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VenSeattle

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  1. Subaru Reports Record Breaking Sales for August 2008

    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    Subaru Forester hits an all-time sales record as does the Legacy Sedan -

    while the Impreza bests its August sales record

    CHERRY HILL, N.J., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc.

    today reported August sales of 18,932 total units -- a 14% increase over

    the same month in 2007 of 16,573 units. The company posted total

    year-to-date sales of 129,298 units, a 6% gain over YTD August 2007 of

    122,165 units.

    The Subaru Forester hit an all-time sales record of 6,763 units resulting

    in an increase of over 73% from August 2007 sales as did the Subaru Legacy

    Sedan at 2,402 units -- a 24% increase over the same period last year. The

    Subaru Impreza posted its best August ever -- up an impressive 15% over the

    same period last year.

    "Subaru is enjoying record sales due to the strength of our product

    line and the top-notch service provided by our dealerships," said Tim

    Colbeck, vice president of sales for Subaru of America. "While the market

    is down 11 percent for the month of August and 8 percent on a year-to-date

    basis, we are growing with products that are not only fuel efficient, but

    also leaders in durability, capability, and safety."

    "Subaru is proud to provide a safer, superior driving experience for

    its customers," said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president for Subaru of

    America. "Equipped with unique symmetrical All-Wheel Drive technology and

    the Subaru boxer engine, the Subaru product line, renowned for durability,

    reliability, traction and "active safety," represents one of the highest

    repurchase-loyalty ratings in the U.S. market," Doll added.

    For a complete sales chart and additional information about Subaru of

    America, Inc. and Subaru vehicles, visit our media website at

    http://www.media.subaru.com.

    Model                       2008 August              % v 2007
    
          Total Impreza                 5,071                    +15%
          Total Legacy                  2,402                    +24%
          Total Outback                 3,834                    -15%
          (incl. Legacy Wagon)
          Total Forester                6,763                    +73%
          Total Tribeca                   862                    -53%
    
          Total                        18,932                    +14%

  2. Volkswagen Reports August 2008 Sales
    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/
    Link to Press Release


    Best Jetta month since May 2006

    HERNDON, Va., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today
    announced August 2008 sales of 22,292 units, a 2.9 percent increase over
    the August 2007 sales of 21,655 vehicles. On a year-to-date basis, 2008
    Volkswagen sales are 1.3 percent ahead of 2007 sales through August.

    "We're extremely pleased with our August sales results," said Mark
    Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "This is a tough economy and for
    Volkswagen to be ahead of last year's sales is a true testament to the
    strength of our brand. With our recent launch of all-new 50-state compliant
    clean diesel Jetta TDI, Jetta SportWagen, Tiguan and our other exciting new
    product offerings, like the CC and Routan arriving late September, we're
    looking forward to continued success."

    August represents the best Jetta month for Volkswagen since May 2006.
    With fuel economy becoming a key purchase criterion, consumers are looking
    at more economical vehicles, which positions Volkswagen very well.
    Volkswagen's all-new 50-state compliant clean diesel Jetta TDI is selling
    about as fast as the dealers can get them into their showrooms, with a turn
    rate of close to 75 percent.

    About Volkswagen of America, Inc.

    Volkswagen of America, Inc. recently announced Electronic Stabilization
    Program (ESP) as standard equipment on all its 2009 model year vehicles. As
    a result, Volkswagen is one of the only original equipment manufacturers to
    offer an electronic stabilization control system on its entire product line
    -- ahead of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA)
    deadline requiring stabilization systems in the 2012 model year vehicles.
    Volkswagen's ESP technology works in conjunction with anti-lock brakes and
    helps reduce loss of control, rollovers and other types of crashes. NHTSA
    predicts nearly 10,000 lives could be saved each year if all vehicles had
    stabilization systems as standard equipment.

    Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in
    Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in
    Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of
    passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit,
    New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon,
    Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit
    Volkswagen of America online at vw.com.


    VW-US Snapshot                               ------ YEAR-TO-DATE ------
    
                            August-   August-          August-   August-
                              08        07    Yr/Yr %  08 YTD    07 YTD  Yr/Yr %
                            Actual    Actual  change   Actual    Actual  change
    
        New Beetle - Coupe   1,549     1,627   -4.8%   11,296    11,093    1.8%
             - Convertible     995     1,330  -25.2%    9,047     9,861   -8.3%
           Total New Beetle  2,544     2,957  -14.0%   20,343    20,954   -2.9%
        Jetta Sdn           10,350     8,714   18.8%   65,369    66,744   -2.1%
         SportWagen            867         -    0.0%    1,481         -
                Total Jetta 11,217     8,714   28.7%   66,850    66,744    0.2%
        Eos                  1,163     1,161    0.2%   10,792     8,975   20.2%
        Golf                     -               N/A        -        21 -100.0%
        Rabbit               1,971     3,074  -35.9%   15,802    17,753  -11.0%
        GTI                  1,431     1,204   18.9%    9,422    10,206   -7.7%
        R32                    201       654  -69.3%    2,638       693  280.7%
          Total Golf/
           Rabbit/GTI/R32    3,603     4,932           27,862    28,673   -2.8%
        Passat Sdn           1,719     2,665  -35.5%   19,399    20,770   -6.6%
               Wgn             488       527   -7.4%    4,577     4,748   -3.6%
               Total Passat  2,207     3,192  -30.9%   23,976    25,518   -6.0%
        Phaeton                  -         -     N/A        -        17 -100.0%
        Touareg                527       699  -24.6%    4,835     5,307   -8.9%
        Tiguan               1,031         -     N/A    3,600         -     N/A
                     TOTAL  22,292    21,655    2.9%  158,258   156,188    1.3%

  3. BMW Group Reports August Sales

    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    BMW Group US sales (BMW and MINI combined) up 1.0 percent in August

    WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- The BMW Group in the U.S.

    (BMW and MINI combined) reported August sales of 30,931 vehicles, an

    increase of 1.0 percent over the 30,639 vehicles sold in August 2007. The

    BMW Group also reported a year-to-date sales volume of 217,821 vehicles,

    down 2.5 percent, compared to 223,341 vehicles in the same period of 2007.

    BMW Brand Sales

    Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 4.1 percent in August for a total

    of 25,462 compared to 26,562 reported in the same month a year ago.

    Year-to-date BMW brand sales were down 7.4 percent, to 180,889 vehicles

    compared to 195,436 vehicles sold in the same period in 2007.

    "In the last six months in a tough economy we have seen premium brand

    sales largely supported by the Northeast region," said Jim O'Donnell,

    President of BMW of North America, LLC. "In August however the Southeast

    and West came back as a strong contributor to our BMW sales. A trend? Don't

    know, but a good sign."

    Contributing to BMW sales in August was a good balance between retail

    financing and leasing.

    "We are strong believers that the premium market deserves a choice of

    both retail financing and leasing," said Jim O'Donnell. "We knew working

    our APR programs to add a bit more value to the ownership equation would

    get us a better balance with leasing. This month it's been exactly like

    this."

    BMW Automobile Sales

    BMW's automobile sales are down 5.6 percent in August to 19,653 versus

    20,825 in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales also decreased 7.1

    percent, to 142,436 automobiles compared to 153,303 in the same period of

    2007.

    BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales

    Sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles increased by 1.3 percent in

    August to 5,809 vehicles over the 5,737 sold last August. Year-to-date,

    sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 8.7 percent, to 38,453

    vehicles compared to the 42,133 sold in the first eight months of 2007.

    MINI Brand Sales

    MINI USA reported August sales of 5,469 automobiles, up 34.1 percent

    from the 4,077 cars sold in August 2007. Year-to-date, the division

    reported sales of 36,932 automobiles, an increase of 32.3 percent, compared

    to the 27,905 cars reported in the first eight months of 2007.

    "MINI continued to see strong demand in August and one that again

    lowered our inventory even more," said Jim McDowell, Vice-President MINI

    USA. "But good news is on the way as we have increased our allocation for

    the remainder of the year starting in September."

    McDowell noted that 75 percent of all MINI customers will likely build

    their vehicles to order. "This trend shows that MINI costumers continue to

    be those choosing more for lifestyle and individualization rather than just

    downsizing for fuel economy."

    Table: Sales BMW of North America, LLC, August 2008
    
                              August    August     %       YTD        YTD      %
                              2008      2007               2008      2007
    
        BMW brand             25,462    26,562   -4.1    180,889   195,436   -7.4
         BMW passenger cars  19,6536   20,8256   -5.6    142,433   153,303   -7.1
         BMW light trucks
         (SAVs)                5,809     5,737    1.3     38,453    42,133   -8.7
        MINI brand             5,469     4,077   34.1     36,932    27,905   32.3
        TOTAL Group           30,931    30,639    1.0    217,821   223,341   -2.5

    BMW Certified Pre-Owned

    Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are up 26.7 percent, to

    9,453 CPO vehicles versus 7,462 vehicles reported last August.

    Year-to-date, CPO sales are up 21.8 percent, to 69,437 over the 57,024

    reported in the same period in 2007.

    Sales BMW of North America, LLC, August 2008
    
                                 August   August            YTD        YTD
                                   08       07      %    August 08  August 07   %
    
        1 Series                1,190        0            8,617          0
        3 Series               10,756   12,470  -13.7%   81,967     97,041  -15.5%
        Z4 Roadster and Coupe     556    1,127  -50.7%    4,672      6,547  -28.6%
        5 Series                5,287    5,173    2.2%   32,908     33,840   -2.8%
        6 Series                  663      761  -12.9%    4,881      5,951  -18.0%
        7 Series                1,201    1,294   -7.2%    9,391      9,924   -5.4%
        BMW passenger cars     19,653   20,825   -5.6%  142,436    153,303   -7.1%
        X3                      1,963    3,181  -38.3%   13,220     20,107  -34.3%
        X5                      3,380    2,556   32.2%   22,347     22,026    1.5%
        X6                        466        0            2,886          0
        BMW light trucks (SAVs) 5,809    5,737    1.3%   38,453     42,133   -8.7%
        BMW brand              25,462   26,562   -4.1%  180,889    195,436   -7.4%
        Cooper /S Hardtop       3,631    3,233   12.3%   24,966     22,249   12.2%
        Cooper /S Convertible     505      844  -40.2%    4,545      5,656  -19.6%
        Cooper /S Clubman       1,333        0            7,421          0
        MINI brand              5,469    4,077   34.1%   36,932     27,905   32.3%
        TOTAL BMW of North
         America, LLC          30,931   30,639    1.0%  217,821    223,341   -2.5%

    BMW Group In America

    BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since

    1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.

    The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales,

    and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles,

    including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor

    Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology

    office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the

    country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW

    Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing

    plant for all Z4 models, X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity

    Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through

    networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

    centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 82 MINI passenger car dealers, and

    30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's

    sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in

    Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

    Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the

    Internet at:

    http://www.bmwgroupna.com

    http://www.bmwusa.com

    http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com

    http://www.miniusa.com

    http://www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

    Journalist note: Information about the BMW Group and its products is

    available to journalists on-line at the BMW Group PressClub at the

    following address: http://www.press.bmwgroup.com. Broadcast quality video footage

    is available via The NewsMarket at http://www.thenewsmarket.com.

  4. Kia Motors America Announces August Sales

    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    Passenger Cars Up 22.2 Percent Year-To-Date

    IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today

    announced August sales of 25,065 units. Year-to-date sales are up 1.3

    percent with 210,705 units sold. Passenger cars are up 4.9 percent for

    August and 22.2 percent year-to-date.

    Leading August passenger car sales is Optima with 3,807 units, up 25.2

    percent over the same period last year. Rio and Rondo also both had

    increases of 19 percent and 15.2 percent respectively over the same period

    last year with 3,590 and 3,508 units sold.

    Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm

    of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a

    complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the

    United States. For 2007, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of record

    U.S. sales. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value,

    high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on

    producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline

    "The Power to Surprise."

    Kia Motors America is the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA."

    Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is

    available at its Web site -- http://www.kia.com. For media information,

    including photography, visit http://www.kiamedia.com.

    MONTH OF AUGUST                 YEAR-TO-DATE
        Model        2008      2007                2008       2007
        Rio         3,590     3,017              28,258     22,292
        Spectra     6,170     6,834              55,037     49,761
        Optima      3,807     3,040              38,873     28,017
        Amanti        214       249               2,643      4,837
        Sportage    2,845     4,109              26,132     32,067
        Sorento     3,041     3,557              17,473     26,438
        Sedona        886     3,023              19,210     29,281
        Rondo       3,508     3,045              22,038     15,263
        Borrego     1,004       n/a               1,041        n/a
    
        Total      25,065    26,874             210,705    207,956

  5. Hyundai Motor America Reports August Sales

    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America

    today announced sales of 41,130 for the month of August, an 8.8 percent

    decrease from the all-time August sales record set in 2007.

    "Once again the fuel-efficient Accent, Sonata and Elantra, despite

    restricted availability, continued their upward sales trend with increases

    of 73 percent, 17 percent and 13 percent, respectively, over the same month

    last year," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America's vice president of

    national sales. "As illustrated by our August sales, the small to midsize

    segments continue to be where the market is and we believe Hyundai is

    extremely well positioned to capitalize on this."

    "Additionally, we just finished our first full month of sales of our

    new rear-wheel drive Genesis and we are thrilled with the results of 1,177

    units. Genesis is changing the way American buyers think about the Hyundai

    brand and is attracting an entirely new type of prospect to our showrooms."

    All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai

    Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a

    10-year/100,000-mile power train warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile

    bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation

    warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.

    Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a

    subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed

    throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and

    serviced through 800 dealerships nationwide.

    CARLINE                AUG/2008     AUG/2007      CY2008       CY2007
    
        ACCENT                   6,455        3,731       41,379       26,092
        SONATA                  11,477       10,348       88,813       92,808
        ELANTRA                 10,031        8,812       82,463       66,726
        TIBURON                    984        1,646        7,053       10,614
        SANTA FE                 7,675       10,570       51,953       62,509
        AZERA                      703        1,992       12,954       15,938
        TUCSON                   1,685        4,954       14,953       28,756
        ENTOURAGE                  391        1,295        3,905       14,785
        VERACRUZ                   552        1,739        7,600        6,965
        GENESIS                  1,177            0        1,826            0
    
        TOTAL                   41,130       45,087      312,899      325,193

  6. Nissan North America Announces August Sales
    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/
    Link to Press Release



    FRANKLIN, Tenn., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Nissan North
    America, Inc. (NNA) today reported August 2008 sales of 108,493 units
    versus 95,527 units a year ago, an increase of 13.6 percent. Sales of
    Nissan Division vehicles increased 14.2 percent, while sales of Infiniti
    Division vehicles increased by 8.0 percent.


    NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

    -- Nissan vehicles saw sales of 97,417 units in August compared with
    August 2007's 85,275 units sold, a 14.2 percent increase.

    -- The Xterra SUV and Frontier midsize pickup led a strong month for
    truck sales, with increases of 76.9 percent and 55.5 percent, respectively,
    over year-ago levels.

    -- With the introduction of the seventh-generation Maxima, sales for
    the model were strong, reaching 5,484 units, exceeding prior year by 15.5
    percent.

    -- The all-new Nissan GT-R enjoyed a strong launch with sales of 484
    units in August.

    -- Sales of Nissan cars combined for 49,394 units, an increase of 0.6
    percent from the prior year, while truck sales increased 32.7 percent to
    48,023 units.

    INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

    -- Infiniti sales for August grew to 11,076 units from 10,252 units, an
    increase of 8.0 percent.

    -- Sales of the EX totaled 1,645 units, the strongest posting for the
    new nameplate since its launch in December 2007.

    -- Sales of the FX sport crossover reached 1,581 units, an increase of
    27.3 percent compared with August 2007.

    NNA INFORMATION

    -- Combined sales for Nissan and Infiniti of 108,493 units, compared
    with last August's sales of 95,527 units, marking an increase of 13.6
    percent.

    -- To ensure consistency in our global sales reporting, Nissan North
    America calculates monthly variances on a straight-percentage basis,
    unadjusted for the number of selling days in the month. This August had 27
    selling days, as did August 2007.

    In North America, NNA's operations include automotive styling,
    engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing,
    distribution and manufacturing. More information on NNA and the complete
    line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at
    http://www.nissannews.com.



    NISSAN DIVISION
         SALES
                          August   August   Monthly    CYTD     CYTD      CYTD
                           2008     2007   % Change    2008     2007    % Change
        Nissan Division
         Total            97,417    85,275    14.2  643,939   635,210     1.4
        Versa              8,015     8,454    -5.2   62,341    53,865    15.7
        Sentra             9,207     9,076     1.4   79,288    75,616     4.9
        Altima            25,298    25,434    -0.5  207,733   190,151     9.2
        Maxima             5,484     4,748    15.5   31,618    34,758    -9.0
        350Z                 906     1,380   -34.3    8,278    13,916   -40.5
        GT-R                 484        NA      NA      631        NA      NA
        Total Car         49,394    49,092     0.6  389,889   368,306     5.9
        Frontier           9,140     5,878    55.5   39,339    45,257   -13.1
        Titan              5,871     6,985   -15.9   27,028    45,766   -40.9
        Xterra             8,208     4,639    76.9   28,345    34,596   -18.1
        Pathfinder         6,792     6,633     2.4   28,569    41,811   -31.7
        Armada             2,178     2,959   -26.4   12,506    21,257   -41.2
        Rogue              6,639        NA      NA   49,998        NA      NA
        Murano             5,071     6,580   -22.9   51,610    57,448   -10.2
        Quest              4,124     2,509    64.4   16,655    20,769   -19.8
        Total Truck       48,023    36,183    32.7  254,050   266,904    -4.8
        North American
         Produced         84,317    77,315     9.1  533,422   563,846    -5.4
        Car               48,004    47,712     0.6  380,980   354,390     7.5
        Truck             36,313    29,603    22.7  152,442   209,456   -27.2
        Import            13,100     7,960    64.6  110,517    71,364    54.9
        Car                1,390     1,380     0.7    8,909    13,916   -36.0
        Truck             11,710     6,580    78.0  101,608    57,448    76.9
    
        INFINITI DIVISION
         SALES
                          August   August   Monthly    CYTD     CYTD      CYTD
                           2008     2007   % Change    2008     2007    % Change
        Infiniti Division
         Total            11,076    10,252     8.0   82,194    83,574    -1.7
        G Sedan            4,014     4,349    -7.7   32,222    37,640   -14.4
        G Coupe            1,847     1,826     1.2   15,086     9,492    58.9
        M                  1,221     1,658   -26.4   10,968    15,034   -27.0
        Q45                    0         0      NA        0        21  -100.0
        QX56                 768     1,176   -34.7    5,914     7,633   -22.5
        EX                 1,645        NA      NA    9,010        NA      NA
        FX                 1,581     1,242    27.3    8,995    13,752   -34.6
        Total Car          7,082     7,833    -9.6   58,275    62,187    -6.3
        Total Truck        3,994     2,419    65.1   23,919    21,387    11.8
    
        COMBINED NISSAN AND
         INFINITI SALES
                          August   August   Monthly    CYTD     CYTD      CYTD
                           2008     2007   % Change    2008     2007    % Change
        TOTAL VEHICLE    108,493    95,527    13.6  726,133   718,784     1.0
        Total Car         56,476    56,925    -0.8  448,164   430,493     4.1
        Total Truck       52,017    38,602    34.8  277,969   288,291    -3.6
        Selling Days          27        27              206       205
    
        *All numbers include Hawaii. * One QX4 was sold in August 2007.

  7. Toyota Reports August Sales
    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/
    Link to Press Release



    TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS),
    U.S.A., Inc., today reported August sales of 211,533 vehicles, a decrease
    of 9.4 percent from last August, on a daily selling rate basis.

    The Toyota Division posted August sales of 182,252 units, a decrease of
    9.4 percent from last August. The Lexus Division reported August sales of
    29,281 units, a decrease of 9.1 percent from the year-ago month.

    Toyota Division

    Toyota Division passenger cars recorded August sales of 111,778 units,
    down 3.4 percent from the same period last year. Passenger car sales were
    led by Camry and Camry Hybrid, which posted combined sales of 44,064 units,
    up 3.3 percent over August 2007. Camry Hybrid reported August sales of
    3,456 units. Corolla recorded sales of 29,443 units for the month. With
    limited availability, the Prius mid-size gas-electric hybrid posted August
    sales of 13,463 units. Yaris reported sales of 9,474 units for the month,
    up 20.5 percent over the year-ago month.

    Toyota Division light trucks posted August sales of 70,474 units, down
    17.6 percent from August 2007. Light truck sales were led by the Tundra
    full-size pickup with August sales of 17,401 units. The Tacoma mid-size
    pickup reported sales of 12,407 units for the month. Highlander and
    Highlander Hybrid posted combined sales of 8,070 units in August. The
    Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported August sales of 1,277
    units, up 225 percent over last August. Sequoia posted sales of 3,195 units
    for the month, up 86.1 percent over the same period last year.

    Scion posted August sales of 11,867 units. The xB urban utility vehicle
    led the way with August sales 4,626 units. The tC sports coupe posted
    August sales of 4,484 units. The xD reported best-ever August sales of
    2,757 units for the month, up 3.5 percent over the same period last year.

    Lexus Division

    Lexus passenger cars reported August sales of 17,844 units, a decrease
    of 9.8 percent from August 2007. Passenger-car sales were led by the ES
    entry luxury sedan with August sales of 7,881 units. The IS entry luxury
    sport sedan reported best-ever combined sales of 6,318 units, up 17.4
    percent over last August. The LS flagship luxury sedan reported combined
    sales of 1,772 units. The GS luxury sport sedan reported combined August
    sales of 1,686 units.

    Lexus Division light trucks recorded August sales of 11,437 units, down
    7.8 percent from the year-ago month. Lexus sales were led by the RX luxury
    utility vehicle, which posted combined August sales of 8,969 units. The RX
    400h hybrid luxury utility vehicle reported August sales of 1,277 units, up
    nine percent over August 2007. The LX 570 reported sales of 748 units, an
    increase of 238.5 percent over the same period last year.

    TMS Hybrids

    TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 185,051 units. TMS
    posted August sales of 19,529 hybrid vehicles. Toyota Division recorded
    sales of 18,146 hybrids for the month. Lexus Division reported August sales
    of 1,383 hybrids.


    There were 27 selling days this month and last August.


    TOYOTA RETAIL SALES
                              (INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII)
                                     August, 2008
    
                         ----- CURRENT MONTH -----   -- CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE --
                                             DSR %                         DSR %
                            2008      2007     CHG       2008       2007     CHG
        YARIS              9,474     7,861    20.5     82,774     62,509    31.8
        COROLLA           29,443    30,491    -3.4    258,369    262,431    -2.0
        CAMRY             44,064    42,658     3.3    326,076    324,702    -0.1
        AVALON             3,467     5,880   -41.0     30,905     48,494   -36.6
        PRIUS             13,463    14,055    -4.2    119,688    124,620    -4.4
        SCION xA               0       190  -100.0         39      9,394   -99.6
        SCION xB           4,626     5,329   -13.2     35,633     28,990    22.3
        SCION tC           4,484     6,590   -32.0     33,001     46,369   -29.2
        SCION xD           2,757     2,664     3.5     20,974      2,664   683.5
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         DIV. PASS. CAR  111,778   115,718    -3.4    907,460    910,177    -0.8
    
        ES                 7,881     8,646    -8.8     46,600     55,953   -17.1
        LS                 1,772     3,164   -44.0     14,792     23,432   -37.2
        SC                   187       298   -37.2      1,560      2,698   -42.5
        GS                 1,686     2,300   -26.7     12,042     15,422   -22.3
        IS                 6,318     5,381    17.4     37,328     37,949    -2.1
        TOTAL LEXUS
         PASS. CAR        17,844    19,789    -9.8    112,322    135,454   -17.5
    
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         PASS. CAR       129,622   135,507    -4.3  1,019,782  1,045,631    -2.9
    
        SIENNA            10,244    11,099    -7.7     85,240     96,047   -11.7
        RAV4              12,911    15,916   -18.9     96,433    117,534   -18.4
        FJ CRUISER         1,886     4,802   -60.7     20,125     38,684   -48.2
        4RUNNER            4,115     8,312   -50.5     34,343     59,182   -42.3
        HIGHLANDER         8,070     9,514   -15.2     76,222     83,121    -8.7
        LAND CRUISER         245       181    35.4      3,017      1,589    88.9
        SEQUOIA            3,195     1,717    86.1     22,562     16,299    37.8
        TOTAL SUV         30,422    40,442   -24.8    252,702    316,409   -20.5
    
        4X2 TACOMA         6,508     9,060   -28.2     60,867     72,119   -16.0
        4X4 TACOMA         5,899     6,034    -2.2     47,270     49,400    -4.8
        TOTAL TACOMA      12,407    15,094   -17.8    108,137    121,519   -11.4
        TUNDRA            17,401    18,919    -8.0    107,330    124,909   -14.5
        TOTAL PICKUP      29,808    34,013   -12.4    215,467    246,428   -13.0
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         DIV. LT TRUCK    70,474    85,554   -17.6    553,409    658,884   -16.4
        LX                   748       221   238.5      5,769      1,972   191.1
        GX                 1,720     2,157   -20.3     11,503     14,430   -20.7
        RX                 8,969    10,032   -10.6     58,580     67,686   -13.9
        TOTAL LEXUS
         LIGHT TRUCK      11,437    12,410    -7.8     75,852     84,088   -10.2
    
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         LIGHT TRUCK      81,911    97,964   -16.4    629,261    742,972   -15.7
    
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         DIV.            182,252   201,272    -9.4  1,460,869  1,569,061    -7.3
        TOTAL LEXUS       29,281    32,199    -9.1    188,174    219,542   -14.7
    
        TOTAL TOYOTA     211,533   233,471    -9.4  1,649,043  1,788,603    -8.3
        MEMO:
        DOM. COROLLA      21,060    29,840   -29.4    209,554    239,186   -12.8
        DOM. CAMRY        43,544    39,823     9.3    319,870    275,247    15.6
        DOM. PICKUP       29,808    34,013   -12.4    215,467    246,428   -13.0
        DOM. RX            7,288     7,607    -4.2     42,490     49,105   -13.9
    
        SELLING DAYS          27        27                206        205
    
        TOYOTA DIV.
         IMPORT CAR       43,707    40,175     8.8    347,131    347,250    -0.5
        LEXUS IMPORT CAR  17,844    19,789    -9.8    112,322    135,454   -17.5
        TOYOTA DIV NA
         BUILT CARS       68,071    75,543    -9.9    560,329    562,927    -0.9
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         CARS            129,622   135,507    -4.3  1,019,782  1,045,631    -2.9
    
        TOYOTA DIV.
         IMPORT LT
         TRUCK            27,227    38,725   -29.7    230,140    300,110   -23.7
        LEXUS IMPORT
         LT TRUCK          4,149     4,803   -13.6     33,362     34,983    -5.1
        TOYOTA DIV NA
         BUILT LT TRUCK   43,247    46,829    -7.6    323,269    358,774   -10.3
        LEXUS NA BUILT
         LT TRUCK          7,288     7,607    -4.2     42,490     49,105   -13.9
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         LT TRUCK         81,911    97,964   -16.4    629,261    742,972   -15.7
    
        SPORT UTILITY
         VEHICLES         39,973    48,050   -16.8    308,429    361,813   -15.2
           Memo: Lexus
            Sport
            Utility       11,437    12,410    -7.8     75,852     84,088   -10.2
    
        SMALL VANS        10,244    11,099    -7.7     85,240     96,047   -11.7
        PICKUPS           29,808    34,013   -12.4    215,467    246,428   -13.0
    
        * NORTH AMERICAN
          BUILT VEHICLES
    
        COROLLA           21,060    29,840   -29.4    209,554    239,186   -12.8
        CAMRY             43,544    39,823     9.3    319,870    275,247    15.6
        AVALON             3,467     5,880   -41.0     30,905     48,494   -36.6
        SIENNA            10,244    11,099    -7.7     85,240     96,047   -11.7
        PICKUP            29,808    34,013   -12.4    215,467    246,428   -13.0
        SEQUOIA            3,195     1,717    86.1     22,562     16,299    37.8
        RX                 7,288     7,607    -4.2     42,490     49,105   -13.9
        TOTAL            118,606   129,979    -8.7    926,088    970,806    -5.1
        N.A. VEHICLES
         % OF TOTAL        56.1%     55.7%              56.2%      54.3%
    
        SELLING DAYS          27        27                206        205
        DSR = DAILY
         SELLING RATE

  8. American Honda Reports August Sales
    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/
    Link to Press Release


    All-new Pilot sales increase 18.6 percent; Civic Sales up by 5.3 percent

    TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- American Honda Motor Co.,
    Inc., posted August total vehicle sales of 146,855, a decline of 7.3
    percent compared to record-setting August 2007 results. Year-to-date sales
    of 1,083,957 represent a 1.2 percent increase on a daily-selling-rate
    basis* compared to last year.

    Honda Division posted August sales of 131,766, a decline of 7.1 percent
    versus August 2007. Honda models showing increased sales included the
    all-new Pilot, up 18.6 percent to 11,276; Civic, up 5.3 percent to 30,052;
    the Civic Hybrid, up 47.7 percent to 3,105.

    "Meeting the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles remains a priority,"
    said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales for American Honda.
    "In addition to the Civic and Civic Hybrid, the sales increase of the
    all-new Pilot shows that fuel-efficient technologies such as our variable
    cylinder management system are being well-received in Honda's light truck
    segment."

    Honda total car sales decreased by 4.9 percent to 78,674. Honda light
    truck sales saw a decrease of 10.3 percent to 53,092.

    The Acura Division posted sales of 15,089, a decrease of 8.2 percent
    compared to August 2007. The MDX was Acura's top-selling model, posting
    5,180 units while sales of the TL sedan increased 0.2 percent to 5,000.

    *The daily selling rate is calculated with 27 days for August 2008 and
    27 days for August 2007. The year-to-date daily selling rate is calculated
    with 206 days for 2008 and 205 days for 2007. All percentages reflect the
    daily selling rate.

    For more information or downloadable high-resolution images of Honda
    and Acura vehicles, please visit http://www.hondanews.com. Consumer
    information is available at http://www.honda.com.



    American Honda Vehicle Sales For August 2008
                                                         Month-to-Date
                                                 August      August      DSR**
                                                  2008        2007       % Chg.
        American Honda Total                     146,855     158,342      -7.3%
           Total Car Sales                        86,827      91,448      -5.1%
           Total Truck Sales                      60,028      66,894     -10.3%
              Honda Total Car Sales               78,674      82,688      -4.9%
              Honda Total Truck Sales             53,092      59,218     -10.3%
              Acura Total Car Sales                8,153       8,760      -6.9%
              Acura Total Truck Sales              6,936       7,676      -9.6%
        Domestic Car Sales *                      70,081      78,135     -10.3%
           Honda Division                         65,081      73,143     -11.0%
           Acura Division                          5,000       4,992       0.2%
        Domestic Truck Sales *                    50,234      48,001       4.7%
           Honda Division                         43,298      40,325       7.4%
           Acura Division                          6,936       7,676      -9.6%
        Import Car Sales                          16,746      13,313      25.8%
           Honda Division                         13,593       9,545      42.4%
           Acura Division                          3,153       3,768     -16.3%
        Import Truck Sales                         9,794      18,893     -48.2%
           Honda Division                          9,794      18,893     -48.2%
        MODEL BREAKOUTS BY DIVISION
        Honda Division Total                     131,766     141,906      -7.1%
           Fit                                     4,800       6,408     -25.1%
           Accord *                               43,613      47,360      -7.9%
             Memo:  Accord Hybrid                      2         275     -99.3%
           Civic *                                30,052      28,551       5.3%
             Memo:  Civic Hybrid                   3,105       2,102      47.7%
           S2000                                     208         369     -43.6%
           Insight                                     0           0
           FCX                                         0           0
           FCX Clarity                                 1
           Odyssey  *                             15,546      19,324     -19.6%
           Pilot *                                11,276       9,504      18.6%
           CR-V *                                 19,866      23,192     -14.3%
           Element *                               2,606       2,759      -5.5%
           Ridgeline                               3,798       4,439     -14.4%
        Acura Division Total                      15,089      16,436      -8.2%
           RSX                                         0           1
           TL *                                    5,000       4,992       0.2%
           TSX                                     2,837       3,245     -12.6%
           RL                                        316         522     -39.5%
           MDX *                                   5,180       5,816     -10.9%
           RDX  *                                  1,756       1,860      -5.6%
        Selling Days                                  27          27



    Year-to-Date
                                                 August       August      DSR**
                                                  2008         2007       % Chg.
        American Honda Total                    1,083,957    1,066,320      1.2%
           Total Car Sales                        674,129      605,812     10.7%
           Total Truck Sales                      409,828      460,508    -11.4%
              Honda Total Car Sales               613,985      536,773     13.8%
              Honda Total Truck Sales             364,141      407,190    -11.0%
              Acura Total Car Sales                60,144       69,039    -13.3%
              Acura Total Truck Sales              45,687       53,318    -14.7%
        Domestic Car Sales *                      502,452      494,795      1.1%
           Honda Division                         469,810      454,047      3.0%
           Acura Division                          32,642       40,748    -20.3%
        Domestic Truck Sales *                    323,140      326,526     -1.5%
           Honda Division                         277,453      273,208      1.1%
           Acura Division                          45,687       53,318    -14.7%
        Import Car Sales                          171,677      111,017     53.9%
           Honda Division                         144,175       82,726     73.4%
           Acura Division                          27,502       28,291     -3.3%
        Import Truck Sales                         86,688      133,982    -35.6%
           Honda Division                          86,688      133,982    -35.6%
        MODEL BREAKOUTS BY DIVISION
        Honda Division Total                      978,126      943,963      3.1%
           Fit                                     56,853       36,520     54.9%
           Accord *                               290,857      266,848      8.5%
             Memo:  Accord Hybrid                     196        2,579    -92.4%
           Civic *                                264,138      230,203     14.2%
             Memo:  Civic Hybrid                   25,577       21,736     17.1%
           S2000                                    2,128        3,189    -33.6%
           Insight                                      0            3
           FCX                                          6           10    -40.3%
           FCX Clarity                                  3
           Odyssey  *                             101,258      113,803    -11.5%
           Pilot *                                 74,238       89,272    -17.2%
           CR-V *                                 142,096      147,454     -4.1%
           Element *                               20,690       25,562    -19.5%
           Ridgeline                               25,859       31,099    -17.3%
        Acura Division Total                      105,831      122,357    -13.9%
           RSX                                          1          294    -99.7%
           TL *                                    32,642       40,748    -20.3%
           TSX                                     23,994       23,433      1.9%
           RL                                       3,507        4,562    -23.5%
           MDX *                                   33,219       37,792    -12.5%
           RDX  *                                  12,468       15,526    -20.1%
        Selling Days                                  206          205
           * Honda and Acura vehicles are made of domestic and global sourced
             parts.
          ** Daily Selling Rate
    
                         Month-to-Date                 Year-to-Date
                   August    August     DSR**      August      August      DSR**
                    2008      2007      % Chg.      2008        2007       % Chg.
    
        Hybrid      3,107      2,377     30.7%      25,773      24,318      5.5%

  9. Mercedes-Benz Reports August Sales of 18,507

    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    Year-To-Date Sales of 158,519 Continue to Outpace 2007

    MONTVALE, N.J., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today

    reported August sales of 18,507 new vehicles, an 11.8 percent decrease

    compared to August 2007. On a year-to-date basis, MBUSA continued to

    outpace its 2007 performance with sales of 158,519 new vehicles (versus

    157,806).

    Demand for the company's volume-leading C-Class boosted that model

    line's sales performance by 53.1 percent (6,990 vs. 4,565) for the month.

    On a year-to-date basis, the C-Class posted a gain of 39.8 percent (50,593

    in 2008 vs. 36,184 in 2007). While down for the month of August (2,430 vs.

    3,062), the popular M-Class sport utility vehicles continued to hold their

    gain on a year-to-date basis with a 7.2 percent increase (22,517 in 2008

    vs. 21,012 in 2007).

    Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program,

    MBUSA marked a 46.8 percent increase in August sales with 6,440 vehicles

    sold compared to 4,388 in August 2007, bringing year-to-date sales to a

    total of 42,973 units, an increase of 23.3 percent over the same period in

    2007.

    Mercedes-Benz USA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is

    responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz

    products in the United States. In 2007, MBUSA achieved an all-time sales

    record of 253,433 new vehicles, setting the highest sales volume ever in

    its history.

    Model      August '08  August '07  Monthly %  YTD 2008  YTD 2007  Yearly %
    
        C-CLASS         6,990       4,565      53.1%    50,593    36,184     39.8%
    
        E-CLASS         2,681       3,718     -27.9%    27,782    29,191     -4.8%
    
        S-CLASS         1,700       2,467     -31.1%    12,916    17,537    -26.4%
    
        CL-CLASS          232         352     -34.1%     1,955     2,395    -18.4%
    
        SL-CLASS          477         485      -1.6%     4,379     4,403     -0.5%
    
        CLK-CLASS         613       1,372     -55.3%     7,778    10,381    -25.1%
    
        SLK-CLASS         356         526     -32.3%     3,864     5,671    -31.9%
    
        CLS-CLASS         313         713     -56.1%     4,493     5,458    -17.7%
    
        R-CLASS           469       1,033     -54.6%     6,003     8,899    -32.5%
    
        M-CLASS         2,430       3,062     -20.6%    22,517    21,012      7.2%
    
        GL-CLASS        2,184       2,615     -16.5%    15,623    15,957     -2.1%
    
        G-CLASS            62          72     -13.9%       616       718    -14.2%
    
        GRAND
         TOTAL         18,507      20,980     -11.8%   158,519   157,806      0.5%

  10. Daimler AG Reports August Sales of 20,927 New Vehicles for the Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S.
    Sept 3rd /PRNewswire/
    Link to Press Release


    - Total of 20,927 Units of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division Sold in U.S.
    - Mercedes-Benz USA Records August Sales of 18,507
    - smart USA Records 2,420 Sales in August

    NEW YORK, Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Daimler AG (NYSE: DAI) today reported
    sales for the Mercedes-Benz Cars division (Mercedes-Benz and smart
    combined) of 20,927 units in the U.S. for August 2008. All sales figures in
    this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.

    Mercedes-Benz USA reported August sales of 18,507 new vehicles,
    bringing the year-to-date total to 158,519, a .5 percent increase over 2007
    year-to-date sales.

    Sales for the smart fortwo remain strong with deliveries totaling 2,420
    for the month of August. This brings the year-to-date total to an
    incredible 16,378 units in a just over seven months of being offered in the
    U.S. market. The vehicle is attracting an overwhelming number of buyers who
    want a solution to high gas prices, a reduced environmental footprint and
    increased urban mobility on congested city streets -- all in a package
    that's fun to drive. The fortwo offers a powerful combination of
    outstanding fuel efficiency, innovative safety, environmental friendliness
    and low cost of ownership. There are currently 71 smart centers open in 33
    states.

    Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA will be announced later
    today in a separate press release issued by Mercedes-Benz USA.


    Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S. Sales Summary Through August 2008
    
                                Month Sales      %         Sales CYTD       %
                            Curr Yr     Pr Yr  Change  Curr Yr     Pr Yr  Change
    
        Mercedes-Benz USA    18,507    20,980   -11.8  158,519   157,806     0.5
        smart USA             2,420      n/a*    n/a*   16,378      n/a*    n/a*
    
        Mercedes-Benz USA/
         smart USA combined  20,927         *       *  174,897         *       *
    
        * smart sales in the U.S. started in mid January 2008

  11. GM Reports 308,817 Deliveries in August

    Up 31.3 Percent From July and the Highest Monthly Sales Total in 2008

    Employee Discount For Everyone Extended

    Sept 3rd - GM Media - Press Release

    Link to Press Release

    • Car retail sales increase driven by Chevrolet Malibu sales up 212 percent, Pontiac Vibe up 114 percent, Cadillac CTS up 87 percent, Corvette up 49 percent and Chevrolet Impala up 27 percent compared with last August
    • Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook crossover retail sales up 29 percent
    • 80,000 Chevrolet Silverado, Avalanche and GMC Sierra pickups sold, best month since August, 2007
    • Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban and GMC Yukon sales highest so far in 2008 with more than 22,000 deliveries
    • August had largest total, retail and fleet deliveries so far in 2008
    • Anticipated best monthly market share performance of 2008

    DETROIT - General Motors dealers in the United States delivered 308,817 vehicles in August, making it GM's best monthly total, retail and fleet sales performance so far in 2008. The strong showing was spurred by GM's Employee Discount for Everyone sale in celebration of GM's Centennial later this month. In response to ongoing customer and dealer demand, the sale is being extended through September 30, 2008 and a number of 2009 models are being added due to dwindling 2008 inventories.

    Compared with an exceptionally strong retail and fleet month last year, August total sales were down 20 percent. However, when compared with July, 2008, total sales were up 31 percent, retail sales were up 32 percent and fleet sales were up 29 percent. Last August's sales performance was influenced by significantly lower fuel prices and a 0 percent APR for 60 months offer on pickups.

    Notably in August, Chevrolet Silverado, Avalanche and GMC Sierra had their strongest total sales month since last August, with more than 80,000 vehicles sold, as GM full-size pickups continue to build market share calendar-year-to-date. Silverado sales were up 69 percent, Avalanche was up 59 percent and Sierra sales increased 75 percent compared with July, 2008.

    Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban and GMC Yukon full-size utilities had their best performance of the year with total sales up 33 percent compared with July with more than 22,000 vehicles sold. Overall, GM August truck sales (excluding crossovers) declined 25.6 percent compared with a year ago.

    "Our award-winning lineup of new products, combined with the GM Employee Discount for Everyone sale that started August 20th, helped drive additional showroom traffic and our dealers are giving us some very enthusiastic feedback. We had our best sales month so far in 2008. Today we're announcing the extension of the sale through September 30, and we've added 19 additional 2009 models to the eligible list of vehicles because our 2008 stock on dealer lots is rapidly disappearing," said Mark LaNeve, vice president, GM North America Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing.

    "With the recent moderation in fuel prices, we're seeing some relaxation of pent-up demand in pickups and utilities. Our August sales of these segment-leading trucks and utilities has been the best in nearly a year and August marked the fourth consecutive month that truck sales as a percentage of GM and industry sales increased. We also saw double-digit retail increases in our crossovers compared with July," LaNeve added. "We saw great car retail performance in our launch products, including the Chevrolet Malibu, Cadillac CTS, Pontiac Vibe and G8, and Saturn Astra, and continued strong retail demand for our fuel efficient Chevrolet Aveo and HHR."

    Chevrolet retail car sales were up 18 percent, Pontiac retail car sales increased 11 percent and Cadillac retail car sales were up 10 percent compared with last August.

    Cadillac CTS dominated the mid-car luxury category with retail sales increasing 87 percent compared with the same month a year ago.

    Saturn Astra monthly sales of more than 1,900 vehicles were the best to date, and show a 28 percent increase compared with July 2008 (Astra was not available last August).

    GM's popular midsized crossovers -- Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook -- together accounted for more than 14,600 vehicle sales in the month, with a retail sales increase of 29 percent compared with a year ago.

    GM hybrid vehicles continue to gain in popularity in the marketplace with 530 hybrid Chevrolet Tahoe, 267 GMC Yukon and 1 Cadillac Escalade 2-mode SUVs delivered. There were 388 Chevrolet Malibu, 26 Saturn Aura and 417 Vue hybrids sold in August. For the month, a total of 1,629 hybrid vehicles were delivered, with 7,096 hybrids sold so far this year.

    "Customers are responding to our six hybrid models - vehicles that provide industry-leading value, great fuel economy and the best warranty coverage of any full-line automaker," LaNeve added. "We're working hard to change perceptions and gain awareness of GM as the leader in advanced propulsion technology and fuel efficiency."

    GM has aggressively managed inventories to low levels. In August, only about 736,000 vehicles were in stock - the lowest August level since 1998 - down about 209,000 vehicles (22 percent) compared with last August. There were about 256,000 cars and 480,000 trucks (including crossovers) in inventory at the end of August.

    Certified Used Vehicles

    August 2008 sales for all certified GM brands, including GM Certified Used Vehicles, Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles, were 41,238 vehicles, down 8 percent from August 2007. Year-to-date sales are 339,375 vehicles, down 5 percent from the same period last year.

    GM Certified Used Vehicles, the industry's top-selling certified brand, posted August sales of 35,168 vehicles, down 12 percent from a strong August 2007 sales performance. Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 1,005 vehicles, down nearly 6 percent. Cadillac Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 4,023 vehicles, up 27 percent. Saab Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 791 vehicles, up 32 percent, and HUMMER Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles sold 251 vehicles, up 130 percent.

    "The Cadillac, Saab and HUMMER programs posted robust sales increases in August, while GM Certified Used Vehicles continues to lead the certified pre-owned segment in sales," said LaNeve. "The launch this month of a new 12-month/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty on all Saturn Certified Pre-Owned and GM Certified Used Vehicles, effective September 13, will provide shoppers a range of peace-of-mind assurances as strong as those provided by any certified program in America."

    GM North America Reports August, 2008 Production; Third-Quarter Production Forecast at 920,000 Vehicles; Initial Fourth Quarter Forecast is 875,000 Vehicles

    In August, GM North America produced 341,000 vehicles (158,000 cars and 183,000 trucks). This is down 96,000 vehicles or 22 percent compared with August 2007 when the region produced 437,000 vehicles (152,000 cars and 285,000 trucks). (Production totals include joint venture production of 18,000 vehicles in August 2008 and 21,000 vehicles in August 2007.)

    The GM North America third-quarter production forecast is at 920,000 vehicles (443,000 cars and 477,000 trucks) which is down about 10 percent compared with a year ago, due to production adjustments in response to market changes that will reduce the number of trucks produced by about 176,000 and increase the number of cars by about 76,000. GM North America built 1.020 million vehicles (367,000 cars and 653,000 trucks) in the third-quarter of 2007.

    The initial GM North America fourth-quarter production forecast is 875,000 vehicles (436,000 cars and 439,000 trucks) which is down about 16 percent compared with a year ago. GM North America built 1.042 million vehicles (358,000 cars and 684,000 trucks) in the fourth-quarter of 2007.

    General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the annual global industry sales leader for 77 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 266,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 35 countries. In 2007, nearly 9.37 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com.

  12. sorry for the accusation, or how it came across. however in your follow-up i think you are being far too optomistic. marketing affects a vehicle's perception most upon its newest introduction or changes. design is a number one motivator for buying. hence, since design has not changed on either of existing Buick models, then no there hasn't been a severe change in the demographics of those buyers. additionally, as you stated, SUPERs are but a blip on the radar screen. admittedly, with buick's low volume they may have a minor affect, but whatever the ratio of yong buyers is of the 5,000 or so Supers produced, those are a paltry volume and relatively inconsequential compared to the ~48,000 [off the top of my head] Enclaves sold in the last year.

    Uhm, once again, you're partially incorrect. A new model introduction and marketing (especially one targeted to a different demographic) will have an indirect impact on vehicles sharing the same showroom floor:

    Younger people (you know, those who've never been in a Buick showroom or looked at any Buick up close) decide to check out the Enclave... They see the Enclave up close while also noticing the restyled LaCrosse and Lucerne. The stigma of "getting them to visit the showroom" has already been overcome. Now they're looking directly at the product. The SUPERs are the Buicks occupying the floor space next to the Enclave in most showrooms. The LaCrosse Super and Lucerne Super do not appear or come across as "old people" cars when examined separately from the CX-trims parked in the handicap spot outside Old Country Buffet.

    The SUPERs, in themselves, can and probably have drawn younger (than the traditional Buick) male buyers in to check them out. Styling for both vehicles were updated. Even if they can't afford the SUPER trim, they could still walk away buying a CXL instead...

    Basically, anytime you successfully draw a different or "unexposed" demographic into a showroom there's potential to have some of those to cross-shop other vehicles offered by the brand/dealership.

    Oh... and sorry for my optimism without statistics... but it's to counter pessimism without statistics... you know... :AH-HA_wink:

    The only facts known at the moment are that Buick's average buyer's age for 2007 was in the 50's and beneath Mercedes-Benz. LaCrosse & Lucerne received several significant updates during this time that accompanied the Enclave's introduction. The entire Buick line-up was "refreshed" or "all-new" between the 2007-2008 model years. A combination of refreshed sedans and an all-new "hot" CUV have apparently benefitted Buick.

  13. he may not have the info to back up his statement [or maybe he does, i remember many articles quoting it]....but there's only been one Buick to change in the last year, and Buick's age group has only just begun to get younger. one can only assume no seismic shift like a tidal wave occured destroying all Toyotas bound to our shore dramatically increasing the number of younger buyers heading to thier local Buick dealers, so the other two cars already well into their lifecycle logically would not have a shift in buying patters except for decreases. right? that's only logic...

    I'll let someone else spend the time to pull up the numbers.

    C'mon now.....you know as well as I do that neither LaCrosse NOR Lucerne are attracting "younger" buyers.

    Enclave? Yeah......

    Turbo & O.C. ... I'm not ignorant. That being said, I think you're both at least partially incorrect.

    The LaCrosse and the Lucerne received trim level & styling changes (interior & exterior) in 2007 & 2008 to coincide with the SUPER trim introduction, not to exclude the performance improvements (especially the LaCrosse) that accompanied these changes. Considering the low volume they both have, I am actually curious if the LaCrosse and Lucerne have begun pulling in younger (than traditional Buick) buyers since the SUPER introductions. Marketing for the Enclave, LaCrosse, & Lucerne have changed over the past two years as well. I have legitimate reasons for my curiosity....

  14. I disagree, Ven......the platform is ancient, and feels like it.

    Even taking a DTS with the 1SE Performance Package out (the firmest setup) it still feels too floaty and boatish compared to any other Caddy.....even base-suspension STS and CTS models. And this is my impression at low-to-moderate speeds (as I don't expect it to be a "sport sedan.")

    On the flip side, no DTS, even the base suspension car, seems to really float over the road and soak up bumps like it should. There are just too many quivers and shudders now.

    Plus, I don't think I've ever been in a vehicle with such a VERY poor turning radius as the DTS......(thank you front-wheel-drive and wide tranversely-mounted V8 engine.....)

    Uhm... You're talking about a DTS... remember that. It's not tuned to perform like a CTS, not even as a DTS III...

    I think a Bonneville GXP, Aurora 4.0 or possibly a G-platform-based STS w/magnetic ride control would serve as a better gauge for the driving dynamics of the platform. Test drive those and then let us know if a DTS level interior with similar suspension tuning would make it feel more capable.

  15. A G-body replacement for the W-body Impala would be nice, though.

    I've thought this and suggested a similar idea several times...

    GM could give a 3.9l G-platform Impala to Chevrolet with the 3.6l as optional. Make the DI 3.6l V6 on the Lucerne standard and drop the CX trim.

  16. I don't see the point in spending more on an old platform when they have a perfectly good new platform that they are underutilizing...(Zeta).

    I'm sure part of it has to do with weight:

    Loaded large Buick Lucerne Super (with all the additional sound-deadening material + size)

    4,004 lbs (203.2 in - length)

    Loaded large Cadillac DTS

    4,009 lbs (207.6 in - length)

    Loaded midsize Pontiac G8 GT

    3995 lbs (196.1 in - length)

    Loaded Holden V8 Caprice

    4160 lbs (1887 Kg)

  17. I am pretty sure the G-body can't accommodate the 6-speed, and the overhangs on the Lucerene are bad.

    The overhangs on the Lucerne are almost identical in length to one of its closest competitors: Toyota Avalon... which is based on the "thoroughly modern" Camry platform.

    Toyota Avalon

    Length: 197.2 in

    Wheelbase: 111.0 in

    Overhang: 86.2 in

    Buick Lucerne

    Length: 203.2 in

    Wheelbase: 115.0 in

    Overhang: 88.2 in

    Your G-Platform Aurora shows that the platform's overhangs do not need to be excessive. I think this is the third or fourth time I've pointed this out to you.

    Buick sold 309,000 cars in 2004, yet is on pace for 180,000 or so this year. This brand is sinking, it is almost impossible for them to get younger buyers at this point.

    How many models did Buick sell in 2004 compared to 2008? Yeah...

    And Buick has already started attracting younger buyers... Don't you read any of the articles posted on this site?

  18. I love HUD in my current PA and would like to keep that feature. The updated HUD in the Corvette & STS would be very nice.

    But... while we're composing wish lists for Lucerne upgrades...

    Exterior:

    Xenon/HID Headlights - (like the Enclave)

    LED Tail lights - (Like the 2010 LaCrosse & DTS)

    front foglamps on all trims (just looks better - more youthful. Simpler to build with one facia too)

    Interior:

    Updated dash to help tie all three models together (2010 LaCrosse, Lucerne, & Enclave)

    Mood lighting (if included in the 2010 LaCrosse) with possible LED gauges?

    HUD

    Memory driver & front passenger seats (All Lexus sedans including the ES350 offer them)

    Heated rear seats

    Rear power sunshade

    Rear manual passenger window sunshades

    Powertrain:

    DI 3.6l with 6-speed automatic. :)

    Make the Lucerne just two trim levels with 5-passenger seating only... so drop the CX. The Lucerne needs to be positioned above the 2010 LaCrosse. The CX trim would prevent that.

    I wouldn't desire a Chinese Cadillac SLS if the above Lucerne was offered. :scratchchin:

  19. I don't see the point in spending more on an old platform when they have a perfectly good new platform that they are underutilizing...(Zeta).

    There's nothing wrong with the G-Platform except for the power train. The overhangs are no greater than the foreign competition. Interior dimensions are very accommodating including trunk space. A Lucerne with 3.6l & 6-speed would be a perfectly fine replacement for my V6-powered Park Avenue Ultra.

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