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Audi Reports November Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article -- Sales down 25.4% compared to strong November last year -- Audi A5 and R8 sales more than double totals from November 2007 -- Audi TT sales up 74.6% in November HERNDON, Va., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Audi today announced sales for the month of November totaling 6,788 units, a decrease of 25.4% from November 2007. Audi continues to outpace the industry with year-to-date sales down only 5.8%. The Audi A5 posted a 155.2% increase over last November with 569 units sold. Similarly, the Audi R8 had another strong month with over 150 units sold, an increase of 123.9% over November 2007. The Audi TT sales increased to 606 units sold in the month, growing by 74.6% compared to November 2007. For the year, the Audi TT outsold last year's figures by more than 11%. "Despite the great challenges facing the auto industry, Audi continues to outperform other automakers on the strength of several new products," said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president, Audi of America. "At Audi we will continue to be aggressive as we look forward to introducing new progressive vehicles in 2009, such as the Audi Q5 and the Audi Q7 TDI." With industry-wide sales results expected slump as much as 36% in November, de Nysschen said Audi expects to see continued market share gains. Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) sales declined 19.6% over November 2007 figures, with 2,357 units sold. But Audi CPO sales remained 22.5% higher through 11 months of 2008. ABOUT AUDI Audi of America and its 270 dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. The Audi line up is one of the freshest in the industry with 23 models, including 12 models launched during model years 2008 and 2009. Audi is among the most successful brands globally. Last year AUDI AG recorded its 12th consecutive record year for sales and profit growth. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicles and business issues. AUDI US SNAPSHOT --------YEAR TO DATE--------- Model Line Nov-08 Nov-07 Yr/Yr % Nov-08 Nov-07 Yr/Yr % Actual Actual change YTD YTD change actual actual A3 409 565 -27.6% 4,398 5,867 -25.0% A4 3,304 4,883 -32.3% 39,489 41,213 -4.2% A5 569 223 155.2% 5,625 489 1050.3% A6 717 1,098 -34.7% 10,738 10,797 -0.5% A8 122 383 -68.1% 2,705 3,475 -22.2% TT 606 347 74.6% 4,306 3,871 11.2% R8 150 67 123.9% 785 170 361.8% Audi Q7 911 1,538 -40.8% 12,002 19,120 -37.2% Total Audi Sales 6,788 9,104 -25.4% 80,048 85,002 -5.8% NOTES: -- A4 includes Audi A4 sedan, Avant, and RS models. -- A5 includes Audi A5 coupe' and S5 coupe' models. -- A6 includes Audi A6 sedan, S6 sedan and A6 Avant models. -- A8 includes Audi A8 sedan, A8L sedan, and S8 sedan models. -- TT includes Audi TT coupe' and TT roadster models.

Subaru Posts November Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article - Year-to-Date Sales Up 1-Percent - - November Sales Down 8-Percent - - Forester Sets Record November sales, Up 64-percent - CHERRY HILL, N.J., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today announced an 8-percent decrease in sales for the month of November versus November 2007. Subaru remains one of the few automotive brands to show a sales increase for the year, with total sales year-to-date up 1-percent. Subaru of America sold 170,412 units through November compared with 168,469 units during the same period last year. Sales for the Subaru Forester were up 64-percent and the Subaru Impreza posted a 4-percent gain with unit sales of 4,996 and 3,873 respectively. 08-Nov 07-Nov +/- YTD 08 YTD 07 +/- Impreza 3,873 3,731 4% 44,906 40,957 10% Legacy 1,529 1,793 -15% 20,772 19,028 9% Outback* 2,686 4,879 -45% 40,213 51,503 -22% Forester 4,996 3,046 64% 54,249 40,538 34% Tribeca 622 1,417 -56% 10,270 15,319 -33% Total** 13,706 14,868 -8% 170,412 168,469 1% *Includes Legacy Wagon **Total sales include 2 Baja sales in '08 including 1 in Oct. '08. Include 1122 Baja sales '07 YTD.

Mitsubishi Motors Reports November Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article CYPRESS, Calif., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors today announced November 2008 sales of 5,096. Highlights include: -- Galant was the volume leader in November. Galant sales are up 1 percent for the year compared to January through November 2007. -- Outlander sales were up 3.4 percent compared to October. November was the best month for Outlander sales in six months. -- Lancer Evolution sales were up almost 600% in November compared to November 2007 and are up 43.6% year-to-date. Similar to the rest of the automotive industry, Mitsubishi November sales were down 36 percent compared to November 2007. Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a network of approximately 480 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

Nissan North America Announces November Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article FRANKLIN, Tenn., Dec. 2 -- Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported sales for November of 46,605 units versus 80,683 units a year ago, a decrease of 42.2 percent. Sales of Nissan Division vehicles decreased 44.4 percent, while sales of Infiniti vehicles decreased by 28.0 percent. NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS -- Nissan vehicles saw sales of 38,974 units in November compared with 70,079 units sold in November 2007, a 44.4 percent decrease. -- The GT-R super car was recently named the 2009 Motor Trend Car of the Year and 2009 Automobile Magazine Automobile of the Year. -- The new Versa 1.6 Sedan is arriving at dealerships nationwide and is available starting at $9,990. -- Nissan continues to offer 0% financing on select models to qualified consumers. -- Nissan in November unveiled the all-new, next-generation 2009 370Z sports car, scheduled to hit showrooms in early 2009, and the all-new, uniquely styled Cube, which will be available in spring 2009. INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS -- Infiniti sales for November were 7,631 units, down from 10,604 units a year ago, a decline of 28.0 percent. -- Infiniti in November unveiled the all-new, first-ever 2009 G Convertible, which is scheduled to go on sale in spring of 2009. The 2009 Infiniti G Convertible Premier Edition is available exclusively through Bloomingdale's Holiday Catalog. NNA INFORMATION -- Combined sales for Nissan and Infiniti of 46,605 units, compared with last November's sales of 80,683 units, marked a decrease of 42.2 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 November had 25 selling days, and November 2007 had 25 selling days. In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and http://www.nissandriven.com / www.infiniti.com. NISSAN DIVISION November November Monthly CYTD CYTD CYTD 2008 2007 % chg 2008 2007 % chg Nissan Division Total 38,974 70,079 -44.4 784,532 864,300 -9.2 Versa 4,535 5,561 -18.4 80,044 73,229 9.3 Sentra 4,995 8,180 -38.9 94,031 99,643 -5.6 Altima 10,828 19,811 -45.3 252,357 259,611 -2.8 Maxima 2,718 4,327 -37.2 43,673 48,527 -10.0 350Z 450 1,285 -65.0 9,770 17651 -44.6 GT-R 208 0 0.0 1,581 0 0.0 Total Car 23,734 39,164 -39.4 481,456 498,661 -3.5 Frontier 1,171 3,993 -70.7 43,595 59,689 -27.0 Titan 1,022 5,001 -79.6 31,929 60,961 -47.6 Xterra 1,115 3,925 -71.6 31,957 47,444 -32.6 Pathfinder 1,214 4,131 -70.6 32,004 58,243 -45.1 Armada 713 2,413 -70.5 14,753 28,976 -49.1 Rogue 5,501 5,650 -2.6 66,137 11,520 474.1 Murano 4,162 3,976 4.7 64,940 72,159 -10.0 Quest 342 1,826 -81.3 17,761 26,647 -33.3 Total Truck 15,240 30,915 -50.7 303,076 365,639 -17.1 North American produced 28,653 59,168 -51.6 642,104 762,970 -16.1 Car 23,076 37,879 -39.1 470,105 481,010 -2.6 Truck 5,577 21,289 -73.8 171,999 281,960 -39.2 Import 10,321 10,911 -5.4 142,428 101,330 40.1 Car 658 1,285 -48.8 11,351 17,651 -35.9 Truck 9,663 9,626 0.4 131,077 83,679 56.1 INFINITI DIVISION November November Monthly CYTD CYTD CYTD 2008 2007 % chg 2008 2007 % chg Infiniti Division Total 7,631 10,604 -28.0 104,717 114,383 -8.5 G Sedan 3,495 4,399 -20.6 41,040 49,532 -17.1 G Coupe 962 1,849 -48.0 18,159 15,719 15.5 M 1,186 1,474 -19.5 14,424 19,422 -25.7 Q45 0 -1 -100.0 0 21 -100.0 QX56 496 1,062 -53.3 7,285 10,972 -33.6 EX 809 0 0.0 11,996 0 0.0 FX 683 1,821 -62.5 11,813 18,711 -36.9 Total Car 5,643 7,721 -26.9 73,622 84,697 -13.4 Total Truck 1,988 2,883 -31.0 31,094 29,686 4.4 NISSAN & INFINITI November November Monthly CYTD CYTD CYTD 2008 2007 % chg 2008 2007 % chg TOTAL VEHICLE 46,605 80,683 -42.2 889,248 978,683 -9.5 Total Car 29,377 46,885 -37.3 555,078 583,358 -4.8 Total Truck 17,228 33,798 -49.0 334,170 395,325 -15.5 Selling days 25 25 282 281 * All numbers include Hawaii. 2007 includes sales of 3 Infiniti QX4 units.

VOLKSWAGEN REPORTS NOVEMBER 2008 SALES VW Media Press Release Link to Article Clean Diesel TDI sales strong, and Routan has best month ever HERNDON, Va.— Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced November 2008 sales of 14,295 units, a 19.2 percent decrease over the November 2007 sales of 17,689 vehicles. On a year-to-date basis, 2008 Volkswagen sales are 2.1 percent behind 2007 sales through November. “This is the toughest economic environment we’ve seen in a long time and it presents a significant challenge” said Mark Barnes, Chief Operating Officer, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “Nevertheless, our clean diesel TDI’s continued to sell very well even in this tough economy and represented 17 percent of our monthly sales. This is very promising for the Volkswagen Brand as we strive to continue to be the market leader in affordable clean diesel technology. We’re also pleased that our all-new seven passenger minivan, Routan, has posted its best month ever with sales of 1,324 units.” added Barnes. Volkswagen of America, Inc. 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 Eos, Rabbit, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg 2 and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2009 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.

AMERICAN SUZUKI NOVEMBER 2008 SALES Suzuki Media Press Release Link to Article 2008 Suzuki Auto Product Line Suzuki Auto’s versatile line of vehicles includes the spirited four-door SX4 Sport, bold and functional five-door SX4 Crossover, exciting XL7 midsize crossover SUV, rugged Grand Vitara compact SUV, popular Forenza sedan and Forenza Wagon, and the European-styled Reno. Every vehicle in the line provides Suzuki’s standout virtues of toughness, leading-edge style and high-end features at very competitive prices. All 2008 Suzuki automobiles are backed by America’s #1 Warranty: a 100,000-mile/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty. About Suzuki The Brea, Calif.-based Operations of American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) was founded in 1963 by parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) and currently markets its vehicles in the United States through a network of approximately 400 automotive dealerships and numerous other motorcycle, ATV and marine distributors in 49 states. With global headquarters in Hamamatsu, Japan, SMC is a diversified worldwide automobile, motorcycle, and outboard motor manufacturer. In 2007, SMC sold more than two million new cars and trucks and more than three million motorcycles and ATVs. Founded in 1909 and incorporated in 1920, SMC has operations in 193 countries and regions. For more information, visit www.media.suzuki.com. AMERICAN SUZUKI NOVEMBER 2008 SALES NOVEMBER CYTD 2008 2007 MTD VS. 2008 2007 YTD VS. MTD PRIOR YR. YTD PRIOR YR. GRAND VITARA: 464 1,091 -57% 11,537 18,207 -37% XL7: 1,058 1,270 -17% 21,009 21,116 -1% SX4: 1,262 1,634 -23% 28,366 12,921 120% FORENZA/RENO: 432 1,958 -78% 20,214 39,941 -49% TOTAL: 3,216 5,987 -46% 81,215 94,523 -14%

Daimler AG Reports a 30 Percent Decrease for the Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S. for November 2008 Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article - Total 15,991 of Units of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division Sold in U.S. in November - Mercedes-Benz USA Records November Sales of 14,102 - smart USA Records 1,889 Sales in November NEW YORK, Dec. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Daimler AG (stock exchange abbreviation DAI) today reported sales for the Mercedes-Benz Cars division (Mercedes-Benz and smart combined) of 15,991 units in the U.S. for November 2008. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted. Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported November sales of 14,102 vehicles, bringing the company's year-to-date volume to 206,396, an 8.6 percent decrease over the year-to-date record set last year. Sales highlights for Mercedes-Benz USA include a 16.9 percent increase in C-Class sales and a 5.5 percent increase M-Class SUV sales for the year-to-date. Sales for the smart fortwo remain strong with deliveries totaling 1,889 for the month of November. This brings the year-to-date total to an incredible 22,281 units in less than a year of being offered in the U.S. market. The smart fortwo continues to be an attractive vehicle solution for American consumers in our value-oriented, environmentally responsible society. The smart fortwo offers a powerful combination of outstanding fuel efficiency, innovative safety, environmental friendliness and low cost of ownership. Last month smart USA announced the smart fortwo BRABUS will go on sale in the United States in January. There are currently 73 smart centers open in 35 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 November 2008 Month Sales % Sales CYTD % Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Mercedes-Benz USA 14,102 22,819 -38.2 206,396 225,904 -8.6 smart USA 1,889 n/a* n/a* 22,281 n/a* n/a* Mercedes-Benz USA / smart USA combined 15,991 22,819* -29.9* 228,677 225,904* 1.2* * smart sales in the U.S. started in mid January 2008 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MBUSA Reports November New Car Sales of 14,102 Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article MONTVALE, N.J., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported November sales of 14,102 vehicles, bringing the company's year-to-date volume to 206,396, an 8.6 percent decrease over the year-to-date record set last year. Sales highlights for Mercedes-Benz USA include a 16.9 percent increase in C-Class sales and a 5.5 percent increase M-Class SUV sales for the year-to-date. Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 5,312 vehicles in November, an increase of 46.7 percent over November 2007, bringing its certified pre-owned sales to 58,065 units year-to-date, a 24 percent jump over the same period last year (46,844 units). 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. For over forty years, MBUSA has prided itself on its commitment to the customer by providing superior quality luxury vehicles coupled with outstanding customer support. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com. MERCEDES-BENZ USA Sales -- November 2008 Model November '08 November '07 Monthly% YTD 2008 YTD 2007 Yearly% ----- ------------ ------------ -------- -------- -------- ------- C-CLASS 4,422 6,920 -36.1% 66,381 56,802 16.9% ------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ E-CLASS 2,264 4,464 -49.3% 35,112 42,824 -18.0% ------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ S-CLASS 997 2,106 -52.7% 16,712 23,707 -29.5% ------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ CL-CLASS 187 329 -43.2% 2,586 3,319 -22.1% -------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ SL-CLASS 189 488 -61.3% 5,201 5,594 -7.0% -------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ CLK-CLASS 668 1,016 -34.3% 9,797 13,777 -28.9% --------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ SLK-CLASS 262 353 -25.8% 4,656 6,742 -30.9% --------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ CLS-CLASS 224 584 -61.6% 5,206 7,147 -27.2% --------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ R-CLASS 313 1,086 -71.2% 7,194 11,691 -38.5% ------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ M-CLASS 2,911 3,015 -3.4% 31,559 29,917 5.5% ------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ GL-CLASS 1,573 2,349 -33.0% 21,189 23,370 -9.3% -------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ G-CLASS 92 109 -15.6% 803 1,014 -20.8% ------- ------- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ GRAND TOTAL 14,102 22,819 -38.2% 206,396 225,904 -8.6% ------ ------- ------ ------ ------- ------- ------

BMW Group U.S. Division Reports November Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article BMW Group sales in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) down by 26.8 percent. Company continues to outperform the market year-to-date. WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported November sales of 19,762 vehicles, a decrease of 26.8 percent over the 26,985 vehicles sold in November 2007. The BMW Group also reported a year-to-date sales volume of 281,564 vehicles, down 6.8 percent, compared to 302,079 vehicles in the same period of 2007. BMW Brand Sales Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 36.1 percent in November for a total of 15,217 compared to 23,808 reported in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date BMW brand sales were down 12.3 percent, to 231,053 vehicles compared to 263,596 vehicles sold in the same period in 2007. "You can't force sales because in the current climate purchases are based on real need, and when there is emotional desire involved, the decision is increasingly weighted on the value proposition," said Jim O'Donnell, President of BMW of North America, LLC. "Our value proposition is well tuned with a range of leasing and retail financing options and four years free maintenance. Both of these have helped us outperform the premium market, and along with cutting our production volumes earlier in the year, we're in good shape eliminating excessive inventory." BMW Automobile Sales BMW's automobile sales are down 35 percent in November to 12,106 versus 18,627 in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales also decreased 12.6 percent, to 181,289 automobiles compared to 207,471 in the same period of 2007. BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales Sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles decreased by 40 percent in November to 3,111 vehicles over the 5,181 sold last November. Year-to-date, sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 11.3 percent, to 49,764 vehicles compared to the 56,125 sold in the first eleven months of 2007. MINI Brand Sales MINI USA reported November sales of 4,545 automobiles, up 43.1 percent from the 3,177 cars sold in November 2007. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 50,511 automobiles, an increase of 31.3 percent, compared to the 38,483 cars reported in the first eleven months of 2007. "We've seen some slowing in MINI showroom traffic just the same as everyone else in the last month," said Jim McDowell, Vice-President of MINI USA. "However, we're still positive about our future sales due to the fact the recent frenzy towards more efficient transportation has introduced more consumers to our brand. This has helped us hit the milestone of 50,000 sales in November, one month sooner than we expected." Table: Sales BMW of North America, LLC, November 2008 Nov. 2008 Nov. 2007 % YTD 2008 YTD 2007 % BMW brand 15,217 23,808 -36.1 231,053 263,596 -12.3 BMW passenger cars 12,106 18,627 -35.0 181,289 207,471 -12.6 BMW light trucks 3,111 5,181 -40.0 49,764 56,125 -11.3 (SAVs) MINI brand 4,545 3,177 43.1 50,511 38,483 31.3 TOTAL Group 19,762 26,985 -26.8 281,564 302,079 -6.8 BMW Certified Pre-Owned Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are down slightly by 2 percent, to 7,700 CPO vehicles versus 7,856 vehicles reported last November. Year-to-date, CPO sales are up 15.5 percent, to 92,781 over the 80,299 reported in the same period in 2007. 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, 83 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: www.bmwgroupna.com www.bmwusa.com www.bmwmotorcycles.com www.miniusa.com www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com Sales BMW of North America, LLC, November 2008 YTD YTD Nov. 08 Nov. 07 % Nov. 08 Nov. 07 % 1 Series 644 0 N/A 11,097 0 N/A 3 Series 6,645 11,579 -42.6% 103,974 129,549 -19.7% Z4 Roadster and Coupe 334 665 -49.8% 5,798 9,068 -36.1% 5 Series 2,927 4,617 -36.6% 42,216 47,455 -11.0% 6 Series 338 710 -52.4% 5,965 8,132 -26.6% 7 Series 1,218 1,056 15.3% 12,239 13,267 -7.7% BMW passenger cars 12,106 18,627 -35.0% 181,289 207,471 -12.6% X3 748 1,975 -62.1% 16,662 25,864 -35.6% X5 1,965 3,206 -38.7% 28,986 30,261 -4.2% X6 398 0 N/A 4,116 0 N/A BMW light trucks (SAVs) 3,111 5,181 -40.0% 49,764 56,125 -11.3% BMW brand 15,217 23,808 -36.1% 231,053 263,596 -12.3% Cooper /S Hardtop 3,172 2,712 17.0% 34,398 31,212 10.2% Cooper /S Convertible 42 465 -91.0% 4,802 7,271 -34.0% Cooper /S Clubman 1,331 0 N/A 11,311 0 N/A MINI brand 4,545 3,177 43.1% 50,511 38,483 31.3% TOTAL BMW of North America, LLC 19,762 26,985 -26.8% 281,564 302,079 -6.8%

Mazda Reports November 2008 Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article - MAZDA5 Sales Lead The Way - IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported November 2008 sales of 14,134, down 31.3 percent versus last year (down 28.6 percent on a DSR basis), and year-to-date sales of 245,984, down 9.3 percent. The MAZDA5 multi-activity vehicle had an incredible sales month with sales of 1,499 units; volume was up more than three times over November 2007. On a year-to-date basis, the MAZDA5 is up 36.8 percent. "We initially thought the light at the end of the tunnel would be getting closer as we neared the end of the year, but every sale continues to be a struggle," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. "There's credit out there, and fuel prices have receded to levels we haven't seen in a year, but consumer confidence remains the problem. Down a little more than nine percent year-over-year may be nothing to crow about, but we feel we'll be well positioned for when the economy turns, thanks to the right cars, at the right price, sold through the right dealers." The all-new 2009 MAZDA6, which arrived at dealerships across the country in September, continues its strong start. The new MAZDA6 features a larger body than the outgoing car, as well as more powerful -- and more fuel efficient -- engine choices. Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) celebrated its best-ever November with sales of 1,994 vehicles, up 36 percent versus last year. On a year-to-date basis, MMdM reported 19,293 total sales, accounting for a 33 percent increase versus last year. The all-new MAZDA6 also had a record month with 407 vehicles sold, up 450 percent versus last November. Mazda Canada Inc. (MCI) reported November sales of 5,024 units, up slightly compared to November 2007. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and in Puerto Rico by Mazda de Puerto Rico in San Juan. Mazda North American Operations - November 2008 Month-To-Date Year-To-Date November November % % MTD November November % % YTD 2008 2007 Change DSR 2008 2007 Change DSR Mazda3 5,742 7,461 (23.0)% (15.3)% 102,093 110,954 (8.0)% (8.0)% Mazda5 1,499 468 220.3% 252.3% 19,137 12,091 58.3% 58.3% Mazda6 3,225 4,566 (29.4)% (22.3)% 49,502 52,782 (6.2)% (6.2)% MX-5 Miata 310 679 (54.3)% (49.8)% 10,678 14,306 (25.4)% (25.4)% RX-8 160 314 (49.0)% (43.9)% 3,215 5,452 (41.0)% (41.0)% CX-7 1,087 2,887 (62.3)% (58.6)% 25,642 38,172 (32.8)% (32.8)% CX-9 1,716 2,870 (40.2)% (34.2)% 23,997 22,501 6.6% 6.6% Tribute 309 1,202 (74.3)% (71.7)% 10,454 12,302 (15.0)% (15.0)% B-Series Truck 86 133 (35.3)% (28.9)% 1,266 2,496 (49.3)% (49.3)% MPV - - N/A N/A - 125(100.0)% N/A Total Vehicles CARS 10,936 13,488 (18.9)% (10.8)% 184,625 195,585 (5.6)% (5.6)% TRUCKS 3,198 7,092 (54.9)% (50.4)% 61,359 75,596 (18.8)% (18.8)% TOTAL 14,134 20,580 (31.3)% (24.5)% 245,984 271,181 (9.3)% (9.3)% MEMO: IMPORT CAR 7,711 8,922 (13.6)% 135,123 142,803 (5.4)% IMPORT TRUCK 2,803 5,757 (51.3)% 49,639 60,798 (18.4)% IMPORT TOTAL 10,514 14,679 (28.4)% 184,762 203,601 (9.3)% DOMESTIC CAR 3,225 4,566 (29.4)% 49,502 52,782 (6.2)% DOMESTIC TRUCK 395 1,335 (70.4)% 11,720 14,798 (20.8)% DOMESTIC TOTALS 3,620 5,901 (38.7)% 61,222 67,580 (9.4)% Selling Days 20 22 280 280 Note: MPV is a discontinued vehicle.

Ford Share Increases for Second Straight Month Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article - Ford market share higher than a year ago for the second month in a row; Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales totaled 118,818, down 30 percent versus November 2007 - F-Series sales totaled 37,911 including nearly 5,000 all-new 2009 model F-150s - Ford announces first quarter 2008 North American production plan DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Ford, Lincoln and Mercury outpaced industry-wide November sales, thanks largely to F-Series truck sales, and grew its retail and total market share for the second straight month. Ford, Lincoln and Mercury dealers reported total sales of 118,818 in November, down 30 percent versus a year ago, while industry-wide auto sales in November were down an estimated 35 percent as the weakening economy continues to take a toll on consumer confidence and spending. "The economy continues to weaken and auto sales reflect this reality," said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president, Marketing and Communications. "At Ford, we are focused on executing our plan. In 2009 and 2010, we'll launch an unprecedented number of new vehicles, and every product will offer consumers the best or among the best fuel economy in its class." In recent weeks, Ford has received significant endorsements from independent third parties for its quality and safety. Ford's initial vehicle quality is now on par with Toyota and Honda, and Ford now has more 5-star vehicles and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) "Top Safety Picks" than any other company in the industry. November marked the official introduction of the all-new F-150. F-Series sales totaled 37,911 including nearly 5,000 all-new 2009 model F-150s. Ford's F-Series has been America's No. 1-selling truck for 31 years in a row, and the new F-150 is designed and engineered to further raise the bar in the light- duty pickup market. The 2009 model Ford F-150 has class-leading capability with 11,300 pounds towing and 3,030 pounds payload and unsurpassed fuel economy of 21 mpg highway with the SFE package, which is available on F-150's highest-volume XL and XLT series. The new 2009 F-150 also earned the IIHS's "Top Safety Pick" award, the Texas Auto Writers Association's "Truck of Texas" top honor and is projected to have the best residual value of full-size light-duty pickups according to the Automotive Leasing Guide. North American Production The company plans to produce 430,000 vehicles in the first quarter of 2009. During the first quarter of 2008, the company produced 692,000 vehicles. The fourth quarter 2008 production plan is unchanged from the previously announced plan of 430,000 vehicles. "We believe the economy will continue to weaken in 2009," said Farley. "Our near-term production plan reflects this view, as we continue to align capacity with customer demand." Note: The sales data included in this release and the accompanying tables are based largely on data reported by dealers representing their sales to retail and fleet customers. About Ford Motor Company Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F), a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 224,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit http://www.ford.com. FORD MOTOR COMPANY NOVEMBER 2008 U.S. SALES -------------------------------------------- November % Year-To-Date % --------- ------------ 2008 2007 Change 2008 2007 Change ---- ---- ------ ---- ---- ------ Sales By Brand Ford 103,055 147,310 -30.0 1,571,543 1,927,596 -18.5 Lincoln 8,019 8,744 -8.3 98,242 121,422 -19.1 Mercury 7,744 13,204 -41.4 111,375 155,791 -28.5 ----- ------ ------ ------- Total Ford, Lincoln and Mercury 118,818 169,258 -29.8 1,781,160 2,204,809 -19.2 Volvo 4,404 8,227 -46.5 68,149 96,872 -29.7 ----- ----- ------ ------ Total Ford Motor Company 123,222 177,485 -30.6 1,849,309 2,301,681 -19.7 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury Sales By Type Cars 37,272 54,439 -31.5 628,878 698,252 -9.9 Crossover Utility Vehicles 22,016 33,271 -33.8 340,471 372,747 -8.7 Sport Utility Vehicles 10,586 17,575 -39.8 148,084 253,389 -41.6 Trucks and Vans 48,944 63,973 -23.5 663,727 880,421 -24.6 ------ ------ ------- ------- Total Trucks 81,546 114,819 -29.0 1,152,282 1,506,557 -23.5 ------ ------- --------- --------- Total Vehicles 118,818 169,258 -29.8 1,781,160 2,204,809 -19.2 FORD BRAND NOVEMBER 2008 U.S. SALES ----------------------------------- November % Year-To-Date % --------- ------------ 2008 2007 Change 2008 2007 Change ---- ---- ------ ---- ---- ------ Crown Victoria 2,934 5,170 -43.2 45,550 56,456 -19.3 Taurus 3,040 3,895 -22.0 49,207 61,770 -20.3 Fusion 8,914 12,278 -27.4 137,295 136,007 0.9 Focus 8,194 13,213 -38.0 184,152 159,190 15.7 Mustang 3,667 7,352 -50.1 87,224 126,311 -30.9 GT 0 0 NA 0 231 -100.0 - - - --- Ford Cars 26,749 41,908 -36.2 503,428 539,965 -6.8 Flex 2,203 0 NA 11,772 0 NA Edge 5,080 12,594 -59.7 104,861 116,403 -9.9 Escape 10,019 12,383 -19.1 145,577 152,294 -4.4 Taurus X 1,234 2,728 -54.8 22,141 37,343 -40.7 ----- ----- ------ ------ Ford Crossover Utility Vehicles 18,536 27,705 -33.1 284,351 306,040 -7.1 Expedition 4,371 5,627 -22.3 51,290 82,771 -38.0 Explorer 4,763 8,609 -44.7 73,093 126,930 -42.4 ----- ----- ------ ------- Ford Sport Utility Vehicles 9,134 14,236 -35.8 124,383 209,701 -40.7 F-Series 37,911 46,568 -18.6 473,933 635,520 -25.4 Ranger 3,311 4,938 -32.9 62,017 67,147 -7.6 Econoline/Club Wagon 6,915 11,100 -37.7 116,763 153,876 -24.1 Freestar 0 0 NA 0 2,390 -100.0 Low Cab Forward 34 151 -77.5 809 2,573 -68.6 Heavy Trucks 465 704 -33.9 5,859 10,384 -43.6 --- --- ----- ------ Ford Trucks and Vans 48,636 63,461 -23.4 659,381 871,890 -24.4 ------ ------ ------- ------- Ford Brand 103,055 147,310 -30.0 1,571,543 1,927,596 -18.5 LINCOLN BRAND NOVEMBER 2008 U.S. SALES -------------------------------------- November % Year-To-Date % --------- ------------ 2008 2007 Change 2008 2007 Change ---- ---- ------ ---- ---- ------ MKS 1,958 0 NA 10,882 0 NA MKZ 1,805 2,712 -33.4 28,028 31,190 -10.1 Town Car 1,454 488 198.0 14,285 26,545 -46.2 MKX 1,526 3,360 -54.6 26,962 34,097 -20.9 Navigator 968 1,672 -42.1 13,739 21,759 -36.9 Mark LT 308 512 -39.8 4,346 7,831 -44.5 --- --- ----- ----- Lincoln Brand 8,019 8,744 -8.3 98,242 121,422 -19.1 MERCURY BRAND NOVEMBER 2008 U.S. SALES -------------------------------------- November % Year-To-Date % --------- ------------ 2008 2007 Change 2008 2007 Change ---- ---- ------ ---- ---- ------ Grand Marquis 2,437 4,702 -48.2 27,495 46,577 -41.0 Sable 1,230 1,180 4.2 15,586 19,663 -20.7 Milan 1,639 3,449 -52.5 29,174 34,312 -15.0 Mariner 1,954 2,206 -11.4 29,158 32,610 -10.6 Mountaineer 484 1,667 -71.0 9,962 21,929 -54.6 Monterey 0 0 NA 0 700 -100.0 - - - --- Mercury Brand 7,744 13,204 -41.4 111,375 155,791 -28.5 VOLVO BRAND NOVEMBER 2008 U.S. SALES ------------------------------------ November % Year-To-Date % --------- ------------ 2008 2007 Change 2008 2007 Change ---- ---- ------ ---- ---- ------ S40 622 1,239 -49.8 9,260 16,997 -45.5 V50 166 239 -30.5 1,723 2,665 -35.3 S60 431 1,575 -72.6 8,700 17,043 -49.0 S80 844 764 10.5 10,079 11,614 -13.2 V70 191 326 -41.4 3,003 3,428 -12.4 XC70 504 1,153 -56.3 8,708 11,179 -22.1 XC90 1,145 2,244 -49.0 17,338 27,993 -38.1 C70 216 298 -27.5 5,358 4,220 27.0 C30 285 389 -26.7 3,980 1,733 129.7 --- --- ----- ----- Volvo Brand 4,404 8,227 -46.5 68,149 96,872 -29.7

Hyundai Motor America Reports November Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today announced sales of 19,221 for the month of November, a 40 percent decrease from November 2007 levels. "We are still experiencing challenging times but believe that Hyundai remains exceptionally well positioned to confront these difficult market conditions," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America's vice president of national sales. "The Hyundai Holiday Sales event will continue to offer great deals for the month of December and we are proud of the fact that Accent is now the lowest priced and most dependable sub-compact car on the market." 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 powertrain 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 by more than 790 dealerships nationwide. CARLINE NOV/2008 NOV/2007 CY/2008 CY/2007 ACCENT 1,983 2,238 48,598 34,110 SONATA 5,379 11,831 110,764 120,696 ELANTRA 3,268 3,340 92,085 81,967 TIBURON 411 727 8,699 13,472 SANTA FE 4,282 7,374 64,705 83,319 AZERA 316 1,575 14,114 20,351 TUCSON 918 3,107 18,153 38,514 ENTOURAGE 584 466 5,405 16,726 VERACRUZ 929 1,225 10,055 11,367 GENESIS 1,151 0 5,127 0 TOTAL 19,221 31,883 377,705 420,522

Kia Motors America Announces November Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article Rio, Optima, and Rondo sales each up more than 14-percent year-to-date IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced November sales of 15,182 units with year-to-date sales of 258,753 units. Passenger cars have led the way in 2008, with Rio, Optima and Rondo all posting double digit increases year-to-date. November sales were led by Spectra and Sorento, with Sorento posting a 47.3-percent increase over the same period last year. 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 NOVEMBER YEAR-TO-DATE Model 2008 2007 2008 2007 Rio 2,127 2,591 34,747 30,460 Spectra 3,565 5,342 65,745 66,786 Optima 1,044 3,561 43,494 37,666 Amanti 415 138 3,420 5,397 Sportage 1,348 3,800 30,572 44,284 Sorento 2,875 1,952 26,612 34,664 Sedona 2,223 3,223 24,944 38,000 Rondo 1,395 3,570 27,589 24,148 Borrego 190 n/a 1,630 n/a Total 15,182 24,177 258,753 281,405

Chrysler LLC Reports November 2008 U.S. Sales Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ Link to Article -- All-new Dodge Ram sales continue to gain momentum -- Jeep® Liberty sales increased 6% compared to October 2008 -- Chrysler's U.S. retail market share increased 0.6 percentage points in November -- Fleet sales decreased 63%; Retail sales remain aligned with industry -- Additional incentives and financing arrangements designed to support customers during the continued credit crisis AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Chrysler LLC today reported total November 2008 U.S. sales of 85,260 units, down 10% versus October 2008 (94,530 units), and down 47% from the same month last year. Inside these total numbers, fleet sales decreased 63% versus last November, as planned, and retail sales were in line with the retail industry (down 36%). The company's U.S. retail market share increased 0.6 percentage points in November. "2008 will go down as unlike any other year in the industry, and thus, comparisons to 2007 sales have become irrelevant," said Jim Press, Chrysler LLC Vice Chairman and President. "In this environment, we need to evaluate sales based on month-to-month trends, with the last two months of the year being especially important to determine if we have established a base for sales in 2009. Our goal is to fight to maintain our share of the retail market month-to-month by keeping a strong advertising and incentive presence in the marketplace and finding financing solutions for our customers, roughly 75% of whom finance their vehicles with dealer assistance." November's industry sales declines reflect the combined impact of weak consumer confidence and tight credit, and highlight the need for government action. This week Chrysler LLC will present its Viability and Accountability Plan in detail to Congress regarding the Company's request for an immediate working capital bridge loan. November Sales Highlights Sales for the all-new 2009 light duty Dodge Ram increased as it makes its way to dealerships across the country. While the sell-down of the previous model continues as planned, sales of the 2009 model for the month reached 1,958 units, up 72% versus last month. Compared to October 2008, total Dodge Ram sales were down 12% (15,538 units), performing better than the industry overall. Jeep® Liberty sales in November increased 6% (4,171 units) compared to October 2008 (3,918 units). The all-new Dodge Challenger continues to draw attention. Sales of the vehicle reached 3,364 units in November, a 12% increase over October 2008 sales. The Company finished the month with 399,724 units of inventory, or a 117- day supply. Inventory is down 17% compared with November 2007, when it totaled 480,424 units. December Incentives Chrysler remains committed to supporting customer needs for financing and incentives during the current economic conditions. Current deals provide customers an opportunity to take advantage of solid offers on the remaining 2008 model year inventory at the best deals of the year. The incentive plan will focus on aggressive cash rebates up to $6,000 on 2008 models, up to $3,000 on 2009 models and discounted APR financing that drive lower monthly payments. In addition to the significant cash incentives, in several markets some 2008 model year vehicles are available with a 0% APR for up to 72 months; and 2009 model year vehicles are available with an APR as low as 1.9% for up to 72 months. For returning lease customers, Chrysler will offer a Lease Loyalty allowance of up to $750 toward a new retail purchase. For consumers interested in leasing through independent financial institutions, Chrysler offers Bonus Cash of up to $2,000 on select 2008 model year vehicles. About Chrysler LLC Chrysler LLC, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Mopar® brand vehicles and products. Total sales worldwide in 2007 were 2.7 million vehicles. Sales outside of North America were the highest ever with an increase of 15 percent over 2006. Its product lineup features some of the world's most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300 and Town & Country, Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee and Dodge Challenger and Ram. The Chrysler Foundation, the company's philanthropic arm, annually supports hundreds of charitable organizations in the United States and throughout the world. In 2007, the Foundation gave approximately $21 million in charitable donations. Chrysler LLC U.S. Sales Summary Thru November 2008 Month Sales Vol % Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Sebring 2,891 8,708 -67% 300 3,423 11,512 -70% Crossfire 92 193 -52% PT Cruiser 3,597 6,769 -47% Aspen 2,013 1,515 33% Pacifica 544 4,184 -87% Town & Country 7,457 12,629 -41% CHRYSLER BRAND 20,017 45,510 -56% Compass 880 2,683 -67% Patriot 2,461 4,199 -41% Wrangler 6,140 8,333 -26% Liberty 4,171 6,813 -39% Grand Cherokee 5,203 8,489 -39% Commander 1,447 4,391 -67% JEEP BRAND 20,302 34,908 -42% Caliber 2,755 6,313 -56% Avenger 2,362 10,242 -77% Charger 5,478 10,341 -47% Challenger 3,364 0 0% Viper 61 5 1120% Magnum 48 2,417 -98% Dakota 1,760 3,257 -46% Ram P/U 15,538 24,488 -37% Journey 2,815 0 0% Caravan 6,055 13,347 -55% Durango 1,662 3,190 -48% Nitro 1,804 5,795 -69% Sprinter 1,239 1,275 -3% DODGE BRAND 44,941 80,670 -44% TOTAL CHRYSLER LLC 85,260 161,088 -47% TOTAL CAR 20,475 50,088 -59% TOTAL TRUCK 64,785 111,000 -42% Selling Days 25 25 Sales CYTD Vol % Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Sebring 68,091 83,856 -19% 300 58,645 110,686 -47% Crossfire 1,911 8,594 -78% PT Cruiser 49,087 89,847 -45% Aspen 20,739 25,766 -20% Pacifica 6,771 51,938 -87% Town & Country 110,411 123,940 -11% CHRYSLER BRAND 315,655 494,627 -36% Compass 24,124 36,196 -33% Patriot 53,057 35,447 50% Wrangler 77,567 110,236 -30% Liberty 62,382 82,164 -24% Grand Cherokee 68,174 109,184 -38% Commander 25,506 57,206 -55% JEEP BRAND 310,810 430,433 -28% Caliber 81,262 92,228 -12% Avenger 59,913 75,658 -21% Charger 91,953 108,174 -15% Challenger 14,821 0 0% Viper 1,020 389 162% Magnum 6,881 27,978 -75% Dakota 24,343 47,829 -49% Ram P/U 229,222 326,177 -30% Journey 42,822 0 0% Caravan 116,822 154,824 -25% Durango 19,985 43,023 -54% Nitro 34,332 67,475 -49% Sprinter 13,468 14,934 -10% DODGE BRAND 736,844 960,167 -23% TOTAL CHRYSLER LLC 1,363,309 1,885,227 -28% TOTAL CAR 385,590 519,586 -26% TOTAL TRUCK 977,719 1,365,641 -28% Selling Days 282 281

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Appoints New President and CEO of MMNA Nov. 25, 2008 Link to Article CYPRESS, Calif., Nov 25, 2008 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today announced that effective January 1, 2009, Shinichi Kurihara (59) will succeed Hiroshi Harunari as President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA). With the fulfillment of his three-year term, Hiroshi Harunari returns to Japan for reassignment within Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. As President and CEO of MMNA, Harunari made strides improving dealer communication and vastly helped instill a culture of greater fiscal responsibility in day-to-day operations. Harunari presided over the successful launches of the current Eclipse Spyder, Outlander and Lancer products that currently comprise the majority of the company's sales volume. Incoming President and CEO, Shinichi Kurihara, returns to MMNA for his third assignment in the United States from his current position of Senior Executive Officer in the Product Strategy Office where he is responsible for directing and coordinating all matters relating to MMC's product planning activities worldwide, in addition to long-term marketing and brand development. Kurihara's previous U.S. assignments were from 1984-1988 in product planning and marketing where he gained a solid foundation understanding consumer habits. He returned to MMNA between 1996 and 2001 where he was promoted to Senior Vice President of Product Strategy and oversaw an aggressive series of product launches. Kurihara intends to capitalize on Mitsubishi's core brand attributes that strongly differentiate Mitsubishi in the marketplace. He also will take an active role in reinforcing the success of Lancer and Outlander to help energize Galant, Eclipse and the exciting forthcoming products. Kurihara believes true success will come from developing programs that integrate product development, manufacturing and sales, which leads to a more effective and efficient Mitsubishi and a highly engaged dealer network. About Mitsubishi Motors North America Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a network of approximately 480 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.

Mitsubishi Motors to cut production as sales slow November 27, 2008 Link to article MITSUBISHI Motors today said it would lay off one-third of its temporary workers in Japan as sagging sales led it to reduce production. Japan's fourth-biggest carmaker said it would not renew contracts with the 1100 workers when those employment agreements expired at the end of next March. “We are adjusting production in order to reduce inventory stockpiles in view of the recent economic and market conditions,” a company statement said. In addition to cutting production by 80,000 vehicles, which Mitsubishi said it would do in October, the company today said output would be further reduced by 30,000 vehicles. Other manufacturers are also shedding temporary workers. Toyota Motor Corp has said it plans to axe 3000 jobs - half of its temporary workforce in Japan. Nissan Motor, Japan's third-biggest vehicle-maker, is shedding 3500 jobs worldwide, while Mazda is scrapping 1300 temporary jobs and truck-maker Isuzu is axing 1400 domestic posts. Japanese carmakers have expanded rapidly in recent years to meet brisk demand for their vehicles, but they have not been immune to the global economic downturn, even if they are in much better shape than their US rivals. AFP

The plan that GM is looking at is to consolidate their market offerings between Chevrolet and Cadillac down to one brand. After all is said and done, Chevrolet will continue to compete with the same brands (minus some siblings and other potential fatalities.) however, GM will require more from Cadillac. Cadillac will be all GM has to compete against the world's finest. After the recession, Cadillac will need to offer vehicles that compete head-on with the luxury/ultra-luxury vehicles that remain. That will continue to increase the gap between Chevrolet and Cadillac. Buick's ability to offer a wide range of products (cars, coupes, convertibles, CUVs, & SUVs) carrying a wide price range (currently $20k to mid-$40k) make it the best choice among the mid-tier/mid-luxury brands to choose from within GM's portfolio. So... If Pontiac, SAAB, & Saturn were phased out... Buick could have the SAAB 9-4X as a Rendezvous positioned under Enclave Buick could have the Insignia-based Chinese Regal positioned under the new LaCrosse Buick could get a version of the next-gen Astra family (or SAAB-Deltas; next gen 9-3) for entry-level premium compacts (Skylark, Skyhawk, Century or a new name altogether) Buick could also sell the Alpha vehicle as a RWD performance coupe/convertible (Riviera) Buick could also sell a premium delta-based Volt sibling... All of them: Rendezvous, Enclave, Regal, LaCrosse, Delta-Buicks, Alpha-Buick, & Buick Volt could be sold in both China and the US. All of them marketed under one brand internationally (we already know the Enclave will be exported to China and the LaCrosse will be sold both in the US and China.) In addition... Buick's the only mid-tier brand that can demand a price tag high enough to justify sharing a Cadillac platform (Sigma) without it looking out of place in the brand: - Does a RWD-midsize/large SAAB sedan fit SAAB's image? - or does it fit Saturn's image? Either selling for $43k-$50k? - Unfortunately, Pontiac is already having trouble selling a $30k RWD V6/V8 sedan. The other 3 just don’t seem to work out. It's a way to extend the use of an existing platform with little investment. I could argue that as of right now... a Buick-badged mid-$40k STS would sell better under the Buick brand. At least it wouldn't have the new CTS on the showroom floor competing with it. The Buick-STS would complement the new LaCrosse as a step up/Buick flagship. The Buick STS would provide LGR production volume and could sell as a Park Avenue replacement in China. Cadillac could still keep the STS and refresh it/upgrade it positioning it higher than the CTS and Buick-version (making it a true E-Class/5-Series luxury competitor or SWB S-Class/7-Series fighter) without abandoning the midsize/large premium market. When conditions improve, Cadillac could stretch higher and come out with models to compete against the baby RR & Bentley cars that will survive the recession. All of this allows Cadillac to move into the luxury/ultra-luxury market while keeping another brand as a solid step-up above Chevrolet. Very little price or market overlap. The gap is bridged. Three international line-ups.

Thanks for the pictures! I see they had a Volvo S80 with the Executive Package on display. What did you think about it in person?

I'd go with BH's vote: Pontiac Aztek. The Success/Failure was so lopsided between the Rendezvous and Aztek. It was GM's first foray into CUV territory. Most people were more worried about Buick's ability to offer a premium CUV instead of Pontiac's activity vehicle... especially since the Aztek concept garnered such heavy praise. Both were expected to be high volume vehicles with Pontiac carrying most of the volume. The exact opposite happened. Aztek sales were horrible while Rendevous' sales boomed. Sales exceeded expectations by so much, it allowed GM to discontinue the lame duck Aztek while continue producing the Rendevous for years after the Aztek was dropped. Rendezvous' success paved the way for Buick to justify the investment for the very stylish and luxurious Enclave. 2nd choice would have to be the Saturn Ion... another poster child for everything that was wrong at GM.

Don't want one, but I like it.

Suzuki still has an investment in GM-Daewoo. I wonder how this impacts that relationship agreement. GM needs GM-Daewoo for its future lineup of sub-compacts & compacts.

If VOLT is actually rated at 100 mpg, and if GM proceeds with producing several variants of the VOLT platform & tech under different brands (Buick Riviera, Cadillac version, other platform mates as well) then why would it be difficult for GM to achieve an average of 50 mpg between now and 2020????? I say go for it!

Yes... Yes... & Yes... more so when I was in Dallas, but I still do so on occasions. Sometimes it's the only time you get to spend time with a particular brand without being harassed. Other times, it’s the only time you can spend time with a particular brand without harassing the sales rep

Good title for the topic... spot on.

If Honda came out with a brand to compete with Scion, Soul would be the result.

Just watched the video and looked up the lyrics. Good song... Maybe I'm misunderstanding the message, but the premise reminds me of BNL's Pinch Me... except a little darker.