January 2012

GM sells more than 2.5 million vehicles in China in 2011

(January 11, 2012) SHANGHAI — General Motors and its joint ventures sold a record 2,547,171 vehicles in China in 2011, an average of one car or truck every 12 seconds in its largest global market. GM’s sales were up 8.3 percent from the previous high of 2,351,610 vehicles sold in 2010.

Ford repeats with top honors in Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards

(January 11, 2012) SOUTHFIELD, Mich. — Ford took top honors for the second year in a row during the 16th annual Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards, presented at the Automotive News World Congress in Detroit on Tuesday.  Ford was a repeat winner in several categories, including: Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer; Overall Loyalty to Make; African-American Market Loyalty to Make; and Mid/Full-Size Pickup for its F-Series truck lineup, which has been honored in that category 14 out of the last 16 years.

Subcompact Toyota Prius c rated at 53 mpg in city driving

(January 10, 2012) DETROIT — Following the U.S. debut of the all-new 2012 Prius c at the North American International Auto Show, Toyota plans to bring the subcompact five-door hatchback to market in March, and introduce Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive to the subcompact segment.

It's initial claim to fame — 53 miles per gallon in city driving.
 

Honda Accord Coupe Concept shows styling direction for 2013 Accord

(January 10, 2011) DETROIT — Honda unveiled its Accord Coupe Concept today at the North American International Auto Show, providing the first official glimpse of the athletic styling direction, as well as revealing a host of new technologies for the all-new, ninth-generation 2013 model, set to go on-sale this fall.

The 2013 Accord will feature three all-new powertrains, including the first U.S. application of both a 2.4-liter direct-injected engine and two-motor plug-in hybrid system from Honda's suite of next-generation Earth Dreams powertrain technologies.

Lincoln shows future of brand with MKZ concept

(January 10, 2012) DETROIT — The new Lincoln MKZ Concept, revealed today at the North American International Auto Show, signals a significant step in Lincoln’s reinvention, providing a clear vision of its next-generation vehicles.
 
“With the Lincoln MKZ Concept, we are not introducing a new car. We are essentially introducing a new brand,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford Motor Company group vice president for Global Product Development. “The MKZ Concept is the next step in the reinvention of Lincoln, something we’ve been quietly but aggressively pursuing.”

Hyundai turbocharges Veloster sports coupe for 2013 model year

(January 10, 2012) DETROIT — Hyundai on Monday introduced the all-new 2013 Veloster Turbo armed with 201 horsepower in a world debut at the North American International Auto Show. The Veloster Turbo is one bookend to Hyundai’s turbocharged sports coupe line-up, paired with the refreshed 274 horsepower, rear-wheel drive 2013 Genesis Coupe 2.0T also debuting at the show.

Buick introduces sub-compact Encore luxury crossover

(January 10, 2012) DETROIT – Buick has introduced the all-new 2013 Encore — a luxury small crossover that delivers Buick’s signature style, interior acoustic refinement and collection of luxury amenities in a maneuverable, versatile and efficient package.

The Encore is on display at the North American International Auto Show.

New Dodge Dart infused with Alfa Romeo DNA

(January 9, 2012) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — The 2013 Dodge Dart redefines performance with Alfa Romeo DNA, fuel-efficient powertrains and Dodge’s passion for performance. The all-new Dodge Dart, introduced at the Detroit Auto Show, is a thoroughly modern vehicle that’s fuel-efficient, beautifully designed and crafted, agile and fun-to-drive.

Two Chevy concept coupes designed to inspire ideas, create discussion

(January 9, 2012) DETROIT — Chevrolet today introduced two concept coupes at the 2012 North American International Auto Show aimed at inspiring next-generation buyers to take the wheel and suggest ideas for a car they can co-create.

“Chevrolet has always stood for making the aspirational attainable for all generations” said General Motors North America President Mark Reuss.

2013 Fusion introduces new face of Ford

(January 9, 2012) DETROIT — Ford’s all-new Fusion, to be introduced this week at the Detroit auto show, brings alive the next generation of more expressive vehicles from Ford and is the first sedan to offer gasoline, hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions — each expected to deliver top fuel economy and an engaging driving experience.