April 27, 2006
The Volvo C70 Convertible Is in Dealerships And On the Road
Volvo's brand new hardtop convertible, the C70, is now in dealerships, sort of. We say that because every Volvo point is selling every C70 they get delivered, and it shouldn't be long before Volvo sells out their annual allotment of 8,000 units for the North American market.
We've already seen a couple on the road here in Northern Virginia, but since it's not easy [or safe!] to be taking pictures of cars when the traffic light is changing, we paid a visit to one of Don Beyer's Volvo stores to get a closeup look at the new C70. What can I say, driving the Mustang was contagious. And even the C70 we test drove was already sold!
The Volvo C70's convertible hardtop is a three-piece affair [four if you count the trunk] and the operation is powered by an electric motor controlled by an in-cabin switch. Volvo has the distinction of bringing the most affordable hardtop converible to market in the luxury segment, with the car starting at $38,710. The silver model pictured on the lot was priced at $45,770 after adding metallic paint [$475], bi-xenon headlights with washers [$700], automatic transmission with geartronic [$1,250], a premium seating package [$1,395], audio package [$1,500] and 18-inch alloy wheels[$995].
To continue with the obvious, the hardtop roof's operation is smooth and more than a little bit of fun to sit there and watch it either envelope or unveil you to the sky. Besides the obvious pleasure of driving with the roof down, when it's up it is just like driving a hardtop sedan. The Volvo turbocharged 5-cylinder engine produces a quick 218 horsepower and cornering was tight.
And it wouldn't be a Volvo without an impressive safety innovation. The C70 features an inflatable curtain, or IC, that has an extra stiff construction with double rows of slats that are slightly offset from each other. According to Volvo, "this allows them to remain upright and offer effective head protection even with the window open. The curtain also deflates slowly to provide protection should the car roll over. This is a unique solution in the automotive world."
The Volvo C70 has above the norm seating for a convertible that will accommodate four adults. The two rear seats can be accessed with a push of a button on the front seat's backrest, which moves the front seats quickly forward.
We also love the conter console that is a thin, aluminum-faced ribbon that is separated from the rest of the front dash furniture. This design feature is an elegant solution to the usual bulkhead that faces you in the front section of a car and creates a sense of airiness in the cabin.
As we stated previously, Volvo will only send about 8,000 units to the States, so if you're interested in buying a C70, you better act fast or the only view you'll get of it is the one pictured above.
To get a free price quote on the C70 or any Volvo product, click here.
Posted by Frank at 09:17 AM | Comments (0)
April 21, 2006
Ford Needs to Fire their Ad Agency
We've had some fun recently with the new series of Dodge Caliber ads, which we think are entertaining and effective. As far as the stupid gay-fairy controversy is concerned, it's actually positive for the brand because it's making people talk about the company and to a lesser extent the car.
But we've also noticed great new ads from Kia -- though the first set of Sedona ads were better than the current Optima spots -- and the Volkswagen real-life crash commercials, we think, are fantastic.
But Ford, ugh. Their TV commercials are boring, especially the Lincoln-Mercury ads for the Signature Leasing promo. To be fair, the F-150 commercials are good, but we haven't seen anything else that would compel us to look at a Ford. Fusion ads seem to have taken a breather, though we don't watch every channel -- and what about the Ford Five Hundred, or the fantastic Freestyle for that matter?
The reason I'm picking on Ford is that they made a big deal out of their Way Forward plan which was supposed to include looking at every aspect of the company's operation, as iterated by President Mark Fields on several occasions.
I've been sitting on this notion for a couple months and as there has been no public announcement that the ad accounts are under review, this has got to be a priority for the company, which has good products in dealerships.
Posted by Frank at 02:13 PM | Comments (0)
Holey-Moley! Three-Oh-Five is a Lot of Samoleans
Took this pic this morning -- having taken one the other day of gas at $2.99 a gallon, I didn't even get that one off the memory card before the new price popped up.
Nationwide the average price for a gallon of love is $2.85.
Look to see gangbuster sales of subcompacts -- especially the Yaris, Fit and Versa, if things keep going like this.
Posted by Frank at 02:10 PM | Comments (0)
Deportation from the Auto Industry Point of View
The im migration raids on the pallet manufacturer that resulted in 1,100 arrest of illegals should make laid off autoworkers, their unions and elected representatives sit up and take notice.
Even though these jobs aren't as complex or high paying as auto jobs, they are in the manufacturing sector. With tens of thousands of auto workers being laid off the premise that jobs held by immigrants wouldn't be taken by Americans may not hold water.
In other words, any job is better than no job.
Now, if 1,100 jobs can be freed up with one raid on one company, how many jobs are out there for the fired autoworkers? This is a serious situation and while I haven't seen anyone else write about this, it seems obvious to me. My personal politics is that I believe in amnesty for illegals, but thinking about it from this point of view makes me seriously reconsider who these jobs should go to.
Posted by Frank at 01:51 PM | Comments (0)
Caveat Emptor Lesson From the TV Show Cops
"Another curb side auto sale at its finest." That was the quote from a cop on the Cops TV show who managed to get a woman her $600 she paid for a car refunded.
The car didn't go in reverse, and the cops knew they couldn't interfere in a private party contract, but -- they figured out a way to write the seller a bunch of citations and "convinced" him to give the woman her money back.
The woman got lucky, because she had no right to the money back -- the money and title had switched hands, though the seller left the date of sale off the title which is how the cops threatened him to give up the cash.
Caveat emptor, people, let the buyer beware.
Posted by Frank at 01:45 PM | Comments (0)
April 20, 2006
Is the New Dodge Ad Offensive to Assholes? -- Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #169
Yesterday we wrote about the non-controversy over whether the Dodge Caliber fairy ad was offensive to homosexuals.
Then last night we saw the sick puppy ad, and have to ask ourselves -- is this offensive to assholes?
We know we're insulted.
See if this link works to view the video.
Listen to the podcast by clicking here.
You can also subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss
Posted by Frank at 02:34 PM | Comments (0)
April 19, 2006
Ad Age Writer Slammed for Critique on Dodge Fairy Ad
When I read this Ad Age commentary complaining about the use of an animated fairy in the new Dodge Caliber ads, I meant to write a piece saying, that no, the fairy has nothing to do with gays and is not offensive.
While I still am of the opnion that the author, Bob Garfield, is simply wrong in his assertion that the Dodge fairy is a veiled affront to gay men, you have got to go to the article to read the comments!
As of this writing, 2 days after Garfield's piece was posted, 63 people have commented, nearly unanimously condemning Garfield for being 100% wrong.
Keep in mind that many of these commenters work in advertising and marketing, a gay-friendly field, and several write in as self-identified gays who find no problem with the ad. Yes, there are a few who agree with Garfield, but they are the minority. I'm glad sometimes for comments on websites, because in this case they police the writer for having an out of bounds opinion.
Posted by Frank at 06:14 PM | Comments (0)
London Car Sharing Service Makes It Easy
Streetcar, a UK car sharing service similar to Flexcar and Zipcar, is making it even easier for people to get the hang of the car sharing experience by waving monthly and annual fees, according to Springwise.
To join, members do have to pay a one-time fee of 25 pounds, but after that, it's pay as you go.
We like car sharing services, and with congestion, gas prices and parking and other problems, they're only going to get bigger.
Posted by Frank at 05:58 PM | Comments (0)
Miss America, Nissan Back MADD to Save Lives
Jennifer Berry, Miss America for 2006, has made working with Mothers Against Drunk Driving the cornerstone of her reign's platform, based on the experience of losing a high school friend to a drunk driving accident, according to information from MADD.
Automaker Nissan is also kicking in to raise awareness about the perils of drunk driving, by sponsoring Strides for Change, a multi-city 5K charity walk that will have inaugural events on April 22 in Dallas, Phoenix and Raleigh. Other cities will host their walks through October of this year.
Folks despite all the goofy and irreverent verbiage we shovel here at the Notebook, there's nothing funny about drunk driving, ever.
Posted by Frank at 05:43 PM | Comments (0)
April 18, 2006
Autorox Updated: Lee Iacocca Wins Living Legend Award
The more I watch Autorox on Spike TV, the cheesier is gets.
But they redeemed themselves somewhat by giving Lee Iacocca the Living Legend Award, introducing him with a wonderful montage documenting his career. Though of course they glossed over exactly how he got to Chrysler from Ford.
[He got sacked, kiddies, then went on to invent the minivan and save the company, before rebuilding the Statue of Liberty and working to cure diabetes. Even if he did have some missteps, particularly his xenophobia, Ford still looks like s**t for firing him.]
Posted by Frank at 11:21 PM | Comments (0)
Autorox, the Automotive Oscars on Spike TV
I'm catching parts of Autorox on Spike tonight, it's essentially a hip-hop, youth-oriented auto awards show, staged in Vegas.
They've got celebrities like Ice Cube, Goldberg, Carlos Mencia and Kiefer Sutherland presenting awards like Best Muscle Car and nine other categories. For the most part they have no idea what they're talking about.
It's famous people and assorted, almost-famous fake boobs, presenting cars with lots of flashing lights. Like Chuckie Cheese for College Age Stoners with driving licenses.
However, the car footage is worth watching. Autorox airs again on Spike on April 22, 23 and 25.
Posted by Frank at 10:49 PM | Comments (0)
Grim Commentary on Our Oil Addiction
Jane Bryant Quinn has written a column on our oil addiction that comes to an uncomfortable conclusion. She writes that, "for years to come, we'll be paying for our oil in both treasure and blood."
The problem is simply that the oil supply is tighter and demand is higher than ever -- and oil is the one thing our economy cannot do without.
Here's the money graf:
This throws our Iraq wars into a different light. To an extent that most Americans don't yet understand, the U.S. military has become a "global oil-protection force," says Michael Klare, an expert on natural-resource wars and author of the book "Blood and Oil."
Column here.
Posted by Frank at 04:03 PM | Comments (0)
Traffic Engineering For Dummies
The demolition of the overpass in the background necessitated the closing of the pedestrian walkway, which is the only way to walk into town from our side of the Beltway.
VDOT did open a ped pathway on the opposite side of the street, but they were struck with a problem -- how do people get there?
Well, instead of outlining a temporary crosswalk, they figured it was cheaper to put up a pair of signs, saying No Pedestran Crossing.
In other words, you're on your own -- problem solved!
My experience with VDOT on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project has only been occasional, but every time they give me the one fingered salute.
Posted by Frank at 03:54 PM | Comments (0)
Standup Comedy Day -- Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #168
For some reason the funny stories just kept coming over the Internet today, and the podcast is dedicated to covering all the humor we've found in the world of cars and transportation.
Listen to the podcast by clicking here.
You can also subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss
Posted by Frank at 02:08 PM | Comments (0)
Ugliest Mercedes Ever
Ugh. I don't even know what to call this color. Let's say it's a pastiche of lime, pistachio and vomit.
Posted by Frank at 01:53 PM | Comments (0)
Flying Cars Still Run on Gas
Both 60 Minutes and CNN have stories on flying cars today, and through all the video I haven't seen anyone mention they all run on gas. So they may help with traffic congestion, but not pollution or gas prices.
Still the videos are fun to watch. 60 Minutes has three, plus a story, and CNN has one, but there's no direct link because they still haven't figured out this Internet thing.
Shown at right and below is the Air Scooter II, a machine that will sell for less than $60K. CNN has the best video of it in operation, the one on the inventor's website is lousy.
Posted by Frank at 12:32 PM | Comments (0)
Audi's Q7 SUV Rolling Out 10 City Ride & Drive Tour
Audi is bringing their hot new SUV, the Q7, to 10 cities this summer for consumers to drive them on the road, and on two special courses.
The designed courses include a quattro and a performance course. Audi will also have competitor vehicles available for testing on the quattro course, “which feature elements for acceleration, slalom, and evasive maneuvering. The timed performance course will allow guests to appreciate the all-around handling and performance of the new 2007 Audi RS 4.”
Dubbed the Streets of Tomorrow tour, Audi is also bringing the all-new 2007 RS 4, and the full line of Audi vehicles along for the real-life demos. Events run for two days for maximum coverage, and include food and entertainment as well as promotional partners Abercrombie & Kent, Bang & Olufsen, and Ducati motorcycles.
Cities and dates for the Streets of Tomorrow tour are:
NYC, San Diego -- April 29-30
Chicago, Los Angeles -- May 6-7
Philadelphia, San Francisco -- May 13-14
Atlanta, Seattle -- May 20-21
Miami -- May 27-28
Dallas -- June 3-4
Check out the website for more details: www.audistreetsoftomorrow.com.
Posted by Frank at 11:34 AM | Comments (0)
Updated: GM Erects $17M Monument to ED
We wrote and podcasted about GM's $17 million annual viagra bill yesterday, and have received the best punchline yet:
"Like a rock."
Thanks FT!
Posted by Frank at 11:12 AM | Comments (0)
Red Light, Green Light, You're Busted!
A Colorado man has been busted for the unauthorized use of an MIRT, or Mobile Infrared Transmitter, which cops and EMTs use to change red lights to green.
Check out this site, which has a demo movie. Device costs $300 to $359.
Article here.
Posted by Frank at 11:02 AM | Comments (0)
Dad Arrested for GCUI [Golf Carting Under the Influence
A California dad was carted off to jail after flipping his golf cart Sunday. The charge was GCUI, Golf Carting Under the Influence, as he had his three sons on board and the cart was only designed to carry two drunks at a time.
Article here.
Posted by Frank at 10:39 AM | Comments (0)
NYPD Adding 75 Vehicles to the Fleet
The NYC police have 75 new cruisers on order, and the NYT reports they cost one-fifth as much as a new Crown Vic -- and they only cost ten bucks a day to run. And the exhaust dries up and blows away. Unless of course some street urchins decide to get into a manure fight.
The new cruisers are hampered by their inability to cart perps off to jail, unless the cops get ambitious and load them up saddlebag-style.
Article here.
Posted by Frank at 10:33 AM | Comments (0)
April 17, 2006
Ford, Lexus Recalls
Ford's got two recalls going right now:
-- 134,365 Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs [all 2005s] to to adjust the padding on the driver’s side, to prevent injuries during a collision, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
-- 19,000 Mustang Cobras to fix a problem where the accelerator pedal can stick on the floor carpeting in the car
Lexus is recalling 11,000 Lexus GS and IS sedans cars in Japan and 46,000 overall to fix a faulty seat belt part that can cause the seat belts to get jammed inside the mechanism. Lexus will replace both front seat belts on all affected vehicles.
Posted by Frank at 02:49 PM | Comments (0)
Kia Sedona Rated "Best Minivan We've Tested"
The folks at Kia are plenty happy today. Not only is their new Sedona minivan selling gangbusters, it is the first minivan to receive top safety ratings in front, side and rear crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety [IIHS].
Adrian Lund, IIHS president said the Sedona is the "best minivan we've tested," and singled out its rear crash test performance as praiseworthy. The Sedona is the only minivan with active head restraints and comes with standard side airbags, considered a must for side impact protection.
Subaru's Impreza also received a top safety pick from the Institute, for good performance in all three tests, while the Toyota Prius was singled out for poor rear crash protection.
IIHS release.
Posted by Frank at 02:28 PM | Comments (0)
Land Rover Goes Beyond With Internet TV Channel
Land Rover's launched their very own I-TV channel, Go Beyond, that will be populated by sports, lifestyle, celeb and auto news. I've watched a couple videos on the site, and it's about the same level as waiting room or made-for-airplane fare. Not bad, not exactly thrilling and definitely of the canned variety.
But what we think is meaningless. People will watch -- check out Land Rover's Go Beyond channel here.
Posted by Frank at 02:15 PM | Comments (0)
Toyota Scouting For Another Plant
To realize its ambitious plan of capturing 20 percent of the American automobile market, Toyota is scouting locations for its eighth U.S. plant, to be built and opened by the end of the decade, according to the New York Times.
Four states considered in the running are Arkansas, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. If built, it would be the 15th plant in all of North America. To accomplish their sales goals, Toyota has said it needs at least one or two more assembly plants, and additional parts supply factories.
Posted by Frank at 01:53 PM | Comments (0)
What a Boner! Viagra Costs GM $17 Million Annually -- Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #167
We guarantee the jokes about this story are going to last longer than four hours, though no one will need to go to the emergency room.
Here's the setup: General Motors spends $17 million a year filling Viagra and other erectile dysfunction prescriptions, according to this article.
Possible punchlines include:
-- That's $17 million of Detroit Steel, baby.
-- Once again, GM screws themselves.
-- It's getting expensive for GM to keep its head above water.
-- How much of that goes to ED [Engineering Division]?
-- Automaker's Health Costs Swelling Beyond Control.
-- Executive Dysfunction.
-- At least they'll die with a smile on their faces.
Feel free to contribute, or just listen to the podcast by clicking here.
You can also subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss
Posted by Frank at 09:48 AM | Comments (0)
Gas Prices Up 11 Cents in Past Week
Whoa. I took this pic over the weekend, thinking the Metro DC prices are just higher for the spite of it, but when I checked the numbers this morning, the nationwide average is $2.78 a gallon.
That's up from the $2.67 a gallon we reported a week ago. It's also up 31 cents from a month ago and 54 cents, or 24% from a year ago.
That's 'spensive Lucy.
Posted by Frank at 09:06 AM | Comments (0)
Understanding the Halo Effect
Al Ries, the self-marketed marketing guru, has a good column in today's Ad Age about the Halo Effect, or the impact a premier product has on a company's overall performance.
He discusses how the iPod and Razr products have been used by Apple and Motorola as the image definers of their companies, and how they are each spending the bulk of their advertising dollars on items that don 't account for the majority of their sales.
In both cases, the success of each has helped Apple and Motorola gain sales in their overall lines, as well as the halo items.
You're seeing it right now with Toyota and hybrids, Saturn is pushing the Sky, and Ford uses the Mustang for a lot of advertising -- you'll also start seeing a lot more about the Volvo c70 hardtop convertible. So even though some products don 't seem like they make sense in the bigger picture in terms of sales vs. advertising allocation, they do because they lift the overall brand.
Posted by Frank at 08:58 AM | Comments (0)
King of Cars: Prince or Pimp? An Opposing View
Last week we put out several entries on the A&E show, King of Cars, which we enjoyed because it showed more reality about car buying than ever shown to the general public.
However, since we understand there's going to be a difference of opinion on the matter, we put out a request for opposing views. Peter Humleker, a former general manager for a dealership who's published a book, Car Buying Scams, to help people through the vehicle buying process, has sent us the following take on the show.
Here are some of my impressions of the “King of Cars” show. First of all I liked the show due to the fact that it was different than anything else out there on the air. I have always said a car dealership is the perfect place to base a reality TV show on. Although this one is far from showing all the real details.
As I suspected it did not give out the details of the car deals such as how big or small the deal was, ACV amount on the trades versus how much the customer received on the trade.
Also they told us how much the cars sold for with how much down payment and what the monthly payment was but of course they did not tell us the interest rate or how long the term was.
In usual car biz fashion the Saturday morning started out with a big rah, rah, pep rally where Chop hyped up the sales crew and put up the cash spiffs.
The first customer Rodney asked the salesman the question, “Can someone with an 800 credit score walk out of here with no down payment?” Are you kidding me? Anyone with that kind of perfect credit score can buy whatever they want without a down payment. Why didn’t Rodney know this?
Then Rodney purchased the PT Cruiser for $12,222 with zero down payment and $318 per month. He did not even try to negotiate the car deal…
The second customers were even more ignorant of the car buying process. He wanted to be at $8,000 down and $300 per month. What he and his wife ended up doing was purchasing the Dodge Challenger for $10,000 down and $439 per month.
Did you notice all they cared about was the monthly payment? In fact all the customers they showed only cared about the monthly payment. If you have read my e-book then you know that the worst way to try and purchase a vehicle is focusing on the payment only thinking.
Here’s a question for you. Why didn’t the TV program show any car deals with knowledgeable car buying savvy customers??? Makes you go hhhmmmm….
Every customer they showed purchasing a vehicle was only focused on the payment per month.
This seemed very fishy to me…
In my e-book there is an entire chapter dedicated to psychological warfare in the car dealerships. I talk about all the different stunts and tricks dealers use to bring in customers.
Obviously Chop uses everyone of them. He had the balloons, clown, carnival atmosphere and the whole nine yards. I will say one thing about Chop. The guy knows how to promote his dealership and bring in the customers. That is the single reason the dealership is so successful. It’s all about the marketing and Chop has done an excellent job at setting his dealership apart from all the others in Vegas.
His infomercial is great and that is why people come into the dealership. Also he gets his whole sales staff involved in the infomercial which is also great. They can all be little mini TV stars in Las Vegas.
In my opinion the bottom line is this. The show “King of Cars” is basically one huge
infomercial for Towbin Dodge. I mean really:
-- Did you see any negative customers?
-- Did you see any car buying savvy customers?
-- Did you see any of the yelling that is common in the car business towards its employees?
-- Did you get to see behind the scenes stuff going on with the sales manager desking the car deals?
-- Did you see anything negative about the car business at all on this show?
As I suspected from the beginning this show was basically just a bunch of fluff and puff entertainment which was nothing but one huge commercial for Towbin Dodge.
I’ll say once again. Chop is a master at marketing and he proved it again. He fooled A&E channel into providing him with an even better infomercial than he could ever have produced himself.
I suspect the next thing Chop will pull off is getting his own rap album produced.
This is why the show was so amusing to me. It was amazing to see how smart Chop really is by fooling A&E into producing his commercial for the whole world to see.
He pulled off what anyone with a product to sell, wishes they could do. Get a well know TV channel to produce a commercial for your product and then broadcast it on TV for the world to see.
Well for what its worth that’s my take on the “King of Cars.”
Peter Humleker ~ Author
www.CarBuyingScams.com
Posted by Frank at 08:06 AM | Comments (0)
Crap Cars: A Collection
I came across this book while backtracking links to the site -- it looks funny and several Amazon reviewers say the book delivers on its promise -- crap.
Here's the thumbnail description:
Crap Cars is a window into the vanity and silliness of almost any decade as expressed through that ultimate of status symbols: your car.
Traveling from the ’60s to the ’90s, it showcases the cheapest, the tackiest, and the mechanically inept, including cars made by companies like Porsche and BMW that put them to shame.
There’s also the blobby Merkur Scorpio, the ungainly Rolls-Royce Camargue, the squarish Maserati Biturbo, and the (ironically) flammable Renault Fuego. Each photo spread is accompanied by a short, hilarious critique by Richard Porter, a crap car expert, who sees straight through all the pimped-out bodywork to the true lemon that lies underneath.
Crap Cars is the perfect gift for anyone who loves cars or the casualties of bad taste, or for that special someone who misses their own beloved, long-gone piece of crap.
Posted by Frank at 07:58 AM | Comments (0)
April 13, 2006
Navigation System Saves the Day
Out driving the other day, I had already programmed my destination into the Lexus 400h navigation system, when I decided to take a significant detour.
In an unfamiliar part of town, I would have never been able to drive directly to my ultimate destination, from the intermediate detour. I would have had to backtrack to a known intersection, way out of the way, but the navigation system saved the day.
I reactivated the destination in the Lexus' navi system, and it took me, miraculously, through streets I had never seen, directly to where I wanted to be. It was awesome.
Posted by Frank at 05:04 PM | Comments (0)
The Chevy HHR is a Looker
In one day I saw a half dozen brand new Chevy HHRs cruising the streets.
Personally, I like this car and think the overall shape is more graceful and will have more longevity than the design they stole for it -- the PT Cruiser.
Posted by Frank at 03:04 PM | Comments (0)
April 10, 2006
Gas Prices Nearly High Enough to Justify Iranian Liberation
Gas prices have hit an average of $2.676 per gallon, according to AAA's Fuel Gauge Report. That's an increase of 32.2 cents in the last month, and is 18% higher than the year ago average.
Folks, it's time to start worrying about the freedom of the average Iranian.
Posted by Frank at 11:04 AM | Comments (0)
Ferrari Wrecker Arrested for Stealing Enzo
Stefan Eriksson, the guy who wrecked one of only 400 Enzo Ferraris this February, has been arrested for allegedly stealing the car in the first place.
Eriksson is currently in jail and police have confiscated another Enzo, a black one, as well as a $600,000 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, according to the LA Times. All three are considered stolen because Eriksson stopped making payments.
It turns out that Eriksson's life is even more exotic than the car he ruined. He is being investigated for being drunk while driving the car, though he insists a man named Dietrich was behind the wheel, his game company went belly up last year under $200 million in debt and he has a prior conviction as a counterfeiter in his native Sweden.
There's also some weirdness about alleged "Homeland Security" agents showing up after the February accident.
Posted by Frank at 10:11 AM | Comments (0)
The Anti-Hybrid Revolution Has Begun
We've yet to see a freeway shooting promulgated by hybrid-hating road rage, but this LA Times article says people are pissed off about hybrids using the HOV lanes.
The biggest beef is that the eco-smartypants are driving slower in order to maximize their gas mileage.
The other problem is that, since California has the highest number of hybrids sold, they are clogging the diamond lanes, according to the bashers.
But the real problem is that people, and governments, bought the hybrid hype in the first place.
Folks, hybrids are an innovation, not a revolution. They get a little bit better gas mileage, but they're still burning fuel to propel automobiles.
Posted by Frank at 09:39 AM | Comments (0)
like a polluted river flowing -- a podpoem -- Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #166
For today's podcast we read a Charles Bukowski poem, "like a polluted river flowing," or, his take on the daily commute.
To listen to today's show, click here to play it directly on your computer.
Or you can subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss
Posted by Frank at 09:37 AM | Comments (0)
April 09, 2006
A $48 Parking Ticket For My Birthday
S**t. I pulled into the circle in front of the apartment ot unload a bunch of shopping bags and it wasn't until several hours later that I remembered I had never moved it.
Going downstairs after zipping up a jacket, there was that shitty feeling that it could have gotten towed. That would have cost me $125.
I was relieved when I saw the car there. Then I saw the envelope -- an angry note?
No, a f*****g parking ticket. $48 for parking in a fire lane. The cop would have had to drive by, or respond to a call to come onto the property just to write this little fine. Well, at least I wasn't drunk and shirtless and high on crank.
via Frank Giovinazzi.
Posted by Frank at 02:38 AM | Comments (0)
Easy to Remember License Plate
We sincerely hope that the owner of this license plate is sufficiently pleased with the new line of Lincoln automobiles.
Posted by Frank at 12:54 AM | Comments (0)
April 08, 2006
Don't Even Think of Parking in God's Space
This parking sign has been displayed for decades in front of a church in Old Town, Alexandria. Bob, who works for the church, told me the original sign was stolen last year. "Probably hanging on a college student's wall," he said.
via Frank Giovinazzi.
Posted by Frank at 11:42 PM | Comments (0)
Woman Recovers Own Stolen Car
A San Francisco woman's Toyota Rav4 was stolen on a Monday. Three days later she spotted the car, called the cops and they nailed the thief. She got her car back. Totally cool. Read the overlong story here.
Posted by Frank at 10:46 AM | Comments (0)
April 07, 2006
KBB's Coolest Cars Under $18,000
Kelley Blue Book has rated their Top Ten Coolest Cars under $18,000 -- and since Chevy was the first company to put out a press release, they win the coveted photo choice. The Chevy HHR, pictured above, lists for $16,390. Curious the PT Cruiser doesn't make the list, but we always forget where we came from.
Toyota had three vehicles on the list -- the Yaris subcompact, the Scion xB wagon and the Scion tC Coupe. Full list and KBB's thumbnail descriptions after the jump.
Editorial Comments on the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000
Toyota Yaris
With a long history as a best-seller in Europe, the Toyota Yaris migrates to the U.S. as the least expensive vehicle in the Toyota lineup. Sporting unusually cool styling, Toyota quality and a 34/city and 40/highway MPG rating, the Yaris’ value more than exceeds its under-$12,000 starting price.
Scion xB
The xB has proven to us that, these days, it’s cool to be square. Not only does its slab-sided styling set it apart, but its boxy dimensions also mean this diminutive and fuel-efficient vehicle is a surprisingly commodious hauler of people and stuff.
Dodge Caliber
Caliber changes the small-car game by offering a larger, more flexible interior filled with way-cool features like an air-conditioned storage bin to keep drinks cold, rear speakers that flip down to project outward from the open tailgate, a 110-volt outlet for powering small electronics and a self-charging flashlight.
Kia Sportage
When buying your first SUV, bang-for-the-buck is a very cool thing to find. Pricing out the Kia Sportage is almost fun when you get to include a sunroof, a great stereo and a tire pressure monitor all for under $16,500.
Chevrolet HHR
As cool as the 1940s-style exterior is, the Chevrolet HHR is equally cool for its efficient use of space and worthwhile features like remote start and the increasingly requisite iPod connector. It offers hauling ability like a compact SUV, yet it handles like a car.
Ford Fusion
Size does matter, so getting a well-styled, contemporary midsize sedan with the roominess and comfort of the new Fusion is cool. Even better is the unexpected level of equipment for the price, including remote keyless entry, tilt steering wheel and cruise control.
Nissan Frontier
Utility is in, and nothing’s more utilitarian than a pickup. The Frontier backs up its sharp styling with excellent ride and handling.
Mazda3
Available as a hatchback or sedan, the Mazda3 is a deft one-two punch to the compact-car segment. We can’t decide which model we like better, but the combination of fine driving dynamics, upscale interior and arresting looks make this a “cool cars” list repeater.
Honda Civic
You know how U2 were cool, then in the mid-90s they weren’t so cool, and now they’re as cool as ever? Well, the Civic has traveled a parallel path to regain its stature as arguably the finest economy car ever built---and cool once again.
Scion tC
If you’re cool enough to appreciate it, the slick styling and fashionable features in the tC deliver “Lexus-like” technology in an affordable package. This year, the improved audio features stand out, including steering-wheel gauges and iPod connectivity.
Posted by Frank at 05:02 PM | Comments (0)
Mustang GT Convertible in the Ho-ou-se!
Just the 2006 Ford Mustang GT convertible -- and this thing is a ferocious animal.
I'm in Hot Rod Heaven.
The car roars, the power is immediate, and for some reason I feel like a Jersey musclehead.
You feel as if you are seated in a tradition come to life.
More to come.
Posted by Frank at 11:46 AM | Comments (0)
I Love the King of Cars -- Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #165
Okay, this is the last I'm going to write about King of Cars for a while -- but I love this show! It's funny, outrageous and is one of the first shows ever to look at the reality of the retail auto sales industry.
To listen to today's show, click here to play it directly on your computer.
Or you can subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss
Posted by Frank at 10:35 AM | Comments (0)
April 06, 2006
King of Cars is The Best Car Show Ever!
Man I love this new show, the King of Cars. In the first episode, Chop, the owner, wanted to sell 40 cars on a Saturday. So one of his promotions was letting any customer who bought a car put their salesman into a dunk tank, as pictured below.
On any day, a customer who buys a car gets to ring a gong and all the salesmen go wild, clapping and thumping. As Chop says, buying a car is a big deal, so why not let them feel good about it?
What I love about this show is that there is no marketing bullshit here -- selling cars is a hard business where two parties both want to succeed.
In the second episode, Showgirl Showroom, which I'm watching right now, the competition is not to lose -- or the team sales leader has to wear a showgirl outfit.
One of the team leaders, Tino, tried to sell his father a car. When the deal started going bad, he showed him the showgirl outfit. To which the father responded in Spanish, "I'm not going to go $36,000 in debt for you not to wear pantyhose."
The only reason I knew that was through the English subtitles -- how awesome is that!
The eventual loser is pictured above.
I predict that this show, King of Cars, will change the way a lot of dealerships do business -- as in show business.
Posted by Frank at 11:31 PM | Comments (0)
Let’s Put an End to H.O.V.s (Or change the rules!)
High Occupancy Vehicle (H.O.V.) lanes are getting ridiculous. The original reason for creating such a program was to encourage the use of alternate modes of transportation such as carpooling, bus, train, commuter rail, ferry, etc.
But in areas where there are little to no alternatives people are taking to their cars solo. My daily observation finds that the carpool lanes are mostly empty during commute hours.
We sit in our cars parked on our freeways watching young kids, the elderly, SUV driving soccer moms on cell phones, and every other possible demographic take the plunge and illegally use the carpool lanes without guilt, remorse or punishment.
(Although, I cannot technically know for sure that there are not a precious few who actually do feel a little pang or two of guilt.)
Now, the hybrid owners are also able to use the carpool lanes without needing more than one person in the car. There are perfectly good diesel automobiles that get the same or better gas mileage that are not given such privileges. This seems hypocritical to allow one gas saving vehicle but to not allow other such vehicles.
There needs to be some changes. A revisiting of the priorities of the H.O.V. lanes is in order.
We need to appoint a common sense committee that would oversee the review of all H.O.V. lanes. They would assess each lane and determine whether they do anything except incite road rage in 98% of the commuting population that does not qualify to use it during commute hours.
I propose a few new policies be implemented to ensure the full use of the H.O.V. lanes in an area near you:
1. Do not allow hybrids cars to use carpool lanes. They are the vehicles that DO NOT NEED to use them! The hybrid driver is so socially aware that they will actually prefer letting others use the carpool lanes. After all, stop and go traffic increases emissions in internal combustion engines. The hybrid driver, knowing this, will more than understand that it’s better for the environment to let all non-hybrid drivers maintain a steady speed and thereby reduce their ozone depleting emissions.
2. Do not allow automobiles with more than two people. What’s their hurry anyway. Solo drivers don’t have anyone to talk to unless they use their cell phones and that’s just not safe.
3. No people under the age of 25 either! This new generation of kids needs to learn what patience is. Young people today are in such a hurry and are missing out on all the baby-boomer endorsed introspection.
This may take the common sense committee a few years to get the proper legislation passed. In the meantime we will all just have to work on our patience.
-- Written by Robert Winter.
Posted by Frank at 11:14 PM | Comments (0)
"There are Three Things on the Bottom of the Ocean ...
... sharks, lawyers and car salesman."
-- Ali, salesman from the new show, King of Cars.
I love this show!
Posted by Frank at 11:08 PM | Comments (0)
Jeep Points Compass in Low-Price Range
Jeep has revealed prices for the 2007 Compass that are really, really incredible. Starting at just $15,985 for the two-wheel drive base model, they are clearly going after the low-priced compact SUV market characterized by such vehicles as the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sedona.
There are three trim levels of the Compass, each available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The Compass comes standard with a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter engine and a a five-speed manual transmission. The AWD version of the base Compass goes for $17,585, including $560 destination.
Besides the base model, the other trim levels are called the “E” package and the Limited.
The “E” package costs $18,585 for 2WD and $20,185 for 4x4 models. The “E” package builds on the base model with the following standard features:
-- Power, fold-away mirrors, driver one-touch power windows, speed sensitive power locks, Remote Keyless Entry.
-- Air Conditioning.
-- 115-volt auxiliary power outlet, map/dome reading lamps and interior removable/rechargeable lamp.
-- Reclining rear seats, driver seat height adjuster, front-passenger forward fold-flat seat, passenger assist handles, deep tint sunscreen glass.
The Jeep Compass Limited starts at $20,140 for 2WD and $21,740 for AWD. The Compass Limited builds on the “E” package with the following:
-- Leather trimmed bucket seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering wheel mounted audio controls, speed control and heated seats.
-- 18-inch aluminum wheels and all-season performance tires.
-- Bright front and rear fascia overlays, bright side moldings.
-- Driver lumbar support.
Posted by Frank at 07:11 PM | Comments (0)
King of Cars Premieres Tonight on A&E
There's a new car show on TV, King of Cars, profiling the world of John "Chop" Towbin, a Las Vegas used car dealer who, from the promos, appears to be a car salesman and rap impressario who does everything over the top.
What interests me about this guy and his show is that since I cover the auto industry, this appears to be a fresh look at auto sales by a guy with no concept of what going too far means.
I also like the fact this his business appears to be made of a lot of minorities and other types chasing the American dream, and that he gears his business toward entertainment and making the consumer experience fun.
Chop, as he's known, also makes no bones about the fact that he's in business to make money and that he can only keep salesmen on the payroll if they're selling cars.
Tonight there are two episodes on A&E, "We Dooz it Large" and "Showgirl Showroom," starting at 11 p.m. Each show is a half hour, and we will see if it lives up to the trailers. Episode details after the jump.
We Dooz it Large
Meet Chop aka "The King of Cars" who runs a mega successful auto empire in Vegas. 80% of his sales come from The Chop Show --a cult infomercial where his salesmen dress in wacky costumes as he "Chops" prices. In the tough world of car sales where most don't buy, we follow Chop as he pushes his sales crew to sell 40 cars on a single Saturday. Today he has his eye on two of his salesmen. Ali has only been selling cars for a few months and wants to prove himself to Chop while facing a challenging customer. And Barry, the class clown of the dealership, needs a sale to get out of his slump.
Showgirl Showdown
To boost business on a slow day, Chop creates a challenge between two sales teams to sell the most cars. At stake--the leader of the losing team must wear a Showgirl outfit on that night's taping of The Chop Show, Chop's cult-hit infomercial where his salesmen dress in wacky costumes as he "Chops" prices. With their pride on the line Team leaders Deeter and Tino go head to head, fighting down to the wire for every deal, as Chop counts down to the show.
Posted by Frank at 04:18 PM | Comments (0)
April 05, 2006
BMW: Birth of a Sports Car on Speed TV
Speed TV is running a 3-part series on the creation of the new 6-series coupe and convertible, and it's cool to watch the beginning of a dream that became a car. Two cars, actually.
The prototypes, known as E63 and E64, started as ideas in the first segment, Desgin, moving to drawing and models and finally, plastic fakes for filming.
The next two segments, Production and Testing, have not yet been screened by moi. Check the Speed website for airtimes.
Picture at right is of a brilliantly coifed head designer Chris Bangle asking the project leader if he likes his hair.
Posted by Frank at 08:48 PM | Comments (0)
Italian Job Turbo Coaster Featuring the MINI Convertible
Paramount has taken the MINI cars from The Italian Job movie and turned it into a roller coaster, opening right about now.
According to the press release: "THE ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTER is a high-speed stunt car adventure that combines Hollywood special effects with high tech coaster thrills. Guests board their very own tricked out MINI Cooper S for a multi-sensory stunt car adventure they will want to take again and again."
The coaster ride recreates the final chase sequence of the movie, with thrillseekers riding in a 75% scale replica of the MINI Cooper S convertible, that features a "power slide effect, which creates a fishtailing sensation."
Full press release after the jump. Click here to watch an animated simulation of the ride.
THE ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTER
NEW FOR 2006!
On THE ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTER, riders quickly become stunt car drivers as their cars races out onto the track. Each MINI Cooper S is tricked out with audio special effects that add to the multi-sensory sensation of the experience, and as the custom stunt car MINIs peel out, everyone is transported into the stunt chase sequence.
Drivers twist through a parking garage, dodge near-collisions, race down stairs, chase through tunnels and narrowly escape massive explosions triggered by gunfire from a menacing helicopter. Tires skid out one last time as the stunt cars crash through a billboard and splash down into an L.A. aqueduct concluding the chase sequence and their screen test trial as a stunt driver.
THE SPECS
WHAT IT IS:
THE ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTER is latest addition to Paramount's Kings Dominion. Set to debut in the Spring of 2006, THE ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTERis a high-speed stunt car adventure that combines Hollywood special effects with high tech coaster thrills. Guests board their very own tricked out MINI Cooper S for a multi-sensory stunt car adventure they will want to take again and again.
THE HOLLYWOOD CONNECTION:
THE ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTER is a multi-million dollar fast-track coaster experience based on Paramount Pictures' blockbuster The Italian Job starring Mark Wahlberg, Charlize Theron, Edward Norton, Seth Green, Mos Def, and Donald Sutherland. This exciting new coaster will take families on a high-speed stunt car adventure through movie sets and scenes inspired by the film’s climatic chase sequence.
Lights, camera, action – the ride experience recreates the six scenes of the climatic final chase sequence of the film:
* Scene One—Race through parking garage
* Scene Two—Fly down subway stairs
* Scene Three—Dodge police cars
* Scene Four—Screech to a halt and narrowly avoid gunfire from a helicopter
* Scene Five—Chase through sewer tunnel
* Scene Six—Plunge through a billboard and into an LA aqueduct
MINI COOPER S:
Each ride vehicle is a 75 percent scale replica of the BMW MINI Cooper S convertible. In addition, each MINI Cooper S features a power slide effect, which creates a fishtailing sensation. Hang on for some intense curves and driving sequences. From the cool coloring, to the vanity license plates, these MINIs are as detailed as the ones found at the dealer. And – to make sure they provide the right level of thrill, even the cars’ wheels were specifically selected for the rapid acceleration of the train. 1,000 stunt drivers per hour will ride their MINIs through the coolest coaster in the MidAtlantic!
AUDIO SYSTEM:
Each car is enhanced with surround-sound speakers, providing stunt car drivers with the ride of their life. From engine revving to the sound of squealing tires, guests will be totally immersed in the action.
STUNT TRACK:
1,960 feet of rail track making up a two minute experience – the coolest ride in a MINI Cooper S ever. The MINIs climb to a height of 45.2 feet and the total stunt track elevation climbs higher to 53.3 feet of thrills. Beware of the 31.2 feet drop that takes place when you least expect it!
RAPID SPEED:
The ride catapults guests using linear induction motors at rapid speeds up to 40 mph. With the three peels out, and an 88 degree banked turn, these MINIs will earn guests a speeding ticket if they are not careful.
THE COASTER:
THE ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTER is a multiple LIM (linear induction motor) launch circuit coaster. Trains are propelled in the station with drive tires and in the launch and boost zones by linear induction motors. Linear induction motors are propulsion units that are used where either high thrust or high speed propulsion is needed. Propulsion is achieved when currents are produced by the interaction of an electromagnetic field generated by the LIM and an aluminum reaction plate on the cars. The currents produced by this interaction create a magnetic field that opposes the original magnetic field, thereby producing a force vector between the LIM and the fin. This force vector provides thrust to move the train. Drive tires are propulsion units that are used when train movement and braking or holding is needed in low speed. All drive tires are capable of forward and reversing motion.
DESIGN TEAM:
A team of over 100 highly trained and talented individuals, from diverse fields, partnered on the design and construction of the ITALIAN JOB TURBO COASTER. Planning took over a year and construction began in the fall of 2005. Some of the talented and trained professionals included engineers, steel workers, steel erection specialists, electricians, mechanical specialists, control systems specialists, excavation and grading experts, scenic painters, audio engineers, pneumatic specialists, flame / fire specialist, representatives from the ride manufacturer and representatives from Kings Dominion’s veteran Maintenance and Construction team.
MANUFACTURER:
Premier Rides, Inc.
OPENING:
Spring 2006 at Paramount's Kings Dominion
Posted by Frank at 08:31 PM | Comments (0)
Niche Car and New Model Analysis -- Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #164
After spending 12 hours staring at sales data, we picked out two interesting phenomena -- the relatively short shelf life of niche cars, plus the perhaps false, or at least misleading sales increases made possible by new models in the car companies' lineups.
To listen to today's show, click here to play it directly on your computer.
Or you can subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss
Posted by Frank at 01:55 PM | Comments (0)
April 04, 2006
Mercedes Had a Nice March
Mercedes posted a 17.9% sales increase in March; year to date sales are up an even 17%. The new R-Class SUV sold 1,915 units and the redesigned M-Class posted a 20% March increase. The E-Class sedan was up 10.7% and the CLK-Class was up 33.8%.
Posted by Frank at 09:37 PM | Comments (0)
Volvo Sales Down in March
Volvo's sales took a 4.1% dip in March, which is a better performance than the company has been posting for several months. For the year to date, sales are down 11.7%.
The S40's sales were up 3.8%, the XC70 wagon was up 5.4% and the XC90 was up 15.9%.
Posted by Frank at 09:36 PM | Comments (0)
Land Rover Sales Up 39.3% in March
The Range Rover Sport, an all-new model, is once again Land Rover's best selling SUV, with 1,667 units sold. The company sold 39.3% more vehicles in March compared to the same month last year, and is 33.8% up for the year to date.
Posted by Frank at 09:32 PM | Comments (0)
Saab Up 2.5% in March
Saab's sales were up 2.5% in March, due mostly to sales of two new vehicles, the 9-5 SportCombi with 261 units sold and the 9-7X SUV, with 482 units sold. For the year to date Saab's sales are up 12%.
Posted by Frank at 09:27 PM | Comments (0)
Cabbie Beaten, Sues Over Hotel Kickback Scam
A Washington, D.C. cab driver got his ass kicked for challenging kickbacks to a Holiday Inn dorrman, according to the Examiner.
The cabbie is now suing the bastard.
Posted by Frank at 09:12 PM | Comments (0)
Porsche up 13.8% in March
Porsche had a 13.8% sales increase in March, thanks to a 30.6% increase in 911 sales as well as the new Cayman, which sold 560 units. The Cayenne SUV was up 1.9%, and the Boxster was down 41.3%. For the year to date, Porsche is up 26.3%.
Posted by Frank at 09:11 PM | Comments (0)
Suzuki's 46.2% Jump in March Sales
The Suzuki Grand Vitara posted a 532.3% increase in March sales, leading the company to an overall 46.2% increase. For the year to date, Suzuki is up 40%. The Reno/Forenza platform was up 57.5% and the Aerio subcompact was up 38.3% in March.
Posted by Frank at 09:08 PM | Comments (0)
Subaru Up 10.1% in March
Strong sales of the Subaru Impreza [up 13.9%] and the Tribeca SUV [1,966 units], helped Subaru to a 10.1% sales gain in March. For the year to date, Subaru's sales are up 2%.
Posted by Frank at 07:54 PM | Comments (0)
Kia Posts a Small Gain in March
Kia's sales were up 1.1% in March, due to smashing sales of the redesigned Sedona minivan [up 52.2%] and the Sorento SUV [up 28%]. Sales of the Rio subcompact were also up 8%. For the year to date, Kia's sales are up 2.4%.
Posted by Frank at 07:45 PM | Comments (0)
Mitsubishi Takes a Dive in March
Mitsubishi sales were down 30.6% in March, with the only positive exception being the Eclipse, with an increase of 71.2%. For the year to date, Mitsubishi sales are down 25.6%.
Posted by Frank at 07:39 PM | Comments (0)
Mazda Sales Off 2.4% in March
Though Mazda had an off month in March, off 2.4%, sales for the year to date are still up 5.1%. Gainers include the Mazda, up 6.2%, and the Miata, up a large 194%. The new Mazda5 wagon sold 1,703 units.
Posted by Frank at 07:36 PM | Comments (0)
BMW of North America Sold Strong in March
BMW of North America, including both the BMW and MINI brands, had a gangbusters month, with sales up 16.8%. For the year to date, sales are up 10.8%.
The big gains came from the BMW brand, with overall sales up 21.6% and car sales up 31%. Both the 3 Series [up 60.5%] and the 5 series sedans [up 26.8%] had strong results in March.
The MINI brand was down 6.7% in March, mostly due to a 19.7% drop in convertible volume, which should change over the next few months.
Posted by Frank at 07:27 PM | Comments (0)
Volkswagen of America Scores Big in March
Volkswagen of America, which includes both the VW and Audi brands, had an 18.8% sales increase in March and is up 19.1% for the year to date.
In March the VW brand hit the triple crown – the Golf, Jetta and Passat were all up dramatically. First, the Golf, which has been the subject of heavy advertising for the launch of the new GTI, had a whopping 115.4% sales increase. Good advertising apparently does work.
Next, the Jetta had a 39.% sales increase and the Passat was up 40.9%. Overall, the VW brand was up 28.4% for the month and is up 28.8% for the year.
Audi also fared well, with a 7.6% March sales increase, due mostly to the 20.5% increase of A4 sedan sales. For the year to date, Audi is up 6.2%.
Posted by Frank at 07:19 PM | Comments (0)
Gas Prices Getting Into Ugly Territory
Gas Prices are running an average $2.59 per gallon nationwide, up 31 cents in the last month. A year ago prices were $2.17 a gallon, meaning today it costs 14.7% more.
Posted by Frank at 06:20 PM | Comments (0)
Sonata Leads Hyundai Sales Gains
The made in Alabama Hyundai Sonata can now be called an unqualified success, with March sales up 53.8% and year to date sales up 52.3%. Overall Hyundai sales were up 4.3% in March and are up 6% for the year.
The new Azera sold 1,817 units, with 4,037 sold in 2006 to date.
Sales of the Elantra were down 9.6% and the Accent subcompact was down 44.6%. Hyundai also saw both its SUVs, the Santa Fe and Tucson record a combined sales drop of 22.9%
Posted by Frank at 06:19 PM | Comments (0)
Nissan's Sales Down Slightly
Nissan's sales were down 2.6% in March, offset by a 3.% increase in light truck sales. The Frontier pickup picked up 35.6% extra sales volume, the Murano SUV was up 23.2% and the Pathfinder SUV was up 15.6%. Sales of the Quest minivan were down 43.7% to only 2,812 units.
The Infiniti division fared poorly, with overall sales down 12.5%. All SUVs and cars were down with the exception of the M Series, that posted a 16.7% increase.
For the year, Nissan's sales are down slightly, off 0.6% last year's record setting pace of over one million vehicles sold.
Posted by Frank at 05:42 PM | Comments (0)
Honda Sales Flat in March
Honda's sales were up 0.2% in March, due to a 14% increase in Civic sales and a 37.9% increase in Ridgeline sales – both vehicles that won vehicle of the year awards from multiple outlets. Accord sales were down 10.4%m and both the CR-V and Element were down, though the Pilot SUV was up 7.4%.
Acura sales were down 5.8% overall, including drops in car sales as well as that of the MDX SUV. The TSX posted an 8% sales increase.
For the year to date, Honda's sales are up 8.3%.
Posted by Frank at 05:35 PM | Comments (0)
Toyota Sales Up 6.9% in March
Toyota's sales were up in March, mostly due to a light truck sales, where several models had superb results. The redesigned RAV4 had a 116.5% increase, the Sienna minivan was up 22.6% , the 4Runner SUV was up 14.6% and the Tacoma pickup was up 14.1%. Plus, the all-new FJ Cruiser sold 2,784 units. Whew.
Toyota brand car sales were flat in March, including a precipitous 22.6% drop in Prius sales while the Camry and Corolla saw small gains. The Scion brand is holding its own with a 20.5% gain for the xA subcompact hatchback, a small gain for the tC coupe and a first ever drop for the xB wagon. Toyota's other subcompact, the all-new Yaris, had sales of 1,339 units.
Lexus had solid gains in both cars and SUVs, 8.3% overall, with the biggest gainer coming from the revitalized IS series that sold 5,210 units, becoming the best-selling Lexus car model.
For the year to date, Toyota's overall sales are up 7.4%.
Posted by Frank at 05:21 PM | Comments (0)
Pontiac Solstice Beats Miata 3 Months in a Row
GM's new “Miata Killer” the Pontiac Solstice, has notched three consecutive months of better sales than the venerable Mazda Miata.
The Solstice sold 2,219 units in March, versus 2,000 for the Miata. For the year to date, 6,068 Solstices have been sold, versus 4,362 Miatas.
Posted by Frank at 04:54 PM | Comments (0)
Scooter Sales Triple in Manitoba
According to this story, scooter registrations have tripled in the last two years in Manitoba. The article gives credit to rising gas prices, which is understandable to a degree -- but maybe scooters are just catching on?
Curiously, a car dealer who's seen soft sales has also opened an unnamed Italian scooter franchise.
Originally published at Scootering USA.
Posted by Frank at 02:05 PM | Comments (0)
Teaching Titenda to Drive -- Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast #163
In this podcast we talk about our experience with teaching a young person to drive. It was cool to help someone out, but as the saying goes we learned more than the person being taught -- chiefly that driving is extraordinarily complicated!
The other thing is an old piece of wisdom -- that the closer you are to a person the less of a good idea it is that you teach them how to drive.
To listen to today's show, click here to play it directly on your computer.
Or you can subscribe to the daily Car Buyer's Notebook Podcast feed by putting this URL in your podcatching software: http://carbuyersnotebook.libsyn.com/rss
Posted by Frank at 09:59 AM | Comments (0)
April 03, 2006
Unintended Consequences Dept. -- Tahoe Ads Chevy Doesn't Want You to See
We've already written about the website where you can make you own 30-second video commerical for the new Chevy Tahoe, courtesy of a tie-in with The Apprentice TV show
Well, of course, we made an obscene version of a TV ad, but we didn't actually publish it on the Chevy site. However, at least two people did:
-- One is called Howard Kaloogian's Big Adventure and if you know the backstory, it's hilarious. Howie the K is running for crybaby Randy Cunningham's Congress seat, and recently got busted by the Internent Truth Squad for a photo he put on his campaign website. The photo was passed off as a Baghdad corner, as a means to show how those big, mean liberal journalists only want to tell bad stories about Bush's Exploratory Invasion. Unfortunately, the picture was from Turkey, as in the country.
-- This one is from another leftie, but you don't need a backstory to laugh along with the bouncing flourocarbons.
Posted by Frank at 05:48 PM | Comments (0)
Do It Yourself Auto Theft and Collsion Reporting
There are some people who are just so fascinated by police incidents that they know where to get the scoop. When I was working as a reporter in Gettysburg, PA, every third person had a police scanner so that I took to calling it the "Official Radio Station of Adams County."
I know one woman who gets daily police reports e-mailed to her, a service of the local department.
But if you're just generally interested in the kind of crime -- particularly auto theft and/or vandalism in your neighborhood, just search out the local police department's web site. Unless you live in Mayberry, you'll be able to find at least weekly crime updates, that will include auto theft. It will look something like this.
Also on your local police site, there might be a list of traffic incidents, everything from collisions to DUI. Our local police department puts the traffic collisions in a monthly PDF report, DUIs are sprinkled among the daily incidents.
Now why is this interesting? Well, by checking this data out I discovered that one intersection that always gave me the willies was indeed in the top five for collisions in that jurisdiction. So now I'm even more careful making that left turn, and if I can I approach it from the other side of the street so I can make a right.
In terms of auto theft and vandalism, it's just good to know because you may see a pattern getting near your neighborhood and will want to keep an eye out. Or, as in my case, you may not want to buy a Plymouth Voyager, currently the number one stolen vehicle last month, and in the top five for the year. Go figure.
Posted by Frank at 05:21 PM | Comments (0)
Living in Your Car -- A Perversion of the American Dream
This New York Times article on the "mobile homeless" or people living in their cars is a sobering look at a slice of the overall phenomenon of being homeless in America.
The main culprit appears to be housing prices rising faster than people's wages. The majority of people forced to live in their cars have jobs of some sort, but simply don't make enough to live in an actual home or apartment.
Posted by Frank at 05:13 PM | Comments (0)
"Your Kid is Too Damn Fat For This Car Seat, Lady"
More than a quarter million children age 1 to 6 are too fat for standard car seats, according to a new study.
Most of these chubsters are under 3 years old yet over 40 pounds, the upper safe limit for standard car seats. Manufacturers have responded by supersizing car seats to 65 pounds, but we don't know if there's a biggie cupholder.
Posted by Frank at 03:39 PM | Comments (0)
Spotlight on the 2006 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE and Frontier 4x4 NISMO
While Nissan has firmly established itself as one of the “Big Six” American automakers, having sold a million vehicles in the last calendar and fiscal year, it has also stood apart from the other high volume automakers with its relentlessly bold styling.
And Nissan’s aggressive approach is not only cosmetic – their pickup trucks and SUVs also stand out for their uncompromising grasp of horsepower and performance handling, versus other products that look tough but are often little more than jacked-up cars.
The company has recently proved its versatility yet again, with the introduction of the 2007 Nissan Versa, the new subcompact. The Versa may be small, but it packs the typical Nissan design punch with an easily identifiable nose and a sweeping rear section that prove a small car can still have an outsized personality.
Both the Versa 5-door hatchback and 4-door sedan are equipped with a standard 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a choice of three transmissions, including Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) that provides smooth shifting and enhanced fuel efficiency. And the Versa is expected to start around $12,000.
Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn also introduced the all-new 2007 Nissan Sentra at the Detroit Auto Show this January, which features an all-new, standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, standard 6-speed manual transmission or the Xtronic CVT transmission. The 2007 Sentra is scheduled to go on sale in fall 2006 and is expected to have a MSRP starting at around $15,000, equipped with power door locks and windows, side-impact curtain air bags and air conditioning.
Driving the 2006 Altima 3.5 SE
The Altima is a textbook example of Nissan going their own way while shifting expectations. The conventional wisdom in the midsize sedan category is that the car should include as many features as possible to meet the expectations of as many people as possible, and the design should also be pleasing but avoid having too much of a personality. For some reason conventional wisdom dictates that midsize sedans should be sedate.
The Altima, however, is a midsize sedan for people who want a little excitement and style in their life as they’re prosecuting their daily responsibilities. It has a lot in common with the best-dressed, most interesting and lively person in that 9 to 5 office environment.
And as many fashionable people know, you can look great and have a good time on a variety of budgets, which is why the Altima can be had in a base 2.5 model for $17,650, all the way up to the SE-R for $29,550 that features a 260-horsepower version of the 3.5-liter V6. All told there are five trim levels of the Altima available, with three models coming with the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and the SE and SE-R getting the 3.5-liter V6.
There’s almost no limit to the number of feel-good surprises in the Altima. Chief among these is the roominess of the vehicle, which, if you didn’t know any better, feels more like the Maxima – while at the same time delivering a sporty, speedy and sharp-cornering driving experience. When you’re driving an Altima, you feel like the clothes hound in the office who’s been heard to admit, “I know I look good.”
The 3.5 SE model has an MSRP of $24,150 with the automatic transmission and gated shifter, and has a 250 hp version of the the V6. The vehicle comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a performance-tuned suspension, fog lights and dual chrome exhaust tips. The Leather Sport Package ($3,900) includes leather upholstery, Bose audio system with 6-CD changer, sunroof, heated front seats and mirrors, a rear spoiler and high-intensity discharge Xenon headlights. Sirius satellite radio is available as a $350 option.
Driving the 2006 Frontier 4x4 NISMO
There’s no doubt about it – when you get behind the wheel of the 2006 Nissan Frontier you are in a truck that was built by people who love trucks for people who love trucks.
No one will accuse Nissan of prettying up an SUV and sticking a truck bed on the rear, though with the four door Crew Cab model you might just forget there’s an open space behind you. Meaning, that while the Frontier is rugged on the inside -- Nissan’s large pore seat fabric and knobby control buttons add to the adventure feel -- the cabin also creates a "you don’t have to completely sacrifice comfort" sensation.
The Nissan Frontier NISMO edition has rugged driving characteristics and a surprising amount of power for the category. The 4.0-liter V6 produces 265 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque, and with the four-wheel drive option you could be forgiven for developing a David versus Goliath complex. The NISMO edition, starting at $22,100 for the 2WD King Cab model, features off-road wheels and tires, Bilstein shocks, skid plates, and Nissan’s Advanced Off-Road Traction System, that includes limited-slip traction control, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control and Vehicle Dynamic Control.
Maybe that explains Nissan’s slogan for the Frontier, “Full-Size Hardware in a Mid-Size Package.”
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a Frontier with a mid-size price – after all, the NISMO edition is the upscale, tricked-out version of this exciting truck. The 2006 Nissan Frontier comes in four versions: the XE, SE, LE, and the NISMO.
The Frontier XE starts at only $15,600 as a King Cab 2WD with a 154-hp, 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, with a choice of 5-speed manual transmission or an automatic for $16,650. The Frontier SE starts at $18,500 for a a 2WD King Cab or $21,200 for a 4WD King Cab. Air conditioning, chrome front bumper and grille, a sliding rear window, an AM/FM/CD audio system and tilt steering wheel are standard. Finally, the Frontier XE starts at $22,300 for a 2WD King Cab, $25,000 for the 4WD King Cab, $24,000 for the 2WD Crew Cab and $26,650 for the 4WD Crew Cab.
No matter how you drive it, the Frontier is an exciting, made-for-America truck that’s also built in America at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant.
Originally published at AIADA.
Posted by Frank at 03:05 PM | Comments (0)
April 02, 2006
London Mayor Calls Car Dealer a "Chiseling Little Crook"
Ken Livingstone, the outspoken Mayor of London, recently called a former car dealer a "chiseling little crook."
It has caused a bit of an uproar, as the subject of his barb, Robert Holmes Tuttle, is also the current U.S. ambassador to Britain. Tuttle formerly worked in the family business, the Tuttle-Click group of car dealerships.
Livingstone unloaded on Tuttle because the American Embassy is refusing to pay London's congestion charge, claiming that it is a tax to which diplomats are immune.
Livingstone says it's a fee, and that the Americans should pay up. So far the Germans are also calling it a tax, but Livingstone has not called them Nazis. However, the mayor is currently under suspension for a recent comment he made to an Israeli journalist, comparing him to a concentration camp guard.
Posted by Frank at 09:45 PM | Comments (0)
Garmin GPS Navigation Unit on Sale
Amazon is running a great price on the Garmin StreetPilot i5 navigation unit -- only $359.99. with free shipping. The unit usually sells for $535.70.
My sister bought her husband a Garmin portable navi system for her husband as a Xmas present and they say it works great. That doesn't surprise me as much as that she actually read my website to crosshop portable units.
Anyway, we're a big fan of navi here, and the portable units offer the advantage of being able to use them in multiple vehicles. Press release-type verbiage follows:
The Garmin StreetPilot i5 Automotive GPS Navigator is preloaded with detailed maps of North America and is ready to use right out-of-the-box. Another great addition to the StreetPilot i-series, the StreetPilot i5 is a compact, inexpensive automotive GPS navigator that helps you get where you want to go while making driving fun.
About the size of a baseball and priced to keep your pocketbook happy, the StreetPilot i5 is perfect for commuters, college students, and corporate travelers who are looking to experience the ease and enjoyment of GPS satellite navigation. Don't let its small stature fool you, though. Although it only weighs in at 5.3 ounces, the i5 has many of the same powerful capabilities as other premium Garmin automotive GPS navigators.
The i5 features a unique and convenient click-to-enter scroll wheel and a Back button, which makes it easy to select a destination from the unit's menu-driven interface. This unit includes three-dimensional map graphics and provides voice-prompted, turn-by-turn directions through a built-in speaker. Toss your navigation worries out the window, because the i5 will automatically put you back on course if you miss a turn, and a detour function enables routing around traffic problems or road construction. Plus, if want to stay off the highways and blaze a scenic trail, the i5 lets you prioritize your choice of back roads or major highways. It is handy in any situation. and you can easily move the unit from vehicle to vehicle with the integrated suction-cup mount.
The i5 comes preloaded with detailed maps of City Navigator North America NT. These maps feature full coverage of the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico--including nearly six million points of interest (POIs) such as gas stations, ATMs, hotels, restaurants, and other attractions. You can plot up to 500 waypoints with names and an array of graphic symbols for customized, detailed navigation. This unit also comes with removable TransFlash data storage capability and is easy to connect to your PC through the USB interface.
As an added benefit, you can even import customized points of interest with the help of Garmin's free POI Loader software. The sky's the limit with this software--you can even upload safety cameras or school zones to receive warnings if you are traveling too fast in these high-risk areas. In addition, an optional proximity-alert feature notifies you of your upcoming custom POIs.
With a 32k-color, sunlight-readable TFT display with backlight, the i5 is easy to read in almost any light conditions. Motorists can choose from either a three-dimensional mapping perspective or the standard overhead bird's-eye view. For added convenience, drivers can power the unit with either two AA batteries (up to six hours of typical use) or the included 12-volt adapter cable.
Posted by Frank at 05:53 PM | Comments (0)
The Subaru Revolution Takes Hold in Texas
Under the wide Texas skies, there’s no room for bluffing on auto rows. Especially in Dallas, where Subaru dealer David Thomas said, "On Lemmon Avenue, you’ve got everything from Hummer that’s the anchor at one end, Audi’s the anchor at the other end to everything in-between including Honda, Subaru, Volkswagen, Aston-Martin, there’s that huge new Mercedes dealership -- there’s been a $100 million worth of construction in the last two and a half years."
That perspective makes Subaru of Dallas’ success more impressive. When you have a geographical situation where someone test driving another brand’s car can pull into your lot -- in the competition’s vehicle -- to do a real-time comparison, the dealership’s 90% conquest rate illustrates how Subaru is successfully expanding outside of their traditional markets.
In an effort to build on their success in Dallas, Subaru of America has entered into their first "antenna" store project with Thomas, a joint operation where Subaru corporate is funding the land and construction, with Thomas operating as dealer principal. The project is being physically built on Subaru’s new Signature Facility Program template and is intended to provide a direct link for retail floor data between the dealership and corporate executives.
Besides the obvious benefit of funding, Thomas said the project holds other benefits for the dealership, in that new training concepts and product information can be tried out in the Plano location for testing purposes. For the corporate end, Plano will provide "ready access to market information," and an opportunity for corporate visits and training, said Peter Cook, Director of Market Development, Subaru of America.
But why is Subaru doing so well in Dallas? It’s no secret that the brand is associated with colder climes, as Cook said, "it’s considered the state bird of Vermont."
Thomas attributes his store’s success -- they sold nearly twice their capacity for new and used vehicles in December, to three broad categories -- relative cost, Subaru’s inherent value proposition and the dealer experience.
"For the price point, they say gosh I didn’t know I could spend this and get this much product," Thomas said. "Especially on the Tribeca. The most comparable product is thousands more."
In terms of Subaru’s value proposition, Thomas said, "in the Northeast and Northwest you need a Subaru because the all-wheel drive component is a necessity. He