William Maley

Porsche Reports October Sales Porsche dealers sell 3,562 vehicles ATLANTA, Nov. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Cayenne SUVs and Panamera four-door sports sedans in the United States, today announced October 2013 sales of 3,562 vehicles, an increase of 11 percent over the same period in 2012. Year-to-date, Porsche has sold 35,111 cars in the U.S., 24 percent ahead of last year's total of 28,226, thus surpassing the entire 2012 sales volume of 35,043. "Having sold more cars in the first 10 months of this year than the entire total of our 2012 record year is quite a feat, and it is rewarding to see that nearly half of our sales success is carried by our two-door sports cars," said Detlev von Platen, President and CEO, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. "This bodes well for the final two months and is the perfect set-up for the upcoming market introduction of the Panamera S E-Hybrid, the top-of-the-line 911 models, the GT3 and 911 Turbo and, especially, the world premiere of our fifth model line, the Macan, at the Los Angeles Auto Show." The Cayenne model line continued its strong performance with 1,669 units sold this month (plus 2 percent over last October). For the year, 15,582 Cayenne models have been sold in the U.S. – a year-over-year increase of 30 percent. The 911 model line, which will round out its 50th anniversary celebration this year, impressed with 748 units sold in October, up 27 percent over the same period last year. The Boxster/Cayman mid-engine models, together with the rear-engine 911, account for roughly 40 percent of overall Porsche sales in the U.S. this year. Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales were 883 for October 2013, which brings the year-to-date total to 13,222 units.

Nissan U.S. Sales Increase 14.2% For October Record NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan U.S. sales in October increased 14.2 percent to 91,018, up from last year’s total of 79,865. Nissan Division sales also set an October record with 81,866 deliveries, a 15.4 percent increase over the prior year. Sales of Infiniti vehicles totaled 9,152 units, up 4.5 percent. Fred Diaz, divisional vice president, Sales and Marketing and Service and Parts, Nissan U.S.A. said: "Nissan’s record October performance demonstrates that a Washington shutdown was not enough to shut down our sales momentum. With the all-new 2014 Rogue hitting dealer showrooms this month, we expect Nissan’s growth to continue to accelerate.” NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS Nissan division posted sales of 81,866 units, an October record representing a gain of 15.4 percent from 70,928 deliveries the prior year. Sales of Rogue crossovers set an October record at 12,919 units, up 53.1 percent, as Nissan prepares to launch the all-new 2014 Rogue later this month. Pathfinder sales in October jumped 90.4 percent to 5,793. Deliveries are up 182.7 percent calendar-year-to-date over the same period in 2012. Nissan LEAF sales also set an October record at 2,002, an increase of 26.8 percent over last year’s strong performance. LEAF deliveries are up 166.2 percent in 2013 Frontier sales jumped 71.8 percent in October to 5,242 units, thanks in part to the popularity and increased availability of fuel-efficient 4-cylinder models. INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS Infiniti today reported sales of 9,152 in October, up 4.5 percent from 8,757 units a year earlier. The all-new Infiniti Q50 saw sales of 2,556 units in October, and with two full months of sales, the luxury sports sedan has had 7,357 total deliveries. The Infiniti QX60 7-passenger luxury crossover also had another strong month in October with sales of 2,176 an increase of 4.4 percent. Later this month, the new 250-horsepower QX60 Hybrid goes on sale, offering V6-like performance and best-in-class combined EPA fuel economy. NOTE: To ensure consistency in global sales reporting, Nissan North America calculates monthly variances on a straight-percentage basis, unadjusted for the number of selling days. October 2013 had 27 selling days, while October 2012 had 26 selling days.

Nov 1, 2013 , HERNDON, Va. Audi achieves 34th consecutive monthly sales record in October; YTD sales up 13.4% Audi Q5, Q7 sales increased 39.4% and 38.6% in October Audi A6 sales jump 13.5% Premium segment vehicles up 17% to constitute 32.7% of year-to-date sales Audi reports October 2013 sales of 13,001 vehicles, an 11.0% increase over the previous October record set last year. October also stands as the brand’s 34th consecutive month of record sales. Audi sales year-to-date increased 13.4% to 127,412 vehicles sold. “With another monthly sales record, the sustainable Audi business model is on track to produce steady and profitable growth,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “We are confident that 2013 will stand as our fourth-straight record year.” October sales results were bolstered by sales of Audi luxury SUVs, with the Audi Q5 luxury crossover posting a 39.4% gain in October with 3,380 units delivered for the month. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 38.6% to 1,403 vehicles sold for the month. Year-to-date sales for the Audi Q5 increased 43.3% while sales for the Audi Q7 increased 45.7%. Sedan sales remain strong with the Audi A6 leading with an increase of 13.5%. Coupe sales soared for this month with Audi TT numbers increased by 62.0% and A5 sales increased to 13.7%. Audi R8 sales continue to increase as customers responded to the updated 2014 models, including the Audi R8 V8, Audi R8 V10 and Audi R8 V10 plus. Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A6, Audi A7, Audi A8, and Audi Q7) increased 17% YTD, representing a steady 32.7% of total Audi sales year-to-date and 41% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain. Audi Certified pre-owned vehicles sales increased 30.9% in the month of October, with a year-to-date increase of 7.4%. Highlights: Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 15.8% for the S4 sedan; 29.9% for the S5/ RS 5; 7.9% for the S6; 21.6% for the S7 / RS 7; 15.1% for the S8. Sales of Audi A5 increased 13.7% and A6 increased to 13.5% compared to October 2012; YTD A5 sales grew 11.6%, A6 sales grew to 13.5% compared to previous period. Sales of Audi TT increased 62.0% compared to October 2012. Sales of the Audi Q5 increased 39.4% compared to October 2012; YTD sales grew 43.3% compared to previous period. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 38.6% compared to October 2012; YTD sales grew 45.7% compared to previous period. Audi sold 437 allroad models in October 2013, bringing YTD sales to 4,558 of the sport wagon, a 103.2% increase compared to previous period. Audi R8 sales up 38.3% compared to October 2012. Sales mix for Audi A6 TDI finished the month at 13.1%; sales mix for the Audi Q5 TDI finished the month at 14.2%, and sales mix for the Audi Q7 TDI finished the month at 27.2%. The Audi A3 is being phased out in advance of the all-new A3 sedan arriving in the U.S. market next spring. Audi Certified pre-owned sales increased 30.9% to 3,486 vehicles in October; YTD increased 7.4% to 32,556 vehicles sold.

GM’s U.S. Sales up 16 percent in October 2013-11-01 DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 226,402 vehicles in the United States in October, up 16 percent versus a year ago. Retail sales were also up 16 percent and fleet sales were up 14 percent. “Chevrolet, Cadillac and Buick-GMC all performed well in the month, and the sales tempo really picked up after the government shutdown ended,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “We are particularly pleased with our truck momentum. Chevrolet and GMC have the newest and best light duty trucks, sales are accelerating and we are gearing up for the second, third and fourth phases of our strategic truck plan.” This month, the premium Chevrolet Silverado High Country and GMC Sierra Denali will hit showrooms, followed by a redesigned range of heavy-duty pickups in the first quarter of 2014. All-new Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac full-size SUVs also arrive in the first quarter, and later in the year, GM will introduce clean-sheet redesigns of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickups. October Sales Highlights (vs. 2012) Buick total sales increased 31 percent and retail sales were up 25 percent for the 18 th consecutive month of year-over-year growth. Regal sales increased 47 percent. Cadillac’s sales increased 10 percent and have grown in each of the last 13 months thanks to the all-new XTS and ATS. In addition, the SRX is on track for its best year ever. Retail sales were up 12 percent for the brand and more than 60 percent of buyers did not trade in a Cadillac. GMC was up 16 percent. The Terrain had its best October sales ever. Chevrolet was up 15 percent. Thirteen nameplates posted double-digit increases, including every SUV and crossover nameplate. Retail sales of Chevrolet passenger cars were up 32 percent. Cruze had its best-ever October retail sales. Impala retail deliveries nearly doubled and Malibu retail sales increased 58 percent. Deliveries of the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra were up 10 percent and 13 percent, respectively. Sales of the new 2014 light duty Silverado and Sierra increased 62 percent from September 2013. They accounted for about 76 percent of GM’s light duty deliveries, per plan. Strong calendar-year-to-date sales have helped Chevrolet and GMC earn a 30 percent share of light-duty pickups priced $40,000 or above. That is up 5 percentage points versus 2012.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 1, 2013 Jaguar Land Rover North America - Up 52.0% Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 32.0% Mercedes-Benz USA - Up 22.4% Mitsubishi Motors North America - Up 19.4% General Motors Co. - Up 15.7% Nissan North America - Up 14.2% Ford Motor Company - Up 14.0% Audi of America - Up 11.0% Chrysler Group LLC - Up 11.0% Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Up 11.0% Toyota Motor Sales - Up 8.8% American Honda Motor Co. - Up 7.1% Hyundai Motor America - Up 7.0% Mazda North American Operations - Up 6.0% BMW Group U.S. - Up 2.9% Kia Motors America - Down 6.4% Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Down 6.7% Volkswagen of America - Down 18.0% Brands: Jaguar - Up 117.0% Lincoln - Up 38.4% Land Rover - Up 37.0% Subaru - Up 32.0% Buick - Up 31.2% Mercedes-Benz - Up 25.4% Sprinter - Up 22.3% Ram - Up 22.0% Mitsubishi - Up 19.4% GMC - Up 15.7% Nissan - Up 15.4% Chevrolet - Up 14.7% Lexus - Up 14.5% Ford - Up 13.2% Acura - Up 13.2% Dodge - Up 12.0% Audi - Up 11.0% Porsche - Up 11.0% Cadillac - Up 9.5% Toyota - Up 8.0% Hyundai - Up 7.0% Jeep - Up 7.0% Chrysler - Up 6.0% Mazda - Up 6.0% Infiniti - Up 4.5% BMW - Up 4.2% Honda - Up 1.8% Fiat - Down 1.0% MINI - Down 3.2% Kia - Down 6.4% Volvo - Down 6.7% Volkswagen - Down 18.0% Smart - Down 48.6% 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

11.01.2013 VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA REPORTS OCTOBER 2013 SALES October sales total 28,129 units Chattanooga-built Passat delivered 7,258 for the month Jetta Sedan delivered 10,161 units for the month Tiguan delivered 2,153 units High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 24.2 percent of sales in October and 22 percent of sales year-to-date, the best year-to-date results on record Passat TDI sales reach 33.3 percent of mix with 2,416 units, the best October results ever Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 28,129 units delivered in October and 342,962 units year-to-date, down 18 percent for the month. Adjusted for models in run-out, Volkswagen’s year-to-date pace would be on par with the prior year-to-date pace. “After more than doubling our sales over the past three years, it is a significant recognition of the strength of our products that we are on course to close out a second consecutive year with over 400,000 vehicles delivered for the first time in 40 years,“ said Jonathan Browning, president and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America. Now operating at a new plateau, Volkswagen is seeing a consistent stream of accolades, not only for products, but for interaction with customers -- through compelling advertising and effective website management. Beyond sales figures, awards like these are a further proof point that the brand has gained a significant foothold in the US market. Volkswagen’s award-winning commercials have found themselves atop another list. Ace Metrics named Volkswagen’s “Choose Wisely,” ad at the top of its list for “Funniest Ads of 2013.” “Top Down Day,” a Volkswagen ad promoting the new Beetle convertible, also made the top ten list, ranking number seven. Volkswagen was the only automaker in the top ten. Volkswagen has also proven successful in reaching consumers on their mobile devices, JD Power and Associates ranked the newly redesigned mobile.vw.com 6th overall among 33 automakers. The 2013 Automotive Mobile Site Study examines the features and content of automotive manufacturer mobile websites and their usefulness in the vehicle-shopping process. The Chattanooga-built Passat continues as a core model with 7,258 units delivered. In October the Passat TDI, the only clean diesel in the midsize sedan segment delivered 2,416 clean diesels, representing 33.3 percent of its sales mix. Total Jetta deliveries (including SportWagen) for October accounted for 10,161 units. The Jetta Turbo Hybrid continues to attract consumer interest with 666 deliveries in October., Total Beetle deliveries for October were 2,555 units, a 4.8 percent increase versus the prior year. The Tiguan sold 2,153 units. Total sales of the Golf (including Golf R and GTI) were 2,249. The Touareg sold 549 units. Volkswagen’s high-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 24.2 percent of sales in October, and 22 percent year-to-date, the best year-to-date on record.

Chrysler Group LLC Reports October 2013 U.S. Sales Increased 11 Percent; Best October Sales Since 2007 43rd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram Truck brands each post sales increases in October compared with same month a year ago Six Chrysler Group vehicles each set sales record for month of October Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Compass and Patriot each post year-over-year sales gains led by the 68 percent increase in Compass sales Two all-new models – 2014 Jeep Cherokee mid-size SUV and 2014 Ram ProMaster van – arriving at dealerships across the country; first sales recorded in October for both new vehicles Ram Truck, Jeep and Dodge brand vehicles take top honors at the annual Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Texas Truck Rodeo All-new 2014 Fiat 500L and all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee each earn a Top Safety Pick from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) November 1, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 140,083 units, an 11 percent increase compared with sales in October 2012 (126,185 units), and the group’s best October sales since 2007. The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram Truck brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in October compared with the same month a year ago. The Ram Truck brand’s 22 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand during the month. Chrysler Group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 43 consecutive months in October. “After a choppy start to the beginning of the month, Chrysler Group sales accelerated in the second half of the month with renewed consumer confidence and the launch of our all-new Jeep Cherokee,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “Following a meticulous focus on quality, our new Jeep Cherokee began shipping to dealers and quickly selling which helped us to achieve our 43rd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases.” The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee and the all-new 2014 Ram ProMaster went on sale in October, expanding the Chrysler Group product lineup. Six Chrysler Group vehicles logged their best October sales ever, including the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Patriot, and the Dodge Journey crossover, Dodge Dart compact car and the Dodge Challenger. This was the Wrangler’s seventh sales record this year, including an all-time sales record in May. The Ram Cargo Van also logged its best October sales ever. Chrysler Group finished the month with an 86 days supply of inventory (445,271 units). U.S. industry sales figures for October are projected at an estimated 15.7 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR). October 2013 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand Ram Truck Brand Ram Truck brand sales were up 22 percent compared with the same month a year ago. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 18 percent, its 42nd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best October sales since 2004. The Ram Truck brand recorded its first sales of the all-new 2014 Ram ProMaster van in October. The Ram Truck brand took home eight awards last month at the annual Texas Auto Writers Association Texas Truck Rodeo, including the Truck Line of Texas. The 2014 Ram 1500 was named Truck of Texas for the second-consecutive year, as well as Full-Size Truck and Luxury Truck of Texas. The 2014 Ram 2500 received the Heavy Duty Truck of Texas award and Best Technology award for its five-link coil rear suspension. The 2014 Ram ProMaster was named the Commercial Vehicle of Texas, while the Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee shared the Best Powertrain award for the 3.0L EcoDiesel engine. Sales of the Ram Cargo Van were up 120 percent, its best October sales ever. Dodge Brand Dodge brand sales were up 12 percent in October, the brand’s best October sales since 2005 and its 29th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Dodge Dart, Dodge Challenger and Dodge Journey mid-size crossover each recorded their best October sales ever, while sales of the Dodge Charger sport sedan were up 60 percent. Sales of the Dodge Grand Caravan were up 9 percent, the minivan’s best October sales in seven years. To celebrate 30 years of minivan leadership, the 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan 30th Anniversary Edition, available on both the SE and SXT models, is now on sale featuring unique content, including commemorative badging, special paint and black interior trim. The Dodge Durango full-size SUV extended to 12-consecutive months its run of year-over-year sales gains with its 59 percent increase. The Durango was named the 2014 Full-Size SUV of Texas during TAWA’s Texas Truck Rodeo in October. Jeep® Brand Jeep brand sales were up 7 percent in October as all Jeep brand vehicles, excluding the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee, posted year-over-year sales gains. The Jeep Compass, with its 68 percent sales gain, recorded the largest percentage increase of any Jeep brand model in October. The Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Patriot each set a sales record for the month of October. The Wrangler has set a sales record in seven months this year, including an all-time record in May. Sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the SUV of Texas for the fourth-consecutive year, were up 20 percent in October, its best October sales since 2005. The flagship Grand Cherokee also won Mid-Size SUV and Luxury Mid-Size SUV of Texas during last month’s Texas Truck Rodeo. The Wrangler took home the award for Off-Road Utility Vehicle of Texas. The all-new Jeep Cherokee mid-size SUV went on sale in October in dealerships across the country, recording sales of 579 units in its partial month of sales. The Cherokee has already won an award in its first head-to-head vehicle competition – Compact SUV of Texas – in TAWA’s Texas Truck Rodeo. In addition, the Cherokee earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in October. The Cherokee completely redefines the mid-size SUV segment, delivering legendary Jeep 4x4 capability, a segment-first nine-speed automatic transmission, fuel economy improvements of more than 45 percent (versus the former Jeep Liberty model), superior on-road ride and handling, a cutting-edge, revolutionary design, world-class craftsmanship, class-exclusive technology and more than 70 advanced safety and security features. Chrysler Brand Chrysler brand sales were up 6 percent, the brand’s best October sales performance since 2007. Sales of the award-winning Chrysler Town & Country were up 28 percent, the minivan’s best October sales in six years. As the creator of the minivan segment, Chrysler Group is celebrating 30 years of the minivan this fall. Now on sale, the 2014 Chrysler Town & Country 30th Anniversary Edition is based on the Touring L model and features unique exterior and interior content. Town & Country sales are up 6 percent through October this year compared with the same period in 2012. FIAT Brand FIAT brand sales were down slightly in October compared with the same month a year ago. The Fiat 500e all-electric model, available in the state of California, logged its best sales month so far this year. Sales of the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L were up 26 percent in October versus the previous month. October was the 500L’s best sales month since launch in June. The 500L was named a 2013 Top Safety Pick in October by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The 500L recorded the highest-possible rating in each of four IIHS tests to determine the Top Safety Pick. The innovative, four-door B-segment hatchback was one of two Chrysler Group vehicles to earn the designation during the latest round of IIHS evaluations. Top Safety Pick testing simulates a side impact, front moderate-overlap impact, roof-crush consistent with a rollover, and a rear collision capable of inducing whiplash.

NOV 1, 2013 | DEARBORN, MICH. FORD MOTOR COMPANY ACHIEVES BEST OCTOBER U.S. RETAIL SALES SINCE 2004; MULTIPLE PERFORMANCE RECORDS SET Ford Motor company October total sales up 14 percent – retail sales up 15 percent; best October retail since 2004 Ford Fusion up 71 percent and Fiesta up 9 percent – both report record-setting October sales F-Series tops 60,000 trucks for sixth-straight month All-new Lincoln MKZ total sales up 80 percent including best-ever October retail sales – total Lincoln brand up 38 percent Ford Motor Company’s October U.S. total sales of 191,985 vehicles rose 14 percent over a year ago. Retail sales are up 15 percent, at 142,487 vehicles. It is the company’s best October retail sales performance since 2004. Gains were broad-based, with passenger cars up 19 percent, utilities up 9 percent, and trucks up 14 percent. Ford Fusion and Fiesta posted best-ever October sales, and F-Series again topped 60,000 sales. “October was simply an outstanding retail performance, as consumers continued to choose Ford for great fuel efficiency, styling and value at all levels of the market,” said John Felice, vice president, U.S. marketing, sales and service. “The combination of great new products, such as Fusion and Escape, along with the strength of our dealers helped us achieve our best October retail sales month since 2004.” Fusion sales of 21,740 vehicles jumped 71 percent year-over-year, making it the car’s best-ever sales performance for October. The strongest growth for Fusion is in the west region of the U.S., with retail sales up 77 percent. In the eastern region of the country, Fusion retail sales are up 65 percent. Escape sales of 22,253 vehicles increased 12 percent, while Fiesta sales of 4,337 vehicles increased 9 percent – setting a new record for October. F-Series sales of 63,803 trucks are up 13 percent, making October the sixth-straight month above the 60,000-vehicle mark for F-Series. The last time Ford sold more than 60,000 trucks for six consecutive months was 2006. Lincoln MKZ sales of 2,909 vehicles increased 80 percent over a year ago, leading the Lincoln brand to an overall increase of 38 percent. MKZ has now reported record sales for six of the last seven months, attracting significant conquest buyers to the Lincoln brand.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 1, 2013 By all accounts, the 2014 Chevrolet Impala is a much improved model over the previous model. In fact, the Impala currently is the highest rated sedan by Consumer Reports. But not everyone wants the new Impala. By 'everyone', I happen to be talking about fleets. Back in March, Chevrolet announced that the last-generation Impala would be sold to fleets only in 2014. After that, the new Impala would take its place. Now, Chevrolet will continue building and selling the old Impala, known as the Impala Limited, till 2016. "The Impala Limited has done extremely well. Our fleet customers know the car and like it. It's a business opportunity that we want to continue to fulfill," said GM spokesman Chad Lyons. John Wolkonowicz, an independent auto analyst in Boston says the move allows GM to sell less expensive car to fleet customers without hurting the new Impala's residual value. "They're able to keep the old one around at a really low price because all of the tooling was paid for long ago," said Wolkonowicz. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 31, 2013 At the end of this year, production of the Volvo C70 will cease. But a successor is in the cards. According Drive.com.au, Volvo is planning a replacement for the C70. But don't expect the new model to come out anytime soon. "We had a C70 and that definitely had a great exposure on our brand. The Coupe Concept car, we can put that into production and it will have an exposure on the brand. But at the end it's the cream on the cake and at the end you need the cake first before you put the cream on it," said Volvo's senior vice president of product strategy and vehicle line management, Lex Kerssemakers. Volvo Cars' CEO Hakan Samuelsson echoed Kerssemakers' statement. "Eventually yes ... as soon as possible. But we have quite a journey. We have new four-cylinder engines, we have new top hats on our XC90, our crown jewel which we need to replace and then we need to roll out replacement for S80, V70, S60, V60, XC60, so we have a lot on our plate for a relatively small company." Source: Drive.com.au 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 31, 2013 More and more vehicles are coming equipped with elaborate infotainment systems that can do pretty much everything from giving directions to playing music off your phone. But these systems aren't always user friendly. A number of OEMs saw their ratings drop in Consumer Report's Auto Reliability survey because of their infotainment systems. General Motors wants to change that and is asking their 4,300 dealers about adding a customer Connection Center, a place where consumers can learn more and ask about in-vehicle technology and infotainment systems. GM spokesman Klaus-Peter Martin tells The Detroit News that the center give customers and the dealers’ certified technology experts a dedicated place to answer questions about technology. The center would also help improve customer loyalty and retention. A handout given to dealers says that 94 percent of customers believe there is a need for tech support, and 57 percent of customers would use it. “It’s another effort on our journey to provide this overall customer experience,” said Martin. This a voluntary move for all Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac dealers as GM readies a roll-out of embedded 4G LTE mobile Internet access in most of its 2015 vehicles that will be sold in the U.S. and Canada. Source: The Detroit News 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 31, 2013 Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne vowed this week that the company would not repeat the mistakes that caused the new 2014 Cherokee to be delayed. "What we've learned is that we'll never repeat it. We're never going to take a plant down and be out of the market for over a year," Marchionne said on a call with analysts. The Cherokee is the first Chrysler vehicle to use a new nine-speed automatic transmission. However, problems arose with how the engine, nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive system interacted with each other. Engineers worked for months to create a software patch to smooth out the interaction. This is turn caused a number of Cherokees to sit at Jeep's Toledo factory, waiting for this update. It also caused the sale date to be pushed back from the summer to this month. "We were naïve that it would be a seamless introduction," Marchionne said. With the issue resolved, dealers are now getting their Cherokees. Also, the Toledo factory is hard at work, producing 1,000 Cherokees a day. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 30, 2013 For many years, the rumor of a seven-seat crossover from Cadillac have been floating around. Now it seems the rumor could be coming true. Car and Driver is reporting that three-row Cadillac crossover that will sit between the SRX and Escalade has been given the green light. This information comes from two GM employees. The new crossover will use an updated version of GM's Lambda platform named Lambda II. Lambda II is currently underpinning the current Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia. Expect the Cadillac version to come with some improvement such as less weight and more rigidity with the use of either high-strength steel or aluminum. Source: Car and Driver 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 30, 2013 The U.S. Treasury's sell off of General Motors stock isn't faring so well. According to a new report from The Detroit News, the U.S. Treasury has reported a $9.7 billion loss on the $49.5 billion bailout of GM back in 2009. This figure comes from the quarterly report from the Special Inspector General of the Troubled Asset Relief Program to Congress. The U.S. Treasury original stake in GM back in 2009 was around 60.8 percent. Since that time, the Treasury has been selling off shares in a effort to make back some of the funds used in the bailout. The Detroit News says for the U.S. Treasury to break even, the share price would have to be around $147.95. That isn't going to happen since GM's current price stands at $36.06 at the end of yesterday's trading. Source: The Detroit News 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

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 30, 2013 The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder caused quite the ruckus when it was introduced at the 2012 New York Auto Show. Nissan announced that the new Pathfinder was leaving its off-road roots that it had for the majority of its life and was turning into a crossover. Of course, most everyone in the automotive world went mad and complained that Nissan was tarnishing the good name of the Pathfinder by going the crossover route. However, Nissan is having the last laugh as sales of the new Pathfinder are booming. In 2011, Nissan moved 25,935 Pathfinders. So far this year, Nissan has more than double that with 63,826 Pathfinders finding a good home. But there comes a question; with this transformation, has Nissan been able to make a crossover that deserves the Pathfinder name? When I first saw pictures of the 2013 Pathfinder, I thought it looked awkward. In person, it still looks awkward to my eyes. I think it's due to Nissan trying to mesh two design philosophies into one vehicle. Up front is the design language that Nissan uses for its trucks and SUVs. You have a trapezoidal grille and massive headlights that are surrounded with chrome trim. The side profile and back end are more reminiscent of Nissan's passenger sedans with flowing lines and a large greenhouse.The Pathfinder's interior is your standard Nissan fare with a plain looking design. Material quality ranges from soft-touch on the interior's touch points to hard materials along the bottom of the dashboard. There is wood trim along the center stack and console that adds a nice touch. Taking center stage on the center stack is a seven-inch screen. At first, I thought it was touchscreen that was broken since it wasn't responding. Then I realized Nissan pulled a bit of a bait and switch. If you want a touchscreen on your Pathfinder, you have to step up to the Platinum model which costs an extra $5,000 over the SL model. To move around the system, you have a set of buttons and a large knob below the screen. Once you get the hang of how to work the system, it becomes somewhat easier. But in the back of my head, I'm wondering why Nissan just doesn't go ahead with a touchscreen for the SL.That's not the only problem with the Pathfinder SL's tech. The other one is with the Bluetooth system. To start, you can only make phone calls with the system and not stream any audio from your phone or audio device. Nissan has rectified this with the 2014 SL by making it an option, but I think this should be standard across the Pathfinder lineup. Also trying to pair my phone was a pain in the butt ordeal. Whereas most systems have you go into the settings menu to pair your phone, the Pathfinder has you use the voice button on the steering wheel to setup your phone. The only way you know this is by either looking in the owners manual or accidentally hitting the voice button. The setup process is thankfully painless, as is answering phone calls. Trying to make a call is another story. Nissan's voice system couldn't figure out what name I was trying to say and would ask me to repeat. I just found it easier to say the number or dial from my phone and send it to the vehicle. Click images to enlarge The Pathfinder SL comes with seating for seven people. Comfort varies on where you're sitting in the vehicle. Up front, passengers will find plush seats with good support and adjustments. The second-row offers passengers an abundance of head and legroom. Sadly, I didn't find the seats as comfortable because there isn't enough seat padding and I found the second-row isn't set as high like in the GMC Acadia. The third-row is easy to get to thanks to Nissan's EZ Flex Seating System which flips up the bottom cushion and tilts the back cushion to make the seat more compact and easier to move. This system also allows the seat to be moved if there is an infant seat by only tilting the back cushion. Space in the third row is tight for legroom, while headroom is decent. For Powertrain and Ride Impressions, See The Next Page. Powering all Pathfinders is the well-known 3.5L VQ V6 with 260 horsepower and 240 pound-feet torque paired with Nissan's XTronic CVT. You have the choice of either front-wheel or ALL-MODE 4x4-i. In my notes for the Pathfinder, the power delivery feels like the vehicle is climbing a hill while struggling to keep the speed prior to reaching an rpm where the power delivery becomes more immediate. The engine doesn't feel as powerful on the lower end as it does on the higher end. I'm not sure if this is an issue with the engine's computer or the CVT. Speaking of the CVT, it does a excellent job of keeping the 3.5L V6 quiet, except when you accelerate and the prolonged drone enters the cabin. The EPA rates the 2013 Pathfinder at 19 City/25 Highway/21 Combined. During my week, I saw an average of 22.1 MPG. My test Pathfinder came equipped with Nissan's ALL-MODE 4x4-i and it offers three different models via a knob in the center stack, 2WD: Leaves the Pathfinder in front-wheel drive Auto: All-Wheel Drive system kicks in if the system detects a loss of traction Lock: All-Wheel Drive System stays on for a certain amount of time and at certain speed before switching back to Auto. I mostly left the system in 2WD, but I switched into Auto when a nasty storm rolled through and dumped a lot of rain. The system did its job and I got to my destination safely. As for ride and handling, the Pathfinder is one of the more plush riding crossovers on sale. The suspension isolates bumps and road imperfections from passengers. Steering is light and doesn't really have that much feel, the two traits that are common in the class and are acceptable. One disappointment was how much wind noise the Pathfinder exhibited, especially around the a-pillars.The Pathfinder's transformation of being a rough and tough SUV to family friendly crossover has mostly worked out. Nissan got most of the basics right with a comfortable ride, plush interior, high fuel economy numbers, and some clever features. However, some odd decisions made with the infotainment unit, a horrid bluetooth system, and the odd behavior of the powertrain rob the Pathfinder of the best-in-class crown. If Nissan can address these problems in the near future, then we might have a real competitor to GM's Lambda family. Click image to enlarge Disclaimer: Nissan Provided the Pathfinder SL, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas. Year: 2013 Make: Nissan Model: Pathfinder Trim: SL i-4X4 Engine: 3.5L VQ V6 Driveline: All-Wheel Drive, CVT Horsepower @ RPM: 260 @ 6400 Torque @ RPM: 240 @ 4400 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 19/25/21 Curb Weight: 4,312 lbs Location of Manufacture: Smyrna, TN Base Price: $36,070 As Tested Price: $40,470 (Includes $825.00 Destination Charge) Options: SL Premium Package - $2,650.00 Roof Rail Cross Bars - $300.00 Illuminated Kick Plates - $275.00 Carpeted Floor Mats - $200.00 Splash Guards - $175.00 William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com October 29, 2013 Next week comes a bit of madness. I'm referring to the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show taking place in Las Vegas next week. The show gives automakers a chance to show what crazy things they have cooked up. For Chrysler, SEMA is where their Mopar brand can show off some of their new parts and accessories. Plus some crazy ideas as well. I had the chance to head down to Chrysler's headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan to see some of the twenty vehicles that will be at SEMA next week. Ram Sun Chaser Out of all the vehicles shown at Chrysler's SEMA preview, the Ram Sun Chaser was the most polarizing. Draped in a Vibrance Orange Blast color, with two-tone Brilliant Black paint, the Ram Sun Chaser isn't for the faint of the heart. This concept was built with the surfer in mind and includes such touches such as concept Mopar roof rack, dubbed the “surf rack” and two adjustable support rails to hold varying sizes of surfboards. There is also a shower kit in the Ram Box which consists of a water tank, pump, hose, and shower head to rinse off items. Other modifications to the Sun Chaser include a two-inch lift, beadlock wheels, cut-back exhaust, and leather seats. Jeep Cherokee Trail Carver For Jeep, Mopar focused on making the Cherokee more capable, while keeping a distinctive looks on the road. Hence the Cherokee Trail Carver. Mopar started with the Cherokee Trailhawk and built from there. There is a set of meaty off-road tires, rock rails, and orange tow hooks shows it's ready to tackle anything. The Cherokee's exterior is dipped in a Auburn Pearl paint color. The hood and roof feature a topographic map graphic. The roof also sports a concept roof basket design. Fiat 500L Adventurer Mopar's take on the 500L is something quite unexpected. They took the subcompact crossover and made more rugged. To pull this off, Mopar raised the 500L by about an inch, added body cladding and a black stripe around it, and a set of eighteen-inch wheels. The body is painted in a Bright White with a 500L graphic on the doors. The roof is draped in a orange with a set of roof rails and a basket. Inside, the 500L Adventurer has a set of seats wrapped in black perforated suede and pearl leather. There is some orange trim pieces around the bezels, speaker surrounds, and the steering-wheel badge. 2014 Chrysler 300S Mopar didn't make many modifications to this 2014 300S, but the ones they did make really change the 300S. To start, this 300S is painted in a Phantom Black Tri-coat paint color. Adding some menace is a black “Gotham” grille surround and lowering kit. Finishing off the exterior touches is a SRT rear spoiler and a set of twenty-inch wheels from the 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition finished in a bronze color. Inside, the 300S comes with black and Katzkin “Bisque” leather on the seats, center console, and doors. The seatbacks have the 'Imported from Detroit' logo embroidered. Source: Chrysler William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 Chrysler Group LLC Reveals Mopar-Modified Show Vehicles Ahead of 2013 SEMA Show Mopar Flashes Creative Muscle Twenty customized Chrysler Group LLC show vehicles to be exhibited in 15,300 square-foot SEMA Show display Exhibit to highlight hundreds of Mopar performance parts and Jeep® Performance Parts from the Mopar Off-Road Division Ram Sun Chaser show vehicle features makeshift shower kit and “Flip-Up” seatback tailgate bench Jeep Cherokee Trail Carver carries a unique concept roof-rack basket design to store off-road gear Fiat 500L Adventurer takes new five-seater off the beaten path And even more Mopar magic applied to the Chrysler 300 Mopar news and images, as well as link to the livestream broadcast from SEMA, are available at mopar.com/sema October 29, 2013, Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC is preparing to head west with a Mopar-customized contingent of creations along for the ride. At the 2013 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, Nov. 5-8, 20 vehicles customized with existing Mopar parts and accessories, as well as concept products designed to elicit feedback, will take the spotlight in the 15,300 square-foot Mopar display at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Mopar-modified vehicles from Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram, SRT, and FIAT brands will be prominently featured at the premier aftermarket event. “The SEMA season is our favorite time of the year,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “It’s a chance for us to flex our creative muscles and showcase our vast portfolio of proven, quality-tested performance parts and accessories.” Following are select Mopar-modified 2013 Chrysler Group LLC SEMA display vehicles headed for this year’s SEMA show: Ram Sun Chaser When Ram isn’t hard at work, it’s back to the beach with the Ram Sun Chaser show truck. Vibrance Orange Blast, with two-tone Brilliant Black paint, color this Ram 1500 Quad Cab. A unique concept Mopar roof rack, dubbed the “surf rack,” and two adjustable support rails housed within the tracks of the truck’s bed, accommodate a long surfboard. As an added bonus, hooks on the side of the rails can also carry up to four boards. To wash off salt water or seaweed, Ram Sun Chaser’s exclusive RamBox bed-side storage features a concept water tank equipped with a hose and a portable shower head, forming a makeshift shower kit that may be clipped on to the rack for a quick rinse. A bed step enables easy access to gear. Surfers or paddle boarders can take a seat when taking off gear or waxing their board with the concept “Flip-Up” seatback tailgate, which converts into a bench by folding back toward the cab of the truck. New concept 17 x 8-inch beadlock wheels with color-keyed rings, concept flares with exposed fasteners and modified black tubular side-step rails fit the sand dune-ready theme of the vehicle. Orange tow hooks, a satin badge, and a spray-on bedliner are also added by Mopar. Inside, Katzkin leather seats feature stitching accented to match the Vibrance Orange Blast paint, as well as the dash, display bezels and door inserts. Sill guards and all-weather mats also accent the interior. Powered by a 5.7-liter HEMI® engine, the Ram hits the sand with a sport performance hood, a 2-inch performance lift kit and a Mopar cat-back exhaust. Fiat 500L Adventurer The Fiat 500L Adventurer illustrates the versatility of the new five-seater, with modifications that transform the vehicle and equip it with a tough, rugged appearance. The exterior is enhanced with Bright White body paint, two-tone accent wheel flares and rockers painted in Satin Black. Color is added with Vibrance Bright Orange on the roof, which totes Mopar roof rails and a large roof basket. The vehicle sits on 18 x 7.5-inch custom concept wheels embellished with FIAT logo center caps. A custom 500L graphic augments door panels, with the L painted orange to match the roof. Orange mirror caps, tinted taillights, tinted chrome exhaust tips, molded splash guards, and a chrome FIAT logo ring further enhance the exterior styling. The interior is upgraded with black perforated suede Katzkin seats and pearl leather seatbacks. Matching orange accents are featured inside as well, with orange-painted bezels and orange accents surrounding the speaker grills and steering-wheel badge. The two-tone instrument panel is black with a white leather insert. A Mopar seatback coat hanger, all-weather mats, a pedal kit, doorsill guards and a cargo organizer are included from the Mopar catalog. A performance boost is achieved with a Mopar cold-air intake and Mopar cat-back exhaust. Jeep® Cherokee Trail Carver Jeep Cherokee is for trail addicts seeking a vehicle with the capabilities to handle the rugged off-road, while projecting a unique, customized and luxurious look on the streets. Going to the next level of customization, the Mopar-modified Jeep Cherokee uses the Trailhawk 4x4 package powered by a 3.2-liter V-6 engine as a starting point. Its exterior is colored in Auburn Pearl paint, with low-gloss black and Granite Crystal with low-gloss clear touches. Unique Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk hood and roof topographical graphics are bordered in Crush Orange, with matching orange tow hooks. The top of the modified Jeep Cherokee sports a concept roof basket design, with orange accent side panels wrapped in woven metallic fabric. A front wind deflector, which includes the Mopar logo, completes the design. Aggressive tires highlight the off-road flavor of the vehicle, and rock rails protect this Jeep Cherokee from trail obstacles. The inside is enhanced with Katzkin Amaretto leather seats, with colored leather in the center, ensuring a premium feel. Leather wrapping on the center console, storage door and armrest, and matching color stitching on the seats, offer even more appointments. The top and bottom of the steering wheel are leather, and painted trim provides highlights throughout the inside. Other Mopar goodies include bright door-sill guards with the Jeep Cherokee logo, a wireless smartphone charger, and WiFi. The Jeep Cargo Management Receiver System (JCMRS), a unique option that features a running bar along the left interior, to which Mopar items may be mounted, is also utilized. The Mopar roadside emergency kit, Trailhawk bag and first-aid kit are mounted to the JCMRS. In the Jeep Performance Parts department, a Mopar cold-air intake and a cat-back exhaust are put to work to achieve horsepower gains. 2014 Chrysler 300S The iconic and elegant Chrysler 300 is elevated even further to reach the ultimate in style and street cred with a variety of Mopar appointments utilized to create the 2014 Chrysler 300S for the SEMA Show. Phantom Black Tri-coat colors the exterior, maintaining the elegance of the Chrysler 300S, while adding a menacing edge. Fitting its gritty, big-city vibe, the front is reinforced by a 13-bar black “Gotham” grille surround, with a lowering kit, dropping the 2014 Chrysler 300S closer to the streets. The wheels pull from the Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition with 20 x 8-inch wheels finished in a Mopar bronze, accented with Mopar wheel center caps. A black SRT spoiler embellishes the tail and helps drive the rear towards the pavement when in motion, enabling the 300S to corner urban canyons with impressive agility. Luxurious touches rule the interior, with seats and door bolster inserts wrapped in Katzkin “Bisque” leather. Leather seatbacks are embossed with the “Imported From Detroit” logo, and matching Katzkin “Bisque” threads border the seats, door and console armrests. All bright trim is changed to Satin Black, and the Mopar Lite Bronze found on the wheels is also featured in the trim accents. View full article