December 2011

Ward's 10 best engines — direct fuel injection takes the day

(December 9, 2011) SOUTHFIELD, Mich. — Ward's 10 Best Engines, North America's only award program honoring excellence in vehicle powertrains, have been announced for 2012, and a record seven of this year's 10 winners have integrated state-of-the-art direct fuel injection, demonstrating the rapid pace of technology development as auto makers downsize their engines in anticipation of strict U.S. fuel-economy rules.

TrueCar says overall November fuel economy at 22.3 mpg

(December 8, 2011) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — TrueCar.com has reported that average U.S. fuel economy was up in November, the highest since March. Light vehicle auto sales indicate TrueMPG will increase to 22.3 mpg in November 2011 compared to 21.7 mpg in November 2010, and 22.2 in October 2011.

Porsche 911 named Best Redesigned Car for 2012 by Kelley

(December 8, 2011) IRVINE, Calif. — Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com today announced the 2012 Porsche 911 as the 2012 best redesigned car for the 2012 model year.

Redesigning an icon like the Porsche 911 is tricky business, but the latest rendition deftly walks that tightrope. The 911's exterior and interior have tastefully evolved, supported by enhanced performance, improved economy and clever engineering to make the 2012 Porsche 911 a compelling sports car, worthy heir to the 911 throne and our Best Redesigned Car for 2012.

Autoweek editors honor the best of the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show

(December 5, 2011) DETROIT — The Autoweek editorial staff presented Mazda with the 2011 Autoweek Editors' Choice Award for Best in Show at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show. The Mazda Takeri previews the evolution of the Mazda 6 sedan and earns points for both style and fuel technology in an increasingly competitive segment.

Study finds driving drowsy as dangerous as driving drunk

(December 7, 2011) Being drowsy behind the wheel is as dangerous as drink driving. With a combination of design and technology, Volvo Trucks is contributing to road safety by helping drivers stay awake, alert and in control.

A late night, a double shift, a baby who won’t go to sleep or the monotony of the open road — there are many reasons for becoming drowsy at the wheel of a vehicle. Regardless of the cause, the consequences can be devastating on the person, the family, friends/colleagues or the vehicle.

Kelley Blue Book picks 10 'freshman class' cars to consider for 2012

(December 6, 2011) IRVINE, Calif. — Kelley Blue Book www.kbb.com has picked 10 cars from the "freshman class" that are unique and worth getting to know. While each new model year brings dozens and dozens of all-new cars, most arrive wearing familiar nametags.

While the totally redesigned 2012 Toyota Camry is a big deal, there's a lot on the line when revamping the best-selling car in the country — it doesn't stir the same kind of intrigue as totally new cars like the 2012 Hyundai Veloster or 2012 Fiat 500.

AAA says prepare for the 'silver tsunami' of aging drivers

(December 5, 2011) WASHINGTON — The first wave of America's baby boomers turning 65 this year will be driving the "silver tsunami" says the American Automobile Association (AAA).

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, this segment of the population will increase by 75 percent over the next two decades. Research has shown that people today live an average of about 7-10 years beyond their safe driving ability.

Edmunds highlights car-themed gifts under $100

(December 4, 2011) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — Trying to find the perfect holiday gift for the car enthusiast in your life? Edmunds.comhighlights 10 gifts for people who love cars — or at the very least, drive them regularly — to make your holiday shopping a little bit easier. And with each selection priced at under $100, you can give a great gift without doing damage to your wallet.

Interest increases in certified pre-owned luxury vehicles

(December 2, 2011) ATLANTA — October was the month of luxury vehicles for shoppers on AutoTrader.com, as data from the recently released New Car Insights Report and in the just-released Used/CPO Car Insights Report shows that consumer interest in luxury vehicles spiked during the month.

Automobile transaction prices rise to record high

(December 2, 2011) SANTA MONICA, Calif. — TrueCar.com estimates that the average transaction price for light vehicles in the United States was $30,317 in November, up $1,163 (4.0 percent) from November 2010 and up $164 (0.5 percent) from October 2011. That's the highest level in sales history.