William Maley

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com June 4, 2013 The clock appears to be running out for the Acura TSX. The compact sport sedan and wagon is already being squeezed by the slightly smaller ILX sedan and marginally larger TL and now comes word that a next-generation model might not happen. According to Automotive News, the future of the TSX is in peril due to future product plans. A source says the next-generation TL, due out in 2014, will become smaller to provide breathing room between it and the RLX. However, that could mean the next TL is right in line with the TSX. Another problem for the TSX deals with Europe. The TSX is actually the European Honda Accord. Last year, Autocar reported that a next-generation Accord might not happen due to poor sales. This could mean no more TSX. Acura has told its dealers that a 2014 version of the TSX will arrive this September. After this, it's anyone's guess. 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 June 4, 2013 The Cadillac ATS was conceived to beat the Germans at the compact luxury sedan game. Now it appears that Cadillac is upping its game by taking on high performance models with the ATS-V. A spy photographer caught what appears to be an ATS-V mule playing around with the benchmark of the class, the BMW M3. Judging from the shots, we can make out a more aggressive front fascia, flared fenders, quad exhausts, and larger brakes. As for power, that's anyone guess at the moment. It could be the new TwinTurbo 3.6L V6 that will be appearing in the 2014 CTS and XTS, or a V8 engine. Source: Automotbile Magazine 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

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA SETS ALL-TIME MAY SALES RECORD WITH FASTEST DAILY-SELLING RATE EVER, SECOND BEST SALES MONTH EVER Hot-selling Sonata tops 20,000 sales, Elantra tops 25,000 for an all-time record sales total for the Alabama-built duo Sales velocity high as inventories remain tight Assurance Connected Care connecting with customers COSTA MESA, Calif., June 3, 2013 – Hyundai Motor America today announced sales of 68,358 units, up two percent versus the same period in 2012 and up about eight percent over a very strong April. It was the company’s second-best sales month of all-time, second only to March 2012, and the fastest daily-selling rate ever. “May was a high-velocity sales month for us, with the post-Memorial Day frenzy leaving us well positioned for the summer selling season. An across-the-board strengthening of key economic indicators and our strong Assurance Connected Care message drove prospective customers to our showrooms in droves to check out the strongest lineup of cars and CUVs in our history,” said Dave Zuchowski, executive vice president of national sales. “Our core products – Elantra, Sonata and Santa Fe – all performed exceptionally well. We’re selling each of these three U.S-built products as fast as we can build them.” Elantra sales at 25,090 units were up 33 percent over last May and up 30 percent year-to-date, representing the shift in U.S. production mix to meet surging Elantra demand. Sonata sales remain strong, with demand constrained only by production mix in Alabama. Both Elantra and Sonata are selling at sales velocities significantly higher than their competitors, with incentive levels and fleet mixes significantly lower than competitors. The all-new Santa Fe continues its capacity-constrained torrid selling rate, exceeding the 7,000 unit mark, up 21 percent on a year-to-date basis and in short supply across the country. Demand for the Equus, the industry’s highest customer satisfaction model (according to J.D. Power’s 2013 Customer Satisfaction Index) and Genesis models remains exceptionally strong, with inventory levels low as changeover to 2014 models is underway. This had a significant impact on Genesis and Equus sales in May. “Our plants continue to work at maximum capacity to meet record demand levels across our lineup,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America. “Elantra and Sonata remain extremely hot sellers for us, with that duo exceeding 45,000 combined sales for the first time ever. Our new complimentary Assurance Connected Care telematics program is clearly resonating with customers, with record website traffic and signup activity for all of our telematics services. And our premium customers have a lot to look forward to as the updated 2014 Equus will be arriving in dealerships later this month, joining the high-performance Genesis for a strong one-two punch at the top of our lineup.” In mid-May, Hyundai announced Assurance Connected Care, an innovative suite of consumer-focused programs featuring unsurpassed connected-car solutions and enabling remote car control features. Three years of Assurance Connected Care are now standard on all Blue Link-equipped vehicles. Fleet mix registered about 18 percent for the month, among the lowest in the industry. Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales were 6,696 a May record, up 17 percent over May 2012. Hyundai continues to have one of the lowest fleet mixes and lowest incentive spending levels in the industry. These two factors, along with strong CPO sales, have driven Hyundai residual values to be among the very best in the industry according to ALG.

KIA MOTORS AMERICA ANNOUNCES RECORD MAY SALES National Marketing Launch of the All-New 2014 Cadenza1 Begins This Month IRVINE, Calif., June 3, 2013 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported best-ever May sales of 52,327 units as 2014 Cadenza and Forte sedans – two of the seven all-new or significantly redesigned Kia vehicles scheduled to launch this calendar year – continue to arrive in showrooms nationwide to both critical and consumer acclaim. The U.S.-built* Optima midsize sedan led Kia’s sales for the 18th consecutive month with 15,368 units sold, and together with Sorento CUV, also built in West Point, Georgia*, accounted for more than 40 percent of Kia’s May sales. The Soul urban passenger vehicle also recorded robust monthly sales of 11,420 units. “At Kia, we are committed to advancing value to new levels of sophistication, and you can see the standout results in the all-new Cadenza, which is the most powerful and technologically-advanced Kia ever in the U.S. market, as well as the 2014 Forte which Motor Trend recently crowned the winner of a head-to-head compact sedan comparison test with some of the industry’s most well-known nameplates,” said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. “New customers continue to discover the Kia brand and our award-winning lineup which delivers a lot for the money with European-influenced styling, cutting-edge technologies, premium amenities and outstanding safety features.”

June 03, 2013 Toyota Motor Sales No. 1 Retail Manufacturer in May 2013 TMS Remains Hybrid Leader with Double-Digit Gains; Lexus Luxury Sedans Up Nearly 30 Percent TORRANCE, Calif. (June 3, 2013) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported May 2013 sales results of 207,952 units, an increase of 2.5 percent over May 2012 on both a volume and daily selling rate (DSR) basis. Toyota Division posted May 2013 sales of 185,723 units, up 2.3 percent year-over-year on both a volume and DSR basis. "New vehicle sales are heating up along with the weather, and solid May results coupled with an excellent Memorial Day weekend provide great momentum as we move into the summer selling season," said Bill Fay, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. "The five-year high in consumer confidence translated into especially strong retail sales and as the industry leader last month, we're well-positioned to provide the vehicles customers want." Lexus reported May 2013 sales of 22,229 units, up 3.6 percent on both a volume and DSR basis compared to the same period last year. “Luxury vehicle sales are benefitting from the rise in consumer confidence,” said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. “The ES and LS are two of the hottest models in the luxury industry with sales doubling in May, and we expect this momentum to carry through the summer months.” Other Highlights: TMS retail sales up 7.5 percent TMS hybrids increased 16.7 percent Toyota Division No. 1 retail brand for third consecutive month Camry is best-selling car in America, with sales of 39,216 units Prius family records best month in a year, increasing nearly 10 percent All-new Avalon increased more than 260 percent, with sales of 7,099 units All-new RAV4 posted best-ever May sales of 20,780 units, up 8 percent Tacoma continued to lead segment with sales of 14,727 units, up 20 percent Tundra recorded sales of 9,950 units, up 13.5 percent Scion FR-S led Scion Division with sales of 1,937 units Lexus LS increased 117 percent, with sales of 996 units Lexus ES reported sales of 5,890 units, up 100.5 percent

Volvo Announces May Sales S60 Sports Sedan Sets New Monthly Sales Record ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (June 3, 2013) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 6,329 units, a 1.3 percent increase from May 2012. Year-to-date sales are down 5.9 percent over the first five months of 2012. The S60 sports sedan set a new monthly sales record with 2,739 units sold, the highest monthly volume since the new S60 began selling in 2010, and up 28.9 percent versus May 2012. The XC60 finished the month right behind with 1,915 units sold, the second best month on record for the crossover.

Mitsubishi Motors Reports 79 Percent Increase For Outlander Sport Sales In May CYPRESS, Calif., June 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported the U.S.-built Outlander Sport achieved a year-over-year sales increase of more than 79 percent in May. The 2,226 units sold is the second-highest-ever total of Outlander Sport sales in a month and marks the ninth consecutive month of sales increases for the fuel-efficient CUV. Outlander Sport sales are up more than 48 percent year to date. "Outlander Sport continues to lead an increase in traffic to our dealer showrooms," said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa . "This attractively priced CUV is appealing to many customers looking for a crossover with high fuel-efficiency and outstanding safety features." Outlander Sport recently received a "Top Safety Pick PLUS" designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Outlander Sport was one of only two vehicles in the Small SUV category to receive IIHS' new and highest accolade for vehicles that offer superior crash protection and meet new, tougher crash safety standards. "We will carry this positive momentum through the summer selling season with increased network television advertising and the introduction of our all-new 2014 Outlander," Yokozawa added. Lancer sales were also up, more than 15 percent for the month compared to the prior year and more than 43 percent year to date. Sales of Mitsubishi models currently in production were up more than 31 percent compared to May 2012. However due to discontinued models, total overall Mitsubishi sales were down 15 percent.

Mercedes-Benz Adds Fifth Month To 2013 Record Sales Streak With May Totals At 24,713 Units MBUSA sees 9.8% jump as volumes for the year reach 128,730 MONTVALE, N.J., June 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported another month of record highs with sales reaching 27,359, an 8.3% increase over May 2012. Sales volumes at Mercedes-Benz jumped 9.8% last month (24,713), bringing year-to-date totals for the brand to a record high of 117,535. Sprinter Van year-to-date sales increased 5.3% from the same time last year to 7,517, combining with steady momentum from smart at 3,678 to round out MBUSA's year-to-date totals of 128,730. "We've seen five consecutive months of best-ever sales in 2013," said Steve Cannon , president and CEO of MBUSA. "Strong momentum carries across the entire product line from our entry models straight up to the high end, which is ahead 24 percent for the year. We expect to build on that pace as more of our completely redesigned E-Class models roll into dealer showrooms." The highest Mercedes-Benz volume performers for May were the C-, E- and M-Class model lines. The C-Class—the sporty gateway to the brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers—led sales at 8,013 units, up 20.5% from May 2012. Sales of the E-Class, which receives a complete redesign for 2014 and is now arriving in dealerships, followed at 4,930. MBUSA's top-selling SUV, the M-Class, rounded out the top three with sales of 3,219. Strong performers at the high end included the company's flagship S-Class, up 16.4%, and the award winning GL-Class SUV which increased 41.0% over the same period last year. The Sprinter model line posted sales of 1,828 for the month, while smart saw a 16.4% boost in sales volume totaling 818 units. Sales of the company's BlueTEC diesel models were 1,503 for the month, up 47.5% from the same period last year. On the high-performance side, AMG model sales finished the month of May at 536. Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 8,113 vehicles in May; an increase of 24.2% when compared to May 2012 (sales of 6,534 vehicles). On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 41,231 vehicles, an increase of 25.6% over the comparable period (with sales of 32,826 vehicles).

JAGUAR LAND ROVER REPORTS U.S. SALES FOR MAY 2013 Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 11 percent for May 2013: best May sales since 2007 Jaguar U.S. sales increase 33 percent: highest monthly increase of the year for the brand Jaguar XF Sedan grows 33 percent on power of All Wheel Drive and new powertrains Jaguar F-TYPE deliveries begin Land Rover U.S. sales increase 3 percent for May 2013: hits all time U.S. YTD high for the brand All new Range Rover sales increase 33 percent for May, 2013 (MAHWAH, NJ) - June 3, 2013 – Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported May 2013 U.S. sales: Land Rover sales were 3,554 units, 3 percent up from 3,438 units in May 2012; Jaguar sales were 1,435 units, 33 percent up from 1,075 units in May 2012. Jaguar Land Rover North America May U.S. sales for both brands hit 4,989 units, an 11 percent increase from 4,513 in May 2012. Year to date through May, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 12 percent with Jaguar up 13 percent and Land Rover up 12 percent. For Land Rover, 2013 YTD sales of 19,516 are the highest first five months in the history of the brand in the United States. "Jaguar Land Rover had its best May sales in the U.S. since 2007 and Jaguar its best month this year,” said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. “Both brands are benefitting from the excitement of new product launches with the Jaguar XF sedan and Range Rover SUV leading the way.” U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS Land Rover For the month of May, the new Range Rover increased sales 33 percent to 954 units, up from 715 units in May, 2012. The volume leader continues to be the Range Rover Sport with 1,105 sales, a decrease of 8 percent from 1,197 sales in May 2012. Year to date, the Range Rover Sport is up 6 percent. The all new Range Rover Sport goes on sale this fall. Range Rover Evoque continued to grow, with an increase of 6 percent to 751 units from 706 units in May, 2012. Year to date, the Range Rover Evoque is up 26 percent from 2012. For Land Rover, 2013 YTD sales of 19,516 are the highest first five months in the history of the brand in the United States. The previous high had been 2006 at 19,106 units. 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 The Jaguar brand’s increase of 33 percent in May was the brand’s highest percentage increase this year. The Jaguar XF continues to be the volume and growth leader with 630 units sold, up 33 percent from 475 sales in May 2012. The Jaguar XJ was up 7 percent to 527 units from 494 units in May, 2012. In the month of May, 45 percent of Jaguar XJ and XF sedans sold were equipped with All Wheel Drive. At the end of the month deliveries of the new Jaguar F-TYPE two seat convertible sports car began adding 159 units. Year to date, Jaguar sales are 6,161, up 13 percent from 5,476 sales. 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.

Award-Winning Accord and Record-Setting Light Truck Sales Fuel Hot Honda May; Acura RDX Sets All-Time Monthly Sales Record Honda Division sales up 5.2 percent 06/03/2013 - TORRANCE, Calif. American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today reported May 2013 U.S. sales of 140,013 units, a total increase of 4.5 percent compared with May 2012 (up 4.5 percent based on the Daily Selling Rate, or DSR*). The Honda brand posted May 2013 sales of 125,649 units, an increase of 5.2 percent compared with May 2012. Acura brand U.S. May sales of 14,364 units decreased 1.5 percent compared with May 2012. Honda Honda light trucks post a May sales record led by record sales of CR-V (up 8.4 percent) and strong gains by Pilot (up 11.3 percent) and Odyssey (up 15.0 percent) Critically acclaimed Honda Accord maintains incredible sales momentum, up 11.7 percent with 33,218 units; Honda Fit posts a double-digit sales gain, up 20.3 percent on sales of 4,667 Honda Civic continues strong retail sales with 30,268 units in May "Looks like American families are preparing for summer road trips as our family-friendly light truck lineup posted the best May sales in Honda history," said John Mendel, executive vice president of Sales at American Honda. "Virtually every Honda vehicle we sold in May represents a purchase by an individual customer, which means Accord, Civic, CR-V and Odyssey will maintain their industry-leading retail sales performance in 2013." Acura RDX sets an all-time monthly sales record and its 13th consecutive monthly sales record, up 49.3 percent from last May; is the top-selling Acura model in May with sales of 4,930 units The all-new luxury flagship RLX sedan, which went on sale in March, continues to gain momentum with sales of 273 units "With the RDX setting its 13th consecutive monthly sales record we are very excited to be introducing the all-new 2014 MDX in a few weeks, which will once again give Acura hands down the best luxury light-truck lineup in America," said Jeff Conrad, vice president and general manager of Acura Sales. *The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 26 days for May 2013 and 26 days for May 2012. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 127 days for 2013 and 127 days for 2012. All other percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.

BMW Group U.S. Reports May 2013 Sales BMW brand sales up 13.8 percent MINI brand sales down 3.4 percent Woodcliff Lake, NJ - June 3, 2013… The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported May sales of 31,174 vehicles, an increase of 10.1 percent from the 28,321 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, the BMW Group (BMW and MINI combined) is up 6.3 percent on sales of 139,142 in the first five months of 2013 compared to 130,843 in the same period in 2012. “May usually gives us a strong boost as we head into summer and it did so again this year with the newly introduced 320i bringing significant numbers of entirely new customers to the brand,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. “All the indicators from our dealers confirm that consumer confidence is increasing and we expect more successful months ahead.” BMW Brand Sales Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 13.8 percent in May for a total of 25,230 compared to 22,168 vehicles sold in May, 2012. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 8.2 percent on sales of 113,357 compared to 104,779 sold in the first five months of 2012. In May, best performing vehicles included the 3 Series, up 47.2 percent to 9,307 units; the Z4 Roadster, up 19 percent to 338 units; the 6 Series, up 26.1 percent to 914 units; and the X6 SAV, up 18.4 percent to 887 units. MINI Brand Sales MINI USA reported sales of 5,944 automobiles in May, a decrease of 3.4 percent from the 6,153 sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, MINI sales in the U.S. are down 1.1 percent on volume of 25,785 compared to 26,064 in the first five months of 2012.

Porsche Reports Best May Sales Month in History - up 38 Percent over 2012 PCNA delivers 3,928 vehicles in May ATLANTA, June 3, 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 May 2013 sales of 3,928 vehicles. This is the best May sales month – and second best month ever – in PCNA history and compares to 2,852 vehicles sold in May 2012, an increase of 38 percent. For the year, PCNA has delivered 17,609 vehicles in the U.S., up 31 percent over last year's all-time record sales year. The Cayenne continues to be the top-seller, with 1,765 vehicles sold in May – a 50 percent increase over 2012. The latest versions of the Cayenne – the GTS, Diesel and Turbo S models – led the way. Also hot in May were the recently-introduced Boxster and Cayman models, both of which were up significantly over last year. The 911 line also sold well, with 895 models retailed, up two percent over a record-setting 2012. The 911 is up 13 percent for the year. "Our two-door sports cars are still the heart and soul of the Porsche brand and of our entire model range," said Detlev von Platen, president and CEO, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. "The Boxster, Cayman and 911 accounted for 45 percent of all new-car sales in May. We're pleased with this healthy sales mix and are pushing for another strong sales year." Panamera inventory is very low, as Porsche prepares to launch an updated 2014 model this fall.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com June 3, 2013 Porsche's new small crossover, the Macan has a possible reveal location. According to Auto Express, Porsche will unveil the Macan at the 2013 LA Auto Show. A source tells the magazine that the new Macan will use the MLB platform that underpins the Audi Q5, albeit with more aluminum. Also, the source says the new Macan will exclusively come with four-wheel drive from launch. The new Macan is expected to start arriving at dealers sometime next spring. Source: Auto Express 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

MAZDA SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY VEHICLES LEAD THE WAY TO RECORD MONTH - Best May Sales Since 2008 - IRVINE, Calif., June 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported May U.S. sales of 24,270 vehicles, representing an increase of 19.2 percent versus last year. Key May sales notes: SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY performed very well in Mazda's best month of May sales since 2008, accounting for 73.6 percent (17,875 vehicles) of total sales (24,270 vehicles) for the month. Vehicles equipped with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY include certain models of Mazda3, CX-5 and the all-new 2014 Mazda6. Mazda3 sales rebounded nicely after being down last month. Posting a sales gain of 5.4 percent (8,935 vehicles), YOY, Mazda3 continues to be a sales leader. CX-5 had its best month of sales ever with 7,128 vehicles sold accounting for a 79.4 percent increase YOY. The all-new 2014 Mazda6 has continues to gain sales every month since its launch in January. Mazda6 saw its best month of May sales since 2008 with 3,944 vehicles sold representing an increase of 71.9 percent YOY. As summer heats up, the Mazda MX-5 had its best month of sales since April 2012 with 672 vehicles sold. Mazda CX-9 experienced its best month of May sales since 2010 with 1,972 vehicles sold and an increase of 14.4 percent YOY. Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported May sales of 2,885 vehicles, up 35.0 percent versus May of last year.

Subaru May Sales Are Best In Company History May sales of 39,892 shatter previous monthly records Forester monthly sales increased 38 percent over May 2012 Subaru year-to-date sales are up 21 percent CHERRY HILL, N.J., June 3, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported historic-high vehicle sales of 39,892 for May 2013, shattering previous monthly sales records. May 2013 sales represent a 34 percent increase over May 2012 and the best sales month in company history. Year-to-date sales for Subaru total 165,362 – a 21 percent increase over the same period in 2012. May sales for the all-new 2014 Forester increased 38 percent over May 2012 sales. The 2014 Forester was recently named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Forester is the first vehicle to ace every aspect of the challenging small overlap front crash test conducted by the IIHS. Forester is also the only small SUV to earn an overall rating of "good" in the test. Outback sales increased 34 percent in May, with a 10 percent year-to-date increase over 2012. XV Crosstrek sales reached 5,295 for the month of May, a record high for the world's most fuel efficient all-wheel drive crossover. Subaru announced that a hybrid version of the popular XV Crosstrek will go on sale later this year. "Subaru continues to receive great accolades from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the automotive press which is increasing the positive image and awareness of our products among the American buying public," said Thomas J. Doll , president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "The strength of our product and increased brand awareness are driving the demand for our vehicles to record levels."

06.03.2013 VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA REPORTS MAY SALES - Company reports best ever May results for Passat, Jetta and TDI® Clean Diesels - May sales total 38,013 units, representing a 1.7 percent decrease versus the prior year Chattanooga-built Passat delivered 10,267 units for the month, up 0.9 percent versus last year, and its best May and TDI® Clean Diesel results ever Total Jetta deliveries were 15,910 units, up 4.8 percent versus last year and its best May ever Total Beetle deliveries accounted for 3,718 units, up 23.9 percent year-over-year Tiguan sales totaled 2,635 units in May, a 6.5 percent increase versus the prior year High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 22.3 percent of sales in May and 21.7 percent of sales year-to-date, the best year-to-date on record Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 38,013 units delivered in May, a 1.7 percent decrease over prior year sales. “We saw an uptick in our consumer traffic and closing rates this month which allowed us to set new records for Jetta and Passat,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO Volkswagen Group of America. “In a month in which the industry saw strong growth in the pick up truck segments, an area in which we do not compete, we are pleased to see healthy consumer demand for our passenger cars, especially the growing demand for our TDI Clean Diesels and Hybrid line up.” The Chattanooga-built Passat continued to deliver strong results with 10,267 units delivered. Citing, “Proof that German Engineering is worth every penny,” Consumer Digest awarded the 2013 Passat a Best Buy award. In May, the team in Chattanooga reached a new milestone when they produced the 250,000th Passat. Over 31 percent of the Passat’s sold in May were TDI® Clean Diesels. Total Jetta deliveries for May accounted for 15,910 units, up 4.8 percent over last year. The Jetta Turbo Hybrid continues to gain momentum with 473 deliveries in May and was recently named a “Top Ten Green Car” by Kelly Blue Book. Total Beetle deliveries for May were 3,718 units, a 23.9 percent increase versus the prior year. The Beetle R-Line® Coupe arrived in showrooms in early May, with a 210-horsepower turbocharged engine, an increase of 10 horsepower over the current Beetle Turbo with improvements in fuel economy. The Tiguan saw a significant increase in sales with 2,635 units delivered, up 6.5 percent over prior year sales. Total sales of the Golf (including Golf R and GTI) were 3,052 units. Volkswagen’s high-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 22.3 percent of sales in May, and 21.7 percent for the year, the best May and year-to-date results ever. Volkswagen’s TDI® Clean Diesel powertrains, along with hybrid and other advanced fuel-saving technologies, are part of Volkswagen’s Think Blue initiative. Think Blue is tied to Volkswagen’s efforts to promote sustainable mobility and to drive education and behaviors to support our planet. In May, Volkswagen announced significant investments to further promote its Think Blue philosophy, including a $10 million commitment to the Trust for the National Mall, launching a new partnership with the Surfrider Foundation, and joining USA Cycling in Chattanooga for the Professional Road and Time Trial Championships.

Jun 3, 2013 , HERNDON, Va. Audi sets record May U.S. sales; third-best month record in company history Audi sold 13,228 vehicles in May, up 15%; YTD sales also up 15% Sales momentum continues across the product lineup as demand continues at an all-time high Audi CPO sales also sets new May record Audi today reported May 2013 sales of 13,228 vehicles, a 15% increase over the previous May record set last year. Showing no signs of slowing in the U.S market, Audi May sales stand as the 29th consecutive monthly record for the brand. The Audi A5 posted strong year-over-year sales gains, demonstrating an enduring appeal of Audi core models. Sales of the Audi A5 increased 48% for the month and 20% YTD. The Audi Q5 luxury crossover posted a 45% gain in May to finish with the second-best sales total ever with 3,380 units delivered in the month. The strength of Q5 demand is a positive sign as the brand prepares to launch the 2014 Q5 TDI and the performance-oriented 2014 SQ5 models. Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A8, Audi A7, Audi A6, and Audi Q7) increased 20% YTD, and represent 32% of total Audi sales year-to-date, and 40% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain. Demand for the Audi Q7 jumped 38% to 1,269 vehicles sold for the month. “America is responding to the Audi brand; our dealers just can’t get enough cars to fill market demand,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “Our sales momentum is playing out across the country and across our product lineup.” Audi sales momentum is expected to continue through the year as the Summer of Audi sales program begins in earnest this month, as allocations from the factory increase, and as the next-generation AudiUSA.com brand site generates better connections between customers and dealers. Highlights: Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 17 % for the S4 sedan; 38% for the S5/ RS 5 Coupe; 26% for the S5/ RS 5 Cabriolet; 12% for the S6; 14% for the S7; 18% for the S8; 47% for the TTS / TT RS coupe and 38% for the TTS Roadster. Audi A5 sales up 48% compared to May 2012; YTD sales grew 20% compared to previous period. Sales of Audi A6 increased 4% compared to May 2012; YTD sales grew 18% compared to previous period. Sales of the Audi A8 increased 12% compared to May 2012; YTD sales grew 29% compared to previous period. Sales of the Audi Q5 increased 45% compared to May 2012; YTD sales grew 38% compared to previous period. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 38% compared to May 2012; YTD sales grew 42% compared to previous period. Audi sold 413 allroad models in May, bringing YTD sales to 2,171 of the sport wagon. Sales mix for Audi TDI clean diesel models finish the month at 13% for the A3 TDI, 11% for the A8 TDI and 26% for the Q7 TDI. A3 sales in May 2013 were down substantially as the brand prepares for the arrival of the all-new A3 sedan in early 2014. For the record-setting month of May 2013, four Audi models recorded year-over-year sales increases of 20% or more, including the Audi A5, allroad, Q5, and Q7. Audi Certified pre-owned sales increased 4% to 3,475 vehicles in May; YTD increased 5% to 15,786 vehicles sold.

Nissan Sales Up 24.7% on Record May U.S. Sales Gains by all-new Altima, Pathfinder and Sentra drive Nissan brand to best-ever May NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Strong gains by top-selling Nissan models such as Altima, Pathfinder, Sentra and Rogue helped Nissan North America set a new May U.S. sales record with 114,457 deliveries, an increase of 24.7 percent over May 2012. The Nissan division also set a new May record, with 106,558 sales, up 31.2 percent over last year. Infiniti sales in May totaled 7,899, led by the best-ever month for the JX crossover. Jose Munoz, senior vice president for Sales and Marketing, Nissan Americas said: “We are in the midst of launching five all-new, top-selling Nissan models in 15 months, and the effort is paying off. Altima, Pathfinder and Sentra, the first three of these launches, are up a combined 64.6 percent in May, which shows that our new products are hitting the sweet spot of delivering the innovation, style and value that buyers want.” Nissan Highlights Nissan Division sales were up 31.2 percent, setting a new May record with 106,558 deliveries. Nissan division recorded 81,202 sales in May 2012. Sales of the all-electric Nissan LEAF finished May at 2,138, up 319.2 percent over last year and marking the second-best month ever for LEAF. Since the March launch of the 2013 LEAF, with vehicle and battery assembly in Smyrna, Tenn., Nissan has sold 6,311 LEAF vehicles, up 332.6 percent over the same period in 2012. Nissan Pathfinder sales finished May at 9,340, up 292.9 percent over the prior year and marking its best-ever May. Pathfinder deliveries have increased 202 percent so far in 2013, thanks to the all-new model, which debuted in late 2012. Altima sales in May totaled 31,940, up 40.8 percent over the previous year. The all-new Nissan Sentra, which debuted in late 2012, saw sales increase 64.5 percent in May to 12,504. Nissan Rogue had its best-ever month with 17,333 deliveries, an increase of 44.7 percent. Infiniti Highlights Infiniti sales in May totaled 7,899, down 25.4 percent from last May. Infiniti JX, which posted 2,952 sales in May, had its best month since it went on sale in March 2012. Sales of the 7-passenger luxury crossover increased 10.2 percent for the month, and are up 134.8 percent so far in 2013.

William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com June 3, 2013 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Up 38.0% Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 34.2% Nissan North America - Up 24.7% Mazda North American Operations - Up 19.2% Audi of America - Up 15.0% Ford Motor Company - Up 14.0% Chrysler Group LLC - Up 11.0% Jaguar Land Rover North America - Up 11.0% BMW Group U.S. - Up 10.1% Mercedes-Benz USA - Up 8.3% American Honda Motor Co. - Up 4.5% General Motors Co. - Up 3.1% Toyota Motor Sales - Up 2.5% Hyundai Motor America - Up 2.0% Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Up 1.3% Kia Motors America - Up 1.1% Volkswagen of America - Down 1.7% Mitsubishi Motors North America - Down 15.0% Brands: Cadillac - Up 39.9% Porsche - Up 38.0% Subaru - Up 34.2% Jaguar - Up 33.0% Nissan - Up 31.2% Dodge - Up 24.0% Ram - Up 23.0% Mazda - Up 19.2% Smart - Up 16.4% Audi - Up 15.0% Ford - Up 14.5% BMW - Up 13.8% Mercedes-Benz - Up 9.8% GMC - Up 7.0% Honda - Up 5.2% Lexus - Up 3.6% Land Rover - Up 3.0% Toyota - Up 2.3% Hyundai - Up 2.0% Volvo - Up 1.3% Kia - Up 1.1% Fiat - Up 1.0% Jeep - Up 1.0% Chevrolet - Up 0.9% Lincoln - Up 0.4% Acura - Down 1.5% Volkswagen - Down 1.7% Chrysler - Down 2.0% Buick - Down 3.1% MINI - Down 3.4% Sprinter - Down 10.4% Mitsubishi - Down 15.0% Infiniti - Down 25.4% 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

Ford Motor Company U.S. Sales Up 14 Percent; Ford Fusion, Escape and New Lincoln MKZ Continue Record-Setting Pace Ford Motor Company’s May U.S. sales up 14 percent compared with a year ago; best May sales since 2006 with retail sales up 17 percent Escape delivers best month ever – sales up 26 percent year over year; Fusion sales up 10 percent – Fusion’s best-ever May; both achieve monthly sales records for four straight months F-Series, America’s best-selling pickup for 36 years, posts a 31 percent increase – best May sales since 2005 and first time F-Series breaks the 70,000 mark since March 2007 Lincoln MKZ delivers its best-ever May sales performance Ford announces 2013 third-quarter production of 740,000 vehicles, up 10 percent from the prior year DEARBORN, Mich., June 3, 2013 – Ford Motor Company’s U.S. sales grew 14 percent in May, with cars up 9 percent, utilities up 15 percent and trucks up 18 percent. Retail sales increased 17 percent, marking the best May retail sales results since 2005. “Our fuel-efficient Fusion and Escape have set monthly sales records for four straight months,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “F-Series sales – fueled by construction growth and pent-up demand – reached their highest level in more than six years.” Fusion posted its best-ever May sales of 29,553 vehicles – with its strongest areas of sales growth in the western and southeastern areas of the U.S. The fuel-efficient Escape small utility posted its best-ever sales month since being introduced 13 years ago – a 26 percent increase with 29,123 vehicles sold last month. America’s best-selling pickup, the F-Series had its strongest May sales result since 2005. F-Series’ 71,604 sales in May represented a 31 percent increase versus last year and its 22nd straight monthly sales increase. In May, Lincoln MKZ sales increased 42 percent versus last year. This represents MKZ’s best-ever May sales, building on MKZ’s best-ever sales month in April. In addition, Ford announces its 2013 third-quarter North American production. The company plans to build 740,000 vehicles in the third quarter, up 10 percent from the 673,000 vehicles produced in the third quarter of 2012. The third quarter plan includes the company’s recent announcement to add 40,000 vehicles from a reduced July summer shutdown and the addition of 200,000 units of annualized straight-time capacity starting in the fall of this year. Second quarter production of 800,000 vehicles is unchanged from previous guidance.

Chrysler Group LLC Reports May 2013 U.S. Sales Increased 11 Percent; Best May Sales in Six Years Best May sales since 2007 38th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains Eight Chrysler Group vehicles set sales records in May; Jeep® Wrangler and Jeep Compass record their best monthly sales ever Ram Truck brand sales up 24 percent; largest percentage sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand in May Dodge Dart, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Town & Country and Chrysler 200 Convertible are segment award winners in Strategic Vision’s “Total Quality” awards FIAT brand reaches new milestone in May as North American sales surpass 100,000 units since its reintroduction in 2011 June 3, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 166,596 units, an 11 percent increase compared with sales in May 2012 (150,041 units), and the group’s best May sales since 2007. The Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in May compared with the same month a year ago. The Ram Truck brand’s 24 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand in May. Chrysler Group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 38-consecutive months in May. “Our best May sales in six years enabled us to extend our sales streak to 38-consecutive months of year-over-year sales gains,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “We continue to see strong retail sales throughout our product lineup as eight Chrysler Group vehicles set sales records in May, including best sales ever by the Jeep Wrangler and Compass.” The Jeep Compass’ 42 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Jeep brand vehicle in the month. Sales of the flagship Jeep Grand Cherokee were up 21 percent in May compared with the same month a year ago, its best May sales in eight years. All Jeep brand vehicles in production recorded year-over-year sales gains in May. Eight Chrysler Group vehicles set sales records in the month of May. The Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Compass SUVs each recorded their best sales ever. In addition, the Dodge Avenger and Dodge Challenger, the Fiat 500, the Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan, and the Ram pickup truck were among the Chrysler Group vehicles that registered their best sales for the month of May. Chrysler Group finished the month with a 62-days supply of inventory (398,869 units). U.S. industry sales figures for May are projected at an estimated 15.5 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR). May 2013 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand Ram Truck Brand Ram Truck brand sales were up 24 percent, the brand’s best May sales since 2007. The Ram pickup truck set a sales record for the month of May with its 22 percent increase. It was the Ram pickup truck’s 37th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Ram 1500 was named in May as a 2013 All-Star by Automobile Magazine for the third time in the past four years. For 2013, the new Ram 1500 offers buyers best-in-class 25 MPG Highway fuel efficiency, new technology and new features without sacrificing capability. In addition, the Ram 1500 4x4 was named “Best All-Weather Pickup Truck” by the New England Motor Press Association (NEMPA) in May. The Ram Cargo Van set a sales record for the month of May, the vehicle’s best sales month so far this year. Dodge Brand Dodge brand sales were up 23 percent in May, the brand’s best May sales since 2007 and its 24th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Dodge brand sales gain was led by the Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan and the Dodge Challenger, each setting a sales record for the month of May. Sales of the Dodge Journey mid-size crossover were up 15 percent, its best May sales since 2008, while Dodge Durango full-size SUV sales were up 24 percent, the largest percentage increase of any Dodge brand model in the month. Dodge Dart sales were down 8 percent month-over-month in May, following five months of gains. The Dodge Grand Caravan had its best sales month this year and its best May sales since 2008. The Dart and the Durango earned “Best of 2013 Total Quality™” honors in Strategic Vision’s annual Total Quality Index™ (TQI). The Dart and Durango ranked highest in their segments based on responses from owners of 2013 model-year vehicles in Strategic Vision’s quantitative study of 17,568 owners. Strategic Vision measures “Total Quality” by studying more than 440 variables that encompass positive and negative experiences, including reliability, driving excitement, emotional attachment, and overall sales and service satisfaction. FIAT Brand The Fiat 500 set a sales record for the month of May with its 1 percent increase. It was the vehicle’s 15th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best sales month so far this year. In addition, the FIAT brand reached a new milestone in May as it surpassed 100,000 units sold in North America since its reintroduction in 2011. The FIAT brand’s product lineup expands this month as the all-new 2014 Fiat 500L begins arriving in FIAT studios across the country with a starting price of $19,100 and four value-loaded models. The 500L expands the appeal of the iconic 500, with two more doors, accommodations for five passengers, best-in-class interior volume (120.1 cu. ft.) and advanced European technology. Also coming this summer to the state of California is the all-new 2013 Fiat 500e electric vehicle. The 500e will be offered to California residents at launch with a $199 a month/$999 due at signing lease for 36 months, same as the current lease offer on a Fiat 500 Pop powered by a gas engine. Jeep® Brand Jeep brand sales were up 1 percent in May, the brand’s best May sales since 2000 and its best sales month so far this year. All Jeep brand models in production recorded sales gains in May compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Compass each recorded their best sales ever. Wrangler sales (16,272 units) were up 13 percent, shattering the sales record the vehicle set in June 2012. Sales of the Compass compact SUV were up 42 percent in May, the largest year-over-year percentage gain of any Jeep model in May. The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s 21 percent increase represented its best May sales since 2005, while the Jeep Patriot’s 13 percent gain marked its best May sales since 2008. The Jeep Grand Cherokee was named the “Official Winter Vehicle of New England” for an unprecedented third-consecutive year by NEMPA in May. Chrysler Brand Sales of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan were up 4 percent in May, the minivan’s best May sales in three years. The Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan set a sales record for the month of May. The Town & Country and the Chrysler 200 Convertible each earned “Best of 2013 Total Quality” honors in Strategic Vision’s annual Total Quality Index in May. Chrysler brand sales were up 4 percent month-over-month, but were down 2 percent compared with the same month a year ago. The Town & Country also took a record-breaking 12th-consecutive Polk Loyalty Award in the minivan category earlier this year. Sales of the Chrysler 300 Motown Edition started in May, a car that celebrates the passion and the music that defined the Motor City.