Variance

I like the current Avalanche with the body hardware but without it, not as much. However, I do like the look of the new Avalanche. Go figure.

They'll be shown in April at the NYIAS.

It's ok but not particularly accurate, I think. NIssan has been phasing out the "tooth" in their grilles and it's coming here as an Infiniti anyway so I know the grille won't look like that. Plus, why the M3-style side grilles?

Toyota plans Ontario truck plant near Woodstock factory Affiliate Hino Motors has ambitious growth targets Christine Tierney / The Detroit News Hino Motors Ltd., Toyota Motor Corp.'s truck-manufacturing affiliate, is expected to announce plans soon to build a small production facility in southwestern Ontario as part of its strategy to boost sales sharply in North America. Hino will set up the facility near a $600 million auto assembly plant Toyota is building in Woodstock, Ontario, according to people familiar with the situation. The auto plant is scheduled to open in 2008. Hino is the latest in a wave of Asian auto manufacturers that have invested billions of dollars in North America -- mostly in southern U.S. states, but also in Ontario -- to build vehicles locally. Hino, 50.1 percent-owned by Toyota, began producing Class 4-7 trucks at a Toyota facility in Long Beach, Calif., in 2004. It expects to build 10,000 trucks a year in North America by 2007. That is a tiny fraction of the roughly 1.6 million cars and light trucks that Toyota will be assembling in the region under the Toyota and Lexus brands, but the $10.5 billion Hino has ambitious growth targets. The truck company plans to increase sales in North America fivefold -- from 6,000 in 2004 to 30,000 by the end of the decade, company officials said last year when they inaugurated Hino's new sales and service office in Farmington Hills. "I see it like a butterfly emerging from a cocoon," said Michael Robinet, vice president at auto forecasting firm CSM Worldwide in Farmington Hills. "It'll take a while, but it'll spread its wings." Hino officials did not return phone calls seeking comment. Japanese and Canadian newspapers report that the facility is likely to be adjacent to the $600 million Woodstock plant scheduled to open in 2008 and that the truck production volumes will probably be small -- around 1,500 a year. Toyota first began producing vehicles in Canada in 1989 at a plant in Cambridge, Ontario. Hino sold 94,000 vehicles in its last fiscal year, an 80 percent increase from 2000 sales levels. Link: http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic.../603030375/1148

Ford swipes at GM's troubles Automaker warns investors that if rival goes bankrupt, it will hurt Ford's outlook. Bryce G. Hoffman / The Detroit News General Motors Corp. can't seem to shake the bankruptcy bug. Rival Ford Motor Co. now is warning investors that a decision by a competitor to seek bankruptcy protection could undermine its own financial position. In filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission this week, Ford listed "adverse effects from the bankruptcy or insolvency of a major competitor" as a significant risk to its future financial performance. Ford would not disclose the name of the "major U.S. manufacturer," but Wall Street analysts have suggested GM could be forced into bankruptcy because of declining U.S. sales, mounting pension and health care costs and additional liabilities stemming from the bankruptcy of its principal supplier, Delphi Corp. Ford said that a rival's bankruptcy could put it at a competitive disadvantage because the legal action could allow a big competitor to restructure and obtain relief from existing union contracts and other high costs that Ford would still carry. And, Ford warned that the bankruptcy of "a major U.S. auto manufacturer" could disrupt its own supply base. "We felt it was significant, so it's listed in our risk factors," Ford spokeswoman Becky Sanch said. In light of recent corporate accounting scandals, U.S. companies are encouraged to cast their nets wide when identifying potential risks for investors. "It's an absolutely legitimate thing to put in," said David Cole, chairman of the Center for Automotive Research, an industry think-tank in Ann Arbor. "They would be remiss if they did not include such a statement." Both automakers say the costs of meeting pension and health care obligations under existing labor contracts with the United Auto Workers union represent a significant competitive disadvantage. Cole said a bankruptcy filing could allow a company like GM to get out of those contracts, leaving Ford at an even more serious disadvantage. While some Wall Street analysts have been providing the odds of a GM bankruptcy filing since last fall, GM repeatedly rejects the suggestion. "As we have said in the past, we do not view bankruptcy as a winning strategy," GM spokesman Jerry Dubrowski said. "We are focused on turning around our North American business and implementing the actions that we've announced to date. That's where our energy is." GM lost $8.6 billion last year, is burning through billions of dollars in cash, and has declined to predict when it will become profitable again. The automaker is cutting 30,000 jobs by 2008 and closing a number of factories to return its North American automotive operations to profitability. It is also in discussions with the UAW to help restructure and bail out Delphi. "Right now, they're on a track that makes sense, but until it is resolved, it's not a done deal," Cole said. "It is a possibility." Cole said a GM bankruptcy filing could push Ford over the brink, too. Ford is struggling with many of the same operating challenges facing GM, such as a slump in SUV sales, weak car profits and excess factory capacity. In its latest SEC filing, Ford also reiterated that it expects its North American automotive operations to post a pre-tax loss in 2006. The automaker plans to take about $500 million in charges related to efforts to revamp its European operations and last year's restructuring agreement with Visteon Corp. It also plans to take about $500 million in pre-tax charges this year as part of its North American restructuring effort because of expenses related to cutting its hourly workforce and fixed-asset write-offs. In January, Ford announced plans to cut 30,000 factory jobs and shutter 14 plants over the next six years. In the SEC filing, the automaker reiterated that it is considering taking a charge in the first quarter to cover additional costs related to its jobs banks program, which provides idled UAW members full pay and benefits. Ford currently has about 1,100 workers in its jobs bank program, but that number is likely to grow when the automaker stops production at factories in Missouri, Ohio and Michigan. Credit ratings for both Ford and GM have dropped deep into junk-bond territory. Link: http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic.../603030377/1148

This set of shots is of the Sebring convertible. DetroitWonk: Spy Shots: Chrysler Sebring Convertible

Check it out, I found the S-Class' long-lost twin (as far as the front end goes, anyway):

Explanation (from their review of it): Bottom Line: Nothing this big should be able to respond so quickly and handle this well. Spooky competence. They call it a "perfect" car. So "perfect", it's spooky.

I wonder what you would do if you didn't have a yard the size of a used car lot.

All that $h! and he still got a "D-"? OMG...

Heh, this picture is kind of funny especially with what you typed after it. It's almost like the STS is sitting in a corner all pissed.

He got it.

I wouldn't call that wing "ricey". It's pretty tasteful compared to the SS S/C's wing, at least.

I don't think a person's political affilation has a whole lot to do with what cars they like or not. I personally find CR's testing flawed but I'm not going so far as to suggest they are paid off by the Japanese or anyone else (especially since such claims can't be substantiated). For the record, this really isn't an appropriate place to discuss politics.

Cadillac Invents Ads for Internet, Considers Podcasts By Herb Shuldiner WardsAuto.com, Mar 1 2006 Cadillac’s marketing chief is searching for new ways to promote the brand. NEW YORK – “If we can’t get you one way, we’ll get you another way,” Liz Vanzura, Cadillac’s global marketing director, vows. Describing to the International Motor Press Assn. here the advertising challenges she faces, Vanzura says she is venturing more into Internet and other advertising venues to combat the Tivo digital recorder scourge. “Tivo is killing us,” she says. TV sets with Tivo players enable viewers to skip commercials when replaying recorded programs. “We’re trying to find the right way to deal with it.” One method she has discovered is to place commercials on TV programs that people want to watch live. “Nobody wants to watch the Super Bowl the next day,” she says. Vanzura, a veteran automotive marketing executive, says she has to market by the moment to connect with customers. That is why she seeks to make an emotional connection with buyers already awash in vehicle ads. She says automotive advertising industry-wide totals $13 billion. “I’ve done 150 TV campaigns in the last 10 years,” she says. Those include memorable brand ads for Volkswagen and Hummer. “Sometimes, a great ad is a happy accident,” she admits. For instance, one Hummer ad didn’t have a real product in it. Yet it made an emotional connection with viewers. “It’s hard for every brand to reinvent (itself),” she says. There are notable exceptions. “Cadillac’s product lines are speaking for themselves,” she says. “It’s a matter of getting the news out to people.” Her job at Cadillac is made easier, she says, because it now has appealing products. “Most of the time, you don’t have the product (to promote).” Vanzura also credits Mark LaNeve, GM North America vice president-vehicle sales, service and marketing, for making sure the brands have the financial means to get the (marketing) job done. “We can do it with the budget we have,” she says. “My challenge is to make marketing dollars stretch.” To counter the Tivo impact, Vanzura is studying non-traditional marketing areas. “We have sophisticated techniques to identify where our audiences are,” she says. “We’re using that research to pick the right places for us to be.” For example, Cadillac currently is designing new ads for the Internet. “Some things you can’t run on TV, but you can run them on the Internet,” she says. Also under consideration is developing podcasts. Vanzura says her overall goal is to convey Cadillac’s message of “luxury with an attitude.” Link: http://wardsauto.com/ar/auto_cadillac_invents_ads/index.htm

GM, Toyota Agree to Extend Advanced Technology Collaboration and Focus on Safety-Related Technologies DETROIT, March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- General Motors Corp. and Toyota Motor Corp. have agreed to extend their advanced technology collaboration agreement two more years with a focus on safety and congestion-related technologies, and industry codes and standards. The agreement covers information exchange and collaborative research in areas such as well-to-wheels energy usage and emissions, intelligent transportation systems and connected vehicle (vehicle infrastructure integration and vehicle-to-vehicle communications). The agreement also allows for research projects in other areas the companies identify as mutually beneficial. The GM-Toyota collaboration, which began in 1999 and would have expired at the end of this month, will be extended to March 31, 2008. General Motors Corp. (NYSE: GM), the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 75 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 327,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2005, 9.17 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM operates one of the world's leading finance companies, GMAC Financial Services, which offers automotive, residential and commercial financing and insurance. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at http://www.gm.com . Link: http://www.prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories....04312473&EDATE=

SUZUKI SALES UP 39 PERCENT -- HOT STREAK CONTINUES WITH RECORD FEBRUARY SALES Grand Vitara and popular Forenza family lead sales to second best month in company’s history BREA, Calif. -- (March 1, 2006) -- American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) today announced sales of 8,542 units in February – an increase of 39 percent over February 2005 and the best February sales in company history. The new monthly sales record continues Suzuki’s recent sales momentum which included record sales in January and sales of 82,101 in 2005 – the best sales year in American Suzuki’s 21-year history. ASMC’s record month was led by the top-selling Forenza family of vehicles with 3,396 units sold in February – an 82 percent increase over 2005. In addition, sales of the all-new Grand Vitara increased to 2,299 units, an impressive 253 percent over last year’s numbers. “Suzuki’s exciting sales momentum is continuing into 2006,” said Koichi Suzuki, president of American Suzuki’s Automotive Operations. “The increasing popularity of the all-new 2006 Grand Vitara and the continuing sales strength of the Forenza models helped us achieve a record sales mark for February.” Suzuki’s expanding product line in the United States includes the media-acclaimed 2006 Grand Vitara, the popular Forenza sedan and Forenza Wagon, the five-door Reno, the Aerio and Aerio SX, the Verona and the Suzuki XL-7, one of the most affordable and fuel-efficient seven-passenger SUVs sold in the United States. In addition to the strong vehicle lineup, Suzuki automobiles feature America’s #1 Warranty with its industry-leading 100,000-mile/7-year, zero deductible, fully transferable limited powertrain warranty. Link w/sales data (Word Document): http://www.media.suzuki.com/auto/press06/0...les_release.doc

Souped-up Pontiac G6 fails the luxury test By Paul & Anita Lienert We've been eagerly anticipating a test drive in the 2006 Pontiac G6 GTP, the performance-oriented edition of the slinky mid-size coupe. In some respects, we weren't disappointed. But the apparent lack of attention to detail, especially in the cabin, was a major letdown. We tested a well-equipped GTP with nearly $4,000 worth of options and a bottom line of $27,250. SHE: What a stylish exterior! And that electric blue metallic paint is really eye-catching. But what a comedown to step inside the G6 and look around that flat and uninspired cabin, with the cheap materials, trim pieces that didn't fit together and other jarring features. It's like there was a total disconnection between the interior and the exterior for the Pontiac designers and engineers . And let me tell you that coupe buyers today are fussy. They expect an awful lot, especially if they're paying more than $25,000. Unfortunately, the GTP isn't going to live up to their desires or expectations. HE: I agree with you about that gorgeous shape and color, but I have a slightly different take on the GTP, purely from a mechanical perspective. The G6 shares its basic underpinnings with the Saab 9-3 and several other General Motors mid-size cars. It's a pretty sturdy, well-damped chassis that delivers a smooth and comfortable ride. The GTP gets the high-output 3.9-liter V-6, which is a sweet engine that makes 240 horsepower. Pontiac coupled it with the new six-speed manual gearbox. The shift action is a little stiff, but the throws are precise, and the engine responds beautifully to the slightest throttle input. The four-wheel disc brakes are also above par, but I'm not as fond of the steering, which feels too heavy for a car with such sporting pretensions. It isn't nearly as agile as such competitors as the Scion tC or the Hyundai Tiburon which, incidentally, are priced thousands of dollars below the GTP. SHE: My eyes started to glaze over as soon as I heard the word "mechanical." So let's go back to the cabin, which is where potential owners will spend most of their time. It seems like everywhere you look, Pontiac cut corners. There are major design flaws, too. The steering wheel feels so ungainly -- too thick to grip comfortably and too large in diameter. The center armrest is positioned too far back for shorter drivers to reach. The seat belts are poorly designed and difficult to reach and use. And with that tiny backlight and thick pillars everywhere you look, visibility is terrible. HE: I should add a few gripes of my own. The doors are way too long and heavy for comfort. The audio system is overly complicated, even for a techhead and audiophile like myself. And I know what you mean about corner-cutting. Pontiac neglected to put a power recline adjustment on the driver's seat, and the manual control makes it difficult to precisely position the seat back for comfort. And there are no power controls of any sort on the front passenger seat. The rear compartment is just plain primitive-looking, with too little head and leg room for most adults of even average size. And, finally, most of the dials, switches, buttons, gauges and displays all look like they belong on an economy car, not a $27,000 performance model. Yikes! What the heck was Pontiac thinking? SHE: I can't believe we actually agree on something. But I don't want to just complain. Considering the performance, and it was pretty amazing, the GTP gets decent fuel economy -- 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. That's a sweet exhaust note, too. I noticed that antilock brakes, traction control and stability control are all standard on the GTP. What I can't understand is why you have to pay extra for really basic safety equipment, like side air bags and side curtains. HE: Pontiac did do something right inside. They moved the ignition key from the steering column to the dashboard. You can order such amenities as adjustable pedals and remote start. But I was surprised that an uplevel car like our test vehicle did not include climate controls with dual settings for driver and passenger. GM, of course, installed OnStar and XM satellite radio as options, but I would rather have spent that money on a navigation system. SHE: You can't have everything, dear. But for $27,000, I'd like to see a lot more thought and effort go into the G6 cabin -- that is, if Pontiac wants to keep up with the competition. 2006 Pontiac G6 GTP Coupe Type: Front-engine, front-wheel drive, four-passenger coupe. Price: Base, $23,490 (inc. $625 destination charge); as tested, $27,250. Engine: 3.9-liter V-6; 240-hp; 240 lb-ft torque. EPA fuel economy: 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway. Where built: Orion Township 12-month insurance cost, according to AAA Michigan*: $1,394 .(Estimate. Rates may be higher or lower, depending on coverage and driving record.) Anita Rating: 3 Likes: Stylish exterior. ABS, traction control and stability control standard on GTP. Nice exhaust note. Decent fuel economy. Dislikes: Doesn't live up to desires of coupe buyers. Too much corner-cutting inside. Atrocious interior, flat and uninspired, with cheap materials. Lousy visibility, with small backlight and thick pillars. Steering wheel feels ungainly -- too big, too thick. Armrest too far back for shorter drivers to reach. Side air bags and side curtains cost extra. Interior trim pieces don't fit well. Poorly designed seat belts. Paul Rating: 2 Likes: Slinky shape is quite sexy. Lively 3.9L V-6, with good acceleration. Nice six-speed manual gearbox, with precise shifter. Sturdy, compliant suspension provides good control, comfortable ride. Ignition key moved from steering column to dash. Dislikes: At $27,000-plus, our test car was overpriced by $8,000-$10,000. Doors too long and heavy. Rotary dials, buttons, gauges and displays look like they came from an economy car. Primitive-looking rear compartment, with insufficient head and leg room for most adults. Audio system is overly complicated. Lacks agility of competitors. Link: http://info.detnews.com/autosconsumer/auto...ex.cfm?id=22267

Spy Pic: 2007 Hyundai Elantra Spotted in Camo Date posted: 03-01-2006 LOS ANGELES — Spotted in the desert in the American Southwest is the latest prototype of the next-generation Hyundai Elantra, the latest in a continuing series of new and redesigned vehicles from the Korean powerhouse. The Elantra slots into the lineup above the entry-level Accent and below the midsize Sonata. Current prices start at just over $14,000. The Elantra is sold in the home market in Korea as the Avante. The replacement model, which is expected to use components and architecture from the recently redesigned Kia Spectra, goes into production this spring in Korea. Its American cousin won't get the new design, however, until this fall, at the start of model-year 2007. Early reports from our spy photographers out in the field say the new Elantra sedan gets a curvier body and a longer wheelbase, which means more passenger space inside. Family styling cues are shared with the recently revamped Sonata and Accent sedans. Major mechanical components — including a twin-cam, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual gearbox — will likely be shared with Kia. What this means to you: Korean kingpin Hyundai is aiming for 1 million sales a year in the States — and the new Elantra will move it closer to that target. Link w/photo: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=109486

Hyundai Sets Record February on Strength of Sedan Sales FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., March 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today announced February sales of 34,014 vehicles, a new record for the month of February. Hyundai's newest sedans posted the largest percentage increases. Sales of the all-new 2006 Sonata grew by 41 percent and the all-new 2006 Azera and the XG350 it replaced, posted gains of 53 percent over February of last year. "The all-new Sonata and Azera continue to gain momentum," said Mark Barnes, Hyundai's vice president of National Sales. "With Hyundai's superior safety and value, Sonata and Azera continue to resonate with consumers." The Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty, covers all Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10-year/100,000- mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 5-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection. Following is the sales breakdown for February 2006: CARLINE FEB/2006 FEB/2005 CY2006 CY2005 ACCENT 1,231 3,118 2,584 5,313 SONATA 13,741 9,762 25,384 16,768 ELANTRA 8,340 9,485 16,120 16,138 TIBURON 1,097 1,250 2,116 2,174 SANTA FE 3,408 4,947 6,394 9,684 XG350/AZERA 2,052 1,345 3,859 2,419 TUCSON 4,145 4,033 7,765 7,453 TOTAL 34,014 33,940 64,222 59,949 Link: http://prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?A...04311491&EDATE=

Best February Ever Keeps Company on Pace for Another Consecutive Record Sales Year IRVINE, Calif., March 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced its best February sales ever of 20,719 units, a 1.3-percent increase over the same period in 2005 and a 3.2-percent increase year to date. Total sales are also up 14 percent from the previous month. The Sedona minivan had its best February ever and was the leading seller at 5,425 units. Both the Kia Spectra and Kia Sorrento were strong sellers, with 4,103 and 3,472 units sold respectively. "We're extremely proud of our best February sales month ever," said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of KMA. "As evidenced by the all-new Sedona, the word is spreading that Kia is redefining value by surprising consumers in terms of what's possible in automotive safety, style performance, fit and finish and smart packaging." Kia Motors America is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea. For more information, including photography, visit http://www.kiamedia.com . MONTH OF FEBRUARY YEAR-TO-DATE Model 2006 2005 2006 2005 Rio 2,667 2,363 4,660 4,624 Spectra 4,103 3,293 6,906 6,288 Optima 1,516 3,846 2,782 7,483 Amanti 524 1,854 1,131 4,202 Sportage 3,012 655 6,223 682 Sorento 3,472 3,406 6,218 6,786 Sedona 5,425 5,037 10,909 7,543 Total 20,719 20,454 38,829 37,608 Link: http://prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?A...04311528&EDATE=

Mitsubishi Motors Reports February U.S. Sales March 1, 2006 -- CYPRESS, Calif. -- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) today reported February sales of 7,976 units, an increase of 6.8% compared to January sales of 7,469. "We always anticipated that our sales in February 2006 would soften compared to February 2005*, because of our commitment to reduce our fleet sales," said President & CEO Hiroshi Harunari. "However, we are pleased that in the current context, our sales are growing month-to-month." *Galant was the volume leader at 1,898, up 19.6% from last month's volume. *Eclipse closed at 1,725 and was up 10.6% from last month's volume and up 59.7% from last year's volume. *Outlander closed at 1,061 and was up 47% from last month's volume and up 13.6% from last year's volume. "We are excited at the prospects for a very strong March, with the implementation of an aggressive national leasing program on Galant ($199/month) and Endeavor ($299/month)," added Harunari. "This momentum will grow even further this spring with the launch of our exciting all-new Eclipse Spyder convertible." * - February 2005 sales were 12,477 Link: http://media.mitsubishicars.com/detail?mid...156761&mime=ASC

Mercedes-Benz USA Records Highest February on Record MONTVALE, N.J., March 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported its highest February on record with sales of 17,356 new vehicles, an increase of 28.4% over last February, bringing year-to-date total sales to 29,825 new vehicles. Boosting the February volume was the launch of the all-new 2007 S-Class, Mercedes flagship vehicle, which recorded 3,360 units, a 226.8 percent increase over February 2005. Highlights for the month also included a 31 percent increase in volume for the CLK-Class family of coupes and convertibles (1,911 vs. 1,459 units) and a 128.3 percent increase in sales of the luxury SUV M-Class (2,155 vs. 944 units). Sales for Mercedes vehicles in the luxury light truck segment continue to gain momentum as a group with a 355 percent increase over February 2005. In 2006, the company plans to continue to expand its presence in the luxury light truck segment with the introduction of the GL-Class. Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program, MBUSA sold 3,459 vehicles in February, bringing annual sales for the year to a total of 6,525 units. In 2005, MBUSA achieved its twelfth consecutive year of sales growth by setting the highest sales volume in its history with 224,421 new vehicle sales. Headquartered in Montvale, N.J., MBUSA is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found on the Internet at http://www.mbusa.com. MERCEDES-BENZ USA Sales -- February 2006 Model February February Monthly % YTD 2006 YTD 2005 Yearly % '06 '05 C-CLASS 2,976 4,020 -26.0% 6,074 7,568 -19.7% E-CLASS 2,310 2,596 -11.0% 4,775 5,321 -10.3% S-CLASS 3,360 1,028 226.8% 4,283 2,092 104.7% CL-CLASS 45 127 -64.6% 113 262 -56.9% SL-CLASS 542 835 -35.1% 1,070 1,512 -29.2% CLK-CLASS 1,911 1,459 31.0% 3,037 2,684 13.2% SLK-CLASS 701 1,062 -34.0% 1,320 1,943 -32.1% CLS-CLASS 832 1,358 -38.7% 1,733 2,136 -18.9% R-CLASS 2,469 n/a n/a 3,155 n/a n/a M-CLASS 2,155 944 128.3% 4,117 1,924 114.0% G-CLASS 55 84 -34.5% 148 172 -14.0% GRAND TOTAL 17,356 13,513 28.4% 29,825 25,614 16.4% Link: http://prnewswire.com/cgi-bin/stories.pl?A...04311380&EDATE=

Chrysler Group U.S. Sales for February 2006 Increase 3 Percent LX Platform Sets Sales Record of 30,241 Units Combined Chrysler 300 Sets New All-Time Monthly Sales Record Jeep® Commander up 68 Percent Over January 2006 Sales Dodge Caliber Begins Arriving in Dealerships; European Markets are Next Dodge Ram Sales Continue to be the Volume Leader for the Company Dodge Charger Records Best Sales Month Ever Auburn Hills, Mich., Mar 1, 2006 - On the strength of several key products and led by new product introductions, Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales for February 2006 of 190,367 units, an increase of 3 percent compared to February 2005 sales of 185,643. All figures reported this month have the same number of selling days as February 2005. "Our newest and best products carried the day for us in February," said Gary Dilts, Chrysler Group Senior Vice President - Sales. "The LX platform posted sales of 30,241 units this month, our best ever. Overall, our car business is up 19 percent, and we have the all-new Dodge Caliber arriving at dealerships this month and attracting a new group of customers to our showrooms." The LX platform, from which the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Dodge Magnum are produced, posted a record sales month with 30,241 units sold in February 2006, an increase over last year's sales of 17,913 units. The all-new Dodge Caliber begins making its debut at Dodge dealerships this month, and the positive response from the press and the public has already attracted a new group of customers to the Dodge brand. The Dodge Caliber is the Dodge division's first truly global vehicle as it will spearhead the company's push into European markets later this year. With its distinctive styling, four fuel-efficient powertrain offerings and innovative interior features, the Dodge Caliber is designed to appeal to global audiences at an attractive price-to-value ratio. "With the three products of the LX platform selling at a record pace and the arrival of the Dodge Caliber, Chrysler Group is back in the car business in a big way," said Dilts. Jeep® brand sales of 39,618 units were 11 percent better than February 2005 sales of 35,756 units. Sales of the Jeep brand were helped by the enthusiastic reception of the Jeep Commander, which posted sales of 7,091 units. February results for the Jeep Commander were 68 percent higher than January 2006 results of 4,209 units and set a new sales record for the vehicle and confirming consumers' desire for a seven-passenger Jeep vehicle. Jeep Wrangler continued to maintain its position as a leader in the small SUV segment by posting sales of 5,673 units, an increase of 9 percent over February 2005 sales of 5,198 units. Sales of Chrysler brand vehicles increased 3 percent with the company's flagship product, the Chrysler 300, setting a new sales record of 13,685 units, eclipsing the previous record of 13,475 units set in March 2005 and continuing its position as the dominant leader in the Luxury Full-Size Car segment. The Chrysler Pacifica posted sales of 8,694 units, an increase of 24 percent over sales of 7,010 units last year. Sales of the Chrysler PT Cruiser increased 21 percent to 10,896 units, compared to previous year sales of 8,997 units. The distinctive Dodge Ram pickup maintained its position as the company's sales volume leader, posting sales of 29,887 units and improving 2 percent over February 2005 sales of 29,202 units. The Dodge Ram helped Dodge brand sales remain steady at 95,622 units compared to 96,312 units last year. The Dodge Ram portfolio expands and builds upon Dodge's leadership position in the truck market with the introduction today of the all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 Chassis Cab at the National Truck Equipment Association Show in Atlanta, GA. Building on Dodge's rich commercial heritage, the all-new 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 Chassis Cab combines commercial capability, durability and leading versatility in a vehicle targeted at small business tradesmen, fleet customers and traditional chassis cab users looking for more cab space, enhanced functionality and bold styling. Sales of the Dodge Charger set an all-time sales record for the vehicle by posting sales of 11,862 units, rising 48 percent over the January 2006 previous sales record of 8,023 units. Vehicle lifetime sales of the Dodge Magnum surpassed 100,000 units. With 4,694 units sold in February, total Dodge Magnum sales reached 100,163 units since its introduction in May 2004. "As we move into the spring selling season, our recent product introductions like the Dodge Caliber and Jeep Commander continue to attract new customers," said Dilts. "We eagerly anticipate the arrival of 10 all-new products this year and are well-positioned to offer a full range of new, distinctive vehicles as the economy looks to gain momentum going forward." Chrysler Group finished the month with 532,534 units of inventory, or a 67-day supply. DaimlerChrysler Corporation U.S. Sales Summary Thru February 2006 Month Sales DR % Vol % Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Change Sebring 7,897 7,732 2% 2% Concorde 0 36 -100% -100% 300 13,685 12,665 8% 8% Crossfire 412 902 -54% -54% PT Cruiser 10,896 8,997 21% 21% Pacifica 8,694 7,010 24% 24% Town & Country 13,543 16,233 -17% -17% CHRYSLER BRAND 55,127 53,575 3% 3% Wrangler 5,673 5,198 9% 9% Liberty 12,931 15,027 -14% -14% Grand Cherokee 13,923 15,531 -10% -10% Commander 7,091 0 0% 0% JEEP BRAND 39,618 35,756 11% 11% Neon 4,007 12,390 -68% -68% Caliber 1,397 0 0% 0% Stratus 10,467 7,998 31% 31% Intrepid 38 NA NA Charger 11,862 0 0% 0% Viper 108 104 4% 4% Magnum 4,694 5,248 -11% -11% Dakota 6,260 8,250 -24% -24% Ram P/U 29,887 29,202 2% 2% Caravan 17,618 19,115 -8% -8% Durango 7,924 12,998 -39% -39% Ram Van/Wagon 0 73 -100% -100% Sprinter Van 1,398 896 56% 56% DODGE BRAND 95,622 96,312 -1% -1% TOTAL CHRYSLER GROUP 190,367 185,643 3% 3% TOTAL CG CAR 50,804 42,858 19% 19% TOTAL CG TRUCK 139,563 142,785 -2% -2% Selling Days 24 24 Sales CYTD DR % Vol % Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Change Sebring 17,398 14,038 24% 24% Concorde 0 72 -100% -100% 300 26,431 22,777 16% 16% Crossfire 871 1,776 -51% -51% PT Cruiser 22,302 16,884 32% 32% Pacifica 13,763 12,246 12% 12% Town & Country 22,990 27,587 -17% -17% CHRYSLER BRAND 103,755 95,380 9% 9% Wrangler 9,503 8,941 6% 6% Liberty 22,205 25,994 -15% -15% Grand Cherokee 26,383 28,286 -7% -7% Commander 11,300 0 0% 0% JEEP BRAND 69,391 63,221 10% 10% Neon 7,354 23,648 -69% -69% Caliber 1,397 0 0% 0% Stratus 20,608 16,382 26% 26% Intrepid 0 91 -100% -100% Charger 19,885 0 0% 0% Viper 222 179 24% 24% Magnum 8,459 10,315 -18% -18% Dakota 10,843 14,339 -24% -24% Ram P/U 51,677 53,526 -3% -3% Caravan 33,891 32,912 3% 3% Durango 15,592 21,991 -29% -29% Ram Van/Wagon 0 131 -100% -100% Sprinter Van 2,758 1,639 68% 68% DODGE BRAND 172,686 175,153 -1% -1% TOTAL CHRYSLER GROUP 345,832 333,754 4% 4% TOTAL CG CAR 96,376 80,887 19% 19% TOTAL CG TRUCK 249,456 252,867 -1% -1% Selling Days 48 48 Link: http://prnewswire.com/news/index_mail.shtm...04311476&EDATE=

BMW brand, Certified Pre-Owned post impressive sales increases in February WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., March 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The BMW Group (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported sales of 22,018 vehicles in February 2006, an increase of 2.4 percent over the 21,496 vehicles sold in the same month of 2005. Year-to-date, BMW Group sales increased 7.2 percent, to 44,236 vehicles versus the 41,260 sold in the first two months of 2005. BMW Brand Sales BMW reported sales of 19,328 automobiles and Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV), up 5.3 percent compared to the 18,356 vehicles reported in February 2005. Year-to-date, BMW reported sales of 38,602 vehicles compared to the 35,203 reported in the same period a year ago, an increase of 9.7 percent. BMW Automobile Sales BMW's monthly automobile sales increased 16 percent for the month, due in part to strong 3 Series and 7 Series sales, at 15,463 versus 13,341 in February 2005. For the first two months combined, BMW automobile sales increased 19 percent to 30,918 versus 25,952 reported in the same period last year. BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales February sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 23 percent, to 3,865 vehicles over the 5,015 reported in the same month a year ago. Year-to- date, sales decreased to 7,684 vehicles from 9,251 in 2005, down 17 percent. Certified Pre-Owned BMW's Certified Pre-Owned sales increased 14.7 percent in February -- making it the best February on record for BMW CPO sales -- to 6,364 vehicles over the 5,546 reported in February 2005. Year-to-date, CPO sales grew to 12,125 vehicles over the 10,291 reported in the same period in 2005 for an increase of nearly 18 percent. MINI Brand MINI Automobiles MINI USA reported February sales of 2,690, a decrease of 14 percent compared to the 3,140 sold in February 2005. MINI USA also reported sales of 5,634 for the first two months of 2006, a decrease of 7 percent over the 6,057 sold in the same period a year ago. Production at MINI's Oxford, England plant was halted for an extended period in December and January for expansion- related upgrades, resulting in lower inventories, which contributed to the lower MINI sales figures in the U.S. BMW GROUP IN AMERICA BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand, the MINI brand, and the ROLLS-ROYCE brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 Roadster and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 340 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 148 BMW motorcycle retailers, 80 MINI passenger car dealers, and 25 ROLLS-ROYCE Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey. BMW Car Sales Report for February 2006 2006 2005 February 15,463 13,341 Year-to-Date 30,918 25,952 Year-to Year-to Model February -Date February -Date 2006 2006 2005 2005 325i (E90) 3,682 7,834 0 0 325i (E46) 0 11 3,315 6,401 325Ci 311 512 317 639 325Ci convertible 294 564 463 826 325i sports wagon 0 4 75 167 325xi (E90) 1,385 2,941 0 0 325xi (E46) 0 0 706 1,554 325xi sports wagon (E90) 250 379 0 0 325xi sports wagon (E46) 0 0 83 207 330i (E90) 1,575 2,471 0 0 330i (E46) 0 2 864 1,673 330Ci 182 330 211 470 330Ci convertible 339 627 340 651 330xi (E90) 858 1,536 0 0 330xi (E46) 0 0 408 845 M3 168 289 268 527 M3 convertible 96 186 131 254 3 Series 9,140 17,686 7,181 14,214 Z4 2.5i Roadster (US) 67 144 338 648 Z4 3.0i Roadster (US) 70 119 131 270 Z4 Roadster 3.0si (US) 17 17 0 0 Z4 154 280 469 918 525i (E60) 790 1,812 1,513 2,739 525xi (E60) 581 1,160 0 0 530i (E60) 902 1,803 1,570 2,965 530xi (E60) 710 1,639 0 0 530xi sports wagon (E60) 269 551 0 0 545i (E60) 0 6 709 1,366 550i (E60) 556 996 0 0 M5 (E60) 345 867 0 0 M5 (E39) 0 0 2 2 5 Series 4,153 8,834 3,794 7,072 645Ci 0 21 311 564 650i coupe 191 426 0 0 645Ci convertible 0 16 456 864 650i convertible 397 761 0 0 6 Series 588 1,224 767 1,428 745i 0 0 397 742 745Li 0 0 704 1,494 750i 301 590 0 0 750Li 1,101 2,232 0 0 760i 6 10 7 16 760Li 20 62 19 64 7 Series 1,428 2,894 1,127 2,316 Z8 0 0 2 2 Z8 Alpina 0 0 1 2 Z8 0 0 3 4 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (light trucks) Sales Report for February 2006 2006 2005 February 3,865 5,015 Year-to-Date 7,684 9,251 Year- Year- Model February to-Date February to-Date 2006 2006 2005 2005 X3 2.5i 49 98 440 834 X3 3.0i 1,533 2,872 1,879 3,296 X3 1,582 2,970 2,319 4,130 X5 3.0i (US) 1,669 3,569 1,906 3,637 X5 4.4i (US) 505 965 668 1,294 X5 4.8is (US) 109 180 122 190 X5 2,283 4,714 2,696 5,121 MINI Sales Report for February 2006 2006 2005 February 2,690 3,140 Year-to-Date 5,634 6,057 Year- Year- Model February to-Date February to-Date 2006 2006 2005 2005 MINI Cooper 752 1,855 906 1,993 MINI Cooper S 1,217 2,356 1,284 2,266 MINI Cooper Convertible 220 494 520 980 MINI Cooper S Convertible 501 929 430 818 Total MINI 2,690 5,634 3,140 6,057 Link: http://prnewswire.com/news/index_mail.shtm...04311548&EDATE=