William Maley

When we first laid eyes on the Infiniti Q60 Coupe concept at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year, we had to admit it was a very stylish coupe. Infiniti said a production version would be arriving sometime next year, Since then, we haven't heard much about the new coupe. But a new set of spy shots gives us an idea of what Infiniti has in store for the production model. Comparing the spy shots with pictures of the Q60 concept show that Infiniti will be keeping some elements from the concept for the production model. The front end will retain the headlights and large grille while the F1 inspired bumper is out. Around back, the short decklid with an upswept lid and taillights will make it into production. Powertrains are still unknown at this time. Rumor has it that a turbocharged 2.0L four from Mercedes-Benz will be the volume engine, while a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 will be available. Source: Autoblog View full article

Volkswagen's reputation has been taking a number of big hits due to the cheating software they used in a number of their diesel models to pass EPA regulations. But a new report says the company is planning to regain the trust of some of their owners. The Truth About Cars learned from a source that Volkswagen will be announcing a program that offers owners of affected TDI models (new and used) to recive a prepaid card. Two cards will be available to owners; the first will be a $500 card that can be used anywhere, while a second card - expected to be around $500 to $750 - can only be used at Volkswagen dealers. Details of this program are expected to be announced this week. Source: The Truth About Cars View full article

The negotiations with the Detroit three seem to be coming to an end as Ford and the UAW announced this afternoon they have reached a tentative contract agreement. “Working with our UAW partners, we have reached a tentative agreement for the next four years for our employees and our business. The agreement, if ratified, will help lead the Ford Motor Company, our employees and our communities into the future,” said John Fleming, Ford executive vice president of global manufacturing and labor affairs. Details of new contract are under wraps as the national council will need to approve. The council will meet next Monday to discuss and give their say on it. According to Automotive News, the contact could resemble the one for GM-UAW workers, which includes a path to the end of a two-tier wage system and a $8,000 signing bonus. “This agreement is significant for our members in that it creates a clear path for economic advancement for active members and rewards veteran employees for their sacrifices in recent years,” UAW Vice President Jimmy Settles said in a statement. “It is one of the richest agreements in the history of UAW-Ford.” Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

The popularity of crossovers with consumers is continuing to rise and Mitsubishi wants to make sure they aren't left behind. Speaking with Automotive News, Mitsubishi CEO Osamu Masuko revealed that the Japanese automaker is working a new five-seat crossover that will slot in between the Outlander and Outlander Sport. The new crossover will take some styling ideas from the eX concept shown at the Tokyo Motor Show and compete with the likes of the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. Production is expected to begin in Fall of 2017 with Europe and U.S. being the main markets for this vehicle. "The Outlander is growing in size, while the Outlander Sport is getting smaller, so it opens a space for the new SUV. We need something to fit in between," said Masuko. This new crossover will help the plea from U.S. dealers that want something fresh in their lots. It also plays a key role into Mitsubishi's revival plan as the company is using crossovers and SUVs to help with their sales. At the moment, 56 percent of Mitsubishi's total volume in the U.S. is made up of crossovers. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

If you have a Chevrolet Corvette Stingray sitting in your garage and wished it had some of performance found on the hot Corvette Z06, then we have some good news for you. This week at the SEMA show, Chevrolet announced a new series of performance parts derived from the Z06. The parts include new brakes, chassis components, cooling components, and suspension. They can be added to any Corvette Stingray, even those without the Z51 Performance Package. "No one has spent more time developing Corvette performance parts than Chevrolet and this new range of components is the result of countless hours of testing that aftermarket companies can't match. You can mix and match the parts to build your own ultimate Stingray track car – all with factory-engineered components customers can trust will fit and perform as expected," said Mark Dickens, director, Performance Variants, Parts and Motorsports. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 New Z06 Parts Enhance Corvette Stingray Performance Broad range of chassis, suspension and aero components enhance capability PAHRUMP, Nev. – Chevrolet today and drivers from the Ron Fellows Corvette high-performance driving school at the Spring Mountain track demonstrated Stingray models enhanced with components from a new lineup of Z06-based performance parts. They're designed for 2014+ Stingray models, including Z51-equipped cars. "We've selected specific components from the Corvette Z06 and engineered them to fit the award-winning Stingray," said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. "These Z06 parts enhance the handling, braking, cooling and downforce performance of the Stingray." Ron Fellows, champion Corvette Racing driver, collaborated with Chevrolet Performance engineers on the all-new portfolio. Many will be used in cars in the new Michelin Corvette Challenge racing series, which was developed with Fellows and will run a 15-race schedule starting in February 2016. "Here at Spring Mountain, we drive the Corvette Stingray and Z06 at their limits nearly every day, so we're in a unique position to recognize the parts that are most effective," said Ron Fellows. "The effect of the new, Z06-based parts on the Stingray's track capability is dramatic. They take the Stingray's already great stopping and cornering capabilities to yet another exciting level of stability and precision." Most of the Z06 parts are offered as direct replacements for the Stingray's original parts. "No one has spent more time developing Corvette performance parts than Chevrolet and this new range of components is the result of countless hours of testing that aftermarket companies can't match," said Mark Dickens, director, Performance Variants, Parts and Motorsports. "You can mix and match the parts to build your own ultimate Stingray track car – all with factory-engineered components customers can trust will fit and perform as expected." The new performance parts portfolio includes: Corvette Z06 Level 3 Aero Package This kit is an upgrade for Level 2-equipped Corvette Z06 models and adds elements from the Z07 Performance Package, including larger end plates to the front splitter, as well as an adjustable, transparent wickerbill on the rear spoiler. Corvette Z06 600-Watt Radiator Fan Developed to meet the Z06's cooling requirements, this powerful, 600-watt radiator cooling fan increases the fan speed over the Stingray's 500-Watt system for greater airflow and enhanced cooling capability. It is a direct replacement for the standard Corvette Stingray cooling fan. Corvette Secondary Radiator Kit This kit adds cooling capability to manual transmission Corvettes (base Stingray, Z51 and Z06). The engine coolant temperatures are lowered 25 degrees F along with lowering engine oil temperatures 15 degrees F. The addition of the Z06 grille further enhances the cooling performance of this kit. Corvette Z06 Grille Kit The Z06 front grille was designed to provide maximum airflow to the radiator, intercooler and brake cooling ducts for the 650-hp supercar, resulting in a 17-percent increase in front-end airflow, compared to the grille of the Corvette Stingray Z51. It's a direct replacement for the Stingray grille insert. Additionally, the inlet ramps to the brake cooling ducts were optimized to balance the airflow demands of brake cooling and engine cooling. Corvette Z06 Quarter Panel Vents They offer larger openings than the Corvette Stingray, for increased airflow to the transmission oil cooler and differential cooler – an approximately 25-percent improvement over the airflow of the Z51 at speed, to help maintain cooling performance. Corvette Z06 Rear Transmission Oil Cooler The larger Z06 rear transmission oil cooler fits in the same location as the base Stingray and Z51 cooler and adds extra cooling capacity. It works best when paired with the Z06 Quarter Panel Vents to maximize airflow through the cooler. Corvette Z06 Carbon Fiber Torque Tube and Prop Shaft Kit The lightweight Z06 Carbon Fiber Torque Tube assembly saves almost 15.5 pounds (7 Kg) compared to the Stingray's steel-intensive torque tube. The kit also includes higher-temperature rubber couplers in the prop shaft. Applications vary by transmission and model year. The torque tube is also available separately. Corvette Stingray Heat Shield This larger heat shield helps protect the prop shaft from higher temperatures. It is only required for 2014 Corvette Stingray models. It is included on 2015+ models. Corvette Z06 Prop Shaft Assembly with High-Temp Couplers The Corvette Z06's internal prop shaft includes rubber couplers designed for higher temperatures and a larger heat shield. These couplers are included with the Corvette Z06 Carbon Fiber Torque Tube and Prop Shaft Kit. Corvette Z06 Carbon Fiber Underbody Braces* These carbon fiber underbody braces are 17 percent lighter than the aluminum braces on the Corvette Stingray, while also offering an improvement in overall torsional stiffness. They are a direct replacement for the standard braces. Corvette Z06 Brake Kits (Iron Rotors) for Stingray with Z51* Designed for Stingray models equipped with the Z51 package, they feature the Z06's standard, two-piece and slotted iron rotors – measuring 14.6-in. x 1.3-in (370mm x 34mm) for the front rotors and 14.4-in. x 1-in. (365mm x 26mm) for the rear. The front kit uses aluminum monoblock six-piston calipers, while the rear kit features four-piston fixed calipers. The front calipers also feature vented pistons for improved pad and brake fluid cooling. They also offer differentiated piston diameters of 30mm, 34mm and 38mm (leading to trailing), for more even pad pressure for improved pad wear. These brakes will not fit under base Stingray or Z51 wheels. They require a minimum of 4mm wheel clearance between the outboard face of the caliper and the inner wheel spokes. Corvette Stingray Z51 Brake Kit Designed as an upgrade for the standard Stingray, this Z51 brake complete kit – front and rear – features slotted rotors measuring 13.6 inches (345mm) in front and 13.3 inches (338mm) in the rear. This increases the overall diameter in relation to the standard 12.6-in. (321mm) front rotors. Coupled with the new Z06/Z51 Brake Cooling Kit, this system will match the braking performance of the factory Z51 brake system. Corvette Z06/Z51 Front Brake Cooling Kit This kit includes brake ducts and deflectors that channel air from the front grille through the wheel wells to cool the front brakes and expel heat. On a standard Corvette Stingray, it increases airflow by 16 percent, enhancing stopping performance by reducing temperature and the chance for brake fade. For optimal performance, it should be used with the Z51 Brake Package and the Z06 Grille Kit. Corvette Stingray T1 Suspension* This suspension package was developed to improve the on-track handling capabilities of the Corvette Stingray, including Z51-equipped models. It includes more aggressive shocks, stiffer stabilizer bars and new lower control arms with stiffer bushings. It was developed for racing and the aggressive shocks were utilized to maintain eligibility to compete within the rules of most club racing sanctioning bodies. It is currently homologated in SCCA's Touring 1 class. Corvette Stingray Track Day concept Chevrolet is showcasing the new parts portfolio on the Z51-based Stingray Track Day concept vehicle, which is on display this week at the SEMA Show, in Las Vegas. In addition to the new performance parts, the Gloss Black concept includes a unique air extractor hood with red accents on hood vent grille, mirrors and rear spoiler. Additional visual distinction comes from Carbon Flash vents and rocker extensions, along with a carbon fiber roof panel, front fascia extension and door inserts. It also features edge-lit LED turn signals. Inside, the black cabin is outfitted with the Competition Sport seats that are optional on the Stingray, along with suede inserts on the shifter and steering wheel. A rear crossbar was added for mounting a five-point harness, while the available Performance Data Recorder captures the car's performance. Performance is driven by the standard LT1 6.2L V-8, rated at 460 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque with the available exhaust system, and backed by a seven-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Match. View full article

In light of new allegations put forth by the EPA on Monday, the American branches of Audi, Porsche, and Volkswagen have issued a stop-sale on vehicles equipped with the 3.0L TDI V6. According to Automotive News, this move grounds the sales of not only new TDI models from the Volkswagen group, but also a number of used models equipped with the 3.0L TDI V6. The EPA announced on Monday that it had found a second 'defeat device' on a number of models using the 3.0L TDI V6. Volkswagen has denied the charges of an another defeat device, but will be cooperating during the investigation. So what is this second defeat device? Audi of America spokesman Brad Stertz tells AN that the device in question is an “auxiliary emissions control device” that regulates engine functions in a variety of ways. Volkswagen failed to 'properly disclose' this device to the EPA. Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required) View full article

Hyundai announced today that it would be splitting off its Genesis nameplate into a whole new luxury brand that will launch in December. "To elevate and differentiate the Genesis brand from Hyundai, a distinct design identity, emblem, naming structure, and customer service offering is being established," Hyundai said in a statement. The Genesis lineup will be comprised of six models by 2020 and have a nomenclature that is comprised the letter 'G' and number of 70, 80, and 90 - designating the market segment the vehicle competes in. The Genesis sedan and Equus will be part of this new brand, along with a new midsize sedan, coupe, and SUV. To help develop an identity for Genesis, Hyundai is creating the Prestige Design Division. Leading this division will be Luc Donckerwolke, formerly responsible for design at the Volkswagen group. The Genesis brand will launch in North America, China, Korea, and the Middle East. More countries will be added as the brand grows. “We have created this new Genesis brand with a complete focus on our customers who want smart ownership experiences that save time and effort, with practical innovations that enhance satisfaction. The Genesis brand will fulfill these expectations, becoming a market leader through our human-centered brand strategy,” said Euisun Chung, Hyundai Motor Company Vice Chairman. Source: Hyundai Press Release is on Page 2 Hyundai Motor Launches New Global Luxury Brand, ‘Genesis’ New ‘Genesis’ brand will compete with the world’s leading luxury car brands Six-model line-up begins roll-out from December catering for ‘new luxury’ customers, delivering personalized and human-centered experiences Refined performance, athletic elegance in design and human-focused innovation will elevate the Genesis brand November 4, 2015 - Hyundai Motor has announced an all-new global luxury brand – Genesis – that will deliver ‘human-centered’ luxury through a range of new models that feature the highest standards of performance, design and innovation. Created for a new generation of discerning consumers, Genesis will be a stand-alone brand that operates alongside the company’s popular Hyundai marque. Capitalizing on its success in the fast-growing global car market, Hyundai Motor will launch six new Genesis models by 2020 and will compete with the world’s most renowned luxury car brands. The Genesis brand seeks to create a new definition of luxury, one that will provide a new platform for future mobility centered on people. By anticipating human needs at every touch point, Genesis models will embody four key aspects: Human-focused innovation, refined and balanced performance, athletic elegance in design and hassle-free customer experience. “We have created this new Genesis brand with a complete focus on our customers who want smart ownership experiences that save time and effort, with practical innovations that enhance satisfaction. The Genesis brand will fulfill these expectations, becoming a market leader through our human-centered brand strategy,” said Euisun Chung, Hyundai Motor Company Vice Chairman. Genesis models will boast outstanding driving dynamics and design, with innovations tailored to closely-meet the needs of customers. The new model line-up will distance itself from the traditional technological overload of brand-focused competitors, concentrating instead on a personalized, hassle-free customer experience. Continuing the customer-oriented approach that flows through every Genesis model, sales and service staff will provide rapid and attentive service to customer’s requests. To elevate and differentiate the Genesis brand from Hyundai, a distinct design identity, emblem, naming structure and customer service offering is being established. Genesis models will be badged with a new wing-type emblem, redesigned from the version used on the current Genesis model to create an even more luxurious look. This emblem firmly cements the Genesis models as a collective family of luxury models under the Genesis nameplate. The Genesis brand will also adopt a new alphanumeric naming structure. Future models will be named by combining the letter ‘G’ for Genesis with a number, 90, 80 or 70 etc., representing the segment. Woong-Chul Yang, Head of Hyundai Motor R&D Center and Vice Chairman of Hyundai Motor said, “The Genesis models will provide technological innovation, excellent driving performance and luxury to customers. Every Genesis model will be created with the needs of our customers in mind, so the resulting car will perfectly meet their needs without any unnecessary burden or excess.” Fitted with the latest proactive safety technologies, intuitive convenience features and IT connectivity, Genesis models are engineered to provide excellent ride comfort while retaining confident sportiness. To develop a distinctive and differentiated design for the new Genesis brand vehicles, Hyundai Motor has created a Prestige Design Division. From mid-2016 Luc Donckerwolke, who was previously responsible for the design of Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, SEAT and Skoda models at the Volkswagen Group, will lead this new division alongside his role as Head of the Hyundai Motor Design Center. The work of the new Prestige Design Division will be overseen by Peter Schreyer, as part of his group-wide design responsibilities as President and Chief Design Officer (CDO) of Hyundai Motor Group. Peter Schreyer commented, “In creating the design signature of Genesis brand cars, we set out to display confidence and originality, creating highly desirable products that present new charm through innovative styling and proportions.” The name ‘Genesis’, which also means new beginnings, hints at the new values and standards that the brand will bring to the global luxury car market. Initially on sale in the Korean, Chinese, North American and Middle Eastern luxury car markets, the Genesis brand will expand its reach to Europe and other parts of Asia as the model range grows to full strength. Setting the brand’s cars apart from competitors, innovation will begin with the consumer, with customer requirements directing development. This philosophy echoes the vision of Hyundai Motor to be a ‘lifetime partner in automobiles and beyond’, with the ‘Modern Premium’ brand direction of Hyundai reinterpreted for the new Genesis marque. Since the launch of its first cars in 1967, Hyundai Motor has grown quickly to become one of the world’s leading automakers. The strategic decision to create an all-new luxury car brand is recognition of the company’s strengths and its global ambitions. By introducing new customers to Hyundai Motor and elevating its competitiveness, the new Genesis brand will enable more people to experience the premium value of Hyundai Motor. 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Volvo Announces October Sales Posts highest monthly volume since April 2008 ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (Nov. 3, 2015) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 7,422 units, an 86.9 percent increase versus October 2014. Year-to-date sales are up 12.5 percent over the first ten months of 2014. The top seller for the month was the all-new XC90 luxury SUV with 2,565 units sold. The XC60 showed continued growth with 1,912 units sold, a 15.7 percent increase versus October 2014. The XC60 also represents the top seller year-to-date with 20,546 units sold, a 32.1 percent increase. “We are just starting to see the true potential of XC90 sales in the U.S. market which has led us to the best month we’ve seen since 2008 and the best October since 2007,” said Lex Kerssemakers, President and CEO of Volvo Cars of North America. “Strong performance across the 60 range continues, led by the XC60, which also significantly contributed to this month’s success.” 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.

Porsche Reports October 2015 Sales U.S. Porsche dealers sell 4,070 vehicles in October ATLANTA, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- 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 October 2015 sales of 4,070 vehicles, up 11 percent over October 2014. This is the strongest October sales month in PCNA history. In October, Cayenne models displayed the largest growth, up 104 percent compared with October 2014. The Macan model line experienced a sales increase of 22.5 percent and Cayman models earned a slight increase of 0.6 percent. Year-to-date, PCNA has delivered 43,370 Porsche vehicles, yielding a sales increase of 11.1 percent year-over-year. Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales in the United States were 1,375 for October 2015, up 31.2 percent compared to October 2014.

Mercedes-Benz USA Reports October Sales Of 32,472 Units Sold MBUSA posts 6.1% YTD increase, Mercedes-Benz up 6.5% YTD ATLANTA, Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported October sales at 32,472 units, an increase of 3.7% from the 31,318 vehicles sold during the same month last year. Sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles tallied 28,952 units sold, a 1.3% increase over October 2014. Mercedes-Benz Vans delivered 2,799 sales for the month of October, up 30.8% over October 2014, while smart recorded 721 units in October. On a year-to-date basis, Mercedes-Benz retails totaled 278,842, up 6.5%. Adding year-to-date sales of 23,073 for Vans and 6,153 for smart, MBUSA posted a grand total of 308,068 units through October, up 6.1%. October sales for the Mercedes-Benz brand were led by the C-, E- and GLE model lines. The C-Class took the top spot with 7,283 units, followed by the E-Class with October sales of 4,661, up 18.4% from the same month last year. The newly introduced GLE rounded out the top three at 4,176, with a total of 9,470 sales during its first 3 months on the market. "We're on track for the best year we've ever had in this market as we head into the fourth quarter," said Stephen Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA. "The appetite for SUVs continues to grow and that's creating very strong demand for our new GLE and GLE-Coupe. We'll keep that momentum going with our new entry model, the GLC, at the end of the year." The brand's AMG high-performance models posted a 79.5% monthly sales increase to 2,246 units in October, while year-to-date sales climbed 35.6% to 12,463. Sales of Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC diesel models recorded 584 for the month and 9,853 year-to-date. Separately, Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) models delivered October sales of 9,629. On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO has sold 99,373 vehicles, an increase of 1.2% over the comparable period last year (98,186 vehicles).

Hyundai Motor America Reports Its Best October Ever All-New Tucson up more than double Veloster, Santa Fe and Elantra all up double-digits FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America posted its best October ever, with sales of 60,005, up 20 percent compared with October 2014. Tucson, Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport, our CUV/SUV segment, continued at a brisk rate setting records for the month of October. "The strong demand for crossovers continued during this month with the all-new Tucson more than doubling its sales compared to last October," said Derrick Hatami, vice president of national sales for Hyundai Motor America. "With our Tucson, Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport models, Hyundai provides a very competitive CUV line up that meets the needs of most consumers." Tucson sales were 7,298 units, an increase of 103 percent over October 2014. Veloster sales were up 30 percent for the month, followed by Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport, up 25 percent for the month. Elantra had its best October ever, up 24 percent.

November 3, 2015 SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. REPORTS RECORD OCTOBER SALES Monthly sales increase 20 percent over October 2014 47th consecutive month of year-over-year growth Best October ever for Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Outback and WRX/STI 14.8 percent increase YTD over 2014 27th consecutive month of more than 10,000 Foresters sold 20th consecutive month of more than 10,000 Outbacks sold Cherry Hill, N.J. - Subaru of America, Inc. today reported record sales for October 2015 totaling 51,629 vehicles, a 20 percent increase over the previous October record set in 2014 (43,012). The company also reported year-to-date sales of 480,331 vehicles, a 14.8 percent gain over the same period in 2014. October marks the fourth consecutive month of more than 50,000 vehicle sales for the company. Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Outback and WRX/STI sales were notably strong as each carline achieved its best October ever. The Impreza posted a 69.3 percent increase, while the WRX/STI posted a 44.5 percent sales increase in October. The Crosstrek continued to bring in strong sales with an increase of 36.1 percent, while Forester and Outback sales increased 17 and 16.7 percent respectively in October. “These continuing record breaking results are a testament to the commitment, dedication and passion of our retailers who are capitalizing on our market opportunity,” said Thomas J. Doll, President and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. “Given our strong sales momentum, we expect to surpass our 2014 annual sales record of 513,693 vehicles before the end of November.” “We are very pleased with the strong retail traffic and demand for our vehicles,” said Jeff Walters, senior vice president of sales. “We expect even greater momentum throughout the remainder of the year.”

KIA MOTORS AMERICA ANNOUNCES BEST-EVER OCTOBER SALES Sixth Consecutive Monthly Sales Record Pushes Year-To-Date Sales Up 7.4 Percent IRVINE, Calif., November 3, 2015 – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced best-ever October sales of 50,044 vehicles, a 12-percent increase over the same period last year. Led by the Optima and Soul with 14,381 and 12,246 units sold, respectively, October marked Kia’s sixth straight monthly sales record. “Kia is a challenger brand, and our ability to outpace the industry without the benefit of a truck in our lineup speaks volumes about consumers discovering the new Kia,” said Michael Sprague, chief operating officer and EVP, KMA. “With the all-new 2016 Optima arriving in showrooms and the completely redesigned 2017 Sportage making its North American debut at the LA Auto Show this month, this is an exciting time for Kia as we push toward a strong finish to the year."

MITSUBISHI MOTORS REPORTS 20TH CONSECUTIVE MONTH OF YEAR-OVER-YEAR SALES INCREASES Mitsubishi CUVs lead the way as Outlander Sport reports best October ever; Outlander has best October since 2002 October sales represent a 19.8 percent increase year-over-year and year-to-date sales are up 25.0 percent Year-to-date sales through October have already eclipsed total MMNA sales for 2014 Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) reported October 2015 sales of 7,426, an increase of 19.8 percent from October 2014. October is the brand's 20th consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases, and also represents the seventh consecutive month of double-digit sales increases. Year-to-date sales are up 25.0 percent over the same period in 2014, and also noteworthy is that year-to-date sales through October have already eclipsed the total MMNA sales for 2014. Mitsubishi's family of CUVs led the charge again in October. The new Outlander continues its successful launch with its best October since 2002, reporting 2,040 units sold—more than double the amount sold last October. Not to be outdone, Outlander Sport had its best ever October with sales of 3,094, an increase of 25.4 percent from last October. "Outlander Sport continues to be the best selling model for the Mitsubishi Motors brand and the newly introduced 2016 Outlander, with over 100 changes, has generated its own set of sales records, attracting new people to the brand," said Don Swearingen, executive vice president, MMNA. "Together, these two vehicles account for over 69 percent of the brand's total volume for the month of October."

Mazda Reports Best October Sales in 21 Years with 35.4 Percent Sales Increase IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported October U.S. sales of 25,451 vehicles, representing an increase of 35.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date (YTD), Mazda has sold 267,158 vehicles. Key October sales notes: Mazda CX-5 had its best October ever with 9,264 vehicles sold. YOY sales up 54.6 percent (5,991 vehicles sold in October 2014). Mazda's all-new CX-3 sold 1,382 vehicles. This is CX-3's second full month of sales. Mazda CX-9 had its best October sales since 2011 with 1,484 vehicles sold, representing an increase of 19.6 percent YOY (1,241 CX-9s were sold in October 2014). Continued sales success of the all-new 2016 MX-5 resulted in the best October since 2005 with 1,085 vehicles sold, an increase of 276.7 percent YOY. Mazda3 had its best October since 2012 with 8,342 vehicles sold, an increase of 15.1 percent YOY. Mazda6 had its best October sales since 2008 with 3,563 vehicles sold. YOY increase is 13.1 percent. As the company's sixth-generation of vehicle sales grow so does SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY. Mazda's no-compromise solution to driving performance and fuel efficiency has proven to be an affordable and beneficial solution for consumers. In October 2015, 91.5 percent of Mazdas sold were equipped with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. Mazda reported Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) October sales of 3,123 vehicles, down 11.0 percent YOY.

Toyota Exceeds Expectations by Topping 200,000 Sales in October Toyota and Lexus post best-ever October sales Highlander and RAV4 have best-ever October sales month Scion posts double-digit gains TORRANCE, Calif. (November 3, 2015) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported October 2015 sales of 204,045 units, an increase of 13 percent on a volume basis. With one more selling day in October 2015 than in October 2014, sales were up 9.0 percent on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. Toyota Division posted October 2015 sales of 177,609 units, up 13 percent on a volume and 8.9 percent on a DSR basis. “October was a huge month for the industry, smashing expectations and continuing its hot streak,” said Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager for the Toyota Division. “Toyota Division posted best-ever sales for the month led by October record-breaking sales of Highlander and RAV4.” Lexus reported October 2015 sales of 26,436 units, up 13.2 percent from October 2014 on a volume basis and 9.1 percent on a DSR basis. “We continue to see strong sales for our luxury utility vehicles as evident by a solid month posted by NX and GX. The LS flagship luxury sedan and RC F coupe also posted gains that helped propel us to a best-ever October,” said Jeff Bracken, group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division. “We are most excited about the arrival of the all-new RX as it hits showrooms today. We expect this new model to continue energizing the brand as we close the year.” October 2015 Highlights: Corolla posted sales of 27,951 units, up 12 percent Camry October up nearly 5 percent Prius up 12.5 percent Mirai went on sale in October; posted sales of 34 units Scion iA and iM posted combined sales of 3,385 units Total TMS light trucks posted sales of 101,907 units, up almost 19 percent Highlander up 10 percent, a best-ever October 4Runner up over 36 percent RAV4 up 31.3 percent, a best-ever October Sequoia posted sales of 1,303 units, up 43 percent Tacoma up more than 17 percent All-new RC posted sales of 1,333 units Lexus luxury utility vehicles up 33.9 percent NX posted sales of 3,399 units GX up nearly 15 percent *Note: Unless otherwise stated, all figures reflect unadjusted raw sales volume

BMW Group U.S. Reports October 2015 Sales BMW brand decrease 3.8 percent, YTD up 4.6 percent MINI brand sales decrease 22.9 percent, YTD up 10.3 percent Woodcliff Lake, NJ – November 3, 2015… Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 3.8 percent in October for a total of 29,439 compared to 30,602 vehicles sold in October, 2014. Year-to-date, BMW brand is up 4.6 percent from the same period last year with sales of 279,395 vehicles. “Trends in the luxury vehicle market are becoming more evident with the October sales another indicator of how important Sports Activity Vehicles are becoming to our market segment,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. “With the all-new BMW X1 just now going on sale and availability of the always popular X3 and X5 improving, we expect good growth in the final two months of the year.” Notable vehicle sales included the BMW X3 which increased 88.1 percent to 3,028, the BMW X5 increased 27.9 percent to 4,292 and the BMW 2 Series which increased to 1,258 cars. BMW Group Sales In total, the BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported October sales of 33,526 vehicles, a decrease of 6.6 percent from the 35,902 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are up 5.4 percent from the same period last year with 328,456 vehicles sold. MINI Brand Sales For October, MINI USA reports 4,087 automobiles sold, a decrease of 22.9 percent from the 5,300 sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, MINI USA sales are 49,061 vehicles, a 10.3 percent increase from the same period last year.

I'm wonder if that is due to the updated 2016 models hitting dealers or lots of incentives on the 2015 models.