February 2016

Hyundai celebrates 30 years in the United States

(February 27, 2016) FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. — Thirty years ago, a small company from a country not known for building cars came to the U.S. and began selling its first and only car, the Excel. Today, the South Korean company is the fifth largest automaker in the world with 14 vehicles in its U.S. lineup and is celebrating its 30th year in the U.S., recently surpassing more than 10 million vehicle sales.

Autotrader names its 10 Must-Experience interiors for under $40,000

(February 26, 2016) ATLANTA — Award season is upon us, and the Internet is buzzing with who wore what and who made — and didn't make — the best-dressed list at each show. Celebrities aren't the only ones who can get glammed up, though. Some of this year's hottest cars are sporting luxurious new threads and accessories. In that spirit, the experts at Autotrader decided to give an award of their own: 10 Must-Experience Car Interiors for under $40,000.

February new-vehicle sales expected to be best since 2000

(February 26, 2016) IRVINE, Calif. — New-vehicle sales are expected to increase 9 percent year-over-year to a total of 1.37 million units in February, resulting in an estimated 17.9 million seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR), according to Kelley Blue Book kbb.com. With this growth, this could be the highest February sales total since 2000, when sales hit 1.5 million units.

Ford lights up the night with psychology guiding the way

(February 25, 2016) DEARBORN, Mich. — In the niche world of automotive lighting design, decisions are judiciously made with the knowledge that each can impact human psychology.

Consider this all-too-familiar scenario: At the end of a long workday, there is still a traffic-clogged roadway to contend with on the drive home. Fellow commuters are stuck too, growing impatient, irritable, and often distracted. As the minutes tick away, the sky grows darker. By the time the car pulls into the garage, the driver is grumpy, even a bit depressed.

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.