William Maley

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 5, 2013 Volkswagen has reportedly begun planning a competitor to the Subaru Outback. According to Automotive News, Volkswagen has given a green light to an AWD version of the next-gen Golf-based Jetta SportWagon. Sources say the company is deciding whether to make into Outback competitor with a higher ground clearance and body-cladding. Now Volkswagen currently sells something like this in parts of the world. The Passat Alltrack takes a Passat wagon and raises the ride height and adds body cladding. Volkswagen showed a concept version of the Passat Alltrack at the 2012 New York Auto Show. 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

As someone who has a 2013 Sonata in for review this week.. Its very desperate for a refesh

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 4, 2013 Here at the rumorpile, we've been reporting on a couple derivatives for the Scion FR-S for the past year or so. The first is a convertible FR-S which we got a preview of at this year's Geneva Motor Show and the other is a turbocharged version. But a new report says both models have been canceled. Automotive News reports that the two FR-S models have been canned due to return of the investment not being viable for those models. 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

Volvo Announces July Sales Records Best July Since 2009 ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (August 1, 2013) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 5,909 units, a 3.4 percent increase month-over-month and the best July since 2009. Year-to-date sales are down 4.6 percent over the first seven months of 2012. The S60 sports sedan was the top seller for the month with 2,326 units sold, an impressive 20.3 percent increase versus July 2012. The XC60 crossover finished the month right behind with 1,740 units sold.

Hyundai Motor America Reports Best Ever July Sales All-time record July sales up 6 percent Two-millionth Sonata, one-millionth Santa Fe sales milestones achieved Elantra up 29 percent, Santa Fe up 48 percent COSTA MESA, Calif., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today announced sales of 66,005 units, up 6.4 percent versus the same period in 2012. Santa Fe and Elantra continue to be star performers. "July was another record-breaking sales month for us and is a great way to begin the second half of the year," said Dave Zuchowski, executive vice president of national sales. "This is a terrific time for consumers to purchase a new vehicle – industry inventories are being restored, there is ready access to competitive financing terms, and marketing activities and incentive support are running at a fevered pitch. Within that dynamic sales environment, the Hyundai brand is particularly well positioned to compete head-to-head and sustain our record-setting pace throughout the balance of these strong summer months." The all-new Santa Fe continued its strong sales pace resulting in a 48 percent gain over last July. U.S.-built Elantra continued its rapid sales increase with 23,958 sales, a 29 percent increase over July 2012, even greater than the 26 percent sales gain it saw last month. "It was a good month for Hyundai, with an all-time record July and two big milestones – we sold our two-millionth Sonata and our one-millionth Santa Fe," said John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. "Our plants continue to push to restock our dealers, with vehicles like our new 2014 Equus now hitting Hyundai showrooms. Inventories on our best-selling models, such as Elantra, Sonata and Santa Fe, remain leaner than we'd like, with just 30 days of stock on hand of these core volume products."

BMW Group U.S. Reports July 2013 Sales BMW brand sales up 12.9 percent MINI brand sales up 1.6 percent, best July ever WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported July sales of 29,993 vehicles, an increase of 10.5 percent from the 27,152 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, the BMW Group (BMW and MINI combined) is up 9.2 percent on sales of 202,780 in the first seven months of 2013 compared to 185,715 in the same period in 2012. "July is a pivotal month, setting the trend for the second half of the year and the numbers show the trend is with us" said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America, LLC. "We have a strong line-up of new vehicles to launch in the months ahead led by the all-new X5, which started production today, and the beautiful BMW 4 Series Coupe which arrives in the fall." BMW Brand Sales Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 12.9 percent in July for a total of 24,043 compared to 21,297 vehicles sold in July, 2012. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 11.3 percent on sales of 164,474 compared to 147,801 sold in the first seven months of 2012. In July, best performing vehicles included the 1 Series, up 60.7 percent to 609 units; the 3 Series, up 29.2 percent to 9,890 units; the Z4 Roadster, up 25.4 percent to 217 units and the X5 SAV, up 17.1 percent to 2,674 units. MINI Brand Sales – best July ever MINI USA reported the best July ever with sales of 5,950 automobiles, an increase of 1.6 percent from the 5,855 sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 1.0 percent on volume of 38,306 compared to 37,914 in the first seven months of 2012. "We like to say the world is becoming more MINI and the record sales figures for July and year-to-date prove that interest in the premium small car segment continues to grow and that people can think small," said Jim McDowell, Vice President, MINI USA. "We are especially pleased with the sales performance of the MINI Countryman model that continues to bring new motorers to our growing MINI family."

Mercedes-Benz Sales Jump 22.5% in July For Seventh Record Month of 2013 Retail volumes gain 10.6% to exceed 180,000 units YTD MONTVALE, N.J., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported July sales of 26,423 units, an 18.5% boost over the 22,294 units sold in July 2012. Retail volumes at Mercedes-Benz reached 23,648 for the month—gaining 22.5% over the previous year—while year-to-date sales hit an all-time high of 165,598 units. Sprinter Van sales totaled 1,915, combining with 860 units sold at smart to bring MBUSA's grand total to 182,315 vehicles year-to-date. This makes July the seventh consecutive month of record-breaking sales at MBUSA for 2013. "July delivered double-digit gains for both our passenger cars and light truck offerings, as our sales momentum shows no signs of slowing down," said Steve Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA. "We have two major product launches—one at the high-end and one at the entry—around the corner. This will be a banner year for the brand, bringing a whole new level of quality and innovation to Mercedes-Benz and the luxury market." Mercedes-Benz saw growth across its product portfolio, with July's top sellers comprised of the C-, E- and M-Class model lines. The sporty C-Class—the current gateway to the brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers—was the volume leader at 7,604 units for the month, up 34.3% from July 2012. The E-Class was a close second at 5,605, up 10.1%, while sales of MBUSA's top-selling SUV, the M-Class, soared 72.7% from the 1,790 units sold in July 2012 to 3,092. The Sprinter model line, which receives a comprehensive redesign for the 2014 model year arriving this fall, posted sales of 1,915 for the month, while smart volumes grew 10.3% to 860 vehicles sold. Sales of Mercedes-Benz's BlueTEC diesel models were 879 for July while the company's high-performance AMG models finished the month with sales of 464. Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 7,976 vehicles in July, an increase of 22% when compared to July 2012 (sales of 6,519 vehicles). On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 56,980 vehicles, rising 24% over the comparable period (45,938 vehicles) in 2012.

TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today reported July 2013 U.S. sales of 141,439 units, a total increase of 20.9 percent compared with July 2012 (up 16.1 percent based on the Daily Selling Rate, or DSR*). The Honda Division posted July 2013 sales of 126,289 units, an increase of 21.3 percent compared with July 2012. Acura Division U.S. July sales of 15,150 units jumped 18.1 percent compared with July 2012. Honda Accord and Civic both top 30,000 July sales, with Civic breaking a 13-year-old July sales record CR-V breaks July sales record set last year by more than 6,500 units, with sales of 27,226, up 32.5 percent compared to July 2012 Pilot and Ridgeline both see fifth consecutive month of double digit sales gains, up 32.5 and 67.7 percent respectively, from July 2012 "In July, all of our core models - Civic, Accord, Odyssey and CRV - showed double-digit gains," said John Mendel, executive vice president of sales at American Honda. "This indicates Honda's commitment to retail sales is resonating with consumers seeking not only fun and fuel-efficient vehicles, but also products that retain their long-term value." Acura Acura posts a 18.1-percent sales gain, and a 35.4-percent gain in light-truck sales setting an all-time light-truck sales record MDX, new from the ground up, topped 5,500 units and set a new July record last set in 2005, making it Acura's top-selling model RDX continues its amazing run with 15 consecutive month of record sales (3,936 units sold) "The all-new MDX is off to the kind of dominating start we expected, teamed with RDX to give Acura a powerful 1-2 punch in the important luxury light-truck segment, and new momentum in Acura showrooms," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura sales. "MDX delivers due to its fundamental advantages in areas that resonate with luxury SUV shoppers."

Mazda Stakes Its Strongest July In Six Years With A 29.4 Percent Increase IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported July U.S. sales of 24,977 vehicles, representing an increase of 29.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through July are up 4.2 percent versus last year, with 169,920 vehicles sold. Key July sales notes: Mazda reported its best July sales since 2007 with 24,977 vehicles sold representing an increase of 29.4 percent. This is the largest YOY increase for Mazda in 18 months. Vehicles equipped with SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY accounted for 71 percent of total Mazda sales for the month of July. Mazda's CX-5 continues to be a favorite among consumers. Representing an 86 percent increase year-over-year, Mazda delivered 7,825 CX-5s to consumers in the month of July. The all-new 2014 Mazda6 saw its best July sales since 2007 with 3,447 vehicles sold and posting an increase of 167.4 percent YOY. Inventory continues to remain low as consumer demand outpaces production. Mazda3 reported solid sales in July, accounting for an increase of 2.3 percent YOY, 9,236 vehicles sold, and its best July since 2010. Mazda CX-9 saw its best July since 2011 with an increase of 6.2 percent YOY and 2,084 vehicles sold. In the heat of the summer, Mazda MX-5 Miata delivers with a 12.4 percent increase YOY and 663 vehicles sold in its best July since 2010.

Kia Motors America Reports All-Time Best July Sales Cadenza Premium Sedan Tops 1,000 Units for Second Consecutive Month; U.S.-Built* Optima is Best-Seller for 20th Straight Month IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported record July sales of 49,004 vehicles, a 1.9-percent increase over the same period in 2012. Following the launch of the national marketing campaign for the all-new 2014 Cadenza, the flagship sedan surpassed the 1,000 unit mark for the second time. Accounting for more than 40 percent of Kia's July sales, KMA's U.S.-built* vehicles once again take the top sales honors as the Optima midsize sedan was the brand's best seller for the 20th consecutive month with 13,752 units sold, and the Sorento CUV enjoyed sales of 9,576 vehicles. The Soul urban passenger vehicle also recorded strong monthly sales of 10,160 units. "Awareness of our latest new products, including the redesigned 2014 Sorento CUV and all-new Cadenza and Forte sedans on sale now, continues to rise and elevate Kia's reputation as a value leader that provides more style, equipment and amenities for the money," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. "More new products are on the horizon, and these vehicles will continue to advance value to new levels of sophistication by combining world-class design with cutting-edge technologies, premium amenities and affordable pricing to meet and exceed the expectations of our customers." The record-setting month of July also witnessed three Kia vehicles -- the 2013 Optima, Rio and Soul -- ranked at or near the top of their respective segments within the J.D. Power 2013 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study. The Soul gained recognition as the top "Compact Multi-Purpose Vehicle" in the category for the second year in a row, while the Optima and Rio came in second in the "Midsize" and "Sub-Compact" car segments, respectively.

CYPRESS, Calif., Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported July sales of 5,230, an increase of 24.7 percent compared to July 2012. Every Mitsubishi model currently in production showed a double-digit percentage increase for the month. The U.S.-built Outlander Sport crossover led the way with sales of 2,075, an increase of more than 41 percent. July marks eleven consecutive months of sales increases for the fuel-efficient CUV. Outlander Sport sales are up more than 52 percent year-to-date. July was the first full month of sales of the all-new 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander, contributing to a 101 percent increase in Outlander sales for the month compared to July 2012. Overall Outlander sales are up more than 35 percent year-to-date. "The early sales of the all-new Outlander and the ongoing popularity of the Outlander Sport provide the basis for what is shaping up as a very good summer for Mitsubishi sales," said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa. "Mitsubishi's Summer Sales Event will take place in August, so consumers visiting Mitsubishi dealerships will see great values, and have every opportunity to shop and buy our full product line." Mitsubishi July sales highlights: Outlander Sport sales were up 41.9 percent in July and are up 52.7 percent for the year. Outlander sales were up 101.0 percent in July and are up 35.2 percent year-to-date. Lancer sedan sales were up 23.8 percent in July and are up 32.9 percent year-to-date. July's sales total marked Lancer's third-best month of sales in the last two years. Lancer Evolution sales were up 24.0 percent in July and are up 4.0 percent for the year.

Porsche Reports Best July Sales Ever - Up 36 percent over 2012 Porsche dealers sell 3,820 vehicles in July ATLANTA, Aug. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, today announced July 2013 sales of 3,820 vehicles, an increase of 36 percent over July 2012. For the year, Porsche has sold 25,129 cars in the U.S., a 31 percent increase over last year's sales (19,253). The recently-launched Boxster/Cayman line posted an impressive 162 percent increase over July 2012, and a 251 percent increase year-to-date. Sales of the Cayenne line also increased significantly YTD, by 46 percent (11,082 units). The 911 line, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, remained strong, with 6,120 sold so far in 2013 – up 11 percent over the same period last year. "In addition to enjoying a successful sales month, we were also recently recognized as the top brand in the annual J.D. Power APEAL Study -- for the ninth consecutive year," said Detlev von Platen, President and CEO, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. "This provides a compelling message as we plan for bringing the new Panamera line, including our first plug-in hybrid, to the U.S. market this fall."

Nissan U.S. Sales Increase 10.9% For Record July Third consecutive record month for total sales; Fifth for Nissan Division Nissan Division sales increase 16.8% led by record sales of core models NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan set a new July record with U.S. sales of 109,041 deliveries, an increase of 10.9 percent over 98,341 units a year earlier. Nissan Division also set a new July record with 101,279 sales, up 16.8 percent and led by record July performances by Altima, Versa, Pathfinder and Rogue. Sales of Infiniti vehicles in July totaled 7,762, as the brand prepares for the launch of the all-new Infiniti Q50 sports sedan. NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS Nissan Division posted 101,279 sales, a July record and up 16.8 percent from last July's 86,722 units. July marks Nissan's fifth consecutive monthly sales record. Nissan Altima deliveries also set a July record, increasing 11 percent to 29,534 units. Pathfinder SUV sales jumped 235.1 percent to 8,428 units, marking the best July ever for the model. Versa sales set a July record at 9,007 units, up 20.9 percent, buoyed by the launch of the all-new 2014 Versa Note hatchback. Rogue sales also set a new July record at 16,992 units, up 28.8 percent. An all-new Rogue will launch later in 2013, with production moving to Nissan's Smyrna, Tenn., assembly plant. Sales of Nissan LEAF in June were 1,864 units, up 371.9 percent and setting a new July record. Since the launch of the Smyrna, Tenn.-built, 2013 LEAF in March, sales are up 335.3 percent. Fred Diaz, divisional vice president, Nissan Sales& Marketing, Service& Parts, said: "With the launch of the all-new Versa Note, Nissan has now refreshed four of our top-five selling models in just more than a year. These all-new models are delivering new monthly highs and providing momentum for the upcoming launch of the all-new Rogue." INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS Infiniti today reported sales of 7,762 units in July, down 33.2 percent from 11,619 units a year earlier. Infiniti JX/QX60 sales were up 37.4 percent to 2,747 units in July.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER REPORTS U.S. SALES FOR JULY 2013 Jaguar Land Rover North America achieves highest July sales since 2005 with 31 percent increase driven by big increases in both brands Jaguar U.S. boasts July sales increase of 60 percent with strong performance on all models: XK, XJ, XF and F-TYPE Land Rover U.S. sales increase 22 percent driven by extremely strong results for both Range Rover and Range Rover Evoque Range Rover sales up 111 percent from July 2012 to become JLRNA’s growth and volume leader for month (MAHWAH, NJ) – August 1, 2013 – Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported July 2013 U.S. sales: Jaguar sales were 1,613 units, 60 percent up from 1,011 units in July 2012; Land Rover sales were 4,050 units, 22 percent up from 3,320 units in July 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America July U.S. sales for both brands hit 5,663 units, a 31 percent increase from 4,331 in July 2012. Year to date through July, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 15 percent, with Jaguar up 25 percent and Land Rover up 11 percent. "Jaguar Land Rover has hit its stride in the United States with new products driving increases across both brands and multiple models,” said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. “It is an incredibly exciting time for Jaguar and Land Rover retailers and customers with models like All Wheel Drive Jaguar XJ and Range Rover Evoque building on the momentum of Range Rover and F-TYPE, while we prepare to launch an all new Range Rover Sport this month.” The all-new Range Rover Sport is arriving in showrooms in August and Jaguar will continue to expand its product offering with the XJR and XFR-S. U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS Land Rover The all-new Range Rover had a very strong sales month increasing 111 percent, to 1,420 sales from 672, to be JLRNA’s U.S. monthly volume and growth leader. For the year through July, Range Rover deliveries are up 39 percent. In the 2013 J.D. Power 2013 U.S. APEAL Study, the Range Rover was the industry’s highest scoring model. Range Rover Evoque continues to grow, with an increase of 53 percent to 953 units from 621 units in July, 2012. Range Rover Sport is down 38 percent for the month of July in preparation for the all new Range Rover Sport going on sale in August. Land Rover's 2013 model year line-up features five models: The 240-hp 2.0 liter powered LR2 and Range Rover Evoque; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. For MY14 both the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will come equipped with a choice of supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 or 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. Jaguar For the month of July, the Jaguar XJ was the Jaguar growth leader with 570 units sold, up 35 percent from 421 sales in July 2012. The Jaguar XF was the Jaguar volume leader for July with 589 sales, up 21 percent from 485 units in July 2012. All Wheel Drive models are approximately 40 percent of Jaguar sedan sales for the month. In its second month of retail, the exciting new Jaguar F-TYPE two seat convertible sports car adds sales of 341 units. Year to date, Jaguar sales are 9,411, up 25 percent from 7,517 sales, with both XJ and XF sales increasing on the appeal of new powertrains and All Wheel Drive. At the 2013 New York International Auto Show, Jaguar debuted two new models, the 550-hp Jaguar XJR and Jaguar XKR-S GT, expanding its R performance lineup to six models. For MY13 the transformed Jaguar U.S. lineup includes: Instinctive All Wheel Drive™ – Available on both the XF and XJ Supercharged 340hp V6 engines in the XF and XJ Turbocharged 240hp four cylinder engine available in the XF Eight Speed ZF® Automatic Transmissions on all XF and XJ models Auto Engine Stop/Start on select XF and XJ models Jaguar's 2013 model year line-up features four models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the supercharged 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by the 240-hp 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder, supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, the naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. Jaguar also offers its highest performance models ever, the 2013 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain. The 2014 MY Jaguar F-TYPE convertible comes in three variants, 340-hp F-TYPE, 380-hp F-TYPE S and 495-hp F-TYPE V8 S.

August 01, 2013 Toyota Motor Sales Reports 17 Percent Sales Increase in July 2013 Prius family has best-ever July; Toyota Division pickups increase 15.5 percent TORRANCE, Calif. (August 1, 2013) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported July 2013 sales results of 193,394 units, an increase of 12.6 percent over July 2012 on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. On a raw-volume basis, unadjusted for 25 selling days in July 2013 versus 24 selling days in July 2012, TMS sales increased 17.3 percent from the year-ago month. Toyota Division posted July 2013 sales of 170,363 units, up 11.5 percent year-over-year on a DSR basis. On a raw volume basis, Toyota Division sales were up 16.2 percent over the year-ago month. "Solid industry sales in July point to a stable market indicating a recovering economy,” said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. “Consumer confidence also maintained elevated levels as evidenced by strong retail sales. For Toyota, we saw growth year-over-year with July sales up more than 16.5 percent.” Lexus reported July 2013 sales of 23,031 units, up 21.2 percent on a DSR basis, and up 26.3 percent over last year on a raw volume basis. "The all-new IS is off to a great start in attracting new, younger male customers to the Lexus brand," said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "With new products such as the IS and widespread availability of core models including the ES and RX, we are looking forward to a strong August to set the pace for the rest of the year." Other Highlights: Toyota Division No. 1 retail brand for fourth consecutive month Camry is best-selling car in America with best July since 2010 TMS hybrid sales increase about 37 percent and hold more than 60 percent market share Prius family posts double digit gains for best July ever All-new Avalon posts triple digit gains All-new RAV4 sales up more than 28 percent for sixth consecutive record-setting month Sienna up more than 10 percent, topping 10,000 units Toyota Division pickups increase 15.5 percent Tacoma and Tundra increase 22.3 and 7 percent, respectively All-new Lexus IS posts triple digit gains month-over-month Lexus ES up 62 percent Lexus LS up more than 23 percent RX leads luxury utility vehicle segment with sales of more than 8,400 units

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 1, 2013 Back in 2002, Volkswagen launched its most ambitious vehicle. Dubbed the Phaeton, the vehicle took the place of the brand's flagship and many automotive writers considered it to be one of the best luxury vehicles on sale. However four years later, the Phaeton was pulled from the market due to poor sales. But Volkswagen is mounting a comeback for the next-generation Phaeton. Car and Driver reports that Volkswagen will bring over the next-generation Phaeton sometime in 2016. Previous reports said that the next-gen Phaeton would be shown next year, with some going out on a limb and saying Detroit would be the place. Sources at Volkswagen tell C&D that those reports are false and the new Phaeton would be shown sometime in late 2014 or 2015. The new Phaeton will use the upcoming MLB platform to help keep costs down and come with a turbocharged VR6, a turbo V8, a V6 turbo-diesel and a possible hybrid as powertrains. 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

Aug 1, 2013 , HERNDON, Va. Audi achieves 31st consecutive month of record U.S. sales in July Del Rosso: July sales increased 11.6% for the month, marking a strong start to the second half of the year Audi R8, Q5, Q7 sales jump; premium segment vehicles rose 20% Audi prepares for the launch of five new models in the coming months, including all-new TDI clean diesel vehicles Audi today reported July 2013 sales of 13,064 vehicles, an 11.6% increase over the previous July record set last year. July also stands as the brand’s 31st consecutive month of record sales. Audi sales YTD increased 13.6% to 87,341 vehicles sold. “Audi is off to a solid start for the second half of the year,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “We expect the momentum to continue through the fall with the launch of three new clean diesel models, the Audi A6 TDI, Audi A7 TDI and Audi Q5 TDI, as well as two stunning high-performance vehicles, the Audi RS7 and Audi SQ5.” July results were bolstered by sales of Audi luxury SUVs, with the Audi Q7 posting a 49.0% gain in July with 1,328 units delivered for the month. Sales of the Audi Q5 luxury crossover increased 52.0% to 3,176 vehicles sold for the month. Year-to-date sales for the Audi Q7 increased 48.1% while sales for the Audi Q5 increased 37.4%. Sales of the Audi R8 jumped 34.5% for the month, as customers responded to the improved 2014 models, including the Audi R8 V8, Audi R8 V10 and Audi R8 V10 plus. Audi sedan sales remained strong with the Audi A6 increasing 21.9% over the same period last year to 2,061 vehicles sold for the month. Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A8, Audi A7, Audi A6, and Audi Q7) increased 20% YTD, representing 32.2% of total Audi sales year-to-date and 45% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain. Highlights: Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 13.9% for the S4 sedan; 31.3% for the S5/ RS 5; 8.2% for the S6; 13.2 % for the S7; 16.4 % for the S8; 29.4 % for the TTS / TT RS and TTS Roadster. Sales of Audi A6 increased 21.9% compared to July 2012; YTD sales grew 16.8% compared to previous period. Sales of Audi A8 increased 12.7% compared to July 2012; YTD sales grew 20.4% compared to previous period. Sales of the Audi Q5 increased 52.0% compared to July 2012; YTD sales grew 37.4% compared to previous period. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 49.0% compared to July 2012; YTD sales grew 48.1% compared to previous period. Audi sold 462 allroad models in July, bringing YTD sales to 3,209 of the sport wagon. Audi R8 sales up 34.5% compared to July 2012. Sales mix for Audi A8 TDI finish the month at 15.7%; sales mix for the Audi Q7 TDI finish the month at 24%. 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 3.7% to 3,252 vehicles in July; YTD increased 4.5% to 22,437 vehicles sold.

August 1, 2013 SUBARU REPORTS RECORD-HIGH JULY SALES Company posts best-ever July sales for the Forester, Outback and Impreza models Subaru sales continue to grow at record pace Cherry Hill, N.J. - Subaru of America, Inc. today reported 35,994 vehicle sales for the month of July, a 43 percent increase over July 2012. The company also posted best-ever July sales for the Forester, Outback and Impreza models. Year-to-date sales for Subaru total 240,591 – 27 percent higher than the same period in 2012. July sales for Forester reached 9841, 52 percent higher than July 2012. Outback and Impreza monthly sales also increased 23 percent and 12 percent, respectively, over July 2012. “Subaru sales have been on the rise for the past five years and we are excited to have achieved another record,” said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. “At our current pace, selling 400,000 vehicles in 2013 is certainly within reach,” said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc.

GM’s Retail Sales Increased 23 percent in July Total sales up 16 percent driven by double-digit increases at all four brands 2013-08-01 DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 234,071 vehicles in the United States in July, up 16 percent compared with a year ago. Retail sales increased 23 percent while fleet sales declined 6 percent. “For GM, July was the most well-balanced month of the year from a retail sales standpoint: trucks were hot, but so were small cars and family vehicles,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “Our experience shows that the difference between good sales and great sales in a slow-growth economy is how many new products you have to offer, and we are starting to hit our sweet spot.” July Total Sales Highlights (vs. 2012) GM passenger car sales were up 24 percent year over year, including a 42 percent increase in mini-, small and compact car deliveries. Chevrolet car sales were up 31 percent driven by a record month for the Spark, record July sales for the Cruze and a 38 percent increase for the Impala. Cadillac car sales were up 34 percent on the strength of the new ATS and XTS. Pickup, van and SUV sales were up a combined 16 percent with full-size pickups up 44 percent – the best July since 2007. About 15 percent of full-size pickup sales were all-new 2014 crew cabs. Double-cab models are now being shipped to dealers and regular cab production begins later this summer. Crossover sales were up 6 percent, with the redesigned Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave up 33 percent and 14 percent, respectively. Sales of the all-new Buick Encore increased 39 percent from June 2013. July Retail Sales Highlights (vs. 2012) All four brands posted double-digit retail sales increases and Buick retail sales have now increased for 15 consecutive months. Full-size pickup deliveries were up 51 percent and crossover sales increased 18 percent. Deliveries to small business customers increased 61 percent, including a 107 percent increase in full-size pickup deliveries. Sales of the Chevrolet Malibu increased 31 percent and the Chevrolet Equinox had its best-ever July retail sales with deliveries up 9 percent. GMC Terrain sales were up 24 percent for its best-ever July.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com August 1, 2013 Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 43% Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Up 36% Jaguar Land Rover North America - Up 31% Mazda North American Operations - Up 29.4% Mitsubishi Motors North America - Up 24.7% American Honda Motor Co. - Up 20.9% Mercedes-Benz USA - Up 18.5% Toyota Motor Sales - Up 17.3% General Motors Co. - Up 16.3% Audi of America - Up 11.6% Ford Motor Company - Up 11.4% Chrysler Group LLC - Up 11% Nissan North America - Up 10.9% BMW Group U.S. - Up 10.5% Hyundai Motor America - Up 6.4% Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Up 3.4% Kia Motors America - Up 1.9% Volkswagen of America - Down 3.3% Brands: Jaguar - Up 60% Subaru - Up 43% Porsche - Up 36% Ram - Up 31% Mazda - Up 29.4% Lexus - Up 26.3% Mitsubishi - Up 24.7% Mercedes-Benz - Up 22.5% Land Rover - Up 22% Honda - Up 21.3% Acura - Up 18.1% Dodge - Up 18% Chevrolet - Up 17.1% Nissan - Up 16.8% Cadillac - Up 16.7% Toyota - Up 16.2% GMC - Up 14.1% Buick - Up 13.9% BMW - Up 12.9% Ford - Up 11.9% Audi - Up 11.6% Smart - Up 10.3% Hyundai - Up 6.4%TT Volvo - Up 3.4% Fiat - Up 2% Jeep - Up 2% Kia - Up 1.9% MINI - Up 1.6% Lincoln - Down 0.8% Volkswagen - Down 3.3% Chrysler - Down 4% Sprinter - Down 13.1% Infiniti - Down 33.2% 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

08.01.2013 VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA REPORTS JULY 2013 SALES - Best-ever July and year-to-date results for Passat and TDI® Clean Diesels - Best July and year-to-date for Passat with 10,051 and 66,170, units respectively Jetta Sedan delivered strong results in July with 11, 078 units sold Total Beetle units in July up 85.1 percent with 5,256 units delivered High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 29.9 percent of sales in July and 23.3 percent of sales year-to-date, the best July and year-to-date results on record Passat TDI sales reach 39.8 percent of mix with 3,997 units representing the best July and year-to-date results ever Volkswagen’s July sales total 35,779 units, representing a 3.3 percent decrease versus the prior year Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 35,779 units delivered in July, a 3.3 percent decrease over prior year sales and a 1.3 percent year-to-date decrease versus the prior year. “We continue to see a healthy demand for the Volkswagen brand, despite the fact that we are entering a period of consolidated growth as we phase out 2013 Model Year vehicles,” said Mark McNabb, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “While we remain cautious in terms of the economic outlook, we are confident in the strength of our product offerings, particularly as we gear up for the 2014 Model Year introductions which bring a host of new innovations to the market.” The Chattanooga-built Passat continued to show strong results with 10,051 units delivered an increase of 11.6 percent. The Passat, which celebrated its 40th year of global production in July, continues to demonstrate its strength in the marketplace as it was recently awarded the most appealing Midsize Car in the J.D. Power 2013 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study. This is the second year in a row that the Passat has ranked highest in the hotly contested mid-size sedan segment. Nearly 40 percent of the Passat’s sold in July were TDI® Clean Diesels. Total Jetta deliveries (including SportWagen) for July accounted for 13,388 units. The Jetta Turbo Hybrid continues to attract consumer interest with 417 deliveries in July. Total Beetle deliveries for July were 5,256 units, an 85.1 percent increase versus the prior year. This month, the 1970’s-inspired, limited-edition Beetle GSR will hit dealer showrooms. The Beetle GSR will also feature the EA888 turbocharged and direct-injection 2.0-liter TSI® engine, giving the vehicle more power, more torque and better fuel economy. Total sales of the Golf (including Golf R and GTI) were 2,666 units. The Volkswagen GTI, ranked highest in the Compact Sporty Car segment in the J.D. Power 2013the APEAL Study. The Tiguan and Touareg sold 2,270 and 603 units respectively. Volkswagen’s high-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 29.9 percent of sales in July, and 23.3 percent year-to-date, the best July and year-to-date results ever.