Inside the Industry

Bentley reveals 2012 Continental GT

(September 8, 2010) Bentley unveiled the successor Tuesday to the Continental GT coupe that revitalized the luxury brand when it was introduced in 2003.

The all-new 2012 Continental GT bears a close resemblance to its predecessor, but features interior and exterior refinements, redesigned headlamps and an updated touch-screen navigation and entertainment system.

Consumer Reports fires up pony car wars

The battle of the pony cars continues.


Consumer Reports' October issue once again pits the Ford Mustang against the Chevrolet Camaro. In last year's faceoff between V-8 versions of the two muscle cars, the magazine gave the nod to the Mustang — despite its older design. In a recent comparison, the magazine said a new V-6 engine did not dilute the “fun factor” in driving the Mustang, but it did for the Camaro.

BMW ends production of the M6 coupe, V-10 engine

(September 7, 2010) BMW has announced the end of production of the BMW M6 Coupé and the BMW M6 Convertible. The two high-performance models provide the most exclusive opportunity to experience on normal roads the hallmark athleticism of M vehicles combined with drive and chassis technology inspired by the world of motor racing.

BMW wants to expand sales by 55 percent over next decade

(September 7, 2010) BMW, the world's largest maker of luxury vehicles, will expand the BMW and Mini model ranges to boost annual sales 55 percent over the next decade and fend off Volkswagen and Daimler, Bloomberg News reports.

A new factory and expansion of existing facilities may be needed to underpin growth in the long run, CEO Norbert Reithofer said.

Toyota offers special value package on RAV4 base models

(September 7, 2010) TORRANCE, Calif. — The Toyota RAV4, already a leader in the crossover SUV segment it launched nearly 15 years ago, offers even greater value for 2011. The new Upgrade Value Package for the base models adds popular options at a special value price.

All-new Dodge Durango makes first appearance at marathon

(September 6, 2010) VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The all-new 2011 Dodge Durango was the "pace car" for the "Dodge Rock ‘n’ Roll Virginia Beach Half Marathon presented by SunTrust” on Sunday.

Thousands of runners in Virginia Beach took part in the event.

‘Thinking’ car key predicts driver actions

(September 5, 2010) When Dave Proefke gets locked out of his car, it's called "research."

Proefke, a General Motors Technical Fellow, leads a team that has developed an advanced wireless car key that automatically knows when to lock and unlock the doors on the 2011 Buick LaCrosse and selected other General Motors models.

Taking the heat — Ford Focus passes hot weather test

(September 5, 2010) The next generation Ford Focus has been tested in some of the most extreme locations on the planet. It's been thrashed over frozen lakes, hammered across the hottest deserts and driven overloaded up and down high Alpine passes to ensure impeccable reliability and dependability wherever it is sold.

Tim Allen of 'Home Improvement' to be new voice of Chevy

(September 4, 2010) DETROIT – Television and movie star Tim Allen will be the voice of Chevrolet, beginning with the TV advertising for the all-new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. The first ads for the Cruze will air Tuesday, Sept. 7, Chevrolet announced on Friday.  

“Tim Allen brings the right combination of a recognizable voice with the credibility, likeability and humor that will connect with viewers,” said Joel Ewanick, vice president, U.S. marketing, General Motors.  “His passion for all things cars makes him the perfect match for the Chevrolet brand.”

Cruze hatchback coming to Europe; U.S. out

(September 3, 2010) The story of the Chevrolet Cruze goes from strong to stronger with the latest chapter heralding the launch of a new 5-door hatchback model, further evidence of Chevrolet's commitment to bring value for money in every segment in which it competes.