Here's the Thing

Edmunds: Leasing, certified pre-owned propel used car sales

(February 25, 2016) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Used car sales climbed 5.6 percent last year to a total of 38.3 million, according to a new report released today by car shopping destination Edmunds.com. The 2015 Used Vehicle Market Report further reveals that 2015 was a milestone year that saw record high used car prices — an average of $18,600 per vehicle sold — and an all-time high for certified pre-owned (CPO) sales, which hit 2.55 million.

Lexus tops J.D. Power dependability study for fifth straight year

(February 25, 2016) TROY, Mich. — Lexus ranked highest in vehicle dependability among all nameplates for a fifth consecutive year, with a score of 95 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), according to the J.D. Power 2016 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), released Wednesday.

Gas price slide levels out near seven-year low

(February 24, 2016) WASHINGTON — The national average for regular unleaded gasoline continues to hover at levels not seen since the Great Recession, largely due to abundant supplies and low crude oil costs. Today’s average price of $1.71 per gallon is the lowest price for this date since 2004, and pump prices have fallen for 41 of the past 47 days for a total savings of 29 cents per gallon.

Consumers are paying one cent more per gallon to refuel their vehicles on the week, though average prices are down by 13 cents per gallon on the month and 58 cents per gallon on the year.

Subaru, Mazda keep pace with luxury brands in Consumer Reports ratings

(February 24, 2016) YONKERS, NY — Consumers don’t always have to spend top dollar to get a great car, according to Consumer Reports. The Consumer Reports 2016 Brand Report Card reveals mainstream brands like Subaru and Mazda can often deliver as much quality as more opulent luxury brands.

Take a spin in your new Chevy at Daytona International Speedway

(February 20, 2016) DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Have you ever wondered what it is like to drive on the track at the famed Daytona International Speedway? If you buy a new Chevrolet, your dealer will be able to offer you that opportunity.

Chevrolet and Daytona International Speedway (DIS) this week announced an exclusive delivery experience at the Speedway. This extra cost option will be available later this year through U.S. Chevrolet dealers on select new vehicle orders. While details are still being finalized, customers who order the option can expect:

U.S. average gas prices rise for first time in nearly three weeks

(February 17, 2016) WASHINGTON — The national average price of gas increased today for the first time in 20 days, but average prices are still at levels not seen since January 2009. The national average has fallen for 42 out of 47 days this year for a total savings of 30 cents per gallon, according to AAA.

Today’s average price of $1.70 represents a savings of three cents per gallon on the week, 20 cents per gallon on the month and 55 cents per gallon compared to this same date last year.

AAA survey: Pothole damage costs U.S. drivers $3 billion annually

(February 17, 2016) ORLANDO, Fla. — As snow and ice begin to thaw and crumbling roadways emerge, a new study from AAA reveals that pothole damage has cost U.S. drivers $15 billion in vehicle repairs over the last five years, or approximately $3 billion annually.

With two-thirds of Americans concerned about potholes on local roadways, AAA cautions drivers to remain alert to avoid pothole damage, and urges state and local governments to fully fund and prioritize road maintenance to reduce vehicle damage, repair costs and driver frustration.

Kelley Blue Book lists its 10 best new car deals for February

(February 16, 2016) IRVINE, Calif. — For shoppers on the lookout for a new-car deal, the experts from Kelley Blue Book kbb.com have assembled their list of the 10 best lease, financing and cash back deals for new cars available in February from a variety of auto manufacturers.

"With this being a leap year, there is one extra selling day in February, meaning one more day this month that shoppers can get a great deal on a new car," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's KBB.com.

Chrysler jobs boost shows Canada's competitiveness

(February 15, 2016) TORONTO — Fiat Chrysler's announcement that a new minivan at its Windsor facility will mean twice as many jobs as first expected is not only good news, it's a reflection of Canada's competitiveness in the auto sector, Unifor National President Jerry Dias says. "Canadian autoworkers can compete with any in the world," Dias said.

"We've got highly skilled and productive workers — a fact that is regularly recognized with top industry awards."

Carfax: Vehicles with unfixed recalls now top 47 million

(February 11, 2016) CENTREVILLE, Va. — More than 47 million vehicles that people are driving, buying or selling in the U.S. have at least one unfixed safety recall, according to Carfax. The company's annual research on the issue suggests a net increase of more than one million vehicles from last year. In addition, every state now has at least 100,000 vehicles with an open recall.