August 2020

Alpina XB7 begins production; 2020 models sold out

(August 12, 2020) BUCHLOE, Germany — BMW of North America and ALPINA have announced that the new BMW ALPINA XB7 Sports Activity Vehicle has begun series production at BMW’s Spartanburg, S.C., factory, and that the XB7 “Build Your Own” configurator is now fully functional at BMWUSA.com. BMW says dealer and customer orders for the XB7 model have already satisfied available production capacity through the balance of calendar year 2020.

Rolls-Royce reveals engineering advances for new Ghost

(August 11, 2020) The first Rolls-Royce Goodwood Ghost reflected a layer of clients who use their cars in a completely unique way. These men and women required a motor car able to offer an impeccable chauffeur-driven experience as well as a vibrant dynamic personality when they chose to drive it themselves. In 2009, when the first Ghosts entered the market, this collective of business leaders, founders and entrepreneurs were unanimous in their feedback that the marque had created a product that balanced their requests perfectly.

Hyundai's Ioniq brand will be dedicated to battery electric vehicles 


(August 11, 2020) SEOUL — Hyundai has announced the launch of its new brand dedicated to battery electric vehicles, opening a new chapter as a leader in the era of electrified mobility. Under the Ioniq brand, Hyundai will offer customer centric EV experiences centered on connected lifestyle solutions in line with Hyundai’s vision of "Progress for Humanity."

Under the Ioniq brand, Hyundai will leverage its industry-leading manufacturing know-how in EVs to introduce three new dedicated models over the next four years with more innovative models to follow. The creation of Ioniq brand is in response to fast-growing market demand and accelerates Hyundai’s plan to lead the global EV market.

New Driver Feedback feature designed to encourage fuel-efficient driving

(August 10, 2020) — TORRANCE, Calif. — Honda and Acura have introduced an all-new Driver Feedback feature to the HondaLink and AcuraLink connected-vehicle applications. The new app-based feature, powered by Verisk Analytics, will allow participating Honda and Acura drivers to receive feedback on their driving techniques nationwide and to potentially earn discounts on vehicle insurance rates in 42 U.S. states.

Volvo Car Group has sold 600,000 vehicles based on CMA platform

(August 9, 2020) Volvo Car Group, including its strategic affiliates Lynk & Co and Polestar, produce vehicles based on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, introduced in 2017. To the end of July more than 600,000 group vehicles based on the platform have been sold. The CMA platform, co-developed by Volvo Cars and Zhejiang Geely Holding (Geely), is an excellent example of the joint development, production and procurement achieved since Geely’s acquisition of Volvo Cars on Aug. 2, 2010.

2020 Ford F-350 King Ranch — Ford redesigns 2020 Super Duty trucks

By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(August 8, 2020) Ford was a bit late to the party following major refreshes for Ram, Chevrolet and GMC super duty pickup trucks but now for 2020 its America’s truck leader Ford’s turn with a heavily refreshed lineup of Super Duty’s of their own.

Subaru announces pricing for 2021 Legacy and Outback models

(August 7, 2020) Subaru of America today announced pricing on the 2021 Legacy sedan and Outback SUV, starting at $$23,820 including a $925 destination charge, and $27,845 including a $1,050 destination charge respectively. Both models gain new standard safety features including Steering Responsive LED headlights; Passenger Seat Belt Reminder as well as a Rear Seat Reminder. The Legacy and Outback remain competitively priced with only a $150 increase from the previous model year and arrive at Subaru retailers in October.   

Special Delivery — $2 million Lexus LC 500 Convertible auctioned for charity

(August 7, 2020) PLANO, Texas  — After a quick, three-minute trip across the Barrett-Jackson auction block, a unique LC 500 Convertible raised an impressive $2 million for charity, with 100 percent of the hammer price going to two charities: Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Bob Woodruff Foundation. After production started last month for the all-new flagship Lexus convertible, the winning bidder — Dealer Principal of Stevinson Lexus of Lakewood, Col., Kent Stevinson — was able to take delivery on the prize for his winning bid.

LYRIQ show car leads Cadillac into electric future

(August 7, 2020) DETROIT — Cadillac’s introduction of its electric portfolio began on Aug. 6 with the debut of the LYRIQ show car — a dynamic, modern and fully electric luxury crossover. The propulsion system and supporting technologies position Cadillac to be a leader in electrification, connectivity and automated driving, all delivered with thrilling performance and a new threshold in technology integration.

All-new Infiniti QX55 crossover coupe to be unveiled Nov. 11

(August 6, 2020) NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Infiniti Motor Company will raise the curtain on the all-new QX55 on Nov. 11, heralding the brand's return to the luxury crossover coupe segment it created almost two decades ago.

With a roofline and visual elements inspired by the iconic Infiniti FX, the QX55's provocative design will fuse the stance and versatility of a premium mid-size crossover with the sleek profile of a sports coupe.