William Maley

Mitsubishi Motors Continues Momentum With November Sales Mitsubishi reports November sales of 6,772, an increase of 3.6 percent over last November November 2015 marks the 21st consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases Outlander remains a hot commodity with sales up 43 percent for the year Outlander Sport records best ever November with 2,955 sales Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) continues its sales momentum with November 2015 sales of 6,722, an increase of 3.6 percent from November 2014. Mitsubishi has reported year-over-year sales increases for 21 consecutive months. Year-to-date sales are 87,455, up 23 percent over the same period in 2014. "Mitsubishi's lineup of stylish, safe and fuel-efficient vehicles that offer value and an industry leading powertrain and new vehicle warranties is a product formula that is resonating with today's consumers," said Don Swearingen, executive vice president, MMNA. "Our dealers are reporting significantly increased customer traffic to the showrooms and demand for the vehicles is very strong." The Mitsubishi Outlander and Outlander Sport CUVs remained the volume leaders for the brand. Outlander sales were up 69.3 percent over November 2014 with total sales of 1,717. Outlander Sport reports sales of 2,955, which represents a 10.3 percent increase year-over-year.

Kia Motors America Records Best November In Company History And Sells Six Millionth Vehicle In The U.S. Seventh Consecutive Monthly Sales Record Pushes Year-To-Date Sales Up 6.9 Percent IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 1, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Propelled by the sale of its six millionth vehicle in the U.S. since arriving in 1994, Kia Motors America's (KMA) year-long momentum continued with best-ever November sales of 45,553 vehicles, a 1.4-percent increase over the same period last year. The brand's seventh straight monthly sales record was led by the Optima and Soul, with 13,048 and 10,045 units sold, respectively. "Kia has outpaced the industry all year, and with our 'Holidays On Us' sales event in place throughout November customers visited our showrooms in record numbers to discover the new Kia," said Michael Sprague, chief operating officer and EVP, KMA. "Kia continues to grow and mature at a rapid rate, and surpassing the six million vehicles mark as we push toward a strong finish to the year is the latest example of how far this brand has come in a very short period of time."

Hyundai Motor America Reports Its Best November Ever All-New Tucson up 90 percent FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Dec. 1, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America posted its best November ever, with sales of 60,007, up 12 percent compared with one year ago. Small cars and CUVs lead the charge. "With the combination of a strong economy, lower gas prices and improving crossover inventory, Hyundai experienced a record November," said Derrick Hatami, vice president of national sales for Hyundai Motor America. "In addition to our Tucson nearly doubling its sales over November 2014, a number of our products experienced double digit sales gains." Hyundai's small cars, Accent, Veloster and Elantra were up 44, 70 and 26 percent, respectively, while Tucson was up 90 percent and 6/7 passenger Santa Fe up 55 percent.

Porsche Reports November 2015 Sales U.S. Porsche dealers sell 4,450 vehicles in November ATLANTA, Dec. 1, 2015 -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor in the United States of Porsche 918 Spyder, 911, Boxster and Cayman sports cars, Macan and Cayenne SUVs, and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up, today announced November 2015 sales of 4,450 vehicles. November brings year-to-date sales to 47,820 vehicles, exceeding the 2014 record of 47,007 units sold. Year-to-date, sales increased 9.3 percent.

December 1, 2015 SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. POSTS RECORD NOVEMBER SALES Company sets seventh consecutive sales record 48th consecutive month of year-over-year growth 14 percent increase YTD over 2014 28th consecutive month of more than 10,000 Foresters sold 21st consecutive month of more than 10,000 Outbacks sold Cherry Hill, N.J. - Subaru of America, Inc. today reported 46,070 vehicle sales for November 2015, a 2 percent increase over November 2014 sales of 45,273. The company also reported year-to-date sales of 526,401 vehicles, a 14 percent gain over the same period in 2014. In what is a remarkable period for the company, November also saw Subaru break its previous yearly sales record of 513,693 vehicles set in 2014 to mark the company’s eighth year of sales growth and seventh successive sales record. In November, Crosstrek sales were notably strong as the carline posted a 17 percent sales increase and achieved its best November ever. The Impreza continued to bring in strong sales with an increase of 90.2 percent in November. Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. said; “This is a truly momentous time for Subaru of America. We look to close out 2015 strongly and expect our growth to continue in 2016 and beyond.” “The Subaru of America team and our 625 retailers were excited about setting our seventh consecutive all-time annual record last week and then finishing November with a strong final weekend,” said Jeff Walters, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. “We are seeing strong shopping for all of our models and we are continuing to attract new customers to Subaru at a record rate.”

Volvo Announces November Sales Posts highest monthly volume since November 2007 ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (Dec. 1, 2015) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 6,902 units, a 90.5 percent increase versus November 2014. Year-to-date sales are up 18 percent over the first eleven months of 2014. The top seller for the month once again was the all-new XC90 luxury SUV with 2,236 units sold. The XC60 showed continued growth with 2,077 units sold, a 26.4 percent increase versus November 2014. The XC60 also represents the top seller year-to-date with 22,623 units sold, a 31.6 percent increase. “We’ve achieved the highest monthly volume in the US market in eight years thanks in part to strong sales of the award-winning XC90 and the XC60,” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America. “The XC90 was just awarded the prestigious Motor Trend SUV of the Year award, and we are thrilled that consumers agree.” Following an $11 billion investment, the positive momentum has materialized with the first all-new model off the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC90, with world-first safety technologies, a new design language, new powertrain architecture and a range of class-leading connectivity services.

And that's with huge increases in incentive spending! Also, dealers are reportedly running out of stock of certain vehicles.

BMW Group U.S. Reports November 2015 Sales BMW brand up 3.2 percent, YTD up 4.4 percent MINI brand sales decrease 11.3 percent, YTD up 8.1 percent Woodcliff Lake, NJ – December 1, 2015… Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 3.2 percent in November for a total of 32,003 compared to 31,019 vehicles sold in November, 2014. Year-to-date, BMW brand is up 4.4 percent from the same period last year with sales of 311,398 vehicles. “There were fewer selling days in November, yet the demand for new vehicles is solid resulting in the ninth record sales month for BMW this year,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. “The all-new 7 Series did very well in its first full month of sales but there’s no question the trend is towards light trucks and the improving availability of our SAV’s gave a nice boost to our overall sales in November.” Notable vehicle sales included the BMW X3 which increased 124.5 percent to 4,987, the BMW X6 increased 59.6 percent to 672 and the BMW 2 Series which increased 77.6 percent to 1,147 cars. BMW Group Sales In total, the BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported November sales of 36,447 vehicles, an increase of 1.2 percent from the 36,028 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are up 4.9 percent from the same period last year with 364,903 vehicles sold. MINI Brand Sales For November, MINI USA reports 4,444 automobiles sold, a decrease of 11.3 percent from the 5,009 sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, MINI USA sales are 53,505 vehicles, an 8.1 percent increase from the same period last year.

Toyota Posts 12.4 Percent Increase in November 2015 Toyota Division light trucks post best-ever November RAV4 has best-ever November sales month Scion posts double-digit gains TORRANCE, Calif. (Dec. 1, 2015) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported November 2015 sales up 12.4 percent on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis, with sales of 189,517 units. On a raw volume basis, with two less selling days in November 2015 than in November 2014, sales were up 3.4 percent. Toyota Division posted November 2015 sales up 11.7 percent on a DSR basis with sales of 160,177 units, up 2.8 percent on a volume basis. "The auto industry is on-track to exceed 2015 expectations," said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager for the Toyota Division. "With the best Black Friday weekend in eight years, Toyota’s record sales of RAV4 and Light Trucks overall contributed to double-digit growth in November." Lexus reported November 2015 sales up 16.1 percent on a DSR basis with sales of 29,340 units, up 6.8 percent on a volume basis. “Lexus had its best November sales in the brand’s history with record performances in sales, parts, service, customer care and vehicle quality,” said Jeff Bracken, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division. “Considering the industry momentum and the strong early sales pace of the 2016 RX, Lexus is well positioned to post its best-ever calendar year sales.” November 2015 Highlights: Camry posted sales of 30,945 units, up 7.3 percent All-new Scion iA and iM posted combined sales of 2,876 units Total Toyota Division light trucks up 5.5 percent; a best-ever November Highlander posted sales of 12,741 units 4Runner up 5.6 percent RAV4 up almost 30 percent; a best-ever November Tacoma posted sales of 13,465 units, up 3.4 percent RC up 45.7 percent Lexus luxury utility vehicles up over 37 percent NX posted sales of 3,284 units *Note: Unless otherwise stated, all figures reflect unadjusted raw sales volume

VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA REPORTS NOVEMBER SALES November sales total 23,882 units Tiguan delivered 3,907 units, an 87.7 percent increase over November 2014, marking the best November for the vehicle The all-new Golf family of vehicles delivered 4,110 units, a 2.9 percent increase over the previous November Golf GTI delivered 1,963 units for the month, a 13.8 percent increase over November 2014, marking the best November for the vehicle Herndon, VA — (December 1, 2015) Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported sales of 23,882 units delivered in November 2015. The November sales results reflect the impact of the recent stop-sale for all 2.0L 4-cylinder TDI vehicles as well as for the 3.0L V6. The voluntary stop-sales were issued in light of notices received by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) regarding emissions compliance. “Volkswagen is working tirelessly on an approved remedy for the affected TDI vehicles. During this time we would like to thank our dealers and customers for their continued patience and loyalty,” said Mark McNabb, chief operating officer, Volkswagen of America. The newly redesigned 2016 Passat entered showrooms earlier this month. Pricing for the 2016 Volkswagen Passat starts at $22,440—the same as the outgoing base model when equipped with an automatic transmission. When new content is factored in, this represents a $1,315 value enhancement over the base 2015 Passat.

American Honda Reports November Car and Truck Sales Dec 1, 2015 - TORRANCE, Calif. Robust Honda and Acura truck sales continue on record annual pace Honda Pilot gains 19 percent as sales surpass 10,000 for the month Acura RDX sets new November sales record, climbing 7.4 percent on sales of 3,691 All-new 2016 Honda Civic pushes 8.6 percent model gain as first customers take deliveries in mid-November Accord, Civic and CR-V remain on pace to top 1 million units for the year American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today reported November sales of 115,441 Honda and Acura vehicles, a decrease of 5.2 percent in a month with two fewer selling days and one less weekend vs. a record-setting November 2014. Honda Division sold 103,197 units, with car sales reaching 53,900 and truck sales totaling 49,297 for the month. Acura sales totaled 12,244, with sedan sales of 4,461 and trucks reaching 7,783 units in November. Honda Strong sales of the all-new Pilot and core Honda models kept Honda on track for an all-time annual sales record, with the Accord, Civic and CR-V on course to reach a combined one million units in sales for the third consecutive year. Pilot sales climbed strongly, rising 19 percent on sales of 10,975 units putting the all-new Pilot on the verge of its best sales year since 2006. Civic posted an 8.6 percent November increase on sales of 25,050 units, even as the production ramp up of the 2016 Civic Sedan continues at Honda plants in North America. Accord posted a November increase of 1.2 percent to 25,566 units, boosting YTD 2015 sales to 320,501 units. CR-V continued on pace as the industry's best-selling SUV, with sales of 25,931 units in November pushing its 2015 total over the 300,000-unit mark for the third consecutive year. "It is incredibly gratifying to see our customers embrace the all-new Pilot and Civic," said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of the Honda Division. "We are going to race to the finish in the effort to earn a record number of new customers this year." Acura Acura truck sales remain on pace for a record year with combined sales of MDX and RDX approaching the 100,000-unit mark for 2015, while Acura sedan sales are up more than 20% in 2015, topping 60,000 units for the first time since 2013. Acura's athletic RDX set a new November record, climbing 7.4 percent on sales of 3,691 vehicles. TLX sales of 43,572 units through the first 11 months of 2015 has now nearly tripled the 2014 combined sales total of the TLX and the outgoing TL and TSX models it replaced. "With the Acura brand on track for our fifth consecutive year of increased sales and our best annual sales total since 2007 we continue to build strong momentum toward next year's celebration of Acura's 30th anniversary," said Jon Ikeda, vice president and general manager of the Acura division. "We also recognize and embrace the challenges of an ultra-competitive luxury market as we sharpen our portfolio with products like the technologically advanced NSX and continue to build the brand with highly desirable vehicles throughout the lineup."

Nissan Group reports November 2015 U.S. sales NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan Group today announced total U.S. sales for November 2015 of 107,083 units, an increase of 4 percent over the prior year and a November record. Nissan highlights: Nissan Division finished November with 95,389 sales, up 4 percent and also a November record. Overall sales of Nissan crossovers, trucks and SUVs set a November record, up 15 percent. Sales of the Nissan Rogue crossover set a November record at 22,565, an increase of 50 percent. Sales of the Murano crossover increased 45 percent to 5,574. Sales of the Versa subcompact set a November record at 9,783, an increase of 5 percent.

Audi sets 59th consecutive monthly U.S. sales record in November 2015 December 01, 2015 | HERNDON, Virginia Audi sales YTD through November up 11.7% to 181,803 vehicles Sales for the month rose 0.4% to 16,700 vehicles Demand for core Audi models remained strong for the month Audi reported that its November 2015 sales increased 0.4% to 16,700 vehicles, a total that stands as the brand’s 59th straight month of record U.S. sales. Audi achieved its best-ever November sales in the U.S. in establishing its 59th consecutive monthly sales record. The previous November record was set in 2014 with 16,640 Audi vehicles sold. Through the first 11 months of 2015, Audi U.S. sales rose 11.7% from last year to 181,803 vehicles, which is only 208 units short of what Audi sold in an entire year in 2014. “As we head into the final sales month, we are on track to achieve our sixth-consecutive record year and exceed 200,000 annual sales for the first time,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “We expect this strong momentum will continue into 2016 as we refresh some of our most popular models, such as the Audi Q7, A4 and R8.” November results were bolstered by sales of core Audi models, such as the A3, A5 and A7. These three model lines posted increases of 20.6%, 20.2% and 8.2%, respectively. The Audi SUV models also performed well. The Q3 model achieved a 50.9% increase over year-earlier sales, and the Q5 model line posted an increase of 8.0% over last November. The all-new Audi TT posted a 1,000.0% sales increase from last year. Audi Certified pre-owned vehicle sales maintained year-to-date growth of 3.9% over 2014.

Note: Mercedes-Benz announced their sales numbers will go up tomorrow due to "systems malfunction with its retail reporting (DDR) system." We'll add their results to this post tommrow. Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Up 90.5% (6,902 Vehicles Sold This Month, 60,705 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Jaguar Land Rover North America - Up 55.3% (7,604 Vehicles Sold This Month, 75,410 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Hyundai Motor America - Up 12% (60,007 Vehicles Sold This Month, 698,202 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mazda North American Operations - Up 7% (23,732 Vehicles Sold This Month, 289,890 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Nissan Group U.S. - Up 3.8% (107,083 Vehicles Sold This Month, 1,345,618 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mitsubishi Motors North America - Up 3.6% (6,772 Vehicles Sold This Month, 87,455 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. - Up 3.4% (189,517 Vehicles Sold This Month, 2,260,963 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) American Honda Motor Co. - Up 3% (115,441 Vehicles Sold This Month, 1,435,658 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) FCA US LLC - Up 3% (175,194 Vehicles Sold This Month, 2,026,381 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 2% (46,070 Vehicles Sold This Month, 526,401 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) General Motors Co. - Up 1.5% (229,296 Vehicles Sold This Month, 2,792,136 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Kia Motors America - Up 1.4% (45,553 Vehicles Sold This Month, 571,577 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) BMW Group U.S. - Up 1.2% (36,447 Vehicles Sold This Month, 364,903 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Audi of America - Up 0.4% (16,700 Vehicles Sold This Month, 181,803 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ford Motor Company - Up 0.4% (187,794 Vehicles Sold This Month, 2,373,920 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Down 5.3% (4,450 Vehicles Sold This Month, 47,820 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Maserati North America, Inc. - Down 10% (1,083 Vehicles Sold This Month, 10,624 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mercedes-Benz USA - Down 11.7% (33,475 Vehicles Sold This Month, 341,543 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volkswagen of America - Down 24.72% (23,882 Vehicles Sold This Month, 318,484 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Brands: Acura - Down 10.4% (12,244 Vehicles Sold This Month, 160,342 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Alfa Romeo - N/A (44 Vehicles Sold This Month, 606 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Audi - Up 0.4% (16,700 Vehicles Sold This Month, 181,803 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) BMW - Up 6.5% (32,003 Vehicles Sold This Month, 311,398 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Buick - Down 16.6% (15,960 Vehicles Sold This Month, 202,347 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Cadillac - Up 1.8% (13,390 Vehicles Sold This Month, 154,480 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Chevrolet - Up 4.8% (156,907 Vehicles Sold This Month, 1,936,553 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Chrysler - Down 12% (23,953 Vehicles Sold This Month, 300,554 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Dodge - Down 8% (38,938 Vehicles Sold This Month, 467,897 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Fiat - Down 3% (3,029 Vehicles Sold This Month, 38,605 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ford - Up 0.6% (179,876 Vehicles Sold This Month, 2,283,553 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) GMC - Down 1.9% (40,039 Vehicles Sold This Month, 498,756 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Honda - Up 4.9% (103,197 Vehicles Sold This Month, 1,275,316 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Hyundai - Up 12% (60,007 Vehicles Sold This Month, 698,202 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Infiniti - Up 2.6% (11,694 Vehicles Sold This Month, 118,405 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Jaguar - Down 15% (1,065 Vehicles Sold This Month, 13,269 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Jeep - Up 20% (68,903 Vehicles Sold This Month, 775,374 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Kia - Up 1.4% (45,553 Vehicles Sold This Month, 571,577 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Land Rover - Up 79.4% (6,539 Vehicles Sold This Month, 62,141 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Lexus - Up 6.8% (29,340 Vehicles Sold This Month, 118,405 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Lincoln - Down 2.4% (7,918 Vehicles Sold This Month, 90,367 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Maserati - Down 10% (1,083 Vehicles Sold This Month, 10,624 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mazda - Up 7% (23,732 Vehicles Sold This Month, 289,890 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mercedes-Benz - Down 13.1% (30,043 Vehicles Sold This Month, 308,885 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) MINI - Down 11.3% (4,444 Vehicles Sold This Month, 53,505 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mitsubishi - Up 3.6% (6,772 Vehicles Sold This Month, 87,455 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Nissan - Up 3.9% (95,389 Vehicles Sold This Month, 1,227,213 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Porsche - Down 5.3% (4,450 Vehicles Sold This Month, 47,820 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ram Trucks - Up 1% (41,107 Vehicles Sold This Month, 443,344 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Smart - Down 18.8% (662 Vehicles Sold This Month, 6,815 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Sprinter - Up 9.4% (2,270 Vehicles Sold This Month, 25,843 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Subaru - Up 2% (46,070 Vehicles Sold This Month, 526,401 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Toyota - Up 2.8% (160,177 Vehicles Sold This Month, 1,957,742 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volkswagen - Down 24.72% (23,882 Vehicles Sold This Month, 318,484 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volvo - Up 90.5% (6,902 Vehicles Sold This Month, 60,705 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) View full article

Chevrolet Posts Industry’s Largest Sales Increase, Propels GM to its Eighth Consecutive Retail Share Gain Chevrolet truck sales rise for 20th consecutive month Chevrolet crossovers up for 12th consecutive month GMC sets average transaction price record fueled by Denali sales Commercial deliveries up for 25th consecutive month DETROIT – General Motors’ (NYSE: GM) Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac brands sold 229,296 vehicles in the United States in November 2015, up 2 percent year over year, with two fewer selling days and sales incentives below the industry average. On a selling-day-adjusted basis, GM’s total sales were up 10 percent. Sales of Chevrolet trucks rose 10 percent for the 20th consecutive monthly increase. Chevrolet crossovers were up 35 percent for the 12th consecutive monthly increase. Crossover deliveries were also robust at Buick, where Encore sales, up 12 percent year over year, have now increased for 23 consecutive months. Total Buick crossover sales were up 11 percent. At GMC, crossover deliveries rose 12 percent, driven by a 16 percent gain for the Terrain. Cadillac’s crossover, the SRX, saw a 53 percent increase. Industry-wide, crossovers now account for 40 percent of the retail industry, up from 37 percent a year ago. “The phenomenal growth of crossovers in a record-setting market is the biggest sales story of 2015,” said Kurt McNeil, GM’s U.S. vice president of Sales Operations. “Buick was one of the pioneers of the fast-growing small crossover segment with the Encore. Chevrolet’s crossover sales growth is far outpacing the rest of the industry, thanks to the Trax, Equinox and Traverse. And the GMC Terrain is on track to have its best year ever.” GM’s retail sales were up 4 percent year over year. Adjusted for selling days, GM retail sales were up 14 percent. GM gained an estimated 1.0 points of retail market share to reach 16.5 percent during the month for the company’s eighth consecutive year-over-year increase. Deliveries to commercial customers were up 6 percent year over year and government deliveries were up 2 percent. Rental sales were down 16 percent per plan. Total fleet sales were down 9 percent. The seasonally adjusted annual selling rate (SAAR) for light vehicles was an estimated 18.2 million units in November. The six-month moving average for the SAAR is now estimated to be 17.9 million units. The industry’s best sales year ever was 2000, when 17.8 million light vehicles were delivered. “We believe U.S. auto sales will continue to grow in 2016, based on the underlying strength of the economy, and we expect customers will continue to embrace crossovers and SUVs because they are meeting their fundamental needs for utility, comfort and fuel efficiency,” said Mustafa Mohatarem, GM chief economist. GM is also building significant momentum in the passenger car and pickup truck markets. At last month’s Los Angeles International Auto Show, the 2016 Chevrolet Colorado diesel was named Motor Trend Magazine’s Truck of the Year – a repeat victory for the truck. The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro was named Motor Trend’s Car of the Year, and the 2016 Chevrolet Volt was named Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal. In addition, the all-new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu begins shipping to dealers today. Sales Highlights vs. 2014 (except as noted) Chevrolet Chevrolet’s retail deliveries were up 13 percent, the highest of any manufacturer in November. Retail sales have now increased for eight straight months. Retail crossover sales were up 26 percent, retail truck sales were up 12 percent and retail car sales were up 5 percent. The Traverse had its best November ever on a retail basis, and the Equinox had its best November on a total sales basis. Five Chevrolet passenger car lines posted retail sales increases: the Camaro was up 44 percent, the Volt was up 49 percent, the SS was up 40 percent, the Sonic was up 14 percent and the Malibu was up 9 percent. The Volt had its best November ever on both a total and retail basis. Retail sales of pickups and SUVs were also particularly strong: the Suburban was up 31 percent, the Tahoe was up 17 percent and the Silverado was up 4 percent. Retail sales of the Silverado were the highest for any November since 2006, and have now increased for 16 consecutive months. Total sales were the highest for any November since 2003. GMC Total sales of the Yukon and Yukon XL were up 23 percent and 30 percent, respectively, while the Terrain was up 16 percent. Terrain had its best November ever. In addition, the Acadia was up 6 percent in total and on a retail basis. Acadia retail sales have already set a full-year record. GMC ATPs were a record $43,260, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. Buick Total sales of the Enclave crossover were up 9 percent, while the Encore small crossover was up 12 percent in total and 50 percent on a retail basis. The Encore is on track to set a full-year sales record. Cadillac Total sales of the SRX crossover were up 53 percent. In November, Cadillac had the highest ATPs among full-line luxury brands at approximately $55,000, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. Average Transaction Prices (J.D. Power PIN estimates) GM’s average transaction prices (ATPs) were a record $35,800, up about $740 from October 2015 and up about $580 year over year. GM’s incentive spending was 10.0 percent of ATP, down 1.6 percentage points from October 2015 and down 1.2 percentage points year over year. Industry average spending was 10.5 percent of ATP in November, down 0.3 percentage points month over month and up 0.2 percentage points year over year. Fleet and Commercial During the month, deliveries to commercial customers were up 6 percent and government deliveries were up 2 percent. Deliveries to rental customers declined 16 percent. Calendar year to date, commercial deliveries are up 13 percent and government deliveries are up 1 percent. Rental deliveries are down 11 percent.

FCA US LLC Reports November 2015 U.S. Sales Increased 3 Percent; Best November in 15 Years 68th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains Jeep® brand sales up 20 percent; best November sales ever Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot and Jeep Wrangler record their best November sales ever Dodge Challenger and Dodge Journey log their best November sales ever Ram pickup truck registers its best November sales ever December 1, 2015 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - FCA US LLC today reported U.S. sales of 175,974 units, a 3 percent increase compared with sales in November 2014 (170,839 units), and the group’s best November sales since 2000. The Jeep® and Ram Truck brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in November compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep brand’s 20 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any FCA US brand during the month. The group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 68 consecutive months. “Despite having two less selling days this November, FCA US still recorded its best November sales since 2000 and our 68th consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “The favorable I.O.U. environment of low interest rates, oil prices, and unemployment, coupled with our strongest product line up ever, continues to be a significant driver of FCA sales.” Seven FCA US vehicles set records in the month of November, including four Jeep brand vehicles. The Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot and Jeep Wrangler each recorded their best November sales ever. The Chrysler Town & Country minivan posted a 20 percent sales gain, the largest percentage year-over-year increase of any FCA US vehicle in the month. The Dodge Challenger, Dodge Journey and Ram pickup truck also turned in their best November sales ever. FCA US finished the month of November with an 86-day supply of inventory (659,063 units). U.S. industry sales figures for November are internally projected at an estimated 18.4 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR). Jeep Brand Jeep brand sales increased 20 percent, the brand’s best November sales ever and its 26th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Jeep brand has set a sales record in every month dating back to November 2013. The Compass, Patriot, Wrangler and Cherokee each posted their best November sales ever. The Compass’ 19 percent increase was the largest year-over-year percentage gain of any Jeep brand model for the month. Sales of the flagship Jeep Grand Cherokee were up 11 percent for its best November sales since 2003. The Grand Cherokee was named a Consumers Digest Best Buy for the sixth-consecutive year. The Renegade earned a Best Buy designation in November from both Consumer Guide Automotive and Consumers Digest. Ram Truck Brand Ram Truck brand sales, which include the Ram pickup truck, Ram ProMaster, Ram ProMaster City and Ram Cargo Van, were up 1 percent in November, the brand’s best November sales since 2003. Sales of the Ram pickup truck increased 2 percent, the pickup’s best November sales ever. The pickup was named a 2016 Best Buy last month by the editors at Consumer Guide Automotive. Ram ProMaster City sales were up 158 percent in November, compared with the previous month of October. It was the ProMaster City’s best sales month since it was launched in January. Green Car Journal named the ProMaster City its 2016 Commercial Green Car of the Year during last month’s San Antonio Auto & Truck Show. The ProMaster City is Ram’s newest addition to its commercial vehicle lineup and contributes to the expanding, purpose-built van segment with a number of best-in-class, functional elements tied directly to commercial customer demand. Dodge Brand Five Dodge brand vehicles posted sales gains, including the Dodge Challenger and Dodge Journey, which had their best November sales ever. It was the Challenger’s 10th sales record this year. The Dodge Charger, Dodge Durango and Dodge Viper all posted year-over-year sales gains in November. The Charger, for the second time in two years, has earned the Residual Value Award in the “Full-size Car” category from ALG, the industry benchmark for residual values and depreciation data. The Durango last month earned a 2016 Best Buy designation in the Large SUV category from editors at Consumer Guide Automotive for the fourth-consecutive year. In addition, the Durango and Challenger each earned a Best Buy last month from Consumers Digest. Also, the Charger and Durango made Strategic Vision’s annual list of “Most Loved Vehicles in America.” Dodge brand sales were down 8 percent in November, compared with the same month a year ago. FIAT Brand FIAT brand sales, which include the Fiat 500, Fiat 500L, and 500X, the newest addition to the FIAT brand vehicle lineup, were down 3 percent in November compared with the same month a year ago. The Fiat 500 last month earned a Best Buy designation from Consumers Digest for the fifth time in the Subcompact category. Also last month, the 500 and the fully-electric Fiat 500e both made Strategic Vision’s “Most Loved Vehicles in America” list. Chrysler Brand Sales of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan were up 20 percent, the minivan’s second best sales month this year. The Town & Country’s 20 percent sales gain was the largest percentage year-over-year increase of any FCA US vehicle in the month. Chrysler brand sales were down 12 percent, compared with the same month a year ago. The Chrysler 300, the brand’s flagship sedan, earned its fourth Best Buy award in the Luxury Cars category from Consumers Digest in November. Consumers Digest selects Best Buys by identifying vehicles that deliver the most value for the money within their segment.

STRONG F-SERIES, VAN DEMAND BOOSTS TRUCK SALES TO BEST NOVEMBER SINCE 2007; NEW PRODUCTS GROW YEAR-TO-DATE SALES Ford Motor Company U.S. sales of 187,794 vehicles, up slightly at 0.4 percent versus last November F-Series retail sales increase 16 percent, driving total F-Series sales to a 10 percent gain, with commercial vans up 59 percent; best November Ford Truck performance in eight years All-new Edge sales up 6 percent; new Explorer up 1 percent on strong demand for new high-end Platinum series DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 1, 2015 – Ford Motor Company November U.S. sales totaled 187,794 vehicles, up slightly at 0.4 percent compared to a year ago. Through November, overall Ford sales are up 5 percent versus the same period a year ago. Ford’s lower incentive spending and strong model series mix in November boosted average transaction prices $3,800 versus year-ago levels – the largest gain among any major automaker. Ford cars, SUVs and trucks all delivered higher transaction prices. “We saw strong customer demand for our cars and SUVs with the latest technology and sold a very rich mix in November,” said Mark LaNeve, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “F-Series and commercial vans also were very strong, with an 18 percent gain for the month and our best November sales performance for Ford Trucks in eight years.” F-Series sales totaled 65,192 trucks in November, with retail sales increasing 16 percent and a 10 percent total F-Series gain. Ford commercial van sales increased 59 percent, with 17,815 vehicles sold last month. November’s van performance marked Ford’s best November sales month since 1984. The all-new Transit sales totaled 9,584, almost doubling year-ago sales. Transit Connect sales of 4,237 vans reached best-ever November sales, a 94 percent increase. All-new Edge delivered a 6 percent increase versus a year ago, with 8,137 vehicles sold. Ford’s new Explorer sales gained 1 percent last month, with 15,141 SUVs sold, marking its best November since 2004.

And another clearing of the Off-Topic stuff. Guys, keep on topic. You're on very thin ice at the moment.

Mitsubishi is playing to its strengths to help it rebound in the U.S. That includes the introduction of three crossovers with electric powertrains. Mitsubishi CEO Osamu Masuko tells Automotive News the company will channel their limited resources into creating a more compact lineup mostly made up of crossovers and SUVs. "We are strong in SUVs and four-wheel drives. And that is what we would like to focus on as core models in the U.S. market. We have changed direction. We are going to allocate more resources to the areas where we are strong in the U.S," said Masuko. This move means we will likely not see a replacement for aging Lancer compact and i-MiEV. Instead, Mitsubishi will introduce a new coupe-styled crossover that will slot in between the Outlander Sport and Outlander in 2017. A redesigned Outlander will arrive in 2018 and a new Outlander Sport will come a year after. Each crossover will come with a gas powertrain and some sort of electrification, whether that be through a plug-in hybrid system or an electric powertrain. In the meantime, Mitsubishi will introduce "big minor changes" to keep their nameplates fresh. This was first shown at the LA Auto Show with the introduction of the 2016 Outlander Sport and 2017 Mirage. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

BMW is coming close to making a decision on a possible third member of their i family. Autocar says there are two proposals for the next model which is known as the i5. First is an extended version of the i3 and the second is a sedan that will directly compete with Tesla's upcoming Model 3. Ian Robertson, BMW's board member who oversees sales and marketing says the company is in “the final stages” of which proposal to go with. “You will see more i products, and we are in the final stages of deciding what the next car will be and when you’ll see it,” said Robertson. It is expected that BMW will show the i5 next year during the company's centenary celebrations. Source: Autocar View full article

Audi believes that the future of the brand will rest on electric vehicles. In fact, the German automaker wants to have 25 percent of vehicles sold to be electric. Now this goal is way down the line, but Audi is beginning to make this a reality with a number of electric vehicles going into development. They are also tackling how they will sell them. A recent piece in the New York Times said that dealerships were a stumbling block when selling electric vehicles either because they didn't know anything about them or pushed buyers into buying a gas-powered vehicle. Tesla is the only automaker that no problem with selling their models, but that is due to their decision of opening their own stores. Autoblog had the chance to speak with executives from Audi of America about how they plan to sell EVs. First up is Filip Brabec, Audi of America's director of product management. He explained that EVs may need a new experience at dealers. "A lot of it has to do with the complexity of the product and the complexity of the offer and it's difficult, I think, to bring that into a classical dealership and sort of treat is as another car and off we go. I think there needs to be some differences in how we go in the future," said Brabec. Another key point is to get consumers into those vehicles. "I think exposing consumers to EVs, letting them experience EVs is another big aspect, and probably different than we have today, because test driving a car today is a very conventional thing. It's probably not going to be as conventional with EVs, particularly if you've never been in one before." Second was Audi of America's president Scott Keogh who explained that Tesla showed everyone that providing a complete experience was a very smart move. But Keogh believes that Audi could do a much better job than Tesla when they start building their own EVs. Source: Autoblog, New York Times View full article