William Maley

Mercedes-Benz Achieves Highest Half-Year Sales Total Of 151,624, Up 6.8% Sprinter Vans up 21.1%, smart up 4.2% year-to-date MONTVALE, N.J., July 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported best-ever June sales volumes of 29,380 across the Mercedes-Benz, Sprinter and smart model lines, up 8.2% from the 27,162 vehicles sold the same month last year. Monthly retails for the Mercedes-Benz brand alone increased 8.6% to 26,506, bringing year-to-date volumes to a milestone 151,624 units. Adding year-to-date sales of 11,483 for Sprinter Vans and 4,647 units at smart, MBUSA delivered the best first-half sales total in its history at 167,754 units. "We're breaking records through June, hitting the best second-quarter finish in our history with four new launches still ahead," said Stephen Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA. "In just two weeks, we'll start with the launch of our first 'Electric Mercedes,' the B-Class Electric Drive." Mercedes-Benz June sales were led by the C-, E- and M-Class model lines. The E-Class took the top spot with 6,500 units, increasing 25.5% from June 2013, followed by the C-Class, which enters a new generation this fall, at 5,607. The brand's top-selling SUV, the M-Class, rounded out the top three with sales of 3,891, up 6.6% from the same month last year. At the high end, the flagship S-Class achieved its ninth consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains with June retails of 1,780, up 111.7% from June 2013. As a whole, Mercedes-Benz passenger cars – spanning models from the entry CLA-Class four-door coupe to the range-topping SLS AMG GT performance car – posted first-half sales of 97,828, which represents a 7.9% increase from the 90,650 vehicles sold as of June 2013. Mercedes-Benz light truck offerings, comprised of the GLK-, M-, GL- and G-Class lineups, delivered collective year-to-date gains of 4.9% with 53,796 units (compared to the 51,300 vehicles sold in the first half of 2013). Similarly, high-end models accounted for sales of 17,271 vehicles in the first six months of the year, a 21.5% increase over the same period in 2013. Sprinter Vans posted another month of double-digit sales increases with 2,201 units in June, up 12% from the 1,966 units sold in June 2013. Monthly sales for the smart brand totaled 673 units. The company's AMG high-performance models achieved June sales of 820, up 76.7%, with year-to-date volumes climbing 75.8% to 5,620. Sales of Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC diesel models totaled 1,214 for the month, while year-to-date sales reached 8,166. Separately, Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) recorded sales volumes of 7,947 vehicles in June, an increase of 2.2% compared to the 7,773 units sold during the same month last year. On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 57,572 units, up 17.5% from the 49,004 vehicles sold through June 2013.

Kia Motors America Announces Best First-Half Sales Performance In Company History Year-to-Date Sales of 297,413 Units Up 7.2 Percent Over 2013 IRVINE, Calif., July 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- On the heels of its highest-ever J.D. Power Initial Quality Study (IQS) ranking – sixth among all automakers – Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced June sales of 50,644 units, contributing to the company's best-ever first-half performance with 297,413 vehicles sold thus far in 2014. With Kia's year-to-date sales up 7.2 percent, the brand's aggressive new product cadence continues in the third quarter with the scheduled launches of the all-new Sedona midsize multi-purpose vehicle and Soul EV. "Kia is celebrating its 20th anniversary in the U.S. this year, and our record-setting first half is a testament to how far the brand has come in an extremely short period of time," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of sales and marketing, KMA. "Over the last two decades, Kia has earned a reputation for delivering world-class design and cutting-edge technology as well as outstanding safety, quality and value across our entire range, from subcompact to luxury. With more exciting new products on the horizon, we are poised to continue our momentum into the second half of the year and beyond." In addition to its climb in the IQS rankings – with Cadenza and Sportage topping their respective segments – Kia also moved up two positions on Interbrand's annual list of the Top 50 Global Green Brands, which was published in June and highlights the brand's commitment to providing clean mobility options for consumers.

MAZDA POSTS BEST JUNE SALES IN 10 YEARS Top Three Carlines of Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5 Post Strong Sales in June IRVINE, Calif., July 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported June U.S. sales of 26,208 vehicles, representing an increase of 16.5 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through June are up 7.9 percent versus last year, with 156,431 vehicles sold. "June was a strong month for Mazda, the best we have seen since 2004. The economy has remained steady despite a lot of uncertainty overseas," said Ron Stettner, vice president of sales, MNAO. "We received strong sales performance from our top three carlines of Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5. This is the first time in history that Mazda has had three model lines with great sales performance." Key June sales notes: June 2014 represented Mazda's best June since 2004 (10 years) with a total of 26,208 vehicles sold and an increase of 16.5 percent year-over-year (YOY). Mazda6 sales were strong in June with 4,793 vehicles sold, the best June for Mazda6 since 2006 and an increase of 24.8 percent YOY. Mazda CX-5 continues its steady growth with yet another month of gains. CX-5 experienced its best June ever with 7,943 units, an increase of 15.9 percent. June 2014 proved to be successful for Mazda3 as well. With 8,824 vehicles sold, Mazda3 saw an increase of 16.6 percent YOY and its best June since 2012. SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY accounted for 82.3 percent of total sales in the month of June. Mazda's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) sales reported May sales of 3,458 vehicles, up 4.0 percent YOY.

Subaru Reports Best-Ever June Sales For June 2014 Best June Ever For Forester, XV Crosstrek and WRX/STI CHERRY HILL, N.J., July 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported 41,367 vehicle sales for June 2014, a 5 percent increase over June 2013 and the company's best-ever June sales. Year-to-date sales for Subaru total 238,008 - a 16.3 percent increase over the same period in 2013. The company has now seen 31 consecutive months of year-over-year growth and is well on its way to its sixth successive annual sales record. Year-to-date, the Forester model increased sales 46.6% percent over the same period in 2013. Sales of the small crossover, XV Crosstrek were also notably strong with 33,765 vehicles reported sold year-to-date. The 2015 WRX and STI models are also performing well, with sales up 38.5% year-over-year. "We have strong, positive energy around our brand," said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "as the new Legacy sedan and Outback enter retailer showrooms this month, we expect that momentum to continue." "We are very pleased to have reached the mid-point of the year at more than halfway to our target," said H. William Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "We are in a very strong position to enter the second half of 2014."

Porsche Reports Best Ever June Sales - up 11% over 2013 Porsche dealers sell 4,102 cars ATLANTA, July 1, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Macan and Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, today announced June 2014 sales of 4,102 vehicles, marking the best June in company history. During the first half of 2014, PCNA has delivered 22,919 vehicles in the U.S., for an increase of 7.6 percent over last year (21,309) – which was a record-setting year. "This first half of the year has been impressive on a number of fronts," said Detlev von Platen, President and CEO, Porsche Cars North America, Inc. "Along with experiencing record-setting deliveries, we were recently recognized for the second time in a row as the top brand in the annual J.D. Power Initial Quality Study. While the Panamera came out on top of all cars surveyed, our 911 and Boxster models ranked highest in their segments. We plan to continue this momentum with a persistent cadence of new models arriving at our dealerships this year." The latest arrival, the Macan S and Macan Turbo, Porsche's first compact SUV, recorded over 2,000 sales during its first six weeks in the market.

VOLKSWAGEN OF AMERICA REPORTS JUNE 2014 SALES June sales total 28,827 units Golf GTI delivered 1,927 units for the month, the best month since March 2006 Passat delivered 7,222 units for the month Jetta sedan delivered 10,102 units for the month Tiguan delivered 2,416 units for the month High-mileage, TDI® Clean Diesel models accounted for 6,456 units, representing 22.4 percent of sales in June Year-to-date TDI sales were 42,140, representing 23.5 percent of sales Passat TDI sales were 2,316, representing 32.1 percent of sales of the vehicle marking the best year-to-date ever Herndon, VA (July 1, 2014) — Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 28,827 units delivered in June. Last month, Volkswagen began delivering the all-new, seventh-generation 2015 Golf GTI. The all-new Golf GTI is off to a strong start boosting sales of the model to its best total sales since March 2006. The all-new 2015 Golf TSI and TDI Clean Diesel models will go on sale this August. In June, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) announced that the all-new, seventh-generation Golf and Golf GTI models, when equipped with optional forward collision warning, have earned the coveted 2014 TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating. “Our core models, the Passat and Jetta, continue to show strong demand in the market, particularly for our TDI clean diesel powertrains, “ said Mark McNabb, chief operating officer, Volkswagen of America. “With the launch of the much-anticipated 2015 Golf GTI, as well as the upcoming introduction of the all-new 2015 Golf TSI and even more fuel efficient diesel engines, we are confident Volkswagen will be back on the shopping list for more customers.” The Chattanooga-built Passat totaled 7,222 units delivered for the month. In June the Passat TDI, the only clean diesel in the midsize sedan segment, delivered 2,316 clean diesels or 32.1 percent of total Passat sales. This marks the best year-to-date for Passat TDI® Clean Diesel. Total Jetta deliveries for June, including SportWagen, accounted for 12,090 units. The Tiguan and Touareg delivered 2,416 and 573 units respectively.

Mazda North American Operations - Up 16.5% (26,208 Vehicles Sold This Month; 156,431 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mitsubishi Motors North America - Up 13.7% (6,021 Vehicles Sold This Month; 39,762 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Porsche Cars North America, Inc. - Up 10.9% (4,102 Vehicles Sold This Month; 22,919 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Chrysler Group LLC - Up 9% (171,086 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,020,123 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mercedes-Benz USA - Up 8.2% (29,380 Vehicles Sold This Month; 167,754 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Audi of America - Up 7.2% (16,867 Vehicles Sold This Month; 84,349 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) BMW Group U.S. - Up 5.7% (35,577 Vehicles Sold This Month; 181,534 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Subaru of America, Inc. - Up 5.4% (41,367 Vehicles Sold This Month; 238,008 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Nissan North America - Up 5.3% (109,643 Vehicles Sold This Month; 704,477 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Jaguar Land Rover North America - Up 3.8% (5,301 Vehicles Sold This Month; 34,503 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Hyundai Motor America - Up 3.7% (67,407 Vehicles Sold This Month; 364,434 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Toyota Motor Sales - Up 3.3% (201,714 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,165,607 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) General Motors Co. - Up 1% (267,461 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,455,868 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Kia Motors America - Up 0.2% (50,644 Vehicles Sold This Month; 297,413 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ford Motor Company - Down 5.8% (222,064 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,270,032 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) American Honda Motor Co. - Down 5.8% (129,023 Vehicles Sold This Month; 729,436 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volvo Cars of North America, LLC - Down 10.4% (5,983 Vehicles Sold This Month; 29,330 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volkswagen of America - Down 22% (28,827 Vehicles Sold This Month; 179,144 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Brands: Jeep - Up 28% (57,006 Vehicles Sold This Month; 332,802 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Buick - Up 18.4% (21,403 Vehicles Sold This Month; 113,472 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mazda - Up 16.5% (26,208 Vehicles Sold This Month; 156,431 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Land Rover - Up 16.4% (4,038 Vehicles Sold This Month; 26,168 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ram - Up 14% (35,262 Vehicles Sold This Month; 214,357 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mitsubishi - Up 13.7% (6,021 Vehicles Sold This Month; 39,762 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Sprinter - Up 12% (2,201 Vehicles Sold This Month; 11,483 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) BMW - Up 11.5% (30,201 Vehicles Sold This Month; 157,382 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Fiat - Up 11% (4,478 Vehicles Sold This Month; 24,972 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Porsche - Up 10.9% (4,102 Vehicles Sold This Month; 22,919 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) GMC - Up 10.6% (43,550 Vehicles Sold This Month; 232,371 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Lexus - Up 10.1% (23,518 Vehicles Sold This Month; 138,689 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Mercedes-Benz - Up 8.6% (26,506 Vehicles Sold This Month; 151,624 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Audi - Up 7.2% (16,867 Vehicles Sold This Month; 84,349 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Nissan - Up 6.4% (101,069 Vehicles Sold This Month; 645,136 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Subaru - Up 5.4% (41,367 Vehicles Sold This Month; 238,008 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Hyundai - Up 3.7% (67,407 Vehicles Sold This Month; 364,434 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Toyota - Up 2.5% (178,196 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,026,918 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Dodge - Up 1% (50,314 Vehicles Sold This Month; 306,924 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Kia - Up 0.2% (50,644 Vehicles Sold This Month; 297,413 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Cadillac - Up 0.1% (13,941 Vehicles Sold This Month; 82,117 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Chevrolet - Down 2.5% (188,567 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,027,908 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Lincoln - Down 2.7% (7,271 Vehicles Sold This Month; 44,522 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Honda - Down 4.3% (117,817 Vehicles Sold This Month; 661,485 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Ford - Down 5.9% (214,793 Vehicles Sold This Month; 1,225,510 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Infiniti - Down 5.9% (8,574 Vehicles Sold This Month; 59,341 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volvo - Down 10.4% (5,983 Vehicles Sold This Month; 29,330 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Chrysler - Down 12% (24,026 Vehicles Sold This Month; 141,068 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Smart - Down 13.8% (673 Vehicles Sold This Month; 4,647 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) MINI - Down 18.2% (5,376 Vehicles Sold This Month; 24,152 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Acura - Down 18.6% (11,206 Vehicles Sold This Month; 77,951 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Volkswagen - Down 22% (28,827 Vehicles Sold This Month; 179,144 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) Jaguar - Down 22.8% (1,263 Vehicles Sold This Month; 8,317 Vehicles Sold So Far This Year) 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

General Motors Posts Best June Sales Since 2007 Retail sales up 9 percent selling day adjusted 2014-07-01 DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) dealers delivered 267,461 vehicles in the United States in June. Total sales were up 1 percent compared to a year ago. Retail sales were up 1 percent and fleet sales were up 2 percent. There were two fewer selling days in June compared with a year ago. On a selling- day adjusted basis, GM’s total sales were up 9 percent. Retail deliveries were up 9 percent and fleet sales were up 10 percent. The seasonally adjusted annual selling rate (SAAR) for light vehicles in June was an estimated 16.6 million units, topping 16 million units for the fourth consecutive month. The estimated SAAR for the first half of the year was 16.1 million, which is within GM’s full-year forecast of 16.0 million to 16.5 million units. “June was the third very strong month in a row for GM, with every brand up on a selling-day adjusted basis,” said Kurt McNeil, U.S. vice president of Sales Operations. “In fact, the first half of the year was our best retail sales performance since 2008, driven by an outstanding second quarter.” GM’s commercial fleet business also continues to grow, posting its eighth consecutive monthly increase for the best June since 2007. “It’s clear that our commercial and small business customers are expecting a strong second half of the year and they are building their fleets to meet demand,” McNeil said. Commercial fleet sales were up 48 percent, driven by strong pickup, van and small car sales. Government deliveries were up 14 percent thanks to strong car sales. Small business deliveries, which are included in retail sales, were up 6 percent, driven by van, SUV and pickup sales. Rental deliveries were down 11 percent. At the beginning of June, GM indicated that fleet sales for the month would likely be down due to the timing of rental customer deliveries. June Sales Highlights (vs. 2013 except as noted) Buick had its best June since 2006. Deliveries were up 18 percent, driven by an 82 percent increase in Encore deliveries, a 33 percent increase for LaCrosse, a 26 percent increase for Regal and a 5 percent increase for Enclave. GMC also had its best June since 2006. Deliveries were up 11 percent driven by strong demand for the redesigned Yukon, up 120 percent, as well as the Yukon XL, up 70 percent; the Terrain, up 8 percent; and the Savana, up 129 percent. Deliveries of the Chevrolet Spark and Sonic were up 19 percent and 36 percent, respectively. Deliveries of the Chevrolet Tahoe were up 93 percent and Suburban sales were up 73 percent. Traverse was up 3 percent and Silverado was up 1 percent. Cadillac sales were up, with Escalade up 57 percent and SRX up 19 percent. It was Cadillac’s best June since 2008, and 57 percent of customers did not trade in a Cadillac. GM’s average transaction prices (ATPs) were in line with April and May, with higher pickup, SUV and Cadillac ATPs offsetting declines among cars and crossovers, according to mid-month J.D. Power PIN estimates. For the second quarter, ATPs were up about $800 per unit versus the first quarter. Calendar year to date, ATPs are up about $2,700 compared with a year ago. Incentive spending as a percentage of ATP was 10.9 percent, up 0.2 points from a year ago, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates. The industry average for June was 9.7 percent, also up 0.2 points from a year ago.

FORD FUSION POSTS BEST JUNE EVER; FORD TRANSIT CONNECT ACHIEVES BEST MONTH EVER, AS NEW TRANSIT VAN SALES BEGIN Fusion has best June sales results since its launch in 2005 Transit Connect posts its best-ever monthly sales results Ford initiates sale of its all-new Transit van Ford Motor Company U.S. sales of 222,064 vehicles for June decline 6 percent compared with last year DEARBORN, Mich., July 1, 2014 – Ford Motor Company June 2014 U.S. sales of 222,064 vehicles declined 6 percent from a year ago. Retail sales of 145,989 vehicles declined 5 percent, while fleet sales of 76,075 vehicles declined 7 percent. “Both the Fusion and Transit Connect set records in June, continuing their sales momentum,” said John Felice, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “F-Series again topped 60,000 sales and is tracking to our inventory plan with the lowest incentives among the major players in the segment.” Fusion sales totaled 27,064 vehicles last month – a best-ever June performance. Fusion retail sales are up 22 percent and 14 percent overall. Fusion continues to outperform in the West, with retail sales up 24 percent in that region. Transit Connect posted a best-ever sales month, following record sales in May. Transit Connect sales totaled 4,573 vehicles – a 29 percent gain over 2013. Retail sales increased 55 percent, with strong sales coming from Transit Connect Wagon. Deliveries of Ford’s all-new Transit van began at the end of June, with total sales of 490 vehicles. Lincoln sales were down 3 percent, with 7,271 vehicles sold in June, as the new MKC begins to arrive in showrooms. Lincoln sales are up 16 percent year-to-date through June, a trend that is expected to accelerate as the MKC launch ramps up during the next few months.

Chrysler Group LLC Reports June 2014 U.S. Sales Increased 9 Percent; Best June Sales Since 2007 51st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each post sales gains in June compared with same month a year ago Jeep brand sales up 28 percent; best ever sales for the month of June Ram pickup truck sales up 12 percent; best June sales in 10 years Six Chrysler Group vehicles set sales records in June Ram Truck brand unveils 2015 Ram ProMaster City compact van at Chelsea Proving Grounds July 1, 2014 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 171,086 units, a 9 percent increase compared with sales in June 2013 (156,686 units), and the group’s best June sales since 2007. The Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in June compared with the same month a year ago. The Jeep brand’s 28 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand during June and its best ever sales in the month of June. Chrysler Group extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 51-consecutive months in June. “In spite of two fewer selling days in June versus a year ago, we were able to increase our sales 9 percent and post our strongest June sales in seven years,” said Reid Bigland, Head of U.S. Sales. “Month-over-month sales of our all-new Chrysler 200 increased from a few hundred units in May to more than 5,000 in June as inventory of the mid-size sedan continues to build. In addition, sales of the Jeep brand increased 28 percent and our Ram Truck brand 14 percent helping to lead Chrysler Group to its 51st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth.” The all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan is off to a strong start as inventory continues to build at Chrysler dealerships. It is taking dealers on average only 12 days to turn the new 200. Sales of the new 200 topped 5,000 units in June, up from 595 units in its first month on sale in May. Six Chrysler Group vehicles, including three Jeep brand models, set sales records for the month of June. The Jeep Patriot, Compass, and Wrangler each posted their best sales ever in the month of June. In addition, the Fiat 500L, Dodge Journey crossover, and Dodge Dart compact car each logged their best June sales ever. Ram pickup truck sales were up 12 percent, the pickup’s best June sales in 10 years. Chrysler Group finished the month of June with a 72 days supply of inventory (509,714 units). U.S. industry sales figures for June are internally projected at an estimated 17 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR). Jeep® Brand Jeep brand sales were up 28 percent in June, the brand’s best ever sales in the month of June. The brand’s 28 percent increase was the largest percentage sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month. The Jeep Compass, Patriot, and Wrangler each recorded their best ever sales in the month of June, led by the 5 percent increase in Compass sales. This trio of Jeep brand SUVs has posted a sales record in every month this year. The iconic Wrangler was named by Edmunds.com winner of its Best Retained Value Awards in the Compact SUV category in June. Ram Truck Brand The Ram pickup truck had its best June sales in 10 years. Sales of the Ram pickup – Motor Trend’s “Truck of the Year” and first-ever back-to-back champion – were up 12 percent in June, its 50th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. Ram Light Duty sales increased 4 percent in June, while Ram Heavy Duty pickups were up 31 percent. Ram Truck brand sales, which include the Ram ProMaster van and Ram Cargo Van, were up 14 percent in June, the brand’s best June sales since 2007. The ProMaster was named by Edmunds.com winner of its Best Retained Value Awards in the Commercial Van category in June. Ram Truck unveiled its all-new 2015 Ram ProMaster City commercial van and passenger wagon in June during a media event at Chrysler Group’s Chelsea Proving Grounds in Chelsea, Mich. The ProMaster City is Ram Truck’s newest addition to its commercial vehicle lineup. Joining the larger and highly capable Ram ProMaster and popular Ram C/V as a Class 1 van offering, the ProMaster City will compete with compact commercial and passenger vans with best-in-class attributes in the areas that count: payload capacity, cargo area, performance and fuel economy. FIAT Brand FIAT brand sales were up 11 percent in June, the brand’s best ever sales in the month of June. It was the brand’s seventh-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. Sales of the Fiat 500L were up 113 percent in June compared with sales in June 2013, the 500L’s first month on sale in the U.S. The Fiat 500 Cabrio Abarth, with its 130 percent year-over-year increase, recorded the largest percentage sales gain of any Fiat 500 model in June. The FIAT brand announced that production of its high-performance 2015 Fiat 500 Abarth and Abarth Cabrio, now offering an optional six-speed automatic transmission, began in June in the Toluca Assembly Plant in Toluca, Mexico. The Abarth’s optional six-speed automatic transmission, new for 2015, is mated to the track-proven 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo engine to deliver up to 183 ft.-lb. of torque and 157 horsepower. Dodge Brand Dodge brand sales were up slightly in June, the brand’s best June sales since 2007. The Dodge Dart compact sedan and the Dodge Journey mid-size crossover each set records in June. Sales of the Dart were up 12 percent, the small car’s best ever sales in the month of June. Sales of the Journey were up 24 percent, its best sales in the month of June and the largest percentage sales gain of any Dodge brand vehicle during the month. The Dodge Durango full-size SUV recorded its best June sales since 2011. Durango sales were up 9 percent in June, extending its run of year-over-year sales gains to 20-consecutive months. The Dodge Grand Caravan had its best June sales since 2008. The Dodge Challenger was named by Edmunds.com winner of its Best Retained Value Awards in the Midsize/Large Coupe category in June. In addition, the Challenger leads the Midsize Sporty Car segment in initial quality for the second time in four years in J.D. Power’s 2014 U.S. Initial Quality Study. Chrysler Brand The all-new 2015 Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan is off to a strong sales start as inventory continues to build at Chrysler dealerships across the country. Sales of the new 200 exceeded 5,000 units in June, up from 595 in May, its first month on sale. Greater volumes of the new 200 are expected in dealerships in July. Chrysler Town & Country sales were up 24 percent in June compared with the same month a year ago. It was the minivan’s best June sales since 2006, its 11th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains, and its best sales month so far this year. The Town & Country – Chrysler Group’s ultimate family vehicle – ranked highest in initial quality among minivans for the third time in four years in the J.D. Power 2014 U.S. Initial Quality Study in June. Chrysler brand sales were down 12 percent in June, reflecting the end of production of the outgoing 2014 Chrysler 200 sedan and convertible.

Audi set multiple U.S. sales records with 23.1% gain in June - New sales records established for June, second quarter, and first six months of any year - June marks the 42nd consecutive record month of sales, with 16,867 vehicles sold - Best month for all-new Audi A3 Sedan; sales of premium segment vehicles remain strong HERNDON, Va., July 1, 2014 – Audi reported June 2014 sales of 16,867 vehicles, a 23.1% improvement that stands as the brand’s 42nd consecutive month of record monthly sales. The second quarter of 2014 also set a record with 49,121 vehicles sold. Audi sales year-to-date increased 13.6% to 84,349 vehicles sold with the January through June 2014 period now standing as the best first-half sales in Audi U.S. history. “In just six months this year, Audi has sold more vehicles in the U.S. than it did over a full year as recently as 2009,” said Mark Del Rosso, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “The spring launch of the all-new A3 sedan is the latest building block for this achievement along with the continued success of our sport-utility models and a strengthened presence in the top premium segments. Underpinning all of that is a steadfast commitment to elevate the Audi brand through a sustainable business model.” Audi June sales improved throughout the lineup when compared to year-earlier results. The A3, A4, A6, A7, A8, Q5 and Q7 all posted sales gains. The all-new 2015 Audi A3 Sedan recorded its strongest month with 2,452 vehicles sold in June, its third full month in the U.S. market. The Audi ‘A-segment’ lineup will expand again in late summer with the arrival of the all-new as Audi A3 Cabriolet, A3 TDI, S3 performance sedan and the Audi Q3 crossover. Audi sales momentum continued at the top of the Audi lineup, as well. The Audi A6, Audi A7, Audi A8, and Audi Q7 made up one-third of total Audi sales with an increase of 16% YTD. Audi A6 sales increased 15.8% to 2,191 vehicles sold for the month, while year-to-date demand for the A6 increased 19.8% to 11,910 vehicles sold. Sales of the Audi A7 rose 12.3% in June to 686 vehicles sold, while demand for the A7 increased 10.6% to 4,469 vehicles sold YTD. June results were bolstered by sales of Audi luxury SUVs, with the Audi Q5 crossover posting a 15.2% gain on 4,025 units sold for the month. Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 16.5% to 1,429 vehicles sold for the month. Year-to-date sales for the Audi Q5 increased 8.8%, while YTD sales for the Audi Q7 increased 28.2%. June 2014 was the 11th consecutive record month for Audi Certified pre-owned vehicles sales with an increase of 7.4%, to a total of 3,649 CPO vehicles sold. Year-to-date Audi CPO finished June up 13.8%, achieving the best second quarter and first half on record for the brand. Highlights: - The all-new 2015 Audi A3 sedan models officially went on sale this spring, with 7,735 vehicles sold since launch. - Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (Audi A6, Audi A7, Audi A8, and Audi Q7) increased 16% YTD, representing 32.5% of total Audi sales year-to-date and 38% of the Audi year-to-date sales gain. - Sales mix for Audi S performance variants finished the month at 15.4% for the S4 sedan; 31.2% for the S5/ RS 5; 4.4% for the S6; 19.1% for the S7 / RS 7; 12.1% for the S8; 20.2% for the TTS and TTS Roadster, and 5.1% for the SQ5 crossover. - Sales of Audi A6 increased to 15.8% compared to June 2013; YTD sales grew 19.8% compared to previous period. - Sales of Audi A7 increased 12.3% compared to June 2013; YTD sales grew 10.6% compared to previous period. - Sales of the Audi Q5 increased 15.2% compared to June 2013; YTD sales grew 8.8% compared to previous period. - Sales of the Audi Q7 increased 16.5% compared to June 2013; YTD sales grew 28.2% compared to previous period. - June sales mix for Audi TDI models: Audi A6 TDI at 18.2% on 398 vehicles sold; Audi A7 TDI at 13% on 89 vehicles; A8 TDI at 17.9% on 105 vehicles; Audi Q5 TDI at 15.6% on 627 vehicles, and for the Audi Q7 TDI at 31.5% on 450 vehicles; with an overall mix of 14.9% on 1,692 total TDI sales for June. - Audi Certified pre-owned sales increased 7.4% to 3,649 vehicles in June; YTD CPO sales rose 13.8% to 21,827 vehicles sold. - Five best Audi U.S. sales months all time (in order from best all time number first): Dec 2013 with 17,013 units sold for the month; June 2014 with 16,867 units, May 2014 with 16,601 units; April 2014 with 15,653 units; and Dec 2012 with 14,841 units sold. - Audi holds the longest running monthly record sales streak in the premium car market according to a completive sales report from MotorIntelligence.com.

You know how your mother would tell you if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all. Well this being a vehicle review, that is an impossible task since I have to explain why or why not you should consider ‘x’ vehicle. The reason I bring this up is because I spent a week in the 2014 Jeep Patriot Latitude 4X4 and I found myself being very disappointed in the model. Now before I go into the list of reasons of why I particularly didn’t like the Patriot, I should begin with the things I did like. First off, the Patriot looks like a Jeep. What I mean is that when you’re walking up to the vehicle for the first time, you can recognize it as a Jeep. This is due to the boxy shape which calls back to the XJ Cherokee. Not a bad choice at all. The other item I appreciated in the Patriot was the choice of two different all-wheel drive systems. My tester came equipped with the Freedom-Drive I system which essentially boils down to an all-wheel drive system with a locking differential. Optional is the Freedom-Drive II system which adds crawl range and extra skid plates. This means this Patriot can go a bit further in the rough than many other compact crossovers. Jeep also addressed one of the biggest problems in the Patriot by giving the interior better materials throughout such as soft-touch plastics on the dashboard. Now on to the complaints. First off, the Patriot feels very small. I get the model is a compact, but with a low room and minimal glass area, I felt very boxed in. Those with the fear of enclosed spaces should pass on this. Also for a vehicle with a price tag of almost $27,000, the lack of Bluetooth was infuriating. Considering most, if not all of the Patriot’s competitors, either come with it standard or as an option; the lack of it is unacceptable. Power comes from a 2.4L four-cylinder which makes 172 horsepower and 165 pound-feet of torque. Before I go any further, I need to stress this is the older 2.4 and not the one you find in such models such as the Dart I drove recently. This engine does a great job at producing NVH and not so much in power. I felt like I had to floor the pedal just to get the engine out of its leisurely mode. A six-speed automatic takes the place of the CVT that has been with the model since its introduction and does an ok job with the 2.4 with giving smooth shifts. Fuel economy isn’t the best either with EPA ratings of 21 City/27 Highway/23 Combined. I only saw 19 MPG during my week. The ride is sits somewhere in the middle of comfort and firm. The Patriot’s suspension doing its best to isolate road imperfections and potholes. Steering is nicely weighted, which is a good thing if you decide to head off onto a trail or something. Wind and road noise are very noticeable when you’re driving/riding. I had the radio cranked just to try and drown out some of the road noise coming into the cabin. Looking at Patriot as a whole, it just is completely outclassed by every other crossover in the marketplace. Sure, you can get a smoking deal on one, but is it really worth it? After spending a week in one, I can say the answer is no. Disclaimer: Jeep Provided the Patriot Latitude, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2014 Make: Jeep Model: Patriot Trim: Latitude 4X4 Engine: 2.4L DOHC 16-Valve Inline-Four W/Dual-VVT Driveline: Six-Speed Automatic, Four-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 172 @ 6,000 Torque @ RPM: 165 @ 4,400 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 21/27/23 Curb Weight: 3,359 lbs Location of Manufacture: Belvidere, Illinois Base Price: $23,795 As Tested Price: $26,875 (Includes $995.00 Destination Charge) Options: All Weather Capability Group - $795 UConnect 430 CD/DVD/MP3/HDD - $695 Security and Convenience Group - $595 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

But the question is when.