William Maley

Its no secret that the Chevrolet Malibu hasn't fared well in the midsize class. So it comes as no surprise that Chevrolet is readying a new Malibu that will debut next month at New York. Teased before its official debut, Chevrolet says the new Malibu is a clean slate redesign with an all new design and a longer-wheelbase thanks to a new architecture. The new Malibu also drops 300 pounds thanks to an all-new high-strength steel structure. The biggest change is the design. As we reported late last year, GM's vice president of global design Ed Welburn is planning to infuse some of the design of the Corvette Stingray into the Malibu. We can see some of that, along with elements of the Impala. “Malibu’s gorgeous styling is the result of a masterful understanding of proportions. The roofline has been stretched rearward giving a more sleek profile, while the front wheels have moved forward and front and rear overhangs have been reduced. Along with the sculpted body side, these cues help Malibu appear more dynamic and sophisticated,” said Ed Welburn, General Motors’ vice president of Global Design. Source: Chevrolet Press Release is on Page 2 Born Again: Next-Gen Chevrolet Malibu Announced Larger, lighter and more efficient Malibu to be unveiled at New York Auto Show DETROIT – Designed to deliver more efficiency, connectivity and advanced safety features than ever, the next-generation 2016 Chevrolet Malibu will make its public debut at the New York International Auto Show this April. Using a blank slate approach, Chevrolet designers benefited from an entirely new architecture, which for Malibu includes a wheelbase nearly four inches longer than the outgoing model. That, in turn, provides increased rear legroom and interior space. Due to a higher-strength steel structure, the new Malibu is also expected to be 300 pounds lighter than the current model, which benefits the sedan’s fuel economy and handling. “Malibu’s gorgeous styling is the result of a masterful understanding of proportions,” said Ed Welburn, General Motors’ vice president of Global Design. “The roofline has been stretched rearward giving a more sleek profile, while the front wheels have moved forward and front and rear overhangs have been reduced. Along with the sculpted body side, these cues help Malibu appear more dynamic and sophisticated.” More details about the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu will be shared each week leading up to the vehicle’s global debut. The 2016 Malibu is expected to go on sale by the end of 2015. View full article

I believe you can thank the new five-door Cooper for that.

Jaguar Land Rover Reports U.S. Sales for February 2015 Jaguar Land Rover U.S. February sales increase 14percent for best February since 2003 Land Rover up 23 percent to set new U.S. February sales record on growth of Range Rover family vehicles Three Land Rover models: Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover each have best ever U.S. February sales Jaguar F-TYPE delivers 31 percent increase with coupe and convertible lineup. (MAHWAH, NJ) - March 3, 2015 - Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported February 2015 U.S. sales: Land Rover sales reached 4,917 units up 23 percent from 4,006 units in February 2014; Jaguar sales were 1,410 units, down 9 percent from 1,552 units in February 2014. Jaguar Land Rover North America February U.S. sales for both brands hit 6,327 units, a 14 percent increase from 5,558 units in February 2014. Year-to-date in 2015, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales are up 11 percent from 2014. For the full year 2014, Jaguar Land Rover U.S. sales were up with 67,238 units sold in 2014 compared to 66,962 in 2013. For the full year 2014 the Land Rover brand established an all-time annual high for U.S. sales of 51,465. "We are pleased that despite highly challenging winter weather, Jaguar Land Rover had its' best February sales in 12 years," said Joe Eberhardt, President and CEO of Jaguar Land Rover North America. "For the Land Rover brand three different models had their best February sales ever to set a new U.S. February high." U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS Land Rover Land Rover established a new February U.S. sales record with 4,917 units sold. Three Land Rover models: Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover each had best ever U.S. February sales The Range Rover Evoque hit 1,107 units in February, increasing 19 percent from 927 units in February, 2014. The Range Rover Sport hit 1,827 units in February, increasing 25 percent from 1,464 units in February, 2014. The Range Rover hit 1,358 units in February, increasing 56 percent from 869 units in February, 2014. For the full year 2014, Land Rover brand U.S. sales reached a new all-time high of 51,465 units. Full year sales were led by the brand volume leader Range Rover Sport with 17,897 sales up 12 percent; Range Rover with 12,830 sales up 5 percent and Range Rover Evoque with 12,440 sales up 9 percent. Jaguar For the month of February, Jaguar decreased 9 percent to 1,410 from 1,552 units in February 2014. The brand volume leader, Jaguar XF was down 22 percent off of record February sales in 2014. The Jaguar F-TYPE continues to grow with an increase of 31 percent to 422 units from 322 in February 2014. In 2015, the 16 MY Jaguar F-TYPE will newly be available with options of all-wheel drive and a manual transmission.

Volvo Announces February Sales ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (March 3, 2015) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 4,012 units, a 0.5 percent increase versus February 2014. Year-to-date sales are up 0.3 percent over the first two months of 2014. The top seller for the month was the XC60 crossover with 1,954 units sold, a 70.5 percent increase versus February 2014, followed by the S60 sports sedan with 1,203 units sold. Volvo Cars is midway through a global transformation that involves the complete renewal of Volvo’s product range beginning with the all-new XC90 luxury SUV, world-first safety technologies, a new design language, new powertrain architecture and a range of class-leading connectivity services.

Subaru of America, Inc. Reports Record February Sales Record February - monthly sales increase 18.5 percent over February 2014 39th consecutive month of year-over-year growth Best February ever for Forester, WRX/STI, Legacy, Outback and XV Crosstrek 21 percent increase YTD over 2014 Legacy 55 percent increase YTD over 2014 19th consecutive months of more than 10,000 Foresters sold 12th consecutive months of more than 10,000 Outbacks sold 1.2 millionth Forester sold CHERRY HILL, N.J., March 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported record sales for February 2015 totaling 41,358 vehicles, an 18.5 percent gain over February 2014. The company also reported year-to-date sales of 82,170, a 21 percent gain over the same period in 2014. February marked the 12th consecutive month of 40,000+ vehicle sales for the company. Forester, WRX/STI, Legacy, Outback and XV Crosstrek sales were notably strong as each model line achieved its best February ever. Legacy sales for February 2015 increased 69 percent over the same month in 2014. The WRX/STI, Outback and XV Crosstrek also enjoyed double-digit gains over February 2014. In February, Subaru earned a number of awards including the 2015 Kelley Blue Book 5-Year Cost to Own Award for the Brand category, Motorweek awarded the all-new 2015 Legacy its Drivers' Choice Award for Best Family Sedan, U.S. News and World Report gave Subaru its 2015 Best Wagon for the Money award for the Outback, and Consumer Guide® Automotive awarded the Subaru BRZ with a "Best Buy Award" in the Sporty/Performance Car category for the second consecutive year. "Subaru of America is particularly proud of the number of awards and accolades our vehicles have received recently," said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "The strength of our products and increased brand awareness are driving the demand for our vehicles to record levels." "We're proud that our retailers overcame challenging weather conditions in February and delivered our 39th consecutive month of year over year growth," said Jeff Walters, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "With this start to 2015, we are confident Subaru will have another record year in the U.S."

Mitsubishi Motors Reports Best February Sales Results In Seven Years 12th consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases Total sales up 26 percent from last February Best February sales month since 2008 CYPRESS, Calif., March 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) experienced another strong month with February 2015 vehicle sales of 7,533 units, a 26 percent sales increase from February 2014. Year-to-date (January through February) sales for the brand are up 29.3 percent from the same period last year. The American-made Outlander Sport 5-passenger compact crossover – the brand's perennial best-selling vehicle – recorded sales of 2,394 units for its best-ever February sales total. The Lancer compact sports sedan once again posted strong sales numbers with sales of 2,099 units, a 64.1 percent increase over February 2014. The highly fuel-efficient Mirage 5-door subcompact delivered sales of 1,863 units – the model's best-ever month of sales since its debut in 2013. "Mitsubishi Motors continues to demonstrate outstanding momentum going forward in 2015," said Don Swearingen, Executive Vice President MMNA. "Our dealers are seeing increased traffic, posting strong sales with our core models. We are looking forward to a good sales year that will be bolstered by launching new and significantly redesigned versions of key models throughout the year starting next month at the New York International Auto Show."

Mazda Reports February Sales IRVINE, Calif., March 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported February U.S. sales of 25,650 vehicles, representing an increase of 5.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through February are up 6.4 percent versus last year, with 45,921 vehicles sold. "Mazda3 and Mazda6 both performed very well last month and achieved significant year-over-year gains," said Ron Stettner, vice president of sales, MNAO. "Weather across the country impacted our dealers but we were still able to report a year-over-year increase in overall sales." Key February sales notes: Mazda6 recorded its best February since 2012 with 5,064 vehicles sold, an increase of 28.4 percent YOY. Mazda3 performed very well in February 2015 with 8,874 vehicles sold, an increase of 21.8 percent year-over-year (YOY). Mazda's 7-passenger SUV, CX-9, also saw positive sales growth in February with a 5.3 percent increase YOY for a total of 1,677 vehicles sold. SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY proves to be the key between performance and fuel efficiency as customers demand a no-compromise solution. In February 2015, 83.3 percent of Mazdas sold were equipped with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. Mazda reported Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) February sales of 3,208 vehicles, up 8.0 percent YOY. Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported February sales of 4,067 vehicles, up 42.0 percent versus last year, making it the best February in MMdM history and the 25th consecutive month of YOY growth.

Hyundai Motor America Reports Best February Sales Ever All three U.S.-built models up for the month FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., March 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today reported its best February ever, selling 52,505 units for the month, up seven percent versus the same period last year. "Even the treacherous weather across the country couldn't keep shoppers away from dealerships in February," said Bob Pradzinski, vice president, national sales. "With consumer spending and confidence continuing to grow at the fastest pace in years, customers bought Hyundais in record numbers, giving us the best February in our history." Genesis sedan led the charge with a whopping 175 percent increase over last year, while all three U.S.-built models were up for the month, too. Elantra was up one percent, followed by Sonata and Santa Fe Sport up 33 and 42 percent, respectively.

Kia Motors America's February Sales Up 6.8 Percent Sedona Sales Up Five Times Over Same Period Last Year; Annual Sales Up 5.2 Percent IRVINE, Calif., March 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported February sales of 44,030 vehicles, up 6.8 percent over the same period last year. Kia's strong start in 2015 continues to be led by the U.S.-built* Optima midsize sedan, iconic Soul, and the all-new 2016 Sorento – which is now in showrooms nationwide – with 11,584, 9,965 and 8,518 units sold, respectively. "Despite the difficult weather in some parts of the country, key indicators signal the continued improvement of the U.S. economy, which is driving more customers to our showrooms to experience world-class Kia products, including the Sportage, which recently was recognized in the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study as the leader in the Small SUV category," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, sales & marketing, KMA. "The Kia ownership experience continues to evolve and with products like the completely redesigned Sorento and Sedona now in dealer showrooms across the country, consumers are drawn to one of the youngest and best-looking lineups in the business."

Diverse Lineup of Light Trucks and Sub-Compacts Leads American Honda February 2015 Sales Increase Acura trucks set new February benchmark, with a 12.5 percent gain on sales of 8,415 Honda Fit sets new February record, rising 81 percent on sales of 5,652 units Honda Pilot has February to remember, with sales up 82.7 percent TORRANCE, Calif., March 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today reported February Honda and Acura vehicle sales of 105,466 units, an increase of 5.0 percent versus February 2014. Sales of Acura light trucks set a new February record, rising 12.5 percent on sales of 8,415 vehicles. The Honda Division sold 92,474 vehicles in February—an increase of 4.1 percent for the month. The Acura brand posted sales of 12,992 units in February, rising 12.5 percent over the same period last year. Honda Honda's remarkable Fit subcompact set another monthly record in February, posting an 81 percent increase over year ago totals. The Pilot again showed considerable sales strength, creating strong momentum as the company prepares for the arrival of the all-new 2016 Pilot this summer. Sales of the best-selling CR-V also rose in February, gaining 7.4 percent vs. the same period last year. Pilot and CR-V pushed Honda light trucks to a total increase of 12.6 percent for the month. Honda Fit easily smashed its previous February record, rising 81 percent on sales of 5,652. Sales of the best-selling Honda CR-V totaled 22,298 units, up 7.4 percent for the month. The Honda Pilot posted one of its best months in the last year with sales up 82.7 percent on sales of 12,629 vehicles. Overall Honda truck sales totaled 43,782 for a gain of 12.6 percent in February. "Strong February sales of both the sub-compact Fit and our 8-passenger Pilot SUV demonstrate the power of the Honda brand with individual buyers," said Jeff Conrad, Honda division senior vice president and general manager. "Honda is delivering incredible value throughout our product lineup that is resonating with our customers." Acura Acura trucks continue to light up the sales charts with RDX setting a new February best just ahead of the launch of the refreshed 2016 model. MDX also sold at near record levels during a transition month as the 2016 model became available at Acura dealers in early February. Combined, the RDX and MDX gave Acura trucks a new February sales record. TLX sales remain strong, taking important share in the super-competitive mid-luxury sedan segment and spurring overall Acura car sales to 4,577 in February, an increase of 12.7 percent. And the significantly revised 2016 ILX went on sale mid-month, adding new power to a strengthening Acura sedan lineup. RDX captured yet another monthly sales record with 3,862 units sold in February, up 32.7 percent for the month. MDX maintained a strong pace as America's 3-row luxury SUV sales leader easily surpassed 4,500 units again. RDX and MDX combined for a February record of 8,415 Acura trucks sold in February, an increase of 12.5 percent for the month. "While bone-chilling winter weather takes its toll on much of the country, Acura sales continue to reflect a strong warming trend," said Mike Accavitti, Acura division senior vice president and general manager. "Our MDX and RDX luxury SUVs remain red hot—with refreshed 2016 models only adding fuel to the fire. And the substantially upgraded 2016 ILX sport sedan now in showrooms nationwide will burn brighter than ever."

Toyota Motor Sales Posts 13.3 Percent Increase in February Toyota No. 1 brand RAV4 sets new February record Lexus posts fourth consecutive best-ever month TORRANCE, Calif. (March 3, 2015) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported February 2015 sales of 180,467, an increase of 13.3 percent from February 2014 on a volume basis. With the same amount of selling days in February 2015 and 2014, sales were up 13.3 percent on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. Toyota division posted February 2015 sales of 157,472 units, up 12.1 percent. "The auto industry is off to its best start since 2002 as truck demand continues to rise," said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. "Toyota light trucks and SUVs, led by RAV4, set a new February record." Lexus reported February 2015 sales of 22,995 units, a 22 percent increase. "February marked the fourth straight month of record new vehicle sales and the seventh straight month of best-ever record pre-owned sales for Lexus dealers," said Jeff Bracken, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "Just as importantly, Lexus was recognized during the month as the industry's top-ranked brand by both Consumer Reports and J. D. Power and Associates." February 2015 Highlights: RAV4 up over 33 percent; set February record 4Runner up 37.7 percent Tacoma up 13 percent; posts sales of 12,372 units Corolla posts sales of 27,839 units; up 10 percent Camry sales of 32,942 units, up more than 13 percent Sienna up 48.5 percent Lexus RX up more than 14 percent

Nissan Group reports February 2015 U.S. sales NASHVILLE, Tennessee – Nissan Group today announced total U.S. sales for February 2015 of 118,436 units, up 2.7 percent year-over-year and a February record. Nissan highlights: Nissan Division also set a February record with 106,777 sales, an increase of 1.1 percent. Rogue sales tied a record for any month in its history at 21,419, an increase of 24.6 percent. Pathfinder SUV also set a February record with 7,066 units sold, up 11 percent. Sales of the Versa subcompact in February were 11,909, up 15.8 percent. February Sentra sales increased 24.4 percent to 15,354. Sales of Nissan's commercial van lineup, including the full-size NV Lineup and NV200, were up 38.4 percent for the month. Infiniti today reported sales of 11,659 vehicles in the U.S. during February, an increase of 19.8 percent versus prior year. This marked Infiniti's best February U.S. sales performance in its history. Sales of the updated 2015 Q70 luxury performance sedan, including the new Q70L long-wheelbase model, were up 54.4 percent for the month, while Infiniti sports sedans, including the Q40 and Q50, were up 25.9 percent. Infiniti crossovers and sport utility vehicles also had a strong February, with the QX60 7-passenger luxury crossover increasing 10.4 percent and the QX80 full-size luxury sport utility up 42.6 percent. It was the best February sales performance for both models.