October 2012

Harley-Davidson, Pope Benedict launch 110th anniversary activities

(October 4, 2012) ROME — Next June, tens of thousands of Harley-Davidson riders and fans from around the globe are expected to make their way to Italy's capital city to celebrate Harley-Davidson's 110th Anniversary and the shared passion for freedom that unites riders everywhere.

Software glitch causing rough idling in Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ

(October 4, 2012) Automotive News is reporting today that Toyota and Subaru are seeking a solution to rough idle and stalling conditions on their new sporty coupes. The automakers say that the problems on initial batches of the Subaru BRZ coupe and its Scion FR-S twin is being caused by a software mapping glitch.

Volkswagen reveals images of its latest Beetle Convertible

(October 4, 2012) HERNDON, VA — Volkswagen has unveiled the latest Beetle Convertible, the third-generation of the iconic VW ragtop. Like its predecessors — the type 15 from 1949 and the 2003 New Beetle Convertible — the curvaceous convertible offers the perfect combination of practicality and fun for four.

Toyota sales up 42 percent led by Camry

(October 4, 2012) TORRANCE, Calif. — Toyota has reported September sales results of 171,910 units, an increase of 41.5 percent compared to the same period last year on both a daily selling rate (DSR) and a raw volume basis, unadjusted for 25 selling days in both September 2012 and in September 2011.

Volkswagen estimates new Jetta Hybrid to get combined 45 mpg

(October 3, 2012) HERNDON, Va. —  Volkswagen says its new 2013 Jetta Hybrid is expected to achieve an overall fuel economy of 45 mpg and will be able to drive at speeds up to 44 miles per hour in full electric mode for a distance up to 1.2 miles.

2013 Honda Ridgeline gets standard rearview camera

(October 3, 2012) TORRANCE, Calif. — A couple years ago rumors were swirling that Honda was going to discontinue the unique Ridgeline pickup truck. Honda denied any intention of terminating the Ridgeline. And to back up its statement, it did a refreshening for the 2012 model year.

Great Train Robbery truck to be part of show

(October 3, 2012) LONDON — The Austin Loadstar lorry used as the ultimate getaway vehicle to take away cash stolen during the iconic Great Train Robbery and later nearly destroyed by fire makes its debut at this year’s Footman James Classic Motor Show, held at Birmingham’s NEC from Nov. 16-18.

Pace of auto sales accelerates in September

(October 3, 2012) U.S. auto sales, led by Toyota, Kia, Honda and Volkswagen, rose 13 percent last month as the annualized pace of sales accelerated to 14.9 million. That represents the highest rate since March 2008.

Passenger car demand drove industry results last month, with sales of sedans, coupes and wagons up 23 percent. Consumers continued to opt for fuel-efficient models amid high gasoline prices. Light truck volume edged up 4 percent.

Chrysler's winning streak continues

(October 3, 2012) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Chrysler has reported U.S. September sales of 142,041 units, a 12 percent increase compared with sales in September 2011 (127,336 units), and the group’s best September sales since 2007.

Jay Leno visits Nissan Heritage Garage

(October 2, 2012) ZAMA, Japan— Comedian and car collector Jay Leno visited the Nissan Heritage Garage over the summer holidays, taking a spin in the legendary Fairlady 240Z. His tour was at the invitation of Chief Creative Officer Shiro Nakamura, who had visited Leno's Classic Car Garage in California and was returning the favor in Japan.