April 2010

Honda Element goes to the dogs for 2010

(October 10, 2009) TORRANCE, Calif.  — The Honda Element lineup expands for the 2010 model year with an all-new "Dog Friendly" pet accommodation system designed to improve safety, comfort and convenience for dogs and their owners alike, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. The 2010 Honda Element arrives at dealerships nationwide by mid-October. The Dog Friendly Element is set to become available on Nov. 16.

General Motors completes deal with Chinese company for Hummer brand

(October 9, 2009) General Motors has completed a deal to sell the Hummer SUV brand to China's Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery Co.

The companies did not disclose financial terms in announcing the deal today. News reports said Thursday that Sichuan Tengzhong would pay $150 million for the U.S. brand.

Tengzhong is purchasing Hummer through an investment entity, in which it will hold an 80 percent stake. Entrepreneur Suolang Duoji, whose holdings include Chinese chemical maker Lumena, will control the other 20 percent.

Infiniti to get first hybrid, a 2012 M35, on sale during spring 2011

(October 9, 2009) Infiniti has confirmed that its first production hybrid vehicle will be part of the recently announced line of 2011 Infiniti M luxury performance sedans, which are scheduled to go on sale in spring 2010 at Infiniti dealers nationwide. The Infiniti M35 hybrid is expected to arrive about 12 months later as a 2012 model. It is Infiniti’s first hybrid in its 20-year existence, as well as the cleanest and most economical car in Infiniti’s history.

Post-clunkers consumers more willing to put off new-car purchase

(October 9, 2009) IRVINE, Calif. —  According to the latest Kelley Blue Book  Market Intelligence Study, since the end of the CARS 2009 program (commonly referred to as ‘Cash for Clunkers’), in-market car shoppers have indicated they are once again delaying the purchase of a new vehicle.  However, the price consumers are considering paying for a new car has significantly increased in the month since the CARS 2009 program ended.

Government begins investigation into 2000-2001 Toyota Tundra frame corrosion

(October 7, 2009) The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on Tuesday said it is conducting a preliminary investigation into frame corrosion on 2000 and 2001 model year oyota Tundra pickups. An estimated 218,000 units are involved, the Automotive News reported today.

The probe comes a week after Toyota announced its largest U.S. recall in company history.

The new "terminal" look of Audi in the United States

(October 7, 2009) Audi today announced the completion and grand opening of the Audi Jacksonville store in Jacksonville, Fla., the first new "terminal design" dealership in the U.S.

Flagship Lexus LS 460 gets some enhancements for 2010 model year

(October 7, 2010) The Lexus flagship sedan, the LS 460, gets some refreshening for the 2010 model year, according to Lexus, which introduced the car on Tuesday.

A new exterior design includes revised front fascia, headlamps and taillamps; a new optional sport package will be offered combining sport-tuned air suspension, Brembo bakes, 19-inch forged wheels with aero body design elements and exclusive interior features; and new audio and telematics technology have been added.

Hot European Ford Focus RS gets 38.5 miles per gallon

(October 6, 2009) BRENTWOOD, Essex — Ford’s fastest-ever European production car, the 163 mph Focus RS, added a surprising new figure to its remarkable performance statistics —  an average fuel consumption of 38.5 mpg.

This impressive result, one of the best in its class, was officially recorded during the UK’s seventh annual MPG Marathon, which finished this week.

Kia introduces all-new 2011 Sorento crossover to be built in Georgia

(October 6, 2009) Kia has introduced the all-new 2011 Sorento CUV, the first vehicle that will roll off the line at Kia Motors’ state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia. The Georgia plant will have the capacity to build 300,000 vehicles a year.

The new Sorento adopts Kia signature design cues and, according to Kia, offers the U.S. market a well-equipped, well-appointed and versatile CUV.

All-New Chevrolet Caprice police car will be available for 2011

(October 5, 2009) DENVER — An all-new Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV) will join the ranks of law enforcement departments across North America in 2011. It’s a modern, full-size, rear-drive sedan that will offer both V-8 and V-6 engines, as well as a host of specialized equipment and features.

Chevrolet made the announcement at the annual International Association of Chiefs of Police convention, in Denver. The Caprice PPV will be available for ordering next year and will hit the streets in early 2011.