William Maley

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com February 2, 2013 Read any review of the Chevrolet Malibu Eco and most, if not all will say the mild hybrid system used doesn’t provide enough improvement in the fuel economy to justify the price. Chevrolet dealers are saying the same thing with consumers skipping over the Eco model. "For most people, it's hard to justify the extra money based on the extra fuel economy of a combined 3 mpg more than the base model. You've got the base LS model sitting next to it that's just as nice and luxurious," said Jeff Tuckman, inventory manager at Castle Chevrolet in suburban Chicago. Another Chevrolet dealer in New Jersey puts it more bluntly. "The fuel economy difference from the other models isn't so great that buyers are saying, 'I'll choose a smaller trunk and pay more money.'" This isn’t good news for General Motors. The company is making a big bet with mild hybrids, known as eAssist. Last year, GM set an ambitious goal of selling 500,000 electrified vehicles by 2017; the vast majority being mild hybrids. GM says the take rate for the Malibu Eco is 8% of total Malibu sales, below the initial forecast of 10%. "Getting the consumer to embrace the incremental gains in fuel efficiency from the mild-hybrid system can be problematic given all the improvements that have been made" on regular gasoline engines. I think GM knows they've got to improve" eAssist's mpg numbers,” sid Alan Baum, a Detroit-area automotive analyst who tracks electrified vehicle sales. Source: Autoweek 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

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com February 2, 2013 Last year, Dodge unveiled a new package for the Challenger SXT Plus called the Rallye Redline which added a list of visual, interior and handling changes. However some complained that the Challenger R/T model should have this package as well. Dodge has heard those calls and at next week’s Chicago Auto Show will show the 2013 Challenger R/T Redline. Much like the Rallye Redline, the R/T Redline gets twenty-inch black chrome wheels with red paint accents. However, the R/T Redline also gets side stripes with graphite graphics featuring Redline lettering to give it a more retro look. Under the hood, the R/T sticks with the 5.7L HEMI V8. When equipped with the six-speed manual, the 5.7L produces 375 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque thanks to a performance-tuned, low-restriction exhaust. Go with the five-speed automatic and the engine produces 372 horsepower and 400 pound-feet. The five-speed also gets a chrome Mopar t-handle shifter and paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The R/T Redline package will cost $1,995 and be available on the Challenger R/T ($32,985*) and R/T Plus ($34,985*). You can order a Challenger R/T with the R/T Redline package now and they will arrive in April. *Prices include $995 destination charge. Source: Dodge 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 New Dodge Challenger R/T Redline Delivers Red-hot Muscle Car Performance and Styling at the Ice-cold 2013 Chicago Auto Show New 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline heats up the brand’s iconic muscle-car lineup with HEMI®-power, red-hot exterior accents and performance suspension Signature 20-inch Black Chrome wheels feature a Redline Red accented lip and backbone for a customized look Legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 delivers up to 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft torque through a track-proven six-speed manual transmission, or paddle-shifting and driver adaptable automatic transmission The 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline Group will be available this spring on R/T and R/T Plus models at a tremendous value with starting U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of just $1,995 building off America’s most affordable V-8 muscle car February 1, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - While ice cold winter weather sweeps across Lake Shore Drive, the Dodge brand heats up the 2013 Chicago Auto Show by building on Challenger’s red-hot record selling year, and now at the show, the introduction of the new Challenger R/T Redline with modern muscle-car cues, a potent HEMI® V-8 engine throwing down 375 horsepower and a performance-tuned chassis for world-class dynamics — this new Challenger delivers exactly what Dodge fans want. “Building on Challenger’s all-time sales record in 2012, the new Challenger R/T Redline fuses our iconic heritage with a one-of-a-kind customized appearance,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand. “Featuring unique body-side stripes and black chrome wheels with red accents, the new R/T Redline combines unmatched personalization with the unmistakable performance of the legendary HEMI V-8.” The new 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline builds on the success of the 305 horsepower V-6 Challenger Rallye Redline model that arrived in the middle of the 2012 model year. 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline Based on the 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T — America’s most affordable V-8 muscle car at $29,995 MSRP — or R/T Plus, the new Challenger R/T Redline adds even more attitude and style with a right-from-the-factory custom look to the brand’s iconic coupe. Following Dodge Challenger’s signature A-line bodyside character line, an all-new two-color Redline Red and Graphite stripe runs from behind the front wheel arches to the tail. For a distinctive look, the rear-quarter section of the stripe features the “Redline” name in Red over Graphite color scheme. For a distinctive look, the R/T Redline features a body-color grille surround. Filling the wheel wells, the Dodge Challenger R/T Redline features 20-inch Black Chrome wheels with a Redline Red lip and inner backbone for a one-of-a-kind look. For even more performance and driving precision at-the-limit handling, the available Super Track Pak adds Goodyear Eagle F1 P245/45R20 three-season performance tires, high-performance brake linings and a lowered ride height. With its two-color stripe and four available exterior colors, including Billet Silver, Granite Crystal, Bright White and Pitch Black, each new Dodge Challenger R/T Redline will stand out from the crowd. Dodge Challenger R/T Redline features a Dark Slate Gray interior with Dark Slate Gray (R/T) performance seats, or premium Nappa leather performance seats in Radar Red or Dark Slate Gray (R/T Plus). Automatic transmission models also feature bright pedals, a Mopar® T-Handle shifter and remote start. HEMI Power For the performance enthusiast, the 2013 Dodge Challenger R/T Redline features the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine that delivers up to 375 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque and gets up to 25 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway. When paired with the track-proven Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission, the Dodge Challenger R/T delivers smooth shifts, while delivering even more power through unique performance-tuned dual exhaust and under-floor mufflers with low-restriction bottle resonators. The result, 0-60 mph runs in the low-5-second range and a sinister exhaust growl for the cars left in its rear-view mirror; a trademark of the original Challenger HEMI from more than 43 years ago. The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine is also available with a five-speed automatic transmission producing 372 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. In addition, this version of the engine includes Chrysler Group’s innovative Fuel Saver Technology to seamlessly transition to high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. And for even more control, steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters with “sport mode” transmission calibration are included. Loaded with standard features Dodge Challenger R/T Redline also includes a tremendous level of standard equipment found on every 2013 Challenger R/T, including the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with cold-air induction delivering up to 375 horsepower, Tremec six-speed manual transmission, performance-tuned suspension, performance-disc brakes, performance-tuned steering calibration, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth, console-mounted USB port with iPod control and auxiliary audio input jack, SiriusXM Satellite Radio with 12-months subscription, automatic headlamps, LED-illuminated instrument cluster with 160-mph primary speedometer, instrument panel with mini-carbon bezel, fog lamps, “R/T” grille badge, “HEMI” hood badges and rear body-color deck-lid spoiler. Remote start, bright pedals and Mopar T-handle shifter are also included with the five-speed automatic transmission. For drivers who want even more premium refinement and details, the new Dodge Challenger R/T Redline can also be built on the 2013 Challenger R/T Plus, which includes premium Nappa leather seating in Dark Slate Gray or Radar Red, heated front seats, six Boston Acoustics premium speakers with 276-watt amplifier, ParkSense rear park assist, power heated mirrors, Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) with temperature gauge, location specific tire-pressure monitoring and compass, vehicle security alarm, and HomeLink universal transceiver. Remote start, bright pedals and Mopar T-handle shifter are also included with the five-speed automatic transmission. Just in time for spring The 2013 Dodge Challenger with R/T Redline Group is available for ordering now and arrives at dealerships this April with a U.S. MSRP of $1,995. When configured on the Challenger R/T or R/T Plus models, the MSRPs are $31,990 and $33,990 respectively (both prices exclude $995 destination). View full article

American Suzuki Motor Corporation Announces January 2013 Automobile Sales of 1,488 Units BREA, Calif., Feb. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) reported today January 2013 automobile sales of 1,488 units. This figure is 99% of the 1,505 sales reported in January 2012. The results represent sales of remaining inventory as ASMC continues the wind-down of U.S. automobile sales.

Volvo Announces January Sales Records Best January Since 2008 ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (Feb. 1, 2013) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 4,875 units, a 9.3 percent increase month-over-month and the best January since 2008. The S60 sports sedan, one of two midsize luxury vehicles to earn IIHS' inaugural Top Safety Pick+ award, was the top seller for the month with 1,954 units sold, a 38.1 percent increase from January 2012.

MAZDA ANNOUNCES JANUARY SALES RESULTS IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported January U.S. sales of 21,319 vehicles, representing a decrease of 11.2 percent versus last year. Key January sales notes: Mazda CX-5 achieved second-best month ever with 5,244 vehicles sold. Mazda3 hits second best January sales since its launch in 2003 with 8,074 vehicles. SKYACTIV®1 TECHNOLOGY accounted for 74.0 percent of Mazda3 sales in January. Mazda5 records best January sales ever with an increase of 61.4 percent year-over-year totaling 1,880 vehicles sold. In the U.S., Mazda's total SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY vehicle sales for January (comprised of the all-new 2014 Mazda6, CX-5 and certain models of Mazda3) account for 56.0 percent of the company's total sales for the month. The all-new 2014 Mazda6 began sales in January with 666 vehicles. The second model to launch with the full suite of SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and the new 2.5L SKYACTIV-G engine, dealers cannot carry enough inventory to satisfy demand at this point. January 2013 marked the best January month of sales for CX-9, accounting for a 1.4 percent increase YOY and a total of 2,116 units sold. Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported January sales of 2,023 vehicles, down 22.0 percent versus June of last year.

Toyota Motor Sales Continues To Outpace The Industry In January Hybrid sales up 45 percent: All-new Avalon and RAV4 post double-digit gains TORRANCE, Calif., Feb. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported January 2013 sales results of 157,725 units, an increase of 21.6 percent on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. Unadjusted for 25 selling days in January 2013 versus 24 in January 2012, TMS sales were up 26.6 percent over the year-ago month. Toyota Division posted January total sales of 141,514 units, up 21 percent year-over-year on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Toyota Division sales increased 26.1 percent over January 2012. "The sales pace we saw in the fourth quarter of last year rolled into January, exceeding our expectations for the industry," said Bill Fay, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. "Toyota started the year off strong, with total sales up over 26 percent, more than double the industry average. With the 2013 Avalon and 2013 RAV4 off to a great start, our focus remains firmly on new products and taking care of our customers." Lexus Division reported January total sales of 16,211, up 26.8 percent and 32.1 percent on a DSR and volume basis, respectively. "With a strong January we're off to a great start in 2013," said Tim Morrison, Lexus vice president of sales and dealer development. "With great inventories of our recently launched models and more exciting vehicles new to come, we expect the momentum to continue." Other Highlights: Scion Division up 38.4 percent TMS Hybrid sales up 45.4 percent on a DSR basis, with sales of 24,232 units Prius Family best-ever January with sales of 15,772 units, up 36.5 percent Camry sales of 31,897 units, up 12.7 percent Corolla sales of 23,822 units, up 32.4 percent Avalon, bolstered by sales of the all-new 2013 model, posted sales of 4,840, up 50.4 percent in its first full-month of sales Total TMS truck sales of 63,852 units, up 25.5 percent RAV4 sales of 11,610 units, up 18.2 percent Lexus RX sales of 5,394, up 7.1 percent Lexus ES sales of 5,186, up 115.2 percent

Kia Motors America Posts Record January Sales Optima and Sorento Top Monthly Sales for the Sixth Straight Month IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported an all-time record January with 36,302 vehicles sold, a 2.2-percent increase over the same period in 2012. The U.S.-built* Optima midsize sedan and Sorento CUV continued to lead sales for the brand with 11,252 and 8,005 units sold respectively, sustaining the company's momentum at the beginning of a new year that will see the arrival of several all-new or significantly redesigned vehicles. "January's record performance comes on the heels of the historic sales milestones Kia achieved in 2012 and signals the beginning of an aggressive launch cadence that will deliver a collection of new cars and CUVs, fulfilling our promise to advance value to new levels of sophistication," said Byung Mo Ahn , group president and CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia. "Customers continue to flock to our showrooms in search of vehicles that represent a smart buy with world-class style, modern amenities and cutting-edge technologies."

Nissan Reports U.S. Sales Up 2 Percent in January Nissan division led by strong gains by Pathfinder and Sentra records division's best January ever Infiniti up on heavy demand for JX, QX FRANKLIN, Tenn. – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported January U.S. sales of 80,919 units versus 79,313 units a year earlier, up 2 percent. Nissan Division sales in January totaled 73,793, up 1.8 percent over the prior year making it the division's best January ever. Sales of Infiniti vehicles were 7,126, an increase of 4.9 percent over last January. NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS Pathfinder SUV sales rose 202 percent to 6,281 units, led by the all-new 2013 Pathfinder that went on sale in November. Sales of the Sentra, led by the all-new 2013 model, totaled 8,979 units, marking an increase of 27 percent year-over-year. Versa, the industry's leading subcompact, delivered 10,270 sales, up 9 percent versus last year making for its best January ever. Based on a shortage of inventory during the transition to U.S. assembly of the all-electric 2012 model year Nissan LEAF, the vehicle recorded sales of 650 units in January, down 3.8 percent from the prior year. The 2012 LEAFs are now almost completely sold out, and the upgraded 2013 LEAF will go on sale later this month. "Nissan's core products that have been refreshed as part of our sweep of five new models in 15 months continue to deliver solid performance," said Al Castignetti, vice president, Nissan Division. INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS With a 70.1 percent gain for the month, sales of Infiniti luxury crossovers and sport utility vehicles remained strong. Infiniti QX sales of 1,168 equaled an increase of 14.5 percent in January. The all-new Infiniti JX 7-passenger luxury crossover remains a popular new entry, with sales of 1,970 units in January. "After a strong close in December, we began our sponsorship of NCAA® Men's Basketball in mid-January, which will continue to help drive traffic to our showrooms through the spring," said Ben Poore, vice president, Infiniti Americas. "Sales of Infiniti QX luxury SUV and the Infiniti JX crossover continue to bring new shoppers into our showrooms." 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. January had 25 selling days in 2013 and 24 selling days in 2012.

Mercedes-Benz USA January Sales Soar To Highest On Record At 24,059 Best-Ever Month for Mercedes-Benz models alone up 10.8% MONTVALE, N.J., Feb. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported today sales of 24,059, a 10.7% increase over the 21,726 vehicles sold in January 2012 making it the greatest year start in the company's history. The Mercedes-Benz model line alone marked its highest January numbers with sales of 22,501, up 10.8%. "We've set another record this January and are breaking into 2013 at a strong sales pace," said Steve Cannon , president & CEO of MBUSA. "It's a historic time for the brand with product milestones that will drive our momentum. Our new CLA, the star of our Super Bowl ad this weekend, will reset the entry point. Stay tuned as product innovations continue throughout the year with the introductions of our completely redesigned E-Class and new generation of our flagship S-Class." Strong demand for both the Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles and SUVs fueled sales for the month with the sporty C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – as the volume leader posting sales of 7,214, up 10.6%. The 9th generation E-Class followed with sales of 5,469 and the versatile M-Class rounded out the top three with sales of 2,928. For January, sales at the high-end increased as well with the S-Class up 19.5% and the SL-Class up 290% when compared to the same period last year. The Sprinter model line started the year strong with sales of 1,077 for the month, a 16.6% increase from January 2012, and smart recorded sales of 481 vehicles. Sales of the high-performance AMG models were 495 for the month and sales of the company's BlueTEC diesel models finished the month at 1,054. Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 8,159 vehicles in January; an increase of 17.5% when compared to January 2012 (sales of 6,945 vehicles).

Honda January Sales Gain Powered by Award-Winning Accord; Acura Sales Increase Again Fueled by RDX and ILX Honda Division sales up 12.7 percent, Acura sales up 13.2 percent 02/01/2013 - TORRANCE, Calif. - American Honda today reported January 2013 U.S. sales of 93,626 units, an increase of 12.8 percent compared with January 2012. The Honda brand posted January 2013 sales of 84,137 units, an increase of 12.7 percent compared with January 2012. Acura U.S. January sales of 9,489 units increased 13.2 percent compared with January 2012. Sales of the all-new 2013 Honda Accord were up more than 75 percent from last year - with 10,000 more Accords sold this January than in January 2012. The totally revised Accord has already become one of the most decorated vehicles in Honda history, garnering a host of awards that include being named for a record 27th time to Car and Driver magazine's 10Best Cars list, as well as winning key comparison tests against its mid-size rivals in comparisons from Car and Driver and Cars.com/USA Today/"MotorWeek". Honda Sales of the all-new Accord are up 75.2 percent from last January with sales of 23,924 units Reflecting key changes, the new 2013 Crosstour sees sales jump 38.2 percent from last January Pilot sales are up 16.3 percent compared with last January, with sales of 7,405 units "The all-new Accord has the Honda brand right where we left off in 2012 - powering significant sales gains in the new year," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of Sales. "With our strongest vehicle lineup ever and continued sales momentum, we're optimistic 2013 will be a great year for the Honda brand." Acura RDX sets its ninth-consecutive monthly sales record, up over 181.6 percent from last January with sales of 2,489 units MDX was the top selling Acura model in January, with sales of 2,575 units ILX was again the top selling Acura sedan in January with sales of 1,558 units "Acura's newest products continue to drive our sales momentum as we begin a new year," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura Sales. "With the positive reception of the all-new Acura MDX Prototype in Detroit, and the upcoming launch of our new flagship RLX sedan, Acura is poised for even greater success in 2013." The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 25 days for January 2013 and 24 days for January 2012. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 25 days for 2012 and 24 days for 2011. All percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.

BMW Group U.S. Reports January 2013 Sales BMW brand sales up 0.7 percent MINI brand sales up 10.4 percent; best January ever Woodcliff Lake, NJ - February 1, 2013… The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported January sales of 20,195 vehicles, an increase of 2.3 percent from the 19,739 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. “After an historic December, January produced a good result showing our growth continuing,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America, LLC. “In 2013 we’ll have more new models, the right mix and better availability, so I’m very positive about the eleven months still ahead.” BMW Brand Sales Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 0.7 percent in January for a total of 16,513 compared to 16,405 vehicles sold in January, 2012. In January, best performing vehicles include all of BMW’s light trucks. The X3, X5, and X6 Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV) continued to show strong growth with sales up 41.3 percent to 6,469 units. The X3 SAV – on sale in the U.S. for two years – is up 18.9 percent to 2,005 units; the X5 SAV, up 56.5 percent to 4,084 units and the X6 SAV is up 34.8 percent to 380 units. BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles In January, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) increased 13.9 percent to 13,322 vehicles compared to the 11,699 vehicles sold in January, 2012. MINI Brand Sales MINI USA reported the best January ever with sales of 3,682 automobiles, an increase of 10.4 percent from the 3,334 sold in the same month a year ago. MINI Pre-Owned Vehicles In January, sales of MINI used automobiles (including MINI NEXT certified pre-owned and pre-owned) increased 70 percent to 1,542 automobiles from the 907 sold in January, 2012.

Hyundai Motor America Reports Record January Sales COSTA MESA, Calif., Feb. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Coming off a record 2012 sales year, Hyundai Motor America today announced a continuation of that momentum by setting a new all-time record for January sales with 43,713 units, up 2.4 percent versus 2012. Improved availability on key volume vehicles at Hyundai dealers across the nation played a substantial role in achieving yet another all-time monthly sales record. Fleet mix was 15 percent for the month. The same trend held true with Hyundai Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle sales as 2012's record January was immediately eclipsed this year with a best ever 5,393 CPO units, up 16.8 percent versus 2012. "Despite some lingering economic concerns, January turned out to be a solid first month for us," said Dave Zuchowski , executive vice president, national sales. "The all-new Santa Fe Sport, recently named Best New Crossover in Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine and the Elantra GT, Best New Car Under $20,000, both continue to do quite well with the Santa Fe selling 5,991, and the Elantra family totaling 12,174, up 24.4 percent and 11.7 percent, respectively, over the same period last year. We look forward to adding the all-new seven passenger Santa Fe to our line-up next month, allowing growing families an opportunity to experience the Hyundai brand." "We've got a solid foundation going into the new year," said John Krafcik , president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. "We've got a great line-up of vehicles and we're looking forward to Super Bowl Sunday when we'll share with upwards of 110 million viewers our all-new Santa Fe, our premium Genesis sedan and the surprising Sonata 2.0T."

CYPRESS, Calif., Feb. 1, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported year-over-year sales increases for all of its core models in January. Outlander Sport sales were 1,350 for the month, an increase of almost 21 percent compared to January 2012. Sales of the fuel-efficient CUV, now manufactured in Normal, Illinois, showed an increase versus the prior year for the fifth consecutive month. "Outlander Sport continues to resonate with consumers looking for fuel efficiency in a CUV that does not sacrifice style or performance," said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa . "We'll launch a special edition Outlander Sport in March to commemorate 30 years of Mitsubishi sales in the U.S. and 25 years of production in Normal." Overall Mitsubishi sales were down 1 percent compared to January 2012 due to discontinued models. However, total sales of models currently in production were up more than 59 percent compared to January last year. Mitsubishi i-MiEV sales improved to 257. Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, sales and marketing operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells cars and light trucks through a network of approximately 400 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com February 1, 2013 At the Los Angeles Auto Show last November, Audi announced they would be offering four models with the option of a diesel engine. The first of those four, the 2014 Audi A8L TDI will be the first to arrive in the U.S. in the spring and have a base price of $83,395 (includes $895 for destination). The A8L TDI comes with a 3.0L TDI V6, producing 240 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. Audi's quattro all-wheel drive is standard. Even with the extra weight of TDI being in the long-wheel base model only, Audi says the A8L TDI can reach 60 in 6.4 seconds and gets 24 city/36 highway/28 combined MPG. Source: Audi 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 Audi announces pricing and fuel economy for 2014 Audi A8 L TDI® clean diesel Pricing starts at $82,500 for the first ever 2014 Audi A8 L TDI® clean diesel with an EPA estimated fuel efficiency of 24 city/ 36 highway/ 28 combined MPG The Audi A8 has set new standards for the luxury sedan in terms of interior and exterior design, technology, performance and efficiency. Now equipped with the new 3.0 liter TDI clean diesel engine, the 2014 Audi A8 L TDI represents a dramatic expansion of the flagship sedan and the first of four new TDI models to be introduced this year. Starting at $82,500, the A8 L TDI clean diesel, with quattro® all-wheel drive, makes a powerful statement in achieving the best fuel economy in its segment with an EPA estimated 24/ 36/ 28 mpg (city/ highway/ combined), while at the same time generating an impressive 240 horsepower, 406 lb.-ft. of torque that seamlessly launches 0-60 MPH in 6.4 seconds. For the 2014 Audi A8 L TDI, the package options were optimized to better reflect customer demand. The available Premium Package now consists of Audi side assist and pre sense rear, 22-way multi-contour comfort seats, font seat ventilation with massage and full LED headlights. The A8 L TDI joins an expanding model line-up including the A8 3.0T, A8 4.0T, S8 4.0T and A8 W12. The A8 L TDI will be available in the long-wheelbase version only. The 2014 Audi A8 L TDI will go on sale in early Spring 2013. Additional 2014 model year information and pricing for other models will be announced at later in the year. View full article