William Maley

Today was a sad day those who consider themselves fans of the automobile and/or public radio as word came that Tom Magliozzi, one of the co-hosts NPR’s Car Talk passed away at age 77 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. When I first saw the news, I began to feel very sad and sat in my chair for a few moments reflecting on some of my favorite moments of Car Talk. One of the key thoughts that hit me as I was sitting down was feeling bad for this person I had never even met. But the fact I was feeling this way made me realize a key aspect of what made Car Talk so special. Whenever you tuned in to Car Talk and listened to Ray and Tom banter on about someone's car problem, the week's puzzler, or some digression, you felt like that you were part of this conversation. Even if you didn't know or even like cars, you could find something that could elicit a laugh or smile. For me, a favorite moment of Car Talk was during the announcement of the new puzzler. Tom began to lose it when Ray mentioned 'a dimly-lit quonset hut'. This line would become a running joke in the show. "I think it has very little to do with cars. It's the guys' personalities. And Tom especially — really a genius. With a great, facile mind. And he's mischievous. He likes to prod people into honesty," said Doug Berman, the longtime producer of Car Talk in a remembrance piece for NPR. A lot of this comes from the close relationship Tom and Ray had. Again, Doug Berman. "For Ray, he idolized Tom. This is the guy who introduced him to everything in life, and Tom liked having his little brother around. He liked the guy. So when they grew up they were really, really great friends." This was a key part to the success of Car Talk. You could hear the love the brothers share in the way they would jab at each other on the show, or doing something out of the blue. An example of this is when a caller asked if there was a way she could pay $2.00 for missing a toll on a bridge. Tom got the idea to call to the person in charge of the bridge and the rest is history. Despite the two stepping away from the mic in October 2012, Car Talk still provided laughs and grins for many as the day they were first aired. Rest in peace, Tom. And remember, even in the afterlife, don't drive like your brother. Picture Source: Car Talk William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

Volvo Announces October Sales ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (Nov. 3, 2014) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 3,972 units for the month of October, a 1.4 percent increase month-over-month. Year-to-date sales are down 8.2 percent versus the first ten months of 2013. The top seller for October was the XC60 crossover with 1,653 units sold, an increase of 32.9 percent versus October 2013. The S60 finished the month in second place with 1,127 units sold.

Porsche Reports October Sales -- Up 11.2% for the Year Compared to 2013 U.S. Porsche dealers sell 3,667 vehicles in October, 39,033 year to date ATLANTA, Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor in the United States of the 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 2014 sales of 3,667 vehicles. For the year, PCNA has delivered 39,033 vehicles in the U.S., an increase of 11.2 percent over the same time period in 2013 (35,111). In October, there were 974 deliveries of 911 sports cars, which is a 30 percent increase over last year's October sales. Demand for the sporty Macan continues to outpace supply with October sales of 741 units. Cayenne sales of 712 units remained strong, ahead of the introduction of the comprehensively revised 2015 model which goes on sale in November. Panamera delivered 533 units, a 6 percent increase over October, 2013. Boxster and Cayman sales increased 9 percent when compared to October of 2013, yielding 702 combined deliveries. Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales in the U.S. were 1,050 for October 2014, an increase of 19 percent from the same period last year.

Porsche Reports October Sales -- Up 11.2% for the Year Compared to 2013 U.S. Porsche dealers sell 3,667 vehicles in October, 39,033 year to date ATLANTA, Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor in the United States of the 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 2014 sales of 3,667 vehicles. For the year, PCNA has delivered 39,033 vehicles in the U.S., an increase of 11.2 percent over the same time period in 2013 (35,111). In October, there were 974 deliveries of 911 sports cars, which is a 30 percent increase over last year's October sales. Demand for the sporty Macan continues to outpace supply with October sales of 741 units. Cayenne sales of 712 units remained strong, ahead of the introduction of the comprehensively revised 2015 model which goes on sale in November. Panamera delivered 533 units, a 6 percent increase over October, 2013. Boxster and Cayman sales increased 9 percent when compared to October of 2013, yielding 702 combined deliveries. Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales in the U.S. were 1,050 for October 2014, an increase of 19 percent from the same period last year.

Mitsubishi Motors Posts Eighth Consecutive Month Of Year-Over-Year Sales Increases Best October sales since 2008 Sales are up a full 30.5 percent from last October Best-ever October sales for Outlander Sport CYPRESS, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) posted its eighth consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases thank to a strong sales month in October with vehicle sales through the month totaling 6,199 units, an exceptional 30.5 percent increase over the sales total from October 2013. The Outlander Sport 5-passenger compact crossover – the brand's best-selling vehicle – posted outstanding sales of 2,468 units for the month. This was the best-ever October sales month for the popular and versatile Outlander Sport and the thirteenth consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases. Moreover, Outlander Sport sales are up 22.8 percent from last October and are up 24.8 percent year-to-date. October marked the twelfth consecutive month of Mirage sales of more than 1,000 units, with total sales for the month of 1,374 units. Mitsubishi's 5-door hatchback model is the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered non-hybrid vehicle in America with an EPA fuel mileage rating of up to 37 mpg city / 44 mpg highway / 40 mpg combined. Mitsubishi's vehicle sales for October were further boosted by robust sales of the sporty and affordably-priced Lancer sports sedan (up 17.5 percent from last October), as well as the recently redesigned 7-passenger Outlander crossover (sales up 14.2 percent year-to-date) and the ultra-high-performance Lancer Evolution luxury sports sedan (up 10.5 percent year-to-date). "The Outlander Sport has been leading the way for the brand in 2014 and Outlander has steadily increased compared to last year," said MMNA Executive Vice President, Don Swearingen. "But our sedans are also doing well with consistently strong Mirage sales and Lancer with a strong showing in October." Highlights of October sales include: Mitsubishi Motors total vehicle sales are up 30.2 percent year-to-date 12 consecutive months of Mirage sales of more than 1,000 units Outlander sales are up 14.2 percent year-to-date Lancer sales up 17.5 percent from last October Lancer Evolution sales are up 10.5 percent year-to-date

MAZDA REPORTS OCTOBER 2014 SALES Mazda6 and CX-5 Set Monthly Sales Records IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported October U.S. sales of 18,798 vehicles, representing a decrease of 4.8 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through October are up 8.1 percent versus last year, with 240,228 vehicles sold. "We are encouraged by our year-to-date sales growth, and expect to see this trend continue through the end of the year," said Ron Stettner, vice president of sales, MNAO. "Mazda6 and CX-5 have both shown year-over-year gains in hotly competitive segments. Looking forward, we will be debuting the all-new CX-3 crossover compact SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and we feel that will give us another solid foothold in an all-new segment for Mazda." Key October sales notes: Mazda CX-5 saw its best October ever with 5,991 vehicles sold and an increase of 2.7 percent year-over-year (YOY). Mazda6 recorded its best October in three years (2011) with 3,149 vehicles sold, an increase of 1.6 percent YOY. SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY proves to be the key between performance and fuel efficiency as customers demand a no compromise solution. More than 87.0 percent of Mazdas sold in October were equipped with SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. Mazda reported Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) October sales of 3,497 vehicles, up 5.0 percent YOY. Year-to-date CPO sales are up 15 percent versus last year, with 35,768 vehicles sold. Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported its best October sales ever with 3,764 vehicles, up 45.0 percent versus October of last year and the 21st consecutive month of YOY growth.

Kia Motors America Announces Record October Sales Soul EV Retail Deliveries Begin in California; Year-to-Date Sales Up 7.4 Percent IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the best third quarter performance in company history, Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced record October sales of 44,694 units, led by high demand for the U.S.-built* Optima midsize sedan and the iconic Soul with 11,840 and 10,685 vehicles sold, respectively. "Declining gas prices are bringing a steady supply of customers into the market, and our new products have played a role in the steady growth Kia has experienced this year," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, KMA. "Kia has one of the youngest and best-looking lineups in the business, including the all-new Sedona multi-purpose vehicle, which is now arriving in dealerships and challenges the segment with its CUV-inspired design, full array of advanced technology and first-class airliner amenities."

Hyundai Motor America Reports October Sales All-new 2015 Genesis sedan sales up 53 percent CUV segment up 43 percent for the month FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today announced October sales of 50,081 units, down 6 percent versus the same period in 2013. "While we struggled in a couple of segments, our compact and midsize-CUV's continue to outpace the overall industry," said Bob Pradzinski, vice president of national sales. "Our all-new 2015 Genesis sedan continued its brisk pace, finishing up more than 50 percent for the month." Santa Fe and Tucson, Hyundai's CUV's, were up 7.6 percent and 78.2 percent, respectively.

BMW Group U.S. Reports October 2014 Sales BMW brand sales up 11 percent - Best October Ever MINI brand sales down 7 percent WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 11 percent in October for a total of 30,602 compared to 27,574 vehicles sold in October, 2013. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 12 percent on sales of 267,193 compared to 238,469 sold in the first ten months of 2013. "The momentum is still with us as shown by back-to-back monthly records for BMW in October and September," said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. "Our new models, especially the 2 and 4 Series, are giving BMW a great boost as we head into the final two months of the year but I am also very pleased to see our born-electric BMW i3 doing so well, averaging a thousand per month in sales after only four months on the market." BMW Group Sales The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported October sales of 35,902 vehicles, an increase of 7.9 percent from the 33,274 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, the BMW Group (BMW and MINI combined) is up 6.1 percent on sales of 311,681 in the first ten months of 2014 compared to 293,804 in the same period in 2013. MINI Brand Sales For October, MINI USA reports 5,300 automobiles sold, a decrease of 7 percent from the 5,700 sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, MINI USA reported a sales total of 44,488 automobiles, a decrease of 19.6 percent from the 55,335 automobiles sold in the first ten months of 2013.

Toyota Motor Sales Reports 6.9 Percent Increase in October SUVs set October records Camry sales up 14% with launch of 2015 model Lexus posts 12th straight month of year-over-year gains TORRANCE, Calif. (November 3, 2014) – Toyota, Scion and Lexus today reported total October 2014 sales results of 180,580 units, an increase of 6.9 percent from October 2013. Toyota division posted October 2014 sales of 157,225 units, up 7.5 percent. “October vehicle sales were the best for the month in 10 years as an improving economy and lower gas prices drove strong SUV sales,” said Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager. “At Toyota we also saw a big jump in Camry sales thanks to the successful launch of the new 2015 model.” Lexus reported October sales of 23,355 units, a 2.8 percent increase on a raw-volume basis year-over-year. “The luxury SUV segment is one of the hottest in the industry, led by the Lexus RX,” said Steve Hearne, Lexus vice president of sales and dealership development. “That should continue as the holiday season and winter approach.” Other Highlights: Toyota Division is top retail brand for 10th consecutive month Launch of new 2015 Camry helps boost sales almost 14 percent Corolla posts sales of 24,959 units, up 5.6 percent Toyota and Lexus hybrids sales of 20,498 units, accounting for about 65 percent of industry hybrid sales Toyota SUVs up 21.6 percent with sales of 43,961 units RAV4 up 22.4 percent Highlander up nearly 30 percent in October 4Runner up 38.1 percent Pickups top 22,500 units, up 1.2 percent Lexus IS sales increase 5.6 percent Lexus GS up 5.6 percent New Lexus CT up 37.5 percent Lexus RX posts sales of more than 8,000 units Lexus GX up 29.2 percent

Highest Month Of The Year Gives Mercedes-Benz Best-Ever Year-to-Date Sales Volume Sprinter up 17.4%, smart up 16.3% year-to-date MONTVALE, N.J., Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz today reported its highest sales month of the year with 28,593 vehicles sold. Despite marginally lagging behind October 2013 (which was fueled by the launch of the company's new entry-level CLA) by 4.9%, the month's volume propelled the company to the highest October year-to-date sales in its history with 261,804 units, an increase of 6.8% from the 245,125 vehicles sold through the first 10 months of 2013. Adding retails of 19,925 for Sprinter Vans and 8,665 units at smart, up 17.4% and 16.3% respectively, year-to-date volumes for Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) hit a record 290,394, up 7.7%. "We're building momentum month after month, working toward a record year despite the challenges posed by spot shortages in some of our most popular model lines," said Stephen Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA. Mercedes-Benz October sales were led by the C-, E- and M-Class model lines. The C-Class, which entered a new generation for the 2015 model year, took the lead with 7,412 units, an increase of 13.2% from the 6,548 vehicles sold in October 2013. The E-Class followed with sales of 3,936, while the brand's best-selling SUV, the M-Class, rounded out the top three at 3,797, up 22%. At the high end, the latest-generation S-Class marked its first full year of sales in the U.S. with a 39.3% increase to 2,666 units. Sprinter Vans saw sales of 2,140 in October, up 5% from the 2,038 units sold the same month last year. October retails for the smart brand increased 14% to 585. Mercedes-Benz AMG high-performance models delivered October sales of 1,251, jumping 71.6% from the 729 units sold the same month last year. On a year-to-date basis, AMG volumes hit 9,192, a 58.6% gain from the 5,797 units sold through October 2013. Retails for Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC diesel models totaled 1,028 in October, with a year-to-date volume of 12,045. Separately, Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) vehicles recorded sales of 9,834 vehicles in October, an increase of 29.2% from the 7,612 units sold during the same month last year. Year-to-date, MBCPO sold 98,186 units, up 22% from 80,502 vehicles a year ago.

Subaru October 2014 Sales, Best October Ever Sales up 25 percent year-over-year Best Legacy sedan month ever Best Outback, Forester, WRX/STI and XV Crosstrek September ever Seventh consecutive month that Subaru brand sales exceed 40,000 sales 35th consecutive month of year-over-year growth CHERRY HILL, N.J., Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) today reported a 25 percent sales increase for October 2014, resulting in an October sales record. The company sold 43,012 vehicles in October 2014 versus 34,483 in October 2013. Year-to-date sales increased 20 percent with 418,497 vehicles sold versus 347,890 over the same period last year. The company has now seen 35 consecutive months of year-over-year growth and is well on its way to its sixth successive annual sales record. SOA expects to surpass its 2013 annual sales record of 424,683 vehicles in the coming weeks. The all-new 2015 Legacy set a new monthly sales record of 6,362 vehicles. Sales of the Forester, Outback, WRX/STI and XV Crosstrek were notably strong as each model line achieved its best October ever. "We have consistently been achieving sales records over the past six years," said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, for Subaru of America, Inc. "We would not have been able to achieve our current level of success without the hard work and dedication of our retailers, employees and independent distributors." "Our sedans and crossovers are generating more and more interest from new buyers by delivering a unique combination of safety, utility, performance and value," said Jeff Walters, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "We are particularly pleased with the positive customer reaction to the all-new Legacy which has had its third consecutive best sales month ever."

Maserati North America, Inc. Reports Top October Sales in History 97 percent sales gain posted in October, compared with same month one year ago MY 2015 Ghibli and Quattroporte models fuel further growth 258 percent year-over-year increase of total retail sales ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., Nov. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Maserati North America, Inc. continues to topple sales records this October, posting its best October yet with (1,227 retail units sold) with total sales equaling a 258 percent year-over-year increase. This month's feat marks another significant month for the Trident on the brink of the luxury automaker's 100th anniversary. This is the company's twenty-first consecutive month of sales increases in the Americas. Available with "Q4" all-wheel drive offering four-seasons versatility, the Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans continue to enjoy strong sales as winter's inclement weather approaches. Together with the GranTurismo (coupe) and GranTurismo Convertible, the Ghibli and Quattroporte sedans benefit from updates for the 2015 model year, which are arriving in showrooms now. "Reflecting the broader appeal and versatility of the expanded model range and its exceptional performance and style, Maserati has recorded its best October ever," says Peter Grady, President & CEO of Maserati North America, Inc. "We anticipate continued growth this holiday season as Maserati holds its firm footing. In its one-hundred year history, the brand has never been more relevant than today," says Grady.

Maserati North America, Inc. - Up 97% (1,227 Vehicles Sold This Month; 10,328 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mitsubishi Motors North America - Up 30.5% (6,199 Vehicles Sold This Month; 64,564 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 24.7% (43,012 Vehicles Sold This Month; 418,497 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Chrysler Group LLC - Up 22% (170,480 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,726,539 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Audi of America - Up 16.5% (15,150 Vehicles Sold This Month; 146,133 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Nissan North America - Up 13.3% (103,117 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,166,389 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Kia Motors America - Up 12.4% (44,694 Vehicles Sold This Month; 489,711 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) BMW Group U.S. - Up 7.9% (35,902 Vehicles Sold This Month; 311,681 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volkswagen of America - Up 7.8% (30,313 Vehicles Sold This Month; 301,187 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) American Honda Motor Co. - Up 5.8% (121,172 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,281,777 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Toyota Motor Sales - Up 5.8% (180,580 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,975,368 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Up 2.9% (3,667 Vehicles Sold This Month; 39,033 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Up 1.4% (3,972 Vehicles Sold This Month; 47,823 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) General Motors Co. - Up 0.2% (226,819 Vehicles Sold This Month; 2,434,737 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ford Motor Company - Down 1.7% (188,654 Vehicles Sold This Month; 2,073,271 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mercedes-Benz USA - Down 4% (31,318 Vehicles Sold This Month; 290.394 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mazda North American Operations - Down 4.8% (18,798 Vehicles Sold This Month; 259,751 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Hyundai Motor America - Down 6.5% (50,081 Vehicles Sold This Month; 607,539 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Jaguar Land Rover North America - N/A Brands: Maserati - Up 97% (1,227 Vehicles Sold This Month; 10,328 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Jeep - Up 52% (55,198 Vehicles Sold This Month; 571,585 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ram - Up 36% (42,499 Vehicles Sold This Month; 379,467 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mitsubishi - Up 30.5% (6,199 Vehicles Sold This Month; 64,564 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Subaru - Up 24.7% (43,012 Vehicles Sold This Month; 418,497 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Lincoln - Up 24.6% (8,883 Vehicles Sold This Month; 76,671 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Chrysler - Up 17% (27,546 Vehicles Sold This Month; 250,612 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Audi - Up 16.5% (15,150 Vehicles Sold This Month; 146,133 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Nissan - Up 14.9% (94,072 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,072,464 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) smart - Up 14% (585 Vehicles Sold This Month; 8,665 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Kia - Up 12.4% (44,694 Vehicles Sold This Month; 489,711 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) BMW - Up 11% (30,602 Vehicles Sold This Month; 267,193 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Acura - Up 7.9% (15,427 Vehicles Sold This Month; 135,177 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volkswagen - Up 7.8% (30,313 Vehicles Sold This Month; 301,187 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Toyota - Up 7.5% (157,225 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,731,330 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Buick - Up 6.5% (18,699 Vehicles Sold This Month; 189,643 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Honda - Up 5.5% (105,745 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,460,600 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Sprinter - Up 5% (2,140 Vehicles Sold This Month; 19,925 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Porsche - Up 2.9% (3,667 Vehicles Sold This Month; 39,033 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Lexus - Up 2.8% (23,355 Vehicles Sold This Month; 244,038 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volvo - Up 1.4% (3,972 Vehicles Sold This Month; 47,823 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Fiat - Up 1% (3,725 Vehicles Sold This Month; 39,226 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Chevrolet - Up 0.5% (155,965 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,698,831 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) GMC - Down 0.8% (38,540 Vehicles Sold This Month; 404,961 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Infiniti - Down 1.2% (9,045 Vehicles Sold This Month; 93,925 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ford - Down 2.7% (179,771 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,996,600 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mazda - Down 4.8% (18,798 Vehicles Sold This Month; 259,751 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mercedes-Benz - Down 4.9% (28,593 Vehicles Sold This Month; 261,804 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Hyundai - Down 6.5% (50,081 Vehicles Sold This Month; 607,539 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) MINI - Down 7% (5,300 Vehicles Sold This Month; 44,488 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Cadillac - Down 8% (13,615 Vehicles Sold This Month; 141,452 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Dodge - Down 8% (41,512 Vehicles Sold This Month; 485,469 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Jaguar - N/A Land Rover - N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article

Audi achieves 46th consecutive monthly U.S. sales record in October 2014 Audi now on track for fifth-consecutive annual U.S. sales record Demand for the all-new Audi Q3 was strong for the month All-time best October sales of Audi Certified pre-owned vehicles HERNDON, Va., November 3, 2014 – Audi reported that its October 2014 sales increased 16.5% to 15,150 vehicles, a total that stands as the 46th consecutive month of record monthly U.S. sales for the brand. Audi U.S. sales year-to-date increased 14.7% to 146,133 vehicles. Audi continued to maintain a robust record sales pace throughout 2014, with the best-ever October results. The previous October record was set in 2013 with sales of 13,001 vehicles. To date, 2014 has produced eight of the ten best sales months in the history of Audi of America. Through October, 2014 Audi U.S. sales already stand as the second-best year for the brand on record. Audi set an annual record of 158,061 vehicles sold in 2013, topping the previous record of 139,310 vehicles sold in 2012. “We can confidently predict that 2014 will end as the fifth-consecutive record year for Audi sales in the U.S.,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “Our annual Season of Audi year-end sales event will bring a strong finish to a year distinguished by the successful launch of the Audi A3 models and sustained high demand for Audi SUV models.” Sales of Audi SUV models remained strong in October, as they have throughout the year, resulting in lean inventories. For the January-October period, Audi Q5 sales rose 5.3%, leaving 29 days’ supply of inventory; Audi Q7 sales increased 21.9% and left 26 days’ supply; Audi Q3 sales-to-date were 2,018 and resulted in 14 days’ supply. Ever since the U.S. sales debut of the 2015 Audi A3 family in April, it has maintained a solid and consistent sales pace. October 2014 resulted in 2,380 A3 sales, making these compact premium models one of the brand’s top sellers. October is the 15th consecutive month of record sales for Audi Certified pre-owned. This month marked an increase of 13.7% and a total of 3,964 CPO vehicles sold; CPO sales year-to-date increased 18.3%. Highlights: - The 2015 Audi A3 models, including new sedan and Cabriolet variants, have generated sales of 17,049 units since the first of the family line models reached the U.S. in the spring. - Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A6, Audi A7, Audi A8, and Audi Q7) increased 9% year-to-date, representing 31.1% of total Audi sales year-to-date and 20% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain. - Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 9.7% for the S3 sedan; 15.6% for the S4 sedan; 38.1% for the S5/ RS 5; 5.1% for the S6; 21.9% for the S7 / RS 7; 14.7% for the S8; 65.6% for the TTS Coupe and TTS Roadster, and 7.2% for the SQ5 crossover. - October sales mix for Audi TDI models: Audi A3 TDI at 8%; Audi A6 TDI at 8.9%; Audi A7 TDI at 12.6%; A8 TDI at 7.7%; Audi Q5 TDI at 14.2%, Audi Q7 TDI at 21.7%, with an overall mix of 12.9% on 1,331 total TDI sales for October. - Audi holds the longest running monthly record sales streak in the premium car market according to a competitive sales report from MotorIntelligence.com.

Honda Division Breaks Another Monthly Sales Record in October; Acura October Sales Jump Nearly 8% with another Big Month for the All-New TLX 11/03/2014 - TORRANCE, Calif. Honda Division has its best-ever October sales—up 5.5 percent on delivery of 105,745 new cars and trucks All-new Acura TLX sales reach nearly 5,000 units in October, driving an overall 7.9 percent increase for the brand Honda CR-V smashes previous October record with 29,257 sales, an increase of 29.7 percent over the same period in 2013; New Fit also sets new October sales mark American Honda Motor Co., Inc. today reported total October 2014 Honda and Acura vehicle sales of 121,172 units, an increase of 5.8 percent versus October of last year. The Honda division set a new October record on sales of 105,745 vehicles, an increase of 5.5 percent for the month. The Acura division posted sales of 15,427 units to rise 7.9 percent in the same period. Honda The new October sales record for the Honda brand was driven by the success of core models leading to an overall 5.5 percent gain versus October 2013. The new 2015 CR-V, crowned Motor Trend's 2015 SUV of the Year, helped the model post its best October on record. The new Honda Fit also set a new October milestone and Accord sales rose for the 10th straight month—all helping to push the Honda brand to a new October pinnacle. The redesigned 2015 Honda CR-V, which went on sale October 1, helped smash the previous October record, and was up 29.7 percent over 2013 on sales of 29,257 units. The new Honda Fit nearly doubled its sales last month, setting an all-time October record with sales of 6,851 units, an increase of 83.4 percent for the month. Honda's stalwart Accord posted a strong month, rising 7.8 percent in October with sales of 27,128 units to give the model its 10th straight monthly increase. "The new 2015 CR-V is giving renewed momentum to what has already been an incredible year," said Jeff Conrad, Honda division senior vice president and general manager. "The success of the new Fit is an important step in re-establishing small cars as a pillar in the Honda lineup." Acura With the 3.5L SH-AWD model enjoying its first full month on the market, the new Acura TLX gained more than 25 percent versus last month's strong performance, reaching sales of nearly 5,000 units in October after less than three months on the market. TLX helped push Acura brand sales up 7.9 percent for the month. TLX sales reached 4,890 units in October, jumping 25.9 percent over last month for its best month since joining the Acura lineup, and came within just a few hundred units of ranking as Acura's best-selling model. With 5,324 units sold in October, Acura's current best seller—MDX—jumped 9.5 percent month-over-month despite being limited by tight supplies. "With TLX sales nearly topping 5,000 units in a segment full of notoriously tough competitors, the new TLX is quickly establishing itself as a top player in the mid-size luxury sedan game," said Mike Accavitti, Acura division senior vice president and general manager. "This early success of TLX also demonstrates the strong potential of the performance direction for the Acura product lineup."

Nissan Group reports October 2014 U.S. sales NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan Group today announced total U.S. sales for October 2014 of 103,117 units, an increase of 13.3 percent over the prior year and an October record. Nissan highlights: Nissan Division set an October record with 94,072 sales in the month, a year-over-year increase of 14.9 percent. This marks a monthly sales record for Nissan in 13 consecutive months. Rogue sales set an October record at 14,685, an increase of 13.7 percent. Nissan LEAF also set an October record with 2,589 sales, an increase of 29.3 percent. LEAF has set the record for most U.S. sales in a year by an electric car at 24,411 in 2014 with two months remaining. Versa subcompact set an October sales record with 11,097, up 28.6 percent. Sentra sales totaled 13,129 in October, up 56.3 percent. Sales of the midsize Altima totaled 23,544, an increase of 8.1 percent. Frontier pickup sales increased 25.3 percent in October to 6,568. Murano crossover sales were up 37.7 percent as the company prepares to start production for the all-new 2015 Murano at the Canton, Mississippi assembly plant this Wednesday, Nov. 5. Infiniti today reported sales of 9,045 vehicles in the U.S. during October. Sales of the Infiniti Q50 sport sedan were up 16 percent for the month, while deliveries of the updated Q70 luxury performance sedan were up 18.2 percent. For 2015, the Q70 adds a new long-wheelbase model which provides class-leading rear legroom. The QX60 three-row luxury crossover also saw an increase in October, with sales of 2,285, up five percent.

VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA REPORTS OCTOBER 2014 SALES October sales total 30,313 units, representing a 7.8% increase over October 2013 The all-new Golf delivered 2,351 units for the month, marking a 101 percent increase in sales for the model over the previous October The Golf GTI delivered 1,724 units, a 67.1 percent increase Jetta sedan delivered 13,372 units for the month, a 24.7 increase Passat delivered 6,513 units for the month High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 5,513 units, representing 18.2 percent of sales in October Year-to-date TDI sales were 68,612, representing 22.8 percent of sales Herndon, VA (Nov. 3, 2014) — Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 30,313 units delivered in October. The momentum of the all-new Golf family continued to bring excitement to consumers and showrooms through the month of October. Golf model sales in October included 2,351 Golf units and 1,724 Golf GTIs. “Thanks to the refreshed Jetta and the all-new 2015 Golf and Golf GTI attracting customers and enthusiasts, we are pleased to see increased traffic in our showrooms,” said Mark McNabb, chief operating officer, Volkswagen of America. Joining the Golf family, the fully electric 2015 e-Golf is on sale at participating dealerships in select states starting in early November. The e-Golf was rated by the EPA at126 city, 105 highway, and 116 combined Miles per Gallon of Gasoline Equivalent* (MPGe), and given a range of up to 83 miles: these numbers make the e-Golf the most efficient car in its class for the 2015 model year. To kick off the launch of the e-Golf, Volkswagen of America partnered with Global Green USA (GGUSA) to auction off the first all-electric Volkswagen in the United States. The auction raised more than $41,000 for GGUSA and its efforts to help protect the planet. The winning bidder, Bruce Oberg, is scheduled to take delivery of his e-Golf from a dealer in Oregon later this week. The Jetta, refreshed for the 2015 model year with a suite of driver assistance features, delivered 13,372 units in October, a 24.7 increase. Last month, Volkswagen rolled out the Beetle Classic edition, featuring a vintage-inspired interior and exterior. With the addition of the new trim, the vehicle delivered 1,941 units for the month. The Chattanooga-built Passat totaled 6,513 units delivered for the month. The Touareg delivered 578 units, 352 of which were Clean Diesel TDI, amounting to 60.9 percent of sales of the model. The Tiguan delivered 1,803 units.

Chrysler Group LLC Reports October 2014 U.S. Sales Increased 22 Percent; Best October Sales Since 2001 55th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains Chrysler, Jeep®, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each post sales gains in October compared with same month a year ago Jeep brand sales up 52 percent; best ever October sales Nine Chrysler Group vehicles record best ever October sales Chrysler 200 sales up 40 percent; best ever October sales Every Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram Truck brand vehicle experienced year-over-year growth in October Chrysler Group LLC earns nine awards at Texas Truck Rodeo; Jeep Grand Cherokee wins ‘SUV of Texas’ for fifth-consecutive year November 3, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 170,480 units, a 22 percent increase compared with sales in October 2013 (140,083 units), and the group’s best October sales since 2001. The Chrysler, Jeep®, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in October compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep brand’s 52 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand and the brand’s best ever sales in the month of October. The group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 55-consecutive months. “Chrysler Group sales increased 22 percent in October, our eighth month of double-digit growth this year and our 55th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “Chrysler Group is the industry’s fastest-growing automaker driven in part by sales of our all-new Jeep Cherokee and Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan, and by the strong consumer demand for our award-winning Ram pickup trucks.” Nine Chrysler Group vehicles recorded their best ever October sales, including the all-new Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Wrangler, Chrysler 200, Dodge Challenger, and Dodge Dart compact car. Sales of the 200 mid-size sedan were up 40 percent compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep and Ram Truck brands recorded the largest percentage sales gains of Chrysler Group brands in October. Chrysler Group finished the month of October with a 84 days supply of inventory (530,338 units). U.S. industry sales figures for October are internally projected at an estimated 16.9 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR). Jeep® Brand Sales of the Jeep brand – the fastest-growing brand in the industry – were up 52 percent, the brand’s best sales performance ever in the month of October. The Jeep brand’s 52 percent increase was the largest percentage sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month and its13th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Jeep brand has set a sales record in each month this year, including its all-time sales record in May. The Jeep Cherokee, Wrangler and Patriot each logged their best ever October sales. The all-new Cherokee was the brand’s highest-volume seller for the second-consecutive month. Sales of the flagship Jeep Grand Cherokee were up 5 percent, its best October sales since 2003. The Jeep brand won all five categories entered, including the coveted “SUV of Texas,” in the 2014 Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Texas Truck Rodeo last month. The Grand Cherokee took home the “SUV of Texas” award for the fifth-consecutive year, as well as “Mid-Size SUV of Texas.” The Grand Cherokee Summit was named “Luxury Mid-Size SUV of Texas.” The Wrangler earned “Off-Road Utility Vehicle of Texas” while Cherokee was named “Compact SUV of Texas.” The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel in the Grand Cherokee and Ram 1500 won “Best Powertrain” in the competition. Ram Truck Brand Sales of the Ram pickup were up 33 percent in October, its 54th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. It was the pickup truck’s best October sales since 2003. Ram Light Duty sales increased 34 percent in October while Ram Heavy Duty pickups were up 33 percent. Ram Truck brand sales, which include the Ram ProMaster van and Ram Cargo Van, were up 36 percent in October, the brand’s best October sales in 10 years. Both the ProMaster and Cargo Van recorded their best ever sales for the month of October. The Ram Truck brand took home two awards from TAWA’s Texas Truck Rodeo last month. The Ram 2500 won “Heavy Duty Truck of Texas” for the second-consecutive year, while the Ram Power Wagon earned the “Off-Road Truck of Texas” award. More than 60 TAWA members cast their votes after the two-day competition involving on- and off-road vehicle evaluations. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel in the Ram 1500 and Jeep Grand Cherokee won for “Best Powertrain.” Chrysler Brand Chrysler brand sales were up 17 percent, the brand’s best October sales since 2007. The brand’s increase was driven largely by the Chrysler 200 sedan. Sales of the 200 were up 40 percent, the mid-size sedan’s best ever sales in the month of October. The all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 earned a five-star overall safety rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in October. Five stars is the highest possible safety rating given by NHTSA. This five-star rating complements Top Safety Pick+ status given to all-new 200 by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety in August. Sales of the Chrysler Town & Country were up 4 percent, the minivan’s best October sales since 2007. Chrysler 300 sedan sales increased 9 percent year-over-year in October. FIAT Brand FIAT brand sales were up 1 percent in October, its best October sales since the brand was re-introduced in the U.S. in 2011. The brand’s increase was driven by the 18 percent year-over-year increase in Fiat 500 sales. It was the 500’s best October sales since 2012. Sales of the Fiat 500L were up 48 percent compared with the previous month of September, but were down year over year in October. Sales of the 500L resumed in late September following a recall that affected an estimated 29,500 vehicles in the U.S. and Canada. Dodge Brand The Dodge Challenger, Dart and Journey each logged their best ever October sales. The Dart’s 28 percent increase was the largest percentage sales gain of any Dodge brand model in the month. Challenger sales, up 27 percent in October, included the new 2015 Challenger lineup. The Dodge brand received 4,000 orders for the 2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat when the ordering system was opened for Dodge dealers last month. The brand now has more than 5,000 orders. In addition to the Hellcat, the full Challenger lineup – SXT, R/T, R/T Scat Pack, and SRT 392 models – has been extremely well received. The Journey mid-size crossover recorded its best ever October sales with a 9 percent year-over-year increase. Dodge Viper sales were up 16 percent in October as well, reflecting the repositioning of the iconic Detroit-built supercar for 2015. Dodge brand sales were down 8 percent compared with the same month a year ago.

NOV 3, 2014 | DEARBORN, MICH. FORD FUSION, ESCAPE, EXPLORER, TRANSIT CONNECT POST RECORD SALES; LINCOLN HAS BEST OCTOBER IN SEVEN YEARS Ford Fusion posts best October sales ever – the car’s sixth straight month of record performance and best year-to-date sales results since launch in 2005 Ford Escape posts best-ever October performance and record year-to-date sales; Ford Explorer has best October sales results since 2004 Ford Transit Connect sales increase 28 percent for the vehicle’s best-ever October performance Lincoln has its best October sales results in seven years Ford Motor Company U.S. sales of 188,654 vehicles for October represent a 2 percent decline from a year ago Ford Motor Company U.S. sales totaled 188,654 vehicles in October, down 2 percent from a year ago. Daily rental business declined 13 percent, while government and commercial sales were up 4 and 18 percent, respectively. Overall sales declines were expected and tied to the plant changeover for the introduction of the all-new 2015 F-150. Declines in daily rental volumes also are part of a planned reduction for 2014. Through October, Ford sales via daily rental channels have declined 18 percent. “Fusion is an outstanding success story with October marking six straight months of record sales,” said John Felice, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Fusion is on pace to break the 300,000-vehicle mark this year for the first time ever. Plus, based on the strong sales of the all-new MKC, Lincoln produced its best sales results in October since 2007.” Fusion October sales totaled 22,846 vehicles – an increase of 5 percent – representing the car’s best-ever October sales performance. Escape reported sales of 24,919 vehicles last month – a 12 percent increase and the vehicle’s best-ever October performance. Explorer sales increased 6 percent, with 14,455 vehicles sold, making it Explorer’s best October performance since 2004. Transit Connect sales gained 28 percent, providing a record October with 4,068 vehicles sold. Lincoln sales of 8,883 vehicles posted a 25 percent gain and the brand’s best October results since 2007. MKC continues to lift Lincoln, with sales of 2,197 vehicles. MKC continues to lift Lincoln, with its best sales yet last month.

GM Posts its Best U.S. October Sales Since 2007 Buick has its best October since 2003 Chevrolet Cruze up 51 percent; best October for Silverado since 2007 Best October for GMC Sierra since 2001 DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 226,819 vehicles in the United States in October for the company’s best October sales in seven years. Chevrolet sales were up year over year on the strength of the Silverado, Cruze, Traverse and Equinox, and Buick had its best October in more than a decade. Total company sales a year ago were 226,402 units. “The U.S. economy has steadily improved all year and now we are poised for a stronger expansion backed by an improved job market, higher consumer confidence and lower fuel prices,” said Kurt McNeil, U.S. vice president of Sales Operations. “We have a strong hand to play, with the industry’s newest and most complete line-up of pickups and SUVs, class-leading crossovers like the Buick Encore and a wealth of new products in the pipeline.” The all-new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickups began shipping to dealers in the second half of September, the Chevrolet City Express van began shipping a week ago and the Chevrolet Trax small crossover launches in early 2015. October Sales Highlights (vs. 2013 except as noted) Sales of the Cadillac CTS rose 49 percent and Escalade deliveries were up 18 percent. A 51 percent increase in Chevrolet Cruze deliveries drove GM’s compact car sales to their highest level since 2003. The Chevrolet Traverse was up 24 percent and the Equinox was up 3 percent. Total GM pickup sales were 67,689 units, up 13 percent. The Chevrolet Silverado was up 10 percent, with 46,966 units delivered. The GMC Sierra was up 13 percent, and combined deliveries of the all-new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon were 2,158 units, with showroom availability improving steadily. Demand for GM’s new large SUVs continues to be very strong, with Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban retail sales up 18 percent and 9 percent, respectively. GMC Yukon and Yukon XL retail deliveries were up 49 percent and 51 percent, respectively. At Buick, the Enclave was up 2 percent, the LaCrosse was up 6 percent and the Encore was up 33 percent, making it the industry’s best-selling small SUV for seven months in a row. Industrywide, almost half of the small SUVs sold to retail customers were Buick Encores, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. Growth was especially strong in the Southeast, where Encore’s segment share was up 18 percentage points to about 50 percent, and the West, where it was up 10 percentage points to about 36 percent. During the month, GM’s average transaction prices (ATPs) reached a record $34,700, according to PIN estimates. ATPs were up $150 per unit compared to September, and up $2,200 year over year. The company has now posted 25 consecutive months of year-over-year ATP increases. According to PIN, GM’s incentive spending as a percentage of ATPs declined more than the industry average versus September, and once again it was the lowest of all domestic automakers. PIN estimates that GM’s incentive spending was 11.3 percent of ATP, down 0.7 percentage points from September, while industry average spending was 9.6 percent of ATP, down 0.6 points. Last October, GM’s incentive spending was 10.2 percent, and the industry average was 9.1 percent. In October, GM’s fleet sales were up 6 percent. The company posted a 30-percent gain in commercial sales, marking the 12th consecutive month of year-over-year growth. The increase was driven by small cars, compact crossovers and large pickups. Sales to government customers were also up 30 percent, including an 81 percent gain in large pickup deliveries. Sales to rental customers were down 6 percent.

But the RX and MKX are not as small as a GLK or X3, that is why Lincoln and Lexus both put an SUV below that. And what does it say about Cadillac that their 190 inch long SUV has the interior space of a 178 inch long German SUV. That is poor packaging. No, the reason the NX and MKC crossover exist are due to the likes of the X1 and GLA