in November 2012. Year to date, the XF is up 42 percent. The current MY XF lineup includes the new 2.0T model as well as all-wheel-drive and V-6 options. The Jaguar XJ sales were 465 units, up 75 percent from 266 in November, 2012. All-wheel-drive models now make up approximately half of all XJ sales. The F-TYPE convertible sports car added 222 units this month. The F-TYPE Coupe was introduced at the Los Angeles International Automobile Show in November and goes on sale in spring, 2014. Year to date, Jaguar sales are 15,408, up 41 percent from 10,962 sales, with both XJ and XF sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and all-wheel-drive.

Mercedes-Benz Posts Best November Sales Ever At 34,376, 279,501 YTD November Sprinter sales up 23.3%, smart up 36.2% December 03, 2013 - MONTVALE, N.J. Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported the highest November retail volumes in its history with 37,345 units sold across the Mercedes-Benz, Sprinter and smart model lines, up 14.4% from the 32,649 vehicles sold in November 2012. Sales for the Mercedes-Benz brand alone jumped 13.4% over the same period last year to 34,376, while year-to-date volumes hit a record 279,501. Adding year-to-date sales of 18,988 for Sprinter Vans and 8,409 units at smart, MBUSA achieved a year-to-date grand total of 306,898 units, making November the 50th consecutive month of month-over-month sales increases since the streak began in late 2009. "November's result has already propelled us past last year's record sales volume," said Steve Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA. "We're striking a chord with more customers than ever before thanks to a strong product portfolio, the best dealers in the business and a laser focus on the ownership experience." November sales for Mercedes-Benz were led by the E-, C- and M-Class model lines. The E-Class, completely redesigned for the 2014 model year, came in first at 8,614 units, followed by the sporty C-Class with sales of 7,878. The M-Class, the brand's top-selling SUV, rounded out the top three at 4,328, up 11.1% over the same period in 2012. The Sprinter lineup, which received a full redesign for model year 2014 on sale since September, posted strong November gains of 23.3% at 2,010 units. Monthly sales at smart reached 959—up 36.2% from November 2012. Mercedes-Benz's BlueTEC diesel models recorded sales of 1,724 for the month, up 8.0%, and 15,092 year-to-date, an increase of 9.9% from the 13,738 units sold in November 2012. The company's high-performance AMG models finished the month with sales of 896, up 34.9%. Separately, Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) recorded sales of 8,847 vehicles in November, an increase of 24% compared to the 7,113 units sold in November 2012. On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 89,349 vehicles, rising 22% from the 73,431 vehicles sold during the comparable period last year.

Volvo Announces November Sales ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (Dec. 3, 2013) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 4,233 units, a 31.1 percent decrease versus November 2012. Year-to-date sales are down 9.1 percent over the first eleven months of 2012. “Excluding a large fleet deal coupled with damaged cars from Hurricane Sandy in November 2012, our dealers actually had a strong November 2013, up 10.97 percent in the retail channel,” said Rick Bryant, executive vice president, sales operations. “This is all part of our planned strategy to move away from fleet units and focus on pure retail sales.” The XC60 crossover was the top seller for the month with 1,500 units sold. The S60 sports sedan finished the month right behind with 1,426 units sold.

12/03/2013 - TORRANCE, Calif. American Honda Posts Second-Best November Sales on Record; Acura Posts nearly 19-Percent Increase on Record Light-Truck Sales CR-V sets second consecutive monthly record Acura RDX sets 19th consecutive monthly record Acura light trucks post record November sales on strength of all-new MDX and RDX American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today reported November 2013 U.S. total sales of 116,507 units, a decrease of 0.1 percent compared with record November 2012 sales (down 3.9 percent based on the Daily Selling Rate, or DSR*). Year-to-date sales reached 1,390,057, an increase of 7.8 percent. Honda Division November sales reached 101,948, a decrease of 2.3 percent when compared to record division sales last November. Acura Division posted sales of 14,559, an increase of 18.9 percent compared to November 2012. Honda CR-V set its second consecutive monthly record for November, with sales of 23,509, up 5.3 percent from November 2012 Accord, recently named 2014 Green Car of the Year, was Honda's best-selling model in November with sales of 27,093, up 3.2 percent for the month and up 10.6 percent for the year versus 2012 Honda Division year-to-date sales top 1.2 million, up 7.9 percent for the year "With our second-best-ever November sales, we likely extended our retail sales lead despite very aggressive market actions by competitors in key high volume segments," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales at American Honda. "And we're upping the ante as we approach the close of the year with a significantly updated 2014 Civic going on sale in just a few days." Acura Acura posted November sales of 14,559, an increase of 18.9 percent compared to last November, with Acura light trucks topping a record set in November of 2006 MDX was the brand's best-selling vehicle in November with 6,091 units, up 80.8 percent compared to last November RDX set its 19th consecutive monthly record with sales of 3,663, up 20.7 percent compared to last year "It's gratifying that the new MDX has sparked such a strong customer response so shortly after we hit a home run with RDX," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura sales. "It's clear we've found the sweet spot of the luxury SUV market."

BMW Group U.S. Reports November 2013 Sales BMW sales up 1.7 percent – Best November ever MINI sales down 12.8 percent Woodcliff Lake, NJ – December 3, 2013… Year-to-date, the BMW Group U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) is up 9.2 percent on sales of 331,801 in the first eleven months of 2013 compared to 303,728 in the same period in 2012. In November, BMW Group U.S. sales (BMW and MINI combined) totaled 36,327 vehicles, a slight decrease of 0.4 percent from the 36,461 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. “Holiday shopping added fuel to our sales giving us the best November ever for BMW and the best year-to-date numbers ever for BMW, for MINI, for Pre-Owned, and for the BMW Group in the U.S.” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. “With availability improving on some of our most popular new models, the X5 and 4 Series in particular, we are looking forward to a record finish for the year.” BMW Brand Sales Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 1.7 percent in November for a total of 31,752 compared to 31,213 vehicles sold in November, 2012. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 11.4 percent on sales of 271,891 compared to 244,061 sold in the first eleven months of 2012, making this BMW brand’s best year to date ever. In November, best performing vehicles included the 3 and 4 Series, which are up 22 percent to 13,148 units; and the X1 is up 13.2 percent to 2,364 units, with a year to date total of 23,771 units. MINI Brand Sales MINI USA reported sales of 4,575 automobiles, a decrease of 12.8 percent from the 5,248 sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 0.4 percent on volume of 59,910 compared to 59,667 in the first eleven months of 2012.

Mitsubishi Motors Sales Climb Nearly 70 Percent In November Best November Sales Total Since 2007 CYPRESS, Calif., Dec. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported November sales of 6,071, up 69.9 percent compared to November 2012. The U.S.-built Outlander Sport led the way with 2,059 units sold, an increase of 35.5 percent for the month compared to prior year sales. Sales of the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander were 1,399 units, a year-over-year gain of 139.0 percent. The all-new Mitsubishi Mirage had 1,052 units sold in the vehicle's first full month of sales. "This marked MMNA's best November sales since 2007," said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa. "Sales of our Outlander and Outlander Sport—'American's Safest CUV Line-up'—continue to anchor our growth, and we are finding tremendous consumer acceptance of the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage 5-door sub-compact—the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered, non-hybrid vehicle in America." The Mitsubishi Mirage was recently named "Best Sub-Compact Car 2014" by the Hispanic Motor Press Awards. Yokozawa added, "We are looking forward to continuing on upward momentum in December. We will have increased national television advertising exposure this month and visitors to Mitsubishi dealerships will find attractive incentives on all of our core models." Highlights of November sales: Outlander Sport sales were up 35.5 percent for the month and are up 38.4 percent year-to-date. Outlander sales were up 139 percent for the month and 54.6 percent year-to-date. Lancer sales are were up 41.1 percent in November and are up 23.4 percent year-to-date. Lancer Evolution sales increased 35.9 percent in November and are up 3.7 percent year-to-date. Lancer Sportback sales are up 3.6 percent year-to-date. Sales of the all-electric Mitsubishi i-MiEV are up 99.2 percent year-to-date.

They actually had a sales release last month, but I thought it was just fluke. I like to keep everyone on their feet

Toyota Motor Sales No. 1 Retail Manufacturer in November 2013 All-new RAV4 up nearly 57 percent; All-new Avalon posts triple-digit gains for ninth month in a row TORRANCE, Calif. (Dec. 3, 2013) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported November 2013 sales results of 178,044 units, an increase of 5.9 percent over November 2012 on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. On a raw-volume basis, unadjusted for 26 selling days in November 2013 versus 25 selling days in November 2012, TMS sales increased 10.1 percent from year-ago month. Toyota Division posted November 2013 sales of 152,433 units, up 5.5 percent year-over-year on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Toyota division sales increased 9.7 percent over November 2012. "Industry sales in November picked up after Thanksgiving, contributing to the best sales pace of the year," said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. "Showroom traffic surged over the holiday weekend for Toyota, indicating good momentum that we expect to continue through the end of the year and into 2014." Lexus reported November sales of 25,611 units, an 8.4 percent increase on a DSR basis and a 12.7 percent increase on a raw volume basis, both year-over-year. "December is traditionally one of the best sales months of the year for luxury car brands, and we're off to an early start with sales up 35 percent over the Thanksgiving weekend," said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "With great product availability and financing options, Lexus dealers are positioned with the best programs of the year." Other Highlights: Avalon posts triple-digit gains for ninth month in a row Camry tops 30,000 units and is segment leader All-new Corolla posts sales of 22,434 units TMS hybrids retain more than half of the market with sales of more than 24,000 units Prius family records sales of 16,129 units Highlander up nearly 22 percent with sales of more than 11,500 units All-new RAV4 up nearly 57 percent with a best-ever November Toyota division trucks up 16 percent with 72,000 units All-new Tundra up almost 21 percent topping sales of 10,000 units All-new Lexus IS sales doubled to nearly 4,000 units Lexus ES is volume car leader with sales of nearly 6,300 units Lexus RX posts sales of almost 9,500 Lexus GX posts best month of the year with sales up 70 percent

Nissan Sets November U.S. Sales Record With 10.7% Increase NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan established a November U.S. sales record with 106,528 total deliveries, marking an increase of 10.7 percent over last year's total of 96,197. Nissan Division set a November record with 93,376 deliveries, a 10.8 percent increase over the prior year. Sales of Infiniti vehicles also set a November record with 13,152 deliveries, up 10.5 percent. Nissan Division has sold 1,035,439 vehicles so far in 2013, up 10.7 percent and exceeding the total for all of 2012. "Consumers' strong demand for Nissan products continued last month, culminating in a very good Black Friday weekend and driving our sales performance to an all-time record November," said Fred Diaz, divisional vice president, Sales and Marketing and Service and Parts, Nissan U.S.A. "Nissan has achieved record sales in eight out of 11 months in 2013 and with more than 1 million units sold, we have already outsold all of 2012." NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS Nissan division posted a November record with sales of 93,376 units, a gain of 10.8 percent from 84,300 deliveries the prior year. Sales of the midsize Nissan Altima set a November record at 24,604, up 21.2 percent over the prior year. Nissan LEAF sales set a November monthly record at 2,003, an increase of 30.1 percent over last year's strong performance. LEAF deliveries are up 141.1 percent in 2013, establishing monthly records each month since the March debut of the 2013 model. Nissan Sentra deliveries were up 62.5 percent to 11,664 units on rising consumer demand and better vehicle availability. Frontier sales increased 54.6 percent in November to 6,003 units. INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS Infiniti today reported record November sales of 13,152, up 10.5 percent from 11,897 units a year earlier. The all-new Infiniti Q50 saw deliveries of 5,891 units in November, one of the strongest ever monthly sales of a single Infiniti model. The Infiniti QX60 7-passenger luxury crossover also had its best November ever, with sales of 3,015, an increase of 19.2 percent.

Hyundai Motor America Reports All-time Record November Sales - Hyundai Accent and Santa Fe Sport receive ALG's award for the highest residual value in their class; both post 40 percent-plus sales gains - Refreshed Elantra family, new Veloster Turbo R-Spec and industry-first 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell launched at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, arriving in showrooms soon COSTA MESA, Calif., Dec. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today announced sales for the month of November of 56,005 units, up five percent versus the same period in 2012, representing the best November in company history. "With inventories being replenished with new and refreshed 2014 product, November was another record month for us," saidDave Zuchowski, executive vice president of national sales. "As consumer confidence appears to be on the mend resulting in record sales on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the automotive industry as a whole appears to be making strong strides as the year comes to a close." The recent recipients of ALG's award for the highest residual value in their segments, Santa Fe Sport and Accent, both experienced strong sales gains over last November, with Santa Fe up 43 percent and Accent up 42 percent. Elantra and Equus were both up five percent, with Veloster up six percent. "We continue to see strong demand across our lineup, with consumer interest especially high for the 2014 model year updates we've made to Sonata, Santa Fe, and Tucson," said John Krafcik, president and CEO. "While we finished November still short of 2014 model year inventory, our plants are literally working 24/7 to restock our dealers with these new models, including the refreshed 2014 Elantra and updated 2014 Veloster, which both arrive in showrooms this month." Fleet sales represented 18 percent of total sales in November. Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales for the month were 6,118 a gain of 5.7 percent, year-over-year.

Kia Motors America Reports Record November Sales Soul Sales Soar with the Totally Transformed 2014MY Urban Passenger Vehicle in Showrooms; Annual Sales Surpass 500,000 Units for Second Straight Year IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported record November sales of 45,411 units as the brand made good on its promise to deliver seven all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles this calendar year with the 2014 Forte Koup and Forte5 now in showrooms. The all-new second-generation Soul and the refreshed 2014 model year Optima midsize sedan led the way with 12,870 and 10,871 units sold, respectively. Year-to-date sales crossed the 500,000 unit mark for the second time in company history. Kia's aggressive new vehicle launch cadence will continue throughout 2014 with the scheduled Spring arrival of the all-new 2015 K900[1] rear-wheel-drive flagship sedan, which was recently unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show. A long-awaited all-new minivan and the company's first-ever electric vehicle also are scheduled to launch in 2014.

MAZDA ANNOUNCES NOVEMBER SALES Consumers Seek Fuel Efficiency, Utility, Sportiness and Value through Mazda6 and CX-5 IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported November U.S. sales of 20,754 vehicles, representing a decrease of 4.3 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through November are up 4.5 percent versus last year, with 260,983 vehicles sold. Key November sales notes: Mazda6 flexed its muscle in November, 2013, with a 202.4 percent increase year-over-year (YOY) and 3,641 vehicles sold. This is Mazda6's best November since 2011. Mazda CX-5 didn't fall asleep after the turkey on Thanksgiving. Posting its best November since launching in February of 2012, CX-5 accounted for a 50.1 percent increase YOY with 6,323 vehicles sold in November of 2013. Consumers continue to demand fuel efficiency without the compromise of driving dynamics. Mazda's SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY accounted for 81 percent of total sales in the month of November. SKYACTIV-Engines (2.0L and 2.5L) now come standard in Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5. Mazda continues to battle inventory shortages on most carlines. The all-new 2014 Mazda3 is the hardest hit by inventory challenges, but the spring 2014 opening of the company's new manufacturing plant in Salamanca, Mexico, will support increased demand for the model in the United States. Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported November sales of 3,098 vehicles, up 46 percent versus November of last year.

Subaru Of America, Inc. Continues Success, Reports Best Ever November -- November sales up 29.8% over last November -- Forester best month ever -- XV Crosstrek best month ever -- One millionth Forester sold since model's inception in 1997 CHERRY HILL, N.J., Dec. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Subaru of America, Inc. reported best-ever November sales. Subaru sold 36,621 vehicles in November and 384,511 total vehicles in 2013. The company broke its previous sales record of 336,441 in October with two months remaining in the calendar year. The MotorTrend 2014 Sport/Utility Vehicle of the Year—Forester and the XV Crosstrek both set all-time monthly sales records during the month. Subaru sold 13,410 and 5,311 units respectively during the month of November. "November was a busy and exciting month for the brand," said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "Not only did we have our best ever November, but we revealed the all-new 2015 WRX at the LA Auto Show and hinted at our design direction with the 2015 Legacy CONCEPT." "Coming off its recent MotorTrend 2014 Sport/Utility Vehicle of the Year award, Forester continues to show why it was a successful redesign," said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Forester's strong momentum carried into November as an all-time monthly sales record was set for the SUV. Through November, nearly 60% of our buyers are new to Subaru, more and more people continue to embrace the brand," added Cyphers. During the month of November, Subaru also sold its 1 millionth Forester in the United States since the model was introduced in 1997.

Porsche Reports November Sales Porsche dealers sell 3,966 vehicles ATLANTA, Dec. 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), the exclusive U.S. importer of Porsche sports cars, including the Macan and Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera sports sedan, today announced November 2013 sales of 3,966 vehicles. This tops the same period in 2012, which had set an all-time November record, by three percent. Year-to-date, Porsche sold 39,077 cars in the U.S., 22 percent ahead of last year's total of 32,091. "It is gratifying to see our strong sales momentum continue even after having surpassed our record sales total of 2012 by the end of October," said Detlev von Platen, President and CEO, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. "What is equally gratifying is the even split of our two-door and four-door sports cars, thanks to the strong performance of the 911," he added. Towards the end of its 50th anniversary celebration, the 911 model line posted its best month ever with 1,368 units sold in November, up 79 percent over the same period last year. Year-to-date sales of the 911 are ahead of 2012 by 20 percent. The Cayenne model line added to an impressive year with 1,546 units sold this month (plus 21 percent over last November). In the first 11 months, 17,128 Cayennes have been sold in the U.S. – an increase of 23 percent year-over-year. Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales were 993 for November 2013, which brings the year-to-date total to 9,125 units.

THE MASERATI GHIBLI HAS ARRIVED ALL-TIME NORTH AMERICAN SALES RECORD SET FOR MASERATI An Authentic Maserati Sports Sedan Starting Under $70k Defines 'The Absolute Opposite of Ordinary', Drives Record Sales Englewood Cliffs, NJ, December 3, 2013... On the eve of its 100-year anniversary, Maserati is in the strongest position of its lifetime with two brand new sport-sedans, state-of-the- art production facilities and all-time record breaking sales numbers. An unprecedented future for Maserati is being thrust by the all-new mid-size Ghibli, which drove a 319% sales increase for Maserati over the same month last year, with 910 Maserati's retailed in November 2013. Behind this performance, every significant sales record maintained by Maserati has been broken. "A new era of accessibility with iconic Maserati pedigree is here as the mid-size Ghibli, starting at $65,600 is no longer a plan of ours, but a proud purchase by many" commented Peter Grady, President and CEO of Maserati North America, Inc. "We welcome a new generation of Maserati owners who are as inspired as we are by this 'The Absolute Opposite of Ordinary' car." Italian design and premium materials inside and out define the coupé-like Ghibli, a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine built by Ferrari producing up to 404 HP, propels it. The Ghibli accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 176 MPH (S Q4). While recently, The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety named the 2014 Maserati Ghibli a Top Safety Pick after the all-new Italian sport sedan achieved the highest-possible score in each of four tests. Meanwhile, the full-size Quattroporte sedan available with over 500 HP in GTS trim, or with advanced S Q4 All-Wheel-Drive continued its unprecedented growth, contributing mightily to the record month of sales. Continuing its expansion, the Maserati dealer network has reached 78 across North America and the brand has taken aim at 100 as another milestone of growth, and class leading customer care.

12.03.2013 VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA REPORTS NOVEMBER 2013 SALES November sales total 30,727 units, second best November since 1973 Chattanooga-built Passat delivered 8,876 units for the month Jetta Sedan delivered 10,828 units for the month Tiguan delivered 2,235 units for the month High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 21 percent of sales in November and 24 percent of sales year-to-date, the best year-to-date results on record Passat TDI sales reach 32,754 year-to-date, the best year-to-date TDI results on record Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 30,727 units delivered in November and 373,689 units year-to-date. November sales achieved the second highest level since 1973. Adjusted for models in run-out, Volkswagen’s year-to-date pace is on par with the prior year-to-date pace. “Volkswagen is now operating at a new level not seen in 40 years, and with the strength of our line-up, we are confident we will close out a second consecutive year with over 400,000 vehicles,” said Jonathan Browning, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. “Having doubled sales from 2009 and with the strong investments in North American investment plans, we are confident that we have a strong base for future growth.” Volkswagen also took another step forward last month with the release of the J.D. Power 2013 Sales Satisfaction (SSI) results. The brand is now amongst the Top 5 volume players and ahead of key Asian competitors.

Dec 3, 2013 , HERNDON, Va. Audi sets 4th straight U.S. sales record with a month to spare on November 2013 gains • Audi achieves 35th consecutive month of record sales Audi A6, A7 and R8 sales jump in November Premium segment vehicles up 18% to constitute 43% of the overall Audi year-to-date sales gain Audi established its fourth consecutive annual U.S. sales record a month early with the 13.3% year-to-date sales gain recorded through the end of November 2013. Through the first 11 months of this year, Audi has sold 141,048 vehicles in the U.S. market to eclipse the previous record of 139,310 vehicles sold throughout 2012. For the month of November, Audi reported sales of 13,636 vehicles, a 13% increase over the previous November record set last year. November 2013 also stands as the brand’s 35th consecutive month of record sales and the fourth best month ever for the Audi brand in the U.S. “The story of the fourth consecutive Audi annual sales record in the U.S. is one of strength across our product lineup, authentic Audi brand development and a highly engaged dealer network,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “The cornerstones of this brand achievement all year have been sharply higher demand for the Audi Q5 and Q7 SUV models, as well as the premium sedans at the top of our range.” Through November, sales of the Audi A6, A7, A8 and Q7 made up one of every three models the brand sold. That compares to an 18% mix for the most exclusive models just four years ago. Sales of the Audi A6 increased 32.5% to 2,112 vehicles sold for the month, while YTD sales increased 15.3% to 19,742 vehicles sold. Sales of the Audi A7 rose 25% in November to 816 vehicles sold. November results were bolstered by sales of Audi luxury SUVs, with the Audi Q5 crossover posting a 31.5% gain in November with 3,582 units delivered for the month. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 31.3% to 1,524 vehicles sold for the month. Year-to-date sales for the Audi Q5 increased 42% while YTD sales for the Audi Q7 increased 44%. Audi R8 sales jumped 56% as customers responded to the updated 2014 models, including the Audi R8 V8, Audi R8 V10 and Audi R8 V10 plus. November 2013 was the 4th consecutive record month for Audi Certified pre-owned vehicles sales with an increase of 27% for the month, and a year-to-date increase of 9.1%. Highlights: Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A6, Audi A7, Audi A8, and Audi Q7) increased 18% YTD, representing 33% of total Audi sales year-to-date and 43% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain. Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 17.6% for the S4 sedan; 36.6% for the S5/ RS 5; 6.2% for the S6; 27.7% for the S7 and RS 7; 16.3% for the S8; 29% for the TTS / TT RS and TTS Roadster, and 9.7% for the SQ5 crossover. Sales of Audi A6 increased 32.5% compared to November 2012; YTD sales grew 15.3% compared to previous period. Sales of Audi A7 increased 25% compared to November 2012. Sales of the Audi Q5 increased 31.5% compared to November 2012; YTD sales grew 42% compared to previous period. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 31.3% compared to November 2012; YTD sales grew 44% compared to previous period. Audi R8 sales up 56% compared to November 2012. Sales mix for Audi A6 TDI finished the month at 12.5%, for the Audi A7 TDI at 11.3%, for the A8 TDI to 17.9%, the Audi Q5 TDI at 14.6%, and for the Audi Q7 TDI at 24.5%. Audi Certified pre-owned sales increased 27% to 3,612 vehicles in November; YTD increased 9.1% to 36,168 vehicles sold. The Audi A3 is being phased out in advance of the all-new A3 sedan arriving in the U.S. market next spring.

FORD RETAIL SALES MOMENTUM CONTINUES WITH BEST NOVEMBER SINCE 2004 Ford Motor Company U.S. sales increase 7 percent overall in November; retail sales up 9 percent for best November since 2004 Passenger cars led by Fusion sales increase of 51 percent and Fiesta sales increase of 26 percent, both setting records for November F-Series tops 60,000 sales for the seventh straight month All-new Lincoln MKZ sales increase 114 percent, Lincoln up 17 percent Ford announces 2014 first quarter North American production plan of 770,000 vehicles DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 3, 2013 – Ford Motor Company’s November U.S. sales of 190,449 vehicles are up 7 percent overall compared with last year. Retail sales are up 9 percent, for the best November performance since 2004. The November retail sales performance of 147,021 vehicles reflects broad-based gains, with passenger cars up 6 percent, utilities up 3 percent and trucks up 17 percent. Ford passenger cars achieved the best November retail sales result since 2002, with Ford Fusion and Ford Fiesta both posting records. “We continued to see sales increases across our full family of vehicles – particularly with our passenger cars and utilities in conquest coastal markets – helping us post our best November retail sales performance since 2004,” said John Felice, Ford vice president, U.S. marketing, sales and service. “Fusion and Fiesta were particular standouts, setting November records, and Ford trucks maintained their strong selling pace.” Fusion sales of 22,839 vehicles for the month are up 51 percent year over year, for the car’s best-ever November sales performance. Fusion sales continue to expand fastest in the western U.S., where retail sales are up 79 percent – including a 101 percent increase in California. Fiesta also had its best-ever November sales performance with 4,642 vehicles sold. Ford F-Series continued its pace of selling more than 60,000 trucks for the seventh straight month, strengthening its position as America’s best-selling pickup and best-selling vehicle for another consecutive year. Sales of 65,501 F-Series trucks in November represents an increase of 16 percent compared with a year ago. Lincoln MKZ sales of 2,854 cars represent a 114 percent increase compared with the same period a year ago, leading the Lincoln brand to an overall increase of 17 percent. November MKZ retail sales in California more than tripled for the period. Ford also announces it will build 770,000 vehicles in the first quarter of 2014 in North America. This compares with 784,000 vehicles in the first quarter of 2013. Projected production of 770,000 vehicles for fourth-quarter 2013 is unchanged.

GM’s U.S. Retail Sales Up 19 percent in November DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 212,060 vehicles in the United States in November, up 14 percent versus a year ago and the highest November sales in six years. Retail sales were up 19 percent and fleet sales were down 3 percent. “November sales were strong at all four of our brands, and demand was robust for everything from cars to crossovers to the industry’s newest and best full-size pickups,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “The sheer number of award-winning new models we have helped us grow faster than the industry for the second month in a row.” GM’s product momentum will continue unabated. For example, the all-new 2014 Cadillac CTS, which is building availability, was recently named Motor Trend’s Car of the Year, an Automobile Magazine “All Star” and one of Car and Driver’s 10 Best cars. Cadillac will also launch an all-new Escalade and the ELR in early 2014. In addition, Chevrolet and GMC are launching all-new heavy-duty pickups and large SUVs in the first quarter. Chevrolet also unveiled the Colorado, its new, highly acclaimed midsize pickup, at the Los Angeles International Auto Show. The Colorado goes on sale in the fall of 2014. November Sales Highlights (vs. 2012) Chevrolet sales were up 13 percent and retail deliveries were up 20 percent. Sales of Chevrolet cars increased 19 percent, with Malibu up 41 percent, Volt up 26 percent, Impala up 20 percent and Camaro up 14 percent. Retail deliveries of the Cruze were up 39 percent and Impala more than doubled. The Chevrolet Cruze, Equinox and Volt had their best November sales ever. Sales of the Chevrolet Tahoe were up 23 percent, the Traverse was up 21 percent and the Silverado was up 12 percent. GMC sales were up 20 percent, with the Sierra up 22 percent and the Acadia crossover up 108 percent, which keeps it on track for its best year ever. Small business sales were up 38 percent, including a 76-percent increase in pickup deliveries. Commercial fleet deliveries increased 18 percent. Buick deliveries increased 13 percent and the brand is on track for its best year since 2005. November was Buick’s 19th consecutive month of year-over-year retail sales growth. Cadillac sales increased 11 percent and retail sales have grown in each of the past 18 months, driven by the success of the new XTS and ATS. “We feel good about the direction of the economy and our own momentum,” McNeil said. “The economy is creating jobs and household wealth. Energy costs are dropping and credit is available and affordable. All of this bodes well for future growth.”

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com December 3, 2013 Maserati North America, Inc. - Up 319% Mitsubishi Motors North America - Up 69.9% Jaguar Land Rover North America - Up 37.4% Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 29.8% Chrysler Group LLC - Up 16% Mercedes-Benz USA - Up 14.4% General Motors Co. - Up 13.7% Audi of America - Up 13% Nissan North America - Up 10.7% Kia Motors America - Up 10.6% Toyota Motor Sales - Up 10.1% Ford Motor Company - Up 7.2% Hyundai Motor America - Up 4.7% Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Up 2.6% American Honda Motor Co. - Down 0.1% BMW Group U.S. - Down 0.4% Mazda North American Operations - Down 4.3% Volkswagen of America - Down 16.3% Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Down 31.1% Brands: Maserati - Up 319% Jaguar - Up 103% Mitsubishi - Up 69.9% smart - Up 36.2% Jeep - Up 30% Subaru - Up 29.8% Land Rover - Up 25% Ram - Up 25% Sprinter - Up 23.3% GMC - Up 19.8% Lincoln - Up 17.4% Acura - Up 14.3% Buick - Up 13.4% Mercedes-Benz - Up 13.4% Audi - Up 13% Chevrolet - Up 12.6% Chrysler - Up 12% Cadillac - Up 11.4% Nissan - Up 10.8% Kia - Up 10.6% Infiniti - Up 10.5% Lexus - Up 8.4% Ford - Up 6.9% Toyota - Up 5.5% Hyundai - Up 4.7% Dodge - Up 4% Porsche - Up 2.6% BMW - Up 1.7% Mazda - Down 4.3% Honda - Down 6% Fiat - Down 15% MINI - Down 12.8% Volkswagen - Down 16.3% Volvo - Down 31.1% William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article