(December 21, 2017) IRVINE, Calif. — In the spirit of the holiday season, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) has announced design, functional and performance updates to the 2018 Mazda MX-5 soft top models, furthering MX-5’s mission to provide one of the best-driving cars in the world regardless of price point.

For 2018, customers will have the option to choose between a new Dark Cherry or Black soft top. Additionally, an Auburn-colored interior and Nappa leather seating surfaces are available in MX-5 Grand Touring models, which was previously only offered in the MX-5 RF Launch Edition.

(December 21, 2017) SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Production of the first pre-production models of the new BMW X7 Sports Activity Vehicle has commenced at the BMW Group Spartanburg plant. So the countdown has started for the final 12 months leading up to the presentation of the production car at the end of 2018. Prior to this, the vehicle will undergo various tests under partially extreme conditions.

(December 20, 2017) PONCE, Puerto Rico — Ford Motor Company Fund is investing more than $1.2 million for expanded disaster relief efforts in Puerto Rico and spearheading a collaboration with nonprofits to bring much-needed vehicles, supplies and services to hurricane-devastated communities on the island.

(December 19, 2017) TORRANCE, Calif. — The Honda Insight Prototype will make its world debut at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on Jan. 15 as the precursor to the all-new 2019 Honda Insight — an upscale, stylish five-passenger sedan positioned above the Civic in Honda's passenger car lineup. The all-new Insight utilizes the latest generation of Honda's innovative two-motor hybrid system and will launch next summer as the newest electrified vehicle in the Honda lineup.